NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES, 
AND 
THEIR APPLICATION TO THE CURE OF DISEASES, . 
INCLUDING THOSE OF 
WOMEN, CHILDREN AND SURGERY: 
DESIGNED FOR 
PHYSICIANS, SURGEONS, STUDENTS OF MEDICINE, 
AND FAMILIES. 
BY 
W. PAINE, A. M., M. D„ 
Professor of the Principles and Practice of Medicine and Pathology in the Philadelphia 
University of Medicine and Surgery; Ex-Professor of Surgery and Diseases of Women 
and Children in the American Medical College; Member of the Royal College of 
Physicians and Surgeons; Honorary Member of the Academy of Medicine; Au- 
thor of a large work on the Practice of Medicine; one on Surgery; one on 
Obstetrics and Diseases of Women and Children; one on Materia Med- 
ica and New Remedies; a Review of Homoeopathy and Old Phy- 
sic; Editor of the University Medical and Surgical Journal, 
Medical Independent, &c. 
Rerum primordia pandam. 
Lucretia i: 55. 
PHILADELPHIA: 
CLAXTON, REMSEN & HAFFELFINGER, 
624, 626 & 628 Market Street. 
1874. Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1868, by 
WILLIAM PAINE, 
in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Eastern 
District of Pennsylvania. PREFACE. 
In presenting a treatise on New School Remedies, and 
their application to the cure of medical and surgical dis- 
eases, I do it with a full appreciation of the impor- 
tance of the work. The remedies, and many of the prin- 
ciples of practice, are new to the profession; hence, I have 
prepared all the work in a most careful manner. I am 
sure, that if the principles of practice and the remedies 
are correctly applied, a much larger number of cases of 
all diseases will be cured than by any other system ; and 
further, many that are now considered incurable, will be 
successfully treated. 
The work not only contains a full statement of the New 
School remedies, and its system of practice of medicine, 
surgery, and diseases of women and children, but also the 
systems of the Old School, Homoeopaths, and Hydropaths, 
with a full glossary explaining all the technical terms 
used, a formulary describing the compounds, and how 
administered, as well as a brief view of anatomy and 
physiology-all written in so plain a manner, that every 
man, woman and child, as well as the profession, can un- 
derstand it. Although we do not claim perfection, we are 
sure that it is far in advance of anything ever before 
offered to the profession or public. 
W. PAINE, 
232 N. Ninth St., Philada., Pa. DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 
EXPLANATION OF PLATE. 
Fig. 1. The upper part of this cluster of figures is in- 
tended to represent the uninflamed follicle ; the lower, the 
commencement and progress of inflammation, and its ter- 
mination in the formation of matter. 2. The enlarged 
and indurated tubercles, (A. indurata,) with matter 
formed in their centre, which occur in bad constitutions. 
3. Inflamed and suppurated follicles, forming sycosis on 
the beard. 4. The appearance of spots on the porrigo, in 
which no fluid secretion or scab has been formed. 5. The 
partially denuded scalp of long-established cases of the 
latter, where scabs have been allowed to accumulate, and 
where great irritation prevails, the remaining hairs insu- 
lated by pustules. 
DIVISION I. 
DIVISION II. 
r Fig. 20. The two inferior spots representing the first ap- 
pearance of the spots of lepra, before the first scale sepa- 
rates. The superior large, round, and scaly; the disease in 
a spreading state. 21. Psoriasis. 22. An enlarged, repre- 
sentation of the morbid and discolored cuticle, forming ich- 
thyosis. The numberless fissures caused by the cracking of 
this hard, dry substance, and dividing it into thousands of 
pieces, are well represented. 
DIVISION III. 
Fig. 11. Porrigo Favosa. 12. P. Larvalis, both from 
cases of considerable standing. 13. The pimples of in- 
fants, some of them surrounded by considerable inflamma- 
tion ; their representation in clusters connected by patches 
of inflamed skin, (S. intertinctus, &c.,) has beer? omitted. 
14 and 15. The pimples of adults, termed lichen ; the first 
5 6 
DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 
of these, as it sometimes occurs on the arms and other 
parts covered by the finer kind of hair, each hair occu- 
pying the centre of a pimple; the second, as it appears, 
on other parts. 16. The pimples of prurigo, the tops of 
some of them scratched off, leaving a peculiar, little, 
black, bloody scab on their apices. 17. Two of the com- 
mon forms of urticaria. 18. The vesicles of impetigo in 
an advanced and partly flaccid state. 19. The carbun- 
cular furuncle. 
DIVISION IV. 
Fig. 23. The inferior portion, exhibiting an enlarged 
view of the vesicles of impetigo. The superior, the dis- 
ease in an advanced stage, with the scab partially cover- 
ing it. 24. The vesicles and enlarged pustules of the itch. 
25. The appearance of the skin in eczema mercuriale. 
26. The tubercle of erythema nodosum. 
DIVISION V. 
Fig. 6. Petechise, or purpura simplex. 7. The en- 
larged spots of purpura hemorrhagica. 8. Different 
stages or degrees of the ecthymatous eruption. 9. The 
conical scabs of rupia. The similarity of character be- 
tween the two latter, is rendered very distinct. 10. Pom- 
pholyx. The superior vesicle is discolored by the admix- 
ture of blood from the vessels of the surface. 
All skin diseases are either produced by inflammation 
of the derma, resulting from inflammation caused by poi- 
sonous secretions from a vitiated blood, or external injury, 
or by parasites either transmitted from other persons, ani- 
mals or things, or hatched out by microscopic insects depos- 
iting their eggs, or spores beneath the cuticle. These dis- 
eases may be cured by destroying the insect with Mecca 
oil, permanganate of potassa, washing, and by removing 
the inflammation by cold packs, rest, etc. In all cases the 
catarrh vapor, to purify the blood, the anti-periodic pills, 
and blood, liver and stomach tonic, should be freely used. DOMESTIC PRACTICE 
OF 
MEDICINE. 
In endeavoring to lay down some of the principles which 
form a basis to the Domestic System of Medicine, it would be 
presumption, in me, to attempt to do more here than give an out- 
line of what we consider to be the true principles which govern 
the great American movement for reforming the medical pro- 
fession. Before entering upon a discussion of these principles, 
however, I cannot refrain from stating what I conceive to be true 
relative to the present condition of the healing art. 
1st. That a large majority of cases treated by all classes of 
physicians, are cured by nature and not by medicine. 
2d. That in many cases nature removes the disease in spite 
of medicine. 
3d. That many fatal cases would have recovered, were it not 
for medical interference. 
4th. That the Empirical practice of treating cases by mer- 
cury, blisters, antimony, blood-letting, &c., is so far from saving 
life as to be absolutely a prolific source of disease and death. 
5th. That the homoeopathic practice of saturating the system 
with small doses of arsenic, mercury, dog-button, antimony, 
lachesis, &c., although the effects'are not as immediate as when 
taken in large doses, yet in their tendency to derange the blood, 
and lay the foundation for scrofula, consumption, dropsy, dis- 
ease of the stomach, liver, and uterus, with other diseases of a 
fatal character, makes this practice equally disastrous to health 
and life. 
7 8 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
6th. That, although hydropathy is frequently a valuable 
auxiliary in the treatment of disease, yet, when unskilfully 
and untimely applied, it becomes an additional cause of sick- 
ness and death. 
7th. That the entire catalogue of patent medicines are pro- 
ductive of an immense amount of disease, suffering and death. 
8th. That advertising physicians, such as Analytic, Uriscopian, 
cancer doctors, &c., together with the entire herd of nostrum 
venders, are only so many professional knaves, who defraud the 
people of their money, their health, and their lives. 
9th. That although the regular System has for its object and 
aim the correction of the abuses of the profession, as well as the 
determinate purpose to prevent the administration of medicines 
fraught with evil tendencies to life or health, yet from ignorance, 
or other cause, the medicines may be improperly administered, 
and thereby lessen the chances of recovery. 
In making these statements, I do not wish to be understood to 
deny the power of medicine over disease when properly admin- 
istered, neither would I say that Sectarian, Homoeopathy, &c., 
are never employed with benefit to the afflicted. But as prac- 
tised by a large majority of that class of physicians, who are 
ignorant of the true nature of disease, as well as the correct 
principles of cure, they are infinitely more injurious than 
beneficial. 
This class of practitioners, to shield their ignorance, attack, 
in the most vehement manner, every improvement in the pro- 
fession which in the least conflicts with their narrow and 
illiberal views. It is this class of the profession who have 
contributed so largely to the persecution of every attempted 
improvement in the practice, and unfortunately they have 
always been sufficiently numerous to control, in a great measure, 
its destiny. Thus while every other branch of physical science 
has made gigantic strides, the progress of medical science has 
been comparatively slow. While Geology has explored the 
earth from centre to circumference, and reads, from every tablet, 
the mighty creative power of Him who has thus wonderfully con- 
structed it; while Astronomy not only encircles this solar 
system, but gazes beyond, upon millions of suns and adaman- 
tine spheres that wheel unshaken through the immensity of space; PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
9 
while Chemistry has analyzed and explained nearly every 
animal, vegetable, and mineral substance; while Zoology and 
Botany give unmistakable evidence of uninterrupted progress; 
while, by the endless variety of labor-saving machinery, the 
improved method of printing, the transmission of thought with 
lightning speed to earth's extreme, the iron horse which break- 
fasts in the valley of the Mississippi, dines upon the rocky 
Alleghanies, and sups on the borders of the Atlantic, with other 
innumerable inventions, show that the arts, in progress and 
improvement, keep pace with the march of time; while the 
powerful engines of Christian fidelity have burst the bonds of 
Catholicism, and unfurled the banner of religious liberty, which, 
for more than three centuries, has floated high in the pure breeze 
of Christian freedom ; while also the improvement in the moral 
condition of mankind is seen in the glorious works of reforma- 
tion, w'hich are so zealously carried on ; while such extensive 
progress has been made to the perfection of art and every other 
department of science, it will be seen by reference to fact, that 
every attempt to improve the healing art, has met such bitter 
opposition ; that, comparatively, its progress has been slow, and 
it is far from occupying that advanced position in the ranks of 
science which its importance demands. 
Harvey, who discovered the circulation of the blood, was called 
the circulator, in derision. He was deprived of the right to practise 
his profession in his own country; was threatened with banish- 
ment, and finally was compelled to leave his native land, to 
escape the obloquy that was heaped upon him, and died with- 
out realizing the benefit of his labors. 
In 1522, Ambrose Pare first introduced the ligature, and tied 
the artery, instead of plunging the limb into boiling tar, as was 
practised by his cotemporaries. He was denounced, with the 
most reckless violence, for daring to suspend the life of a man 
upon a mere thread. In 1638, the Countess of Cinchon, wife of 
the ex-king of Peru, was laboring under a fever, from which 
she was unable to obtain relief. The Governor of Loxa, having 
learned from the natives the curative powers of the Cinchona, 
advised her to employ it. After much hesitation, she resolved 
to try it, and was by its use restored to health. Ten years 
afterwards, a Jesuit of Rome endeavored to introduce the Peru- 10 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
vian Bark into Europe; but his efforts were unsuccessful. The 
profession proclaimed at once that it was a Papish remedy, and 
proceeded from Quacks, who created all manner of disease. 
Protestant England called it a Papish remedy, saying that it 
proceeded from the father of all Papists, the Devil. It was not, 
until in spite of all opposition, its utility was demonstrated, 
that physicians availed themselves of its curative powers. 
Lady Mary Wortley Montague, while in Turkey, observing 
the wonderful effect of inoculation for small-pox, to mitigate the 
severity of that much dreaded disease, determined to introduce 
the practice into her native country. But no sooner did she make 
known her purpose, than the medical faculty arose at once and 
predicted the most disastrous consequences. The clergy de- 
scanted from the pulpit on thus seeking to take events from the 
hand of Providence. In order to satisfy the profession and the 
people of the great utility of inoculation, she resolved to experi- 
ment upon her own daughter, and government appointed four 
of the best medical men to observe its progress. Lady Montague 
states, that they not only manifested the greatest incredulity as 
to its success, but also such an unwillingness to have it succeed, 
that she was absolutely afraid to leave her daughter in their 
hands, lest she should suffer from their interference. 
In 1790, Dr. Jenner, of Gloucester, remarked that the disease 
known in the western part of England as cow-pox, communi- 
cated to those who milked the cows, precluded those who became 
thus affected from being infected with small-pox. This strange 
fact suggested to him the idea of inoculating children with 
virus directly from the udder of the cow, which he accord- 
ingly did, and in the course of four or five days he saw pustules 
developed at all points where the skin had been punctured, 
similar to those of cow-pox; when the pustule broke, the pus 
dried, forming a thin scale or crust, which, falling off, left a 
cicatrice. There was little or no fever, the children continuing 
to eat and play as usual. After repeated experiments of this 
kind, Dr. Jenner became satisfied of its being a preventive of 
small-pox, as not a single child thus inoculated was attacked 
with it. But how was the discovery received by the illiberal 
and dogmatical portion of the profession ? With ridicule and 
contempt, like every other proposed improvement. Jenner was PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
11 
persecuted, oppressed, and driven from his country ; even re- 
ligion and the Bible were made engines of attack against him 
and his invention. Errhman, of Frankfort, attempted to prove 
from Scripture that vaccination was the anti-Christ. At that 
time small-pox was the scourge of the human family, and, but 
for the discovery of Jenner, would have remained such until the 
present time. 
In 1315, Mondini dissected two human bodies, and shortly 
after published his Epitome of Anatomy, illustrated with wood- 
cuts. At this time, and for a long time afterward, it was cus- 
tomary to demonstrate anatomy upon the hog and other animals. 
The act of Mondini was considered heresy. The persecution 
of Mondini, together with the prejudice existing upon the sub- 
ject at the time, prevented any other dissection of a human 
subject for more than a century ; and Mondini, in his experi- 
ments, dared not open the head for fear of committing a mortal 
sin. It was not until the commencement of the sixteenth 
century that dissections for anatomical purposes were made, 
and then they were performed by the authority of the Pope, and 
not at the instigation of the medical profession. 
The natives of Brazil first taught the medicinal qualities of 
ipecac.; but, owing to the opposition with which it was met by 
the medical profession, it was more than a quarter of a century 
before its virtues were appreciated. A Mexican soldier, more 
than half a century ago, demonstrated the styptic properties of 
the Matico, and its entire control over the bleeding vessels of 
the body ; but such is the tendency to oppose every new remedy 
that, as yet, it is never employed by the mass of the profession. 
Dr. Samuel Thomson discovered and proved the valuable 
medical properties of Lobelia; but on modestly making known 
his discovery to the profession, it was not only denounced, but 
he was persecuted and imprisoned. At this time we find 
medical men using it in disguise, and at the same time denounc- 
ing its discoverer. In 1823, an association of scientific medical 
men, from different parts of the country, met in New York city, 
and made preparation for organizing a reform medical college ; 
when, by the indomitable energy of Dr. Beach, the first reform 
medical college in the world was organized. 
The object of this organization was to break the shackles of 12 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
Hunkerism ; to open the science of medicine to all bold ind 
thorough investigators; to enlarge and improve the materia 
medica; to investigate more fully and clearly the nature and 
character of disease peculiar to the country and climate, and 
to place the entire profession upon a more liberal and scientific 
basis. But no sooner was the object and aim of this institution 
announced, than a majority of the profession commenced an 
attack upon it, denouncing, violently, all who were indentified 
with this philanthropic movement. Dr. Beach, its founder, 
although a man of learning, and a graduate of one of the first 
allopathic colleges in the country, was assailed with terms of 
insolence and reproach, and all those who had the courage to 
participate in the w'ork shared the same fate. To all who are 
in any considerable degree acquainted with the history of 
medicine, it is obvious that this conservatism, which has long 
been a characteristic of the professon, has had a most disastrous 
influence upon its progress. 
The conservative, always ready to apologize and explain the 
reasons for his ungenerous course, with all complacency affirms 
that to talk of improvement is but a dream ; that the fathers of 
the profession have left us their knowledge as a choice legacy, 
which we should keep in grateful remembrance ; that the pro- 
fession has already attained a position which entitles it to the 
highest respect. 
Yet the positive uncertainty of medicines is manifested in a 
striking degree, as we trace the history of particular remedies, 
recommended by those who are reverenced as almost divine 
authority by the conservative. What differences of opinion - 
what an array of alleged facts directly at variance with each 
other- what opposite results of like experience - what ups and 
downs, glorifications and degradation, confidence and despair- 
arose in treating the same disease with the same remedies. To 
be satisfied upon this point we need only refer to the history of 
one or two prominent diseases, viz : pneumonia and syphilis. 
Mercury, antimony and blood-letting have been regarded as 
specifics in these diseases by many authors, while others of equal 
pedantry and learning have rejected them as useless and injuri- 
ous. Such has been the uncertainty of practical medicine, that 
even the conservative portion of the profession, if they become PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
13 
in the least Heightened, omit the heroic and adopt the expect- 
ant or tentative mode of practice. The foregoing facts disclose 
a lamentable state of things, but not a state to be despaired of; 
Jiuch less is it one to be concealed. It is our duty as guardians 
of the lives and health of our fellow-beings, to unmask, not only 
the virtues, but the faults of the profession. The course of our 
subject will now lead us to attempt to disclose in what the de- 
fects of those systems of practice mainly consist; the cause of 
these, and the means which seem best calculated to remove them. 
Also the principles which govern the Young American Physic. 
In order to fully understand why the old system of practice is 
not more successful in removing disease, it will be necessary to 
enter more fully into its principles of cure and therapeutic re- 
sources. For the investigation of these, it will be necessary to 
enter somewhat into the history of medicine. Pliny states that, 
if there exist any nation in which at any epoch of its history 
physicians were not found, there is none in which traces of medi- 
cine were not visible. It is probable that medicine has existed, 
either as an art or science, from the earliest period; and that the 
practice of medicine had its existence in the natural tendency of 
the soul to resist death, together with benevolent impulses towards 
the sufferings of others. 
The earliest and most authentic account we have of the 
practice of medicine, is that given of Centaur Chiron, a prince 
of Thessaly, who went out in the expedition against Troy. From 
all accounts we have of bis-practice, it was exceedingly empirical, 
and consisted in the external application of a few remedies to 
wounds, &c., together with incantations and ceremonies to affect 
the imagination. Chiron transmitted his profession, according 
to custom, to his son 2Esculapius, and JEsculapius to his two 
sons, Machaon and Podalirius. 
Fifty years after the destruction of Troy, a temple was 
erected at Titanus, a city of the Peloponnesus, in honor of 
JSsculapius, who was worshipped as a god. The worship of this 
god very soon spread throughout Greece and passed into Asia, 
Africa, and Italy. Multitudes of temples were consecrated to 
him, among which those at Epidaurus in the Peloponnesus, at 
Pergamos in Asia, on the island of Cos, and at Gyrene, a city 
2 14 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
of Libya, were particularly famous. In the temple at Epidaumus 
there was a statue of colossal size representing the god of 
medicine, under the figure of an old man, seated on a throne, 
holding in one hand a sceptre, and resting the other on the head 
of a large serpent; a dog, the emblem of vigilance, rested at his 
feet. The statue was of gold and ivory, and was the workman- 
ship of Grasymedus. Socrates, it is said, in his last discourse 
with his friends, requested them to offer for him a cock, as a 
sacrifice to JEsculapius ; whence we infer that this bird was 
sacred to the god. of medicine. 
The priests attached to this worship were named Asclepiades, 
or descendants of 2Esculapius. They regarded all the knowledge, 
relative to disease and medicine, as sacred, their laws forbidding 
it to be revealed to the non-elect, lest their god should be angry; 
strangers were not admitted to this knowledge until they had 
been subjected to certain ceremonies called the tests of initia- 
tion. 
These temples were erected in the midst of the most delight- 
ful scenery ; no pains were spared to furnish them with the 
most agreeable and healthful diversions; they breathed a pure 
air, were subjected to a wholesome regimen, and every possible 
means was used to affect the mind and imagination agreeably ; 
thus exercising a healthful and happy influence upon the con- 
stitution. Fasting and prayer were strictly enjoined upon the 
patients, also abstinence and sacrifices, before they were admitted 
to receive the response of the oracle. Those who were benefited 
went to their homes blessing the author of their recovery, and 
those who were not benefited redoubled their efforts to propitiate 
the god in their favor. Besides these means, remedies were used, 
not unlike those now in vogue, consisting in bleeding, purga- 
tives, vomiting, friction, mineral water, &c. 
There existed in the country, about Epidaurus, serpents of a 
yellowish brown color, whose bite was not.poisonous, and which 
were easily tamed. 
These were employed by these priest-doctors to more effectually 
impress the minds of their patients with wonder and astonish- 
ment at their supposed power, which, from all accounts, had the 
desired effect. Aurelius Victor relates, that during the year 
350 of the foundation of Rome, that city was scourged by a terrible PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
15 
pestilence ; the Senate sent six deputies to consult the oracle at 
Epidaurus. 
On arriving at the temple, suddenly an enormous serpent 
issued from beneath the pedestal. The sight of it filled every 
mind with veneration more than with terror. lie moved tran- 
quilly through the crowd and entered the vase of the Romans 
in the chamber of Ogulni'us, the chief of the ambassadors. The 
serpent was sacredly borne away, and when the ambassador 
was approaching the city of Romulus it sprang into the w'aves 
and swam to an island in the Tiber, where a temple was imme- 
diately erected to JEsculapius, and the pestilence ceased. 
It can hardly be doubted that the priest-doctors of these 
temples were endowed with strong natural powers of mind; that 
they understood the influence of mind over matter ; and that a 
strong belief in their ability to cure, contributed in a very con- 
siderable degree to their success. The teachings in these 
temples were confined to the family of 2Esculapius for some 
eight or nine hundred years. After a time they became more 
general, assuming more of the character of the medical colleges 
of the present day. Their means of teaching was confined 
mostly to tablets hung upon the walls and columns of the 
temples, showing the name of the patient, the disease, and the 
manner in which it was treated. One of these tablets, found on 
the island in the Tiber, the site of the ancient JEsculapian 
temple, bears the following inscription in Greek characters:- 
Lately a certain Caius, who was blind, came to consult the 
oracle. The god required that he approach the sacred altar to 
perform certain adorations ; at once he passed from the right to 
the left, and having rested his fingers on the altar, he raised his 
hands and applied them to his eyes, whereupon he recovered 
his sight immediately in the sight of all the people, who 
rejoiced to see such marvels performed in the reign of our 
august Antoninus. Upon the same tablet is the account of one 
Julin, who had pleurisy, and the gods ordered that the ashes of 
the altar be put into wine and applied to his side, which being 
lone, he was immediately cured. Another man, Valerius Aper, 
was blind, and the gods ordered an ointment of the blood of a 
white cock and honey to be applied to his eyes, which was done, 
and his sight restored. The only principle which guides these 16 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
priest-doctors in the administration of medicine for the cure of 
disease, was, that remedies, which have once cured, will cure 
again under similar circumstances. 
The practice of medicine, in the temples, was continued until 
about the commencement of the Christian era. Pythagoras, who 
was born in the year 500, B. C., at Samos, one of the most 
flourishing islands in the zEgean sea, having one day heard a 
lecture on the immortality of the soul by Pherecydes, was so 
charmed that he renounced every other occupation to devote 
himself to philosophy. He travelled among the most enlight- 
ened nations, obtaining extensive knowledge in every art and 
science cultivated at that early period, and that of medicine 
among others. It was Pythagoras who first introduced the 
practice of visiting patients in their own houses; he also 
rejected all theories in medicine, and contended that experience 
was the only safe guide to a successful medical practice. Hip- 
pocrates, who was born on the isle of Cos, 460 B. C., was one 
of the first reformers in medicine we have any account of. He 
was one of the direct descendants of 2Esculapius, and received 
his education at Cos, which contained a temple dedicated to 
JEsculapius, and a medical school ; thus his advantages for 
acquiring a medical education were very favorable. He was 
not satisfied, however, -with this instruction, and extended his 
researches into the principal Greek cities of Europe and Asia, 
taking a survey of the art of medicine as it then existed, which 
was in a state sadly deficient and imperfect; the ideas of dis- 
ease, and principles of cure, being of an exceedingly vague and 
uncertain character. He consequently commenced a series of 
experimental investigations into nearly every department of 
medicine. 
He opened an earnest warfare upon the superstitious cere- 
monies of the 2Esculapian priests, and advocated the custom, 
introduced by Pythagoras, of visiting patients at their own 
houses. He also classified and arranged diseases and remedies 
in a much more systematic manner than had hitherto existed, 
and introduced a variety of new remedies, which proved exceed- 
ingly valuable in the treatment of disease. His system of 
Therapeutics was, however, similar to his predecessor; depending 
in his choice of remedies upon those which experimental observ- PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
17 
ation had proved beneficial in removing disease. To show the 
reader how slightly the treatment of disease, twenty-two centuries 
ago, differed from that of a class of practitioners at the present 
time, I will here introduce the treatment for pleurisy, given by 
Hippocrates, as translated by Renouard. 
" It is necessary to examine, in the following manner, the 
peripneumonic and pleuritic affections; if the fever is acute ; if 
there is pain in one or both sides of the chest; if the patient 
suffers during expiration ; if he coughs, and the expectoration 
is rusty or livid, or thin and frothy, or of a blood-red - if, in 
fine, it differs at all from that which is natural, the following 
course must be pursued: the pain extending above and towards 
the clavicle, or towards the vein and the arm, the internal vein 
of the arm on that side should be opened. The quantity of 
blood drawn should be proportional to the constitution of the 
body, the season of the year, the age and color of the patient; 
and if the pain is acute, the bleeding should be boldly pushed to 
syncope ; afterward an injection is to be administered. 
" If the pain occupies the inferior region of the chest, and is 
very great, you should prescribe for pleuritics a mild purgation ; 
but the patient must taste nothing else whilst the medicine is 
operating. After the purgation they should have an oxymel.* 
The purgation should not be administered until the fourth day; 
during the first three days injections should be employed ; but 
if they are not sufficient, the purge should be given, as above 
said. He must be watched until the fever ceases, and the 
seventh day is attained; after that, if he appears out of danger, 
he may take a little barley-water, sweetened with honey. If the 
convalescence progresses and the respiration is good, the tisane f 
may be given twice a day, and be gradually increased in quan- 
tity and strength ; but if the convalescence is slow the drink 
must be lessened, and a small quantity of weak tisane, for 
nourishment, once a day. It should be given -when the patient 
is in the best condition, as may be known by the appearance of 
the urine. 
" To those who approach the close of the disease, it is not 
necessary to give the tisane before you see the coction manifested 
in the urine or expectoration ; nevertheless, if, when purged, the 
• Decoction of barley. 
2* 
f Oxymel, honey and vinegar syrup. 18 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
patient has abundant evacuations, it is necessary to give the 
tisane, but in less quantities and weaker, otherwise the empti- 
ness of the vessels would allow him neither to sleep, nor to 
digest, nor to await the crisis. With this exception, the crude 
humors should be liquefied, and whatever has been the obstacle 
should be ejected: then nothing prevents alimentation. The 
expectoration is perfectly concocted when it appears like pus : 
the urine, also, when it has a red sediment like brick-dust. 
" As to the pain in the side, nothing contra-indicates the use 
of fomentations and wax-plasters. The legs and arms should 
be ? ubbed with warm oil and then anointed with fat. The 
hypochondria should be covered as high as the breast with a flax- 
seed poultice. When the peripneumonia has reached its height, 
nothing can be accomplished without purgation : it is bad if the 
patient has dyspnoea, or if the urine be thin and acid, or there 
be sweats around the neck and head. These sweats indicate 
danger in proportion to the violence of the disease, which is 
known by the suffocation and rattling, which increases and 
produces death, unless there supervene an abundant flow of 
viscid urine, or of concocted sputa. Whichever of these two 
phenomena supervenes, it indicates resolution. 
"An eclegma is prescribed for peripneumonia, with galbanum 
and grains of pine seed, in Attic-honey. Other expectorants are 
employed, such as worm-wood (Artemisia, abrotanum, Lin.), and 
pepper in oxymel; purgatives-boil black hellebore (Helleborua 
orientalis, Lin.), and give it as a drink to pleuritics at the com- 
mencement and while the pain is felt. A useful remedy in 
affections of the liver, and in pains proceeding from the 
diaphragm, is a drink of opoponax (Pastinacce opoponax, Lin.), 
boiled in oxymel and strained. In general, a remedy that is to 
act on the stools, or urine, should be given in wine and in honey 
if to act on the stools alone, it should be given in a much large 
quantity of diluted oxymel." 
It will be seen, by comparing the treatment of Hippocrates 
with that of Dr. Eberle, given in another part of this work, that 
there is no essential difference. The bleeding and purgative 
plan is still adhered to. 
At the death of Hippocrates, which occured when he was 
about one hundred years of age, his two sons, Thassalius and PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
19 
Draco, together with his son-in-law Polybius, cultivated the art 
of medicine, and transmitted the knowledge of their father by 
teaching in a public manner his doctrines. Hippocrates and his 
sons were the first authors of any note upon the subject of medi- 
cine. 
The foundation of the Alexandrian Library, about the year 
320 B. C., had a happy effect upon some departments of medicine, 
as Anatomy, Physiology, &c. 
But from the statement of Galen, who had examined all the 
contents of this library relative to medicine, it appears that the 
only knowledge it evinced of therapeutics was merely experi- 
mental. The Alexandrian Library is said to have contained 
about 600,000 volumes or rolls, which were equal to about 
200,000 modern bound volumes. This library contained all the 
valuable information of those times in every department of 
science and art. It was burnt by Caliph Omar, A. D., 640, who 
gave as his reasons that, if the books agreed with the Koran, they 
were of no use, and if they disagreed they contained heresy, 
and should be burnt. Thus far in the history of medicine, the 
only therapeutic axiom was this: When a treatment was suc- 
cessful in one case, it was always employed in analogous cases 
without inquiry whether it acted upon one principle or another; 
although Hippocrates and his disciples suggested some diseases 
were cured by their opposites, and others by similars; while 
again diseases have been cured by remedies which appear to be 
neither similar nor contrary to the nature of the disease. 
It is not my purpose to enter in any considerable degree into 
the consideration of the theories which prevailed in those ancient 
times relative to disease, yet I can hardly present to the reader 
any thing like an idea of the comparative condition of medicine, 
without noticing in a brief manner some of the more prominent 
notions relating to it. The Asclepiades, of the isle of Cos, regarded 
disease as a series of phenomena, resulting from the efforts of 
nature to remove the cause of the disease. They regarded nature 
as competent to accomplish, her purpose in many instances, but in 
others medical interference become necessary. They also 
regarded disease as having critical days and a certain duration. 
Pvthagoras states that the number of days which bring about 
th i cure or death of a patient, regulates the crisis.of fevers. In 20 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
remarking upon the observation of these critical periods and 
daily phenomena of disease, he says that a physician who 
neglects nothing that may contribute to the patient's health, 
must observe carefully what passes each day. 
Among those days of even numbers the most important are 
the fourteenth, the twenty-eighth, and the forty-second. Who- 
ever carefully observes the phenomena of disease, as described 
by these ancient authorities, will see an aphorism of Prof. J. J. 
Jones verified: That all diseases are more or less periodic. 
Following the doctrine of crisis is that of the four elements, 
Heat, Cold, Dryness and Moisture; and the four cardinal humors, 
blood, bile, atra-bile, and phlegm. 
Empedocles was the first to introduce this doctrine of the 
elements. He says the human body is composed of blood, 
phlegm, and two sorts of bile - yellow and black; and that 
their condition determines the state of health ; that perfect 
health consists in a due proportion of each; that disease is 
caused by an excess of any one of these, or if any one lacks its 
due proportion, or is evacuated without being properly mixed- 
for when it is thus evacuated, they claim that not only the 
region where the admixture took place must be affected, but the 
organ, through which it passed off, must suffer and become dis- 
eased. Another theory of those times was, that all disease was 
caused by cold, which they explained as follows: - Colds cause 
the condensation of the tissues and veins of the head; if the 
cold strikes them when they are heated, they contract, and the 
humors contained in them are expelled. All the tissues are 
obliged to pour out their fluids when they contract. 
Fluxions are also caused by the tissues becoming heated, 
which rarefies them, enlarges their pores; the humors they con- 
tain are attenuated, so that it flows easily when compressed. 
This theory of fluxions is regarded as being anterior to Hippo- 
crates. For a long time after Hippocrates, we have no writings 
from which we can learn any progress in the practical resources 
of the profession. From all we can gather, it would' seem that 
little, if any, progress was made in the principles or practice of 
medicine for many centuries. Herophilus is mentioned by some 
as a reformer in medicine, and as having introduced quite a 
large number of medicines; but what they were, history fails PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
21 
to tell us. Dioscorides states that the medicines used by him 
had the power to dissolve stone in the bladder; to consume the 
spleen ; to prevent conception in females ; of making children 
black-eyed, &c.; also, that they would prevent the various mani- 
festations of mental emotions and passions. The modus 
operandi of medicines, as explained by the ancients, was that 
they acted upon the system according to the degree of heat or 
cold, dryness or moisture, of the system. A principle not very 
dissimilar to that advocated by the modern Samuel Thomson, 
which was that heat was life, and cold was death ; and that 
medicines acted beneficially or otherwise, according to the degree 
of heat they contained. 
JEtius, who lived at the commencement of the sixth century, 
and was the first physician of eminence who embraced the 
Christian religion, dispensed with most of the ceremonies, magic 
and incantations, that originated in the school; but 
instituted others almost equally superstitious. In his directions 
to use certain medicines, he recommended that the following 
words be repeated in a low voice: May the God of Abraham, 
the God of Isaac, the God of Jacob, deign to bestow upon this 
medicine the necessary virtues, &c. In extracting a foreign 
substance from any part of the system, he recommends, in con- 
nection with proper means used, the following words: As Jesus 
Christ caused Lazarus to come forth from the sepulchre, as 
Jonah came out of the whale's belly, come thou out. In his 
practice he made free use of the cautery, and introduced a 
number of new ointments. He also claimed to have introduced 
to the materia medica several new remedies, but did not tell us 
what they were. His principles of practice were the same as 
his predecessors. 
Rhazes, an Arabian physician, although a strict imitator of 
the Greek practice, offered one or two suggestions worthy of 
remembrance. Among other considerations, he says: " study 
carefully the antecedents of the-man to whose care you propose 
to confide all you hold most dear in the world - that is to say, 
your life and health, and the life and health of your wife and 
children. If the man is dissipating his time in frivolous plea- 
sures ; if he cultivates with too much zeal the arts that are fo- 
reign to the profession, such as music and poetry; still more if he 22 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
is addicted to debauchery, refrain from committing into his 
hands a trust so precious." 
Hally-Abas, Avicenna, and Albucasis, were also Arabian physi- 
cians of some note, and lived in the eleventh and twelfth centuries. 
They added to the resources of the Greeks several articles of 
some value, such as cassia, senna, and manna. They also added 
several ointments and syrups to the pharmacy. In the princi- 
ples of treating diseases, however, they made but little, if any, 
advancement. 
On examining the progress in the principles and practice of 
medicine, from its commencement to the close of the seventeenth 
century, we find that the principal improvements were made by 
the descendants of jEsculapius, Hippocrates and Galen ; that the 
Arabians, Turks, and Jews, did little, if any thing, more than 
teach it as it had been taught by Hippocrates. Even after the 
discovery of the art of printing by Guttenberg and others, in 
1424, physicians appeared to be entirely satisfied in translating 
the writings of ancient authors, and in commenting upon what, 
it would appear, they thought a fixed science. 
In the year 1700, John Fernel, who wrote quite extensively 
upon the materia medica, re-examined the therapeutic axiom of 
Hippocrates, that, all diseases are cured by contraries. He 
stated that every disease must be cured by contraries; for, says 
he, " a remedy is that which can drive out a disease, and that 
which drives acts violently. That which uses violence is in 
opposition, therefore the remedy is always opposed to the dis- 
ease, and no healing can take place except in virtue of the law 
of contraries. We call contraries not only those things which 
are endowed with opposite elementary qualities, heat and cold, 
dry and wet, but also things which differ among themselves in 
any way, as to quantity, number, quality, &c. Thus the hard 
and the soft, the dense and the diffuse, the great and the small, 
that which is in excess and that which is deficient; the high and 
the low, the pure and the impure, are all examples of contraries. 
These are the views of Fernel relative to the therapeutic action 
of medicine, although he carried them further than Hippocrates 
and Galen, and entirely rejected their experimental knowledge 
of therapeutics, and claims, the law of contraries to be impos- 
sible. PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
23 
Paracelsus, a native of Einsiedeln, a village of Switzer- 
land, lived in the latter part of the sixteenth century, and 
although a man of neither integrity of purpose, nor stability of 
character, obtained almost universal sway over the medical pro- 
fession. He claimed to have made great discoveries in thera- 
peutics and pathology. He stated that the human body, like the 
great world of which it is an image, is composed of four elements, 
fire, air, earth and water. The fire in man is the soul; the earth 
is represented by the dry parts; the water by the liquids; the air 
by the vacuum. These four elements cause disease. But if we 
leave this high analysis to get at the more immediate elements, 
the body of man is composed of mercury, the liquor of sulphur 
and salt. And now we see how this is demonstrated by alchymy. 
There are, in the first place, in the body liquids; these are the 
mercury; then the solids, which may be burnt; the portion 
which burns is sulphur, while the residue or the ashes is salt 
It can hardly be imagined how a man can embody, in so few 
words, such an amount of ignorance, and, what is still more 
wonderful, is, that a system, thus founded in the grossest igno- 
rance, should exert such an influence on the medical profession. 
The additional element of mercury, which he added to the four 
elements of the ancients, enabled him to found a new system of 
therapeutics, and in a measure to introduce new principles of 
cure. • Mercury, he tells us, being in close relation to ordinary 
quicksilver, produces, by its volatility, many affections of 
the ligaments, as tremblings, &c. If it becomes excessive, or if it 
be joined to acrimony, mania, phrenzy and madness occur. On 
the contrary, if the mercury is chilled, it causes trembling of 
the hands and feet, lethargy, erosions of the mouth, &c. Sul- 
phur causes various kinds of fevers, jaundice, &c. Salt causes 
gravel, gout, sciatica, and, when it becomes dissolved, it causes 
diarrhoea; if it coagulates, constipation ; if it volatizes too soon, 
it causes ulcers, itch, erysipelas, cancers, herpes, &c. For the 
purpose of removing all these diseases, he introduced into the 
system antimony, gold, mercury, copper, and some other metals. 
He discarded many of the remedies of Hippocrates as being in- 
effectual and unable to control the elements of the body, and 
pretended the principle upon which mercury removed disease 
from the body was a profound secret, peculiar to himself U 24 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
was a combination of these metals which composed what he 
called his elixir vitoe, or universal remedy for all diseases. One 
attempt which he made to explain the modus operandi of his 
medicines, will suffice to show his entire ignorance upon the 
subject. It was as follows : -"As antimony purges gold only, 
and consumes all other metals, it is the proper agent to purge 
the human body, and no other ; for in regard to perfection and 
forces, man has a great similitude to gold ; whence it follows, 
that antimony brings man and gold to a supreme degree of per- 
fection and purity, while it destroys, consumes and exempts 
every thing else. The nature of antimony is a purgative, though 
it does not produce evacuation of faeces and other excrements; 
but, above all other rejnedies, which act insensibly, it drives out 
that which renders man impure, and having purged the cause 
of disease, brings him to a supreme degree of health/' It will 
readily be perceived from the above quotation, that in the adminis- 
tration of medicine, he was guided for less by correct principles 
than his predecessors in the profession. Paracelsus was the 
first physician who used mercury and the other violent mineral 
poisons. Andrew Libanius, a physician, chemist and director 
of the gymnasium at Cobourg, and cotemporary of Paracelsus, 
informs us that the latter cured very few of his patients ; that he 
killed a great many, and.that many others were horribly tor- 
tured by the use of his medicaments. As ignorant and unskillful 
as was Paracelsus, he was the founder of the present system of 
Medicine; and the very remedies of which he composed his 
quack elixir, are still insisted upon as being the almost universal 
panacea for bodily ills. It is true that men, eminent in the pro- 
fession, have labored for a more rational system of practice ; have 
minutely investigated the cause and nature of disease, and have 
very materially improved the condition of pathology. But not- 
withstanding all this, it must be acknowledged that their thera- 
peutic resources are essentially the same as those of Hippocrates 
and Paracelsus. By referring to the compendium of Dr. Eberle's 
Practice, in another part of this work, we can learn what the 
resources of the Old School portion of the profession are. To 
be sure, every article is not there enumerated which has been 
recommended by that branch of the profession ; but, he being a 
late author, and having enjoyed the confidence of the profes- PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
25 
sion as such for nearly a quarter of a century, it is probable he 
as fairly represents his party in medicine as any author I could 
select. According to all their authors, bleeding, blistering, 
mercury, antimony, &c., are their principal therapeutic re- 
sources. With these are they successful in accomplishing the 
only purpose for which medicine is cultivated?-that of healing 
disease. The first of these resources, in order, is bleeding. Is 
bleeding of service in the treatment of disease ? Is it produc- 
tive of more good than evil ? These are questions which should 
be solved before venturing upon so active a measure in changing 
the normal condition of the human organism. 
To assist us in the solution of this question, we may first in- 
quire, what are the purposes of the blood ? what part does it 
perform in the economy of human life. Scripture tells us that 
the blood is the life of the flesh. Physiology tells us that the 
blood is the histogenic material, out of which all the organs of the 
body are formed, and by which they maintain their normal 
integrity. Pathology, still further, informs us that a large 
majority of all disease that afflicts the human family is depen- 
dent upon, or is caused by, a deficiency in the whole, or in certain 
constituents of the blood. Physiological pathology informs us 
that the blood is a medium through which all the disintegrated 
or waste portions of the old tissue are removed from the body; 
that it watches diligently over every tissue, and carefully supplies 
every deficiency. Still the question is, does it remove disease! 
What are the facts? The following remarks of Dr. Samuel 
Dickson, formerly an officer of the British staff, now of London, 
will show some facts upon the utility of blood-letting in the 
treatment of disease. "A medical officer of one of her majesty's 
regiments, serving in India, couched a woman for cataract. 
The next day the eye having become inflamed, according to 
received practice, he bled the patient; but scarcely had be 
bound up her arm, when she fell.as if she had been shot, and 
lay, to all appearance, dead ; with the greatest difficulty he 
succeeded in recovering her from this state ; but it was not till 
four long hours had passed that he felt he could safely leave her 
with attendants; for during the greater part of that time, when 
he ceased to chafe her temples, or otherwise call up the attention 
of the brain, by the application of stimulants to the nose, mouth, 
3 26 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
&c., she relapsed into a death-like swoon. More than once he 
was obliged to inflate her lungs to keep her from dying. But 
in this case, gentlemen, blood-letting did not cure the inflamma- 
tion ; for the next day the eye was more painful and inflamed 
than ever, and the poor woman, after all the blood she had lost, 
- and who will say that she was not bled? - did not recover 
her sight. It is now many years since that case came under 
my sight, and it made an impression on my mind I shall never 
forget. Had the woman died, would not every one have said 
that the gentleman who bled her had killed her? and very 
justly, too." 
"Religion, Freedom, Vengeance, what you will, 
A word's enough to raise mankind, to kill - 
Some party-phrase by cunning caught, and spread, 
That Guilt may reign, and Wolves, and worms he fed." 
"The first resource of the surgeon is the lancet - the first 
thing he thinks of when called to an accident, is, how he can 
most quickly open the flood-gates of the heart, to pour out the 
stream of an already enfeebled existence. Does a man fall from 
his horse, or a height, is he not instantly bled? has he been 
stunned by a blow, is not the lancet in requisition ? Nay, has 
an individual fainted from over-exertion or exhaustion, is it not 
a case of fits - and what so proper as venesection ? You can- 
not have forgotten the fate of Malibran - the inimitable Mali- 
bran; she who so often, by her varied and admirable perform- 
ances, moved you to tears and smiles, by turns. She was playing 
her part upon the stage; she entered into it with the whole of 
her soul, riveting the audience to the spot by the very intensity 
of her acting. Just as she had taxed the powers of her too 
delicate frame to the utmost, she fainted and fell; fell from very 
weakness. Instantly a medical man leapt upon the stage, - to 
administer a cordial? No, to bleed her! to bleed a weals, worn, 
and exhausted woman ! and the result? She never rallied from 
that unfortunate hour. But, gentlemen, Malibran was not the 
only intellectual person of the thousands and tens of thousands 
who have prematurely perished by the lancet. Byron and Scott, 
those master-spirits of their age - those great men, who, like 
Ariosto and Shakspeare, not only excited the admiration of 
cotemporary millions, but whose genius must continue, for gen- PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
27 
erationg yet unborn, to delight the land that produced them - 
they, too, fell victims to the lancet - they, too, were destroyed 
by the hands, which, however friendly and well-intentioned, 
most undoubtedly dealt them their death-blow. Is not this a 
subject for deep reflection ? To the cases of these great men we 
shall recur in the course of this lecture; but, for the present, 
we must turn to other matters - to events that have just passed 
before our eyes. The affair of Newport, in Wales, is still the 
topic of the hour. You must therefore remember it to its min- 
utest detail - the attack of the rioters upon the town; the 
gallant and successful stand made by Capt. Gray and his little 
detachment of the 35th regiment- the prisoners captured and 
the investigation which took place afterwards. In the course 
of that examination a prisoner, who was under examination, 
fainted. What was done with him ? he was carried out of 
court and immediately bled. On his return an extraordinary 
change had come over his countenance; from being a man of 
robust appearance, he had became so wan and haggard, so 
altered in every lineament, the spectators could scarcely recog- 
nize him as the same prisoner. Yet, strange to say, not one of 
the many journals that reported this case, spoke a word in con- 
demnation of the uncalled-for measure which brought the man 
•to such a state; so much has custom blunted the sense of the 
public to this, the most dangerous of all medical appliances. 
Gentlemen, a coroner's inquest was held on a person who died 
suddenly. Mr. , surgeon, stated that he was called upon to 
attend deceased, and found him at the point of death. He 
attempted to bleed him, but ineffectually, and in less than a 
minute from witness' arrival, deceased expired. Witness not 
being able to give any opinion as to the cause of death from the 
symptoms that then exhibited themselves, he afterwards, with the 
assistance of Dr. Ridge, 37 Cavendish Square, made a post-mortem 
examination, and found that a large tumour, attached to a large 
vessel of the heart, containing blood, had bursted, and that was 
the cause of his death. So that, while the man was actually dying 
of inanition from internal bleeding, the surgeon, utterly igno- 
rant, according to his own confession, of the nature of the 
disease, proceeded to open a vein. How happens it that the 
lancet should be so invariably the first resort of ignorance. 28 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
" In every case of stun or faint, the employment of this instru- 
ment must be a superadded injury; in all, there is a positive 
enfeeblement of the whole frame, evidenced by the cold surface 
and weak but imperceptible pulse; there is an exhaustion, which 
loss of blood, so far from relieving, too often converts into a state 
of utter prostration. True, men recover when treated in this 
manner-but these are not cures, they are escapes. How few the 
diseases which loss of blood may not of itself produce! if it 
cannot cause the eruptions of small-pox, nor the glandular 
swellings of plague, it has given rise to disorders more immedi- 
ately fatal than either. What think you of cholera asphyxia- 
Asiatic cholera? Gentlemen, the symptoms of that disease are 
the symptoms of a person bleeding slowly away from life. The 
vomiting, the cramps, the sighing, the long gasp for breath, the 
leaden and livid countenance which the painter gives to the 
dying in his battle-pieces; these are equally the symptoms of 
cholera and loss of blood. Among the numerous diseases which 
it can produce, Darwin says, ' a paroxysm of gout is liable to 
recur on bleeding.' John Hunter mentions 'lock-jaw and 
dropsy' among its injurious effects - Travers, 'blindness and 
palsy' - Marshall Hall, 'mania'-Blundell, 'dysentery' - 
Broussais, ' fever and convulsions.' ' When an animal loses a 
considerable quantity of blood,' says John Hunter, 'the heart 
increases in its frequency of strokes, as also in its violence.' 
Yet these are the indications for which professors tell you to 
bleed. You must bleed in every inflammation, they tell you. 
Yet is not inflammation the daily effect of the loss of blood ? 
Magendie mentions pneumonia as having been produced by it, 
completely confirming the evidence of Dr. Hume upon that 
point. He further tells us, that he has witnessed among its 
effects the entire trains of what people are pleased to call in- 
flammatory phenomena; and mark, he says, the extraordinary 
fact, that this inflammation will have been produced by the very 
agent that is daily used to combat it! What a long dream of 
false security have mankind been dreaming! they have laid 
themselves down on the laps of their Mentors,-they have slept 
a long sleep; while these, like the fabled vampire of the poets, 
taking advantage of a dark night of barbarism and ignorance, 
have thought it no sin to rob them of their life's blood during PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
29 
the profoundness of their slumber! Gentlemen, the long shiver 
of the severest ague, the burning fever, the severest lock-jaws, 
the vomiting, cramps, and asphyxia of cholera, the spasm of 
asthma and epilepsy, the pains of rheumatism, the palpitating 
and tumultuous heart, the most settled melancholy and madness, 
dysentery, consumption, every species of palsy, the faint that 
becomes death, these - all these - have I traced to the loss of 
blood! 
" Lord Byron called medicine the destructive art of healing. 
How truly it proved to be so in his own case, you shall see when 
I give you the details of his last illness: - 'Of all his preju- 
dices/ says Mr. Moore, ' he declared the strongest was that 
against bleeding. His mother had obtained from him a promise 
never to consent to be bled ; and, whatever arguments might be 
produced, his aversion, he said, was stronger than reason. Be- 
sides, is it not, he asked, asserted by Dr. Reid, that less slaughter 
is effected by the lance than by the lancet- that minute instru- 
ment of mighty mischief!' On Mr. Millingen observing that 
this remark related to the treatment of the nervous, but not of 
inflammatory complaints, he rejoined, in an angry.tone, 'Who 
is nervous if I am not? and do not those other words of his (Dr. 
Reid's) apply to my case, where he says that drawing blood 
from a nervous patient, is like loosening the cords of a musical 
instrument - whose tones already fail for want of sufficient 
tension ! Even before this illness, you yourself knew how weak 
and irritable I had become; and bleeding, by increasing this 
state, will inevitably kill me. Do with me what else you like, 
but bleed me you shall not. I have had several inflammatory 
fevers in my life, and at an age when robust and plethoric; yet 
1 got through them without bleeding. This time, also, will I take 
my chance.' After much reasoning and repeated entreaties, 
Mr. Millingen succeeded in obtaining from him a promise, that 
should he feel his fever increase at night, he would allow Dr. 
Bruno to bleed him. On revisiting the patient early next morn- 
ing, Mr. Millingen learned from him that, having passed on the 
whole, as he thought, a better night, he had not thought it 
necessary to ask Dr. Bruno to bleed him. What followed I shall, 
in justice to Mr. Millingen, give in his own words: 'I thought 
it my duty now to put aside all consideration of his feelings, 
3* 30 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
and to declare, solemnly, to him how deeply I lamented to see 
him trifle thus with his life, and show so little resolution. His 
pertinacious refusal had already, I said, caused much precious 
time to be lost; but few hours of hope now remained ; and, un- 
less he submitted immediately to be bled, we could not answer 
for the consequences. It was true he cared not for life, but who 
could assure him that, unless he changed his resolution, the un- 
controlled disease might operate such disorganization in his 
system as utterly and forever deprive him of reason 1 I had 
now hit at last on the sensible chord ; and partly annoyed 
by our importunities, partly persuaded, he cast at us both the 
fiercest glance of vexation, and throwing out his arm said, in 
the angriest tone, ' There you are, I see, a d-d set of butchers, 
take away as much blood as you like, but have done with it 1' 
We seized the moment (adds Mr. Millingen), and drew about 
twenty ounces. On coagulation, it presented a strong buffy coat, 
yet the relief obtained did not correspond to the hopes we had 
formed, and during the night the fever became stronger than it 
had been hitherto, the restlessness and agitation increased, and 
the several times in an incoherent manner. Surely 
this was sufficient to convince the most school-bound of the 
worse than inoperative nature of the measure. Far from it. On 
the following morning, the 17th of April, the bleeding was re- 
peated twice, and it was thought right also to apply blisters to 
the soles of his feet! Well might Mr. Moore exclaim, 'It is 
painful to dwell on such details.' For our present purpose it is 
sufficient to state, that although the rheumatic symptoms had 
been completely removed, it was at the expense of the patient's 
life. His death took place upon the 19th, that is, three days 
after he was first bled. 
" M. Capeman, in 1845, gives the statistics of the bleeding and 
non-bleeding practice in apoplexy. ' In 1836, when 1 first re 
pudiated the lancet in this disease, the statistics were all on one 
side, the only cases of the non-bleeding side of the argument 
being my own.' The following is from Mr. Capeman's table: 
Number bled 120 Cured 51 Died 78 
Number not bled 26 Cured 18 Died 8 
Showing that, in the cases where bleeding was practised, nearly PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
31 
two out of three died; whereas, in the cases treated without 
blood-letting, more than two out of three recovered! What is 
the worth of general assertions in the face of such evidence? 
" In the army hospitals I had an opportunity of studying dis- 
ease both at home and abroad. There I saw the fine tall soldier 
bled, for relief of a symptom, to fainting; and what is fainting? 
A loss of every organic perception - a death-like state, only 
difiuring from death in the possibility of a recall. Prolong it to 
permanency and it is death. Primary symptoms were, of course, 
got over by such measures ; but once having entered the hospital 
walls, I found that soldier become familiar to me; seldom did 
his pale countenance recover its former healthy character. He 
became the victim of consumption, dropsy, or dysentery. Ilia 
constitution was broken by the first depletory measures to 
which he had been subjected?' 
In connection with these cases, reported by Dr. Dickson, we 
might mention that of our own Washington, who, after escaping 
the perils of war with its engines of death, fell a victim to the 
lancet. He was attacked with quinsy - bled to an enormous 
extent, three times within a few days, and died with all the 
characteristic symptoms of fatal hemorrhage. 
Andral recently reported one hundred cases of pneumonia 
treated by blood-letting; one hundred treated by antimony and 
mercury, and one hundred by diet and rest. Of the cases 
treated by blood-letting, 27 died; of those treated by antimony 
and mercury, 21 died; by diet and rest, 7 died. 
To the candid and impartial observer of facts, the general 
fatality accompanying this practice is conclusive on this point. 
Within my own experience I could enumerate hundreds who, 
while in the bloom of health, upon some trifling ailment have 
submitted themselves to be bled, and thus offered up their lives 
upon the altar of this murderous practice. These are a few 
among the many facts which lead us to condemn the use of 
the lancet. Another therapeutic agent in the old materia 
medica which we reject, is mercury with all its preparations; 
for ample experience has shown, that the allopathic axiom, that 
medicines which will produce one train of morbid phenomena, 
will remove an already existing disease, is not successful in 
combating disease; but, on the contrary, has greatly enlarged 32 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
the bills of mortality, and increased the amount of human suf- 
fering. It is not true that two diseases will not manifest them- 
selves in the human organism at the same time, as common 
observation will show. It is true that while patients are laboring 
under the specific influence of mercury, they, at the same time, 
suffer from the ravages of other morbid influences equally 
disastrous to the life and health of the patient. Nothing is 
more common than to see patients die of idiopathic fevers, 
syphilis, small-pox, phthisis, pneumonia, pleurisy, inflammation 
of the brain, stomach, bowels, &c., while under the specific 
influences of mercury. Statistics show that a much larger por- 
tion die, when thus treated, than when left to the unaided efforts 
of nature. This fact was fully appreciated by Lord Byron after 
recovering from a very severe attack of fever. He stated that 
after a week of half delirium, burning skin, hot headache, hor- 
rible sensations, and no sleep, by the blessing of barley-water, 
and refusing to see his physician, he recovered. 
Lord Byron was not the only one w'ho realized the inefficiency 
of the allopathic method of treating disease. A large majority 
of the most intelligent people have felt, for the last two-thirds 
of a century, the importance of an entire revolution in our 
therapeutic resources. The following are the preparations of 
mercury most in use : 
The blue-pill, which is a preparation of quicksilver, rose-leaves 
and honey. 
Bichloride of mercury, or corrosive sublimate. 
Chloride of mercury, or Calomel. 
Ammonio-chloride of mercury, or White Precipitate. 
Red Oxide of mercury, or Red Precipitate. 
Bicyanide of mercury. 
Sub-sulphate of Peroxide of mercury. 
Nitrates of mercury. 
Iodide of mercury. 
The symptoms of large doses of Bichloride of mercury, as 
described by Taylor in his Medical Jurisprudence, page 87, are 
nausea, with vomiting of long stringy masses of white mucus, 
mixed with blood, followed by profuse purging. 
The pulse is small, frequent, and irregular, being scarcely 
perceptible as the disease advances. The tongue is white and PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
33 
shriveled, the skin is cold and clammy, the respiration difficult, 
and death is commonly preceded by fainting, convulsions, and 
insensibility. The mouth is swollen and the urine is suppressed. 
The symptoms produced by corrosive sublimate, in the first in- 
stance, resemble cholera. The quantity necessary to destroy life, 
according to Taylor, is from three to five grains. 
Chloride of mercury, or calomel, is poisonous in doses similar 
to corrosive sublimate. A case is reported in the Medical 
Gazette (18 vol., p. 484), in which a boy, aged fourteen, was 
killed by one dose of six grains of calomel. 
It is stated, by Mr. Taylor, that no salivation was produced in 
this case. Pereira mentions a case of a lady who was killed by 
a dose of twenty grains of calomel. Sobernheim states that a 
girl, aged eleven, took eight grains of calomel in twenty-four 
hours, for croup, and died in eight days from inflammation and 
ulceration of the mouth and fauces. 
Dr. Taylor mentions a case, which occured at Lesser, where 
fifteen grains of calomel produced similar effects, and the patient 
died in eight days. Dr. Christian mentions a case in which two 
grains of calomel destroyed life by the severe salivation induced, 
as well as by the ulceration of the throat. Taylor, in his Medi- 
cal Jurisprudence, page 80, mentions a case, where two-thirds 
of a grain of calomel was given to a boy, aged eight years, pro- 
ducing violent salivation and necrosis of the bones. 
In another instance, a little girl, aged five, took daily, for three 
days, three grains of mercury and chalk-powder. Her mouth 
was severely affected; sloughing ensued, and she died in eight 
days. In a third case, a boy, aged eleven years, took three 
doses of this powder - one of six grains on the 14th, a similar 
dose on the 17th, and four grains on the 20th, making altogether 
sixteen grains. The most profuse salivation ensued, sloughing 
commenced in both cheeks and rapidly extended through them. 
The boy du'd in four days. Previously to the exhibition of the 
mercury .e had recovered from an attack of fever. In a fourth 
case, three grains of blue pill, given twice a day, for three days, 
making eighteen grains, w'ere ordered for a girl, aged nineteen, 
who complained of a slight pain in her abdomen. Severe sali- 
vation supervened, the teeth separated, and she died in twelve 
days. Dr. Craigie says the great objection to the employment 34 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
of any preparation of quicksilver in the cure of renal disease, 
consists in the fact, that the use of the mineral is known to 
render the urine albuminous, to increase the inflammatory state 
of the system, and to induce the disease, the effects of which, it 
is expected, to remove. Another evil is that, in persons laboring 
under symptoms of granular kidney, a very small quantity of 
mercury induces salivation, and renders the mouth tender and 
most painful. (Practice of Physic, ii., 1148.) 
Prof. Z. Freeman reports a case, in the August number of the 
Eclectic Medical Journal, 1854, p. 345, of a girl who took calo- 
mel and jalap for a cathartic. It was followed by severe saliva- 
tion, gangrene and necrosis of the jaw bone. He states, that 
himself and Dr. Newton took from the jaw four pieces of bone, 
each over an inch in length and three-fourths of an inch in 
thickness, including a number of teeth. The jaw was anchy- 
losed and the mercurial bone foetor was very offensive in this 
ease. He mentions another case which came before him while 
he was lecturing in Memphis, in which the jaw was necrosed, 
and the features horribly mutilated, as the effects of mercury. 
I knew a case of a lady, treated by a homoepathic physician for 
remittent fever, who took corrosive sublimate, as admitted by 
the physician, one grain a day, for three days, producing violent 
salivation and ulceration of the mouth, with a strong tendency 
to gangrene, followed by persistent vomiting, prostration, and 
death in the course of five or six weeks. Upon making a post- 
mortem examination, the mucous membrane of the stomach, and 
upper portion of the bowels, were found entirely disorganized by 
the effects of the mercury. 
Dr. Norris, surgeon in the Pennsylvania Hospital, stated, in 
a recent clinic, that he had not prescribed mercury in cases of 
syphilis for the last twenty years, and that patients did much 
better than before. Dr. Dick, of Calcutta, states, in a letter to 
Dr. Sanders, that chronic liver attacks frequently follow the 
long continued use of mercury. Dr. Nichols, surgeon in the 
British army in India, states that most of the soldiers, who were 
treated for venereal disease with mercury, were exceedingly liable 
to inflammation of the liver. Dr. M. Dessuelles, that from his 
experience in the treatment of one thousand three hundred and 
twelve cases of primitive and secondary syphilis without mer- PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
35 
cury, that the average duration of the disease was only thirty- 
two days, while those treated with mercury were not only 
subject to a much longer period of the disease, but a far less 
number recovered. Prof. J. G. Jones stated, in his lectures, that 
he had not used a grain of mercury for twenty years. And it 
is well known that he treated every variety of disease with 
almost uniform success. 
Dr. Pulte, in his Homoepathic Domestic Physician, states that 
mercury causes the following diseases and symptoms. Hence 
he recommends it to cure the same, upon the principle described 
by Shakspeare. 
"Tut, man! one fire burns out, another's burning; 
One pain is lessened by another's anguish: 
Turn giddy and be helped by backward turning ; 
One desperate grief cures with another's languish; 
Take thou some new infection to thine eye, 
And the rank poison of the old will die." 
Swelling and inflammation of the glands; inflammatory fevers, 
with disposition to perspire profusely ; rheumatic, or 'catarrhal 
headache; scrofulous rheumatic ophthalmia; syphilitic ophthal- 
mia ; rheumatic prosopalgia and tooth-ache; dysentery; mucous 
or bilious diarrhoea; influenza. 
Symptoms: - Enlargement, inflammation, and ulceration cf 
the glands, with pulsative and shooting pains. 
Copious and colliquative sweats. 
Vertigo, principally on getting up. 
Itching, tickling and burning in the eyes. 
Tearing, stinging and drawing pains in the ears. 
Bloatedness and swelling of the face. 
Tearing, stinging, or pulsative pains in the carious teeth. 
Putrid smell from the mouth. 
Stinging pains in the throat and tonsils, principally when 
swallowing. 
Acid and mucous taste ; dislike to all food. 
Violent empty eructations; excessive tenderness of the stomach 
and precordial region. 
Loose and dysenteric evacuations. 
Frequent, copious emissions of urine, like diabetes. 
Catarrh, with febrile shivering. 36 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
Difficulty of respiration, with attacks of suffocation at night. 
Obstructions and inflammatory swellings of the glands of the 
neck. 
Sharp pains in the shoulders and arms. 
Sharp and piercing pains in the hip-joints. 
We have given some of the reasons why we reject the use of 
mercury and all its preparations in the treatment of disease. 
We urge the same objections against the medicinal use of copper, 
antimony, arsenic, lead, zinc, tin, in short, againsLall minerals 
not found as a component part of the organic structure of the 
human body. And if our limitswould permit, we could produce an 
array of facts, proving, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the use 
of all these mineral substances is absolutely disastrous to health 
and life. The mineral substances, which are constituents of the 
human organism, and can be used with benefit in the treatment 
of disease, are the following: * 
Lime, or its base, calcium, is combined with the carbonic or 
phosphoric acid, in the bones and teeth. 
Magnesia, in the sebaceous matter of the skin. 
Alumina, in the enamel of the teeth. 
And iron in the black pigment of the various parts, and in the 
blood. 
Metallic bases of earth : - Calcium, magnesium, silicium, 
aluminum. 
Phosphorus, sulphur, chlorine, and fluorine. 
Metals ; iron, manganese, titanium. 
Water, found universally, composed of hydrogen and oxygen. 
Carbonic acid, found in urine, blood, and sweat. 
Carbonates, or salts of carbonic acid and a base. 
Carbonate of soda, in serum, bile, mucus, sweat, saliva, tears, 
i artilage, &c. 
Carbonate of lime, in cartilage, bone and teeth. 
Carbonate of magnesia, in the sebaceous matter of the skin. 
Phosphate of soda, in serum, saliva, in sweat, bones, mus- 
cles, &c. 
Phosphate of lime, in bones, teeth, cartilage, and the sandy 
concretions of the pineal gland. 
* Wilson's Histology. PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
37 
Phosphate of soda and ammonia, in urine and blood; but 
probably only for the purpose of being excreted or thrown off 
as unfit to constitute a part of the animal body. 
Phosphate of iron, in blood, gastric juice, and urine. 
Chlorine and its compounds:- 
Hydrochloric acid, in gastric juice and in the fluid of the 
caecum. 
Chloride of sodium, in blood, brain, bone, muscle, cartilage, 
pigment, and gastric juice. 
Chloride of potassium, in blood, gastricjui.ce, milk and saliva. 
Chloride of ammonium, in sweat and gastric juice. 
Chloride of calcium, in gastric juice. 
Sulphuric acid and its compminds:- 
Sulphate of potassa, in urine, gastric juice, and cartilage. 
Sulphate of soda, in sweat, bile, and cartilage. 
Sulphate of lime, in bile, hair, and cuticle. 
Sulpho-cyanide of potassium, in the saliva. 
Fluoride of calcium, in the enamel of the teeth. 
Silica and oxide of manganese, in the hair. 
Alumina, in the enamel of the teeth. 
Oxide of iron, in blood, black pigment, lens and hair. 
Oxide of titanium, in the capsulae renales. 
The above minerals, and their compounds, being constituents 
of the animal organism, necessarily play an important part in 
the great drama of organic life ; and disease of any of the 
tissues may, and frequently does occur, from a deficiency of 
some of the elements of the parts. The blood may become dis- 
eased from a deficiency of iron, sodium, or potassium; in this 
case a proper administration of these articles may be beneficial. 
A lack of sulphur and soda in the system may cause a defi- 
ciency of bile; in which case a supply of them may restore the 
liver to its normal condition, and the bile to its natural quantity. 
Thus while all minerals, which constitute a part of the organic 
structure, not only become assimilated and assist in restoring 
the abnormal conditions of the system to a healthy state - all 
minerals which do not enter into the organization of any of the 
various tissues, when introduced into the system, act as foreign 
agents, and prove a constant source of irritation, disease and 
death. Having hinted at what we conceive to be some of the 
4 38 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
facts relative to the past and present condition of Medicine, we 
now proceed more directly to consider some of the principles 
which guide the great American movement for the reform of the 
medical profession. 
1st. A determined effort to ascertain more precisely than has 
been done hitherto the natural cause and events of diseases. 
Or, in other words, the fatality of disease when left to the 
unaided efforts of nature. 
2nd. A determination to understand more fully the modus 
operandi of medicines, and to ascertain their real curative 
powers. 
3rd. To continue our researches in the vegetable, mineral and 
animal kingdoms for the purpose of developing resources for the 
removal of disease. 
4th. To introduce into the profession a spirit of liberality and 
progression ; to dispense with all creeds and cliques, and to 
overcome all party prejudice among the different members of the 
profession. 
5th. That it is the duty of every physician to investigate each 
system of medicine, and make its valuable resources available 
for the relief of the sick. 
6th. That both science and experience have demonstrated that 
too much mercury, lead, zinc, arsenic, and the entire catalogue 
of minerals, incompatible with the organic tissues, is a fruitful 
source of disease, and dangerous to life. 
7th. That blood-letting is one of those dangerous practices, 
which experience has found to be positively injurious in most 
cases. 
8th. That the pharmaceutical method of compounding a great 
variety of medicines into syrups, powders, pills, &c., not only 
prevents the physician from ascertaining their real curative 
powers, but the action of each is frequently neutralized, and the 
object defeated for which it was given. 
9th. That it is far better to leave the disease to the unaided 
efforts of nature, than attempt to remove it with medicine, un- 
less its indications are demonstrated by observation and science. 
10th. That investigation and research into the nature and 
cause of disease should be encouraged, and all new facts rela- 
tive to medical science should receive due attention. PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
39 
11th. That neither Eclectic, Homoeopathy, nor Hydropathy, 
as an exclusive system of medicine, has arrived at any consider- 
able degree of perfection, as shown by the fact that neither very 
materially lessens the natural fatality of disease; although, 
occasionally, each of these may prove successful, as shown by 
the power of cold water to allay inflammation, which is Hydro- 
pathy ; by nitrate of silver for aphthae of the mouth, which 
is Eclectic; or by rhubarb for diarrhoea, which is Homoeopathy. 
Each of these systems of medication being occasionally appli- 
cable in removing disease, they should be understood by the 
physician, and adopted as indicated. 
12th. To discourage, by every honorable means, the baneful 
practice of constant drugging for all trifling diseases. 
13th. To investigate and adopt the physiological and hygienio 
methods of curing and preventing disease by a proper regulation 
of the diet, temperature and purity of the air, by bathing, 
friction, proper clothing, occupation, mental and physical train- 
ing, &c. 
14th. That the practice of physicians, of spending their time 
in idle conversation, electioneering and in pursuits 
foreign to the profession, disqualifies them for practice; and that, 
to be a skilful physician, the whole energies of body and mind 
should be devoted to the profession. 
15th. To avoid adopting any set of dogmas in medicine as 
infallible; bearing in mind, that a constant change of opinion 
relative to the fundamental practical principles of the art, shows 
that what men supposed to be true at one time, have been proved 
to be entirely erroneous at another, and that the only means of 
advancing medicine to the rank of an exact science, is by the 
constant rejection of old errors and the reception of new and well- 
attested truths. 
16th. To combine the two extremes of the profession - the 
ultra-conservative and the fanatical reformer. As conservatives, 
we would pay due respect to the-labors and discoveries of our pre- 
decessors in the profession, and adhere with commendable zeal 
and dignity to those doctrines which long usage, and extensive ex- 
perience and science have demonstrated to be true. As reformers, 
we would extend our researches in every direction which promises 
accession to the already existing stock of medical knowledge, 40 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
paying no homage to the aristocracy and learned pedantry of 
the profession, only so far as it has contributed to the advance- 
ment of science. Finally, that we adopt and adhere to the facts 
of the conservative, and enter into the labors of the reformer, 
with equal cordiality. 
17th. To use every practical means to inform the public upon 
the subject of medicine in all its departments, that they may 
understand the true merits of the different systems of medicine, 
and be prevented from trusting their lives and health in the 
hands of men ignorant of the principles and practice of the 
profession. 
18th. To cultivate the spirit of true Eclecticism, liberality and 
progression; and to show the positive necessity that every phy- 
sician or student of medicine, who would acquit himself with 
honor and with fidelity to his practice, should not only pass 
through the ordinary and preliminary course of study, but that 
his whole time and attention should be devoted to the investiga- 
tion of all the therapeutic resources of every school of the pro- 
fession, selecting from each that whica science and experience 
has proved beneficial in the treatment of disease. 
It will be seen from the foregoing, that the principles laid 
down as the basis of the American Medical Reform, cover every 
department of the science. That they propose to annihilate the 
boundaries of party limits; to break the shackles which bind 
the conservative to his dogma; to reinvestigate existing systems 
of medicine, and study anew all the laws of life and health ; to 
ascertain to what extent health may be promoted and disease 
prevented. This is the work which has been commenced by 
American Medical Reformers, and to the completion of which, 
they will consecrate their future labors. They desire to esta- 
blish a practice based upon scientific principles and inductive 
experience. They claim that, as a man is composed of the com- 
mon elements of matter, that to understand his organism in its 
physiological, pathological and therapeutical relations, is to 
understand his material structure and forms, with their various 
movements and forces, and cause of forces, which necessarily 
includes an intimate knowledge of the great branches of Physi- 
cal Science, vegetable, animal, ard mineral, with all the laws 
and forces which control them, as electrical, magnetical, chemi- 41 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
cal, dynamical, and physiological or organical. The fallacies 
of all former doctrines in medicine have, in a great measure, 
arisen from a want of this important knowledge. The 
Sectarian, in establishing his system of medication, that all 
diseases are cured by medicines that alter or change the struc- 
ture or physiological forces of diseased parts, entirely omitted 
the chemical, organic and vital dependencies of matter, as the 
very disease which he intends to remove, by altering the organic 
tissue, may depend upon deficiency of carbon, nitrogen, hydro- 
gen or oxygen. As these substances alone possess the power of 
combining and forming the basis of all the elementary tissues, 
a deficiency of either of these elements may give rise to a series 
of pathological changes that no allopathic alterative could over- 
come, the only remedy being to introduce into the diseased organ- 
ism its original elements. 
Suppose the gastric fluid to be imperfect, as it frequently is, 
owing to a deficiency of oxygen to unite with the chyle and 
blood, out of which it is formed. Any attempt to re-establish the 
normal quantity by alteratives would prove as effectual as an 
attempt to reorganize water, after the oxygen is set free, by 
adding alteratives. A deficiency of the carbonates may cause a 
disease of the liver, lungs, cartilage, bones or muscles. It is a 
fact that carbon, united with soda, constitutes a large portion of 
bile; that, combined with lime, it forms one of the elements of 
the teeth, bone, &c.; that it unites with oxygen in the lungs to 
maintain animal temperature. Let us inquire, of the allopathist, 
how many doses of mercury, how much alterative influence, 
from bleeding and blistering, will compensate for this deficiency. 
It must be borne in mind that the human system is an extensive 
organic chemical laboratory, in which is manufactured germ- 
cells, epithelium, mucus, muscle, nerves, brain, gastric juice, 
saliva, chyme, chyle, blood, lymph, tears, hair, nails, cuticle, 
cartilage, bone, &c. The object of this extensive manufactory 
is to furnish material for the constant demand made by the 
human body, that it may maintain its integrity and perpetuity. 
This constant demand arises from the fact, that not only all the 
inorganic, but the organic elements, which come in contact w'ith 
the human organism, tend to unite with it and form new com- 
pounds, structures and forces, thereby disturbing the natural 
4* 42 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
relations and dependencies of the human organism upon its 
organic elements, causing disintegration and destruction of the 
old tissue, which is supplied by these newly-manufactured pro- 
ducts. Any excess or deficiency in the supply is disease. And 
the only philosophical method of curing or removing such 
abnormal conditions is to supply elementary deficiencies, pre- 
vent excesses, and maintain the natural relation of elementary 
principles to the human organism. What is true of Allopathy 
is equally true of Homoeopathy. Who, after a moment's reflec- 
tion, would suppose that chlorosis, which every pathologist 
admits is dependent upon a deficiency of iron in the blood, 
could be removed by infinitessimal doses of charcoal, oyster- 
shell, mercury and arsenic. Or who would suppose that the 
same remedies would remove disease of the bones, caused by a 
deficiency of lime and carbon in the system. But, what is still 
more ridiculous and absurd, in this hair-brain theory of Hahne- 
mann and his followers, is, that their remedies, as mercury, 
arsenic, belladonna, &c., are capable of causing, and consequently 
of curing, fifty or sixty diseases each. Jahr, in his Manual of 
Homoeopathy, vol. i., p. 563, states that sulphur will both cause 
and cure the feeling of despair of eternal salvation. Lachesis 
(p. 310, Jahr's Manual) produces, and hence should cure 
absence of religious feeling and fear of approaching death; a 
small dose of gold, taken internally, produces excessive scruples 
of conscience, and despair of one's self and others ; veratrum 
produces extraordinary taciturnity, with oaths on the slightest 
provocation, and raving about religious matters. Aconite (p. 3) 
produces an irresistible desire to blaspheme and swear, and a 
sensation as if the mind was separated from the body. Ana- 
cardium (p. 33) produces the same swearing symptoms and 
absence of all moral and religious feelings; (vol. ii., p. 155) a 
dose of common colocynth (an ingredient in allopathic pills 
which most people have repeatedly swallowed) produces (says 
Jahr, p. 189) want of all religious feeling, &c., &c., &c. 
Lycopodium (club-moss) possesses the same power (p. 319) as 
sulphur, i. e. the feeling of despair of eternal salvation. Pulsa- 
tilla causes, and will cure, despair of eternal happiness, with 
continued prayer and devout aspects (Jahr, p. 468). 
Thus, while Homoeopathy is equally unphilosophical in its PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
43 
general principles, it has advanced some of the most extravagant 
notions relative to the action of medicine ever advocated by any 
sect in the profession since the magic incantations of the fol- 
lowers of JEsculapius. If it were true that these remedies 
would produce such terrible conditions of body and mind, the 
effects would be still more disastrous. 
In this case, a patient, who was curing himself for itch with 
sulphur, would be seized with despair of eternal salvation; also, 
according to Pulte's Homoeopathic Domestic Practice, p. 516, he 
would contract periodical and intermittent head-ache; obstruc- 
tion of the ears, with humming and redness ; inflammation and 
ulceration of the nose; profuse perspiration day and night; con- 
gestion of blood in the head ; heat in the face; tooth-ache ; sore 
mouth ; dislike for sweets ; pain in the abdomen ; constipation 
and piles. We can readily conceive how a person, who was 
suffering under the influence of the above disease, would be will- 
ing to endure many inconveniences to obtain relief, but, that he 
would exchange it for such a catalogue of ills is quite doubtful; 
and yet, if the homoeopathic doctrine be true, and their notions 
of the action of remedies correct, such would be the case; and 
while one morbid condition of the human organism was being 
corrected, several hundred others would make their appearance. 
It is frequently claimed, by the disciples of this system, that 
although the law of similia similibus curantur cannot be esta- 
blished by appeal to the philosophy of medicine, still experience 
teaches it to be true in practice, and they have observed cases to 
recover while under its influence. This may be true, and yet it 
may not follow that the medication contributed in the least to 
the result; as it is now a well-attested fact that, without medical 
interference, the average mortality of all disease in this country 
does not exceed seven per cent. Hence, to ascertain the useful- 
ness of any system of medicine, it is necessary not only to 
observe that some recover, but also how many the profession 
loses:if above seven per cent., 'it may be inferred that medica- 
tion increases the mortality of disease. The limits of this work 
will not permit me to enter into a full investigation of these 
different systems of medicine, and show what I conceive to be 
true relative to all their principles. But in accordance with the 
principles of American Medicine, while we would reject every 44 
PRACTICAL PRINCIPLES. 
hypothesis not founded upon science, we would gladly adopt 
whatever Homoeopathy, Hydropathy or Allopathy contributes to 
the real advancement of medicine. 
The therapeutic principles which guide us, then, are neither 
exclusively Homoeopathic, Allopathic, Hydropathic, Antipathic, 
Physiological, nor Hygienic; but, by an intimate knowledge of 
the laws of life and organic elements of the different tissues, 
■with a correct view of all the causes and influences brought to 
bear upon the human organism, together with a knowledge of 
all the physiological and pathological changes connected with 
disease, we are enabled to adopt such principles of cure as the 
nature of the case may indicate. In the choice of our remedial 
agents, we claim equal independence and liberality, selecting 
from all systems such as science and enlightened experience 
prove to be beneficial to the afflicted, having formed no definite 
boundary to our researches; for, as yet, no theory of medicine, 
as an independent system, has been able to stand the test of 
scientific analysis and experience. The following remarks of 
Thomas Jefferson, in a letter to Dr. Worcester, are to this point. 
He says:-"I have lived, myself, to see the disciples of Boer- 
haave, Cullen, Stahl, and Brown, succeed each other like the 
shifting figures of the magic lantern," and the practice predicated 
thereon, of course as evanescent and as changing as its sister 
theory ; and we, of the present time, have, most of us, witnessed 
one entire revolution in theory and practice of disease; while 
we are at this very moment, on the last quarter of the full moon 
glory of a fast fading system. Where is the practitioner so 
wedded to the past, so tenacious of early practice, and so un- 
compromising of change as tG risk his reputation or the lives 
of his patients, on the practice of twenty years ago ? It is more 
than probable that before another half century has passed, the 
present system of Hydropathy, Homoeopathy and Allopathy, 
like the systems of Hoffman, Boerhaave, Cullen, Stahl, and 
Brown, will be remembered only as a relic of the past. The 
well-attested truths of each will, no doubt, be treasured up by 
the American democratic or Eclectic cultivator of medical 
science, to contribute to that perfection in medicine, which will 
enable it to take rank with Chemistry, Geology, or Mathematics. 
To accomplish this is the object of American Eclecticism. ANTIDOTES TO POISONS. 
45 
For further consideration of this subject, the reader is referred 
to my large work on the American Practice of Physic, now in 
course of preparation. 
ANTIDOTES TO POISONS. 
The term antidote had, formerly, a much wider signification, 
and was applied to the remedies for diseases occurring from 
natural causes, as well as to the remedies for the derangement 
of the functions, arising from the direct introduction into the 
system of a known and material poison. 
The selection of appropriate means to counteract the effects of 
poisons must be determined by a knowledge of the manner in 
which each particular poison acts ; but as our limits will not 
permit us to enumerate or specify these, some general rules, 
only, will be given. 
The first indication is to remove the poisonous substance; the 
second, is to prevent or limit its local effects; the third, to 
obviate the effects on remote organs, supporting their action by 
appropriate measures, till the injurious impression has subsided. 
The first of these is to be accomplished mostly by mechanical 
means. If the poison has been applied to any external part, as 
by the bite of a viper or rattle-snake, a cupping-glass, or what 
will answer as well, a wine-glass, tumbler or cup of any kind, 
from which a part of the air has been expelled, by holding within 
it a lighted candle for a second of time, should be applied 
immediately. 
If poison has been taken into the stomach, and is not of a 
kind to arrest instantly the action of the heart, its removal is to 
be attempted by the stomach-pump, or by exciting vomiting. 
The stomach-pump cannot well be used without introducing into 
the stomach a considerable quantity of water, which, by diluting 
the poison, lessens its violence, in all cases, except that of oxalic 
acid. But should a stomach-pump not be at hand, we must 
attempt to produce vomiting by every means in our power. For 
this purpose, a tablespoonful of flour of mustard, which is 
mostly to be found in every house, may be put into a tumbler of 
warm water, and given to the patient; or twenty grains of Sul- 46 
ANTIDOTES TO POISONS. 
phate of Zinc (white vitriol), dissolved in a pint of warm water, 
and the disposition to vomit encouraged by tickling the throat 
with a feather, and pressing on the pit of the stomach. Neither 
Ipecac, nor Tartar Emetic should be given, as their action is 
always preceded by much nausea, during which the absorption 
of the poison is often facilitated. 
When the poison is of a corrosive or irritant nature, instead 
of losing time in seeking the means of causing vomiting, it is in 
general advisable to adopt the second rule, and attempt to pre- 
vent or limit its local, and thereby its remote, effects. To accom- 
plish this we must ascertain what the poisonous substance was 
from which the patient is suffering, and must also know how it 
acts, as upon this depends the success of our treatment. The 
objects we should have in view are either to dilute, and so weaken 
it; to supply from an external source the particular principle 
which the poison would abstract from the coats of the stomach; 
or, by adding something to it, so change its nature as to render 
it comparatively or altogether harmless, which last will always 
be effected if we can succeed in forming an insoluble compound. 
The first may be done by giving plenty of warm water; and 
when we know the particular poison, if the warm water can be 
made the vehicle of an antidote, the second or third object will 
also be ensured. Suppose Sulphuric Acid (oil of vitriol) has 
been swallowed ; add to the water, chalk, magnesia, soda, sale- 
ratus or soap; the acid will form with these substances purgative 
salts, and will, by their action on the bowels, assist in lessening 
the inflammation caused by the poison before its being neutralized. 
So when Sugar of Lead (acetate of lead) is swallowed, by giving 
Epsom Salts (sulphate of magnesia) we form an insoluble sul- 
phate of lead, which will be discharged by the bowels, operated 
upon by the magnesia, which has been freed from the sulphuric 
acid. Corrosive Sublimate (bichloride of mercury) abstracts 
from the coats of the stomach the albumen which they contain, 
by which it is converted into proto-chloride, or calomel; now 
if, by giving white of egg, which is pure albumen, we supply it 
with the principle which it would otherwise obtain from the 
coats of the stomach, we shall preserve these entire. 
Such means, then, are antidotes properly speaking; for the ANTIDOTES TO POISONS. 
47 
means by which the secondary or remote effects are to be com- 
bated, deserved rather to be termed counter-poisons. The 
counter-poisons are of no small value in cases of poisoning by 
the corrosive or irritant, while they are of the utmost importance 
in the treatment of the sedative and narcotic poisons. To 
administer these appropriately, we must know which of the vital 
organs the poison most speedily affects. When it affects the 
heart, the symptoms greatly resemble syncope (or fainting), and 
as such poisons are the most dangerous, agents, -which act as 
rapidly as the poisons, are alone to be trusted to; such agents 
are to be found among the diffusible stimuli, ammonia, or its 
carbonate, i. e. smelling-salts, applied to the nostrils, or dissolved 
in water and taken into the stomach, warm brandy and water, 
&c. Where it chiefly affects the spinal marrow, there occur 
spasms and difficulty of breathing; when the brain, there is a 
partial or complete insensibility (coma), often with, at first, full 
pulse, flushed face, and laborious breathing, resembling apoplexy. 
In such a state of affairs, artificial respiration, with the admin- 
istration of coffee and vinegar, greatly contribute to save the 
patient. • 
Antidotes to Vegetable Alkaloids. 
In poisoning by opium, salts of morphia, hemlock, aconite, 
belladonna, strychnine, colchicum, &c., take iodine, gr. iij; 
iodide of potassium, gr. vj ; water, 16 ounces. The stomach 
having been emptied, the mixture is to be given by glassfulls, 
still encouraging the vomiting; and to be followed (in the case 
of narcotics) by strong infusion of coffee. Purified animal 
charcoal absorbs and renders inert the active principles of many 
vegetable poisons, given in doses of an ounce or more, diffused 
in warm water. 
Antidotes to Metallic Poisons. 
The salts of mercury, copper and lead, are decomposed by 
the hydrated proto-sulphuret and per sulphuret of iron, and the 
compounds produced are comparatively inert. The antidote for 
poisoning by arsenic is the hydrated sesquioxide of iron. It 48 
ANTIDOTES TO POISONS. 
may be made by adding carbonate of soda to the muriate of 
iron. It should be given in the moist state, mixed with water-• 
after being once dried, it loses much of its power. 
When given in time, magnesia and chalk is an antidote for the 
mineral acids and oxalic acid; albumen (white of egg) for cor- 
rosive sublimate and verdigris ; bark, for tartar emetic; common 
salt for lunar caustic; sulphate of soda or magnesia for sugar 
of lead and muriate of baryta; vinegar and oil for the fixed 
alkalis. These substances act either by neutralizing the 
corrosive power of the poison, or by forming with it an insoluble 
compound. 
From what has been said upon this subject, the necessity of 
an acquaintance with it must be sufficiently clear, not only to 
ensure our doing right, but to prevent us from doing wrong. By 
administering an ill-timed antidote, we may often hasten the 
fatal event; as where vinegar is given when opium has been 
swallowed, before it has been ejected from the stomach ; and by 
throwing tobacco smoke into the bowels of a person apparently 
drowned, we extinguish the feeble spark of life, which might 
have sufficed to reanimate him, 1ft t for such injudicious inter- 
ference. FEVERS. 
EPHEMERA. 
Ephemera is a fever which lasts but one day. Its 
symptoms are chilliness and anorexia or indifference to 
food, followed by a hot skin., flushed face, with hard and 
frequent pulse. In the course of from sixteen to twenty - 
four hours, these symptoms yield to a gentle perspiration, 
which lasts one or two hours, leaving no trace of fever 
save slight debility. It is mostly confined to children, 
and may be considered the simplest form of fever, requiring 
only mild treatment. 
TREATMENT. 
Give a warm bath by immersing the patient in warm 
water, or by sponging the surface frequently in warm sal- 
eratus water. If the head is hot, apply a towel wrung out 
of cold water, and change often. 
If the fever is persistent, add ten drops of the Tinct. of 
Aconite to ten tablespoonfuls of pure water, and giye one 
teaspoonful every half hour until the fever subsides. If 
the bowels are confined, give a warm water injection. 
Warm or cold packs may be resorted to in case of local 
congestion. 
5 
49 50 
INTERMITTENT FEVER. 
INTERMITTENT FEVER, OR AGUE. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Febrile paroxysms occurring at regular intervals of 
longer or shorter duration. But mostly recurring every 
twenty-four, forty-eight, or seventy-two hours. The 
twenty-four hour type is the Quotidian, the forty-eight 
hour the Tertian, and the seventy-two hour the Quartan. 
The interval between the paroxysms is called the Apyrexia. 
The period from the commencement of one paroxysm to 
the end of the next is called the revolution. Either type 
of this fever may appear in a double form. Thus, Quo- 
tidian frequently occurs twice a day, producing double 
Quotidian. The Tertian and Quartan, when occurring in 
a double form, produce a double paroxysm every second 
and third day. The double daily paroxysms have some- 
times been ascribed to the double Tertian. And their 
occurrence at different hours on alternate days, together 
with the difference in the severity of the paroxysms, have 
been described by Prof. Jones as diagnostic symptoms of 
iouble Tertian. But having frequently observed the Ter- 
tian type manifesting itself in double paroxysms every 
other day, with a perfect immunity from the disease on the 
Apyrexial day, I am led to infer that the double daily 
paroxysm, ascribed to the double Tertian, is only one 
modification of double Quotidian. This fever is generally 
preceded by languor, pain in the bones, irregular bowels, 
and alternate changes in the urine, which characterize the 
type of the approaching disease by occurring at the same 
regular intervals, and lasting the same length of time. 
These changes in the urine are from a light limpid to a 
dark yellow -appearance. The tongue becomes covered 
with a white thin coat, and from one to two hours before 
the chill, the spleen yields a peculiar clastic resonance, INTERMITTENT FEVER. 
51 
and becomes considerably increased in size. About this 
time distinct rigors or chills are felt, passing up the back 
and down the legs; the teeth chatter, the nails become 
purple, the skin has the appearance of goose-flesh (cutis 
anserina) with Horripilations. If the chill lasts for any 
considerable length of time, there will be oppressed breath- 
ing, with precordial pressure. 
In the course of from fifteen to thirty minutes these 
symptoms gradually subside, and at first a mild fever suc- 
ceeds, which continues to increase until the skin becomes 
dry and hot. The pulse increases in fulness and frequency, 
beating from 100 to 120 per minute. There is violent 
throbbing of the carotid artery, severe pain in the head, 
with dryness of the secretions, producing thirst, and scanty 
and high-colored urine. There is also much restlessness 
and uneasiness throughout the entire Pyrexia. 
These symptoms, modified in different individuals and 
localities, last from one to six hours, when they become 
mild, and terminate in the sweating stage. The skin now 
becomes covered with a profuse perspiration, the pulse 
becomes soft and natural, the respiration easy, and the 
patient feels as if almost restored to a state of health. 
TREATMENT. 
On the approach of the cold stage, the feet should be 
placed in warm water, and the patient caused to drink 
freely of some warm tea. After which he should be 
placed in bed, with covering of hot flannel, and jugs of 
hot water to the feet. As soon as the fever appears, the 
extra covering should be removed, and from one to ten 
drops of the Tinct. of Veratrum Viride should be given 
every half hour until the fever subsides. Cold packs 
should be applied to the head, and hot sinapisms to the 
feet. The body should be frequently sponged in warm 
broke water, to which may be added a little whiskey. 52 
INTERMITTENT FEVER. 
During the Apyrexia, the following compound may be 
given for the purpose of interrupting and preventing the 
return of the paroxysm : 
R Eupatorin gr. xx. 
Cornine gr. xx. 
Citrate of Iron gr. x. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every three 
hours, or oftener if it is necessary, in order to have them 
all taken before the return of the paroxysms. 
If the paroxysms return, the same treatment may be 
pursued as at first, during the cold and hot stages. 
After which, give the following compound : 
R Viburine..... gr. x. 
Rhusine gr. x. 
Salicin..... gr. xxx. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every three 
hours, or oftener as the case may require. 
Or, 
R Bebeerine gr. xx. 
Quinine gr. x. 
Phosphate of Iron gr. x. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give as above. 
Or, 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Bitartrate of Potassa gr. xxx. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every three 
hours. 
Or, 
R Chinoidin gr. xx. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
Santonine gr. xx. 
Make ten pills, and give one every two hours. 53 
Or, 
R Syrup of Bone Set Oss. 
Chloride of Sodium (Common Salt) 
Mix, dose 1 oz. every hour during the revolution. 
3j of pulverized Sassafras Bark, taken at intervals of 
one or two hours during the revolution where the stomach 
will tolerate it, is generally sufficient to interrupt the pa- 
roxysms. Also a strong infusion of Strawberry root, 
taken freely during the interval, will generally effect a 
complete intermission. 
After the paroxysms have been entirely interrupted, a 
radical cure should be attempted by giving the patient a 
mild alterative, such as Euonymine, one or two grains, 
three or four times a day. If the bowels are costive, and 
do not yield readily to the Euonymine, add | or | of a 
grain of Podophyllin, and give sufficiently often to main- 
tain them in a soluble state. 
If the spleen continues permanently enlarged, Diuretics 
of Marshmallow and Cream of Tartar should be drunk 
freely. 
On the seventh, fourteenth, twenty-first, and twenty- 
eighth days succeeding the last paroxysm, one of the anti- 
periodic compounds should be given as at first. 
If the patient resides in an ague district, daily baths of 
warm lye water, together with a free use of Cream of 
Tartar and Marshmallow, will have a tendency to prevent 
a recurrence of the disease. 
REMITTENT FEVER. 
REMITTENT FEVER. 
Remittent Fever, like Intermittent, is generally pre- 
ceded by lassitude and yawning, with soreness and stiffness 
of the muscles, especially those of the neck and calves of 
the legs. The tongue is covered with a light yellow coat 
5* 54 
REMITTENT FEVER. 
The countenance is shrunken, pale, and of a leaden hue. 
The conjunctiva presents a congested appearance. The 
urine is thick and of a dark yellow color. The bowels 
are costive. The liver is congested, and yields flatness on 
percussion. 
There is sense of weight in the Hypochondria and Epi- 
gastric regions. Creeping sensations of cold are suc- 
ceeded by flushes of heat, the taste in the mouth is me- 
tallic, the skin is sallow, and sleep is disturbed by alarming 
dreams. These symptoms increase in intensity, until the 
attack of the disease is established. As the hot stage be- 
comes developed, much of the pain about the legs and 
back frequently abates, although it often returns at the 
next exacerbation. Frequently, there is a sensation of 
chilliness, lasting from ten minutes to one hour, during 
which there is excessive thirst, nausea, and vomiting, 
mostly rejecting the fluids and medicine taken. There is 
intense fever with much tenderness of the Epigastrium 
and right Hypochondrium, which becomes painful upon 
pressure. The countenance is flushed, the eye has a wild 
expression, with a violent pain in the head, and in some 
cases delirium. The pulse is frequent, beating during the 
fever from 120 to 130 per minute. It is sometimes small 
and irregular, at others full and forcible. The tongue is 
mostly brown, with a dry streak through the middle. The 
bowels are costive, but, when acted upon, the discharges 
are black or yellow. The urine is scanty and muddy. 
These symptoms usually continue from six to ten hours. 
The febrile paroxysm is superseded by a gentle perspi- 
ration on the head and shoulders, rarely extending over 
the entire body. There is now a mitigation of all the 
paroxysmal symptoms; yet there is by no means a perfect 
A pyrexia. The pulse is still quick and irritable, with 
Tinnitus Aurium, lassitude and much debility. This state 
is called the remission, and lasts from one to three hours, REMITTENT FEVER. 
55 
when the febrile symptoms recur, and gradually increase, 
until they acquire their former intensity, and do not sub- 
side until after a period longer than that occupied by the 
first paroxysm. In the subsequent exacerbations, the 
symptoms all become aggravated, except the chill, which 
generally becomes less marked each succeeding paroxysm. 
These exacerbations generally occur in a double Quotidian 
form, although I have frequently observed them, both of 
single and double Tertian, and Quartan. 
TREATMENT. 
This fever, if timely treated, yields with much readiness 
to mild antiperiodic, and alterative remedies. As for 
instance, in the forming stage, combine thirty or forty 
grains of Cornine with equal parts of Euonymine divided 
into six powders, and give one every two or three hours, 
until a full antiperiodic and alterative impression is pro- 
duced. This, with rest, and free bathing, will generally 
arrest the disease. 
During the cold stage the patient should be placed in 
bed, and a hot pack be applied to the bowels, and also to 
the regions of the liver and spleen. Hot sinapisms should 
be placed along the spine and the calves of the legs, ex- 
tending to the ankles and feet. As soon as the fever 
makes its appearance, the sinapisms should be removed, 
and the packs changed to tepid ones. The body should 
be freely sponged in warm lye water, every hour or two, 
as long as the fever lasts. The head should be packed in 
towels wrung out of cold water, and from ten to twenty 
of the Intermittent drops be.administered every half hour. 
These drops are composed of equal parts of fluid Ext. 
of Lobelia, Cypripedin and Scutellaria. 
If the stomach will not tolerate them, from one to ten 
drops of the Tinct. Veratrum Viride may be given every 
fifteen or twenty minutes, until the same effect is produced 56 
REMITTENT FEVER. 
After the remission is fully established, the following 
antiperiodic compound may be given. 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Phosphate of Iron gr. x. 
Ferrocyanide of Potassium gr. j. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every two 
hours. 
Or, 
R Bebeerine gr. xx. 
Salicine gr. xx. 
Viburin gr. xij. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every three 
hours. If the exacerbation comes on before the powders 
are all taken, give one eighth of a grain of Veratrine with 
each alternate powder, till the remission becomes distinct. 
Or give Tinct. of Veratrum in quantity sufficient to sub- 
due the fever. If this antiperiodic should not completely 
arrest the disease, before repeating it, the bowels should 
be moved by giving one gr. of Jalapin, one half gr. of 
Phytolaccin, mixed with thirty grains of sugar, and given 
in three doses at intervals of one hour. If this should fail 
to produce Catharsis, give one teaspoonful of the fluid 
extract of Antibilious physic every half hour, accompanied 
with warm water injection until the bowels move freely. 
After which, give one of the above antiperiodic com- 
pounds as before. Or if the stomach become irritable, 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Cream of Tartar gr. xxx. 
Simple Syrup gij. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful every hour until all is taken. 
If the stomach still continues irritable, thirty drops of the 
Tinct. of Gelseminum, and one grain of Morphine, may be 
added to the above mixture. 
When the paroxysms are very severe, and accompanied CONGESTIVE FEVER. 
57 
by congestion of some of the vital organs, and the natural 
increased intensity of the next exacerbation would prove 
disastrous to the patient, a large and full dose of some 
antiperiodic, in connection with an intermittent, should be 
administered at once. As for instance, 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Scutellarine gr. x. 
Cypripedin gr. x. 
Mix, divide into three powders, and give one every hour 
until all are taken. Or if the approaching exacerbation 
is near at hand, they may be given at still shorter intervals. 
When the paroxysmal form of the fever is removed, 
little remains to be done, save to repair the local and con- 
stitutional injuries produced by the disease. To restore 
the deranged functions of the liver, one or two grains of 
Euonymine may be given night and morning. 
The tone of the stomach may be restored by adding 
fifteen grains of Hydrastin to one half pint of Simple 
Syrup, and one eighth of a pint of gin, of which one or two 
teaspoonfuls may be given before each meal. If there is 
a tendency to relapse, or if the disease assumes an inter- 
mittent form, as it frequently does, the antiperiodic altera- 
tive, and tonic course, should be pursued until the parox- 
ysms are arrested, and the causes removed. 
CONGESTIVE OR TYPHUS FEVER. 
Much diversity of opinion exists relative to this disease. 
Some regarding it as a Continued Fever, of a highly con- 
tagious character, while others consider it as one of the 
modifications of malarial fever, belonging to the intermit- 
tent family. 
The limits of this work not being sufficient to admit of a 
thorough investigation of this subject, the reader is re- 58 
CONGESTIVE FEVER. 
ferred to Paine's Large Practice, for a more minute descrip- 
tion of this disease. 
It is preceded by languor, headache, disturbed sleep, 
loss of appetite, followed by chilliness, swollen tongue, and 
great debility. The bowels are costive, the urine scanty 
and high-colored, the countenance is dingy and heavy, the 
eyes watery, with congestion of the conjunctiva, which 
often extends to the nasal fossa and larynx. There is 
ringing in the ears, with Epistaxis, and sense of fulness in 
the Epigastrium. 
These symptoms continue for two or three days, when 
the teeth become covered with dark sordes, the pulse 
becomes compressible, and the countenance is of a flushed 
appearance. 
The debility becomes more marked from the tenth to the 
twentieth day, and the symptoms are all more aggravated. 
There is incoherent talking, and delirium ; the tongue 
becomes dark and dry, with tremor of the hands, and 
Subsultus Tendinum. The evacuations become involun- 
tary, with retention of the urine, and interrupted breath- 
ing. The surface is covered with cold sweat, and the 
patient expires. 
This fever lasts from ten to thirty days. It is frequently 
confounded with Typhoid Fever, from which, however, it 
may be distinguished, by the absence of petechiae, the 
costive state of the bowels, and swollen condition of the 
tongue. Also, it usually assumes a more intermittent or 
remittent type. 
Where congestive fever is about to terminate favorably, 
the symptoms are much milder than those described above, 
and from the tenth to the twentieth day there is a diminu- 
tion in the severity. 
SYMPTOMS. CONGESTIVE FEVER. 
59 
TREATMENT. 
There is generally more local congestion in this than 
any of the previous forms of fever, with almost a complete 
suspension of the assimilating functions. To remove the 
congestion, and restore the assimilating functions, is the 
prominent indication to be fulfilled. In the early treat- 
ment of this disease, hot packs should be applied to all 
parts of the body involved in the local congestion, except 
the head, which should be kept cool. For the purpose of 
restoring the assimilating functions of the stomach, pro- 
ducing intermission, and interrupting the paroxysmal cha- 
racter of the disease, the treatment should consist of those 
remedies possessing intermittent, antiperiodic, and stimu- 
lating powers, such as the following compounds : 
No. 1. R Quinine gr. xx. 
T. Xanthoxylin gr. xx. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Mix, divide into six powders, give one every three hours. 
Alternate each powder with ten or fifteen intermittent 
drops. 
Or, 
No. 2. B Quinine gr. xx. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
Veratrin gr. ij. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, and divide into ten powders, and give one every two 
or three hours. 
Or, 
No. 3. R Camphor..... gr. v. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Viburine gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, and divide into twenty powders, and give one every 
two or three hours. 60 
CONGESTIVE FEVER. 
Or, 
No. 4. fit Eupatorine gr. xx. 
Alnuin gr. xx. 
Aconitine gr. Iss. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every two ot 
three hours. 
Or, 
No. 5. R Scutellarine gr. xx. 
Chinoidin gr. xx. 
Oil Capsicum gutt. iij. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into eight powders, and give one every two 
or three hours. 
To act as an alterative after the fever is broken : 
R Euonymine gr. xx. 
Podophyllin gr. ij. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every three 
hours. 
The bowels should be kept open, during the treatment of 
this disease, by giving small doses of neutralizing mixture 
and Euonymine, and the body should be freely sponged 
with lye water and whiskey. In cases where there is evi- 
dent derangement of the stomach, with costive state of the 
bowels, an emetic and cathartic should be given, previous 
to the administration of the antiperiodic powders. A 
teaspoonful of common emetic acetic Tinct. in warm 
ginger tea, may be given every ten or fifteen minutes, until 
the stomach is thoroughly evacuated. This should be 
followed by small doses of Podophyllin and neutralizing 
mixture, until free catharsis is produced. In cases where 
there are severe paroxysms, and the local congestion is 
likely to prove disastrous to the patient, the antiperiodic CONGESTIVE FEVER. 
61 
should be administered first, and the emetic and cathartic 
should follow. 
But, whether the emetic and cathartic, or the powders 
be given first, if they fail to arrest the paroxysms, there 
should be a repetition of the antiperiodic powders after 
two or three days. During the interval, the patient 
should drink freely of some mucilaginous preparation, as 
marshmallow, flaxseed, or slippery elm. At the same 
time, if the skin be dry, from five to ten drops of Tinct. 
of Veratrum may be given to produce moisture. If, after 
pursuing the above course of treatment a week or ten 
days, the fever still proves persistent, the following com- 
pound may be given: 
B Ferri Ferrocyanide gr. xx. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Piperine gr. x. 
Gelsemin gr. ij. 
White Sugar.... gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every two or three hours. 
If, during the progress of the disease, there is trouble- 
some Epistaxis, a snuff of Matico leaves may be used, or 
an infusion of them may be injected into the nostrils. If 
there is much restlessness and inability to sleep, one-eighth 
of a grain of Hyosciamin, with Cypripedin and Scutel- 
larin, each one grain, given two or three times a day, will 
control the symptoms Where there is tendency to syn- 
cope : 
B Carbonate of Ammonia gr. v. 
Gum Camphor gr. v. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Pulverized Acacia gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, and give one as often as indicated. 
During the treatment of this disease, the patient's strength 
should be maintained by a free use of beef tea, boiled 
6 62 
TYPHOID FEVER. 
rice, and such other nutritious food as the stomach will 
tolerate. During the convalescence, a mild alterative and 
tonic course should be pursued. 
Thus far we have been treating of fevers which are ad- 
mitted to have their origin in marsh misasm, or are pro- 
duced by exposure to damp atmosphere contaminated by 
noxious gases, and decomposing vegetable matter, mostly 
affecting the spleen, producing Intermittent; or, the spleen 
and liver, producing Remittent; or, the spleen, liver and 
nervous system, producing Typhus or Congestive fever. 
But we now come to the treatment of a disease which is 
supposed to have its origin in both animal and vegetable 
miasm. And to confine its morbid influence mostly to the 
small glands of the bowels, producing more or less exten- 
sive ulcerations. This is called 
This is a fever which has received quite a number of 
names. Such as Enteric fever, Continued fever, Bilious 
fever, Bilious Continued fever, and Nervous fever. But 
the name by which it is most commonly known is that of 
Typhoid Fever. 
TYPHOID FEVER. 
Few diseases are so remarkably insidious, in their ap- 
proach, as this fever; its commencement being almost 
imperceptible. Its incubation generally lasts from three 
or four days to as many weeks. The patient feels at first 
slight debility, with a dull and heavy feeling in the head, 
which continues to increase, terminating in violent frontal 
headache. By the time the disease becomes fully de- 
veloped, the limbs are weak, with lameness, and in some 
cases, rheumatic pains. The bowels are at first slightly 
constipated; but in the course of a few days, there is a 
strong tendency to diarrhaea. The pulse is accelerated, 
SYMPTOMS. TYPHOID FEVER. 
63 
and a creeping chilly sensation is felt, commencing in the 
back, and passing over the entire body. The chilliness is 
soon followed by a slight increase of all the symptoms, 
together with a dry and warm state of the skin. These 
partial paroxysms, frequently follow each other in rapid 
succession ; but sometimes there is an interval of several 
hours. The tongue is but slightly coated, and the appetite 
remains nearly natural until the disease becomes fully de- 
veloped. Indeed, in a large number of cases which have 
come under my observation, there is no anorexia during 
the entire progress of well-marked cases of this disease. 
About this time, there may be observed a number of 
small white vesicles or sudaminae, at first mostly confined 
to the abdomen, but afterwards extending over the entire 
body. These sudaminae, although frequently appearing in 
other fevers, are more generally present in this. These 
vesicles, unless carefully observed, will escape notice, as 
they are frequently so small as to be scarcely perceptible 
to the naked eye; being seldom larger than half the head 
of a pin. To the casual observer, they might easily be 
mistaken for partial, detached, dermoid scales. But when 
pricked with the point of a needle, a small quantity of a 
thin white fluid may be seen to escape. On the fifth day 
from the appearance of the sudamime, another eruption 
appears which is diagnostic of this disease. It is small, 
red, or purple spots or eruption, resembling flea-bites. 
At first they are very small, so small that without the 
aid of some magnifying power the larger portion of them 
cannot be seen. They are at first perceptible just above 
the ileo-csecal valve, or about one and one half inches 
above the crest of the ileum, and extend over all parts of 
the body; but are mostly confined to small patches of 
skin corresponding to the ulcerated parts of the bowels. 
These spots are called petechice. They are small circum- 
scribed red spots when fully developed. They may be 64 
TYPHOID FEVER. 
distinguished from most other forms of eruption, by dis- 
appearing on pressure, but returning again the moment 
the pressure is removed. They come and go, appearing 
and disappearing; but their presence or absence during 
the active stage of the disease, is a sure index to the state 
of the bowels. As when the bowel symptoms are aggra- 
vated, the petechiae disappear; but when they become 
ameliorated, are again visible. This leads me to infer 
that Typhoid Fever, like Scarletina, is an eruptive disease, 
and that to maintain the eruption on the surface, is a very 
important indication to be fulfilled in its treatment. When 
the disease becomes fully developed, and in some cases, in 
the forming stage, the bowels yield a marked tympanitic 
resonance on percussion. 
On inspection, a bloated or tympanitic condition of the 
bowels may be observed, and most marked, beneath the 
patches of petechias. 
About this stage of the disease, the nervous symptoms 
become aggravated, amounting in many cases to delirium, 
and in others producing great pain in different parts of 
the body, as the knees, hips, abdomen, side and head. 
These pains are mostly transitory, or appear in the form 
of paroxysms. In a few cases the patient inclines to 
stupor, but generally the opposite is the case, the patient 
being restless and wakeful. There is a buzzing noise in 
the head, very much like that caused .by full doses of 
Quinine. 
The tongue, by this time, mostly assumes a red appear- 
ance, especially upon the tip and edges, and the papillae 
become elevated. When it is protruded it may be seen to 
tremble, and in some cases it is protruded with much diffi- 
culty. The pulse increases in frequency, but diminishes in 
fulness; and in the latter part of the disease it becomes 
very compressible. The eyes have a watery appearance, TYPHOID FEVER. 
65 
and when the towels become extensively ulcerated, they 
have a vacant stare and remain partly open during sleep. 
The breathing is laborious, the mouth is half open, and 
sordes accumulate upon the teeth. The urine, which was 
somewhat scanty, now becomes nearly suppressed, having 
a dark red appearance, generally containing a large per 
cent, of albumen. The bowels continue to bloat, the 
evacuations are frequent, sometimes watery and frothy, at 
other times dark and offensive, and mixed with blood ; or, 
the entire discharge may consist of blood amounting to 
active hemorrhage ; being mostly of a dark venous charac- 
ter, although I have seen it of a bright red color, or of 
the appearance of fresh arterial blood. This symptom, 
although alarming and dangerous if persistent, is fre- 
quently followed by speedy recovery. The skin is not 
as dry and hot as in many fevers, yet it is frequently 
pungent, and has a husky feeling. The pulmonary organs 
generally sympathize with affections of the bowels;' and 
especially is it the case in this disease. Hence we find 
Crepitant Rhonchus, and frequently a slight cough. If 
the disease is about to terminate fatally, the symptoms 
will continue to increase in severity, the patient will 
become stupid with low muttering delirium, subsultus ten- 
dinum, picking at the bed-clothes, coma, and death. Or 
frequently the ulceration of the bowels may terminate 
in perforation, followed by a discharge of the contents 
into the cavity of the abdomen, producing at first much 
pain, but soon subsiding, the patient becomes covered 
with a cold clammy sweat, the pulse ceases at the wrist, 
the bowels evacuate involuntarily, and the patient sinks 
into the arms of Death. 
Or what is more frequently the case, where mischievous 
medication has been avoided, the symptoms will continue 
in a somewhat modified form from fourteen to twenty-one 
days, when they gradually become ameliorated, and the 
6* 66 
TYPHOID FEVER. 
patient recovers. The average mortality of this disease 
is only about 10 per cent, or from 15 to 20 per cent, less 
than it is under Allopathic treatment. 
TREATMENT. 
In no disease is there more mischief done by an im- 
proper course of medicine than in this. 
The practice of giving active purgative medicine in the 
commencement of a fever, with the notion of puking and 
purging it from the system, has increased the mortality to 
an alarming extent. For after a drastic purgative, it is 
almost impossible to cure Typhoid Fever, no matter how 
prudent your after course may be. First, in the treatment 
of this disease, the skin should be thoroughly bathed in 
warm lye water and whiskey. The patient should then be 
placed in bed, when, if the bowels are costive, they should 
be moved by warm watei' injections. If the stomach con- 
tains indigestible food, or if there should be a marked in- 
dication for an emetic, one-eighth of a grain of Lobelin 
may be given in a wine-glass of warm ginger tea every ten 
or fifteen minutes, until the stomach is thoroughly evacua- 
ted. After this the patient should drink freely of beef tea 
and rice gruel. When the stomach becomes settled, or the 
effect of the emetic has passed off, give from one to five 
drops of the Tinct. of Aconite in a tablespoonful of water 
every half hour, until the pulse becomes less frequent and 
the skin moist. At the same time apply warm lye poul- 
tices to the bowels, made by adding one teaspoonful of 
mustard-seed to ten tablespoonfuls of slippery elm, wet 
with strong saleratus water. These poultices should be 
changed as often as three or four times a-day, and con- 
tinued as long as the bowel symptoms prove troublesome. 
When the pulse becomes controlled by the Aconite, the 
next thing is to interrupt the periodicity of the disease, by 
giving the following antiperiodic. TYPHOID FEVER. 
67 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Hydrastin gr. xx. 
White Sugar gr. xxxx. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every three 
hours until all are taken. 
At the same time, give freely of mucilage, such as a 
cold infusion of pulverized marshmallow, acacia, or flax- 
seed. Also apply water to the head. If the patient is 
of a bilious temperament, and full habit, the water should 
be cold. If of a nervous temperament, with low vitality, 
the water should be tepid, and mixed with a little whiskey. 
The feet should be kept warm, and the patient remain 
quiet in bed. At the same time give a sufficient quantity 
of Aconite to control the fever, and to maintain the 
petechiae upon the surface. If there should be diarrhoea, 
small doses of equal parts of Erigeron and Rhusine should 
be given two or three times a-day. If the patient be rest- 
less and unable to sleep, from the sixteenth to an eighth 
of a grain of Morphine may be mixed with one or two 
grains of Cypripedin, and given at bed-time. If the 
diarrhaea proves persistent, in addition to the Rhusine and 
Erigeron, injections should be given two or three times a- 
day, composed of from four to six ounces of starch-water, 
half a grain of Morphine, and from five to ten grains of 
Tannin. If the Aconite fail to maintain the petechiae 
upon the surface, one half grain of Macrotin should be 
given in connection with it. If, after pursuing the above 
treatment for six or seven days, the disease should not be 
arrested, the antiperiodic should be repeated by giving the 
following compound : 
R Phosphate of Iron gr. x. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Rhusine gr. xx. 
White Sugar gr. xxxx. 
Triturate, mix, and divide into six powders, and give one 
every three hours until all are taken. 68 
TYPHOID FEVER. 
At the same time, the Aconite and anti-diarrhaea medi- 
cines should be given if indicated. If the bowels should 
become persistently tympanitic, with extensive ulceration, 
the Tinct. Bryonia should be substituted for the Aconite, 
and the patient prohibited from assuming the upright pos- 
ture, as in all such cases there is great danger of perfora- 
tion. Where there is much debility, a permanent tonic 
may be given in connection with Chalybeates, such as the 
following compound : 
B Iron per Hydrogen gr. xx. 
Hydrastin gr. xx. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate and mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every two or three hours, during the interval between the 
antiperiodic medicine. 
During the entire course the patient's strength should 
be maintained by a free use of the Essence of Beef, made 
by adding one pound of beef to one quart of water and one 
half pint of vinegar. Boil the beef till the liquid is one 
half evaporated. Then strain ; add one pound of White 
Sugar and eight ounces of rice flour, boil fifteen minutes, 
strain again, add one half pint of best Old Whiskey, one 
tablespoonful of salt, and bottle for use. Give the patient 
from one half to one wine glass full four or five times a-day 
Also Porter or Scotch Ale, toast, or broiled beef may be 
allowed when the stomach will tolerate it. In the event 
that the medicine already prescribed fails to maintain the 
petechias upon the surface, the Tinct. of Scrophularia may 
be given to the amount of twelve drops three or four times 
a day. If necessary to restore the eruption, hot brandy 
toddy may be given in connection with the above. If 
symptoms of softening of the brain appear, from one to 
five drops of Tinct. Phosphorus may be given two or three 
times a-day in a large quantity of mucilage. If dangerous 
hemorrhage from the bowels occur : YELLOW FEVER. 
69 
li Nitrate of Silver gr. j. 
Pulverized Acacia gr. xxx. 
Pulverize, mix, make sixteen pills, and give one every 
hour until all are taken, or until the hemorrhage is con- 
trolled. Or give from ten to fifteen grains of Matico every 
three or four hours. If an alterative is indicated, small 
doses of Leptandrin may be given three or four times a day. 
Where the disease is firmly established, much care must be 
observed relative to the admiuistration of medicine, never 
giving any, unless some marked indication demands it; 
frequently all the medicine necessary is a few drops of 
Aconite two or three times a-day, with a liberal quantity 
of mucilaginous drinks, one or two courses of antiperiodics, 
and a liberal supply of food. Yet where there is a 
decided indication for treatment, it should be met with 
promptness. During convalescence, small doses of Uy- 
drastin, in connection with Chalybeates, should be ad- 
ministered. 
YELLOW FEVER, OR TYPHUS 
ICTERODES. 
This disease prevails endemically in tropical climates, 
but only appearing at the North as an epidemic. It is 
generally supposed to have a compound origin arising 
from the effects of animal and vegetable miasm. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The premonitory symptoms very much resemble those 
of Typhoid Fever, except that they are more rapid in their 
course. The skin is hot and dry, the face flushed, the 
respiration hurried, the eyes are red and watery, and there 
is nausea and vomiting. As the disease advances, these 
symptoms all become aggravated, and the diagnostic 
symptoms make their appearance. 70 
YELLOW FEVER. 
The countenance assumes a peculiar cadaverous expres- 
sion, and is of a bright saffron color. The tongue is soft 
and swollen, and there is pain in the Epigastrium. During 
the progress of the disease, the symptoms are variable in 
different individuals and localities, sometimes running an 
exceedingly mild course, with little more severity than ordi- 
nary Remittent Fever, while in other cases the disease is 
marked with great prostration. In the first stage the pulse 
sinks, there is nausea, and vomiting of a dark frothy fluid; 
the respiration is exceedingly difficult and hurried. There 
is also low muttering delirium. The alvine evacuations 
are large and dark, the patient rapidly sinks, and death 
soon relieves him, unless the disease is arrested by timely 
treatment. 
TREATMENT. 
The first thing to be done in the early stage of the dis- 
ease is to give a stimulating emetic : 
R Pulverized Lobelia gr x. 
" Bloodroot gr. xij. 
" Capsicumgr. xx. 
Mix, add one gill of warm water, steep fifteen or twenty 
minutes, and after giving the patient three or four wine- 
glasses full of warm ginger tea, give one teaspoonful of the 
mixture, and repeat until a thorough evacuation of the 
stomach is produced. 
Immediately after the emetic, give a spirit vapor-bath 
by placing a blanket about the patient and chair, and burn- 
ing a cup of alcohol beneath it, to produce a copious per- 
spiration : at the same time give the patient freely of 
weak salt and water to drink. After the sweat, a thorough 
bathing and rubbing will prepare the patient for bed. The 
following compound may then be given : 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Chloride of Sodiumgr. xxx. 
Capsicum gr. x. YELLOW FEVER. 
71 
Mix, divide into eight powders, and give one every three 
hours until all are taken. At the same time, warm poul- 
tices should be applied to the abdomen and stomach, and 
hot sinapisms to the feet and calves of the legs, and a 
warming plaster along the spine. 
When the antiperiodic mixture has been taken, the fever 
and circulation should be controlled by the use of Aconite, 
and rest should be induced by giving Cypripedin and Scu- 
tellarin, or by small doses of Morphine. The bowels should 
be moved by the following alterative : 
R Euonymin gr. x. 
Jalapin gr. ij. 
Xanthoxylin gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into six powders, and give one every 
two or three hours. 
If there is much nausea and vomiting, the following 
compound may be given: 
R Vinegar Oss. 
Common Salt gj. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
and give one teaspoonful every ten or fifteen minutes, 
as the symptoms may indicate. If the disease should not 
yield to the above treatment, within the course of three or 
four days, the following antiperiodic should be adminis- 
tered : 
R Salicine gr. xxx. 
Quinine gr. xv. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xx. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every threo 
hours. At the same time give the patient freely of Ess. 
of Beef as directed under Typhoid Fever. Once or twice 
a day the patient should be bathed with warm lye water, 
and allowed to drink of porter or good ale, whenever 72 
INFLAMMATION. 
the active fever does not contra-indicate. Local congestion 
or inflammation should be relieved by hot or cold packing, 
as the case may require. During the convalescence, altera- 
tive doses of Podophyllin, with Hydrastin as a tonic, may 
be given once or twice a day, together with a free and 
generous diet. If there should be symptoms of a relapse, 
the antiperiodic remedies should be repeated. 
INFLAMMATION. 
Inflammation is always located in the capillary vessels. 
Hence, tissues destitute of these vessels are never capable 
of taking it on, as the hair, nails, cuticle, and enamel. 
Filamentous tissues, on the other hand, as the liver, 
lungs, and mucous and serous membranes, are very liable 
to inflammation. The first step towards the inflammatory 
process is an accumulation of blood, which is congestion. 
This accumulation may occur either from too slow venous 
or too rapid arterial circulation. Or it may arise from 
debility of the capillary vessels, or from all these causes 
combined. The congestion may disappear by a diminu- 
tion in the afflux, together with a restoration of the normfil 
functions of the capillaries. Or it may terminate in inflam- 
mation by the blood beginning to oscillate in the vessels, 
adhering at different points until finally it stagnates. 
The blood failing to be converted into venous blood, its 
coagulability is increased so that the globules coalesce and 
form minute clots. New vessels or canals are formed by 
globules of blood bursting the vessels and passing into the 
adjacent parenchyma, reaching another vessel, thus form- 
ing new passages through the areolar tissue, which ulti- 
mately become capillary tissue. Or the corpuscles may 
remain in the adjacent parenchyma, producing swelling by 
effusion. In active congestion, the contractile powers of 
the vessels are lost by over-distension, the blood stagnates. INFLAMMATION. 
73 
the coats of the capillaries become diseased and ruptured, 
resulting in extravasation or effusion of blood, coagulable 
lymph, and serous or muco-purulent fluid. 
THE SYMPTOMS 
Are redness, swelling, pain, and increased heat. The 
redness is owing to an increased accumulation of blood in 
the part. The swelling to infiltration, to accumulation of 
blood and pus, and to oedema of the lymphatics. The 
pain is produced by the tension, and the pressure made on 
the nerves of the parts, with the increased sensibility. The 
heat is caused by oxydation of effete matter and adipose 
tissue, and retention of natural animal heat. 
The termination of inflammation is 1st, resolution; 2d, 
suppuration ; 3d, mortification. 
Resolution may be preceded by Metastasis, as in mumps 
or rheumatism. The symptoms which precede resolution 
are increased perspiration, diarrhaea, changes in the urine, 
and hemorrhage. In effusion, we have formation of false 
membrane, as in croup. Suppuration is the conversion of 
coagulable lymph into pus. Mortification, Gangrene, or 
Sphacelus, is the complete death of the part. 
TREATMENT. 
The first indication to be fulfilled in the treatment of 
inflammation, is to equalize the circulation, and restore 
the lost functions of the capillaries. 
Veratrum, Aconite, and Gelseminum, with the ligature, 
will enable us to control the, circulation. While Podo- 
phyllin, Jalopin, with Bitartrate of Potassa, will relieve 
the vessels of the plethora, if that should be a cause of the 
disease. 
But as the treatment of inflammation depends in a grea 
measure upon its locality, the remedies will be given under 
the head of inflammation of the different tissues. 
7 74 
PH RENITIS. 
PHRENITIS, OR ENCEPHALITIS, AND 
MENINGITIS; 
(OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN AND ITS MEMBRANES.) 
SYMPTOMS. 
A vague uneasiness of the mind, defective appetite, 
dizziness with vertigo. The pulse is hard and bounding, 
the eyes have a wild and anxious expression. The patient 
complains of great debility, and a sense of numbness in 
one side of the body ; the numbness being on the opposite 
side from the location of the disease, and the patient lies 
mostly on the back. There is ringing in the ears, which 
very mucn increases as the disease advances. In the early 
stage of the disease, the pupil of the eye is preternaturally 
contracted; but in the latter stage, the pupil is much 
dilated, and light becomes intolerable. 
As the disease advances, there are convulsive muscular 
movements, with more or less delirium. The respiration 
is irregular, the skin hot, there is nausea and vomiting, 
the bowels are confined, and in most cases there is obsti- 
nate costiveness. These symptoms may all become aggra- 
vated, terminating in subsultus, picking at the bed-clothes, 
stupor, coma, suppression of the urine, colliquative sweat, 
stertorous respiration, and death. 
Or the symptoms may all become ameliorated, and the 
patient recover. 
CAUSES. 
1. Accidents. 2. Intemperance in eating and drinking. 
3 Metastasis of inflammation from other parts. 4. 
Mental excitement. 5. Exposure to atmospheric vicissi- 
tudes. 6. Animal and vegetable misasm. 75 
P II RENITIS. 
TREATMENT. 
After due attention to the cause of the disease, the 
bowels should be thoroughly evacuated, by giving the 
following compound: 
R Podophyllin gr. ij. 
Jalapin gr. j. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into eight powders, and give one every hour 
until they act as a liberal purgative. At the same time 
apply ligatures to the legs and arms by placing a bandage 
around them sufficiently tight to prevent the return of the 
blood by the veins, but allowing it to pass into the limbs 
through the arteries. Care should be taken not to pro- 
duce complete syncope; but the ligatures should be used 
sufficiently to deplete the brain and thereby relieve the 
distended capillaries. The ligatures should be tightened 
or loosened according to the emergency of the case and 
the indication to be fulfilled. In removing them, much 
care should be taken to loosen them one at a time, and at 
sufficient intervals to allow the blood to return to the body 
by degrees. At the same time cold packs should be ap- 
plied to the head, and changed sufficiently often to keep 
them cool. A warm sinapism should be placed along the 
spine, and the patient caused to take Aconite until a free 
diaphoresis is produced. The surface should be freely 
bathed in strong lye water two or three times a day, to- 
gether with hot foot-baths. 
If the disease does not yield to the above treatment, the 
purgative should be repeated. 
After which the following compound should be given : 
R Digitalin gr. j. 
Sanguinarin gr. ij. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into eight powders, and give one every two 76 
THRUSH. 
or three hours. If there be periodicity connected with 
the inflammation, give the following compound : 
R Quinine gr. x. 
Phosphate of Iron „ gr. xx. 
Veratrine gr. j. 
White Sugar.'..... gr. xx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into ten powders, give one every 
two or three hours as may be indicated. During the 
treatment, the patient should be kept quiet, and in bed, 
and recourse should be had to the ligature, when the 
determination of the blood to the head should indicate it. 
The diet should be principally fluid, and of easy digestion. 
THRUSH, INFANTILE SORE MOUTH. 
This disease mostly occurs in children from one to three 
months old. 
CAUSES. 
Unhealthy milk and au accumulation of effete matter 
and lactic acid, which comes in contact with the mucous 
surface of the child's mouth, while nursing, producing 
abrasion. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Small white specks appearing, either single or in clusters, 
having a dark and inflamed base, which continues to spread 
and coalesce until the entire mucous surface is involved in 
the disease. 
TREATMENT. 
Remove the cause. Bathe the breast frequently in weak 
lye water, and thoroughly cleanse the nipple each time 
before the child nurses, and give the following compound: 
R Hydrastin gr x. 
Rhusine gr. x. 
Neutralizing Mixture §ij. FOLLIJULAR STOMATITIS. 
77 
Give the child from fifteen to twenty drops two or three 
times a day; also wash the mouth in a weak solution of 
Hydrastin. 
FOLLICULAR STOMATITIS, OR 
NURSING SORE MOUTH. 
Symptoms are transparent whitish vesicles on elevated 
salivary glands. The vesicles break, and the fluid denudes 
the mucous surface of the Epithelium, causing inflammation 
and ulceration, the ulcers often extending over the entire 
mouth, and in some instances to the (Esophagus and 
stomach, producing general constitutional disturbance. 
TREATMENT. 
R Neutralizing Mixture 
Salicinegr. xxx. 
Rhusinegr. xx. 
Mix, give one teaspoonful every two or three hours during 
the day. The mouth should be washed in a strong solution 
of Ilydrastin both before and after each meal. 
If the disease does not yield to the above treatment, the 
following antiperiodic and tonic should be given : 
R Myricin gr. xx. 
Cornine gr. x. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every three 
hours ; after which give the following mixture: 
R Neutralizing Mixture....; 
Myricin gr. x. 
Helonin gr. xx. 
Mix, give one teaspoonful three times a day. 
If there is debility, give the gin bitters of the American 
Dispensatory in quantities indicated. 
7* 78 
QUINSY. 
The surface should be bathed every day in warm lye 
water. The diet should consist of animal broths; broiled 
beef, rice, bread and milk, &c. 
QUINSY-CYNANCHE TONSILLARIS. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The parts involved in this disease are the tonsils and 
adjacent mucous surface. They appear red and swollen. 
The patient complains of great pain and difficulty in swal- 
lowing. The pulse becomes quick and hard, and the 
breathing nasal and laborious. 
These symptoms are generally preceded by rigors or 
chills, alternated with flashes of heat. The tongue is 
covered with a light coat, the bowels are confined, the 
eyes are suffused and red, and the face swollen. As the 
disease advances the swelling increases, and the patient 
expectorates a thin viscid mucus. The throat, ears and 
eyes become painful, the breathing and deglutition more 
difficult, and the patient is compelled to assume the erect 
position on account of the great dyspnoea. 
TREATMENT. 
The patient's feet should be placed in hot water, and, in 
the early stage of the disease, a sufficient quantity of the 
acetic emetic Tinct. should be given to produce free emesis. 
After which the surface should be thoroughly bathed in 
warm saleratus water, and the patient placed in bed, with 
jugs of warm water to the feet, and an onion poultice to 
the throat. If there is much fever, from three to five 
drops of the Tinct. of Veratrum should be given from 
every half hour to an hour, until the fever subsides. 
At the same time the throat should be thoroughly 
washed by means of a probang, with a weak solution of OTITIS. 
79 
nitrate of silver and Hydrastin. The bowels should be 
opened by small doses of Podophyllin and antibilious 
physic. If the swelling produces dangerous dyspnoea, the 
tonsils should be freely scarified with a sharp-pointed bis- 
toury, and a strong solution of sulphate of zinc applied by 
means of the probang. Also apply to the throat, before 
the application of each onion poultice, a liniment com- 
posed of equal parts of Acetic Tet. of Beef's Gall, Gelse- 
minum and Camphor. The patient should be kept quiet, 
and» during convalescence the diet should be light and 
nutritious. 
OTITIS, ORINFLAM MATION OF 
THE EAR. 
Local injuries, Scarlet Fever or inflammation of the 
Eustachian Tubes. 
CAUSES. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Pain, ringing in the ears, &c. Diagnosis is easily made 
with the Speculum. 
TREATMENT. 
Remove the cause, after which apply hot packs to the 
ear, and introduce lint, saturated with equal parts of Tinct. 
of Lobelia and Aconite. If there are constitutional symp- 
toms, give a mild purgative of Euonymine and neutralizing 
mixture. If there is fever, give Eupatorin one or two 
grains three or four times a-day; also from five to ten 
drops of the Tinct. of Gelseminum every two or three 
hours until the fever abates. If there is ulceration, use a 
mild zinc wash ; Compound Syrup of Stillingia, given in 
quantities sufficient to act as a mild alterative, will 
generally be adequate to a cure. 80 
GASTRITIS. 
GASTRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF 
THE STOMACH. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Vomiting, great thirst, precordial distress, a quick and 
hurried pulse, tenderness in the Epigastrium, with the 
tongue mostly dry and hard and the papillae elevated. The 
skin is hot and dry, the urine scanty, and the bowels con- 
stipated. As the disease advances, the patient is restless 
and peevish, the countenance has a distressed, shivered and, 
anxious appearance. 
The nausea becomes constant, and every substance taken 
into the stomach is immediately rejected. The appearance 
of the rejected contents of the stomach is at first a greenish 
mucus, mixed with the ingesta; but if the disease is 
about to terminate in mortification, and death, they will 
become dark, and will finally have the appearance of coffee 
grounds. 
Worms, irritating substances taken into the stomach, or 
as is more frequently the case, it is one of the local symp- 
toms of idiopathic fever. 
CAUSES. 
TREAT M ENT. 
After giving due attention to the cause of the disease, 
the feet should be placed in warm water, and the entire 
surface of the body thoroughly bathed in broke water and 
whiskey. After which, from one to ten drops of the Tinct. 
of Aconite should be given every fifteen or thirty minutes 
until a gentle perspiration is produced. 
At the same time, the bowels should be evacuated by 
means of stimulating injections, and warm sinapisms 
applied to the Epigastrium. 
After continuing the above treatment for five or six DYSPEPSIA. 
81 
hours, if the symptoms do not yield, the Tinct. of Bryonia 
may be substituted for the Aconite, and the patient caused 
to drink freely of mucilage, as Gum Arabic, Slippery Elm, 
Flaxseed, &c. 
The sinapisms should be removed after having caused 
irritation, and hot packs applied in their place. 
If, after pursuing the above treatment for ten or twelve 
hours, the inflammation still proves persistent, and the 
cause of the disease has been removed, a thorough spirit- 
sweat should be given, and the hot packs continued, and 
warm sinapisms applied to the feet. Also from one to five 
drops of the Tinct. Rhus Radicans given every hour until 
the disease becomes mitigated. 
If it assumes an intermittent form, some of the anti- 
periodic compounds should be administered by means of 
starch-water injections, sufficiently to arrest the disease. 
The diet should be fluid, but nutritious. 
DYSPEPSIA, OR INDIGESTION. 
CAUSE. 
Debility of the stomach, and whatever prevents a normal 
secretion of gastric fluid. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Pain in the stomach after eating, palpitation of the 
heart, sharp and pinched features, furred tongue, irritable 
temper, wakefulness, a costive condition of the bowels, 
dry and husky skin, and debility. 
TREATMENT. 
R Populingr. xx. 
Sanguinarin gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 82 
ENTERITIS. 
Triturate, mix, divide into sixteen powders, and give one 
four times a day. After which, 
pt Hydrastin gr. xxx. 
Syrup of Sugar Oss. 
Muriated Tinct. of Iron 
Mix, and take one teaspoonful three times a day before 
meals. 
If the above prescriptions do not give relief, the follow- 
ing compound may be administered : 
U Neutralizing Mixture Oss. 
Aletrin gr. x. 
Chloride of Sodium 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times a day. 
A mixture of animal and vegetable diet should be taken 
at regular intervals, and thoroughly masticated. 
A free state of the bowels should be maintained by the 
use of bran-water, salt and water, ripe fruit, etc. ; and the 
surface should be sponged several times a week in cold 
or warm water, as circumstances indicate. 
ENTERITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
SMALL INTESTINES. 
In simple Enteritis, there is deep-seated pain in the 
umbilical region, and sometimes in other parts of the intes- 
tinal tubes. The pain is more or less constant, yet it is 
subject to paroxysmal aggravations, and is increased by 
pressure. The patient manifests restlessness by constant 
motion of the arms and legs. As the disease advances, 
the pulse becomes hard and wiry, the skin dry, and some- 
times pungent, the tongue is covered with a dark brown 
coat; and in later stages, there is diarrhsea and a bloated 
condition of the bowels. DYSENTERY. 
83 
The stomach should be thoroughly evacuated by Lobelia 
and Sanguinaria, in quantities sufficient to produce active 
emesis. As soon i,s this is effected, give a spirit vapor- 
bath, and wash the patient in strong saleratus water. A 
sinapism should be placed over the bowels, and Aconite 
administered in one or two-drop doses every ten or fifteen 
minutes until free diaphoresis is produced. If the symp- 
toms should not become mitigated in ten or fifteen hours, 
the following antiperiodic should be given : 
R Gelsemin gr. i. 
Sanguinaria gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every 
two or three hours. At the same time, if the fever prove 
obstinate, one or two drops of the Tinct. of Bryonia may 
be given between each powder. 
When the sinapism has produced free counter-irritation, 
warm packs may be applied to the bowels. 
If the disease assumes a periodic character, some of the 
antiperiodic mixtures should be given. The convalescence 
should be carefully watched, and the diet well regulated. 
TREATMENT. 
DYSENTERY, OR COLITIS, (AN INFLAMMA- 
TION OF THE COLON). 
Acute dysentery commences with uneasiness, soreness, 
and sense of weight in the lower part of the bowels, and a 
constant desire to go to stool. 
In the course of from five to twenty-four hours, the 
diarrhaea is changed to mucus mixed with blood. As 
the pain and tenesmus increase, the skin becomes hot and 
dry, the urine red and scanty, and not unfrequently there 
is much pain in micturition. 
SYMPTO MS. 84 
DYSENTERY. 
The tongue is covered at first with a light coat, which 
soon becomes heavy and of a dark brown color. The 
pulse varies in frequency and fulness according to the seve- 
rity of the case. In children, there are more or less brain 
symptoms, which not unfrequently prove the most obstinate 
feature of the case. 
CAUSES. 
In children the disease is not unfrequently caused by 
ascarides in the lower portion of the rectum. Also by 
anything which tends to obstruct the portal circulation, 
and causes a sudden determination of the blood from the 
superficial capillaries to the deep capillaries of the bowels. 
TREATMENT. 
To ascertain the cause, and as far as possible to remove 
it, are the first things to be done in the treatment of this 
disease, as well as all others. 
If the tongue is coated, and the stomach in a condition 
to indicate it, an emetic of Emetine or Lobelia may be 
given. During the operation, the patient should drink 
freely of some warm aromatic tea. 
As soon as the effect of the emetic has passed off, the 
spirit vapor-bath should be given ; after which the surface 
should be thoroughly bathed in warm lye water, and the 
patient placed in a recumbent position in bed. 
If there is obstruction of the portal circulation from con- 
gestion of the liver or otherwise, the following purgative 
should be given: 
B Podopbyllin gr. x. 
Neutralizing mixturei$iij. 
Pulv. Acacia gr. x. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful every half hour until free 
catharsis is produced. Afterward give the following anti- 
periodic : DYSENTERY. 
85 
R Chloride of Sodium ,~j 
Quinine gr. x. 
Oil of Gaultheriae gutt. vi. 
Triturate, divide into ten powders, and give one every two 
or three hours until all are taken. 
During the administration of the powders, if there is 
much tenesmus, injections of starch-water, to which are 
added two or three grains of Tannin, and from one-fourth 
to one-half a grain of Morphine, should be given every five 
or six hours. 
If there is frequent pulse, connected with fever, Aconite 
or Veratrum should be given in sufficient quantities to 
maintain a gentle moisture of the skin. 
If, after giving the antiperiodic, the passages should 
still be frequent and painful, the following compound may 
be given : 
R Neutralizing Mixturegij. 
Myricin and Rhusin aa gr. x. 
Morphine gr. ij. 
Ess. of Anisegi. 
Mix, and give from one-half teaspoonful to a teaspoonful 
every two or three hours, as the case may indicate. 
Also apply the following liniment to the abdomen : 
R Chloroform 
Tct. of Camphor 
Oil of Olives §iij. 
Mix, and apply to the bowels four or five times a day, 
followed by the application of hot dry flannel. 
If the passages should be* large and consist principally 
of blood, from five to ten drops of the oil of Erigeron 
should be given every two or three hours, in connection 
with the above treatment. 
Where brain symptoms prove troublesome, the bowels 
should be kept open, and a free use made of Capsicum, 
8 86 
ACUTE PERITONITIS. 
and diuretics, in connection with the other remedies. If 
there is heat in the head, cold packs should be applied, 
also sinapisms to the back of the neck. 
The diet should consist of beef tea, boiled rice, soft 
ripe fruit, and such other articles of food as the condition 
of the patient may indicate. The convalescence should 
be watched with great care, as regards both diet and 
exercise. 
ACUTE PERITONITIS, OR INFLAM- 
MATION OF THE PERITONEUM. 
SYMPTOMS. 
There is a sharp pain in the abdomen over the region 
of the part inflamed. Soon after the first attack, there is 
generally more or less of a chill, followed by a decided 
reaction and fever. The pulse soon becomes quick, wiry, 
and weak, and the tongue is covered with a light brown 
coat. The abdomen is tympanitic, and frequently there is 
nausea and vomiting. The patient assumes a recumbent 
position, as pressure causes much pain. The skin is 
hot and dry, the urine generally scanty and high-colored. 
As the disease advances, the extremities become cold, the 
eyes have a peculiar anxious expression, the body is 
covered with a cold clammy sweat, and the patient ex- 
pires. Or these symptoms may all become ameliorated, 
and result in gradual recovery. 
TREATMENT. 
R Podophyllin gr. i. 
Ext. of Anti-Bilious Physic gi. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful every fifteen minutes, until 
it operates as a cathartic After which, give the following 
antiperiodic: PNEUMONIA. 
87 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Gelsemin gr. i. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into six powders, and give one every three 
hours, until all are taken. At the same time, if there is 
-fever, give Aconite sufficient to control it. Also apply a 
poultice to the abdomen, made of one pint of oil meal, 
and one tablespoonful of mustard, wet with warm water, 
and change as often as becomes necessary, to keep up a 
gentle irritation of the surface. 
If, after the antiperiodic has been given, the symptoms 
still prove persistent, the cathartic should be repeated, 
followed by the Muriated Tinct. of Iron, from five to ten 
drops every two or three hours until the symptoms abate. 
The above treatment, together with frequent bathing of 
the surface, is generally sufficient to control the disease. 
PNEUMONIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF 
THE LUNGS. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The most prominent is a cough, with difficulty of 
breathing, followed by a hot skin, and increased fulness 
and frequency of the pulse. 
In the second stage the cough becomes loose, and the 
expectoration free and copious, having a rusty appearance 
and being at times mixed with blood. 
In the third stage, the Sputa assumes more of a purulent 
appearance, and the respiration is sufficiently hurried to 
produce more or less Dyspnoea. 
The physical signs are Crepitant Rhonchus in the first 
stage, Tubular or Bronchial Rhonchus in the second stage, 
and when there is Hepatization in the third stage, there 
will be either blowing tubular, sniffling metallic, or 88 
PNEUMONIA. 
Crepitant Bhonchus, also dulness on percussion. If there 
is pulmonary abscess, there will be amphoric tubular, or 
crack-metal rhonchus. The vocal resonance will be either 
bronchophonous or pectoriloquous. 
The varieties of pneumonia are numerous. At one 
time, it is marked by highly inflammatory symptoms; at 
another, it assumes more of a Typhoid character, and 
being connected with great debility, the entire phenomena 
of the disease resembles that of incipient Phthisis. 
The prognosis of pneumonia, is altogether dependent 
upon the treatment. The mortality under Allopathic 
treatment being from fifteen to thirty per cent., while 
under a judicious regular course it scarcely amounts to 
one half of one per cent. 
TREATMENT. 
The prescriptions for simple sthenic pneumonia, are 
easily indicated ; very few medicines being required. 
The patient should be put upon the Tinct. of Veratrum 
Viride, in quantities sufficient to control the inflammatory 
action. In adults of full and plethoric habit, from five to 
ten drops may be given every half hour, until the inflam- 
matory stage has passed. 
A large cold pack may also be applied to the chest. 
When the inflammation has subsided, expectoration may 
be facilitated by giving equal parts of the Syrup of Lo- 
belia and Sanguinarin, every two or three hours. 
If there is periodicity to the disease, after the active 
stage has passed, Ceracine and Cornine may be given in 
sufficient quantities to produce an antiperiodic effect. At 
the same time, continue the syrup. If the disease should 
assume a Typhoid form, Capsicum, in connection with 
small doses of Carbonate of Ammonia, should be given 
Beef tea, and small quantities of wine, may be adminis- 
tered, to maintain the integrity of the constitution, and COLIC. 
89 
the patient's strength. If there should be bronchial 
symptoms, with a persistent cough, twenty or thirty drops 
of the Syrup of Stillingia should be given three or foui 
times a day. 
Where there is Hepatization of any portion of the lungs, 
small doses of Sanguinarin and Iodide of Potassium may 
be given. For further consideration of this subject, the 
reader is referred to Newton and Calkins on Thoracic 
diseases. 
COLIC, SPASMODIC, OR BILIOUS 
COLIC. 
SYMPTOMS. 
It commences with very acute pain about the region of 
the navel. The patient complains of great thirst, and is 
generally costive. He vomits a hot, bitter, and mostly a 
yellow bile, which at first seems to afford some relief, but 
is quickly followed by the same violent pain as before. As 
the disease advances there is an increased propensity to 
vomit, which becomes almost continual. The natural 
motion of the intestines is so far inverted as to render an 
evacuation almost impossible. If the patient is young and 
plethoric, the pulse will be hard and resisting, the surface 
will be covered with a cold clammy sweat during the 
paroxysm of pain. The vomiting will also prove very 
persistent. 
This disease may be distinguished from inflammation of 
the bowels by pressure upon'the abdomen, which in bilious 
colic always affords relief; but, on the contrary, in 
inflammation of the bowels it increases the pain and 
aggravates all the symptoms. 
8* 90 
LEAD COLIC. 
CAUSES. 
The causes of this disease may be various, but the effect 
is a spasmodic contraction of the muscles of the bowels. 
TREATMENT. 
R Dioscorine gr. x. 
Pulv. Camphor gr. iij. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every fifteen 
minutes until the patient is relieved. After which, 
R Gelsemin gr. ij. 
Podophyllin. gr. ij. 
Capsicum gr. vi. 
White Sugargr. xx. 
Mix, divide into five powders, and give one every hour, in 
a teaspoonful of Neutralizing Mixture, till it operates as a 
cathartic. 
If the bowels resist the action of the cathartics, they 
should be injected with warm water, and small quantities 
of Lobelia Tea. Also apply a poultice to the bowels made 
of oil meal and mustard ; say ten tablespoonfuls of oil 
meal to one of mustard. The patient should be kept warm 
and in bed. During the convalescence the diet should be 
of easy digestion and nutritious. 
LEAD COLIC. 
SYMPTOMS. 
This disease is preceded by languor, pallor, general 
debility, pain in the Epigastrium, and a twisting griping 
pain in the region of the umbilicus. SCARLATINA. 
91 
TREATMENT. 
B Sulphuric Acid gutt. xxx. 
Pure Water " 31. 
Give from ten to twenty drops five or six times a day 
for several days. During the time, a Lobelia emetic, vapor 
1 baths and mild purgatives should be given. 
When the active stage of the disease has passed off, 
vegetable tonics, wine, porter, and a nutritious diet, are all 
that will be required to restore the patient to health. 
SCARLATINA. 
Scarlatina is divided into three varieties, indicating the 
different degrees of severity of the disease, viz : Scarlatina 
Simplex, Scarlatina Anginosa, Scarlatina Maligna. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The mild form of this disease is preceded by coldness 
and shivering, to which succeed febrile heat, thirst, and an 
accelerated pulse. About the fourth day the face swells, 
and irregular patches of a florid red color make their ap- 
pearance on different parts of the body. In the course of 
four or five days, the eruption disappears, and the cuticle 
falls off in branny scales. 
The second variety is marked by previous lassitude, 
dejection of mind, pain in the head, soreness, and pain in 
the muscles of the neck and shoulders, shivering and fever. 
To these succeed nausea, vomiting, difficulty of swallowing, 
a hurried respiration, and frequent sighing. There is a 
quick, weak, and sometimes a hard pulse ; the skin is red, 
hot, and dry; the tongue is dry, and florid along the 
edges ; and there is great thirst. 
About the third day the redness about the face, neck, 92 
SCARLATINA. 
and chest, becomes more intense, and the glands of the 
lower jaw are painful to the touch. In a few hours the 
redness becomes diffused over the entire body. About the 
fifth day the redness abates, and a brown color succeeds, 
the skin becomes rough, and falls off in large scales. 
In the third variety, in addition to the common symp- 
toms, there is great prostration, the surface has a dark 
livid appearance ; there is nausea and vomiting, a quick 
and feeble pulse, and laborious breathing. There are also 
ulcerations on the tonsils and adjoining parts, covered with 
dark sloughs, and surrounded by a livid base. The efflo- 
rescence appears about the third day, but without relief. 
It assumes a dark purple appearance. Delirium, a debili- 
tating diarrhsea, and hemorrhage, ensue, and in a great 
majority of cases under Allopathic treatment, death closes 
the scene. 
TREATMENT. 
But little treatment is necessary in simple Scarlatina. 
The patient should be kept in bed, and warm. The skin 
should be thoroughly bathed in warm lye water, and the 
surface anointed, after each bath, with sweet oil. A warm 
bread poultice should be applied to the neck, and from one 
to three drops of the Tinct. of Belladonna given five or six 
times a day. 
In the Anginose form a more active treatment is indi- 
cated. A hot onion poultice should be applied to the 
throat, and changed every four or five hours. Every time 
the poultice is changed, the neck should be bathed with a 
liniment composed of the following ingredients : 
R Oil of Stillingia 
Tinct. of Capsicum 
Oil Origanum gj. 
Mix. 
Bathe the entire body, as in the simple form, with lye 
water, but add to every ounce of the sweet oil one-half SCARLATINA. 
93 
ounce of pyroligneous acid, and anoint the surface as 
before. Add twenty grains of triturated Belladonna to 
half a tumbler of soft water, and give one teaspoonful every 
half hour. Also, give the following compound : 
B Capsicum gr. xx. 
Trit. Hydrastin gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every three 
hours in a teaspoonful of sweet cream. These medicines 
should be continued until the disease abates. At the same 
time keep the bowels in a soluble condition by the use of 
warm water injections. 
There is always extensive capillary congestion in the 
malignant form, not only in the glands of the throat, but 
through the entire system. To remove this capillary con- 
gestion, and bring about a reaction, is the first indication 
to be fulfilled in this form of the disease. For this purpose 
the following compound may be given : 
B Xanthoxylin gr. xx. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Hydrastin gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every half 
hour. If practicable, put the patient in a warm bath; 
otherwise, apply hot packs to the bowels, back, and extre- 
mities ; also, apply sinapisms to the feet and calves of the 
legs. If these measures fail to produce the desired effect 
in a few hours, hot rum toddy may be given in connection 
with them in sufficient quantities to produce the wished-for 
result. When the reaction is fully established, the patient 
should be placed upon Belladonna, as in other forms of 
the fever. Also, give the following antiperiodic : 
B Quinine gr. xx. 
Baptisin gr. v. 
Hydrastin gr. xxi. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 94 
PERTUSSIS. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every two hours until all are taken. The onion poultice 
should be applied to the neck, as in the other forms of the 
disease ; also, the oil and acid to the surface. The throat 
should be frequently bathed in a strong solution of Hydras- 
tin and Bayberry, and the diet should be highly stimulat- 
ing and nutritious. 
PERTUSSIS, OR HOOPING COUGH. 
The Hooping Cough is usually described as a disease 
of childhood ; occurring but once in the same individual, 
usually at some age before puberty, and propagated by 
specific contagion. It mostly prevails as an epidemic; 
hence, a large number of individuals are attacked at about 
the same time. The diagnosis of Hooping Cough is, a 
suffocating convulsive cough, returning in regular parox- 
ysms, and terminating in an excretion of thick, glary 
mucus. The cough is marked by a prolonged stridulous 
convulsive inspiration, attended by a peculiar tracheal 
rattle, and followed by short efforts of inspiration in rapid 
succession. The long Hooping inspiration is almost im- 
mediately repeated, and thus the paroxysm continues often 
for some minutes, until there is a discharge of slippery 
mucus, either by expectoration or vomiting, when the 
respiration becomes comparatively easy. 
During the paroxysm, the face becomes much injected 
and red, the eyes suffused, and there is violent spasmodic 
action of all the muscles of the respiratory organs. 
Hooping cough is not unfrequently combined with 
bronchial inflammation, and in these cases, there is more 
or less cough between the paroxysms. 
The latent stage of the disease, is from eight to fifteen 
days. The cause of the spasmodic symptoms, is a closure 
of the glottis. When the disease is unaccompanied by ERYSIPELAS. 
95 
severe bronchial affections, and is not connected with 
Pneumonia, Trachietis, or inflammation of the brain, it is 
seldom attended writh danger. When it is thus compli- 
cated, each disease should be treated separately. 
For the primary disease, take of oil of Skunk Cabbage 
berries, from one to three drops, four or five times a day. 
Or, 
R Pulv. Alum gr. xx. 
Cochineal gr. x. 
Syrup of Stillingia giss. 
Mix, and give one half teaspoonful three or four times a 
day. 
Or, 
R Triturated Belladonna gr. xxx. 
" Sanguinarin gr. xx. 
" Eupatorin gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into fifteen powders, and give one three times 
a day. Once in five or six days, give from ten to fifteen 
grains of Sulphate of Cinchonin, divided into six parts, 
and taken at intervals of three hours. 
TREATMENT. 
ERYSIPELAS -ST. ANTHONY'S FIRE. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Shivering, thirst, pain in the back, limbs, and head, loss 
of strength, restlessness, quick pulse, nausea, and some- 
times vomiting. In the course of a few hours, a red spot 
appears upon some part of the face, which tumefies and 
spreads rapidly. It may confine itself to the skin, or dip 
deep into the adjacent areolar and cellular tissues, pro- 
ducing Phlegmonous Erysipelas. There is general fever, 
a hard and full pulse, and coated tongue. The inflamed 
parts become of a dark purple appearance, terminating in 
large and extensive abscess, or in gangrene and death. 96 
ERYSIPELAS. 
This form of the disease often assumes a periodic cha- 
racter, spreading with great rapidity for a few hours, pro- 
ducing dangerous constitutional disturbance, then subsiding 
for from twelve to twenty-four hours, when it renews its 
attack with more than former violence. 
The prognosis of Erysipelas is always favorable, under 
Eclectic treatment, with good constitutions. 
TREATMENT. 
The first thing to be done in the treatment of this dis- 
ease, is to give a thorough cathartic of Juglandin and 
Menispermin. 
R Juglandin gr. x. 
Menispermin gr. x. 
Hyociamin gr. j. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every hour, until it operates as a cathartic. 
At the same time, the patient should take a vapor bath, 
and the inflamed part should be thoroughly covered with 
Collodion. After the operation of the cathartic, the fol- 
lowing compound should be given : 
Cinchonin gr. xx. 
Quinine gr. x. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Gelsemin gr. j. 
Mix, divide into eight powders, and give one every three 
hours, until all are taken. After which, give from five to 
ten drops of Muriated Tct. of Iron, every two or three 
hours. The diet should be nutritious, and the surface 
frequently sponged with warm lye water. If there is 
fever, Veratrum or Aconite should be given to control it. 
The inflamed parts should be constantly protected by 
repeated use of the Collodion. PLEURITI8. 
97 
PLEURITIS.* 
SYMPTOMS. 
Acute sthenic pleuritis usually commences with a chill, 
soon succeeded by an acute lancinating pain in the side, 
cough, short and quick breathing, and fever. 
Each of these will receive particular notice. 
The pain may come on either before, at the same time, 
or a short time after the chill. In character it is severe, 
as if resulting from the thrust of an instrument, and hence 
it is often called a stitch in the side. Usually it is felt 
somewhere in the mammary region ; but, sometimes, else- 
where ; sometimes near the lower margin of the chest, in 
which case it is, probably, the result of inflammation of 
that part of the pleura which covers the diaphragm. In 
most cases it is confined to one place; but it may be dif- 
fused over the surface of the chest, when it is sudden, very 
sharp and severe. 
It is so nearly simulated by the nervous pains in hysteria, 
that it may lead to error in diagnosis. By inspiration, 
cough and motion, it is increased. Generally lying on the 
affected side, and pressure over the intercostal spaces, 
aggravate it. There is, a day or two after the occurrence 
of the most severe pain, a greater degree of soreness ex- 
ternally, than when early in the disease the pain is most 
acute. As the effusion increases, the pain decreases in 
consequence of the separation of the inflamed membranes 
by the fluid, and the prevention of friction. It is, in some 
cases, almost entirely wanting, being perceptible only as 
soreness on pressure. 
The cough is usually short and dry, attended with but 
little expectoration of mjcus or frothy matter. Sometimes 
a more copious expectoration is present. When the 
* Newton and Calkins. 
9 98 
PLEURITIS. 
pleuritis is complicated with a degree of bronchitis, it if 
occasionally somewhat bloody. Severe pain often attends 
it, to avoid which, the patient tries to suppress the cough, 
and to a certain extent he succeeds by the effort. In some 
cases, however, this is wanting. When such is the fact, 
and there is at the same time no pain, the disease, by some 
authors, is called latent pleurisy. 
The breathing, in most cases, is more or less difficult. 
The pain has the effect of preventing a full, deep inspiration. 
The patient is said to have a catch in his breath. In 
consequence of this, less air is taken into the lung when 
the pleura is affected, and the frequency of respiration is 
therefore increased, inversely, as the quantity of inspired 
air at each inspiration decreases. The dyspnoea, unlike 
the pain, increases as the disease advances. The effused 
fluid filling up the space usually occupied by the lung, 
causes this symptom. 
The function of one lung is more oi* less suspended, and 
the action of the other is increased beyond its normal 
degree, so that the breathing of the patient becomes pain- 
ful and difficult. This is more particularly the case when 
the effusion is both sudden and copious. When gradual, 
the system accustoms itself to the abnormal condition of 
the respiratory organs. In the latter stage it is most 
severe. 
The decubitus has been considered as a pathognomonic 
sign of the disease. Yet there is much variance among 
observers in respect to this symptom. This results from 
the variation of the decubitus in the different stages of 
pleuritis. At first the patient cannot lie upon the affected 
side, on account of the increase of pain which that position 
produces. At a later stage, when the effusion separates 
the inflamed surfaces, the pain resulting from the position 
of the two portions of the pleura becomes less, and some- 
times is entirely wanting. When the decubitus is on the PLEURITIS. 
99 
sound lung, the weight of the effused fluid, pressing on 
the mediastinum, and forcing this beyond the median line, 
preventing the ingress of air into the sound lung, causes 
pain from dyspnoea. And, consequently, at this period of 
the disease, the decubitus is most free from unpleasant 
sensations on the affected side. 
The fever is usually considerable, and attended with the 
most common phenomena of febrile affections. The pulse 
is quick, sometimes rising to over a hundred beats in a 
minute, hard, full and tense. The skin is dry and hot, 
particularly over the chest, or the seat of the disease. 
The tongue is parched, the urine scanty and high-colored, 
and occasionally there are cerebral symptoms. 
Of the fever there are often daily remissions and exacer- 
bations, the former coming on in the morning, the latter 
in the afternoon or evening. In four or five days it 
moderates considerably. 
TREATMENT. 
In strong and plethoric individuals, where there is a 
marked case of sthenic pleuritis, the stomach should be 
thoroughly evacuated by a Lobelia and Boneset emetic, 
followed by an active cathartic of Jalapin and Cream of 
Tartar. The affected side should be packed with cold 
water, and the patient caused to take from five to ten 
drops of the Tinct. of Veratrum Viride every half hour, 
until the symptoms of the disease abate. After which, the 
following compound should be given : 
B Asclepin gr. xx. 
Gelsemin'. gr. ij. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, divide into ten powders, and give one every 
three hours. The patient should drink freely of some 
diuretic mucilage, such as marshmallow or flaxseed. 
If the case be one of asthenic pleuritis, the emetic and 100 
PLEURITIS. 
cathartic should be omitted, and hot packs applied to the 
side or sides, and the Tinct. of Aconite given to control 
the inflammatory action, say from one to five drops every 
one or two hours. Also give the following compound : 
R Asclepin gr. xx. 
Sanguinarin gr. x. 
Quinine gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every 
two or three hours. If the disease is not subdued, the 
following compound may be given : 
R Eupatorin gr. xx. 
Sanguinarin.... gr. x. 
Apocynin gr. x. 
White Sugargr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every three hours. If there should be extensive effusion, 
R Syrup of Marshmallow 
Iodide of Potassium gr. xxx. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful four or five times a day. 
Where there is much debility, beef tea, wine, porter, in 
connection with Iron by Hydrogen, should be freely given. 
The surface should be thoroughly bathed, and the patient 
caused to remain quiet in bed. If expectoration is 
difficult, small doses of Lobelia may be given three or 
four times a day. Where there is a tendency of the 
disease to assume a chronic form, an irritating plaster 
should be placed over the seat of the disease, and allowed 
to remain until a free discharge ensues. The patient's 
strength should be supported by vegetable tonics and 
chalybeates. CHRONIC PLEURITIS. 
101 
CHRONIC PLEURITIS. 
This disease being so well described by my colleague, 
Prof. Calkins, in his work on thoracic diseases, I shall 
offer no apology for transferring it to these pages. 
"Chronic Pleuritis," says Prof. Calkins, "varies 
greatly, both in severity and duration. It may be acute, 
in respect to the degree of suffering and the rapidity of 
its progress; it may be latent in its character, and slow 
in the progress of the successive changes attending and 
consequent upon it. Between these extremes, the inter- 
mediate grades of morbid action are almost innumerable. 
The term chronic, then, when applied to pleuritis, seems 
to be more of a conventional term than in respect to other 
diseases. In pleuritis, the transition of the acute to the 
chronic state is so indefinite, and the symptoms of the 
recent disease sometimes have so little of an acute cha- 
racter, while that of a long duration occasionally manifests 
so much greater an intensity of irritation, that the terms, 
acute and chronic, would seem to be less applicable to 
pleuritis than to other diseases. This difficulty' arises 
from the anatomical relations of the pleura. Being a shut 
sac, its acute inflammation is liable to be made chronic by 
the retention of inflammatory products; and the chronic 
is liable to be changed into the acute by the irritation of 
effused fluids, 
"But, notwithstanding these difficulties, there seems 
to be no impropriety in ascribing to the disease, when 
highly inflammatory, and until the inflammatory symptoms 
seem to arrive at an acme, the term acute. If, after that 
period, lingering fever continues, evidently excited by the 
products of previous inflammatory action, then the term 
chronic may, with as much propriety, be applied to the 
disease after, as acute to the disease before the acme. In 
some cases, however, such an acme seems never to exist; 
9* 102 
CHRONIC PLEURITIS. 
and to these the name sub-acute may with propriety be 
applied." 
Pathology. - The anatomical appearances caused by 
chronic pleuritis, are very similar to the acute form of the 
disease. Of course, the influence of time would tend to 
produce certain modifications. 
In general, we find the membranes thicker, often com- 
posed of several adherent layers, the earliest deposit 
being harder than those subsequently formed. The cha- 
racter of the liquid, too, is subject to various changes in 
the onward progress of the disease. It is less limpid, 
more prone to become turbid with flocculi of a fibrinous 
character. In some cases, it even appears in consistence 
like jelly. The quantity is greater, and consequently, the 
displacement of adjacent viscera is much more apparent. 
Here and there, adhesions are often formed between the 
pleura and lungs, which, in some cases, enclose little sacs 
of fluid. 
Under the best treatment, the disease, when uncompli- 
cated, will generally advance to a favorable termination. 
But it often is the case, that the morbid products cannot 
be absorbed, and, consequently, they remain and pass 
through a series of pathological changes, sometimes ending 
in gangrene. Cartilaginous laminae, bony plates, abscesses, 
tubercles, and hemorrhagic effusions, are among the succes- 
sive steps in the progress of chronic pleuritis. 
" Sometimes," says Dr. Wood, "the walls of the chest 
are forced inward contrary to their elasticity, so that, when 
a puncture is made from without, the air rushes in to sup 
ply the vacuity produced by their resilience In some 
cases, secretion goes on as rapidly as absorption, and the 
liquid accumulation remains for a great length of time. 
This is especially the case in empyema, or collection of pus 
in the cavity of the pleura. Sometimes the pus makes its 
way into the substance of the lung, and a fistulous commu- CHRONIC PLEURITIS. 
103 
nication is formed between the bronchi and the pleural 
cavity thraugh which pus is discharged and air admitted. 
" In other instances the liquid takes an external direction, 
and by means of ulceration escapes into the cellular tissue 
without the chest, and, travelling occasionally for a consi- 
derable distance, produces sub-cutaneous abscesses in va- 
rious parts of the chest, which ultimately open, unless life 
is previously worn out. In thus travelling, the pus has 
been known to occasion caries of the ribs and vertebra). 
Sometimes the purulent collection is found to be connected 
with a tuberculous vomica." 
It is sometimes difficult to determine the causes which 
change ordinary acute pleuritis into the chronic form. 
Evidently, in many cases, too much depletion, the too fre- 
quent use of mercury, and other articles making up the 
antiphlogistic regimen, tend to the production of chronic 
pleuritis. Often, when a case seems to be cured by such 
means, the impoverished state of the blood, caused by the 
use of the lancet, thus rendering the system more liable to 
be affected by low grades of inflammation, developes a new 
and unwelcome train of symptoms, admonishing the physi- 
cian that the supposed cure was, after all, delusive. 
Dr. Gallup, defining chronic rheumatism, says that it is 
acute rheumatism half cured. So, it may be said with 
equal propriety, that chronic pleuritis is the acute variety 
half cured. 
Diagnosis. - The general inflammatory symptoms of 
acute pleuritis may gradually disappear ; but, unless the 
morbid products of the diseased action are removed from 
the pleural sac, the fever will recur, and change its type, 
now very closely resembling hectic, now becoming identical 
with it. This recurring fever is one of the most trouble- 
some and alarming symptoms of chronic pleuritis; for in 
other respects the patient docs not suffer in proportion to 
the extent or duration of the effusion. 104 
CHRONIC PLEURITIS. 
Dr. Gerhard observes: "I once saw a patient who had 
performed the full duties of a sailor, going aloft with an 
enormous pleuritic effusion. When he returned from sea, 
it amounted to two or three gallons. This is an excep- 
tional case; but it is very common to find patients who 
can perform many laborious occupations without much in- 
convenience. This is generally the case if the dyspncea is 
not severe; and we find that some patients complain of 
little difficulty of breathing, with an extent of pectoral dis- 
ease, which will give rise to great distress in other indi- 
viduals. The symptoms which so frequently characterize 
chronic organic diseases, are extremely variable in this va- 
riety of pleurisy. These are emaciation, loss of the firm- 
ness of the muscles, harshness and dryness of the skin, and 
slight oedema of the legs. Sometimes they are nearly as 
well marked as in tuberculous disease of the lungs; - in 
other cases they are very slight; hence they constitute a 
diagnostic sign of the disease ; and if we find them well 
characterized, we will do right to regard the case as one 
probably complicated with tubercles. If our impression 
oe erroneous, we will soon rectify it as the symptoms will 
gradually become more decided in the latter case, and 
slowly disappear if the pleurisy be followed by recovery. " 
The diagnosis of chronic pleuritis, without the aid of 
the physical signs, is often very difficult.* Its general 
symptoms simulate those of phthisis. But the physical 
signs are far more reliable. When these are present, there 
is no difficulty in ascertaining the true character of the dis- 
ease. If it is complicated with tuberculous deposition, the 
case should be regarded with much anxiety : for the diag- 
nosis then becomes much more obscure, and the prognosis 
more "unfavorable." 
*See Empyema. CHRONIC PLEURITI8. 
105 
PROGNOSIS. 
The prognosis of this disease depends much upon the 
extent of the effusion, the condition of the constitution, and 
the tendency to hereditary disease. Also, upon the skill 
with which the disease is treated. If the integrity of the 
constitution is not too much impaired, and there is not a 
marked tuberculous tendency, under a judicious treatment 
our prognosis will be favorable. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of this disease depends upon the constitu- 
tion of the patient. If there is still an inflammatory pro- 
cess going on, Aconite, in connection with Veratrum and 
Gelsemin, should be used until it is controlled. As for 
instance, if the skin is hot and dry, the pulse quick, the 
urine scanty, with more or less dyspnoea, and alternate 
pyrexia, the following compound may be given: 
R Gelsemin gr. j. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Asclepin gr. x 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into ten powders, and give one every 
two or three hours until all are taken. 
If the symptoms should not subside under tins prescrip- 
tion, the irritating plaster should be applied over the 
entire surface of the affected side, and a thorough spirit- 
sweat be given ; after which, the following mixture : 
R Syrup of Tolu... £iij. 
" Sanguinarin 3pj. 
" Iodide of Iron gij. 
Mix, dose one teaspoonful every three hours. 
If there are febrile symptoms, from one to three drops 
of the Tct. of Aconite should be givtn every three hours, 
in connection with the above mixture. 106 
CHRONIC PLEURITIS. 
The diet should be nutritious and stimulating, and if 
there is much debility, a small quantity of Porter or Scotch 
Ale should be taken four or five times a day. If there is 
much effusion, an attempt should be made to produce ab- 
sorption by the following mixture : 
R Syrup of Iodide of Potassium £j. 
" Apocynin 
" Stillingia Jjiij. 
Mix, dose one teaspoonful three or four times a day. At 
the same time drink freely three times a day of a tea made 
of equal parts of Eupatorium, Purpureum and Pipsissewa. 
If the strength of the patient will bear it, one eighth of a 
grain of Phytolaccin and five grains of Cream of Tartar 
should be given. 
The irritating plaster should not be removed until a free 
discharge ensues, which should be maintained by the 
occasional use of the vegetable caustic, and a constant 
application of slippery elm poultice. If the absorbents 
should prove too debilitating to the patient, they should 
be discontinued for a few days, and the following tonic be 
given : 
R Hydrastiii gr. x. 
Phosphate of Iron gr. xx. 
Prunin gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, and divide into ten powders, and give one 
every three hours. 
If there are periodical symptoms in connection with 
debility, and the above prescription should fail to give 
relief, five drops of the muriated Tct. of Iron, and two grains 
of Quinine, should be given four times a day. Also a 
liberal supply of beef tea, prepared as directed in treat- 
ment of Typhoid Fever. After recruiting the patient's 
strength for some days, the diuretics and absorbents should 
again be resumed, and persisted in for the purpose of pro- EMPYEMA. 
107 
ducing absorption of the effused fluid. If the above treat- 
ment shou.'d prove unsuccessful, and the Empyema likely 
to prove disastrous to the patient, the operation of 
Paracentesis Thoracis should be performed as directed 
under the head of Empyema. 
EMPYEMA 
Is a collection of fluid in some part of the body, par- 
ticularly in that of the pleura. It consists mostly of a 
purulent, sero-purulent or serous fluid, within the cavity of 
the pleura, and is dependent upon chronic pleurisy. When 
inflammation attacks a serous or diaphanous membrane, it 
loses its transparency, becoming dull, and in some instances 
dry. These changes may be observed not only in the 
Pleura, Pericardium and Peritoneum, but in the arachnoid 
membrane, in which it is distinct when other traces of 
inflammation cannot be recognized. At the same time, 
red vessels appear in isolated spots over a considerable 
extent. They are arborescent, and consist of minute red 
lines radiating from star-like points. These vessels, though 
placed in the substance of the membrane, gradually ap- 
proach the surface as the process advances. They are not 
newly developed, but are the colorless capillaries of the 
sound part, injected with xed blood. After existing for a 
longer or shorter time, these changes are succeeded by 
others, which are regarded as their effects. The first and 
most important of these is, the formation of a new fluid at 
the free and inadherent surface of the membrane. 
The nature of the fluid varies according to the stage of 
the inflammation. In the commencement of the inflamma- 
tion, the capillaries begin to deposit a semi-transparent 
fluid, in small quantities, which becomes more abundant as 
the lisease advances. It is straw-colored, of a homoge- 108 
EMPYEMA. 
neons character, and, as it is effused, undergoes sponta- 
neous coagulation. This consists in part of the fluid 
attaining a solid form like a jelly in layers of variable 
thickness, with a honey-comb surface, and thready fila- 
ments coalescing and quite consistent. A small quantity 
of a thin fluid is found in the interstices of these filaments, 
oozing from the surface of the coagulated part, and lodging 
in the most dependent part of the cavity. This process 
may continue until a large amount of fluid is accumulated, 
or the entire product of the inflamed surface may be defi- 
cient in albumen, producing an extensive accumulation of 
sero-purulent fluid. 
Baillie and other observers state "that this fluid has 
been supposed to be derived immediately from the blood; 
but that this is not correct, as it is the serous or watery 
portion of the morbid exudations, from the surface and 
interstices of which it may be seen trickling. 
The red oi' brown tint is derived from the blood issuing 
from the newly-formed capillaries. Shreds of lymph are 
found floating in it when the accumulation occurs in the 
pleural cavity. The sero-purulent is often connected with 
albuminous fluid, from which it is separated during the 
process of coagulation. It consists mostly of serous fluid, 
with minute granules of albuminous matter, which precipi- 
tate to the bottom, leaving a chalk-like liquid, which con- 
stitutes the majority of the effused fluid in the cavity. In 
this fluid may be seen small particles of lymph afloat. The 
puriform fluid of serous membranes consists of serous fluid 
with small granules of opaque matter, not coagulable, and 
is considered as an abortive effort to produce albuminous 
exudation. The puriform deposit mostly occurs in the 
peritoneum. It is a white or cream-colored opaque fluid. 
It occurs mostly in chronic pleurisy and peritonitis. It has 
been supposed that genuine purulent matter was not formed 
unless there had been previous ulceration of the part. But EMPYEMA. 
109 
the researches of Baillie, Black, Hunter, and Millin, have 
amply shown that purulent fluid may either be secreted by 
the inflamed membrane, or from the organized layers of 
lymph, or from both. In the first, the fluid is secreted 
directly from the capillaries of the inflamed membrane. In 
the second, it is derived from the organized false mem- 
branes which take on the suppurative action. In the third, 
both sets of vessels are concerned. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The patient either lies on his back diagonally, or on the 
diseased side with the head slightly bent forward. The 
voice is weak, and there is a persistent cough, with more 
or less expectoration of mucus or muco-purulent matter. 
The face is buffy, and semi-transparent; the lips tumid and 
livid. The pulse is habitually quick and small, and febrile 
attacks are frequent, and often connected with chills. In 
recent empyema, the diagnosis may be confounded with that 
of pneumonic solidification. But in empyema, vocal fre- 
mitus disappears. In hepatization of the lung, it is main- 
tained, and frequently above the average of health. 
In empyema there is no crepitant rhonchus, nor is there 
true tubular sniffling, metallic respiration ; vocal resonance 
is well or weakly bronchophonic. There is dulness on per- 
cussion over the entire pleural sac, and not unfrequently 
effusion becomes so extensive as to force the lung towards 
the mediastinum and spine, compressing it in so small a 
bulk that it appears to be destroyed. Its vessels are 
crushed together; its bronchial tubes and vessels closed, 
and the whole organ is' rendered unfit for respiration. 
Unless much care is taken in diagnosis, this condition will 
be mistaken for atrophy of the lungs. Tn other cases the 
heart and mediastinum are carried over t< the right side, 
and the heart will be found beating on tb«. right side of the 
sternum between the third and fourth riU 
10 110 
EMPYEMA. 
A case of this kind occurred in my practice, where the 
effusion, following latent plcuritis, was so extensive that it 
not only carried the lung forward and backward towards 
the mediastinum, and against the spine, compressing it so 
completely, as to prevent the ingress of air; but, the 
heart and mediastinum were carried forward, and beneath 
the sternum, so as to encroach materially upon the right 
lung. In this case, the symptoms at first were those of 
latent pleuritis, followed by a persistent cough, with 
expectoration of muco-purulent fluid, great dyspnoea, and 
inability to lie on the affected side. There was great dul- 
ness on percussion, which extended an inch over the right 
of the sternum. 
The only physical signs which were diagnostic of the 
disease, were the absence of respiratory murmur on the left 
side, and the deviation of the area of duhiess upon percus- 
sion ; on changing the position of the patient, the dysp- 
noea and the increased diameter of the left half of the 
chest, which was three and one-half inches greater than 
the right. In this case, absorbents, diuretics, and tonics, 
only gave temporary relief. And in the course of two 
and one half years, an opening made its appearance in 
the base of the pleura and diaphragm, where it had previ- 
ously become attached, and the fluid made its escape into 
the cavity of the abdomen, producing peritonitis and 
death. The patient refused to submit to the operation of 
Paracentesis. Dr. Hughes reports a case of thoracic dis- 
ease, where the patient became much debilitated, with 
quick pulse, dyspnoea, and every physical sign of effusion 
into the right pleura. There was no bulging of the inter- 
costal space ; but a flat fluctuating tumor was observed, 
which dilated upon coughing. A small trochar was intro- 
duced, and twenty-four ounces of turbid serum were 
drawn off. Iodide of Potassium and Sarsaparilla were 
taken, which afforded partial relief,-yet, he states that he EMPYEMA. 
111 
operated again, in two weeks, and drew off thirty-six 
ounces more. No inconvenience followed, and the patient 
appeared much improved. Some two months afterward, 
the tapping was again repeated, and twelve ounces of 
fluid were drawn off. In two months more his health ap- 
peared good ; but there seeming to be an increase of fluid, 
tapping was again performed, and thirty-six ounces of 
fluid evacuated. lie was tapped again on the eighteenth 
and twenty-sixth of November successively, which was 
also again performed on the twenty-first of December. 
Finding that repetition of the operation must still be con- 
tinued, the patient learned to perform it himself, and 
actually did so twice. The prognosis was subsequently 
favorable, and after fifteen tappings his restoration was 
complete 
TREATMENT. 
The first efforts of the physician should be to produce 
absorption, which can be accomplished, in most cases, 
where the walls of the sac are in a normal condition. But, 
unfortunately, in many instances the albuminous exudation 
forms a complete false membrane to the internal walls of 
the sac, which entirely precludes the action of the absorb- 
ents upon the effused fluid. In this event but little can 
be expected from the use of remedies, until the fluid is 
evacuated by means of the trochar. 
The operation of Paracentesis Thoracis is performed in 
this manner. The patient should be propped up in bed, 
and inclined a little to the sound side, so as to separate the 
ribs, as much as possible, on the diseased side. The skin 
is to be divided to the extent of one and a half inches, in 
a direction parallel with the superior edge of the lower rib, 
on the intercostal space that is selected for the puncture. 
After dividing the superficial fascia, and any portion of a 
muscle of the chest that may intervene, as well as the 
external and internal intercostal muscles, the pleura will 112 
EMPYEMA. 
be seen to bulge into the wound. After being distinctly 
felt by the finger, so as to establish the fact that only fluid 
is behind it, a trochar, armed with a canula, should be 
introduced through the sac ; the trochar should be with- 
drawn, and the canula allowed to remain until the fluid is 
discharged. Or the pleura may be punctured by means of 
a sharp-pointed bistoury. On making an incision through 
the integument, the skin should be drawn up from an inch 
to an inch and a half above the intercostal space intended 
for the internal opening, so that after the evacuation of 
fluid, the integument, by passing down over the internal 
wound, may exclude the air from the pleural cavity, which 
is one of the most essential conditions to be observed in 
this operation. 
If there is a probability that the fluid may be absorbed, 
an attempt should be made, by the use of the following : 
R Corydalin gr. x. 
Phytolaccin gr. ij. 
Iodide of Potassiumgr. xxx. 
Syrup of Marshmallow 
Triturate, and mix well together; give from one half to 
one dram three times a day. 
At the same time apply the irritating plaster to the 
affected side, until a free discharge ensues. 
The strength of the patient should be maintained by the 
use of porter, wine, beef tea, and such articles of food as 
are easy of digestion. When the above remedy has been 
used for two or three weeks, a change may be made to the 
following: 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Digitalin gr. ij. 
Bitartrate of Potassa gij. 
Syrup of Stillingia and Syrup of Iodide 
of Iron aa 
Mix, and give one half teaspoonful three times a day. PHTHISIS. 
113 
The skin should be thoroughly bathed in lye water two or 
three times a week, and every effort should be made to 
preserve the patient's strength. 
If, after the above treatment, and such other remedies 
as seem to be indicated, the patient is not materially 
relieved, tapping should be resorted to at once. In per- 
forming this operation, much care is required to prevent 
the ingress of air into the cavity of the chest. Other- 
wise empyema would be removed only by substituting 
emphysema. After the operation, a general diuretic, altera- 
tive, and tonic treatment should be pursued, for the pur- 
pose of preventing a re-accumulation of the fluid. If 
empyema is connected with organic disease of the lungs, 
or general tuberculosis, much relief may be obtained 
from the operation of Paracentesis. Although it may not 
effect a cure, still it will very materially assist your 
constitutional treatment. 
PHTHISIS. 
The essential character of pulmonary consumption 
consists in the deposit of tubercles in the tissues of the 
lungs. This deposit may begin with local mischief, 01 
may evidently be the sequel of constitutional disorder. 
In both varieties the general disease is present, although 
it may exist in a latent form. Of this the formation of 
tuberculous matter is a proof. It is evident, however, 
that the presence of tubercles does not alone constitute 
the disease. One step back, along the chain of causation, 
is a morbid condition, of which tubercles are but the 
effect. This morbid condition, whatever is its nature, may 
exist a long time before the formation of tubercle begins. 
10* 114 
P II TUI SIS. 
tissue not requiring for its nutrition, compound principles 
identical with it to be introduced into the blood with the 
food, and having a nutrition peculiar to itself, differing 
from that of the cellular and muscular structures. The 
fatal dis'ease tuberculosis may be traced to a primary error 
or defect in the blood-making process. Vitiated air, or 
air stagnating or insufficiently renewed within the chest; 
and probably other anti-hygienic influences, as a vitiated 
or defective diet, acting singly, coetaneously, or as re- 
spects each other, ancillary, produces slowly under ordi- 
nary circumstances, but occasionally with great rapidity, 
some unknown change in a portion of the proteiniform 
principle of recently formed liquor sanguinis; this change 
may consist in hyper-oxydation; but whether so or not, 
it deteriorates its properties, rendering it, more or less, 
altogether unsuitable as a material for organization. 
At the same time, the oily principle of nutrition circu- 
lating with a diminished number of real corpuscles, is in 
part converted into a fatty substance of a lower degree of 
oxydation. These modified proteiniform and oleaginous 
principles are exuded in the blastema, and are either em- 
ployed in the assimilating processes, deranging the nutri- 
tion of the organic structures, and giving the tuberculous 
or scrofulous character to various pathological processes; 
or, in the more advanced stages of the morbid process, 
they are deposited in particular tissues, and accumulate 
generally in the form of tubercle, but sometimes both as 
tubercle and morbid fat, substances for the most part inca- 
pable of organization. 
In the present state of pathological science, confining 
ourselves to its legitimate object, the study of phenomena, 
apart from any metaphysical views of final causes relative 
to the powers of nature, this appears to be the most accu- 
rate definition that can be given of the most essential na- 
ture of tuberculosis.-(Dr. Ancell.) PHTHISIS. 
115 
That a change takes place in the blood, which causes or 
precedes the deposit and development of tubercles, is well 
established. The corpuscles are diminished, and the 
albumen increased in quantity. The fibrin is below, rather 
than above the normal amount, and, it may be inferred, 
that it is also defective in its nature. Elsner, and some 
other analysts, have found the fatty principles diminished. 
Dr. Fricke's analyses indicate an increase above the 
standard of health, in the lime, and a decrease in the 
phosphates ; while 1'Heritier states, that in scrofula the 
earthy salts are diminished. Hence, the blood may be 
stated generally to be degraded in quality, and endowed 
with a low degree of vitality. Whether these be the real 
changes in the blood is not certainly determined. Physio- 
logists and pathologists are not fully agreed as to the 
nature of all the changes which the blood undergoes in 
the scrofulous diathesis. Andral showed that in phthisis 
pulmonalis, the fibrin was augmented. The probability 
is, that this increase of fibrin is most frequent, when inter- 
current pneumonitis is associated with tubercular disease 
To attain to accuracy in this matter is very difficult, on 
account of the variable state of the blood, arising from 
exercise, diet, time of the day, and other changing circum- 
stances. 
The conclusions to which we may logically come, are 
the following: 1. That from the earliest invasion, the 
sum of the vital force is either below the standard of 
health, or it is relatively low as respects the structure and 
organization of the individual. 2. That this diminution 
in the sum of the vital force; is dependent on the imperfect 
blastema of the diseased blood, causing perversion of the 
tissues. 3. That as tuberculosis advances, the sum of the 
vital force for the whole system, continues to diminish. 
4. That the nutritive powers of the blood, as respects the 
nervous tissue, frequently remains undiminished; this 116 
PHTHISIS. 
But in what manner does the deposit take place ? We 
possess sufficient evidence that it is derived from the blood; 
that it transudes from the capillary vessels of the part in 
which we find it; and that after being deposited, it is liable 
to undergo certain further changes. On the examination 
of incipient tubercular deposit, we may always note that 
there is congestion in the tissues immediately surrounding 
it. In the pia mater of the sylvian fissure, we see an in- 
creased redness, in which a few vessels are more promi- 
nent than usual; in the pulmonary parenchyma we may 
especially, by the use of the microscope, discover the en- 
gorgement of the interlobular capillaries investing the air- 
vesicle into which the tubercle is being secreted. In the 
mucous membrane of the intestines we see the exquisite 
arborescent arrangement of the congested vessels, tending 
from the mesenteric attachment to the point where we 
observe the deposit, shining through the mucous surface 
from the submucous tissue, where it has collected. The 
first elimination of the morbid products acts like a mag- 
netic point of attraction, and generally serves as a centre 
around which the deposit progressively enlarges by eccen- 
tric deposition. 
Tubercles exist in various forms; in fine points, grey 
and yellow granulations, miliary tubercles, and grey or 
yellow tubercular masses, softened and cretaceous. Each 
of these modifications requires a more particular notice. 
1. Pulmonary Granulations - Grey Granulations - 
Miliary Tubercles.-These various names have been used 
by authors to describe round, small, translucent, shining, 
homogeneous bodies, often not larger than a millet-seed, 
but varying from this to the size of a pea, which appears 
to be the primitive state of tubercles. Usually they are 
of a greyish, but often they are of a reddish or of a brown- 
ish color, and in some cases they are nearly colorless. 
Sometimes they are isolated, sometimes clustered in small PHTHISIS. 
117 
bunches, or in aggregate masses. In the latter state they 
are most often found in the upper portion of the lung. 
But in the isolated form they are scattered sometimes 
thickly through the whole or greater portion of the pulmo- 
nary tissue; not unfrequently they are found situated be- 
neath the pleura, producing an irregularity perceptible to 
the touch. This is more often the case in children than 
adults. 
2. Grey Tubercular Infiltration.-Laennec defines this 
as the same kind of matter which forms the granules above 
described, deposited in the cellular tissue of the lungs in 
irregular masses, sometimes one, two, or even three inches 
in cubic dimensions without definite boundaries, or limited 
only by the extent of the lobules. It is hard, homogeneous, 
translucent, and of a greyish color, sometimes darkened by 
the black matter of the lungs, portions of which become 
enveloped in the masses as they are formed. In some 
cases no traces of pulmonary tissue can be detected in the 
masses; in others they present remains of blood-vessels, 
bronchial tubes, and cellular membrane ; and occasionally 
they are partially penetrated by the air in respiration. 
3. Crude Tubercle and Yellow Tuberculous Infiltra- 
tion. - The grey translucent matter constituting the first 
two deposits above noticed, appears to undergo a gradual 
conversion into what has usually been considered the pro- 
per tuberculous substance. In the miliary granulations, 
the transformation commences in a small yellowish, white 
spot, which most commonly appears at or near the centre, 
and gradually enlarges until the whole granule assumes 
that character. 
In this altered state, the little bodies are now called 
crude tubercles. In the aggregated granules, the change 
commences at several points, each probably answering to a 
distinct granule, and considerable masses of yellow opaque 118 
PHTHISIS. 
matter result from the extension and ultimate coalescence 
of these central spots. 
The same transformation takes place in the infiltrated 
translucent matter, beginning in like manner with isolated 
opaque spots, and spreading until it involves the whole 
deposit, which, when thus altered, receives the name of 
yellow tuberculous infiltration. This may be distinguished 
from the crude tubercle by an irregular and angular, in- 
stead of roundish form, and by a less regular line of 
division between it and the pulmonary tissue. There is no 
doubt that both the crude tubercle and yellow infiltration 
are often originally deposited in this state, without the 
preliminary formation of the translucent matter. 
The next important change in tubercle is that of soften- 
ing. This, in many authors, is said to begin in the centre, 
and to gradually advance to the circumference. ' Concern- 
ing the truth of this, there is, however, some doubt. The 
reasons as given by Mr. Carswell upon which such a doubt 
is based, are the following: - Tubercular matter, accord- 
ing to his theory, is contained in the air-cells and bronchi. 
If, therefore, this morbid product is confined to the surface 
of either, or has accumulated to such a degree as to leave 
only a limited central portion of their cavities unoccupied, 
it is obvious that when they are divided transversely, the 
following appearances will be observed : - 1. A bronchial 
tube will resemble a tubercle having a central depression, 
or soft central point, in consequence of the centre of the 
bronchus not being, or never having been occupied by the 
tuberculous matter, and of its containing at the same time 
a small quantity of mucus or other secreted fluids:-2. The 
air-cells will exhibit a number of similar appearances, or 
rings of tuberculous matter joined together, and containing 
in their centres a quantity of the same kind of fluids. 
When the bronchi or air-cells are completely filled with 
tuberculous matter, no such appearances as those we have PHTHISIS. 
119 
just describe 1 are observed, and hence the reason why 
tubercle, in such circumstances, has been said to be still in 
a state of crudity, or in that state which is believed to 
precede the softening process. 
As the softening process advances, the whole tubercle 
becomes converted into a soft, pultaceous, yellowish mass, 
in appearance resembling pus. The infiltrated mass, like- 
wise, undergoes a similar change. Sometimes the entire 
tuberculous deposit seems throughout its whole mass, to 
become suddenly softened, and, in this manner, large por- 
tions of the Jung are quickly destroyed. The pressure of 
the growing tubercle upon the circumjacent lung, at first 
makes it less vascular; but reaction at length takes place, 
inflammation succeeds, and congestion, ulceration and 
suppuration follow. In some cases the tubercular disease 
passes through its various stages without giving rise to 
marked inflammation. In the majority of cases, however, 
the bronchi, air-cells and cellular tissue, are more or less 
affected by the inflammatory process. The succeeding 
ulceration gives rise to the formation of cavities. Fre- 
quently one large vomica is made up of several smaller 
ones, which, in the parietes of the large cavity, make 
excavations of irregular shape, now winding and now 
crossed by bands of tissue. The size of the cavity varies 
from that of a pea to that of an orange. Its contents 
consist of a mixture of pus and bloody matter, and por- 
tions of pulmonary tissue. Sometimes they are inodorous, 
sometimes fetid. In children the vomicae are less common 
than in adults. As the disease advances, a false mem- 
brane begins to form around the decaying tubercle, at first 
thin and delicate, and in appearance resembling mucous 
membrane. Large abscesses are sometimes seen, between 
which and the bronchi there is no communication. 
Cicatrization of Tuberculous Cavities. - That this ii 
not a very rare occurrence, Laennec proved in his carlj 120 
PHTHISIS. 
researches into the termination of tuberculous disease. 
Indeed, from this we learn that phthisis sometimes termi- 
nates favorably. This happens when the deposit is limited 
in extent. 
But, sometimes at the apex of the lung, wye find an old 
adhesion, sometimes a crust of fibro-cartilaginous deposit, 
or even a fibrous band passing from the lung to the ribs. 
Adjacent to this pathological change, the lung is puckered 
and drawn inward. To the touch, it feels firm and con- 
solidated ; to the eye, it appears dark, from an abundant 
deposit of black pigment. On making an incision, we 
find a cavity lined by grey fibrous membrane, semi-trans- 
parent, or thick, whitish, and fibro-cartilaginous, or soft 
and pliable, like the mucous membrane. 
In the winter of 1855, my colleague, Prof. Gauntt, and 
myself, made a post-mortem examination of a female, who 
had been laboring under phthisis for the last twelve years. 
In her case the right lung had been entirely destroyed, 
save a very small portion, just below bifurcation of the 
bronchi, which was completely injected with tuberculous 
matter. This portion was about the size of a hen's egg, 
and completely impervious to air. A fibrous band passed 
from this bunch to the lower portion of the pulmonary 
cavity, and was attached to the pleura costalis. The cavity 
was filled with sero-purulent fluid; but the women had 
enjoyed a respite from the urgent symptoms of the disease, 
save periodical attacks of dyspnoea, in one of which she 
died. 
Adhesions are almost always present in phthisis. In 
112 cases examined by Louis, there was only one in which 
no adhesion was found. To some extent, their location 
corresponds to that of tubercles. In rare cases, the entire 
surface of the lung is bound down to the costal pleura, 
and to that of the diaphragm. These have the effect to 
prevent pneumothorax. The trachea and bronchial tubes PHTHISIS. 
121 
often are the seat of extensive lesion. Those are most 
often affected which form a way of exit to vomicae. Their 
posterior, more often than their anterior, internal surfaces 
are affected. The larynx and epiglottis, are sometimes 
the location of tuberculous disease. Among other lesions 
attending phthisis, are partial emphysema of the lung, 
dilatation of the bronchi, and enlargement of the bronchial 
glands. This latter effect is most common in children. 
Appearances in other parts of the body. - The origin 
of tubercles being in the blood, their distribution through- 
out the entire system is a necessary result. But according 
to Louis, this general law is established, that when tuber- 
culous deposit exists in other organs, it always exists in 
the lungs. The converse of this, is far from being true ; 
and the law itself is occasionally subject to exceptions, 
the occurrence of which is most frequent in children. 
Without the lungs, the tuberculous depositions are most 
often composed of the yellow opaque tubercle. Grey 
granulations or miliary tubercles, have also been observed 
in various parts of the body. From some form of tu- 
bercle, scarcely an organ of the body is wholly exempt. 
They are found in the liver, intestines, mesentery, prostate 
gland, testicles, heart, bladder, uterus, spleen, and kid- 
neys, and in the membranes and substances of the brain. 
It was the conclusion of Louis, that, of all the cases of 
tubercles, occurring in persons over the age of fifteen 
years, one-third had them in the small intestines, one fourth 
in the mesenteric glands, one-ninth in the large intestines, 
one-tenth in the cervical glands, one-twelfth in the lumbar 
glands, and one-fourteenth in the spleen. The stomach 
becomes larger than natural, more thin, and is subject to 
chronic inflammation of its mucous surface. The glands 
of Peyer - those near the ccecum - become the seat of 
tubercles. The mucous glands of the small intestines, 
sometimes ulcerate, causing perforation, and the admission 
11 122 
PHTHISIS. 
of the fuecal secretions into the cavities of the peritoneum. 
A similar diseased state of the large intestines sometimes 
occurs. The mesenteric glands are very much enlarged. 
In the brain, tubercular deposition gives rise to hydroce- 
phalus. 
GENERAL SYMPTOMS AND COURSE OF PHTHISIS. 
Since the discovery of the physical signs by Laennec, 
the tendency of some minds has been to disregard the 
general symptoms in the formation of a diagnosis. Among 
such, an unnecessary delay is often caused in the applica- 
tion of remedial agents ; for the general symptoms very 
frequently are the first indications of approaching disease. 
A diagnosis should not then be wholly dependent upon 
the physical signs in the first stage; for these are seldom 
manifest, until the disease has so far progressed as to 
make a prognosis unfavorable. Certain general symptoms 
are grouped together, and said to be indicative of the 
scrofulous diathesis, or tuberculous cachexia. What 
this condition of the system is, or what its influence, in 
the development of phthisis, it may be difficult to accu- 
rately ascertain ; and yet the description of some of its 
more important symptoms, may be of utility in detecting 
that first pathological change in which phthisis begins. 
Among the more important symptoms are, a pale, pasty 
appearance of the countenance, large upper lip aud aloe 
nasi. In persons of dark complexion, the skin is sallow ; 
in those of fair complexion it is unnaturally white, resem- 
bling blanched wax rather than a healthy countenance. 
The veins are large and conspicuous, the pupils of the eyes 
are large, eyelashes long, with a fair, florid complexion. 
In persons of a bilious temperament the skin is coarse, its 
color dingy. The form of the body is often destitute of 
symmetry. The trunk is small, the head large, abdomen 
tumid, limbs unshapely, the growth of the body is irregular, PHTHISIS. 
123 
the functions of nutrition are feeble and deranged. The 
intellect is often very active; there is great sensibility to 
impressions and acuteness of mind. 
Stages.-For convenience in description, phthisis has 
been divided into three stages. Between these no line of 
demarkation is accurately drawn. The first stage begins 
with the onset of the disease, and ends when the softening 
of the tubercle has commenced. 
General Symptoms. - The pulse is accelerated, espe- 
cially after eating, towards evening, or by slight exercise. 
A burning sensation is felt in the palms of the hands and 
soles of the feet. Towards evening a slight chilliness 
comes on ; towards morning, perspiration supervenes. 
The febrile paroxysm is sometimes very slight, scarcely 
attracting notice ; sometimes severe, causing unpleasant 
sensations, and exciting alarm. Sleep ceases to refresh, 
food to give strength and vigor. The aspect of the patient 
changes; the countenance is pale, expressive of languor, or 
red with the hectic flush. The skin is less elastic; the 
muscles less firm ; menstruation is tardy or entirely want- 
ing ; emaciation becomes evident. If these symptoms have 
appeared in the spring-time, by the use of proper remedies, 
and regimen, they are almost entirely removed, until the 
returning autumn and winter bring them on with increasing 
severity. Occasionally they seem to arise from bronchitis, 
pleuritis, pneumonitis, or some febrile disease. When 
they succeed to measles or scarlet fever, they frequently 
progress with unbounded rapidity. The rational symp- 
toms are subject to much variation. In most cases, how- 
ever, a short, dry cough is one of the first symptoms that 
excites alarm. Often very slight, a mere hacking in the 
morning, it steadily increases, and at length is accompa- 
nied with a frothy expectoration of transparent mucus, and 
afterwards of yellow, opaque matter. Slight dyspnoea 
occurs when the patient exercises. About the sides and 124 
PHTHISIS. 
shoulders there are fugitive pains. Slight hemorrhage 
from the lungs occurs; at times it may be somewhat co- 
pious, but often in small quantity. As the disease pro- 
gresses, the cough increases, preventing sleep, and some- 
times occurring in paroxysms. The expectoration is cor- 
respondingly increased, becoming thicker, more yellowish, 
or greenish and purulent. The other symptoms usually 
advance with equal pace. Sometimes the disease, is very 
insidious in its approach. Suddenly, without any premo- 
nition, a violent attack of haemoptysis occurs, immediately 
succeeded by all the appearances of confirmed phthisis. 
These rational symptoms are intimately connected with the 
tubercular deposition. The tubercles are in a state of cru- 
dity. Softening has not yet commenced. They are in the 
form of small, roundish, homogeneous bodies, collected in 
clusters, or more widely disseminated through the lungs 
in the form of miliary tubercles. Sometimes they are more 
or less firm, of a greyish color, or translucent. 
Physical Signs.-In the nascent state of phthisis, wr 
cannot derive positive information from physical explora- 
tion. In order to produce abnormal sounds on percussion 
and auscultation, the deposit of tubercles must be conside- 
rable ; or there must be in some one part of the lungs, be 
it ever so limited, a deposit sufficiently great to interfere 
with the pulmonary functions. 
If the tubercles are small and scattered, the physical 
signs will not be so sure to detect the morbid changes. If, 
on the contrary, they are large and clustered together, 
abnormal sounds are more readily developed; so that it is 
evident that the physical signs cannot determine the accu- 
rate amount of tuberculous deposition; since the arrange- 
ment of tubercles, as well as their number, has a modify- 
ing influence. Shall we therefore conclude that the phy- 
sical signs are of no practical utility? As well might we 
deny the usefulness of the telescope, because it does not PHTHISIS. 
125 
reveal all the minute phenomena of the heavens. Because 
no one of the physical signs is absolutely pathognomic, we 
should not conclude that their evidence, added to that 
afforded by the general symptoms, is not of great value. 
These signs, found at the point most subject to tubercular 
disease, the comparative rarity of any other lesions capable 
of producing the same physical phenomena, enable us to 
arrive at a degree of probability which is almost equiva- 
lent to certainty. The existence of the twofold evidence 
given by the general symptoms and the physical signs, 
makes the diagnosis far more sure than it could be when 
founded only on one class of symptoms. 
Inspection is often a valuable means of diagnosis. 
Prominence of the clavicles, contraction of the intercostal 
spaces, a flatness of the chest in front, an unequal height 
of the shoulders, a depression of the ribs,-all these, when 
present in a tuberculous patient, indicate the presence of 
phthisis. 
Percussion is usually somewhat dull under the clavicles. 
An inequality in its degree on opposite sides of the chest, 
and at points equally distant from the median line, adds 
much more significance to this physical sign, and especially 
if the dulness is greater on the left side. In emphysema 
and pneumo-thorax a similar inequality of sound may 
exist. 
In these instances the diseased side is most sonorous; 
but the respiration is most feeble where the resonance is 
greatest, a circumstance which distinguishes this condition 
from phthisis. An emphysematous condition of the lung 
occurring adjacent to the location of solidification from 
tubercles, may cause the percussion to remain nearly nor- 
mal. Were this coincidence common, it would certainly 
diminish the value of percussion in diagnosis. But it is of 
very rare occurrence. The signs derived from percussion 
should be sought about the clavicular and acromial regions, 
11* 126 
PHTHISIS. 
Obscurity of resonance being detected beneath one or 
both clavicles, or at any point of the chest near to the 
apices of the lungs, what conclusion should be formed as 
to the nature of the disease ? To this question Chomel 
replies:-"Obscurity of sound, and feeble respiration 
under one of the clavicles, give strong reason to suppose 
the existence of tubercles, for partial effusions take place 
in the immense majority of cases at the inferior and pos 
terior parts of the chest, and it is almost never that chronic 
pneumonia is primitive and without the presence of 
tubercles. 
In the early stage, the slightest difference of note or 
pitch on opposite sides of the chest, if confined to the 
clavicular and acromial regions, should excite suspicion. 
Although the dulness may be confined to a small locality 
over the top of the shoulders and the scaleni muscles, yet 
if it be clearly perceptible it is a very sure indication of 
the existence of phthisis. 
Auscultation, in the first stage, reveals a feebleness of 
respiratory murmur in the sub-clavicular region. This 
occurs where percussion is dull, and at the same time the 
resonance of the voice is greater than normal. While in 
one part of the lung these signs are heard, in another the 
respiration is blowing. A slight difference of sound in 
relative situations on both sides, does not necessarily 
indicate phthisis. The anatomical relations of the lungs 
have a modifying effect. A sound in the right lung of a 
phthisical patient should not be considered as indicative 
of tubercles, unless it is decidedly blowing. But if the 
respiration is more blowing at the apex of the left than at 
that of the right lung, there can be but little doubt that 
tuberculous disease is present. With the advance of the 
disease, the respiration becomes somewhat rough, or even 
bronchial, with a prolongation of the expiratory sound, 
which is one of the most striking characteristics of tubei PHTHISIS. 
127 
culous deposition. Inspiration is at times somewhat jerk- 
ing. The cardiac pulsations are more audible than usual. 
Bronchial respiration and bronchophony are heard out of 
their natural locality, thus becoming indications of pulmo 
nary lesions. 
Second Stage of phthisis may be considered as beginning 
with the softening of tubercles, and terminating when 
cavities are fully formed, and all the physical effects arising 
from them fully developed. In other words, it is the 
forming stage of vomicae. 
General Symptoms. -Of the general symptoms collec- 
tively, I remark that they are more severe. The evening 
chills are more constant and troublesome ; the succeeding 
heat is more intense and more general, the morning sweats 
more regular and copious. Hectic is more constant, and, 
to use the words of another, " hangs out upon the cheek 
the red flag of death;" the pulse is more frequent, the 
respiration quick and laborious, even when the patient is 
at rest. Languor and weakness increase, emaciation is 
rapid, the muscles are soft and flabby, and the patient 
can no longer endure his wonted amount of physical or 
mental exertion. Paleness of the countenance frequently 
remains through the early part of the day. Sometimes 
there is a greater tendency to chills shown by an increased 
sensibility to cold, and the evening exacerbation brings on 
an increased heat of the palms of the hands and the soles 
of the feet. The countenance, under the influence of the 
morbid excitement, is for a while more animated, the eye 
brightens, and the red blush of hectic gives to the features 
new beauty and loveliness. When speaking, the lips of 
the patient slightly quiver, there is breathlessness which 
interrupts him in the middle of a sentence. Sleep is more 
disturbed. Not unfrequently the mind, even in this stage 
of the disease, is buoyant and hopeful. The least or most 
temporary amendment in his symptoms, or the delusive 128 
PHTHISIS. 
promises and boasts of quacks, inspire him with the joy of 
hope. The Physical Signs in this stage are more marked. 
As the disease advances, the tubercles soften and become 
diluted with a morbid secretion from the pulmonary 
tissues. Particles of curdy or cheesy matter pass from 
their locality, in the parenchyma of the lungs, into the 
bronchial tubes, and are expectorated. The exit of this 
matter from the lungs gives rise to little vacuities called 
caverns, cavities, vomicae or excavations. A careful ex- 
amination of the chest, at this time, affords positive evi- 
dence of the internal mischief. The upper parts are less 
freely raised during respiration than in the healthy state ; 
this phenomenon frequently being more evident on one 
side than on the other. The sub-clavicular regions on 
both sides, give a dull sound on percussion. To the 
mind, the ear, or stethoscope, when applied to those 
portions of the chest situated where percussion is dull, 
reveals a slight crackling noise-the crepitating rhonchus. 
After vomicae are formed, the cavernous rale or the 
gurgling is heard, when the cavity is partly filled with 
liquid. Resonance of the voice and cough, and at length 
pectoriloquy follow. If a solidified portion of lung, en- 
closing a considerable bronchus, comes near to the surface 
of the chest, then bronchial breathing and bronchophony 
are heard. Percussion, too, will give the same sound, 
whether the lung be hepatized or blocked up by tubercular 
matter. This condition of the lungs may be present in 
one part, while cavities exist in another, and therefore, 
different parts of the chest will exhibit different physical 
signs; I have said that the gurgling sound is heard in 
case the vomicae contains liquid. But does this sound 
necessarily prove in all cases the existence of cavities ? 
Dr. Watson remarks, "that where we hear, during inspira- 
tion, the gurgling rale-called by Laennec, gargouillement 
- we may conclude, that there exists a cavity. But the PHTHISIS. 
129 
cavity will not necessarily be a vomica. In ninety-nine 
cases out of a hundred, it will be so; but in the hun- 
dredth, perhaps it will not." 
Dilatation of the bronchi, sometimes produces a con- 
siderable globular expansion. In case these cavities, 
formed by such an expansion, were filled with a liquid, the 
same sound would be produced, as that caused by tuber- 
cular vomicae. 
Third Stage. - The third stage is that period, which 
commences when cavities are already formed, and con- 
tinues until the termination of the disease. This has 
been called the colliquative stage, from the copious per- 
spiration, the frequent attacks of diarrhaea, and the abun- 
dant expectoration with which it is attended. The feet 
and ankles become cedematous; the vital powers gradually 
decrease, one after another; the functions erf life fail; the 
body, by a facilis descensus, falls to the earth, and the 
soul rises to eternity. 
General Symptoms.-The most important of these are, 
the colliquative sweat, diarrhsea, extreme emaciation, 
anasarcous swelling of the lower limbs, and high febrile 
excitement. A sure indication of approaching dissolu- 
tion, is an aphthous condition of the mouth. This usually 
comes on during the last weeks, or days of existence. 
The mental faculties, at this period of phthisis, are more 
or less deranged. Reason remains; but it is not the 
reason of health. Slight delirium sometimes occurs ; the 
patient becomes indifferent to what is passing around him, 
and to his own state, when a little while before his atten- 
tion was aroused by every unfavorable symptom 
Special Symptoms.-The expectoration is very copious, 
consisting of a heterogeneous mass of mucus, pus, soft- 
ened and occasionally solid tubercle, blood, shreds of 
lymph, rarely portions of pulmonary tissue, sometimes 
very fetid. The cough and dyspnoea increase. The 130 
PHTHISIS. 
shoulders are raised and brought forward ; the chest is 
narrow and flat. During respiration, the clavicular 
regions are less moveable than natural, and when the 
patient attempts to make a full inspiration, the upper part 
of the thorax, instead of expanding with the appearance 
of spontaneous ease, peculiar to the healthy state of the 
lungs, seems to be forcibly dragged up at each respiratory 
effort. 
Physical Signs.-The physical signs in the third stage 
are similar to those in the second. The gurgling rale, the 
increased resonance of voice, bronchophony, and pecto- 
riloquy, amphoric resonance, and metallic tinkling, may 
be present in different cases and at different times. Some 
of these signs are more frequently heard than others. 
The metallic tinkling is oftener present in a large than in 
a small cavity ; and since large cavities are formed in the 
third stage, this symptom is observed only when the dis- 
ease is far advanced. 
Hcemoptysis.-This is the most important rational 
symptom that occurs in phthisis. In other diseases and 
conditions of the lungs, it is so rare that it very certainly 
indicates the nature of the case. Haemoptysis, to be sure, 
may be produced by other causes - by certain forms of 
heart disease, by cancer, by cirrhosis of the lungs ; and, in 
females, by vicarious menstruation. But these latter con- 
ditions of the lungs are very rare, and therefore haemoptysis 
should be considered a strong evidence of phthisis. 
Emaciation.-This is one of the cardinal symptoms of 
phthisis. Frequently it precedes the other symptoms. 
Between the ages of forty and fifty, Dr. James Clark found 
it one of the earliest symptoms of this disease. Indiges- 
tion is regarded by the patient and his friends as one of the 
principal causes of this atrophy. It is frequently associated 
with anaemia. There is many times a peculiar physiog- 
nomy ; the cheek is pale and thin, and the eye bright. PHTHISIS. 
131 
Every organ in the body, except the liver and the heart, even 
the blood itself, emaciates. And this is often the first 
symptom noticed. At length slight disturbance is mani- 
fest- a little dyspnoea, a little chilliness towards evening, 
and a tendency to cough. This symptom, emaciation, is 
not always progressive. The patient may gain flesh, but 
he soon loses it again; then perhaps gains awhile in 
weight; and so on alternately. This, however, is observ- 
able : he seldom gains as much as he loses. There is a 
gradual though not a continuous descent. It is true also, 
that while there is an increase of weight, the tubercular 
disease advances ; and while the patient and friends are, 
elated with hope by the apparent amendment, a fatal ter- 
mination steadily approaches. Loss of appetite and 
diarrhaea very much increase the emaciation. 
Diarrhoea. - The rapidity of the progress of consump- 
tion very much depends upon this. With the number of 
evacuations Louis found that the loss of strength corre- 
sponded. This fact should militate against the employ- 
ment of cathartics in phthisis. "A tablespoonful of castor 
oil," says Dr. James Clark, "I have seen throw a phthi- 
sical patient into an alarming state of debility." In those 
who have in health a costive state of the bowels, incipient 
phthisis produces regularity of action. Diarrhaea is usually 
confined to the advanced stage of the disease. In one- 
eighth of the cases treated by Louis, diarrhoea commenced 
with the disease, and continued until its termination ; in 
the majority it occurred in the later stages; in others 
during the last days of life ; and in four out of one hun- 
dred and twelve cases, it never appeared. The distress 
attending this symptom is often severe; before each 
evacuation the pain is often intense, and immediately after 
it there is a deadly sensation of sinking. It has an effect 
upon the cough and expectoration. 
The severity of these symptoms is usually in an inverse 132 
PHTHISIS. 
>atio to that of the diarrhaea. As a diagnostic sign it Is 
not of great value. The nature of the disease is known by 
Other means, before this becomes fully developed. The 
cause of the diarrhaea is the softening of the tuberculous 
matter deposited among the coats of the intestines. After 
death we find ulce"ation of the mucous membrane, tubercu- 
lous deposits thickening and softening, and enlarged mu- 
cous follicles, especially near the termination of the ileum 
and in the colon. 
(Edema. - This is an invariable attendant of the last 
stage of phthisis. In young delicate females it may super- 
vene in the earlier stages. Generally it shows itself first 
in the lower extremities, and is confined to them. In the 
morning there is sometimes an cedematous appearance in 
the face. For the diagnosis this is of no value ; but it is 
a prognostic of approaching death. Is the suppression of 
the menses the cause of the tuberculous disease ? Some 
have thought it might lead to tubercles in the lungs. The 
menstrual suppression is for the most part the effect of that 
general debility, that deficiency of the nutritive properties 
of the blood which precedes the deposition of tubercles. 
If this theory is true, then the treatment, instead of being 
wholly directed to the restoration of the uterine functions, 
should be directed to remedy that deficient nutrition 
and its consequent debility, which cause the menstrual 
suppression, and the tuberculous deposition. The cessa- 
tion of the menses is sometimes one of the first, if not the 
first, prominent symptom of phthisis; and a careful exami- 
nation of the case will often discover this to be the fact. 
Attendant upon this symptom there are, in most cases, a 
slight cough, a little chilliness and fever, and some of the 
physical signs of incipient phthisis. In general this func- 
tion continues, but decreases in quantity, during the early 
stage of the disease. From a great variety of causes, this PHTHISIS. 
133 
function is so liable to derangement, that as a diagnostic 
sign it is not of much value. 
Duration of Phthisis.-Tuberculous phthisis is essen- 
tially a chronic disease, the range of its duration being 
considerable. Cases have been recorded which have ter- 
minated in eleven days, while others have lingered for 
twenty or even forty years. These, however, are extreme 
cases; the majority terminate in one or two years, the 
average duration being eighteen months. 
Phthisis in Infancy and Childhood. - Phthisis is more 
common in infancy and childhood than was once supposed. 
Dr. Guersent, one of the physicians to the Hospital des 
Enfans Malades, an institution appropriated to the treat- 
ment of patients between the age of one and sixteen years, 
gives, as the result of his observations, that five-sixths qf 
those who die in that hospital are more or less tuberculous. 
Early in life, its existence is manifested by symptoms 
somewhat different from those of adults. The cough 
occurs in paroxysms ; hectic expectoration and hemor- 
rhage from the lungs are not so apparent. The tuberculous 
cachexia, rapid pulse and breathing, emaciation and 
derangement of the digestive organs, tumid abdomen and 
irregular action of the bowels, at one time constipated, at 
another affected with diarrhaea, and the pale unnatural 
color of the evacuations, point out the nature of the disease. 
In children the mesenteric glands are more subject to 
disease than in adults. But the most frequent seat of 
tuberculous affections is the bronchial glands, and the next 
in frequency is the lungs. The relative frequency of 
tubercles in the bronchial glands of children, compared 
with the lungs, is not less than five to fovr, which is 
reversed after the age of puberty. 
12 134 
PHTHISIS. 
CAUSES OF PHTHISIS. 
Among the causes of phthisis, hereditary predisposition 
occupies the most important place. And yet this heredi 
tary tendency explains nothing in relation to the real cause 
of the disease. It is the name of a fact, not a cause, which 
is sure to produce specific results. We must, therefore, 
in order to arrive at anything definite or practical, seek to 
find that in which the fact has its origin - whether it is a 
peculiar state of the blood, or a want of functional power, 
-in the digestive organs, or in the respiratory apparatus. 
Vitality is the effect of so many conditional causes, each 
liable to vary in intensity, and by that variation to influence 
the result-the degree of vitality,.- that it is difficult to 
tell in what ultimate change phthisis has its origin. But 
the nearer we can ascend to the sources of knowledge, the 
more general and conditional that obtained knowledge 
becomes, for all other knowledge relates to it as species 
to genera. Accordingly, it is evident that if chemistry 
or optics could detect that condition of the blood, whatever 
it is, which is most prevalent in the progeny of tuberculous 
parents, before deposition of tuberculous matter takes 
place, a general fact would be obtained of more value than 
many particulars often spoken of by medical writers. From 
pathology or from chemistry we gain no evidence that 
those who are predisposed to phthisis have blood essen- 
tially differing from that of others. And the existence of 
the hereditary tendency has been questioned by some recent 
observers. But because of the non-appearance of an ab- 
normal change in the constituents of the blood, except in 
rare cases, or because the existence of that tendency is 
denied, we should not therefore conclude that hereditary 
influence does not exist. It may exist, but not as an 
ultimate cause, ever producing a certain result. 
Occupations of Life.-Concerning the causes of phthisis, PHTHISIS. 
135 
Lombard, of Geneva, has given us some valuable statistical 
information. The result of his researches is thus stated :- 
The circumstances which increase the tendency to phthisis 
are poverty, sedentary habits, violent exercise of the chest, 
an habitually bent position of the body, impure air in 
workshops, the inhalation of certain mineral and vegetable 
vapors, or air loaded with a coarse or impalpable dust, or 
with light, thready, elastic substances. 
The conditions which seem to exert a favorable pre- 
servative influence, are easy circumstances, an active life in 
the open air, regular general exercise, the inhalation of 
watery vapor, and animal and vegetable emanations. 
Sedentary habits are prone to produce phthisis. The 
habit of sitting with the body inclined forward, thus pre- 
venting the free expansion of the lungs, and the action of 
the stomach, and other abdominal viscera, is one cause of 
the injurious tendency of a studious life. Among shoe- 
makers and. tailors, the proportion of phthisical patients is 
very large. 
Dyspepsia. - In dyspeptic diseases, many authors have 
placed one prominent cause of phthisis; and with good 
reason they have done so. For since tubercles depend for 
their development upon a w*ant of nutrition in the blood, and 
since dyspeptic diseases deprive the blood of its nutritive 
properties, there is every reason to believe, that in this 
source tubercles have their origin. 
There are other causes of phthisis, seldom described in 
medical works. Of these, one is masturbation, which, by 
its debilitating effects upon the general constitution, tends 
in an eminent degree to favor the development of tubercles. 
Another cause is the use of such remedial agents in the 
cure of disease, as leave after their primary effects have 
subsided, secondary ones, which in the end prove worse 
than the original disease. If this be so, and the history 
of thousands of individuals corroborates its truth, then 136 
PHTHISIS. 
why may not its action upon the system directly induce 
tuberculous disease ? Indirectly, if not directly, by debili- 
tating the system deteriorating the red blood, and inducing 
emaciation, it so influences the mass of the fluids, as to 
predispose the system to the ingress of phthisis ; it leaves 
the territory unguarded by any vital force, even by that 
mysterious one, "the vis medicatrix naturae." A patient, 
somewhat predisposed to phthisis, takes a severe cold in 
the autumn. Febrile symptoms supervene. There is, ac- 
cording to the opinion of some, an exalted condition of 
vital action ; and consequently, all the instruments of the 
antiphlogistic regimen and treatment, are immediately 
used to subdue the inflammation. After a number of 
weeks, the patient may slowly recover. But his digestive 
organs do not seem to be healthy. Strength does not 
return ; a slight cough begins, and in from six months to 
a year, phthisical symptoms are fully developed. Such 
cases often occur, and so often, that the more judicious 
physicians of all creeds, even those standing on the con- 
servative platform, now begin to abandon the use of de- 
pressing remedies ; not because as some often pretend, dis- 
eases are now so different in their nature, as not to require 
the same treatment, but because the application of science 
to the study of medicine, has exploded the idea that it is 
necessary to hazard life, by the use of deleterious agents, 
in order to produce a speedy and complete cure. 
Prognosis. - In those cases where the disease is far 
advanced, the prognosis is always very unfavorable. So 
small is the chance of recovery, that the physician has no 
good reason to encourage either patient or friends. 
But morbid anatomy has demonstrated, that even in the 
last stages, recoveries do take place; the cavities are filled 
with chalky.concretions, their parietes contract, and cica- 
trices are produced. What else than the cure of phthisis 
do such facts teach ? On this subject, Dr Swett remarks, PHTHISIS. 
137 
" I never shall entirely despair of the life of a patient, 
when I recollect what I once witnessed in this Hospital. 
A patient was admitted with phthisis. The disease was 
perfectly well characterized, and in its most advanced 
stage ; a large and well-marked abscess existed under the 
right clavicle. Indeed the signs of this lesion were so 
distinct, that I was in the habit of calling the attention, 
of students in attendance, to them, as perfect in their cha- 
racter. On one occasion, as I approached the bed for this 
purpose, I found the patient, who had been gradually 
sinking, in such a state that it seemed to me improper to 
disturb him. He was bolstered up in bed, with his head 
falling upon his shoulder, breathing with great difficulty, 
bathed in perspiration, and with a rapid and feeble pulse. 
The next day my attendance ceased, and after two months 
was again commenced. On entering the ward, the house 
physician called my attention to a man, dressed, and walk- 
ing about the ward, apparently stout and well, Sithough 
somewhat pale To my great astonishment, it was the 
patient I had left two months before, apparently dying." 
The same author testifies that he has known a number of 
cases of patients, who have had all the evidences of 
phthisis, and yet have recovered. 
TREATMENT. 
" The indications to be fulfilled in the treatment of this 
disease," says Prof. Calkins in his very excellent work on 
thoracic diseases, "are, first, to prevent the further depo- 
sition and development of tubercles ; and, secondly, to pre- 
vent and to protect, as far as possible, the lungs and other 
organs from their injurious results. The means both pro- 
phylactic and remedial, which can be of any utility for this 
purpose, must be directed to the attainment of this result: 
the production of that state of the solids and fluids which 
is most adverse to the development of tubercles." Prof. 
12* 138 
PHTHISIS. 
J. G. Jones says : 11 The leading indications to be fulfilled 
in the treatment of this disease are twofold, to wit: 1. To 
change the condition of the blood, and restore the qualities 
pertaining to its healthy state. 2. To prevent the further 
deposition and development of tubercles, give tone and 
vigor to the whole system, and in a measure change its 
diathesis." Professor Powel, in a work on the treatment 
of diseases, makes the following remarks: 11 In the treat- 
ment of this disease, little else can be done than to 
make use of means which will enrich the fibrinous por- 
tions of the blood, strengthen the nervous and muscular 
system of the patient, and relieve troublesome and danger- 
ous symptoms as they may appear." Dr. Walshe gives the 
results which he obtained in the Consumption Hospital as 
follows: " 1. Of a given mass of patients entering the 
hospital in all stages of the disease, and in every variety 
of general condition - between the actual moribund state 
and that of but slight constitutional suffering-the number 
leaving it, on the one hand, improved or unadvanced was 
more than double that, on the other hand, leaving it in a 
worse state or dying within its walls (the exact ratio is 
67'84: 32'16). If the cases in which death was actually 
imminent at the period of admission, were excluded, the 
result would be very materially more favorable than this. 
2. In 4 26 per cent, of the cases, complete restoration to 
health, not only as regards apparent disturbance of the 
functions generally, but as regards local evidence of actual 
pulmonary disease, was effected. 3. Complete removal 
of symptoms was more frequently effected in the male than 
in the female ; but, on the other hand, the results were on 
the whole slightly more favorable in the latter than in the 
former sex. 4. All patients who grew worse while they 
were in the hospital had reached the stage of excavation 
on admission; and all patients whose tubercles were yet 
unsoftened on admission, left the hospital either improved, PHTHISIS. 
139 
or having had a statu quo condition kept up. Improve- 
ment is more probable than the reverse, even where exca- 
vation exists on admission. 5. In a given mass of cases, 
the chances of favorable influence from sojourn in the 
hospital will be greater in a certain (undetermined) ratio 
as the duration of the disease previous to admission has 
been greater ; in other terms, natural tendency to a slow 
course is a more important element of success in the treat- 
ment of the disease, than the fact of that treatment having 
been undertaken at an early period. 6. The mean length 
of stay in the hospital, in the most favorable class of cases, 
nearly doubled that in the least favorable. I. The chances 
of benefit are most in favor of those whose trades are pur- 
sued out of doors (wholly or partially) than of those who 
work wholly within doors. 8. The results did not appear 
to be influenced by the laborious or non-laborious charac- 
ter of the trade individuals might have pursued. 9. The 
age of the sufferers did not appear to exercise any very 
material influence on the character of the results. 10. 
Patients coming from the country have, on an average, a 
slightly stronger chance of improvement than the residents 
of London and its suburbs. 11. Patients admitted during 
the warmer half of the year, benefit by a sojourn at Bromp- 
ton, to a slight extent, more than those received during the 
six colder months." 
From the above facts, together with the experience of 
every intelligent Eclectic physician, it appears that pulmo- 
nary consumption is occasionally cured, and sometimes 
terminates favorably without medical aid ; and perhaps I 
might state, in spite of medicinal treatment. But when 
we consider the irrational treatment which has been relied 
upon for the cure of this disease, we can hardly be sur- 
prised at its fatality. Nor that not only the medical fra- 
ternity, but the community generally, have been led to be- 
lieve that it is incurable. So much so is this the case, that 140 
PHTHISIS. 
a large number of physicians deem it a sufficient apology 
for losing a patient in the prime of life, to state that he 
died of pulmonary consumption. I do not expect in this 
article to lay down a course of treatment that will always 
cure, irrespective of age, condition of the patient, and 
stage of the disease; but, I do expect to explain such 
a course, as will, if properly applied, cure a large pro- 
portion, and materially relieve such as cannot be entirely 
restored. 
When a person exhibits premonitory symptoms of 
phthisis, every exciting cause of the disease should be 
removed. The patient should exercise freely in the open 
air, and be placed upon a full and nutritious diet, such 
as beef-steak rare cooked, &c. He should also take a 
reasonable quantity of some stimulant, as brandy toddy, or 
some malt liquors, before each meal. If this does not 
remove those early symptoms, chalybeates, in connection 
with sugar, may be given as follows : 
B Precipitated Carbonate of Iron jij. 
White Sugar §vij. 
Mix and triturate, take one teaspoonful three or four times 
a day. Should the beef, and other articles of food, not be 
well digested, on account of a dyspeptic habit which fre- 
quently precedes this disease, slightly cooked eggs and rich 
animal soups may take their place. This course has been 
efficient in my hands in a large number of cases, where the 
early symptoms of phthisis were developed. But where 
the disease is farther advanced, with more or less anemia, 
cough and expectoration, with depression beneath the 
clavicle, feeble respiratory murmur, and dulness on per- 
cussion, and especially if there is connected with this a 
tubercular diathesis, then much effort will be required to 
prevent a disastrous encroachment of the disease. In this 
condition and stage of symptoms, the following treatment 
should be instituted. PHTHISIS. 
141 
A large double flannel cloth, within which has been 
quilted a liberal quantity of coarse salt, should be placed 
over the chest and back in such a manner as to protect 
both the anterior and posterior portions of both lungs. 
This salt pack should be changed from time to time, but 
should be worn until the disease is removed. And for 
supplying those deficiencies of the blood, which are such a 
prolific cause of pulmonary consumption, give the following 
compound : 
R The white ot eggs xij. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xx. 
Phosphate of Lime xij. 
Chloride of Sodium.. giij. 
Mix with one pint of best brandy, one pound of sugar, and 
one pint of water; dose one tablespoonful three or four 
times a day. In connection with this, the patient should 
exercise freely in the open air, and should make a liberal 
use of warm or cold baths, as the case may seem to indi- 
cate. If there are chills, 
H Quinine gr. xx. 
Phosphate of Iron gr. x. 
Morphine gr. jss. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into fifteen powders, and take one 
every three hours. If the first fifteen powders fail to 
interrupt the chills, they should be repeated from time to 
time, until they cease entirely. If there is troublesome 
cough, with dyspnoea, give the following mixture : 
R Simple Syrup of Stillingia giij. 
Syrup of Tolu 
Morphine gr. ij.« 
Mix; dose, one teaspoonful three times a day, and oftener 
if required. If there appears to be bronchial irritation, 
from one-eighth to one-half a grain of Gelsemin should be 
taken at bed-time. If the salt pack should be removed 142 
PHTHISIS. 
at any time during the treatment, the chest should be well 
protected by oil silk or flannel. In nearly all cases of 
pulmonary consumption, there is a deficiency of the natural 
covering, the hair. In fact, so general is this the case, 
that I have come to regard a deficiency of hair on the 
chest as one of the indications of a tuberculous diathesis. 
For the hair is not simply an ornament, but it serves 
to separate certain proportions of carbon, silica, sulphur 
and other materials from the blood. As the disease 
advances to the latter part of the second stage, other 
symptoms make their appearance, as diarrhoea, and a 
muco-purulent matter or pus, constituting the sputa, indi- 
cating a breaking down of the tuberculous deposit, with 
more or le-ss affection glands of the bowels. To 
control the diarrhoea, no medicine is more effectual than 
the following: 
II Sub-nitrate of Bismuth gr. xx. 
Quinine gr. xvj. 
Pulverized Gum Arabic gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into twenty powders, and give one 
every five or six hours until that symptom is controlled. 
The method of treating this disease by introducing 
medicine into the system by inhalation, having received 
much attention of late, I will quote the remarks of Dr. 
Turnbull upon the subject, as they appear to embrace most 
of the facts essential to it. 
" Dr. Snow has shown, in a paper on the inhalation of 
various medicinal substances, that some must be inhaled by 
the aid of heat, such as opium, morphia, extract of stramo- 
nium, and the gum resins; others with heated vapor, such as 
iodine, camphor and creosote, and a third class of sub- 
stances, such as hydrocyanic acid, ammonia and chlorine, 
at the ordinary temperature. Mead, in his day, recom- 
mended fumigations with the balsams in phthisical cases, PHTHISIS. 
143 
find Dr. A. T. Thomson (Cyclopedia of Medicine, Art 
Expectorants) has stated that he has seen mnch benefit 
derived from them, when inhaled in spasmodic asthma, in 
shortening the paroxysm, and promoting expectoration. 
Dr. Snow found that ammoniacum gives off a fragrant, 
rather pungent odor, which can be inhaled very well by 
most persons. He also found inhalation of the watery 
extract of opium serviceable in relieving the cough ; but 
that morphia was the most pleasant and suitable prepara- 
tion of opium for inhalation. Extract of stramonium 
afforded more or less relief in five or six cases of asthma. 
He tried iodine in eighteen cases of consumption at 
Brompton Hospital; in ten of them it was continued for 
more than a month; and the conclusion to which he came, 
was that no benefit could be observed to follow its use. 
Oil of turpentine appeared to relieve the cough in a few 
cases, and likewise camphor. He used the volatile alka- 
loid conia in the quantity of one minim, diluted with 
nine of spirit; the cough was usually relieved, and in two 
or three cases the breathing also. It would seem, there- 
fore, from its volatility at the ordinary temperature, to b( 
a remedy peculiarly suitable for inhalation, if it could be 
obtained more easily. Dr. Snow also found great relief 
in a few cases of bronchitis with difficult expectoration, 
from inhaling ammonia, twenty drops of the strong solu- 
tion being mixed with two ounces of water in a Woulfe's 
bottle. Chlorine has been used for inhalation ; it was 
introduced for this purpose in France, and there is good 
reason to believe that it has proved of material service in 
cases of chronic bronchitis, and even in some of phthisis. 
With reference to its use in this latter disease, Dr. 
James Clark has observed, "We have tried it in many 
instances, and it has in several, apparently suspended the 
progress of the disease.,r He also states that it relieved 
dyspnoea and cough in some cases, though in the majority 144 
PHTHISIS. 
it procured no amelioration. Dr. A. T. Thomson has 
likewise stated, that in cases of asthma, the relief it pro- 
duced was very striking, and that in phthisis, he had 
observed the hectic symptoms abate. 
Of the various remedies now mentioned, it is probable 
that gum resins and balsams, camphor, conia, and chlo- 
rine, are the most suitable and useful for inhalation; but it 
does not appear that by inhalation of opium, or morphias, 
very decided advantage has been gained over the ordinary 
mode of exhibiting them. 
The vapor of tar was formerly recommended for inhala- 
tion, and few medicines have been more used for this 
purpose than creosote. Sir Alexander Crichton, in 1823, 
strongly recommended tar vapor in consumption; but 
Dr. Forbes, in a report of cases in which he had tried it, 
published in the Medical and Physical Journal, stated 
that he found it injurious in this disease, though of service 
in some cases of chronic bronchitis. He appears, how- 
ever, to have used it in cases so far advanced, that no 
benefit could reasonably have been expected from its 
employment. Creosote has now superseded the use of 
tar vapor, which does not, from its irritating properties, 
seem well suited for inhalation, though there can be very 
little doubt, when we consider the healing power it has in 
external application, that it must exert a similar effect 
upon the lungs, if it could be used in such a form as to 
obtain its beneficial influence apart from its irritating pro- 
perties. Creosote is perhaps more generally used by the 
profession for the purpose of inhalation, than any other 
remedy ; and I believe that when sufficiently diluted with 
vapor of water, it is one of the most useful I have 
found that it has a sedative influence, relieving cough and 
promoting expectoration, whilst it at the same time not 
unfrequently lessens the quantity of this secretion, both in 
consumption and bronchitis. I have already observed PHTHISIS. 
145 
that the pyrogenic bodies act upon the mucous and cu- 
taneous surfaces; and my attention has been directed to 
other bodies of this class, by the fact that many of them 
have remarkable healing properties, when applied to 
ulcers and chronic cutaneous eruptions, a fact which leads 
me to expect that this class of bodies may, when fully 
investigated, furnish a suitable remedy for promoting the 
healing of pulmonary ulcers, and thus supply the deside- 
ratum to which I have previously alluded. Many of the 
pyrogenic bodies possess such healing properties in cu- 
taneous diseases, in a greater or less degree. From my 
own experience, I know that ointments, made with tar, 
creosote, spirit of tar, juniper tar oil, and naphthaline, 
have such properties, and are valuable remedies in the 
treatment of skin diseases. 
The inference drawn from these facts, has led me to use 
for inhalation, some other pyrogenic bodies, viz : spirits 
of tar, juniper tar oil, Persian naphtha, and enpione. The 
spirit of tar possesses the healing virtues of tar without 
its irritating effects; so much so, that I think it might 
advantageously supersede the crude substance as an 
external remedy. It is more readily volatilized than creo - 
sote; and when inhaled, it produces generally a mild, 
stimulating, and often rather a soothing effect- upon the 
lungs. In some instances, however, it has appeared to 
increase the cough and expectoration, and it is not, there- 
fore, suited for bronchitis, until inflammatory action has 
been subdued completely; or for cases of consumption, 
until progress has been made in arresting the disease. 
Without wishing to speak confidently of the remedy, I 
may state that it has appeared useful in some cases of the 
latter disease, in conjunction with other treatment. Juniper 
tar oil (oleum codinum), which is a valuable remedy in 
skin diseases, and much used on the Continent, is less 
volatile than spirits of tar, and is less irtitating when 
13 146 
PHTHISIS. 
inhaled. Persian naphtha and eupione possess decided 
anaesthetic properties; the former, when inhaled along 
with the vapor of water, has in some instances relieved 
difficulty of breathing in a very remarkable and decided 
manner; and this fact renders it worthy of trial in spas- 
modic asthma. Eupione has decided sedative properties: 
it has relieved cough and difficult breathing, and patients 
have slept well after using it; but it is not a pleasant 
remedy to inhale, and it has not unfrequently produced 
sickness afterwards, so that I should not recommend it to 
be used for this purpose. 
I have used several of the essential oils for the purpose 
of inhalation. Many of them possess decidedly anti- 
spasmodic properties, and I have found that they have a 
remarkably strong power over difficulty of breathing, a 
property which renders them peculiarly suitable for reliev- 
ing spasmodic asthma. The oil should be dissolved in 
spirit, and inhaled with the vapor of water, so as to dilute 
its stimulating properties. The oils of cubebs and copaiva, 
which are hydro-carbons, are mild in their action, and 
produce very little stimulating effect. The oxygenated 
oils which I have used appeared to be more stimulating in 
their action on the air-tubes, and some of them have 
stronger anti-spasmodic and expectorant properties. The 
oils of anise and peppermint are very stimulating, and in 
general cause too much irritation. Oil of spearmint is 
milder and antispasmodic, relieving difficulty of breathing 
in asthma, and even in phthisis. Oil of fennel is also 
mild. The oil of origanum is moderately stimulating and 
expectorant. I have also used the oils of rosemary and 
pimento, which have similar properties. The hydruret 
of benzyle, which is the oil of bitter almonds deprived of 
its prussic acid, is very irritating and much too stimulating 
for inhalation. Chloroform is a remedy which has been 
much used by some medical men for the purpose of inha- PHTHISIS. 
147 
lation, not only in asthma, but, in a small quantity, in 
consumption, in order to relieve irritable cough. In some 
cases I have dissolved the essential oils in chloroform, and 
used them in this way for inhalation, their volatility being 
thus so much increased that they may be given on a hand- 
kerchief, as chloroform is usually administered. 
In addition to the remedies spoken of by Dr. Turnbull, 
Carbonate of Ammonia, Nitrate of Silver, Sanguinaria 
and Veratrum Viride have been quite extensively used by 
different physicians, and in some cases to much advantage. 
The oil of Erigeron, spoken of by Dr. Turnbull, I have 
used quite successfully in several cases of haemoptysis, con- 
nected with phthisis, but whether it acts more efficiently in 
this way than when introduced into the stomach, I am not 
prepared to say. If the inhalation of medicine be resorted 
to, the introduction of medicine into the stomach should 
not be neglected. We can readily conceive how ineffectual 
a treatment exclusively by inhalation must prove, since the 
well established pathology of this disease shows the local 
affection of the lungs to be only one of the unhealthy pro- 
ducts of the constitution. In this stage of the disease, 
much benefit will be derived from the use of diuretics to 
relieve the blood from the excess of uric, and other acids, 
with which it becomes overcharged, and also of the dis- 
integrated tissue which accumulates in the system, owing 
to imperfect respiration. Among the best diuretics to 
accomplish this object is the following : 
R Pipsissewa gj. 
Indian Hempgjss. 
Marshmallow§j. 
Bruise all together, and make one quart of syrup with 
white sugar, and add one half pint of best gin, and let the 
patient take from one half to one wine glass full four or five 
times a day. 148 
PHTHISIS. 
For the purpose of procuring rest at night, 
R Quinine gr. x. 
Scutellarin gr. xv. 
Gelsemin gr. ij. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xij. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every night at 
bed-time. 
Where there is great emaciation and debility in this 
stage, for supplying material for combustion, and for 
increasing the quality and quantity of blood : 
R Cod Liver OilOj. 
Good Brandy Oss. 
Chloride of Sodium gij. 
Phosphate of Irongjss. 
Mix, and shake well before using. Dose, one tablespoon- 
ful three or four times a day. If there is much bronchial 
irritation in connection with tuberculous affection, 
R Syrup of Stillingia 
Tct. of Veratrum Viride gss. 
Mix, and give thirty drops three or four times a day. 
For the purpose of promoting absorption of the already 
existing tuberculous deposit, Prof. John Fondey, Emeritus 
Prof, of Theory and Practice of Medicine in the Eclectic 
Medical College of Pennsylvania, who has had great ex- 
perience in the treatment of this class of diseases, places 
much reliance on the use of electricity. 
In his treatise upon this subject, p. 68, he thus remarks: 
" The electro-magnetic machine constitutes one of the 
most powerful means that we possess, to accomplish the 
results so desirable in the treatment of this disease. What 
we want in the remedies which we employ, is some power 
that will excite the contractility of the coats of the vessels, 
of the enlarged absorbent glands, as well as of the lymphatic 
vessels; give strength to the magnetic organization of the 149 
part, and promote the absorption of the deposits that may 
have occurred in and around these glands and vessels." 
Dr. Cartwright, of New Orleans, who has published 
several very interesting articles upon the nature and treat- 
ment of tuberculous affections of the lungs, cites quite a 
number of cases where absorption of the tuberculous depo- 
sition was effected by the inhalation of the vapor of sugar. 
I have generally obtained the most satisfactory results 
in promoting the absorption of tuberculous deposits by the 
use of Iodide of Potassium, in connection with mucilage. 
The mucilage prevents the irritating effects of the Iodide 
of Potassium on the bowels. The chest should be 
thoroughly bathed twice a day with a liniment made as 
follows: 
li Oil of Stillingia 
White of three eggs. 
Oil of Turpentine 
Chloride of Sodium gij. 
Mix, and shake well together. During the entire treat- 
ment of this disease, the strictest attention should be given 
to bathing, diet, and exercise in the open air. Every 
means should be resorted to which has a tendency to im- 
prove the general health of the patient. Where the disease 
assumes a periodic character, the greatest benefit will be 
derived from administering a liberal quantity of Quinine 
and Iron every seven or eight days. When the disease is 
complicated with other local difficulties, such as leucorrhaea, 
spermatorrhaea, &c., they should receive especial attention. 
HEMOPTYSIS. 
HEMOPTYSIS. 
By haemoptysis we understand expectoration of blood. 
It may occur from the mucous surface of the bronchial tubes, 
by extravasation of blood into the pulmonary tissue, &c., 
or from the corrosion of a blood-vessel on the wall of a tuber- 
13* 150 
HEMOPTYSIS. 
culous vomica. It is also said to occur from the granula- 
ted surfaces in phthisis. The most common cause of the 
disease in females, when it occurs from the mucous surface 
of the is vicarious menstruation, which takes 
place about the period of the catamenia. In these cases, 
for some time previous to the attack, there will be observed 
a diminution in the catamenial flow, accompanied by anae- 
mia. Indeed, we have reason to suspect that, in connec- 
tion with the catamenial derangement, there is tuberculous 
affection of the lungs. I do not recollect, out of a large 
number of cases, a single exception, and in quite a num- 
ber of cases, it has terminated in acute phthisis. When 
the blood escapes from the bronchial mucous surface, it 
may be detected by the bubbling liquid rhonchus in the 
bronchi. The discharge is generally preceded by more or 
less constitutional disturbance, such as constipated bow- 
els, furred tongue, and cough, which is often persistent, 
and accompanied with great dyspnoea. Where it occurs 
from the rupture of corroded blood-vessels, the premoni- 
tory symptoms are quite obscure, and the discharge of 
blood is very sudden, with violent cough and dyspnoea. 
The physical sign is the mucous rede. When it occurs 
from the granulated surface of the pulmonary tissue, or 
from pulmonary apoplexy, a correct diagnosis of the case 
may be made from its previous history, together with the ra- 
tional and physical signs. The general symptoms of hae- 
moptysis are dulness, cold extremities, followed by flushes 
of heat, and red cheeks. The discharge from the lungs is 
attended with dyspnoea, pain, and oppression of the prae- 
cordia, a sense of rawness in the throat, and a sweetish 
taste in the mouth. The expectoration consists of bright, 
frothy, or black and clotted blood, sometimes mixed with 
mucus. Says Laennec: " When the hemorrhage is very 
great, it comes on with a moderate degree of cough, and is 
accompanied with a convulsive elevation of the diaphragm HEMOPTYSIS. 
151 
like that which takes place in vomiting. Auscultation fur- 
nishes us with two signs of pulmonary apoplexy, absence 
of the natural respiratory sound over a circumscribed space 
and crepitant rale around this space. 
TREATMENT. 
Where this disease is dependent upon derangement of 
the catamenia, the feet should be placed in warm water, 
and hot sinapisms applied to the back and lower portions 
of the bowels, and from five to ten grains of pulverized 
matico given every fifteen or twenty minutes until the 
hemorrhage ceases. Or, put one drachm of the oil of Eri- 
geron in a pint bottle, fill it with hot water, and cause 
the patient to inhale the vapor. Either of these remedies 
will arrest the hemorrhage. Or, in the absence of other 
remedies, a teaspoonful of a strong solution of salt and 
water taken every five or ten minutes, will frequently prove 
effectual. As soon as this symptom is removed, the patient 
should be put upon a treatment as directed under the head 
of irregularities of the catamenia. Where hemorrhage 
occurs from the rupture of large vessels, ligatures should be 
applied to the legs and arms, and the patient caused to 
inhale a strong vapor of the oil of Erigeron, and at the 
same time from five to ten grains of the matico should be 
given every fifteen or twenty minutes, until it is arrested 
During the active hemorrhage, the ligatures should be so 
adjusted as to retain the main volume of blood in the 
extremities, which should only be allowed to return by 
degrees after the bleeding has ceased. 
As this form of haemoptysis is always connected with 
phthisis, the patient should be treated accordingly. If it 
arises from pulmonary apoplexy, the ligatures should be 
used as in the other case. A hot sinapism should also be 
applied to the chest, and the surface should be thoroughly 
bathed in hot whiskey and capsicum, for the purpose of 152 
BRONCHITIS. 
diverting the blood from the deep capillaries of the lungs 
to the superficial capillaries. Also, administer the matico 
with small doses of Lobelia and capsicum every fifteen or 
twenty minutes. The bowels should be moved by a stimu- 
lating injection, and the patient allowed to hold ice in his 
mouth. 
As soon as the hemorrhage ceases, the circulation should 
be controlled by the use of Aconite. As this form of hae- 
moptysis is connected not only with phthisis, but also with 
pneumonia and scurvy, the primary cause of the affection 
should be treated according to the nature of the case, and 
the condition of the patient. 
BRONCHITIS. 
Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bronchi 
is one of the most common forms of pulmonary disease. It 
may be either acute or chronic. In the acute form, coryza, 
sore throat, hoarseness, and slight rigors, are the first 
symptoms. There is also lassitude with more or less pain 
in the limbs. As the disease advances there is a sensation 
of heat and soreness or rawness of the bronchial surface, 
accompanied by pain on coughing, and oppressed breath- 
ing. There is a persistent cough, with an expectoration 
of frothy mucus of a saline taste. In a more severe form 
of the disease, the small capillary tubes, as well as those 
of a medium and large size, are implicated. In this form 
of the disease the pulse is extremely frequent; there is 
great dyspnoea, a cyanotic appearance of the countenance, 
coldness of the body, difficult respiration, and a marked 
tendency to asphyxia. In these cases the vital powers 
rapidly become exhausted, and unless relieved by timely 
treatment, delirium with fatal coma terminates the patient's 
existence. BRONCHITIS. 
153 
Physical Signs.-In certain cases slight dulness on per- 
cussion will be detected. In protracted cases, a conside- 
rable amount of dulness may be observed at the base of 
the lung, owing to the gravitation of the excreted fluid. 
On auscultating the chest, the respiratory murmur will be 
found weakened, and in some instances entirely sup- 
pressed. There is sonorous, sibilant, and mucous rhonchus 
in various combinations. The sonorous and sibilant 
rhonchus is most marked in the early stage of the disease; 
the mucous in the second. But both are frequently com- 
bined in the second stage. In capillary bronchitis, in 
addition to the above signs, there is sub-crepitant rhonchus 
at both bases, posteriorly, with a fine mucous rale higher up. 
If the fine mucous rale is predominant, it most positively 
indicates inflammation of the capillary bronchial tubes. 
TREATMENT. 
The surface should be thoroughly bathed in hot lye 
water, and the patient placed in bed with a warming poul- 
tice applied over each lung. From five to ten drops of 
the Tinct. of Veratrum Viride should be given every half 
hour until the active symptoms of the disease disappear. 
As soon as this occurs - 
R Quinine gr. xv. 
Gelsemin gr. jss. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. x. 
Pulverized Acacia gr. xx. 
Mix, and triturate; divide into eight powders, and give 
one every two hours. After which, if there are any linger- 
ing symptoms, small doses of the Tinct. of Aconite 
should be given. To relieve the cough, if any should 
remain, the acetic Syrup of Sanguinaria should be used 
as indicated. The patient's strength may be maintained 
by the use of chalybeates, vegetable tonics, and a nutritious 
diet. 154 
CHRONIC BRONCHITIS. 
CHRONIC BRONCHITIS. 
This, like other forms of chronic inflammation, fre- 
quently succeeds the acute form, although it may occur in 
a slow and insidious manner, without being preceded by 
an acute form of the disease. 
It attacks individuals of all ages ; but is most frequently 
met with in the aged, and those who are much exposed to 
the inhalation of dust. When the disease succeeds to 
acute bronchitis, the febrile symptoms disappear; but the 
pulse still remains frequent, and the cough and difficulty 
of breathing prove persistent, although these symptoms 
are materially relieved by free expectoration. There are 
still nightly exacerbations, and irregular sleep. The ex- 
pectoration is copious, opaque, and in some instances, 
puriform. Night sweats are frequent, occasioning great 
debility. If the disease should not be relieved, the cough 
will become croupy, the expectoration more copious, the 
dyspnoea increases, there is diarrhsea, and death soon 
follows. 
Physical Signs.-These are sub-crepitant, mucous, sibi- 
lant, and sonorous rales. It is said by Laennec, that we 
frequently have all the sounds in chronic bronchitis quickly 
following each other, which he calls, " cantus omnium 
avium" (the song of all the birds). If the disease is 
mostly confined to the extreme ramifications of the bronchi, 
the sub-crepitant rale will be predominant; if the larger 
tubes, the sibilant. If the larger tubes are the seat of the 
disease, the sonorous rale will indicate it. 
In the early stage of chronic bronchitis : 
B Compound Syrup of Stillingia Oss. 
Iodide of Potassagj. 
TREATMENT. EMPHYSEMA. 
155 
Mix, and take one teaspoonful every five or six hours. A 
salt pack should be applied to the chest, and occasionally 
moistened with equal parts of the Tinct. of Iodine and 
Aconite. If there are night sweats, and periodical exa- 
cerbations : 
R Quinine gr. xx. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. x. 
Cream of Tartar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into eight powders, and give one 
every four or five hours. If there is much debility, a 
liberal use should be made of porter, ale, or brandy, to- 
gether with a nutritious animal diet. Where there is much 
irritation of the upper part of the bronchi, benefit is 
sometimes derived from the use of astringent gargles. 
Also by inhaling the vapor of Aconite or Lobelia. 
If the cough is troublesome at night, a small dose of 
Lupuline, Morphine, and Prunin, may be taken at bed- 
time. When the disease assumes a tuberculous character, 
it should be treated as in phthisis. 
EMPHYSEMA. 
This term applies to air in the cellular tissue, all por- 
tions of which are liable to the affection. The sub-cu- 
taneous is the most so; but all the prolongations of this 
tissue through the body communicate with it by the 
areolar structure. Thus the air when effused into the 
cellular tissue may pervade nearly every tissue of the body. 
There are three ways by which air may make its ingress 
into the cellular tissue. 1. By a wound of the integu- 
ment. This is termed traumatic emphysema. 2. By the 
development of gas within its cells. 3. By a fistulous 
opening through the lung, communicating with the pleural 
cavity. 156 
NEPHRITIS. 
The diagnosis of emphysema is seldom difficult. As 
when air accumulates in the cavity of the pleura, it will 
readily be distinguished from empyema, by the resonance 
on percussion. And when it accumulates in the cellular 
tissue, the swelling is uniform and light, and yields a 
peculiar crepitant sound upon pressure, caused by the 
removal of the air from one cell to the other. 
The prognosis will depend upon the cause of the emphy- 
sema and the state of the respiratory organs. 
TREATMENT. 
In the treatment of this disease the object should be to 
arrest its progress by preventing a further accumulation of 
air in the cellular tissue, and to remove that already accu- 
mulated. In spontaneous emphysema the only effectual 
method of arresting the disease is to correct the morbid 
state of the system, which gives rise to it. When it pro- 
ceeds from asthemic and typhoid disease, Quinine and Iron 
with a liberal diet will generally arrest its progress. By 
scarification, the air which has previously accumulated, 
will make its escape. In emphysema arising from wounds, 
by enlarging the wound so as to give free exit to the air, 
the difficulty may be relieved. Where it occurs as the 
effect of a fistulous opening into the pleura, the inhalation 
of the vapor of nitrate of silver, together with astringents, 
will generally effect a cure. If there is tuberculous affec- 
tion of the lungs, it should be treated as directed under 
that head. 
NEPHRITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
KIDNEYS. 
SYMPTOMS. 
There is an acute pain in the region of the kidneys, with 
some fever, and a dull pain in the thigh of the affected 
side. The urine is at first clear, but soon becomes of a CYSTITIS. 
157 
dark red color. The patient feels great uneasiness when 
he attempts to walk or sit upright. He lies the 
affected side. The pulse is, at first, hard and full, but in 
the course of a few days, it becomes small, weak, and quick. 
The skin is hot, and the tongue covered with a dark brown 
coat. 
TREATMENT. 
Apply hot wet packs over the region of the kidneys, and 
give freely of the syrup of Marshmallow, Oliver tea, &c. 
Also, give the following compound : 
U Sweet Spirits of Nitre 
Tinct. of Aconite gutt. xxx. 
Gelseminum ... gii. 
Mix, and give fifteen drops every two or three hours as the 
case may indicate. If the disease should prove obstinate, 
a mild alterative of Euonymine should be given at bed- 
time, and Digitalis and Cream of Tartar should be substi- 
tuted for the Aconite and Gelseminum. The patient should 
keep quiet, and in bed, and the diet should be of a light 
vegetable character. 
CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
BLADDER. 
Inflammation of the bladder very much resembles that 
of the kidneys in its symptoms. But there may be acute 
pain and tension at the lower part of the bowels, and diffi- 
culty of urinating, with constant inclination to do so, and 
also to go to stool. 
TREATMENT. 
The bowels should be thoroughly evacuated by Jalapin 
and Neutralizing mixture. The patient should be placed 
in bed, and hot packs should be applied over the region 
of the bladder. The bladder should be injected with a 
14 158 
HEPATITIS. 
luke-warm mucilage of slippery elm, and the patient caused 
to drink of Marshmallow, flaxseed, slippery elm, &c. If 
the inflammation is not thus controlled, give the following 
compound: 
R Pulverized Acacia gr. xx. 
Soft Water gii. 
Sweet Spirits of Nitre §ss. 
Tinct. Veratrum Viride gutt. xx. 
Mix, give one half teaspoonful every half hour until the 
symptoms are controlled. Continue the mucilage until the 
patient is completely free from the disease. 
HEPATITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
LIVER. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The diagnostic symptoms of this disease are tension of 
the right side, under the false ribs, attended with fever, 
difficulty of breathing, anorexia, thirst, and a pale and 
yellow appearance of the skin and eyes. When the inflam- 
mation is extensive, the pulse becomes quick and hard, and 
sometimes irregular. The patient is troubled with a dry, 
hacking cough, and a constipated condition of the bowels; 
although, in the latter stage of the disease, and in warm 
climates, there is sometimes a diarrhaea with bilious vomit- 
ing, great tenderness in the hypochondrium, and dulness 
on percussion. 
TREATMENT. 
A hot sinapism should be placed over the region of the 
liver. The surface should be bathed in warm lye water, 
and the following compound be given : 
Euonymin gr. xx. 
Sanguinarin gr. x. 
Bitartrate of Potassagr. xxx. ASTHMA. 
159 
Triturate, mix; divide into ten powders, and give one 
every three hours. At the same time, if there is fever, give 
from ten to twenty drops of the Tinct. of Gelseminum so 
often as to maintain a gentle moisture of the skin. 
hen the sinapism has produced irritation of the sur- 
face, it should be removed and hot packs applied instead. 
If the disease should still prove persistent, the following 
compound must be substituted for the first: 
B Muriate of Ammonia gr. xx. 
Irisin gr. x. 
Gelsemin gr. j. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every 
two hours until all are taken, or until the disease is re- 
moved. If the disease should assume a chronic form, a 
pill of the extract of Dandelion and Capsicum should be 
given two or three times a day. If the bowels should 
become constipated from a deficient secretion of bile, give 
the following compound : 
B Syrup of Boneset Oss. 
Common Salt 
Sulphur ... gr. xxx. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times a day, and let 
the diet be free and nutritious. 
ASTHMA. 
The symptoms indicating asthma are various. Some 
of them are premonitory, and, by those who are accustomed 
to the affection, are understood as warnings of an ap- 
proaching attack. Among these are loss of appetite, 
flatulence, eructation, languor, irritability, drowsiness, 
oppression and chilliness. Perhaps he retires at night 
with a sense of uncomfortableness. 
SYMPTOMS. 160 
ASTHMA. 
It is very common for an attack actually to commence 
sometime after midnight, or about 2 or 3 o'clock in the 
morning, and the general signs are much like the follow- 
ing : 
Often the person is aroused from sleep by a feeling of 
constriction across his chest, or inability properly to ex- 
pand it. He raises himself in bed, and sits bowing for- 
ward, perhaps with his elbows resting on his knees, drawn 
up before him. His breathing is labored, and attended 
with a wheezing noise, often so loud as to be audible in 
another apartment, or at a distance. 
He asks for more air to be admitted into the room, and 
makes a strong voluntary effort to expand his chest in 
inspiration, and to contract it in expiration ; or, if able, 
he rises from his bed, and hastens to a door or window, at 
which, however cold the weather, he often long remains. 
The labor of respiration gives warmth to his body, and he 
often perspires freely. His extremities, however, are 
liable to become cold, and his countenance is generally 
distressed, pale and haggard, though sometimes it is red 
and turgid. Often the pulse is small, feeble and irregular, 
though sometimes it is scarcely disturbed. Sometimes the 
heart palpitates, and flatulency becomes troublesome ; the 
urine becomes copious and pale, and even the faeces are 
passed with the impatient hurry of spasmodic action. The 
speech of the sufferer is interrupted and difficult, and there 
is a propensity to cough, which he sometimes favors with 
the hope of forcing away the impediment to his breathing.* 
TREATMENT. 
In the treatment of this disease, the first thing to be 
attained is the relief of the excessive dyspnoea. For this 
purpose, give the following mixture : 161 
B Tinct. of Gelseminum Jjj. 
" Lobelia§ss. 
Mix, and give fifteen or twenty drops every ten or fifteen 
minutes, till the paroxysm passes off. After which, give 
the following compound: 
B Quinine gij. 
Cornine giij. 
Compound Syrup of Stillingia Oj. 
Phosphate of Lime §j. 
Mix, and give from one half to one teaspoonful three times 
a day, during the interval between the paroxysms of 
dyspncea. Whenever the paroxysms return, the Gelsemi- 
num and Lobelia should be repeated. But as soon as 
relief is obtained, the alterative and antiperiodic should be 
resumed. Other medicines, such as Chalybeates and vege- 
table tonics, if required to maintain the integrity- of the 
constitution, should be given. The above course, if per- 
sisted in, will seldom fail to remove this very troublesome 
disease. 
CHOLERA MORBUS. 
Cholera Morbus is a violent purging and vomiting, with 
griping, sickness, and a constant desire to go to stool. 
It is occasioned by a redundancy of bile, by the fermen 
tation of food on the stomach, such as cucumbers, melons, 
sweet-meats, cherries, and all unripe fruit. Also exposure 
to damp night atmosphere. 
CHOLERA MORBUS, 
SYMPTOMS. 
It is generally preceded by Cardialgia, sour stomach, 
flatulency, and pain in the bowels. As the disease 
advances, the pulse becomes very feeble, and the surface 
cold and clammy. The urine is scanty, and there is almost 
constant vomiting and purging. 
14* 162 
CHOLERA. 
TREATMENT. 
R Neutralizing Mixture 
Tinct. of Prickly Ash Berries §j. 
Mix, and give from 30 to 60 drops every fifteen or twenty 
minutes, till the vomiting and purging cease. Apply a 
hot sinapism over the region of the stomach and bowels, 
and place jugs of hot water about the patient. If the use 
of the above mixture for a proper time does not afford relief, 
give the following : 
R Pulverized Camphor gr. x. 
" Capsicum gr. xv. 
Oil of Peppermint gutt. iij. 
Morphine gr. j. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every half hour. At the same time, give the patient freely 
of rice coffee, made by scorching the rice and preparing it as 
common coffee. If the disease assumes a periodic charac- 
ter, some of the antiperiodic compounds should be given 
for the purpose of interrupting its periodicity. After the 
vomiting and purging cease, mild alteratives should be 
given, as Euonymine, Hydrastin, &c. The diet should 
consist of rice, dropped eggs, broiled beef, &c. The 
patient should avoid exposure to the sun, and violent 
exercise, until completely recovered. 
CHOLERA, EPIDEMIC OR CHOLERA 
ASPHYXIA. 
This disease began to excite general attention in 1817. 
It commenced in Bengal in India, from which place it has 
scarcely been absent since. In 1818 it passed on to the 
Coromandel coast, and in the same year to Malabar, the 
Burmese Empire, Sumatra and Ceylon. In 1820 it spread CHOLERA. 
163 
to China, and successively throughout the larger portion 
of Eastern Asia, and to the islands of the Mediterranean, 
to Arabia, Mesopotamia and Syria. In 1821 and in 1822 
to Persia. In 1831 it appeared in Prussia and in Austria. 
In June of the same year it appeared in St. Petersburg, 
in October at Hamburg and London. On the eighth of 
June, 1832, it first made its appearance on the American 
Continent in Quebec, and in a few days at Montreal. On 
the 24th of June in New York, on the 3d of July in 
Albany, on the 5th of July in Philadelphia, on the 30th of 
September irj Cincinnati, from whence it spread to Madi- 
son, Louisville, St. Louis, Maysville, Wheeling, and made 
its way to most of the important towns in the United 
States. 
It reappeared in America in 1848, where it has pre- 
vailed as an epidemic or in a sporadic form ever since. 
Its fearful ravages and well-known fatality, have elicited 
on the part of the medical profession, the most anxious 
'nquiries, in regard to its cause and pathology. 
Malignant cholera, like most other epidemic diseases, 
presents a great diversity of symptoms. Its attack is 
usually violent and sudden, but mostly preceded by certain 
premonitory symptoms, such as a furred tongue, diarrhoea, 
with a complete loss of the digestive powers, and some- 
times with headache and ringing in the ears. After these 
symptoms have continued for a longer or shorter time, 
the patient is attacked with violent Cardialgia or heart- 
burn, soon followed by nausea and vomiting, with a pro- 
fuse colliquative diarrhoea. The discharges from the 
stomach and bowels resemble rice water. These symp- 
toms are soon followed by great weakness and sense of 
exhaustion. 
The powers of locomotion are speedily arrested, and 
SYMPTOMS. 164 
CHOLERA. 
spasms affecting the whole of the muscles of voluntary 
motion, but particularly those of the arms and legs, come 
on. The pulse becomes small, weak, and accelerated, the 
respiration labored, the tongue flat, white, and moist. 
These symptoms are soon followed by a sense of pain, and 
burning heat in the stomach, and great desire for cold 
drinks. The skin becomes cold, corrugated, and covered 
with a clammy sweat. The lips, limbs, and at times the 
entire body, have a peculiar livid hue. 
The pulse decreases until it is no longer felt at the 
wrist, the respiration is slow and feeble, the breath is cold, 
the eyes are sunken, and surrounded by a livid circle. At 
this stage there is no secretion of the bile and urine, and 
the vomiting, purging, and spasms abate. The powers 
of the mind seem unimpaired, for the patient continues to 
answer questions freely ; but he frequently expires in this 
stage suddenly and without a struggle. 
The limits of this work will not permit me to enter into 
the details of the different varieties of this disease; but 
suffice it to say, it often runs an entire course to a fatal 
termination, without vomiting or cramp, but characterized 
by the peculiar diarrhsea. Again the diarrhaea may be 
absent, and the vomiting be the principal symptom. The 
rice water evacuations, together with the excessive pros- 
tration, are sufficient to distinguish it from cholera morbus. 
TREATMENT. 
The indications to be fulfilled in the treatment of 
Cholera, are to arrest the diarrhoea and vomiting, and to 
produce reaction, or to equalize the circulation, by 
inducing the blood from the deep-seated, to the superficial 
capillary vessels. For the purpose of arresting the 
vomiting and diarrhsea, small doses of Camphor, Capsi- 
cum, and Morphine, should be given every ten or fifteen 
minutes, in a small quantity of Neutralizing Mixture: say, CHOLERA. 
165 
R Pulv. Camphor gr. v. 
Capsicum .... gr. x. 
Morphine gr. j. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every fifteen or twenty minutes in one half to one tea- 
spoonful of Neutralizing Mixture, until the nausea and 
vomiting cease. At the same time the patient should be 
placed in bed in a recumbent posture, which should be 
maintained during the entire active stage of the disease. 
The body should be thoroughly bathed in equal parts of 
lye water, and Tinct. of Capsicum. Also apply sinapisms 
along the spine, calves of the legs, abdomen and arms. 
They should be applied hot, made up of good ground 
mustard, and wet with hot vinegar. If there is thirst, 
hot rice coffee should be freely given. Also toast water 
and essence of beef, prepared as directed in the treatment 
of typhoid fever. If the nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, 
do not yield to the above treatment, the following com- 
pound may be given : 
R Tinct. of Prickly Ash Berries 
Neutralizing Mixture 
Tinct. of Capsicum giij. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful in hot peppermint sling 
every five or ten minutes. Also inject the bowels with the 
following mixture: 
R Starch Water Oss. 
Tinct. of Xanthoxylin Berries gij. 
Morphinegrs. iij. 
Mix, and give six ounces as an injection after each pas- 
sage from the bowels. If reaction should not follow 
these measures, hot brandy toddy may be given in con- 
nection with them every half hour. If there should be 
cramp with the vomiting and diarrhaea : 166 
CHOLERA. 
R Gelsemin gr. ij. 
Hyosciamin gr. j. 
Pulv. Camphor gr. ij. 
' White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every half hour, or oftener, as the case seems to indicate. 
If the discharges continue, and the patient be pros- 
trated, the following compound will often be successful: 
R Rhusin gr. xij. 
Quinine gr. x. 
Piperine gr. xx. 
Hydrocyanic acid gutt. iij. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into twenty powders, and give one 
every thirty minutes. If the sinapisms produce too strong 
counter-irritation, they should be taken off, and large hot 
packs applied in their place. If the reaction should be 
followed by fever, Aconite should be given in quantities 
sufficient to control the circulation, and maintain mois- 
ture of the surface. 
Where the patient has passed into the collapsed state, 
the following compound is valuable : 
R Xanthoxylin gr. xx. 
Piperine gr. x. 
Oil of Capsicum gutt. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give as often as the 
symptoms indicate the necessity. 
Shocks of electricity, passed through the stomach and 
liver, have been reputed of much value. Also highly 
stimulating diuretics, such as oil of Turpentine, Hemlock, 
Wintergreen, &c. 
The following compound was used with much success 
by my colleague, the late Dr. Hotchkiss : SMALL-POX. 
167 
R Chloroform gii. 
Tinct. of Camphor §ii. 
Tinct. of Opiumgi. 
Mix, and give from ten to twenty drops every twenty or 
thirty minutes, as the case may be. As soon as the active 
stage has passed off, the patient should take freely of fluid 
nutriment containing the elements of the blood, for the 
purpose of restoring its exhausted condition. Also, he 
should remain quiet and in bed, and avoid both mental 
and physical exertions. 
SMALL-POX, OR VARIOLA. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The premonitory symptoms of this disease do not vary 
much from those of ordinary bilious fever. 
It is generally preceded by more or less languor, ano- 
rexia, headache, and constipation of the bowels. When 
these symptoms have continued for two or three days, the 
patient is seized with violent pain in the back, increased 
pain in the head and limbs, great restlessness; the pulse 
becomes accelerated, and the skin is hot and pungent. 
The eyes are suffused, and in some cases the fever is alter- 
nated with rigors or chills. On the fourth or fifth day of 
the disease, small red spots make their appearance on the 
face and neck, which gradually diffuse themselves over the 
entire body. 
The eruption is at first pustular, but in the course of 
eight or ten days becomes vesicular at the apex, yet still 
remaining pustular at the base. The vesicular portion of 
the pustule has a cupped appearance, while the base re- 
mains white and opaque. Maturation commences from 
the tenth to the fifteenth day, at which time the pustules 
become covered with a mahogany-colored scab, terminat- 
ing in desiccation and desquamation, and leaving a deep 168 
SMALL-POX. 
pit. At this stage the patient generally has a fresh attack 
of fever, called the secondary fever. When the pustules 
are very numerous, and run into each other, the disease is 
called confluent small-pox. This is decidedly more violent 
than the simple form. 
There is extensive oedema of the face and lower extremi- 
ties, and inflammation of the fauces, lungs, and in some 
instances, the brain; and the disease not unfrequently 
terminates in consumption, blindness, and ulceration of the 
intestines. 
TREATMENT. 
In the treatment of small-pox, much diversity of opinion 
exists among eclectic physicians ; but the treatment about 
to be described has not only proved universally successful 
in my own practice, but in that of several of my colleagues, 
who have had the most ample experience in this disease. 
If called in the early stage, the first thing to be done is 
to give the patient an active cathartic of Podophyllin and 
Antibilious physic. The patient should then take a 
thorough spirit-sweat, after which the body should be tho- 
roughly bathed in hot lye water, and the patient placed in 
bed, in a room well ventilated. The following compound 
should then be given : 
R Bayberry Bark, Pulv 
Ginger, Pulv. §j. 
Macrotys, Pulv s|ij. 
Capsicum gj. 
Mix, put it in one quart of water, steep for fifteen or 
twenty minutes, strain, sweeten, and give two or three 
tablespoonfuls every hour during the development of the 
disease. If there is fever, give Aconite to control it, and 
small doses of diaphoretic powders at night to procure 
rest, if necessary. The surface should be bathed in lye 
water and whiskey three or four times a day. 
If the pustules should not fill well, and the strength of MEASLES. 
169 
the patient should fail, small doses of equal parts of Hy- 
drastin and Quinine should be given three or four times a 
day. Also, give milk punch, beef tea, and such other 
articles of diet as are easy of digestion and nutritious. 
Collodion should be applied as a wash morning and even- 
ing, to prevent being marked by the eruption. If the dis- 
ease be of the complicated variety, the constitutional symp- 
toms will require more attention. 
If the lungs become affected either by congestion cr in- 
flammation, they should be relieved by Lobelia and Capsi- 
cum. If the liver is thus diseased, Euonymine and Lep- 
tandrin may be used. If the glands of the bowels should 
become diseased, Hydrastin and the Nitrate of Silver pill 
as directed under the head of Typhoid Fever, should be 
given. 
The fever should be controlled as in the simple form, and 
the patient's strength maintained by the use of beef tea, 
wine, porter, vegetable tonics, Chalybeates, &c. 
RUBEOLA, OR MEASLES.* 
In our humble opinion, this is both a contagious and 
infectious disease, affecting, in this climate, children and 
adults with almost equal severity; the disease is inflam- 
matory, affecting at once the skin and gastro-pulmonary 
mucous membrane; in which, after catarrhal fever has 
continued about three days, a rash appears on the skin, at 
first in small stigmatized dots, not unlike flea-bites, which 
presently coalescing, form patches of a crescent or semi- 
lunar form ; first on the face, and thence spreading gradu- 
ally downwards over the whole body and limbs, at the end 
of four days they disappear by desquamation of the 
cuticle. In short, the symptoms which usher in an attack 
of measles, are the symptoms of coryza and catarrh.* 
* Massie's Practice of Medicine. 
15 170 
MEASLES. 
TREATMENT. 
Iii the great majority of cases, but little treatment is 
necessary, save to have the patient confined to the house, 
which should be kept of an agreeable temperature, and 
freely ventilated. The clothing should be changed daily, 
and the bowels kept regular by small doses of Neutralizing 
Mixture and Leptandrin. 
Should symptoms of Pneumonia, Bronchitis, or Laryn- 
gitis make their appearance, an emetic of Lobelia and 
Sanguinaria should be administered, together with the 
warm bath and laxative enema. As soon as the effects of 
the emetic have passed off, the following compound should 
be given, if a child over eight years of age; if younger, 
in proportion to the age : 
B Triturated Belladonna gr. x. 
Sulphate of Cinchonin gr. xx. 
Triturated' Leptandrin gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every two 
hours ; also give freely of warm sage tea. 
If there should be fever, and pain in the head, five 
drops of Aconite, added to three ounces of water, and a 
teaspoonful given every half hour, will soon control it. 
If, as sometimes happens, the patient should be seized 
with convulsions, small doses of equal parts of Lobelin 
and Scuteliarin, given every ten or fifteen minutes, will 
relieve them. 
The surface should be frequently sponged, and if there 
is heat in the head, moderately cold packs should be ap- 
plied and continued until the head is relieved. 
The diet should be light, and taken in small quantities. 
If Ophthalmia makes its appearance during the disease or 
afterwards, mild zinc ointment should be used, and the 
eves should be frequently bathed in warm milk and water. CHICKEN-POX- MANIA-POTU. 
171 
VARICELLA, OR CHICKEN-POX. 
This is a contagious disease, and in its first appearance, 
bears some resemblance to small-pox. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Small, pointed, transparent red vesicles, some of which 
become pustular. They run their course in from five to 
six days, without producing any very marked constitu- 
tional disturbance. 
TREATMENT. 
The diet should be regulated, and regularity of the 
bowels maintained. If fever arises, give Aconite in small 
quantities, and a gentle purgative of Euonymine and 
neutralizing mixture. 
MANIA-POTU, OR DELIRIUM 
TREMENS. 
This disease in some of its symptoms, resembles inflam- 
mation of the brain. It is caused by the use of Alcoholic 
drinks. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Constant wakefulness, and motion of the hands and 
arms, and continual delirious talk. The whole body is in 
a state of tremor, wrongs are imagined, injuries appre- 
hended, and the patient constantly beholds imaginary 
images, which terrify his mind, producing great mental 
excitement. This disease is easily distinguished from 
Pleuritis, by the softness of the pulse, the flushed face, 
and the habits of the patient. 172 
DROPSY OF THE BRAIN. 
TREATMENT. 
In this disease it is necessary to continue the use of 
stimulants, in a moderate degree. The patient should 
take warm whiskey toddy, mixed with starch water, often 
enough to maintain a decided influence of the spirits upon 
the brain. At the same time give freely of beef tea, wine 
whey, soft boiled eggs, &c. If the disease does not yield 
«,o the above treatment, give the following compound : 
li Morphine gr. ij. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
Divide into ten powders, and give one every two or three 
hours till the disease yields. 
Or, 
K Scuteliarin gr. xx. 
Hyosciamingr. iij. 
Cypripedin gr. xx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every hour. When the disease becomes manageable, the 
use of alcoholic drinks should be discontinued, and the 
patient warned against the use of a drug, the effects of 
which are fraught with so much evil. During the treat- 
ment, the bowels should be kept regular, by the use of 
mild stimulating alteratives, and the skin thoroughly 
cleansed by bathing. 
HYDROCEPHALUS, OR DROPSY OF 
THE BRAIN. 
SYMPTOMS. 
When the disease comes on moderately, the patient 
becomes peevish and fretful. If it is a child, which is 
most frequently the case, there will be frequent extension 
of the hands to the head, and the sleep will be disturbed DROPSY OF THE BRAIN. 
173 
by frightful dreams, causing starting, jumping, and 
screams. 
As the disease advances, there is anorexia, dizziness, 
vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and delirium. 
The pulse is soft and quick, and the tongue is covered 
with a light coat In the early stage of the disease, the 
bowels are costive; but in the latter stage, there is fre- 
quently diarrhma. Paralysis and convulsions often result 
from this disease. 
TREATMENT. 
In the early stage of this disease, Aconite should be 
given to control the fever and inflammation. After which, 
a purgative of Podophyllin and Jalapin should be given. 
Warm water and whiskey should be applied to the head, 
and sinapisms to the feet and calves of the legs. After 
the operation of the give the following com- 
pound : 
R Syrup of Marshmallow 
Iodide of Potassium gij. 
Mix, and give one half teaspoonful every hour. At the 
same time, give two or three tablespoonfuls of strong 
Buchu and uva ursi tea, and ten drops of sweet-spirits of 
Nitre every three hours. If there is much debility, con- 
nected with periodical symptoms, the following compound 
may be given, with the above treatment: 
R Quinine gr. x. 
Ferrocyanide of Potassium gr. j. 
Digitalin gr. j. 
White Sugar gr. xl. 
Triturate, mix; divide into twelve powders, and give one 
every three hours. The purgative should be repeated, and 
the strength of the patient maintained by the free use of 
Iron, vegetable tonics, and a nutritious diet. 
15* 174 
DROPSY OF THE ABDOMEN. 
ASCITES, OR DROPSY OF THE ABDOMEN. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Swelling of the bowels, and often a fluctuation which 
may be perceived by laying the hand on one side of the 
■abdomen, and at the same time gently rubbing the other 
side. This disease is mostly connected with Anasarca, or 
a collection of water in the cellular tissue, indicated at 
first by swelling of the feet and ankles towards night, but 
which disappear before morning Pressure of the swollen 
parts with the finger in the evening, produces indentation, 
which remains for some time. The swelling gradually 
ascends to the trunk of the body, the arms and the head. 
At this time the breathing becomes difficult, the urine is 
scanty and high-colored, the bowels are costive, the 
countenance is heavy and the skin is dry, and has 
a dirty sallow appearance, there is a dry cough and a slow 
irregular fever. 
When these symptoms have continued for a longer or 
shorter time, there is generally a deposition of tuber- 
culous matter in the lungs, a hectic fever, and unless the 
progress of the disease is arrested by timely treatment, 
death is the result. The use of Mercurials, the suppression 
of the Catamenia, Chronic ague, improper diet, &c., are 
among the causes of this disease. 
TREATMENT. 
The first object should be to remove the cause. At the 
same time, means should be resorted to by which the blood 
may be restored to a natural condition, and at the same 
time relieve the different tissues from their incumbrance of 
water. The patient should be placed upon a strong 
nutritious diet, and should freely use beef tea, porter, &c., 
and should take the following compound : MUMPS. 
175 
R Iron by Hydrogengr. xx. 
Syrup of dwarf Elder Oss. 
Cream of Tartargss. 
Mix, and give one tablespoonful three or four times a day. 
Two or three times a week the patient should take a 
thorough spirit-sweat, and the body should be sponged 
, every morning in warm or cold water, as the condition of 
the case may indicate. 
If the patient's strength will warrant, a cathartic of 
Jalapin and Cream of Tartar may be given once or twice a 
week. When the above course has been pursued for a few 
days, if the patient does not manifest signs of rapid re- 
covery, give the following compound : 
R Digitalin gr. iij. 
Cinchonine gr. xxx. 
Phosphate of Iron gr. xxx. 
White Sugargj. 
Mix, triturate; divide into sixteen powders, and give one 
four times a day in watermelon seed tea. 
After these are all taken, the syrup should be resumed, 
and the vapor bath continued. 
Every possible means should be resorted to by which 
the patient's strength may be maintained. 
PAROTITIS, OR MUMPS. 
Tn:s is a contagious disease, affecting the Parotid gland. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The skin becomes hot and dry, the pulse increases in 
frequency. The tongue is covered with a thin white coat, 
the bowels are costive, and the urine is scanty and high- 
colored. These symptoms are followed by a swelling just 176 
EPILEPSY. 
below the angle of the lower jaw, sometimes on one side, 
at others on both. The swelling increases rapidly fot 
about two days, when it begins to decline. 
This disease is frequently transferred from the glands of 
the neck to the mammary glands, in the female, and to 
the testicles of the male. 
TREATMENT. 
If there is much fever in the active stage, the body 
should be bathed in warm lye wrater, and Aconite given in 
quantities sufficient to subdue it. The patient should keep 
quiet, and in bed. If the bowels are confined, a mild dose 
of Antibilious Physic may be given. If there should be a 
metastasis of the disease, a stimulating liniment should be 
applied, such as Tinct. of Capsicum and Myrrh, and a 
mild alterative of Euonymine given two or three times a 
day. 
EPILEPSY. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The patient falls suddenly, and is seized with convul- 
sions. The features are distorted and fixed, the senses are 
suspended, and the subject paralyzed. During the struggle, 
mucus, commingled with bubbles of air, issues from the 
mouth. The breathing is generally hurried, and the pulse 
is feeble and frequent. These attacks return at stated 
periods, and generally increase in severity as the patient 
grows older. The disease is frequently developed by irri- 
tation from teething, w'orms, suppression of the menses 
blows upon the head, spermatorrhoea, &c. 177 
EPILEPSY. 
In the early stage of the disease, but little need be done 
save to remove the cause. But after the disease has become 
established, the convulsions will continue, although the 
cause be removed. 
In such cases the intermittent and antiperiodic treatment 
is that only which has proved successful in my hands. 
While the patient is laboring under the paroxysms, the 
following mixture should be given : 
TREATMENT. 
B Fluid Extract of Scutellaria, 
" " of Lobelia, 
" •* of Cypripedrin, 
ad libitum. 
Equal parts. Mix, and give from ten to twenty drops 
every ten or twenty minutes, until the convulsions cease. 
Then open the bowels by a mild, neutralizing physic, and 
the skin by tepid "baths, after which give the following 
compound : 
B Chinoidin gr. xxx. 
Fiburine gr. xx. 
Quinine gr. x. 
Mix, divide into twenty powders, and give one three times 
a-day. Continue the powders between the first four or five 
paroxysms, and relieve the patient during the paroxysms 
by the anti-spasmodic mixtures, followed by the cathartic. 
If the above treatment does not interrupt the paroxysms 
in the course of eight or ten weeks, the following mixture 
may be given between the spasms : 
B Port Wine Oss. 
Hydrocyanic acid gutt. xx. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xxx. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times a-day. The 
patient's bowels should be opened by mild purgatives. 
The mind should be kept cheerful, and the diet should be 
nutritious, and of easy digestion. Thu antiperiodic and 178 
APOPLEXY. 
intermittent treatment should be pursued until a cure is 
effected, which will be the case in the course of time, unless 
there is some organic lesion of the brain. 
• APOPLEXY. 
Sanguineous Apoplexy is the effusion of blood into the 
substances of the brain. Traumatic, or Apoplexy caused 
by blows on the head, is the effusion of blood into the mem- 
branes of the brain. 
Apoplexy is generally preceded by giddiness, pain and 
swimming in the head, ringing in the ears, and laborious 
respiration. In Sanguineous apoplexy, if the person does 
not drop dead at once, he gradually becomes stupid, until 
he passes into a profound sleep; the face is swollen, the 
eyes are fixed, the blood-vessels about the neck beat rapidly 
and forcibly, the breathing is sonorous, and it is impossible 
to arouse the patient from his state of lethargy. 
SYMPTOMS. 
TREATMENT. 
Ligatures should be placed around the arms close to the 
shoulder; also, around the legs at their connection with 
the body. They should be so adjusted as to admit of the 
passage of the blood through the arteries, but to prevent 
its return through the veins. 
If the patient can swallow, a large dose of antibilious 
physic should be given. The feet should be placed in hot 
water, and cold water applied-to the head. If the circula- 
tion continues to be rapid, Veratrum should be given in 
quantities sufficient to moderate its action. 
The ligatures should be kept on until the patient appears 
entirely relieved, but should be tightened or loosened 
according to circumstances. If symptoms indicate hemor- 179 
rhage to any considerable extent, small doses of Digitalin 
should be given three or four times a day, in connection 
with Iodide of Potassium The bowels should be kept 
regular, and the diet mild. 
C IIORE A - PALSY. 
CHOREA, OR ST. VITUS' DANCE. 
SYMPTOMS. 
There is a lameness of one leg, which is partly deprived 
of its natural motion. The arms are next affected, and 
are thrown into various contortions. The muscles of one 
side of the face have a constant involuntary motion. The 
appetite is lost, and the bowels become irregular. 
R Scutellarin gr. xxx. 
Cypripedin gr. xx. 
Carbonate of Iron gij. 
Port Wine Oj. 
Give one tablcspoonful three times a day. The bowels 
should be kept open with small doses of Euonymine, and 
the surface should be bathed with tepid water every morn- 
ing. If the disease should be caused by suppression of 
the menses, Macrotin should be given in connection with 
Iron. If by worms, Santonine and Podophyllin. If by 
ague, some of the antiperiodic compounds may be given. 
TREATMENT. 
PARALYSIS, OR PALSY. 
If the palsy is confined to one side of the body, it is 
called Ilemiphlegia. If to the lower half, Paraphlegia. 
TREATMENT. 
When the palsy attacks the heart, lungs, or any other 
vital organ, it soon terminates in death. But when it 180 
PALSY. 
arises from injuries of the spine, effusions into or softening 
of the brain, or in a deficiency of nervous fluid, the follow- 
ing treatment may he resorted to with hopes of success. 
First. The patient should be enjoined to remain quiet in 
bed, and if an injury to the spine is the cause of the dis- 
ease, the irritating plaster should be applied along the 
spine. The bowels should be acted upon by giving small 
doses of antibilious physic, and a mild current of electricity 
should be passed from above .the part of the injury through 
the paralyzed parts. The diet should be sufficient to 
maintain an ordinary degree of health. A liniment should 
be applied to the palsied part, composed of the following 
substances: 
R Oil of Origanum 
" Capsicum gj. 
" Stillingia gij. 
" Alcohol Oj. 
Mix, and bathe the affected part three or four times a day, 
following the same by brisk friction. The patient should 
take from one to three drops of the Tinct. of Rhus Toxico- 
dendron from one to three times a day. If the disease 
occurs from injuries of other parts of the body, a similar 
course should be pursued, both as regards the electricity 
and counter-irritation. If there should be softening of the 
nervous centres, or brain, from one to five drops of the 
Tinct. of Phosphorus should be given three or four times 
a day, in connection with chalybeates and vegetable 
tonics. 
This course should be persisted in for some length of 
time, unless the disease yields. In quite a number of cases 
with which I have been familiar, recovery has taken place 
after a lapse of more than a year's treatment. LOCKED JAW - HYDROPHOBIA. 
181 
TETANUS, OR LOCKED JAW. 
This disease generally arises from wounds, but occa- 
sionally it is a symptom of other diseases. 
Stiffness in the back of the neck, difficulty of swallow- 
ing, rigidity of the muscles of the lower jaw, also of those 
of the spine, and sometimes nearly all the muscles of 
the body are involved. 
SYMPTOMS. 
TRE AT ME NT. 
If this disease is caused by a wound, it should be tho- 
roughly burnt with caustic, and a poultice applied until a 
complete discharge is produced. At the same time the 
patient should take a lobelia emetic, followed by Euony- 
mine and Jalapin, until it operates as an active cathartic. 
After which, give the following compound : 
R Dioscorine gr. xx. 
Scuteliarin gr. xxx. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every two 
hours until all are taken. If the disease is not removed, 
the Lobelia emetic should be repeated, and again followed 
by the powders. The skin should be kept cleansed by lye 
water baths, and a free diet allowed. 
The above treatment has proved triumphantly successful 
in my hands in several well-marked cases of this disease. 
HYDROPHOBIA. 
This disease is caused by the bite of rabid animals. 
The wound generally heals rapidly, and it is not until 
16 182 
DIABETES 
twenty or thirty days have elapsed that any pain is felt in 
the wound. 
SYMPTOMS 
Anxiety, restlessness, nervousness, loss of sleep, horror 
of water, and finally convulsive spasms, are the prominent 
symptoms of the affection. 
TREATMENT 
In the treatment of this disease, much depends upon 
thoroughness and perseverance. The wound should be 
cauterized with caustic Potassa, and caused to discharge 
freely for five or six weeks. The patient should take an 
active Lobelia emetic, followed by a brisk Podophyllin 
cathartic, and a spirit sweat. After which, the following 
compound should be given : 
P Scutellarin gr. xx. 
Cypripedin gr. xx. 
Lobelin gr. v. 
Quinine gr. xxx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every two 
hours until all are taken. At the same time, a strong 
decoction of Plantain should be drunk freely during the 
day. Lupulin and Hyosciamin should be given at bed- 
time, to produce sleep. The emetic and other remedies 
should be continued until the patient is entirely relieved 
from the disease. 
This treatment has proved successful in the hands of 
several eclectic physicians. 
DIABETES, OR SACCHARINE URINE. 
This disease has its primary cause in the stomach. DIABETES. 
183 
SYMPTOMS. 
It is generally preceded by debility, anorexia, dry skin, 
pain in the lumbar region, and great thirst, with alternate 
attacks of chills and fever. On examining the urine, it is 
found to have a sweetish taste and smell. 
TREATMENT. 
Give one grain of Aletrine in a tablespoonful of brandy 
todcly three times a day, and keep the surface freely 
bathed in warm broke water and whiskey. 
In the early stage of the disease, this treatment, if per- 
sisted in for three or four weeks, will generally effect a 
cure. But in the more advanced stage, where the kidneys 
have become organically affected, the irritating plaster 
should be applied over that region, and the following 
compound given: 
B Xanthoxylin gr. x. 
Populin gr. x. 
Prunin gr. x. 
Sach. Alba gr. xxv. 
Mix, divide into twelve powders, and give one every three 
hours. After which, give the following: 
B Syrup of Sugar gij. 
Tinct. of Capsicum gij. 
Muriated Tinct. of Iron gj. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times a day. If there 
are intermittent symptoms, some of the antiperiodic com- 
pounds should be given, followed by bitters made of 
Brandy and Aletris Farinosa. 
The bowels should be kept regular, and the stomach 
evacuated with Sanguinxrin, and Lobelia if indicated. 184 
RHEUMATISM. 
RHEUMATISM. 
Acute rheumatism commences with weariness, shivering, 
quick pulse, restlessness, thirst, and fever. The patient 
soon complains of pains in some of the joints, which in- 
crease by motion. The parts swell, and have a red and 
inflamed appearance, the tongue is covered with a heavy 
white coat, the bowels are costive, the urine scanty and 
high-colored. 
R Podophyllin gr. ij. 
Xanthoxylin gr. iij. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, and divide into eight powders. Give one 
every hour until it operates as a cathartic. After which, 
give the following compound : 
R Sanguinarin gr. ij. 
Iridin gr. j. 
Quinine gr. x. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every three 
hours. The body should be thoroughly bathed in strong 
salt and water, and the inflamed joints packed with hot 
cloths. If the disease does not yield, a pill may be given 
composed of the following materials : 
R Ext. Hyosciamus gr. ij. 
Ext. Indian Hemp gr. xx. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Mix, form a mass, and make three-grain pills. Give one 
every three or four hours. If there is fever, Aconite or 
Veratrin should be given to control it. If the rheuma 
tism is of a chronic character, give the following : 
R White Pine Turpentine gr. xxx. 
Extract of Poke Root gr. x. 
Macrotin gr. v. 
Apocynin gr. x. 
TREATMENT. CROUP. 
185 
Mix, form a mass, and make three-grain pills. Give one 
every five hours. Animal broths should be taken freely 
as a diet. The kidneys should be stimulated by mucila- 
ginous diuretics, and stimulating liniments should be 
applied to the affected limbs. 
Much care should be taken not to induce metastasis to 
the heart; but if that should occur, Aconite, compound 
syrup of Stillingia, and Iodide of Potassium are the 
remedies. 
TRACHEITIS, (CROUP, OR INFLAM- 
MATION OF THE TRACHEA.) 
This disease is divided into two varieties, the spasmodic 
and pseudo-membranous. In the spasmodic form, there is 
a sudden contraction of the Trachea, owing to a slight 
cold, or the transmission of irritation to that organ from 
the stomach and gums in teething. The only treatment 
required in this form of the disease, is some active anti- 
spasmodic. It may be distinguished from the Pseudo- 
membranous variety, by its sudden appearance at night, 
when the child was apparently well during the day, and by 
its almost as sudden disappearance on the administration 
of a few drops of Tinct. of Lobelia, and the application 
of a wet pack to the neck. 
The symptoms of the spasmodic kind, are a sudden 
hoarse cough, followed by a whistling and difficult respira- 
tion. 
The symptoms of the pseudo-membranous kind, are 
very insidious. The child is irritable, restless, and 
peevish, and at times has a fever. He will also be ob- 
served to spit frequently. These symptoms, in the course 
of from twenty-eight to thirty-six hours, will be followed 
by a slight cough, which increases, and the voice soon 
becomes hoarse. 
16* 186 
CROUP. 
The disposition to spit also increases, and the sputa, if 
examined, is found to be of an albuminous character, thus 
clearly indicating the nature of the disease. 
The symptoms are all aggravated at night, the pulse 
becoming quick, and the breathing laborious; but in the 
morning, they are much ameliorated. In the afternoon, 
the symptoms again appear, and are greatly aggravated. 
The child throws his head back, and frequently grasps 
at the neck, the expectoration ceases, the breathing is 
more labored, and the pulse more frequent. He is unable 
to speak above a whisper, and unless relieved by proper 
treatment, soon becomes stupid and expires. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment here recommended, is of a very simple 
character, and rather belongs to Prof. J. G. Jones than 
to myself. And as all other methods with which I have 
been familiar have almost universally failed, while this has 
always proved successful, I most confidently recommend it 
to the profession as the only radical cure ever offered for 
this hitherto almost invariably fatal disease. 
In the early stage, a thorough Podophyllin and Cream 
of Tartar cathartic should be given, the feet should be 
placed in hot water, and a cold wet pack applied to the 
throat. The pack should be changed sufficiently often to 
keep it cold. After which, the patient should be put upon 
a mild acetic syrup : 
R Sanguinaria Pulv gj. 
Acetic acid. giij. 
White Sugar giij. 
Mix, steep for fifteen or twenty minutes, and give one half 
teaspoonful every half hour. This prescription should be 
continued as long as any symptoms of the disease remains. 
If the treatment is not commenced until the disease is far 
advanced, the cathartic sh )uld be omitted, and the syrup 187 
WORMS. 
given at once. The bowels should be moved by laxative 
enema, and the surface frequently sponged in tepid water. 
If the disease proves obstinate, two or three antiperiodic 
powders should be given during the Apyrexia. The 
syrup should also be continued. There should be no 
more of the syrup given than the stomach will tolerate. 
The strength should be maintained by a generous diet, 
and all excitement should be avoided. 
WORMS. 
According to the classification of the entozoist, the 
following are the different varieties that infest the alimen- 
tary canal: 
1st. Ascaris Lumbricoides, or common round worm. 
2d. Ascaris Vermicularis, or thread worm. 
3d. Tricocephalus Dispar, or long thread worm. 
4th. Taenia Solium, or common tape worm. 
5th. Taenia Lata, or broad tape worm. 
The most common varieties of worms met with in this 
country, are the common round worm, mostly found in the 
small intestines, and the short thread worm, which inhabits 
the rectum or lower portion of the bowels. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The symptoms of worms are various. The most com- 
mon are frequent flashes of fever, which disappear in a few 
hours; irregular appetite, irritable temper, symptoms of 
irritation about the fauces, tumefaction of the glands, fre- 
quent changes in the appearance of the urine, which is at 
one time scanty, and of a milky appearance; at others, 
copious and limpid. The irritation will be so great at 
times as to affect the brain, and convulsions follow. If the 188 
WORMS. 
worms infest the rectum, there will be constant itching and 
uneasiness of that part, and at times a slight sanious 
discharge. 
For the long round worm : 
R Santonine gr. vj. 
Podophyllin gr. j. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into twelve powders, and give one 
every three or four hours until they act upon the bowels 
If this should fail, the following mixture may be given : 
R Neutralizing mixture 5iij. 
Essence of Wormwood gj. 
Tinct. of Aloes 
Santonine gr. x. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times a-day. 
Or - 
R Santonine gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, divide into ten powders, and give one every night 
on going to bed. After two or three days, give a mild 
purgative. If the patient is troubled with Ascarides, in 
addition to the above, injections should be given : 
R Santonine gr. xx. 
Hydrastin gr. xx. 
White Sugar gj. 
Warm water giv. 
Mix, and give as an injection every morning and evening. 
If either variety of the tape-worm afflicts the patient, the 
following mixtures may be given : 
R Fresh Pumpkin-seeds after the shell is taken off ... 
White Sugar 
Bruise and mix. Give one teaspoonful every half hour 
until all is taken. After which give a brisk purgative of 
Podophyllin. If the first mixture does not succeed, it may 
be repeated. Or tl.e following compound may be given : 
TREATMENT. CHLOROSIS. 
189 
B Oil of Male Fern gij. 
" Turpentine Jjij. 
" Red Cedar gj. 
" WormSeedgij. 
Castor Oil 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful every half hour until it 
operates upon the bowels. During the treatment for the 
tape-worm, the patient should abstain from food; and if 
the passage of the worm is commenced, it should be care- 
fully w'ound around a stick, to prevent it from being 
broken. 
ANEMIA, OR CHLOROSIS. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The symptoms of this disease are paleness of the skin 
and mucous surface, and a peculiar white appearance of 
the conjunctiva. When the disease has advanced for some 
time, the countenance assumes a sallow and bloated ap- 
pearance. The patient is feeble, and cannot bear much 
exertion. The circulation is irregular and weak ; the re- 
spiration, although natural when the patient is quiet, 
becomes labored on the least exertion, and there is fre- 
quently violent palpitation of the heart. 
The nervous system is most disordered ; vertigo, dizzi- 
ness, and feelings of fainting are not uncommon. At times 
there are violent neuralgic pains in the head, back, limbs, 
and side. In females the menses are almost entirely sup- 
pressed or altogether wanting. The blood in this disease 
is found to be deficient in iron. 
TREATMENT. 
B Carbonate of Irongij. 
Port Wine Qj. 
Common Saltgij. 
Hydrastin gj. 190 
MILIARY FEVER. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful three times a day. If the 
patient is a female with partial or complete suppression of 
the menses, the following pill should be given : 
R Senecin gr. xx. 
Macrotin gr. v. 
Vallee's mass gr. xxx. 
Podophyllin gr. j. 
Mix, form a mass, and make three-grain pills. Give one 
in connection with the wine tonic three times a-day. The 
diet should consist of rich animal broths, and the patient 
take plenty of out-door exercise. The bowels should be 
kept open by the use of some mild laxative, such as Apo- 
cynia and Euonymine. If the disease does not yield, the 
following comp und may be given : 
R Brandy Oss. 
WaterOss. 
Phosphate of Lime 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xxx. 
White Sugar giv. 
Mix, and give one tablespoonful three times a-day. The 
above treatment, together with cold baths, followed by a 
reaction, will generally prove effectual. 
MILIARY FEVER 
Is characterized by an irregular eruption of round vesi- 
cles of the size of a millet-seed, upon slightly elevated and 
inflamed patches of cuticle. 
It mostly commences with rigors and languor, a quick 
pulse, hot and dry skin, and thirst. The eruption gener- 
ally appears about the fifth or sixth day from the com- 
mencement of the febrile attack. Previous to its appear- 
ance, there is a sense of pricking or itching of the skin. 
The patient complains of great praecordial oppression, but 
is soon relieved by a profuse perspiration, and in the course MILIARY FEVER. 
191 
of from three to five days the vesicles form into small 
scales, and fall off. 
The eruption is generally distinct, but is sometimes con- 
fluent. It is said rarely to affect the face, and different 
crops may appear in the same fever. It is mostly a symp- 
tomatic disease, and occasionally appears in the course of 
nearly all low forms of fever; - although it may be idio- 
pathic when it attacks those who have been previously 
weakened by fatigue, or a long exposure to damp and 
malarious atmosphere ; or who have been for a long time 
confined to a bad regimen. 
TREATMENT. 
As this disease is mostly dependent upon constitu 
tional debility, caused by some previous difficulty, it will 
be of the first importance to ascertain the cause, and re- 
move it; after which the skin should be thoroughly bathed 
in warm lye water, and small doses of Aconite adminis- 
tered until a free perspiration is produced. For the pur- 
pose of stimulating the secretions, and as a mild purgative, 
the following compound should be given : 
Euonymin gr. iij. 
Irisin gr. ij. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
every hour until all are taken, or until they act upon the 
bowels. If the disease does not yield to this mild treat- 
ment, small doses of Quinine and Iron together, with an 
active, stimulating, and nutritious diet, should be resorted 
to. When the active stage of the disease is passed, the 
patient should be allowed a liberal quantity of porter, in 
connection with vegetable tonics and chalybeates. If the 
disease is connected with a scrofulous diathesis, the com- 
pound syrup of Stillingia, with Iodide of Potassium, should 
be given until the patient is entirely restored. 192 
ROSE-RASH-NETTLE-RASH. 
ROSEOLA, OR ROSE-RASH, 
Is a fever attended with a rose-colored efflorescence, 
and not contagious. It has often been confounded with 
measles and scarlet-fever. It mostly depends upon indi- 
gestion, and seldom requires medical treatment. The 
diet should be regulated, and if the fever is troublesome, 
small doses of Aconite, and a gentle purgative of Neu- 
tralizing mixture, may be given. 
URTICARIA, OR NETTLE-RASH, 
Is characterized by circular elevations of the cuticle, of 
a red color, with a white spot in the centre. 
The eruption is generally preceded by gastro-intestinal 
irritation and fever. There is frequently restlessness, 
languor, and anorexia. If the eruption is extensive, the 
patient suffers much from the itching and heat which it 
occasions. This disease is frequently caused by excess in 
eating and drinking, also by undue heating of the blood. 
It may continue for an indefinite period, and reappear 
whenever the stomach becomes deranged. 
TREATMENT. 
The patient's diet should be well regulated, and all 
excesses carefully avoided. The surface should be freely 
bathed, two or three times a week, and a mild vegetable 
alterative and tonic be given. If the disease assumes a 
periodic character, as it sometimes does, an antiperiodic 
should be administered, succeeded by the following com- 
pound : 
R Cream of Tartar gr. xxx. 
Leptandrin gr. xx. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Triturate, mix, divide into ten powders, and give one 
three times a day. THE PLAGUE. 
193 
THE PLAGUE. 
This disease is regarded as nothing more than a malig- 
nant typhus fever, attended during its course, by buboes 
and carbuncles. 
Mackintosh gives the following diagnostic symptoms of 
the Plague : 
It is ushered in by rigors and oppression, followed by 
heat of the skin, great prostration of strength, giddiness 
and headache. The expression of the countenance is be- 
sotted, and the eyes have a muddy glistening appearance. 
The intellect is sometimes cloudy, at others there is 
insensibility and fixed delirium. 
Occasionally, stupor takes place, and in some instances 
the functions of the brain remain distinct and clear. The 
patient in general seems indifferent respecting his fate. 
The tongue is at first moist, although it is more or less 
loaded. There is sometimes constipation, at others diar- 
rhaea. The stools are very offensive, and there is constant 
nausea and vomiting. About the third day from the 
attack, there is acute pain, followed by redness and swell- 
ing in the arm-pits and groins, which terminates in car- 
buncles and buboes, unless it is immediately relieved. 
And unless suppuration soon takes place, death speedily 
follows. It is stated that if the patient survives the fifth 
day, and the buboes appear well-formed, the patient may 
be pronounced convalescent. The points of danger in 
this disease appear to be, the time in which the buboes 
ought to appear, and the time of maturation. For a full 
description of this disease, the reader is referred to the 
writings of Dr. James McGregor, who has described it 
minutely, as it appears in India and Egypt. 
17 194 
DIFFICULT DENTITION. 
TREATMENT. 
Cullin condemns both blood-letting and purgatives in 
this disease, and states that the chief object in the treat- 
ment should be to relieve the spasms of the extreme 
vessels. For this, he recommends the application of oil 
to the surface, and some antispasmodic internally. There 
can be no doubt that this disease requires a vigorous, 
stimulating, and antiperiodic treatment from the com- 
mencement. From all the information I can obtain, I 
should make a liberal use of hot alkaline baths, anti 
periodics, and a free use of Aconite to control the fever 
Also a liberal use of tonics, antispasmodics, and stimu 
lants, with a nutritious diet. 
DIFFICULT DENTITION. 
Few children pass through the process of dentition 
without more or less suffering, and often a variety of com- 
plicated symptoms make their appearance, all depending 
upon one general cause, viz: dentition. It has long been 
observed, that children who pass through the period of 
teething early, suffer less than those whose teeth are longer 
making their appearance. 
The ages at which children cut their teeth are various. 
There are instances of children being born with full sets 
of teeth, as is recorded of Richard the Third and Louis 
Fourteenth. In general, however, the teeth begin to 
appear between the age of six and eight months. The 
two centre incisors of the lower jaw, are commonly cut 
first, and are soon followed by those of the upper, after 
which the two lateral incisors of the lower, and then 
those of the upper jaw make their appearance. Between 
the twelfth and sixteenth months, the intergrinders of the DIFFICULT DENTITION. 
195 
lower jaw appear, and next in succession are the cuspidcs 
cr eye teeth. The others soon follow, so that by the age 
of two years, the child has its complete set of teeth, 
twenty in number. The formation of each tooth goes on 
in a membranous and vesicular sack, which is firmly united 
to the gum. It is supposed that in tedious and difficult 
dentition, the sack becomes more vesicular, and is materi- 
ally thickened. This, together with the pressure of the 
teeth upon the gums, is supposed to be the only cause of 
the various ills incident to this period. 
The teeth are composed of Phosphate and Carbonate 
of Lime, Fluoride of Calcium and Cartilage. 
On analysis by Berzelius they were found to be com- 
posed of 
Cartilage and vessels 28.0 
Phosphate of Lime 64.8 
Carbonate of Lime . 5.3 
Phosphate of Magnesia 1.0 
Soda with Chloride of Sodium 1.1 
According to Lessaigne, it appears that as the teeth 
become older there is an increase of the Phosphate of 
Lime, and a corresponding diminution of the Carbonate. 
From the above facts, it seems the food should contain 
these elements, to enable the teeth to become perfectly and 
timely developed. The cause of the diseases so frequently 
identified with dentition, is a lack of the proper histo- 
genetic material, thereby causing a drain upon the other 
tissues, which, together with the long-continued irritation 
of the teeth upon the nerves, produces a train of morbid 
symptoms, which are attributed to anything but their true 
source. 
The child, under these circumstances, becomes restless, 
fretful and feverish, the sleep is disturbed, the bow'els are 
irregular, the face is flushed, and in some cases there is 
slight spasmodic twitching of the muscles, and in others 
general convulsions. 196 
DIFFICULT DENTITION. 
Sometimes the child becomes troubled with an irritable 
cough, with wheezing, a hot skin, quick pulse and scanty 
urine, denoting great irritation of the bronchial and pul- 
monary tissues. Cutaneous and glandular affections often 
occur. The sub-maxillary glands are those most com- 
monly affected. Occasionally there is inflammation of the 
eyes, causing purulent Ophthalmia. 
The enumeration of the above symptoms will show the 
importance of a correct diagnosis in these cases. 
TREATMENT. 
There is no disease in which the ordinary allopathic 
treatment proves more mischievous than in this. 
The poor child has its gums scarified and mutilated to 
no purpose. In some cases its stomach and bowels are 
entirely destroyed by the drastic doses of Calomel, Rhu- 
barb, Prepared Chalk, and the like; while in other cases, 
Opium, Paregoric, Godfrey's Cordial, Bateman's Drops, and 
a long catalogue of irritants and narcotics, tending still 
farther to depress the feeble vitality of the child, cause 
Dropsy of the Brain, Tabes Mesenterica, and Tuberculous 
Consumption. Now these medicines have not one particle 
of the aliment needed to build up the structure which is 
making such extensive drains upon the other tissues, and 
causing such derangement of the vital powers. The scari- 
fying of the gums frequently produces an irreparable injury 
to the teeth, by denuding them of their soft enamel, an 
injury seldom repaired. Hence the frequent premature 
decay of the teeth. The proper treatment consists in 
administering in small quantities those elements of which 
the system is deficient. For instance : 
R Phosphate of Lime gr. xx. 
Carbonate of Magnesia gr. x. 
Phosphate of Iron gr. v. 
Simple Syrupgiij. DIFFICULT DENTITION. 
197 
Dose, one teaspoonful three or four times a day. If there 
is fever, a few doses of Aconite, given at intervals of from 
half an hour to an hour, will be sufficient to control it. If 
the disease proves persistent, or assumes a periodical 
character, Quinine may be given in combination with some 
of the other articles, or alone as indicated. If Bronchial 
irritation is the prominent symptom, two or three drops of 
the Tct. of Veratrum may be given every three or four 
hours until the symptoms subside. If there is diarrhtea, 
Neutralizing Mixture, with small doses of Geranin, should 
be given. The surface should be frequently bathed, and 
the diet should be nutritious and of easy digestion. The 
Lime, Magnesia and Iron should be continued from time 
to time until dentition is complete. 
Many cases might be adduced to illustrate this mode of 
treatment, but one will suffice. 
In June, 1855, I was called to see a child fourteen 
months old, in which the teeth had not made their appear- 
ance. 
The Doctor had pronounced it to have Pneumonia. It 
had been afflicted with alternate diarrhoea and costiveness 
for three months and on two or three occasions had had 
convulsions. Its gums had been lanced eight or ten times. 
I immediately ordered Magnesia, Lime and Iron, with 
small doses of Quinine, and a good diet, and in three weeks 
the constitutional difficulties had disappeared, and the teeth 
had begun to make their appearance. In the course of six 
months, by the occasional use of the above remedies, the 
teeth were fully developed, and the child restored to perfect 
health. 
17* 198 
(ESOPHAGITIS. 
INFLAMMATION AND ULCERATION OF THE 
(ESOPHAGUS. 
There is no structure in the human body more exempt 
from disease than the oesophagus ; but when it becomes 
inflamed, it is quite difficult to detect it until ulceration 
and constriction take place. 
Inflammation may be partial, affecting only a small 
portion of the oesophagus, and if ulceration occurs, there 
will be no contraction; but the patient will feel slight 
pain, and there will be momentary stoppage of the food as 
it passes on to the stomach. If the whole caliber is in- 
flamed, the difficulty of swallowing will be much greater, 
not so much owing to the stricture of the oesophagus, as 
to the constant tendency to vomit. There will be more or 
less constitutional symptoms, as debility, hot skin, scanty 
urine, &c. Not unfrequently the entire system materially 
sympathizes with the local affection. 
TREATMENT 
The constitutional symptoms should be removed, and at 
the same time an irritating plaster should be applied to 
the throat, or the region of the inflamed and ulcerated 
parts, and caused to remain until a free discharge ensues. 
The bowels should be maintained in a soluble state, and 
the skin freely bathed in hot lye water and whiskey as often 
as two or three times a week. And the following com- 
pound should be administered: 
R Syrup of Marshmallow 
Syrup of Iodide of Iron 
Compound Syrup of Stillingia 3Jj. 
Mix, dose one teaspoonful three times a day. The diet 
should be nutritious and easy of digestion, and every pos- 
sible exertion should be made to maintain the integrity of 199 
the constitution. Il tne ulceration proves unyielding, a 
strong solution of Hydrastin, to which may be added a 
few drops of the Tct. of Iodine, may be taken in reason- 
able doses three or four times a day. 
If the above treatment should not prove successful, the 
application of a mild solution of nitrate of silver may be 
made once or twice a week by means of a probang. The 
above remedies will be sufficient to effect a cure, provided 
the cause of the disease has received due attention. 
GASTRODENIA. 
GASTRODENIA. 
Gastrodenia is a neuralgic affection of the stomach, and 
is closely allied to dyspepsia, and in some instances ap- 
pearing as one of its symptoms. Sometimes the appetite 
remains good, but generally it is impaired. There is 
gnawing pain in the s-tomach, extending to the back, 
accompanied with anxiety and sense of constriction, with 
a strong tendency to vomit. There is constipation of the 
bowels, and more or less pain in the head. The principal 
causes of this disease are the long-continued use of indi- 
gestible food, very warm or very cold drinks, or the use 
of Alcoholic drinks, schirrous and cancerous affections of 
the stomach, &c. 
TREATMENT. 
If the disease is dependent, either upon irregularities of 
eating or drinking, or upon the excess of either, this should 
bh carefully avoided. During the attack, much benefit 
may be derived from an emetic. 
R Lobelia Seed Pulv gr. x. 
Bayberry Bark Pulvgr. xxx. 
Mix, add one half pint of warm water, two tablespoonfuls 
of milk, sweeten, steep fifteen minutes, and give a wine-glass 
full every fifteen minutes till it operates freely as an emetic. 
After which 200 
HAMATE M ESIS. 
R Lupulin gr. x. 
Scutellarin gr. xx. 
Leptandrin gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate; divide into fifteen powders, and give one 
every three or four hours. If the pain still continues in 
the stomach, small doses of Morphine may be taken at bed- 
time. The constitutional symptoms should be carefully 
attended to, and if the disease becomes periodical, one of 
the antiperiodic preparations should be administered. The 
diet should consist of animal and vegetable broths, and 
the body well bathed in warm or cold water as often as 
three or four times a week. 
II jE M A T E ME S I S. 
This disease most frequently attacks women, particularly 
those who are of a plethoric habit, and at times when there 
is a suppression of the catamenia. Each attack is gene- 
rally preceded by rigors. Pure blood is seldom vomited, 
unless caused by internal violence or corrosion of the 
vessels of the stomach. The blood seldom coagulates, and 
seems to be the product of passive hemorrhage, or exuda- 
tion from the minute vessels of the mucous membrane. 
The diagnostic symptom of hemorrhage from the sto- 
mach is a sense of weight and pain in that region, unac- 
companied by cough. Every part of the mucous mem- 
brane of the alimentary canal is perhaps equally liable to 
passive hemorrhagic exudation. 
Occasionally the disease is so general as to give rise to 
a sanguineous cholera. In some instances it is confined to 
the bowels, the stomach not participating in it. The most 
alarming intestinal hemorrhage is called m el sen a, and is 
characterized sometimes by full discharges of black blood, 
resembling ink mixed with sand ; but at others, it is more 
of a sanguineous cha/acter. Hemorrhage from the stomach HEMORRHAGE. 
201 
and bowels produces great exhaustion, and unless relieved, 
soon proves fatal. This disease frequently accompanies 
some form of fever, especially typhoid fever. When the 
hemorrhage is from the stomach, it is a less fatal symptom 
than when it occurs from the bowels; yet it rapidly 
exhausts the patient, and frequently proves disastrous, 
unless timely relief is given. 
TREATMENT. 
In hemorrhage from the stomach or bowels, an infusion 
of matico, in connection with the ligatures, and hot 
turpentine and mustard sinapisms, will generally give re- 
lief. If the patient is an adult, give two or three table- 
spoonfuls of a strong tea, made of the matico leaves, every 
five minutes. At the same time apply the ligatures to the 
arms and legs; also, a sinapism over the stomach or 
bowels, as the case may be, made by taking one table- 
spoonful of mustard, four tablespoonfuls of pulverized slip- 
pery elm, and one of oil of turpentine, mixed with hot 
water, and applied as warm as the patient will bear it. The 
matico tea should be continued until the hemorrhage 
ceases, or for one or two hours. If it proves ineffectual, 
a pill may be given, made as follows : 
R Nitrate of Silver gr. j. 
Geranin gr. x. 
Pulv. Gum Arabic gr. xxx. 
Triturate, and make sixteen pills. Give one every half 
hour while the hemorrhage continues. After which the 
'patient's strength should be well supported by vegetable 
tonics, iron, and a generous diet. If the hemorrhage 
should be owing to a suppression of the catamenia, the 
feet should be immediately placed in a tub of warm water, 
and a large Galbanum plaster applied along the spine and 
across the lower portion of the abdomen. Also, ten or 
fifteen drops of the oil < f Erigeron should be given every 202 
•JAUNDICE. 
fifteen minutes, until the hemorrhage ceases. After which 
the patient should be treated as directed under derange- 
ment of the menses. 
JAUNDICE, OR YELLOWNESS. 
This appearance is owing to the deposit of the coloring 
matter of the bile in the skin and other tissues and fluids. 
This substance must be presumed to exist in the b.ood of 
the jaundiced patient, and it is claimed to be found in 
healthy blood. But the prevalent belief is that the bile- 
pigment is absorbed after having been secreted by the 
liver : an opinion founded upon the most common cause 
of jaundice, i. e., the obstruction of the ductus communis, 
or one or more of the branches of the hepatic duct, by a 
gall stone, or by the pressure of a tumor, &c. But among 
the most common causes of jaundice is a deficiency of the 
secreting cells of the liver ; consequently no biliary secre- 
tion takes place. Jaundice is considered by some as an 
idiopathic disease, but it is mostly a symptom of some spe- 
cific difficulty, and for which it serves as a diagnostic 
symptom. It is a phenomenon of several fevers, viz.: 
bilious remittent and yellow; also of different affections 
of the liver, gall-ducts, and stomach. When it comes on 
with indigestion, slight fever, sluggishness, and pain in 
the hypochondrium, it may be regarded as a functional 
disease of the liver and stomach. But when it follows vio- 
lent and spasmodic pain in the region of the liver, it is 
dependent upon the arrest of gall-stone in the biliary pas- 
sage. When it precedes delirium or coma and convul- 
sions, it indicates disorganization of the hepatic cells; and 
when it comes on slowly and lasts a long time, and acquires 
a dark tinge, it depends either upon organic disease of the 
liver, or some of the neighboring organs obstructing the 
discharge of bile into the duodenum. The symptoms of JAUNDICE. 
203 
jaundice, excepting the yellowness, depend much upon the 
cause of the difficulty, though in all cases the skin is husky 
and dry ; the urine partakes of the color of the skin; the 
faeces are either of a dough or grey-ash color, and in most 
cases there is constipation of the bowels. The other symp- 
toms vary in different cases. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of this disease should depend entirely 
upon its cause as indicated by the symptoms connected 
with it. If it depends upon a functional disorder of the 
liver, the following compound may be given : 
Euonymine gr. x. 
Podophyllin gr. ij. 
Gelsemin gr. j. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into six powders, and take one every 
two hours. After which - 
R Phytolaccin gr. vj. 
Flour of Sulphur gr. xxx. 
Extract Dandelion S[j. 
Make twenty pills, and take one four times a day. The 
surface should be freely bathed, and the diet should be 
easy of digestion. Aftei' the pills are taken, the following 
may be given : 
U Cream of Tartar gij. 
Sanguinarin gr. x. 
Sulphur gr. xx. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xx. 
Best Gin Oj. 
Mix, and take one tablespoonful three times a-day. When 
the disease is dependent upon the arrest of gall-stone in 
the biliary passage, a thorough Lobelia emetic should be 
given, followed by a spirit-sweat and a brisk purgative, as 
follows: 204 
DISEASES OF THE HEART. 
R Podophyllin gr. ij. 
Cream of Tartar gr. x. 
Gelsemin : gr. ss. 
Mix, triturate, and divide into four powders, and give one 
every two hours until it operates as a cathartic. 
If the above prescriptions fail to give relief, they should 
be repeated at proper intervals. 
DISEASES OF THE HEART. 
The most common disease of this organ is fluttering or 
palpitation. This may be connected with various structural 
changes in the organ, yet it frequently exists independent 
of any such change. "The distinction between organic and 
functional disease of the heart," says Dr. Walshe, "is far 
from being easily made. Many of the general rules given 
for this purpose fail clinically." The inconstancy of func- 
tional and the constancy of organic ailment are strongly 
dwelt upon for examples. But all the subjective and many 
of the objective symptoms may disappear temporarily in 
cases of extensive organic disease. The existence of secon- 
dary changes, such as sub-cutaneous oedema, congestion 
of the lungs, &c., commonly proves the cardiac affection to 
be organic, but not always ; for spanaemia, added to ner- 
vous palpitation, may induce oedema. If exercise relieves 
a disturbed condition of the heart, its affection is pro- 
nounced to be dynamic only ; but if spansemia exist, exer- 
cise may be unbearable. From these remarks of Dr. 
Walshe, it will be perceived that without much care, func- 
tional and organic disease of the heart are liable to be con- 
founded. Indeed, nothing was more common than this, 
previous to the discovery of physical diagnosis and their 
complete elucidation by Laennec. And now, without re- 
peated physical examinations, even an adept in this method DISEASES OF THE HEART. 
205 
of diagnosis may mistake mere irregularity of rhythm for 
structural cardiac disease ; as it is now universally admit- 
ted that palpitation, when connected with spanaemia, will 
not only produce a basic systolic murmur, but a systolic 
murmur at the mitral apex may be generated by the irregu- 
lar action of the musculi papillaries, and even the area 
of dulness may be extended temporarily,. owing to the dis« 
tension of the cavity of the heart with blood. 
SYMPTOMS OF DYNAMIC PALPITATION. 
According to Laennec, the first impression conveyed by 
the stethescope is, that the heart is not enlarged. The 
sound is not heard loudly over a great extent, but this de- 
pends very much upon the thickness of the chest. Laennec 
states that in nervous palpitation of the heart, the heat 
of the patient is never sensibly elevated by the increased 
action of the heart, which is the case in organic disease of 
this organ. This may be true as a general rule, but is far 
from being universally so, as my own professional expe- 
rience has proved. Dr. Walshe states that in nervous affec- 
tions of the heart, the area of dulness remains unaltered; 
but that distension to the right of the sternum may occur 
in prolonged paroxysms. He states also that the first 
sound is too loud and clear at the mitral apex, and some- 
what abrupt and short. The sound is duller and less click 
ing than is natural at the mid-sternal base. The first sound 
may be loud enough to be audible both to the patient and 
to the bystanders at a distance of some inches from the 
chest. Reduplication of the second sound at the base is 
common ; and a clear metallic ring or a prsecardial rub 
may accompany the shock at the mitral apex. 
Prof. Calkins remarks, that in order to form a correct 
diagnosis, we should recollect that the character of organic 
disease of the heart is to progress ; that of functional to 
occur at regular intervals; that active exercise almost 
18 206 
DISEASES OF THE HEART. 
invariably aggravates organic, but seldom increases the 
symptoms of functional; that the physical signs generally 
are soon developed, and remain permanent in organic, 
while they seldom exist - and when they do, they arise 
from chlorosis - in functional. The rational symptoms, 
which more frequently occur in nervous disease of the heart, 
than in functional, are choking in the throat, precordial 
anxiety, with faintness and actual syncope, or active pains 
simulating angina. The pulse beats with increased fre- 
quency, and there is a clammy coldness of the extremities, 
with a flushed face. The fits of palpitation may last for a 
few minutes, or they may last for hours, or even days. 
TREATMENT. 
During the paroxysms, the remedies should be of such 
character as to lessen their intensity, and, if possible, at 
the same time to remove the cause. If this cannot be done, 
the paroxysm should be relieved, and an effort made to 
remove the cause afterwards. For the purpose of relieving 
the paroxysm, 
R Gelsemin gr. j. 
Scuteliarin gr. x. 
Cypripedin gr. xv. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate; divide into eight powders, and give one 
every hour until the paroxysm is relieved. At the same 
time, the feet should be bathed in warm water, and the 
patient should avoid all mental and bodily excitement. 
A fter which, if there is spansemia, 
Quinine gr. x. 
Iron by Hydrogen gr. xij. 
Hydrastin gr. xj. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate; divide into ten powders, and give one 
three times a day. The diet should be generous, and the 
following tonic should succeed the powders: ANGINA PECTORIS. 
207 
R Scuteliarin gr. xx. 
Precipitated Carbonate of Iron gr. xxx. 
Caulophyllin 
White Sugar Ibss. 
Mix, triturate; add to one pint of good port wine, and 
take one tablespoonful three times a day before eating. 
The bowels should be kept in a free state by the use of 
Leptandrin and Neutralizing Mixture, and the patient 
should avoid all undue exercise. 
ANGINA PECTORIS. 
This is a disease characterized by paroxysmal pains and 
tenderness in the precordial region, extending to the head, 
shoulders, arms and legs, and in some cases producing 
numbness. The pain is sudden in its onset, but is mostly 
of a dull character, although in some cases it is lancinating 
or tearing, producing exquisite torture and contractive 
suffocation. There may be slight dyspnoea or orthopnoea, 
with lividity of the countenance. The heart usually pal- 
pitates, the extremities become cold, the urine is passed in 
large quantities, and is mostly of a limpid appearance. 
The bowels are constipated, and in most cases there is 
.more or less constitutional disturbance for some time pre- 
vious to the attack. If there are cardiac murmurs in con- 
nection with the disease, there is reason to apprehend that 
it is connected with some organic difficulty of the heart. 
This disease may be a pure neuralgic affection of that 
organ, accompanied by hysteria and anaemia, or it may be 
of a periodic character, of miasmatic origin, - a mere 
masked ague - or it may depend upon some organic 
disease of the heart. 208 
CONGESTION. 
TREATMENT. 
In this affection, the first object should be to relieve the 
urgent symptoms. For this purpose, the feet should be 
placed in hot water, a large sinapism applied over the 
region of the heart, and the patient caused to take one 
drop of Aconite every five minutes until the symptoms are 
relieved. If they are not relieved in the course of half an 
hour, the following compound should be given : 
H Lobelin gr. j. 
Lupulin gr. vj. 
Hyosciamin gr. ij. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, divide into ten powders, and give one every ten 
minutes until relief is obtained. As soon as the severity 
of the paroxysm is relieved, the cause of the disease should 
be ascertained, and such a course pursued as will effect a 
permanent cure. Antiperiodics should be given where the 
disease is produced by miasm, chalybeates and tonics 
where it is dependent upon anaemia, and if it originates in 
organic disease of the heart, the proper treatment may 
be found under that head. 
CONGESTION, OR ACCUMULATION OF BLOOD 
IN THE CAVITIES OF THE HEART. 
Congestion, or accumulation of blood in the cavities of 
the heart, may occur in consequence of fibrinous deposits 
interfering with the free movement of the valves This 
deposit seems mostly to be a product of endocarditis, 
although it may arise from regurgitation during fits of 
dyspnoea, and whenever there is sudden obstruction of the 
circulation through the lungs. 209 
PERICARDITIS. 
SYMPTOMS. 
These are orthopnoea, cough, lividity of the countenance, 
oppression and anxiety. The physical signs are extended 
area of dulness, irregular rhythm and a labored impulse 
of the heart. Dropsical effusions and ansemia are fre- 
quently produced by this disease. 
Give a free purgative of Podophyllin and Cream of 
Tartar, followed by Syrup of Marshmallow and Iodide 
of Potassium. If the disease proves obstinate, an irrita- 
ting plaster snould be placed over the region of the heart, 
and allowed to remain until a free discharge ensues. 
Aconite should be given to control the circulation, and 
the diet should be nutritious. 
TREATMENT. 
PERICARDITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
PERICARDIUM. 
The symptoms of this disease depend much upon the 
state of the inflammation, during the first stage of the 
inflammatory process. There is more or less fever, with 
increased frequency of the pulse, cough and dyspnoea. 
The physical sign is a sound of grating friction. In the 
second stage, which is that of exudation, there is pain in 
the region of the heart, irregular pulse, anxiety, dyspnoea, 
cough, and a tendency to syncope. The features are 
sharp, and indicate distress. There is scanty and high- 
colored urine, with alternate fever and apyrexia. 
The physical signs are frictional sound, and valvular 
murmurs, dependent upon endocarditis. In the third 
stage, bulging of the precordial region may be observed, 
and if there is extensive effusion, displacement of the apex 
18* 210 
PERICARDITIS. 
of the heart upwards. The area of dulness will be 
changed, and very materially enlarged. The sound of 
the heart will be indistinct and muffled. If adhesion of 
the pericardial surface to the heart should occur, the 
action of the heart will be tremulous and unsteady. As 
the disease advances, the head is kept elevated, or- 
thopnoea is a constant symptom, and the patient dreads 
movement of any kind. In fatal cases risus sardonicus 
often occurs, with tenderness of the Epigastrium, Spas- 
modic dysphagia, nausea, and vomiting, quasimania, 
stupor, and death. Or the severity of the symptoms may 
gradually yield, and the patient recover. 
CAUSE. 
This disease may be caused by metastasis of inflamma- 
tion from other parts, as in pleuritis, pneumonia, rheuma- 
tism, phlebitis, &c., and in some cases it is said to be 
idiopathic. 
TREATMENT. 
In the first stage of this disease, the bowels should be 
opened by full doses of Podophyllin and Cream of Tartar, 
a warm sinapism should be applied over the region of the 
heart, and the surface thoroughly bathed in lye water and 
whiskey. The operation of the cathartic should be fol- 
lowed by from one to five drops of the Tinct. of Aconite 
every hour, until free diaphoresis ensues. This course 
will control the active form of the inflammation, after 
which the patient should take the following diuretic and 
alterative mixture: 
U Syrup of Marshmallowgv. 
Iodide of Potassium 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful every three hours. At the 
same time, give from five to ten drops of the Muriated ENDOCARDITIS. 
211 
Tinct. of Iron every five hours. If the disease should be 
of a periodic character, from five to ten grains of the 
Sulphate of Cinchonin, and one-eighth of a grain of 
Gelsemin should be given every three or four hours until 
that symptom is controlled. If extensive effusion should 
occur, from one-eighth to one-fourth of a grain of Phyto- 
laccin to the Syrup of Potassa and Marshmallow, may be 
added. If, after the active symptoms of the disease, there 
should still remain some cardial disturbances, the acetic 
syrup of Sanguinaria will generally suffice to control them. 
ENDOCARDITIS. 
The symptoms of this disease are pain and uneasiness 
in the region of the heart, with precordial pressure. The 
decubitis is dorsal. The skin is hot, the countenance is 
livid, and there is cough, dyspnoea, and tendency to syn- 
cope. The physical signs are uneasiness, and increase of 
the action of the heart, and a grating accompanying the 
bellows sound. The normal systolic murmurs will be 
changed, corresponding to the stage of the disease. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of endocarditis, is essentially the same 
as in pericarditis. The surface should be bathed in lye 
water, a warm pack applied over the cardiac region, and 
Aconite or veratrum given until the active stage of the 
disease is removed. These should be followed by diu- 
retics, alteratives, and tonics. 212 
CARDITIS - ATROPHY. 
CARDITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
SUBSTANCE OF THE HEART. 
This disease is mostly connected with endocarditis or 
pericarditis, and even when it exists as an idiopathic dis- 
ease, its symptoms are so closely allied to them that as yet 
the diagnostic symptoms are very obscure. The treatment 
should be the same as of inflammation of its membranes. 
ATROPHY OF THE HEART. 
In valvular atrophy, says Dr. Walshe, when the chordae 
tendin® of the mitral valve are shortened or extremely 
thin, they are probably purely atrophous; the large 
tongue of the valve is simply defective in size, without 
obvious puckering, or other evidence of past inflamma- 
tion : in either case regurgitation may occur. The sig- 
moid and pulmonary valves may also become atrophous, 
causing regurgitation in the aorta and pulmonary veins; in 
the former producing syncope, in the latter asphyxia. 
The physical signs are regurgitation with bellows sound. 
Where there is atrophy of the parenchyma of the heart, 
the area of dulness will be diminished, and the diastole 
and systole will both be feeble. 
The rational symptoms are pallor, coldness of the ex- 
tremities, cough, irregular respiration, palpitation, pre- 
cordial oppression, oedema of the extremities, and in 
females, irregularities of the catamenia, haemoptysis, and 
it frequently terminates in dropsy and phthisis. In old 
age, the valves of the heart becoming atrophied, fre- 
quently causes pulmonary apoplexy. HYPERTROPHY OF THE HEART. 
213 
TREATMENT. 
The patient should avoid all excesses, in mental and 
bodily exercise. The diet should consist of rich animal 
broths, with a liberal amount of fats and sugar. Give the 
following compound : 
R Precipitated Carbonate of Iron gj. 
Hydrastin gij. 
White Sugar. sjiij. 
Port Wine Oj. 
Water Oss. 
Dose, one tablespoonful three times a day. If there is 
much irregularity in the action of the heart, one grain of 
Myricin, and one-sixteenth of a grain of Veratrin, given 
twice or three times a day, will usually give relief. In 
old age, much benefit is sometimes derived from a mode- 
rate quantity of malt liquor once or twice a day. 
HYPERTROPHY OF THE HEART. 
By this disease, is understood thickening of one or 
more of the cavities of the heart. It may exist with, or 
without other affections of this organ. The difficulties 
with which it is most frequently connected are dilatation 
and ossification of the valves. It is said that hypertrophy 
is mostly confined to the ventricles, and that it is more 
commonly met with in the left ventricle, than the right. 
This may sometimes be true, yet, in my practice, it is far 
from being generally so ; as in some thirty cases of both 
complicated and uncomplicated hypertrophy, the majority 
occurred in the auricles. Hypertrophy of the heart may 
be caused by a preternatural determination of blood to 
the organ, from a latent form of inflammation, or it may 
arise from a long-continued increase of action dependent 
upon nervous disease. 214 
HYPERTROPHY OF THE HEART. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The symptoms of hypertrophy of the left ventricle are a 
sensible, constant increase of the action of the heart; the 
pulse strong, full, and vibrating. On percussion the area 
of dulness is extended ; and on auscultating the chest, the 
sound of the heart will be found very much enfeebled, and 
if hypertrophy is connected with dilatation, the diastole 
will be materially prolonged. In this way we may be ena- 
bled to distinguish between simple hypertrophy and that 
accompanied with increase in the capacity of the cavity. 
In hypertrophy of the right ventricle, the signs are very 
nearly the same as above, except the shock of the heart's 
action will be felt at the base of the sternum, instead of 
between the fifth and sixth ribs, as in hypertrophy of the 
left side. 
In hypertrophy of the ventricles, the impulse will be 
much increased, and the systole shortened in duration, 
while the diastole will be prolonged. The diseases pro- 
duced by these cardiac derangements are : dropsy, haemop- 
tysis, asthma, tubercles, phthisis, and asphyxia. 
TREATMENT. 
In treatment of hypertrophy of the whole or different 
portions of the heart, all stimulating articles of food and 
drink should be avoided, as also the use of tobacco. To 
lessen the action of the heart, and thereby prevent the 
abnormal supply of nutrition, is another essential element 
of the treatment. For this purpose a sufficient amount of 
Tct.Veratrum Viride maybe given, say from five to ten drops 
three or four times a-day. The pulse should be maintained 
at about fifty-five or sixty by the use of the Veratrum. At 
the same time one teaspoonful of the solution of Iodide of 
Potassium should be taken three times a-day. If the disease 
proves persistent, and should not yield to this plan of treat- DILATATION. 
215 
ment, from one-eighth to one-fourth of a grain of Phyto- 
laccin may be given every night at bed-time. The bowels 
should be moved once or twice a-week, with Podophyllin and 
Cream of Tartar, and the patient should avoid all mental 
and bodily excitement. 
DILATATION, OR ENLARGEMENT OF THE 
CAVITIES OF THE HEART. 
Dilatation may be confined to one cavity of the heart, or 
it may extend to all. The cause of this disease, says Dr. 
Bertin, is owing to some obstruction in the circulation of 
the blood, as diseases of the valves, &c., while Laennec 
attributes it to congenital disproportion in the parts of the 
heart. But what is a more common cause of the disease 
in this country is an impoverished state of the blood, pro- 
ducing a weak and lax state of the muscles, thus giving 
rise to dilatation. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The patient is often attacked with violent dyspnoea and 
palpitation, followed by a weak and feeble pulse ; ten- 
dency to syncope, and in some cases nausea and vomiting. 
The bowels are mostly constipated, and there is frequently 
pain and praecordial pressure. According to Laennec, the 
most constant and characteristic sign of this disease is 
a swollen state of the jugular veins without pulsation. 
TREATMENT. 
The principal classes of medicines indicated in this dis- 
ease are tonics and astringents, such as Hydrastin, Macro 
tin, Myricin, and Muriated Tincture of Iron. The diet 
should be full and nutritious, and the patient allowed to 
drink porter or ale once or twice a-day, with his meals 
The Muriated Tincture of Iron should be taken in from 216 
PHLEBITIS AND PHLEGMASIA DOLENS. 
five to ten drop doses three or four times a day in a small 
quantity of beef tea or starch water. The Macrotin, Myri- 
cin, and Hydrastin, should be used in the form of a syrup 
two or three times a-day. 
PHLEBITIS AND PHLEGMASIA DOLENS. 
Phlebitis is inflammation of the inner membrane of a 
vein. It may occur as the effects of blood-letting, the 
application of ligatures, pressure upon some venous trunk, 
&c. The pathological effects of inflammation of the veins 
vary according to the extent and severity of the inflamma- 
tion. In most cases the affected vein is swollen, thickened, 
and indurated to such a degree as to very much resemble 
an artery. A diffused swelling, connected with acute pain, 
coated tongue, scanty urine, constipated bowels, and py- 
rexia, are among the prominent symptoms of this disease. 
Upon examination, the adipose, cellular, and subcutaneous 
tissues are found to be filled with fluid ; and when the parts 
are laid open, clots of'blood and lymph are found adhering 
to the inner coats of the veins. If the inflammatory pro- 
cess continues, the clots of blood and lymph are converted 
into purulent matter, rupturing the vessels, and forming a 
deep phlegmonoid abscess in the adjacent tissue. 
Phlegmasia Dolens is an inflammation of the veins of 
the leg, mostly caused by pressure of the gravid uterus, 
upon the iliac and other veins, generally making its ap- 
pearance on the second or third week after delivery. It 
occurs for the most part in one leg, exhibiting to the touch 
numerous irregular prominences under the skin. 
SYMPTOMS. 
In the course of two or three weeks after confinement, 
pain and uneasiness are complained of in the hypogastric, PHLEBITIS AND PHLEGMASIA DOLENS. 
217 
lumbar and inguinal regions On examining the limb, it 
will be found tense, elastic and shining, mostly painful to 
the touch. It will also be flexed. 
The skin will be hot, the pulse quick, with great thirst 
and restlessness. If the disease is allowed to advance, the 
tongue will be covered with a dark sordes, the respiration 
becomes hurried, and delirium, coma, and death, rapidly 
follow. Or the symptoms will continue in a mild form for 
weeks, or even months, and the patient recovers, but with 
a shattered constitution. 
The above are the most ordinary symptoms, yet they 
vary exceedingly in different cases. Sometimes the pain 
commences in the knee, and is of a sharp darting character, 
extending to the groin. The limb is but slightly swollen, 
and cold, but has a peculiar glistening appearance. The 
secretions of milk will be interrupted, and the bowels 
irregular. At other times the disease will assume a decided 
periodic character. The symptoms, such as pain, redness 
and fever, will all become exceedingly aggravated, at a 
certain stated period, and remain so for a few hours, 
followed by a distinct remission ; or the disease may be 
transferred to other organs, as the peritoneum, pleura, or 
lungs, producing extensive organic disease of those organs. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of phlebitis, when it is traumatic, con- 
sists in the application of warm emollient poultices, as 
slippery elm, saleratus and myrrh, kept moist* with the 
Tinct. of Arnica, and the administration of brisk purga- 
tives of Podophyllin and Cream of Tartar, or Cream of 
Tartar and ahtibilious physic, succeeded oy a mixture as 
follows: 
R Muriated Tinct. of Iron *ss. 
Pure Water gvi. 
Sulphate of Cinchoningas. 
19 218 
PHLEBITIS AN© PHLEGMASIA D0LEN8. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful five or six times a day. If 
there is fever, Aconite or Veratrum should be given to 
control it. The purgative should be repeated as often as 
indicated. After the swelling is subdued, the limb should 
be evenly bandaged, and kept wet with the Tinct. of 
Lobelia. 
In Phlegmasia Dolens, the poultice should be applied 
with a bandage over it. A purgative should be given 
similar to that in traumatic phlebitis, succeeded by the 
following compound: 
P Sulphate of Bebeerinegr. xxx. 
Caulophyllin gr. xj. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate; divide into ten powders, and give one 
every three hours. Aconite may be given to control the 
fever, and the back, hips, and lower part of the bowels be 
bathed in a liniment prepared as follows : 
P Oil of Turpentinegj. 
Eggs v. 
Common Salt§ss. 
Mix, and use two or three times a day. If the disease 
should assume a periodic character, 
P Muriated Tinct. of Iron 
Water 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Give one teaspoonful every three or four hours. The sur- 
face should be thoroughly bathed, and if practicable, a 
spirit-swreat given once or twice a week. When the active 
stage of the disease has passed, small doses of Carbonate 
of Iron, with Euonymine, may be given three or four times 
a day. If there should be a chronic diseased condition of 
the vessels of the limb, the bandage should be continued, 
and kept moist by vegetable astringents. The patient BLUE SKIN DISEASE. 
219 
jould also take Iodide of Potassium in connection with 
tonics. The diet should be full and nutritious, and entire 
rest should be enjoined. 
CYANOSIS, MORBUS CJERULEUS, OR BLUE 
SKIN DISEASE. 
This disease is confined to infants. The symptoms are 
a peculiar livid or blue appearance of the skin, frequently 
extending to the mucous membrane of the mouth. There 
is constant cough, dyspnoea, and palpitation. In some 
cases the dyspnoea becomes so excessive, as to produce 
syncope and death. 
The causes of these symptoms have been shown by Dr. 
Gintrae, to be as follows : 
In 22 cases, the aorta was found to arise from both 
ventricles. 
" 30 " the foramen ovale was open. 
" 14 " the ductus arteriosus was open. 
" 4 " a single heart with one auricle and ven- 
tricle. 
" 5 " the ventricular septum was imperfect. 
"22 " the pulmonary artery was contracted. 
" 5 " the pulmonary artery was obliterated. 
" 1 " the aorta was obliterated,. 
" 4 " the aorta arose from the right ventricle. 
The above table shows that this disease is mostly de- 
pendent upon congenital deformities of the heart and its 
appendages. 
TREATMENT. 
But little can be done in the treatment of this disease, 
more than to give temporary relief. Where there is syn- 
cope, the child should be placed in a warm bath, and 
ammonia or camphor applied to its nostrils. After which 
it should be wiped dry, and wrapped in a warm flannel. 220 
HEADACHE. 
For the cough one or two drops of the Tinct. of Lobelia 
should be given in a teaspoonful of breast milk. The 
action of the heart may be regulated by Aconite, and in 
some cases, where the deformity is only partial, the child 
will gradually recover. 
HEADACHE. 
This is frequently a mere symptom of idiopathic dis- 
ease, yet we often meet with cases where the difficulty 
constitutes the only perceptible ailment. Headache may 
be caused by a preternatural determination of blood to 
the brain, by the too frequent use of intoxicating liquors, 
by a disordered condition of the stomach and bowels, by 
a loss of balance between the venous and arterial circula- 
tion, by an injudicious use of tea and coffee, undue mental 
or bodily exertion, imperfect menstruation, and the too 
frequent use of purgative medicines. It is also a symp- 
tom of most Idiopathic fevers, as well as most other acute 
diseases. 
TREATMENT. 
When headache is dependent upon over-exertion of the 
mind or body, add one-half grain of Belladonna to one- 
half tumbler full of water, and give one teaspoonful every 
fifteen minutes, until the pain ceases. If dependent upon 
constipation of the bowels, mix one ounce of neutralizing 
mixture and one grain of Podophyllin, and take one or 
two teaspoonfuls a-day, or a quantity sufficient to keep 
the bowels in a soluble condition. If upon imperfect 
menstruation: 
B Macrotin gr. vj. 
Vallet's ferruginous mass gr. xxx. 
Mix, make twelve pills, and take one every night. Where 
the headache depends upon eating and drinking more 
than nature requires, this should be carefully corrected. 221 
CON VULSI0N8. 
CONVULSIONS IN ADULTS AND CHILDREN. 
When convulsions occur in adolescence, it may indicate 
inflammation of the brain, plethora, or anaemia, ossifica- 
tion of the arteries of the brain, growth of tumors on the 
inner table of the skull, &c. When they occur in chil- 
dren, although frequently arising from disease of the 
brain and spinal marrow, they are nevertheless produced, 
in a great majority of cases, from irritation, transmitted 
to these parts, from the digestive organs. 
TREATMENT. 
When the disease occurs in adults, the treatment de- 
pends principally upon the cause. Although during the 
convulsions, small doses of equal parts of the Tinct. of 
Lobelia and Scutellaria, should be frequently administered 
into the stomach, if practicable; otherwise mixed with 
starch water, and given in the form of an enema. The 
circulation should be equalized by hot baths, sinapisms to 
the calves of the legs, feet, &c. 
When thus relieved, the patient should be treated ac- 
cording to the cause. Where children are seized with 
convulsions, the first object should be to evacuate the 
stomach and bowels. For this purpose, four or five drops 
of the compound Tinct. of Lobelia should be given, every 
five or ten minutes, until the stomach is thoroughly evacu- 
ated. At the same time, the bowels should be injected 
with equal parts of warm water, oil of olives, and molasses. 
The child should be placed in a warm bath during the 
action of the emetic and injection. When the child has 
been relieved by the above course, all irritating food 
should be carefully avoided, and a weak tea of Hydrastin 
and ginger, well sweetened, should be given occasionally 
for the purpose of giving tone to the stomach. 
Ip* 222 
NEURALGIA. 
NEURALGIA. 
Neuralgia has alternately been classified under the head 
of surgical and medical disease. But from the almost 
universal failure of surgical practice to relieve it, this dis- 
ease is now almost generally treated as belonging to the 
medical department. 
There is yet, however, some difference of opinion with 
respect to its pathology. Prof. Jones and others regard 
it as but a form of ague; while Craigie and others con- 
sider it to have its seat in an inflammation of the neurilema 
or covering of the nerve. Dr. McIntosh states that the 
cause of this disease may frequently be traced to a dis- 
ordered state of the stomach, and alimentary canal. Dr. 
Elliotson in the 3d volume of the Cyclopedia of practical 
medicine, p. 388, states that the nature of neuralgic affec- 
tions may be evident immediately, or, not till after a 
lapse of time; may become evident after death only, 
or, may never be discovered. He further states that 
inflammatory conditions of the nerves, and structural 
changes, as well as mechanical causes, may be detected 
during life, if the seat of these conditions is within the 
reach of observation; and symptoms may be induced, 
which clearly point out the inflammation or structural 
changes, even if those should be beyond our observation. 
Occasionally, however, the seat and cause of the irrita- 
tion is not only beyond our reach during life, though dis- 
coverable afterwards, but no symptoms are produced which 
indicate them. From the above remarks, and many other 
observations which might be made, we perceive that quite 
a diversity of opinion exists relative to its pathology. In 
order to harmonize the conflicting theories, resulting as 
they do from actual observation, we might conclude that 
occasionally it has its origin in inflammation of the mem- 
branes of the nerves, in spinal irritation, in derangement NEURALGIA. 
223 
of the stomach and bowels, and in affections of the kidneys; 
also, that it frequently arises as one of the effects of miasm, 
and assumes a disguised remittent character. 
SYMPTOMS. 
In the most aggravated form the pain is lancinating or 
tearing, as the patient expresses it. It is sharper at some 
times than others, and in some instances the parts become 
red, and assume the appearance of inflammation, although 
this is not generally the case. When this disease attacks 
the nerves of the face, it is called Tic Doloureux. 
All the soft tissues seem to be liable to this affection. 
The attacks are mostly sudden, and last from a few hours 
to several days. The constitutional symptoms connected 
with them are frequently very slight, although, in some 
cases, the pulse becomes quick, the urine scanty and high- 
colored ; a light brown coat will appear on the tongue, 
and there will be alternate fever and perspiration. In other 
cases the paroxysms will commence with rigors and chills, 
followed by fever and perspiration; in short, manifesting 
all the essential symptoms of ague. 
TREATMENT 
As shis disease is decidedly of an intermittent character, 
where there is no obvious organic lesion or perceptible 
cause of the disease, the treatment should be commenced 
by giving full doses of antiperiodics, such as the following : 
Scutellarin gr. x. 
Cypripedin gr. v. 
Quinine gr. x. 
Prussiate of Iron gr. xij. 
Mix, triturate, divide into ten powders, and give one every 
two hours, till all are taken. At the same time the affected 
parts should be thoroughly bathed in a strong, hot solution 224 
HYSTERIA. 
of Ferrocyanide of Potassium. These applications should 
be made in the form of fomentations, and changed as often 
as cold. When the antiperiodic powders are all taken, the 
bowels should be thoroughly evacuated by the use of anti- 
bilious physic and Leptandrin. If the above prescription 
be not sufficient to remove the disease, give the following: 
R Tinct. of Gelseminum gij. 
" Macrotys Racemosa gj. 
" Iodine gss. 
Mix, and give three drops every three hours, until the 
symptoms yield. If there should be a tendency to a peri- 
odic return of the disease, the antiperiodic powders should 
be repeated from time to time. The bowels should be kept 
in a natural condition by the use of Neutralizing mixture, 
and as often as once or twice a week, the surface should be 
thoroughly bathed. Where the disease is dependent upon 
spinal irritation, in addition to the above mentioned causes, 
an irritating plaster should be placed along the spine, and 
remain until a free discharge ensues. Where there is de- 
rangement of the menses, Senecine and Bebeerine should 
also be used as circumstances seem to indicate. 
HYSTERIA. 
This is a disease of the nervous system, and almost 
wholly confined to females, although it is said that males 
are not exempt from it. The invasion of the disease is 
sudden and irregular, but in many cases decidedly periodi- 
cal. In slight attacks the patient bursts into a fit of weep- 
ing, soon followed by convulsive laughter, which lasts for 
a longer or shorter time, and may be followed by compa- 
rative composure. 
In more severe cases, the complaint is ushered in by a 
sharp pain in the abdomen or chest, which is soon followed HYSTERIA. 
225 
by a sense of suffocation and oppression at the Epigastrium. 
The bowels are tense and the surface is cold. The coun- 
tenance varies ; in some cases it is red and swollen, in 
others it is pale, and the features are contracted. In 
some very severe cases, there is a convulsive affection of 
the muscles, amounting to clonic spasms. The urine is 
mostly discharged in large quantities, and has a light 
limpid appearance. 
CAUSES. 
We seldom meet with this disease before puberty, or 
after the period of life when menstruation finally ceases, 
and as it mostly makes its appearance during the cata- 
menial flow, it is supposed to have its origin mostly in 
deranged uterine action. 
During the paroxysms, the feet should be placed in warm 
water, and a hot sinapism applied to the lower' part of the 
abdomen. The patient should take equal parts of Cypri- 
pedin and Scutellarin, one grain every half hour until the 
paroxysms subside. If the above is not sufficient to con- 
trol the disease, the compound ginger and Bayberry tea 
may be given freely, followed by ten or twenty of Beach's 
sudorific drops, or thirty or forty drops of the Tinct. of 
Castor, followed by a pill of assafcetida. After the parox- 
ysm, the patient should take from five to ten grains of 
Bebeerine, and the same amount of phosphate oi Iron, 
every day for two or three weeks. 
To remove the uterine affection, Macrotin, Caulophyllin 
and Senecin should be used, as the nature of the case 
seems to indicate. When the disease is dependent upon 
indigestion and constipation of the bowels, tonics and 
laxatives are the remedies. If upon spinal irritation, the 
proper treatment will be found under that head. 
TREATMENT. 226 
MYELITIS. 
MYELITIS, OR INFLAMMATION AND IRRITA- 
TION OF THE SPINAL MARROW. 
The symptoms of this disease are a sharp pain up and 
down the back, rigors, fever, headache, and not unfre- 
quently delirium and coma. In some cases dysuria occurs, 
in others retention of the urine. Rigidity of the muscles 
of the back and neck is almost a constant symptom. The 
body may be bent backwards, opisthotonos, or forwards, 
emprosthotonos, or there may be a simple rigid state of 
the muscles, and the decubitis normal. In other cases 
there may be tetanus, convulsions, or paralysis. The 
muscles of deglutition are often so affected as to occasion 
much difficulty of swallowing. The pulse is mostly hard 
and quick, the bowels are extremely constipated, and 
frequently there is nausea and vomiting. The respiration 
is slow and irregular, and occasionally death is suddenly 
produced by asphyxia. 
PROGNOSIS. 
The prognosis of this disease is usually favorable under 
the eclectic system, if it receives timely treatment. 
TREATMENT. 
A sinapism should be applied along the spine, and the 
feet should be placed in warm water. The patient placed 
upon the Tinct. of Veratrum Viride, if of a plethoric habit; 
if otherwise, Aconite should be given, and the following 
cathartic may be administered : 
JL Cream of Tartar gr. xx. 
Podophyllin.... gr. iij. 
Capsicum gr. x. 
Mix, triturate; divide into six powders, and give pne every 
hour until a cathartic effect is produced. The powders SPINAL IRRITATION. 
227 
should be assisted in their action by warm stimulating 
enema. If the disease still proves persistent, a spirit- 
vapor bath should be given, followed by an emetic of the 
acetic tincture of Lobelia and Sanguinaria, also repeat the 
cathartic and continue the sinapism to the spine. If there 
should be muscular spasms, give the fluid extract of 
Lobelia, Cypripedin and Scutellaria, equal parts, from 
five to ten drops every half hour until that symptom sub- 
sides. After the active stage of the disease is passed, to 
prevent disorganization of the spinal marrow and its 
membranes, with its consequences, such as paralysis, &c., 
a full antiperiodic course of medicine should be given, 
followed by two or three drops of the Tinct. of Phos- 
phorus once or twice a day. The bowels should be kept 
open, and the system supported by the liberal use of 
Hydrastin and Euonymine. 
SPINAL IRRITATION. 
This affection might be more properly designated as 
chronic inflammation of the spinal marrow, and its mem- 
branes. In fact the various morbid changes observable 
as the symptoms of what is usually designated spinal 
irritation, such as softening, effusion, hypertrophy, &c., 
all clearly indicate the previous existence of a latent 
inflammatory process. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Says Prof. J. G. Jones: "The proteian manifestations 
of spinal irritation, and the great liability that exists to 
mistake some of the numerous disturbances produced by 
disease seated in the spinal nerves, for other and more 
serious organic affections, remote from the source of trouble, 
renders the consideration of this subject scarcely less im- 
portant to the student of medicine, than that of any other 228 
SPINAL IRRITATION. 
topic connected with disease. Scarcely an organ in the 
body can be found that is not by turns made the scapegoat 
upon which these great nervous centres play off their fan- 
tastic representations of serious organic or functional dis- 
turbances, and thereby mislead the unsuspecting attendant, 
at the expense to the patient, of a severe course of 
medication directed to disease having its real seat far 
remote from the organ manifesting embarrassment and 
functional disturbance." It will be perceived by these 
remarks of Prof. Jones, that irritation of the spinal 
marrow assumes a great variety of symptoms, which is 
actually the case. 
Not unfrequently females who are troubled w'ith the 
latent form of spinal affection, exhibit symptoms of uterine 
derangement, heart disturbances, irritation of the lungs 
and bronchi, irregularity of the bowels, neuralgic pains, 
&c., succeeding each other in a rapid series of changes. 
The diagnosis must be made up, in these cases, by care- 
fully examining each organ, thus sympathetically affected, 
by itself; and, in the absence of any serious organic dis- 
ease, together with the extreme nervousness of the patient, 
it will enable us to arrive at the true source of the 
complaint. On pressure of the spinal processes, there 
will generally be found more or less tenderness, although 
I have seen quite a number of cases of evident spinal irri- 
tation where this symptom was not present. 
TREATMENT. 
In cases of spinal irritation, the irritating plaster should 
be applied along the diseased part of the spine, and caused 
to remain until a free discharge ensues, and the following 
tonic and alterative given : 
U Phosphate of Iron gr. xxx 
Scuteliarin gr, xx. 
Syrup of Iodide of Potassium ?iij. 
Port Wine Oj. HYPOCHONDRIASIS. 
229 
Mix, and give one tablespoonful three times a day. The 
surface should be bathed irf warm or cold water, as indi- 
cated, twice or three times a week; and the bowels should 
be kept regular by the use of small doses of Neutralizing 
mixture. When the above course has been pursued for 
some time, and the disease is not rerpoved, the following 
compound may be given : 
R Valerianate of Quinine gr. xx. 
Cypripedin gr. x. 
Sanguinarin gr. xx. 
White Sugar 
Mix, triturate, and give ten grains four or five times a day. 
Also, bathe the surface in a warm solution of Ferrocyanide 
of Potassium every morning. If there is Leucorrluea con- 
nected with the spinal difficulty, Macrotin and Caulophyl- 
lin should be given in addition to the above. 
HYPOCHONDRIASIS. 
The symptoms of this disease are exceedingly various, 
and are both imaginary and real. The imaginary ones are 
numerous, such as want of sleep, constipation of the bowels, 
inability to sleep, &c. Nothing is more common than to 
hear the patient state that he has been unable to close his 
eyes in sleep for several nights, when the fact is that he has 
slept regularly. Or that the bowels have not moved foi 
days, or even weeks, when they are perfectly regular. Or 
there may be a great variety of imaginary difficulties at 
the same time. The complaints of one individual that I 
treated for this disease will serve to illustrate the imagi 
nary symptoms of this class of cases : The patient was a 
male about 45 years of age. He first complained of ina- 
bility to walk, and accordingly took to his bed. He was 
soon unable to speak above a whisper, and imagined he 
was laboring under an attack of acute phthisis, and, as hc> 
20 230 
HYPOCHONDRIASIS. 
said, had excessive dyspnoea and violent cough, although 
he neither coughed nor apparently had any diffif'-qlty of 
breathing. He also complained of an entire loss of appe- 
tite, and inability to take food, yet he ate three hearty 
meals daily. At times he thought he was about to die 
from an extensive affection of the heart; and also, that his 
liver and kidneys were consumed. In short, he was com- 
posed of a congeries of all the ills that afflict the human 
family. He continued in this state for twelve years, only 
leaving his bed for a few minutes at a time, and then with 
great difficulty. During the whole time, he only spoke 
above a whisper, except when angry. He would then be- 
come very boisterous, and talk exceedingly loud, which in 
one or two instances lasted for several days. But when 
the fit passed off, he was as seemingly incapable of speech 
as before. On examination, no apparent disease existed 
further than the natural debility dependent upon so long 
confinement. By a proper course of mental and physical 
treatment, he soon recovered, and resumed his ordinary 
occupation, that of farming. And although it is now over 
ten years, he has enjoyed uninterrupted good health. Fe- 
males who are afflicted with this diseased condition of 
the mind, often imagine they have some severe uterine 
derangement. And frequently the medical attendant being 
as ignorant of the cause of the disease as herself, subjects 
her to a very disastrous course of medication. Another 
class of patients afflicted with hypochondriasis have, in 
addition to the imaginary symptoms, some real organic 
affections which require especial treatment. 
Hypochondriasis, no doubt, is induced by a want of 
harmonious action between the different organs of the 
brain. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of this malady should consist principally 
in quieting, as far as practicable, the already-excited facul OPHTHALMIA. 
231 
ties of the brain, and bringing other faculties into action. 
The mind should be constantly directed to other subjects 
than those to which it has been previously directed ; and 
those subjects should be sufficiently exciting to arrest his 
former meditations. The head, should be frequently show- 
ered in cold, and the body, in tepid water. He should be 
induced to take as much exercise as his enfeebled condition 
will warrant. The bowels are to be regulated by mild 
aperients, and in some cases chalybeates and vegetable 
tonics will be required. If the disease is complicated with 
organic affections, it should be treated accordingly. 
OPHTHALMIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
EYES. 
The eye is one of the most delicate as well as one of the 
most complicated organs of the body. 
Diseases of the eye have been until recently very imper- 
fectly understood. Thus has the patient been duped, not 
only in a pecuniary point, but too often mourns the loss 
of that inestimable organ. 
Ophthalmia is mostly described as a surgical disease, 
but considering that a large majority of cases of this class 
originate in some defect of the constitution, the propriety 
of treating upon them, in a work on practical medicine, 
will readily be perceived. 
Inflammation of the eye may be divided into external, or 
inflammation of the conjunctiva, and deep-seated, or inflam- 
mation of the other tunics, including amaurosis, which is 
frequently produced by inflammation. This disease is again 
divided into acute and chronic. 232 
CATARRHAL OPHTHALMIA. 
INFLAMMATION OF THE CONJUNCTIVA. 
The first symptom complained of, in this form of inflam- 
mation of the eye, is a sensation as if particles of sand had 
insinuated themselves beneath the lids, accompanied by 
heat, pain, and increased lachrymal secretion; also, intole- 
rance of light. In severe cases there are headache, nausea, 
constipation of the bowels, anorexia, and more or less 
disposition to fever. The causes of this form of Ophthal- 
mia are mostly local-as particles of sand, dust, or insects 
beneath the lids, inversion of eyelashes, &c. 
TREATMENT. 
The first object should be to remove the cause. If there 
is an irritating substance beneath the lid, the eye should be 
thoroughly bathed in cold water while the lid is held open. 
If the substance is not removed in this manner, a vial cork 
should be rubbed perfectly smooth with a dry flannel: the 
particle may then be removed by touching it lightly with 
the cork. Particles of iron or steel may be removed in 
this manner; also, by means of a small magnet. When 
the eye is thus relieved, it may be packed in cold water, 
and the patient's bowels moved by a dose of anti-bilious 
physic. If the injury be sufficient to cause inflammation 
of the eye, a mild diet may be adopted for a few days, and 
the packs changed as often as necessary to keep them cooi. 
CATARRHAL OPHTHALMIA. 
SYMPTOMS. 
After exposure to cold, the eyes are noticed to have a 
smarting or burning sensation, and the capillaries to be 
sufficiently dilated to admit of the red corpuscles, whereas 233 
in a normal condition they only convey white ones. The 
dilated capillaries at first exhibit a radiated appearance, 
but soon become confluent, and the entire conjunctiva 
assumes a red and highly inflamed aspect. This con- 
dition of the eye is accompanied by chilliness, aching of the 
bones, and some degree of fever. There is also intolerance 
to light, and, when the disease has become established, a 
puriform discharge from the eyes. 
CATARRHAL OPHTHALMIA. 
TREATMENT. 
As this form of inflammation of the eye is dependent 
upon exposure to cold ; in other words, upon a contracted 
state of the superficial capillaries, and consequent con- 
gestion, or inflammation, of the deep capillaries,-the first 
indication of treatment is to relax the vessels of the surface, 
and thus unload the congested internal vessels. To effect 
this the surface should be thoroughly bathed in warm lye 
water, the patient placed in bed, and the following emetic 
given : 
R Lobelia seed, pulverized gr. xx. 
Ginger Tea Oj. 
Add the Lobelia to the ginger tea while warm, and give 
one wine-glass full every fifteen minutes, until a thorough 
emetic effect is produced. The bowels should be opened 
by the liberal use of antibilious physic. During the action 
of the emetic and cathartic, the eyes should be kept packed 
in cold, soft water. If the disease has assumed a chronic 
form, the pack should be applied as warm as the patient 
will bear it, and an astringent wash used once or twice 
a day, such as one gr. of nitrate of silver added to one oz. 
of pure soft water, and a small quantity applied to the eye 
by means of a camel's hair pencil once or twice a-day ; or 
the eye may be bathed in a strong decoction of Hydrastin 
every morning and evening. All irritating salves and eye- 
washes should be carefully avoided, as they always prove 
20* 234 
INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES. 
injurious. If there should be fever, it should be con- 
trolled by the use of Aconite. The diet should be cool 
and bland, the eye precluded from light, and the patient 
kept quiet. 
INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES OF INFANTS, 
OR PURULENT OPHTHALMIA. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The symptoms of purulent ophthalmia of children, are 
somewhat similar to those of catarrhal ophthalmia of 
adults. The eyes are kept constantly closed, the lids are 
red and swollen, and glued together by thick puriform 
matter becoming dry. The skin will be dry, and the 
bowels irregular. If this disease is neglected, it will 
result in ulceration of the cornea and loss of the organ. 
The cause of this disease is exposure to cold, damp cloth- 
ing, and injuries in washing the child; also the introduc- 
tion of acrid matter, which is upon the child, into the eye. 
TREATMENT. 
In the treatment of this affection, the eyes should be 
thoroughly bathed in a cold, weak solution of Hydrastin, 
four or five times a-day. They should be kept packed in 
cold soft water, to which is added a small amount of the 
Tinct. of Lobelia. The bowels should be kept open by the 
use of neutralizing mixture and Leptandrin, and from one- 
half to one drop of Aconite, given every four or five 
hours. Where the eye-lids become granulated, they 
should be inverted, and lightly touched with a camel's 
hair pencil, moistened with a solution of vegetable caustic, 
once or twice a-day; but much care should be taken that 
the caustic be all removed before the lids are closed. AU 
poultices should be avoided. Where the disease is of a AMAUROSIS. 
235 
scrofulous character, either in children or adults, Muriated 
Tinct. of Iron, Compound Syrup of Stillingia, Hydrastin, 
Scrophularia, Quinine, Iodide of Potassium, Iodide of 
Iron, and a generous diet, are the remedies. 
AMAUROSIS. 
The term amaurosis is used to denote a partial or total 
loss of vision, affecting one or both eyes. The causes of 
this affection are various. It may arise from the inflam- 
mation of the sclerotic coat, from inflammation of the iris, 
from inflammation of the retina, by congestion of the 
vessels of the retina, by congestion of the brain, by effu- 
sion into the base of the brain, by the too free use of 
ardent spirits, by gastro-intestinal irritation, by tubercu- 
lous affection of the optic nerve, by spermatorrhaea, in- 
ternal use of mercury, exposure of the eye to too strong 
light, &c. 
SYMPTOMS. 
The symptoms of amaurosis very much depend upon 
the cause. Yet the following may be enumerated as 
generally present in cases of this kind : imperfect vision, 
pain in the eye, flashes of light, dark spots appearing 
before the eyes, and in some cases the pupil will be ob- 
viously dilated. The disease is mostly insidious, and its 
progress very slow, although in some cases it is rapid, 
destroying the vision almost at once. 
TREATMENT. 
If amaurosis is dependent upon any of the inflammatory 
affections, a thorough purgative should be given at once. 
As, 
R Podophyllin gr. iij. 
jalapin gr. j. 
Cream of Tartfir gr. xxx. 236 
AMAUROSIS. 
Mix, divide into eight powders, and take one very hour 
until it operates. After which the patient should be put 
upon full doses of Tinct. of Veratrum, the pulse main- 
tained at about fifty-five or sixty beats per minute, and 
the following diuretic or alterative given : 
R Syrup of Marshmallow Oss. 
" Iodide of Potassiumgij. 
Mix; dose, one teaspoonful three or four times a-day. 
The eye should be kept constantly packed with cold water, 
the diet should be low, and the patient should avoid all 
exposure of the eyes to the light, and all mental and 
physical labor. If effusion of lymph has taken place 
within the tunics of the optic nerve, or any part of the 
eye, causing amaurosis, absorption can be produced by 
the following pill: 
R Xanthoxylin gr. xx. 
Iridin gr. x. 
Podophyllin gr. iij. 
Iodide of Potassium gr. xxx. 
Ext. of Dandelion, in quantity sufficient 
to make a pill mass. 
Make three-grain pills, and let three to six be taken per 
day. At the same time, the kidneys should be stimulated 
by the use of Cream of Tartar water and vegetable diu- 
retics, as Queen of the Meadow, &c. Where there is 
loss of power in the nerve, bathing the forehead in strong 
Tinct. of Capsicum, three or four times a-day, wall be 
very beneficial. The eyes should be well protected from 
strong light, and from three to five drops of Tct. Rhus 
Radicans given three times a day. If this remedy should 
fail to give relief in the course of a few weeks, the follow- 
ing mixture should be given : 
R Hydrocyanic Acid gtt. viij. 
Quinine Sulph gr. xx. 
Aquagiij. DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 
237 
Mix ; dose, one teaspoonful four or five times a day. The 
bowels should be kept open by the occasional use of a 
stimulating purgative. Cold baths should be taken as 
often as every third day. Where the disease is of long 
standing, indicating paralysis of the optic nerve, the fol- 
lowing may be used to advantage : 
R Extract Macrotys gr. xx. 
" Mux Vomica gr. x. 
" Euonymine gr. xxx. 
Mix, and form a pill mass, and make two-grain pills. 
Dose, from one to three pills, three times a day. During 
the entire course of treatment, the anterior portion of the 
head should be frequently bathed with a stimulating pre- 
paration. 
DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 
HERPES, OR SALT RHEUM. 
SYMPTOMS. 
Small vesicles grouped together upon inflamed patches 
of skin; the vesicles contain a thin, light, transparent 
fluid, which is absorbed or evaporated, leaving a thin 
transparent scale. This desiccation will desquamate and 
leave the part, which will again become affected in the 
same manner. There are two other varieties of Herpes 
spoken of by writers, viz: Herpes Zoster or Shingles, and 
Herpes Circinatus or Ring-worm. The symptoms of 
Herpes Zoster are full and quick pulse, dry skin with 
fever, tenderness of the Epigastrium, constipation of the 
bowels; and the herpetic eruption which generally com- 
mences on the bowels, and spreading frequently, encircles 
the body. The appearance of the eruption, is almost 
identical with salt rheum: it is in fact the acute form of 238 
DISEASES OF THE SKIN. 
it The symptoms of Herpes Circinatus are very simple; 
it being only what is known as a ring-worm, no farther 
description will be required. 
TREATMENT. 
As an external application, an ointment may be used 
made as follows : 
B Iodide of Zinc gr. xxx. 
Ext. of Phytolocca Decandra gr. xx. 
" Black Walnut Bark gr. xxx. 
" Balsam Copaiba 
Mix, and rub a small portion on the diseased part, morn- 
ing and evening. Previously, the part should be well 
bathed in a strong decoction of Black Walnut buds or 
leaves. At the same time, the following compound should 
be taken internally : 
B Juglandin gj. 
Irisingss. 
Sac Alba giij. 
Mix, triturate, and give from ten to fifteen grains twice a 
day. Also give one teaspoonful of compound syrup of 
Stillingia three times a day. If there is tenderness in the 
parts after the disease seems to be removed, they should 
be protected by liquid collodion for a few months, to 
prevent a return. For Herpes Circinatus, or ring-worm, 
wash the parts in Saleratus water, and cover with Col- 
lodion. 
In Herpes Zoster, or Shingles, the eruptive surface 
should be well bathed in a strong solution of zinc, after 
which apply a slippery elm poultice. A purgative of 
Juglandin and Cream of Tartar should be given, and 
repeated from time to time as long as the disease proves 
active. To control the fever, Aconite or Veratrum should 
be used, and the surface frequently bathed in lye water. 
If the disease is periodical, some of the antiperiodic medi- 239 
ECZEMA. 
cines should be given. The zinc wash should be repeated 
from time to time, until the active inflammation is sub- 
dued. Afterwards use the liquid Collodion instead. 
ECZEMA. 
This is another form of herpetic eruptive disease, and 
like all others, it is characterized by small blisters or 
vesicles. There are several varieties of this form of erup- 
tive disease, such as Eczema of the face, or crusta lactea, 
Impetigo, or moist tetter, &c. The causes of these cu- 
taneous eruptive diseases are as numerous as the varieties. 
They may arise from improper diet, exposure to cold, 
teething in children, intestinal irritations, &c. They are 
also hereditary. The symptoms depend very much upon 
the cause; but in all cases, where the disease is in any 
way severe, there is more or less constitutional disturb- 
ance, such as irregularity of the bowels, fever, quick 
pulse, scanty and high-colored urine, &c. The limits of 
this work will not allow of a minute description, of every 
form, of these eruptive diseases and their symptoms. But 
as the treatment varies only, as the causes are different, 
the descriptions and symptoms given will be found suffi- 
ciently minute for all practical purposes. 
There is no class of remedies more efficacious in skin 
diseases, than the preparations of the Juglans cinerea; 
and the most efficient of these is the Juglandin. This 
should be used in connection with bitartrate of potassa, in 
sufficient quantities to produce a mild purgative effect. 
The best preparation of that kind is the following : 
R Juglandin gr. xxx. 
Cream of Tartar gr. xxx. 
Pulv. Cubebs gr. xx. 
TREATMENT. 240 
IT on. 
Mix, triturate, and divide into twenty powders, and give 
one every morning and evening. 
The above may be given in connection with, or alter- 
nated with antiscrofulous syrup, or Iodide of Potassium. 
In some cases, iron and antiperiodics will be required. 
The external applications should be tar ointment, nitro- 
muriatic acid, zinc ointment, ointment of Baptisin, acetic 
Tinct. of Bloodroot, astringent washes, slippery elm poul- 
tices, and Collodion. These different remedies may be 
used as the nature and character of the disease seem to 
indicate. In the active stage, the preparations of zinc 
are the best adapted to remove the disease, while the 
others are more efficient in the chronic stages. 
ITCH, OR SCABTES. 
This disease is caused by minute white insects, the 
Acarus Scabiei, or Sareoptis hominis, which insinuate 
themselves beneath the cuticle, and travel over the differ- 
ent portions of the rete mucosum. It is said that these 
insects travel in pairs - male and female - and that the 
female is very much smaller. By the aid of the micro- 
scope, they are observed to have a large number of bristles 
upon the head or proboscis. When they find a soft and 
moist portion of skin, they burrow beneath a small der- 
moid scale, and luxuriate until a deposition of a small 
quantity of serum from the blood warns them, that unless 
they take their departure, a flood will soon overtake them. 
But before taking their final leave, the female deposits her 
eggs at the point of the vesicle; thus a nidus is formed 
for the complete development of the acarii. 
SYMPTOMS. 
A vesicular eruption makes its appearance between the 
fingers, and in other soft portions of the skin, accompanied 
by an intolerable itching. If the vesicle is opened, a 
small amount of sero-albuminous matter will escape, and 
if allowed to dry, will form a light brown PUSTULOUS JUTANEOUS. 
241 
TREATMENT. 
The only remedy necessary in the treatment o" this 
disease is sulphur, and the reason why this remedy is 
not more successful, is the inefficiency of its applica- 
tion. The entire surface of the patient should first be 
washed with soap and water; immediately afterwards, 
a strong decoction of sulphur should be applied to every 
portion of the body, and allowed to remain from one-half 
hour to an hour, when the whole surface should be wiped 
with a towel, wrung out of strong saleratus water. One 
application of the sulphur, used as directed above, will 
generally remove the disease ; yet, it is advisable to renew 
the application several times. The sulphur, on coming in 
contact with the insect, immediately destroys it. . 
PUSTULOUS CUTANEOUS DISEASE. 
All the diseases characterized by pustules, may be cor- 
rectly classified under the above head. Willan and Bate- 
man specify four varieties of this form of non-contagious 
disease, viz : phlyzacium, psydracium, achor, and favus. 
SYMPTOMS. 
A greater or less number of distinct tumefied eruptions, 
which gradually mature and become filled with a sero- 
purulent matter, and having an inflamed base. These 
may appear in small clusters, and disappear in a few days, 
or they may cover a considerable part of the hands, face, 
or other portions of the body, and be accompanied with 
extensive inflammation of the integument, and extending 
in some instances to the adjacent tissues, terminating in 
phlegmonoid abscess. Nearly all the forms of tetter come 
under this class, as do also impetigo and acne. In some 
eases, there are constitutional symptoms, as fever, quick 
21 242 
PUSTULOUS CUTANEOUS. 
pulse, headache, loss of appetite, &c. The causes of this 
kind of cutaneous disease, are essentially the same as of 
the vesicular, but they are more apt to be connected with 
an impoverished condition of the blood. 
TREATMENT. 
If this disease appears on the head, it is called porrigo, 
or scald head. The hair should be shaved close to the 
scalp, and the head must be thoroughly washed with soap 
and water, after which the zinc and tar ointment must be 
alternately applied, morning and evening - the zinc in the 
morning, and the tar in the evening: the patient should 
likewise take a full dose of the alterative syrup three times 
a day. This course, if persisted in, will remove the dis- 
ease. When the eruption appears on other parts of the 
body, the nitro-muriatic acid should be first applied, and 
be followed by the Tar ointment. A mild purgative of 
Juglandin and Cream of Tartar, also simple syrup of 
Stillingia and Scrophularia, equal parts, should be taken 
in small quantities during the application of the external 
remedies. When the pustular eruption is connected with 
extensive inflammation of the skin, a slippery elm poultice 
should follow the application of the ointment. Should the 
disease prove obstinate, equal parts of vegetable caustic 
and pulverized Sanguinaria, should be sprinkled over the 
parts before each application of the ointment. If there 
are constitutional symptoms, they should be treated accord- 
ing to their nature; in most cases, iron and vegetable 
tonics will be required. The diet should be nutritious, 
and the surface freely bathed once or twice a day. To 
remove the small pustules which appear on the face, apply 
a liniment made of equal parts of ammonia and sweet oil. 
Or, when they first appear, touch them with ammonia, and 
cover them with Collodion. PURPURA. 
243 
PURPURA. 
There are several varieties of this disease: as simplex, 
or petechial scurvy, purpura hemorrhagica, purpura 
nautica, purpura scarlatina. By the term purpura, we 
understand a greater or less number of livid spots on the 
skin from extravasated blood. In purpura simplex, the 
effusion is confined to the skin and cellular tissue, mostly 
occurring on the arms, legs, and breasts. The spots at 
first are small, resembling flea-bites, and are frequently 
very numerous. The countenance is pale, and the patient 
complains of great debility, loss of appetite, irregularity 
of the bowels, and periodic fever. If the disease is al- 
lowed to progress, it will terminate in what is called pur- 
pura hemorrhagiou, and is described by Dr. Bateman as 
follows: 
"The petechise are often of a large size, and are inter- 
spersed with vibices, echymoses, or livid stripes and 
patches, resembling the marks left by the strokes of a 
whip, or violent bruises. They commonly appear first on 
the legs, and at uncertain periods afterwards, on the 
thighs, arms, and trunk of the body ; the hands being 
more rarely spotted with them, and the face generally free. 
They are usually of a bright red color when they first 
appear, but soon become purple or livid ; and when about 
to disappear, they change to a brown or yellowish hue; 
so that, as new eruptions arise, and the absorption of the 
old ones slowly proceeds, this variety of colors is com- 
monly seen in the different spots at the same time. The 
cuticle over them appears smooth and shining, but it is 
not sensibly elevated ; in a few cases, however, the cuticle 
has been seen raised into a sort of vesicles, containing 
black blood. This more frequently happens in the spots, 
which appear on the tongue, gums, palate, and inside of 
the cheeks and lips, where the cuticle is extremely thin, 244 
PURPURA. 
and breaks from the slightest force, discharging the effused 
blood. The gentlest pressure on the skin, even such as is 
applied in feeling the pulse, will often produce a purple 
blotch, like that which is left after a severe bruise. The 
same state of the system which gives rise to these effusions 
under the cuticle, produces likewise copious discharges of 
blood, especially from the internal parts, which are de- 
fended by more delicate coverings. These hemorrhages 
are often very profuse and not easily restrained, and there- 
fore sometimes prove suddenly fatal; but in other cases, 
they are less copious ; sometimes returning every day at 
stated periods, and sometimes less frequently, and at 
irregular intervals; and sometimes there is a slow and 
almost incessant oozing of blood. The bleeding occurs 
from the gums, nostrils, throat, inside of the cheeks, 
tongue, lips, and sometimes from the lining membrane of 
the eyelids, the urethra and the external ear; and also 
from the internal cavities of the lungs, stomach, bowels, 
uterus, kidneys, and bladder. There is the greatest 
variety, however, in different instances as to the period of 
the disease, in which the haemorrhages commence and 
cease, and as to the proportion which they bear to the 
cutaneous efflorescence. 
"This singular disease is often preceded, for some 
weeks, by great lassitude, faintness, and pains in the 
limbs, which render the patient incapable of any exertion; 
but, not unfrequently, it appears suddenly in the midst of 
apparent good health. It is always accompanied by 
great debility and depression of spirits; the pulse is some- 
times quickened; and heat, flushing, perspiration, and 
other symptoms of febrile irritation, recurring like the 
paroxysms of hectic, occasionally attend. In some 
patients, deep-seated pains have been felt about the pre- 
cordia, and in the chest, loins, and abdomen; and in 
others, a considerable cough has accompanied the com- PURPURA. 
245 
plaint, or a tumor and tension of the epigastrium, right 
or left hypochondrium, with tenderness on pressure, and a 
constipated, or irregular state of the bowels. But in 
many cases, no febrile appearances have been noticed; and 
the functions of the intestines are often natural. In a 
few cases, frequent syncope has occurred. When the dis- 
ease has continued for some time, the patient become? 
sallow, or of a dirty complexion, with much emaciation, 
and some degree of oedema appears in the lower extremi- 
ties, which afterwards extends to other parts. The disease 
is extremely uncertain in its duration ; in some instances 
it has terminated in a few days, while in others it has con- 
tinued not only for many months, but even for years." 
When the disease runs a rapid course and terminates in 
death, it is generally dependent upon the occurrence of 
hemorrhage into some of the vital organs. Such is the 
disposition to hemorrhage in this stage of the disease, that 
although a patient may appear convalescent on retiring tc 
bed in the evening, he may be suddenly seized with violent 
dyspnoea and orthopnoea, which rapidly increases until 
death ensues by asphyxia. In such a case, there has been 
a sudden effusion of blood into the pulmonary tissue, pro- 
ducing pulmonary apoplexy. 
Or there may be acute haemoptysis, caused by the escape 
of blood into the air passages. In this event, the hemor- 
rhage may be controlled, and the patient recover under 
proper treatment. The hemorrhage may occur in other 
organs, as the brain, producing apoplexy and death ; or, 
into the cavities of the che§t and abdomen. It also 
occurs into the cellular tissue, producing extensive ecchy- 
mosis, inflammation, gangrene, and death • or the purple 
spot will gradually assume a yellow appearance, absorp- 
tion of the effused blood occur, and the patient recover. 
In purpura nautica, the purple spot mostly occurs at 
the roots of the hair, on the gums, and mucous membrane 
21* 246 
PURPURA. 
of the mouth and pharynx. In this form of the disease, 
the gums become spongy and bleed upon the slightest 
injury, the teeth become loose, and frequently fall from the 
gums : there is great debility, a sallow countenance, ir- 
regular sleep, and night-sweats, followed by fever; the 
bowels are irritable, and there is mselena. This latter 
form of it, Prof. J. Gr. Jones has treated as a separate 
disease, under the head of Scurvy or Scorbutus; and con- 
siders it the same as various writers have described as sea- 
scurvy : although he does not favor the opinion, at one 
time very prevalent, that salt water causes the disease; butl 
states, that the cause is generally more of a positive 
than a negative character, being the want of such articles 
of food as furnish the system through the medium of the 
blood, with certain elements indispensable to life and 
health. He is of the opinion that these deficiencies con- 
sist in the lack of vegetable acids. 
On comparing the description of scurvy by Prof. Jones, 
McIntosh, Bateman, and others, with purpura, as it is 
described by various individuals, the only difference be- 
tween what is known as sea-scurvy, and purpura, is the 
circumstances under which it makes its appearance; both 
evidently depend upon the same pathological condition of 
the system. 
CAUSE. 
The causes of the different varieties of this disease, 
seem to depend upon a deficiency of vegetable aliment, 
and long exposure to a damp atmosphere ; also, a lack of 
due exercise, an unwholesome diet, and anything which 
tends to an impoverished state of the blood. The influ- 
ence of improper diet, in developing purpura, has been 
remarkably exemplified within the past year. Owing to 
the failure of fruit, as well as the potato crop and other 
vegetables, bread, butter, and meats have been the princi- 
pal articles of diet; and purpura, whir h was hardly known PURPURA. 
247 
in the country, has become a prevalent disease. So 
much so, that the most trifling complaints are attended 
frequently by active hemorrhage. On examining the 
blood, it is found to be deficient in fibrine, but feebly 
disposed to coagulate, and very abundant in serum. 
TREATMENT. 
When the disease first makes its appearance in the 
simple form, little more is necessary than a liberal diet of 
fresh vegetables, with out-door exercise, and a small 
amount of Muriated Tinct. of Iron, say from five to ten 
drops three times a day. Where the disease assumes a 
hemorrhagic character, the following may be given : 
R Quinine gr. xv. 
Citrate of Iron gr. xxx. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into eleven powders, and take one 
every three hours. The patient should at the same time 
make a free use of lemonade, and take a free diet of green 
vegetables, salt meats, eggs, &c. After the powders are 
all taken, the following mixture should be given : 
R Port Wine Oj. 
Phosphate of Lime§ss. 
Carbonate of Iron 
Mix, shake well, and take one tablespoonful, three or four 
times a day. If effusion has occurred into the cellular 
tissue of one of the limbs, it should be carefully ban- 
daged, and kept constantly wet in a strong liniment of 
camphor, whiskey, and spirits of turpentine. The bowels 
should be moved once or twice a week, by the use of 
Antibilious physic and Cream of Tartar. The body 
should be frequently bathed in warm or cold water as 
indicated. 
Should hemorrhage occur into the bowels, lungs, or any 
other organ, the oil of Erigeron may be given in five or 248 
six drop doses every half hour. If there should be me- 
'sena, and the oil of Erigeron should fail to arrest it, the 
nitrate of silver pill may be given as directed under the 
head of typhoid fever. Or from five to ten grains of 
Matico, may be given every fifteen or twenty minutes, 
until the hemorrhage ceases. If there is much debility, 
porter, ale, or brandy, should be given in such quantities 
as the nature of the case may indicate. The patient 
should avoid all active exercise, and exposure to a damp, 
moist atmosphere ; let him repeat the Quinine and Iron 
from time to time, until the disease is removed. 
RETENTION OF URINE. 
ISCHURIA, RETENTION OF URINE. 
In this disease, the urine, accumulated in the bladder,, 
cannot be evacuated without extreme difficulty, or without 
assistance; when it cannot be evacuated without assist- 
ance, the retention is said to be complete ; and when it is 
evacuated without assistance, but with great difficulty, it 
is said to be incomplete. 
CAUSES. 
The causes of retention of urine are various; as in- 
flammation of the bladder, small stones or gravel lodging 
in the urinary passages, hard faeces lying in the rectum, 
pregnancy, stricture of the neck of the bladder, swelling 
of the hemorrhoidal veins, paralysis of the bladder, pro- 
lapsus uteri, inflammation of the mucous surface of the 
urethra; it also occurs in female hysteria, and from in 
flammation of the meatus urinarius. 
When the bladder becomes abnormally distended with 
urine, there will be a dull pain in the back, with sharp 
lancinating pains passing through the bladder. As the 
SYMPTOMS. RETENTION OF URINE. 
249 
accumulation of urine goes on, the pain increases until it 
becomes excruciating, the arterial system is much excited, 
and the pulse beats with increased frequency, rising to 100 
or 140 beats per minute. The respiration is hurried, and 
the skin hot and dry. If the uric acid is allowed to be 
absorbed into the blood, the brain will sympathize with 
the other constitutional symptoms, producing delirium, 
and as I have seen in several cases, clonic spasms. Unless 
the bladder i» evacuated, it will become perforated, pro- 
ducing death ; or death may occur as the result of zymotic 
influence upon the blood and nerves. 
When the retention is dependent upon inflammation of 
the bladder, kidneys, or urethra, the bladder should first 
be evacuated by means of a catheter ; after which the 
disease should be treated, as directed under the head of 
inflammation of these parts. If it depends upon a stric- 
ture, it can generally be overcome by injecting into the 
urethra, a solution of the extract of Belladonna or Gel- 
seminum ; 
B Extract of Belladonna gr. x. 
Warm Water giij. 
Dissolve the extract in the water, and inject one third into 
the urethra. If this is not soon followed by relief, it may 
be repeated every fifteen or twenty minutes. If, in a 
reasonable time, relief is not effected, the Ext. Gelseminum 
may be used in the same manner. In my hands this treat- 
ment in strictures of the urethra has proved efficacious in 
a large number of cases. Where the disease is occasioned 
by a gravelly deposit in the bladder, 
B Ext. Eupurpuringr. xxx. 
Cream of Tartar gj. 
Apocynin gr. xx. 
TREATMENT. 250 
INCONTINENCE OF URINE. 
Mix, triturate; divide into ten powders, and give one 
three times a day in one teaspoonful of Syrup of Iodide of 
Potassium ; the hypogastric and lumbar regions should be 
bathed every morning and evening in equal parts of sweet 
oil and spirits of turpentine. Where there is pressure on 
the neck of the bladder, by faeces lying in the rectum, by 
pregnancy, or other cause, it should be removed. And 
then, by the use of Marshmallow, Clivers or flaxseed tea, 
« cure may be effected. In females, where*it is dependent 
upon irritation of the meatus urinarius, a warm elm poul- 
tice, applied to the vulva, and melon-seed tea, will gene- 
rally effect a cure. If there should be debility of the 
bladder, with a tendency to paralysis, tonics, combined 
with Iron, should be used, and the nerves of the back 
gently stimulated by the application of the electro-magnetic 
current once or twice a day. During the treatment of 
retention of urine, whatever the cause may be, the bladder 
should be evacuated every day by the use of the catheter. 
ENURESIS, INCONTINENCE OF URINE. 
Incontinence of urine, like retention, is often associated 
■with some constitutional weakness. In advanced life it is 
usually associated with disease of the neck of the bladder, 
prostate gland, or with paralysis. Incontinence of urine, 
in children, mostly occurs in the night only, while asleep ; 
and, not unfrequently, in these cases the urine passes off 
involuntarily under the influence of a dream. 
It is said that in such cases the acid property of the 
urine is the exciting cause, and that there is a strong ten- 
dency to gravelly deposits. In young people, where the 
urine passes off in the night involuntarily, it is usually 
retained, at any time, with much difficulty, and will be of 
a very pale color, and far less serous than is natural. In HEMATURIA. 
251 
old people, this difficulty arises from paralysis, produced 
by injuries of the spine, or over-distension of the bladder, 
injuries of the neck of the bladder, &c. 
TREATMENT. 
In children, where the disease depends upon a changed 
condition of the urine, the diet should be well regulated, 
and warm or cold baths given three or four times a week. 
A syrup of equal parts of Hydrastus Canadensis and 
Aletris Farinosa should be given in teaspoonful doses 
three times a day. Where it depends upon spinal irrita- 
tion, the irritating plaster should be applied to the spine, 
and from five to ten drops of the oil of Erigeron given 
three times a day, with a free use of cold baths and 
friction. 
If the bladder is in an irritable state, give the following: 
E Dwarf Elder Jy. 
Indian Hemp !jij. 
Marshmallows gj. 
Make one pint of syrup, and add one half pint of gin. 
Dose, one teaspoonful three times a day. If there is an 
enlarged condition of the prostate gland, one drachm of 
Iodide of Potassium should be added to the syrup, and 
the same quantity taken. 
HAEMATURIA, OR HEMORRHAGE FROM THE 
URINARY ORGANS. 
This frequently occurs in certain epidemics of the 
malignant type, as in cholera and severe remittent and 
typhoid fever, in which the spleen and liver are implicated ; 
also in Purpura, Scurvy, and all diseases in which the 
blood is in an impoverished state. The exciting cause of 
haematuria may be of a mechanical nature, that is, a cal- 252 
URINARY HEMORRHAGE. 
cuius concretion ; or it may be from ulcerations of the 
bladder, kidneys, or their appendages. When the hemor- 
rhage cannot be traced to some constitutional disturbance, 
it may be considered directly mechanical. This may 
depend upon a calculus, either causing irritation or wound- 
ing some blood-vessel; or the hemorrhage may occur from 
ulceration of the bladder, by the irritating effect of the 
urine itself. 
DIAGNOSIS. 
When the patient is laboring under no constitutional 
disease, that is usually accompanied by hemorrhage, or has 
not been afflicted with calculous affections, if he complains 
of pain in the urinary organs, and voids blood with t*he 
urine, mixed with mucus, and especially if mixed with 
purulent matter, a breach of surface must exist somewhere 
in the urinary apparatus. Having ascertained the cause 
of the hemorrhage, its seat should be sought for. When 
there are sharp twisting pains along the line of the ureter, 
darting to the urethra and testicles, accompanied with 
nausea and vomiting, it may be reasonably supposed that 
it depends upon the presence of calculus in the ureter or 
kidneys. On the other hand, when the hemorrhage comes 
on after exercise, and there is occasional retention, accom- 
panied by a twinging pain in the penis, there can be but 
little doubt that the hemorrhage is caused by stone in the 
bladder. Where the hemorrhage is from the kidneys, the 
first urine that flows is generally clear, the blood mostly 
passing at the close of micturition. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of haematuria will depend upon the 
cause, the degree and locality. 
Where the disease is dependent upon scurvy or purpura, 
it should be treated as directed under that head, with the 
addition of astringents, such as an injection ol t> weak URINARY HEMORRHAGE. 
253 
solution of Matico into the bladder, and of Erigeron 
taken internally. If occurring as melaena, the effect of 
obstruction of the liver and spleen, give the following : 
R Muriated Tinct. of Iron gij. 
Quinine gr. xx. 
Water §iij 
Mix, and give one tablespoonful every four or five hours 
until the active stage of the disease is passed. After which, 
the following mixture : 
R Gin Oj. 
Sugar Ibj. 
Water Oj. 
Aletrin £j. 
Euonymine 2 5jij. e 
Mix, and give one tablespoonful three or four times a day. 
The region of the liver and spleen should be bathed two or 
three times a day in a liniment composed of sweet oil and 
spirits of turpentine. Where haematuria is connected with 
a gouty diathesis, a free purgative of Podophyllin and 
Cream of Tartar may be given in the commencement of 
the treatment, followed by full doses of the oil of Erigeron, 
until the hemorrhage ceases. After which, nitro-muriatic 
acid and Euonymine should be given. If calculus in the 
kidneys is the cause of the disease, a strong decoction of 
the Queen of the Meadow will dislodge it and arrest the 
hemorrhage ; after which, mucilaginous diuretics should 
be given, such as marshmallow, flaxseed, &c. When the 
cause of haematuria is seated in the bladder, it should be 
injected first with warm water, afterwards with a strong 
solution of Matico mixed with starch-water. The back 
and loins being thoroughly bathed with a liniment pre- 
pared as follows : 
R Oil of Capsicum gtt. x. 
Alcohol Oss. 
Oil of Origanum giij. 
22 254 
UTERINE CONGESTION. 
Mix, and use as heretofore directed. If there is mu h 
inflammation of the bladder, scarify and cup over that re- 
gion, and apply hot packs. At the same time give Aco- 
nite or Veratrum until the symptoms are controlled. If the 
bladder should become distended with a large amount of 
coagulated blood, recourse must be had to a large-sized 
catheter; and by the aid of an exhausting syringe and an 
occasional injection of the bladder with cold wTater, the 
coagula may be removed. Should the hemorrhage become 
active while thus evacuating the bladder, it may be arrested 
by injecting a solution of Matico into the rectum. 
CONGESTION AND INFLAMMATION OF THE 
UTERUS. 
This disease is but imperfectly understood; and more 
frequently than otherwise passes unobserved both by the 
patient and her medical attendant. In a great majority 
of cases it is treated by physicians as prolapsus uteri, ame- 
norrhea, dysmenorrhsea, menorrhagia, or leucorrhsea; the 
primary cause of the disease is overlooked, and the symp- 
toms only receive attention. Hence it is that but little if 
any benefit is derived from the ordinary course of medica- 
tion in this class of cases. 
The hydropathists have acquired some reputation for 
treating this class of cases, and in many instances they have 
had superior success. Their success, however, is not de- 
pendent upon a more extensive knowledge of the affections 
so much as the remedy upon which they rely being better 
adapted to relieve this peculiar pathological condition 
of the uterus, than the remedies generally used for this 
purpose. 
Congestion of the uterus, like congestion of other organs, 
is a disease of frequent occurrence, and is caused by the UTERINE CONGESTION. 
255 
accumulation of blood in the veins and capillaries. The 
congestion is generally combined with infiltration into the 
cellular tissue of the uterus, producing oedema of the ute- 
rus, and in some cases the oedema is very considerable. 
SYMPTOMS. 
On making a vaginal examination of the uterus, a com- 
plete congested appearance is manifest. The uterus is 
enlarged and vesicular, and in places the veins have a 
varicose appearance. In the incipient congestion of the 
uterus the appearance very much resembles that of early 
pregnancy. The uterus is tender upon pressure, and if the 
disease is of long standing, the broad ligaments and vagina 
also present a similar congested condition. In other cases 
there is excoriating granulations, or ulceration of the neck 
of the uterus and its lining membrane. Congestion of the 
uterus, like the congestion of other similar tissues, is fol- 
lowed by pathological changes, such as an increased afflux 
of blood to the part; a loaded condition of the capillaries, 
the blood circulating with less and less force until it finally 
ceases, and a complete barrier is formed to the further cir- 
culation of blood in the part. At this stage inflammation 
is said to commence. But where congestion assumes a 
chronic form, as it mostly does in the uterus, the vessels, 
after having been thus distended for some time, contract 
upon their own contents, forcing the more fluid portions 
of the blood out of the vessel into the adjacent areolar and 
cellular tissues; and in this way the parenchyma of the 
uterus becomes extensively infiltrated with the fluid portion 
of the blood. Where the congestion extends to the vagina 
and inner membrane of the uterus, a similar exosmosis 
occurs from the congested capillaries of the parts ; instead 
of being retained in the parenchyma, it escapes into the 
cavity of the uterus and vagina, mixing with the mucus, 
and thus constituting what is known as the whites. In case 256 
UTERINE CONGESTION. 
the blood is anaemic, and the patient of a scrofulous cachexia, 
the salts of the blood held in solution will make their escape 
with the serum, and, mingling with mucus, cause a muco- 
purulent or muco-serous discharge. If there is abrasion 
of the uterus or its appendages, the sanious secretion from 
the ulcer, mixed with the disintegrated tissues of the parts, 
often renders the discharge not only offensive but exceed- 
ingly irritating, denuding the vagina of its mucous surface 
and inducing either an acute or chronic inflammation. The 
constitutional symptoms are a sense of weakness, weight, 
or pain in the back ; the patient complains of nervousness, 
pains in the head and shoulders, often changing to different 
parts of the body. The functions of the stomach and 
bowels become deranged ; the countenance is sallow, and 
the skin has a dry and husky appearance ; the lips lose 
their color, and the eyes their natural brilliancy'; the feet 
and hands are mostly cold, although in some cases, and 
in some portions of the day, they are hot and burning. 
The menses are mostly irregular either in quantity, quality, 
or time of occurrence. I have observed all these symptoms 
in connection with congestion of the uterus. If the disease 
is allowed to advance, palpitation of the heart will occur, 
with cough, bronchial irritation and expectoration of mu- 
cus. At this stage of the disease, the increased weight of 
the uterus, together with the relaxed condition of the mus- 
cular tissue, causes the uterus to gravitate into the pelvis, 
resulting in what is usually known as prolapsus uteri. The 
lower floor of the abdominal cavity thus giving way, ena- 
bles the whole contents of the abdomen and thorax to settle 
from their normal position. The bowels, stomach, liver, 
spleen, heart, and lungs, all being thus displaced, put the 
pneumogastric nerve and upper portion of the lung upon 
a stretch, producing a constant irritation and materially 
increasing the cough, which before was considerable. If 
this condition of things is allowed to continue, the blood UTERINE CONGESTION. 
257 
soon becomes impoverished, owing to a defective appetite, 
irregular respiration and leucorrhiea, and a tuberculous 
deposition occurs in the langs. In cases where the uterus 
has become impregnated, the symptoms frequently somewhat 
abate, although in several cases I have known them to be 
very much aggravated, and maintain an uncommon obsti- 
nacy during the entire stage of gestation. Where the ute- 
rus remains thus congested during pregnancy, the disease 
is very liable to terminate in inflammation immediately after 
delivery, proving very obstinate, and, unless properly 
treated, disastrous to the patient. In these cases there is 
acute pain just above the pubes, quick pulse, hot skin, and 
retention of urine, either partial or complete. The tongue 
will soon be covered with a dark brown coat, and many 
times there are convulsions. The bowels are constipated, 
and in many cases there is nausea and vomiting. 
If the disease is not controlled, delirium, coma, and 
death ensue. The inflammation may be less acute, ex- 
tending to the peritoneum, causing a tympanitic condition 
of the bowels, suppression of the lochia arid milk, with 
violent fever. There are other points of great interest 
connected with this form of uterine derangement, which 
the limits of this work will not allow me to consider. 
CAUSES. 
There are a variety of causes which may produce this 
condition of the uterus ; such as the frequent use of em- 
menagogues, which contain mercury, exposure of the 
feet to the damp and cold earth by wearing thin shoes; 
the practice of dressing in such a manner as to compress 
the waist, thus preventing the return of the venous blood 
to the heart by the superficial veins, also obstructing the 
capillary circulation ; hence the blood is forced through 
the deep capillaries, inducing congestion of the uterus. It 
may also be caused by repeated abortions, by excessive 
22* 258 
UTERINE CONGESTION. 
venery, by cold and exposure; in short, anything which 
will induce it in any of the internal viscera, will produce 
it in the uterus. 
TREATMENT. 
In commencing the treatment of this disease, the cause 
should be constantly kept in view, and as far as possible 
be removed. To remove the congestion, a plaster should 
be applied to the abdomen over the uterus, composed of 
the following materials: 
R Gum Galbanum 
White Pine Gum gj. 
White Wax 
Melt the gums and wax together, add one drachm of 
pulverized blood-root, and stir until it becomes thickened ; 
spread a coat of it upon a thin piece of leather, large 
enough to cover the uterus, and apply. It should be 
renewed from time to time until relief is effected. At the 
same time, give the following compound : 
R Gelsemin gr. ij. 
Bebeerine gr. xxx. 
Caulophyllin gr. x. 
White Sugar gr. xxx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into twelve powders, and give one 
every six hours. During the administration of these 
powders, vaginal injections of the cold infusion of Cin- 
chona should be used two or three times a day. During 
the early part of the treatment, a thorough hand-bath 
should be taken every morning as indicated; also an oc- 
casional sitz bath. The above treatment should be pur- 
sued for ten or fifteen days; the following may then be 
substituted: 
R Carbonate of Iron 
Pulv. Queen of the Meadow 
Cream of Tartar UTERINE CONGESTION. 
259 
Port Wine Oj. 
Sugar Ibj. 
Gin Oj. 
Dose, one tablespoonful three times a day. At the same 
time: 
R Fol. Jugland Regise, or Fresh Walnut leaves. 
Port Wine Oj. 
Make a Tincture, and use a syringe full, as vaginal injec- 
tion, once or twice a day. The plaster should be removed, 
and a wet girdle worn around the lower portion of the 
abdomen and back. During the entire course of treat- 
ment, the bowels should be regulated by the use of neu- 
tralizing mixture. If any of the symptoms, described as 
dependent upon this disease, should remain after using the 
above remedies for a reasonable length of time : 
R Macrotin gr. xx. 
Senecin gr. x. 
Capsicum gr. xx. 
Vallet's Ferruginous Mass 3-j. 
Mix, and form a mass. Make three-grain pills, and let 
one be taken three times a day, alone, or in connection 
with other medicines as indicated. If there should be 
ulcers upon the vagina or uterus, the speculum should be 
introduced, and the vegetable caustic be applied, after 
which the ulcer should be covered with powdered slippery 
elm. Much care will be required in making this applica- 
tion, to prevent the caustic from coming in contact with 
parts not diseased. If there should be a scrofulous dia- 
thesis, connected with this disease, Stillingia and Iodide 
of Potassium may be used in connection with the other 
remedies. The diet in any case should be free and nutri- 
tious. In case the congestion should terminate in a latent 
form of inflammation, Muriated Tinct. of Iron, Veratrum, 
Cinchonine, and Cornine, in connection with the local 
applications, as directed under the head of congestion. 260 
CESSATION OF THE MENSES. 
Where active inflammation ensues, a full cathartic of 
Podophyllin and Cream of Tartar should be given in the 
commencement, followed by cold packs to the bowels, and 
full doses of Muriated Tinct. of Iron and Quinine. If 
convulsions are connected with the inflammation, Gelse- 
min, Lobelin, and Belladonna, should be used in sufficient 
quantities until that symptom is relieved. During the 
inflammatory stage, the patient must be kept quiet, but 
in the congestive form of the disease, moderate exercise 
should be taken. 
At the period of life when the menses should cease, the 
discharge usually becomes irregular; sometimes being 
obstructed for two or three months or more. Among 
the symptoms of this period, are nausea and vomiting, 
swelling of the abdomen, tenderness of the breasts, &c. 
These symptoms are frequently mistaken for pregnancy; 
connected with the above, there are frequently uterine 
pains, with dragging sensation in the back and loins; at 
times there is fever, accompanied by violent headache, a 
full, strong pulse, a loaded tongue, and symptoms of indi- 
gestion. The nervous system generally sympathizes with 
the other affections, causing nervous headache, neuralgic 
pains, periodic diarrhoea, and costiveness. These symp- 
toms may all be mitigated by a sudden return of the 
menses, which may last much longer than is natural, and 
also be more profuse; upon their cessation they may 
again return in an aggravated form. 
This period in female life is truly designated the critical 
period; and, although this is necessarily the case, owing 
to the important physiological changes which occur at this 
time, yet it is frequently made much more so, from the 
abuse of quack medicines. 
CESSATION OF THE MENSES. CESSATION OF THE MENSES. 
261 
When the symptoms are slight, but little more will be 
necessary than to regulate the bowels and diet, bathe the 
surface, and occasionally to wear a pack on the lower 
portion of the bowels, wet with equal parts of water and 
whiskey ; but, where the symptoms are severe, in addition 
to this, a purgative of anti-bilious physic should be taken 
and afterward the following compound : 
B Aletrin... gr. xxx. 
Cypripedin gr. xx. 
Pterin gr. xxx. 
Carbonate of Iron gr. xxx. 
White Sugar 
Mix, and add to one pint of Port-wine. Dose, one table- 
spoonful three times a day. Also, 
B Irisin gr. xxx. 
Hyosciamin gr. v. 
Podophyllin gr. ij. 
Extract of Dandelion sufficient to make thirty pills. Let 
one be taken night and morning. 
If neuralgic pains should occur, 
B Belladonna gr. j. 
Quinine gr. xv. 
White Sugar gr. xx. 
Mix, triturate, divide into eight powders, and take one 
three times a day. Constitutional symptoms of every va- 
riety manifesting themselves during the period, should be 
met with such remedies as are indicated. 
TREATMENT. 262 
DISEASES OF THE OVARIES. 
DISEASES OF THE OVARIES. 
The ovaries are subject to a number of diseases, as 
dropsy, sarcoma, hypertrophy, atrophy, &c. Among the 
most common is dropsy; hence, I shall confine this article 
mostly to that disease. 
SYMPTOMS. 
A slight fugitive pain will be felt in the region of the 
ovaries. The ovary will be found to be larger on one 
side than on the other. This tumor, which is but very 
small at first, gradually increases in size, until it finally 
presses upon the uterus and vagina, causing uterine and 
vaginal irritation, difficult micturition, and prolapsus ani. 
On examination, the tumor may be felt between the vagina 
and rectum. This is particularly the case before it becomes 
very much enlarged. Sometimes this tumor ascends into 
the cavity of the abdomen, and presents very much the 
appearance of the gravid uterus. The tumor may gradually 
increase until it becomes of an enormous size. 
A specimen is now in the museum of the Medical Col- 
lege of Pennsylvania, of a tumor which grew to such an 
enormous size as to contain over three gallons of fluid. 
In some instances, the fluid becomes spontaneously ab- 
sorbed. This occurred in a case which came under my 
observation, where the ovarian cyst was of a size sufficient 
to hold a gallon. 
In other cases, inflammation occurs in the cyst, which 
may produce death. Sometimes the cyst adheres to the 
parietes of the abdomen, to the bowels, or vagina; in this 
event, occasionally, a fistulous opening occurs, and the 
fluid makes its escape ; but as the internal membrane of 
the cyst is so organized as to constantly secrete this gela- 
tinous fluid, a discharge will be maintained until death 
ensues from exhaustion. DISEASES OF THE OVARIES. 
263 
TREATMENT. 
I do not propose to speak of the surgical treatment of 
this disease, but to confine my remarks entirely to that 
form of medical treatment which has proved successful iu 
my hands in removing the disease in its early stage. 
In the commencement, a pad should be placed over the 
tumor, kept in its place and caused to make gentle pres- 
sure upon it, by a bandage passing around the body. The 
pad should be wet with the Tinct. of Iodine before ap- 
plying it, and afterwards once or twice a day throughout 
the entire treatment. The bandage should be so adjusted 
as to maintain a constant pressure. The patient may also 
take the following syrup : 
B Syrup of Iodide of Iron Oss. 
Syrup of Stillingia Oss. 
Dose, one teaspoonful four or five times a day. The 
bowels should be evacuated once or twice a week with 
Cream of Tartar and Podophyllin. When this course 
has been pursued for four or five weeks, substitute the 
following: 
B Syrup of Marshmallow Oj. 
Iodide of Potassium 5jij. 
Mix, and give one teaspoonful four times a day, occasionally 
using the purgative as before. 
This treatment persisted in, has in my hands proved 
successful in several cases of ovarian dropsy, and in some 
where it was considerably advanced. The pressure, in 
connection with the Iodine, acts as a constant stimulant 
to the absorbents, and by the alterative effect of the medi- 
cine, the cyst ceases to secrete the gelatinous fluid 264 
SCROFULA. 
SCROFULA. 
Scrofula, says Ericksen, is a peculiar constitutional con- 
dition, either hereditary or acquired, that leads to the 
formation of, and in its full development is characterized 
by the presence of tubercle. It is, however, only when 
fully developed that scrofula gives rise to the local deposit 
of tuberculous matter. The constitutional condition that 
tends to this is sufficiently characteristic; but although we 
may recognize its existence, and speak of the individual 
possessing such a constitution, as having a scrofulous 
tendency or diathesis, he can scarcely be considered to 
labor under the fully formed disease, unless tubercle be 
deposited in some of the tissues or organs. The scrofu- 
lous diathesis is a peculiar constitutional state that is 
often erroneously confounded with general debility. It 
may and often does co-exist with this, but is by no means 
synonymous with weakness of constitution. Debility often 
exists without any scrofulous tendency or taint, more par- 
ticularly in individuals of the nervous temperament; many 
delicate people, though weak, being perfectly healthy, and 
showing no disposition to this peculiar affection ; on the 
contrary, the scrofulous tendency is often conjoined with 
much muscular power and mental activity, no weakness 
being manifested in either of these respects. Scrofula is 
invariably conjoined with debility and a perversion of the 
nutritive functions of the organism. This is especially mani- 
fested in certain tissues, such as the mucous and cutaneous, 
and in those organs the vitality of which is low, as the 
lymphatic glands, the bones and joints. In these, scrofula 
is especially apt to influence the products of nutrition and 
of inflammation, more particularly during the earlier 
periods of life, when these actions are most energetic, in 
such a way as to render its existence evident to the sur- 
geon. It is this tendency to the occurrence of particular SCROFULA. 
265 
diseases, and to the engrafting of special characters on 
affections of certain tissues, that may be considered as 
specially indicative of the scrofulous diathesis, of that 
condition which, in its fulness of development, gives rise 
to deposits of tubercle in the organs and tissues. 
The existence of this diathesis is marked by the presence 
of a peculiar temperament, - by special modifications 
of the seat, form, and products of inflammation, and, lastly, 
by the development of tubercle. 
The scrofulous temperament assumes two distinct forms, 
and each of these presents two varieties. The most com- 
mon is that which occurs in persons with fair, soft, and 
transparent skin, having clear blue eyes, with large pupils, 
light hair, tapering fingers, and clear white teeth ; indeed, 
whose beauty is often striking, especially in early life, being 
dependent rather on roundness of outline, then grace of 
form ; and whose growth is rapid and precocious. In 
these individuals the affections are strong, and the pro- 
creative powers considerable; the mental activity is great, 
and is usually characterized by much delicacy and softness 
of feeling, and vivacity of intellect. Indeed, it would ap- 
pear that the nutritive, procreative, and mental powers 
are rapidly and energetically developed in early life, but 
become proportionably and prematurely exhausted. In 
another variety of the fair scrofulous temperament, we find 
a coarse skin, short and rounded features, light grey eyes, 
crisp and curling sandy hair, a short and somewhat ungainly 
stature, and clubbed fingers; but not uncommonly, as in 
the former variety, great and early mental activity, and 
occasionally much muscular strength. 
In the dark form of the scrofulous temperament, wre 
usually find a somewhat heavy, sullen, and forbidding 
ftppearance; a dark, coarse, sallow, greasy-looking skin; 
short, thick, and harsh curly hair; a small stature, but. 
often a degree of torpor or languor of the mental faculties, 
28 266 
SCROFULA. 
though the powers of intellect are sometimes remarkably 
developed. The other dark strumous temperament is 
characterized by clear, dark eyes, fine hair, a sallow »kin, 
and by mental and physical organization that pretty closely 
resembles the first-described variety of the fair strumous 
diathesis. 
In all these varieties of temperament, the digestive 
organs will be found to be weak and irritable. This con- 
dition, which I believe is invariably associated with struma, 
and the importance of which has been pointed out by Sir 
James Clark, must be regarded as one of the most essential 
conditions connected with scrofula, and as tending greatly 
to that impairment of nutrition which is so frequent in 
this state. This gastric irritability is especially charac- 
terized by the tongue, even in young children, being 
habitually coated towards the root with a thick white fur, 
through which elongated papillae project, constituting the 
pipped or strawberry tongue; the edges and tip, as well 
2.8 the lips, being of a bright-red color. This state of the 
tongue is aggravated by stimulants, high living, and the 
habitual use of purgatives. In the fair varieties, the 
bowels are usually somewhat loose ; but in the dark forms 
of struma, there is a torpid condition of the intestinal 
.anal. In all cases the action of the heart is feeble, the 
blood is thin and watery, and there is a tendency to cold- 
ness and often to clamminess of the extremities. 
One of the most marked characteristics of struma, is 
vcrtainly the peculiar modification that inflammation 
undergoes, whether we regard the course that it takes, the 
form that it assumes, its products, or its seat. The course 
of inflammation in strumous subjects is always slow, 
feeble, and ill-developed, the more active and sthenic con- 
ditions being rarely met with. In its form, it is either 
ulcerative, congestive, or suppurative, and in its products 
it is characterized by little tendency to adhesion, by the SCROFULA. 
267 
production of thin, weak, blue, and ill-developed cica- 
trices, and by the formation of thin, curdy pus, with much 
shreddy corpuscular lymph. 
The seat of strumous inflammation varies greatly; the 
peculiar modifications of its course, form, and products, are 
assumed, according to the part that it affects. The tissues 
implicated by it, are chiefly the skin and mucous mem- 
branes, the joints, and the bones; occasioning a great 
variety of special diseases, according as one or another of 
these structures is affected. It is as the result of, or in 
connection with, these local affections, that the general 
symptoms of struma become most marked. Whatever the 
temperament may be, the individual becomes emaciated, 
sallow, cachectic, and debilitated, and at length falls into 
a state of hectic or marasmus. 
When affecting the skin, scrofula declares itself under a 
variety of cutaneous eruptions, especially the different 
forms if eczema of the scalp, and various ulcers on the 
surface, usually weak and largely granulating, with con- 
siderable swelling of surrounding parts, and a tendency to 
the formation of thin, blue, and glazed cicatrices. 
The mucous membranes are commonly extensively 
affected, and often present the earlier forms of scrofulous 
disease in childhood ; this is more especially the case with 
those of the eyelids and nose. The conjunctiva becomes 
chronically inflamed, with perhaps ulceration of the 
cornea; the mucous membrane of the eyelids may be 
permanently congested and irritated, with loss of eyelashes, 
constituting the different forms of psorophthalmia. The 
mucous membrane lining the nostrils becomes chronically 
congested, red, and swollen, giving rise to habitual sniff- 
ling of the nose, and to a sensation as of a constant cold. 
Occasionally the lining of the antrum becomes irritated, 
and may then occasion an enlargement of this cavity, or 
the discharge of unhealthy pus into the nostrils. The 268 
SCROFULA. 
tonsils are often found chronically enlarged and indurated, 
with occasional tendency to fresh inflammation ; and the 
larynx may become the seat of various forms of aphonia, 
dependent on congestion of its lining membrane. The 
state of the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane, has al- 
ready been described when speaking of the state of the 
tongue; and that of the genito-urinary organs is also 
marked by a tendency to debility and irritation, indicated 
by the occurrence of discharges from the urethra, under 
the influence of very slight exciting causes, and that are 
often very permanent in their character. The occurrence 
of calculus in the bladder, especially in children, may 
also occasionally be attributed to the scrofulous diathesis. 
Perhaps the most important local diseases arising under 
the influence of this agency, are those of the bones and 
joints. The bones are liable to the occurrence of various 
forms of caries and necrosis; more especially those that 
are spongy in their texture, as the short bones of the foot, 
and the articular ends of the long bones. The joints are 
liable to that large class of affections that are commonly 
known as white swellings, and which consist of thicken- 
ing, disorganization, ulceration, and suppuration of the 
synovial membranes and cartilages. 
Lastly, some of the glandular organs are peculiarly 
prone to scrofulous disease. Enlargement of the lym- 
phatic glands, more particularly those at the side of the 
neck, and the glands of the jaw, is of such frequent oc- 
currence, and is usually so early a sign, that the surgeon, 
in determining whether an individual is scrofulous or not, 
commonly passes his hand over the glands in these situations, 
in order to ascertain their condition and size ; these glan- 
dular enlargements are especially apt to run into un- 
healthy and chronic suppuration. The testes and the 
mammae are occasionally affected; and other glandular SCROFULA. 
269 
structures, though sometimes implicated, are by no means 
so commonly found diseased, as those just mentioned. 
The occurrence of tubercle must be looked upon as the dis- 
tinctive characteristic of scrofula, and when it occurs it may 
be considered a sure sign of this affection, which has then 
reached its ultimate development. In those cases in which 
the scrofulous diathesis exists without having given rise to 
this product, it must be considered as not having been 
called into full and active operation, having merely mani- 
fested itself in the minor forms of the disease, such as 
ulceration of the skin and mucous surfaces. 
Tubercle, though sufficiently well marked by its appear- 
ances and progress, cannot be looked upon as a specific 
affection, but must be considered to be a perverted or un- 
healthy development of the nutritive materials, destined 
for the repair of the body and the restoration of the blood. 
According to Mr. Simon, it consists of the lymph or nas- 
cent blood. It is a "dead concretion," a " fibriniform 
product, insusceptible of development." "The scrofulous 
diathesis," says Mr. Simon, "consists in a peculiarity of 
blood development, under which the nascent blood tends 
to molecular death by superoxydation." According to 
Dr. Williams, tubercle is a degraded condition of the 
nutritive material from which the old textures are renewed, 
and the new ones formed, and it differs from fibrine or 
coagulable lymph, not in kind, but in degree of vitality 
and capacity of organization." 
" Tubercle essentially occurs in two forms, as semi-trans- 
parent grey granulations, smooth and cartilaginous in 
look, somewhat hard, closely adherent, and accumulated 
in groups, often with a good deal of inflammatory action 
in the surrounding tissues. These grey granulations, 
usually about the size of a small pin's head, appear to con- 
sist of a modified exudation of matter. They have a tendency 
to run into masses, and to form the true yellow tubercle, 
23* 270 
SCROFULA. 
which is met with in opaque, firm, but friable concretions, 
of a dull whitish or yellowish color, homogeneous in struc- 
ture, and without any appearance of vascularity. 
The microscopic characters of tubercle present no very 
specific appearances. We find that this product presents 
under the lens, a homogeneous struma, which chiefly occurs 
in the grey granulations, a granular matter which is prin 
cipally met with in yellow tubercles, drops of molecula. 
oil, and, lastly, considerable quantities of imperfectly de- 
developed exudation cells, more or less disintegrated, 
stationary or degraded. 
The progress of tubercle is most commonly to disinte- 
gration and liquefaction, at the same time that it gives 
rise, by its irritation, to inflammation and suppuration in 
the surrounding tissues; hence it commonly leads to ab- 
scesses, the pus of which is always curdy and shreddy. In 
some cases tubercle may become indurated, and undergo a 
species of calcification. The causes of scrofula, unless this 
be of an hereditary character, though very various in their 
nature, are usually such conditions as influence injuriously 
the nutrition of the body. The hereditary nature of 
scrofula is well known, both to the public and to the pro- 
fession, for although the disease is not commonly connate, 
yet the tendency to it is, and the characteristic nature of 
the affection often manifests itself at an early period, not- 
withstanding every effort to prevent its development. That 
a parent may develop a tendency to malnutrition, to mis- 
development of the blood, just as he may a peculiar feature 
or mental condition, is undoubted. It is by the hereditary 
transmission of peculiar combinations and modifications 
of action in the organization, that hereditary diseases 
develop themselves at certain periods in the life of the 
offspring, when the injurious results of the morbid actions 
that have been transmitted, have had time to be produced. 
There are certain conditions which, though not scrofulous, SCROFULA. 
271 
are supposed to have a tendency to develop this disease in 
the offspring to which they are transmitted ; thus dyspeptic 
parents are said, and I believe with reason, to have stru- 
mous children; so, also, the offspring of very old or very 
young people, often exhibit a proncness to scrofulous 
affections. The influence of intermarriage is still a matter 
of doubt, though I believe it exerts but little influence in 
this respect, and it is commonly stated that the inhabitants 
of little communities, who intermarry closely, such as those 
in the isles of Portland and Man, are not more liable to 
scrofula than other individuals. The most potent cause 
of scrofula, and that which in civilized countries is like- 
vise most frequent, is mal-nutrition, arising either from 
want of food, or the use of inferior food by the poorer 
classes, or from over-feeding, and over-stimulation of 
the digestive organs in the children of the wealthier 
orders of society, thus inducing chronic irritation of 
the mucous membrane of the stomach, interference with 
the digestive powers, and consequently with nutrition. 
The influence of food that is insufficient in quantity, or 
innutritions in quality, has been shown by Mr. Phillips, in 
his excellent treatise on scrofula, to be the more immediate 
cause of this disease ; and when conjoined with the injuri- 
ous atmosphere of large towns, of close and over-crowded 
rooms, and want of light and exercise, may be considered 
as sufficient to occasion the disease in those cases in which 
no predisposition to it exists, and greatly to develop any 
tendency to it in the system. It is to the conjoined influ- 
ence of agencies such as these, that we must attribute the 
prevalence of scrofula amongst the lower orders of town 
and rural populations. 
Scrofula is often called into immediate action by the 
debility induced by previous diseases, such as measles, 
scarlatina, hooping cough, &c. It usually develops itself 
at an early age, though seldom before the child has reached 272 
SCROFULA. 
its second year. It is most commonly about the period 
of the second dentition that the disease declares itself, 
and it is rare to meet with it, for the first time, after the 
ages of twenty-five or thirty-five. 
According to Phillips, when it is fatal it generally 
proves so before the fifteenth year; 60 to 70 per cent, of 
the deaths occurring before this age. Sex does not ap- 
pear materially to influence this disease, though according 
to the same authority, the deaths of males from scrofula, 
exceed those of females in this country by 20 per cent. If, 
however, we are to regard phthisis as an allied affection, 
people who are scrofulous in early life, often having 
phthisis developed at a later period, these numbers may 
require correction. 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of Scrofula may be divided into preven- 
tive and curative. The preventive treatment consists in 
so regulating the diet, as to supply all deficiencies in the 
histogenic material of the different tissues. The digestive 
and assimilating organs should receive special attention, 
every possible effort being made to increase their tone. 
The surface should be bathed three or four times a week 
in warm or cold water, as best agrees with the constitu- 
tion. A liberal amount of exercise in the open air should 
be taken, and the patient should avoid all excesses, both 
physically and mentally. When these means fail to arrest 
the tendency to scrofula, a moderate amount of stimulants, 
in combination with small quantities of Iron, may be 
taken before each meal. When the disease has become 
fully developed, whether in the skin, lungs, bones, liver, 
stomach, uterus, kidneys, or any other part of the system, 
the constitutional treatment should consist in a thorough 
tonic and alterative course. In case the disease appears 
in the form of herpes or pustules, the treatment has been 
fully described under that head. Or, if in the farm of SCROFULA. 
273 
phthisis, the treatment has already been given. When 
scrofula manifests itself in the form of ulcers, of an indo- 
lent or irritable character, the constitutional treatment 
should consist of the following remedies : 
B Scrophularin gr. xx. 
Bitartrate of Iron gij. 
Chloride of Sodium £j. 
White Sugar 
Mix, triturate, and take one teaspoonful three times a day. 
The diet should consist of rich animal broths, ripe fruit, 
&c. ; and a wine-glass full of malt liquor should be drunk 
with each meal. The ulcer should be stimulated by the 
occasional application of a mild solution of sulphate of 
zinc, or vegetable caustic. The limb should be bandaged 
with moderate tightness, and the ulcer covered with a soft 
slippery elm poultice. After the above treatment has 
been pursued for about two weeks, it should be changed 
to the following: 
B Compound Syrup of Stillingia Oss. 
Syrup of Apocynum Oss. 
Syrup of Iodide of Potassium 
Mix; dose, from one teaspoonful to one tablespoonfnl 
three times a day. This treatment should be pursued for 
two or three weeks, when it should be omitted, and the 
following substituted : 
B Phosphate of Lime s;ss. 
Carbonate of Iron xiij. 
Phytolaccin gr. xv. 
White Sugar Ibj. 
Mix, triturate and add to one pint of water, and one pint 
of best gin. Dose, one tablespoonful three times a day. If 
- the ulcer should still prove indolent, it may be touched 
with caustic of potassa, followed by a poultice of slippery 
elm, wet with Tinct. of Arnica. Where the disease appears 
in the form of caries or necrosis of the bone, the dead por- 274 
PILES. 
tion should be destroyed by the sulphate of zinc or 
caustic potassa. The sore should be stimulated as in ulcer 
of the soft parts, until it becomes healthy. After which, 
collodion or a mild ointment may be applied, until union 
takes place. In no case, however, in disease of the bones, 
should the ulcer be allowed to heal until the necrosed por- 
tion of bone has been entirely exfoliated, and the ulcer 
healthy in every respect. 
Where scrofula attacks the glands of the axilla, groin, 
or breast, causing enlargement and irritability of these 
parts, absorption should be promoted, if practicable, by the 
use of Iodine ointment and moderate pressure ; if this fails, 
suppuration may be induced by the application of a poul- 
tice of equal parts of gum-myrrh, capsicum and slippery 
elm. In such cases, Phytolaccin, Iodide of Potassium, 
Apocynin, in connection with the compound alterative 
syrup, are the remedies to be used. In the treatment of 
this disease, the surface should be frequently bathed, the 
diet should be nutritious, and consist of both vegetable and 
animal food. The sleeping apartments should be freely 
ventilated, and the habits of exercise well regulated. 
PILES, OR HEMORRHOIDS. 
A varicose condition of the hemorrhoidal veins, allowed 
to exist for a considerable length of time, causes a disease 
of its coats, and a consequent infiltration into the adjacent 
cellular tissue. 
The blind piles are essentially the same, only occurring 
higher up in the rectum. 
SYMPTOMS. 
A greater or less number of dark purple or pulsating or 
erectile tumors around the margin of the anus, or within PILES. 
275 
the anus. They mostly cause much pain, and in some 
cases the oedema of the parts is so great that defaacation 
is almost impossible. In other cases there are constitu- 
tional symptoms, as fever, headache, loss of appetite, 
debility, &c. Where the patient is of a scrofulous dia- 
thesis, piles may terminate in fistula in ano. 
CAUSES. 
The causes of hemorrhoids are congestion of the liver, 
costiveness, ascarides, pregnancy, and all affections which 
tend to produce inflammation of the parts. 
TREATMENT. 
R Sulphur gr. xxx. 
Cream of Tartar gij. 
Cane Molasses «»••••••• •••••• Oj. 
Best Gin.... Oj. 
Mix; dose, from one teaspoonful to one tablespoonful three 
times a day. Shake the mixture well before taking. As 
an external application, an ointment may be used com- 
posed of the following ingredients : 
R Tannin £j. 
Fresh Lard... gj. 
Sulphate of Zinc gr. vj. 
Mix, form an ointment, aild apply after each movement 
of the bowels. Where the hemorrhoids are confined to the 
upper portion of the rectum, and are accompanied with 
hemorrhage, from five to ten drops of the oil of Erigeron 
should be taken three or four times a day. If the first 
mixture should not be sufficient to maintain a soluble con- 
dition of the bowels, from one eighth to one fourth of a 
grain of Podophyllin should be taken every night on going 
to bed. When the piles first make their appearance, they 
can generally be removed by returning the pile tumor, and 276 
FISTULA IN ANO. 
afterwards rubbing gently with the finger which has been 
anointed, with simple cerate, until the congested veins 
become emptied, and the tumor disappears. . 
FISTULA IN ANO. 
This is an indolent ulcer, situated in the lax cellular 
tissue, adjacent to the rectum. This ulcer or sinus usually 
communicates externally with the sphincter muscle, by 
means of a small pipe, in which case it is called an open 
fistula. Occasionally it communicates with the intestine, 
without any external opening, in which case it is called a 
blind fistula. 
CAUSES. 
Fistula in Ano may be caused by piles, injuries of the 
part, or anything which will cause cellular inflammation 
in these parts. 
SYMPTOMS. 
These are often quite obscure, at other times a heavy dull 
pain will be felt in the region of the anus, extending at 
times to the back, accompanied by febrile reaction, scanty 
urine and accelerated pulse. Sooner or later a small 
tumor will make its appearance, and is usually mistaken 
for piles; but on opening, a small quantity of sanious mat- 
ter will be discharged, which will continue until the disease 
is removed. Or if blind fistula, the pain and constitutional 
symptoms may be followed by a discharge from the bowels, 
through the communication between the intestine and the 
sinus, by the completion of the fistulous tube. 
TREATMENT. 
As this disease is usually connected with a scrofulous or 
tuberculous habit, a constitutional and local treatment MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
277 
should be commenced at the same time. The patient 
should take Alterative Syrup, Iron, Quinine, and Iodide 
of Potassium, with such other remedies as the state 
of the disease may indicate. At the same time, the 
fistula should be injected with a strong solution of sul- 
phate of zinc. The injection should be of sufficient 
strength to disorganize the walls of the sinus, and the 
fistulous tube. After the fistula has been injected, the 
parts should be brought as closely in contact as possible, 
by means of adhesive straps. The injection should be 
repeated from time to time, until the fistula is entirely 
cured. Or if, after disorganizing the tube with the zinc, 
the ulcer still proves obstinate, a strong solution of bay- 
berry and golden seal will generally effect a cure. 
If it is a blind fistula, an external opening should be 
made by means of the caustic potassa, and followed by 
an injection as before. Previous to injection of the zinc, 
where the opening communicates with the intestine, the 
rectum should be injected with slippery elm, to prevent the 
caustic from coming in contact with the bowels. 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
There is no disease more formidable in its attack upon 
the organic tissues than this; not only in its tendency to 
develop a great variety of pathological conditions, but in 
the peculiar obstinacy with which it resists the efforts of 
the physician to arrest its progress. Mercurial diseases 
manifest themselves in periodic rheumatic affections of 
the joints, in enlarged and indurated condition of the 
various glands of the body, in the form of dropsies, 
anaemia, phthisis, palpitation of the heart, dyspepsia, blind- 
ness, deafness, loss of teeth, convulsions ; in fact, there is 
no form of disease that is not occasionally represented by 
24 278 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
the disastrous influence of mercury. When once intro- 
duced into the system, the manner in which mercurial pre- 
parations affect the different tissues, is as yet a matter of 
some dispute. Although it is claimed by those who still 
persist in its use, that it possesses the power to change the 
morbid condition of the part affected into another morbid 
state, which is far less dangerous to the life of the patient 
than the primary affection ; that it acts as a stimulant to 
the liver, and a purgative to the bowels ; in short, it is 
claimed by those who still adhere to the dogmatism of 
allopathy, that it is essential to the successful treatment of 
nearly all inflammatory, as well as chronic diseases. But 
in what way it stimulates the liver, or how it arrests fever, 
or subdues inflammation, they are unable to tell us beyond 
mere conjecture. 
It certainly cannot be owing to its power to increase 
the histogenetic material for the reparation of injured 
organs, nor to its tendency to reorganize the blood, or 
other fluids, as the most minute chemical analysis has 
failed to detect the least trace of mercury in the organic 
tissue, unless it had been first introduced into the stomach, 
and then always acting as a foreign agent, and in no wav 
identified as an element of the human organism. The 
only way by which the modus operandi of mercurials upon 
the organic tissues can be explained, is that by which we 
explain the inability of all foreign agents to produce 
disorganization, unless the quantity be sufficient to over- 
power the vis-vitae of the part with which it comes in 
contact. When a foreign body is introduced into the ex- 
ternal soft tissue, the vitality of the part is at once sum- 
moned to remove the intruder, consequently a deposition 
of lymph occurs around the foreign body, which soon be- 
comes organized in such a way as to cut off all communi- 
cation between the foreign body and the adjacent tissues. 
Inflammation and suppuration are the agents used to MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
279 
expel the body, so when mercury is introduced into the 
system, it acts as a foreign body to every tissue with which 
it comes in contact, and an effort is made to expel it. 
When mercury is combined with chlorine, as in calomel, it 
may entirely dissolve the tissues, such as the mucous mem- 
brane of the stomach, bowels, lungs, &c. But whether 
we are able or not to account for all the morbid conditions 
produced by this agent, we have the most positive assu- 
rance, that in the whole catalogue of predisposing causes 
to disease, there is none more prolific than this. Allo- 
pathists themselves are beginning to observe this fact, in 
confirmation of which, I will introduce the remarks of 
W. Porter, M. D., F. R. C. S. I., &c., as published in the 
Dublin Medical Press of Feb. 10, 1847. 
Dr. Porter observes: "I think that mercurial diseases, 
properly so called, that is, such as arise from mercury 
alone, admit of subdivision into two classes, according as 
they seem to be products of a small or a large dose of the 
poison ; when taken in small quantities, it appears to be 
determined to the tegumentary structure of the skin, the 
mucous membranes and analagous tissues, such as the con- 
junctiva of the eye, and therefore bowel complaints, 
cutaneous eruptions, and superficial inflammations are 
generally met with at an early period, and before the 
specific effects of the medicine ought to be expected to 
appear ; wrhen taken in large quantities, the nervous system 
is most likely to suffer, and that too where the specific 
effects have not been developed at all, which is the case 
most pregnant with danger, or that being present and in 
full operation, they have been suddenly checked, or other- 
wise interfered with, by improper or incautious exposure. 
Some few eases occur whilst patients are under complete 
salivation; but it is so difficult to say that such may not 
have been guilty of some irregularity, that they may be 
placed within the latter category, and at all events they 280 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
are of rare occurrence. Such is the arrangement I propose 
to follow in considering these affections; not, however, 
without being conscious of its imperfections, and that 
numerous diseases arise, or seem to arise, from the irrita- 
tion of mercury, that run a wild and unbridled course, 
which it would be impossible in the present state of our 
knowledge to subject to this or almost any other classifica- 
tion. Persons, for instance, whilst taking mercury, be- 
come deranged : the examples of this which I have seen 
were all maniacal, and the symptoms such as might be 
expected from inflammation of the brain and its mem- 
branes ; these patients all died. Whether such an event 
was the effect of too sudden exposure to wet or cold - 
whether it could be regarded as a kind of metastatic trans- 
fer of the mercurial irritation to the brain, or whether it 
had any direct connection with the mercury at all, I am 
unable to prove, but certainly at the time when each 
occurred, I could not help placing the mercury and the 
madness in the relation of cause and effect. Again, per- 
sons whilst taking mercury have become paralytic. When 
I was in college, a young friend of mine, slightly under 
the influence of the medicine, was exposed to an incessant 
shower of rain for nearly two hours ; he went to bed, where 
he had a rigor, but fell asleep, and awoke perfectly para- 
lytic on one side; he lived many years afterwards, but 
never recovered the use of his limbs. A young clergyman 
who had taken mercury for a liver complaint, and had 
apparently nearly recovered from its effects, incautiously 
fell asleep on the grass; he awoke paralytic, and nevei 
recovered, although he lived to more than middle age. 
Perhaps it may be said that these are not fair specimens 
of the morbid influence of mercury upon the nervous 
system ; perhaps it may be doubted whether mercury had 
any relation to such cases at all, inasmuch as persons have 
become paralytic from exposure, who have never taken a 281 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
grain of the medicine. I know not how this may be. My 
opportunities of investigation have been too limited to 
enable me to speak with confidence on a matter of so much 
obscurity ; but my experience in many instances has led me 
to believe that mercury may prove eminently mischievous in 
this particular manner. But suppose we acknowledge that 
' mercury may and does act injuriously on the nervous system 
in all its parts and in its various ways, how are we to account 
for its prejudicial influence on other systems and structures, 
particularly as to its production of an hemorrhagic ten- 
dency ? Several years ago, when investigating the patho- 
logy of aneurism, I remarked the frequency of that disease 
in persons who had been subjected to protracted courses 
of mercury, and I then hazarded an opinion that this 
fearful and dangerous affection might be occasionally thus 
induced ; since then, I have paid great attention to the 
subject, and have observed different kinds of hemorrhage 
so frequently ensue after mercury had been extensively 
used, that I feel convinced of its injurious influence in this 
respect. Almost all the aged people treated with mer- 
cury for syphilis, have, according to my observation, dic'd 
shortly afterwards of hsemoptysis, or else of apoplexy ; 
nor are such casualties confined to the aged, for I have 
seen several instances of young persons under similar cir- 
cumstances, being seized with spitting of blood, and dying 
rapidly of consumption. It may be imagined that I am 
presenting the possible injurious effects of mercury in too 
strong colors, and that my apprehensions on this subject, 
as being derived from the experience of a few cases, are 
little more than visionary ; be it so ; but having remarked 
the fact, I think it my duty to state it, and leave it to be 
established or contradicted by future experience. 
, " The tendency of mercury to produce a hemorrhagic 
condition, is readily explicable by the effects of the mineral 
upon the fibrin of the blood. " W. II. Ranking, M. D. 
24* 282 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
Mercurial erythema is sometimes preceded by symptoms 
resembling those which usher in erysipelas, shivering, 
nausea, foul tongue, thirst, headache, cough, and pains 
about the prsecordia, and these febrile symptoms, not only 
continue throughout, but in severe cases become daily ag- 
gravated ; sometimes it occurs without any premonitory 
notice, except a harsh dryness of the skin ; and I have 
known it to appear suddenly the day after the administra- 
tion of three or four grains of calomel as a purge. It may 
be a consequence of administering mercury in any of its 
forms or preparations, but seems more frequently produced 
by its administration internally. I have, however, seen an 
exceedingly well marked case of it from dressing a sore 
with the red precipitate. It appears as a dark red blush 
at some of the folds of the body, the seat of the scrotum, 
the groin, axillae, or anterior parts of the elbow, from 
which it spreads with a greater or less degree of rapidity, 
according to the severity of the case. This is distinguished 
from ordinary erysipelas, by its surface being slightly rough 
to the touch-by its edge not being distinctly defined-by 
its intolerable itching, which is the local inconvenience 
chiefly complained of in the first instance - and by its 
vesicular appearance when viewed through a magnifying 
glass. Whenever the surfaces of the body lie in opposite 
contact, such as in the perineum, the inside of the thighs, 
or between the folds of the nates, these vesicles break 
almost as soon as formed, the parts become abraded, and 
there is a constant oozing of a serous fluid, foul and abomi- 
nably fetid. In modern times, the disease seldom pro- 
gresses beyond this, which is termed the first stage; but 
suppose it neglected, and the use of mercury still perse- 
vered in, the febrile symptoms become exasperated, the 
eruption spreads, and may so extend as to occupy the 
entire body, and the vesications, or rather vesicles, run 
into each other and break. Where surfaces are opposed, MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
283 
the discharge increases in quantity, assumes a puriform 
character, and becomes, if possible, still more offensive; 
when they do not, a branny scurf or scale is formed, which 
falls off, and is renewed so abundantly, that after the night, 
or even after a few hours, a great quantity may be found in 
the patient's bed. In general, this desquamation of the 
skin is attended with febrile symptoms, and the patient 
slowly recovers; but if otherwise, if the disease has been 
more than usually malignant, or if the medicine has been 
still persevered with, the parts engaged (and these may be 
the entire body) swell, apparently by the formation of 
thicker scabs or crusts, which are deeply cracked or fis- 
sured (not inaptly compared to the scored skin of roasted 
pork), discharging sometimes sanies, sometimes blood, and 
so sore and painful that the patient can scarcely bear to 
turn himself in bed. I am not quite sure that I ever saw 
a fatal case of mercurial erythema. About five years ago 
a poor Scotchman was brought into the hospital covered 
with a scurfy eruption, and in a miserable state of debility, 
who attributed his illness to having taken some medicine, 
which he believed to have been corrosive sublimate, for 
the cure of clap, in despite of the treatment, he died (as 
several thought) of this disease ; but if it was so, there was 
a symptom here present not described hitherto as apper- 
taining to it, namely : a discharge of purulent matter as 
foul and offensive as that from a glandered horse, from 
every mucous outlet of his body, mouth, nostrils, eyes, ears, 
anus and urethra. I know not, I say, whether this was a 
specimen of the disease or not; but without passing to 
such extremity, the description given by those who had 
witnessed the latter stages of the malignant erythema, is 
sufficiently appalling. The cough becomes very severe, 
and is accompanied by great soreness of the chest; the 
matter expectorated is sometimes highly tinged with blood, 
which is so coagulated as to threaten suffocation. The 284 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
pulse is frequent and irregular, the surface of the body is 
intensely hot and sore, the thirst becomes unquenchable, 
the tongue becomes parched and black in the centre, and 
the urine is high-colored, small in quantity, and without 
sediment. Wretched, indeed, is the situation of the 
patient in this stage of the disease ; without the enjoy- 
ment of one moment's repose, afflicted in body with the 
most excruciating anguish, and depressed in mind to the 
lowest state of despair, he soon falls beneath these com- 
plications of wretchedness. Diarrhaea and low delirium 
speedily supervene, the pulse sinks, the body mortifies, 
and a state of insensibility at length announces the termi- 
nation of a complaint that at once exhibits a distressing 
proof of the inefficiency of medicine, and the insufficiency 
of human skill." 
Before I speak of the treatment, allow me to revert for 
a moment to the history of this disease. Alley states, 
■"that before the nature of this disease was known, it was 
considered as a more virulent form of Syphilis. In 
proportion, therefore, as the disorder advanced, mercury 
in some form or other was exhibited in greater quantity ; 
the fever, consequently, was soon found to be increased to 
an alarming degree, by the action of the mercury thus 
heaped upon an already overloaded system ; and lest the 
patient should sink too rapidly under the oppression of 
this fever, recourse was had to tonics and stimulants. 
Among these the bark and wine were resorted to, without 
any regard to symptoms and appearances. It is almost 
unnecessary to add, that the disease was in almost every 
instance dreadfully aggravated, and that very few re- 
covered." Now, recollect that all this happened in a 
Lock Hospital, and at a time when all cases of venereal 
disease were treated with mercury The patient was sur- 
rounded by, and actually breathing a mercurial atmo- 
sphere, and you can easily understand why medicine and MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
285 
medical skill were inefficacious and insufficient. It was 
useless to prescribe purgatives, and acids, and antimonials, 
and other cooling medicines, the cause of the fever re 
maining ever present; it was in vain to endeavor to 
support the strength by bark, and wine, and opium, while 
the tendency to putrescence was constantly on the increase. 
At present the disease is known to be mercurial. 
Mercurial Erethismus. - Mr. Pearson tells us, that in 
the course of two or three years after his appointment to 
the Lock Hospital, he observed that in almost every year, 
one or two cases of sudden death occurred among the 
patients ; that these could not be traced to any ostensible 
cause, and that the subjects were those who had nearly 
and sometimes entirely completed their mercurial course. 
He consulted Messrs. Bromfield and Williams on the 
subject, and they were unable to give him any information, 
more than that they had carefully examined the bodies of 
many who had thus died unexpectedly, without being able 
to discover any morbid appearances. On watching the 
effects of mercury on the patients, he ascertained that 
these deaths were attributable to the mineral acting as a 
poison on the system, and that its deleterious effects were 
neither in proportion to the inflammation of the mouth, 
nor to the actual quantity of mercury absorbed into the 
body. " 
TREATMENT. 
The treatment of mercurial disease is usually less suc- 
cessful than the treatment of most other diseases; although 
much good may frequently be done by a proper course of 
medication. 
If mercurial disease is manifested in a mild form, the 
patient should be caused to take a gentle purge of Podo- 
phyllin, the surface should be freely bathed in salt water, 
a mild course of tonics should be commenced and pursued, 286 
MERCURIAL DISEASE. 
and a gencrons diet should be allowed. This course will 
frequently remove the most troublesome symptoms. 
In more severe cases, as much of the mercury should 
be extracted from the system as possible, by recourse to 
the galvanic battery. After which, Compound Syrup of 
Stillingia, in connection with small doses of Sulphur, will 
be required. The surface should be frequently bathed in 
Saline water, and Iron and Hydrastin given in doses suffi- 
cient to maintain the patient's strength. Where the dis- 
ease appears to confine its poisonous action chiefly to the 
skin, much benefit will frequently be derived from the use 
of an ointment made of equal parts of tar and sulphur. 
IMPORTANCE OF CERTAIN SYMPTOMS IN DIAGNOSIS. 
Tn order to form a correct opinion of the nature, cha- 
racter, and identity of disease, it is necessary to take a 
general survey of the physical characteristics of the 
patient: as his weight, height, temperament, age, whether 
his constitution is of a strumous or scrofulous diathesis, 
whether of temperate habits, and whether he has been 
subjected to a mercurial course of medication. 
Every possible item of information relative to the dis- 
ease, should be obtained from the patient and nurse, which 
will in the least assist in forming a correct diagnosis of 
the case. If the heart, lungs, liver, or spleen are impli- 
cated, auscultation, percussion, palpation, and mensura- 
tion, should be practised, for the purpose of forming a 
correct opinion of the true nature of the disease. Some 
of the special symptoms which should engross our atten- 
tion, are the appearance of the tongue, the appetite, 
respiration, circulation, sleep, the skin and secretions, and 
state of the intellect. Pain is the result of some impres- 
sion made upon the nerve, and transmitted to the brain ; 
the pain may be remote from the impression, as in hip 
disease the pain is generally in the knee; the irritation DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
287 
causing pain in the head, may be in the stomach ; or pain 
in the shoulder may occur, as the result of congestion of 
the liver. The amount of pain suffered by different indi- 
viduals from the same disease is various, owing to the 
different sensibilities of the persons, and dependent upon the 
temperament. Hence the amount of the pain experienced 
by the patient, is indicative of the amount of the disease, 
ceteris paribus. A dull heavy pain generally indicates 
congestion, effusion, or the pressure of some tumor ; fugi- 
tive pain indicates a stretch of some part; lancinating 
pain is characteristic of cancer, rheumatism, pleuritis, or 
neuralgia; a heavy, throbbing pain, indicates the collec- 
tion of pus ; itching pain is mostly confined to the skin 
and mucous membrane ; on the skin it is caused by erup- 
tive diseases, and on the mucous surface by ascarides in the 
rectum, &c. When pain suddenly ceases, followed by cold 
clammy sweats, weak pulse, and sunken countenance, an 
attack of the affected part by gangrene is indicated. 
The tongue affords many important indications of dis- 
ease of the digestive organs. When the tongue is thickly 
furred, and of a white or brownish color, it indicates a 
derangement of the mucous membrane of the stomach. 
If, in addition to the above, it should have a red appear- 
ance at the end, it indicates the mucous membrane of the 
stomach to be in a high state of irritation or inflamma- 
tion. A dry red tongue also indicates the same state of 
the stomach. A cracked and swollen tongue, indicates an 
extensive irritation of the nerves of the stomach, and also 
that the brain is involved. When the tongue is tremulous, 
great nervous prostration is indicated. A dry, furred, or 
red and tremulous tongue, is often present in typhoid 
fever. A light, flat tongue, is characteristic of most 
forms of intermittent fever. Much information, relative 
to disease, may be obtained by a thorough knowledge of the 
circulation, as indicated by the pulse. The conditions of 288 
DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
the pulse, indicative of disease, are various. The in- 
creased frequency of the pulse is one of its most common 
varieties, and may exist in a great many pathological 
conditions of the system. The number of beats per 
minute, constituting an increase of pulse, varies much in 
different individuals, and also at different periods of life. 
In infancy, the normal pulse is said to be from 78 to 180 
per minute. Between the age of two and six months, 
from 100 to 120 per minute. Between the age of two and 
seven years, about 110 per minute. From seven years to 
twenty-five, from 80 to 85. From twenty-five to sixty-five 
years, the average pulse per minute is about 70 to 75. In 
females it will be found to be somewhat faster: the 
number of pulsations per minute is greater during the day 
than night; and more frequent just after a meal than 
before. From the above statement, it will be perceived 
that a great variety of circumstances must necessarily be 
considered, in order to derive much benefit from this con- 
dition of the circulation in diagnosis. When the pulse is 
slow, or much less than the usual number of beats per 
minute, it frequently indicates disease of the brain ; it is 
also characteristic of other diseases. An intermittent 
pulse indicates either a disease of the brain, or 
exhaustion of nervous energy. A weak and feeble pulse 
indicates anaemia and debility. Hope states, that when 
the pulse is jerking, quick, hard, and strong, and stops 
abruptly, it indicates a deficiency in the semilunar valves 
of the aorta. In inflammation of the peritoneum, the 
pulse is mostly small and quick, but quick and hard in 
inflammation of the lungs and pleura. When the pulse is 
easily compressed under the finger, it indicates a feeble 
condition of the heart. When the pulse ceases to be felt 
in the extremities, it indicates great danger, unless it is 
merely temporary. The appetite is another symptom of 
much importance to be observed in disease. In most DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
289 
diseases, the appetite is defective, indicating inability of 
the stomach to digest food, and loss of assimilating power. 
Under these circumstances, food introduced into the stomach, 
acts as a foreign substance, and is the cause of much mis- 
chief. In some diseases the appetite is not defective; in 
these cases, the powers of the stomach, as well as the 
assimilating functions, remain unimpaired. In some forms 
of phthisis, the rapid exhaustion of the nutritive material 
increases the demand for food beyond its normal amount. 
In chlorosis, the appetite is frequently capricious, craving 
lime, clay, slate, stones, &c. This kind of appetite indi- 
cates a lack of proper histogenic material, as well as a 
deficiency in the salts of the blood. In children, the 
appetite frequently craves sugar, fats, &c., which indicates 
a deficiency of the combustive material, and a consequent 
loss o-f temperature. 
There may also exist a variety of morbid appetites, 
such as a craving for stimulating liquors, opium, tobacco, 
ether, &c., all of which indicate a diseased condition of 
the stomach or brain. Respiration should also be care- 
fully noticed in forming a diagnosis of disease. If respira- 
tion is increased in frequency, it denotes obstructed circu- 
lation through the pulmonary tissue. It may also indi- 
cate irritation of the lungs or bronchial tubes. There are 
a variety of conditions, which may tend to increase the 
functions of respiration. The respiration may be irregular 
and imperfect, as in tuberculous condition of one or both 
lungs, or from a valvular disease of the heart and inflam- 
mation of the pleura. 
The menses are deranged in many diseases. They may 
be scanty or they may be profuse. In some instances they 
are entirely suppressed. They are at times changed in 
quality, and the period of their return may be irregular. 
When the catamenia is scanty, it either indicates a diseased 
condition of the ovaries or deficient nutrition. Suppression 
25 290 
DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
of the menses may indicate a variety of opposite conditions. 
It may depend upon pregnancy, upon nursing, or upon 
age It may exist in any of these cases without inducing 
disease. The menses may be suppressed by the extreme s 
exhausted condition of the system, as in the last stage O', 
phthisis, dropsy, &c. Or they may be suppressed by sud 
den exposure to cold or damp during the catamenial flow 
The menses may also be vicarious, making their exit from 
the system through the lungs, stomach, bowels, &c. A 
change in the quality of the menses denotes disease of the 
uterus, or ovaries, or a scrofulous diathesis. Excess of the 
menses indicates a chronic inflammation of the lymphatic 
glands of the uterus, spermatorrhoea, &c. 
SIGNS FROM THE URINE. 
Healthy urine, when recently voided, has very nearly 
the temperature of the body; it is of a light yellow color, 
emits a peculiar aromatic odor, has a bitter saline and 
pungent taste, and a slight acid reaction ; its specific 
gravity is about 1.018. From 90 to 93 parts to 100 of 
healthy urine is water, the remainder is made up of uric 
acid, saline and organic matter. 
About 21 oz. of solid nitrogenized and uric matter is 
thrown off from the kidneys every twenty four hours. If 
the urine be acid, it will redden blue litmus paper; if it be 
alkaline, it will turn red litmus paper blue ; if neutral, it 
will have no effect on the color of either. If the urine 
contains albumen, heat or nitric acid will cause it to co- 
agulate, and give the urine a thick milky appearance. If 
the urine contains blood, heat or nitric acid will cause it 
to lose its transparency. If it contains bile, nitric acid 
will turn it green ; if it contains uric acid, nitric acid will 
cause it to look dark, and precipitate a brownish sediment. 
If it contains sugar, it may be ascertained by evaporating 
a small quantity to the consistency of molasses, which will DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
291 
have a sweet taste. A milky appearance may be caused 
by mucus, albumen, or ammonia. If it contains ammonia, 
nitric acid will cause a brisk effervescence ; if it contains 
mucus or albumen, nitric acid will cause it to coagulate. 
Dr. Bird states, that if the sediment of morbid urine be 
white, and the urine acid, it consists mostly of urate of 
ammouia; but if it should disappear by heat, it is phos- 
phate of ammonia. If a deposit be made of any color in- 
clining to dark pink, or red, it is almost sure to be urate 
of ammonia, unless visibiy crystalline, in which case it 
consists of uric acid. When the urine contains albumen, 
it indicates granular degeneration of the kidneys, or Bright's 
disease, unless it is connected with low forms of fevers, or 
in certain forms of heart disease. If the urine contains sugar, 
it indicates mal-assimilation or diabetes mellitus. A gritty 
sediment denotes a tendency to some of the forms of gravel. 
Mucus in the urine is usually owing to the enlargement of 
the prostate gland. Pus in the urine indicates abrasion 
of the bladder, kidneys, or urethra. Bile in the urine in- 
dicates a re-absorption of the bile from the liver, or that 
the' liver fails to secrete the bile from the blood. This 
symptom is present in most forms of intermittent fever, 
jaundice, disease of the liver, &c. 
The inspection of alvine evacuations is of great import- 
ance in making up the diagnosis of disease. Where the 
bile is deficient, they are of a light ash color; if there is 
an excess, they are quite yellow. A red appearance of the 
stools indicates passive congestion ; if red and thin, they 
indicate hypersemia. If they are of a bloody mucous cha- 
racter, inflammation of the colon is indicated. When the 
stools are bloody in typhoid fever, they indicate ulceration 
of the glands of the bowels. When the feces are very 
thin, and of a rice color, deep capillary congestion is indi- 
cated, as in cholera, cholerine, &c. 
THE F JE C E S AS INDICATING DISEASE. 292 
DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
The condition of the mind should also be taken into 
consideration in diagnosis. To what extent the mind con- 
trols or influences the morbid tendencies of the body, is 
difficult to determine; but, that it has a powerful influence, 
not only in increasing the severity of morbid phenomena, 
but also of controlling it, is a fact too apparent to every 
observing physician to need comment. The conditions of 
mind, however, which contribute to the amelioration or 
increase of organic disease, are as yet but imperfectly 
understood. Kossuth stated, in one of his addresses 
before the American people, that while lying very low with 
fever, not having been out of bed for a considerable length 
of time, he received very important intelligence, upon 
which he arose, and entered at once upon active duties, 
without feeling any further embarrassment from his disease. 
Instances are of almost daily occurrence, in which pa- 
tients, who have for a long time labored under some low 
chronic disease, hear of a new remedy, which, if taken, 
is sure to remove it; and if taken at the time when the 
mind is most positive, for a time, at least, all the symptoms 
undergo improvement. 
There are other instances of the most violent mental and 
physical agonies being relieved by the supposed virtue im- 
parted to a glass of water or a bread-pill by a clairvoyant, 
or so-called spiritual medium, magnetic passes, &c. These 
things may appear to the novice in observation, absurd; 
yet they are living facts which must be met and should be 
investigated. This class of cures is not confined to the 
nervous and weak alone; but the athletic are frequently 
the passive subjects of these mysterious operations of the 
human mind. Even infants, whose minds are not suscep- 
tible of imaginary impressions, are said by the best of 
authority, to have disease controlled by the action of other 
minds. A circumstance was related to me to-day by a 
gentleman of undoubted veracity, of a child while laboring DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
293 
under a protracted brain affection, being relieved in a few 
nours by one who claimed to be a spiritual medium. He 
magnetized a glass of water, as he stated, and by giving 
a teaspoonful every five minutes, the child was relieved. 
Another instance was related, of a similar glass of water 
acting as a cathartic in fifteen minutes, although there was 
obstinate costiveness at the time. Mental impressions, as 
affecting disease, have been noticed from the earliest 
nistory of medicine until the present time. 
The mystic ceremonies of the Esculapians, the incanta- 
tions of Galen, the rites and ceremonies of Avicenna, 
were another mode of producing the same results. The 
effects of Indian charms, the supposed power of the 
seventh son, of men born with a caul over the face, of 
touching a dead body for the cure of cancers, of taking 
water, in which sugar pills have been placed, are all 
examples of the effect of the mind over the diseases of the 
body. 
While the mind may be thus beneficially directed upon 
diseased organs of the body, it frequently has an opposite 
tendency. It is a familiar fact, that nearly every disease 
that affects the human family, may be, and is occasionally 
induced by a perverted action of the mind upon the body. 
Fevers are frequently caused by a long continued exercise, 
or by powerful emotions, of the mind. 
Phthisis is frequently induced in persons of a consump- 
tive tendency, by constantly anticipating it. Cholera is 
not only induced, but its fatality increased, by the des- 
pondent mind. Disappointments cause loss of appetite, 
fever, changes of the urine, &c. ; diarrhaea, pains in the 
head, &c., may be caused by mental impressions. One 
of the most remarkable instances of the influence of the 
mind over the body, in producing morbid changes, is re- 
lated by Dr. Cheyne, of Col. Townsend, who could at any 
time produce all the phenomena of death, not only arrest- 
25* 294 
DIAGNOSTIC SIGNS. 
ing circulation, respiration, &c., but would remain in this 
state for hours, and then by an effort of the will, be re- 
stored to his natural condition. 
He carried his last experiment too far, and it resulted 
in actual death. The limits of this work will not allow me 
to enter further into the investigation of the subject. The 
above facts are sufficient to give some idea of the influ- 
ence of the mind over matter, and the physician who 
would treat disease skilfully, must seek to investigate such 
facts, and as far as possible, to understand their cause and 
study their effects. The condition of the mind, whether 
diseased or healthy, with all its manifestations, should be 
taken into account. The condition of the skin, the tempe- 
rature of the body, the temperament of the patient, his 
peculiar idiosyncrasies, together with his habits of living, 
occupation, external influences, &c., should be considered, 
before he assumes the responsibility of administering medi- 
cine, for the removal of disease. PART II. 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES: 
THEIR 
MEDICAL PROPERTIESAND USES. 
INTRODUCTORY. 
HINTS ON THE MODUS OPERANDI OF MEDICINE. 
In the treatment of diseases there are now three pre- 
vailing notions as to the method in which medicine acts 
upon the system. The first is Allopathy, in which medicine 
is supposed to produce morbid or diseased conditions, 
differing from the affections which they are designed to 
cure. Thus, blisters are thought to remove inflammation 
by producing an inflammatory action of a different char- 
acter from that constituting the disease. Opium is believed 
to cure diseases of the nervous system by changing the 
action of the nervous forces. Mercury and its compounds, 
as corrosive sublimate, etc., are supposed to cure disease, 
by establishing in the system disorders of a peculiar 
nature, and by thus overbalancing the malady, to remove 
it. All other remedies are supposed to act in a similar 
manner. This system of practice is not followed at the 
present time by most educated physicians. 
295 296 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
Homeopathy is a system of medicine founded upon the 
idea that remedies which cure a disease will also produce 
it. Hence the maxim, Similia similibus curantur.-(Like 
cures like.) Mercury will create and cure liver disease; 
it causes consumption and many other affections, and will 
likewise remove them. Opium will both produce and cure 
constipation of the bowels. Arsenic will induce dropsy, 
fever, dyspepsia, and many other derangements of the 
system, and, according to homeopathy, also cure them. 
The homeopathist uses the drug because he supposes it 
will produce a disease similar to the one he desires to 
cure; while the allopathist gives it because he thinks its 
effects are contrary to the one he designs to cure. Each 
asserts that his medicines produce disease, and the only 
dispute between them is as to the nature of the affection 
formed. All other systems of medicine, as the Eclectic, 
Thomsonian, Botanic, etc., etc., claim to remove disease 
upon one of these principles. They differ as to the medi- 
cine only. 
The Physiological Theory is that no medicine should be 
introduced into the system unless it be susceptible of being 
digested, absorbed, and eliminated; and that all such 
remedies have a peculiar affinity to certain organs and 
tissues of the body, analogous to that of food. All alimen- 
tary substances when properly digested, are distributed to 
various parts of the system; certain portions go to support 
the bones, muscles, nerves, liver, bowels, skin, kidneys, 
etc., etc., each part of the economy receiving a portion of 
nutriment according to the adaptation of food to the vari- 
ous organs of the body. Thus, by introducing into the 
system proper food, all parts are nourished and supported. 
In disease some portion of the organism becomes affected ; 
some part is either deprived or has an excess of nutrition; 
has an increase or is defective in function, etc.; the kid- 
neys are over-active in diuresis; the bowels in diarrhoea; INTRODUCTORY. 
297 
the heart and blood-vessels in inflammation; the nerves in 
fever, etc. To remove these diseases, it is not essential to 
create other affections but simply to administer such reme- 
dies as act as sedatives or stimulants, and increase or 
diminish the nutrition of the organ or part disordered. 
If the disorder be one of the blood, there is a materies 
morbi producing it; then the disease should be treated 
with antidotal remedies, or medicines which neutralize the 
poisons. To accomplish these results, the new remedies 
have nearly revolutionized the practice of medicine. To 
And remedies, large draughts have been made upon the 
vegetable kingdom, and our labors have been crowned 
with ample success. We find that God has not only pro- 
vided nutriment to nourish and regulate the human organ- 
ism in health, but that in disease, also, He has made the 
same liberal preparation ; and while He has planted in His 
garden every herb essential for food, He has also furnished 
medicinal plants full of healing balms to remove our ills; 
and it only requires research and scientific investigations 
to be enabled to adapt these to the purposes for which they 
were designed. This adaptation has been and is the labor 
of the Independent School of Physic. They have already 
discovered a large number of remedies, which are most 
wonderful in their power; and by prosecuting their labors 
they apprehend that a real scientific system of medicine 
will be established. 
The Independent School of medicine differs also from 
all others, inasmuch as it does not believe it essential to 
create one disease in order to cure another; that all medi- 
cines have a specific action upon the various organs and 
tissues of the body; that when these are understood and 
applied they will remove all disorders without creating a 
medicinal disease; and that all those agents now used 
which create pathological conditions, should be superseded 
by such as are known to produce curative impressions 298 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
alone. The Independent School also differs from others in 
its estimate of the great importance of hygienic measures 
in the management of disease ; especially in the use of 
baths, exercise, fresh air and dietetics. In the treatment 
of disease they do not claim to have discovered remedies 
to combat every morbid impression, nor are they prepared 
to dispense with many of the agents used by other schools 
of medicine, but believe it to be the duty of every physi- 
cian to make use of any and every means which scientific 
investigation and sound experience have demonstrated to 
be of value in combating our various maladies. 
CONCENTRATED MEDICINES AND NEW 
REMEDIES. 
By concentrated medicines, we understand those articles 
which have been manufactured by pharmaceutists and 
chemists, and are denominated essential tinctures, concen- 
trated tinctures, active principles, proximate principles, 
etc. These medicines are principally manufactured from 
our indigenous plants. It is not my purpose to give a de- 
tailed account of the various modes of manufacturing them, 
nor to enter into a discussion of the importance of these 
modes, as this is the province of the pharmaceutist. The ar- 
ticles appearing under the name of concentrated remedies, 
vill consist of solid and powdered extracts, powdered resi- 
noids, crystallized alkaloids, oleo-resins, tinctures essential/ 
concentrated, and saturated, and the proximate principle 
of the plant, which includes the resin, alkaloid, and neutral 
principles combined. These articles are manufactured by 
different pharmaceutists, and each has its respective 
merits. In presenting these remedies for your considera- 
tion, I shall not adopt the old, stereotyped dogma of CONCENTRATED MEDICINES. 
299 
arranging them under the head of alteratives, emetics, di- 
uretics, cathartics, antacids, anthelmintics, etc., etc., but 
shall describe their medical and toxical influence upon 
the various tissues and organs of the body, both in health 
and disease. It has long appeared to me that this method 
of studying the influence and medical virtue of medicines 
possesses superior advantages over the old system. Ac- 
cording to the old plan for arranging the materials used 
in the treatment of disease, we find a very large number 
of them, possessing vastly different properties, arranged 
under some particular head or classification. Take the 
remedies usually denominated alteratives ; how diversified 
are their real properties! The mercurials are the great, 
and in the eye of the alterative branch of the profession, the 
most potent of them all; while all the lesser remedies, the 
medical properties and curative powers of which they 
are ignorant, are auxiliaries. Writers on materia medica 
seem to think they have fully explained every important 
fact relating to the curative power of a remedy if they 
have arranged it under the head of some specified caption, 
as alterative, cathartic, diaphoretic, etc. Thus, instead of 
studying the modus operand! of medicine, as it affects dif- 
ferent tissues and organs of the body in health and dis- 
ease, they have dealt in crude generalities, and so befogged 
the entire subject of therapeutics and materia medica, that 
the young practitioner will no sooner find himself at the 
bed-side of his patient, than he will discover that these 
vague and confused classifications of medicines do not en- 
able him to apply any one of them to his special case with 
any degree of certainty. Hence, he is left to chalk out 
his own course; and if, after a long experience, he hits 
upon the remedy to produce the proper change in the 
tissue diseased, the patient will recover; otherwise nature 
must remove the disease, and at the same time counter- 
influence the toxical impression of the drug. It is not my 300 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
purpose to discuss this subject, further than to invite at- 
tention to a few of the reasons why I shall not adopt this 
antique and most miserable classification of remedies. I 
will add, before dismissing this subject, that this arrange- 
ment of the materia medica is based principally upon the 
more powerful influences of the drug upon the human or- 
ganism ; and what renders it of less value to the profession 
is, these influences are mostly the poisonous, and not the 
medical effects. 
You may inquire whether we have any data upon 
which we can base our observations relative to the specific 
action of medicines upon special tissues ? In answer to 
this inquiry, I think I can safely reply that wTe have abun- 
dance of admitted facts of this character. Especially is 
this the case relative to the toxical impressions of medi- 
cines. The alterations in the nervous and capillary struc- 
ture of the cervical portion of the medulla spinalis ; the 
effect of strychnine ; the ruptured condition of the various 
muscular fibres of the uterus after full doses of the ergot; 
the varicose condition of the hemorrhoidal veins, and irri- 
tation of the mucous membrane of the rectum after the use 
of aloes ; the ophthalmoplegia and ptosis after the use of 
gelseminum, and urethritis aftei- the use of cantharides, 
together with a number of other admitted facts relative to 
the direct impression of medicines upon special tissues, 
most conclusively demonstrate that medicines do produce 
a specific influence on special tissues of the body. This 
being the case, it only remains for us to study these influ- 
ences, to learn the precise tissues or organs upon which 
each remedy manifests its power, together with the char- 
acter of the impressions, whether they increase or diminish 
the vitality of the part; whether they produce atrophy or 
hypertrophy, consolidation or softening. These facts having 
been acquired, if we fully understand all the pathological 
conditions of these organs and tissues in disease and A LNUIN. 
301 
health, we can so apply remedies as to affect the tissues 
diseased, and correct such pathological conditions as con- 
stitute the basis of disordered action. 
ALNUIN. 
Alnuin is the active principle of Alnus Rubra, or 
Swamp Alder, Tag Alder, &c. I have previously informed 
you that the idea in regard to nearly all medicines is, 
they are alterative, tonic, resolvent, astringent, &c. Now, 
the manufacturers of these medicines have adopted the 
old notions, and apply to these new remedies the same 
properties that have been transmitted to the crude ones. 
In this way they have done much mischief in misguiding 
the profession, and bringing their medicines into disrepute. 
Air. Keith says of alnuin, that it is an alterative, resolvent, 
tonic, and sub-astringent. Now who would know any- 
thing about the real medical power of this drug from 
these vague terms? or what physician would even guess 
the power of alnuin to cure disease from what he has said 
about it ? Alnuin is a remedy which, like all other reme- 
dies, has a specific influence upon special tissues and or- 
gans of the body, both in health and disease-and the 
subject of our inquiries is, what are these effects, and 
how are the tissues influenced by the drug ? If you intro- 
duce one or two grains of alnuin into the stomach in the 
normal state, one of the principal sensations that is expe- 
rienced is that of hunger, and, if the drug be continued 
for a few hours without food, a peculiar burning sensation 
is felt. This symptom, however, soon disappears on taking 
small quantities of food. It has been found that the con- 
tinued use of one or two grains of alnuin upon an empty 
stomach produces congestion of the gastric glands. This 
was demonstrated by the following experiments:-One 
half grain of alnuin was introduced into the stomach of a 
rabbit six weeks old every two hours for thirty-six hours, 
26 302 
the rabbit taking eighteen grains. No food was allowed. 
The rabbit did not manifest any unnatural symptoms; but 
upon killing it and examining the stomach, the gastric 
glands were found in a state of congestion, and the mu- 
cous membrane of a much redder hue than that of another 
rabbit of the same litter, that had not taken the alnuin. 
In the case of a lady afflicted with dry dyspepsia, where 
the quantity of gastric secretion was not adequate to dis- 
solve half an ounce of rare beef in four hours, by the use 
of one-half grain of alnuin and one grain of pepsin taken 
fifteen minutes before the meal, an ounce of rare beef and 
two of bread and butter were readily digested without 
producing any pain, irritation or flatulency. It may be 
claimed that the benefit was derived from the pepsin, and 
to test this we administered the pepsin without the alnuin, 
but we did not obtain the satisfactory result. Upon ad- 
ministering the alnuin without the pepsin, a full sensation 
was experienced about the stomach, with pyrosis and 
tardy digestion, from which we inferred that although 
there was an abundance of gastric secretion, it was defi- 
cient in a solvent power which was supplied by the pepsin. 
I have had a large clinical experience with this drug for 
the last fifteen years, and am satisfied that it has the 
power to stimulate and increase the gastric secretion, as 
much so as buchu or other diuretics do that of the renal. 
It is estimated that about fourteen pounds of gastric 
fluid must be secreted every twenty-four hours, in order to 
insure healthy digestion. Now if the gastric glands fail to 
furnish this supply, a species of dyspepsia is the result. 
This kind of dyspepsia we find prevalent in a large num- 
ber of diseases, especially during convalescence. 
It is in this class of cases that the profession has long 
felt the need of a remedy to stimulate those glands, and 
hasten those transformations essential to the production of 
gastric fluid and healthy digestion. The ordinary stom- 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. A LNUIN. 
303 
achics, while they produce a morbid appetite, do not in- 
crease the gastric secretion; hence they contribute to, 
rather than prevent this peculiar dyspeptic condition. 
Alnuin appears to supply this deficiency in the materia 
medica, and, according to my observations, it exerts a 
specific influence upon these organs. In the case of a 
patient under my charge, the symptoms were evidently 
those in which the quantity of gastric fluid was inadequate 
to digest food sufficiently to support healthy organization. 
The symptoms were a heavy and sleepy feeling after meals, 
together with gastrodynia, flatulency, alternate constipa- 
tion and diarrhoea, and other evidences of indigestion. To 
test the effects of alnuin, I gave twenty grains of the trit- 
urated article one-half hour before and one-half hour after 
each meal. The beneficial influence of the remedy was man- 
ifested in a few days, and by the continuation of the treat- 
ment for a few weeks, the patient entirely recovered. I 
have also tried this remedy in similar cases, and in every 
instance either a marked improvement, or a radical cure 
was effected. From all that I can learn of alnuin, I have 
no doubt that in this class of dyspeptic cases it is by far 
the most reliable remedy ever introduced to the profes- 
sion. But you must avoid falling into the old error of re- 
garding remedies as removing all kinds of dyspepsia with 
equal facility. Dyspepsia means a difficulty of digestion, 
and it may depend upon a great variety of very opposite con- 
ditions of the digestive organs. In the use of alnuin I 
have alluded to an indigestion caused by a deficient secre- 
tion of gastric fluid, and a consequent deficient solution of 
the food. Now dyspepsia may be produced by ulceration 
of the mucous coat, by chronic inflammation of the stom- 
ach, by cancer, and a great many other causes; and if 
you should mistake any one of these forms for the one in 
which I have recommended alnuin, it is more than proba- 
ble that your remedy would fail to give relief. Alnuin, 304 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
in addition to its specific influence on the gastric glands, 
appears to exert a tonic and invigorating influence on the 
lymphatics and blood glands generally. Hence, where 
there is debility and a feeble state of the blood, I am in 
the habit of using alnuin in combination with iron. A 
very convenient prescription in these cases is the follow- 
ing : -Take alnuin, one dram ; carbonate of ferri, one 
and a half drams ; simple syrup, six ounces. Mix. Dose 
-one tea-spoonful four times a day; one after each meal 
and on retiring. 
The dose of alnuin, in ordinary cases, is from one to 
three grains of the crude article, or from ten to thirty 
grains of the triturated, three or four times during twenty- 
four hours. I always use these remedies triturated. One 
or two drams of the fluid extract may be used instead of 
the alnuin. 
ACONITIN. 
Aconitin is the. active principle of Aconitum Napellus, a 
plant cultivated extensively in this country, but indigenous 
to Europe. It is prepared from the leaves and the root, 
and is composed of an alkaloid, a resinoid, and a neutral 
principle. These principles are supposed to be the active 
principle of the plant. Fifteen years ago, I published an 
article upon the use of the tincture of aconite leaves in the 
treatment of fevers. It was not used by new school physi- 
cians up to that time. Since then, however, it has become 
a general remedy, and there is now no new school physi- 
cian who treats fever without it. Aconitin operates as an 
anaesthetic. It is a debilitating agent, and paralyzes every 
tissue. If you take the sixteenth portion of a grain, it will 
produce a tingling sensation through the nerves. If there 
be headache, which is dependent on increased sensibility of 
the nervous tissue, it will disappear. A lady had facial 
neuralgia. She had been leeched and blistered, and had 
taken all sorts of mixtures. I ordered the sixteenth por- ACONITIN. 
305 
tion of a grain of aconitin at night, when she went to bed. 
The neuralgia ceased ; she had none during the night, nor 
was she troubled with it at any subsequent period. In this 
case the aconitin operated simply as an anesthetic. I re- 
cently used this article in a very peculiar case. I had a 
patient, a young man who had spermatorrhoea; he,was 
troubled with nocturnal emissions. You will find a great 
many of these cases in practice. The spermatorrhoea was 
very persistent, and was affecting his intellect; he had 
great prostration and debility of the sexual organs. I gave 
him five powders, each containing one-sixteenth of a grain 
of aconitin. I wanted to try it in this affection. This gen- 
tleman stated he never had anything to relieve him so 
quickly and so thoroughly as the powders which I gave 
him. I have also used it in cases of chordee and'gonor- 
rhoea, and found it to operate admirably. I also used it in 
several cases of delirium tremens, where it, in connection 
with lobelin, soon put my patient into a quiet sleep. I 
also use it to diminish sensibility of the part. I have used 
a solution of it as a wash to indolent ulcers with benefit. I 
have applied an ointment of it for herpes, and a great 
variety of other cutaneous affections of a painful character. 
It benumbs the part, and gives ease, without producing 
constitutional disturbance or injury of any kind. There 
are several instances in which it may be used where mor- 
phia cannot be. All the preparations of opium produce 
active constipation of the bowels. Aconitin does not do 
this; it rather increases the peristaltic action of the bowels. 
I have given it in irritability of the bladder and sensibility 
of the vagina. I recently had a most remarkable case of 
prurigo of the vagina. This disease occurs in middle-aged 
females, and there is an exudation which becomes exceed- 
ingly irritating to the part, together with laceration, irrita- 
tion, subacute inflammation, and itching. Aconitin will 
almost invariably relieve the pain at once. It should be 
26* 306 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
applied in the form of an ointment. I have also used this 
remedy in a large number of cases of neuralgia, with almost 
instant relief. In short, there is scarcely a painful condi- 
tion of the body, dependent upon simple hypersesthesia of 
the nervous system, in which I have not used aconitin with 
marked success. From these facts we conclude that its 
specific influence is upon the gray nerve matter of the 
sensitive nerves. We infer this from the fact, that while 
it produces almost immediate anaesthesia of sensibility, it 
does not interfere with the nerves of motion; nor does it, 
in doses sufficiently large to arrest pain, produce any ob- 
servable impression upon the action of the heart and 
arteries. From all the observations I have made in the 
use of this article, I believe it is destined to fill a most 
important vacancy in our materia medica. It appears to 
possess the power of so modifying the sensibility of a dis- 
eased tissue, as to prevent the suffering without interfering 
with the functions of other organs and tissues of the body. 
From these brief remarks relative to the use of this 
agent, you will observe that the range of the application 
of aconitin is great; that it may be used in all cases where 
there is hypersesthesia, without interfering with other 
remedies, or their curative influence. The proper dose is 
from one twenty-fourth to one-eighth of a grain, repeated 
at intervals of half an hour or an hour, as the case re- 
quires. It should be thoroughly triturated in sugar, in the 
proportion of one grain of aconitin to sixty of sugar. As 
an external remedy, it may be applied as follows:-Mix 
ten grains of aconitin with one ounce of lard, and rub the 
painful parts with it four or five times a day. The aconitin 
should not be confounded with the alkaloid, aconitia, 
which is too powerful to be used internally. 
AMPELOPSIN. 
Ampelopsin is the active principle of Ampelopsis Quin- AMPELOPSIN. 
307 
quefolia. Ampelopsin is a remedy which appears to mani- 
fest its influence principally upon the lymphatic tissues, or 
vessels. The lymphatics are a class of vessels, which by 
anatomists are divided into external and internal. The 
external are situated in the subcutaneous cellular tissue, 
between the skin and the aponeurotic sheaths of the 
muscles, and accompanying the subcutaneous veins. The 
deep-seated layer of lymphatics is found chiefly in the 
interspaces, and along the course of the venal and arterial 
trunks. These vessels are exceedingly numerous, and con- 
verge from all portions of the body, and form large lym- 
phatic trunks, which open into subclavic jugular veins, one 
on each side of the neck. The small branches of lym- 
phatics pass through spherical bodies, which are termed 
lymphatic glands, or ganglions. It is to the disordered 
functions of these vessels that Cruikshank, Thomas White, 
Nudo, and others have ascribed nearly every morbid 
change of the human body. These assertions are no doubt 
extravagant; yet, according to more recent researches of 
M. Alard, there can hardly be a doubt that the lymphatic 
system, when diverted from its normal condition, con- 
tributes largely to a very important class of fatal maladies. 
In scrofulous affections, angioleucitis, or inflammation of 
the lymphatic vessels, is of common occurrence. It is to 
the existence of this form of inflammation that we ascribe 
the local determination of this disease in many instances. 
From the intimation I have given you of the extent and 
influence of the lymphatic system, you will anticipate the 
necessity of remedies which direct their energies upon these 
vessels, and exert a controlling influence upon the function 
of this very important class of organs. In ampelopsin we 
have this remedy. 
But you will naturally inquire, how, and in what way, 
does this remedy influence or control the lymphatic sys- 
tem ? In answer to this important inquiry, I would re- 308 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
mark, that, so far as I have been able to observe its effects, 
its influence gives tone and energy to these vessels. I have 
arrived at this conclusion after frequent and repeated trials 
of ampelopsin in nearly every condition of the lymphatics. 
We have a disease, which has been very accurately de- 
scribed by Professor Bennett as leucocythemia. The 
nature of this disease is that of a peculiar blood affection, 
in which the white blood corpuscles are in great excess, 
and the nutritive functions are so feeble as to fail to render 
the essential supplies to the various organs and tissues of 
the body. From an extensive observation in this disease, 
I have concluded that it is dependent upon an unhealthy 
condition of the lymphatic system. Accordingly, in my 
treatment, I have directed my remedies to this class of 
tissues, and have found the treatment most successful. The 
remedy principally depended upon is ampelopsin. It ap- 
pears to increase the tone of these vessels, and so augment 
the nutritive functions as to restore the blood to its normal 
condition. Another class of diseases, in which I have 
regarded the lymphatics as mainly at fault, includes those 
affections so common in children, in which there is a ten- 
dency to enteric and gastric irritation, characterized by 
frequent attacks of diarrhoea and ephemeral fever, soft 
muscles, weak and feeble habits, together with other symp- 
toms indicating deficient nutrition. In these cases ampe- 
lopsin appears to exert almost a specific influence in 
producing those salutary changes which impart vigor and 
health to the entire organism. There is still another class 
of affections, in which the lymphatic system appears to be 
at fault. I have reference to an affection which has been 
denominated by dermatologists, squama, or scale disease. 
There is a great variety of forms of this affection, which 
are most obstinate in their power to resist the impression 
of remedial agents. Ampelopsin manifests a most favor- 
able influence in the disease, and numbers of cases have AMPELOPSIN. 
309 
yielded to this remedy after frequent unsuccessful efforts 
with other agents. Ampelopsin has also proven most 
serviceable in cases where the lymphatic system has been 
contaminated by syphilis, gonorrhoea, cancer, and other 
malignant affections. I have frequently prevented that 
form of augioleucitis, known as bubo, by the use of am- 
pelopsin. I have also known inflammation and enlarge- 
ment of the inguinal and axillary lymphatics, caused by 
other affections, to be prevented and cured by ampelopsin. 
From these very imperfect observations, you will notice 
that I regard the action of ampelopsin as almost ex- 
clusively confined to the lymphatic system, and that its 
principal influence is to give tone and energy to the ves- 
sels, so as to prevent the accumulation of morbid or effete 
matter within them. I have observed that ampelopsin 
also materially increases the quantity and changes the 
quality of urine. When it is continued for any length of 
time, in doses of from one-half of a grain to a grain, four 
or five times a day, it will slightly increase the alvine 
evacuations. It also increases the quantity of bile in the 
faeces. From this fact I have concluded that ampelopsin 
contributes to transformations in the liver. In that variety 
of leucorrhoea dependent upon chronic inflammation and 
weakness of the vaginal lymphatics, ampelopsin is a most 
valuable article. In short, ampelopsin is a remedy of im- 
mense value in all those cases where the lymphatic system 
is in a feeble state, and requires a gentle stimulant and 
support; hence, the range of its application is very great. 
The dose of ampelopsin is from five to ten grains of the 
triturated article, or from one half to one grain of the 
crude article, five or six times a day, taken immediately 
after each meal. Medicine given to affect the lymphatics 
will be morer effectual after than before meals. 310 
new School remedies. 
APOCYNIN 
Is the alkaloid, resinoid and neutral principle of the 
Apocynum Cannabinum. There is much difference in 
the appearance of this article as manufactured by differ- 
ent pharmaceutists. As prepared by Mr. Keith, of New 
York, it is a homogeneous powder of a mahogany color, 
very much resembling ground brown coffee, with a strong 
narcotic odor. By being exposed to light and heat, it 
partially deliquesces and loses much of its medical virtue. 
It is best preserved by triturating, or rubbing thoroughly, 
with two or three parts of finely pulverized white sugar, 
then place in a dark bottle, cork tightly and keep in a 
cool place. By the profession, the apocynum is regarded 
as emetic, cathartic, expectorant, diaphoretic, diuretic, 
alterative, tonic, and errhine. This phraseology, although 
time-honored, is of but little importance in a practical 
point of view, as, by examining the old works on materia 
medica, these, or similar properties, are ascribed to nearly 
every drug that is mentioned; besides, these violent ope- 
rations are the poisonous or toxical influence, and not the 
medical. Again, the apocynin is a more reliable remedy 
than the crude article, and, in some respects, differs in 
medical virtue. A medical student who took one-eighth 
of a grain of apocynin three times a day, observed on the 
third day that it produced heavy alvine evacuations of a 
thin, watery character, accompanied by some pain, and a 
dull, heavy frontal headache. A Mr. R., thirty-five years 
of age, who had served in the army for three years, had 
been troubled with a chronic diarrhoea for two years, 
which was pronounced by several physicians consump- 
tion of the bowels. I placed this patient upon one-tenth 
of a grain of apocynin, three times a day, and a diet of 
soft boiled wheat and milk. No other remedy was given, 
and the patient rapidly recovered, so that at the expira- APOCYNIN. 
311 
tion of three months he was able to resume his ordinary 
diet, and has enjoyed good health for the last year. Apo- 
cynin also acts upon the uterine function as was illus- 
trated in the following case: A lady of full habits, ordi- 
nary height, weighing one hundred and sixty pounds, was 
troubled with dyspnoea, or difficulty in breathing, oedema, 
or swelling of the lower extremities, and amenorrhoea, or 
imperfect menstruation; she was ordered one-fourth of a 
grain of apocynin four times a day, with a diet composed 
mostly of fruit, and bread and butter. In the course of 
five or six weeks the difficulty in breathing had disap- 
peared, together with the dropsy of the extremities, and in 
the course of three months her menstrual flow had in- 
creased to quite its natural quantity. 
The next, and what appear to be the secondary effects 
on the system, are its peculiar influences on the brain and 
nervous system. The first observable impression of the 
remedy on the brain is that of a sense of pressure 
around the head, as though a tight bandage were passed 
around it. Next, there will be vertigo, with a swimming 
sensation, the pupils of the eye slightly dilated, and a de- 
cided confusion of ideas. If the remedy be continued, a 
sense of nausea will soon follow, which will quickly be 
relieved by vomiting and purging. The heart beats 
slowly, and if the remedy be not discontinued, it becomes 
irregular in action. I have never seen this remedy car- 
ried beyond this point, but presume it might be pushed to 
produce serious consequences. From these observations 
relative to the action of apocynin on the healthy system, 
we infer that the specific tendency of the drug is to the 
kidneys and nervous system, and the use of the remedy in 
the diseased condition of these tissues fully confirms these 
conclusions. 
The next part of our inquiry is to see if we can ascer- 
tain what that action is. Does it increase the function of 312 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
the kidneys, and thus hasten those transformations essen- 
tial to the production of urine? Or does it, by hastening 
the liberation of the tissues and elements of which the 
urine is manufactured, furnish a greater quantity of these 
materials to the kidneys ? Although we may not be able 
to demonstrate the latter theory, I think, from all the ex- 
perience I have had in the use of the remedy, that I am 
warranted in assuming the conclusion that apocynin has- 
tens disintegration, not only of the nitrogenous elements 
of the body, but also of the nerve tissue, especially libe- 
rating the phosphates, and probably other agents. Being 
in possession of these facts, we can now study the effects 
of the remedy in disease, and, if possible, ascertain in 
what peculiar affection or affections the remedy is indi- 
cated. The principal use I have found for this agent is 
to remove from the blood and other organs of the body 
excesses of the elements which the medicine eliminates. 
Hence, when the system is overloaded with those poison- 
ous nitrogenous elements imperfectly converted into 
urine, this agent serves a valuable purpose. Take the 
case of a marsh fever, when the teeth are covered with 
sordes, the nerves paralyzed, and the brain intoxicated by 
the retention of uric acid in the system; one-fourth to one 
grain of apocynin, repeated at intervals of one or two 
hours, soon relieves the patient. Indeed, it matters not 
whether it be a fever or any other disease, if this condi- 
tion of the system occur, apocynin will give relief. Again, 
apocynin, in connection with ampelopsin or menispermin, 
is an invaluable remedy to remove dropsical deposits in 
the various cavities of the body. Ampelopsin so excites 
the absorbents as to rapidly fill the blood with the fluids 
previously accumulated in the cavities of the body, and 
apocynin soon converts the dropsical fluid into pro- 
ducts to be eliminated through the kidneys. Apocynin is 
also valuable in disease of the kidneys, especially in con- ATROPIN. 
313 
gestion and granulation, which give rise to albuminuria. 
In this affection I have used it with more marked effect. 
It is also a valuable remedy in many conditions of the 
brain and nervous system, especially in cases of indura- 
tion and hardening of the nervous structure. The dose of 
apocynin is one-eighth of a grain to one grain before tri- 
turation, or from two to twenty of the triturated article, 
repeated at suitable intervals. 
ATROPIN. 
Atropin is the active principle of Atropa Belladonna, or 
Deadly Nightshade. This article, we infer, exerts its prin- 
cipal influence upon the skin and mucous tissue, and in- 
creases elimination from the skin-hence its use is princi- 
pally confined to exanthematous fevers, and other eruptive 
diseases. In scarlatina and rubeola, when the eruption 
does not appear on the skin, one-half grain of atropin, tri- 
turated in sixty grains of sugar, and added to one tumbler 
of water, given in doses of one teaspoonful of the solution, 
proves most effectual. 
Dr. Hempel states of atropa belladonna, of which the 
atropin is a concentrated agent, that it seems to act prima- 
rily on the cerebro-spinal system of nerves, and to affect 
the vascular system secondarily. The most characteristic 
symptoms of poisoning by belladonna are: dryness of the 
mouth and fauces, difficulty of swallowing, constrictive 
spasms of the fauces, inflammation of the fauces, dilatation 
of the pupils, (midriasis,) presbyopia or long-sightedness, 
with obscurity of vision, as amaurosis ; optical illusions, 
(phantasms,) suffused eyes, numbness of the face, giddiness, 
delirium and intoxication, sopor, and scarlet eruption of 
the skin. 
Dr. Pereira reports seven cases of poisoning with bella- 
donna, two of which proved fatal: they occurred in the 
27 314 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
London hospital. The following symptoms attracted the 
Doctor's special attention : * 
1. Dryness of the fauces, causing excessive difficulty iu 
swallowing, and alteration of the voice. 2. Scarlet erup- 
tion in the arms and legs. 3. Midriasis and presbyopia. 
According to Dr. Pereira, the amaurotic weakness, which 
belladonna is said to produce, is owing to presbyopia. The 
delirium was of the cheerful or wild sort, amounting in 
some cases to actual frenzy. In some of the patients it 
subsided into a sort of sleep, attended with pleasant dreams 
which provoked laughter. The delirium was attended 
with phantasms, and in this respect resembled tly.it caused 
by alcohol, but the mind did not run on cats, rats, and 
mice, as in the case of drunkards. Sometimes the phan- 
tasms appeared to be in the air, and various attempts were 
made to catch them, or chase them with the hand; at other 
times they were supposed to be on the bed. One patient 
(a woman) fancied the sheets were covered with cucum- 
bers. 
In most of the cases the power of the will over the mus- 
cles was so far disordered, that the muscular movements 
were somewhat irregular, causing a kind of staggering or 
jerking; but actual convulsions were not general. There 
was sopor, which terminated in coma, with a weakened 
or paralytic condition of the muscles. 
Dr. Stille states of the sulphate of atropia-which is the 
alkaloid of the belladonna, and far more powerful than the 
atropin,-that "the singular energy of the active principle 
of belladonna, atropia, is shown by the following exam- 
ples:-Brandes tasted a minute quantity of sulphate 
of atropia, which he found more saline than bitter. He 
was seized with uneasiness in the head, trembling of the 
limbs, alternate chills and flushes of heat, and a violent 
and suffocative constriction of the chest. The pulse grew 
feeble, and the action of the heart almost imperceptible. ATROPIN. 
315 
The principal symptoms went off in about half an hour. 
Fifteen milligrammes, or about one-sixth of a grain of 
atropia, applied to a freshly blistered surface, excite an 
acute pain, followed in from fifteen to thirty minutes, by 
dryness of the mouth and fauces, inability to swallow, dila- 
tation of the pupils, winking of the eyes, and heaviness of 
the head. To these symptoms succeed giddiness, confusion 
of sight and ideas, and a peculiar inability to steady the 
mind, or to utter words corresponding with the thoughts; 
a sort of imbecile or loquacious delirium follows, the field 
of vision is filled with colored phantasms, and external 
objects appear yellow. The power of locomotion is some- 
times lost, and the limbs feel as if asleep. General sensi- 
bility is impaired or destroyed, the respiration and circu- 
lation become slow, and the extremities are cold. Mean- 
while, consciousness may be perfect, although the inability 
to move is complete." 
The following were observed by Schroff as the effects of 
five milligrammes, or seventy-seven thousandths of a grain: 
Headache in fifteen minutes ; in thirty minutes a slight dila- 
tation of the pupils ; in forty minutes dry and hot hands, and 
general formication; dryness of the fauces, so as to impede 
deglutition. At first the pulse fell ten strokes, but soon rose, 
and in an hour and a half gained forty beats. The mus- 
cular movements were sluggish, the limbs tremulous, the 
gait unsteady. After an hour and a half the brain became 
excited, the movements were sudden and spasmodic; and 
the two experimenters, who were very peaceful persons, 
fell to wrestling and boxing. For three days afterwards 
the pupils remained dilated, the limbs weary, with a great 
disinclination to mental exertions, and a sense of chilli- 
ness; the appetite and digestion were unimpaired. One 
drop of a solution, which contained the thirtieth of a mil- 
ligramme of atropia, (one five-thousandth of a grain,) 
introduced into the eye, occasioned a momentary burning, 316 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
but no vascular injection. At the end of twenty or twenty- 
five minutes the pupils began rapidly to dilate, and in forty 
minutes scarcely any of the iris remained visible. At the 
end of forty-eight hours, it had not entirely resumed its 
normal size. The sight of the eye, especially for near 
objects, was almost totally lost, but its irritability to light 
was increased. The opposite eye and the brain were en- 
tirely unaffected. 
Dr. Bethune reports that the greater number of these 
symptoms have ensued upon the application to the eye of 
a few drops of a solution, containing two grains of atropia 
to a dram of liquid. A portion of it was doubtless absorbed 
through the nasal duct. 
Another example of this effect occurred in England. 
The local action of belladonna, when applied to the denu- 
ded cutis, is that of a simple irritant. It excites severe 
burning, and smarting pain, and delays the healing of the 
skin. 
The mode in which this medicine produces its effects, is 
altogether unknown. Post-mortem inspection in some of 
the comparatively few cases of death resulting from its 
use, has revealed nothing which tends to throw light upon 
the subject. They have usually been cases of children 
poisoned by eating belladonna berries. Mr. Taylor reports 
the case of a man who was found dead in bed after taking 
o 
two grains of atropia. ITis limbs were rigid and contracted, 
and a little brown matter issued from his mouth. Conges- 
tion of the cerebral blood-vessels, fluidity of the blood 
itself, bloody effusion into the ventricles, accumulation of 
blood into the lungs and heart, some reddish patches upon 
the mucous membrane of the pharynx and stomach, these 
are the only lesions which have been discovered after 
death, and are evidently inadequate to explain the symp- 
toms produced by belladonna. Bocker, indeed, describes 
its operation as chiefly a moulting, oi' increased waste, of ASCLEPIN. 
317 
the blood corpuscles and of the nervous centres; but of 
these processes we possess very indistinct ideas. 
The belladonna, and its active principles, have been 
employed in a great variety of diseases. At one time 
it enjoyed a high reputation for the care of cancer. Dr. 
Bailey regards it as a most reliable remedy in neuralgia, 
and all other painful nervous affections. It is also highly 
recommended for incontinence of urine, in spermator- 
rhoea, in spasms of the sphincter ani and urethra, in dys- 
menorrhoea, hooping-cough, epilepsy, tetanus, nervous 
vomiting in pregnancy, asthma, disease of the eye, in ar- 
resting mammary secretion; and as a prophylactic against 
scarlatina the remedy is a most powerful one, and the 
field for investigation, as to its true nature, most extensive. 
The dose of the fluid extract of belladonna is from one 
to five drops ; of the solid extract, from one-fourth to one- 
half grain. The dose of the sulphate of atropia, is from 
one-five-hundredth to one-four-hundredth of a grain, large- 
ly triturated in sugar, or use with a hypodermic syringe. 
The dose of the atropin is from one-sixtieth to one-thir- 
tieth of a grain. These agents may also be rubbed in lard, 
and applied endermically. 
ASCLEPIN 
Is the active principle of the Asclepius Tuberosa, White 
Root, &c. This article manifests its curative power upon 
the serous tissue. You are aware that we have a class of 
membranes which, from their color, have been denomi- 
nated diaphanous ; and from the peculiarly thin or se- 
rous fluid with which they are moistened, they are called 
serous. A knowledge of the extent and distribution of 
this peculiar membrane is indispensable to the full appre- 
ciation of the character and vital importance of those 
morbid changes which occur in this tissue when inflamed 
by disease. A peculiarity of this membrane is, that it is a 
27* 318 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
hollow sac, everywhere closed ; hence, it has been denomi- 
nated a shut sac, sacci occlusi. This membrane is also so 
arranged that one portion is doubled within the other. 
The outer surface is applied over the walls of the regions 
which the serous membrane lines, while the other surface 
is applied over the organ or organs contained in that re- 
gion. From this arrangement you observe that each or- 
gan is covered with a portion of the serous membrane; 
not that these organs are enclosed within this membrane, 
as I have sometimes heard .described, but they are on the 
outside, the main portion of which is covered by a re- 
flected portion of the diaphanous tissue. Thus the lungs 
are on the outer surface of the pleura, the heart on the 
outside of the pericardium. The stomach, intestines, liver, 
spleen and pancreas, are on the outside of the peritoneum. 
You will also notice from this arrangement that the portions 
of these organs at which the nerves and vessels enter are 
left unprotected. I have stated to you that this mem- 
brane was a shut sac. The only exception to this is in the 
peritoneum of the female, where the membrane is perfora- 
ted at the upper extremity of the Fallopian tubes. The 
serous membranes are the seat of various morbid processes. 
These changes mostly occur as the result of inflammation, 
which, as it attacks various portions of the serous tissue, 
has been denominated pericarditis, peritonitis, pleuritis, 
orchitis, meningitis ; and when the viscera which the se- 
rous tissue covers are involved, we have gastritis, enteritis, 
colitis, mesenteritis, epiploitis, cystitis, hepatitis, lienitis, 
hysteritis. Be the result of the inflammation of this mem- 
brane either acute or chronic, we have empyema, hydro- 
cephalus, ascites, hydrocele, empyocele, and hydroperi- 
cardium, together with all the alterations of structure and 
morbid growths which are produced by the metamor- 
phosed exudations, such as fibroma, lipoma, cystoma, andc- 
noma, epithelioma, enchondroma, carcinoma, &c. All ASCLEPIN. 
319 
these diseases, and many more, are but the result of those 
morbid changes which occur in connexion with the serous 
tissue: and when I tell you that asclepin manifests a most 
specific healing power over this very important and vital 
organ, you will fully appreciate its utility as one of the 
articles of the materia medica. There is, perhaps, no 
remedy which exerts a more specific influence over the 
diseased condition of the serous membrane than does 
asclepin. In cases of pleuritis, after the stomach and 
bowels have been thoroughly cleansed by an emetic and a 
mild purge, the skin cleansed by a bath of warm water 
and soap, and a hot pack applied over the seat of the in- 
flammation, then, by adding twenty or thirty grains of 
triturated asclepin to a tumbler of water, and giving one 
tea-spoonful of the solution every ten or fifteen minutes, all 
traces of the pleuritis will disappear, provided it be given 
in the early stage of the disease, and the system has been 
properly prepared for it. The length of time required to 
remove common pleuritis with asclepin does not, under 
ordinary circumstances, exceed four or five hours. In 
cases, however, where the heart's action is violent, and the 
system of full habit, the cure will be facilitated by alter- 
nating the asclepin with five or ten drops of the tincture 
veratrum viride, until the heart's action is reduced, and 
slight nausea is produced. But asclepin is not confined 
to the removal of inflammation from the pleura. It ex- 
erts its salutary influence on all portions of the serous 
tissue with almost equal power. In peritonitis, carditis, 
and acute inflammation of other portions of this mem- 
brane,' I have noticed the same specific effects and speedy 
cures performed by asclepin. From five to ten drops of 
the essential tincture, or the same amount of fluid extract, 
may be substituted for one grain of the asclepin. The 
dose of the latter is from one half to one grain : it should 
be triturated. 320 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
The next article to which I have to invite your atten- 
tion is Baptisin. This is the active principle of wild 
Indigo, or Baptisia Tinctoria. Baptisin is an article which 
possesses rare and valuable medical properties. It does 
not, like many other medicines, appear to direct its in- 
fluence upon special tissues, but it manifests its peculiar 
power over all the tissues and organs of the body. What 
is this influence, then, is our first inquiry ? If we take 
one or two grains of baptisin for several days, when in a 
state of health, the urine will be diminished, perspiration 
checked, and the quantity of carbonic acid gas expelled 
from the lungs materially lessened. As the result of these 
diminished exhalations from the lungs, skin, and kidneys, 
the blood becomes loaded with detritus, and the whole func- 
tion of the economy impaired. Baptisin exerts a different 
influence upon the system from that usually ascribed to it, 
and experiments have fully confirmed these views. The 
medical properties of baptisin, then, consist in its power 
to prevent decomposition of the tissues; hence its great 
value. 
In phthisis, scrofula, and in fact most chronic affections, 
the disordered action consists in a too active secondary di- 
gestion and deficient primary; that is, disintegration and 
waste of the tissues occur more rapidly than digestion, and 
progressive metamorphoses supply the organ with newly- 
formed tissues; hence, the soft and thin muscles, the 
emaciation, expectoration, colliquative perspiration, diar- 
rhoea, chills, and hectic fever. All these, and many more 
of the distressing symptoms connected with chronic dis. 
eases, are but the result of rapid retrograde metamorphoses. 
It is in this condition of the system that baptisin manifests 
its most wonderful curative power. You can hardly 
imagine my delight in witnessing the magic power of this 
medicine over this heretofore uncontrollable condition of 
BAPTISIN. BAPTISIN. 
321 
the system. When the conservative powers of the system 
have lost their influence, and the chemical forces are has- 
tening that decomposition which always renders the per- 
petuity of the human organism impossible, baptisin, with 
its magic influence, arrests this activity of secondary di- 
gestion, and restores the equilibrium of the disordered 
organism. But I anticipate the inquiry:-What are the 
properties of the medicine? Is it alterative, diuretic, 
diaphoretic, &c., &c. ? I have too frequently alluded to 
these terms, and similar unmeaning phraseology and lum- 
ber of the profession, to occupy your attention with them 
at this time. I merely reiterate what I have so frequently 
said, that these terms, as they are generally used and 
applied to medicines, are vague generalities, and have a 
powerful influence to embarrass and misguide the student 
in his researches into the real nature and properties of 
medicine. The inquiry, and the only one of importance 
at this time, is, What influence does this drug manifest 
over disease, and in what diseases can we rely upon it ? 
I have already stated that the power of baptisin to arrest 
disorganization has been amply demonstrated, not only in 
disease, but on the healthy tissue, and it would appear as 
though all that is required to understand its use is to have 
a full and complete knowledge of the condition of the 
system in health and disease. And here I would remind 
you that it matters but little how well you may be versed 
in therapeutics; in order to be successful in the treatment 
of disease, you must have a full and critical knowledge of 
every organ and tissue, with a minute understanding of 
all the structural, chemical, and vital changes which occur 
during the progress of disease. As I have already inti- 
mated, in chronic affections nearly all the leading patho- 
logical changes consist in the melting up of the tissues by 
the chemical forces of the body, and the most essential 
medical interference consists in the arrest of this rapid 322 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
waste. Baptisin will do this. In phthisis, where great 
emaciation and debility exist, one or two grains of bap- 
tisin administered two or three times a day, in connexion 
with a nutritious diet and a moderate quantity of cod liver 
oil, produce a magical influence. 
You may inquire whether the cod liver oil and nutritious 
diet, administered without baptisin, would not produce the 
same result ? In answer to this inquiry, I can positively 
assure you it will not, in the majority of cases. Allow me 
to refer you to one case as an illustration. Mr. E. G., a 
young man of a strong phthisical habit, contracted a violent 
cold, and the disease became fully developed. He applied 
to his physician who prescribed the ordinary Allopathic 
treatment, together with cod liver oil. He grew rapidly 
worse, and in the course of six weeks the disease became 
so far advanced that hectic fever, night sweats, and oedc- 
matous extremities, indicated a near approaching dissolu- 
tion. Upon consulting me, I prescribed one-half grain of 
baptisin four times a day, and the cod liver oil and diet to 
be continued. As the result, the night sweats, hectic fever, 
and other distressing symptoms, gradually disappeared ; 
and by the use of baptisin, in connexion with other proper 
remedies, the young man has entirely recovered. I might 
refer you to many other similar cases, but this must suffice. 
I can assure you that you will find in baptisin a most 
valuable auxiliary in the treatment of phthisis. It is 
always indicated when there is great debility, connected 
with much expectoration ; or when there are night sweats, 
copious discharges from the bowels, and debilitating per- 
spiration, it will be found most beneficial. It is also of 
great value in the same condition of the system, connected 
with scrofulous affections. One of the most fatal mistakes 
made by medical practitioners, is the administration of 
alteratives, or such remedies as hasten retrograde meta- 
morphoses of the tissues in phthisis and scrofula. The BAPTISIN. 
323 
essential nature of these affections consists in a deficient 
nutrition and accelerated decomposition. In the treat- 
ment of scrofula, then, instead of giving stillingia, cory- 
dalin, iodide of potassa, &c., baptisin, hydrastin, cod liver 
oil, caulophyllin, chimaphilin, and the active principles of 
cinchona, are the remedies. 
Another important influence manifested by baptisin, is 
its power to arrest gangrene and mortification. A case 
which recently occurred in my practice, was that of a 
young man with acute gastritis. He had been treated by 
one of the Old School physicians, and his treatment was 
secundum artem; hence, the vital powers succumbed to the 
disease and the remedies, and the gangrene of the small 
intestine was about terminating his career. The symptoms 
of the gangrene were unmistakable. In this condition I 
was called, and advised the use of baptisin, in doses of one- 
fourth of a grain every half hour, in connexion with cloths 
wrung from hot whisky, applied to the bowels. The effect 
was salutary. The vomiting of dark green matter soon 
ceased; and the pulse, which was scarcely perceptible, 
soon became more full and regular, and by the use of pro- 
per auxiliary remedies the patient recovered. I have in 
many cases observed like effects from the timely use of 
baptisin in early gangrene. Hence, in all cases where 
there is acute inflammation, which threatens to terminate 
in the dissolution of the structure of the part, baptisin may 
be used with good effects. Not only is baptisin a valuable 
internal remedy, but it may be used externally with equally 
good results. In chronic ulcers, where a constant solution 
of the continuity of the tissue prevents a union, baptisin 
sprinkled over the sore, followed by a stimulating lotion, is 
most effectual. I have also used it with happy effects in 
indolent chancre. I have also used a solution of baptisin 
as a topical application in diphtheritis and scarlatina 
anginosa with most pleasing results. 324 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
From what I have said relative to the medical properties 
of baptisin, you may infer that it has a wide range of ap- 
plication, and in this you are correct. I can assure you, 
after an extensive use of it in a very large number of cases, 
I have the greatest confidence in its power over disease, 
when properly administered. The dose is from two to five 
grains of the triturated article, and from one-eighth to one 
grain of it in the crude state. From ten to twenty drops 
of the essential tincture or fluid extract, may be substituted 
for the baptisin. 
BAROSMIN. 
Barosmin is the active principle of the Barosma Crenata, 
or Buchu. There are but few medicines which possess the 
power to eliminate fluids from the system, without produ- 
cing injuries to the healthy organism. Barosmin, however, 
appears to be free from these objections; as, while it pos- 
sesses the power to produce most extensive elimination of 
urine, it does not appear to produce other essential changes. 
The diseases for which we have found barosmin most 
beneficial are simple dropsical deposits; such as ascites, 
hydrothorax, oedema, anasarca, &c., &c. It must be re- 
membered, however, in the treatment of these and all simi- 
lar affections, that the dropsical deposit is a mere symptom 
of some primary disease, which produces those changes 
upon which exudation and dropsical changes depend. 
Hence, it must not be inferred that a remedy which 
removes excessive accumulations of fluid from the body 
will produce radical cures, as in the treatment of dropsical 
diseases, two indications are to be fulfilled: first, to remove 
the dropsical deposit; second, to remove those pathological 
conditions upon which the dropsical accumulations depend. 
Barosmin, when properly administered, will fulfil the first 
indication, while other appropriate remedies will be re- 
quired for the second. Barosmin, then, as a physiological 
remedy, is one which may be regarded as hastening those 325 
transformations essential to the elimination of fluid from 
the body, without producing other pathological or physio- 
logical changes. 
The amount of fluid eliminated from the system by 
barosmin, under favorable circumstances, is frequently 
most extensive and rapid. A case which occurred in my 
practice, wa$ that of a lady afflicted with anasarca. The 
entire cellular tissue was distended to its utmost capacity, 
notwithstanding the frequent attempts to remove the fluid 
by means of drastic purgatives and the ordinary diuretics. 
In this case I administered ten grains of triturated baros- 
min, in one-half teacupful of tepid water, every hour, and 
kept the surface cool by frequent spongings with cold 
water. The effect was most salutary, as the entire cellular 
tissue was emptied of its fluid contents in about seventy- 
two hours. Then by the use of proper remedies to remove 
the chronic peritonitis, upon which the general dropsy de- 
pended, the patient was entirely cured. Many other cases 
might be cited, as illustrating the specific power of this 
remedy over dropsical diseases. 
The crude article, or buchu, is used for the same diseases 
by forming a solution, decoction, and saturated tincture. 
The fluid extract is also used ; but the concentrated article 
is not only more convenient, but more active. It is claimed 
that the barosmin is a stimulant to the uterus and ovaries, 
and cases are reported where uterine inertia and sterility 
have been cured by its use. It certainly has a stimulating 
influence upon the mucous membrane of the stomach and 
bowels, and in several cases of dyspepsia produced by a 
deficiency of gastric secretion, I have known the barosmin 
to be followed by beneficial results. A very favorite pre- 
scription of mine is the following:-Take, liquid pepsin, 
two ounces; fluid ext. buchu, one ounce; elixir of bismuth, 
three ounces. Mix. Dose-a tea-spoonful every two or 
three hours. The dose of the barosmin for dropsical dis- 
28 
BAROSMIN. 326 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
eases is from one to ten grains every hour or two ; of the 
fluid extract, from one to two fluid-drams, and the infusion 
or decoction to be drank freely. 
CAULOPHYLLIN. 
The Caulophyllin is the active principle of the Caulo- 
phyllum Thalictraides, common name, Blue Gohosh. The 
caulophyllum is indigenous to all parts of the United 
States. The root is the officinal portion, and should be col- 
lected in August or September, dried in the. shade, and 
preserved in stone jars in a cool place. It is used in the 
form of tincture, fluid and solid extracts, infusion, pow- 
dered root, and the active or concentrated principle, caulo- 
phyllin. The dose of the tincture is from five to twenty 
drops; of the fluid extract, from two to ten drops; of the 
solid extract, one-fourth to one-half grain ; of the concen- 
trated principle, from one-tenth to one grain. According 
to the old classification of drugs, it is an anti-spasmodic, 
emmenagogue, diaphoretic, parturient, anthelmintic, diure- 
tic, &c. Dr. Burt, as published by Dr. Hale in his New 
Remedies, states that according to homeopathic provings 
its specific tendency is to the urinary organs and the gene- 
rative organs of women, and the universal testimony is, 
that it is a remedy of great value in prolapsus uteri, leu- 
corrhoea, vaginitis, sterility, lumbago, piles, prolapsus ani, 
incontinence of urine, &c. The caulophyllin is the article 
best adapted for use. 
There is a great difference between caulophyllin and 
macrotin. Caulophyllin is a much more valuable article 
for females than for males, although you will find it of 
great value in some diseases of the latter. This article 
acts specifically upon the mucous membrane of the vagina 
and urethra; a very important medicine, and valuable in 
acute and subacute vaginitis. Where we have inflamma- 
tion of the vagina, it is one of the most valuable medicines CAULOPII YLLIN. 
327 
we possess. It is adapted to all diseases connected with 
the vagina, dependent upon inflammation. Inflammation 
of the vagina is followed by a simple exudation from the 
mucous membrane; or an escape of the liquor sanguinis, 
which is converted into pus corpuscles, and constitutes 
what is called vaginal leucorrhcea. You will find this a 
common disfease in females of all ages. Caulophyllin is 
very usefill in those cases also where there is inflammation 
of the mucous membrane of the urethra; of which there 
are a great number of cases. It is brought about by im- 
proper practices. Young men have it from masturbation. 
It is also a sequel of spermatorrhoea. Caulophyllin is well 
adapted to these cases. It seems to stimulate the mucous 
membrane, and remove local irritation and inflammation. 
I have also administered it in chronic bronchitis with good 
effect. From the very numerous experiments I have 
made with this article, I am satisfied that its principal 
influence is exerted upon the mucous membrane of the 
utero-genital organs, and gives tone and energy to them. 
In cases of vaginitis, I have found caulophyllin, in con- 
nection with other appropriate remedies, to be most valu- 
able. In numerous cases of periodical vaginal leucorrhcea 
I have used from five to ten grains of the triturated cau- 
lophyllin, and had it followed by almost immediate relief 
without any other remedies. You will observe, in the 
treatment of female diseases, that most physicians are in 
the habit of presenting a great variety of promiscuous 
compounds, without any idea of the specification of any 
one of the remedies used. This exceedingly unscientific 
method of prescribing is but seldom followed with good 
results. The only reliable method of treating disease 
consists in carefully studying the specific action of reme- 
dies upon special tissues, and then apply those remedies 
for the removal of the morbid action. The article that I 
am now presenting to you, is one to which a great variety 328 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
of medical properties has been ascribed. Upon careful 
observation, however, I am satisfied that most of the sup- 
posed virtues of the remedy are merely its toxical influ- 
ence on the system itself, and not its real power to remove 
disease. I have already intimated that caulophyllin was 
a valuable remedy in spermatorrhoea. This is especially 
the case where the disease is dependent upon chronic irri- 
tability of the urethral mucous membrane. The dose of 
caulophyllin is from three to five grains of the triturated 
article, to be repeated as often as indicated; or from one- 
half to one grain of the crude article. The fluid extract 
and essential tincture have been used in doses of from five 
to twenty drops, instead of the caulophyllin. 
Cerasein is the active principle of Cerasius Vtrginiana, 
or Choke Cherry. Cerasein appears to exert its influence 
mainly upon the erectile tissue. The influence which it 
exerts upon this tissue is that of a stimulant; as, after a 
full dose of cerasein, the circulation through the capilla- 
ries may be observed more active, and in case these tissues 
be disordered, the capillaries over-distended with blood, as 
occurs in all intermittent and remittent diseases, as well 
as most scrofulous affections, cerasein will lessen their 
caliber, and restore the circulation to its normal condition. 
You may not be aware that this erectile, or spongy tissue, 
is the seat of many of the most essential morbid changes 
in all intermittents, and some other diseases. This is es- 
pecially the case in ague and spermatorrhoea. During 
the cold stage of ague we observe the spleen to generally 
enlarge; until, in the majority of cases, the enlargement 
is so extensive as to encroach upon the stomach, and press 
the diaphragm against the base of the lungs and heart, 
thus most essentially interfering with the circulation and 
respiration. After the cold stage is past we observe the 
CEBASEIN. CERASEIN. 
329 
spleen to gradually diminish in size ; until, by the expira- 
tion of the entire paroxysm, in ordinary cases, it resumes 
its normal condition. From this circumstance we have 
inferred that any remedy which would prevent this peri- 
odical hypersemia, or congestion, would prevent these 
paroxysms of ague, and repeated experiments have proved 
this hypothesis to be correct. Cerasein is one of the remedies 
that we have observed to produce this effect in a remark- 
able degree. The spleen being composed almost exclusively 
of elastic erectile tissue, and cerasein exerting such a 
specific influence upon it, we inferred that its principal 
power was manifested upon this tissue. Hence the great 
value of cerasein, as a remedial agent consists in its power 
to control those periodical pathological changes, which 
are so prominent in a large class of affections peculiar to 
this country. In intermittent and remittent fevers, cerasein, 
either alone or in combination with quinine, is a most 
valuable remedy to arrest the periodicity of the disease. 
A dose of cerasein, requisite to arrest the periodicity of 
these fevers, is from ten to sixty grains, divided into pro- 
per doses, and given at suitable intervals during the most 
intermittent or remittent portion of the paroxysms. In 
most cases of mild form, in intermittents and remittents, 
we have found cerasein to act as an anti-periodic with as 
much certainty as quinine; but in the malignant forms of 
the affection, there is no remedy known to the profession, 
on which we can place so much reliance as an antiperi- 
odic, as on the sulphate of quinine. The value of cera- 
sein, however, does not cease with its uses in miasmatic 
fevers, but it is a valuable remedy in marsh dysentery, 
periodical leucorrhoea, hysteria, and spermatorrhoea. In 
the latter disease I have known cerasein to manifest most 
marked curative power, when all other ordinary remedies 
had failed. The dose of cerasein is from one to ten grains 
of the crude article, or from ten to twenty grains of the 
28* 330 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
triturated, repeated at proper intervals. The fluid extract 
in half-dram or dram doses is used for the same purposes. 
CEELONIN 
Is the active principle of Chelone Glabra, or Balmony. 
Chelonin manifests its most prominent influence upon the 
mucous membrane of the stomach and bowels, and as a 
general tonic it is one of those agents that we can trace 
through all its medicinal impressions upon the living tis- 
sues. Chelonin, when introduced into the stomach, in its 
normal state, in doses of one or two grains every two or 
three hours, produces a warm and pungent feeling, which is 
followed by slight nausea, if the remedy be continued for 
ten or twelve hours. In dram doses it produces nausea, 
vomiting, and purging. In one-half to one grain doses, 
given two or three times a day, it increases the appetite and 
promotes digestion, without producing any other sensible 
impression. 
In disease the power of chelonin is still more marked 
than in health. In all cases where the dynamic power 
of the stomach is interfered with, either by some specific 
disorder, or by some remote affection, chelonin manifests a 
most specific power to restore the stomach to its original 
condition. In cases of dyspepsia, where the indigestion is 
dependent upon a feeble condition of the muscles, mucous 
membranes, and glands of the stomach, chelonin is most 
valuable. In cases where patients are laboring under 
what they denominate a bilious habit, but which in reali- 
ty is imperfect digestion, chelonin, given in one or two 
grain doses, not only removes the present difficulty, but 
entirely restores the digestive organs to their natural con- 
dition. Chelonin is only well adapted to restore the ener- 
gies of the stomach after fever and other acute diseases; 
especially is this the case when the patient is of a stru- 
mous or phthisical habit. I have frequently prescribed CHELONIN. 
331 
small doses of chelonin during the convalescent stage of 
disease with the most happy effect. In chronic affections, 
such as phthisis, scrofula, and other debilitating diseases 
dependent upon imperfect digestion and mal-assimila- 
tion chelonin is of eminent service. In numbers of cases 
of phthisis I have seen patients improve most rapidly un- 
der the influence of chelonin, in combination with iron 
and cod liver oil. In the case of a lady wTho came under 
my notice, where cod liver oil could not be tolerated, I 
advised it to be used in conjunction with chelonin. The 
effect was most salutary, as the chelonin enabled the 
stomach to digest and appropriate the oil to the nutrition 
of the body. In a case of diabetes I gave chelonin, in 
combination with helonin; and although the case had been 
under the most approved forms of treatment for a long 
time without benefit, these remedies afforded almost im- 
mediate relief. The remedy had not been used ten days 
before the quanity of saccharine matter in the urine had 
perceptibly diminished. It resulted in entire restoration 
to health. 
Another quality manifested by chelonin, is its power to 
remove parasites from the intestinal canal. I have fre- 
quently observed the almost specific effects of this remedy 
as an anthelmintic. In the case of a girl affected with 
chorea, where a large variety of remedies had failed to 
produce a cure, I gave chelonin. It expelled from the 
alimentary tract a large number of ascarides lumbricoides, 
which produced a cure of the chorea. I have also com- 
bined chelonin with santonin with the most happy effect. 
Chelonin may be given alone, or in combination with 
other medicines. A very good method of preparing it, is 
to add the desired quantity of the medicine to simple 
syrup, and triturate until a complete mixture is formed. 
As a vermifuge I have frequently added thirty grains of 
chelonin, and five grains of santonin to four ounces of 332 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
neutralizing mixture, triturating them until thoroughly 
mixed. Dose, one tea-spoonful of the mixture every two 
or three hours until it acts upon the bowels. Where che- 
lonin is given alone, one or two grains is a dose, repeated 
at proper intervals. Like most of the concentrated medi- 
cines, you will find chelonin to produce the best effects 
when thoroughly triturated with sugar. 
Chelone Glabra, or Balmony is used for the same dis- 
eases as the concentrated remedy, in the form of tincture 
and fluid extract. The dose of the tincture is from five to 
ten drops, five or six times a day, and from three to five 
drops of the fluid extract. A very valuable tonic syrup 
for feeble and dyspeptic patients is to take one ounce of 
fluid extract of balmony, six ounces of syrup of sugar, and 
one dram of carbonate of iron. Mix. Dose-one tea- 
spoonful four times a day. If the stomach ferments and 
acid forms, one dram of carbonate of soda may be added. 
CHIMAPHILIN. 
Chimaphilin is a concentrated remedy, derived from the 
Chimaphila Umbellata. Its common names are Prince's 
Pine, Pipsissewa, Winter-green, Pyrola, Ground Holly, etc.; 
and the part used is the plant. Its special influence is on 
the lymphatic tissues. It is a very valuable remedy, there- 
fore, in many diseases, such as cholera infantum; in dis- 
eases of the lymphatics ; in puerperal peritonitis; and in 
leucorrhcea, which originates in lymphatic diseases; in 
tumors about the neck ; in enlargement of the mammae ; 
and also in chronic ulcers, where aqueous and serous dis- 
charges are excreted. To use chimaphilin aright, how- 
ever, it is necessary to understand thoroughly its " modus 
operand! " upon these glands. If taken for a length of 
time-by a female, for instance-the mammae gradually 
become absorbed, and atrophy is the result,-the mammae 
are softened, and, as it were, flattened. In the male it CHIMAPHILIN. 
333 
causes atrophy of the testicles. If one dram be given 
three or four times per day, the urine will be found 
thickened. It does not act as a direct diuretic; no un- 
easiness about the stomach is felt, but there is a marked 
increase in the solidity of the urine. If continued for a 
longer period, there is a thinning of the constituency of 
the blood, producing oedema, leucocythemia, etc. It is 
not an article of food, making a healthy person more 
healthy ; although it may be used for the removal of dis- 
ease. In certain maladies the lymphatic system becomes 
loaded with effete matter, and is thus made the reservoir 
and source of violent constitutional disturbance. An 
opinion is gaining ground that the lymphatics are vessels 
employed for the manufacturing of blood ; and that, con- 
sequently, the health of the blood, in a great measure, de- 
pends upon the condition of the lymphatics. When they 
are in an unhealthy state, the glands of the neck become 
enlarged, and the result is a permanent enlargement of a 
scrofulous or tuberculous character. In scrofula the tonsils 
become loaded with effete matter, and throw out a cheesy 
substance called tubercles ; whilst a bubo is the product of 
a venereal poison, generated and terminating in another 
form of lymphatic affection. In such cases, chimaphilin, 
operating as a stimulant, removes the effete matter, and 
assists the process of elimination. It prepares material 
for the kidneys to work up and work out the diseased mat- 
ter of the body, first as uric acid, and next as urate of am- 
monia. But the kidneys cannot thus act and manufacture 
urine, until the old effete matter is carried to them ; and 
the carrier (so to speak) is chimaphilin. I was recently 
called to see a child, said by its attendant to have the 
bowel complaint. I found the lymphatics loaded with 
effete matter, and while so loaded a cure was a moral im- 
possibility,-the necessary changes for digestion could not 
occur. For the two previous months it had been under 334 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
old treatment, and dosed with opium. As a specific for 
this difficulty, I gave the child chimaphilin, and it proved 
a very valuable remedy. Whenever the lymphatics are 
inactive, causing, as a result, a difficulty in the lungs, the 
stomach, the bowels, etc., etc., and producing bronchitis, 
pneumonia, etc., they must be unloaded by the adminis- 
tration of chimaphilin. As a diuretic, however, chima- 
philin only moderately increases the quantity of urine. It 
is not to be supposed that chimaphilin will remove all the 
diseases to which the lymphatics -are subject; but it obvi- 
ously and invariably exercises a special and efficient influ- 
ence (which no other remedy can do) in diseases of a scro- 
fulous, tuberculous, and dropsical character. 
Chimaphilin, it may also be observed, will increase ex- 
halations from the skin, stimulate the liver to manufacture 
bile, and produce al vine evacuations, as well as purge the 
system and drive out impure lymph through the kidneys. 
In a measure, too, it will check the ravages of phthisis, 
prevent the advance of cancer; and while thus acting on 
the lymphatic glands, it will not, like iodine and potash, 
break up the red corpuscles, produce irritability, and dis- 
turb the organic action of the body generally. The dose 
varies according to the nature of the case and the consti- 
tution of the patient; ordinarily one, two, or three grains, 
(triturated with sugar, to avoid local irritation, and to dif- 
fuse it more readily into the system, and this applies to all 
" concentrated medicines,") may be given three or four 
times per day. This plan I adopted not long ago, in order 
to cure a bubo. The patient had been mercurialized, but 
in a week, or ten days, I discharged him fully recovered ; 
at least so far as the appearance or the existence of a 
bubo was concerned; but when a man (and that for months) 
is mercurialized, he is never again in perfect health, but 
ever predisposed to a variety of aches, pains, &c. Ten 
triturated grains (that is, one grain of chimaphilin, and COLLINSONIN. 
335 
nine of white powdered sugar) is a sufficient quantity to 
be administered at one time to a child. The fluid extract 
may be used in all cases as a substitute for the chimaphilin, 
in doses of from two to ten drops, four or five times a day, 
prepared in syrup of sugar. The dried herb may be used 
by adding one ounce to a pint of water; make a tea and 
drink during the day. The herb should be gathered in 
September, dried in the shade, and kept in dark jars or 
crocks. 
COLLINSONIN. 
Collinsonin is the active principle of the Collinsonia 
Canadensis, sometimes termed Hardback, Stone-root, Ox 
Balm, Knob-root, Heal-all, Richweed, &c., &c. This remedy 
acts especially, and most beneficially, on the valves of the 
heart, though its worth and influence are not limited to 
these. All the serous tissues and structures of the body 
are subservient to its therapeutic power. These serous 
tissues possess small capillaries, which, when disordered 
and dilated, suffer fluids to ooze out; and this exudation 
becomes organized, as in inflammation of the pleura, the 
endocardium, the pericardium, &c. 
Collinsonin removes the exuded organized matter, and 
causes the abnormal condition to disappear. I, not long 
since, had a patient, who was so much oppressed with a 
valvular disease of the heart, that his friends were obliged 
to carry him up-stairs. He, however, gradually recovered 
under the influence of collinsonin, and is now attending 
to his business. Heretofore physicians knew of no remedy 
for the removal of so distressing and so dangerous a malady. 
With them it was all guess-work, and it fearfully warned 
the afflicted that death was near at hand. Collinsonin 
unquestionably affords relief in such cases, and in most 
instances effects a cure: it, however, must be administered 
very cautiously. An ordinary dose is from one to two 
grains, three or four times per day. I have given ten 336 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
grains five times per day; in one case, thirty grains; but 
this course is only justifiable under extraordinary circum- 
stances. One dose, I may add, should always be admin- 
istered at night. Collinsonin also acts with efficiency in 
cases of chronic peritonitis, especially in those cases which 
are accompanied with dropsical accumulation in the abdo- 
men. In a case of persistent ascites, where the ordinary 
remedies failed to afford more than a temporary relief, col- 
linsonin produced a permanent cure. The cure, in this 
case, I attributed to the influence of the remedy in re- 
moving the chronic inflammation of the peritoneum, which 
was the cause of the difficulty. I have known this remedy 
also to act with much efficiency in removing chronic in- 
flammation in other portions of the serous tissue. I stated 
that the collinsonin acted most specifically upon the tis- 
sues of the heart, and especially the valves; and, I might 
add, the entire endocardium. During the progress of in- 
flammatory fever, and especially that of a rheumatic char- 
acter, we frequently notice the patient manifesting great 
oppression at the prsecordial region; is restless and anx- 
ious ; has a small, feeble, and intermittent pulse, oppressive 
dyspnoea, jactitation, and syncope. If we listen to the 
heart, we detect a soft bellows murmur, together with 
mitral regurgitation, and pulmonary, systolic, and dyas- 
tolic murmurs, according to the nature of the alterations 
connected with the disease. These symptoms plainly in- 
dicate the existence of inflammation of the inner structure 
of the heart; and from the prompt relief afforded by a 
few doses of collinsonin, its specific character has been 
demonstrated. In the chronic form of endocarditis, where 
the symptoms are not so active, but the disease still char- 
acterized by its insidious changes, the collinsonin, although 
acting more slowly, is equally efficacious. The fluid ex- 
tract of the collinsonia canadensis will produce similar 
effects to the concentrated medicines, and may be used in COLOC YNTIIIN. 
337 
all cases in the absence of the former. The dose of the 
fluid extract is from one to five drops, every two or three 
hours ; or from ten to fifteen drops may be added to a 
tumblerful of water, and one teaspoonful be given every 
half hour or hour. 
COLOCYNTHIN 
Is a concentrated remedy derived from Cucumis Colo- 
cynthis, and is commonly called Bitter Cucumber. It is a 
hydragogue cathartic, and, as the term implies, produces 
watery evacuations. Its effect is peculiar, and it may be 
regarded as a substitute for the lancet; for, by its adminis- 
tration, a patient is virtually bled without any venesec- 
tion, (that debilitating system of mal-practice'), by acting as a 
stimulant to the serous tissues. It is serviceable in the 
treatment of dropsy. Colocynthin, however, must be cau- 
tiously administered, for I have known the twentieth por- 
tion of a grain to cause violent purging and cramps. 
Hence, in large doses, it is a hazardous remedy, producing, 
for the most part, inflammation of the pleura, the perito- 
neum, &c. It is, moreover, apt to bring on nausea, caus- 
ing the patient to vomit serous matter, and occasionally 
generates symptoms of cholera by engendering a diseased 
condition of the serous capillaries, as is indeed the usual 
consequence of all drastic medicines. But, in small doses, 
colocynth has no drastic effect, and is found essentially 
useful in gouty and rheumatic disorders. In chronic in- 
flammation of the serous tissues, as chronic peritonitis, 
pleuritis, pericarditis, &c., from the one-tenth to the one- 
twentieth of a grain, administered three or four times a 
day, has the effect not only of breaking up any newly- 
formed adhesions, but so stimulates the diseased capillaries 
as to restore the tissue to its normal condition. In the 
case of a lady, where the uterine reflection of the perito- 
neum was chronically inflamed, producing tenderness of 
29 338 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
the abdomen, with weight and pressure in the hypogas- 
trium, and most distressing dysmenorrhcea, one-tenth of a 
grain of colocynthin, administered twice a day, afforded 
prompt relief. In numerous cases, where portions of the 
serous tissue had become debilitated and altered in struc- 
ture as the result of inflammation, I have found small doses 
of colocynthin to act as a decided tonic in restoring the 
structure to a healthy condition. In the case of a gen- 
tleman afflicted with rheumatic pericarditis of long stand- 
ing, associated with pain and dropsical tendencies, I gave 
the one-fortieth of a grain of .colocynthin every three or 
four hours, with a mush and milk diet; the effect was, it 
removed all symptoms of the disease in four weeks. I have 
also used the colocynthin in several cases of chronic diar- 
rhoea with much benefit. In rheumatic inflammation of 
the synovial membranes, the one-fortieth or fiftieth portion 
of a grain given every two or three hours, in connection 
with small doses of quinine, is almost a certain remedy; in 
pleurisy it has also proved a remedy of much value. It 
should be borne in mind that while the colocynthin is ad- 
ministered as a stimulant to serous tissues, it should be 
given in very small doses ; the fluid extract may be used 
as a substitute in doses of one or two drops, and the resin 
colocynth in one-tenth to one-twentieth portion of a grain ; 
a dose of the colocynthin is from one-twentieth to one- 
hundredth of a grain. 
CORNIN 
Is derived from Comus Florida; the common names, 
Dogwood, Boxwood, Flowering Cornel, &c. It is an astrin- 
gent and antiperiodic, and as such is often used as a sub- 
stitute for quinine, to which, in some cases, it is preferable, 
owing to a tonic property which the latter does not pos- 
sess. It is specially adapted to certain classes of diseases, 
in which erectile tissues are involved; hence it is useful in COENIN. 
339 
neuralgia, epileptic convulsions, hysteria, intermittent, re- 
mittent, and congestive fevers. 
Like other antiperiodics, the great power of cornin is its 
influence over vegetable malaria. The most casual ob- 
server in medicine can hardly fail to notice the extensive 
maladies produced by this materies morbi when introduced 
into the blood. Not only intermittent and remittent fevers, 
but neuralgia, periodical headache, epilepsy, spermator- 
rhoea, rheumatism, dysentery, &c., &c., frequently have 
their origin in the existence of malarial poison in the 
blood. Medicines that eliminate this poison through the 
cmunctories of the body may prove of great service in re- 
moving them; but the most direct method of combating 
marsh malarial maladies, is to introduce into the system 
remedies that are known to neutralize this poison. The 
active principles of the cinchonia and the cornus Florida 
possess this power; and although the cornin, as now pre- 
pared, is far from possessing that potent influence over 
malarial diseases peculiar to the sulphate of quinine, yet it 
is of sufficient importance to warrant a most careful in- 
vestigation. I have used it in nearly every form of perio- 
dical disease with the most happy effect. In periodical 
dyspepsia I have found it, in doses of one or two grains 
four or five times a day, a most valuable remedy, differing 
from quinine, inasmuch as it neutralizes the malarial poi- 
soning without producing congestion of the tissues. A most 
remarkable case of spermatorrhoea, connected with great 
debility and prostration, was cured by taking one grain of 
cornin four times a day, in combination with one grain of 
hypophosphite of iron. I have also used this remedy, in 
combination with gelsemin, in dysmenorrhcea, with most 
happy effect. During the convalescence of intermittent 
and remittent fevers, after quinine has interrupted the 
most prominent features of the disease, one or two grains 
of cornin, three or four times a day, either alone or in 340 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
combination with leptandriu, euonymin, leontodin, or iron, 
as the case may require, is most valuable. In epilepsy, it 
also promises good results. In two cases which I have 
treated with this medicine, an entire cure has been effected ; 
and again it has mitigated the symptoms. The dose of 
cornin varies from one to sixty grains, repeated at inter- 
vals adapted to the case. An ordinary dose for an inter- 
mittent fever is ten grains, administered every two hours 
during the intermission. For epilepsy, and other chronic 
intermitting and remitting diseases, from two to five grains, 
four or five times a day. The fluid extract of cornus 
Florida may be used in all cases as a substitute for the 
cornin, and sometimes it is even more potent than the con- 
centrated article. An elixir of the extract may be pre- 
pared in combination with iron, strychnine, &c., in the 
same manner as the various kinds of cinchonia. The 
flowers of the cornus Florida used in the form of a decoc- 
tion or saturated tincture, are nearly a specific for the 
various forms of leucorrhoea. Dose of the fluid extract, 
one dram; the decoction may be used freely. 
CORYDALIS'. 
Corydalin is the active principle of Corydalis Formosa, 
Turkey Pea, etc. Corydalin manifests its greatest power 
as an anti-syphilitic remedy. There is no fact better es- 
tablished than that corydalin, judiciously administered, 
has the power to remove this malady from the system. 
Within the last few years I have had most ample opportu- 
nity of testing the virtue of a great variety of remedies in 
the cure of syphilis. The entire inefficiency of the old 
practice, besides the destructive tendency of the remedies 
employed, has rendered an inquiry into the therapeutic 
power of innocent drugs over this disease of signal import- 
ance. It was with these considerations that I determined 
to make a most thorough test of the curative power of our 341 
CORYDALIN. 
concentrated remedies; and after repeated and extensive 
trials of corydalin in every form of the affection, both alone 
and in combination with other agents, I have demonstrated, 
beyond the possibility of a doubt, that corydalin removes 
secondary syphilis with much efficiency and certainty. A 
case which recently came under my notice, was that of a 
young man who had been treated in one of the army hos- 
pitals for secondary syphilis for four or five months, with 
all the ordinary remedies, such as iodide of mercury, iodide 
of potassium, mercurial ointment, etc., etc., all to no pur- 
pose. When he came under my charge he had a large 
chancre, involving almost the entire corona glandis, and 
his body was covered with syphilitic lichens. I placed 
him upon one grain of corydalin, and one-half grain of 
the sulphate of quinine every two hours, ordered a hot 
bath every morning, and a w'ash, composed of ten grains 
of muriate of hydrastin, to four ounces of water for the 
chancre. After continuing this treatment for a time, du- 
ring which the patient improved rapidly, I omitted the 
quinine, but continued the corydalin, and in eight weeks 
the cure was complete. Other cases of secondary syphilis 
I have treated with the corydalin alone, with the most 
happy results. 
Although I do not claim for corydalin that it is an en- 
tire antidote to the poison of syphilis, still I have had 
sufficient experience in its uses to know that it acts most 
beneficially, and in many cases will effect an entire cure. 
The corydalin appears to manifest a tonic influence over 
the eliminating emunctories, such as the skin, kidneys, 
liver, lungs, bowels, etc.; and in syphilis, as in all other 
diseases dependent upon the presence of a materies morbi 
in the blood, the eliminating apparatus is defective. Hence, 
the corydalin may be used in all diseases of this character. 
In syphilis, I have found that the sulphate of quinine con- 
tributes much to its efficiency. Much caution is required 
29* 342 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
in the treatment of syphilis, to prevent exhausting the 
system, and not unfrequently iron and other tonics are 
required. The dose of corydalin is from one to ten grains, 
repeated five or six times a day. 
Dr. Coe recommends the corydalin as valuable in cases 
of scrofula, dropsy, diseases of the kidneys, bladder and 
liver. In a case of albuminuria associated with glandular 
degeneration of the kidneys, and extensive debility of the 
stomach, I gave one table-spoonful of the brandy tincture 
of the corydalis formosa, and one tea-spoonful of cod liver 
oil, four times a day, in connection with almost an exclu- 
sive milk diet. The patient improved rapidly, and in the 
course of a few months nearly all traces of albumen disap- 
peared from the urine, digestion improved, and the patient 
enjoyed his usual health. It has now been some eight 
years since I first treated this case, and although he has 
had several attacks within that time, yet they have always 
yielded to the same treatment, and the patient now is en- 
joying good health. The fluid extract may be used in all 
cases as a substitute for the concentrated article, and often 
it is quite as effectual. A powder of the crude root in 
doses of from two to three grains four or five times a day, 
has been used quite successfully in many forms of skin dis- 
ease, but according to our own experience, it has but little 
virtue unless the cutaneous affection be associated with 
syphilitic contamination. The dose of the fluid extract is 
from one-half to one dram three or four times a day. 
CYTRIPEDIN. 
Cypripedin is the active principle of the Cypripedium 
Pubescens, or Yellow Lady Slipper. The crude root has 
long been used as a tonic, anti-spasmodic, nervine, diapho- 
retic, and stimulant; hence, it is used in hysteria, neural- 
gia, nervous headache, etc., etc. Previously to obtaining 
the medical virtues of this plant in the form of cypripedin, CYPRIPEDIN. 
343 
it was used in that of an infusion, extract, and tincture. 
As none of these preparations contain the active medical 
virtues of the remedy to any considerable degree, but little 
benefit has been derived from their use ; consequently, 
the medicine has become nearly obsolete. This want of 
success with these imperfect preparations, has prevented 
many of our physicians from investigating the medical 
virtues of the cypripedin, and it has become a habit with 
most of our writers to speak of the concentrated medi- 
cines as representing the medical virtue of crude articles 
as previously understood, only in a more convenient form. 
Nothing is further from the truth than this, as many of 
the concentrated remedies, in their influence upon the sys- 
tem, have no resemblance to our previous notions of the 
medical properties of the drugs from which they are ob- 
tained. This is most remarkably the case with cypripe- 
din, as it is in nowise adapted to fulfil the indications for 
which the crude plant has been prescribed. One or two 
grains of the cypripedin, taken every two or three hours, 
and continued for three or four days, produces at first an 
exhilarating effect upon the mind and nervous system. 
After thirty or forty grains have been taken, this feeling 
of mental elasticity gradually yields to a sense of quie- 
tude, and in some cases a feeling of intellectual fatigue. 
The influence upon the stomach is not perceptible, nor 
does it seem to exert any particular impression upon the 
bowels. In several cases where we experimented with its 
use in healthy persons, the specific gravity of the urine 
was diminished from two to five degrees after taking 
twenty or thirty grains for three or four consecutive days. 
Upon my own person, on taking one dram every day for 
five days, I found that at first it produced a stimulating 
influence upon the brain and nervous system ; but on the 
third, fourth, and fifth day, a sense of weight and oppres- 
sion upon the mind, with a slight disposition to drowsi- 344 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
ness, as if I were more under the influence of a sedative 
than a narcotic. This has been the effect upon a large 
number of cases upon whom I have experimented in a 
state of health. In disease, I have found that it mani- 
fested its principal power in cases where the gray nerve 
tissue was disordered, either as the result of over-mental 
exertion, reflex nervous excitement, or of some specific 
poison, as alcohol, vegetable and animal malaria, etc. In 
several cases of epilepsy, where I believe the disease was 
produced by reflex nervous irritation, I have found two 
or three grains, administered three or four times a day, to 
exert a most beneficial influence; although in no case, 
have I succeeded in entirely curing the disease with it. 
In a case of spermatorrhoea, accompanied with great ner- 
vous prostration and dejection of spirits, I administered 
one grain every two hours, for ten or twelve consecutive 
days, with the most happy effects, as it not only removed 
the mental despondency, but seemed to impart new tone 
and vigor to the nervous system. In many cases of 
chorea, in which the disease was caused by exhaustion of 
the nervous forces, I have found cypripedin, in doses of 
one grain, in connection with one or two grains of carbo- 
nate of iron, administered every two or three hours, for 
several weeks, to produce perfect cures. In a case of 
amenorrhoea, connected with hysteria, great nervous de- 
bility, and mental despondency, I effected an entire cure 
in about twenty days, by giving one grain, and one of 
iron per hydrogen, every three hours during the day. In 
typhus and typhoid fevers, where the cerebro-spinal forces 
have become exhausted, as indicated by typhomania and 
general prostration, I have found from one-half to one 
grain, administered every one or two hours, to be followed 
by an immediate mitigation of the symptoms, and a per- 
manent improvement of the patient. In delirium tremens I 
have found this remedy most valuable, and in connection CYTRIPEDIN. 
345 
with lupulin, have succeeded in effecting most astonish- 
ingly favorable results. In cases where dyspepsia, or 
other disordered conditions of the stomach and bowels, is 
the result of over-mental exertion, anxiety, or grief, one 
or two grains, taken four or five times a day, will afford 
entire relief. 
From a most extensive use of this article in diseases 
connected with the nervous tissue, especially those in 
which there is a want of nerve power, the cypripedin fills 
a vacancy which has long existed in the materia medica. 
With it, wakefulness may be converted into quietude and 
sleep, mental anxiety into calmness, enfeebled and ex- 
hausted nerve force into tone and vigor. The method of 
administering it consists in triturating it with sugar in the 
proportion of one part to ten or twenty, and giving four 
or five grains of the mixture every two or three hours. 
Where there is much debility and a weak state of the 
blood, by adding one or two grains of carbonate of iron to 
each dose, and administering it in a table-spoonful of 
cream, it will prove still more efficacious. One of the 
difficulties with the cypripedin is, that upon exposure to 
light it deliquesces. To prevent this it can be triturated 
with sugar of milk, and kept in a green bottle closely 
corked. The fluid extract, when well prepared and fresh, 
may be used in most cases as a substitute for the active 
principle, by adding one dram to two ounces of glycerine, 
and giving one teaspoonful four or five times a day. In 
typhus and typhoid fever, I have witnessed the happiest 
effects from the following :-Take, fluid extract of cypri- 
pedium pubescens, one fluid dram ; glycerine, two ounces; 
carbonate of iron, one-half dram. Mix. Dose-a tea- 
spoonful every two hours. In a case of a young lady 
afflicted with intermittent chorea, I gave the following;- 
Take, elixir of cinchona et ferri, two ounces ; fluid ex- 
tract of cypripedium, one ounce. Mix. Dose-a tea- 346 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
spoonful four times a day. The one prescription pro- 
duced a radical cure. In combination with the fluid ex- 
tract of ictodes foetida, or skunk cabbage, in the propor- 
tion of one part of the former to two of the latter, in doses 
of from ten to forty drops, it is almost a specific for whoop- 
ing-cough. The fresh root has also been used in combi- 
nation with equal parts of helonias dioica, or unicorn root, 
tinctured in brandy, for Bright's disease of the kidneys : 
one ounce of the cypripedium ; two ounces of helonias; 
added to one quart of the best French brandy, and a 
table-spoonful taken four times a day. In the case of a 
gentleman, forty-five years of age, where the disease had 
terminated in general dropsy a cure was effected with the 
above prescription in connection with a proper regimen. 
DIGITALIN 
Is the active principle of the Digitalis Purpurea. This 
remedy appears to manifest its influence upon the heart, 
arteries, and urinary apparatus, although its toxical im- 
pression is principally manifested upon the cerebro-spinal 
system. In medical doses, it is found to reduce the action 
of the heart, and impair nervous energy. Previously to 
the introduction of veratrum viride, digitalin was exten- 
sively used in fevers and inflammations as an arterial seda- 
tive ; but it was found, that while it lessened the action 
of the heart, it also impaired the integrity of the nervous 
system to such an extent that in adynamic forms of fever 
t produced too great exhaustion. Since veratrin pro- 
duces all the sedative effects peculiar to the digitalin with- 
out exhausting the nerve force, it is now almost univer- 
sally used in its stead. Digitalin, however, is not without 
its use, as it is found to act specifically upon the repro- 
ductive organs, and has been used extensively as an anti- 
phrodisiac, especially in spermatorrhoea. I have myself 
treated a large number of cases of spermatorrhoea, de- DIGITALIN. 
347 
pending upon excessive venery, with this agent, with the 
most happy effect. My method of administering it is, 
one-twentieth to one-sixteenth of a grain, every night upon 
retiring. I have also used this agent with remarkable 
success in several cases of obstinate nymphomania. It 
seems also to have a controlling influence over the mus- 
cles and nerves of the urethra, as I have found it most 
beneficial in several cases of incontinence of urine. 
Case.-A boy, aged ten, who had been under treatment 
for some three or four months, where belladonna and gelse- 
min bad failed, together with other remedies in common, 
use for this disease, was entirely cured in two weeks by 
administering one-thirtieth of a grain of digitalin every 
night upon retiring. 
A medical friend related to me, a few days since, that 
he had successfully treated a number of cases of dropsy 
with this agent, and that he had found it also a remedy 
of great value in congestion of the kidneys and albumi- 
nuria. I have also used it in several cases of hysteria and 
nervous irritability as an amesthetic; and although it is 
far inferior to aconitin, in doses of from one-tenth to one- 
eighth of a grain I have found it to lessen sensibility, and 
in some cases to produce almost entire anaesthesia ; hence, 
it may be used with advantage in cases of neuralgia, and 
increased sensibility of the nervous system originating 
from chronic diseases. I have tried the remedy exten- 
sively in epilepsy, owing to the remarkable success of 
Professor Oldshue in the treatment of these affections, 
with a decoction of digitalis. He claims that by adminis- 
tering full doses of the decoction, three or four times a 
day, to epileptic patients, he found it to be almost a pana- 
cea. Apprehending that the digitalin was the active 
principle of the digitalis purpurea, I selected several 
marked cases. In that of a young man, aged sixteen, who 
had been epileptic from youth, I succeeded in producing 348 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
a decided intermission of the epileptic paroxysms, which, 
however, returned in a few months, and upon renewing 
the remedy it had no impression upon the disease. 
Another case was that of a girl, aged thirteen, who had 
been epileptic some four or five years. Although it was 
a marked case of epilepsy, the paroxysms were not severe, 
and the system had been very favorably impressed with 
medicines previously to the commencement of the use of 
the digitalin. I commenced, however, to administer, 
one-eighth of a grain three times a day, and continued it 
until a slight vertigo ensued; then omitted the digitalin, 
and gave two grain doses of sulphate of quinine every two 
hours for two consecutive days, after which I resumed the 
use of digitalin, and continued for some six or seven weeks 
this treatment, together with mild purges, well-regulated 
diet, and other hygienic measures, entirely cured this case. 
The other case did not prove successful. The digitalin 
does not appear to manifest the accumulative power that 
is attributed to the crude article, and in this respect it 
may be used with more safety than the infusion, decoction, 
or tincture of the digitalis. I have not discovered any 
peculiar property of digitalin that is not attributed to the 
crude article; however, future experiments with this very 
active agent may develop some power that is not yet 
known. The dose of the digitalin is from one-fortieth to 
one-sixteenth of a grain, triturated with sugar, and re- 
peated two or three times during the day. The fluid 
extract of the digitalis may be substituted for the digi- 
talin in all cases, in doses of from two to ten drops. A 
remarkable case of dropsy of the heart was successfully 
treated by giving ten drops of the fluid extract every two 
hours. 
DIOSCORIN. 
Dioscorin is the active principle of the Dioscorea Villosa, 
or Wild Yam. For a long time the crude plant has been DIOSCORIN. 
349 
known to possess most peculiar medical virtues, especially 
iu nervous diseases, and more particularly in bilious colic; 
but only recently the concentrated article has been intro- 
duced into general use. As prepared by our pharma- 
ceutists, it is the active principle of the plant, combined 
in its natural proportion ; hence, it is supposed that it 
represents its real medical virtues. The experiments 
made with the dioscorin were first directed to its influence 
over bilious colic, owing to the reputed power of the 
crude article over that disease. The first instance in 
which I used this remedy, was in the case of a lady, about 
forty years of age, who had been laboring under a severe 
form of the affection for three days, in spite of the usual 
remedies taken to relieve her. I ordered two grains to be 
given every fifteen minutes, followed by a small draught 
of hot water. The second dose relieved the violence of 
the paroxysm, and in the course of two hours the vomit- 
ing and pain had been entirely controlled, although there 
was gastric and enteric inflammation for several days, 
which yielded, however, to hot packs, aconite, and vera- 
trum. Subsequently I used the remedy in a number of 
cases under more favorable circumstances, and in each in- 
stance immediate relief was the result, and in no case in 
which I have used the dioscorin previously to the use of 
other remedies, have I found inflammatory symptoms de- 
veloped ; hence, I have every reason to believe that they 
would occur very rarely in bilious colic, if they were not 
produced by pernicious medication. On consulting with 
my medical friends, I learn that their experience is similar 
to mine; and knowing that what is understood as bilious 
colic was simply a hypersesthesia of the umbilical plexus 
of nerves, or one of the forms of neuralgia, I determined to 
try it in other nervous affections; consequently, I have 
used it in nearly every form of painful neuralgia, and 
have found it equally valuable. In facial neuralgia, hy- 
30 350 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
penesthesia of the spine, brain, uterus, and other portions 
of the nervous system, its power is most marked, and in 
nearly every instance relief has been afforded. Of course, 
the causes, predisposing and exciting, received their due 
attention and appropriate treatment, as well as other com- 
plications. 
As to the extent to which I have used the drug, I 
would remark, that although I have not kept a detailed 
account of all the cases, yet I have prescribed it constantly 
for five or six years, and with almost uniform success. 
My experience with it, as well as such information as I 
could obtain from others, leads me to believe that it pos- 
sesses more power over painful nervous affections than any 
other remedy in the materia medica. Its influence on the 
system appears to be of a more specific character than 
otherwise, as it relieves the pain, without producing any 
remarkable constitutional symptoms; for, after taking one 
or two grains every two hours for a few days, the system 
appears to re-act, and the pain and paroxysm disappear, 
the appetite becomes natural, and the bowels and kid- 
neys, together with all the emunctories of the body, assume 
their natural functions. In most chronic nervous affec- 
tions, I combine the dioscorin with some preparation of 
iron, and use such other adjunct remedies as the nature 
of the case demands. In malarial districts, I use it with 
sulphate of quinine. The ordinary dose, in bilious colic, 
is ten or twenty grains of the triturated remedy, every ten 
or fifteen minutes, followed by a draught of warm water; 
in other nervous affections, from five to ten grains, every 
two or three hours. As to its influence on the healthy 
constitution, I will give the experience of two of my 
former students, each testing the drug when in a perfect 
state of health, and each being ignorant of the effect ex- 
perienced by the other :- DIOSCORIN. 
351 
Philadelphia, January 4th, 1865. 
I commenced taking dioscorin, in half-grain doses, three 
times a day. Soon after taking the first dose, I experi- 
enced considerable pain in the abdomen, which was soon 
followed by a slight diarrhoea. I continued using the 
drug until I had taken twenty-five doses, but did not ob- 
serve any further effects. I then increased the dose to one 
grain, and was again seized with abdominal pains, as well 
as diarrhoea, which soon passed off; and although I con- 
tinued its use until I had taken twelve one-grain doses, 
no other effects were perceptible. I then discontinued its 
use for three days, when I again commenced with the dose 
increased to two grains; and after taking four doses, was 
seized with such a severe griping pain in the abdomen, 
that I was obliged to abandon the experiment. Since I 
commenced the experiment, I find that my appetite is 
very much increased. 
Henry A. Summers. 
January 16th, 1865. 
I commenced taking one-half grain of dioscorin, with 
the following effects :-First dose caused a slight feeling of 
fulness in the head, with an increase of saliva, and an 
agreeable sweetish taste. Symptoms continued three hours. 
The dose was taken three times per day, on the 7th and 8th, 
with like effects. On the 9th, the dose was doubled in 
the morning, which caused a slight continued pain in 
the abdomen, as if the point of a finger were placed upon 
the umbilicus, and pressed upward and backward. At 
noon the dose was tripled, with an increase of the severity 
of the symptoms, and defecation, which is uncommon at 
that period. In the evening the dose was quadrupled, 
but I fell asleep before its action commenced, and remain- 
ed undisturbed about four hours, when I woke in a horri- 
ble dream, feeling much pain in the abdomen; but it soon 352 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
subsided, and I again fell asleep, awoke soon, and found 
myself sore upon pressure. I now took five doses in one, 
or three grains. In one-half hour there was fulness in the 
head, speedily followed by severe pain in the abdomen, 
more spasmodic than heretofore. During the intermis- 
sions there was a burning sensation, which lasted three 
hours. I now thought it the part of prudence to discon- 
tinue the experiment. The soreness lasted two days. 
J. C. Michener. 
I would remark, as to these tests, that I have the expe- 
rience of others, and they all testify to the same results. 
I have also tried the remedy upon my own person, and 
witnessed almost the same effects as those of my students. 
More recently, owing to the difficulty of obtaining a reli- 
able quality of dioscorin, I have been using the fluid ex- 
tract, in doses of ten or fifteen drops, with very good suc- 
cess, but not as good as with the dioscorin prepared by 
Mr. Keith. 
This is the active principle of the Euonymus Atropur- 
pureus, or Burning Bush. In the healthy person, given 
every two or three hours, for twenty-four hours, it will 
produce cholera morbus; if continued still longer, there 
will be nausea, and lastly, vomiting of a bilious character. 
I have taken one-half dram and felt no nausea, but at the 
expiration of twelve hours I have had nausea, vomiting, 
and purging, with bilious discharges from the bowels. If 
the liver be engorged, there will be discharged quantities 
of bile. In weak and debilitated persons it will cause un- 
easiness of the bowels and abdomen, but no vomiting. 
To a lady, a patient of mine, who was very weak and 
feeble, on whom I tried many of our most valuable reme- 
dies without success, and knowing that her digestion was 
EUONYMIN. EUONYMIN. 
353 
impaired, I gave small doses of euonymin, one-half grain 
in pill every night. She took these for a week, when she 
had free evacuations of the bowels. It does not stimulate 
the vascular system, but acts as a stimulant to the liver, 
causing proper action of the bowels, improving digestion, 
affecting the tissues generally, and bringing on a healthy 
condition of the whole system. 
Within the last few years, we have had ample oppor- 
tunity to test the therapeutic properties of the euonymin in 
the University clinics. In the case of a man who was 
examined by Prof. Duffee, and pronounced as having 
cirrhosis, or gin-liver, we commenced the treatment by 
giving one grain of euonymin night and morning, in con- 
nection with a diet exclusively of corn mush and milk. At 
the expiration of ten days, the evacuations, which were 
previously clay-colored, became more natural, and the 
patient generally improved. It was now ordered that the 
dose be increased to two grains night and morning, and 
continued for ten days. Ou the third day the patient re- 
turned, stating that the medicine was operating too violent- 
ly, as it produced four or five evacuations a day, accom- 
panied with pain and nausea, with a loss of appetite. The 
quantity was then reduced to the former dose-two grains 
a day-when the bowels became natural, the appetite im- 
proved, and at the expiration of three months, the patient 
was discharged cured. 
The euonymin has also been extensively used in nearly 
every form of hepatic difficulty, and in no instance has it 
failed to be followed by beneficial results. We have also 
prescribed it extensively in secondary and tertiary syphilis 
with decided benefit. In many cases where mercurials had 
been extensively used without producing relief, we gave 
the euonymin and obtained beneficial results. In one in- 
stance, that of a woman who had syphilitic nodes and 
violent neuralgia, we gave one grain of euonymin and two 
30* 354 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
grains of sulphate of quinine three times a day, and in the 
course of a week it was followed by permanent relief, al- 
though previously to coming under our treatment she had 
taken quinine, blue pill, and bichloride of mercury at in- 
tervals for several months without benefit. The euonymin 
improves the appetite and acts as a general tonic at the 
same time that it exerts its alterative influence over the 
glandular system. In chronic rheumatism it also proves 
highly serviceable, and in combination with sulphite of 
soda we have successfully treated several cases which had 
resisted the ordinary form of treatment. In hemorrhoids 
and constipation of the bowels, resulting from hepatic 
inertia, one-half grain taken at bed-time is a very effectual 
remedy. The fluid extract of the euonymus atropurpu- 
reus, as prepared by Mr. Hance, of Philadelphia, in doses 
of thirty to forty drops, proves quite as efficacious as the 
euonymin. Avery convenient prescription for torpid liver 
and constipated bowels with weak digestion is, to take one 
ounce of the fluid extract of euonymus, and four ounces of 
simple syrup. Mix. Dose-a teaspoonful twice a day. 
EUPHORBIN. 
Euphorbia is the active principle of the Euphorbia Coro- 
lata; common name, Bowman's Root, American Ipecacuanha, 
&c. The euphorbia, in two or three grain doses, is erneto- 
cathartic; and in Qne-sixteenth to one-tenth grain doses, it 
is diaphoretic, and increases the action of the skin ; it also 
acts slightly as an arterial sedative and as an alterative. 
By continuing the use of this remedy for two or three days, 
in one-tenth to one-eighth grain doses, every three hours, 
the alvine evacuations are increased, and in cases of con- 
gestion of the liver much benefit is frequently produced. 
I have used this remedy quite extensively to maintain 
gentle diaphoresis in fevers; and from its influence to ex- 
cite the secretions, and stimulate the emunctories of the EUPHORBIN. 
355 
body, where the fever is of the sthenic form, it is a very 
valuable remedy. I have also used this remedy in syphilis, 
in combination with phytolaccin and corydalin; and it is 
of great value in obstinate constipation of the bowels de- 
pendent upon inactivity of the liver. It is also of service 
as an emetic. Although its action is prompt, it is far in- 
ferior to lobelia, as it is more liable to debilitate the diges- 
tive organs, and produce permanent derangement of the 
system. In malarial fevers, however, wdiere the liver and 
digestive organs are so much involved, and the power of 
the disease will tolerate a drastic remedy, a free emeto- 
cathartic operation from this drug frequently produces 
most happy effects ; indeed, I have known some obstinate 
cases of intermitting and remitting fevers entirely inter- 
rupted by the ordinary emeto-cathartic operation of the 
euphorbin. I have also used this remedy in glandular 
enlargements, for the purpose of producing absorption, and 
found it, in combination with menispermin and iodide of 
potash, in the proportion of one grain of the latter to two 
grains of the former, and one-tenth of a grain of euphorbin, 
administered every two or three hours, a most effectual 
remedy. A case, which was pronounced cancer of the 
mammae by several physicians, was treated with this 
remedy by a medical friend, and, by the aid of a simple 
cold compress, the tumor was entirely absorbed. I have 
also used this remedy, in combination with helonin, in 
Bright's disease of the kidney; and, in one case, where, 
after the continued use of the helonin for several weeks, 
the albumen in the urine remained undiminished, by the 
addition of one-sixteenth of a grain of euphorbin to two 
grains of helonin, administered every two hours, the quan- 
tity of albumen soon became diminished, and, by the aid 
of cod liver oil, quinine, and iron, the patient was entirely 
cured. I have also used small doses in cases of colliquative 
sweats, in hectic, and in other debilities of the system. 356 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
In this case I have used it as a tonic to the sudoriferous 
glands ; and a very obstinate case of night sweats, con- 
nected with phthisis, was entirely removed by giving the 
twentieth part of a grain of euphorbin every night, upon 
retiring. Usually, one or two doses of this remedy per 
day, in these cases, is followed by great relief. As an 
emetic, as I have previously remarked, the euphorbin is 
active and prompt in evacuating the stomach. Hence it 
may be used in cases of poisoning, where an active and 
prompt emetic is required, as it is equally efficacious and 
effectual as sulphate of zinc or sulphate of copper, and may 
prove far less injurious to the tissues of the stomach. The 
dose of the euphorbin as an emetic, is from two to ten 
grains, administered in a little warm water ; as an hepatic 
or alterative, from one-tenth to one-fourth of a grain, four 
or five times a day ; as a stimulant to the surface, to pre- 
vent perspiration, from one-thirtieth to one-fifth of a grain, 
two or three times a day. The fluid extract may be used 
in all cases as a substitute for the concentrated article, and, 
in the majority of cases, with equal success. The dose is 
from twenty to thirty drops. 
EUPUEPURINE. 
Eupurpurine is the active principle of the Eupatorium 
Purpurium; common name, Queen of the Meadow. The 
eupurpurine is a genuine uterine tonic. There is, 
perhaps, no remedy of the materia medica that exerts a 
more powerful tonic impression upon the uterus than does 
the eupurpurine. When taken in doses of five to ten 
grains, it has the effect to stimulate uterine contractions; 
and in cases of pregnancy, it has been known to produce 
abortion, by inducing premature labor. Hence, it has 
great value in cases of uterine inertia during labor, or 
where there is much debility and feeble uterine contrac- 
tions. It may be used in all cases where ergot has been EUI'URPURINE. 
357 
prescribed, with equal certainty of effect in producing 
labor, or restoring or causing permanent uterine contrac- 
tions, without effecting any disastrous impressions upon the 
blood, so peculiar to large doses of ergot. I have admin- 
istered this in a large number of cases of complete uterine 
inertia, in combination with capsicum and other stimu- 
lants, and have found most happy and immediate effects. 
In cases of debility of the uterus, it is a remedy of re- 
markable value. In the large number of cases of uterine 
leucorrhoea, caused by exhaustion of the uterus and 
chronic metritis, the eupurpurine, administered in doses 
of one-half to one grain, four or five times a day, affords 
almost immediate relief. In cases of prolapsus uteri, and 
in retroversion of the uterus, and, in fact, in all cases 
where there is debility of this organ and its appendages, 
the eupurpurine can be relied upon as a tonic and stimu- 
lant to these parts. 
A case which recently came under my charge, was that 
of a lady, who had had four or five miscarriages, and had 
never succeeded in carrying a child to its full period. She 
had been under the treatment of several of the most emi- 
nent physicians of the city; and, although the most rigid 
hygienic and medical treatment had been instituted, all 
her efforts to mature her period of gestation had been 
abortive. She was in the third month of pregnancy, 
and within two or three weeks of her usual period to abort, 
when she came under my charge. I commenced her 
treatment by giving one grain of the eupurpurine, in com- 
bination with one-half grain of iron per hydrogen, three 
times a day. I ordered a cold sitz bath with friction, 
once a day. This treatment I continued, with the addi- 
tion of occasional light purges, for two or three months, 
when iron was omitted, and the sitz bath, with the eupur- 
purine, was continued until full term, at which time she 
was delivered of a fine healthy daughter. 358 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
Another case was that of a lady who had been married 
fourteen years, and had been constantly troubled with 
amenorrhoea, leucorrhcea, and dysmenorrhcea; apd al- 
though she was exceedingly anxious to have a family, to 
her knowledge had never been enciente. I commenced 
the treatment with one grain of eupurpurine, and one-half 
grain of hypophosphite of iron, three times a day, and also 
administered small doses of leptandrin and euonymin at 
bedtime, as she was also laboring under hepatic difficulties. 
I continued this treatment for some four or five months, 
together with the use of vaginal injections, of decoctions 
of cinchona and hydrastis Canadensis. Her health very 
much improved, her courses became regular, leucorrhcea 
disappeared, and in seven months from the time of the 
commencement of her treatment she had the satisfaction 
of realizing her long anticipations and wishes. During 
the treatment I administered helonin and eupurpurine, in 
the proportion of one-tenth of a grain of the former to one- 
fourth of a grain of the latter, three times a day. She 
matured a healthy child. Other cases of a similar charac- 
ter have been treated with this remedy, and with like 
results. I have also used this remedy in several cases of 
impotency. 
A gentleman, who had been impotent for about four 
years, has been under my charge for the last six months. 
For the first two months I prescribed all the usual reme- 
dies in this disease, without effect. I then employed the 
eupurpurine. For the last four months he has been taking 
from one to five grains, three or four times a day; and 
although not yet entirely well, he has so far recovered by 
the use of this remedy, as to demonstrate its value in these 
diseases. I have used it also in other cases of a similar 
character, and with most satisfactory effects. From the 
experience I have had with the eupurpurine, I am satisfied 
that it is a great tonic to the reproductive apparatus of EUPATORIN. 
359 
both male and female; and in all those diseases where 
the organs have become exhausted, either by sympathy 
■with other diseases, or from abuses, this remedy, judicious- 
ly administered, will serve a most valuable purpose. 
The dose of the eupurpurine, to resuscitate exhausted 
labor, to restore tone and vigor to the uterus, and to has- 
ten uterine action in cases of uterine inactivity, is from 
one to five grains, administered every half hour, until 
thirty or forty grains have been given; as a general uter- 
ine tonic, from one to three grains, taken four times a day, 
either in combination with iron, cod liver oil, hydrastin, 
or other tonics, or alone, is the ordinary dose. In cases 
of impotency, from one to five grains may be administered 
three or four times a day. The fluid extract may be 
used as substitute in doses of from twenty to thirty drops. 
EUPATORIN. 
Eupatorin is the active principle of the Eupatorium Per- 
foliatum. This remedy, when administered in doses of 
from five to ten grains, acts as an emeto-cathartic; but, 
in medical doses, it appears to manifest a tonic influence 
over the digestive apparatus. This is especially the case 
as to its influence upon the stomach. One-eighth to one- 
fourth of a grain, administered four or five times a day, 
increases the tone and vigor of the stomach, improves the 
appetite, and renders digestion more complete; in doses 
of from half a grain to one grain, it appears to extend its 
influence to the liver, increasing the secretion of the bile, 
and imparting a healthy tone to that organ. Hence it is 
a remedy of much value in all forms of dyspepsia, depend- 
ent upon a debilitated state of the stomach, and torpid 
and inactive liver. It also manifests more or less antiperi- 
odic properties. Two or three grains, every two or three 
hours during the aggression of remittent and intermittent 
fever, has the effect to interrupt its periodicity, and in 360 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
cases where there is a vitiated condition of the stomach, 
or a loaded condition of the liver, this remedy may be 
used with the greatest advantage, especially in combina- 
tion with small doses of quinine. I have frequently ad- 
ministered, in obstinate remittent fevers, from one-half to 
one grain of eupatorin, in combination writh one or two 
grains of sulphate of quinine, with the happiest effects. I 
have also used this remedy with decided advantage in ob- 
stinate constipation of the bowels, dependent upon general 
inactivity. This remedy has also been highly recom- 
mended for its tonic influence over the uterus ; but al- 
though I have administered it frequently, I have never 
found it to act as a direct uterine tonic; indirectly, it 
may benefit uterine diseases, by restoring the general in- 
tegrity of the system. The great use of this remedy so far 
as known, is in debility of the stomach, torpidity of the 
liver, and in intermittent and remittent diseases. Eupa- 
torin may be compounded with other concentrated reme- 
dies to decided advantage,-as eupatorin, in combination 
with leontodin, for diseases of the liver; eupatorin with 
frazerin, for debility of the stomach. It may also be 
compounded with chalybeates, where there is an exhausted 
state of the blood. 
The dose of the eupatorin for a debilitated state of the 
stomach, is from one-eighth to one-fourth of a grain ; as a 
mild stimulant and tonic to the liver, from one-fourth to 
one grain; in intermittent fevers, from one to two grains 
every two or three hours. The fluid extract, which can 
always be used as a reliable substitute, may be employed 
in doses of from ten drops to one dram. 
Frazerin is the active medical principle of the Frazera 
Carolinensis, or American Columbo. The American Co- 
lombo has long been used in various forms of disease, but 
FRAZERIN. F E A Z E E I N . 
361 
mostly as a tonic, antiseptic, and febrifuge. Dr. Beach 
recommends it in dyspepsia, jaundice, and general de- 
bility. It has also been used as a mild purge in constipa- 
tion and hepatic difficulties. Dr. King, in his American 
Dispensatory, remarks that the fresh root causes nausea 
and vomiting, but the dried root is a mild tonic. He does 
not mention the frazerin, which is the active principle of 
the plant, and has been in use for several years. When 
taken in five or ten grain doses, if the person be free from 
disease, it produces mild catharsis, with slight nausea, and 
in dram doses causing vomiting and purging. In small 
doses it increases the appetite, and gives additional vigor 
to the digestive organs. In disease it appears to direct its 
medicinal efforts principally to the mucous membrane of 
the stomach and bowels. It also appears to exert a tonic 
influence on the liver, and in indigestion which is depen- 
dent upon congestion of the gastric capillaries or softening 
of the mucous membrane, it exerts a most decided tonic 
effect in giving vigor to the tissues, and producing a 
healthy action. In congestion of the mucous capillaries, 
it relieves the condition by giving tone to the parts. It 
also produces equally healthy conditions of the mucous 
membrane of the bowels, and is especially adapted to re- 
move that ulcerated condition of the mucous surface, 
which is so frequently the sequel of typhus, typhoid fever 
and dysentery. In feeble and debilitated habits, where a 
gentle tonic, mild aperient, and diuretic are indicated, we 
have no article in the materia medica which fulfills these 
indications so perfectly as frazerin. It not only increases 
the alvine evacuations, but augments the renal secretions. 
I have also found it of great value in chronic vaginitis 
and leucorrhoea. In spermatorrhoea, connected with con- 
stipation and derangement of the digestive organs, it is 
also valuable. In chronic inactivity of the liver, con- 
nected with congestion of the hepatic capillaries, in doses 
31 ' 362 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
of two or three grains twice or three times per day, it pro- 
duces a tonic impression, and restores the hepatic secre- 
tion. The dose is from one-half to one grain, three or 
four times a day; and of the fluid extract from ten to 
thirty drops. A valuable mixture for mucous dyspepsia, 
is, to take one ounce of the fluid extract of frazera caro- 
linensis, and two ounces of the elixir cinchonae, ferri ct 
strychnine. Dose-a teaspoonful three or four times a 
day. 
GELSEMIN. 
Gelsemin is the active principle of the Gelseminum Sem- 
per virens; Yellow Jessamine. There are but few remedies 
connected with our concentrated materia medica that ap- 
pear to possess the power, and manifest the medical vir- 
tues that are peculiar to the gelsemin. The toxical 
impression of the gelsemin is manifested upon the cerebro- 
spinal system, as it produces vertigo, tremor, and paraly- 
sis. A student of mine, who, by mistake, swallowed two 
grains of gelsemin, experienced the following symptoms:-• 
Two or three minutes after taking the gelsemin, he felt a 
strange sensation in his head, and an involuntary closure 
of the eyelids took place. In two or three minutes this 
paralysis appeared to extend to all portions of the body. 
He attempted to walk, but fell immediately upon the 
floor; whenever he tried to move, he felt a peculiar, 
strange sensation in his head; and upon lying perfectly 
quiet, although he was almost entirely powerless, he was 
perfectly conscious of everything that was going on 
around him. He had neither nausea nor vomiting, nor 
was there any disturbed condition of the stomach or 
bowels. His respiration was at first hard, but in a few 
moments it became slow and somewhat difficult. His cir- 
culation was sluggish, and the pulse exceedingly feeble; 
his extremities became cold, and in the course of fifteen 
or twenty minutes the surface was completely immersed in GELSEMIN. 
363 
a cold perspiration. He was restored by the use of half 
grain doses of camphor, large doses of brandy, and an 
emetic of sulphate of zinc. After his partial recovery, he 
experienced, for several days, a feeble, languid, debilitated 
state of the muscular system ; he also passed large quan- 
tities of urine, and was troubled with tenesmus, and some 
bloody discharges from the bowels. Writers have attributed 
different properties to the gelsemin. By some it has been 
supposed to manifest peculiar power over fevers; and in 
the western and southern sections of the country it has 
been quite extensively used in nearly all forms, especially 
in intermittents and remittents. It is even supposed by 
some to possess antiperiodic powers, and others have 
claimed it to be a substitute for cinchona. It has been 
variously used as an arterial sedative, to control the ac- 
tion of the heart; and, in fact, there are but few affections 
in which this remedy has not been recommended. 
As I have frequently remarked relative to the modus 
operandi of medicines, we can form but feeble ideas of the 
real medical virtues of any remedy by its toxical impres- 
sion, when administered in large doses. The poisonous 
influence of the remedy upon the system is one thing, and 
the medical power or virtue is another. Many writers on 
therapeutics suppose that because a remedy produces a 
drastic and powerful influence upon the system, it is capa- 
ble of curing diseases of a similar character to those which 
it creates. Although this may prove true in some instances, 
yet, in a great variety of cases, this is not the case. Upon 
carefully watching the therapeutic action of the gelsemin, 
we find that it has a specific influence on certain organs 
and tissues ; for instance, the twentieth of a grain of gelse- 
min produces a peculiar effect upon the small muscles of 
the eye; the eyelids become paralyzed, and I have found 
the fortieth of a grain to produce complete ptosis. 
Another peculiar impression I have noticed is its influ- 364 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
ence upon the capillary circulation of the mucous mem- 
brane, in cases of congestion and inflammation. It appears 
to have the effect of controlling these vessels, and lessening 
the hyperaemia, removing the engorgement peculiar to 
that tissue, preventing exudation, and thus controlling a 
very important class of maladies. It was from the pecu- 
liar effect of this remedy upon the mucous surfaces in 
ozsena, broncorrhoea, leucorrhoea, catarrhal affections of 
the bladder, stomach, and bowels, that first led me to use 
it in dysentery. Regarding this as a specific form of ca- 
tarrh of the colon, I commenced the use of the gelsemin 
in these diseases, and for the last ten or fifteen years I have 
had a most remarkable opportunity of testing its virtues 
in nearly every form and variety of this affection, and I 
am most confident that there is no remedy that possesses 
equal power and influence over this form of catarrh of the 
bowels as the gelsemin. I do not claim that the gelsemin 
will cure every form of dysentery, without the aid of other 
remedies ; but I do claim that it possesses the power of ar- 
resting the inflammatory action, and that most promptly. 
In small doses, it affects the inflammatory condition of the 
tissues, controlling the inflammation, and arresting the 
exudation. It has an anaesthetic influence upon the ner- 
vous system, and completely relieves the tormina and 
tenesmus. 
Some years since, during an epidemic of dysentery, I 
had an opportunity of testing the virtues of this remedy, 
after the ordinary means had failed. There were three 
cases in one family; two small boys, and one little girl. 
They had been prostrated by the disease from one to two 
weeks. Astringents, opiates, quinine, counter-irritation, 
and all the ordinary resources of the profession had been 
applied in vain. They were regarded by their attendant 
physicians as hopeless cases. It was deemed by the prac- 
titioner that these were proper cases for the power and 365 
virtues of gelsemin. I took these cases under my charge, 
in the presence of several physicians, for the purpose of 
testing the virtues of this article in the most prominent 
degree. Having first evacuated the stomach by lobelia, 
and bathed the surface in tepid water, I commenced the 
use of the gelsemin in doses of one-sixteenth of a grain, 
on each of the cases, every half hour. The oldest was ten, 
the next seven, the other four years of age. I did not 
deem age as requiring any change in the quantity of the 
remedy. I repeated the gelsemin until I had administered 
half a grain. This was accomplished in the course of 
twelve hours. At the expiration of this period the tormi- 
na, which had been most harassing, and the tenesmus, 
which was most exhausting, had entirely disappeared. 
The discharges were essentially controlled ; and although 
the system was extensively prostrated, and there was gen- 
eral exhaustion, still, so far as the active character of the 
disease was concerned, it was materially controlled. I 
then resorted to small doses of quinine and hypophosphite 
of iron, every hour, for twenty-four hours, together with 
milk punch and animal broths. At the termination of 
this period the tormina and tenesmus slightly returned, 
together with the dysenteric discharges ; but, upon the 
administration of two or three doses of the sixteenth of a 
grain of gelsemin, they were relieved. Thus, by adminis- 
tering the remedy two or three times a day, or as often as 
the symptoms manifested themselves, together with the 
proper hygienic measures, these cases recovered. During 
this epidemic, gelsemin was administered to between seven- 
ty and eighty cases, with almost uniform success. Indeed, 
so successful was this treatment, that in seventy cases, I 
lost only two; whereas, in the former treatment the mor- 
tality had been quite large. 
I have also tested this remedy in other most severe epi- 
demics, and have found it quite as much of a specific for 
31* 
GELSEMIN. 366 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
dysentery as is the sulphate of quinine for intermittent 
and remittent fevers. There are some of our practitioners, 
who do not regard this remedy as possessing all the powers 
claimed for it. During the last five or six years, they 
say, they have tested the remedy, and it has not succeeded. 
It must be borne in mind that dysentery may depend 
upon a variety of causes; and, previously to its adminis- 
tration, the causes, so far as practicable, should be re- 
moved. One of the most common causes in marshy 
countries, is animal malaria. In these cases the gelsemin 
should first be administered, to overcome the inflamma- 
tory excitement in the mucous tissues-quinine to be used 
for the purpose of removing the periodicity. Where 
dysentery is dependent upon vitiated ingesta, this should 
be removed. Where it is caused by zymotic poisons, con- 
stantly introduced into the system, in the form of innocu- 
ous gases from the decomposition of animal matter, as in 
camp dysentery, the cause should be removed before the 
disease can be completely cured; and even in these cases 
gelsemin will remove the inflammatory action, and con- 
trol the discharges. A student of mine, who has recently 
been through all the more important campaigns of the 
late war, and who has had most remarkable opportunities 
for testing the power of gelsemin, states that not in a 
single case has it failed to produce the most happy effects- 
In camp dysentery and diarrhoea, he has found this 
remedy alone adequate to meet the most severe indica- 
tions, and while his co-laborers of the medical staff* were 
perplexed, and met with ill success in the treatment of 
this form of disease, he was most triumphantly successful 
with the use of gelsemin. One difficulty, he states, which 
he labored under, was, that it was not on the supply table. 
He remedied it by furnishing his own. 
It must be borne in mind that the gelsemin is a most 
powerful remedy; and while it possesses the most active GELSEMIN. 
367 
remedial properties, it is capable of producing disastrous 
consequences. Large doses of gelsemin are sure to be 
followed by most fatal effects; therefore the necessity for 
using it with great caution, especially in cases of debility. 
The gelsemin has been used successfully, not only in 
dysentery, but in diarrhoea, and especially that caused by 
an exhausted and debilitated state, or by inflammation 
and congestion of the mucous surface; and it is more than 
probable that the gelsemin will be found a remedy of 
equal value in cases of cholera. I have long since admin- 
istered this remedy in cases of cholera morbus, in combi- 
nation with the compound syrup of potassa and rhubarb, 
and with the most happy effects. This remedy, as I have 
intimated, extends its influence to the entire mucous tis- 
sue, and is capable of controlling all inflammatory dis- 
eases ; consequently, it is a remedy of great value in 
bronchitis. It is equally valuable in cases of ozsena, in 
broncorrhcea, in chronic inflammation of the stomach, 
colon, ileum, jejunum, and the rectum. It is also a 
remedy of great value in chronic catarrh of the bladder 
and urethra. Many of the cases of supposed sperma- 
torrhoea, are merely the result of chronic urethritis. 
These cases I have known to be immediately relieved by 
the use of small doses of gelsemin, and even sperma- 
torrhoea itself has been controlled by the use of this 
remedy. In cases of vaginal and uterine leucorrhoea, I 
have also found this remedy of great value. It must be 
remembered that it is not designed to remove all the 
pathological conditions of the system that may exist in 
these diseases; but that its influence is specific, so far as 
known, upon the mucous membrane, having a direct 
tendency to relieve the capillary congestion, and to restore 
these vessels to their normal condition; consequently, 
where there are complications, it can be administered with 
other remedies; as, for instance, in dysentery, where there 368 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
are hepatic complications, it may be given with leontodin. 
In case it is complicated with marsh fevers, in combina- 
tion with quinine ; or in a diseased condition of the blood, 
in combination with iron; or in an exhausted state of the 
nervous system, in combination with iron and phosphorus. 
In diseases of the bronchia, it may be administered in com- 
bination with stillingin ; and in cases of diseases of the blad- 
der, it may be used with helonin. Thus it may be com- 
pounded with other remedies, according to the complica- 
tion, and with the most happy effects. Not only has it a pecu- 
liar specific influence over the capillary structure of the mu- 
cous surface, but it seems to manifest an anaesthetic power 
over the nervous system, and has been used with advantage 
in hyperaesthesia, especially of the umbilical plexus, in com- 
bination with dioscorin. This combination of dioscorin with 
gelsemin, has been found to be almost a specific for this dis- 
ease. It is also used for other forms,-neuralgia and hyste- 
ria, and hysterical affections. But its medicinal influence 
upon the nervous system will require farther investigation. 
The ordinary dose of gelsemin, for dysentery, is from 
one-thirtieth to one-sixteenth of a grain, administered 
every fifteen minutes, half hour, or hour, according to the 
severity of the case and the age of the patient; and for 
nervous affections, from one-sixteenth to one-tenth of a 
grain. One-tenth is rather a large dose. In ordinary 
cases of chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes; I 
have often used one-fiftieth and one-hundredth of a grain, 
with most decided advantage. The gelsemin should be 
thoroughly trituated, either with lactin or sugar ; and the 
most convenient form is to add a few grains of the tritu- 
rated article to a tumbler of water, and administer in tea- 
spoonful doses, as the patient may require it. 
GERANIN. 
Geranin is the active principle of the Geranium, Macula- GERANIN. 
369 
turn; common name, Geranium, or Crane's Bill. The 
essential principle of the article is the tannic acid which it 
contains. Nearly all bitter herbs contain a greater or less 
quantity of this acid. Mr. Merrell's preparation of geranin 
is almost entirely tannic acid. The medical properties of 
the geranin, so far as we have been able to discover, con- 
sist in its power to stimulate and contract the caliber of the 
capillary vessels, more especially those of mucous surfaces. 
Hence it has been used as an astringent, to interrupt exu- 
dation in catarrhal affections, and chronic inflammatory 
diseases of the mucous membrane generally. Its main 
benefit, so far as we have been able to ascertain, consists 
in its power to arrest active hemorrhage from the mucous 
membrane. Hence, in fifteen or twenty grain doses, it 
may be used in haemoptysis, uterine hemorrhage, hemor- 
rhage from the bowels which occurs in fevers ; and it may 
be compounded with gelsemin, and other remedies, which 
operate specifically upon the mucous tissues, to impart tone 
and vigor to this structure. Although it is a remedy of 
considerable value, yet I have not found it to act specifi- 
cally in curing any very important disease. Future ex- 
periments with it may develop some property with which 
we are not yet acquainted. It has also been used with 
considerable benefit in indolent ulcers and open cancers. 
The method of applying it in such cases is to sprinkle the 
powder on the parts two or three times a day. An oint- 
ment made of two drams of geranin and one-half dram of 
mecca oil, has proved highly serviceable for piles. It 
should be applied two or three times a day. It is also 
used in debility of the stomach with benefit. 
The dose of the geranin, as an astringent to the mucous 
surfaces, is from two to three grains; as an active astrin- 
gent, in cases of hemorrhage, from ten grains to a dram. 
It has been claimed by some, that it possesses antiperiodic 
power; and for this object I have given dram doses, every 370 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
two-or three hours during the apyrexia of fevers; and in a 
few cases, I think I have derived benefit from it. The 
fluid extract may be used in all cases as a substitute, in 
doses of from ten to sixty drops. 
Gossypiin is the active principle of the Gossypium Her- 
baceum, or Cotton Root. The medical virtues of the gos- 
sypiin first attracted the attention of the profession by the 
slave women of the South using it as an abortant. They 
are in the habit of making a strong decoction of the fresh 
bark, and drinking from a gill to a pint; and it is said 
that it has a wonderful power over the uterus, and seldom 
fails to produce abortion. From this peculiar effect it was 
supposed that this remedy might be used with decided ad- 
vantage in uterine affections, and accordingly it has been 
recommended, and largely experimented with. The gos- 
sypiin represents, to a very great extent, the medical vir- 
tues of the crude article, and it is used in the place of the 
ergot for the purpose of producing uterine contractions in 
tardy labor, and has served a valuable purpose. Although 
it may not possess the same power that is manifested by 
the ergot or caulophyllin, still it exerts a decidedly stimu- 
lating and exciting influence over the contractile muscles 
of the uterus. I have used this remedy in a large number 
of cases of tardy labor, in doses of from two to five grains, 
and I have found it to give tone and vigor to the uterus, 
without causing a disordered condition of the system gene- 
rally, or in any way interfering with labor, only to increase 
its progress. I have also used this remedy in diseases of 
the uterus, such as amenorrhoea and dysmcnorrhoea, and 
have found it to act very beneficially, especially in com- 
bination with caulophyllin, iron, and other remedies, as 
they might be indicated by the complication. 
The gossypiin acts also as a diuretic, increasing the 
GOSS YPIIN. HAMAMELIN. 
371 
activity of the kidneys, and hence it has been used by some 
practitioners quite extensively in a disordered condition of 
these organs, with decided advantage. It has also been 
used, in combination with sulphate of potassa, for various 
pathological conditions of the uterus, such as cauliflower, 
concretions and ulcerations of the uterus, and cancerous 
degenerations of the uterine structure, with success. But, 
I apprehend, that the essential benefit derived was from 
the use of the potassa, and not from the gossypiin. In 
cases of dysmenorrhcea, in combination with iron by hydro- 
gen, I have found it a remedy of decided value, in the 
proportion of one grain of the gossypiin to two grains of 
the iron, five or six times a day. To stimulate the uterus 
in tardy labor, from three to five grains may be adminis- 
tered every half hour, or hour; and for a debilitated and 
exhausted condition of the uterus, one or two grains, three 
or four times a day, may be found of value. The fluid ex- 
tract contains all the essential properties of the plant, and 
may be used in all cases as a substitute, the dose being 
from five to sixty drops repeated as indicated. 
HAM AM ELIN. 
Hamamelin is the active principle of the Hamamelis 
Virginica, or Witch Hazel. The hamamelin appears to 
have a specific influence upon the mucous membrane of 
the vagina, uterus, urethra, bladder, and ureters. Although 
it unquestionably affects other portions of the mucous sur- 
face, still it manifests itself with more particular power 
over the mucous membrane of the vagina and urethra 
than on other parts of mucous surfaces. In ten to fifteen 
grain doses, repeated three or four times a day, I have 
known it to produce violent contractions of the vagina, 
and a smarting, burning sensation, followed by prurigo ; 
in the same doses, administered in the male, I have known 
it to produce irritation of the urethra, followed by a dis- 372 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
charge and ardor urinse, both in the male and female. In 
medical doses, it operates most beneficially upon these 
organs, when they are in a state of disease or debility. 
Hence, the remedy is of great value in vaginal leucorrhoea, 
and in urethral irritation. I have a vast number of cases 
of ardor urinse in the female, and urethral irritability, 
and this remedy, in doses of one or two grains, three or four 
times a day, affords almost immediate relief; and in cases 
of vaginal leucorrhoea, in doses of one-eighth to one-fourth 
of a grain, three or four times a day, this is a most prompt 
remedy. 
A lady came under my charge, not long since, who had 
been treated for vaginal leucorrhoea, for several years, by 
a very prominent physician of this city, without obtaining 
any relief. She was decidedly opposed to taking strong 
medicines. I gave her one grain of the triturated hama- 
melin, four times a day, together with tepid vaginal injec- 
tions, sponge baths in the morning, and a nutritious diet. 
The result was, that the vaginitis was controlled in the 
course of a week or ten days, and the leucorrhoea was 
entirely cured in the course of a few weeks. 
I have used this remedy in a great many cases of similar 
character, and found it equally efficacious. I have also 
used it in a great many cases of catarrh of the urethra, in 
connection with diseases of the prostate gland, and have 
found it, in doses of from one-fourth to one-half grain, a 
most serviceable remedy. I have also used this article 
with decided benefit in catarrh of the uterus and bladder, 
in combination with gelsemin, and have found it to be a 
most prompt remedy. 
A gentleman, who came under my charge not long 
since, who had been troubled with catarrh of the bladder 
for several years, was entirely relieved in the course of ten 
days, by the use of one-sixteenth of a grain of gelsemin, and 
one-eighth of a grain of the hamamelin, every three hours. 373 
IIELONIN. 
A lady, who had been treated by several physicians, for 
disease of the bladder, with injections of the nitrate of 
silver, and other caustics, and the case pronounced a can- 
cerous affection of the bladder, was entirely cured by the 
use of hamamelin and -gelsemin, in the course of four or 
five months. I have also used this remedy with decided ad- 
vantage in cases of broncorrhoea and ozcena; and, in 
combination with stillingin, I have found it of benefit in 
bronchitis. It has also been extensively used in hemor- 
rhage, uterine and other forms, and is regarded as a very 
reliable remedy. 
The dose of hamamelin is from one-sixteenth to one-half 
of a grain, repeated at intervals of several hours, for chronic 
disease of the urethra, uterus, bladder, and vagina; and 
for hemorrhage, especially if it be of the active character, 
from two to three grains may be administered every two 
or three hours. The hamamelin, like other remedies of 
this class, may be triturated with lactin or sugar, or it 
may be mixed, first with sugar, and then triturated with 
simple syrup. 
HELONIN. 
Helonin is the active principle of the Helonias Dioica, 
or Unicorn Root, Starwort, &c. The helonin, when taken 
in doses of from five to fifteen grains, acts as an emeto- 
cathartic, producing a griping, burning sensation in the 
epigastrium, and great activity of the salivary glands. 
Indeed, I have known most perfect salivation to follow the 
use of large doses of helonin. In doses of from one to 
five grains, it produces an irritability of the stomach, and 
slight purging, with a burning sensation of the bowels, 
irritation of the urethra, pain in the kidneys, which is 
followed by albuminuria, indicating congestion, and large 
discharges of urine, with slightly increased specific gravity. 
In medical doses of from one-half to one grain, it appears 
to exert its power principally over the kidneys, bladder, 
32 374 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
ureters, urethra, uterus, and vagiua, and the assimilating 
organs. The disease which is most promptly influenced 
by this remedy is diabetes, for which it has been used ex- 
tensively, and with most happy effects. I have myself 
treated a large number of cases of diabetes wTith this drug, 
and have invariably found it to diminish the quantity of 
saccharine matter in the urine in the course of a very few 
days; and by the continued use of it, in combination with 
cod liver oil, iron, and quinine, I have been most successful 
in curing many bad cases of this affection. 
A case recently came under my treatment of a young 
man, aged twenty-six, who had been troubled with diabetes 
for several years. His urine had been analyzed by several 
of the best chemists in the city, and large quantities of 
saccharine matter detected. By allowing the urine to 
evaporate in the sun under glass, crystals of sugar would 
appear in a few moments, and the presence of sugar in the 
urine was detected by all the ordinary chemical tests. I 
commenced the treatment of this case for the purpose of 
testing the specific power of the helonin in this affection. 
I gave him one-half of a grain of helonin every two hours 
during the day, for sixteen consecutive days. The quan- 
tity of saccharine matter gradually disappeared, so that at 
the termination of the sixteen days very small traces of 
sugar could be detected in the urine. His general health 
had been reduced by the disease; and, for the purpose of 
restoring it, I gave him quinine and cod liver oil, in the 
proportion of one grain of quinine and one tea-spoonful of 
cod liver oil, every three hours, for three days, when I 
again resorted to the helonin, and continued it for four- 
teen days. By this time all traces of saccharine matter 
had disappeared. I then resorted again to cod liver oil 
and quinine for four or five days, then gave him small 
doses of helonin and iron, and a nutritious diet. By this, 
and other hygienic measures, I succeeded in entirely cur- 375 
ing the case in four months. Several other marked cases 
have been treated in a similar way, and with the same 
result. 
Another disease, which seems to be controlled by this 
remedy, is granulated kidneys, or Bright's disease, or 
albuminuria. 
A gentleman, about sixty-five, who had been afflicted 
with Bright's disease for several years, and treated by 
prominent physicians in this city, applied to me. I com- 
menced the treatment by administering one-fourth grain 
doses of helonin, four times a day, in one tea-spoonful of 
the best French brandy. I continued this treatment for 
some three or four weeks. The albumen gradually di- 
minished, his appetite improved, his bowels became more 
regular, and the general condition of the system was 
greatly improved. I then added to the helonin one-half 
grain of chelonin, and one grain of iron by hydrogen, or 
the ferri redactum. Of this compound I administered one 
dose every two or three hours. I also applied an irritating 
plaster over the region of the kidneys, recommended an 
alkaline bath, nutritious diet, and out-door exercise. The 
patient improved rapidly for several weeks, when he was 
seized with intermittent fever. I then omitted the reme- 
dies, and gave quinine and iron, together with aconite, and 
such other agents as are used to control a fever. Upon 
recovering from his attack of fever, the albumen re-ap- 
peared in the urine in large quantities, but by the use of 
the helonin it soon diminished. The helonin, chelonin, 
iron, and cod liver oil, were then used, in combination and 
alternation, for five or six months, together with some 
general tonics, which resulted in a permanent cure. I 
mention this case, not because it is the only one I have 
treated with this agent, but because it is a marked one of 
degeneration of the kidneys in its worst form. 
I have treated a large number of cases of albuminuria, 
HELONIN. 376 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
following scarlatina, and other exanthematous fevers, with 
helonin, and have found it to operate with almost uniform 
success. 
The helonin also operates as a direct tonic and stimulant 
to the bladder, urethra, vagina, and uterus; hence, in 
cases where there is uterine, vaginal, or urethral debility, 
the helonin, either alone or in combination with other 
remedies, will prove of great value. It is also a remedy of 
great power to stimulate the assimilating organs; hence, in 
many forms of dyspepsia, and other diseases of mal-assimi- 
lation, not connected with diabetes or degeneration of the 
kidneys, it may be used with great advantage. I have 
frequently prescribed this remedy, in combination with 
others, in phthisis and scrofulous affections, and have 
almost uniformly found that it improved the appetite, and 
gave power and tone to the digestive apparatus, thereby 
aiding the use of other remedies in the cure of these dis- 
eases. It has also been used as a general tonic for atrophy 
of the muscles and the system generally; and I have found 
it beneficial in some cases, with a combination of hydrastiu 
and iron. The most direct effect and permanent influence 
of this remedy are manifested on diseases of the stomach 
and kidneys, as I have previously mentioned. 
Helonin is said to possess vermifuge properties, and 
hence it has been used in combination with chelonin and 
santonin, to remove parasites from the alimentary canal. 
The dose of the helonin, in ordinary cases, is from one- 
half to one and a half grains, every two or three hours, or 
two or three times a day, as the case may seem to indicate. 
As I have previously stated, it may be compounded with 
other remedies. It can be triturated in sugar, and in 
simple syrup, and made more palatable in that way. The 
fluid extract may be used in from ten to thirty drop doses 
as a substitute. 377 
HYDRASTIN. 
HYDRASTIN, HYDRASTIA, AND MURIATE OF 
HYDRASTIA. 
These are the concentrated principles of the Hydrastis 
Canadensis, or Golden Seal. The hydrastin acts almost 
specifically and purely as a tonic to the muscles, while the 
muriate of hydrastia operates more directly as a tonic to 
the mucous tissue. Hydrastia appears to operate as a 
general tonic; and like helonin, stimulates the assimilating 
organs, having a most powerful influence in a weak, debili- 
tated condition of the limbs. I have a large number of 
cases that are usually denominated rheumatism indicated 
by a painful condition of the muscles. This is especially 
the case in phthisical or scrofulous patients. Nothing is 
more common than to have patients apply, with pain of 
the pectoral, deltoid, or clavicular muscles. Sometimes 
this pain extends to the muscles of the limbs, and it is 
almost uniformly pronounced by physicians to be a species 
of rheumatism or neuralgia, and is most unsuccessfully 
treated. This painful condition of the muscles is a very 
different affection from that of rheumatism, and is not 
associated in any wTay with that disease, nor is it amenable 
to the same form of treatment. 
Myalgia, or a painful condition of the muscles, almost 
always occurs, where the muscles are thin, feeble, and 
exhausted by over-exertion. Hence, during a paroxysm 
of coughing, in phthisical cases, the respiratory muscles 
become exhausted and painful. Thus pain in the chest is 
the result. The muscles of the back and limbs may also 
become fatigued. Owing to this feeble state, they will not 
tolerate much exercise; and not unfrequently the patient 
is still farther debilitated, and the disease very much ag- 
gravated by this painful condition of the muscles. We 
have, in the hydrastin, almost a specific. It appears to 
manifest its powTer directly upon the muscular fibres, giving 
tone, vigor, and energy to these organs, thereby relieving 
32* 378 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
their hypersesthesia. I have found hydrastin to operate 
more beneficially, however, in combination with iron, iron 
by hydrogen, hypophosphite of iron, or the simple car- 
bonate of iron, which frequently aid the power of hydrastin 
to overcome this painful affection. 
The dose of the hydrastin, for this disease, is from one 
to two grains, administered every two or three hours dur- 
ing the day, for two or three weeks. 
The muriate of hydrastia, which is another preparation 
of the hydrastis Canadensis, is a remedy of great value, 
from its peculiar tonic influence on the mucous mem- 
brane. Hence, in all cases where there is a debilitated con- 
dition of the mucous tissues, or where there is a complica- 
tion of diseases, producing an exhausted and enfeebled 
condition of the tissue itself, the muriate of hydrastia is a 
most potent remedy as in exanthematous fevers, scarla- 
tina, diphtheritis, and rubeola. The muriate of hydrastia 
is an invaluable remedy, as it prevents a solution of the 
continuity of this structure, wfliich is one of the most prom- 
inent features of these diseases, and restores the integrity 
of the tissue when it has been destroyed by them. It is 
also a remedy of great value in chronic inflammation of 
the mucous tissue ; in chronic gastritis, for instance. In 
enteritis, chronic inflammation of the vagina, uterus, and 
urethra, it serves a most valuable purpose. In chronic 
ophthalmia, it is almost a specific. 
The dose of the muriate of hydrastia, is from one-eighth 
to one grain, triturated in sugar, and administered every 
two or three hours. Like other remedies of this class, it 
may be administered alone, or in combination with such 
drugs as the nature of the case may appear to in- 
dicate. 
The hydrastia, as I have previously remarked, is a gen- 
eral tonic, and may be used in dyspepsia, and in all cases 
where there is general debility, in combination with iron, HYOSCYAMIN. 
379 
cod liver oil, and other tonics, or alone, as the case may 
seem to indicate. 
The hydrastia also possesses diuretic properties; hence, 
it has been used in diseases of the kidneys, where there 
appears to be nausea, or general debility of the organs, 
with decided advantage. 
The dose of the hydrastia, is from one-half to one grain, 
repeated at proper intervals. 
Hyoscyamin is the active principle of the Hyoscyamus 
Niger, or Henbane. Hyoscyamin is one of those anaesthe- 
tics which operates in a most peculiar manner upon the 
hrain and nervous system. Alone, it possesses the power 
to relieve pain, or hyperaesthesia of the nervous system 
produced by disease, at the same time causing some pecu- 
liar sensations, particularly upon the nerves of special 
sense. There are many interesting cases of the effect of 
this remedy upon the nervous system, when taken in poi- 
sonous doses. It is related that two French soldiers after 
eating a quantity of the fresh shoots of the plant, became 
in a very short time quite giddy, stupid, and speechless. 
The pupils were dilated, eyes insensible to light, pulse 
small and intermittent, breathing difficult, jaws locked, 
and the mouth distorted. Sensibility was extinct. The 
limbs were cold, the lower extremities palsied, the arms 
convulsed, and there were delirium and coma. They 
were cured, however by active emetics, purges, and vine- 
gar. According to Vicat, a man and his wife ate of the 
root, and soon experienced much difficulty in swallowing, 
stupor, and inflammation of the brain. Cases of impo- 
tence are reported, resulting from the use of this drug. 
The Hyoscyamin represents very closely the medical 
virtues of the hyoscyamus, only in a far more concentra- 
ted form. The most important property displayed by the 
HYOSCYAMIN. 380 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
hyoscyamin, is its power to stimulate the brain and gan- 
glionic system in low forms of fever, and in other diseases 
in which there is great prostration. 
I had recently a case of typhoid fever, in which there 
were strong indications of ramolissement of the cerebel- 
lum, manifested by typhomania, partial paralysis of the 
lower extremities, and great muscular relaxation. These 
symptoms were relieved by the use of one-sixteenth of a 
grain of hyoscyamin, one-eighth of a grain of cypripedin, 
and one grain of the hypophosphite of soda, every two or 
three hours. In other cases of low, muttering delirium, 
connected with fever, I have found that from one-sixteenth 
to one-thirtieth of a grain of hyoscyamin, administered 
every two or three hours, has a most beneficial effect. 
The hyoscyamin, like the hyoscyamus, possesses slight 
purgative and diuretic properties, so that in cases where 
there is intense pain, afe in rheumatism, peritonitis, and 
pleuritis, the hyoscyamin may be compounded with ascle- 
pin, or other remedies influencing these tissues, to a de- 
cided advantage, as it will afford temporary relief, by 
alleviating the painful condition of the part, and at the 
same time have a stimulating influence upon the liver 
and kidneys, thus relieving the system of any materice 
morbi which may exist in the blood as an excitant of these 
inflammatory conditions. I have also used the hyoscya- 
min in neuralgic affections, and in neuralgia dependent 
upon a malarial influence. In combination with quinine 
and iron, it is a valuable remedy. It may be used large- 
ly as a substitute for the sulphate of morphia, and in 
some instances it is far preferable, as it will produce 
anaesthesia, without causing constipation; or, in other 
words, impairing the secretions. Much care should, how- 
ever, be observed in its use in cases of debility, as, while 
it may serve a valuable purpose in many nervous affec- 
tions, it may, if continued for any great length of time, IRISIN. 
381 
produce great exhaustion, and sometimes prostration of 
an alarming character. I have known the one-sixteenth 
of a grain, administered at repeated intervals of every 
two or three hours in the course of a day, to be followed 
by the toxical impression of the drug. In some nervous 
affections, as in cases of deafness, I have compounded it 
with small doses of strychnin, in the proportion of one- 
tenth of a grain of the former, to one-thirtieth of a grain 
of the latter, administered two or three times a day, and 
have found it a most valuable remedy. It is also of 
much benefit in cases of amaurosis, in combination with 
strychnine and the tincture of rhus radicans. The dose 
of the hyoscyamin will average from the one-sixteenth to 
the one-thirtieth of a grain, repeated two or three times a 
day, in ordinary cases ; and, in very severe ones, the one- 
tenth or one-fifth of a grain may be given every two or 
three hours, until the painful condition of the diseased 
part be relieved. 
IRISIN. 
Irisin is the active principle of the Iris Versicolor or 
Blue Flag. The usual properties ascribed to the irisin, as 
well as the crude article, are that of alterative, diuretic, 
purgative, anthelmintic, hydragogue, etc. Now, as I have 
previously stated, these terms, as used in medicine, are 
mere vagaries, as they do not represent any definite ideas 
as to the real nature and character of the drug. By ex- 
amining our materia medica, you will find these proper- 
ties ascribed to nine-tenths of all the drugs; and we would 
suppose, that by referring to them, most of them might be 
used to fulfil all these indications. Now, it is not true 
that all our remedies possess these qualities, or that they 
act so indiscriminately upon the human organism. Iris 
versicolor, or the irisin, has a peculiar influence upon cer- 
tain organs and tissues of the body, and either directly or 
indirectly may excite and influence all. But when we 382 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
ascribe to the irisin almost identically the same properties 
that writers attribute to podophyllin, leptandrin, euonymin, 
and leontodin, it must necessarily leave the student of 
medicine and the practitioner in great doubt as to the real 
nature and character of the drug. Now, when we admin- 
ister it in doses of ten or fifteen grains in health, it pro- 
duces slight nausea; and if the dose be repeated every two 
or three hours, it will be followed by vomiting and drastic 
purging; but in small doses of one or two grains, given 
two or three times a day, it excites the alvine evacuations 
and stimulates the lymphatics, as well as that of the skin 
and kidneys. It will also be observed that there is an in- 
creased quantity of bile with the faeces, that this bilious 
matter undergoes no particular modifications, as in the 
use of mercurials; consequently, it is inferred that the 
irisin operates as a stimulant to the liver, increasing its 
functions and power to secrete and manufacture bile, 
without producing any medicinal pathological conditions. 
Hence, this remedy has proved of great service in the 
treatment of almost all forms of hepatic difficulties, de- 
pending upon inactivity and inertia, acting as it does as a 
general stimulant and excitant to the organ. As a matter 
of course, it should not be administered in cases where there 
is hypersemia, or increased vascularity of these vessels, It 
also acts as a stimulant to the absorbents and lymphatics ; 
and, from this fact, it has been largely used in diseases of 
the glandular system dependent upon the presence of some 
morbid matter in the blood, as syphilis. In combination 
with phytolaccin, podophyllin, or corydalin, it forms a most 
valuable remedy in these diseases. It has been remarked 
by some practitioners, that syphilitic affections could 
not be cured without the use of mercurials. From the 
experience I have had in this disease for the last twenty- 
five years, and the last ten in a very extensive practice, I 
have not used a single grain of any mercurial preparation JALAPIN. 
383 
in the treatment of these diseases, and have been most 
uniformly successful, having used the irisin with great 
benefit. 
Irisin has always been used extensively in diseases of 
the kidneys, especially where there is any inactivity of the 
organ; hence, when the kidneys are largely taxed by the 
excessive use of rich, nutritious food, or where there is a 
strong rheumatic constitution, this remedy may be used 
with great advantage in removing these poisons jvhich ac- 
cumulate in the blood and lymphatics. I have used the 
irisin, combined with colchicum, in rheumatic affections, 
dependent upon an inactivity or want of proper function 
performed on the part of the kidney, with the most happy 
effect. It has also a stimulating effect upon the uterus; 
hence, in malignant affections of this organ, it may be 
used with decided benefit. It has also been used in indu- 
rated, and in inflammatory conditions of the glandular 
system. In enlargements of the axilla, mammary and in- 
guinal glands, irisin is a very serviceable remedy. 
The dose, as an anti-syphilitic, is from two to three 
grains, administered three or four times a day; as an ex- 
citant and stimulant to the liver and kidneys, one or two 
grains, given two or three times a day. In cases of indu- 
ration of the lymphatics, from one-half to one grain, ad- 
ministered four or five times a day, in combination with 
iron, cod liver oil, and ether, (remedies which act specifi- 
cally upon this tissue,) will be a sufficient dose. 
Jalapin is the active principle of the Ipomoca Jalapa, or 
Jalap. Jalapin may truly be said to be a hydragogue 
cathartic, and manifests its power especially upon the se- 
rous tissues ; hence it may be used to great advantage as 
an evacuant, as in cases of dropsy. In inflammation of 
the serous tissues exudation occurs, that is, liquor san- 
J A L A P I N. 384 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
guinis escapes into the cavities, producing various forms 
of dropsy. It frequently becomes necessary to remove 
these fluids. This can be done by evacuants, remedies 
which stimulate the capillaries of the serous membrane 
causing them to pour out large quantities of serum, thus 
emptying the blood-vessels, and refilling the absorbents. 
The only way to use the jalapin to evacuate the various 
cavities, is to administer about one-eighth or one-fourth of 
a grain every two or three hours, until free hydragogue 
catharsis is produced. If the system be overcharged with 
the remedy, it produces a drastic influence, nausea, and 
vomiting. We should carefully guard against this, ex- 
cept when we use the remedy mechanically, for the pur- 
pose of evacuating cavities. Medicinally, this drug may 
be used with decided advantage in inflammations of the 
serous tissue, as in small doses it acts as a stimulant and 
excitant to the capillaries of the serous tissue, without 
producing a purgative influence; hence, when the serous 
capillaries become debilitated, as in chronic inflammation, 
either of the peritoneum, pleura, pericardium, or any 
other portion of this structure, it should be used only in 
doses of the one-thirtieth part of a grain. I have used 
this remedy largely in the treatment of cerebro-spinal 
meningitis, in combination with other remedies. To pre- 
vent effusion and extensive exudation, which are so liable 
to occur in inflammation of the meninges of the brain and 
spinal cord, I have found it most serviceable. In several 
cases under my treatment, in which I have administered 
the jalapin, in combination with quinine, iron, aconite, 
veratrum, and such other remedies as the case indicated, 
I found it to serve a most valuable purpose, in preventing 
effusion, either into the cavities or substance of the brain, 
or spinal column. I have also used it in cases of chronic 
synovitis, in one-sixteenth or one-twentieth grain doses, re- 
peated two or three times a day, and to evacuate the JUGLANDIN. 
385 
fluids in the abdomen, as in cases of ascites. In case of 
ovarian tumor where other remedies had failed to produce 
a favorable impression, I dissolved ten grains of jalapin 
in four ounces of glycerine and applied it to the abdomen 
with brisk friction, following each application with gentle 
currents of galvanism for half an hour. The result was 
quite favorable, as it reduced the size of the tumor, and 
maintained a liberal action of the bowels. Jalapin may 
be used successfully in rheumatic arthritis in combination 
with pyrophosphate of iron. The dose, then, of jalapin, 
as a purge, is from one-fourth to one grain; and as an 
excitant or stimulant, from one-twentieth to one-thirtieth 
of a grain, repeated every two or three hours. 
JUGLANDIN. 
Juglandin is the active principle of the Juglans Cinerea, 
or Butternut. In doses of from one to two grains, the jug- 
landin acts as a drastic purge, producing irritation and 
inflammation of the mucous membrane of the bowels; if 
continued, it is followed by a peculiar exanthematous 
eruption very much resembling the flush of scarlatina. In 
medicinal doses, it acts specifically as a tonic to the mu- 
cous membrane and dermoid tissue; hence its great value 
in exanthematous fevers and chronic cutaneous affections. 
I have used this article extensively in skin diseases, in 
combination with antiperiodics. The idea of combining 
antiperiodics with remedies which act upon the skin for 
cutaneous affections, was first suggested to me by the ben- 
eficial influence derived from arsenical preparations. 
Having for a long time used arsenic as an antiperiodic, I 
was led to suppose that the beneficial influence of the 
drug in skin diseases was dependent upon its antiperiodic 
properties; and in this I have been fully confirmed by 
the extensive use of antiperiodics, in combination with 
remedies that operate specifically upon the skin. The 
33 386 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
great objection to the use of the arsenical preparations, is 
their peculiar influence upon the blood, producing degen- 
eration of this fluid to such an extent as to develop a most 
serious, and frequently fatal pathological change. The 
juglandin, as I have previously remarked, acts as a direct 
stimulant and tonic to the cutaneous surfaces; hence, I 
have used it in chronic eczema, herpes, pemphigus, rupia, 
acne, impetigo, ecthyma, lichen, prurigo, ichthyosis, mol- 
luscum, and in all other forms of cutaneous diseases, and 
found it to act with more certainty in these affections than 
any other preparation or single drug used. In chronic 
herpes and eczema I have found this remedy, combined 
with quinine, almost a specific. My usual method of ad- 
ministering it in these affections, is one-sixteenth of a 
grain of juglandin, and one-half grain of sulphate of qui- 
nine, four or five times a day. In some cases I have found 
that a large dose of the juglandin would operate benefi- 
cially, while in others a much smaller portion is all that is 
required. In the acute forms of cutaneous diseases, the 
juglandin appears rather too exciting and stimulating. 
A very convenient form of preparing this remedy is to 
triturate one or two drams with sugar, and then add a 
suitable portion of simple syrup, and administer it alone, 
or in combination with quinine, as the case may indicate. 
Juglandin is also used as an excitant to the mucous mem- 
brane, in cases of chronic constipation. It also increases 
slightly the action of the kidneys, and has been used in 
small doses to correct urinal difficulties. It has been of 
much value in ozena and catarrhal affections. But the 
greatest benefit derived from the use of this drug, is in 
chronic inflammation of the derma. More recently I 
have used it with marked success in chronic hepatitis and 
other forms of liver diseases. As I have previously re- 
marked, the dose is from one-twentieth to one-half of a 
grain, repeated at proper intervals. LEONTODIN. 
387 
Leontodin is the active principle of the Taraxacum 
Leontodin, or Dandelion. There are few remedies that 
possess a more direct influence over the liver, in imparting 
tone, and hastening its production of bile, than the leonto- 
din. It has long been desired that some remedy could be 
found to exert a stimulating, alterative, and tonic influ- 
ence upon the liver, and fulfil the various indications that 
are claimed for mercury. It is known to every practition- 
er that the mercurials possess most disastrous medical and 
toxical powers. Notwithstanding this, it is claimed that 
it produces a specific influence over the liver, and other 
glands of the body. It is also acknowledged that it pos- 
sesses the power of producing degeneration of these tissues, 
as well as of other organs and tissues of the body, thus es- 
tablishing in the system a pathological condition quite as 
disastrous to the patient as the liver affection, or other 
glandular diseases for which they are administered. In 
the leontodin we have this remedy. To be sure, it does 
not act with the same power that is peculiar to the mer- 
curials ; but when administered in a proper form, and in 
suitable quantities, it produces most decided stimulating, 
tonic, and invigorating effects upon this very important 
organ. Ten to twenty grains, administered three or four 
times a day, increases the alvine evacuations, and produ- 
ces large and free discharges of bilious stools, indicating 
a decidedly increased activity of the liver. In those dis- 
eases where there is a torpid state of this organ, clay-col- 
ored stools, and other indications of the absence of bile, 
if the system be in a condition for the production of bile 
by this organ, then the leontodin seems to hasten the trans- 
formation and development of bilious matter, and causes 
the liver to generate an increased quantity of this fluid. 
It also possesses a decided influence over the glandular 
system generally and may be used in those cases where 
LEONTODIN. 388 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
alteratives are supposed to be necessary. In marsh mala- 
rial districts, and in warm climates, there is a decided 
indication for the leontodin. In the majority of fevers, it 
may be compounded with quinine, iron, and other agents. 
While the quinine will control the periodicity, and neu- 
tralize the malarial poison, iron may restore the integrity 
of the blood, and the leontodin will excite the glandular 
system to secrete and eliminate, and thus bring about those 
healthy physiological conditions which have been interrupt- 
ed by the influence of the malarial poisons, and the effects 
of the disease generally. In cases of hypertrophy of the 
liver, and degeneration of the structure, while it may not 
possess the power to produce changes always most favor- 
able, it invigorates, and in many instances interrupts, or 
prevents farther degeneration, and restores this organ to 
its normal condition. It is also a most valuable remedy 
in dysentery, especially of malarial character. Combined 
with gelscmin and quinine, it proves most valuable in the 
various forms of typhus, typhoid, and other fevers. It is 
also serviceable as an excitant to the glandular system, 
preventing that inactivity of the glandular apparatus 
which is so characteristic of this disease. I have known 
cases where the tongue was parched, sordes accumulated on 
the teeth, and every indication of congestion of the liver, 
to be relieved by a few grains of leontodin. Leontodin 
may be used in all those cases where mercurials are sup- 
posed to be indicated, and it can be relied upon as a most 
decided hepatic excitant and tonic, and that, too, without 
producing any morbid or pathological condition which 
would be injurious to the patient. The dose of the leonto- 
din, as a mild alterative and stimulant, is from one-half to 
one grain, administered every two or three hours. Where 
the direct impression is required, from ten to fifteen, and 
even twenty grains, are frequently indicated ; and if it be 
desired that a purge should be added, then give small LEFT ANDRIN. 
389 
doses, from the one-sixth to the one-tenth of a grain of 
podophyllin, and four or five grains of leontodin. I have 
also administered it, when I desired a common purge, in 
combination with j alapin, adding one-half grain of jalapin 
to five or ten grains of the leontodin. Frequently, in con- 
gestion, marsh malarial fevers, and where there is conges- 
tion of the portal circulation, most speedy relief will follow 
its use. It has been employed in syphilitic affections ; and 
although inferior to other remedies, still it can be used in 
some cases with advantage. I have compounded leontodin 
with euonymin, corydaliu, phytolaccin, and other remedies 
of this class, and in the tertiary and secondary forms found 
it sometimes of benefit, and have used it quite extensively 
in combination with sulphate of soda, in the proportion of 
two grains of the former to one-half grain of the latter, 
with success. 
LEPTANDRIN. 
Leptandrin is the active principle of the Leptandra Fir- 
ginica, Culver's Physic, or Black Root. As the leptandrin 
was formerly prepared, it very feebly represented the 
active principle of the plant; but now our pharmaceutists 
have so far perfected their manipulations as to obtain all 
the essential virtues of the leptandra Virginica in the form 
of leptandrin. Its specific influence appears to consist in 
stimulating the digestive apparatus, especially the stomach, 
bowels, and liver. In large doses it is an active cathartic, 
and in small quantities an alterative to the mucous tissue, 
liver, and glandular system. Generally, the great influ- 
ence of this article is seen in chronic diseases. In the 
treatment of dyspepsia, where there is inactivity of the 
stomach, or want of proper digestion, or where there is a 
torpid state of the liver, or inactivity of the bowels con- 
nected with constipation, small doses of leptandrin, com- 
bined with frazerin, xanthoxylin, hydrastin, or other reme- 
dies which may be indicated, prove of the greatest value. 
33* 390 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
In chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, especially when con- 
nected with pulmonary derangement, combined with the 
muriate of hydrastia, it is almost a specific. A large num- 
ber of cases of chronic diarrhoea occurring among our re- 
turned soldiers, have been promptly cured by this remedy; 
and that, too, after a most extensive use of nitrate of silver, 
mercurials, and astringents, by the Old School practition- 
ers. A case came under my charge, of a soldier troubled 
with chronic diarrhoea and congestion of the liver for 
several months, terminating in degeneration of the blood, 
resulting from the use of mercurials, dropsical effusion 
into the cellular tissue, extensive debility, and a strong 
tendency to tuberculous inflammation of the lungs. This 
case was promptly relieved by means of iron per hydrogen, 
leptandrin, and the muriate of hydrastia. I have fre- 
quently used leptandrin in connection with gelsemin, in 
the proportion of one-sixteenth or one-twentieth of a grain 
of the former to two of the latter, four or five times a day, 
in cases of dysentery, and other diseases of the bowels. It 
has a most beneficial influence upon the digestive organs. 
I have in a very large number of cases of inveterate dys- 
pepsia, entirely relieved the symptoms in a few days, by 
the use of leptandrin and frazerin. As a mild alterative, 
and excitant to the liver, it may be used in combination 
with leontodin, modifying the leontodin, by slightly in- 
creasing its purgative power, and imparting more vigor 
and tone to the digestive organs, whilst it aids in stimulat- 
ing and exciting the liver. I have known doses of leon- 
todin and leptandrin, one grain of the former to two of the 
latter, to be followed by copious bilious discharges, and 
the distressing pains relieved promptly. It is also of benefit 
in glandular affections. It may serve a valuable purpose, 
like the leontodin, in syphilis. As an eliminating agent, 
it increases the powers of the emunctories of the body. 
The purgative dose is four or five grains, given until the LOBELIN. 
391 
desired effect is produced. As it is a mild hepatic purge, 
it operates freely, without producing any constitutional 
disturbance, or in any way impairing the general integrity 
of the constitution, or debilitating the stomach or bowels. 
As a mild excitant and alterative, from one-half to one 
grain, given every two or three hours, in ordinary cases, is 
the dose; but in more severe forms of chronic disease, 
from one to three grains may be given. Leptandrin, like 
all other agents of this class, should be triturated in lactin 
or sugar, and afterwards mixed with simple syrup, and 
administered in any form that is most palatable. 
Lobelia is the active principle of the Lobelia Liflata. It 
represents closely the emetic, antispasmodic, and diaphore- 
tic properties of the lobelia inflata, and is used in all cases 
where it is recommended. There is, perhaps, no remedy 
introduced into the materia medica within the last quarter 
of a century, that occupies so prominent a position, and 
serves such a valuable purpose, as that of the lobelia inflata 
and its active principles. Although it does not seem to 
possess specific powers over any direct tissue of the body, 
yet its general influence over the entire organization is 
such as to render it of vast importance. In doses of from 
one to five grains, it is an efficient emetic, and may be 
given where they are indicated. The best method is to 
give one or two grains, every five minutes, in a little warm 
ginger tea, until free emesis is produced. It is of great 
value in asthma, especially when combined with sulphate 
of quinine. From one-fourth to one-half grain of the for- 
mer, with one or two grains of the latter, given four or five 
times a day, is almost a specific for this troublesome affec- 
tion. It is of much service in bronchitis, to produce ex- 
pectoration. In pneumonia, it is almost a specific, when 
given every two or three hours, in doses of from one-six- 
LOB ELIN. 392 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
teenth to one-eighth of a grain, triturated in sugar. It is 
also of much benefit in catarrhal affections; and in all 
those diseases where an emetic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, 
or nauseant, is required, the lobeliu serves a most valua- 
ble purpose. It is quick and energetic in its emetic powers 
to relieve a vitiated stomach, reduces the action of the 
heart, and produces a general relaxation of the entire 
system ; hence, it may be employed in a great variety of 
diseases, either alone, or in combination with other reme- 
dies. 
LUPULIN. 
Lupulin is the active principle of the Humulus Lupulus, 
or Hops. It should not be confounded with the lupuline, 
the pollen of the hops. The lupulin manifests a direct 
tonic, sedative, and anaesthetic effect upon the nervous sys- 
tem, possessing in its anaesthetic properties influences simi- 
lar to that of the sulphate of morphia, while at the same 
time producing tonic impressions, imparting tone and vigor 
to the nervous system, and relieving the hypersesthesia, or 
increased sensibility. The lupulin is most successfully 
used in delirium tremens, debility of the nervous system, 
in low forms of fevers, and spermatorrhoea. I have used 
it, combined with cypripedin, with most decided advan- 
tage, in a large number of cases of mania-a-potu. A case 
recently came under my charge, of a man laboring under 
this difficulty, who had been treated by two very promi- 
nent physicians, with the ordinary remedies, without suc- 
cess. I commenced the treatment by giving a full emetic 
of lobelia; after which I gave two grains of lupulin, and 
one of cypripedin, every half hour, and applied a mustard 
paste to the spine and abdomen. The object, in giving 
the lupulin and cypripedin, was to check the vomiting, 
increase the general tone of the circulation, and produce a 
calm condition of the nervous system. After using this 
remedy for twenty-four hours, the bowels were opened by LUPULIN . 
393 
means of an enema of warm water and citrate of magnesia. 
I then administered the lupulin alone for several days, 
and until the patient was able to be about the room, theu 
gave hypophosphite of iron, in connection with the lupu- 
lin, in the proportion of one grain of the former to two of 
the latter, every three hours, and under this treatment he 
recovered in the course of ten days. It also may be used 
successfully in combination with capsicum. The lupulin 
is of great value in typhus fever, especially in the latter 
stage of the disease. Typhomania has frequently been 
relieved, in a very short time, by its use, combined with 
cypripedin. It is of much value as a nervine to females 
laboring under general debility of the nervous system, 
from dyspepsia, uterine diseases, and other affections pro- 
ducing nervous prostration. The lupulin also possesses 
antiperiodic properties, and has been successfully used in 
hysteria, epilepsy, intermittent and remittent fevers, and 
other periodic affections. I have interrupted the paroxysm 
of remittent fever, by administering ten grains of lupulin, 
every two hours, until two drachms were taken, and have 
also cured some bad cases of hysteria with this remedy, and 
found it to afford great relief in epilepsy. It is one of the 
most valuable remedies we possess in the treatment of 
spermatorrhoea. From five to ten grains, taken at night, 
together with proper hygienic and dietetic measures, have 
cured quite a number of inveterate cases. It is of much 
benefit in abnormal excitability of the brain, produced by 
excessive mental anxiety. 
The dose, as an antiperiodic, is from ten to fifteen 
grains, every two or three hours; as a stimulant to the 
nervous system, from one to two grains; as a remedy for 
spermatorrhoea, from three to five grains, taken once or 
twice a day. Compounded with iron, much benefit may 
be derived in most nervous affections. 394 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
Lycopin is the active principle of the Lycopus Virgini- 
cus. The lycopin acts as a tonic, stimulant, and astrin- 
gent to the mucous membrane, especially that of the 
bronchia; hence, it is of great value in broncorrhoea, 
chronic bronchitis, inflammation of the fauces, etc. It acts 
with great promptness in haemoptysis, in doses of from five 
to ten grains. In a number of cases, I have uniformly 
found the lycopin to afford prompt relief, arresting at 
once the hemorrhage, and if continued either alone, or in 
combination with stillingin, to relieve the cough and irrita- 
tion. In cases of chronic bronchitis, where there is a 
softened state of the mucous membrane, and constant exu- 
dation of the liquor sanguinis, which accumulates in these 
tubes, great benefit will be experienced by giving from 
one to three grains every two or three hours. It arrests 
the expectoration, by preventing the exudation, and cures 
the disease, without producing other pathological condi- 
tions. It is of value in chronic diarrhoea, and some forms 
of dyspepsia, as it extends its influence to all portions of 
the mucous membrane, imparting vigor and tone to that 
tissue, whenever it is exhausted or debilitated. In leucor- 
rhoea, I have employed it with decided advantage. It 
may be compounded with the syrup of hypophosphites, 
cod liver oil, iron, stillingin, or any other remedy indica- 
ted in the disease. The dose, to arrest haemoptysis, or 
hemorrhage from any other portion of the mucous mem- 
brane, is from five to ten grains, given every ten or fifteen 
minutes, until the hemorrhage ceases. As a gentle tonic 
to the mucous membrane of the bronchi, from one-half to 
one grain, may be administered three or four times a day. 
About the same quantity is indicated for leucorrhcea and 
chronic diarrhoea. 
L Y C 0 P I N. 
M A C R O T I N. 
Macrotin is the active principle of the Macrotls Race- MACROTIN. 
395 
mosa, or Cimicifuga Racemosa. This remedy possesses 
great power over exanthematous fevers, and what the sul- 
phate of quinia is to intermittent and remittent fevers, the 
macrotin is to the eruptive forms. There is no remedy 
known that possesses the same power, or metastatic proper- 
ties, as the macrotin. Exanthematous fevers mostly at 
first manifest their influence on the mucous tissues, but 
are afterwards transferred by the vis a tergo to the skin, 
and the poison is eliminated by the transfer. The vitality 
of this disease depends much upon the influence upon the 
mucous membrane, and the inability of the system to 
transfer this influence to the cutaneous surfaces ; hence 
the great importance of the macrotin to assist in accom- 
plishing the metastasis of the disease. Every practitioner 
is aware that scarlatina, rubeola, lichen, and other exan- 
thematous fevers, only manifest their disastrous influence 
when they are confined to the mucous membrane ; and it 
is only in cases where they are transferred to the surface, 
and recede again to the mucous tissue, that an alarming 
and fatal class of symptoms arises. The macrotin pos- 
sesses the power to transfer this disease to the surface in a 
remarkable degree. I have treated many cases of 
measles, scarlatina, and other exanthematous fevers with 
this remedy, and by the administration of a few doses, 
have succeeded in re-establishing the cutaneous eruption, 
thus removing a very malignant class of symptoms. 
Recent investigations have demonstrated that typhoid 
fever belongs to the class of exanthemata ; that it is con- 
nected with a peculiar eruption, which, if maintained upon 
the surface, will prevent the disorganizing tendency of the 
mucous membrane ; hence, macrotin enters largely into 
the treatment of this disease, and if the drug be used pru- 
dently, maintaining the eruption on the surface, the glan- 
dular disorganization of the bowels may be entirely pre- 
vented. In small-pox, this article is of great power, and 396 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
I have tried it in not less than fifteen or sixteen hundred 
cases, and with uniform success in those cases where there 
were typhoid symptoms produced by the accumulation of 
zymotic poison upon the mucous membrane, and its re- 
tention in the blood. As I have previously remarked, 
what quinine is in marsh and malarial fevers, macrotin is 
in zymotic or exanthematous fevers, and it may be em- 
ployed in all these affections with the utmost confidence 
and most marked success. Macrotin not only possesses 
the power to transfer these eruptive diseases to the skin, 
but has a decided influence upon the nervous system, 
giving tone and energy to the nerve tissue, and contribut- 
ing largely to the generation of nerve force or power; 
hence, in low forms of fever, where there is a tendency to 
prostration, or where there are indications of great ex- 
haustion of the nervous tissue, especially where disintegra- 
tion of the nervous tissue is indicated, it may be used with 
entire confidence as a remedy to prevent or interrupt the 
morbid condition. Macrotin has been used as a tonic to 
the digestive organs, uterus, and mucous membrane ; but 
from our experience of its use, its stimulating and tonic 
influence upon the digestive organs is a secondary impres- 
sion ; that is, it is the result of the stimulating and invigo- 
rating influence of the medicine upon the nervous system. 
The dose, for measles or scarlatina, is from one-tenth to 
one-twentieth of a grain, every, half hour, according to 
the nature of the case. My method is to add ten or 
twenty grains of the triturated article to a tumbler half 
full of water, and administer one table-spoonful in alterna- 
tion with aconite, every hour or two, where there is any 
fever. In small-pox, it is not usually advisable to admin- 
ister the macrotin until the system has been thoroughly 
purged, bathed, and the eruption appears upon the sur- 
face, yet I have used it in many cases during the pre- 
monitory symptoms; and although it brings out the erup- MACROTIN'. 
397 
tion early, I have not found it to produce the confluent 
form, nor in any way increase the liability to erysipela- 
tous inflammation, but, on the contrary, have thought 
that by its free use I was more liable to maintain the dis- 
tinct form and character of the disease. In all cases 
where the eruption has appeared, my plan is to give from 
one-fourth to one-half a grain, three or four times a day, 
with such other treatment as the nature of the case indi- 
cates. In scarlatina and diphtheritis, it has manifested a 
marked influence, producing upon the surface a complete 
scarlatina blush, and in most cases maintaining it to the 
great relief of other symptoms, and frequently to the en- 
tire disappearance of the pseudo-membranous formations 
upon the mucous tissue. As a general tonic to the ner- 
vous tissue, in low forms of fevers, from one-eighth 
to one-fourth of a grain should be given every three 
hours. The macrotin may be used alone, or com- 
bined with such other remedies as the nature of the case 
indicates. In typhoid fever, I use it in the very early 
stages, and continue it during the entire progress of the 
affection; and where it is employed, have seldom seen a 
case terminate in ulceration of the bowels, or diarrhoea of 
an obstinate character. In fact, I have known most 
obstinate cases of diarrhoea, that could not be controlled 
by astringents or anodynes, to be relieved by macrotin in 
a very short time. I have employed it in cutaneous affec- 
tions, and in some cases experienced decided benefit. I 
have used it alone, and in combination with juglandin; 
and although my experience has not been sufficient to de- 
termine its precise power over these diseases, yet from 
benefit derived in some cases I apprehend the drug may 
prove of service. The ordinary dose is from the one-six- 
teenth to one grain. It should be triturated with sugar or 
lactin, and given, either dissolved in water or simple 
syrup, or in powder. 
34 398 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
Menispermin is the active principle of the Menispermum 
Canadense or Yellow Parilla. It exerts its influence prin- 
cipally upon the gastric and salivary glands. If admin- 
istered in two or three grain doses every three or four 
hours for several consecutive days, it produces excessive 
discharges of saliva, oedema of the fauces, with some 
inflammatory tendency, together with slight purgative in- 
fluence and an increased flow of urine. In combination 
with muriate of ammonia and xanthoxylin, it produces 
violent ptyalism, resembling the action of mercury in this 
respect, and manifesting a decided exciting impression 
upon the liver; hence it has been used in obstinate dis- 
eases of this organ, especially in chronic hypertrophy, 
consolidation, cirrhosis, and, in fact, in nearly all condi- 
tions of the liver, produced by chronic inflammation, with 
decided benefit. I have treated several cases of hyper- 
trophy of the liver where granular degeneration of this 
tissue was suspected with great success by the use of these 
remedies. The menispermin is also very valuable as a 
solvent in chronic adhesions, as in adhesions of the pleura 
in pleuritis, and the peritoneum in peritonitis, etc. It is 
of great benefit in many cases of chronic gastritis, espe- 
cially where there is induration or change of structure of 
the gastric follicles. In connection with alnuin I have 
used it with great advantage. It has also been used in 
syphilis, especially in the tertiary form, in combination 
with tonics, and proved of much value. As a stimulant 
and excitant to the liver, it may be compounded with 
leptandrin, euonymin, or irisin. The dose as an altera- 
tive to the glandular system, is from one-half to one grain, 
administered every two or three hours. 
MENISPERMIN. 
MYRICIN. 
Myricin is the active principle of the Myrica Cerifera, or MYRICIN. 
399 
Bayberry. This remedy possesses great power over the 
mucous membrane, imparting tone and vigor, and may be 
relied upon as one of its very best tonics and stimulants, 
especially where there is any tendency to softening or 
glandular degeneration, as in inflammatory fevers, and in 
most forms of dysentery and chronic diarrhoea, also in the 
latter stages of phthisis and scrofulous affections. The 
myricin exerts a most wonderfully curative power. I have 
relieved some very obstinate cases of chronic diarrhoea by 
administering from one-half to one grain four or five times 
a day. It has also arrested chronic bronchitis by the use 
of one grain in a teaspoonful of cod liver oil, every two or 
three hours, for three or four days. In cases of great 
debility, I have given the myricin and oleum morrhiue in 
a tea-spoonful of gin. It is also of much value in chronic 
leucorrhoea, dependent upon softening of the mucous mem- 
brane of the vagina. In scarlatina, diphtheritis, and other 
affections of this class, where there is ulceration and vege- 
tation of the mucous surface, it is a prompt remedy. In 
aphthous and follicular stomatitis, it is almost a specific, 
when combined with general tonics and alternated with 
small doses of ferri chloridum. In chronic gonorrhoea it 
is very serviceable, and I have been most successful in 
treating this complaint, and especially gleet, by giving 
small doses every two or three hours. I have used it in 
solution as an injection to the urethra and vagina, with 
decided benefit. The dose as a gentle tonic to the mucous 
membrane, and to relieve aphthous ulceration of the sur- 
face, is from one to two grains every two or three hours, 
either alone or in combination with other remedies, as the 
case indicates. For chronic diarrhoea, especially that form 
connected with phthisis and scrofula, it may be used in 
larger doses, from two to four grains, until the diarrhoea is 
controlled. I generally triturate myricin in simple syrup 
or glycerine, except in bronchitis and phthisis, in which 400 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
diseases I triturate it in oleum morrhuse, and give it in 
wine or some valuable alcoholic mixture. 
Phytolaccin is the active principle of the Phytolacca 
Decandria, common names, Poke Root, Garget, Snake Root, 
etc. This remedy, when taken by a healthy person in half- 
grain or grain doses every two or three hours, for two or 
three consecutive days, produces a burning sensation of the 
stomach, with tenderness of the bowels, and peculiar heat 
in the rectum, soon followed by tenesmus, and mucous and 
bloody discharges. If continued, it produces permanent 
hemorrhoids, and sometimes dysentery. It will be ob- 
served from this, that the specific influence of the phyto- 
laccin is manifested upon the mucous membrane of the 
stomach, bowels, and rectum, especially upon the latter, 
and in small or medicinal doses is a most reliable remedy 
for chronic affections of this portion of the alimentary 
canal. I have treated a large number of cases of ulcera- 
tion of the rectum with remarkable success. A physician 
of note, who had treated himself and had been treated by 
others, with all the ordinary remedies for what was pro- 
nounced a cancerous affection of the rectum, applied to 
me, and I placed him upon one-half grain doses of phyto- 
laccin every two or three hours, together with a nutritious 
diet, and one teaspoonful of the pile electuary, (as pub- 
lished in this work,) every night, and an enema of warm 
water once a day. This treatment was continued for two 
or three months, and resulted in a complete cure. Another 
bad case of fissure of the rectum, was cured by similar 
treatment, and it has also been very successful in prolapsus 
ani and hemorrhoids. Phytolaccin is also of great value 
as an anti syphilitic; and when given in connection with 
sulphate of quinia and oleum morrhme, is the most bene- 
ficial remedy for tertiary syphilis that I have ever used. I 
PH YTOLACCIN. PODOPIIYLLIN. 
401 
have observed most favorable changes in a very short 
time, by the use of this remedy, in connection with 
corydalin ; in fact, have treated a large number of cases, 
that had previously been under the influence of mercurial 
treatment for years without benefit, which wTere imme- 
diately relieved by these remedies. It is of much service 
in secondary syphilis, combined with podophyllin and irisin. 
In cases of induration, and hypertrophy and consolidation 
of the spleen, liver, and granulations of the kidneys, it is 
of great value. Where there is specific poisoning of the 
lymphatics, as in bubo, either from syphilis or gonorrhoea, 
it is of much service. I have used this remedy in some 
cases of chancre as an external application, and found it 
most valuable. By applying ten or fifteen grains, tritu- 
rated in a dram of glycerine, to the sore, a favorable 
change will soon be effected. Combined with muriate of 
hydrastia and sulphate of zinc, it is of service in chronic 
ulcers. It has also been employed extensively in obstinate 
diseases of the liver, compounded with menispermin. The 
dose, for diseases of the rectum, is from one-half to one 
grain, given every two or three hours, or twice a day, as 
the case indicates; as an anti-syphilitic, from two to ten 
grains, three or four times a day; and in combination 
w ith corydalin and oleum morrhute, as an alterative to the 
glandular apparatus, especially in the tertiary form of 
syphilis, from one-fourth to one-half grain, three or four 
times a day. 
PODOPHYLLIN. 
Podophyllin is the active principle of the Podophyllum 
Peltatum; common names, May Apple, Mandrake. The 
podophyllin is a drastic purge ; and in two or three grain 
doses, an emeto-cathartic, producing nausea, vomiting, and 
drastic purging of bilious matter. It also excites the 
glandular system, producing ptyalism, and in this respect 
resembles the action claimed for the mercurials, for which 
34* 402 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
it is used as a substitute by many practitioners. By this 
effect the podophyllin has been brought into disrepute, as 
in doses sufficiently large to produce a cathartic influence, 
it is liable to cause gastric irritation and mucous disturb- 
ance of an unpleasant character. By those who under- 
stand its modus operandi, it is seldom, if ever, used as a 
purge, but is resorted to as a mild excitant to the glandular 
system, especially to the liver, and is given in small doses, 
from the one-sixteenth to the one-twenty-fifth of a grain, 
four or five times a day. It also excites the salivary, gas- 
tric, and enteric glands; hence, it relieves constipation of 
the bowels, and facilitates the elimination of the morbific 
matter from the blood through the mucous surface. From 
this peculiar influence, it has been most successfully used 
in syphilis to eliminate the virus from the system ; and by 
its continued use at the same time supporting the constitu- 
tion by means of tonics and a generous diet, the secondary 
and tertiary forms may be cured. One great advantage 
that this article has over the mercurials, is that while it 
eliminates the syphilitic poison from the system with 
equal certainty, it does not produce the constitutional dis- 
orders peculiar to them. It is also used extensively as a 
solvent, especially in recent adhesions, resulting from in- 
flammation of the pleura, peritoneum, pericardium, etc., 
combined with muriate of ammonia, in the proportion of 
one-eighth of a grain of the former to one of the latter. 
It is of much benefit in defibrinizing the blood, as in in- 
flammatory rheumatism, where there is an excess of fibrin. 
The dose is one-half grain, every two or three hours. By 
some it has been recommended as an alterative in scrofu- 
lous and tuberculous diseases; but our experience is, that 
in these affections, alteratives or remedies that contribute 
to the more rapid disintegration of tissue are injurious, 
and should not be employed. In cases of obstinate and 
protracted diseases of the liver, as hypertrophy and cir- POD OPIIYLLIN. 
403 
rhosis, it should be given twice a day, in one-eighth or one- 
tenth grain doses, followed by a five or ten grain dose of 
leptandrin, or a compound vegetable cathartic pill. Where 
an active purge is required, and it is important to excite 
the hepatic secretion at the same time, or to eliminate some 
materies morbi from the blood, it may be compounded with 
jalapin or colocynthin. To impart the active character 
to these remedies, aromatics, as pulverized peppermint 
herb, or caraway seed, may be added. Another favorite 
method of administering this article, as a gentle excitant 
and alterative in obstinate diseases of the liver, syphilis, 
etc., is to add five grains to two ounces of the compound 
syrup of rhei et potassa, and two of the fluid extract of 
leptandra Virginica, and give a table-spoonful of the mix- 
ture two or three times a day. Its action may be very 
much increased by compounding it with the iodide of 
ammonia and phytolaccin, in the proportion of one-fourth 
of a grain of the podophyllin to one grain of ammonia, 
and one of phytolaccin. It may also be used as a stimu- 
lant to the absorbents, in case of glandular enlargement. 
In goitre, I have been successful by triturating five grains 
of the drug with one hundred grains of sugar, and ten 
drops of tincture of iodine, and'have given five grains, 
three times a day, with the most happy effects. I have 
also prevented the development of buboes, and absorbed 
induration of the lymphatics by its use. In bilious fever, 
it may be compounded with antiperiodics to decided ad- 
vantage. Two or three grains of sulphate of quinia, and 
one-sixteenth of a grain of podophyllin, during the apy- 
rexia, frequently constitutes a most valuable prescription. 
It should never be administered without first being thor- 
oughly triturated, either with sugar or lactin, in the pro- 
portion of one to ten, and by the addition of a few grains 
of bicarbonate of soda, the drastic influence is very much 
lessened. The average dose is from one-twelfth to one- 404 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
fourth of a grain, although frequently much smaller ones 
are desirable, and prove quite efficacious. 
Populin is the active principle of the Populus Tremu- 
loides, or Quaking Aspen, American Poplar, etc. As pre- 
pared by our pharmaceutists, it represents the entire vir- 
tues of the populus tremuloides, and possesses most re- 
markable medical virtues. In doses of from five to ten 
grains, in a healthy person, it produces a warm, pungent 
sensation in the stomach, followed by a glow of heat over 
the entire surface, and copious discharges of urine; and 
if repeated every two hours, until forty or fifty grains are 
taken, it causes nausea, vomiting, and slight purging of 
bilious matter, with fierce, burning sensation in the sto- 
mach, copious urinal discharges, irritation of the bladder 
and urethra, with a slight fulness about the head, and 
general nervous excitement. In medicinal doses of one or 
two grains, administered three or four times a day, it acts 
as a direct tonic to the stomach, bladder, urethra, and 
bowels, more especially upon the bladder; and it is in 
diseases of the bladder, urethra, and prostate, that I have 
found the greatest benefit from this article. In several 
most inveterate cases of catarrh of the bladder, I have 
found that two or three grains, administered four or five 
times a day, produced a most favorable impression. In 
the case of an old gentleman, who had been troubled with 
this affection, together with ardor urinse and chronic en- 
largement of the prostate for many years, and who was 
not able to obtain benefit from any of the ordinary reme- 
dies, relief was promptly given by the use of two grains of 
populin, four times a day. He continued it for four or 
five months, together with alterative doses of podophyllin, 
in combination with sulphate of potassa, and it resulted in 
a perfect cure. I have used the populin with great suc- 
P O P U L I N. roruLiN. 
405 
cess in chronic gleet; and in several cases, where other 
remedies had failed, have succeeded in entirely removing 
the disease by its use for several consecutive weeks. It is 
also of much value in chronic debility of the gastric 
mucous membrane; hence, in dyspepsia arising from this 
cause, from one-half to one grain, taken three or four 
times a day, will afford decided relief. Combined with 
helonin, it has been used with much success in granular 
degeneration of the kidneys; in fact, it seems to exert a 
healing and tonic influence on the mucous membrane gen- 
erally. I have used the populin in phthisis, where the 
bronchial mucous membrane was involved, in combination 
with prunin and stillingin, with most beneficial results. 
The populin also possesses vermifuge properties, and is one 
of the principal ingredients of the anthelmintic mixture. 
One-half grain of populin, one-fourth of santonin, and one- 
eighth of podophyllin, triturated with sugar, and admin- 
istered to a child at bed-time, is one of the most efficient 
vermifuge mixtures. I have employed it as an antiperiodic 
and febrifuge in intermittent and remittent fevers, and in 
several marked cases have succeeded, not only in inter- 
rupting the fever, but also the paroxysms, by giving two 
or three grains, every two or three hours, for thirty-six or 
forty-eight hours. In several cases of malignant forms of 
these fevers, given in combination with quinine, it modi- 
fied the action of the quinine, thus rendering it much more 
efficient. This is especially the case in its influence upon 
the brain, as by combining the sulphate of quinia and 
populin, in the proportion of two parts of the former to 
one of the latter, and administering it in these fevers, it 
increases the antiperiodic power of the quinine, and less- 
ens its tendency to produce cerebral congestion. As a 
stimulant to the kidneys, it may be used in all forms of 
disease where such a remedy is indicated. This article, if 
it be exposed to light for any length of time, solidifies, 406 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
and becomes converted into a solid resinous mass, and be- 
ing insoluble in alcohol, and not easily triturated, it is 
very inconvenient for use. I obviate this by triturating 
the populin with calcined magnesia, in the proportion of 
two parts of the former to one of the latter, which main- 
tains the article in the powdered form, without interfering 
essentially with its medical virtues. Some use the popu- 
lin in the form of pills; but this is of all methods the 
most unsuccessful, as when it is formed into pill mass, it 
becomes solid, hard, and insoluble, and the powers of the 
stomach in all ordinary diseases are too feeble to dissolve 
it, hence it remains as an irritable substance to the sto- 
mach and bowels. This is the case, not only with the 
populin, but many other concentrated remedies: hence I 
have stated that they should all be thoroughly triturated, 
either with lactin or sugar, the former being preferable; 
then they will maintain their powdered condition, and are 
easily dissolved by the digestive powers of the stomach, 
and appropriated to the various tissues upon which they 
are designed to manifest their medical power. Populin 
has also been highly recommended and extensively used 
in many chronic diseases of the uterus and vagina, espe- 
cially in prurigo, an aphthous condition of the mucous 
membrane of the vagina, and an irritable state of the 
lining membrane of the uterus. The medicinal dose of 
the populin is from one-half of a grain to two grains, ad- 
ministered three or four times a day; in acute cases, how- 
ever, it may be given more frequently. As a febrifuge 
and antiperiodic, in intermittent and remittent fevers, from 
five to ten grains may be given, every two or three hours. 
Prunin is the active principle of the Prunus Virginiana, 
or Wild Cherry. The prunin is manufactured in a most 
convenient form, and is a remedy of rare virtue, directing 
PRUNIN. PBUNIN. 
407 
its influence principally upon the pulmonary apparatus. 
It approximates more nearly to a specific for phthisis, and 
other pulmonary affections of a chronic character, than 
any remedy that we possess. It not only acts as a sedative 
to the pulmonary circulation, reducing congestion, and 
subduing inflammation of the pulmonary organs, but also 
as a direct tonic to the tissue, giving tone and energy to 
this structure, and preventing any effusion of tuberculous 
matter or degeneration. In early phthisis, where there is 
a tendency to tuberculous infiltration, one or two grains, 
administered three or four times a day, combined with one 
grain of hypophosphite of soda, will arrest the tendency 
almost immediately ; and if the disease be owing to a con- 
stitutional debility of the lungs or pulmonary apparatus 
(which is seldom the case, as these affections primarily 
arise in the digestive apparatus) they will, if administered 
judiciously, operate almost as a specific. Nervous and 
spasmodic actions produced by tuberculous accumulation 
in the pulmonary tissue, are very promptly relieved by 
the use of prunin, in the following manner:-Take ten 
grains, triturate them thoroughly in ninety grains of sugar 
or lactin, add to these two ounces of syrup of sugar, ten 
grains of hypophosphite of soda, and five drops of prussic 
acid. One table-spoonful of this mixture, taken two or 
three times a day, relieves most promptly the cough, and 
irritation of the lungs and bronchia connected with phthi- 
sis. In chronic pneumonia and bronchial irritation, most 
speedy relief will follow, by taking one or two grains of the 
triturated prunin, every two or three hours. I have fre- 
quently added, for catarrh of the lungs, ten grains of the 
triturated article, in a tumbler half full of water, and 
ordered my patient to take a tea-spoonful every fifteen or 
twenty minutes, and found it most beneficial. I have 
treated many cases of typhoid pneumonia, in the latter 
stages of the disease, entirely with prunin alone, in doses 408 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
of from one to two grains of the triturated preparation, 
with the most happy effect. It also acts as a gentle stimu- 
lant and tonic to the nervous system, and may be used 
with decided advantage in nervous debility; hence its 
great value in all pulmonary diseases connected with gen- 
eral debility of the nervous system. The ordinary dose 
of the prunin is from one-tenth to'one grain, administered 
every two or three hours ; and, as I have stated previously, 
it may be compounded with iron, quinine, populin, or 
other remedies, and taken in the form of powder, or dis- 
solved in water, or prepared in syrup, by first triturating 
it with lactin, and adding the syrup, which is a most con- 
venient way of taking it, especially in chronic phthisis. 
Ptelin is the active principle of the Ptelin Trifoliata, or 
Swamp Dogwood. This remedy has been largely used as 
a tonic to the kidneys, stomach, and bowels. It is also a 
stimulant; and when taken in doses of ten or fifteen grains 
produces heat, burning sensations of the stomach, with 
ardor urinse, high-colored and scanty urine; and if con- 
tinued for any length of time, albuminuria and cutaneous 
erythema. From these effects, and the observations made 
of its use, it has been discovered that in medicinal doses it 
manifests its powers directly as a tonic and stimulant to 
the kidneys, bladder, skin, and mucous membrane, besides 
exciting a stimulating effect upon the glandular apparatus 
generally; hence, it has been used successfully in scrofu- 
lous diseases, in early phthisis, chronic degeneration of the 
liver, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, glands of the bowels, etc. 
In chronic diarrhoea, it is of much benefit. A case which 
came under my practice, was that of a soldier, wTho had 
been troubled with chronic diarrhoea for several months, 
and treated by the ordinary remedies, but without benefit. 
His condition was of most critical character, as there was not 
PTELIN. PTELIN. 
409 
only a heavy, profuse serous diarrhoea, but indications of 
ulceration of the bowels, with dropsical effusion. I gave 
ptelin, in grain doses, every two hours. It increased the 
appetite, and interrupted the discharges to a certain ex- 
tent. I then added one-sixteenth of a grain of gelsemin 
to every grain of ptelin, and administered the compound, 
thoroughly triturated with sugar, every two hours. I 
continued this treatment for a week or ten days, which 
afforded entire relief; and by the use of tonics and a nu- 
tritious diet, the patient recovered. I have also used this 
remedy, combined with hydrastia and hydrastin, in the 
latter stage of typhoid fever, where there was ulceration 
of the bowels, with most happy results. I have found, in 
all cases where there was organic lesion of the mucous tis- 
sue, resulting from acute diseases as fevers, or acute in- 
flammations, in connection with great prostration, that the 
ptelin is a prompt medicine, as it not only exerts a tonic 
and restoring influence to these tissues, but, acting as a 
stimulant, it seems to afford temporary relief to the system, 
and contributes largely to overcome the debility. I have 
used it in low forms of fevers, with carbonate of ammonia, 
where there was a tendency to degeneration of the mucous 
membrane of the stomach, bowels, and other organs, and 
have found it to operate most beneficially in this form. It 
increases the quantity of urine, has a stimulating influence 
over the liver, and a most healthful impression upon the 
bowels. The ammonia greatly contributes to its stimula- 
ting virtues. In chronic dyspepsia, connected with great 
debility, I have found the ptelin, in combination with 
frazerin, a most serviceable remedy, in the proportion of 
one-half grain of the former, and one grain of the latter, 
triturated, given three or four times a day. It also exerts 
a most beneficial influence in secondary syphilis. One 
case was that of the tertiary form, where the disease had 
produced almost the entire destruction of the soft palate 
35 410 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
and fauces, which had been treated with stillingin, iodide 
of potassium, and mercurialized, without benefit. I ad- 
ministered ten grains every two hours, combined with one 
grain of hypophosphite of iron, together with a gargle of 
muriate of hydrastia to two ounces of water. This treat- 
ment was continued for five or six weeks, resulting in the 
healing of the ulcers, and a decided improvement of the 
general health of the patient. I have tried this remedy in 
other chronic syphilitic disorders ; and so far as my expe- 
rience goes, found it to act most beneficially. The ptelin 
can be prepared by trituration in powder, and then, by 
adding simple syrup, may be compounded with other reme- 
dies, or administered alone. In the form of syrup, the 
dose is from one-fourth of a grain to three grains, every 
two or three hours. 
RHUSIN. 
Rhusin is the active principle of the Rhus Glabra, or 
Upland Sumach. This remedy exerts a most healthful in- 
fluence upon the blood and digestive organs. It has been 
largely and most beneficially used, in combination with 
iron, and mineral and vegetable acids, as in purpura, scur- 
vy, zymotic dysentery, typhoid fever, and other malignant 
affections. As an agent, rhusin has constituted one of my 
most valuable remedies to combat the general scorbutic 
tendency, which has been so prevalent the last year or two 
in this city. The proportion consists in taking two drams 
of triturated rhusin, four ounces of simple syrup, and one- 
half dram nitric acid,-from one-half to one dram, admin- 
istered three or four times a day. In many cases of 
obstinate diarrhoea, where the gums are spongy, the tissues 
soft, appetite vitiated, belly prominent, and other symptoms 
of a strong scorbutic diathesis, it has been most beneficial. 
Many cases of cholera infantum have been relieved most 
promptly, within the last few months, by the use of this 
mixture. It was suggested by a medical friend, that the RUMIN. 
411 
sulphuric acid mixture would accomplish this purpose 
without rhusin. This I tried previously without the drug, 
but was unsuccessful. In combination with vegetable 
acids, I used it in a large number of cases. A case came 
under ray charge, not long since, of sea scurvy, of a most 
malignant character. I gave ten grains of the triturated 
article, in connection with one-half grain of carbonate of 
iron, every three hours, and allowed my patient to take, 
after each dose, one tea-spoonful of lemon syrup. This 
treatment was followed by prompt relief, and in a very 
short time resulted in a permanent cure. In dysentery, 
resulting from the presence of zymotic poison, as hospital 
and camp dysentery, I have been in the habit of com- 
pounding rhusin, in the proportion of one or two grains, 
the one-twentieth or sixteenth of a grain of gelsemin, and 
one of quinine, and found it to add greatly to the efficacy 
of the quinine and gelsemin. In many cases of chronic 
ulceration of the bowels, and disorganization of the tissues, 
resulting from typhus and typhoid fevers, I have com- 
pounded the rhusin with ptelin and sulphate of potassa, 
and found it most valuable. Externally, it serves as one 
of the most valuable applications we possess in violent 
ulcerations and hemorrhoids. Ten grains, triturated in 
one ounce of glycerine, forms a most valuable ointment. 
I have also used this mixture in an aphthous condition of 
the mouth, ulceration of the throat following scarlatina 
and diphtheria, and in chancres and syphilitic ulcers, with 
decided advantage. The rhusin not only possesses tonic 
properties, but is also an antiseptic ; hence, it may be ad- 
ministered with baptisin, where there is a tendency to 
gangrene and mortification. The dose is from one to five 
grains, administered every two or three hours. 
RUMIN. 
Rumin is the active principle of the Bumcz Crispus, or 412 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
Yellow Doric. Although not a remedy of very active 
character, it possesses most decided medical virtues, mani- 
festing itself more particularly on the lymphatic and 
glandular system, and hastening transformations so essen- 
tial to the removal of the detritus of the body. It is one 
of those tonics to the secondary digestive process, which 
assists in the conversion of the effete matter of the body 
into the products to be eliminated: hence, it is a great 
remedy in scrofulous, consumptive, and cancerous cases, 
as in these diseases the malignant character depends large- 
ly upon the retention of morbific matters in the system, 
which should be eliminated; but owing to a weak and 
feeble condition of the emunctories, they accumulate and 
finally degenerate into tuberculous and scrofulous matter, 
thus poisoning and disorganizing the blood, and contami- 
nating and altering the character of the tissues of all the 
organs of the body. The rumin acts as a tonic to these 
emunctories, stimulating the glands, and hastening those 
transformations so essential to the normal condition of the 
human organism: hence, it is of great value in these af- 
fections, especially if combined with oleum morrhiue, iron, 
stimulants, baths, out-door exercise, and a generous diet. 
It is of equal importance in early phthisis, as it will cor- 
rect the general phthisical and scrofulous habit of the 
body, improve the appetite, increase the quantity of bile 
secreted, gastric fluid generated, urine formed, and estab- 
lish healthy eliminations from the surface. I have used 
it very extensively in nearly every form of constitutional 
debility and feeble habit, in combination with cod-liver 
oil, iron, general tonics, and hypophosphites, and found 
that in all cases it contributed largely towards bringing 
about those healthy changes so necessary in these diseases. 
It is, in fact, almost the only remedy properly termed an 
alterative to the glandular system, that can be used in 
these debilitating and exhausting diseases. I have accom- 413 
plished more with it in counteracting the tendency to 
phthisis and scrofula, than, perhaps, with any other drug 
of our materia medica. It should, however, be given with 
iron, and where the stomach will tolerate it, with cod-liver 
oil, or else in milk or cream. In many feeble children, 
born of phthisical parents, I have changed their diathesis 
by administering rumin, in combination with equal parts 
of iron, and one or two drams of cream. It must be borne 
in mind, that notwithstanding cod-liver is a valuable 
remedy in these diseases, yet it cannot be tolerated in 
cases of great debility, especially of the digestive organs; 
hence, cream should be substituted. A case which came 
under my charge, was that of a child of a strong phthi- 
sical habit, inherited from the scrofulous or consumptive 
constitution of the parents. A most eminent physician 
had been consulted, and prognosed a fatal issue to the 
case in a very few months. I commenced the treatment by 
giving one grain of rumin, and one-fourth of a grain of 
hypophosphite of iron, in one teaspoonful of cream, every 
four hours, ordered friction, and as much general nourish- 
ment as the child would tolerate, in conjunction with out- 
door exercise. The friction was applied to the entire sur- 
face daily; but no baths ordered, as I considered them too 
debilitating. The patient improved slowly at first; but 
in the course of a few weeks the change was decidedly 
marked, and by the continued use of the treatment, and 
such other general remedies as were occasionally demanded, 
the constitutional tendency to phthisis was entirely re- 
moved, and now the child presents all the appearances of 
being healthy, and is pronounced by its former physician 
entirely free from any phthisical tendency. From these 
experiments, and those of my medical friends with the 
rumin, I believe that it is very valuable, and should be 
used by all the members of the profession in all cases 
where a general excitant to the transforming apparatus is 
35* 
R U MIN. 414 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
indicated. The average dose is from one to three 
grains. 
Sanguinarin is the active principle of the Sanguinaria 
Canadensis, or Blood Root. There are but few remedies 
that have occupied the attention of the profession more 
than that of the sanguinaria Canadensis. At times it has 
been highly extolled by various practitioners, as possessing 
remarkable medical virtues, and then, again, has relapsed 
into complete disuse ; but it is only since the introduction 
of the active principles of the plant, that its real merits 
have been appreciated. The sanguinarin, when taken in 
doses of from one to five grains, produces nausea and 
vomiting, followed by mild purging of bilious matter, with 
slight giddiness and fulness in the region of the temples 
and whole anterior part of the head. In some persons, 
upon whom I have experimented, I have known the san- 
guinarin to produce stupor, and manifest a decidedly nar- 
cotic influence; but it is difficult to carry its use to any 
great extent, as in large doses it is an active emeto-cathar- 
tic, and will be rejected immediately. The first impression 
of a large dose of this medicine, is the influence over the 
circulation, increasing the action of the heart, and the force 
with which the blood traverses the arteries. Its secondary 
influence, however, appears to be that of an arterial seda- 
tive, producing more or less action of the skin, and slightly 
increasing the flow of urine. In medicinal doses of five to 
ten grains, it is a valuable emeto-cathartic, and may be 
used in all cases where active emesis, with purging, is re- 
quired. I have used this remedy quite extensively in 
typhus fever, and find it to act beneficially. In one-half 
grain or grain doses, it produces nausea, and excites the 
action of the liver, causing alvine evacuations, acting on 
some patients as a severe purge; and if continued for sev- 
eral days, resulting in irritation of the mucous membrane 
S ANGUINARIN. SANGUINARIN. 
415 
of the trachea and bronchia, followed by gastric disturb- 
ance and tenderness of the bowels. In special diseases, as 
pseudo-membranous croup, scarlatina, and diphtheritis, it 
has proved to be quite a specific, as it not only relieves the 
peculiar inflammation of the fauces, but also dissolves the 
adventitious formation. In pseudo-membranous croup, I 
have given it a most thorough and extensive trial. In 
many cases, in which the membrane had become perma- 
nently organized, and the capacity of the trachea so dimin- 
ished as to threaten almost immediate suffocation, I have, 
by the use of the acetic syrup of sanguinaria, produced 
almost instant relief. The sanguinarin, when introduced 
into the system, appears to disorganize this membranous 
formation; and in many cases, after using it for a day or 
two, the membrane becomes entirely disorganized, and 
is ejected in large masses. For the last ten years I have 
relied exclusively upon these remedies in this affection; 
and although I had a very large number of cases, I have 
not lost one. The method of administering it is to add 
one dram to one pint of the syrup of vinegar, and to tri- 
turate this so as to form a mixture, and give from ten 
drops to a tea-spoonful every fifteen or thirty minutes, 
according to the age of the patient and the urgency of the 
case. It should never be given in these diseases in doses 
sufficient to produce nausea or vomiting, as when carried 
to this extent, it is less beneficial. In this way I have 
treated a large number of cases, and in addition, hot packs 
to the throat, and in many instances where all the ordina- 
ry remedies had failed, and the patient pronounced entirely 
hopeless, I have been successful with this remedy. I have 
also depended entirely upon it, prepared in the same 
way, in scarlatina and diphtheritis. In connection with 
other remedies, it has proved itself of equal value. In 
many cases of diphtheria I have compounded it with qui- 
nine, chlorate of potassa, and other remedies that appeared 416 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
to be indicated, as small doses of sanguinarin, capsicum, and 
quinine, a prescription which has proved of remarkable 
efficacy. It has also been used very extensively in hepatic 
difficulties, chronic hypertrophy of the liver, and granular 
degeneration of the structure. In combination with lep- 
tandrin, podophyllin, irisin, and other remedies of this 
class, it has proved of much value. In malignant affec- 
tions of the stomach, mucous membrane, bowels, and rec- 
tum, it is of great service. A case under my charge, 
of a man who had been pronounced by several Old School 
physicians as having cancer of the rectum, was entirely 
cured by the administration of one-fourth of a grain of 
sanguinarin, and one-half grain of phytolaccin, every two 
or three hours during the day, together with tonics, proper 
regimen, etc. It also possesses decidedly exciting and 
stimulating influences over the uterus, and I have known 
several cases of abortion produced by the use of drastic 
purges of the sanguinarin. A lady, who was afflicted with 
hemorrhoids and chronic inflammation of the liver, was 
ordered one-half grain doses of sanguinarin three times a 
day. Abortion was produced, after taking it three days. 
It has also been used as an antiperiodic, with considerable 
success, by several practitioners. The dose is from the 
one-sixteenth to four or five grains, given as frequently as 
the case requires, bearing in mind that the average quan- 
tity is from the one-fourth to a half grain, and that from 
one to five grains act as an emetic, and sometimes as an 
emeto-cathartic. 
SULT II ATE OF SANGUINARIA. 
The sulphate of'sanguinaria is a very valuable remedy, 
and has been used principally as an external application. 
As an escharotic, it has but few, if any, superiors, espe- 
cially when applied to chancres, cancers, and other malig- 
nant disorders. A New School physician wrote me a SCUTELLARIN. 
417 
short time since that he had cured a bad case of cauli- 
flower concretion of the os uteri, by applying an ointment 
composed of glycerine and the sulphate of sanguinaria. I 
have used this remedy for cutaneous affections, in the form 
of an ointment, and also by sprinkling the dry powder 
upon the cancerous ulceration, with the most happy effect. 
It is also of great value in indolent ulcerations, and in 
chancres it produces a healthy action almost immediately. 
Internally, it has been used for a variety of affections. It 
is a very powerful agent; but I have not had sufficient 
experience with the drug to determine its precise value, 
yet from its active influence upon the stomach and bowels, 
am satisfied that it is capable of manifesting most de- 
cidedly medical virtues. The dose of this remedy is from 
the one-twentieth to the one-eighteenth of a grain, given 
every two or three hours. Externally, it may be applied 
in the form of an ointment, or in the powdered state, or 
may be formed into a solution, by mixing it with glycerine. 
SCUTELLARIN. 
Scuteliarin is the active principle of the Scutellaria 
Lateriflora, or Skull-Cap. It is one of the most valuable 
nerve tonics and antispasmodics with which we are ac- 
quainted. It appears to manifest itself more particularly 
upon the gray nerve tissue, hence it exerts most wonderful 
medical power in most of the difficulties which originate in 
a pathological condition of this structure. All forms of 
chorea are most promptly relieved by the proper use of 
this drug; in fact, it may be correctly pronounced a specific 
for these affections. I have tested it in every form of this 
affection ; and if used persistently and judiciously, in com- 
bination with such adjunct remedies as the constitution may 
indicate, it manifests a most wonderful power. It is of great 
virtue in fevers, and other affections where the gray nerve 
tissue has undergone partial degeneration and disintegra- 418 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
tion, or where the nerve force is impaired by this peculiar 
pathological change. Thus, in subsultus tendinum, follow- 
ing fevers in delirium tremens, and other spasmodic affec- 
tions, as epilepsy, catalepsy, hysteria, etc., etc., this remedy, 
combined with iron, is of vast importance. It is of great 
value as a tonic to the nervous system, where there is a 
general nervous debility, either from uterine disease, or 
other constant irritations to the nervous system. I have 
used this remedy extensively in all female diseases, hepatic 
difficulties, and other chronic affections that influence 
the nervous system, and by uniting it with iron, find 
it to afford most prompt relief. My method of ad- 
ministering it, in the low forms of fevers, is to compound 
one or two grains with one grain of hypophosphite of soda, 
and give a powder four or five times a day. In hysteria, 
epilepsy, catalepsy, and other spasmodic affections of that 
class, I give it in stronger doses. I have cured some most 
obstinate cases of epilepsy, by giving four or five grains, 
with equal parts of carbonate of iron, every two or three 
hours during the day, followed by occasional purges. 
Some most remarkable cases of hysteria have promptly 
yielded to two grains of scutellarin, administered three or 
four times a day, in combination with chalybeates. In 
chorea, one grain, combined with one or two of carbonate 
of iron, every two or three hours, in connection with baths, 
friction, and a well-regulated diet, promptly relieves ; and 
where it is judiciously administered, results in a permanent 
cure. This remedy has also been very extensively used as 
a nervine, to allay general nervous irritability, and I have 
frequently prescribed, when either a want of sleep or rest- 
lessness was manifested on the part of the patient, one or 
two grains of the scutellarin, at bed-time, combined with 
one or two grains of the prussiate of iron, and find it to 
manifest quite as soothing an influence as opium or mor- 419 
phia. It can be given in the form of powder, triturated 
as other remedies, or prepared in syrup. 
SENECIN. 
S E N E C I N. 
The Senecin is the active principle of the Senecio Gra- 
cilis, or Life Root. It is one of those uterine tonics that 
has been most successfully used in nearly all the patho- 
logical conditions of the uterus, ovaries, and vagina, de- 
pendent upon debility. It is especially adapted to the 
defective uterine function, arising from a vitiated state of 
the system. In scrofulous and phthisical patients, I ad- 
minister the senecin in doses of from one-half to one grain, 
combined with one or two grains of the carbonate of iron, 
four or five times a day. There is, perhaps, no emunctory 
of the body that exerts a more powerful influence over 
scrofulous and consumptive patients, than the uterus. 
Among the first indications of this disease, is that of im- 
perfect uterine action. A vitiated condition of the cata- 
menia manifests itself in the early stages of phthisis and 
scrofula in the form of dysmenorrhcea, leucorrhoea, and 
uterine and vaginal irritability. The senecin possesses 
the power to correct this condition to a very remarkable 
extent, hence, it has been denominated by many practi- 
tioners as " the female regulator, " as where there is an 
excess or deficient catamenia arising from these causes, it 
restores the function to its normal condition, by estab- 
lishing a healthy menstruation in these diseases, though 
it usually manifests its influence more favorably in combi- 
nation with iron, eupurpurin, hydrastin, quinine, cod liver 
oil, and such other remedies as have a general tonic and 
invigorating impression upon the entire system. In cases 
of weak habit where the catamenial period is protracted, 
and the blood appears to be poisoned or contaminated by 
the retention of the zymotic catamenial poison, hastening 
the development of scrofula or phthisis, senecin in the pro- 420 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
portion of one grain to one-half grain of eupurpurin and 
one or two grains of hypophosphite of iron, taken four or 
five times a day, is a most valuable remedy. It also gives 
tone and vigor to the uterus, and I have used it in many 
cases of sterility and general inertia of this organ, with 
most decided benefit. In amenorrhoea and dysmenor- 
rhoea, the dose is one or two grains given four or five 
times a day, in connection with hot sitz baths, and such 
other remedies as are indicated by the complications of 
the affection. The seneciu has also a decided tonic influ- 
ence upon the pulmonary tissue, hence, it has been largely 
used in phthisical cases, but we apprehend its main value 
consists in its uterine tonic properties, thus relieving the 
pulmonary difficulty by restoring to the uterus its normal 
function. A very convenient form of administering it is 
to add one dram to two ounces of the syrup of hypophos- 
phites, and the same quantity of oleum morrhuse, and give 
a tea-spoonful every two or three hours. This mixture in 
scrofulous and phthisical patients, connected with a de- 
rangement of the uterine function, proves most servicea- 
ble. The ordinary dose is from one-half to two grains 
every two or three hours. 
STILLINGIN. 
Stillingin is the active principle of the Stillingia Sylva- 
tica. This preparation has been used within the last few 
years. It exerts a most direct, stimulating, and exciting 
influence upon the fauces, trachea, and bronchia ; hence 
it is used in laryngitis, tracheitis, and bronchitis. In 
bronchitis I have found the most benefit derived from the 
stillingin, in doses of one-sixteenth or one-eighteenth of a 
grain. It relieves the dyspnoea, and rapid and extensive 
exudation, by controlling the cough, and removing a most 
distressing class of symptoms. It acts as a direct stimu- 
lant to the bronchial mucous capillaries, relieving the STRYCHNIN. 
421 
congestion and unloading the vessels. It may be given 
in this disease combined with sanguinariu, in the propor- 
tion of one grain of the former to one-half grain of the 
latter triturated in one dram of sugar, divided into six- 
teen powders, taken every half hour. It has also beeu 
used in chronic pneumonia, and although it has a benefi- 
cial influence upon the pulmonary tissue in exciting and 
stimulating this structure, yet it is far less active upon the 
substance of the lungs than upon the bronchia. It is of 
great value in chronic gleet. It has also been employed 
as an alterative to the liver, kidneys, and stomach. From 
the repeated effect of the stillingin in syphilis, it has been 
tried in these diseases, and although it appears to possess 
but feeble powers over this affection, yet in mercurial dis- 
ease it has manifested considerable influence, and I have 
known mercurial erythema to be much relieved by taking 
from one-fourth to one grain three or four times a day. 
In chronic bronchitis, I have sometimes triturated the 
stillingin in glycerine, in the proportion of ten grains of 
the former to four ounces of the latter, and given a tea- 
spoonful of this mixture every two or three hours. Where 
there is a vitiated state of the blood, and imperfect diges- 
tion, alnuin and iron may be added to decided advantage. 
STRYCHNIN. 
Strychnin is the active principle of Nux Vomica, and 
should not be confounded with the alkaloid strychnia, 
which is so frequently prescribed, and in some respects 
possesses similar medicinal properties to that of the 
strychnin. It appears to affect the white nerve tissue, and 
differs from the scuteliarin in this respect, that while the 
latter appears to regulate the molecular arrangement of 
the gray nerve matter, and control the distribution of 
nerve force, by regulating the development of the forces 
of the gray nerve matter, it restores and excites the white 
36 422 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
nerve tissue, so as to enable it to distribute the forces sent 
to it from the gray nerve matter, to the different organs 
and tissues of the body. Strychnin is given in those dis- 
eases where there is an irregular distribution of nerve 
power dependent upon a disordered condition of the con- 
ducting force: hence, in cases of paralysis, caused by either 
sanguineous or serous apoplexy, or by an inflammation of 
the neurilemma and solidification of the structure, it is a 
remedy of great value; but where there is an altered 
pathological condition of the white nerve tissue, and the 
paralysis is owing to a deficiency of nerve power generated 
by the gray nerve matter, then it not only fails to cure, 
but absolutely aggravates it by exhausting the deficient 
nerve force. It also acts as a general tonic and stimulant 
to the nervous system in low forms of fevers, therefore, 
while the digestive and assimilating organs are paralyzed, 
either by congestion of the organs themselves, or by the 
accumulation of some narcotic poison, as malaria, etc., the 
strychnin is of value, as it stimulates these organs, giving 
them tone and vigor ; thus overcoming the sedative influ- 
ence produced by these various noxious agents which have 
created the disease. It is of the greatest value in low 
forms of typhus and typhoid fevers. I have known cases 
of the latter disease where sordes had accumulated upon 
the teeth, and the secretions were entirely suspended, indi- 
cating an entire want of action on the part of the stomach 
and eliminating organs of the body, where there were 
typhomania, subsultus tendinum, and great prostration, 
to be immediately relieved by the prudent and judicious 
administration of strychnin. The method is to give from 
one-sixteenth to one-twentieth of a grain every half hour, 
followed by some kind of nutriment, as beef tea, milk 
punch, etc. In many forms of dysentery, combined wi 
gelsemin, it is of great value. I have treated the mosu 
malignant form exclusively by the use of gelsemin and TRILLIN. 
423 
strychnin, in the proportion of the one-sixteenth of a grain 
of the former to one-twentieth of the latter. It is of much 
benefit in phthisical and scrofulous patients, restoring the 
digestive organs and promoting assimilation in many cases 
where cod liver oil and other tonics fail to nourish the 
system. In nervous affections, such as hysteria, catalepsy, 
depending upon general debility, and want of sufficient 
nutriment, or digestive power, I have had much success in 
the use of this drug. It is also an antiperiodic of very 
superior quality: hence, it can be used in all cases of 
periodicity, and is most beneficial with the sulphate of 
quinine, in arresting the progress of malignant intermit- 
tent, remittent fevers, and other diseases of this class. I 
have used a preparation of strychnin and xanthoxylin 
most successfully in some malignant cases of cholera 
morbus. I have no doubt that the remedy will prove of 
great value in the treatment of cholera, when combined 
with xanthoxylin, as it imparts vigor and tone to the 
entire organism, without exhausting the nervous influence. 
It is also very valuable in constipation of the bowels, 
caused by insufficient peristaltic motion or general inertia. 
In spermatorrhoea, combined with gelsemin, it is almost a 
specific. The one-twentieth of a grain with one-sixteenth 
of a grain of the gelsemin, taken at night, together with a 
well regulated diet, is almost a sovereign remedy for this 
very troublesome affection. In malignant scarlatina, 
diphtheria, as well as other low forms of fevers and dis- 
eases of great prostration, it is of much service. The 
ordinary dose is from the one-sixteenth to the one-twenti- 
eth of a grain, and may be compounded with iron, xan- 
thoxylin, or such other remedies as the case may require. 
TRILLIN. 
Trillin is obtained from the Trillium Pendulum, or Beth 
Boot. This remedy is an astringent to the mucous mem- 424 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
brane, and has been used mostly in diseases of this struc- 
ture. It is in many respects closely allied to tannin, and 
I apprehend that its main virtues are dependent upon the 
tannic acid which it contains; hence it has been used in hem- 
orrhage and chronic exudations from the mucous membrane, 
as leucorrhoea, broncorrhoea, and chronic diarrhoea, to con- 
siderable advantage. By some practitioners it is regarded 
as almost a specific in uterine hemorrhage; but I have tried 
it extensively in these diseases and have not found it as re- 
liable as many other agents; yet in passive uterine hemor- 
rhage, it may be given, in two or three grain doses, to 
advantage. It has also been extensively used in leucor- 
rhcea and prolapsus uteri. It is claimed by some that it 
possesses direct tonic influence upon the broad ligaments, 
and will prevent displacement of the uterus. Many cures 
have been reported by the use of this agent in these dis- 
eases; and almost every one who has employed it exten- 
sively, claims that it is a valuable remedy. In spermatocele, 
and diseases of the spermatic cord, it is used with decided 
advantage. In combination with quinine and hydrastin, 
it is serviceable in chronic diarrhoea. I once cured a very 
inveterate case of chronic diarrhoea by this treatment, and 
attribute it to the use of the quinine and hydrastin as 
much as to the trillin, as I have tried the latter alone 
without very marked success. The trillin has been used 
as a gargle in an aphthous condition of the mouth, and in 
many cases served a good purpose. I have used it as a 
gargle in diphtheria, and found that it possessed antiseptic 
properties, and may be employed with advantage. It is 
also slightly diuretic, and in some cases of chronic catarrh 
of the bladder may be used very beneficially. It is rather 
one of those mild tonic astringents, and is better adapted 
to diseases of the mucous membrane of children, and 
patients of feeble habit, than for adults, or those who have 
a more vigorous constitution. The dose of the trillin is VERATRIN. 
425 
from two to five grains, administered every two or three 
hours. Like other concentrated remedies, it may be tritu- 
rated in sugar, prepared in simple syrup or glycerine, as 
the case indicates. 
VERATRIN. 
Veratrin is the active principle of the Veratrum Viride, 
or Black Hellebore, Swamp Hellebore, etc. In doses of from 
one-eighth to one-fourth of a grain, it is an active emeto- 
cathartic and a powerful arterial sedative. If several 
doses be repeated, there are vomiting, drastic purging, 
great prostration, weak, feeble pulse, cold, clammy per- 
spiration, mental anxiety, burning in the epigastrium, with 
great thirst and delirium; and although I have never 
knowm the remedy to be carried to a fatal issue, yet from 
the symptoms that I have seen manifested as the result of 
large doses, I have no doubt but that it will produce death, 
if the remedy be continued. In medicinal doses it is of 
great value as an arterial sedative, alterative, diaphoretic, 
diuretic, and expectorant, and is used to control inflam- 
matory disease with more certainty than any other remedy 
ever introduced into the materia medica. The one-hun- 
dredth part of a grain, given in active inflammation of the 
serous tissue, where there are a full, bounding pulse, hot 
skin, and other violent symptoms, produces moisture of the 
surface, and controls the inflammatory action with great 
certainty, so that in all inflammatory diseases it is an in- 
dispensable agent, and is now most extensively used by 
the entire New School of medicine. In fevers, especially 
of an active type, and where there is a strong inflamma- 
tory symptom, the veratrin controls the fever, and reduces 
the inflammation with great promptness. In typhus fever, 
or what has been denominated cerebro-spinal meningitis, 
veratrin acts almost as a specific, controlling the inflam- 
matory condition immediately, producing moisture of the 
surface, subduing the action of the heart, and at the same 
36* 426 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
time stimulating the emunctories of the body, so as to 
remove from the blood the materies morbi which produce 
the disease, and if not removed, perpetuate it. It is of 
much service in typhoid fever, in connection with other 
remedies. It is also employed beneficially in dysentery 
and pneumonia. This drug has, perhaps, almost entirely 
superseded the use of the lancet, tartar emetic, and other 
remedial agents of this class, physicians now having no 
excuse for venesection, as they can control the circulation 
more effectually with this agent, and at the same time 
retain in the system the blood which is so essential to a 
healthy condition of the organism. Many practitioners 
prefer the tincture of the veratrum viride to the veratrin. 
This I apprehend is more from habit than otherwise, as the 
veratrin operates with equal certainty, and is a much more 
convenient form to use. The ordinary dose is from the one- 
hundredth to the one-sixtieth part of a grain. I triturate one 
grain of veratrin in ninety-nine grains of lactic acid, or 
pure white sugar, and administered one to one and a half 
grains. In acute rheumatism, I have found that one grain 
of the triturated article, combined with one or two grains 
of the sulphate of potassa, given four or five times a day, 
is almost a specific. In pneumonia I have compounded 
this remedy with lobelia; in intermittent and remittent 
fevers, with sulphate of quinine; in dysentery, with qui- 
nine and gelsemin, or in connection with such other agents 
as the case may indicate. 
VIBURNIN. 
Viburnin is the active principle of the Viburnum Oxy- 
cocum, or High Cranberry. It is a remedy of great value, 
and manifests its influence principally upon the nervous 
system, acting as a direct tonic and stimulant. In many 
respects the viburnin resembles in this influence the pre- 
parations of nucis vomica, although in a far milder de- VIBURNIN. 
427 
gree. It appears to act as a general tonic to the nervous 
system : hence, in all cases of nervous debility, whether it 
be connected with acute or chronic diseases, it can be 
used to great advantage. In cases of paralysis, I have 
employed it very successfully. A case came under my 
charge of amaurosis, where I employed the viburnin most 
advantageously. I have also used it in many cases of 
general paralysis, as hemiplegia, paraplegia, with marked 
benefit. In fevers, especially of an adynamic character, 
where there is great debility, the viburnin is useful, as it 
gives tone and vigor to the nervous system, without pro- 
ducing any constitutional disturbance. In pneumonia, 
especially of the typhoid form, it has been used success- 
fully. It appears to have a stimulating effect upon the 
pulmonary apparatus, independently of its peculiar power 
over the nervous system ; and I have in many instances 
relieved dyspepsia and orthopnoea, by giving a few doses 
when other remedies had failed. Combined with iron, it 
has cured some most inveterate cases of neuralgia. In 
female diseases, especially where there are prostration of 
the nervous system, caused by long-protracted uterine 
affections, leucorrhcea, and other diseases of this class, the 
viburnin serves a most valuable purpose in giving tone 
and energy to the nervous system. Viburnin, like most 
other nerve tonics, operates more beneficially when com- 
pounded with iron. I have also used this article with 
marked success in many forms of dyspepsia, constipation 
of the bowels,* and in incontinence of urine. One case, 
which I had previously treated with belladonna and 
gelsemin without success, was entirely cured in the course 
of a few weeks by the administration of one grain of vi- 
burnin, every morning and evening. The dose is from 
one to five grains, given every two or three hours during 
the day, according to the nature of the case. 428 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
Xanthoxylin is the active principle of the Xanthoxylin 
Fraxineum. It is one of the most active diffusible stimu- 
lants known to the profession, when administered in doses 
of from one to two grains. In a healthy person, it pro- 
duces a warm glow through the entire system, and a 
slightly tickling sensation of the nerves, as though gentle 
shocks of electricity were passing through the body; 
hence, in low forms of fever and other diseases where 
there is great prostration, it may be compounded with 
other remedies, and used for the purpose of producing an 
immediate excitement and establishing reaction. In ex- 
anthematous fevers, especially diphtheria and malignant 
scarlatina, I have found that the xanthoxylin combined 
with macrotin, produces a reaction and transfers the dis- 
ease to the cutaneous surface, with most happy effect. 
Combined with capsicum, it is valuable in cholera, in 
a collapsed state of the disease, in the proportion of one 
grain of the former to one or two of the latter, and serves 
as a most powerful stimulant to establish reaction. It is 
of great value in phthisis and scrofula. I am in the habit 
of compounding xanthoxylin with cod liver oil and vi- 
burnin, for the purpose of energizing the digestive appara- 
tus, and thus increase the nutritive functions of the body. 
I have used this remedy very extensively in the low stage 
of typhus and typhoid fevers, especially where there was 
periodicity, and antiperiodics were indicated, as very fre- 
quently in these diseases, remedies introduced into the 
system fail to be assimilated, or produce any impression 
upon the system, owing to the exhausted and debilitated 
condition of the digestive organs. Xanthoxylin will stim- 
ulate these organs, promoting the absorbing of the other 
remedies, and at the same time maintain a healthy and 
exciting influence upon the system generally, until other 
agents can remove the disease. I have also used it very 
X ANTHOXYLIN. PANDURATIN. 
429 
successfully in many cases of paralysis, combined with 
strychnin and viburnin. I cured a case of hemiplegia of 
long standing, by the use of small doses of strychnin and 
xanthoxylin, in the proportion of one grain of the latter 
to one-sixteenth of a grain of the former, four times a day. 
The patient had previously taken strychnin without any 
effect, but by adding the xanthoxylin it soon manifested 
its power. I have also combined it with gelsemin in 
many forms of dysentery, with most decided benefit, and, 
in fact, in all cases where a diffusible stimulant is re- 
quired, the xanthoxylin can be relied upon with certain- 
ty, to produce a temporary excitement and stimulating 
influence upon all the organs and tissues. The dose is 
from one-half of a grain to two or three grains adminis- 
tered every half hour, or used according to the emergency 
of the case. It can be triturated and used as other con- 
centrated remedies. 
Panduratin is the active principle of the Convolvulus 
Panduratus, Wild Potato, Wild Jalap, Man in the ground, 
etc. In doses of from three to five grains it acts as a mild 
cathartic, at the same time producing an increased secre- 
tion of urine, gentle diaphoresis, and exciting the mucous 
membrane generally. It has been employed for the pur- 
pose of increasing the quantity of urine in dropsical dis- 
eases, and as a mild excitant to the liver, kidneys, and 
other emunctories of the body. It has also been very ex- 
tensively used in small doses as a stimulant and tonic to 
the pulmonary tissues, and by some practitioners has en- 
joyed a high, reputation for the cure of pulmonary con- 
sumption. I have used it to a considerable extent in pul- 
monary diseases, and although I have not observed any 
specific influence over them, yet so far as it contributed in 
exciting the eliminating organs of the body, it proved 
beneficial, especially in the early stages of diseases of the 
PANDURATIN. 430 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
mucous membrane. It may be used in all cases where a 
gentle excitant and stimulant are required. The ordinary 
dose is from one-half of a grain to two grains, repeated 
three or four times a day. It should be triturated, and 
may be prepared in glycerine or simple syrup, as other 
concentrated remedies. 
Rhein is the active principle of the Rheum Palmatum or 
Rhubarb Root. It possesses nearly the same properties as 
the rhubarb, only in a far more concentrated form, and 
may be employed in all cases where the crude article has 
been used advantageously. I have prescribed the rheiu 
very successfully in chronic diarrhoea, and in irritation of 
the mucous membrane of the stomach and bowels. I re- 
cently had a case of follicular stomatitis, in which I pre- 
scribed rhein and rhusin most beneficially. In some cases 
of dysentery, I have compounded the gelsemin and rhein 
to advantage. Rhein, in doses of from one-half to one 
grain, is a mild tonic and stimulating purge, and may be 
used in nearly all diseases where they are required. In a 
case of jaundice, I administered the rhein combined with 
small doses of the carbonate of iron, and found it pro- 
duced a most beneficial influence. The dose is from one- 
fourth of a grain to two grains. One-fourth of a grain 
repeated three times a day, is the average dose, as a 
mild excitant to the mucous membrane of the stomach 
and bowels, producing a slight increase of the alvine 
evacuations. As a purge, from two to three grains should 
be administered. In large doses it is likely to operate 
somewhat drastically, hence, it has been compounded with 
some aromatic. I have used it triturated with a few 
drops of oleum monardse or oleum piperitse. 
RHEIN. 
S M I L A CI N. 
Smilacin is the active principle of the Smilax Sarsapa- COPAIVIN. 
431 
villa or Officinalis. In doses of from two to five grains, 
administered three or four times a day, it operates as a 
gentle excitant to the glandular apparatus and lymphatics 
generally. I have been in the habit of using it in many 
cases of scrofulous and venereal diseases, with decided ad- 
vantage, and have compounded it with phytolaccin and 
corydalin, and in secondary and tertiary syphilis, have 
thought it increased their anti-syphilitic power. I have 
also used it in an indurated condition of the inguinal 
glands from a scrofulous diathesis, and found it to act 
very beneficially. A very convenient and most servicea- 
ble preparation is to take four ounces of the compound 
syrup of stillingia, and add two or three drams of the tri- 
turated smilacin. It increases the alterative and excitant 
influences of the stillingin, and in indurations of the lym- 
phatics as buboes, mercurial and syphilitic affections, acts 
to a good advantage. It is not, however, a remedy of any 
very remarkable power, but as a mild alterative may be 
used in nearly all diseases where such a remedy is re- 
quired. The dose is from two to five grains. 
COPAIVIN. 
Copaivin is the active principle of the Copaifera Officin- 
alis, Copaiba. The only difficulty with this drug is, that 
it is always troublesome to maintain it in a powdered 
form. This can be done, however, by triturating it with 
equal parts of calcined magnesia, and keeping it in a dark 
bottle in a cool place. It really possesses all the proper- 
ties of the copaiba, and in doses of from one-fourth of a 
grain to one grain, is an active stimulating cathartic and 
diuretic, exerting a special influence upon the mucous 
tissue of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra; hence 
it has been extensively used in all diseases of these organs. 
In all cases where there is an exhausted and debilitated 
condition of the urethral mucous membrane of the urinal 432 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
apparatus, it proves a most serviceable remedy. The 
practice of using it in acute gonorrhoea is not only un- 
successful, but most pernicious, as it is liable to produce 
a hypertrophied condition of the mucous membrane of the 
urethra, which results in a stricture, or if not, degenerates 
into the chronic form and remains with the patient for a 
long time, as a troublesome gleet, one of the most obsti- 
nate diseases to manage. But in gonorrhoea, when the 
active inflammation is removed by the proper treatment, 
from one-fourth to one-half grain of copaivin administered 
once or twice a day, frequently proves most serviceable. 
It is also a remedy of great value in bronchitis and bron- 
corrhcea, combined with stillingin. In many forms of 
bronchial irritation, especially when not associated with a 
phthisical habit, the copaivin and stiHingin compound 
forms almost a panacea. It may be employed in some 
forms of dyspepsia to advantage. I have given it when 
dependent upon a weak and feeble state of the mucous 
membrane, and found it to act very beneficially. The 
ordinary dose is from one-eighth to one-half grain, given 
at suitable intervals. As I have previously stated, the 
copaivin may be triturated with magnesia, and in this 
form will remain in a powdered condition, and if it be 
necessary to use it, a still better plan is to have it pre- 
pared in the form of sugar-coated pills. It may also be 
triturated in simple syrup, and in this form is not only 
palatable, but is equally efficacious as that of its ad- 
ministration either in a powder or pill. 
VERBENIN. 
Verbenin is the active principle of the Verbena Hastata 
or Vervain, Wild Hyssop, or Simpler's Joy. In doses of 
from one-half to one grain, it is an active emetic, pro- 
ducing considerable nausea, vomiting, and active sudorific 
influences, as after taking the medicine and vomiting, it SARRACENIA. 
433 
is usually followed by copious and free perspiration. It 
is also an arterial sedative, reducing the action of the 
heart and arteries, and acting in this respect upon the sys- 
tem similar to the veratrin. In larger doses, it operates 
as an emeto-cathartic, producing sometimes a decided im- 
pression. I administered five or six grains to a patient, 
'and it W'as immediately followed by vomiting and purg- 
ing. In doses of from one-eighth to one-fourth of a grain, 
it is a gentle diuretic, and has a tendency to stimulate the 
action of the skin : hence, it may be used in all cases 
where there is a hot and pungent surface, to produce 
moisture. In the commencement of marsh fevers, it may 
serve a valuable purpose, in doses sufficiently large to 
evacuate the stomach, and at the same time maintain a 
sudorific action upon the cutaneous surface. My experi- 
ence has not been extensive with this drug; but from the 
use I have made, I am satisfied that it possesses active 
febrifuge, alterative, and diuretic properties, and is capa- 
ble of fulfilling very important indications in the manage- 
ment of febrile and inflammatory diseases. The dose is 
from one-eighth to one grain, one-eighth grain being the 
ordinary sudorific portion; whilst two grains, repeated if 
required, operate as an emetic, and produce slight ca- 
thartic influences. 
SARRACENIA. 
Sarracenia is the active principle of the Sarracenia Pur- 
purea. This remedy has attracted much attention within 
the last few years, owing to its reputed prophylactic power 
over variola. Although I have not had an opportunity to 
test this article in very many cases, it is certainly a very 
active agent, producing a most decidedly diuretic and 
diaphoretic influence upon the system, increasing the alvine 
evacuations and the quantity of urine voided, and at the 
same time maintaining a gentle diaphoresis. I have only 
tried the remedy in one or two cases of small-pox, and then 
87 434 
NEW SCHOOL REMEDIES. 
not under very favorable circumstances. From the reputed 
success of the crude article, and the unquestionable repre- 
sentations of the active principle of the plant in the con- 
centrated medicine, it is worthy of further investigation. 
The dose is from one-eighth to one-half grain, repeated 
every two or three hours. As a prophylactic against small- 
pox, it should be given three or four times a day, and con- 
tinued for some length of time. As a curative agent to 
this disease, it should be administered in one-fourth grain 
doses, every two or three hours. A medical friend, who 
has tried this agent, states that he has succeeded in arrest- 
ing the progress of the disease, by the use of one-fourth of 
a grain every two or three hours. 
Pyruscin is the active principle of the Pyrus Malus, or 
Apple Tree. This remedy has been manufactured by some 
of our pharmaceutists, and I have experimented with a 
sample. From my observations of the effects of this article, 
it possesses decided antiperiodic properties. I have ad- 
ministered it in several cases of intermittent fever in doses 
of five grains, every two or three hours, and it produced 
complete interruption of the paroxysms. I have also em- 
ployed it quite successfully in neuralgia, periodical diar- 
rhoea, and dyspepsia, and found the remedy of great value. 
As a topical application, I have used it very advanta- 
geously in ophthalmia, and in the experience I have had, 
it operated very much like the muriate of hydrastia, acting 
as a decided tonic and stimulant to the mucous surface. 
Future investigation may prove the further value of this 
article, and I have confidence to believe that it will occupy 
a prominent position among the active antiperiodics of the 
New School materia medica. It differs essentially from 
the phloridzin, or the alkaloid of the pyrus malus, as pre- 
pared by Dr. Koninck, and other French and German 
PYRUSCIN. PYRUSCIN. 
435 
chemists. The phloridzin, however, is an agent of con- 
siderable value. The dose of the pyruscin is from two to 
ten grains, administered during the apyrexia, as an anti- 
periodic ; and from one to two grains, every two or three 
hours, in neuralgia, and other less active periodical dis- 
eases. As a topical application for ophthalmia, it may be 
triturated with glycerine, and used as an ointment, three 
or four times a day. APPENDIX, 
CONTAINING 
AN OUTLINE OF REGULAR PHARMACY AND 
MEDICAL PREPARATIONS, TO BE USED IN 
DOMESTIC PRACTICE. 
Eveby family should obtain a case of concentrated medicines, in 
order to make their own prescriptions when medical aid is indicated, 
unless the nature of the case is such that it can only be understood 
by a physician well versed in his profession. The non-professional 
individual, before attempting to prescribe for a patient, should care- 
fully observe all the symptoms present, and as carefully compare 
them with those described in this work, or by other reliable authors; 
for unless the indications to be fulfilled are fully understood, it is 
far better to leave the disease to the unaided efforts of nature, than 
to attempt medical interference, bearing in mind that unskilful 
medication always lessens the chances of recovery. The next duty 
is to fully understand the properties of the remedy to be used, and 
its preparation for administration. In the use of the concentrated 
remedies described in this work, they should be triturated with 
sugar, by adding ten grains of the article to be used to one hundred 
of pure white sugar. Place both in a wedge-wood mortar, and tritu- 
rate for thirty or forty minutes, or until every particle of the medi- 
cine is thoroughly incorporated with the sugar. The doses recom- 
mended in this work mostly have reference to the triturated article. 
It will be noticed, that where the medicine is thus prepared, a much 
less quantity is required than when given in a crude state; besides, 
when the articles are taken into the stomach in a crude state, they 
produce local irritation, frequently causing rejection, or producing 
constitutional symptoms, which very much lessen their curative 
powers. 
The quantity to be administered must depend altogether upon the 
age, temperament, constitution, &c. of the patient. For the pro- 
portionate doses of different ages, the reader is referred to the table 
436 APPENDIX. 
437 
of doses, as modified by age, in another part of this work. The 
time required for an ordinary dose of triturated medicine to pass 
into the circulation is from one to two hours; consequently, if the 
first dose is not sufficient to accomplish the object for which it was 
given, it may be repeated every one or two hours until the desired 
effect is produced. Pure soft water is the best material in which to 
mix the medicine for administration; all jams and jellies should be 
carefully avoided, as they frequently entirely neutralize the medi- 
cinal properties of the article. If the medicine is a tincture, as 
aconite or veratrum, it may be largely diluted in soft water, as one 
half dram ofthe tincture may be added to one half tumbler of water, 
and one tablespoonful given every fifteen or twenty minutes until 
the requisite quantity has been taken. All the tinctures may be 
taken in this way. In acute diseases, but one kind should be given 
at once, unless there is a marked indication for some other remedy 
which is compatible with the one being taken ; or, unless the medi- 
cines possess the same properties, and one be mixed with the other 
to modify its action; as quinine and cornin, both being antiperiodics, 
when combined, one facilitates the action of the other; so with many 
other remedies. But, in domestic practice, unless the prescriptions 
are followed as laid down in connection with each separate disease, 
the remedies had better be used one at a time. The best method of 
using crude articles of medicine is in the form of an infusion or 
syrup. 
To make an infusion of any article of medicine. Take one pint 
of warm or cold water, for one ounce of the remedy, much care 
being taken to prevent boiling or overheating, as this frequently 
destroys the virtue of the remedy. 
Syrup. 
In chronic diseases, syrup is often the best form of administering 
medicine, as much benefit is derived from the sugar it contains; 
frequently the sugar is more beneficial than the medicine. 
Sugar serves the purpose of combustion in the lungs and extreme 
capillaries, thereby increasing the animal temperature, promoting 
secretion, excretion, &c. It is stated, upon good authority, that 
the negroes on the sugar plantations become very fat and free from 
disease during sugar boiling. And, as I have already stated, in the 
treatment of Consumption, sugar is of great value. The best method 
of preparing syrup for domestic practice is to add one pound to one 
pint of strong infusion. 
37* 438 
APPENDIX 
Tinctures. 
The method of preparing tinctures for domestic practice is to 
add two ounces of the green vegetable to one pint of good pure 
whiskey, and let it stand fourteen days, when it should be strained 
and bottled for use. 
The most uncertain method of using medicines is in the form of 
pills, as they frequently become dry and hard, requiring a long time 
to digest; they also frequently lose their strength by standing. Yet 
it is sometimes advisable to use some of the extracts in the form of 
a pill. They may be made by rolling in pure starch or pulverized 
liquorice, and only as fast as used. 
Pills. 
Purgatives. 
Purgative medicines are those which increase the alvine evacua- 
tions, or increase the peristaltic action of the bowels. This class of 
medicines, although of great service in many diseases, is also capa- 
ble of producing very bad effects. 
The constant use of purgative medicines has a tendency to irritate 
and derange the action of the bowels. They are mostly useful in 
case of obstinate constipation; in most brain affections; in inflam- 
mation of the peritoneum; and in some other diseases; but in 
typhoid fever, inflammation of the stomach and bowels, and in all 
cases of great debility they are utterly inadmissible. Among the 
best purgatives, are Euonymine, Podophyllin, Iridin, Neutralizing 
Cordial, and Anti-bilious Physic. 
Emetics. 
Emetics are those remedies which evacuate the stomach. They 
are serviceable in the commencement of many fevers, also in some 
chronic diseases, and always when the stomach is loaded with some 
foreign substance. The best medicines for emetics are Lobelia, 
Blood-root, and Ipecac. 
Before administering an emetic, the patient should drink a mode- 
rate quantity of some warm tea, as chamomile, catnip, ginger, or 
Thomson's composition. If lobelia is given, from one half to one 
teaspoonful of the tincture may be taken every five or ten minutes, 
until it operates as desired. The tincture of blood-root and ipecac 
may be used in larger quantities, say in teaspoonful doses. The 
pulverized seed of lobelia may be given, by adding one half tea- APPENDIX. 
439 
spoonful to one teacupful of warm water, and, after steeping ten or 
fifteen minutes, one tablespoonful may be taken every ten minutes 
until the desired effect is produced. Thirty grains of pulverized 
ipecac, and sixty grains of pulverized blood-root may be used in 
the same way. 
Diuretics. 
Diuretics increase the secretion and flow of urine. These remedies 
are often of great value in the treatment of disease. They operate 
with the greatest efficiency when largely diluted with warm water? 
and the surface is kept cool. Among the best diuretics are Marsh- 
mallow, Clivers, Indian Hemp, Queen of the Meadow, and Dwarf 
Elder. 
Diaphoretics. 
These are medicines which lessen the heat, by increasing the 
moisture of the surface of the body. They are serviceable in all 
cases of fevers. Aconite and Veratrum are among the best diapho- 
retics. 
Expectorants. 
Expectorants increase the discharge from the mucous membrane 
of the bronchi and lungs. They are valuable in some cases of acute 
and chronic affection of these organs. But in all cases of true 
phthisis they are very injurious. Among the best expectorants are 
Lobelin, Sanguinarin, and Eupatorin. 
Sinapisms, or Mustard Poultices. 
These are prepared by adding one tablespoonful of mustard to three 
of flour, mixing with equal parts of vinegar and water. They are 
beneficially used to attract the blood from the deep-seated to the 
superficial capillaries. They are also applied to the spine and nape 
of the neck in inflammation of the brain. 
Cataplasms, or Poultices, 
May be made by moistening bread-crumbs with milk. They may 
also be made of flaxseed. Roasted onions, snake-root, &c., may be 
used for poultices. They are useful in nearly all cases of local 
inflammations. 
Clysters, or Injections. 
When these are used merely to act upon the bowels, warm water 
or flaxseed water may be used. Any medicine may be thus admin- 
istered when the stomach will not tolerate them. 440 
APPENDIX. 
Fomentations. 
Cloths wrung out of hot water, or an infusion of any medicinal 
substance, are applied for local congestion or inflammation. In 
these applications, the adjacent clothing should be protected from 
moisture by oil-silk. 
These are made by compounding medicines with gums, resins, &c. 
Plasters. 
This is made by using boiled tar, one pound; Burgundy pitch, 
one-half ounce; White gum turpentine, one ounce; Rosin, two 
ounces. Melt the tar, rosin, and gum, together, remove from the 
fire, and add finely pulverized mandrake root, bloodroot, pokeroot, 
indian turnip, each one ounce. This plaster is used extensively in 
all cases where counter-irritation and revulsives are indicated; as 
in rheumatism, neuralgia, and chronic affections of the liver and lungs. 
By Eclectic physicians, this is used in many cases where blisters are 
used by the "old school," and experience has shown it to be far 
superior. 
The Irritating Plaster. 
Take of Rosin, one pound; Beeswax, one ounce; Burgundy 
Pitch, one ounce; Mutton Tallow, one ounce. Melt them together, 
and add, Olive Oil, Pulverized Camphor, and Sassafras Oil, of each 
one-sixth of an ounce; West India Rum, one fluid ounce. Stir well 
together, pour into cold water, and form it into rolls with the hands. 
This is an excellent plaster in weakness of the joints, rheumatism, 
weak back, weak chest, ulcers, &c. 
Adhesive or Strengthening Plaster. 
An ointment for the cure of burns may be made as follows: take 
fresh butter, one-half pound; Yellow Dock root, cut in small pieces, 
one ounce; fresh Raspberry leaves, one-half ounce; White Wax, 
one ounce. Melt the butter and wax together, add the Raspberry 
leaves and Dock root, simmer fifteen or twenty minutes, and strain 
while warm. This is an excellent ointment for burns and scalds. 
Ointments. 
Domestic Treatment for Diseases of Common Occurrence. 
For Burns and Scalds, wrap the part immediately in cloths, wet 
in cold water; change as often as necessary to keep them cool; apply 
until the pain entirely ceases. After which, spread the ointment, APPENDIX. 
441 
for burns and scalds, upon a piece of cloth, and apply to the abraded 
surface. Change and wash as often as indicated. If the patient is 
drowsy or sleepy after the burn, a stimulating cordial should be 
given; as a little whiskey-sling, or tincture of capsicum. 
Convulsions in Children. 
The feet should be placed immediately in warm water, a weak 
mustard poultice applied to the stomach, friction to the spine, a 
cold cloth to the head, and give from five to ten drops of the tinc- 
ture of lobelia, until relieved. If the child is unable to swallow, 
the lobelia should be mixed with starch-water, and given as an in- 
jection. Unless relief is immediately effected, place the child in a 
warm bath. As soon as the convulsion is relieved, the cause should 
be ascertained and removed; as otherwise, it might assume an 
epileptic character. 
For Children troubled with Worms. 
Take ten grains of Santonine, and one hundred grains of sugar, 
triturate well together. For a child five years old, one tenth of it 
is a dose every other night on going to bed. If the worms are not 
expelled, continue this until the whole is taken. If the child has 
fever, one or two drops of the Tincture of Aconite may be given 
two or three times a day. If the worms are not expelled when the 
medicine is all given, a mild purge may be administered. This 
seldom fails to remove worms from the alimentary canal in any 
case. 
For Piles in Children or Adults. 
A few drops of the oil of fire-weed, made into an ointment, with 
fresh butter, and applied externally. Take also, one or two drops 
of the oil internally, once or twice a day. This will effect a cure. 
Take two grains of the extract of Belladonna; one grain of the 
extract of Cicuta; one-half ounce of Chloroform. Dissolve the 
extracts in the chloroform, wet a little lint, and apply to the tooth. 
This affords instant relief. 
Tooth-ache. 
The most valuable remedy for this, is the neutralizing cordial, 
which no family should be without. It is made as follows: One 
half pound of rhubarb; of cinnamon and cloves, each one-fourth 
of a pound; peppermint and saleratus, each one-half pound. Add 
For Diarrhoea. APPENDIX. 
442 
to one gallon of water. Steep for one-half hour. Strain, add two 
pounds of white sugar. Simmer fifteen minutes; when cool, add 
one pint of brandy, and bottle for use. Dose for children, one tea- 
spoonful ; for adults, one tablespoonful. 
Chilblains. 
The best method for curing chilblains, is to bathe them in warm 
turpentine, once or twice a day, wearing cotton next the feet. 
Warts. 
For their removal, rub every day with the juice of garden parsley. 
Bathe with the tincture of pennyroyal. This gives immediate 
relief. 
For Bites of Insects. 
Chronic Dyspepsia. 
Drink freely of cold water, with a little salt in it, every morning 
on rising. This, and the avoidance of strong medicine, will gene- 
rally give relief. 
Syrup of Bloodroot, as directed in another part of this work, is 
a sure remedy. 
Croup. 
Flatulency, or Wind-Colic in Children. 
Give one or two drops of equal parts of Gelseminum and pepper- 
mint essence, which will afford immediate relief. 
Sore Nipples. 
Bathe in strong infusion of bayberry bark, two or three times a 
day; and wash well with soap and water after nursing. 
The best drink is pure cold water, which should be allowed under 
all ordinary circumstances, in liberal quantities. 
Frequently, but little food is demanded in acute diseases. When 
it is given, it should be in tire form of broths, gruel, &c. Beef-tea, 
prepared as under the head of typhoid fever, is an excellent article, 
and may be given in all cases of fever where food is required. 
Bread, water, rice-water, rice, coffee, &c., may also be given. 
Those who have charge of the sick, should carefully avoid urging 
them to take food against their inclination, as much mischief maj 
be done, by crowding the stomach with food which it is not able to 
digest. 
Food and Drink for the Sick. APPENDIX. 
443 
The apartment of the sick should be thoroughly ventilated, by 
allowing a free circulation of fresh air to pass through the room, in 
such a manner as not to come directly in contact with the head of 
the patient. All the excretions from the bowels and bladder should 
be removed immediately, and the room purified, by a free ingress 
of fresh air, instead of still further vitiating it by fumes of vinegar, 
sugar, &c. 
Ventilation. 
Bathing the Sick. 
In all cases of acute disease, the surface should be thoroughly 
bathed, as often as once or twice a day. The sick room should be 
always kept quiet, and the linen of the bed and person changed 
every twenty-four hours. 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
Blood, Stomach and Liver Tonic. 
This article is composed of pepsin, eupatorium pur- 
pureum, Scutellaria latifolia, anthemis nobilis, guaiacum 
ligni, ferri sub-carb., and the best pure California grape 
wine. 
For diseases of the blood, stomach, liver, and the whole 
digestive apparatus, there is nothing that can surpass this 
compound. It has proved for years one of the most power- 
ful tonics for weak constitutions, spring diseases, and for 
all sexes and ages, of anything I ever tried in my long and 
successful practice. When used in connection with the 
catarrh vapor it exerts a most wonderful power to cure con- 
sumption in all its stages, as well as dyspepsia, nervous 
debility, and every other disease in which great tone and 
vigor is required. It makes the blood rich, and all who 
take it testify that it is the most powerful stomach tonic 
they ever took. 
Dose: a table-spoonful, three or four times a day. 444 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
These are composed of the active principles of the cin- 
chona officinalis, iron, senna, jalap, ginger, acidum hydro- 
cyanicum dilutum, and euonymin. The above pills are 
for the cure of fever and ague, or intermittent and remit- 
tent fever, and other periodical diseases. 
My very long experience in treating this class of dis- 
eases in all portions of this country, and especially in the 
South and West, has enabled me to make a compound 
adapted to all kinds of malarial diseases. In chills and 
fever they are a sure cure without leaving any bad effects. 
In chronic liver, stomach and kidney diseases in malarial 
districts, they are the best known remedy. In neuralgia 
they are equally beneficial. I have used this compound 
for more than thirty years in all forms of disease dependent 
upon the protean symptoms of malarial poison, and the 
astonishing result of my practice is as wide as the civilized 
world. All who feel dull and languid, with bad taste in 
the mouth, with chilly sensations at times, are immediately 
cured by these pills. All who have rheumatism, soreness, 
and fugitive pains, or sallow and dingy complexion, should 
use them. They not only remove poison dependent upon 
malaria, but remove the disordered conditions caused by 
it. To remove periodical diseases, one pill should be taken 
every hour until twenty-five are taken. To effect a per- 
manent cure, they should be repeated every seven days 
for three or four weeks. For neuralgia, rheumatism 
dyspepsia and liver disease, one, four times a day, before 
each meal, and on retiring. We confidently assert that 
they cover a wider range of indications, and cure a larger 
number of diseases than any other compound. In the 
treatment of consumption, catarrh, scrofula, dysentery, 
diphtheria, croup, etc., a few rounds of these pills never 
fail to prove a valuable adjunct. They will produce a 
laxative influence upon the bowels without purging. 
Anti-periodic Pills. NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
445 
Catarrh Vapor. 
This preparation is the result of great labor and many 
experiments in compounding medicine. It is composed 
of calcium, iodine, bromine, chlorine, aluminum, alcohol, 
ether, creasote, phenic acid, etc., and possesses the power 
to destroy and neutralize all animal and malarial fetors or 
bad smells arising from decomposition, old sores, and 
putrid matter. It kills all noxious vapors in the sick 
room, and is a sure protection against small-pox, diphthe- 
ria, cholera, dysentery, yellow fever, and other contagious 
diseases. When inhaled as per directions on the bottle it 
is by far the most positive cure for catarrh, bronchitis, 
consumption, scrofula, and nervous diseases ever discovered. 
Such are the wonderful results of this vapor that, although 
it is no patent or secret medicine, it requires a wide-spread 
circulation. It is not poisonous, nor will it do harm in 
any case; and for the cure of catarrh, bronchitis, and 
consumption, when used in connection with the Blood, 
Stomach, and Liver Tonic, and Liver Renovating Pills, pro- 
duces most magical and astounding results. The vapor 
immediately enters the blood, and may be detected in the 
secretions in less than five minutes after it is inhaled. It 
purifies the blood, gives great tone to the stomach, and 
strengthens the nerves; it produces refreshing sleep, re- 
lieves all aches, pains, and soreness, and thousands of peo- 
ple who have used it are unbounded in their admiration 
of its great power to cure diseases that no other remedy 
can relieve. 
To disinfect sick rooms, and destroy poisonous vapors, 
a tablespoonful may be poured upon a sponge and be 
placed upon a table or in any part of a room. To purify 
sinks, water-closets, etc., three or four ounces may be 
mixed with a quart of water and be poured into the place 
desired to be purified. To cure bronchitis, consumption, 
38 446 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
scrofula, catarrh, measles, whooping-cough, croup, and 
other diseases caused by the existence of microscopic para- 
sites and spores in the system, a tablespoonful should be 
poured upon a napkin or sponge, and be inhaled. It may 
be repeated four or five times a day. One teaspoonful 
will not evaporate entirely in less than half an hour. A 
very convenient way is to keep a handkerchief constantly 
moistened with it and to wear it about the neck. In this 
manner it is constantly introduced into the blood, and al- 
though possessing but little odor, its power to cure disease 
is most magical. A case of cancer of the uterus has been 
cured by a lady adding a half a teaspoonful to four ounces 
of water, and using as a female injection three times a 
day. A lady who had syphilitic catarrh so bad that the 
bones of the nose were entirely destroyed, reports herself 
cured by taking the antiperiodic pills, one four times a 
day, and wearing a handkerchief saturated with it around 
her neck, for four or five weeks. Every day we are re- 
ceiving astonishing accounts of the curative power of this 
compound. 
Leucorrlwea Pills. 
These are composed of hamamelin, lycopodium, muriate 
of ammonia, nymphae odorata, etc. 
For more than a quarter of a century I have devoted 
much of my leisure time to discover some remedy that 
would prevent and cure this national calamity to Ameri- 
can women. It makes the young woman lose all her 
freshness, and the middle-aged a class of wretched, nerv- 
ous, irritable dyspeptics, terminating in consumption and 
premature death. To cure these female maladies, I have 
at last discovered the potent compound. It is not taken 
into the stomach, but is applied directly to the diseased 
parts, and will produce a speedy cure of leucorrhoea, 
prolapsus uteri, monthly irregularity, bearing down pains 
in the back, hips, and bowels, etc., giving great tone and 
vigor to the parts. NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
447 
Take the fluid extract of leptandrin vir., four ounces; 
euonymus atrop., and senna, of each two ounces; iris 
versicolor, and jalap, one ounce each ; tincture cardamom, 
cubebs, and caraway, of each half a dram; simple syrup, 
half a gallon; ess. peppermint, half a dram. Mix. Dose, 
a teaspoonful every half hour, or hour, until it purges. 
This is a valuable compound in all bilious, dyspeptic, 
and gastric diseases, when the bowels are constipated, and 
may be used w'ith all other forms of treatment. 
Catharthic Syrup. 
Take twelve eggs; phosphate of lime, one ounce; chloride 
of sodium, one half ounce; iron per hydrogen, one dram • 
best French brandy, one pint; sugar, one pound. Mix. 
Shake well. Dose, a tablespoonful three or four times a 
day. 
This is a most valuable remedy for consumption and 
scrofulous cases, and has been known to cure alone some 
very bad cases of consumption. 
Brandy and Egg Mixture 
Acetic Syrup of Sanguinaria, or Bloodroot. 
Take rad. sanguin., pulv., one dram ; acid, aceti, dil., 
(cider vinegar,) eight ounces; aquae font., eight ounces. 
Mix the above, and let them steep for twelve or twenty- 
four hours ; or two hours will answer, if the mixture be 
kept at a high temperature; then strain or filter, and add 
two pounds of white sugar. Simmer a short time to form 
a syrup, and remove the scum, if any arise. This is the 
specific remedy for pseudo-membranous croup, in doses of 
one-half or one teaspoonful, every half hour, till relieved. 
It is also valuable in infantile pneumonia and bronchitis. 
Cough Syrup. 
Take syr. gum acacise, one pint; tr. pruni Virgin., two 448 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
ounces; tr. opii, one dram ; acet. syr. sanguin., six ounces; 
Mix. Dose, one teaspoonful every two or three hours for 
an adult. 
Neutralizing Cordial, or Compound Syrup of Rhubarb and 
Potassa. 
Take rad. rhei, (contused,) one pound; alcoholis, one 
gallon. Macerate for two days; then filter, and add to 
the drug (rhei) one and a half gallons of water, and 
evaporate down to one gallon ; then strain, and express by 
pressure. To this watery extract, add-of potass, bicarb., 
one pound; sacchari alb., six pounds. Heat until the 
potassa and sugar are dissolved. When cool, add six 
ounces of officinal essence of peppermint, and the alcoholic 
tincture of rhubarb, as above made. Dose, one table- 
spoonful as indicated, for acid stomach, nausea or vomit- 
ing, diarrhoea, etc., etc. This cordial is of very extensive 
application, and very valuable. 
Dysentery Syrup. 
Take rad. rhei, pulv., leptandrin, sod. bicarb., of each 
two drams; sacchar. alb., white sugar, one pound ; aquje 
bullientis, one pint. Triturate well together. Add, ess. 
menth. piperitee, ess. gaultheriae, ess. anisi, of each two 
drams; tr. catechu, four drams. Mix. Dose, one tea- 
spoonful every half hour, or as indicated. , 
Compound Leontodin Granules. 
Take podophyllin, one dram; leontodin, one dram; 
jalapin, two drams ; capsicum, thirty grains; hyosciamin, 
ten grains. Mix. Make four hundred and eighty granules. 
Dose, from two to four as a purge. 
Sudorific and Anodyne Tincture. 
Take ipecacuanha, one ounce; rad. serpentaria, one 
ounce; saffron, half an ounce; gum camphorae, four drams; NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
449 
gin, diluted alcohol, or spirits, one quart. Digest fourteen 
days, and filter. Dose, fifteen to thirty drops in warm 
catnip or balm tea, as a diaphoretic and hypnotic. In 
severe pain, a teaspoonful may be given. 
Valuable Emetic Powder.-No. 1. 
Take lobelia, pulv., two drams; sanguinaria, do., one 
dram; ictodes feet., do., one dram; ipecacuanha, two drams ; 
capsicum, half an ounce. Mix, and give a teaspoonful in 
warm herb tea. Boneset or eupatorium is the best. 
Emetic Powder.-No. 2. 
Take pulv. lobelia fol., do. lobelia sem., do., eupatorium 
perfol., equal parts. Mix, and give a teaspoonful in 
warm water, and repeat every twenty minutes, if required. 
Emetic Drops. 
Take fluid ext. lobelia, one ounce : fluid ext. ipecac, and 
sanguinaria, of each, half an ounce. Mix. Dose, a tea- 
spoonful every ten minutes, in catnip, ginger, or composi- 
tion tea. 
Antibilious Physic. 
Take senna pulv., one pound; jalap pulv., half a 
pound; ginger pulv., one ounce. Mix. This forms one 
of the most valuable purgatives in use. It is mild, yet 
efficient, and is well adapted to evacuate the stomach and 
bowels whenever there is such an indication. Dose, for 
an adult, from half a dram to one dram, or a heaping 
teaspoonful, in hot water, every three hours until it oper- 
ates. 
Tonic Syrup. 
Take fluid ext. helonias dioica, two ounces; fluid ext. 
euonymus atrop., one ounce; bromide of potassium, two 
ounces; pyrophosphate of iron, four ounces ; simple syrup, 
one gallon ; alcohol, one pint. Mix. Dose, a teaspoonful 
five or six times a day. 
38* 450 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
This is a valuable tonic in all cases of a debilitated state 
of the system, especially those of scrofulous or kidney 
affections. 
Uterine Syrup. 
Take fluid ext. hamamelis vir., two ounces; fluid ext. 
helonias dioica, and euonymus atrop., of each, one ounce; 
pyrophosphate of iron, two drams ; simple syrup, one half 
gallon. Mix. Dose, a teaspoonful three or four times a 
day. 
For Sore Lips. 
Melt a lump of sugar in one and a half tablespoonfuls 
of water; mix it with two tablespoonfuls of sweet oil; a 
piece of spermaceti half as large as an English walnut; 
simmer the whole, and turn into boxes. Use three or 
four times a day. 
For Spasms. 
A teaspoonful of lobelia seeds in a gill of good spirits 
or cider vinegar. Tincture ten days. Dose, thirty drops 
every three hours for children. 
Cholera Mixture. 
Take tincture of prickly ash berries, eight ounces ; gum 
guaiacum, eight ounces; neutralizing cordial, one pint; 
paregoric elixir, one ounce. Mix. Dose, a teaspoonful 
every ten or fifteen minutes. As a preventive, a tea- 
spoonful three or four times a day. 
Take alcohol, one gallon; pulverized gum myrrh, one 
pound; capsicum, one ounce. Let all stand for a week, 
shaking twice daily, and then filter. Dose, one teaspoon- 
ful in hot sweetened water. Useful to remove pain, pre- 
vent mortification, stimulate old sores, &c- 
Hot Drops, or "No. 6." 
Paine's Pile Electuary. 
Take cream of tartar, electuary of senna, flower of sul- NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
451 
phur, one ounce each; leptandrin, one dram; euonymin, 
two drams; simple syrup, one pint. Dose, tablespoonful 
morning and evening. It is almost a specific for all forms 
of prolapsus ani and piles. 
Take compound tincture of myrrh, or " No. 6," one 
pint; oil of origanum, two ounces; oil hemlock, three 
ounces ; oil turpentine, four ounces; cayenne pepper, one 
ounce. Mix, and shake well. Use in cases of rheumatism, 
stiff joints, sore throat, lungs, &c. A blister will form if 
a mullen leaf be applied to the surface where this liniment 
has been applied. 
Stimulating Liniment. 
Compound Syrup of Stillingia. 
Take stillingia root, root of Turkey corn, each two 
pounds; blue flag root, elder flowers, and pipsissewa leaves, 
each one pound. Grind and mix together, then macerate 
in one gallon seventy-six per cent, alcohol for three days. 
Then put into a displacement apparatus, add gradually of 
hot water till four pints are obtained, which set aside. 
Continue to displace, by adding water, till the solution is 
almost tasteless, and till the whole will make twenty-four 
pints. Then add thirty-two pounds of refined sugar, dis- 
solve by heat, remove the scum, and finally strain. 
Spirits of Mindererus. 
Take vinegar, one pint; carbonate of potassa, q. s. to 
neutralize the acidity of the vinegar. Dose, a tablespoon- 
ful every three or four hours, in fevers. 
Compound Spirits of Lavender. 
Take lavender flowers, nutmeg, mace, cloves, cinnamon, 
of each two drams; pulverize, and add a quart of spirits. 
Digest for one week, and filter. A very pleasant aromatic 
stomachic, in doses of one or two teaspoonfuls. 452 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
Take chamomile, skull cap, and queen of the meadow, 
equal parts. Mix. Preparation.-Add half a pint of 
boiling water to a teaspoonful of the mixture, and drink 
freely, when cold. 
Tonic Tea. 
Compound Syrup of Helianthus. 
Take helianthus seed, five pounds; water q. s. to macer- 
ate. After five days transfer to a displacer, the mass boil- 
ing hot, and to this liquor strained, add three gallons best 
gin, and twenty-four pounds loaf sugar. Then take marsh 
mallow, two pounds; pulv. hydrastis Canadensis, two ounces; 
peach kernels, eight ounces; water one gallon. Boil and 
strain, and add the gin and sugar. Then boil all together. 
Balsam of Honey. 
Take balsam of tolu, two ounces; balsam of fir, two 
ounces ; opium, two ounces. Dissolve all in one quart of 
alcohol. Used in teaspoonful doses, for pulmonary affec- 
tions. 
Spiced Bitters. 
Take poplar bark, ten pounds; bayberry bark, balmony 
bark, two pounds each; golden seal and cloves, one pound 
each ; Cayenne pepper, half a pound ; loaf sugar (fine), 
sixteen pounds. Pulverize, and thoroughly mix. Dose, 
one teaspoonful, with one of sugar, in a cup of hot water. 
An excellent tonic. 
Antispasmodic Drops. 
Take saturated tincture capsicum, do. do. lobelia, do. 
do. skunk cabbage root, equal parts. Useful in cramps, 
spasms, convulsions, &c., in half to one teaspoonful doses, 
repeated as occasion may require. 
Bronchitis Drops. 
Take fl. ext. rumex crisp., do. rhus glabra, do. hyoscya- NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
453 
mus, do. uvularia perfol., do. cypripedium, equal parts. 
Mix well. Dose, five to ten drops, repeated as indicated. 
Diuretic Drops. 
Take sweet spts. nitre, two ounces; balsam copaiva, one 
ounce; tinct. kino, half an ounce: spts. turpentine, half an 
ounce. Mix well, and add one scruple gum camphor. 
Dose, one teaspoonful, in mucilage of gum Arabic, three 
times a day, in scalding of urine, gonorrhoea, &c. 
Black Plaster, or Healing Salve. 
Take olive oil, three quarts ; common resin, two ounces; 
bees-wax, three ounces. Melt together, and raise the heat 
to the boiling point; then add, gradually, of fine red lead, 
two and a quarter to two and a half pounds. When the 
lead is taken up, and the mixture becomes brown, remove 
from the fire, and when nearly cold, add half an ounce of 
pulverized camphor. 
Irritating Plaster. 
Take Burgundy pitch, half an ounce ; white gum tur- 
pentine, one ounce; rosin, two ounces. Melt these to- 
gether, remove from the fire, and add; pulverized poke- 
root, bloodroot, mandrake, and Indian turnip, one ounce 
each. This plaster is used in the place of blisters in 
chronic affections, and is far superior. 
Composition Powders. 
Take bayberry, ginger, poplar bark, and hemlock bark, 
all powdered, one pound each; cayenne pepper, three 
ounces; cloves, two ounces. Pulverize, and mix well. 
Dose, for colds and sore throat, a teaspoonful in hot water 
and milk sweetened. 
Tapioca and Cod Liver. 
Boil a quarter of a pound of tapioca, till tender, in two 454 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
quarts of water ; drain it in a colander, then put it in the 
pan; season with a little salt and pepper, add half a pint 
of milk, and put over one pound of fresh cod liver, cut 
into eight pieces. Set the pan near the fire to simmer 
slowly for half an hour or a little more, till the liver is 
quite cooked. Press on it with a spoon, so as to get as 
much of the oil into the tapioca as possible. After taking 
away the liver, mix the tapioca. If too thick add a little 
milk. 
Iceland Moss and Quinine Jelly. 
Take of Iceland moss and Irish moss, of each, one 
ounce. Boil slowly, for three-quarters of an hour, in a 
pint and a half of milk, strain through muslin, and add 
three ounces of white sugar dissolved in one ounce of the 
compound tincture of quinine, (equal to eight grains of 
the salt.) 
Eggs, Cream and Extract of Beef. 
Mash two ounces of the best pearl sago, until the water 
poured from it is clear. Then stew the sago in half a 
pint of water until it is quite tender, and very thick. 
Mix with it half a pint of good boiling cream, and the 
yolks of four fresh eggs, and mingle the whole carefully 
with one quart of good beef tea, which should be boiling. 
This nourishing broth is very useful in many cases of 
lingering convalescence after acute disease. 
Tar Ointment. 
This ointment is much extolled for removing tettery 
eruptions, and for the cure of scald head. It is prepared 
by melting equal parts of tar and mutton suet, and then 
straining through coarse linen. 
Poultice to allay Inflammation. 
Take of hop yeast and good porter, thicken with wheat 
bran to the consistency of a poultice, and apply to the in- 
flamed surfaces. NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
455 
Pinus Canadensis, or Hemlock. 
S. H. Kennedy, of New York, has prepared a concen- 
trated extract from the fresh bark, that possesses many 
valuable therapeutical properties. In addition to the 
ordinary medical virtues of tannin, it possesses alterative 
and antiseptic properties of considerable value. In nasal 
catarrh, I have found it highly serviceable in combination 
with equal parts of glycerine, when inhaled through a 
steam atomizer. It is also of value in doses of from ten to 
twenty drops in diarrhoea, dysentery, and other diseases of 
the mucous membrane, in which an adynamic form of in- 
flammation exists. In leucorrhoea, one dram dissolved in 
four ounces of water, and injected into the vagina three or 
four times a day, has proved very serviceable. In mucous 
dyspepsia, twenty or thirty drops taken four or five times 
a day is also valuable. It has also been successfully em- 
ployed in gonorrhoea and gleet. 
Solution of Iodo-Bromide of Calcium Compound. 
This compound contains bromine, iodine, chlorine, cal- 
cium, magnesium, sodium and potassium, prepared by Til- 
den & Co., and is principally recommended as an external 
remedy for the itch and syphilitic ulcers. It is highly 
serviceable in many forms of skin affections by adding ten 
drops to one ounce of glycerine. I have also used it with 
marked success internally in scrofula, phthisis, dyspepsia, 
cancer, and other diseases, where an alterative, disinfect- 
ant and tonic are required. One dram of the compound 
may be added to a pint of simple syrup, and one tea- 
spoonful taken five or six times a day. It is also valuable 
in catarrh and consumption. A gentleman in the last 
stage of consumption, with vomicse in each lung, hectic 
fever, night sweats and diarrhoea, has been so far restored 
by the frequent inhalation of this remedy that all his un- 
pleasant symptoms have disappeared, and he is enjoying a 456 
NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
passable state of health. The cavities rapidly contracted, 
expectoration diminished, appetite improved, and in three 
months' time he gained twenty-seven pounds in weight. 
Many other remarkable cures, in which this agent was the 
principal one used, have recently come under my notice. 
In cases of bronchitis I have not found it beneficial; but 
always in tuberculous consumption it has proved of great 
value. In a case of Bright's Disease, I gave three drops 
in a tumbler of water four times a day for six weeks, at 
the expiration of which the albumen in the urine had en- 
tirely disappeared, as well as other symptoms of the disease. 
I have never known any injurious effect from its use. 
Tilden has prepared an elixir of the iodo-bromide of 
calcium compound that can be used in all cases as a sub- 
stitute ; but in my practice I have not found it as beneficial 
as the solution, although in many cases it has proved 
highly serviceable. 
This is also prepared by Tilden & Co., and is without 
doubt the best disinfectant and antiseptic known, hence 
its use in all places and cases where a disinfectant is re- 
quired. In cholera, and contagious diseases generally, 
rooms, and water-closets may be completely disinfected by 
allowing small portions to evaporate in the room, or by 
sprinkling and saturating with it. It is also valuable as 
an internal remedy in many diseases, such as cancer, 
scrofula, gonorrhoea, syphilis, cholera, diphtheria, scarla- 
tina and other putrid and malignant affections. My 
method of using it is to add five or ten drops to a wine- 
glassful of lemonade and allowing the patient to drink it 
four or five times a day. 
Bromo Chlor alum. 
Lime-water and Milk. 
Take sweet lime-water, from one to four fluid drams; 
milk, one gill. Mix. This will sometimes be retained on NEW SCHOOL COMPOUNDS. 
457 
the stomach when all other food is ejected. As a variety, 
milk and soda water in equal proportions may also be 
ordered. It may be well to remember that the adddition 
of fifteen grains of the bicarbonate of soda to one quart 
of milk, not only prevents it from souring, but renders it 
more digestible. 
Mecca Oil Ointment. 
Take Mecca oil, one pint; white wax, one pound; ro- 
sin, one-half pound. Melt together by means of a sand 
bath, or very slow fire. This is one of the most healing 
ointments that can be used for cuts, bruises, burns and 
ulcers. 
Asparagus. 
An active principle from the root of the asparagus has 
been prepared by a chemist of this city, called asparagin. 
In one grain doses it acts as a diuretic, and is said to be 
valuable in diseases of the kidneys, bladder and urethra. 
Common Water Cress. 
When used freely with salt and vinegar,' is an antidote 
to the influence of tobacco. A strong decoction will de- 
stroy the poisonous effects of narcotine. 
Wheat. 
To boil wheat, steep in hot water for twenty-four hours, 
and then boil for three hours. Eat with molasses, sugar, 
pepper and salt. It will cure constipation, dyspepsia, dis- 
eases of the liver, and nervous debility, when used as an 
exclusive diet. 
39 PART III. 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY AND 
SURGERY. 
Fig- 1- 
Fig. I. represents the framework of the human system, 
458 ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
459 
consisting of the bones which support the muscles and tis- 
sues of the human organism. A. represents the head, the 
bones of which are eight in number. T. represents the 
teeth which are, in adults, thirty-two in number, and are 
divided into, four incisors, two canine, and six molars in 
each jaw. N. represents the inferior maxillary or lower jaw 
bone. C. the clavicle or collar bone. B. the articulation 
of the humerus in the glenoid cavity of the scapula. D. 
the humerus, the largest bone of the arm, which is divisi- 
ble into a shaft and two extremities. S. the thoracic cavity 
and ribs, which are twelve in number on each side. This 
cavity contains the heart, lungs, etc., etc. E. the bones of 
the fore-arm, the radius and ulna, the ulna being on the 
outside and the largest. K. bones of the wrist or carpal 
bones, eight in number, viz., scaphoid, semilunare, cunei- 
forme, pisiforme, trapezium, trapezoid, magnum, and 
unciforme. O. Femur, the largest bone in the leg and 
also the largest in the human body. G. Patella or knee 
cap. H. Bones of the lower leg, two in number, tibia 
and fibula. T. Tarsal bones or bones of the ankle, seven 
in number, viz., astragalus, calcaneous, scaphoid, internal 
middle and external cuneiforme, and cuboid. I. False 
ribs. R. The pelvis. In the pelvic cavity are found 
the bladder, organs of generation, etc. etc. J. Sacrum and 
coccyx, the last two bones of the spinal column. The 
sacrum is composed of five false vertebrae, and is so named 
from being worshiped by the ancients, and was called the 
sacred bone. The coccyx, so called from its supposed 
resemblance to a cuckoo's beak, is composed of four false 
vertebrae consolidated. V. Vertebral column. This is 
the supporter of the trunk, and is composed of twenty-six 
bones, including the sacrum and coccyx. These are divi- 
ded into seven cervical, twelve dorsal, and five lumber 
vertebrae. 
Fig. 2 represents the arterial circulation of the blood, 460 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 2. 
and it will be seen at once how varied are its ramifications. 
A. Arch of the aorta. B. Humeral artery. S. Abdomi- 
nal aorta, which enters the abdomen through the dia- 
phragm and distributes arterial blood to that region. I. 
Illiac artery. F. Femoral artery, which supplies blood 
to the upper part of the leg. T. Tibial artery, which de- 
scends along the tibia and supplies the lower leg with blood. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
461 
30* 
Fig. 3. 462 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 3 represents the vital and digestive organs of the 
human body. B. B. Lungs. These are the respiratory 
organs, and receive the air as it enters through the trachea. 
G. G. Diaphragm. This muscle, by its contraction and 
expansion, assists the stomach in the digestion of food. C. 
Liver. This is the organ which secretes the bile and 
separates impurities from the venous blood. It is the 
largest organ of the body. E. E. E. Transverse, ascend- 
ing, and descending colon. I. I. I. Jejunum. M. M. M. 
Illium. E. D. Subclavian arteries. G. A. Trachea. 
This is the great air passage to the lungs. E. E. E. E. 
Valves of the heart. D. Ventricle of the heart, of which 
there are two, right and left. F. Auricle of the heart 
of which there are also two, right and left. II. bronchia, 
correctly speaking, a branch of the trachea. F. Spleen. 
Q. a branch-of the portal vein. R. R. R. Ligamentous 
fibres of the ascending, transverse and descending colon. 
Fig. 4. 
Fig. 4 represents that portion of the framework of the ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
463 
body which has been denominated the pelvis. The pelvis 
is composed of four bones, viz.: two ossa innominata, 
sacrum, and coccyx. The ossa innominata are each com- 
posed of three bones: ilium, ischium, and pubis, which 
are, however, united during foetal life. 1. The last lum- 
bar vertebra in its articulation with the sacrum. 2. Sa- 
crum. This bone is at first composed of five rudimentary 
vertebrae, which, however, are consolidated. 3. Small end 
of coccyx. This is also formed of four rudimentary ver- 
tebrae. 4. Arch of the pubis. 5. 5. 5. Ossa innominata, 
or nameless bones. It will be noticed that there is one on 
each side. 6. 6. The crest of the ilia. These afford at- 
tachment to muscles. 7, 7. The acetabula. These are the 
articulating depressions for the reception of the head of 
the femur. 8. 8. The foramina ovale. 9. 9. Sacro-sciatic 
ligaments and their two fascicula. 10. 10. Sacro-iliac 
symphysis, or synchondrosis. This is the line of junction 
between the sacrum and ossa innominata. 11. Symphysis 
pubis, or the line of union between the pubic bones. 12. A 
line showing the inferior and superior straits of the pelvis. 
13. The iliac region, and Poupart's ligament. 14. The 
femoral region, showing the passage of the round ligament 
of the female, and the spermatic cord of the male. 
MUSCLES. 
The number of the muscles is about 400. They are the 
lean, fleshy parts of the body, and the organs of locomo- 
tion. They are generally described in groups, and their 
number and classes are as follows : 
Muscles of the head, 1; ear, 6; face, 15; lower jaw, 5; 
neck, 21; pharynx, 3 ; palate, 5 ; larynx, 6 ; thorax, 9 ; 
back, 21; upper extremities, 45; abdomen, 20; inferior 
extremities, 54 ; eye, 7. 
The blood circulates through the muscles by means of 
small hair-like, or capillary vessels. To maintain a healthy 464 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
circulation, these muscles must be kept in active operation 
not less than six hours in twenty-four, as by means of their 
contraction and relaxation the blood is driven from the 
arteries to the veins through the lungs and round of circu- 
lation, to be purified, and to nourish the body; hence lazy 
people are always sick. 
Fig. 5. Represents foetal circulation, the peculiarities 
of which consist in the existence of the ductus venosus, 
and foramen ovale, which afford a passage for the blood 
through the liver and umbilicus, directly from the heart, 
so as to enable it to be decarbonized and aerated without 
passing through the lungs. 
1. Placenta. 2. Umbilical vein. 3. Hepatic branches. 
4. Vena partorum. 5. Ductus venosus. 6. Vena cava. 
7. Small branches of the vena porta. 8. Vena cava supe- 
rior. 9. Heart. 10. Aorta. 11. Left subclavian artery. 
12. Ductus arteriosus. 13. Right internal jugular and 
subclavian veins. 14. Brachiocephalic trunk. 15. Left 
primitive carotid artery. 16. Abdominal vena cava. 17. 
Primitive iliac arteries. 18. Umbilical arteries. 19. Ex- 
ternal iliac arteries. 20. Brachiocephalic trunk. 21. 
Lobuld spigelii. 22. Right lung. 23. Left lung. 24. 
Kidney. 25. Liver. 26. Bladder. 27. Womb. 28. Up- 
per extremity of the rectum. 29. Renal arteries and veins. 
30. Spleen. 31. Splenic artery. 32. Kidney. 
Digestion is the process by which food is made fit to be 
added to the blood, for the production of heat and the for- 
mation and repair of the tissues of the body. The organs 
by which this process is carried on are the mouth, teeth, 
salivary glands, pharynx, oesophagus, stomach, intestines, 
lacteals, thoracic duct, liver and pancreas. The first 
change to which food is subjected takes place in the cavity 
of the mouth. The solid articles are here divided and 
DIGESTION. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
465 
FCETAL CIRCULATION. 
Fig. 5. 466 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
crushed by the teeth, and are, at the same time, mixed 
with the fluids of the mouth. The fluids with which the 
food is mixed are the secretions of the salivary glands (sa- 
liva) and the mucus secreted by the lining of the whole 
buccal cavity. The saliva serves several mechanical pur- 
poses ; such as keeping the mouth in a due condition of 
moisture, facilitating the movements of the tongue in speak- 
ing, masticating the food and dissolving sapid substances, 
rendering them capable of exciting the nerves of taste; 
but the principal one is mixing with the food and redu- 
cing it to a soft pulpy mass that can be easily swallowed. 
It also produces a catalytic influence, converting starchy 
elements into grape sugar. When the food is masticated 
it is transmitted to the stomach through the pharynx and 
oesophagus by the act of deglutition or swallowing. In 
the stomach, the food undergoes its principal and most 
important changes which are effected by the gastric juice 
acting upon it and dissolving it. The gastric juice is a 
fluid secreted by minute glands imbedded in the mucous 
membrane and composing nearly its whole structure. It 
contains salts of lime, soda, potash and magnesia, an acid 
and an organic matter called pepsine. In a healthy sto- 
mach from ten to fifteen pints of this fluid are secreted 
every twenty-four hours. The food being moved about by 
the contractile power of the stomach, is, every part of it, 
subjected to this fluid and converted into a substance 
called chyme, a thick, pultaceous substance, of a disagree- 
able acid odor and taste. Its color depends upon the na- 
ture of the food or upon the presence of yellow or green 
bile, which may pass into the stomach even in a healthy 
state of that organ. This chyme is discharged through 
the pylorus into the intestines, where it is subjected to the 
influence of the pancreatic juice, the bile and the secre- 
tions of the intestinal mucous membrane, which convert the 
non-nitrogenized or fatty element into an emulsion and ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
467 
complete the process of digestion of the starch elements so 
as to render them fit for absorption. The action of the 
juice of the pancreas is upon the starch, while that of the 
bile is upon the fat, a healthy condition of both of the 
organs giving oft* these secretions, being essential to a com- 
pletion of the digestive process. 
The intestines are divided into the large and small. 
(See Fig. 3.) The small intestines are divided into the 
duodenum, the jejunum and the ilium. The large intes- 
tines are divided into the csecum, the colon and the rec- 
tum. The pancreas is situated in the cavity formed by the 
duodenum into which organ it discharges the pancreatic 
fluid. Bile is formed in the hepatic cells of the liver from 
materials supplied to that organ from venous blood carried 
to it through the portal vein. From seventeen to twenty- 
four ounces of this fluid are discharged every twenty-four 
hours through the conjoint duct from the gall -bladder and 
the pancreas (ductus communis choledochus.) 
RESPIRATION. 
Respiration is performed conjointly by the lungs and 
the muscles sur- 
rounding them. 
The lungs are di- 
vided into two parts, 
situated one on each 
side of the chest, 
rising in a conical 
form towards either 
shoulder. The right 
lung is the larger, 
though the shorter 
one, and is divided 
into three lobes.' 
The left has but 
Fig. 6. 468 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
two lobes, and is smaller than the right on account of the 
inclination of the heart to that side. The lungs are com- 
posed of ramifications of the bronchial tubes, the pulmo- 
nary artery and veins, bronchial arteries and veins, lym- 
phatics and nerves, and the whole being held together by 
fibrous tissue. Fig. 6 represents the lungs cut open, show- 
ing the air-cells, tubes, bronchial vessels, and heart. 
In the act of breathing, inhalation, or drawing in of the 
air, is performed by the contraction of the muscles bounding 
or attached to the outside of the chest, while expiration, or 
expelling the air from the lungs, is performed mainly by 
the elastic contraction of the lungs and walls of the chest. 
The air, passing in at the mouth or nose, passes through 
the trachea, or windpipe, divides, part going into each 
bronchia, then rapidly dividing until the little cells, so 
numerous in every part of the lungs, are filled. Around 
these cells -the venous, or impure blood, passes, and is 
brought in contact with the oxygen of the air, by which it 
is changed into bright red, arterial blood for the support 
of the body. The expired air is not like that taken in, as 
any one can easily tell, by covering the head for a few 
moments and trying to breathe 
the air several times. Oxygen 
is absorbed during its passage 
through the lungs, and car- 
bonic acid gas is given off; the 
presence of this gas is the rea- 
son why air cannot be breathed 
repeatedly. Thus life is kept 
up and good health maintained, 
just in proportion as pure re- 
spiration is carried on. 
CIRCULATION. 
Fig. 7. 
The circulation is conducted ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
469 
by the heart (see fig. 7), commencing at the left ventricle. 
The blood is driven into the aorta, and from thence into all 
the small arteries of the body. From the arteries it passes 
through the small vessels, called capillaries, into the veins; 
from the veins, into the vena cava, or large vein; from the 
vena cava, into the right auricle ; from the right auricle, 
into the right ventricle ; from the right ventricle, into the 
pulmonary artery and its branches through the lungs; 
from the lungs, into the left auricle; from the left auricle, 
into the left ventricle, where we started. This completes 
the round of circulation in the adult. 
A subordinate kind of circulation is that termed the 
portal, which is carried on by the vena porta or portal 
vein. This vein and its branches arise from the stomach, 
pancreas, liver, spleen, mesenteries, and large and small in- 
testines, and convey the blood to the liver, emptying it 
into the small venous capillaries, from whence it is con- 
veyed into the vena cava, where it is mingled with the 
general circulating fluid. 
Fig. 8. 
Fig. 8 represents the method of applying a bandage to 
the lower extremities. It should be held firmly at the end 
on the foot until one or two turns have been made, then 
carry the turns up the limb. As the leg grows larger the 
40 470 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
turns become uneven, but may be kept straight by turning 
the bandage on itself, as seen in the upper part of the cut. 
Bandaging, or what is better the lace-stocking, is very use- 
ful in enlargement of the veins, dropsical swellings, and 
chronic ulcers of the limbs. 
Amputations.-There are two kinds of amputations- 
one called the circular operation, the other the flap. 
Fig. 9. 
Fig. 9 represents the circular operation. First fix the 
tourniquet on the main artery a little distance above the 
place of operation, sufficiently tight to arrest circulation. 
The surgeon should pass his hand and knife under the 
arm, as represented in the cut, severing the skin with one 
stroke of the knife. The skin and fascia should be loosened 
up the arm for two or three inches, when all the muscles 
should be separated to the bone, and the bone severed with 
a saw in a careful manner. The main artery should be 
tied, and the tourniquet removed, and all the small arteries 
also secured. After cleansing with cold water, the flap of 
skin should be carefully drawn down over the stump, and 
be securely fastened with adhesive strips. 471 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
In the flap operation, the knife should be thrust into 
the limb to the bone, as seen in fig. 10. After the flesh on 
both sides of the limb has been thus divided, the bone 
should be separated, and the flaps brought back as directed 
in the circular operation. 
The following cut represents the method for amputation 
at the wrist. 
Fig. 10. 
Fig. 11. 
Oval Amputation through the Calf.-An oval incision is 
made in the direction shown in the cut (fig. 12) through the 472 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 12. 
skin and fat; these are thoroughly drawn back. The in- 
cision is carried upwards, obliquely, through the gastroc- 
Fig. 13. 
Fig. 14. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
473 
nemius, to the bones, so as to make a posterior flap. (Fig. 
13.) This being well pulled up, the remaining soft parts 
around and between the bones are divided; lastly, the 
bones are sawn through. The integuments are brought 
together in a transverse line. 
Fig. 14, represents the operation for amputating the 
tarsus, so as to remove the navicular and cuboid bones, 
with all parts in front of them, and is generally denomi- 
nated Chopart's operation. 
Fig. 15, shows the 
method of bandaging 
in fractures of the 
lower jaw. 
A piece of paste- 
board or gutta percha, 
softened in boiling 
water, should be ac- 
curately fitted to the 
jaw, and then a four- 
tailed bandage applied. 
This is made by taking 
a yard and a half of 
wide roller, and tear- 
ing each end longitu- 
dinally, so as to leave about eight inches in the middle, 
which should have a short slit in it. The chin is to be 
put into this slit, and then two of the tails are to be tied 
over the crown of the head, so as to fix the lower jaw 
against the upper, and the other two are to be fastened 
behind the head. It is useful to place a thin wedge- 
shaped piece of cork between the molar teeth on each side, 
especially if any of the teeth at the fractured part are defi- 
cient, in order to insure more perfect adaptation, and to keep 
the incisor teeth a little apart. A still more convenient ban- 
dage is the fracture bandage manufactured by the author. 
40* 
Fig. 15. 474 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 16, gives a good 
idea of the arrangement 
necessary in fractures of 
the clavicle, or collar bone. 
The wedge under the arm, 
and the method of securing 
it are well delineated. 
Fractures of the neck of 
the humerus may be 
known, by the ability of 
the surgeon to move the el- 
bow in all directions while 
the head of the bone re- 
mains in its cavity motion- 
less. The point of frac- 
ture is seen in Fig. 17. 
Fractures of the lower 
extremity of the humerus 
may present many varie- 
ties. 1. There may be an 
oblique fracture above the condyles, which usually happens 
to children. The radius and ulna, with the lower frag- 
ments, are drawn upwards and backwards as in disloca- 
tion ; but the natural appearance of the parts is restored 
by extension. 
2. Either condyle may be broken off, 
and the fracture may or may not extend 
into the joint. (Fig. 19). 3. There 
may be one fracture between the two con- 
dyles, and another separating them from 
the shaft. All these injuries may be dis- 
tinguished from dislocation of the elbow 
by noticing that the motions of the joint 
are free, and are attended with crepitus 
above the elbow, and that the length of 
Fig. 16. 
Fig. 17. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
475 
the forearm, measured between the extremities of the 
upper and lower extremities of the radius and ulna, is the 
Fig. 18. 
same as on the sound side. The patient should be w'arned 
that it is very difficult to avoid all deformity and loss of 
motion. 
Fig. 19. 
The fore and upper arm should be bandaged, and a 
piece of pasteboard, gummed sheeting, or leather softened 
in water, cut to a right angle, like the letter L, so as to fit 
the elbow when bent, and applied on the inner and outer 
sides, and retained by another bandage. Besides this, an 
angular splint may be employed. It is composed of two 
pieces joined at a right angle, one of which is placed be- 
hind the upper arm, and the other below the forearm. 
But if the injury were attended with much violence, the 
patient must be confined to his bed for some days with the 
arm on a pillow, and cold water be employed to reduce the 
inflammation and swelling. 
Fractures of the forearm.-Fractures of the olecranon 476 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
(fig. 20), may be 
caused by direct 
force, or by violent 
action of the triceps 
muscles. 
The patient easi- 
ly bends his limb, 
but has great pain and inability in straightening it. A 
hollow is felt at the back of the joint, because the broken 
part is drawn from half an inch to two inches up the arm; 
but sometimes, when the ligaments are not torn through, 
this displacement may be very trifling, or altogether 
absent. 
The limb should be placed in a straight position. Then 
the forearm having been bandaged, the olecranon should 
be drawn down as much as possible, and the roller, con- 
tinued from the forearm, should be passed round above it, 
and then back again about the elbow in the figure-of-8 
form. Then the whole upper arm should be rolled, in 
order to prevent contraction of the triceps; and a splint 
must be placed in front, so as to keep the arm straight. 
The patient may be allowed to move the part gently in 
three weeks. Union will be ligamentous, unless the parts 
are in the closest apposition. 
If there is much inflammation, it must be subdued by 
rest and leeches, before any tight apparatus is put on. M. 
Malgaigne's hooks have been applied, in order to insure 
apposition. 
Compound fracture of the olecranon is far from an 
uncommon consequence of violent blows or falls on the el- 
bow ; and it is followed by protracted disease of the joint. 
The part must be bathed and fomented; any loose frag- 
ments of bone be extracted; the wound be closed with 
bloody lint, or collodion, if the skin can be neatly brought 
together; the elbow must be kept straight and motionless 
Fig. 20. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
477 
with a splint; leeches and fomentations be used to reduce 
inflammation; and when the wound is healed, and the 
joint free from active disease, gentle exercise must be em- 
ployed to restore it to its proper uses. If the bones are so ex- 
cessively comminuted as to render it probable that the pro- 
cess of reparation will be tedious and exhausting, excision 
of the joint should be performed ; unless, indeed, the injury 
is so very severe as to render amputation indispensable. 
Fracture of 
the lower ex- 
tremity of the 
radius, (fig. 
21,) from half 
an inch' to an 
inch above the 
wrist, is now commonly called Collis's fracture, from the 
name of the eminent surgeon who first accurately de- 
scribed it. 
The fracture is easily reduced by extension from the 
wrist and elbow. Then the elbow being bent, and the 
forearm placed in a position intermediate between prona- 
tion and supination, (that is to say, with the thumb upper- 
most ;) one splint should be applied to the flexor side, 
from the inner condyle of the humerus to the fingers' 
ends, and another from the outer condyle of the humerus 
to the back of the wrist. Both splints should be wide 
enough, and should be well padded along their middle, so 
that they may prevent the bones from being pressed to- 
gether. The hand should be kept in a line with the fore- 
arm. The cure is generally complete in a month or six 
weeks. 
Fracture of that part of the femur external to the cap- 
sular ligament (fig. 22). 
Fracture external to the capsular ligament is caused by 
direct violence, such as falls or blows on the hip, by which 
Fig. 21. 478 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY 
the neck of the fe- 
mur is broken off, 
and driven into 
the cancellous 
structure of the 
great trochanter; 
and at the same 
time one or both 
trochanters are 
split through like- 
wise. If the cer- 
vix be firmly im- 
pacted, and the tro- 
chanters are still 
adhering by un torn 
periosteum, the diagnosis of this fracture presents obvious 
difficulties, for there is no crepitus; the limb is shortened, 
but yet cannot be brought to its natural length by any 
justifiable amount of extension, and is not so everted nor 
powerless as is usual in fracture, yet if the distance of the 
trochanter from the anterior superior iliac spine be mea- 
sured, it will be found shorter than on the opposite side. 
If, however, this fracture be so comminuted, that the cer- 
vix is not impacted in the shaft, the shortening and ever- 
sion are well marked, and crepitus can be produced on 
extension and rotation. 
Impact fracture of the 
neck of the femur. (Fig. 
23.) This accident may 
occur at any period of life, 
and is attended with the 
following symptoms:- 
The limb is everted, but 
very little shortened, an d 
the shaft of the bone can 
Fig. 22. 
Fig 23. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
479 
be felt widely separated from the trochanter. This frac- 
ture unites readily by bone; and the treatment required 
consists of extension of the limb by the long splint, and a 
circular girth with a pad, to support the upper extremity 
of the shaft, and keep the broken surface in apposition. 
Fig. 24. 
Fracture of the shaft of the femur (Fig. 24.) This 
fracture requires no particular description, as it shows 
sufficiently plain for itself. 
For all cases of fractured thigh, including those of frac- 
ture of the cervix, in which the patient's strength admits 
of a reasonable effort to procure union, the long splint is 
the best instrument. The common long splint, known as 
Liston's, is a narrow dial board, of a hand's breadth for 
an adult, but narrower and slighter for a young person. 
It should be long enough to reach from below the axilla 
to four or five inches below the foot. At its upper end it 
has two holes, and at its lower end two deep notches, with 
a hollow for the outer ankle. 
First, the splint should be thoroughly well padded with 
layers of blanket. Then the limb should be evenly ban- 
daged from the toes upwards, and gently extended to its 
proper length and shape. Next, one fixed point of ex- 
tension is made by passing a bandage repeatedly around 
the instep and ankle, and through the notches at the 
lower end of the splint. Next, the splint is thoroughly 
secured to the limb by a bandage carried upwards. 
Lastly, the extension which is to be kept up by the hands 
of the assistants during this process is to be maintained by 480 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
means of a perineal 
band, which is passed 
around the groin, and 
through the holes at 
the top of the splint. 
The ordinary frac- 
tures of the leg, as 
seen in Fig. 25, may 
be readily discovered 
by careful examina- 
tion. 
The treatment con- 
sists in extending the 
leg, reducing the frac- 
ture and keeping the 
parts in a proper po- 
sition by splints, ban- 
dages, etc. 
Fig. 25. 
DISLOCATION. 
Dislocation of 
the elbow joint is 
by no means un- 
common, and in 
many cases the 
diagnosis is very 
obscure. Espe- 
cially is this the 
case when it is 
connected with 
violent injury of 
the soft parts. 
The most com- 
mon disloca- 
tion is t h a t in 
FIG. 26. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
481 
which both bones are thrown backwards with or with- 
out fracture of the coronoid process. In this injury the 
olecranon process will make a prominent projection back- 
wards, and the articular ends of the humerus and tendons 
of the triceps muscle can readily be felt. In cases where 
the coronoid process is fractured, there will be great mo- 
bility about the joint as well as distinct crepitation. 
When dislocation of both bones occurs forward, it is 
always connected with fractures of the olecranon process. 
Dislocation of 
the lower jaw 
may occur as the 
result of too wide- 
ly opening the 
mouth in the act 
of laughing or 
gaping, (see fig. 
27.) The signs 
of this dislocation 
are obvious, as the 
mouth will be seen 
open without the 
ability on the part 
of the patient to 
close it. 
Treatment.-The reduction of a dislocation of the jaw 
may be effected thus:-The surgeon should stand in front 
of the patient and place the thumbs, protected by a napkin, 
upon the molar teeth, and depress the jaw while he raises 
the chin by means of his fingers. In this way he pushes 
the angle of the bone downwards and backwards, so as to 
disentangle the coronoid process from under the zygomatic 
arch, where it is lodged when the jaw is dislocated. After 
the reduction, a four-tailed bandage should be applied, as 
in fracture of the jaw; and if the patient should be of a 
41 
FIG. 27. 482 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
weak and feeble habit, iron, hydrastin, and other tonics 
should be administered. 
In the above cut we have a fair representation of the 
operation for removing cataract from the eye. The deli- 
cacy of the organ requires great care in the operator, but of 
its benefits many can testify to. The following is the 
plan of operation : 
The patient may be either sitting, or lying on his back, 
with the head properly supported, and in a good light. 
The operator, behind him, uses his right hand for the 
right, and his left for the left eye. An assistant draws 
down the lower lid, and steadies it against the malar bone, 
without pressing on the globe. The operator, with the fore- 
finger of the non-operating hand, raises the upper lid and 
locks it under the edge of the orbit, just resting the point 
of his forefinger against the upper surface of the globe, and 
that of the middle finger against its inner surface, so as to 
steady it. Then holding the knife lightly with the thumb 
and first two fingers of the other hand, and resting his 
hand against the side of the face, he commences by first 
puncturing the cornea at the center of its outer margin, 
half a line from the sclerotica. (See fig. 28.) 2d. The 
blade is pushed gently across parallel with the iris, in 
such a way that the point shall penetrate the other side 
FIG. 28. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
483 
of the cornea, exactly opposite to the first puncture; 
and that the edge shall cut an even semicircular flap of 
the upper half of the cornea. Just when the incision is 
complete, which should be slowly and carefully done, the 
eyelids should be dropped, and all pressure discontinued. 
3d. Having waited a few seconds, the surgeon lifts the up- 
per lid sufficiently to expose the cornea, tells the patient 
to look towards his feet, so that the globe may be directed 
downwards; then introduces the curette, and freely lace- 
rates the capsule of the lens. 4th. He makes very gentle 
pressure on the under part of the globe, and on the upper 
eyelid, till the lens rises through the pupil and escapes. 
Lastly, the eye should be opened after a minute or two, to 
see that the flap of the cornea is rightly adjusted, and that 
the iris is not prolapsed ; if it is, the eyes should be ex- 
posed to a bright light, so as to make the pupil contract, 
and the prolapsed portion should be gently pressed upon 
with a spoon of the curette. Then the operation is finished. 
After Treatment.-The patient should be put to bed, 
with the shoulders raised, the room darkened, and with a 
very soft dry linen rag over both eyes. The bowels 
should be kept open, and everything be avoided which is 
likely to provoke coughing, sneezing, or vomiting. If all 
goes on comfortably the eyelid may be raised on the fifth 
day, and then if there be no prolapse of the iris, and the 
cornea be united, he may get up occasionally, wearing a 
shade, sitting in a darkened room, and walking about a 
little. After a fortnight the eye may be opened in a weak 
light, and be gradually brought into use. 
pott's curvature of the spine. 
Pott's curvature of the spine consists in an angular cur- 
vature produced by caries of the body of the vertebrse, or 
idceration of the inter-vertebral substances. It is mostly 
confined to scrofulous children. It begins with weakness, 484 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
and symptoms of spinal irritation, coldness of the extremities, 
twitching and spasm of the legs, which is frequently followed 
by palsy. If the disease is confined to the dorsal vertebrae, 
there will be tightness of the chest and difficulty of breath- 
ing. If to the cervical, one or both arms may be paralyzed. 
Rest and horizontal posture is indispensable in the 
treatment of this disease ; and the back may be supported 
by a bandage. An irritating plaster should be applied 
over the diseased portion, and caused to maintain a dis- 
charge for several weeks. The body should be bathed 
once a day in alkaline water, followed by friction, and 
from one to two table-spoonfuls of the syrup of rock rose, 
or the compound syrup of frostwort should be given in con- 
nection with Mecca oil, the anti-periodic pills, the catarrh 
vapor, the blood, stomach and liver tonic, boiled wheat 
and milk with rare cooked beef and fresh vegetables as a 
diet, and a plenty of out-door exercise. The instrument 
prepared by the author is infinitely superior to those ordi- 
narily manufactured. 
GANGRENE AND MORTIFICATION. 
Gangrene and 
mortification may 
arise from a va- 
riety of causes, 
such as intense in- 
flammation, arrest 
of circulation, se- 
vere contusions, 
compressions, cer- 
tain specific pois- 
ons, etc. Gangrene 
may also occur 
spontaneously in 
old people, when 
Fig. 29. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
485 
it is called senile, and is usually owing to a disease of the 
coats of the arteries. Fig. 29 represents this kind of gan- 
grene. See Inflammation and Gangrene in another part 
of the work. 
The symptoms of gangrene and mortification are both 
local and constitutional. The local symptoms are death 
of the part, followed by sloughing and deep ulceration, 
unless it be dry gangrene, represented in the Figure, which 
dries and becomes very hard. The constitutional symp- 
toms depend much upon the extent and nature of the gan- 
grene. If it be dependent upon active inflammation, and 
great debility of the parts, there will be feeble vitality, 
loss of appetite, great prostration, and if the gangrene be 
iuternal, there will be hiccup, vomiting, cold sweat and 
death. But where the disease is confined to the extremities 
of the body, they correspond with the extent of the injury. 
When there is a tendency to gangrene in any of the in- 
ternal organs, quinine, capsicum, baptisin, yeast, and other 
stimulants and antiseptics should be given in such quanti- 
ties as are necessary to maintain the vitality of the parts. 
In external gangrene, poultices made of pulverized indigo 
weed, sweet fern, peruvian bark, slippery elm, and yeast, 
should be applied, and changed every hour. Tonics and 
anodynes should be administered internally. A tea-spoon- 
ful of the catarrh vapor added to a slippery elm poultice 
sufficiently large to cover the part has been found to be 
almost a specific. Also the catarrh vapor may be inhaled 
freely as it has a powerful influence to disinfect the system 
and purify the blood. The blood, stomach, and liver tonic 
will also be valuable adjuncts, and cases of gangrene can 
hardly be successful if treated without it. The diet should 
be stimulating and nutritious. 
Four varieties of Talipes are recognized:-Talipes Equi- 
41* 
CLUB-FOOT, OR TALIPES. 486 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
neus, in which the heel is 
elevated, (fig. 30,) Tali- 
pes Calcaneus, (fig. 31,) 
in which the anterior 
part of the foot is drawn 
up. This is a very uncom- 
mon variety of club-foot; 
and, when it occurs, is 
almost always congeni- 
tal. In order to relieve 
this deformity, the tibia- 
lis anticus, the extensor 
communis, the extensor 
pollicis, and the pero- 
ncus tertius, may all re- 
quire to be divided; 
after which a straight 
splint should be applied, 
and the foot brought 
down to-it. For the cure of talipes equineus the tendo- 
Achilles should be divided about an inch above its inser- 
tion into the os calcis. The foot should be grasped, and the 
surgeon extend it until the tendon is tense. He then slides 
a tenotome beneath it, and cuts slowly through it, from 
beneath upwards, bearing the foot up at the same time. 
Some prefer to cut from without inward. In this event 
much care should be taken, or the posterior tibial artery 
may be wounded. As soon as the operation has been 
performed and the pain will warrant it, some of the modern 
instruments, as Scarpa's shoe, should be applied, and the 
foot maintained in its normal position until the deformity 
is entirely overcome. 
Fig. 30. 
TALIPES VARUS. 
(Fig. 32.) This is one of the most common forms of ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
487 
club-foot. The foot is 
turned inwards, and the 
patient w'alks on the 
outer side of the foot. To 
remedy this deformity, 
the tendo Achilles, the 
tibialis anticus and posti- 
cus, and plantar fasciie, 
require division. In di- 
viding the tibialis posti- 
cus tendon in the sole of 
the foot, much care will 
be required to prevent 
wounding the posterior 
tibial artery, which lies 
close to it. The best 
way will be to introduce 
the tenotome, through the 
Fig. 31. 
sheath of the ten- 
don directly down- 
wards, and separate 
it forwards a w a y 
from the vessel. 
Two or three days 
after the operation, 
the inflammation 
being removed, the 
foot may be well 
abducted by means 
of splints, or a little 
shoe. The only use of 
these appliances is 
to keep the foot pro- 
perly abducted, and 
in an easy position. 
Fig. 32. 488 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY 
Fig. 33. In talipes vulgus the foot is turned out, and 
the patient walks on the inner ankle. 
The treatment consists in dividing the tendons of the 
peroneus longus and brevis behind the outer ankle, and 
that of the extensor communis on the dorsum of the foot. 
An instrument should be applied, and the foot brought, 
into position and supported. 
The majority of all cases of club foot can be cured, if 
treated early, by gentle pressure, made by means of shoes 
manufactured for the purpose. They are so arranged, that 
pressure may be made on the contracted muscles from day 
to day until finally the contraction is overcome. When 
this treatment fails, the deformity may be overcome by an 
operation called tenotomy, which consists in a division of 
the contracted tendons. 
Figure 34 represents an instrument used for the cure 
of these diseases of the feet, manufactured by the author. 
Fig. 33. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
489 
Fig. 34. 
Fig. 35 represents anteversion of the uterus, and may 
occur as the result of jumping, falling, or any great exer- 
tion. It is followed by pain in the back, tenderness of the 
abdomen, loss of appetite, great nervous prostration, consti- 
pation, monthly irregularity, leucorrhoea, diseases of the 
bladder, headache, sense of weight about the loins, and if 
the disease is not relieved it terminates in cough, dyspepsia, 
affection of the lungs and consumption. It can easily be 
cured by the author's uterine supporter, and the use of the 
leucorrhoea pills, with the uterine tonic syrup. 
Anteflexion of the uterus, Fig. 36, may be produced by 
the same causes that produce Anteversion, when the system 
is in a weak or debilitated condition. It, also, is amenable 
to the same treatment, with the exception that it is impor- 
tant previous to commencing treatment to have the uterus 
put in its proper position. 490 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 35. 
Cancer usually presents itself in four or five varieties, 
each variety possessing characters peculiar to itself: viz. 
schirrous, or hard ; encephaloid, or soft; colloid, or gela- 
tinous ; melanosis, or black cancer. 
The schirrous variety is hard, firm, and transparent, and 
of a grayish color. The encephaloid is brain-like in its 
appearance, and is of a soft and hemorrhagic character. 
The colloid resembles glue, or honey in the comb. The 
melanosis is of a black color, and is sometimes soft, and at 
CANCERS, OR MALIGNANT TUMORS. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY 
491 
Fig. 36. 
others hard. Another variety of cancer is mentioned by 
some authors, called epithelial cancer. 
They all yield, by pressure, a turbid fluid, called cancer 
juice, in which are granule cells, pigmentary and fatty 
matter, with great abundance of parasites. The cancer 
cells are spherical, fusi-form, and spindle-shaped, elliptical 
or caudate, having two or three terminations. 
The following figures show the appearance of cancer 
cells. 
Fig. 37 shows the arrangement of fibrous cancer-cells, 
as they occur in the female breast. Fig. 38 shows the 
same after the addition of acetic acid. Fig. 40 shows the 492 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
isolated cancer-cells from the same growth. Fig. 39, shows 
the same after the addition of acetic acid. 
The cause of this perverted cell-growth is the result of 
the deposit of parasital spores, within the cellular struc- 
ture. For particulars see the author's researches into the 
Fig. 37. 
Fig. 39. 
Fig. 38. 
Fig. 40. 
nature and cause of disease by the aid of the microscope in 
this work. 
The unsuccessful treatment that has accompanied all 
the efforts of the profession, has been the result of ignorance 
of the true nature of this disease. The author has discov- ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
493 
ered that the parasites creating this malady are not de- 
stroyed by arsenic, acids, nor any of the ordinary reme- 
dies, but may be effectually killed by an agent that he 
has incorporated into a mass, and has denominated cancer 
ointment. The same agent maybe made into a vapor that 
may be inhaled to kill the spores when absorbed into the 
blood. See also the author's microscopical researches. 
Fig. 51 represents the square cap bandage of the 
head, and is formed with the handkerchief by folding 
it in the form of an oblong square; it is used to cover 
the head, ears and jaws. 
Fig. 51. 
Fig. 52. 
42 
Fig. 53. 494 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 52 represents the fronto-occipito-labialis cravat, 
also formed with the handkerchief, and is useful to retain 
dressings, and to support wounds of the lips after the hair- 
lip operation. 
Fig. 53 represents the occipito-frontal triangle, front 
view. It is useful in retaining dressings to the head. 
Fig. 54. 
Fig. 54. Vertico-mental cravat, formed by carrying the 
ends of the handkerchief under the chin and fastened near 
the ears, used to retrain dressings on the chin or base of 
Fig. 55. 
Fig. 55 represents the Occipito-Sternal bandage, and is 
composed of two separate handkerchiefs, one passed over ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
495 
the head and united to another passed around the body. 
It is very useful in uniting wounds of the throat. 
Fig. 56 is the Fronto-dorsal bandage, and is simply the 
reverse of the preceding. 
Fig. 56. 
Fig. 57. 
Fig. 57 is the Parieto-axillaris, and is for the pur- 
pose of drawing the head to one side in wry-neck, spasm 
of the sterno-cleido muscle, etc. 496 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 58. 
Fig. 58 represents the simple Bis-axillary cravat, and 
is for the purpose of retaining dressings on the axillae. 
Fig. 59. 
Fig. 59 is the compound Bis-axillary cravat, and is 
very similar to the preceding, but is applied to both ax- 
illse. 
Fig. 60 represents the triangular cap of the breast. 
Its .formation is very simple, and it is an excellent bandage 
to retain dressings applied to the chest. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
497 
*ig. 60. 
Fig. 61. 
Fig. 62. 
Fig. 61 represents the tibial cravat. It is of simple 
42* 498 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 63. 
formation, and may be readily understood by noticing the 
figure. It is used to retain sinapisms, &c., on the calf of 
the leg. 
Fig. 62 represents Amesbury's apparatus for fractures 
of the leg. This is a rather complicated machine, but 
very good in cases of this kind. 
Fig. 63 represents the sub-femoral bandage. Its for- 
mation is simple, and it is the only neat bandage that 
will retain dressings to the pelvic portion of the body. 
Fig. 64 represents the reduction of a dislocation of the 
collar bone, showing the position which should be as- 
sumed by the patient and operator. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
499 
Fig. 65 represents 
Tapping. In this ope- 
ration the trocar is 
used and the puncture 
made along the linea 
alba, about two inches 
below the umbilicus. 
It is for the purpose 
of freeing the peri- 
toneal cavity from an 
accumulation of s e- 
rum which collects in 
some diseases. 
Fig. 66 represents 
the bandage used in 
arresting hemor- 
rhage, which consists 
in placing a hand- 
kerchief around the limb above the point of hemorrhage 
and introducing a twist so as to prevent circulation 
through the part. 
Fig. 64. 
Fig. 65. 
Fig. 66. 500 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 67 represents the surgeon's knot, which, when 
skillfully made forms a secure knot. 
Fig. 68 represents the sailor's knot, much used in surge- 
ry and preferred by some to the preceding. 
Fig. 67. 
Fig. 68. 
Fig. 69. 
Figs. 69 and 70 represent the introduction and use of 
the stomach pump; the 
former represents the tube 
situated in the oesophagus, 
and the latter, the relative 
position of patient and 
operator used where some 
active poison has been 
taken into the stomach. 
When the pipe is intro- 
duced, a plug should be 
placed between the teeth 
to prevent the closure of 
the jaws. 
Fig. 70. ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY, AND SURGERY. 
501 
Fig. 71 represents the injection of the lachrymal ducts 
for the purpose of removing inflammation or an obstruc- 
tion to the passage of the tears. 
Fig. 72 represents the adjusting shoe used in the treat- 
ment of club-foot, and is a valuable aid in these cases. 
Fig. 71. 
Fig. 72. 
Fig. 73 represents a shoe which is used after the ad- 
justing shoe has been removed, and before a common 
shoe can be worn. 
Fig. 74 represents a shoe used in the treatment of 
bandy legs, and differs only from those previously de- 
scribed, in having two pieces of sheet-iron (A. and B.) 
which fasten around the leg, and are governed by means 
of a screw by which a greater or lesser amount of pressure 
may be exerted upon the part. 502 
ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOG Y, AND SURGERY. 
Fig. 73. 
Fig. 74. PART IV. 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
THE NEW SCHOOL PRACTICE A SCIENCE. 
The prevention and successful treatment of disease must 
ever depend upon the true knowledge of the cause and 
nature of the affection, as well as the proper adaptation of 
nutritive elements to the support of organic integrity. 
Modern researches have amply demonstrated the fallacies 
of nearly all previous theories of disease. It has long since 
been the doctrine of the profession that nearly all forms of 
fever were the result of miasm, vegetable or animal; that 
cholera, small-pox, scarlatina, and other cutaneous and 
chronic diseases depend upon the poisonous influence of 
malaria; but until the present time, no successful effort 
has been made to demonstrate the real character of this 
either supposed* or absolute substance. With a view of 
determining the existence and character of malaria, or 
miasm, we instituted a series of experiments. 
A family was seized with typhoid fever, which broke out 
apparently de novo, without any exposure so far as the 
patients knew, and appeared the same day in three mem- 
bers, and in two others the following consecutive days. 
The disease was of a malignant character, manifesting all 
the symptoms of typhoid. Upon searching for the cause, 
we found a crevice connecting the cellar with the water- 
closet, through which a small portion of the water passed, 
saturating the wall. 
503 504 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
Around the damp portion there were numerous lines or 
spots of violet, blue, and pink colors. We gathered dif- 
ferent samples of what appeared as dust, and upon sub- 
mitting them to a microscopic examination, discovered 
them to be a cryptogamous vegetation, loaded with mi- 
croscopic spores. Upon allowing them to dry on white 
tissue paper, they were soon carried away by the atmos- 
phere in the room, they being so light that it was difficult 
to retain them on paper. We accumulated a section of 
the alga?, and introduced a portion of them into a weak 
solution of albuminous water, and the remainder in weak 
starch water. The water was maintained at a temperature 
of sixty-five, and we made daily microscopic examinations 
of the germinations, as we supposed, of the spores. At the 
expiration of nine days, instead of the production of al gee, 
to our surprise, they gave birth to microscopic parasites, 
belonging to the family of hematodes. These were placed 
upon a small section of the mucous membrane of a calf's 
stomach, and immersed in another weak solution of albu- 
minous water. A daily examination revealed an increase 
in size, until the expiration of fourteen days, wThen they 
burrowed beneath small sec- 
tions of mucous villi, and 
deposited gr§at numbers of 
spores. These in turn were 
subjected to similar treatment, 
and gave birth to monards 
instead of hematodes. 
Another experiment con- 
sisted in taking a section of 
mucus expelled from the nasal 
cavities of a young lady, who 
was laboring under a malig- 
nant catarrh. This was filled 
with achorion schonleinii (fig. 75). The fibril was filled 
Fig. 75. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
505 
with spores. When put into a solution of starch water and 
allowed to remain for fourteen days, it was found, upon 
examination, that the spores were giving birth to a para- 
site of the Order of Nemertidse or Turbellarians. In 
another case the spores of porrigo favosi were subjected to 
a similar treatment, with the addition of albumen, when 
the solution became filled with Anguillididse, much resem- 
bling the common vinegar eel (Sclerostoma). The spores 
deposited by these were again subjected to the hatching pro- 
cess, and fresh mucous membrane added to the solution. 
The product thus formed was of the Order Sy mgamus, which 
adhered to the fresh mucous lining, developing until they 
wTere visible with the naked eye. These are believed to be 
identical with those found in birds, and in chickens, pro- 
ducing what is known as " the gaps." 
The spores exhaled from the lungs of several con- 
sumptive patients 
were treated simi- 
larly, and they 
gave rise to the 
Distoma Haemato- 
bium (see fig. 76). 
In these cases fresh 
muscle was used 
instead of albu- 
men. 
The foregoing and many other experiments have satisfied 
me that the metamorphosis of parasital structure, if not a 
law regulating the development and growth of these or- 
ganized beings, is at least of frequent occurrence. 
The extensive observation and experiments I have made 
in reproducing or hatching the various forms of spores de- 
posited by parasites have enabled me to determine the 
nature and character of a great many diseases heretofore 
unknown. In studying the habits of these parasites, I have 
43 
Fig. 76. 506 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
noticed that they only deposit their eggs, or spores, under 
suitable conditions, and in proper menstruum for reproduc- 
tion. Thus the hematodes, or turbellarians, deposit their 
spores upon the mucous membrane, and, if maintained at 
a temperature above fifty, they hatch with great rapidity. 
But the young parasites are soon destroyed unless there is 
present a quantity of the lower form of algae upon which 
to feed. The trematodes are developed from the spores of 
the turbellarians. They are minutely small, and are found 
in the excrement of nearly all reptiles, fishes, and many of 
the higher order of animals. The spores may even be ab- 
sorbed by vegetables, such as potatoes, radishes, etc., etc., 
and in that form be introduced into the human system, 
where they hatch out, giving rise to a great variety of 
sporacystic diseases, such as diphtheria, scarlatina, measles, 
catarrh, consumption, etc. The sclerostoma deposits its 
spores in stagnant water, filthy drains, damp cellars, and 
other places where algae forms. When the vapors or fluids 
in wThich these spores are deposited are introduced into the 
human system by inhalation, or swallowing, they develop 
into a species of the symgamus, and give rise to bronchitis, 
dysentery, croup, and other diseases of the mucous mem- 
brane. The sclerostoma will deposit its eggs in cider vine- 
gar, and when the spore is hatched, it produces what is 
known as the vinegar eel. 
The trichina spiralis, the condona hispida, and the 
many thousands of invisible and visible annelidae are pro- 
duced by the hatching and metamorphosis of the sporous- 
cysts. 
An English scientist has discovered that typhoid fever 
was caused by fungoid growths around a well. A gelati- 
nous matter on the spout of the pump showed numerous 
spores, which were constantly being washed into the well, 
and were drank. He concluded, as would be perfectly 
natural, that the disease was caused by this fungous matter, MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
507 
which, when taken into the system, fermented like yeast 
in beer, and so poisoned the blood. 
In confirmation of what I have said, upon this subject, I 
here give some extracts from a statement handed m3 by 
an eminent chemist of this city, and am only sorry that the 
limits of my book will not allow me to publish the whole 
statement. 
June 10th, 1855, he was taken with severe pain in the 
stomach and bowels, lasting three hours. A few hours 
after, it returned with increased violence, lasting nine 
days without a moment's cessation. He says: " The first 
day I vomited thirty-four times, and for a week not the 
smallest piece of toasted bread could be kept on my sto- 
mach. During the whole nine days, not the slightest 
movement of the bowels could be felt, and but for the pain, 
the idea would have suggested itself that the bowels were 
dead. I would take purgative medicines in double doses 
with very slight effect, and injections produced scarcely 
any discharge." Hot cloths, and fomentations of various 
kinds had no beneficial effect, and the only relief he found 
was in taking a tea-spoonful of proof spirits every ten or 
fifteen minutes and vapor baths. He continues: "At the 
end of nine days the pain left me even more suddenly 
than it came, leaving me, as I thought, quite well; but in 
twenty-one days from that time it came upon me again, 
and I had nine days more of the same pain, when it sud- 
denly left me as before. 
" In six weeks from this time I was taken the third time, 
and two or three days after, five other members of the 
family (eight in all) were attacked, all going through the 
same course I had gone through on two previous occasions. 
We had in attendance three Allopathic physicians, but 
none of them could give any clue as to the cause of tlje 
disease. 
" As we lived in a village of about 3,000 inhabitants, 508 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
near Philadelphia, and as no others in the place had it, I 
was led to think that its origin must be in the house, and 
the fear of having it again led me to hunt it out. Having 
read a pamphlet by the late Dr. J. K. Mitchell, of the 
Jefferson College, wherein he speaks of the cryptogamous 
origin of fevers, and also of cases of blood-poisoning by 
cryptogamous vegetation, or vegeto-animal sporules, where- 
by patients lost their finger-nails after recovering from 
sickness-as I had just finished up my sickness by the loss 
of my toe-nails-I thought that my disease might originate 
from the same cause. 
"As soon as I was able, I visited the collar, a fine large 
one, divided by a partition, paved with brick, the walls in 
some parts plastered, and the whole cellar white-washed. 
I was astonished to find the whole wall covered with a 
beautiful rose-pink color, evenly distributed on every spot. 
On the top of this, in many parts of the walls, were streaks 
of deep red intermingled with green, and I instantly 
thought of what is said in Leviticus xiv. 33, concerning a 
plague in the house. On opening the door to the other 
part of the cellar, which had been used as a milk cellar, I 
observed the same appearance. It had two windows, and 
through a broken pane a number of toads had fallen. I 
picked up twenty-eight, twenty-three of which had not only 
"lost their finger-nails," but some of them had lost half, 
and others nearly all of their hands, and were hobbling 
around upon the raw flesh. 
"After fumigating with smoke, and white-washing 
thoroughly, fifteen years have passed with no return of 
the disease." 
The limits of the present work will not admit of a de- 
tailed account of my discoveries and observations in refer- 
ence to all forms of malaria, nor of the real character of 
consumption, dyspepsia, liver, bowel and kidney diseases, 
cancer, syphilis and most other acute and chronic affec- MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
509 
tions. These observations, together with new discoveries 
in therapeutics, we contemplate embodying in another work 
devoted exclusively to these subjects. Suffice it to say that 
we have found these parasites in the blood, lungs, liver, 
and in all the tissues of the body. In many diseases the 
presence of spores alone produced the morbid changes upon 
which the pathological condi- 
tions depended. Our Catarrh 
Vapor, Anti-periodic Pills, Leu- 
corrhcea Pills, and many other 
remedies we have discovered, 
have a direct influence to destroy 
the vitality of these microscopic 
beings, and thus remove the dis- 
eases they have been found to- 
produce. 
Trychophyton Tonsurans de- 
rived from trix (hair), and 
" phyton" (plant). Tonsurans 
means to destroy. (See fig. 77.) 
The scalp affected with them is 
dry, and covered with fine dust. 
The hairs split, break off, and 
eventually fall out, leaving the 
head bald. The microscope re- 
veals a great number of irregu- 
larly grouped spores. They are 
effectually destroyed by bathing 
the head with Mecca oil once a 
week, and washing it thoroughly 
with warm water and soap. The 
oil should be applied at night, 
and followed by the soap and 
water bath in the morning, so 
as to completely remove the oil. 
43* 
Fig. 77. 510 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
This treatment should be followed by a small quantity 
of Mecca oil pomade every day. 
Microsporon Andouini is a parasite of a different species, 
but very much resembling the above. It produces a simi- 
lar disease, and may be cured in the same way. 
Microsporon Mentogrophyles and Microsporon Furfur are 
found in sycosis, or barber's itch and pityriasis. They con- 
sist of spores, but are imbedded beneath the epidermis. In 
order to destroy them the parts should be washed with a 
strong solution of the sulphate of zinc. 
Fig. 78. 
Fig. 79. 
Fig. 80. 
Fig. 82. 
Achorion Schonleinii.-This parasite consists of hollow 
fibrillae branching from a stock. The cylinder is filled 
with spores. This parasite is liable to form around the 
nails and produce what is called run-a-round. It may be 
destroyed in the same way as the form spoken of above. 
Fig. 81. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
511 
Epizoes.-These consist of a variety of animal parasites 
that afflict the human body. The more common of them 
are the Pediculosus vestinienti (harvest flea), Pediculosus 
capitis (head louse); (figs. 78 and 79 represent the 
antenna, and 80 the trachea of the same). 
Pediculosus Pubis is a small insect that infests the hairy 
portion of the sexual organs. (Fig. 81.) 
These parasites can all be removed by washing the parts 
in hot castile soap and water, and applying Mecca oil 
every night. It must be remembered that these parasites 
deposit spores, and that the application should be con- 
tinued for a week or ten days after all traces of the insect 
are removed. 
Fig. 84. 
Fig. 85. 
The Trichoronos vaginalis (fig. 82) are parasites hatched 
from spores (see spores in the fig.) from the secretions of 
the vagina in cases of leucorrhcea; and it is probable that 
in chronic cases of this kind, they are a cause of the disease. 
They can be removed, and the spores effectually destroyed, 
by a weak solution of permanganate of potash and Mecca 
oil being injected in the parts two or three times a day. 
The itch is now known to be caused by an insect called 
Fig. 83. 512 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
the Acarus Scabiei, and is represented in the foregoing 
cuts. 
They burrow beneath the cuticle in some soft and moist 
portion of the skin. They travel from one person to 
another while lying in contact, and thus the disease spreads. 
The female is very much smaller than the male, and they 
usually travel in pairs. 
Fig. 83, dorsal surface of female acarus scabiei; fig. 
84, side view of same; fig. 85, abdominal view of the 
male acarus magnified 100 diameters. 
Cured with Mecca oil and sulphur. 
This insect inhabits 
the sebaceous follicles of 
the skin, and is very 
common in the face, 
more especially when the 
seat of acne or small 
pimples. In the follicles 
of the nose they are 
present in the majority 
of living persons, and, 
according to Simon, are 
almost universal in dead 
bodies. He frequently 
found them living six 
days after the death of 
the individual in whom 
they were found. The 
animal measures from 
1.135th of an inch to 
1.64th of an inch in 
length, and from 1.155th 
of an inch to 1.555th of an inch in breadth. It is com- 
posed of a head, a thorax, and an abdomen. 
ENTOZOON FOLLICULORUM. 
Fig. 86. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
513 
CUTANEOUS ERUPTIONS AND ULCERS. 
Pus taken from all kinds of eruptions and sores, pre- 
sents the same appearance; thus, the pus taken from 
eczema and variola is identical in character. Squamous 
eruptions of the skin consist of 
psoriasis, pytyriasis, and ichthyosis. 
The dry scales, found on the sur- 
face in these diseases, consist of 
flakes of epidermis, more or less 
aggregated together. The tumors 
found on the skin which are of an 
epidermic character, assume the 
forms of callosities, condylomatous 
warts, and corns. They all consist 
of epidermic scales, more or less 
condensed. The favous crust con- 
sists in epidermic scales, lined with 
a fine granulai* mass, from which 
millions of cryptogamic plants ori- 
ginate and fructify. In cutaneous 
ulcers of a healthy character the 
surface is covered w ith normal cor- 
puscles. In scrofulous or un- 
healthy sores the pus is more or 
less broken down. In cancerous 
ulcers of the skin the fluid obtained 
from the ulcer will be observed to 
be full of cancer cells. (See fig. 87.) 
Appearance of section of can- 
cerous ulcer of the skin, a, epi- 
dermic scales and fusiform corpuscles on the external sur- 
face ; b, groups of epidermic scales ; c, fibrous tissues of 
the dermis; d, cancer-cells infiltrated into the fibrous 
tissue, and filling up the loculi of the dermis. 
Fig. 87. 514 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
Fig. 88 represents 
a vegetation as it 
occurred in a boy's 
limb who had been 
suffering from a scro- 
fulous ulcer. The 
boy was of a con- 
sumptive constitu- 
tion, and was very 
much reduced b y 
the extensive d i s- 
charge of tuberculous 
matter. This cryp- 
togamous vegetation 
made its appearance at night, and by twelve o'clock next 
day, was in full bloom as represented in the figure. 
Fig. 88. 
The Blood. 
On examining a drop of blood, there will be seen a large 
number of bi-concave discs, rolling in the field of the 
microscope, which soon exhibit a tendency to turn upon 
their edge, and arrange themselves in rolls, like rouleaux 
of coins. These rouleaux, by crossing one another, dis- 
pose themselves in a kind of net-work, between which may 
be seen a few colorless spherical corpuscles, having a 
molecular surface, and a few granules. The colored 
blood-corpuscles vary in size from the onc-five-thousandth 
to the one-three-thousandth of an inch. Owing to their 
bi-concave form they present a bright external rim, with 
a central shadowed spot, or a bright centre and dark 
edge, according to the focal point in which they are 
viewed. If the blood be exposed to the air a little time 
before examination, or if obtained by venesection, the 
edges of the corpuscles may often be observed to have lost 
their smooth outline, and to have become irregular, 
notched, serrated, beaded, &c. On the addition of water, MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
515 
the blood discs become spherical, and lose their color. On 
adding syrup, they become flaccid and irregular. 
The colorless corpuscles of the blood are spherical in 
form, and vary in size from the one-two-thousand-five-hun- 
dredth to the one-two-thousandth of an inch in diameter. 
Their surface presents a molecular or dotted appearance. 
In certain internal hemorrhages the blood-corpuscles 
break down, or become partially dissolved. When the 
external envelope is seen very transparent, the shadowed 
spot disappears, and there is found in 
their interior one or more granules. The 
liquor sanguinis also contains an unu- 
sual number of granules. 
Explanation of Fig. 89. Blood-cor- 
puscles, drawn from the extremity of the 
finger. On the left of the figure they 
are isolated, soipe flat and on edge, some 
having a dark and others a light centre, according to the 
focal point in which they are viewed. On the right of the 
figure several rolls have formed. Two colorless corpuscles 
and a few granules are also visible. 
We have seen that, in a healthy condition, the blood 
possesses very few colorless corpuscles; but there is a cer- 
tain state of that fluid called " Leucocythemia, " Fig. 90, 
or white-cell blood, in which they are very numerous, and 
generally associated with enlargement of the spleen, or 
other lymphatic glands. 
It has been affirmed that the 
color and number of the corpuscles 
of the blood undergo a change in 
plethora, fever, jaundice, dropsy, 
cholera, etc. I have never been 
able to satisfy myself that any such 
changes were observable in these 
diseases by means of the microscope. 
Fig. 89. 
Fig. 90. 516 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
In chlorosis the number of the blood-globules is un- 
doubtedly diminished; but this is determined by the size 
of the clot, rather than by microscopic demonstration. 
LEUCOCYTHASM I A. 
When the human blood is examined under the micro- 
scope of two hundred and fifty diameters, it will be ob- 
served to be composed of two sets of small, round bodies 
of different colors. These are the white and red corpus- 
cles. (See fig. 91.) The small, round bodies which are 
aggregated together, and arranged in rows, are the red 
corpuscles ; and the small bodies which are separate, and 
appear to be filled with granular matter, are the white 
ones. Fig. 92 is the same after the addition of acetic acid. 
In the normal 
state the numbei* 
of. red corpuscles 
is very large, in 
comparison to 
those of the white, 
about the propor- 
tion as represented in fig. 91. In leucocytluemia the 
white blood-corpuscles become abundant, while the red 
blood-corpuscles either remain stationary, or are dimin- 
ished in number. It is now generally considered by phy- 
siologists that the colored corpuscles are formed from the 
colorless ones ; but Mr. Bennett, in connection with some 
others, is of the opinion that the colored blood disc is 
merely the liberated nucleus of the colorless cells. Of the 
mode of transformation he remarks, that the colorless cells 
may frequently be seen, on the addition of acetic acid, to 
have a single round nucleus ; but more commonly the nu- 
cleus is divided into two, each half having a distinct depres- 
sion presenting a shadowed .spot in the centre. Occasion- 
ally, before the division takes place, the nucleus be- 
FIG. 91. 
FIG. 92. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
517 
comes oval, and sometimes bent, and even of a horse- 
shoe form. 
Fig. 93 shows the 
colorless blood- 
cells, as observed 
in leucocytluemia, 
arranged in the or- 
der of the develop- 
ment ol the nuclei. Fig. 94 shows the development of 
FIG. 93. 
FIG. 94. 
the nucleus in colorless blood-cells ; a, as found in the 
lymphatic vessels ; b, increased development. Mr. Ben- 
nett regards the formation of white blood nuclei as de- 
pendent upon the aggregation of granules in the chyle; 
and that in the lymphatics, or blood-glands, which consist 
of the spleen, thymus, lymphatics, thyroid, and supra- 
renal capsules, they undergo still farther development. 
Fig. 95 shows the order of the development. He also 
claims that the liberation of the nucle- 
us, and its transformation in the lungs, 
constitutes the red corpuscles. Fig. 96 
shows the nuclei of the blood-cells after 
the addition of acetic acid. From this 
FIG. 95. 
44 
FIG. 96. 518 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
hypothesis or theory of the development of the formation 
of blood, Mr. Bennett infers that many of the most impor- 
tant pathological changes of that fluid depend upon a dis- 
ordered condition of the blood-glands ; and in leucocytlue- 
mia his observations appear to be confirmed, as it has 
been shown in this disease that the blood-glands are the 
primary seat of the difficulty.* He explains the disease by 
showing that when these organs are diseased the cell ele- 
ments of the white blood-corpuscles circulate in the blood 
without undergoing transformation into red blood-corpus- 
cles, thus producing a superabundance of white blood-cells 
and a corresponding diminution of the red blood-corpuscles. 
SYMPTOMS. 
This disease usually commences very slowly, frequently 
continuing for years previously to manifesting its fatal 
symptoms. The first indications of its approach are slight 
dyspeptic symptoms connected with disordered respiration, 
which frequently amounts to more or less dyspnoea. In 
connexion with these symptoms there is a peculiar, light 
sallow complexion. As the disease advances, the spleen, 
liver, kidneys, and lymphatics will be found enlarged, and 
otherwise disordered. These symptoms are usually fol- 
lowed by dropsical deposits in various organs and tissues. 
They generally increase, and become more malignant un- 
til death occurs. 
The treatment for leucocythaemia has not been very 
successful. A case that I have at this time under the fol- 
lowing treatment appears to be improving. He is taking 
chimaphilin, one dram ; ferri hypo-phosphite, one-half 
dram ; alnuin, two drams ; cod liver oil, six ounces. A 
mixture is formed by trituration, and one teaspoonful 
taken every three hours during the day. In connection 
with this treatment, hot friction baths are given, and the 
TREATMENT. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
519 
patient ordered a nutritious diet. In a few cases that I 
have treated, in connection with the above remedies I have 
found a free lobelia emetic, administered every two or 
three weeks, to be of advantage. 
Ou examining the minute structure of the exudation on 
a serous surface when recently formed, and when it presents 
a gelatinous, semi-transparent appearance, it will be found 
to be made of minute filaments mingled with corpuscles. 
(Fig. 97, molecular fibres and plastic corpuscles, in simple 
exudation on a serous surface ; 
letter a, after the addition of 
acetic acid.) The filaments are 
not the result of the develop- 
ment of either a nucleus or a 
cell, but are formed by the sim- 
ple precipitation of molecules, 
which arrange themselves in a 
linear manner, in the same way 
as they may be seen to form in 
the buffy coat of the blood. 
These corpuscles, after a time, melt away among the 
fibres; but several of them remain, constituting, as shown 
by Dr. Drummond, permanent nuclei. After a time blood- 
vessels grow in the exuded lymph, (see Vascular Growths,) 
the surface of which becomes villous. Into the villi, loops 
of vessels penetrate, and by these the fluid contained in 
the interior of shut sacs, is absorbed. The fluid thus gra- 
dually diminishes, and, when the villous surfaces are 
brought into contact, they unite, and ultimately form the 
dense chronic adhesions so common between serous mem- 
branes. (Fig. 98, a portion of recent lymph from the pleura. 
Fig. 99, another portion of the same, farther developed. 
Fig. 100, portion of firm pleural adhesion. Fig. 101, an- 
other portion of the same, farther developed. Fig. 102, 
the last acted on by acetic acid.) 
Fig. 97. 520 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
Exudation poured out on a mu- 
cous membrane, sometimes presents 
a fibrous mass, as in cases of croup 
and diphtheritis ; but more generally 
it passes into an opaque, unctuous, 
straw-colored fluid, long known un- 
der the name of pus. When poured 
into the meshes of areolar tissue, and 
occasionally into the substance of the 
brain, the same transformation oc- 
curs, and then forms an abscess. On 
examining the minute structure of 
pus, it is seen to be composed of 
numerous corpuscles floating in a 
clear fluid. These corpuscles are 
perfectly globular in form, and vary 
in size from the one-two-thousandth 
to the one-one-thousand-two-hun- 
dredth of an inch in diameter. Their 
surface is finely granular. They 
have a regular, well-defined edge, 
and roll freely in the liquor puris 
upon each other. On the addition 
of water, they become much in- 
creased in size, and more transparent, their finely granular 
surface disappearing. Weak acetic acid partially, and the 
strong acid completely, dissolves the cell-wall, and brings 
into view the one included body, generally composed of two 
or three granules close together, and rarely four or five, each 
with a central shadowed spot. These are usually about the 
one-six-thousandth of an inch in 
diameter. (Fig. 103, pus cells. 
Four cells have been acted on 
by acetic acid. Fig. 104, pus cells 
containing fatty molecules, after 
Fig. 102. 
Fig. 101. 
Fig. 100. 
Fig. 99. 
Fig. 98. 
Fig. 103. 
Fig. 104. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
521 
adding acetic acid.) In some cases the pus corpuscles now 
described are surrounded by an albuminous layer closely 
resembling a delicate cell-wall, which I first described in 
1847. It is about the one-ten-thousandth or one-eight- 
hundredth of an inch in diameter, and is highly elastic, 
assuming different shapes, according to the degree and di- 
rection of the pressure to which it is subjected. Water 
and acetic acid cause it at once to dissolve, whilst the in- 
cluded pus corpuscles exhibit the usual body composed of 
two or three granules. 
Pus cells, if not evacuated externally, ultimately dis- 
solve, their walls disappear, the included nuclei and gra- 
nules separate, and are converted into a fluid. This passes 
into the blood, increases for a time its effete constituents, but 
is at length excreted by the emunctories. Meanwhile the 
original abscess, or collection of matter is said to be resolved. 
In parenchymatous organs, the exudation insinuates it- 
self among the elementary tissues of which they are com- 
posed, so that, when it coagulates, those are imprisoned in 
a solid plasma, like stones in the mortar of a rough-cast 
wall, thus constituting a firm mass, and giving increased 
density to certain organs. This is well observed in the 
lungs, where, however, a mucous surface extensively pre- 
vails, and where the exudation is commonly transformed 
into pus. In the brain, spinal 
cord, and placenta, we find the 
exudation deposited in the form 
of minute molecules and gran- 
ules, which are frequently seen 
coating the vessel externally, 
and filling up the inter- 
vascular spaces. (Fig. 105, 
granular exudation and granu- 
lar masses, from cerebral soft- 
ening.) The granules vary in 
44* 
Fig. 105. 522 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
size from the one-twelve-thousandth to the one-six-thou- 
sandth of an inch in diameter. They always contain among 
them round, transparent globules, varying in size from the 
one-five-thousandth to one-three-thousandth of au inch in 
diameter. These are the nuclei of round or oval cells, 
which may frequently be observed in various stages of de- 
velopment. When fully formed, the cells vary greatly in 
size, for the most part measuring from the one-thousandth 
to the one-hundred-and seventy-fifth of an inch in diameter. 
They sometimes contain a few oil granules only, at others 
they are so completely filled with them as to assume a 
brownish-black appearance. Water and acetic acid cause 
no change in them ; although the latter re-agent, on some 
occasions, renders the cell-walls more transparent. They 
are readily soluble in ether, and break down in a molecu- 
lar mass on the addition of potash 
and ammonia. These are granule 
cells. (Fig. 106, granular cells and 
masses from cerebral softening.) 
Masses of these granules may be 
seen floating about, of irregular 
shape, without any cell-wall. They 
are produced eithei' by the solu- 
tion of the cell-wall in which they are contained, or from 
the separation, or peeling off of such masses from the ex- 
ternal wall of the vessels, and form granular masses. Pres- 
sure causes these granules to coalesce, or the air to be forced 
through the cell-wall; occasionally, also, the cell-wall is 
ruptured. 
The granules, masses, and cells just described, are found 
in the colostrum secreted by the mammary glands in the 
exudative softening of parenchymatous organs; on the sur- 
face of granulations and pyogenic membranes; in the pus 
of chronic abscesses, combined with cancerous, tubercular, 
and all other forms of exudation; in the tubes of the kid- 
Fig. 106. MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
523 
neys when affected with Bright's disease, and in the con- 
tents of encysted tumors. In fact, there is no form of 
cell growth, whether healthy or morbid, that may not, 
under certain conditions, accumulate oil or fatty granules 
in its interior, become a compound granular corpuscle, 
and thus be rendered abortive. The granule cells in an 
exudation, however, are the results of a vital transforma- 
tion of that exudation, and not of a mere fatty degenera- 
tion of the vessels, as some have supposed. In some 
instances I have seen them in all stages of development 
coating the blood-vessels, as in fig. 107. (Fig. 107, two 
vessels coated with exudation from softening of the spinal 
cord. Granular cells may be seen forming in it). That 
softening from the formation of granules and granular 
cells may occasionally disappear, and the new structures 
be absorbed, is rendered probable by the history of several 
well-recorded cases; but the changes thereby produced, 
especially in nervous textures, have not hitherto been 
made the subject of special investigation. 
If a recently-formed granulation on the surface of a 
healing sore be examined, numerous cells will be observed 
of various shapes, and in different stares of development. 
Some are round, others caudate, spindle-shaped, elongated, 
or splitting into fibres, as originally described by Schwann. 
(Fig. 108, vertical section of a granulating sore. Exter- 
nally, pus corpuscles, deeper fibre-cells in various stages 
Fig. 107. 524 
MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
Fig. 108. 
of development into fibre. The looped bloood-vessels are 
seen enlarged at their extremities, magnified one hundred 
diameters linear. On the left, the cells are magnified two 
hundred and fifty diameters linear). In many cases there 
may be seen a number of free nuclei imbedded in a slight- 
ly fibrous blastema, elongating at both ends, becoming 
fusiform, and splitting up the surrounding exudation, as 
described by Henle. Not unfrequently the nuclei may be 
seen developing themselves into elastic fibres, in the same 
exudation which contains cells that are passing into white 
fibres. Indeed, the process of cicatrization in its various 
stages, and in different tissues, offers the best means of 
studying the manner in which nucleus and cell fibres are 
respectively formed. As these fibres are developed in the 
deeper layers of the exudation, a villous, vascular basis is 
formed, and the superficial pus corpuscles, after having 
served to protect the more prominent growths, are thrown 
off in the form of discharge. When the fibrous structure 
becomes more consistent and dense, the amount of pus 
diminishes, and a greater tendency is manifested by the 
exudation to pass into permanent tissue. At length pus MICROSCOPIC RESEARCHES. 
525 
ceases to be developed; the whole remaining exudation is 
transformed into fibres; a new surface is produced, which, 
after a time, contracts and forms the permanent cicatrix. 
Milk'. 
On examining a drop of milk, we ob- 
serve a number of milk corpuscles float- 
ing in a clear fluid; these bodies, in 
healthy milk, are perfectly spherical, 
with dark margins. The globules con- 
sist of a delicate envelope of caseine, en- 
closing a drop of oil or butter. The act 
of churning consists in liberating these fat corpuscles, 
which accumulate in a mass, and constitute the butter. 
The richness of the milk is determined by the quantity of 
the globules; the various adulterations of milk are de- 
termined by the number and character of the corpuscles. 
Water separates the globules. Flour exhibits the large 
starch corpuscles, which are changed blue by the action of 
iodine. Chalk shows numerous irregular mineral particles. 
Brain substance can be distinguished by large oil glo- 
bules, mixed with nerve tubes. Healthy milk may be 
recognized by the uniformity and size of the globules. 
In some cases milk is mixed with pus and blood, in which 
event it can be distinguished by the characteristics of 
these substances. 
Fig. 109. 
Normal, or good pus, when examined under a micro- 
scope, is found to consist of numerous corpuscles, floating 
in a clear fluid, the liquor puris. The corpuscles are globu- 
lar in form, having a smooth margin, and finely granular 
surface. They vary in size from the one-two-thousandth 
to the one-one-thousand-two-hundredth of an inch in diame- 
ter. In some of them there may be generally observed a 
round or oval nucleus, which is very distinct on the addi- 526 
HOW TO EXAMINE CASES. 
tion of water, when also the entire corpuscle becomes dis- 
tended from endosmosis, and its granular surface is more or 
less diminished. On the addition of strong acetic acid the 
cell-wall is dissolved, and the nuclei liberated in the form 
of two, three, four, or rarely five granules, each of which 
has a central shadowed spot. If, however, the reagent be 
weak, the cell-wall is merely rendered transparent and dia- 
phanous, through which the divided nucleus is very visible. 
Occasionally these bodies are seen surrounded by 
another fine membrane, as in fig. 110. At other times 
Fig. 110. 
Fig. 111. 
Pus corpuscles, as seen in healthy pus. 
The same, after the addition of acetic acid. 
they arc not perfectly globular, but present a more or less 
irregular margin, and are associated with numerous 
molecules and granules. This occurs in what is called 
scrofulous pus, and various kinds of unhealthy discharges 
from wounds and granulating surfaces. In gangrerious and 
ichorous sores we find a few of these irregular pus corpus- 
cles associated with a multitude of molecules and granules, 
and with transformed and broken-down blood globules, 
the debris of the involved tissues, etc., etc.-(Bennett). 
In scrofulous affections the pus corpuscles present an 
irregular and disorganized appearance. 
HOW TO EXAMINE CASES. 
The general principle of sounding the lungs and other 
parts of the body to discover diseased portions, may be 
learned from the following diagrams. It is necessary 
first to know the exact positions of the different organs, HOW TO EXAMINE CASES. 
527 
and then to study carefully the different sounds given in 
healthy persons, comparing them with others in disease. 
A drum or a barrel, filled with water, gives a different 
sound from one empty. This is the method of comparing 
healthy and diseased portions of the body. 
Fig. 112. 
Fig. 113. 
Fig. 112 represents a front view, and Fig. 113 a back 
view. For the lungs in a healthy person we listen and 
sound at PP ; the heart at C ; the liver at H ; the spleen 
at S; the stomach at G; the bowels at E; the colon 
at CO; the bladder at HU; the muscles at M; and the 
bones at O. 528 
HOW TO EXAMINE CASES. 
Thus by very closely examining persons in good health, 
and becoming familiar with the various sounds, very slight 
departures may be discovered in those diseased ; and it is 
only by much practice and close observation, that any one 
can become proficient in this department of medical obser- 
vation. 
Fig. 111. 
Fig. 115. 
In the following figures we have represented a few 
points where disease has begun its work. Fig. 114 repre- 
sents phthisis, atrophied heart and liver. 1. Atrophied 
heart; 2. Inflated tubercles on the left side; 3. The same CONSTIPATION. 
529 
on the right; 4. Atrophied liver; 5. Spleen; 6. Unusual 
dullness over abdomen from prolonged abstinence. 
Fig. 115 represents pleurisy. 1. On the right side, when 
in the erect position; 2. On the left side, when lying on 
the right; 3. Kidneys; 4. Spleen. 
CONSTIPATION. 
By constipation is understood a collection of excremen- 
titious matters in some part of the intestinal tube. 
Constipation is marked by the infrequency of the eva- 
cuations of the bowels, and by the occurrence of fulness 
and tension in parts of the abdomen. Constipation has 
usually been considered as of two forms-the one in which 
the patient was of a lax and weak habit of body; the 
other that in which the disease was produced by rigidity 
of the muscles and irritable temperament. The first form 
of constipation is characterized by a costive, or more con- 
sistent state than usual of the fecal excretions, with less 
frequent calls for evacuations. The constitutional symp- 
toms are pain in the head, fulness and tension of the ab- 
domen, a foul tongue, loss of appetite, and listlessness, 
together with an undefinable sense of oppression. 
Symptoms. 
Causes. 
One of the first causes of constipation is that of debility 
of the muscular coat of the intestines. It may also be pro- 
duced by the secretions concerned in the process of alimen- 
tation becoming vitiated, either in quality or quantity. It 
may also depend upon imperfection of the diet, such as in- 
troducing into the stomach food which can be only imper- 
fectly dissolved in the gastric secretions; also by food 
which lacks the proper quality of nutrition. Constipation 
is also a very common occurrence as the result of a morbid 
state of the brain and nervous system. The nerves and 
45 530 
CONSTIPATION. 
brain, when diseased, fail to dispense to the bowels that 
amount of nerve influence essential to their healthy condi- 
tion. Again, constipation may be produced by irritating 
medicines, and the constant use of drastic purgatives. It 
may also be produced by excessive secretions from other 
portions of the body ; as elimination is carried on from the 
body by the various emunctories, and when there is an ex- 
Fig. 116. 
cess of elimination from one, it is proportionately dimi- 
nished in another. Mental emotion, grief, anxiety, etc., 
also produce constipation. It may also occur as the result 
of stricture of the rectum, or other portions of the bowels. 
A remarkable case is shown by Mr. Easton, in which there 
was an accumulation of fecal matter in the ascending 
colon. 
(Fi'g. 116. Remarkable displacement of organs, in con- 
sequence of intestinal obstruction, a, Caput coli; b, 531 
CORNS AND BUNIONS. 
Ascending portion of sigmoid flexure; c, Descending 
portion; d, Gravid uterus turned a little down.) 
Treatment. 
In the treatment of constipation of the bowels, the cause 
or causes of the difficulty should be carefully studied. If 
dependent upon a weak and lax state of the muscular 
fibre, hydrastin and iron are the remedies; say, let the 
patient take one grain of hydrastin, and two of iron by 
hydrogen, five or six times a day. For the present relief, 
the bowels may be opened with the compound podophyllin 
granule once a week. If dependent upon vitiated secre- 
tions of the liver, stomach, etc., tonic tea should be drunk 
freely during the day, and two or three grains of frazerin, 
and one grain of bicarbonate of soda, taken every night at 
bed-time; and to maintain a soluble state of the bowels, the 
patient should eat unbolted bread, and freely of fresh fruits. 
Where it is produced by spinal and cerebral difficulties, 
the nervous affection should receive especial attention, 
while the bowels should be kept open by means of euony- 
min, in combination with cypripedin. Ten grains of 
euonymin, and five of cypripedin, divided into two pow- 
ders, and one morning and night, will usually accomplish 
this purpose. The surface should be frequently bathed 
and rubbed with a coarse towel, and the patient should 
attend to the demands of the bowels every morning. 
CORNS AND BUNIONS. 
One of the most prolific causes of corns and bunions is 
the wearing of tight boots and shoes. It seems that the 
Chinese custom of pinching the feet is gaining ground in 
most of the enlightened countries of the world. Both men 
and women must have their boots or shoes set like plas- 
ter-moulds to their feet, so that every motion will cause 
friction on some of the joints, and therefore corns and 532 
CORNS AND BUNIONS. 
bunions follow. Every shoemaker knows, as our cut re- 
presents, what pulling at the boot straps is necessary in 
order to get on a boot sufficiently small, so that no 
wrinkles shall make their appearance. Ladies with deli- 
cate, high heels, throwing their feet with all their weight 
down into the toe of the shoe, or allowing the foot to turn 
upon every little obstacle trod upon, thus wrenching the 
feet, or producing callusses upon different parts, will con- 
tinue to do so just because it is the fashion. The pains 
Fig. 117. 
experienced are trifling compared to the disgrace of being 
out of fashion. Troublesome sore feet for after life are 
never thought of. It is a true saying that they that dance 
must pay the fiddler. 
To cure these troublesome things wear boots and shoes 
of proper size, and apply a mixture of equal parts of 
Mecca oil and cr. iodine. If this should not cure them, a 
few applications of the author's corn and bunion ointment 
should be made. PARONYCHIA. 
533 
Ulcers.-There are many kinds of ulcers, arising from 
different causes. Almost every kind of a sore, where there is 
a secretion of either pus or other fluid, is commonly called 
an ulcer. They may arise from an enfeebled state of the 
blood, when almost every bruise or wound can hardly be 
healed, or from some poison absorbed into the blood, as in 
syphilis, the use of mercury, etc. Perhaps the most com- 
mon places are the legs and feet. Some are of a healthy 
character and heal rapidly of themselves; others are 
sluggish and are hard to heal. 
The treatment consists in correcting the disordered con- 
dition of the system, and applying the Mecca oil ointment. 
Anchylosis.-This is an immobility of a joint, frequent- 
ly arising from violent injuries, or of diseases of the part. 
It is best treated by stimulating liniments, brisk friction, 
local steam baths, and extension splints and bandages. 
Abscesses.-A collection of pus in any tissue of the body, 
is termed an abscess. There are many kinds frequenting 
different parts of the body. They generally first appear 
in a gradual swelling, with or without much pain, passing 
on to suppuration. It they are superficial they often open 
of themselves, but if deep-seated may require lancing. 
They may occur on almost every part of the body; but 
the neck, the groin, the axilla, and other parts where there 
are secreting glands, are very liable to them. Boils, 
carbuncles, buboes, scrofulous gatherings,.etc., are some of 
the different names by which they are commonly known. 
When it is desirable to bring them to ahead, a hot poultice 
of slippery-elm, flax-seed, and pulv. lobelia should be ap- 
plied, and changed frequently. 
Paronychia, Whitlow, or Felon.-This is an abscess 
which frequently forms at the end of the finger, and often 
causes the loss of a joint unless seasonably and effectually 
treated. They are extremely painful, and when deep- 
seated, attended with great danger to the finger. The pain 
45* 534 
HIP DISEASE. 
may commence suddenly, keeping the patient awake at 
nights, and still show no evidence of the trouble. If al- 
lowed to go on, the loss of a joint is pretty sure. A deep 
incision should be made at once, and a poultice applied 
as hot as can be borne. Laudanum, tr. lobelia, and arni- 
ca may be used to moisten the poultice with, when the 
pain is great. 
White Swelling, or Ilydrarthus.-This disease may at- 
tack either children or older people of middle life. It is a 
slow, insidious disease, and may appear first as a simple 
stiffness of the limb, which gradually swells, and in 
some months, or it may be years, an abscess forms and 
opens near the joint or at some distance from it. There is 
generally but little pain, but a sense of uneasiness. Some- 
times it comes on without any assignable cause, though it 
is generally the consequence of exposures to cold, or makes 
its appearance after fevers, and in persons of a scrofulous 
or consumptive constitution. The treatment consists in 
building up the system by the use of the blood, stomach, 
and liver tonic, and anti-periodic pills, with the applica- 
tion of the rheumatic liniment, and tr. of iodine; and when 
it is necessary to open the swelling, hot poultices, as in the 
case of abscess should be applied. To prevent opening, 
cold packs may be used. 
Necrosis, or Caries.-This is a disease of the bones, and 
denotes death or decay of the part attacked, and may arise 
from ulcers, syphilis, mercury, scrofulous taint, inflamma- 
tion, or the want of bone matter in the food. The treat- 
ment is the same as for scrofula. 
Hip Disease, or Morbus Cararms.-T he causes of th is dis- 
ease are the same as those producing necrosis, of which it is 
one variety. Frequently falls, dislocations, bruises, etc., are 
the forerunners. The pain seldom commences at the seat 
of the disease, but may be in the knee, foot, etc. Deformi- 
ty of the limb is an early symptom, as well as the produc- BURNS AND SCALDS. 
535 
tion of constitutional effects. Excruciating pain follows 
whenever the leg is pressed upward, making it difficult to 
walk. It is a disease of childhood. An irritating plaster 
should be applied, and continued until a thorough dis- 
charge from the surface is produced. This may be fol- 
lowed by the Mecca oil ointment until the parts heal, when 
the irritating plaster should again be applied. This 
course of treatment should be repeated as often as neces- 
sary, and the limb supported by one of the author's splints, 
and the constitution thoroughly built up with antiperio- 
dics and tonics. 
Hernia, or Rupture.-A protrusion of any organ from 
its proper cavity is denominated a hernia. The names 
which have been given to the different forms are omental, 
intestinal, gastric, cystic, or otherwise, according to the 
organ misplaced. Inguinal hernia, is the most common, 
and often is termed strangulated. 
Symptoms.-The tumor increases in size, is hard and 
tense. The patient is restless and has obstinate constipa- 
tion, the pulse full and hard, skin hot and pungent, the 
tumor of a dark purple color, extremely painful, nausea 
and vomiting, cold and clammy sweat, and eventually 
death. The operation for the strangulated hernia is fully 
described in works on surgery. For a cure of rupture, 
the irritating plaster with the author's radical-cure-truss is 
all that is necessary in adults or children, male or female. 
Burns and Scalds.-Where burns or scalds are slight, 
almost every thing has its advocates as a remedy. Any- 
thing that serves to protect the part from the air is useful. 
Where there are blisters, care should be taken not to tear 
off the skin and thus expose the flesh to the air. The 
blisters should be carefully pricked with a needle or lancet 
to let out the fluid. The part should be immersed imme- 
diately in cold water, and remain in it until the smarting 
ceases, which will usually prevent blistering. Fine flour 536 
DIARRHOEA. 
mixed with a little Mecca oil, or cotton, or wool, packed 
closely around the burn, will also prove beneficial. Lime- 
water and sweet oil are also used. Where the burn or 
scald is severe, a stimulant of brandy or whiskey should 
be administered immediately, and followed by a little 
aconite as soon as reaction takes place. 
Vaccina.-Vaccina, or cow-pox, is a variety of exanthe- 
matous disease, communicated by inoculation or vaccina- 
tion, and serves materially to lessen the susceptibility of 
the system to the contagion of small-pox. The best time 
to vaccinate is when the child is from three to six months 
old. Only pure lymph should be used from the cow or a 
healthy person, when the pox is about five days old. 
Slight scratches or punctures should be made on the arm 
with a lancet or knife, just through the outer skin, where 
the lymph should be applied. The operation will be fol- 
lowed, if successful, in a few days by inflammation at the 
point of puncture, suppuration and fever. Great care 
should be used that matter be not used from persons 
troubled with scrofula, syphilis or other infectious dis- 
eases. 
Obstruction of the Bowels.-This disease is some- 
times sudden in its attacks ; at other times, it approaches 
slowly with the ordinary symptoms of constipation. The most 
prominent symptoms are, constant vomiting of the con- 
tents of stomach, and mucus at first, but soon becoming 
of a fecal nature, swelling of the bowels, hiccough, great 
depression of spirits and constipation. 
Causes.-Accumulation of hardened fseces, stricture, 
foreign bodies, organic tumor, twists or displacements of 
the intestines, solid concretions, &c. I have cured a few 
cases by pumping into the bowels a large quantity of 
warm water, and a little tincture of lobelia. Two ounces 
of the tincture to four quarts of water may be used. 
Diarrhcea.-Symptoms.-Generally preceded by a sense APHONIA. 
537 
of indigestion, fulness of the stomach, flatulency, and 
more or less pain resembling colic. The pain generally 
subsides after an evacuation, and returns as an indication 
of another discharge. 
Causes.-Improper diet, weakness of the stomach, indi- 
gestion, unwholesome drinks, &c. Sometimes it is symp- 
tomatic, as in children while teething. 
Treatment.-One tea-spoonful of the neutralizing cordial 
may be given every hour, and in bad cases the following : 
Take sulphuric acid, one dram ; water, six ounces; sul- 
phate of morphine, two grains ; mix ; dose one tea-spoonful 
every half hour until the disease is cured, which will not 
fail. 
Sore Throat.-In this disease we include the more tech- 
nical terms, laryngitis and pharyngitis. It may be of any 
degree of severity, from a simple sore throat to extensive 
ulcerations, and loss of voice. The tonsils may become en- 
larged from inflammation, and from continued irritation 
become permanently enlarged. Catarrh vapor, acetic 
syrup of sanguinary and tonics will cure it. 
Bright's Disease.-This is a disease of the kidneys, at- 
tended with a dropsical condition of the patient, which 
has baffled the skill of physicians to a very great extent. 
The disease occurs gradually, and more frequently attacks 
people advanced in years, suffering from cardiac and 
bronchitic disorders. 
Symptoms.-Gradual increasing debility, irritable pulse, 
pallor and fulness of the face, as well as of the skin gen- 
erally, frequently passing of urine laden with albumen, 
dyspepsia and vomiting. 
Treatment.-The best treatment consists in the use of 
helonin and brandy, (see helonin); and the antiperiodic 
pills should be taken every seven days, and the diet as 
directed under that head. 
Aphonia.-Aphonia, or loss of voice, may arise from 538 
CONGESTION OF THE LIVER. 
anything that causes an inflammation of the larynx, and 
may vary from an impairment to a complete loss of voice, 
and is more frequently found in women than men. The 
causes are protracted, or exhausting sickness, excessive 
efforts at singing or speaking, sudden exposures to cold, 
affections of the nerve centres, and in persons of a con- 
sumptive constitution. The treatment consists in the use 
of catarrh vapor, and the Mecca oil compound with tonics 
and a proper diet. 
Influenza, or Common Cold, much resembles catarrh, 
only in an aggravated form. Sometimes it produces only 
slight disturbances ; again, it appears in an epidemic form. 
The catarrh vapor and antiperiodic pills will cure it. 
Stomatorrhagia.-Stomatorrhagia, or discharges of 
blood from the mouth and throat, occurs less frequently than 
epistaxis. In scurvy, and after the use of mercury, and 
sometimes after the extraction of a tooth, or the division 
of the fraenum of the tongue, it may prove troublesome. 
Ten grains of pure capsicum, and a tablespoonful of 
cream taken every hour is the best treatment. 
Melasna, or Hemorrhage of the Bowels.-This disease is 
generally preceded by symptoms of some well-known dis- 
ease, such as enteritis, dysentery, enteric fever, scurvy, 
purpura, etc. Sometimes the patient is attacked suddenly 
with griping pain, nausea, paleness, extremities cool, and 
offensive discharges of black-colored blood from the 
bowels. The color of the blood may vary. One grain of 
nitrate of silver, made into sixteen pills with gum arabic, 
and one every two hours, will cure it. 
Congestion of the Liver.-The cause of this state of 
the liver lies in some obstruction of the circulation of the 
blood through its substance, and this may arise from some 
organic affection of the heart, or in some disease of the 
pulmonary apparatus, when it interferes with the circula- 
tion of the blood through the pulmonary organs. Hepa- 539 
EPISTAXIS. 
tic congestion may also occur, as the result of violent ex- 
ercise after a hearty meal. 
Symptoms.-In both the acute and chronic form, there 
will be much the same train of symptoms, though in dif- 
ferent degrees. The yellowness of the eyes, a dull, heavy 
feeling, sleepiness, high-colored urine, constipation, capri- 
cious appetite, and sometimes sickness at the stomach. 
Treatment.-A hot pack should be applied to the liver, 
and be maintained four hours, to be followed by an 
irritating plaster, and one of the liver renovator pills, 
administered night and morning for three or four days. 
These should be followed by the antiperiodic pills, one 
every hour until twenty are taken ; after which from ten 
to twelve drops of the Mecca oil compound should be 
taken four or five times a day. 
Catarrh, Acute and Chronic.-Catarrh is an inflamma- 
tion of the Schneiderian, or lining membrane of the nostrils. 
From a simple fullness, dryness and irritation of the nos- 
trils, there follows dull pain, and a discharge of a thin, 
colorless, acrid fluid, obtuseness of hearing, chills, pains in 
the limbs, &c. It may arise from colds, acrid vapors, 
powders, &c., or may be epidemic. Sometimes it is very 
troublesome in small children. In the chronic form the 
discharge is thick, and at times connected with large green 
masses, which are very offensive if the bones are affected. 
It frequently extends to the throat and lungs, producing 
dyspepsia, bronchitis and consumption. It is cured by 
catarrh vapor, antiperiodic pills, and blood, stomach and 
liver tonic. 
Epistaxis, or Nose-Bleed.-This is the most frequent va- 
riety of hemorrhage, occurring frequently in childhood and 
youth. Generally but little blood is lost. Sometimes it is 
profuse and dangerous. When it occurs in weakened and 
debilitated constitutions, where the blood is in a deterio- 
rated condition, as in fever, purpura, scorbutus, etc., it is 540 
CHOLERA INFANTUM. 
an alarming symptom. Cold water or ice applied to the 
back of the neck, will frequently stop it. When that fails, 
a moderately strong solution of cold salt and water should 
be snuffed up the nose. 
Bronchocele, or Goitre.-Bronchocele is an enlargement 
of the thyroid gland, known by a thickening of the neck. 
It is more likely to occur in females at the age of puberty, 
although it may occur at any period of life, and is de- 
veloped in low, marshy, and miasmatic sections of the 
country. It should be painted with the tincture of iodine 
every night, and one anti-periodic pill taken four times a 
day, until a cure is effected, which will be in the course of 
a few months. 
Nasal Polypi.-A nasal polypi is a soft, moist tumor of 
yellowish color. One of its first symptoms is a feeling as 
if something were in the nostril. Sometimes they are so 
large as to disfigure the nose and face. The catarrh vapor, 
if injected with a syringe up the nose a few times will 
destroy their growth; or they may be removed by the 
polypi forceps. 
Stone in the Bladder, or Gravel.-This disease is 
common to both men and women. 
Symptoms.-Irritability of the bladder; frequent desire to 
urinate; sudden stoppage of the stream; pain in the neck 
of the bladder; a brick-dust sediment in the vessel after 
urinating. Twenty drops of the Mecca oil compound 
every two hours, and a free use of the queen of the meadow 
tea is the best treatment, unless an operation is required. 
Spleen.-This organ is subject to enlargement in attacks 
of ague, hence an enlarged spleen has received the name 
of ague cake. This may also arise from improper treat- 
ment in intermittent fevers. Treatment same as in ague. 
Cholera Infantum-This is a complaint which usually 
attacks children between the ages of two months and three 
years, and is peculiar to the warm season. SYNCOPE. 
541 
Symptoms.-Diarrhoea; irritable stomach ; vomiting and 
purging. The discharges from the stomach and bowels 
are of a yellowish, thin, liquid character, and sometimes of 
a rice-water appearance. The disease is sometimes so 
severe as to destroy life in a very few hours. 
Causes.-Hot weather; impure air of cities; lack of 
proper nutrition, etc. 
Treatment.-The dysentery cordial, neutralizing cordial, 
and in bad cases the acid cholera mixture should be used. 
The diet should consist of equal parts of lime-water and 
milk; fresh air, with a plenty of good water allowed. 
Prolapsus of the Rectum is of common occurrence, 
sometimes the protrusion being only slight; at others it may 
be five or six inches. There is much pain in the lumbar 
regions; nervousness; constipation or diarrhoea; dyspep- 
sia, etc. 
To cure this, whenever the protrusion occurs, it should 
be thoroughly sprinkled with pulverized blood-root, and 
the parts put back to their proper position. This practice 
continued for a few weeks will generally effect a radical 
cure. 
Tabes Mesenterica, or a degeneration of the mesenteric 
glands, occurs particularly in children of a scrofulous ten- 
dency, and in those who are weaned too soon, or are fed on 
indigestible substances. The disease usually progresses 
very slowly, continuing sometimes for years. 
Symptoms.-Abdomen swollen and tense; vomiting of 
glairy matter; bowels irregular; features shrunken; breath 
offensive ; urine scanty; general emaciation, and death. 
Causes.-Unwholesome diet; impure air; sedentary 
habits; exposure to cold; abuses of the system; mental 
anxiety, etc. 
Treatment.-See article on diet for consumptive and 
scrofulous patients, with the treatment for consumptives. 
Syncope, or Fainting, generally occurs suddenly, though 
46 542 
RULES FOR DIET AND EXERCISE. 
sometimes preceded by sickness at the stomach, mental 
confusion, impaired vision, rapidly sinking pulse. 
Causes.-It may arise from organic disease, rheumatism, 
gout, poisons, strokes of lightning, etc. Of the nervous 
causes, terror, sudden fright, sad intelligence, nausea, etc. 
Treatment.-Place the patient on the back, and drop 
water on the face. 
Paralysis of the Bladder.-If the body of the blad- 
der be paralyzed, the patient will be affected with retention 
of urine, on account of the want of power in the organ to 
throw off the contents, and not because of any obstacle to 
the flow of the urine. When paralysis occurs in the neck 
of the bladder, the urine passes away without the will of 
the patient. 
Treatment.-Electricity and tonics are the best remedies. 
RULES FOR DIET AND EXERCISE. 
The practitioner of medicine usually contents himself 
with giving his prescription, and allowing the patient to 
chalk out his own method of dietetics, when, to every 
careful observer, it is apparent that far more depends 
upon a well regulated life, both for the prevention and 
cure of disease, than upon all the medicines of the various 
schools of physic. The physician and medicines should 
only be resorted to in emergencies, while every person 
should study to preserve life and health, by a proper con- 
formation to the laws God has established ; a strict obe- 
dience to which is a condition whereby life may be ma- 
tured and health enjoyed. 
Exercise.-Either too violent or a total want of exercise 
is attended with equal disadvantages. The blood is driven 
from the capillaries into the veins, and a healthy circula- 
tion thereby maintained by the alternate contraction and 
relaxation of the muscles. All the muscles should be 
equally exercised. This can be effected by walking, RULES FOR DIET AND EXERCISE. 
543 
swinging, rowing, pitching quoits, jumping, lifting, wrest- 
ling, dancing, sweeping, scrubbing, washing, hoeing, 
plowing, chopping, cooking, ironing, sewing, and in the 
labors of nearly all the mechanical arts. Thus we ob- 
serve God's revealed law, " that man shall live by the 
sweat of his brow " exemplified in our conditions, for if 
we exercise the various muscles of the body every day, 
from five to six hours, and conform to other physiological 
conditions, we will enjoy health; otherwise we must ne- 
cessarily suffer from either acute or chronic maladies. 
Nor will it answer that we exercise the muscles of one 
portion of the body, and allow the others to rest, for they 
must all be brought into active exercise, at least for seve- 
ral hours each day. 
Diet.-That man is omnivorous in relation to his de- 
mands for food, there can hardly be a question. Many 
of the inferior animals can subsist entirely upon vegetable 
or animal aliment; but it is evident from man's anatomy 
and physiology that his digestive organs are merely a cu- 
linary laboratory, in which the more crude organic ele- 
ments are reduced to a proper condition for the nutrition 
of the human body, and the most ample experience has 
verified the fact, that man cannot enjoy the full exercise 
of all his powers and faculties, without a reasonable mix- 
ture of both animal and vegetable food. The functions of 
the mind and nervous system demand large supplies of 
nitrogenized elements, while the active metamorphosis of 
tissue, produced by mental influences can only be main- 
tained by the reception into the system of proper quanti- 
ties of non-nitrogenized food which is derived from ani- 
mal tissues. The vegetables best adapted to the nourish- 
ment of the body, are wheat, corn, rice, oats, potatoes, 
tomatoes, cabbage, beans, peas, onions, parsnips, carrots, 
vegetable oysters and turnips. The animals which fur- 
nish the best food are sheep, oxen, swine, fowls, fish, deer, 544 
RULES FOR DIET AND EXERCISE. 
squirrel, and rabbit. These articles, however, should 
not be eaten promiscuously, nor can they be used with 
impunity, unless they are properly prepared before they 
are introduced into the stomach. Cooking, as a science, is 
very imperfectly understood; and it is because of this ig- 
norance that dyspepsia, liver disease, consumption, and 
scrofula are so very prevalent. Thus, potatoes contain 
potash, soda, sulphur and starch. The potash is necessary 
for the formation of bile, and to supply the bones and 
other tissues. Thus one pound of potatoes contains about 
twenty-one grains of potash; but by boiling them in water 
the potash, sulphur, and soda are extracted by the water, 
while there only remains the starch, which, when deprived 
of its earthy salts, acts as a ferment when introduced into 
the stomach, and, if taken with the albumen of animal 
food, generates sulphuretted hydrogen gas, carbonic acid 
gas, and arrests the process of digestion. This is the 
cause of flatulency, stupor, and mental inactivity, which 
so frequently follow the use of this article when it is 
improperly cooked. Potatoes, in order to be nutritious 
and healthy, should either be steamed, roasted, or baked, 
and eaten as soon as cooked ; for as soon as the 
potato gets cold the starch corpuscles, or portions of the 
potato, are transformed into glucose or grape sugar, 
which, if taken with milk, turnips, beans, or cabbage, will 
be converted into lactic and butyric acids in the stomach, 
producing rheumatism, dyspepsia, nervous irritability, 
headache, constipation of the bowels, and other acute and 
chronic maladies. Other vegetables, such as beans, peas, 
etc., should be cooked by steaming, or may be boiled and 
eaten with the water in which they are cooked. The water 
can be seasoned with butter, salt and flour, so as to make 
it palatable. Peas and beans contain a large-amount of 
potash, soda, sulphur and phosphorus, and are good articles 
of diet for persons of a nervous, scrofulous, or consumptive 545 
habit; also, for those who have a deficiency of bile, and 
suffer from constipation. Wheat and rye are equally ser- 
viceable as a bread. Wheat should be cooked, whole or 
crushed, by placing a proper quantity in water, allowing it 
to soak from twelve to twenty-four hours, then boiling it 
until soft. It can be used with salt, pepper, butter, milk or 
cream. Rye and rice can be used in the same manner, 
only they do not require as much cooking. If they are 
made into bread, the whole kernel should be used ground 
fine, as the phosphorus, lime and other important nutritive 
elements exist more in the shuck than in the centre of the 
seed. Beef, mutton and pork are best prepared by baking 
or broiling. Beef can be eaten rare, while other animal 
substances should be thoroughly cooked. Fish is best pre- 
pared by boiling or baking. Never eat a great variety at 
any one time. 
Fruits.-All ripe fruits are wholesome, and may be 
taken in reasonable quantities for dessert after breakfast or 
dinner, and may be used as an exclusive meal for supper, 
but should never be mixed with other food at night. 
Salad.-Pickles, lettuce, radishes, water-cress, mustard, 
and old cheese are said to be promoters of digestion when 
taken in connection with a mixed diet of animal and vege- 
table food, but should always be taken in small quantities. 
Diet in Disease.-The weaker the stomach the less the 
variety of food it can digest. All the food introduced 
into the stomach that is not digested, acts as poison. Con- 
sumptive patients may use the following : To one pound 
of beef chopped like mince meat, add one pint of hot 
water; press out all the juice with the water, by squeezing 
through a coarse linen cloth ; to this ten drops of nitro- 
muriatic acid may be added, and drank during the meal, 
which should consist of boiled wheat, rice or rye, with 
sugar, butter, pepper or milk. For dinner, ripe fruit may 
be taken, but only in limited quantities. 
46* 
RULES FOR DIET AND EXERCISE. 546 
RULES FOR DIET AND EXERCISE. 
Dyspeptics.-Where there is a disease of the stomach, 
patients may use their meat broiled or roasted with wheat, 
rice, rye, peas, or vegetable oysters without fruit. 
Heart Disease.-The diet should be exclusively milk, 
with boiled wheat or rye, with one meal a day of fruit. 
Rheumatism, and Gout.-Milk and meat should not be 
used ; wheat, rye, and fruits, may be taken once a day. 
Nervous Diseases.-Wheat, rice, rye, and milk, with 
fresh fish. 
In inflammatory diseases and fevers no solid food should 
be taken, the diet being exclusively of milk. 
Epilepsy.-The diet should be exclusively corn mush, 
and milk. 
In Female Diseases.-Animal food should be taken only 
once a day. 
In Catarrh.-The diet should be exclusively vegetables 
and milk. 
Sleep and Rest.-From six to eight hours sleep is re- 
quired for a healthy person, and much more for those who 
are diseased. All persons who are sick should take a 
short rest in a recumbent position, as often as the body be- 
comes fatigued. Fire, gas, light, noises, and an over- 
loaded stomach, are incompatible with refreshing sleep. 
Drinks.-Tea and Coffee are full of tannin as well as 
granular matter. They retard digestion and disorder the 
organism generally; hence, they should not be used. 
The only healthful drink is pure water, which should never 
be taken very cold. The system exhausts about two gal- 
lons of this fluid every twenty-four hours ; hence, it must 
receive that much in return, or the tissues will become in- 
spissated, or too thick, to perform those changes essential 
to life's process. THE 
DIFFERENT SYSTEMS OF PRACTICE. 
That the reader may become familiar with the resources, 
with all Systems of Practice, we introduce that of the 
Allopathist, Homoeopathist and Hydropathist, I will here 
introduce a list of diseases, with their remedies, from the 
most approved authority of each system of practice. The 
Allopathic treatment I have given strictly according to Prof. 
Eberle, one of the most popular authors upon that system 
of practice. The Homoeopathic practice is given according 
to J. Lourie, M.D.,an author of great popularity among 
Homoeopathists. The size of the dose and the trituration 
are given according to Jahr's and Gruner's Homoeopathic 
Pharmacopoeia. The Hydropathic treatment is given ac- 
cording to Shew, Trail, and other standard authorities. 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
Intermittent Fever. - Treatment: ■- Emetics, opium 
blood-letting, nitre, camphor, sulphuric ether, magnesia, 
calomel and jalap, cinchona, quinine, potash, cloves, 
leeches, blisters, arsenic, sulphate of zinc, black pepper 
salivation. 
Remittent Fever.- Treatment:-Blood-letting, cathar- 
tics, calomel and jalap, ipecac, nitre, salivation, epsom 
salts, castor oil, magnesia, opium, antimony, ammonia, 
cold water, leeches, blisters, balsam copaiva, sinapisms 
warm bath, enemas, lemonade, quinine, gentian, serpen 
tori a. 
547 548 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
Yellotc Fever. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, calomel, 
salivation, enemata, epsom salts, sponge with cold water, 
leeches, blisters, aperients, diaphoretics, quinine, wine, 
ammonia. 
Synocha or simple continued Fever. - Treatment: - 
Blood-letting, purgatives, soda, magnesia, antimony, jalap, 
cream of tan nr, calomel, diaphoretics, nitre, James's 
powders, digita.'is, salivation, ipecac, sponging with cold 
water, blisters, cupping, leeches, enemata. 
Synochus Fcv^r.- Treatment: - The same as synocha 
throughout. 
Typhus Fever.-Treatment:-Emetics, ipecac, calomel, 
gentle purgatives, castor oil, enemata, epsom salts, croton 
oil, salivation, b.'ood-letting, effusions .of cold water, 
diaphoretics, laudanum, nitre, wine, ammonia, camphor, 
opium, quinine, blisters, capsicum, serpentaria, camomile. 
Glossitis, inflammation of the tongue. - Treatment: - 
Blood-letting, leeches, scarifying, incisions with scalpel, 
laxative enemata, blisters on the back of the neck. 
Tonsillitis, Quinsy.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, scari- 
fying the tonsils, cupping, an active purge, mild aperients, 
.calomel, enemata, nitre, antimony, ammonia, liquorice, 
blisters, spirits turpentine, emollient poultices. 
Parotitis, Mumps.-Treatment: - Keep the bowels 
open, diaphoretics, blisters, mercurial ointment, camphor, 
rubefacient liniments. 
Acute Gastritis. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, leeches, 
blisters, mercurial ointment, mucilaginous drinks, vegetable 
acids, laxative enemata, opium, calomel. 
Chronic Gastritis.-Treatment:-Leeching or cupping, 
blisters, tartar emetic ointment, sulphate of iron, hyoscia- 
mus, morphia, nitrate of silver, borax, Dover's powder, 
balsam of copaiva, syrup of poppies, purgative enemata. 
Peritoneal Enteritis.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, pur- 
gatives, laxative enemata, calomel, castor oil, opium, ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
549 
spirits turpentine, blisters, emollient poultices, digitalis, 
wine. 
Dysentery.-Treatment:-Bleeding, purgatives, castor 
oil, calomel, laudanum,emetics, ipecac, diaphoretics, sali- 
vation, mucilaginous liquids, nitrous acid, sugar of lead, 
leeches, blisters, emollient poultices, balsam of copaiva, 
turpentine, enemata, dogwood bark, diet, rice, barley. 
Chronic Enteritis.-Treatment: - Proper diet, castor 
oil, laudanum, leeches, blisters, tartar-emetic ointment, 
calomel, balsam of copaiva, spirits turpentine, sulphate 
of iron, nitrate of silver, hyosciamus, elm bark. 
Acute Peritonitis.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, leeches, 
emollient poultices, active cathartics, castor oil, spirits 
turpentine, cream of tartar, calomel, jalap, blisters, 
leeches, salivation, opium, digitalis, wine. 
Chronic Peritonitis.-Treatment: - Leeches, blisters, 
mercurial ointment, tartar-emetic ointment, emollient poul- 
tices, warm baths, castor oil, cream of tartar, Dover's 
powder. 
Acute hepatitis.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, mercury, 
castor oil, leeches, salivation, blisters, opium, antimony, 
warm bath, nitro-muriatic acid, cicuta, tonic bitters, nitric 
acid, extract of conium. 
Chronic hepatitis. -Treatment: - Blood-letting, mer- 
cury, leeches, salivation, blisters, emollient poultices, blue- 
pill, conium, laxatives, epsom salts, gentian, columbo, 
nitro-muriatic acid, white precipitate, setons. 
Splenitis. - Treatment: - Blood - letting, purgatives, 
counter-irritants, warm bath, leeches, tartar-emetic, mer- 
cury, setons, hyosciasmus, diaphoretics, antimony, muriate 
of ammonia, ipecacuanha, iodine. 
Phrenitis, phrensy. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, 
leeches, cold water or ice, active purgatives, calomel, 
senna, blisters, nitre, antimony, digitalis. 
Arachnitis, hydrocephalus.-Treatment: - Laxatives, 550 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
calomel, blue-pil1, castor oil, blood-letting, leeches, manna, 
laxative enemata, spigelia, ipecac, salivation, mercurial 
ointment, blisters, ice, tartar-emetic ointment, James's and 
Dover's powder. 
Cerebritis, softening of the brain. - Treatment: - 
Blood-letting, sinapisms, opium, cold to the head, blisters, 
calomel, salivation. 
Peripneumonia. - Treatment: - Bleeding, leeches, 
digitalis, nitre, castor oil, emetics, cooling diaphoretics, 
muriate of ammonia, antimony, calomel, opium, camphor, 
ipecacuanha, expectorants, blisters, squills, tartar-emetic 
ointments, setons, conium. 
Cynanche Laryngea, Laryngitis.-Treatment:-Blood- 
letting, leeches, blisters, emollient poultices, emetics, calo- 
mel, sinapisms to the feet, lunar caustic, alum, bron- 
chotomy. 
Cynanche Trachealis, Croup.-Treatment: - Bleed- 
ing, blisters, emetics, warm bath, mercurial purgatives, 
antimony, enemata, salivation, ipecac, friction with turpen- 
tine, polygala senega. 
Acute bronchitis. - Treatment: - Blood - letting, ene- 
mata, castor oil, emetics, tartar-emetic, ipecacuanha, 
squills, expectorants, opium, calomel, blisters, leeches, 
emollient poultices, warm bath, columbo, gentian. 
Chronic Bronchitis, Bronchial Consumption.-Treat- 
ment:- Bleeding, leeches, warm climate, tartar-emetic 
ointment, emollient poultices, emetics, digitalis, antimony, 
squills, balsam copaiva, quinine, opium, conium, ipecac, 
prussic acid, sugar of lead, blue-pill, or calomel, saliva- 
tion. 
Pthisis Pulmonalis.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, digi- 
talis, tartar-emetic blisters, issues and setons, gum arabic, 
prussic acid, acetate of lead, opium, uva ursi, expectorants, 
muriate of ammonia, tartar-emetic ointment, salivation, 
squills. ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
551 
Nephritis. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, cupping or 
leeches, active cathartics, calomel, castor oil, enemata, 
emollient poultices, blisters, diaphoretics, antimony, steam 
bath, Dover's powder, uva ursi, opium, conium, lime 
water, balsam copaiva. -*■ 
Cystitis. - Treatment: - Bleeding, leeches, emollient 
poultices, gentle laxatives, enemata, opium, introduction 
of catheter, steam bath, antimony, calomel. 
Chronic cystitis. - Treatment: - Cupping, leeches, 
blood-letting, castor oil, magnesia, caustic issues on the 
thigh, muriated tincture of iron, beech leaves, uva ursi, 
ursi, elm bark injected into the bladder. 
Hysteritis.-Treatment: - Bleeding, leeches, emollient 
poultices, calomel, epsom salts, injecting warm emollient 
fluids into the vagina, blisters, nitre, antimony, opium. 
Chronic hysteritis.-Treatment: - Blood-letting, cup- 
ping, purgatives, leeches, blisters, emollient injections, 
warm bath, mercury, camphor, antimony, balsam copaiva, 
muriate of ammonia, liquorice. 
Pericarditis.-Treatment:-Calomel, bleeding, opium, 
salivation, leeches, blisters, cream of tartar, diuretics, 
squills, pustulation with tartar-emetic ointment, oi' a caus- 
tic issue over the region of the heart. 
Acute Rheumatism.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, pur- 
gatives, calomel, epsom salts, emetics, antimony, opium, 
diaphoretics, salivation, quinine, colchicum, magnesia, 
stramonium, leeches, blisters. 
Chronic Rheumatism. - Mercury, rhubarb, quinine, 
antimony, salivation, sarsaparilla, vapor bath, sulphate of 
zinc, stramonium, colchicum, arsenic, leeches, cups, blis- 
ters, spirits turpentine, capsicum, camphor, warm bath. 
Gout. - Treatment: - Bleeding, cathartics, calomel, 
emetics, ipecac, opium, eupatorium perfoliatura, colchicum, 
magnesia, blue pill, camphor, ginger, savin, laudanum, 
sinapisms, enemata, cupping, leeching. 552 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
Catarrhal Ophthalmia.-Treatment:-Scarifying, anti 
mony, calomel and jalap, emollient applications, opium, 
solution of zinc, nitrate of silver, corrosive sublimate, 
ipecac, blisters, lunar caustic, quinine, bark, arsenic. 
Rheumatic Ophthalmia'^-Ti'catmeni:-Bleeding, anti- 
mony, opium, calomel, Dover's powder, blisters, cupping, 
puncturing the cornea, aqueous solutions of opium. 
Purulent Ophthalmia. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, 
leeches, decoction of poppy-heads, calomel, ipecac, anti- 
mony, castor oil, blisters, emollient fomentations, lime, 
nitrate of silver, quinine, nitric acid. 
Scrofulous Ophthalmia.-Treatment:-Leeches, pur- 
gatives, calomel, castor oil, rhubarb, emetics, antimony, 
Dover's powders, sarsaparilla, quinine, barytes, iodine, 
nitrate of silver. 
Syphilitic and strumous iritis.-Treatment:-Mercury, 
antimony, jalap, salivation, belladonna, precipitate oint- 
ment, chalk, quinine, setons in the nape of the neck. 
Variola, Small-pox.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, pur- 
gatives, calomel, emetics, diaphoretics, nitre, antimony, 
ammonia, cooling regimen, wine, camphor, quinine, opium, 
blisters, scarifications, chalk, ipecac, warm bath. 
Rubeola, Morbilli, Measles.- Treatment: - Mild laxa- 
tives, diaphoretics, sage, elder blossoms, balm, eupatorium, 
bleeding, antimony, nitre, warm baths, stimulating friction, 
sinapisms, camphor, ammonia, opium, blisters, calomel, 
squills, serpentaria. 
Scarlatina. - Treatment: - Gentle aperients, cool or 
tepid drinks, emetics, brisk mercurial purges, warm baths, 
nitre, antimony, ammonia, sulphuric acid, cold water to 
the surface, blisters, blood-letting, camphor, calomel, opium, 
sinapisms, wine, quinine, capsicum, enemata, serpentaria. 
Erysipelas. -Treatment: - Blood-letting, purgatives, 
calomel, emetics,. diaphoretics, antimony, ipecacuanha, 
magnesia, castor oil, warm bathing, bark, wine, opium, ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
553 
camphor, capping, blisters, enemata, corrosive sublimate, 
nitrate of silver, incisions in the inflamed skin. 
Herpes Phlyctenodes.-Treatment:-Gentle aperients, 
simple diet, diaphoretics, calomel, ipecac, warm bath, 
bleeding, Dover's powder, lunar caustic. 
Herpes Labialis.-Treatment:-Fomentations of white 
poppy-heads, acetate of lead. 
Herpes Preputialis.- Treatment: - A solution of borax, 
nitrate of silver, chloride of sodium in solution. 
Pemphigus.- Treatment: - Mild laxatives, rest, tepid 
bathing, bleeding, diuretics, calomel, Fowler's arsenical 
solution, opium, quinine, sulphuric acid. 
Urticaria, Nettle Rash.-Treatment:-Emetics, ipecac, 
mild laxatives, simple diet, cooling drinks, rest, magnesia, 
quinine, sulphuric acid, iron, Fowler's solution, tepid bath. 
Miliaria, Miliary Fever.-Treatment:-Ipecac, emetics, 
warm bathing, diaphoretics, Dover's powder, ammonia, 
serpentaria, camphor, opiates. 
Lichen.- Treatment: - Tepid bathing, mild aperients, 
diluent acidulated drinks, cream, calomel, unsalted butter, 
sulphuric acid, bleeding, Fowler's solution, laxatives, low 
diet. 
Eczema.-Treatment:-Sulphur ointment, tepid bath- 
ing, mild laxatives, nitre, tartar emetic, Dover's powders, 
calomel, nitric acid, soda, sarsaparilla, camphor, opium, 
stramonium, borax, cantharides, arsenic, Fowler's solu- 
tion. 
Herpes Zoster.-Treatment:-Gentle aperients, simple 
diet, diaphoretics, calomel, ipecac, warm bath, bleeding, 
Dover's powders, lunar caustic. 
Herpes Circinatus, Ring Worm.-Treatment:-Alka- 
line washes, sulphate of copper or zinc, ointment of narrow- 
leafed dock, mild laxatives. 
Erythema.-Treatment: - Light diet, gentle diapho- 
47 554 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
reties, mineral acids, warm baths, tepid ablutions, borax, 
acetate of lead, opium. 
Roseola.-Treatment:-Rest, mild aperients, acidulated 
cooling diluents, simple diet, refrigerant diaphoretics. 
Hemorrhagica Petechialis.-Treatment:-Tonics, cin« 
chona, serpentaria, sulphuric acid, wine, nitrate of silver, 
spirits of turpentine, blood-letting, purgatives, calomel and 
jalap, oil of turpentine, bathing the surface with a decoc- 
tion of oak bark. 
Hemorrhages. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, digital s, 
cold, blisters, sinapisms, warmth, sugar of lead, alr.m, 
muriated tincture of iron. 
Epistaxis.-Treatment: - Bleeding, cool drinks, laxa- 
tives, nitre, cold water applied to the head, neck and 
genital organs, sugar of lead, gallic acid, blisters to the 
nape of the neck, pediluvium, sinapisms to the feet. 
Hcematemesis, bleeding at the stomach.-Treatment:- 
Blood-letting, sinapisms to the epigastric and hypocondriac 
regions, cupping, warm bath, laxatives, enemas, active 
purgatives, emetics of ipecac, sugar of lead, spirits of tur- 
pentine, castor oil, tincture of iron, juice of the common 
nettle. 
Hcematuria, bleeding of the urinary organs. - Treat- 
ment:- Bleeding, warm bath, opium, cupping, sugar of 
lead, sinapisms over the kidneys, muriated tincture of iron, 
mucilaginous drinks, alum, ipecac, decoction of logwood, 
cold water to the genitals, inject cold solutions of the 
sugar of lead. 
Hcemoptysis, bleeding at the lungs. - Treatment: - 
Blood-letting, common salt, sugar of lead, sinapisms to 
the breast, cooling drinks, laxative enemata, nitrate of 
potash, opium, calomel, emetics, capsicum, digitalis, caustic 
issues, setons, leeches to the anus, camphor, ipecac, ?an- 
tharides, warm hip bath. 
Menorrhagia, uterine hemorrhage. - Treatment: - ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
555 
Bleeding, sugar of lead, ipecac, opium, camphor, cinna- 
mon, alum, nitre, astringent injections into the vagina, 
elixir of vitriol, tampons, emetics, valerian prussiate of 
iron, ergot, savin. 
Phlegmasia Dolens. - Treatment: - Blood - letting, 
leeches, purgatives, magnesia, colchicum, antimony, calo- 
mel, opium, ipecac, nitre, frictions with dry flannel, fomen- 
tations with hot vinegar and water. 
Apoplexy.-Treatment: - Copious blood-letting, cold 
wrater to the head, fomentations, sinapisms of the tincture 
of capsicum to the feet, cupping, active purgatives, calomel 
and colocynth, croton oil, castor oil and turpentine, ene- 
mata, aloes, antimony, emetics, zinc, blisters, issues. 
Hemiplegia, palsy of one side; Paraplegia, palsy of 
the legs.-Treatment: - Blood-letting, purgatives, salts, 
aloes, calomel, scammony, colocynth, capsicum, emetics, 
blisters to the neck, sinapisms to the ankles, stimulating 
enemata, friction, stimulating baths, electricity, galvanism, 
strychnine, salivation, iodine, warm bath. 
Epilepsy.-Treatment:-Bleeding, cold water in large 
draughts, emetics in large draughts, emetics of ipecac, 
calomel, diaphoretics, warm bath, antimony, camphor issues, 
setous, emetics, spirits of turpentine, castor oil, oil of tur- 
pentine, misletoe, oxide of zinc, nitrate of silver, tin, 
lead. 
Catalepsy.-Treatment:-Sulphuric ether, stimulating 
applications to the feet, enemata, bleeding, purgatives, 
galvanism, electricity, country air, regular exercise, tepid 
bathing, blue pill, camphor, tepid shower bath, zinc, vale- 
rian, musk, castor, opium. 
Chorea, St. Vitus's Dance.-Treatment:-Purgatives, 
mercury, quinine, aloes, bleeding, vegetable diet, Dover's 
powder, magnesia, valerian assafcetida, hyoscyamus, cam- 
phor, opium, turpentine, warm pediluvium, blisters, savin, 556 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
iron, leeches and warm bath, sulphur, issues, tartar-emetic 
ointment, &c. 
Convulsive affections of tn/amfe.-TreatmentEmetics 
of ipecac, purgatives, enemata, infusions of savin and 
spigelia, bleeding, calomel, pediluvium, cold water to the 
head, blisters, assafoetida, musk, opium, Dover's powder, 
warm bath, setons, issues, sulphur. 
Hysteria.- Treatment: - Bleeding, sinapisms, emetics, 
sulphate of zinc, ipecac, opium, assafoetida, musk, sul- 
phuric ether, castor, enemata, warm pediluvium, turpentine, 
enemata, camphor, valerian, ictodes-foetida, antimony, 
iron, mercury, cold shower bath, &c. 
Puerperal Convulsions.-Treatment: - Blood-letting, 
sinapisms to the feet, purgative enemata, cupping, cold 
applications to the head, active cathartics, calomel, jalap, 
aloes. 
Tetanus. - Treatment: - Bleeding, leeches, mercury, 
opium, warm bath, purgatives, castor oil, spirits of tur- 
pentine, wine, prussic acid, cold effusions. 
Hydrophobia. - Treatment: - Local applications to 
the wound, wash the wound with warm water, excision, 
cautery, cupping, glysters, ligatures, belladonna, water 
plantain, vinegar, cantharides, mercury, cold bathing, 
copious bleeding. 
Monomania.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, leeches, pur- 
gatives, mercury, castor oil, ;alap, spigelia, turpentine, 
emetics, regimen, exercise, warm bath, cold bath, blisters, 
circular swing, music. 
Delirium Tremens.-Treatment: - Opium the sheet 
anchor, castor oil, laxatives, enemata, cupping, emetics 
of tartar-emetic, ipecacuanha, cold and tepid effusions, 
ammonia, assafoetida, camphor, Hoffman's anodyne. 
Neuralgia.-Treatment: - Divide the nerve with a 
scalpel, quinine, arsenic, carbonate of iron, stramonium, 
frictions with the extract of belladonna, oil of turpentine, ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
557 
moxa, leeches, strong magnet, lobelia, zinc, leeches to the 
anus, aloes. 
Amaurosis.-Treatment:-Bleeding, free purging with 
calomel, epsom salts, antimony, salivation, belladonna, 
blisters or setons on the neck, leeches to the temples, blue- 
pill, ipecac, sarsaparilla, arsenic, bark, cold bath, capsi- 
cum, opium, emetics, leeches around the anus. 
Asthma. - Treatment: - Blood - letting, hyosciamus, 
stramonium, emetics of ipecac, squills, vinegar, digitalis, 
opium, skunk cabbage, lobelia inflata, galvanism, tonics, 
bark, quinine, arsenic, carbonate of iron, blue-pill, tepid 
shower bath, warm bath. 
Asphyxia from drowning. - Treatment: - Artificial 
inflation of the lungs, gradual warmth, friction with a dry 
flannel, mustard • and capsicum, stimulating injections, 
warm wine, weak brandy toddy, infusions of balm, sage 
or catnip. 
Asphyxia, from mephitic gases.-Treatment:-Dash- 
ing cold water on the face and breast, dry frictions to the 
extremities, cold wine, cold shower bath at short intervals, 
flesh brush, ammonia, stimulating injections, artificial 
respiration, abstraction of blood, warm wine, galvanism. 
Asphyxia from Electricity.-Treatment:-Cold water 
copiously dashed over the whole body, frictions with the 
flesh-brush. 
Asphyxia from cold.-Treatment:-Gradual communi- 
cation of warmth to the body, immersion in spring water 
continued forty minutes, gentle frictions with flannel, arti- 
ficial respiration, gentle stimulants, such as balm, sage, 
warm wine, &c. 
Pneumox-thorax. - Treatment: - Blistering, tartar- 
emetic ointment, cupping, moxa, issues, setons, &c. 
Dilatation of the ventricles.-Treatment: - Bleeding, 
low diet, starvation and venesection, diuretics, squills, 
nitre, digitalis, purgatives, antimony, valerian, orange 
47* 558 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
flowers, cat lint, mercury, castor oil, blue-pill, tepid 
shower bath. 
Sympathetic affection of the heart.-Treatment:-• 
Gentle aperients, tepid bath, gentle tonics, bitters, iron, 
bleeding, warm pediluvium, digitalis. 
Angina-Pectoris.-Treatment: - Bleeding, ether, cam- 
phor, opium, hyoscyamus, ammonia, draughts of cold 
water, emetics, leeches, sinapisms to the legs, mild diet, 
blue-pill, tepid or cold bathing. 
Indigestion.-Treatment:-Diet, gentle aperients, mild 
tonics, regular exercise, rhubarb, aloes, soda, ipecac, 
hyoscyamus, boneset, mild tonics, alkalies, calomel, gen- 
tian, iron, white mustard seed, mercury, antimony, nitro- 
muriatic acid bath, opium, ammonia, nitrate of potash, 
leeches, blisters. 
Diarrhoea. - Treatment: - Mild purgatives, calomel, 
castor oil, ipecac, laudanum, chalk, warm bath, leeching, 
Dover's powder, acetate of lead, balsam copaiva, sul- 
phate of copper, injections of mallows, flaxseed or barley 
water, sulphuric acid. 
Cholera.-Treatment:-Opium, sinapisms to the region 
of the stomach and liver, free use of bland drinks, fric- 
tions with spirits of turpentine, calomel, warm bath, 
tinct. of capsicum to the extremities, camphor in vitriolic 
ether, mucilages in a warm state, ipecac, columbo, calomel, 
ammonia. 
Cholera Infantum. - Treatment: - Leeches to the 
temple, calomel, poultices over the abdomen, blisters 
behind the ears, ipecac, mild laxatives, castor oil, warm 
bath, spirits, Dover's powder, magnesia, tartrate of iron, 
charcoal, wine whey, milk punch, ammonia, common soot. 
Flatulent colic.-Treatment: - Rapid friction with the 
flesh-brush, camphor, laudanum, vitriolic ether, oil of 
juniper, emetics of ipecac, essence of peppermint, ca ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
559 
thartics, enemata, castor oil, turpentine, laudanum, bleed- 
ing, leeches, blisters. 
.BiZious Colic.-Treatment: - Emetics, eupatorium, or 
camomile tea, antimony, calomel, sinapisms, or epispastics 
to the epigastrium, castor oil, enemata of castor oil and 
turpentine, opium, salivation, blood-letting, calomel, mag- 
nesia, warm bath. 
Colica Pictonum.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, opium, 
calomel, salivation, purgatives, castor oil with spirits of 
turpentine, purgatives, enemata, glauber salts, flaxseed tea, 
blisters, leeches, tartar-emetic ointment, warm bath, senna, 
alum. 
Ilezis.-Treatment:-Bleeding, cupping, leeches, opium, 
purgatives, calomel, castor oil, enemata of warm water, 
tobacco, cold water, &c., cold effusions, mercury, tincture 
of rhubarb, and aloes. 
Constipation.-Treatment: - Proper diet, active exer- 
cise, regular attempts at stool, calomel, vhubarb, jalap, 
aloes, enemata, blue-pill, aloes and antimony, castor oil, 
oil of turpentine, salivation. 
Intestinal Worms.-Treatment: - Spare and liquid 
diet, mild purgatives, epsom salts, spigelia, followed by 
calomel and jalap, tin filings, spirits of turpentine, male 
fern, pomegranate root. 
Hemorrhoids, Piles. -Treatment: - Light vegetable 
diet, bleeding, sulphur, cream of tartar, blue mass, nitre, 
cupping, sinapisms, blisters, injections of cold water, 
acetate of lead, quinine, opium, cinnamon, aloes, ipecac, 
astringents, injections, excision of tumors, balsam copaiva, 
oil of turpentine, aloetic purgatives. 
Jaundice.-Treatment:-Opium, warm bath, leeching, 
frictions, emollient applications to the epigastrium, bleed- 
ing, purgatives, enemata, emetics, ipecac, mercury, mer- 
curial frictions, nitro-muriatic acid bath, proper diet. 
Diabetes Mellitus. - Treatment:-Bleeding, leeching, 560 
ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE.- 
cupping, opium, lime water, alum, uva ursi, active exer- 
cise, friction with flannel, carbonate of ammonia, blisters, 
quinine, exclusive animal diet. 
Diabetes Insipidus. - Treatment: - Tonics, alkalies, 
opium, quinine, bitartrate of soda, mercury, ipecac, mag- 
nesia and rhubarb, lime water, uva ursi, hyoscyamus, cam- 
phor, gum arabic, mineral acids, quinine, iron, burgundy 
pitch, galbanum and turpentine to the loins, castor oil. 
Lithic acid diathesis.-Treatment: - Proper diet, mild 
aperients, alkalies, bitters, vegetable tonics, calomel, anti- 
mony, magnesia, soda, saleratus, gentian, columbo, warm 
bath, opium, hyoscyamus, vegetable diuretics, bleeding, 
cupping, colchicum. 
Phosphatic diathesis. - Treatment: - Opium, tonics, 
mineral acids, cinchona, uva ursi, pitch, soap or galbanum 
plaster to the kidneys, issues in the back, hyoscyamus, 
country air, exercise. 
Ischuria renalis. - Treatment: - Bleeding, cupping, 
leeching, warm bath, blisters, stimulating diuretics, spirits 
turpentine, castor oil, balsam copaiva, juniper oil, nitre 
and laudanum, mercury. 
Detention of urine. - Treatment: - Introduction of 
catheter, canth, camphor, blisters to the pubic region, 
spirits of turpentine, juniper, oil, dippie oil, Peruvian bal- 
sam, cold water to the pubic region, blood-letting, leeching, 
emollient clysters, fomentations, mild purgatives, anti- 
mony, warm bath, calomel, opium. 
Dysuria, pain in voiding urine. - Treatment: - Mild 
laxatives, flaxseed tea, gum arabic, Dover's powrder, castor 
oil, rhubarb, calomel, ipecac, lunar caustic, borax, citron 
ointment, zinc or alum injected into the vagina, diluents, 
opiates, fomentations, anodyne enemata, flaxseed tea. 
Enuresis, incontinence of urine.-Treatment:-Alum, 
cantharides, uva ursi, iron, cold shower bath, electricity, 
stimulating frictions, cupping the perineum, blisters, ano- ALLOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
561 
dyne enemata, Dover's powder, stramonium, tonics, iron, 
quinine, oxyde of zinc, spirits of turpentine. 
Ascites. - Treatment: - Blood-letting, cups, leeches, 
blisters, setons, drastic purgatives, cream of tartar, ele- 
terium gamboge, diuretics, squills, digitalis, acetate of 
potash, nitrate of potash, cantharides, juniper berries, col- 
chicum, spirits of turpentine, erigeron, heteraphullum and 
parsley, calomel. 
Scrofula. -Treatment: -Diet and regimen, pure air, 
calomel, blue mass aperients, rhubarb, tonic vegetable 
bitters, gentian, quinine, leeches, saturnine solutions, nitrate 
of silver, sulphate of copper, corrosive sublimate, sarsa- 
parilla, conium, antimony, setons. 
Bronchocele, Goitre. - Treatment: - Iodine, burnt 
sponge, calcined egg shells, sea water, squills, kermes 
minerals, belladonna, conium, digitalis, mercury, antimony, 
blistering, cataplasms, mercurial ointment. 
Scorbutus, Scurvy. - Treatment: - Fresh vegetables 
and animal food, lemon juice and vinegar, nitre, iron tonics, 
cinchona, muriate of lime, lunar caustic. 
Chlorosis. - Treatment: -Exercise, purgatives, aloes, 
rhubarb, calomel, ipecac, hyoscyamus, Dover's powders, 
diet, sea-bathing, tepid shower bath, tonics, iron. 
Gonorrhoea, Clap.-Treatment:-Blood-letting, saline 
purgatives, nitre, antimony, gum arabic, warm fomenta- 
tions, opium, camphor, balsam copaiva, cubebs, spirits of 
turpentine, injections of sulphate of zinc, and sulphate of 
copper, nitrate of silver, lunar caustic, cantharides, sarsa- 
parilla, mercury. 
Syphilis.-Treatment:- Mercury, emollient poultices, 
lead, sulphate of copper, citron ointment, corrosive subli- 
mate, lunar caustic, bleeding, antimony, zinc, nitre, quinine, 
opium, hyoscyamus, cicuta, nitrate of silver, Venice tur 
pentine, balsam of copaiva, myrrh, red precipitate oint- 
ment, salivation, warm bath, guaiacum. 562 
HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
Buboes.- Treatment: - Mercury, frictions, emollient 
poultices, hydriodate ointment, bleeding, purgatives, anti- 
mony, lead water, blisters, opium, sarsaparilla, lead, copper, 
corrosive sublimate, galbanum, cicuta, carrot poultices, 
nitric acid, hyoscyamus. 
Amenorrh cea. - Treatment: - Blood - letting, opium, 
ether, active cathartics, purgatives, enemata, sinapisms, 
warm pediluvium, camphor, ergot, blisters, warm bath, 
antimonials, iron, ipecac, castor oil, balsam copaiva, 
spirits of turpentine, cantharides. 
Dysmenorrhcea. - Treatment: - Camphor, Dover's 
powder, elder blossoms, or eupatorium tea, opium, ipecac, 
warm bathing, bleeding, aperients, blue-pill, ipecac emetics, 
antimony, guiacum, sulphur, stramonium. 
Leucorrhoea, fluor albus. - Treatment: - Bleeding, 
purgatives, antimony, blue-pill, injections of warm water 
and sugar of lead into the vagina, cantharides, balsam 
copaiva, turpentine, alum, ipecac, astringent injections, 
such as zinc, copper, alum, oak bark, sulphuric acid, and 
nitrate of silver. 
Cholera Asphyxia. - Treatment: - Calomel, opium, 
camphor, sulphuric ether, mild purgatives, rhubarb, or 
castor oil, sinapisms, alcoholic vapor bath, blood-letting, 
cupping, leeches, frictions with tincture of capsicum, brandy, 
ammonia, turpentine, sugar of lead, mustard, emetics. 
HOMCEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
The following are .SaTmemann's remarks on the tritu- 
rating process of Homoeopathic remedies, as transcribed 
from Jahr's and Gruner's Pharmacopoeia. 
"All those homoeopathic drugs which constitute the 
pure materia medica, are prepared in the manner pointed 
out below. The following anti-psorics come under this 
remark : silica, calcarea carbonica, natrum carbonicum, 
ammonium carbonicum, magnesia carbonicum, baryta carbo- nOMffiOPATniC PRACTICE. 
563 
nica, carbo-vegetabilis, carbo-animalis, graphites, sulphur, 
autimonium crudum, antimonium, gold, platinum, zinc, 
copper, silver, tin. Lumps of these metals, not the foil, 
are rubbed upon a hard, fine hone, under water, or some- 
times under alcohol; for example, iron. Of these pulve- 
rized substances you take one grain, mercury may be used 
in the liquid state; of petroleum you take one drop instead 
of one grain. Put this grain into an unglazed porcelain 
mortar, then you take thirty-three grains of sugar of milk, 
and mix them with the drug, by triturating the mass with 
some force for about six minutes, by means of a porcelain 
pestle ; before yon triturate, stir the mass for a little while 
with a spatula. Having triturated the mass, you stir it 
again for about four minutes, scraping up that part which 
covers the bottom of the porcelain mortar, and also that 
which adheres to the pestle; then you triturate again with 
great force for about six minutes, without, however, adding 
anything new. This mass you scrape up again for about 
four minutes; then add another thirty-three grains of 
sugar of milk, stir the new compound for a minute with a 
spatula, then triturate it for six minutes with the pestle, 
scrape it up for four minutes, triturate again with great 
force for six minutes, scrape up the mass again four min- 
utes, then add the last thirty-three grains of sugar of milk, 
and with this last added portion proceed as with the two 
former. This powder you enclose in a veil-corked glass 
vial, and mark it with the name of the substance, and the 
figure too, show that this is the first potency of the 
substance. In order to prepare the degree you 
take one grain of the degree and add to it thirty- 
three grains of the sugar of milk. Stir up this mass for 
a moment with the spatula. Then triturate for six min- 
utes, stir it up for four minutes, triturate again for six 
minutes, and then stir up again for four. After this, you 564 
HOMCEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
add the second thirty-three grains of sugar of milk, pro- 
ceed then as before ; afterwards add the last thirty-three 
grains of sugar of milk, stir up and triturate again as 
before, and enclose the mass in a well-corked vial, marked 
Tooou> or second potency. 
"To prepare the degree ooor third potency, you 
take one grain of the degree T(jnoc>> 8° through the 
processes of stirring and triturating in the same way as 
before, employing upwards of an hour for the preparation 
of each different potency. For the sake of establishing a 
•sort of uniformity in preparing homoeopathic remedies, 
and especially the anti-psorics, I never carry the tritura- 
tion above the millionth degree. From this degree, I 
derive the dilutions in their various degrees of potency. 
For the process of trituration, a certain force should be 
employed ; not too much, however, lest the mass adhere 
too tenaciously to the mortar, to be scraped up in four 
minutes. 
" From the millionth degree of trituration, the dilutions 
in the various degrees may be obtained by dissolving these 
triturated substances in alcohol or water. Chemistry is 
not acquainted with the fact that, all substances, after 
having been triturated up to the millionth degree, can be 
dissolved in either alcohol or water. Sugar of milk cannot 
be dissolved in pure alcohol ; this is the reason why the 
first dilution should be composed of one-half water, and 
one-half alcohol. To one grain of the millionth, you add 
fifty drops of distilled water, and turn the vial several 
times around its axis ; by this means the sugar of milk 
becomes dissolved: then, you add fifty drops of good 
alcohol, and shake the vial twice, first carrying the arm 
up and then down. Only two-thirds of the vial should be 
fi'led with the solution. 
" This vial is then marked with the name of the medicine, HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
565 
and the number T-Jo. Of this solution you take one drop 
and mix it with ninety-nine or one-hundred drops of pure 
alcohol, shaking the vial twice after it has been corked ; 
Jhs vial is marked Tooo(>' Of this solution you take one 
drop, and mix with it ninety-nine or one-hundred drops 
of pure alcohol, then shake the vial twice, and mark it 
TTJOtfootj- this potency you again take a drop, and 
mix it with ninety-nine or one-hundred drops of alcohol, 
shaking this third vial twice, and mark it TT. In the same 
way you continue the prepartion, and marking of the 
higher potencies, TT, TT, TTT, iv, v, &c. 
" The intermediate vials are put in perpendicular boxes 
and kept in the dark, in order not to be affected by the 
light of day. In practice only the full vials are used. 
The shaking being accomplished by means of moderate 
strokes with the arm, it is desirable that the vials be of 
such size that the one-hundred drops will only two-thirds 
fill them. Vials that have contained one medicine, ought 
never to be used for another even if they have been pre- 
viously rinsed with great care." 
" Vegetable substances which can only be had dry, are 
triturated in the same manner. The millionth trituration 
may then be dissolved, like all the other substances, either 
in water or alcohol. In this state, they may be preserved 
much better and longer than the common tinctures which 
easily spoil. 
"Of the juiceless vegetable substances, oleander, thuja, 
mezereum, you may take one grain and a half, the fresh 
leaves, bark, roots, &c , and convert them into the mil 
lionth trituration, with three times one-hundred grains of 
sugar of milk. Of this trituration you take one grain, 
and carry it through the vials, obtaining in this way any 
degree of potency that may be desired; shake each via! 
twice, first carrying the arm up and then down. The 
48 566 
noMCEOPAinic practice. 
same process of trituration may be resorted to ir regard 
to the recently obtained medicinal juices Squeeze the 
juice out of the substance, triturate one drop with the 
necessary quantity of sugar of milk to obtain the millionth 
trituration. Of these you take one grain, dissolve it in an» 
equal proportion of water and alcohol, and then carry a 
drop of this mixture through a series of twenty-seven 
vials, obtaining in this way the degree of potency that is 
desired. 
" By triturating the juice first, the medicinal virtues of 
the drug are better developed, than by simply mixing the 
juice with the alcohol by means of two shakes. I know 
this from experience. 
"In the beginning of my practice, I gave a small portion 
of a grain of the millionth trituration at a dose. But the 
uncertainty of this mode of exhibiting the remedy, led me 
to the discovery of preparing the dilutions, and to the use 
of the globules, any definite number of which may be 
moistened with the dissolved drug. Homoeopathy being 
based upon a law of nature, it should avoid and exclude 
all uncertainties. 
"Frequent observations have convinced me that it is 
better to shake the vial twice only, in order to develop the 
medicinal virtue of the drug just enough to affect the 
disease in a proper manner. By shaking the vial ten 
times, as I was in the habit of doing, the proportion be- 
tween the progressively developed intensity of action of 
the medicinal properties of the drug, and the degree of 
potency, were destroyed. The object of the dynamizing 
process, is to develop the intensity of action of the medi- 
cinal properties of the drug, at the same time as that 
action is reduced to a milder tone. Two shakes are suffi- 
cient to establish the due proport "on between these two 
effects. HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
567 
Table showing the quantity of alcohol or fluid, required to dissolve 
one single grain or drop of a homoeopathic drug (as sulphur, 
leonite, etc.), down into the following homoeopathic attenuations 
or dilutions.- [Dr. Simpson on Homceopathy, p. 285.] 
1st attenuation.-One grain or drop in one and half tea- 
spoonful of alcohol. 
2d attenuation. - One grain in twenty-one fluid ounces 
of alcohol. 
3d attenuation. - One grain in two thousand and eighty 
ounces, or in one hundred and four pints of alcohol. 
6th attenuation. - One grain in thirteen million gallons, 
or in two hundred and six thousand hogsheads, or 
in fifty-one thousand tuns of alcohol. 
9th attenuation. - One grain in a lake of alcohol with a 
volume of about fourteen cubic miles, or in a lake of 
fifty fathoms in depth, and presenting two hundred 
and fifty square miles of surface. 
12th attenuation. - One grain in a sea containing about 
fourteen million cubic miles of alcohol, or in a quan- 
tity of fluid equal to a sea six times the size of the 
Mediterranean Sea. 
15th attenuation. - One grain in an ocean of fourteen bil- 
lion cubic miles of alcohol, or in an ocean about 
forty-six thousand times greater than the whole waters 
of all the oceans of the earth. 
24th attenuation.-One grain in an ocean of fourteen 
quintillion cubic miles of alcohol, or in a quantity 
sufficient to make one hundred and forty masses, each 
filling a sphere extending from limit to limit of the 
orbit of the planet Neptune. 568 
HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
30th attenuation.-One grain in an ocean of fourteen sep- 
tillion cubic miles of alcohol, or in a quantity suffi- 
cient to make one hundred and forty billion spherical 
masses, extending from limit to limit of Neptune's 
orbit, or in a quantity equal to many hundred spheres, 
each with a semidiameter or radius extending from 
the earth to the nearest fixed star. 
List of diseases and Homoeopathic remedies by Dr. J. Laurie. 
The remedies of the vegetable kingdom are the third attenua- 
tion, those of the mineral kingdom of the fourth. 
Typhus fever.-Remedies: - Bryonia, arsenic, rhus 
toxico, croton oil, mix vomica, aconite, belladonna, cam- 
phor, hen-bane, cocculus Indicus, arnica. The sugar 
globules are moistened with these tinctures, and five or 
six given every two or three hours. 
Intermittent fevers. - Remedies : - Quinine, arsenic, 
ipecac, nux vomica, antimony, belladonna, opium, coc- 
cuius Indicus, Ignatia or St. Ignatius' bean, white helle- 
bore, aconite, Cayenne pepper. 
Bilious fever.-Remedies :-Aconite, belladonna, bry- 
onia, chamomilla, nux vomica, mercurius, pulsatilla, qui- 
nine, digitalis, ipecac, tartar-emetic, arsenic. 
Yellow fever.-Remedies :-Belladonna, bryonia, rhus 
toxicodendron, arsenic, nux vomica, veratrum album, la- 
chesis, or viper poison, Spanish flies, mercurius. 
Scarlet fever. - Remedies : - Belladonna, mercurius, 
arsenic, nux vomica, pulsatilla, aconite, opium, tartar- 
emetic. 
Scarlet Rash.-Remedies :-Belladonna, aconite, coffea, 
sulphur, ipecac, pulsatilla, bryonia, dulcamara, belladonna, 
arsenic, phosphorus, rhus tox, swamp sumach, cinchona, 
conium, mercurius, capsicum. 
Rubeola, measles.-Remedies:-Aconite, coffea, pulsa- 
tilla, sulphur, nux vomica bryonia, ipecac. HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
569 
Variola, small-pox.-Remedies :-Coffea, 
aconite, ipecac, tartar-emetic, bryonia, rhus, belladonna, 
pulsatilla, stramonium, muriatic acid, mercurius, sulphur, 
lachesis, vegetable charcoal, arsenic, cinchona, phosphorus, 
sulph.uret of lime, acetate of copper. 
Varicella, chicken-pox.-Remedies :-Aconite, coffea, 
belladonna, emetic tartar, mercurius. 
Miliary fever. - Remedies : - Aconite, coffea, bella- 
donna, veratrum, arsenic, ipecac, bryonia, nux vomica, 
carbonate of lime, chamomilla, tincture of sulphur, acetate 
of copper. 
Urticaria, nettle-rash.-Remedies : - Dulcamara, aco- 
nite, nux vomica, pulsatilla, crude antimony, belladonna, 
sulphuret of lime, rhus, bryonia, nettles, sulphur, nitric 
acid, lime. 
Quinsy.-Remedies : - Mercurius, lachesis, pulsatilla, 
cantharides, nux vomica, chamomilla, coffea, ignatia, sul- 
phur, veratrum, capsicum. 
Mumps. - Remedies: - Mercurius, belladonna, coccu- 
lus, carbo-vegetabilis. 
Indigestion. - Remedies: - Pulsatilla, arsenic, chamo- 
milla, rhus toxicodendron, sulphur, ipecac, cinchona, nux 
vomica. 
Flatulent Colic.-Remedies: - Cinchona, arsenic, nux 
vomica, pulsatilla, carbo-vegetabilis, colchicuip, belladonna. 
Hcematemesis, vomiting blo^d.-Remedies : - Nux vo- 
mica, pulsatilla, cinchona, arnica, sulphur. 
Constipation.-Remedies : - Opium, bryonia, lachesis, 
alum, nux vomica, lead, platina, nitro-muriatic acid, silicea, 
lycopodium, china. 
Haemorrhoids. - Remedies : - Aconite, nux vomica, 
sulphur, arsenic, belladonna, rhus, pulsatilla, platina, 
ignatia, colocynth. 
Prolapsus ani. - Remedies : - Ignatia, nux vomica, 
mercurius, sulphur, calcarea. 
48* 570 
HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
Diarrhoea.-Remedies :-Dulcamara, bryonia, cinchona, 
chamomilla, mercurius, rhubarb, pulsatilla, ipecac, nux 
vomica, colocynth, arsenic, crude antimony, rhus, lachesis, 
nitric acid, phosphoric acid, magnesia. 
Dysentery.-Remedies :-Aconite, chamomilla, ipecac, 
mercurius, corrosive sublimate, bryonia, arsenic, carbo- 
vegetabilis, cinchona, cantharides, sulphur. 
Cholera.-Remedies :-Ipecac, veratrum album, arsenic, 
cinchona, pulsatilla, copper, sulphur, carbo vegetabilis, 
nux vomica, ergot, stramonium. 
Cholerine. ■- Remedies : - Veratrum, mercurius, pul- 
satilla, nux vomica, chamomilla, colocynth, ferrum, Dul- 
camara, carbo vegetabilis, cantharides. 
Inflammation of the liver. - Remedies: - Belladonna, 
aconite, nux vomica, chamomilla, mercurius, arsenic, pul- 
satilla, nux vomica. 
Jaundice. - Remedies: - Mercurius, cinchona, pulsa- 
tilla, digitalis, chamomilla. 
Inflammation of the spleen.-Remedies: - Aconite, 
arsenic, cinchona, nux vomica, bryonia. 
Inflammation of the stomach.-Remedies : - Aconite, 
belladonna, ipecac, crude antimony, nux vomica, lachesis, 
pulsatilla, arsenic, cantharides, hyoscyamus, arnica. 
Inflammation of the bowels. - Remedies : - Arsenic, 
mercurius, nux vomica, lachesis, nitric acid, bryonia, pul- 
satilla, colocynth, chamomilla, cinchona, colchicum, phos- 
phorus, sulphur, silicea. 
Inflammation of the peritoneum. - Remedies : - Aco- 
nite, belladonna, arsenic, chamomilla, lycopodium, colo- 
cynth. 
Worms.,- Remedies: - Aconite, ferrum, nux vomica, 
mercurius, sulphur, calcarea, silicea, pulsatilla, ipecac, 
antimony, cicuta, cinchona. 
Laryngitis. - Remedies : - Sulphur, burnt sponge, 
Aconite, lachesis, belladonna, hyoscyamus. HOMEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
571 
Hooping Cough. - Remedies : - Dulcamara, pulsatilla, 
mercurius, belladonna, aconite, ipecac, nux vomica, cha- 
momilla and sulphur. 
Croup.-Remedies :-Aconite, sulphur, burnt sponge, 
arsenic, tartar emetic, lachesis, caustic, ammonia, bromin. 
Influenza.-Remedies :-Camphor, aconite, mercurius, 
arsenic, bryonia, phosphorus, belladonna, pulsatilla, arnica. 
Bronchitis.-Remedies :-Aconite, pulsatilla, bryonia, 
sponge, belladonna, nux vomica, lachesis, mercury, lyco- 
podium, stannum, dulcamara, arsenic, ipecac, tartar-emetic. 
Pneumonia. - Remedies: - Aconite, bryonia, phos- 
phorus, tartar - emetic, mercurius, belladonna, lachesis, 
arsenic, antimony, sulphur. 
Pleuritis.- Remedies: - Aconite, bryonia, sulphur, 
mercurius, arsenic, arnica. 
Haemoptysis. - Remedies : - Pulsatilla, bryonia, nux 
vomica, rhus, arnica, aconite, ipecac, iron, opium, cin- 
chona. 
Consumption. - Remedies : - Ipecac, arsenic, nux 
vomica, bryonia, pulsatilla, tartar-emetic, opium, china, 
sambucus, musk, belladonna, lachesis, veratrum, dulcamara, 
cinchona, stannum. 
Determination of the blood to the head.-Remedies :- 
Aconite, nux vomica, calcarea, belladonna, opium, coffea, 
chamomilla, ignatia, arnica, mercurius, pulsatilla, lycopo- 
dium, dulcamara, sanguinaria, cinchona, sulphur, carbo- 
nate of lime, opium, conium. 
Inflammation of the brain and its membranes.-Reme- 
dies :-Aconite, belladonna, bryonia, hyoscyamus, opium, 
stramonium, zinc, acetate of copper, rhus, lachesis, mer- 
curius. 
Apoplexy.-Remedies: - Aconite, belladonna, nux 
vomica, opium, lachesis, arnica, pulsatilla, ipecac, carbo- 
nate of barytes. 
Paralysis, Palsy.-Remedies :-Arnica, bryonia, rhus, 
sulphur, electricity, galvanism. 572 
HOMCEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
Tetanus. - Remedies : - Belladonna, cicut a, opium, 
arnica, ignatia, stramonium, hyoscyamus. 
Delirium Tremens.-Remedies :-Nux vomica, opium, 
aconite, belladonna, lachesis, sulphur, calcarea. 
Epilepsy.- Remedies: - Belladonna, copper, hyoscya- 
mus, ignatia, lachesis, nux vomica. 
Neuralgia. - Remedies : - Belladonna, platina, lyco- 
podium, arsenic, colocynth, veratrum, china, assafoetida, 
spigelia. 
Headache.-Remedies:-Belladonna, bryonia, thus, 
sepia, silicea, pulsatilla. china, veratrum, lachesis, mer- 
curius, colocynth, chamomilla, sulphur. 
Erysipelas.-Remedies:-Aconite, belladonna, bryonia, 
pulsatilla, rhus, arsenic, lachesis, sulphur, copper. 
Carbuncle.-Remedies: - Lachesis, silicea, arsenic. 
Chilblains.- Remedies : - Nux vomica, pulsatilla, bel- 
ladonna, rhus, nettles, arsenic, sulphur. 
Corns.-Remedies: - Arnica, ammonia, bryonia, nux 
vomica, rhus, ignatia. 
Scabies, Itch. - Remedies : - Sulphur, mercurius, vera- 
trum, silicea, sulphuric acid, arsenic, dulcamara, pulsa- 
tilla. 
Herpes Circinatus, Ringworm.-Remedies: - Rhus, 
sulphur, calcarea. 
Scald - head. - Remedies : - Rhus, sulphur, arsenic, 
dulcamara, bryonia. 
Inflammation of the kidneys.-Remedies : - Aconite, 
cantharides, arsenic, sulphur, mercurius, arnica, nux 
vomica. 
Cystitis, inflammation of the bladder. - Remedies : - 
Cantharides, pulsatilla, digitalis, arsenic, carbo-vegetabilis, 
sulphur, nux vomica. 
Gravel.-Remedies : - Sarsaparilla, nux vomica, gra- 
phites, sulphur, cannabis, lycopodium, calcarea. HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
573 
Retention of the urine. -Remedies : - Aconite, cam- 
phor, arsenic, phosphorus, belladonna, cantharides. 
Difficulty in discharging urine.-Remedies :-Aconite, 
sulphur, belladonna, cantharides, opium, pulsatilla, spirits 
of camphor, mercurius, nux vomica. 
Suppression of urine. - Remedies : - Aconite, cantha- 
rides, pulsatilla, camphor, belladonna, opium, lycopodium, 
Diabetes. - Remedies : - Veratrum, mercurius, nitric 
acid. 
Hcematuria.-Remedies :-Cantharides, quinine, pulsa- 
tilla, mercurius, sulphur, ipecac, camphor, carbo-vegeta- 
bilis, arnica, nux vomica, nitric acid, aconite, squills, zinc, 
calcarea, petroleum, cannabis, cocculus indicus, capsicum. 
Gout.-Remedies: - Aconite, pulsatilla, arsenic, iron, 
nux vomica, bryonia, sanguinaria, sulphur, saffron. 
Rheumatism.-Remedies :-Aconite, bryonia, sulphur, 
belladonna, rhus, chamomilla, ignatia, conium, mercurius, 
lachesis, pulsatilla, arnica, mezereum, euphorbium, pink 
root, digitalis, phosphorus, veratrum, caustic. 
Lumbago.-Remedies :-Aconite, bryonia, nux vomica, 
rhus, belladonna, pulsatilla, mercurius. 
Ophthalmia.-Remedies: - Aconite, belladonna, nux 
vomica, cinchona, arsenic, euphrasia, ignatia, pulsatilla, 
mercurius, sulphur. 
Scrofulous Ophthalmia.-Remedies:-Arsenic, conium, 
crude sulphur, lime, bitter sweet, iron, graphites, gold, 
lycopodium, indian hemp, chamomilla, digitalis, iodine, 
mercurius, corrosive sublimate, magnesia, nitric acid, 
lachesis, cinchona, pink root. 
Ulceration of the cornea. - Remedies : - Nitric acid, 
arsenic, euphrasia, sulphur, calcarea, mercurius, lachesis, 
silicea, nitre. 
Epistaxis.-Remedies :-Aconite, belladonna, bryonia, 
mercurius, carbo vegetabilis, graphites, pulsatilla, calcarea, 574 
HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
arnica, rhus, iron, sepia, nux vomica, lachesis, bryonia, 
dulcamara, saffron, musk, ammonia, silicea. 
Stomacace.-Remedies: - Mercurius, nitric acid, nux 
vomica, capsicum, carbo-vegetabilis, sulphur, nitre, borax, 
iodine, lemon juice, dulcamara. 
Scurvy.-Remedies:-Vegetable carbon, mercurius, 
nux vomica, pulsatilla, sulphur, creosote, belladonna, 
nitric acid, quinine, alum, arnica, chamomilla. 
Ascites.-Remedies :-Arsenic, cinchona, iron. 
Anasarca.-Remedies :-Hellebore, bryonia, mercurius, 
arsenic, phosphorus, iron, colchicum. 
Hydrothorax, dropsy of the chest. - Remedies : - Ai- 
senic, dulcamara, digitalis, pink root, bryonia, aconite. 
Hydrophobia.-Remedies : - Belladonna, hyoscyamus, 
stramonium, cantharides. 
Amenorrhcea. - Remedies : - Nux vomica, sulphur, 
opium, aconite, veratrum, pulsatilla. 
Menorrhagia.-Remedies :-Nux vomica, chamomilla, 
sabina, ignatia, platina, veratrum, sulphur. 
Dysmenorrhosa. -Remedies : -Pulsatilla, belladonna, 
nux vomica, coffea, sulphur, calcarea, chamomilla. 
Turn of life.-Remedies :-Cocculus, aconite, pulsatilla, 
nux vomica, lachesis. 
Leucorrhcea.-Remedies :-Pulsatilla, china, calcarea. 
Hysteria.-Remedies :-Calcarea, nitric acid, voatrum, 
belladonna, pulsatilla, gold, stramonium. 
Difficult dentition.-Remedies :-Chamomilla, bryonia, 
zinc, sulphur. 
Sugar globules are medicated with these remedies, in 
the third to the sixth potencies. HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE. 
575 
Method of preparing the sugar globules, from Jahr and Gruner, 
p. 27. 
These are made by confectioners, and are composed of 
sugar and starch ; they can be had of different sizes, from 
that of a millet-seed to that of a buck-shot. The whitest, 
dryest, and hardest, should be selected for medicinal use ; 
they should be all of equal size, and not mixed with sugar- 
dust. After having moistened the globules with the medi- 
cine in some suitable vial, we turn them out on paper with 
raised edges, and agitate them until they cease to adhere 
one to the other. Should we afterwards wish to put them 
into the same bottle in which we had moistened them, we 
should take care to dry it also, before making use of it. 
The complete desiccation of the globules, before bottling 
them, is absolutely indispensable, since, without that pre- 
caution, they fall into powder in a short time, and lose 
their medicinal virtues. 
A. table showing the amount of alcohol required to form the dif- 
ferent dilutions. One grain of the millionth degree of tritura- 
tion, is added to 100 drops of alcohol, and one drop of that to 
100 more of alcohol, making the first dilution. 
First attenuation = 1 = 100 = hundredths 
Second " 2 = 10,000 = ten thousandths. 
Third " = 3 = I = millionths. 
Fourth " - 4 - 1001 = hundred millionths. 
Fifth " = 5 = 10,000 1 = ten thousand millionths 
Sixth " = 6 = II = billionths. 
Seventh " = 7 = • 100II - hundred billionths. 
Eighth " = 8 = 10,000 II = ten thousand billionths. 
Ninth " = 9 =: III - trillionths. 
Tenth " = 10 = 100 III = hundred trillionths. 
Eleventh " - 11 = 10,000 III - ten thousand trillionths. 
Twelfth " = 12 = IV = quadrillionths. 
Fifteenth " = 15 = N - quintillionths. 
Eighteenth " = 18 = VI - sextillionths. 
Twenty-first " = 21 = VII = septillionths. 
Twenty-fourth " = 24 = VIII ~ octillionths. 
Twenty-seventh " =: 27 = IX = nonilliontbs. 
Thirtieth " =: 30 = X - decillionths. 576 
HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
HYDROPATHY. 
By Hydropathy is understood a system of medical prac- 
tice, in which water, in its various applications, consti- 
tutes the only remedy. R. T. Trail, M. D., in his work 
on the hydropathic system of practice, states, that in order 
to understand the philosophy of water-cure, it is necessary 
to understand the physiological relations of water to the 
healthy organism. These he states in the following pro- 
positions : 
"1. Water constitutes the greater proportion of the 
entire bulk of the body. 
" 2. Water composes more than three-fourths of the 
whole mass of blood, more than seven-eighths of the sub- 
stance of the brain, and more than nine-tenths of the 
various colorless fluids and secretions. 
"3. Water is the only medium through which waste, 
or effete particles of extraneous matter, are conveyed from 
all parts of the system to the excretory organs to be ex- 
pelled. 
" 4. Water is the only solvent diluent and detergent in 
existence, for animal and vegetable excrementitious matter. 
" 5. Water is- the only material capable of circulating in 
all the tissues of the body and penetrating their finest 
vessels, without vital irritation or mechanical injury. 
" 6. The only morbid effects result from improper tem- 
perature, and over-distension of the hollow viscera, or 
circulating vessels, from excess of quantity - effects never 
necessarily unavoidable." 
Hydropathists claim disease to be the result of the mis- 
use or abuse of some one or more of the hygienic agencies, 
such as bad air, impure light, defective aliment, indolence, 
&c. They still further claim, that medicinal drugs never 
tend to correct the functional disturbances produced by 
these morbid influences, although animal organism consists HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
577 
of true medicinal elements, and for the want of a due 
amount of which, disease is frequently produced. The 
teeth cannot be developed without lime, carbonic and phos- 
phoric acids, nor the enamel w'ithout fluoride of calcium. 
Healthy bile, mucus, sweat, saliva, tears, cartilage, &c., 
all contain carbonate of soda, and if the soda is deficient, 
these fluids are diseased. Phosphate of lime is one of 
the constituents of serum, saliva, bones and muscles, which 
may become diseased by a deficiency of this material; by 
administering this article to the patient, he is restored. 
Hydrochloric acid is one of the ingredients of gastric 
juice, a deficiency of which, causes dyspepsia ; the most 
ample experience shows that salt will remedy the difficulty. 
Iron is oue of the ingredients of the blood, and without 
it the blood is ancemic. Iron will correct the difficulty. 
The above facts, ■with many others that might be adduced 
to show the utter fallacy of depending entirely upon water 
to correct the abnormal conditions of the system, yet it is 
a valuable auxiliary. The various methods of applying 
water for the cure of disease, are the following : 
1. The wet sheet pack : The mode of applying this bath, 
according to Dr. Trail, is as follows : Take a sea-grass or 
straw mattress, upon which spread from three to five large 
thick comfortables, then a soft flannel blanket, and lastly 
the wet sheet, wrung sufficiently so as not to drip. Two 
pillows placed upon the mattress are necessary for the 
head. The patient lying down on the back is quickly 
enveloped in the sheet, followed by the blanket and com- 
fortables. A light feather bed may be thrown over the 
top, in which case two less comfortables will be required. 
If the feet remain cold, bottles of hot water should be 
placed to them. Headache is prevented by the application 
of cold packs. In wrapping up the patient, great care 
should be taken to turn the clothing snugly and smoothly 
around the neck and feet. For very delicate persons, the 
49 578 
HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
sheet should first be wrung out of tepid or even warm 
water. On coming out of the pack, the plunge, douche, 
rubbing wet-sheet, or towel washing may be employed, as 
indicated. 
This bath is used by hydropathists in a great variety of 
diseases, both acute and chronic. In chronic disease it is 
used for the purpose of producing reaction ; hence the 
packing is continued for a considerable length of time, and 
a full amount of clothing is used. When it is used in 
acute diseases to overcome inflammation and restore the 
superficial capillary circulation, the water is used at a lower 
temperature, and the packs are more frequently changed. 
This method of applying water is a very favorite one 
among most hydropathists, in typhoid fever, inflammation 
of the bowels, lungs, &c. 
The half pack is the application of the wet sheet to a 
portion of the body only; as to the bowels in Enteritis, or 
to the lungs in pneumonia. This bath is also used on 
feeble persons, and in chronic diseases where there is much 
debility. This method of applying water is a favorite one 
of mine, in all cases of inflammation of the lungs, and 
bowels, also in most chronic affections of the uterus. 
The Half Pack Sheet. 
The Douche Bath, 
The douche bath may be applied either warm or cold. 
It is given by allowing a stream of cold water to fall upon 
a portion of the body from a height of four or five feet. 
The stream should be from one eighth to one half of an 
inch in diameter, and should be repeated from time to time 
as indicated. It is used in chronic affections of the liver, 
tumors, local rheumatism, inflammation of the brain, hip 
disease, &c. When the vital reaction is feeble, the water 
should be warm, but where it is vigorous, cold water should 
be used HYDROPATHIC PRACTI01. 
579 
Dripping Sheet. 
The dripping sheet is another form of applying cold 
water. It is given as follows : The patient standing in a 
tub, the sheet is suddenly thrown around his body, which 
it envelopes from the head to the feet, and the body is 
rubbed by the hands of the attendant, outside the sheet, 
for five or ten minutes, when the sheet should be removed, 
and the body rubbed with a dry towel. 
This bath is used in the early stage of fevers, also in 
most chronic diseases. I have found this form of bathing 
a very convenient one, not only in removing disease, but 
when used once or twice a week an excellent preventive. 
The Hip or Sitz Bath. 
For the sitting bath, sufficient water should be placed 
in a tub to cover the hips and lower portions of the abdo- 
men, when the patient is in a sitting posture. The water 
may be of any temperature to suit the indications. This 
bath is beneficial in diseases of the uterus, as leucorrhcea, 
dysmenorrhoea and prolapsus. In these diseases the baths 
are mostly used cold. 
This bath is also used in dysentery, piles, hip disease, 
&c. The baths should be repeated as often as the nature 
of the case appears to indicate. 
Shallow Bath. 
This bath is taken in a tub large enough for the patient 
to sit upright with ease. The water should be from four 
to six inches deep. The temperature of the water, as in 
other forms of bath, should be warm or cold as indicated. 
The shallow bath is used in all cases where the sitz bath is 
recommended, and in many cases to much advantage. HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
580 
Plunge Bath. 
This process consists in immersing the whole body up to 
the neck in water quickly, where there is room sufficient 
for the patient to exercise his limbs under water. A plunge 
bath may be easily constructed where there is a running 
stream. A box eight or ten feet long, and five or six feet 
high, may serve a good purpose for this bath. This form 
of bath is of utility in all cases where there is sufficient 
vital reaction, except in organic disease of the heart, and 
tuberculous affections of the lungs. 
Foot Bath. 
By foot bath is meant merely placing the feet in warm 
water. This is a valuable auxiliary in acute and most 
chronic diseases. It acts as a revulsive to diseases of the 
brain, stomach and bowels. Where there is determination 
of blood to the head, stomach or bowels, the bath should 
be hot, and followed by brisk friction. The benefit of the 
bath will be much increased by the addition of lye and 
pulverized mustard, in acute diseases. 
Head Baths. 
The head bath may be given in two ways. By laying 
folded towels upon the head that have been wrung out of 
cold water, or by allowing a stream of water to fall upon 
the head. The most common method in acute diseases is 
to wrap the head in wet cloths, and change as often as 
they become warm. In some violent affections of the brain, 
more benefit may be derived from a stream of cold water 
falling upon the head from some distance. 
Cataract Bath. 
This bath consists in two streams of water falling ob- 
liquely upon opposite parts of the body. This form of HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
581 
bath may be used for the same purpose as the douche, as 
also a substitute for the wave bath or plunge, when the 
patient is too weak to take the latter. 
Dry Pack, or Sweating Bath. 
This is managed as the wet-sheet packing, except for 
the wet sheet a dry blanket is substituted. In either pro- 
cess, wet cloths should be applied to the head, and plenty 
of air should be admitted into the room. This bath is 
useful where the patient has not sufficient vitality to render 
the wet-sheet pack or other cold applications practicable. 
Ague chills may be much lessened in their severity by 
this process of sweating. 
The Vapor Bath. 
This is valuable in colds the first stages of fevers, &c. 
The patient may sit on an open chair with a blanket of 
sufficient thickness to retain the steam pinned about the 
neck. A pan of water may be placed under the chair, in 
which hot bricks are immersed to keep a vapor constantly 
rising; or a small quantity of alcohol may be burnt beneath 
the chair, to produce perspiration. This bath may be 
continued from fifteen to twenty-five minutes. 
The Wave Bath. 
This consists in extending the body in a swift current of 
water. It is for the same purpose as the plunge bath. 
The Rain Bath. 
This is taken by walking in a brisk shower, dressed in 
thin apparel. This is used for producing reaction; it 
stimulates the glands, hence it is useful in scrofula. The 
walk should not be prolonged to produce fatigue ; when 
the patient returns, the cloths should be removed, and the 
body wiped with a dry towel. 
49* 582 
HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
This process may be performed by showering the body 
with an ordinary tin shower-pot. 
Portable Shower Bath. 
The Affusion Bath. 
This consists in pouring water over different parts of the 
body, while the patient is standing in a tub. 
This is a favorite method of applying water in fevers and 
inflammatory diseases. Where this bath is used for cool* 
ing the body, it should be repeated until the object is 
accomplished. 
Towel or Sponge Bath. 
This bath consists in washing the surface with a towel 
or sponge. This is the most convenient of all the baths. 
It is used extensively in fevers. It should never be neg- 
lected in their treatment, but should be repeated two or 
three times a day. A small amount of saleratus added to 
the water is a valuable auxiliary. 
Wet Dress Bath. 
The patient is enveloped in a dripping night dress, placed 
in bed, and treated the same as in the wet sheet pack. 
The leg-bath consists in immersing the legs in a tub of 
water. It is used for gout, rheumatism, ulcers, diseases 
of the joints, &c. 
Leg-Bath. 
Fomentations. 
These are cloths wrung out of hot water, and applied 
to different parts of the body, as may be indicated. 
Wet Bandages. 
This is another method of applying cold or warm water 
to different parts of the body. The cold, wet girdle, is 
used to good advantage in prolapsus uteri, and leucorrhcea. HYDROPATHIC PRACTICE. 
583 
This should be applied after all baths. It is preferable 
to any other kind of friction. In all cases where baths 
are made use of to invigorate the system, friction should 
be applied until reaction is produced. 
Temperature of Baths.* - Hot, warm, tepid, cool, 
and cold, are only employed as approximate terras. Water 
that feels hot to one may only be warm to another. The 
sensations are generally a better guide for regulating the 
temperature of a given ba'th than the thermometer; 
still the latter is indispensable in many cases, and in all, 
convenient. Asa general rule, the more feeble and deli- 
cate the patient, the more strictly should we follow the 
test of his feelings, in administering tepid, warm, or cold 
baths. When the circulation is vigorous, and the vital 
temperature well developed, we may regulate any bath 
with sufficient precision by the thermometer. It is a 
useful precaution, when commencing treatment with very 
susceptible patients, to test their sensibility to different 
temperatures of water, after which the physician or patient 
can prescribe them thermometrically. Some Water-Cure 
books seem to make it an especial point, to be thermo- 
metrically exact in directing particular baths for given dis- 
eases : as, for example, sitz baths, at 59° ; shallow-baths, 
at 63°; half-bath, 74°, &c. These nice distinctions are 
not to be arbitrarily imitated, but may be regarded as 
land-marks, to keep us within reasonable bounds. 
Baths may be distinguished into cold, below 65° Fahr.; 
tepid, 65° to 80°; warm, 80° to 98°. But a better 
division may be made thus : 
Hand Friction. 
Very cold, 32° to 40° 
Cold, 40° to 55° 
Cool, 55° to 65° 
Temperate, 65° to 72° 
Tepid, 72° to 85° 
Warm, 85° to 98° 
Hot, 98° to 115o 
Vapor, 98° to 125° 
* Trail. 584 
OURONO-TirERMAL SYSTEM. 
Chrono-thermal.-A system of medicine so called, from 
'chronos, time, and therma, heat, first introduced by Dr. 
Dickson, of London, in 1836. He lays down the follow- 
ing propositions as the basis of his system : 
" 1. The phenomena of perfect health consist in a regu- 
lar series of alternate motions or events, each embracing 
a special period of time. 
" 2. Disease, under all its modifications, is, in the first 
place, a simple exaggeration or diminution of the amount 
of the same motions or events; and, being universally 
alternative with a period of comparative health, strictly 
resolves itself into fever, Remittent or Intermittent, 
Chronic or Acute ;-every kind of structural disorganiza- 
tion, from Tooth-Deca?/ to Pulmonary Consumption, and 
that decomposition of the knee-joint, familiarly known as 
white-swelling, being merely developments in its course - 
Tooth-Consumption, Lung-Consumption, Knee-Consump- 
tion, &c., &c. 
" 3. The tendency to disorganization, usually denomi- 
nated Acute, or Inflammatory, differs from the chronic or 
Scrofulous in the mere amount of motion and temperature; 
the former being more remarkably characterized by excess 
of both, consequently, exhibits a more rapid progress to 
decomposition or cure ; while the latter approaches its 
respective tertninations by more subdued, and, therefore, 
slower and less obvious terminations of the same action 
and temperature. In what does consumption of a tooth 
differ from consumption of the lungs, except in the differ- 
ences of the tissue involved, and the degree of danger to 
life, arising out of the respective offices of each ?" 
The remedies used in the treatment of disease, Dr. 
Dickson terms Chrono-Thermal, from the relation which 
their influence bears to time or period, and temperature 
(cold and heat) : chronos being the Greek word for time, 
and therma for heat or temperature. These remedies are CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
585 
all treated of in the various modern works upon the Ma- 
teria-Medica. The only agents this system rejects, are the 
bleeding lancet, the leech, and the cupping-instrument. 
PHYSIOLOGICAL, PATHOLOGICAL, 
AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATION 
OF FEVERS. 
Pathological researches have not as yet been as suc- 
cessful in revealing the seat, nature, and character of 
fevers, as of some other diseases. This may be owing in 
part to the nature of the investigation. The investigation 
being mostly confined to autopsic appearances, while a 
correct physiological analysis of the symptoms manifested 
in the progress of the disease, has been in a great measure 
neglected. 
In order to arrive at a correct idea of the nature of 
fevers, a study of the causes, symptoms, and effects, pro- 
duced by the remedies, and the character of these pheno- 
mena, with those of organic modifications in a state of 
health, with microscopic autopsic appearances, will enable 
us to arrive at a more just conclusion relative to all the 
pathological changes connected with fevers. 
The phenomena of fevers are so numerous and so dif- 
ferent in appearance, that it would be almost impossible 
to give a minute description of them. There is not a 
single derangement of function, or of tissue, which I have 
not observed in these diseases. They have then no specific 
symptom nor pathognomic sign ; even the hot skin, rigors, 
and accelerated pulse, exist in diseases when fever is not 
present. Although this is true relative to a single pheno- 
menon of fever, there are a series of phenomena, which is 
so uniformly present in what is termed idiopathic fevers, 
that we call the disease fever, when the symptoms are 
manifested in the following orc.er; 586 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
1. Nervous depression, characterized by languor, lassi- 
tude, and debility. 
2. Rigors and chills, connected with superficial capil- 
lary congestion, an irregular pulse, and hurried and op- 
pressed breathing. 
3. Reaction, characterized by a dry tongue, scanty 
urine, and loss of appetite. When these symptoms 
appear in the order in which they are here laid down, we 
denominate the disease fever. Although the above series 
of symptoms must always be present in the above order to 
constitute fever, it by no means includes the entire number 
of symptoms present in this disease. These symptoms 
indicate the disturbance of, or abnormal manifestation of, 
1. The nervous system, as indicated by the debility, 
lassitude, aversion to mental and physical exertions, rest- 
lessness, creeping chills, horripilations, alternations of 
flushing heat, and irregular breathing. 
2. A hurried and irregular action of the heart and 
arteries, dependent upon the abnormal nervous manifesta- 
tion. 
3. Immediately following this increased circulation of 
the blood, is an increased and abnormal temperature, a 
derangement of the secretions, as indicated by the scanty 
urine, dry tongue, hot skin, increased thirst, anorexia, 
&c., giving unmistakable evidence of the entire inability 
of the nervous system to afford these important organs 
the necessary stimulus. In thus carefully noting the series 
of changes which manifest themselves in all idiopathic 
fevers, we can commence at the derangement of the brain 
and nervous system, and follow the entire series of physio- 
logical and symptomatical changes, as arising from, and 
dependent upon, the primary cause of this entire class of 
diseases, i. e., a derangement of the brain and its append- 
ages. 
In our classification of fevers, we have adopted that CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
587 
which appears to us to be the only one warranted by the 
manifestations of this disease. 
1st. Ephemeral Fever is the simplest of all foims of 
fever, yet it manifests the entire series of phenomena ; but, 
owing to the mildness of the cause, it lasts only twenty- 
four hours. The cure is effected by the recuperative 
powers of the system. 
The next form is that of Intermittent Fever, in which 
so much of the cause is removed as to relieve the nervous 
system for the time, but not entirely relieving the system 
from the morbid influences. During the thermal changes 
of the body in rest and sleep, the poisonous cause makes 
a sufficient impression upon the brain and nervous system 
to obstruct the proper supply of vital stimulus to the de- 
pendent organs of the body, and the result is a repetition 
of the paroxysm or Intermittent Fever. If the shock 
received by the brain and nerves, is of sufficient intensity 
to prevent a temporary restoration and reaction, the fever 
is called Remittent or Continued. When the secretory 
and excretory system is so far deprived of the necessary 
stimulus as to produce an entire suspension of these func- 
tions, and the circulating organs are exceedingly languid 
from the same cause, the fever is called Typhus or Con- 
gestive Fever. When, in addition to these symptoms, a 
disorganizing tendency is manifested in the glands of the 
bowels, the fever is termed Typhoid. 
The condition of the capillary vessels in fevers, as recorded by 
David Craigie, M. D., F. 11. S. E., in his Pathological Ana- 
tomy, pp. 156 to 163. 
" In fevers, whatever be the form, intermittent, remit- 
tent, or continued, the capillary vessels are the seat of 
disorder. Nor is the affection confined to the capillaries 
of one region, of one organ, or of one tissue. The seat 
of fevmr is to be sought neither in the capillaries of the 588 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
brain and spinal chord, nor in those of the lungs, nor in 
those of the alimentary canal; but it is diffused over the 
minute ramifying communications of the aortic and venous 
branches, in whatever part of the body these communica- 
tions are found. To establish the truth of this statement, 
it is requisite merely to consider the phenomena of fever 
in the living body, and its traces and effects in the dead. 
" I presume that the affection of the capillary system 
of the brain, both cranial and vertebral, is too generally 
admitted to require being formally demonstrated. In 
point of fact, the pain in the head in the beginning of all 
fevers, the derangement of thought during their progress, 
and the tendency to stupor, and absolute coma towards 
the conclusion, are sufficient alone to prove disorder of 
the cerebral capillaries. But when blood or serous fluid 
is found effused into the ventricles, when the vessels of the 
brain are found turgid, distended with blood, and more 
numerous than natural, it is impossible to resist the infe- 
rence as to the over-loaded state of the cerebral capillaries 
during life. I am aware that cases of fever are sometimes 
adduced, in which neither pain of the head nor deranged 
thought are observed. I can only say, that, among a 
very great number of cases which I have observed, though 
in a few the patient did not complain of headache, it was 
always possible to recognize more or less derangement of 
thought. 
" In all cases, pain is felt when the patient coughs or 
stoops, or when the head is slightly shaken; and when no 
pain is said to be felt, it indicates'that the stage of natural 
sensation is passed, and that he complains not, because he 
does not feel. 
"In ague, the oppression of the cerebral cavities may 
be so great as to constitute inflammation (Siriasis JEgyp- 
tiaca), or phrenitic ague; or, in various degrees, the sleepv 
quotidian, the sleepy, lethargic, hemiphlegic, carotic, and CONSIDERATION' OF FEVERS. 
589 
apoplectic tertian, and the comatose quartan of practical 
authors (Werlhof, Torti, Lautter, Sydenham, Morton, 
&c), the same disease which has been named by Lancisi, 
Baglivi, and Morgagni, epidemic apoplexy. 
"The disorder of the capillaries of the spinal chord is 
indicated by pain and weight in various parts of the 
column, by the derangement in the muscular motions, 
especially local palsy, e. g., of the arms, legs, &c., by the 
tetanic spasms and convulsions taking place in many 
fevers. After death,, much serous fluid flows from the 
theca; the vessels of the chord are distended and numer- 
ous ; in all instances, serous fluid is effused, and sometimes 
pure blood issues from its capillaries. 
"That the capillary system of the lungs is overloaded 
and oppressed in all fevers, is one of the most certain 
points in pathology. During the ague fit, the respiration 
is invariably quicker than natural, sometimes to the 
amount of thirty or thirty-six in the minute; the patient 
complains of sense of weight in the breast, cannot breathe 
fully, pants, and has frequent cough. In continued fever, 
the respiration is invariably quicker and more laborious 
than natural; a deep breath cannot be drawn easily, and 
more or less sense of weight and oppression is felt. I 
have found the respiration in continued fever so quick as 
thirty-six in the minute, while in ordinary cases, the appli- 
cation of the stethoscope indicates an embarrassed state 
of the circulation in the pulmonary capillaries. In persons 
predisposed, expectoration, streaked with blood (hremoptae), 
is not unfrequent during continued fever. 
" The same conclusion is clearly established, by examin- 
ing the lungs of persons cut off either by intermittent 
or by continued fever. In many instances of the former, 
it induces bronchial inflammation, or proceeds to actual 
peripneumonia or pleurisy, constituting the catarrhal, 
pneumonic, or pleuric tertian respectively (Werlhof, Torti, 
50 590 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
Lancisi, &c). In the latter, the bronchial mucous mem- 
brane is always more or less' red, sometimes crimson or 
purple, or of a deep brown color, rough and much thick- 
ened ; the sub-mucous tissue is brown and loaded with 
serous fluid ; and the minute vessels are much distended 
with dark-colored blood. The bronchial tubes are very 
commonly, in fatal cases, perfectly filled with thick, viscid 
mucus, which adheres to the inner surface of the bronchia 
membrane. The serous surface of the organ is generally 
livid or marbled from this cause ; but the pleura itself is 
not much changed, save from the bloody serum discharged 
into its cavity. The lungs, in totality, are generally dense, 
and firmer than in the natural state. 
"These changes arise from the minute ramifying vessels 
at the termination of the pulmonary artery, and the organs 
of the pulmonary veins being unusually loaded with blood. 
As they are more so than can be readily affected by the 
ordinary quantity of air admissible in such a state, imper- 
fect respiration and undue change of venous blood con- 
tributes powerfully to the bad symptoms and the unfavor- 
able termination of the disease. In such a state of the 
organs of respiration, the bronchial arteries are less able 
to counteract the bad effects of imperfectly respired blood, 
in so far as they receive from the aorta blood which has 
not been sufficiently arterialized. 
" In the capillary system of the chylopoietic and assistant 
chylopoietic viscera, traces of the same condition may be 
recognized, both from the symptoms during life and its 
appearance after death. In these organs, two capillary 
systems may be distinguished, a primary and a secondary 
one. The primary is that which consists of the ultimate 
divisions of the splenic, gastric, and duodenal arteries, and 
of the superior and inferior mesenteric arteries, and their 
corresponding veins, which afterwards terminate in the 
splenic and superior and inferior mesenteric veins. The CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
591 
secondary capillary system is that which results from the 
union of the minute extremities of the portal vein, and of 
the hepatic artery with those of the vena cava hepatica. 
"It is unnecessary to dwell on the proofs of the loaded 
state of the capillary system of the alimentary canal. It 
is sufficient to remind the student that the furred or brown 
tongue, the thirst, the sense of internal heat, the loathing, 
squeamishness, and sometimes sickness, with weight, op- 
pression, and tenderness of the epigastric region, suffi* 
ciently demonstrate the morbid state of the capillaries of 
the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum ; while the consti- 
pation of the bowels nt the commencement, insensibility 
to cathartic medicine throughout, and occasional looseness 
at the conclusion, indicate the deranged condition of those 
of the intestines. After death, the minute vessels of the 
whole of these parts are found much distended with blood, 
generally dark-colored. 
"In one form of fever, the abdominal or intestinal 
typhus, the ileum and its mucous follicles are very much 
affected. The follicles become enlarged, elevated, and 
prominent, and swelled in consequence of their proper 
tissue being attacked, and perhaps their secreting pores 
being obstructed. The apices become dead, and are 
thrown off in the form of sloughs; and in their place are 
left small ulcers, which, in no long time, enlarge, spread, 
and increase in depth. These changes may take place 
either in the isolated follicles, or in the aggregated patches 
or in both orders of glands. 
" In certain forms of fever, there are pain, distension, 
and uneasy sensations in the right iliac region ; and when 
percussion is employed, the sound emitted is dull, while a 
peculiar croaking noise is heard, and a gurgling movement 
is felt beneath the fingers, as if produced by air and liquid 
moving within the intestine. 
"These symptoms continue the greater part of the 592 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
duration of the fever; and though they are abated by local 
depletion, by means of leeches aud and laxative medicines, 
they do not disappear until the fever itself either abates or 
altogether retires. 
" The portal vein constitutes, among the vessels of the 
digestive organs, a secondary capillary system, in which 
the blood is not less accumulated than in the primary one. 
It may be thought that, as the blood is accumulated in the 
first, it ought not so readily to find its way into the trunk, 
branches, and ramifications of the second. 
" But this objection will vanish, when it is remembered 
that, at the same time, both the primary and secondary 
system of capillaries become overloaded. This state of 
the capillaries of the portal and hepatic system is estab- 
lished by the appearance of the liver in persons cut off by 
fever. 
" The spleen may suffer so much from this capillary dis- 
tension as to resemble a mass of clotted blood without 
trace of organization. This morbid and extraordinary 
distension of the primary and secondary capillary systems 
of the chylopoietic organs, though distinct enough in the 
fevers of temperate countries, is most conspicuously de- 
monstrated in-the agues and remittents of warm climates, 
and especially in the severe and extreme form termed 
yellow fever. In the former, great sickness and epigastric 
tenderness, with more or less vomiting, are frequent; and, 
in the latter, constant symptoms. The vomiting, however, 
is not bilious, as has been too generally imagined. It is, 
at the commencement, always a watery fluid, evidently 
derived from the capillaries of the gastric, and, perhaps, 
from the duodenal mucous membrane. After some time, 
it begins to be mixed with bile, expressed, no doubt, from 
the gall-bladder by the pressure of the stomach in the act 
of vomiting. A much more uniform occurrence, however, 
if the disease does not subside spontaneously, or is checked CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
593 
by art, is the gradual admixture of blood, somewhat 
darkened, with the watery fluid. This blood issues from 
the capillaries of the gastric and intestinal tissues by a 
process analogous to exhalation in the sound state, but 
differing in so far as, in the capillaries from which it pro- 
ceeds, a degree of disorganization has taken place. 
"As the blood escapes into the cavity of the canal, 
originally not highly scarlet, it is rapidly blackened by 
the action of the carbonic acid and sulphuretted hydrogen 
gases, at all times present in greater or less quantity. 
This bloody exudation is at first scanty, but gradually in- 
creases as the disease goes on, until it constitutes the 
greater part of what is discharged both by vomiting and 
by stool. In the former case, it forms the black-vomit or 
coffee-ground matter (vomito prieto), so frequent in eases 
of remittent or yellow fever. In the latter, it forms the 
dark, tarry, or treacle-like stools, mentioned by practical 
authors in the same disease. The description now given 
is general, and applies to this capillary disorganization, 
as it takes place both in bad agues and remittents, and in 
yellow fever. In the former it is less frequent, but, never- 
theless, takes place sufficiently often. In the latter, it is 
seen in its most aggravated form, and is almost invariable 
in fatal cases. Its origin and formation have been traced 
in the most satisfactory manner by repeated dissections. 
" The idea that black vomit is morbid or vitiated bile, 
deserves no attention. In some cases of severe yellow 
fever, a dark colored fluid of the same physical characters 
as those found in the intestinal tube, may be traced coming 
down the biliary and hepatic duct, from the port biliarii. 
This, however, instead of being bile, is blood which has 
oozed from the hepatic capillaries, in the same manner as 
that from the intestinal ones. 
" The capillaries of the urinary system are much affected 
50* 594 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
during fever. Both in intermittents and in continued 
fever, bloody urine has been discharged. 
"In the same manner, the capillaries of the muscles, 
of the filamentous tissue, and of the skin, are morbidly 
distended. One of the most common symptoms of fever is 
pain, soreness, and a sense of bruising in the muscular 
parts and limbs in general. In fatal cases, when these 
parts are examined by incision, unusual vascular distension 
and extravasation of blood are frequently seen. The livid 
spots and patches (moloepes; vibices ecchymosata) are 
proofs of the same state of the capillaries of the fila- 
mentous tissue, as petechial eruptions denote this in the 
skin. In short, there is scarcely a texture or organ of the 
animal body, the capillaries of which are not disordered 
in the different forms of fever; and this disorder, instead 
of being confined to the capillaries of a single organ, is 
extended throughout the capillary system at large. 
" It is doubtless true, that in individual cases, this dis- 
order may be greater and more distinct in one set of 
capillaries than in another. In one set of patients, the 
capillaries of the brain may be most disordered ; in an- 
other, those of the lungs ; in a third, those of the intestinal 
canal; and in a fourth, those of the urinary organs. It is 
always found, however, in such cases, that the affection 
of one organ does not entirely exclude that of another; 
and while the capillaries of the one are very much affected, 
though those of the others are less so, they are by no 
means in the healthv state. In all cases of severe and 
exquisite fever, whether intermittent, remittent, or con- 
tinued, the capillaries of the brain, of the lungs and heart, 
of the chylopoietic organs, of the urinary organs, of the 
muscles, of the cellular tissue, and of the skin, are affected 
nearly in the same degree. 
" An important question is to decide the nature of this CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
595 
affection. The dissections of Home, Plocquet, Mills, 
&c., as to the brain ; those of Schenck, Morgagni, Lieu- 
taud, Sarconi, and others, as to the thoracic organs ; and 
those of Lieutaud, Petit, and Serres, Broussais, Lermi- 
nier, and Andral, Louis, Chomel, and Bright, as to the 
intestinal canal, might favor the supposition that the 
morbid process of fever consists in inflammation. 
"Against this conclusion, however, various facts and 
arguments may be added. 
"1st. In fatal cases of fever, unequivocal traces of 
inflammation are not uniformly or invariably found. The 
proportion in which these marks, as albuminous effusion, 
suppuration, ulceration, &c., are observed, is small, com- 
pared with the number in which accumulation of blood in 
the capillaries, and more or less disorganization of these 
vessels, are observed. 2d. In cases of pure, genuine, and 
unmixed inflammation of the internal organs, whether 
spontaneous or from injury, the concomitant symptoms, 
though febrile, are totally different from those that distin- 
guish either intermittent or continued fever. 3d. The 
marks or effects of inflammation, which are found in the 
bodies of persons cut off by fever, are accidental compli- 
cations, and may almost invariably be traced to inflam- 
matory reaction supervening on the febrile process, in 
consequence either of the physical peculiarities of the 
individual, the local weakness of the parts, or the influence 
of external morbific causes. 4th. Inflammation is a local 
action confined to the capillaries of one tissue, or at most 
of one organ and contiguous tissues; and while the struc- 
ture and functions of the organ may be completely im- 
paired, those of others remain unaltered. In fever, on 
the contrary, the capillaries of all the tissues, and of every 
organ are affected ; and while no individual organ is much 
affected at the commencement, every organ suffers a little 
in the general disorder of the capillary system. 5th 596 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
Inflammation gives rise to albuminous exudation, suppura- 
tion, ulceration, and in certain parts, to serous, or sero- 
purulent effusion. In fever, the morbid state of the capil- 
laries terminates in complete destruction or disorganiza- 
tion of their organic extremities, and the consequent 
oozing of blood, from the surface of the several mem- 
branes and organs. 
In conclusion, though it may be regarded as established 
that, during the morbid process of fever, the whole capil 
lary system is unduly distended and loaded with an inordi- 
nate quantity of blood, which really moves more slowly 
and imperfectly than in health, we have no facts that 
enable us to determine what induces this peculiar and 
excessive accumulation. Much has been said lately of 
congestion, and especially of venous congestion. The 
state of the capillary system which I have attempted to 
describe is that of congestion or accumulation ; and so far 
the hypothesis of congestion is intelligible. Of the existence 
of venous congestion, however, unless as an effect of that 
in the capillary vessels there is neither proof nor proba- 
bility. It is- not a primary, but a secondary, or rather a 
remote consequence. "- (Marsh.) 
" It is obvious," says Dr. Carpenter, "that increase of 
fibrine in the blood does not exist as the result of fever." 
Dr. Andral has observed a marked diminution of fibrine 
in the blood in all idiopathic fevers ; he also found the red 
corpuscles and serum slightly increased. It is probable, 
however, that the increase of red corpuscle is relative ip 
proportion to the amount of fibrine, and not in proportion 
to the entire bulk of the blood. "In typhoid fever," says 
Dr. Carpenter, "the decrease in the proportion of fibrine 
is much more decidedly' marked; and that it does not 
depend upon abstinence from food, as, in all cases, as soon 
The Condition of the Blood in Fevers. CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
597 
as a favorable change occurs in the disease, the proportion 
of fibrine is much more decidedly marked. " " In malig- 
nant forms of fever," says Dr. Simon, " the blood-frequently 
becomes so deteriorated in amount of fibrine as to com- 
pletely lose the power of coagulation." Another remarkable 
change which has been observed in the blood in Typhoid 
and other malignant forms of fever, is the want of due 
arterialization, as indicated by its dark blue appearance in 
the veins and arteries, as well as that of the capillaries. 
This being a very important one in a practical point, I 
will introduce the remarks of Dr. Cragie upon this subject:. 
" What is the cause of these changes ? It is reasonable 
to think that for the cause we ought to look in the lungs 
chiefly. The lungs, I have already observed, are in all 
cases of fever more or less disordered, their vessels are 
congested and oppressed ; their action is impaired; and 
there is proof of great derangement in the action of the 
bronchial membrane, imperfect admission of air to the 
bronchial tubes and their membranes, and, accordingly, 
inadequate arterialization, or, it may be, the lowest possible 
degree of that function. These may be regarded as matters 
of fact, capable of demonstration. Does this morbid state 
of the blood, then, begin in the lungs or in some other 
organ or set of vessels ? When we consider the large 
extent of the bronchial membrane; the fact that, upon it are 
ramified the capillary divisions of the pulmonary artery; and 
the fact that through these vessels passes the whole of the 
blood of the body; and the further fact of the manifest 
disorder of the whole blood of the system in fever, it is 
impossible to resist the conclusion, that it must be chiefly, 
perhaps solely, on the blood of the lungs that the cause of 
the fever begins to display its primary and initial operation. 
" On the nature of this cause it is not possible to speak 
with confidence or certainty. But if the general opinion 
that it is a poison diffused through the air, be well founded, 598 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
it is not difficult to perceive at least some traces of its mode 
of operation. Whether that poison be extricated in the 
form of a vapor or exhalation from the surface of the earth, 
and is telluric in its origin ; or is eliminated from vegetable 
matters in certain circumstances of decay or change ; or 
from vegetable and animal matters conjoined ; or is given 
off as a subtle effluvium from the bodies of living human 
beings, in circumstances unfavorable to ventilation and the 
healthy performance of the functions ; or is the result of 
some unknown and inappreciable state of the atmosphere; 
- it must equally be inhaled in the air in inspiration, and 
thus thoroughly mixed with the blood of the lungs in suc- 
cessive acts of the function of respiration. If it be so 
mixed, it must be circulated with the circulating blood, 
and in this manner distributed through the whole vascular 
system to every organ of the body. In doing so, however, 
this poisonous material will have so altered the blood in 
the lungs as to produce in that blood, and in these organs, 
a more decided effect than elsewhere. The shock first 
inflicted on the blood in these organs appears, it is natural 
to think, the great cause of the loss of coagulating power 
and the impaired arterialization. We know that one of 
the great uses of the lung, next to or along with the 
arterialization of the blood, is to maintain the coagulating 
power, and restore it when impaired. It is, therefore, 
natural to infer, that when the coagulating power is dimin- 
ished, it depends upon some important impediment to the 
function of respiration, and that when the function of respi- 
ration is imperfectly performed, that it should evince its 
effects in a diminished proportion of coagulating power. 
If these views be well founded, it follows that, when the 
blood thus altered is circulated, however imperfectly, it 
must operate hurtfully on the organs to which it is trans- 
mitted. It must act, in truth, as a poison, and many of 
the phenomena of fever are similar, certainly, to the effects CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
599 
of poison, especially a poison at first irritant, and then 
sedative and narcotic. This appears to be the mode in 
which, towards the latter stage of fever, its cause acts on 
the brain and spinal marrow." 
The ancients supposed fever to depend upon a warfare 
between the vital forces of the body and some noxious 
element which had invaded the system. 
Hippocrates ascribed the different fevers to the four 
humors ; blood, phlegm, and yellow and black bile. Galen 
supposed that the different forms of ague depended upon 
the corruption of the different fluids. That quotidian 
arose from the corruption of phlegm, the tertian from the 
corruption of yellow bile, and the quartan from that of 
black bile. He also supposed that, in whatever part of 
the body the heat began, it ultimately terminated in the 
heart, causing increased motion of the blood and accelerated 
pulse, followed by an effort of the vis vitae to expel the 
poisonous agents from the system, and to assimilate the 
healthy fluids to sustain the different organs of the body. 
Sydenham says, "that reason dictates that a fever is 
nothing else than an effort of nature to thrust from the 
system morbific matter, in order to restore the patient to 
health ; that seeing it has pleased God, the Governor of 
all things, so to constitute human nature as to be subject 
to a variety of diseases ; that these diseases are introduced 
into the system in the form of poisoned air and otherwise, 
and that when once introduced into the system they become 
so identified with it that it is beyond the art of man to 
separate it, hence nature has provided for herself a method 
and concatenation of symptoms, so that she might thereby 
expel the poisonous matter which would otherwise ruin the 
whole fabric. Avicenna attributed the phenomena of fever 
to the superabundance of the different humors. Dr. Stahl 
maintained that fevers depended upon plethora or over- 
fulness of the vessels, and a depraved condition of the 600 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS, 
fluids. Hoffman maintained that fever consisted in a spasm 
of the capillaries. He attributed the cause of these spasms 
to some morbid affection of the nervous system. Cullen 
contended that fever depended upon certain abnormal 
changes occurring in the brain. Dr. Benjamin Rusn, that 
all diseases are a unit; and that fevers, as well as other 
diseases, depend upon an irregular action, and this irregular 
action, in its turn, is the proximate cause of every form 
and modification of disease. Ploucquet claimed that all 
fevers were dependent upon inflammation of the brain. 
Broussais that all fevers depended upon an altered condi- 
tion of the mucous surface of the stomach and bowels. 
That this alteration was mostly confined to the mucous 
follicles; and that, as the disease advanced, they passed into 
a state of suppuration. Relative to the opinion of Brous- 
sais, Dr. Andral remarks as follows: "Admitting that 
simple or follicular enteritis is the commencement of a 
great number of fevers, can everything be explained by 
them ? We never thought so; and it has always appeared 
to us that these fevers never become severe except in con- 
sequence of a disturbance which supervenes in the innerva- 
tion and hematosis. This has been very satisfactorily 
proved by Prof. Bouillaud, who has contributed to give 
considerable weight to the doctrine of the localization of 
fevers, by placing this doctrine on a broader basis, more 
particularly by establishing the reality, of the alterations, 
which on the one hand the blood, and on the other the 
nervous centres, undergo in a great number of fevers. The 
part performed by these has been also clearly demonstrated 
by the valuable observations of M. Chaufford, of Avignon. 
This disturbance of hematosis and innervation, which 
gives rise to the phenomena called adynamic and ataxic, 
or in other words, to the typhoid state, may be the result 
of several lesions, different in their nature and in their 
seat. CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
601 
First, gastro-intestinal inflammations give rise to it more 
frequently than diseases of any other organ. Of these 
inflammations, some are directed principally to the intesti- 
nal follicles, which become tumefied, and ulcerate ; others 
consist merely in a simple ulceration of the mucous mem- 
brane itself. Other organs also, however, though less 
frequently than the digestive tube, may become the occasion 
of that profound disturbance of innervation and hematosis, 
a disturbance which constitutes the adynamic and ataxic 
fever of Pinel. Thus phlebitis, pneumonia, particularly in 
aged persons, erysipelas, phlegmon, inflammation of the 
urinary passages, an abscess developed in the prostate, 
metritis, several forms of inflammation of the liver, variola, 
acute inflammations of the synovial membranes, etc., may 
give rise to it. M. Boisseau has clearly proved this in 
his physiological pyretology, and it has been put out of 
all doubt by several other works; by those of Dance, in 
particular. 
Thus the ataxo adynamic, or typhoid state, may be de- 
veloped, in consequence of a great number of affections 
widely differing from each other: it is a collection of 
symptoms identical as to their ultimate seat, but not as to 
their origin. Thus symptoms, identical also as to their 
nature, differ only in their greater or less intensity; with 
regard to their progress and duration, they are subordinate 
to the progress and duration of the affection, in conse- 
quence of which the typhoid symptoms have been de- 
veloped. If it be a primary alteration of the blood which 
gives rise to them, these symptoms may acquire, in a few 
hours, their highest degree of development; and, in some 
cases, even occasion sudden death. If the commencement be 
in an organ where inflammation is rapidly developed, as in 
a lung, or in a vein, the typhoid symptoms shall have a 
quick course and a rapid termination, similar to this in- 
flammation. If, on the contrary, they are connected with 
51 602 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
an inflammation, which, as that of the intestinal follicles, 
has stages, which it passes through with a certain degree 
of slowness, they will be like the inflammation itself, slow 
in their development, and slow in their termination, 
whether favorably or fatally. 
This is, we think, all the difference between a typhoid 
fever, which is connected with phlebitis, for instance, 
and that which follows dothiteritis. There will be, 
however, in each of them, some particular symptoms, 
which will depend on the local lesion, as the diarrhoea in 
the case of follicular enteritis. We may, no doubt, as M. 
Louis has done, reserve the term typhoid fever for the 
morbid state which proceeds along with the affection of 
Peyer's glands; this, however, is a distinction purely 
arbitrary; and, besides this mode of proceeding, seems to 
us to be attended with the inconvenience of thus desig- 
nating a great number of cases of follicular enteritis, in 
which the term typhoid affection has no longer any mean- 
ing ; for all cases of follicular enteritis, certainly are not 
accompanied either with stupor, or with the different phe- 
nomena of adynamic or ataxic fever ; all do not resemble 
typhus : they are oftentimes mere inflammatory, bilious, or 
mucous fevers, to use for a moment the language of the 
Nosographie Philosophique. 
We do not think it right then to retain the term typhoid 
fever, because this term leaves a vagueness in the mind, 
not consistent with science, and because it often fails in ex- 
actness, with respect to the symptoms which it represents. 
We admit as a possible, but never a necessary consequence, 
a typhoid state in a great number of diseases ; that is to 
say, a state in which there appear some general symptoms 
more or less similar to those which characterize typhus. 
This state indicates that the disease no longer exists in the 
organ where it had commenced-it is, in some degree, the 
jsignal that the blood and nervous centres participate in CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
603 
the disease. Thenceforward, the nature of the disease is 
no longer the same, and other therapeutic indications 
present themselves to be fulfilled. 
The term typhoid, when applied to fevers in this work, 
is not used as an adjective, defining typhus, but as a noun, 
the name of a fever which is characterized by a specific 
glandular affection of the bowels. Dr. Samuel Dickson, 
of London, denounces, in the most emphatic terms, the 
opinion entertained by the great body of the medical pro- 
fession, that not only fevers, but all other diseases, are very 
various, and may be developed by a plurality of causes: 
and adopts the maxim of Hippocrates, " Omnium mor- 
borum unus et idem modus est" The type of all dis- 
eases is one and identical. Upon this subject he remarks, 
"a disease is not a devil to be cast out, an acrimony or 
crudity to be expelled, nor any fanciful chemical goblin 
to be chemically neutralized ; neither is the state errone- 
ously termed inflammation, so commonly the cause, as a 
coincident part of the general disorder. Disease is an 
error of action; a greater or less variation in the motion, 
rest, and revolutions of a systematic series of periodic 
alternations. 
Whatever be the cause or causes of corporeal aberration, 
in obedience to the law of all matter, the first effects are 
changes of motion and changes of temperature; the patient 
accordingly has a feeling of heat and cold ; his muscular 
movements are less under the control of their respective 
influences, thus becoming tremulous, spasmodic, or varied. 
The breathing is irregular; the heart beats with increased 
force, and often with much irregularity of motion. The 
secretions are changed. The functions of the brain are 
disturbed, and the body undergoes material physical 
changes. He further states the cause of all disease, of various 
name, place and degree, is only one in their real nature, 
and may be found in a deprivation of any adaptation of 604 
CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS 
the identical forces which continue life in health • the same 
natural agencies, in a word, by which every motion or 
event is produced throughout the universe. They com- 
prise everything, therefore, which connects us directly or 
indirectly with the external world. The cause of disease, 
then, never originates in any single organ of the body, ex- 
cept as far as that organ may be predisposed by inherent 
weakness of the attractive powers of the atoms of its parts 
to receive grave impressions from outward agencies that 
affect other parts of the body in a slight manner. He 
claims health to consist in a periodic alternation of har- 
monious movements, some longer, some shorter, and that 
intermittent fever is the type of all diseases; in other 
words, that all diseases are but a modification of fever, of 
which ague is the type. 
Whether this doctrine of fever, according to Dr. Dick- 
son, be true, and that every fever is but a modification of 
the primitive type, ague, is a subject worthy of investiga- 
tion. The opinion of Prof. J. G. Jones, that disease, 
throughout the entire western country, is decidedly of a 
periodic character, with the almost universal success of 
antiperiodic remedies in its treatment; and not only that 
which is acknowledged to be of an intermittent type, but 
also that which is supposed to depend upon a series of 
uninterrupted morbid changes, is a confirmation of the 
doctrine of the periodicity of disease, at least to a certain 
extent. 
Also the doctrine of disease as advocated by my learned 
colleague, Prof. Chase, M. D., which is, that disease de- 
pends upon the too positive or too negative condition of 
the electrical forces of the brain and nerves, or cerebral 
spinal system ; and that these alternate changes in the 
electrical condition of the nervous system give rise to all 
the pathological changes characteristic of not only fever, 
but all other diseases. He maintains that all medicine CONSIDERATION OF FEVERS. 
605 
acts upon the system in increasing or diminishing the 
positive or negative electrical condition of the brain and 
nerves. Alsjx that medicines are beneficial in proportion 
as they regulate the positive and negative electrical forces 
of the body. These views being true, we can harmonize 
the doctrine of Dr. Dickson with the manifest phenomena 
of fever. The limits of this work will not allow of a 
further consideration of the nature of fever, but the subject 
will be fully considered in my large work, now in the 
course of preparation, upon the Principles and Practice 
of Medicine. 
The anatomical character of fever varies with the type 
of the disease. In intermittent, autopsy has shown traces 
of inflammation of the arachnoid membrane of the brain. 
The liver is frequently the seat of lesion, and sometimes 
undergoes a change of structure. In chronic ague, it pre- 
sents the appearance described by Dr. Craigie, caused by 
the congested condition of its capillaries. But of all the 
organs of the body, the spleen is the most uniformly affected. 
It is not only changed in structure, but becomes very much 
enlarged, and in all fatal cases proves to be the principal 
organ on which the disease has spent its force. In remit- 
tent and congestive fevers, the essential anatomical charac- 
ter is alteration in the condition and structure of the liver 
and gall-bladder, although other organs, such as the spleen, 
lungs, brain, and we might add the entire capillary system, 
at times manifest organic lesion and congestion. 
In typhoid fever the principal anatomical characteristic 
appears to be confined to the glands of the bowels. On 
summing up the locality of fevers, we may reasonably 
infer that the intermittent form is intimately connected 
with a deranged condition of the spleen, while the remit- 
tent and congestive spend their force upon the liver and 
stomach, and typhoid upon the bowels. Yet it is contrary to 
the universal characteristics of all forms of fever, to confine 
51* 606 
ECLECTIC REMEDIES. 
their anatomical and physiological changes to any definite 
boundary, as each and every organ of the body is neces- 
sarily more or less dependent upon the entire organism 
which constitutes the whole. So disease, although local 
in its incipiency, soon extends its abnormal influence to 
nearly, if not every, tissue of the body. 
METHOD OF PREPARING CONCENTRATED 
REMEDIES. 
All the concentrated remedies which are prepared in a 
powdered form, should be triturated either with sugar of 
milk or pure white sugar. The object of this is, 1st, to 
prevent the local influence of the medicine upon the 
stomach ; 2d, it enables it to become more readily ab- 
sorbed and conveyed into the circulation, to perform its 
mission of removing disease, as it passes through the dif- 
ferent tissues, with the blood. All the fluid extracts should 
be diluted with pure syrup of sugar, in the same propor- 
tion as the powdered materials, i. e., ten parts to one 
hundred of the syrup. The tincture should be given largely 
diluted with soft water. The triturations, tinctures and 
syrups, should all be thoroughly prepared and well secured 
from light, moisture and heat. They should be kept in 
ground-stopper jars, and should be prepared as often as 
once or twice a year. My recipes in this work are full doses 
for an adult, or what might be considered a medium dose. 
To enable the prescriber to proportion the dose to the age, 
sex, idiosyncrasies, temperament, &c., I introduce the fol- 
lowing table from the A. E. D., p. 1315. TABLE OF DOSES. 
607 
Table of Proportionate Dose for Different ages. 
Under J year, one-fifteenth of a full dose, or 4 grains. 
" 1 " one-twelfth " " 5 " 
2 " one-eighth " " 7£ " 
' 3 " one-sixth " " 10 " 
" 4 " one-fifth " " 12 " 
" 7 " one-third " " 20 " 
" 14 " one-half " " 30 " 
" 20 " two-thirds " " 40 " 
" 21 " the full dose 1 drachm. 
63 " eleven-twelfths " " 55 grains. 
" 77 " five-sixths " " 50 " 
" 100 " two-thirds " " 40 " 
To the above rule there are certain exceptions; thus 
castor oil requires to be given in larger proportionate 
doses, while opium, and the narcotics generally, should be 
administered in smaller proportionate doses. 
Sex, temperament and idiosyncrasy, have also a modi- 
fying effect upon the dose, and they should always be kept 
in view in the administration of medicines. 
Females usually require smaller doses than males; and 
persons of a sanguine temperament bear depletory medi- 
cines better than the phlegmatic. 
Explanations of the Abbreviations occurring in the For' 
mulas of this Work. 
R. Recipe-Take. 
M. Misce-Mix. 
gr. granum-A grain. 
O. Octarius-Pint. 
ss. Semi-A half. 
aa. of each ingredient equal parts. 
lb. Libra-Pound. 
5. Uncia-An ounce. 
5. Drachma-A drachm or dram. 
Gutt. Gutta-Drop. 
Tinct. Tinctura-A tincture. 
Ext. Extractum-An Extract. 608 
MEDICAL TERMS. 
GLOSSARY OF MEDICAL TERMS EMPLOYED IN 
THIS WORK. 
Abdomen. The cavity situated between the lower part of the 
thorax and the region of the pelvis, containing the intestines, &c. 
Abnormal. Unhealthy. 
Abortion. Miscarriage. 
Abrasion. Excoriation. 
Abscess. Cavity containing pus. 
Absorbents. The lacteals and lymphatic vessels. 
Absorption. The act of taking or sucking up. 
Acacia. Gum Arabic. 
Acarus Scabiei. The itch insect. 
Acetate. A salt containing acetic acid, united to a base. 
Acetic Acid. Vinegar. 
Acetic Tincture. A tincture made with vinegar. 
Acid. A compound body which neutralizes alkalies and other 
bases. 
Aconite, Monk's-hood. A native of Europe. This plant is culti- 
vated in gardens as an ornament. It is very extensively used by 
Eclectics as a febrifuge. 
Aconitum Napellus. 
Acme. The heighth of a disease. 
Acne. Small red pimples appearing upon the face, mostly of 
young persons. 
Adhesive Inflammation. That kind of inflammation which glues 
parts together, by means of coagulable lymph. 
Adipose. Fatty. 
Ether. The name of the oxyde of Ethyle. 
Afferent. Name of lymphatics conveying lymph to the glands; 
also, nerves which convey impressions to the brain. 
Afflux. The act of flowing to. 
Ague-Chill. The cold stage of an intermittent. 
Albumen. A substance found in animals and vegetables, and 
which constitutes the chief part of the white of eggs. 
Alcohol. The rectified spirits of wine. 
Aletris Farinosa. Star-grass. 
Aliment. Any kind of food. 
Alimentary Canal. The entire passage through which the food 
passes from the mouth to the anus. MEDICAL TERMS. 
609 
Alkali. A substance, having a metallic base, which neutralizes 
acids, as potash, soda, and ammonia. 
Allopathy. The system of curing one disease, by substituting 
another. 
Aloes. The inspissated juice of the aloe spicata. 
Alnuin. Concentrated remedy from the swamp alder. 
Alteratives. Medicines intended to change the morbid action by 
restoring the healthy functions of the secretions, &c., by a gradual 
process. 
Alum. Super sulphate of alumina and potash. 
Alvine. Relating to the intestines. 
Amaurosis. A paralysis of the optic nerve. 
Ammonia. Volatile alkali. 
Amphoric. A sound, like blowing into a decanter, heard in aus- 
cultating the chest in certain diseases. 
Amenorrhoea. Absence of the menses. 
Ampelopsin. A concentrated remedy from the woodbine. 
Anaemia. An impoverished state of the blood. 
Analysis. Resolution of a compound body into its elements. 
Anasarca. Dropsy of the cellular tissue, or membrane, beneath, 
the skin. 
Aneurism. Morbid enlargement of an artery. 
Angina. Generic name of morbid affections of the throat. 
Anorexia. Want of appetite. 
Anthelmintic. A worm-medicine. 
Antidote. A medicine given to destroy a morbid cause. 
Antimony. A metal used in medicine. 
Antiperiodic. A remedy for periodic diseases, as ague. 
Antiphlogistic. A remedy for inflammation. 
Antiseptic. A preservative from putrefaction. 
Anus. The inferior opening of the rectum. 
Aorta. The large artery passing off from the heart. 
Aperient. A gentle purgative. 
Aphonia. Loss of voice. 
Apthus. Sore patches on the mucous membrane. 
Apocynin. A concentrated remedy prepared from the bitter root 
Apoplexy. Hemorrhage into the brain. 
Apyrexia. Intermission, or absence of fever. 
Arachnoid. Web-like membrane covering the brain. 
Areolae. The interstices between fibres composing organs. 610 
Arnica Montana. Leopards' bane; a remedy used in intermittent 
fever, &c., and for mechanical injuries. 
Artery. The name of a blood vessel which conveys blood from 
the heart. 
Arthritis. Gout. 
Assafoetida. The inspissated juice of a plant growing on the 
shores of the Mediterranean. 
Ascarides. Small worms infesting the rectum. 
Ascites. Dropsical effusion within the abdomen. 
Asclepin. Concentrated remedy obtained from the pleurisy root. 
Asphyxia. Apparent death from suffocation. 
Asthenic. Applied to disease of a low grade of action. 
Asthma. A disease of the lungs, accompanied by difficult 
breathing. 
Astringents. Medicines used to contract the animal fibre. 
Atony. A want of tone or energy in the muscular power. 
Atrophy. A morbid state of the digestive system, in which the 
food taken into the stomach fails to afford sufficient nourishment 
A wasting of the whole or different organs of the body. 
Auricles. The superior cavities of the heart. 
Aurium, Tinnitus Ringing in the ears. 
Auscultation. Method of detecting disease by listening to the 
abnormal sounds produced in the lungs, in inspiration and expira- 
tion, by direct application of the ear, or by means of a hollow tube 
applied to the chest, called a stethoscope. 
Axilla. The arm-pit. 
Balmony. Chelona Glabra, Snake's-head, Bitter Herb. Exten- 
sively used as a stomachic and tonic. 
Balsam Copaiva. Liquid resin used for chronic inflammation of 
the mucous membrane. 
Balsam of Tolu. Liquid resin used for coughs and catarrhal af- 
fections. 
Baptisin. A concentrated remedy, prepared from the wild indigo 
or Baptisia Tinctoria. 
Battery, Galvanic. A connected series of zinc and copper plates 
alternately arranged, with acid and water. 
Bayberry. An astringent plant used as a tonic and astringent. 
Beeberine. Active principle of the bark of the Beeberu. 
Belladonna. Deadly Night Shade. 
Bellows sound. A sound produced in the lungs and heart, analo- 
gous to a bellows. 
GLOSSARY Or MEDICAL TERMS. 
611 
Berberin. Active principle of the barberry; antiperiodic, tenia 
and laxative. 
Benzoic Acid. Flowers of Benzoin. 
Bicuspides. The first grinding teeth, molars. 
Bifurcate. To divide into two branches. 
Bile. A yellowish fluid secreted by the liver; its use is tore- 
move from the fluids superfluous hydro-carbons. 
Bistoury. Small knife used by surgeons. 
Bitartrate of Potassa. Cream of tartar. 
Bleb. Small blister. 
Borax. Salt of boracic acid and soda, sub-borate of soda. 
Bronchi. The tubes into which the trachea or windpipe divides 
Bougie. Small elastic rod for dilating strictures of the urethra; 
also for evacuating the bladder. 
Bronchitis. Inflammation of the ramifications of the wind-pipe. 
Bronchial Sound. Sounds heard over the bronchi. 
Bronchophony. Resonance of the voice heard over the bronchial 
tubes, or conveyed through a consolidated lung, or through an 
accumulation of fluid. 
Bronchocele. Enlargement of the thyroid gland. 
Bryonia. Medicine used in typhoid fever 
Bubo. Inflamed gland occurring in the groin or axilla. 
Cadavebous. Countenance resembling a corpse. 
Caecum. The head of the colon ; so-called from being perforated 
at one end only. 
Cajeput. Volatile oil used for rheumatism, &c. 
Calculus. Stone in the bladder. 
Calomel. Combination of chlorine and mercury; a proto-chlo- 
ride. 
Camphor. A valuable antispasmodic and nervine. 
Cannabis Indica. Indian hemp. 
Canula. A hollow tube. 
Cantharides. Spanish flies, for blistering; used extensively by 
allopaths and homoeopaths. 
Capillaries. Hair-like vessels for conveying the blood from the 
arteries to the veins. 
Capsicum. Red pepper, Cayenne; pure stimulant, used in two or 
three grain doses, whenever a stimulant is indicated. 
Carbo-ligni. Charcoal; carbo-vegetabilis. 
Carbonates. Combinations of carbonic acid, with a base. 
Cardiac. Appertaining tj the heart. 612 
GLOSSARY OF 
Cardialgia. Pain in the stomach. 
Carditis Inflammation of the heart. 
Caries. Disease of the bone. 
Cartilage. Gristle. 
Carotid. Name of the artery passing up each side of the neck, 
conveying the blood to the brain. 
Castor. A secretion found in a sac near the anus of the beaver. 
Catalepsy. A nervous affection, involving loss of consciousness. 
Catamenia. The menstrual flux. 
Cataplasm. A poultice. 
Catarrh. Flow of mucus. 
Catharsis. Purging. 
Cataract. Opacity of the crystalline lens. 
Catheter. A hollow silver tube used for evacuating the bladder. 
Caulophyllin. The active principle of the blue cohosh. 
Caustic. A substance which destroys parts by combining chemi- 
cally, or disorganizing them. 
Ceanothus. New Jersey tea. 
Cellular Tissue. The fine or net-like tissue connecting most of 
the structures of the human body. 
Cephalitis. Inflammation of the brain. 
Cephalome. A morbid tumor, the matter of which resembles the 
brain. 
Cerate. An ointment made of wax. 
Gerasin. Active principle of the choke-cherry; used very exten- 
sively as an antiperiodic and febrifuge; the medium dose from three 
to five grains, repeated every two or three hours until thirty or forty 
grains are given. 
Cerebellum. The posterior portion of the brain. 
Cerebrum. The anterior portion of the brain. 
Cerebritis. Inflammation of the brain. 
Cervex Uteri. Neck of the womb. 
Chalybeate. Containing iron. 
Chancre. Syphilitic ulcer. 
Chelona Glabra. Snake's head, balmony. It is tonic and vermi- 
fuge, used in the form of infusion. 
Chelonin. The active principle of the chelona glabra. 
Chlorine. An elementary gas. 
Chlorosis. Green sickness. 
Cholerine. A modified species of cholera. 
Cholera Morbus. Bilious vomiting and purging. MEDICAL TERMS. 
613 
Cholera Infantum. Summer complaint of children. 
Chorea. St. Vitus' dance. 
Chyme. The pulp formed by the food mixing with the gastric 
secretions, after it has been for some time in the stomach. After 
the chyme becomes mixed with the pancreatic and biliary secretions 
of the duodenum, it is converted into chyle. 
Cicatrix. A scar. 
Cicatrization. Process of healing. 
Cicuta. Poison hemlock. 
Cicutin. The alkaloid of cicuta. 
Cimicifugin. The concentrated principle of the black snake-root. 
Cinchona. Peruvian Bark. 
Cinchonine. An alkaloid of the cinchona. It is antiperiodic, and 
used in the same cases as quinine. 
Citric acid. Acid of lemons. 
Clinic. A school in which medicine is taught by examining 
diseased patients at the bedside. 
Clysters. Injections per ano and per vagina. 
Cnicene. One of the active principles of the blessed thistle. 
Coagulum. A clot of blood or milk. 
Coffea, Coffee. A homoeopathic remedy for nervous diseases. 
Colchicin. The alkaloid of colchicum autumnale. 
Cold. Catarrh in the head. 
Colic. Griping in the intestines. 
Colitis. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the colon. 
Collapse. Recession of blood from the superficial capillaries, and 
failing of the vital powers. 
Colliquative. Excessive evacuation. 
Colombin. Proximate principle of columbo 
Colon. The large intestine. 
Coma. Drowsiness, lethargy. 
Comatose. Drowsy. 
Compatibles. Medicines which can be used together without im- 
pairing their properties. 
Confluent. Running together; one variety of small-pox. 
Congenital. Being present at birth. 
Congestion. Over fulness of the blood-vessels. 
Congestive Diseases. Those in which congestion is the most 
prominent symptom. 
Congestive Fever, is a fever, where the stomach, liver and spleen, 
are the congested organs. 
52 614 
Conjunctiva. The outer membrane of the eye. 
Conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the conjunctiva. 
Constipation. Gtostiveness. 
Constitutional. Hereditary, or acquired predisposition; a disease 
is said to be constitutional when it affects the whole system. 
Consumption. Wasting away. 
Contagion. Propagation of disease by contact. 
Continuity. Direct connection; identity of surface. 
Cornea. The horny transparent coat of the eye. 
Corneitis. Inflammation of the cornea. 
Cornus Florida. Dog-wood. 
Cornine is the active principle of the cornus Florida, and is 
used as a substitute for quinine. 
Corrugated. Wrinkled. 
Corydalin. The active principle of the Turkey pea; it is a spe- 
cific remedy for syphilis. 
Critical. Applied to certain symptoms, and certain stages of 
disease indicating crisis. 
Croup. Inflammation of the trachea. 
Cutis Anserinus. Goose-skin. 
Cynanche. Any inflammatory disease of the throat. 
Cypripedin. The active principle of the lady-slipper. 
Cystitis. Inflammation of the bladder. 
Decoction. Preparation made by steeping. 
Decomposition. Dissolution of the animal tissue. 
Decubitus. Lying down. 
Deglutition. The act of swallowing. 
Delirium. Aberration of the mind. 
Delirium Tremens. Disease produced by excessive use of intoxi- 
cating liquors. 
Dementia. Loss of mind ; idiocy. 
Dental. Appertaining to the teeth. 
Dentition. Process of cutting the teeth. 
Depletion. Diminishing the fulness of a part, by evacuating re- 
medies. 
Derangement. Applied to functional disturbances of the organs. 
Dermoid. Resembling the skin 
Desiccation. Drying, scabbing. 
Desquamation. Scaling off. 
Determination. Unnatural flow of blood to the part. 
GLOSSARY OF MEDICAL TERMS. 
615 
Diabetes. Disease characterized by mal-assimilation and sacchfc 
Fine urine. 
Diagnosis. Distinction of maladies. 
Diagnostic. Characteristic of disease. 
Diaphorous. Transparent. 
Diaphoresis. A gentle perspiration. 
Diaphoretic. Medicines having a tendency to excite perspiration. 
Diaphragm. The partition separating the thorax from the abdo- 
men. 
Diarrhoea. Looseness of the bowels. 
Diastole. A periodical dilatation of the heart and arteries, when 
the blood enters their cavities. It is the opposite movement to 
cystole, in which the heart and arteries contract to send forth the 
Mood. 
Diathesis. Constitutional tendency. 
Digestion. Conversion of food into blood. 
Digitalis. Fox-glove. 
Digitalin. A concentrated preparation from the digitalis; it is 
iiuretic and sedative ; from one-fifth to one-half grain is a dose. 
Dilatation. Widening. 
Dioscorea Villosa. Yam-root. 
Dioscorine. The active principle of the yam-root; a specific for 
bilious colic. 
Discutient. A repelling medicine. 
Disorganization. Destruction of an organ. 
Dissection. The anatomical examination of the parts of the body. 
Diuresis. An increased flow of urine. 
Diuretic. Medicine which increases the secretion of the urine. 
Dorsal. Pertaining to the back. » 
Drachm or dram, g. Sixty grains by weight, and an ordinary 
teaspoonful by measure. 
Drastic. Powerful purge. 
Dropsy. Effusion of serum into any of the cavities. 
Drug. A medicine which has not undergone a preparation. 
Duct. A canal for conveying fluids. 
Dulcamara. Bitter-sweet. 
Dura-mater. The outer membrane of the brain. 
Dysentery. Inflammation of the colon. 
Dysmenorrhoea. Painful menstruation. 
Dyspnoea. Difficulty of respiration, shortness of breath. 
Dysuria. Difficulty in passing urine. 616 
GLOSSARY 0 T 
Ecchymosis. Effusion of blood beneath the skin. 
Eclectic Physicians. Those who select their remedies from all 
the systems of practice. 
New School Physicians. This refers to a large class of physi- 
cians, who believe that the investigation and practice of medicine 
shall be free. That all remedies should be applied that can be of 
any utility in removing disease, no matter from what system they 
may be derived. They also claim that the science of medicine is 
progressive, and that no dogmatic creed should be adopted to im- 
pede its progress. By the New School profession, the valuable reme- 
dies of the other systems have not only been adopted, but a large 
number of new ones are introduced, which enable them to combat 
disease with far greater success than by any exclusive system. 
Eczema. Eruption on the skin. 
Efferent. To carry. Efferents may be the lymphatics, blood- 
vessels, or nerves. 
Effusion. Pouring out of blood, or any other fluid, into the 
areolar membrane or cavities of the body. 
Effete. Worn out. 
Egophony. A sound heard when the lung is hepatized, or the 
pleural sac partly filled with fluid; when the voice strikes the ear 
it yields a tremulous or goat-sound. 
Elaterin. The active principle of the wild cucumber; a drastive 
purgative. 
Electricity. Galvanism, electro-magnetism, and animal magne- 
tism, are used for rheumatism, amaurosis, paralysis, and most 
nervous diseases. 
Element. A simple constituent or principle of the body, or any 
other substance. 
Emaciation. Wasting away. 
Emesis. Vomiting. 
Emetics. Medicines provoking vomiting. 
Emetine. The alkaloid and emetic principle of ipecac ; it is used 
as an emetic in one-grain doses. 
Emeto-Cathartic. A medicine that produces vomiting and purg- 
ing. 
Emmenagogues. Medicines believed to have the power of ex- 
citing the menses. 
Emollients. Medicines tending to soften parts that are tense and 
inflamed. MEDICAL TERMS. 
Empyema. Collection of pus in the pleural cavity. 
Emphysema. Cavity filled with air; or the air may pervade the 
cellular tissue; it is divided into traumatic and idiopathic. 
Enamel. The outer surface of the tooth. 
Encysted. Covered with a sac. 
Endemic. A disease prevailing in a certain district; not epidemic. 
Endosmosis. The passage of liquids or gases through membranes. 
Endocarditis. Inflammation of the internal membrane of the 
heart. 
Endocardium. The membrane that lines the interior of the 
heart. 
Enema. Injection into the rectum. 
Engorgement. Accumulation of blood in its vessels. 
Enteric. Belonging to the intestines. 
Enteritis. Inflammation of the small intestines. 
Epidemic. A disease prevailing over an extensive country or 
district. 
Epidermis. The scarf-skin; cuticle. 
Epigastric. Above the stomach. 
Epigastrium. The region above the stomach. 
Epilepsy. Falling-sickness; fits. 
Epistaxis. Bleeding at the nose. 
Ergot. Spurred rye. 
Erysipelas. Inflammation of the skin. 
Erythema. Simple redness. 
Euonymine. The active principle of the Euonymus Atropurpu- 
reus; a valuable alterative, acting with great efficiency upon the 
liver. 
Eupurpurin. The active principle of the Queen of the Meadow; 
a valuable remedy for gravel and uterine diseases. 
Eupatorin (perfo). Active principle of the Eupatorium Perfoli- 
atum, or boneset; a valuable tonic and antiperiodic. 
Euphorbin. The active principle of Bowman's root; used as an 
emetic, cathartic, and diaphoretic. 
Eustachian. A tube, leading from the throat to the internal ear. 
Exacerbation. Aggravation of fever, or other disease. 
Excretion. Anything thrown off. 
Exfoliation. A separation of dead from living bone. 
Exhalants. Vessels which throw out. 
Exosmosis is the passing of rarer fluids to the denser, through 
the membranes. 
52* 
617 618 
GLOSSARY OF 
Exostosis. Morbid enlargement of the bone. 
Exotic. Belonging to a foreign country. 
Expectorant. Medicine causing a discharge of mucus from the 
bronchi. 
Extravasation. The effusion of blood into cavities, or beneath 
the skin. 
Fasciae. Tendonous expansions, covering certain muscles, &c. 
Fauces. The pharynx; back part of the mouth. 
Favus. A pustule resembling the honey-comb. 
Febrifuge. Medicine to subdue fever. 
Febrile. Belonging to fever. 
Fel Bovum. Ox-gall; specific for quinsy. 
Felon. A deep abscess upon the finger. 
Fever. Disease characterized by three stages - cold, hot, and 
sweating stage. 
Fistula. Deep-seated ulcer, with a tube or canal opening ex- 
ternally. 
Flaccid. Soft, pliable, relaxed. 
Flatulence. Collection of gas in the stomach and bowels. 
Fluctuation. Sensation produced by percussion, when the cavity 
contains pus. 
Follicles. Folds; as the follicles of the mucous membrane. 
Formula. Prescription for preparing medicines. 
Fremitus. A vibration felt by laying the hands upon the chest. 
Function. The action by which vital phenomena are produced. 
Functional Diseases. Those diseases in which there is supposed 
to be only derangement of action. 
Galbanum. A genus of plants, the gum of which forms a valu- 
able warming plaster for diseases of the spine. 
Gall-Bladder. A small sac connected with the liver, being the 
reservoir for the bile. 
Gangrene. Partial death of a part. 
Gastric. Belonging to the stomach. 
Gastritis. Inflammation of the stomach. 
Gaultheria. The box-berry; Wintergreen. The oil is used as a 
diuretic and stimulant. 
Gland. Applied to those organs which separate from the blood 
any fluid whatever. MEDICAL TERMS. 
619 
Globule. A small globe. The blood is composed of globules, the 
red, white and grey. 
Glossitis. Inflammation of the tongue. 
Glottis. A small oblong body in the larynx. 
Glycyrrhiza. Liquorice. 
Gonorrhoea. Flux from inflammation of the urethra. 
Gossypium Herbaceum. Cotton plant; the fluid extract is ex- 
tensively used as an emmenagogue. 
Gout. Inflammation of the fibrous and ligamentous parts of the 
joints. 
Gravel. Small stones in the bladder. 
Hjsmatemesis. Vomiting of blood. 
Haematuria. Hemorrhage from the bladder. 
Haemoptysis. Hemorrhage from the lungs. 
Hemorrhage. Bleeding. 
Hemorrhoidal. Relating to hemorrhoids. 
Hemorrhoids. Piles. 
Heart. Centre of circulation. 
Hectic. A low form of an exhausting fever, characterized by in- 
termissions and remissions, and is mostly dependent upon some 
organic affection, as consumption. 
Hemiphlegia. Paralysis of one side of the body. 
Helonin. The active principle of the star-grass. 
Hepatic. Pertaining to the liver. 
Hepatization. Conversion of tissue into substance like liver. 
Hernia. Protrusion of the intestine. 
Herpes. One kind of tetter. 
Histogenic. Producing organic textures. 
Homoeopathy. Hahneman's doctrine of curing disordered actions 
in the human body, by inducing disordered action of the same kind, 
but more easily controlled. (See Homoepathy). 
Hospital. An institution for the reception and treatment of the 
sick and injured. 
Humors. All the fluids of the body except the blood. 
Hydatids. A species of encysted Entozoa. 
Hydrogogues. Medicines producing watery evacuations. 
Hydrastin. Active principle of Golden seal. 
Hydrocephalus. Dropsy of the brain. 
Hydropathy. Presnitz's method of curing disease by the external 
and internal use of water. (See Hydropathy). 620 
GLOSSARY OF 
Hygiene. The science of preserving health. 
Hyosciamin. Active principle of the hen-bane. 
Hypogastrium. The lower part of the abdomen, below the um- 
bilicus, and above the pubic region. 
Hysteria. A nervous disease peculiar to females. 
Icterus. Jaundice. 
Idiopathic. Primary or original disease; one not dependent upon 
others. 
Idiosyncrasy. An individual peculiarity of constitution. 
Ignatia Amara. Plant bearing St. Ignatius' bean. 
Ileum. The longest portion of the small intestines; also one of 
the bones of the pelvis. 
Imperforate. The congenital closure of any foramen. 
Impetigo. Moist tetter. 
Imponderables. Without weight, as light, electricity, heat, &c. 
Incision. A clean cut by a sharp instrument. 
Incisors. The front teeth. 
Incompatibles. Medicines that cannot be used together without 
impairing their properties. 
Incontinence. The inability to retain the natural evacuations. 
Incubus. Nightmare. 
Indication. That which demonstrates what ought to be done. 
Indigenous. That which is peculiar to a country. 
Indigestion. Dyspepsia. 
Indolent Ulcers. Those which do not incline to heal. 
Induration. Hardness of a tissue. 
Infectious. Communicable. 
Infiltration. Extravasation of blood or other fluids into the soft 
tissues. 
Infinitesimal. Inconceivably minute. (See Homoeopathy). 
Inflammation. A state in which the capillaries of the affected 
parts are interrupted in their proper function, are morbidly relaxed 
and over distended, and in which the blood which is passing through 
them is first abnormally excited and chemically changed, and then 
stagnates and coagulates. (Calvin Newton). 
Inflammatory. That which relates to inflammation. 
Influenza. Epidemic catarrh or cold. 
Infusion. Watery decoction. 
Ingestia. Food or drink. MEDICAL TERMS. 
621 
Inhalation. The act of inspiration; also the method of curing 
disease by inhaling vapors. 
Injection. Clyster; enema. 
Innoculation. The insertion of morbific matter into any part of 
the system. 
Inorganic. Not organized. 
Insane. An unsound mind or intellect. 
Insanity. A deviation from the natural manifestations of mind. 
Inspiration. The act of receiving air into the lungs. 
Integument. That which covers anything; as the skin, &c. 
Intermission. The intervening time between the paroxysms of 
periodical diseases. 
Intermittent Fever. (See Fever and Ague.) 
Invagination. A portion of the intestines, falling into one an- 
other, becoming strangulated. 
Iodine. Elementary body obtained from sea-weed. 
Iodide of Potassium. Compound of iodine and potassium. 
Irisin. The active principle of blue-flag. 
Iritis. Inflammation of the pupil of the eye. 
Irritability. A contractility of the solids, when stimulants are 
applied. 
Irritation. The effect of stimulants. 
Jalap. A purgative root. 
Jalapin. The active principle of the jalap. 
Jaundice. A disease accompanied with yellowness. 
Juglandin. The active principle of the butternut. 
Kings'-Evil. Scrofula. 
Kinesopathy. Method of curing disease by rubbing. 
Kaino Miasmata. Malaria; exhalation from putrifying sub- 
stances. 
Labia. Lip. 
Lactine. Sugar of milk. 
Languor. Debility. 
Laryngeal. Belonging to the larynx. 
Laryngitis. Inflammation of the larynx. 
Larynx. The upper part of the windpipe. 
Laxative. A mild purgative. 
Leech. An aquatic worm. 622 
GLOS S A RY OF 
Leptandrin. A valuable alterative obtained from the black-root. 
Lethargy. Continued sleep or stupor ; coma. ■ 
Leucorrhoea. Sexual weakness, peculiar to females. 
Litmus Paper. Used for detecting acids and alkalies. 
Lobelia-Inflata. Indian tobacco. 
Lobelin. The active principle of lobelia, which is extensively 
used as a medicine. 
Lumbago. Rheumatic affection of the back. 
Lnmbrici. Round worm of the intestines. 
Lupulin. One of the active principles of the hop; used in ague 
and nervous diseases. 
Lymph. A thin, transparent fluid, which circulates in the lym- 
phatics. 
Lymphatics. Vessels carrying lymph. 
Maceration. Softening in water. 
Magnesia, Sulphas. Epsom Salts. 
Magnesia. One of the earths, having a metallic basis. 
Malaria. Supposed to be a noxious gas, arising from decomposi- 
tion of vegetable matter. 
Malformation. Defective, irregular. 
Marshmallow. A valuable mucilaginous diuretic. 
Matico. A styptic plant; native of Mexico. 
Measles. An eruptive fever. 
Meatus. A passage. 
Melaena. Discharge of dark blood from the bowels. 
Melancholy. Species of deranged mental action. 
Melanosis. Black deposits of a tuberculous character. 
Meningitis. Inflammation of the membranes of the brain. 
Meningial. Relating to the membranes of the brain. 
Menorrhagia. Excessive menstruation. 
Menstruation. The catamenia. 
Mercurial. Pertaining to mercury. 
Mercury. Quicksilver. Hydrargyrum. 
Mesmerism. Somnambulism ; first produced by Mesmer. 
Metamorphosis. Transformation. 
Metastasis. Change in the seat of the disease. 
Metritis. Inflammation of the womb. 
Miasm. Poisonous emanation from decomposing vegetable and 
tnimal substances. 
Miliary Fever. Name given to eruptive fever in children. MEDICAL TERMS 
623 
Mollities Ossium. Softening of the bone!. 
Morbific. Causing diseases. 
Morbus Coxarius. Hip-disease. 
Mortification. Death of a part. 
Mucilage. A watery solution of gum. 
Mucus. Animal Mucilage. 
Murmurs, Respiratory. Are the sounds produced by the air 
passing in and out of the lungs. 
Myricin. The alkaloid of the bayberry. 
Narcotic. Remedy producing sleep or stupor. 
Nausea. Sickness at the stomach. 
Necrosis. Death of a bone. 
Nerves. Small cords conveying sensation to different parts of the 
system. 
Nervine. Medicine allaying nervous excitement. 
Neuralgia. Pain in the nerves. 
Nitre. Saltpetre. 
Nitro-muriatic Acid. Used as a styptic. 
Nutrition. Increase, growth. 
Nymphaea Odorata. White pond lily. 
Occult. Hidden, latent. 
(Edema. Effusion into the cellular membrane. 
(Esophagus. Passage leading from the back part of the mouth to 
the stomach. 
Olfactory. Relating to the sense of smell. 
Ophthalmia. Inflammation of the eyes. 
Opium. The concrete juice of the poppy. 
Optic. Relating to the eye. 
Organs. Parts performing a definite function. 
Organic Diseases. In Pathology, diseases in which there is 
derangement or alteration of structure, are termed organic. 
Orthopnoea. Difficult respiration, requiring the erect posture. 
Os. A bone. 
Osseous. Bony. 
Ostitis. Inflammation of the bone. 
Otitis. Inflammation of the ear. 
Otorrhoea. A purulent discharge from the ear. 
Ovaries. Two small oval bodies attached to the uterus, one on 
each side. 624 
GLOSSARY OF 
Ovum. An egg. 
Oxygen. One of the most extensively diffused elements in nature 
Ozaena. A fetid ulcer in the nose. 
Painters' Colic. A dangerous kind of colic, ascribed to absorp- 
tion of lead. 
Palate. The roof of the mouth. 
Palpation. The method of examining the chest by application of 
the hand. 
Palpitation. An increased and irregular action of the heart. 
Panacea. A remedy used for all diseases. 
Pancreas. The gland situated behind the stomach. 
Pancreatic Juice. The secretions of the pancreas. 
Paralysis. Loss of motion. 
Paraplegia. Paralysis of the lower half of the body. 
Parenchyma. The cellular tissue; the principal part of an organ. 
Pathognomonic. Characteristics of disease. 
Pathological. Morbid changes. 
Pathology. Doctrine of disease. 
Pediluvian. Foot-bath. 
Pemphigus. Eruptive disease, characterized by small blisters. 
Periostitis. Inflammation of the periosteum. 
Peritoneum. Serous membrane lining the abdomen. 
Pertussis. Hooping-cough. 
Pharmacy. The art of preparing and combining medicines. 
Pharyngitis. Inflammation of the pharynx. 
Pharynx. Back part of the mouth. 
Phlebitis. Inflammation of the veins. 
Phlogistic. Inflammatory. 
Phrenitis. Inflammation of the brain. 
Phthisis. Consumption. 
Physiology. Science of life. 
Phytolaccin. A concentrated remedy prepared from the poke- 
foot, a valuable alterative. 
Piles. Varicose veins appearing about the anus. 
Piperin. A concentrated remedy prepared from the black pepper. 
Plethora. Over-distension of the blood-vessels. 
Pleura. A serous membrane lining the chest. 
Pleuritis. Inflammation of the pleura. 
Pneumonia. Inflammation of the lungs. 625 
Podophyllin. A concentrated remedy prepared from the man- 
drake. 
Poison. That substance which, when taken into the system, 
produces disease, rapidly tending to dissolution. 
Polypus. A tumor growing in the cavities of the body. 
Populin. Concentrated remedy prepared from the poplar. 
Precordia. The fore part of the thorax. 
Probang. An instrument used to apply caustics to the throat. 
Prunin. Concentrated remedy prepared from the wild cherry. 
Pulmonary. Belonging to the lungs. 
Pulsatilla. The anemone pratense. 
Pulse. Beating of the heart and arteries. 
Purgatives. Medicines which increase the peristaltic motions of 
the bowels. 
Purpura. Scurvy. 
Purulent. Resembling pus. 
Pus. Matter produced by suppuration. 
Quack; Quacksalber. An ignorant physician. 
Quack Medicines. Secret remedies administered by quacks. 
Quassia. A bitter wood ; used as a tonic. 
Quicksilver. Mercury. 
Quinine. Alkaloid of Peruvian bark. 
Quinsy. Inflammation of the tonsils. 
Rash. Patches of redness on the skin. 
Regurgitation. Return of blood, as from the ventricle of the 
heart to the auricle. 
Regimen. Regulation of diet, so as to promote health. 
Remission. Time between paroxysms of ague. 
Resonance. A revibration of. sound. 
Respiration. Breathing. 
Rheum Palmatum. Rhubarb. 
Rheumatism. Inflammation of the membranes of the joints. 
Roseola. Rose-rash. 
Rubeola. Measles. 
Salicin. Concentrated remedy, prepared from the willow. 
Sanguinarin. Concentrated remedy, prepared from Bloodroot. 
Santonine. a crystalline body, obtained from worm seed. 
Scarlatina. Eruptive fever. 
53 
MEDICAL TERMS. 626 
GLOSSARY OF 
Schirrous. Hard. 
Scorbutus. Scurvy. 
Scrofula. A chronic disease of the lymphatic system. 
Scuteliarin. Concentrated remedy, prepared from the skull-cap. 
Sedative. A remedy that lessens arterial and nervous excite- 
ment. 
Senecin. Concentrated remedy, prepared from the Senecio gra- 
cilis. 
Serous. Watery. 
Sialagogue. Medicines that increase the flow of saliva. 
Sibilant. A hissing sound heard in disease of the lungs. 
Sinapism. Mustard-poultice. 
Solidist. One who ascribes all diseases to the solids. 
Somnambulism. Sleep-walking. 
Spasm. Morbid contraction of the muscles, cramp, &c. 
Specific. A remedy competent to remove the disease. 
Spermatorrhoea. A seminal weakness. 
Spleen. An organ found on the left of the stomach. 
Stethoscope. An instrument employed for examining diseases 
of the chest. 
Stillingia Sylvatica. Queen's root. 
Stomacace. Canker of the mouth. 
Stomatitis. Inflammation of the mouth. 
Strangury. Painful discharge of the urine. 
Strumous. Scrofulous. 
Sudorific. Producing perspiration. 
Suppuration. Formation of pus. 
Syncope. Fainting. 
Syphilis. Venereal disease. 
Systole. Contraction of the heart. 
Tannic Acid. Astringent property of oak bark, 
Tartar Emetic. Tartarized antimony. 
Tenesmus. A griping in the lower portion of the bowels, ana 
constant desire to go to stool. 
Turpentine. Concrete juice and oil from pine. 
Thorax. The chest. 
Thrush. White ulcers in the mouth. 
Tinnitus Aurium. Drumming in the ears. 
Tolu. Balsam extracted from a species of fir. 
Tormina. Griping pain in the bowels. GLOSSARY OF MEDICAL TERMS. 
627 
Trachea. Windpipe. 
Tracheitis. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the trachea. 
Tubercles. Applied to scrofulous tumors. 
Tuberculous Phthisis. Scrofulous affection of the lungs. 
Tumid. Distended. 
Tympanitis. Abdominal distension. 
Tympanum. Drum of the ear. 
Typhoid Fever. Fever, in which the disease is principally located 
in the bowels. 
Ulcer. A morbid solution of the continuity of the part. 
Umbilicus. Navel. 
Urea. Cyanate of ammonia; a constituent of the urine. 
Urethra. Canal from the bladder, for the passage of the urine 
Uriscopist. Quack doctor, who pretends to form diagnosis of 
disease from the urine. 
Vaccination. Insertion of cow-pox virus, as a protection against 
small-pox. 
Valerian. Root used as a nervine. 
Variola. Small-pox. 
Varioloid. Modified small-pox. 
Vascular. Belonging to vessels. 
Venesection. Bleeding from a vein. 
Veratrum Viride. A valuable remedy for fevers. 
Veratrin. Concentrated principle of the veratrum. 
Vermifuge. Medicine given for worms. 
Vertigo. Dizziness. 
Vesicle. Bladder of water. 
Viburine. Concentrated remedy, prepared from the high cran- 
berry. 
Vital. Connected with life. 
Vomica. An abscess in the lungs. 
White Swelling. An inflammation of the periosteum and dis- 
ease of the bone. 
Xanthoxylin. Active principle of the xanthoxylum fraxineum, 
or prickly ash. 
Zimotic. Contagious. 
Zinc Sulphas. Styptic salt, and mild caustic. INDEX. 
A. 
Abbreviations, 607. 
Abdomen, dropsy of, 174. 
Abortion, 356, 370. 
" to prevent case of, 257, 258. 
Abscess, 533. 
Acarus Scabiei, 512. 
Acetic syrup, Sanguinaria, 447. 
Achorion schonleinii, 504, 5x0. 
Aconite in treatment of fever, 304. 
Aconitin, 304. 
Aconitum napellus, 304. 
Affusion bath, 582. 
Ague, 50. 
Albuminuria, 375. 
Alnuin, 301. 
Allopathic practice, 547, 
Amaurosis, 235, 381, 427. 
Amenorrhoea, 344, 420. 
American poplar, 404. 
Ampelopsin, 307. 
Ampelopsis quinquefolia, 307. 
Amputation at the wrist, 471. 
" for the tarsus, 472, 473. 
" of the arm, circular, 470. 
" " flap, 471. 
" through the calf, 471. 
Anasarca, a case of, 325. 
Anatomy, 458. 
Anchylosis, 523. 
Anemia, 189. 
Angina, 207. 
Antibilious physic, 449. 
Antiperiodic pills, 444. 
Antispasmodic drops, 452. 
Aphonia, 537. 
Apocynin, 310. 
Apocynum Cannabinum, 310. 
.Apoplexy, 178. 
Apple tree, 434. 
Appendix to pharmacy, 436. 
Ascites, 174. 324, 336. 
Asclepias tuberosa, 317. 
Asclepin, 3x7. 
Asparagus, 457. 
Asthma, 159, 317, 391. 
Atropia, 314. 
Atrop a belladonna, 313. 
Atropin, 3x3. 
B. 
Balmony, 330. 
Balsam honey, 452. 
Bandage, bis-axillary compound, 496. 
" " cravat, 496. 
" for fracture of clavicle, 474. 
" " jaw, 374. 
" for lower extremities, 469. 
" fronto-dorsal, 495. 
" " occipito labialis, 493,494. 
" occipito frontal triangle, 493, 
494- . . 
" occipito sternal, 494. 
" parieto-axillaris, 495. 
" square cap, 493. 
" sub-femoral, 
" tibial cravat, 497! 
" triangular cap of the breast, 
496, 497. 
" vertico-mental, 494. 
Bandy leg, 501. 
Baptisia tinctoria, 320. 
Baptisin, 320. 
Barosma crenata, 324, 
Barosmin, 324. 
Bath affusion, 582. 
" cataract, 580. 
" douche, 578. 
" foot, 580. 
" head, 580. 
" hip, 579- 
" leg, 582. 
" plunge, 580. 
" rain, 581. 
" shallow, 579. 
" shower, 582. 
" sitz, 577. 
" sponge, 582. 
" sweating, 581. 
" towel, 582. 
" vapor, 581. 
" wave. 581. 
" wet-dress, 582. 
Baths, temperature of, 583. 
Bayberry, 399. 
Belladonna, poisoning by, 314. 
Beth root, 423. 
Bilious colic, 89, 349. 
Bitter cucumber, 337. 
628 INDEX. 
629 
Black plaster, 453. 
Black root, 389. 
Bladder, catarrh of. 404, 408. 
" paralysis of, 542. 
" stone in, 540. 
Blood, 514, 596. 
" circulation of, 459. 
" root, 414. 
" stomach and liver tonic, 443. 
Blue cohosh, 326. 
Blue flag, 381. 
Blue skin diseases, 219. 
Bones, 458. 
Bowels, obstruction of, 536. 
" hemorrhage of, 538. 
Bowman root, 354. 
Boxwood, 338. 
Brain, dropsy of, 172. 
inflammation of, 74. 
Brandy, egg and oil mixture, 447. 
Bright's disease, 355, 537; 
Bromo chloralum, 456. 
Bronchitis, 152, 394, 432. 
" drops, 452. 
Bronchocele, 540. 
Bubo, 309, 334, 403. 
Buchu, 324. 
Bunions, 531. 
Burns 535- 
Burning bush, 352. 
Butternut, 385. 
c. 
Cancer, 490. 
Carditis, 212. 
Caries, 534. 
Cataract, 482. 
Cataract bath, 580. 
Catarrh, 539, 546. 
" vapor, 445. 
Cathartic syrup, 446. 
Cau'ophyUin, 326. 
Caulophyllum thalictroides, 326. 
Cellars, vegetations in, 504, 508. 
Cerasein, 328. 
Cerasius virginiana, 328. 
Cerebro-spinal meningitis, 384. 
Chelone glabra, 330. 
Chelonin, 330. 
Chicken-pox, 171. 
Chi maphila umbellata, 332.' 
Chimaphilin, 332. 
Chlorosis, 189. 
Choke cherry, 328. 
Cholera, 162, 428. 
" infantum, 332, 410, 540. 
" morbus, 161, 367. 
Chordee, 305. 
Ch >rea, 179, 417. 
Cimicifuga racemosa, 395. 
Circulation, 468. 
Cirrhosis, 353. 
( lub-foot, 485. 
" shoes for, 501. 
Co'd, 538. 
Colic, 89. 
Colitis, 83. 
Collinsonia canadensis, 335. 
Collinsonin, 335. 
Colon, inflammation of, 83. 
Colombo, American, 360. 
Colycinthin, 337. 
Composition powder, 453. 
Compound leontodin granules, 448. 
" spirits of lavender, 451. 
" syrup of helianthus, 452. 
" " " rhei etpotassa, 448. 
" " " stillingia, 451. 
Concentrated medicines, 298. 
" " how to 
606. 
Congestion, 254. 
Considerations of fevers, 585. 
Constipation, 529. 
Consumption, 113. 
" a case of, 322. 
Convolvulus panduratus, 429. 
Convulsions, 221. 
Copaiba, 431. 
Copaivin, 431. 
Copaifera officinalis, 431. 
Cornin, 338. 
Corns, 531. 
Cornus Florida, 338, 
Cotton root, 370. 
Corydalin, 340. v 
Corydalis formosa, 340. 
Cough syrup, 447. 
Crane's bill, 369. 
Croup, 185, 415. 
Cucumis colocynthis, 337. 
Cutaneous eruptions, 513. 
Culver's physic, 389. 
Cyanosis, 219. 
Cynanche tonsillaris, 78. 
Cypripedin, 242. 
Cypripedium pubescens, 342. 
Cystitis, 157. 
D. 
Dandelion, 387. 
Deadly night shade, 313. 
Delirium tremens, 171, 305, 344, 392. 
Dentition, 194. 
Diabetes, 182, 374. 
Diagnostic symptoms, 286. 
Diarrhoea, 131, 310, 370, 394, 399, 408, 
410, 424, 43°, 536- 
Diet, 543. 
" in disease, 545. 
Digestion, 464. 
" impaired, 352. 
Digitalin, 346. 
Digitalis purpurea, 346. 
Different systems of practice, 547. 
Dioscorea villosa, 348. 
Dioscorin, 348. 
" experiments with, 351. 
Diphtheria, 415, 424. 
Diseases of the skin, 5. 
Dislocation of the elbow joint, 480. 
" " lower jaw, 481. 
Distoma haematobium, 503. 
Diuretic drops, 453. 
Dog wood, 338. 
Doses, table of, 607. 
.53* 630 
INDEX. 
Douche bath,"578. 
Drinks, 546. 
Dripping sheet, 579. 
Dropsical deposits, 312, 337. 
Dry pack, 581. 
Dysentery, 83, 364, 426, 549. 
" syrup, 448. 
Dyspepsia, 8x, 135, 302, 330, 360, 376, 
378, 389, 4°5- 
Dyspeptics, 546. 
317, 420. 
E. 
Ear, inflammation of, 49. 
Eczema, 239. 
Eggs, cream and extract of beef, 454. 
Emaciation, 130. 
Emetics, 438. 
Emetic drops, 449. 
" powder, 449. 
Emphysema, 155. 
Empyema, 107. 
Encephalitis, 74. 
Endocarditis, 211. 
Enteritis, 82, 548, 549. 
Entozoa folliculorum, 512. 
Enuresis, 250. 
Ephemera, 49. 
Epilepsy, 176, 317, 347, 393, 418, 546. 
Epistaxis, 539. 
Epizoa, 511. 
Erysipelas, 95. 
Euonymin, 352. 
Euonymus atropurpureus, 352. 
Eupatorin, 359. 
Eupatorium perfoliatum, 359. 
Eupatorium purpurium, 356. 
Euphorbia corolata, 354. 
Euphorbin, 354. 
Eupurpurin, 356. 
Exercise, 542. 
Exudation, 520. 
Eye, diseases of, 317. 
F. 
Fainting, 541. 
Faeces, indicating disease, 291. 
Felon, 533. 
Female diseases, 372,546. 
" regulator, 419. 
Fever, intermittent, 50, 547. 
" miliary, 190. 
" remittent, 53, 547. 
" typhoid, 62, 380, 395, 422, 506. 
" typhus, 57, 548. 
" yellow, 69, 414, 422, 425, 548. 
Fevers, considerations of, 585. 
*■ condition of capillary vessels in, 
587. 
Fistula in ano, 276. 
Flowering cornel, 338. 
Foetal circulation, 464, 465. 
Follicular stomatitis, 77. 
Fomentations, 582. 
Foot bath. 580. 
For sore lips, 450. 
For sprains, 450. 
Fracture, Amesbury's apparatus, 498. 
" of the clavicle, 474. 
" " condyle, 474, 475. 
" " femur, 477, 478, 479. 
" " fore arm, 475. 
" " humerus, 474, 475. 
" " jaw, 473. 
" " leg, 480. 
" " lower extremities, 477. 
" " olecranon, 475. 
Frazera carolinensis, 360. 
Frazerin, 360. 
Gr. 
Garget, 400. 
Gangrene, 223, 484. 
Gastritis, 80, 378, 548. 
Gastrodynia, 199. 
Gelsemin, 362. 
" effects of, 362. 
Gelseminum sempervirens, 362. 
Geranin, 368. 
Geranium maculatum, 368. 
Geranum, 368. 
Gleet, 432. 
Glossary, 608. 
Glossitis, 548. 
Goitre, 546. 
Golden seal, 377. 
Gonorrhoea, 305. 
Gossypiin, 370. 
Gossypium verbaceum, 370. 
Gout, 546. 
i Gravel, 540. 
Ground holly, 332. 
I H- 
I Hsematemesis, 200. 
I Htematuria, 251. 
I Haemoptysis, 130, 149. 
1 Half pack sheet, 578. 
> Hamamelin, 371. 
| Hamamelis virginica, 371. 
| Hand friction, 583. 
| Hard hack, 335. 
I Harvest flea, 511. 
j Headache, 220. 
Head-bath, 580. 
Head louse, 511. 
Heal-all, 335. 
Healing salve, 453. 
Heart disease, 546. 
" diseases of, 204, 335. 
" atrophy of, 212. 
" congestion of, 208. 
" dilatation of, 215. 
" hypertrophy of, 213. 
Hellebore, 425. 
Helonias dioica, 373. 
Helonin, 373. 
Hemiplegia, 429. 
Hemlock, 455. 
Hemorrhage, to arrest, 499. 
Hemorrhoids, 274, 4x1, 416. 
Henbane, 379. 
Hepatitis, 158, 549. INDEX. 
631 
Hernia, 535. 
Herpes, 237. 
High cranberry, 426. 
Hip bath, 579. 
" disease, 534. 
Homoeopathic practice, 562. 
" preparations, 575. 
Hooping cough, 94, 246, 317. 
Hops, 392. 
Hot drops, 450. 
How to examine cases, 526. 
H imulus lupulus, 392. 
Hydrarthrus, 534. 
Hydrastia, 377. 
Hydrastin, 377. 
Hydrastis canadensis, 377. 
Hydrocephalus, 172. 
Hydropathy, 576. 
Hydrophobia, 181. 
Hyoscyamin, 379. 
Hyoscyamus, effects of, 379. 
" niger, 379. 
Hypochondriasis, 229. 
Hysteria, 224, 418, 423, 
• 
I. 
Iceland moss and quinine jelly, 454. 
Impotence, cure of, 358. 
1 ndigestion, 81. 
Infantile sore mouth, 76, 
Infiltration, 117. 
Inflammation, 72. 
" of the bladder, 157. 
" " brain, 74 
" " colon, 83. 
" " conjunctiva, 232. 
" " ear, 79. 
" " eyes, 231. 
" " " of infants, 234. 
" " heart, 212. 
" " kidneys, 156. 
" " liver, 158. 
" " lungs, 87. 
" " oesophagus, 198. 
" " pericardium, 209. 
" " peritoneum, 86. 
" " small intestines, 82. 
" spinal marrow, 226. 
" " stomach, 80. 
" " trachea, 185. 
" " uterus, 234. 
Influenza, 538. 
Ipecacuanha, American, 354. 
Ipomoea jalapa, 383. 
Irisin, 481. 
Iris versicolor, 381. 
Irritating plaster, 353. 
Ischuria, 248. 
Itch, 240. 
J. 
Jalap, 383. 
Jalapin, 383. 
Jaundice, 202, 430. 
Juglandin, 385. 
Juglans cinerea, 385. 
K. 
Kidneys, diseases of, 383, 408. 
Knob-root, 333. 
L. 
Lachrymal ducts, injection into, 501. 
Lady slipper, yellow, 342. 
Lead colic, 90, 
Leg bath, 582. 
Leontodin, 387. 
Leptandria Virginica, 389. 
Leptandrin, 389. 
Leucocythemia, 308, 515, 516. 
Leucorrhoea, 322, 327. 
" pills, 446. 
Life root, 419. 
Lime-water and milk, 456. 
Liver, 398, 401, 402. 
" congestion of, 538. 
" hypertrophy of, 388. 
" inactivity of, 361. 
Lobelia inflata, 391. 
Lobelin, 391. 
Locked jaw, x8r. 
Lupulin, 392. 
Lycopin, 394. 
Lycopus virginicus, 394. 
Lymphatics, action of medicines on, 307. 
M. 
Macrotin, 394. 
Macrotys racemosa, 394. 
Malarial poison, 339. 
Malignant tumors, 490. 
Mammary secretions, to arrest, 317. 
Mamma, enlargement of, 332. 
Mandrake, 401. 
Mania-potu, 171. 
May apple, 401. 
Measles, 169, 396. 
Mecca oil compound, 443. 
Medical preparations, 436. 
Melsena, 538. 
Meningitis, 74. 
Menses, cessation of, 260. 
Mercurial disease, 277. 
Microscopic researches, 503. 
Microsphoron andouini, 510. 
" mentographylis, 510. 
" purpur, 510. 
Milk, 525. 
Miscarriage, to prevent, 357. 
Modus operandi of medicines, 295. 
Morbus cseruleus, 219. 
" coxarius, 534. 
Mortification, 323, 484. 
Muriate of hydrastia, 377. 
Muscles, 463. 
Mumps, 175, 548. 
Myelitis, 226. 
Myrica cerifera, 398. 
Myricin, 398. 
N. 
Nasal polypi, 540. 
Necrosis, 534. 
Nephritis, 156. 632 
INDEX. 
Nervous diseases, 546. 
Nervousness, 343. 
Nettle-rash, 192. 
Neuralgia, 232, 304, 306, 3x7, 380, 434. 
Neutralizing cordial, 448, 
New school compounds, 443. 
" remedies, 295. 
Night sweats, 356. 
No. 6, 450. 
Nose-bleed, 639. 
Nursing sore mouth, 77. 
Nux vomica, 421. 
o. 
(Edema, 132. 
(Esophagus, ulceration of, 198. 
Ophthalmia, 231. 
" catarrhal, 232. 
" purulent, 234. 
Organs of the body, 461. 
Otitis, 79. 
Ovarian tumor, 385. 
Ovaries, diseases of, 262. 
Ox-balm, 335. 
P. 
Paine's pile electuary, 450. 
Palsey, 179. 
Panduratin, 429. 
Paralysis, 179, 422. 
Paronychia, 533. 
Parotitis, 175, 548. 
Pediculosus capitis, 511. 
" pubis, 5x1. 
" vestimenti, 511. 
Pelvis, 462. 
Pericarditis, 209, 338. 
Peritonitis, 86, 549. 
Pertussis, 94. 
Pharmacy, 436. 
Phlebitis, 216. 
Phlegmasia dolens, 216. 
Phrenitis, 74, 549. 
Phthisis, 113, 331, 407. 
Physiology, 458. 
Phytolacca decandria, 400. 
Phytolaccin, 400. 
Piles, 274, 441. 
Pills, 438. 
Pinus canadensis, 456. 
T'ipsissewa, 332. 
Plague, 193. 
Plasters, 440. 
Pleuritis, 97, 319. 
Plunge bath, 580. 
Pneumonia, 87, 407, 421, 426, 427. 
Podophyllin, 401. 
Podophyllum peltatum, 401. 
Poisoning, in cases of, 356. 
Poisons, antidotes to, 45. 
Poke root, 400. 
Populin, 404. 
Populus tremuloides, 404. 
Pott's curvature of the spine, 483. 
Poultices, 439. 
Poultice, to allay inflammation, 454. 
Practical principles, 7. 
Princes pine, 332. 
Prunin, 406. 
Prunus virginiana, 406. 
Ptelin, 408. 
Ptelin trifoliata, 408. 
Puerperal peritonitis, 332. 
Purgatives, 438. 
Purpura, 243. 
Pustulous cutaneous diseases, 241. 
Pyrola, 332. 
Pyrus malus, 434. 
Q. 
Quaking aspen, 404. 
Queen of the meadow, 356. 
Quinsy, 78, 548. 
B. 
Rain bath, 581. 
Recutm, cancer of, 416. 
" prolapsus of, 541. 
" ulceration of, 400. 
Respiration, 467. 
Retention of urine, 248. 
Rhein, 430. e 
Rheumatism, 184, 354, 377, 383, 546. 
Rheum palmatum, 430. 
Rhubarb, 430. 
Rhumin, 411. 
Rhus glabra, 410. 
Rich-weed, 335. 
Rhusin, 410. 
Roseola, 192. 
Rose-rash, 192. 
Rubeola, 169, 313. 
Rules for diet and exercise, 542. 
Rumex crispus, 411. 
Rupture, 535. 
s. 
Saccharine urine, 182. 
Sailor's knot, 500. 
Salad, 545. 
Salt rheum, 237. 
Sanguinaria canadensis, 414. 
" sulphate of, 416. 
Sanguinarin, 414. 
Saracenia, 433, 
" purpurea, 433. 
Scabies, 240. 
Scalds, 534. 
Scarlatina, 91, 313, 395, 396. 
Scrofula, 264, 412, 413. 
Scurvy, 411. 
Scutellaria lateriflora, 417. 
Scutellarin, 417. 
Senecin, 419. 
Senecio gracilis, 419. 
Serous membrane, diseases of, 317. 
Shallow bath, 579. 
Shower bath, 582. 
Similia sim dibus curantur, 296. 
Simpler's joy, 432. 
Sinapisms, 439. 
Sitz bath, 579. 
Skin d seases, 66, 237, 386, 397. 
Skull-cap, 417. INDEX. 
633 
Sleep and rest, 546. 
Small-pox, 167. 
Smilacin, 430. 
Smilax sarsaparilla, 430. 
Snake root, 400. 
Solution of iodo-bromide of calcium 
compound, 455. 
Sore nipples, 442. 
" throat, 537. 
Spermatocele, 424. 
Spermatorrhoea, 305, 317, 328, 346, 367. 
Spiced bitters, 462. 
Spinal irritation, 227. 
Spirits of Mindererus, 451. 
Spleen, 329, 401. 
Splenitis, 549, 
Sponge bath, 
Squama, 308. 
St. Anthony's fire, 95. 
St. Vitus' dance, 179. ~ 
Starwort, 373, 
Stillingia sylvatica, 420. 
Stillingin, 420. 
Stimulating liniment, 451. 
Stomach, inflammation of, 80. 
" pump, how to use, 500. 
Stone root, 335. 
Strychnin, 421. 
Sudorific and anodyne tincture, 448. 
Surgeon's knot, 500. 
Surgery, 458. 
Swamp alder, 301. 
" dogwood, 408. 
Sweating bath, 581. 
Syncope, 541. 
Synochia, 548. 
Syphilis, 340, 382, 400. 
Syrup, 437. 
T. 
Tabes mesenterica, 541. 
Tag alder, 301. 
Talipes calcaneus, 486. 
" equineus, 485. 
" shoe for, 489. 
" varus, 486. 
" vulgus, 488. 
Tapioca and cod liver, 453. 
Tapping, 499. 
Taraxacum leontodon, 387. 
far ointment, 454. 
Tetanus, 181, 317. 
Thrush, 76. 
Tinctures, 438. 
Tonic syrup, 449. 
" tea, 452. 
Tonsilitis, 548. 
Toothache, 441. 
Towel bath, 582. 
Tracheitis, 185. 
Trichoma vaginalis, 511. 
Trillin, 423. / 
Trillium pendulum, 423. 
Trychophyton tonsurans, 509. 
Tuberculous cavities, 119. 
Tumors of the neck, 332. 
Turkey pea, 340. 
Typhomania, 393. 
u. 
Ulceration, 411. 
Ulcers, treatment of, 323, 332, 369, 533. 
Unicorn root, 373. 
Upland sumach, 410. 
Urinary organs, hemorrhage from, 251. 
Urine, incontinence, 250. 
" retention of, 248. 
" signs from, 290. 
Urticaria, 192. 
Uterine contractions in labor, 356. 
" diseases, 311. 
" hemorrhage, 424. 
" syrup, 450. 
Uterus, anteversion, 489, 490. 
" anteflection, 489, 491. 
V. 
Vaccina, 536. 
Vaginitis, 327. 
Vapor bath, 581. 
Varicella, 171. 
Variola, 167. 
Vegetation of the leg, 514. 
Veratrin, 425. 
Veratrum viride, 425. 
Verbena hastata, 432. 
Verbenin, 432. 
Vervain, 432. 
Viburnin, 426. 
Viburnum oxycocum, 426. 
Vomiting in pregnancy, 317. 
w. 
Water cress, 457. 
Wave bath, 581. 
Wet bandages, 582. 
" dress bath, 582. 
White root, 317. 
" swelling, 537. 
Whitlow, 533. 
Wild cherry, 406. 
" hyssop, 432. 
" indigo, 320. 
" jalap, 429. 
" potato, 429. 
" yam, 348. 
Wintergreen, 332. 
Witch hazel, 371. 
Worms, 187, 331, 376. 
X. 
Xanthoxylin, 428. 
Xanthoxylum fraxineum, 428. 
Y. 
Yellow dock, 412. 
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diseases of women and children, and medical surgery. 
It is an entirely new work, independent of all the author's previous publi- 
cations, and is believed to be fully up to the times in pathology and treat- 
ment of diseases. It is bound in the best sheep, printed on fine white pa- 
per, and is a substantial book. Price $6-postage 60 cents. Can be ordered 
from the author, and the work will be sent immediately upon the receipt 
of the money. 
MAXSOTf'S FRACTICE OJF1 MEDICIXE. 
This work is a large, beautiful octavo, of between seven and eight hundred 
pages, and is the production of one of the ablest practitioners on the conti- 
nent. Price $4-postage 50 cents. 
THE PRACTICE OF 
OBSTETRICS. 
Jy Joseph B. Longshore, JL (J). 
This work is extensively illustrated, printed on the best paper, bound in 
sheep, and is one of the most thorougn, beautiful and complete works on 
Obstetrics ever issued from the American Press. Price $5. By sending 
$15, Paine's Practice of Medicine, Longshore's Obstetrics, andMaxson's 
Practice, will be sent to one address, free of postage. 
Address Dr. PAINE, 232 North Ninth Street.