'ft f\ o V if"- fErr 11\« o 10 m LliiALA*^*: :JJ7:li/ir^ && M SURGEON GENERAL'S OFFICE LIBRARY AHREX Section__________................ Form 113c No. .A./.*..J~ftV... W.D.,S.G.O. ~*S: I ■T "Z~ THE STEPPING-STONE HOMCEOPATHY AND HEALTH First American, from the Sixth London Edition. E. H. RUDDOCK, M.D., (Exam.) i i' f Licentiate of toe Royal College of Physicians ; Member of the Royal College of Surgeons; Licentiate in Midwifery; London and Edinburgh; Physician to the Reading and Berkshire Homoiopathic Dispensary. Author of " The Homoeopathic Vade Mccum of Modern Medicine and Surgery" "The Lady-'s Manual of Homoeopathic Treatment?' " Consumption ; lis Preventive and General Treatment;" etc., etc. WITH NOTES BY THE AMERICAN EDITOR. q%5 ■> .-OTOV^^' CHICAGO: C. S. HALSEY, PUBLISHER. 66 Lake Street. 1870. «\ Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1870 By C. S. HALSEY, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for th« Northern District of Illinois. PREFACE TO THE LONDON EDITION. In issuing this edition of the manual, completing fifty thousand copies, the author has endeavored to express his gratification with the wide appreciation of his humble efforts to extend Homoeopathy, by embodying some of the results of his enlarged experience during the ten years that have elapsed since the first edition of this book was pub- lished, maintaining it on a level with the progressive char- acter of Homoeopathy and medical science in general, and presenting a longer list of complaints, with ampler treat- ment, than is included, probably, in any similar work. The present edition has been almost entirely rewritten, several new but well-tried remedies prescribed, and addi- tional sections introduced on subjects likely to increase the general utility of the work; much additional and entirely fresh matter, of a practical character, is inserted in nearly every page, and the bulk of the volume considerably aug- mented: At the same time brevity of treatment has been aimed at, not by meagreness of materials, but by their compression, a point which has given the author more trouble than writing in a diffuse style. DOMESTIC HOMCEOPATHY. The profession of medicine cannot in this age of progress be treated as a mystery. The aim of the enlightened phys- ician is to make its principles as extensively known as pos- sible, conscious that thereby the greatest amount of good will accrue both to the profession and the public. Still the objection is often urged that domestic medical books trench on the legitimate sphere of the profession, and are danger- ous in their tendency. Neither objection is valid. Drugs 4 Preface. are employed in nearly every household—antibilious fills, Epsom salts, rhubarb, sulphur, magnesia, quinine, etc. We are not, therefore, responsible as originators of domestic treatment; we have rather sought to reform it, by substi- tuting remedies and measures, the virtue of which is that they are not only more harmless, but very much more efficacious than those ordinarily adopted. Departures from health, of a simple and uncomplicated nature, may often be arrested at their outset by carrying out instructions like those contained in the following pages, but which, if neg- lected till the symptoms assumed forms which seemed to justify the consultation of a medical man, might become converted into serious and even fatal diseases. JUSTIFICATION. A fact which specially justifies the composition of this manual is the necessity of meeting, as far as possible, the requirements of persons residing in localities where pro- fessional Homoeopathic treatment is inaccessible. An extensive correspondence with persons in various and remote parts of the country, convinces the Author of the importance of making some provision for patients so cir- cumstanced ; at least, till professional men generally have been led to the study and practice of the discoveries of the illustrious Hahnemann. ADVANTAGES OF PROFESSIONAL TREATMENT. While making these statements, it is our duty to recom- mend that in every serious or doubtful case, or when the treatment herein prescribed is insufficient to effect improve- ment in a reasonable time, a Homoeopathic practitioner should be consulted. The vast and ever-accumulating resources at the disposal of a professional Homoeopath, of which this little manual represents but an inconsiderable fraction, places him on high vantage ground compared with a domestic practitioner. Cases are of daily occur- Preface. 5 rence in which it is impossible to act in the best manner without an acquaintance with anatomy, physiology, etc. Apparently trifling symptoms which escape the non-pro- fessional observer, clever though he may be, immediately attract the attention of the informed eye and ear of the physician, and put him on the alert for further discovery. Indeed, whenever it is practicable, every departure from health should be watched and treated by a Homoeopathic physician. PROGRESS AND OPPOSITION. In this age of scientific progress it is gratifying to observe that medicine, instead of being in the rear, is advancing to the front ranks, and that Homoeopathy is in the vanguard of medical advancement. This is proved by its rapid spread, and by its powerful, though indirect influence on medical and surgical practice generally, causing it to do homage to the instincts of humanity, and banishing every measure or drug that is harsh and destructive. It may be satisfactory to the friends of this system to know that hos- tile resistance to Homoeopathy comes exclusively from per- sons ignorant of its principles, or inexperienced in its actual results. Its bitterest calumniators, it is believed, have never studied it or tried it fairly. It may be confi- dently stated that the great majority of medical men, if not all out of the ranks of Homoeopathy, are completely in the dark as to its theory and practice, and are consequently incompetent to give a reliable opinion on the subject; just as the driver of a stage coach, or the commander of a sail- ing-vessel, lacks the knowledge and experience to pro- nounce on the merits of railways or steamers, although all alike are for the transit of passengers and merchandise. With a confidence, therefore, which a knowledge of, and experience in, both the old and new modes of treatment, can alone impart, the Author recommends a trial of Homoe- opathy. Let a dozen cases be taken, the symptoms care- fully noted, and the treatment herein prescribed faithfully 6 Preface. carried out, and the results will be so marked that conver- sion may be confidently predicted. CORRESPONDENTS. • Since the publication of the five former editions of this manual, the writer has received numerous letters from cor- respondents who have been won over to Homoeopathy by its instrumentality, and are carrying out its various pre- scriptions with striking and gratifying success. He has been much cheered by such unsolicited statements, and takes this opportunity of offering his acknowledgments for the kindness which dictated the communication referred to. At the same time, he would suggest that, to meet the igno- rance and prejudice which still oppose the spread of Homoe- opathy, the friends of the system will kindly seek to enlarge its usefulness by promoting in various ways the circulation of this book among all classes of the community. Let the manual be read, and its prescriptions fairly tried, and we fear not the result. IMPORTANCE OF HEALTH. The design of th,is manual is to point out some of the means by which much human suffering may be prevented, bodily functions preserved unimpaired, and life prolonged to the full period of man's existence. The importance of the subject will be obvious when it is considered how inconsistent physical incapacity and suffering are with moral well-being. When the habits and circumstances of mm are inimical to good health, he sinks in all the capac- ities of his nature. The application, therefore, of means for guarding or restoring the health of the body, provides for the exercise of the intellectual and moral powers in their highest state of perfection. There may be moral ben- efits and opportunities consequent on weakness and dis- ease; but who can doubt that those attendant on health and vigor are far greater! Impaired health is a moral as Preface. 7 well as a physical disadvantage. Reason asserts this, and experience confirms it. Who has not learned that an im- portant way of "keeping the body in subjection," is to keep it free from the uneasy sensations and disabilities that accompany ill health? If this be so, it places the highest value upon the perfection of our bodily organs, and stamps that profession, whose duty it is to promote " the glory of the Creator and the relief of man's estate," as one of the very highest that can be exercised by man. From such a stand-point, we see in every disease cured, the removal of a blot which marred the image of God's noblest work, and new power given to brighten and lengthen man's earthly life. Thus, alleviating human suffering, and so allowing the fullest exercise of man's higher nature, we are permitted to be humble followers of Him who " healed all manner of diseases," and whose wonderful and beneficent life has been embodied in the simple phrase, "He went about doing good." E. H. RUDDOCK. 12, Victoria Square, Reading. September, 1868. HINTS TO THE READER. I. The novice in Homoeopathy should first make him- self familiar with the introductory chapters. II. When the work is consulted for the treatment of any particular disease, the -whole section devoted to it should be read before deciding on the course to be taken; and if difficulty is experienced in choosing from different medicines, the Materia Medica should be referred to, and an endeavor made to grasp the essential features peculiar to each remedy. 8 Preface. III. Persons desirous of being able to act wisely and promptly in any emergency, for the prevention or removal of suffering, should read this manual through. The body of the work, Part II., is devoted to diseases and their treat- ment; Part III., to Materia Medica. Both should be studied carefully. IV. The utility of the work may be greatly increased by having it interleaved for recording the results of cases treated, and general observations. Whoever adopts this hint will accumulate a valuable store of information, the retrospect of which will be interesting and encouraging. V. Readers desirous of a more ample work, are respect- fully referred to " The Vade Mecum of Modern Medicine and Surgery." An attentive study of that work will give a tolerably broad knowledge of general disease, and a measure of skill in the use of many valuable remedial agents. The " Vade Mecum " will thus form an useful, if notan indispensable, companion to " The Stepping-Stone." VI. When medical terms are used, they are either explained in the text, or the meaning is appended to the words which seem to require explanation as they occur in the index at the end of the manual. This index is very copious, and every point of importance may be found by it. Reference is further made easy by division of the work into parts, chapters, and sections, and by a table of con- tents at the commencement. VII. A " Clinical Directory " is inserted, which, it is hoped, will be found of great use to those who have attentively studied disease and Materia Medica. It con- tains prescriptions for about five hundred diseases and symptoms, many of which, and of the remedies prescribed, are not referred to in the body of the work. The " Clinical Directory" has been carefully arranged and its sugges- tions of remedies are the result of much experience. CONTENTS. Part I. ON HOMCEOPATHY. CHAPTER I. Pagb History of Homoeopathy,.........15 Introductory—Early History—Status of Profes- sional Homoeopaths — Indirect Influence of Hom- oeopathy— Homoeopathy going down? — Appeals to Facts — Small doses — Homoeopathy not op- posed to Experience — not Faith — Medicines in Health — Illustrations : — Light, Seed, and the Magnet. CHAPTER II. Advantages of Homoeopathy,.......23 Success — Economy — Homoeopathy in Cholera — Constipation — Statistics — Gentle Measures — Jerrold's Death-bed — The Single Remedy — Med- icines Specific—Children — Experimental Prac- tice— Preventive Medicine — Future of Homoeo- pathy — Magna est Veritas, et prevalebit. CHAPTER III. Observations on Health,.........33 General Hints—Bathing — The Wet-pack — Exer- cise — Clothing — Light— Fresh Air — Bed-rooms - Water. 10 Contents. CHAPTER IV. Pagb Medicines, Diet, etc.,...........42 Forms of Medicines :— Globules, Pilules, Tinctures, Triturations — Medicine-Cases — List of Medi- cines:— Internal and External — Directions for taking Medicines — Hours — Dose — Repetition of Doses — Alternation of Medicines — Diet: — Milk Diet, Ordinary Diet, Meat Diet, Extraordinary Diet—Tobacco and Snuff—Drugs. Part II. DISEASES: THEIR CAUSES, STMPTOMS, AND TREATMENT. CHAPTER I. Fevers,................51 Simple Fever — Typhoid and Typhus — Accessories in Fevers — Preventives — Intermittent Fever, Ague. CHAPTER II. The Eruptive Fevers,..........66 Scarlet Fever, Scarlatina — Measles — Small-pox — Chicken-pox — Erysipelas, St. Anthony's Fire. CHAPTER III. Diseases of the Organs of Breathing, ... 80 Cold in the Head — Influenza — Hoarseness — Cler- gyman's Sore Throat — Cough — Hooping-Cough — Croup : — Inflammatory and spasmodic — In- flammation of the Lungs and Pleurisy — Asthma — Bronchitis — Chronic Bronchitis — Consump- tion. Contents. 11 CHAPTER IV. Diseases of the Organs of Digestion, .... 106 Indigestion — Vomiting — Sea-sickness — Colic — Biliousness —Heartburn, Flatulence, etc.—Jaun- dice—Inflammation of the Liver—Chronic Inflam- mation of the Liver, Liver Complaint—Diarrhoea — Diarrhoea in Children — Dysentery, Bloody Flux —Asiatic or Malignant Cholera— Constipa- tion — Worms — Piles — Protrusion of the Bowel. CHAPTER V. Affections of the Head,.........137 Headache — Sick-Headache, Bilious Headache — Epilepsy, Falling Sickness. CHAPTER VI. Affections of the Eyes and Ears,.....144 Inflammation of the Eyes — Bloodshot Eye — Stye on the Eyelids — Foreign Bodies in the Eye— In- flammation of the Ears — Earache — Running from the Ears — Deafness. CHAPTER VII Affections of the Mouth, Nose, Teeth, and Glands,...............151 Offensive Breath — Thrush, Frog — Teething — Convulsions—Toothache — Sore Throat, Quinsy — Mumps — Derbyshire Neck, Goitre. CHAPTER VIII. Affections of the Skin,.........165 Itching of the Skin — Nettle-rash — Ulcers, Sores — Boils — Chilblains — Chapped-Hands —Warts —Corns —Whitlow— Ringworm. CHAPTER IX. Haemorrhages,..............176 Spitting and Vomiting of Blood — Bleeding from the Nose — Bleeding from the Urinary Organs — Haemorrhage from the Womb and Vagina, Flood- ing— Hsemorrhagic Diathesis. 12 Contents. CHAPTER X. Page Accidents,...............185 Wounds — Bruises — Black-eye — Cuts — Sprains — Fatigue and Over-exertion — Burns and Scalds — Broken Bones— Strangulated Rupture — Poisons — Drowning. CHAPTER XI. Miscellaneous Diseases,..........197 Rheumatic Fever — Chronic Rheumatism — Lum- bago — Gout — Palpitation of the Heart — In- continence of Urine — Wetting the Bed — Re- tention of Urine — Spermatorrhoea, Involuntary Emissions. Part III. CONCISE MATERIA MEDICA. CHAPTER I. Remedies for Internal Use,........208 Aconitum — Antimonium Crudum — Antimonium Tartaricum — Apis Mellifica — Arnica Montana — Arsenicum — Belladonna — Bryonia — Calcarea Carbonica — Camphora — Cantharis — Carbo Vegetabilis — Chamomilla — China — Cina — Cof- fea — Colocynthis — Cuprum Metallicum — Dro- sera — Dulcamara — Gelseminum — Hepar Sul- phuris — Ignatia — Ipecacuanha — Kali Bichromi- cum — Lycopodium — Mercurius — Nux Vomica — Opium — Phosphorus — Podophyllum — Pul- satilla — Rhus Toxicodendron — Silicea — Spon- gia — Sulphur — Veratrum. Contents. *3 CHAPTER II. External Remedies, Antidotes, etc., .... 223 Arnica Montana — Calendula Officinalis — Rhus Toxicodendron — Antidotes — Genuine Medi- cines. The Stepping-Stone TO HOMCEOPATHY AND HEALTH. 33art $. CHAPTER I. HISTORT OF HOMCEOPA THT. INTRODUCTORY. This small volume is issued as a "Stepping-Stone to Homoeopathy;" a few remarks, therefore, explana- tory of this system of medicine, may appropriately precede its more practical teachings. Life is the noblest gift of God, and good health is one of its greatest accompanying blessings. To pre- serve health in its integrity, or to recover it when lost, are the objects contemplated in the publication of this manual. The reader is requested to pause a few min- utes, before entering on its practical details, in order briefly to consider some of the more prominent fea- tures, and a few of the advantages that would arise from the more general and extended adoption, of Homoeopathy. 16 History of Homceofathy. Early History. Homoeopathy is a system of medicine for the cure of all curable diseases, first discovered and adopted nearly eighty years ago (a. d. 1790), by that great physician, Hahnemann. We do not, however, claim for that distinguished man the invention of Homoeo- pathy; he only removed the obscurity which had hitherto shrouded the subject, and unfolded to man- kind a great law of nature, just as Newton discovered the principle of gravitation. Glimmerings of this science had been caught, many centuries before, by Hippocrates and others, but the illustrious Hahne- mann was the first fully to grasp the principle, and to enunciate it as the law of healing, and therefore of universal applicability. At first, its professors were few, and consisted of the immediate friends and disci- ples of Hahnemann; but ever since, they have been steadily multiplying, so that now medical men, many of them of great intelligence and high principle, are to be found practicing Homoeopathy in every civilized portion of the globe. There are about three hundred avowed legally qualified practitioners in Great Britain; but if those who approve the system, and practice it in secret, were added, the number would be more than doubled. STATUS OF PROFESSIONAL HOMCEOPATHS. It is often represented that Homoeopathic medical men occupy an inferior position to those of the old school. The Medical Register, issued under the direction of, and in accordance with, an Act of Par- Introductory. V liament, may be appealed to in proof that the three hundred Homoeopathic practitioners of Great Britain hold the same degrees and diplomas, have the same legal rank, and have passed through the same course of study, under allopathic professors, as their breth- ren of the old school. On the continent, and in America, Homoeopathy is practiced almost co-exten- sively with Allopathy. INDIRECT INFLUENCE. Many there are who practice Ho noeopathi :ally, but have not the courage to avow it; and many others, impelled by the influence which this system is everywhere exerting, are greatly modifying their practice. The good thus indirectly effected by the discovery of Hahnemann is immeasurable. Not only medical men, but tens of thousands of intelligent per- sons, in every civilized portion of the globe, confide in Homoeopathy as the best and truest system of cuie HOMCEOPATHY GOIXG DOWN? It is true, the statement is often made by its oppo- nents, that the new system is on the decline. " Homoe- opathy is going down," remarked a medical man of the Allopathic school, recently. It is going down. Not, however, in the sense he wished. It is sinking deep into the understandings and hearts of the public. Almost everywhere the people arc directing their at- tention to the subject. They try it, and in the hour of sickness confide in it; and if not conversant with the scientific proofs of Homoeopathy, they recognize 18 History of Homoeopathy. in it a power to heal superior to that they have ever experienced under the old plan of treatment. HOMCEOPATHY APPEALS TO FACTS. It is deserving of remark, that in the discovery of Homoeopathy, Hahnemann did not first conceive a theory, and afterwards seek for facts with which to uphold it. No! At the very starting point, and at each successive step, he relied solely upon facts. What he learned was from facts, based upon carefully con- ducted experiments. His assertions were grounded upon facts, the result of patiently and oft-repeated investigations. For several years he kept his discov- ery to himself; at the same time that he was arrang- ing and accumulating evidence founded upon facts, which were diligently collected and closely scrutinized. Homoeopathy is still upheld by facts. It is because it has stood the trial of experience, that it has been preserved to the present time, and will be transmit- ted to the latest generations. small doses. Homoeopathy does not mean a small dose, as it is often supposed to do. The grand principle — that which forms the basis of the science — is, like curing like, irrespective of the quantity of the dose. Hahne- mann, after he had discovered the science, employed doses of the usual quantity. Experience and further investigation, however, taught him that smaller doses were not only sufficient and more safe, but that when frequently administered, were more efficient than large Introductory. 19 ones. Apart from this, it is a matter of perfect indif- ference to Hahnemann or his followers whether they administer medicine in large or small doses. If they found large doses more efficient in curing diseases than small ones, they would assuredly administer the former rather than the latter. HOMCEOPATHY OPPOSED TO EXPERIENCE? The results obtained by Homoeopathic practitioners with small doses have been said to be opposed to all previous experience. But the truth is, that prior to the researches of Hahnemann and his followers, we had no experience at all in these matters. It is, conse- quendy, just as absurd for medical men to deny that Homoeopathic remedies can effect the cure of disease because such cures are contrary to their experience, who have never tried them, as for a certain king of Siam to have treated as false the statement that in some countries, and in some seasons, water, under the influence of frost, becomes changed from a fluid to a solid, permitting persons to walk upon it, because in his country no such phenomenon had ever been wit- nessed ! Siamese philosophers are not yet extinct. FAITH NOT HOMCEOPATHY. That Homoeopathy is not mere faith or imagina- tion, is proved by its curing the diseases of infants and of patients in delirium, as well as of the inferior animals. The writer is personally acquainted with many intelligent farmers who employ none other than Homoeopathic medicines \~ the treatment of their sick 20 History of Homoeopathy. animals. It must be admitted that the farmers of this country are generally shrewd and calculating men, not easily deceived in matters affecting their interests-. and as great numbers of them declare that Homcecs pathy cures diseases that were incurable by the old method, that it cures more quickly, at a less cost, and without damage to the constitutional powers of ani- mals, we have the best evidence that the success of Homoeopathy is not the result of mere faith, but of valuable medicines, properly administered. The success of Homoeopathy is anything but the result of faith in those who practice it. Persons are generally slow to believe in it, and seldom have re- course to it, at first, without doubts and misgivings. Benefits are derived, in spite of their unbelief. Faith in Homoeopathy comes and grows only as their cure progresses and is complete. The very improbability of a dose so small and so unlike what had been for- merly given, acts, so far as the imagination has any influence upon the cure, unfavorably, instead of the reverse. MEDICINES IN HEALTH. A story is often told of a child swallowing the con- tents of a tube of globules, which created great alarm, but took '• no effect." Supposing the circumstance to have occurred, it does not at all affect the truth of Homoeopathy. Homoeopathic medicines, in the form they are usually administered, are prepared with the view of acting in disease, when the parts are far more sensitive than .in a state of health, and much more easily affected. A healthy constitution has no sus- Introductory. 21 ceptibility for attenuated drugs; to ensure their action they must be administered in a low or crude form, so as to produce unnatural effects; in short, a kind of poisoning. ILLUSTRATIONS.--LIGHT. A ray of light falling upon a diseased eye will cause pain, or even become intolerable, although in health the same eye is unaffected by the broad light of day. The susceptibility of the eye is heightened by disease. Millions of rays of light afforded pleasure in health; now, one ray gives fain. Just so in reference to the tube of globules, that which will produce no disturb- ance in health will, in disease, with heightened sensi- bility, act powerfully. SEED. We borrow another illustration. Small doses may be taken without producing effects, just as seed may be sown without yielding fruit. It were as reasonable to expect a plentiful harvest from seeds scattered on the sea shore, or on a beaten path, as to expect " effects" from infinitesimal doses when the natural accessories are wanting. As seed will not grow unless the soil is congenial and prepared, so small doses will not act if the symptoms calling for their action are absent. THE MAGNET. The disease must have the same attraction for the medicine that the magnet has for iron. You could 22 History of Homoeopathy. not tell by touching the loadstone with a piece of cop- per that it had any power of attraction; neither could you tell by taking an attenuation of Aconitum in a state of health, that it had any power. But try the magnet with a piece of iron and Aconitum with a quick pulse, and then their energy will be demonstrated. When it is said die globules took " no effect," what is meant is, the effects which follow Allopathic doses, viz.: vomiting, purging, extreme pain, etc. And here we have an illustration of the safety of Homoeo- pathic remedies, and how favorably they contrast with the strong drugs and severe measures often employed under the old system of treatment. Well, indeed, would it have been for thousands of Allo- pathic patients if bleeding, blisters, purgatives, mer- cury, etc., had also taken " no effect." 23 CHAPTER II. ADVANTAGES OF HOMQZOPATHT. We have only space to refer to some of the advan- tages arising from adopting Homoeopathic treatment. ECONOMY. Economy is secured, chiefly, from the shortened duration of diseases. Bleeding, blistering, purging, and other debilitating measures are discarded, so that, the disease being cured, the patient soon regains his strength, because it has not been expended by exhausting treatment. Tedious convalescence and permanently shattered health too often follow Allo- pathic drugging. Patients too often suppose they have not fully " got over " the disease, when in reality they only suffer from the effects of drugs. To the industrious portions of the community, who live by their labor, an early return to health is of great im- portance; and it is a fact of too common occurrence, that much inconvenience and want often result from the injudicious and protracted measures of the old system. H0M020PATHIC SUCCESS. In respect to successful treatment, Homoeopathy is immensely superior to Allopathy. Patients who have 24 Advantages of Homoeopathy. been under both systems are best able to judge of their comparative merits, and such almost universally give the palm to Homoeopathy. IS THE PUBLIC A COMPETENT JUDGE? It may be said, the public is incompetent to judge of such matters; but it is not so; and although it might for a time be deceived, the deception could not last long. In matters affecting its personal interest, the public is remarkably shrewd, and seldom fails to arrive at a sound conclusion. Not only the general public but also physicians the most highly educated in the profession, after due investigation and experi- ment, have renounced the old for the new system of practice; while some of the most profound scholars and greatest nobles in the land are Homoeopaths. The clergy and ministers of all denominations are rapidly embracing the system. That distinguished sect, so often foremost in the field of philanthropy, the Friends, is almost entirely Homoeopathic. So, we venture to affirm, will all be who have the moral courage to inquire, investigate, and think for them- selves. HOMOEOPATHY AND CHOLERA. The superiority of Homoeopathic over Allopathic treatment applies both to acute and chronic diseases. When cholera prevailed in this country, two out of every three patients were lost by the old system; on the other hand, Homoeopathy saved two out of every three. We cite the testimony of Dr. Macloughlin, a Homoeopathy and Cholera. 25 medical inspector appointed by the Board of Health, to investigate cases of cholera, and who was always strongly opposed to Homoeopathy. He thus writes to one of the surgeons of the London Homoeopathic Hospital: * CONSTIPATION. Take, as a further illustration of its success, Consti- pation of the bowels. Allopathy cannot cure this complaint. It can only give aperients or purgatives; and these, so far from removing the evil, in the long run generally aggravate it; whereas, by a little perse- verance in the use of her remedies, Homoeopathy cures it. * British Journal of Homoeopathy, vol. 13, page 681 " I need not tell you that I have taken some pains to make myself acquainted with the rise, progress, and medi- cal treatment of cholera; and that I claim for myself some right to be able to recognize the disease, and to know some- thing of what the treatment ought to be; and, that there maybe therefore no misapprehension about the cases I saw in your hospital, I will add, that all I saw were true cases of cholera, in the various stages of the disease; and that I saw several cases which did well under your treatment, which I have no hesitation in saying would have sunk under any other. " In conclusion, I must repeat to you what I have already told you, and what I have told every one with whom I have conversed, that, although an Allopath by principle, education, and practice, yet, were it the will of Providence to afflict me with cholera, and to deprive me of the power of prescribing for myself, I would rather be in the hands of a Homoeopathic than an Allopathic adviser." 2 26 Advantages of Homeopathy. STATISTICS. We confidently refer, in proof of the success of Homoeopathic treatment, to the statistics of the various hospitals and dispensaries conducted on purely Homoe- opathic principles in this country, on the continent, and in America. We have not space here to record even a selection from that accumulated evidence which has now become so voluminous. Numerous volumes of Homoeopathic clinical information, and the reports of the results of the practice of our hospitals and dis- pensaries, are open to the inspection of all; for Homoe- opathy, differing in this respect from every system of- quackery, courts investigation. Nothing is considered so inimical to its interests as concealment. Facts so bear out its inherent truth as to cany with them their own irresistible credentials, and these we are confident will eventually remove every impediment to its general study and universal practice. GENTLE MEASURES. Contrast the chamber of the Allopathic, with that of the Homoeopathic, patient. In the former, there is the bleeding-basin, the repulsive leech, the blister and its accompaniments—sores, salves, and dressings —the emetic and its disagreeable results, purgatives, and their disgusting and hurtful consequences. Think of these invading the last and most sacred hours of life, and being often inflicted on helpless infants and terrified children, as not merely unnecessary, but per- nicious beyond calculation; often destroying, by such harsh appliances, the very life intended to be saved. The Single Remedy. 27 Turn now to the chamber of the Homoeopathic patient. He is very ill, but the law of self-preservation is re- spected, and the " life's blood is spared." No leeches or blisters are used; the linen is clean, and the air is sweet, for there has been no emetic, or purgative, or salivation. Perhaps the onlv article indicative of sick- ness is a glass or bottle of medicine, inoffensive alike to both taste and smell, but potent to mitigate the sufferings of the patient, and restore him to health. JERROLD'S DEATH-BED. " Why torture a dying creature, doctor?" were the words and remonstrance of Douglas Jcrrold to his medical attendant within a few hours of his death. The doctor insisted on administering medicine and cupping, notwithstanding extreme exhaustion. His son and biographer, Blanchard Jerrold, says, " We waved the fins about him, giving him air, and still, at intervals, he talked faintly, but most collectedly. The dawn grew into a most lovely surnmer morning. At ten o'clock the patient was cupped. He could hardly move in bed, and again said, ' Why torture a dving creature, doctor?' But the cupping took no effect." This is a sad picture. Thank God, Homoeo- pathy is putting an end to such inhuman means, by substituting natural and gentle appliances, such as shall conserve the life-powers, and diminish, not aggra- vate, existing sufferings. THE SINGLE REMEDY. Another manifest advantage is the giving of only one remedy at a time, thus ascertaining the pure action 28 Advantages of Homoeopathy. of each separate drug, and avoiding the confusion resulting from mixing different substances in one pre- scription. Every remedy has an action peculiar to itself; and it cannot but happen, when several drugs are introduced into the system at the same time, that they interfere with each other. If, under such circum- stances, good is effected, it is often impossible to deter- mine which one, or how many out of the number, have contributed to the result. Or, if no good follows, and it be necessary to alter the prescription, then it must be also impossible to know what change to make, what portions to omit, what new ones to add. Dr. Paris, a distinguished Allopathic physician, says he was once told by a practitioner in the country, that the quantity and complexity of the medicines which he gave his patients were always increased in the ratio with the obscurity of their cases. " If," said he, " I fire a profusion of shot, it is very extraordinary if some do not hit the mark." A patient in the hands of such a practitioner, says Dr. Paris, has not a much better chance than a Chinese Mandarin, who, upon being attacked with any disease, calls in twelve or more phy- sicians, and swallows in one mixture all the potions which each separately prescribes. In Homoeopathy we only give one medicine at a time; its action upon the system is then simple and undisturbed; and we are no longer in doubt as to what is doing good. HOMCEOPATHIC MEDICINES ARE SPECIFIC. An important advantage in our medicines is, that they only act on diseased parts. Thus, in affections of the brain, the bowels are not operated on by purga- Experimental Practice. 29 tives; or the liver, mouth, and bones by mercury; or the skin by blisters; but such substances are adminis- tered as have been proved to operate directly on the brain itself. So in diseases of the chest; the bowels, liver, and skin are undisturbed, and that part only acted upon in which disease exists. This is a great advantage. Under such treatment disease cannot be produced in healthy parts, and the disappearance of the disease is a sign that it is absolutely cured. HOMCEOPATHY AND CHILDREN. Our medicines are not disagreeable. This is an advantage which every mother can appreciate who knows that her children have a natural and proper disgust of old physic* Adults swallow nauseous draughts and pills in the hope of deriving benefit there- from; in the case of children, however, the prospect of benefit is often far more than counterbalanced by the horror and disgust which the abominable com- pound excites. And further, the diseases of children are influenced most strikingly and favorably by Homoe- opathic medicines; and every practitioner has often received the warmest thanks of parents from whose children most alarming diseases have been removed as by a charm. EXPERIMENTAL PRACTICE. We do not try experiments with our drugs on the sick. The practice of trying the effects of drugs on * "Many a medicine given to children is so horrible that a medical practitioner ought to be present to count the pulse, and to watch the countenance during its adminis- tration, just as is properly the case at a military flogging." Advantages of Homoeopathy. persons suffering from disease is cruel and dangerous; cruel, because it torments the patient already suffering from disease; and dangerous, because it often under- mines the constitution, and interposes obstacles to that natural tendency to recovery which Infinite Goodness has interwoven with life. Homoeopathic drugs, on the contrary, are always tried on medical men and their friends when in health, in repeated doses and sufficiently large to ascertain their properties, before administering the smaller and attenuated doses of such medicines to the suffering. PREVENTIVE MEDICINE. Homoeopathy is preventive as well as curative. Its medicines have the power of preventing, or arresting at the very outset, many diseases, such as colds, influ- enza, various fevers, cholera, etc. In the practical portions of this work, it will be found that we have suggested preventive as well as curative measures. FUTURE OF HOMCEOPATHY. It may be asked, Will Homoeopathy ever become universal? We reply, most great discoveries and im- provements have been obstinately opposed at first, but, having truth for their basis, have triumphed in the end. So Homoeopathy, in spite of the bitterest and most unprincipled opposition which it has received from the very commencement, lias continued to spread in an ever-increasing ratio, so that now, wherever the sun shines, and the light of European civilization has penetrated, and suffering humanity is found, Homoeo- Future of Homoeopathy. 31 pathy is acknowledged and embraced as one of the greatest and most humane of modern discoveries. We have an impressive illustration in the case of Hahnemann, the first expounder of Homoeopathy, who was cruelly persecuted, and finally driven an exile from Iris native Saxony. Yet now, in the very city of Leipsic, from which he was banished, there adorns a plot of ground a monumental statue, in bronze, of that immortal physician! If Homoeopathy, then, could not, in its early infancy, be destroyed, there is little to fear for it now that it has grown to the pro- portions of a giant. Nearly all its present adherents have been converted from the old system, through experiencing or witnessing the superior advantages of the new, in the face of those deeply-rooted preju- dices which it is difficult entirely to discard. Thou- sands of families, on the other hand, are now being reared up under Homoeopathic influences who have never espoused, and probably never will, any other system. The tendencies of such will be in the right direction, and they will become its consistent and unwavering advocates. Judging, then, of the future by the light of the past, and believing the saying, "Magna est Veritas, et prevalebit," we are led to the inevitable conclusion that Homoeopathy, founded as it is upon truth, upon an immutable natural law, will ultimately become the exclusive and universal mode of curing disease. 32 CHAPTER III. OBSERVATIONS ON HEALTH {Hygiene). GENERAL HINTS. All persons should, if possible, take moderate daily exercise in the open air, or if the weather is unsuita- ble, in well lighted and properly ventilated rooms, Undue indulgence in everv passion, all excessive emo- tions, as grief, care, anger, must be guarded against. The active requirements of business, as well as all its cares and anxieties, should be strictly confined to ten or twelve hours each day, and the remaining portion of the twenty-four hours appropriated to rest, recrea- tion, and the general improvement of the mind and body. The regular habit should be formed of going to bed early, and rising early. Even children, who generally wake early, should never be compelled to lie in bed, as nature seems to have intended every one to rise early. A passing remark on these topics is all our limited space permits, except on two or three points, to which additional paragraphs are appropriated. BATHING. As an invaluable aid to health, and as a general rule, once a day—certainly not less frequently than every second morning—every person in health should The Wet Pack. 33 bathe or sponge the whole body with cold water, immediately following it by friction and exercise to promote the reaction. This tends to health, just as opening a window lets fresh air into a room. Merely washing the hands, face, and neck, is by no means sufficient; the entire surface of the body requires the application of water, not only for the purpose of clean- liness, but as a means of invigorating the capillary circulation, and so fortifying the system as to enable it to resist atmospheric vicissitudes. The secret of attaining these ends consists in employing water in such a manner and of such a temperature, and in the body being in such a condition before and after the. application, that the reaction or glow shall be most perfect. The best time for a cold bath is on rising from bed, before the body has had time to get chilled. Bathing should not, therefore, be practiced when the body is cold or cooling, or when it is exhausted by exertion or fatigue, or is naturally too weak. A bath should not be taken too soon after a meal; nor should the time spent in the bath be too long; that may vary, according to circumstances, from about one to four minutes. For information on various forms of baths, and the conditions under which they are admissible, consult the "Vade Mecum of Modern Medicine and Surgery." THE WET PACK. As we have often recommended the wet pack in this manual, we give here a description of this useful process. Spread a mackintosh sheet or stout blanket 2* 34 Observations on Health. or quilt on a mattress, and over it, leaving a margin at the head, spread a thick linen sheet, wrung out of cold water. The wringing is best effected by two persons, one taking hold of either end, the sheet being doubled, and twisting as long as any water can be got out. In fevers, the colder the water is the better; for very delicate persons with feeble reaction, water at 68° may be used. The patient is to be extended on his back, naked, on the wet sheet, so that the upper edge covers the back of the neck, but the lower one is to project beyond the feet; holding up the arms, one side of the sheet is to be thrown over the body and iucked in; the arms are now placed by the sides, and the other part of the wet sheet is thrown over all, and tucked rather tightly in, turning in the projecting ends under the feet. The mackintosh or blanket is then to be brought over all the sheet, and well tucked in round the neck, at the sides, and over the feet, so as com- pletely to exclude the air. A stout quilt or extra blanket is to be put over all. In a short time the patient will become warm; the sensation is most agreeable, especially in fevers. The patient may re- main in the pack three quarters of an hour to an hour, then be put into a shallow bath of water at 640, well washed, dried, and put to bed. It may be repeated once or twice a daw according to circumstances and the violence of the attack. Perspiration may be encour- aged bv giving sips of cold water. If the head be- comes congested, or the face flushed while in the pack, a cold compress should be applied over the forehead. A little practice will enable any one to apply it. It is invaluable in the early stages of all fevers, and in Exercise. 35 scarlatina, measles, and small-pox, it assists in bring- ing out the eruption. EXERCISE. This is essential to health and long life. No one in health should neglect to walk a moderate distance every day in the open air, if possible in the country, where pure air can be freely inhaled. Other things being equal, this will ensure the proper action of every important function. The walk for health should be diversified, including ascents and descents, and vary- ing scenery; and be alternated, when circumstances admit of it, with riding on horseback, with gardening, or similar pursuits. Such modes of exeicise, practiced moderately and regularly, and varied from day to day, are much more advantageous than the exciting, im- moderate, and irregular exertions of the ball-room, the hunting field, the cricket-ground, or the rowing match. For feeble and infirm persons, carriage-exer- cise, if it may be so called, and frictions over the sur- face of the body and extremities, by means of towels and bath gloves, may be substituted for active exertion. The proper periods for exercise are when the sys- tem is not depressed by fasting or fatigue, or oppressed by the process of digestion. The robust may take exercise before breakfast; but delicate persons, who often become faint from exercise at this time, and lan- guid during the early part of the day, had better defer it till from one to three hours after breakfast. An evening walk, in fine weather, is also advantageous. 36 Observations on Health. Exercise prevents disease by giving vigor and energy to the body and its various organs and members, and thus enables them to ward off or overcome influences whicli tend to impair their integrity. It cures many diseases by equalizing the circulation of the blood and the distribution of nervous energy, thus invigorating and strengthening weak organs, and removing local torpor and congestion. CLOTHING. Clothing should be arranged with a view to com- fort, and according to the requirements of the season. Summer clothes should not be put on too soon, or winter ones too late. Thin-soled boots and shoes are destructive to health. So are stays. The body is strong enough to support itself; while stays often bring on diseases of the lungs and other important organs. The muscles of the body were intended to sustain it erect, but when stays are applied, they soon become indispensable, by superceding the action of the muscles; and, in accordance with a well-known law of the muscular system, when they cease to be used they cease to grow. The following passage on clothing suggests points of great practical importance: "The clothing may be either insufficient or improper; and this insufficiency or impropriety may be either constant, as in leaving uncovered the abdomen, thighs, and le°-s of young children, and the neck, chest, and arms of children and young girls, and in the neglect to put on flannels in winter; or it maybe only occasional, as in the adoption of muslin and low-bodied dresses by ladies, and thinner neck- Light. 37 ties, vests, and boots by gentlemen for evening parties; and in the neglecting to add more clothing during s'.eep. The frequency with which disease results in children from the inhuman practice of leaving their digestive, respiratory and other organs, and their extremities exposed to the chilling blasts and varying temperature of our atmosphere, is unfortunately too well known to need that I should enter into any proof; nor need I more than protest against the cruelty of leaving those parts naked in children, that we find it absolutely necessary to clothe the most warmly in adult life; and more especially when we reflect that in childhood the body is small and the stock of animal heat insufficient, and the bodily growth in progress, and that growth is retarded and checked by cold and favored by warmth; that there is absence of reason and experience to teach how to keep up the warmth of the parts exposed; while in adult life the body is large and the stock of animal heat more adequate, the growth complete, and reason and experience possessed. I am convinced that many of the cases of infantile diarrhoea, cholera, constipation, remittent fever, dropsy after scarlatina, marasmus, phthisis, bron- chitis, pneumonia, quinsy, hoarseness, and ophthalmia, result from this exposure."* LIGHT. The importance of sun-light, for physical develop- ment and preservation, is much undervalued. Women and children, as well as men, in order to be healthy and well-developed, should spend a large portion of each day where the solar rays can reach them directly. In very hot weather, during the excessive heat of the dav, the shade of a tree, grove, or even an airy house, may be sought, but never our dark parlors and rooms, * "Taking Cold," by J. W. Hayward, M.D. 38 Observations on Health. for the cold "damp of death" is within them. Even at night, houses are only tit to be occupied that have been purified by the solar rays in the day time. The value of sun-light, with its accompanying influ- ences, for animal development, may be illustrated by such facts as the following: In decaying organic solu- tions, animalcules do not appear if light is excluded, but are readily organized when light is admitted. The tadpole, kept in the dark, does not pass on to develop- ment as a frog, but lives and dies a tadpole, and is incapable of propagating his species. In the deep and narrow valleys among the Alps, where the direct rays of the sun are but little felt, cretinism, or a state of idiocy, more or less complete, commonly accompa- nied by an enormous goitre, prevails as an epidemic, and is often hereditary. Rickets, or deformities, crook- edness, and swelling of the bones, are very common among children who are kept in dark alleys, cellars, factories and mines. It has been found that, during the prevalence of certain epidemic diseases, the inhab- itants who occupy the side of the street and houses upon which the sun shines directly, are less subject to the prevailing disease than those who live on the shaded side. In all cities visited by the cholera, it was invariably found that the greatest number of deaths took place in narrow thoroughfares, and on those sides of streets having a northern exposure, from which the salutary beams of the sun were excluded. It is said that the number of patients cured in the hospitals of St. Petersburg were four times greater in rooms well lighted than in those confined in dark rooms. This discovery led to a complete reform Fresh Air. 39 in lighting the hospitals of Russia, and with the best results. FRESH AIR. A proper supply of pure fresh air is essential for the preservation of life and health. Although life may not suddenly be destroyed by breathing an im- pure atmosphere, still the vital energies are slowly but surely impaired; especially those of growing children and persons suffering from disease. Bed rooms, in which about one-third of human life is passed, are generally too small, and badly ventilated. The doors, windows, and even chimneys, are often closed, and every aperture carefully guarded to exclude fresh air. The consequence is, that long before morn- ing dawns, the atmosphere of the whole apartment becomes highly noxious from the consumption of its oxygen, the formation of carbonic acid, and the exhal- ations from the lungs and skin. In an atmosphere thus loaded with effluvia, the sleep is heavy and unre- freshing, partaking more of the character of insensi- bility. Due provision for the uninterrupted admission of fresh air, and the free escape of impure air, secures lighter, shorter and more invigorating sleep. An airy, well ventilated sleeping apartment should be regarded as one of the most important requirements of life, both in health and sickness. With few exceptions, the door and window of the bed room may be left open, except in foggy weather, with perfect safety. A current of air may be prevented from playing on the face of the occupant, by placing the bed in a proper situation, or by suspending a single curtain 4o Observations on Health. from the ceiling. We may be permitted to add, we always sleep with a portion of the top sash of the window down, except in very bad weather; even then the door of communication with the adjoining room or landing, remains open. WATER. Water is the natural drink of man, and may always be taken in moderation when thirst is present. It performs important purposes in the animal economy, and is absolutely indispensable for life and health. Water enters largely into combination with all our food, and acts as a solvent of everything we take. It also acts as a vehicle to convey the more dense and less fluid substances from the digestive tract to their destination in the body. It gives fluidity to the blood, holding in suspension, or solution, the red globules, albumen, fibrine, and other constituents which enter into the different structures of the bodv, the whole of which are formed from the blood. Not only the soft parts of the body, but even the very bones, or the materials of which they are composed, have at one time flowed in the current of the blood. To prove how essential water is for the development and main- tenance of the animal body, we may state that a calcu- lation has been made which shows that a human body weighing 154 lbs. contains 111 lbs. of water. Such a fact should suggest the necessity for obtaining water pure, and taking it unpolluted by animal and mineral ingredients. Water may be obtained tolerably pure in rain or snow collected in suitable vessels in the open Water. 41 country, away from crowded dwellings and manufac- tories. Spring, river, sea, surface, well, and mineral water, all contain various substances dissolved in them, which render them, without distillation or filtration, unsuitable for drinking, or even for the preparation of articles of diet. The purest water is obtained from deep wells, bored through the earth and clay down to the chalk (Artesian Wells). For cooking purposes and even bathing, the purest water that can be obtained is the best. One important object contemplated by the writer of this work is, the removal of a foolish prejudice, which unhappily exists in the minds of many, against pure water, an element which God has provided for His creatures with the most lavish abundance; and of promoting, both for internal and external purposes, a more regular use of this invaluable boon and bless- ing. Pure water has justly been regarded as an emblem of innocence, truth, and beauty. In a community in which this element shall be used as the chief bever- age, and more abundantly for purposes of purification, we may hope to find in the morals of the people reflections of virtue of which water is so vivid a type. And, in a sense which more immediately bears on the subject of this manual, suffering will be more easily controlled by our remedies, and the development of those latent tendencies to disease most effectually pre- vented, which the habits and fashions of the present age seem to favor. 42 CHAPTER IV. MEDICINES, DIET, ETC. FORMS OF MEDICINES. The following brief description of the different forms of medicines used in the practice will afford the beginner the necessary information on the subject. The preparations an* of three kinds—Globules, Tinc- tures, and Triturations. Globules, or Pellets, are made of pure.sugar, and When prepared for use are saturated with a solution of the medicine desired. They are often more conve- nient for use than the liquids or powders, especially for administration to infants. They varv in size, but the size prescribed in this book is about like a corian- der seed, and is called by the new measure of the American Pharmaceutical Association, No. 30. Tinctures contain the more active principles of the vegetable medicines, in a greater or less concentrated form, and are supposed to be more decided and rapid in their action, in acute diseases, than globules. It is therefore advisable for those who reside at a distance from medical aid, to be furnished with a selection of the tinctures adapted to sudden and acute diseases, in addition to a complete case or chest of the globules or pilules, especially those numbered 1, 7, 8, 22, 27, 29, 31 and 36, in the list on a.succeeding page. List of Medicines. 43 Triturations are in the powder-form, and contain a portion of the original crude substance triturated with a given quantity of sugar-of-milk; they are nec- essary to the administration of the lower attenuations of insoluble medicines, such as Calcarea carbonica, Hepar sulphuris, Mercurius, Silicea, etc. MEDICIXE CASES. A medicine-case should be constructed expressly for the medicines, and used for no other purpose; it should be kept locked, under the charge of a respon- sible person, and be protected from light and heat; it should also be kept quite apart from substances which emit a strong odor. Immediately after using a vial, it should be corked again, and the corks or medicines never changed from one vial to another. LIST OF MEDICINES. The following is a list of .medicines prescribed in this manual, and the dilutions recommended for do- mestic use.* LATIN NAMES. DIL. ENGLISH NAMES. i Aconitum napellus 3 Monk's-hood 2 Antimonium crudum 6 Crude antimony 3 Antimonium tartaricum 6 Tartar emetic 4 Apis mellifica 3 Poison of bee 5 Arnica montana 3 Leopard's-bane 6 Arsenicum album 3 White arsenic 7 Belladonna 3 Deadly-nightshade 8 Bryonia alba 3 White bryony 9 Calcarea carbonica 6 Carbonate of lime * For information respecting the properties and uses of the medicines in the above list, consult the Materia Medica, at the end of the work. 44 Medicines, Diet, etc. LATIN NAMES. 10 Cantharides [i Carbo vegetabilis 12 Chamomilla 13 China 14 Cina 15 Coffea 16 Colocynthis 17 Cuprum metallicum 18 Dulcamara 19 Gelseminum 20 Hepar sulphuris 21 Ignatia amara 22 Ipecacuanha 23 Kali bichromicum 24 Lycopodium 25 Mercurius corrosivus 26 Mercurius solubilis 27 Nux Vomica 28 Opium 29 Phosphorus 30 Podophyllum 31 Pulsatilla 32 Rhus toxicodendron 33 Silicea 34 Spongia tosta 35 Sulphur 36 Veratrum album DIL. ENGLISH NAMES. 3 Spanish fly 6 Vegetable charcoal 3 Wild chamomile 3 Peruvian bark 3 Mugwort of Judea 3 Mocha coffee-berries 3 Bitter cucumber 6 Metallic copper 3 Woody-nightshade 1 Yellow Jessamine 6 Sulphuret of lime 3 St. Ignatius' bean 3 Ipecacuanha 3 Bichromate of potash 3 Wolf's-foot 6 Bichloride of mercury 3 Oxide of mercury 3 Strychnos Nux vomica 3 White poppy 3 Phosphorus 1 Mandrake 3 Wind-flower 3 Poison oak 6 Silex 3 Roasted sponge 6 Sulphur 3 White hellebore Also the strong Tincture of camphor, to be kept sep- arately. EXTERNAL REMEDIES Arnica montana, Calendula officinalis, and Rhus toxi- codendron. DIRECTIONS FOR TAKING MEDICINES. Globules may be taken dry on the tongue, but it is better, when convenient, to dissolve them in pure soft water, or half-a-dozen Glo- bules mav be dissolved in a teacup of water Hours. 45 and a teaspoonful given at a dose. If Tinctures are used, the required quantity should be dropped into the bottom of a glass, by holding die bottle in an oblique manner, with the lip resting against the cork; the bottle should then be carefully tilted (see the illustra- tion), when the tincture will descend and drop from the lower edge of the cork. A little practice will enable a person to drop with great exactness. Water should then be poured upon the medicine in the pro- portion of a table-spoonful to a drop. The vessel should be clean, and the mixture kept covered; the spoon used should not be left in the mixture, but wiped after each dose. Fine glazed earthenware spoons are the best for this purpose. If the medicine has to be kept several days, a new bottle may be used, taking care also that the cork is new and sound. The Triturations should be placed dry on the tongue, and gradually swallowed, the mouth having first been rinsed with water. HOURS. The most appropriate times for taking the medi- cines, as a rule, are, on rising in the morning, at bed- 46 Medicines, Diet, etc. time, and, if oftencr prescribed, about an hour before, or two or three hours after a meal. THE DOSE. In determining the quantity and strength of doses, several circumstances should be considered, such as age, sex, habits, nature of the disease, etc As a gen- eral rule, without reference to individual peculiarities, the following may be stated as the proper dose in do- mestic practice: For an Adult, one drop of Tinc- ture, four Globules, or one grain of Tritura- tion; for a child, about one-half the quantity; for an infant, about one-third. A drop is easily divided into two doses, hy mixing it with two spoon- fuls of water, and giving one spoonful for a dose. repetition of doses. The repetition of doses must be guided by the acute or chronic character of the maladv, the urgency and danger of the symptoms, and the effects produced by the medicines. In violent and acute diseases, such as cholera, croup, pleuritis, convulsions, etc., the reme- dies may be repeated every ten, fifteen, or twenty minutes. In less urgent cases of acute disease, the remedy may be repeated every two, three, or four hours. In chronic maladies, the medicine may be adminis- tered every six, twelve, or twenty-four hours. In all cases when improvement takes place, the medicines should be taken less frequently, and gradually relin- quished. Hints on Diet. 47 alternation of medicines. To avoid the confusion resulting from mixing dif- ferent drugs in one prescription, and to ascertain the pure action of each, Homoeopaths never mix several together; but in acute diseases, where the symptoms of the malady are not covered by a single remedy, and a second one is indicated, the two are sometimes given in alternation; that is, one medicine is followed by another at certain intervals of time, and in a regular order of succession. But the alternate use of medi- cines should, as much as possible, be avoided. Except in violent and rapid diseases, the author rarely pre- scribes medicines alternately, and strongly recom- mends the general discontinuance of that method, as one little calculated to yield exact and definite clinical experience. HINTS ON DIET.--HOMCEOPATHY AND DIET. Homoeopathy is not, as is often stated, a mere sys- tem of diet. The grand rule to be observed is, that patients should partake of easily digestible and nour- ishing food, sufficient to satisfy hunger; and of such drink as nature requires to allay thirst. Nearly all the general remarks that it seems necessary to make in this place are, that the diet should be regulated by the patient's observations, intelligently made, as to what kinds of food and drink best agree with him, these being modified by the nature, stage, and progress of the disease under which he may be suffering. 48 Medicines, Diet, etc. MILK DIET. When this diet is prescribed, it includes all kinds of light puddings, made with milk. Arrowroot, gruel, tapioca, or sago, boiled in milk, rice, etc. Also tea or cocoa, and bread-and-butter. ORDINARY DIET. Meat, prepared for the table so as to retain all its gravy, and vegetables, varied from time to time, and properly cooked, for dinner. Bread, with butter or fruit, and cocoa or tea, with milk and sugar, for the morning and evening meal. Cheese may be used if it agrees, and the digestive organs are healthy. In many hospitals the daily allowance of meat is three fourths of a pound, including bone. Bread as re- quired. MEAT DIET. When this is ordered, meat should be taken twice daily; but for breakfast, eggs may sometimes be sub- stituted. In other respects, the same as for ordinary diet. EXTRAORDINARY DIET. In hospitals, this includes meat, fish, poultry, etc.; also wine, brandy, or porter, specially ordered by the doctor. The quantity of spirits, wine, or beer, to be taken by a patient should be regulated by the special order of a medical man, and none taken unless so ordered. Tobacco. 49 Different diseases and different constitutions, how- ever, require varied kinds of foods. Thus, in cases of diarrhoea, fruits and vegetables should be avoided, while a confined state of the bowels requires a free use of these articles; also, when febrile symptoms are present, meat, eggs, butter, and other stimulating food, should be excluded from the bill of fare, and the diet restricted more particulary to fruits and farinaceous articles, or to water and mucilaginous drinks alone. In acute and dangerous diseases, no food whatever may be proper, the only admissible article being that for which nature craves, viz., pure cold water, given in small quantities, at short intervals. tobacco. Tobacco and Snuff in every form, are highly preju- dicial. Tobacco-smoking often induces thirst and vital depression, and as it is generally accompanied by spitting, wastes the saliva, and leads to the worst and most obstinate forms of indigestion. The secretions of the mouth should never be expectorated, unless they are the products of disease, as in catarrh. Tobacco- smoking, especially where the habit is acquired in early life, gives an unhealthy character to the blood, produces a sallow hue of the skin, general physical weakness, and stunted growth. And these injurious consequences do not end with the smoker, but are trans- mitted from parent to child, resulting often in a puny, weak, and unhealthy offspring. Smoking tends to destroy the nervous forces, depriving the individual of that vigorous energy which should distinguish both 3 5° Aledicines, Diet, etc. his physical and moral character. We venture to endorse the following prediction: "If the habit of smoking in England advances as it has done during the last fifteen years, the English character will lose that combination of energy and solidity which has hitherto distinguished it, and England will sink in the scale of nations.* drugs. Persons under Homoeopathic treatment are particu- larly cautioned against taking herb-tea, senna, salts, castor oil, pills, and other drugs. Caution in respect to aperient drugs is especially required, now that such numerous patent medicines are advertised and sold in every part of the country, doing an incalculable amount of injury. * What is the prospect for the people of the United States of America? 5* Uatt M. Diseases and Their Treatment. chapter i. FEVERS. I.—simple fever (Pyrexia). Simple fever \% the mildest form in which a feverish attack occurs, and as it generally disappears in from twelve to thirty-six hours, it is termed an ephemeral disease. Symptoms.—A feverish attack usually commences in the afternoon or evening, with alternate chills and flushes, followed by heat and dryness of the skin; hard, full, quick pulse; dry, coated tongue; thirst; hurried, anxious breathing, and highly colored and jscanty urine. Also, often, pain in the loins,v head- ache, deranged bowels, and loss of appetite. As these symptoms may be precursors of serious diseases, they require prompt attention. Causes.— Suppressed perspiration, exposure to damp or cold, sudden changes of temperature, wearing 52 Fevers. damp clothes; poor or insufficient diet; injuries, inter- nal or external; fatigue, etc.; or it may be a modified variety of one of the forms of fever described in the next section. Treatment.— Aconitum is found to be the chief remedy for all such symptoms as those above indi- cated; and it will most effectually calm the arterial excitement. Aconitum has been termed the Homoeo- pathic Lancet; and in all febrile attacks, whether slight or serious, it is the first remedy to be adminis- tered. Perspiration following its administration is often a welcome indication of its beneficial action. A dose every two or three hours, or, in urgent cases, every half-hour or hour, till perspiration breaks out, when this remedy may be discontinued. [Dr. J. S. Douglas, of Milwaukee, U. S. A., in his excel- lent domestic manual, " Practical Homoeopathy," speaks highly of Gelseminum in the treatment of fevers generally —and we give place to his instructions the more readily because he has had more experience in the use of Gelsemi- num than most other well-informed medical men.— Amer. Ed.] Dr. Douglas says: In the early or chilly stage, put a few drops of Gelseminum in a tumbler of water, and add an equal number of spoonfuls of water, and give a spoonful every half-hour till the chill ceases, and perspiration is procured, or the pain and fever subside. Then stop it as long as the improvement continues. As soon as the symptoms begin to return, renew it. In a majority of cases, the first dose stops the chill within fifteen or twenty minutes. If the first dose produces no effect, increase it to two, three, or five drops, for there is a great difference in the quan- tity required by different persons. In many cases one-half or one-quarter drop is sufficient. After a free Simple Fever. 53 perspiration is thus produced, the pains subside, and the patient goes to sleep, and when he wakes, is con- scious that his " fever is broken up." It is important tiiat this treatment should be adopted in the early stage of the attack. I have cured innumerable cases by this remedy alone. This is applicable to all fevers that come on with chills and pains, as above described, whether catarrhal (from a cold), bilious, typhoid, or rheumatic. When these symptoms are present, Gelseminum is the remedy. If the treatment is not commenced till a later period, it will often succeed, and should be tried as the first remedy, but there is much less certainty of success. But it need not be continued over one day, if it is not obviously doing good. If this fails, and the fever puts on the forms and symptoms hereafter described, then corresponding remedies must be used. Gelseminum is the best remedy known for sim- ple fever. Aconite is the indispensable remedy for local inflammations, which often exist in fever. This distinction is of great importance, and should not be forgotten. Camphor.— For a sudden seizure of chilliness; shivering, with lassitude, and general indisposition which has come on rapidly. Two drops of the strong tincture of Camphor on a small piece of loaf sugar, or two or three globules of strong Camphor repeated three times, at intervals of fifteen or-twenty minutes, may precede Aconitum, or it may be alone sufficient. If the fever is more severe and persistent, other medicines may be required, the indications for which are stated in the next section. Accessory Means.— The patient should be kept cool and quiet, no stimulating food or drink taken, and all causes likely to occasion mental or bodily 54 Fevers. excitement carefully avoided. See Accessory mea- sures in fevers, page 57. 11.—typhoid and typhus fever. Common continued fever has been divided by Dr. W. Tenner into (1) Typhoid, which, except in certain seasons, is the most frequent, and proposed to be called Typhia, by the Registrar-General; (f) Typhus, often very prevalent; (3) Relapsing fever, a rare form, followed by a prolonged convalescence, in which the pulse is remarkably low; and (4) Febricula, or slight cases, or modifications of one of the other forms. Symptoms.— The most characteristic are debility and emaciation; weariness and restless anxiety; ring- ing noises in the ears, and often deafness; black spots before the eyes; low muttering delirium; stupor; and an eruption. The latter, however, may be imperfect, or even absent* tabular differences between typhoid and typhus fever. typhoid. typhus. (1.) Typhoid seldom at- (1.) Typhus occurs at any tacks persons after forty, and age, but more frequently in is most common in youth, middle life. including children. (2.) Is more common a- (2.) Is rare among the mong the rich than the poor, wealthy, excepting doctors, students, and visiting cler- gymen. * For more detailed symptoms and treatment, see the " Homoeopathic Vade Mecum." Typhoid and Typhus. 55 TYPHOID. (3.) Arises from decom- posing animal matter, foul drinking-water, as when a drain leaks into a well, etc. (4 ) Comes on insidiously, the premonitory stages last- ing a week or more. (5.) The bowels are much affected with diarrhoea, con- gestion, or even ulceration. (6.) The eruption of the skin consists of rose col ored spots, something like measles, appears in succes- sive crops, and fades under pressure. (7.) Continues at least three weeks, and often five or six, or even more. (8.) The tendency to death is by asthenia {exhaustion.') (9.) Is commonly called GASTRIC FEVER. (3.) Arises from over- crowding, bad ventilation, and destitution; it spreads by contagion. (4.) Comes on quickly. (5.) The head is chiefly affected, and the bowels are but little so. (6.) The eruption is of a MULBERRY COLOR, COmeS Out only once, and does not dis- appear under pressure. (7 ) Runs its course in about a fortnight. (8.) Tends to death by COMA {morbid drowsiness.) (9.) Is sometimes called BRAIN FEVER. Treatment.— Inflammatory Symptoms.— Aeon. and Bry. Great Prostration.— Ars., Verat., or Rhus tox. TJie lungs much involved.— Phos. and Bry. The Brain.— Bell., Camph., Opi., or Rhus. The Bowels.— Ars., Bry., Carbo veg., Ipec, Merc, Nux vom., or Puis. Nervous debility following fever.— Fer. Sulph., China, Ign. Aconitum.— A dose every two or three hours when inflammatory symptoms predominate. Bryonia.— Bitter taste, brown-coated and rough tongue, bilious derangement and nausea, confined bowels, stupefying headache, cough, stitches in the 56 Fevers. chest, and irritable disposition.. During the inflam- matory stage, in alternation with Aeon.; in low forms of the disease, with furred tongue, rheumatic pains and restlessness, in alternation with Rhus, every third hour. Belladonna.— Violent headache, redness and con- gestion of the face; a wild, red and fiery appearance of the eyes; throbbing and distension of the blood- vessels of the temples; wakefulness and nocturnal delirium, and other cerebral symptoms. Often after, or alternately with, Aco?iitu?n. Ipecacuanha.— Simple gastric fever, with loss of appetite, yellowish, thickly-coated tongue, nausea and vomiting, relaxed bowels, etc. Mercurius.— Copious, debilitating perspirations; diarrhoetic evacuations, greenish or yellowish; thickly- coated tongue; tenderness at the pit of the stomach. Opium.— Stupor; slow, stertorous (snoring) breath- ing; hard, full, slow, or oppressed pulse; low delirium; deafness or blindness. Arsenicum.—Great debility, prostration, and rapid sinking, with very small and thready pulse; burning thirst; diarrhoea, with dark, offensive discharges; cold, perspirations; symptoms worse at night. Rhus tox.—Foul discharges from the bowels; livid color of the skin; fading away, or unhealthy character of the eruption; paralytic symptoms; extreme weak- ness and prostration; low muttering delirium; pick- ing of the bed-clothes ; offensive, putrid, or bloody diarrhoea; dry, cracked tongue; great thirst, and scanty urine. Carbo veg.— Offensive smells from the patient; Typhoid ami Typh/ts. 57 involuntary evacuations of a putrid odor; deep-red urine; pinched, sunken countenance; burning in the abdomen and pit of the stomach; cold extremities; rapidly sinking powers, and scarcely perceptible pulse. Accessory AIeasures in Fevers and the Sick-Room Generally.—The following points in the nursing of fever patients should receive special attention. (i). The apartment.— If practicable, the patient should be placed in a spacious, well ventilated room, Which allows an uninterrupted admission of fresh air, and the free escape of tainted air. Fresh air can only be ensured by an open window or door, or both. It is generally desirable to have a blazing fire in a grate or open fire-place, kept burning night and day, both in summer and winter; this also assists ventilation; but the paitent's head should be protected from its direct effects. The poison of the disease being thus diluted with atmospheric air, loses its power and so becomes inoperative. The room should be divested of all superfluous furniture—carpets, bed-hangings, etc. The light from the windows should be subdued, noise shut out, and unnecessary talking forbidden. (2.) Cleanliness. — The personal and bed linen should be frequently changed, and all matters dis- charged from the body immediately removed. The mouth should be frequently wiped out with a soft wet towel, to remove the sordes which gather there in severe forms of fever. The patient's body should be sponged over as completely as possible at suitable in- tervals with tepid or cold water, as may be most agree- able to his feelings, and quickly dried with a soft towel. 58 Fevers. Vinegar and wrater may now and then be substituted for simple water. Vinegar is often very grateful to fever patients. Sponging the whole surface of the body should never be omitted in fever; it reduces the excessive heat, soothes the uneasy sensations of the patient, and is indispensable in maintaining that clean- liness which is so desirable in the sick-room. Fre- quent washing with soap and water also tends to pre- vent the occurrence of bed-sores, by keeping the skin in a healthy condition. (3.) Watching patients. — Fever patients should never be left alone, but attended and watched day and night. Their urgent and incessant wants require this, and their safety demands it. Instances have occurred of patients, in the delirium which so frequently attends fever, getting out of bed, and even out of the window, during the absence of the nurse, and losing their lives from injury. (4.) Beverages.—As a beverage, especially in mild cases, and at the commencement of all fevers, pure water, toast-and-water, gum-water sweetened with a little sugar,* or barley-water, is nearly all that is nec- essary. In acute fever, cold water is like the " Balm of Gilead." Both internally and externally it is an agent of supreme importance, and acts favorably by lowering the excessive temperature, and also as a tonic, giving vigor and tone to the relaxed capillaries, in * Gum-water is prepared by adding one ounce of gum- arabic, and about half an ounce of loaf sugar to one pint of hot water. Gum is a mild nutritive substance, admira- bly adapted to inflammation of the mucous membranes, as in catarrh,.bronchitis, inflammation of the bladder etc. Typhoid and Typhus. 59 which the morbid action probably chiefly goes on'. The use of water will prove a valuable adjunct to the medicinal treatment prescribed, and will accelerate those favorable changes which are hoped for. (5.) Strong support.— If the fever is attended by decided symptoms of prostration—feeble pulse, a con- fused and dusky countenance, etc.—Liebig's extract of meat should be given early; if the prostration is very marked, and beef-tea, or Liebig's extract is insuf- ficient, wine may be added, and even brandy; also the brandy-and-egg mixture is often of great utility. If the patient enjoys these stimulants, and desires their continuance, they may be regarded as proofs of their utility. Should, however, the wine or brandy aggra- vate the existing symptoms, their employment should be discontinued. A point of great importance is, that nourishment should be administered with strict regu- larity; in very extreme cases of prostration, every half- hour or hour, both day and night. Frequently, the functions of digestion and assimilation are so greatly impaired, that a large quantity of nourishment must be given to sustain the patient till the disease has passed through its stages. Dr. Graves was so strongly impressed with the importance of nourishment, as to have said that he desired no other epitaph than that he fed fevers. (6.) Food not to be kept in the sick-room.— Miss Nightingale's suggestion on this point is so important, but, we regret to observe, so often disregarded, that we venture to repeat it here. It is this—do not keep the food, drink, or delicacies intended for the patient, in the sick-room or within his sight. The air of the 6o ^Fevers. apartment is liable to deteriorate them, and the con- tinuous sight of them to excite disgust. Rather take up for him, at the fitting time, an/1 by way of surprise, two or three teaspoonfuls of jelly, or as many fresh grapes as he may consume at once, or the segment of an orange. Or, if it is appropriate to his condition, a small cup of beef-tea, covered, with one or two nar- row slips of toasted bread, as very much preferable to attempting to swallow even a less quantity from a basinful that has been kept for many hours within the reach of the patient's hand and eye. (7.) Aloderation in convalescence. — Relapses are very liable to occur from indulging the appetite too freely during convalescence; and, therefore, toast and black tea, light bread-puddings, white fish, mutton- broth, a small quantity of tender chicken, broiled mutton, etc., may only be allowed in great modera- tion ; but never to the capacity of the appetite, till the tongue is quite clean and moist, and the pulse and skin have become natural. Even then moderation should be exercised, as the appetite is often excessively craving. (8.) Unnecessary approaches.—These should be guarded against by persons in health, especially by the young, in whom susceptibility to disease is strongest. The greatest danger arises from the breath, and on turning down the bed-clothes. Another precaution is, not to visit the sick-chamber after long fastino-. The great protective influence, however, 1$, fresh air; this neutralizes fever-poison, and should be uninter- ruptedly passing through the patient's apartment. With open door and windows, and by avoiding the Typhoid and* Typhus. 61 patient's breath, and die exhalations from his person, till they become well diluted with pure air, fever cases of the very worst kind may be visited with perfect impunity. (9.) Preventive measures.— To prevent bad forms of fever, the cholera, and other acute and dangerous diseases, the following hints should be acted on : absti- nence from alcoholic drinks; temperance in eating and drinking; healthy amusements, especially in the open air; industrious pursuits, short of great fatigue; the light of the sun and fresh air should be admitted into every room; all stagnant water should be drained awav from the house; filth—animal and vegetable matters—should not be allowed to accumulate and decompose about sinks or drains; personal cleanliness should receive due attention, and a sponge, shower, or plunge-bath be taken daily; and, lastly, a bottle of the strong tincture of Camphor, or strong Camphor pills (both of Homoeopathic preparation), should always be at hand, so that when unavoidably exposed to infections and dangerous influences, a drop may be taken before the poison has extended to the blood. As general preventive means, these hints are of the highest importance, and may be carried out in the con- fident hope of exemption from the threatened evil. The words of Ileberden embody a natural law of the highest importance: "The seeds of various kinds OF DISEASE, LIKE THOSE OF VEGKTABLES, WILL ONLY SPRING UP AND THRIVE WHEN THEY FALL UPON A SOIL CONVENIENT FOR THEIR GROWTH." 62 I^cvers. II.--INTERMITTENT FEVER--AGUE. Intermittent fever is so named because the febrile symptoms return in paroxysms, between which they entirely pass off*. Symptoms.—A paroxysm of ague has three stages— the cold, the hot, and the perspiring. The first stage commences with chilliness and rigors, chattering of the teeth, aching of the back and limbs, oppression of the chest, yawning and sighing. The face is pale, the features and skin contracted, the pulse frequent and small, the tongue white, and the urine scanty and frequently passed. In the second stage, flushings come on, until the entire body becomes hot, with thirst, bounding pulse, throbbing headache, and restlessness, the urine being still scanty, but high-colored. At length, the third or perspiring stage succeeds, and the patient feels much relieved. Thirst diminishes, the pulse declines in frequency, and the appetite re- turns; at the same time there is a red deposit of urates in the urine. A paroxysm usually lasts about six hours, allowing two hours for each stage. The period between the paroxysms, as already explained, is called the intermission; but by an interval is meant the whole period or cycle between the beginning of one paroxysm, and the beginning of the next. Pathology.— It is supposed that in the cold stage the blood leaves the surface and the capillaries, and accumulates about the right side of the heart, the large veins and great venous organs of the interior, such as the liver, spleen, and the bases of the lungs; in the hot stage, the heart re-acts and throws out the blood Intermittent .Fevers. 63 again to the surface, but with too great force; in the sweating stage the secretions are re-established, and the proper balance between the large and small blood-. vessels is restored. Types.—There are three chief types of ague; 1st. The Quotidian, has a paroxysm daily, coming on in the morning from 7 to 9 A. M., and an interval of twenty-four hours. 2nd. The Tertian, has a paroxysm every other day, coming on from 10 to 12 o'clock at noon, and an interval of forty-eight hours. 3rd. The Quartan, has a paroxysm every third day, coming on from 2 to four P. M., and an interval of seventy-two hours. The tertian is the most frequent, and has the most marked hot stage; but the quartan is the most obstinate, and chiefly occurs in the autumn. There is still another type in which, though there is an attack every day, those only resemble each other which occur on alternate days. Causes.—The exciting cause of ague is Marsh Miasma, which is probably the effluvia from decom- posing vegetable matter, and is most rife when the land is drying, after having been previously soaked with water. It is, therefore, most frequent in the spring, and when the rains fall upon the decaying leaves in autumn. Laws.— Malaria obeys the following laws, which, on account of their practical value, are worth noting. 1st. It spreads in the course of prevailing winds. 2nd. Its progress is arrested by rivers and running streams, and by rows of trees. 3rd. It does not rise above the low level. 4th. It is most dangerous at night. 64 Fevers. Effects.— From the recurrence of internal con- gestions in each cold stage, the function of the liver and bowels becomes disordered, the patient is sallow, his limbs waste, but his abdomen is distended, and his bowels constipated. The spleen is especially liable to be enlarged, sometimes to a great extent, so as to be felt externally. This condition is popularly called ague-cake. Treatment.—This is divided into the palliative and the curative. The palliative is adopted during the paroxysms to mitigate the symptoms, and consists chiefly in imparting warmth during the cold stage; removing the patient's coverings, and giving cooling drinks during the hot; and supplying him with warm and dry linen when the perspiring stage has passed by. The curative is adopted during the intermission, and is of the greatest importance. The following are the chief remedies in our short list: China.—Ague in marshy districts, with its regular stages, and' when there are yellowish complexion, drowsiness, tender or swollen liver or spleen, and watery or bilious diarrhoea. A dose shortly before a paroxysm is expected, and every four hours all through the intermission. Arsenicum.—Heat and shivering at the same time, or in alternation, or internal shivering with external heat; burning heat, thirst, pains in the stomach, de- bility, and tendency to dropsical swellings; also when Quinine or Bark has been used in excess. Ipecacuanha.— Nausea and vomiting, with other gastric symptoms. Accessory Measures.—If practicable, residence Intermittent Fever. 65 in a well-drained district, with a dry, bracing atmos- phere. If compelled to remain in a malarious atmos- phere, the laws of intermittents should be remembered, and the patient not remain out of doors at night, selecting the loftiest parts of the house to sleep in. Air and light should be freely admitted during the middle of the day into the house, but the night air carefully excluded. Light nourishing diet may be taken, but the digestive organs must not be overtaxed. Fatigue and cold draughts of air must be avoided, and the clothing be sufficient to be comfortable. For ampler treatment, see " The Homoeopathic Vade Mecum of Modern Medicine and Surgery." CHAPTER II THE ERUPTIVE FEVERS. {Exanthemata.) The Exanthemata or eruptive fevers arise from a specific contagion, run a definite course, are accom- panied by a specific inflammation of the skin, called the eruption, affect some part of the mucous mem- brane as well as the skin, and, as a general rule, only attack an individual once. The true Exanthemata, including all these charac- teristics, are, the small-pox, measles, and scarlet fever; but there are other less perfect forms, as chicken-pox, nettle-rash, and rose-rash; even continued fever itself is classed with them. These diseases are called by the Registrar-General Zymotic diseases, a term imply- ing their origin in a poison which acts like a ferment in the blood, and are regarded by sanitary reformers as preventible diseases. They have all a latent period intervening between the reception of the contagion and accession of the fever, during which time the patient is to all appearances in good health. I.--SCARLET FEVER--SCARLATINA. This is a contagious disease, chiefly affecting chil- dren. The second, third, fourth, and fifth years of life are those in which it is most prevalent; after the Scarlet Fever. 67 tenth year its frequency rapidly declines. The opinion that the disease does not attack children under two years of age is very erroneous. The increasing preva- lence of scarlatina during the present century leads us to assign to it that pre-eminent rank among the causes of the mortality of childhood which was formerly occupied by small-pox; indeed it is probable that as small-pox has declined since the introduction of vaccination, scarlatina has proportionately increased, so that the mortality from it greatly exceeds that from measles and small-pox combined. In 1863, the mor- tality from this disease in London alone was 4,982, a year remarkable for the wide-spread character and fatality of this epidemic. Nor were its ravages res- tricted to London, for scarcely a town or district of England escaped. The mortality in towns is double that in the country. Symptoms.— Scarlatina has a latent period of about five days. The disease commences with the ordinary precursors of fever — shivering, hot skin, frequent pulse, thirst, and sore throat. On the second or third day, after the occurrence of these symptoms, the eruption appears, first on the neck and breast, and then over the great joints and body generally, as a scarlet efflorescence, minutely point-shaped, but not raised above the surrounding skin so as to be felt; and somewhat resembles a boiled lobster-shell. On about the fifth day after its appearance, the eruption generally begins to decline, and gradually goes off, the outer skin desquamating in large flakes. The distinctive characters of scarlatina are—(1.) The scarlet rash, just described.— (2.) The high tempera- 68 Eruptive Fevers. ture of the skin and blood, which becomes higher than in most other fevers, rising often to 1060, 980 being the normal standard.— (3.) The papilla? of the tongue are red and prominent, and may be first seen projecting through a white fur, or, as this fur clears away, on a red ground, and has been termed " the strawberry-tongue."—(4.) The sore throat. The throat is congested and swollen round the soft palate and tonsils, and the mucous membrane of the mouth and nostrils is generally affected. To distinguish scarlatina from measles, see under the latter disease, page 71. Varieties.—There are three forms, viz., scarlatina simplex, in which the skin only appears to be affected; scarlatina anginosa, in which both skin and throat are involved, and is the variety commonly meant by " scarlet fever;" and scarlatina maligna, with extreme depression of the vital strength, superadded to the affection of the throat and skin, the fever assuming a malignant character. The tongue is brown, there is low delirium, the eruption is imperfect, darker than usual, and alternately appearing and disappearing. The throat is dark, livid, and even sloughy. Often this form of the disease terminates fatally on the third or fourth day, and is always one of such extreme danger that none but patients of very vigorous consti- tutions, and when skilful treatment is commenced early, survive it. Scarlatina is more prone to assume a malignant form than any other of the exanthemata, and some- times prevails epidemically in low or ill-drained districts. Scarlet Fever. 69 Treatment.— Belladonna.— Immediately scarla- tina is suspected, and especially when the rash begins to appear, the swallowing becomes difficult, and the throat inflamed, give Belladonna every first, second or third hour, according to the severity of the symptoms, and as long as the eruption is bright red. This medi- cine exerts a direct power over scarlet fever, and the disease, in its less malignant form, will frequently yield to its action without the aid of other medicine. Aconitu?n.— If the fever is xcry severe, a few doses of this medicine may precede, or may be alternated with, Bell. Mercurius.—If the throat is much inflamed, swol- len, or becomes ulcerated, this remedy may follow, or be alternated with, Bell. If there is a predominance of the throat symptoms, especially malignant sore throat, Merc, is a valuable remedy. Arsenicum.— Great prostration of strength;'cold, clammy sweats; frequent, weak pulse; threatened dropsical affections. Coffea.— A dose or two of this medicine may be given for restlessness and wakefulness, which are often present. Sulphur.— When the disease is on the decline, to prevent secondary complaints. A dose night and morning for several days. Malignant Scarlatina requires such remedies as Arsen., Car bo vcg., Bry., Opi., Phos., Verat., and others not included in domestic lists. For the symptoms indicating the above remedies, see under Typhoid Fever and the Materia Medica. This form of the disease should be under the care of a Homoeo- 7o Eruptive Foveas. pathic physician. Indeed medical advice should always be obtained in scarlatina, as the mildest forms, neglected, have often led to the worst results. General Measures. Those recommended under " Typhoid Fever," pages 57-59, should be strictly observed. Sponging the surface of the body with tepid or cold water, to moderate the great heat, and allay restlessness, is a most useful practice. A wet bandage to the throat, when it is affected, is a sover- eign remedy, and seldom fails to relieve. Also the wet pack, as described in the chapter on Hygiene, Pa£es 33, 34. Prevention.— During the prevalence of scarla- tina, a dose of Belladonna should be given night and morning to children who have not had the disease. The first dilution, or even the strong tincture, is best for this purpose. Should the disease occur notwith- standing this treatment, its severity will be much mitigated. After Consequences (Sequela:).— There are several sequeke that may follow scarlatina, especially in unhealthy subjects or districts, or when the disease has not been skillfully treated.—(1.) Inflammation and swelling of the glands of the neck, which in scrofu- lous children attain a large size, often suppurate, and burrow under the muscles of the neck. Merc, He par s., or Calc. should be administered imme- diately any swelling is observed. (2.) The inflam- mation of the throat may be extended along the Eustachian tubes (little canals which extend from the throat to the ear), producing deafness by their obstruc- tion, or by suppuration of the tympanum (drum of Measles. 7*■ the ear), or some other mischief of the ear. The remedies recommended are Bell., Merc., or Puis. (3.) But the most frequent and dangerous sequel is anasarca (dropsy), which takes place about the twenty-second day from the commencement of the fever. It is worth notice that dropsy is more frequent after a mild than after a severe form of scarlatina, owing probably to the disease not having expended all its force, some of the poison remaining in the sys- tem, or it may be due to the want of caution in such cases during convalescence. Apis , Arsen., or Bry., are the chief remedies. Apis is generally a.prime remedy in post-scarlatinal dropsy. 11.— measles (Rubeola, Morbilli). Measles is a disease of childhood, usually unattended with danger, unless improperly treated; in adults it is a severe, or even dangerous malady. Like scarlatina and small-pox, it is highly contagious, often epidemic, and generally attacks the same patient only once. Symptoms.— About eight days after the reception of the infection, the disease is ushered in with the symptoms of a co?n?non cold, such as sneezing, run- ning from the nose, red, swollen, and watery eyes, a hoarse, harsh, cough, and fever. On about the fourth day, the eruption appears on the face and neck, and soon after on the whole body. It is in the form of minute pimples, which multiply and coalesce into blotches of a more or less crescentic form, slightly raised above the surrounding skin, so as to be felt, particularly on the face, which is a good deal swollen. *J2 Eruptive Fevers. In four or five days the fever abates, and the eruption declines, a bran-like scurf being afterwards thrown off the skin. Measles differs from scarlatina in several respects. The eruption is rough, so that on passing the hand over the skin considerable inequalities may be detected, and it is of a darkish scarlet color; in scarlet fever, the roughness is absent, and the rash is of a bright scarlet color. The sneezing, lachrymation, and other catarrhal symptoms which characterize the primary stage of measles, are usually absent in scarlet fever. Treatment.— In mild forms, Puis.; in severe and complicated, Aeon., Bry., Bell., Sulph., Ipec, Merc, Rhus tox., Arsen., etc. Aconitum.— Febrile symptoms, either at the outset, or during the progress of the disease. A dose every third or fourth hour, as long as may be necessary. Pulsatilla.— Almost specific in measles; especially when symptoms of cold, derangement of the stomach, and much phlegm in the chest are present. It is most useful after the fever has been modified by Aconite- or in the absence of fever it may be given alone. Belladonna.— Considerable affection of the throat, dry, barking cough, restlessness, and tendency to delirium. A few doses, at intervals of two or three hours. Byronia.—Imperfectly developed or suppressed eruption; stitching pains in the chest, difficult breath- ing, cough, etc. In addition to this remedy, a sudden recession of the eruption might necessitate a warm bath. Sulphur.—After the eruption has completed its Measles. 73 natural course, and the other remedies are discontinued. A dose night and morning for several days. After Consequences (Sequelce).— Aleasles is often succeeded by diseases of the lungs, .eyes, ears, or some affection of the skin. These are often far more serious than the malady itself, and must be treated as directed in other parts of this manual. They may sometimes be prevented by the administration of Sulphur as just directed. Sequelae are infrequent after Homoeopathic treatment. Measles axd Consumption.— Tubercular dis- ease of the lungs, or, more often, of the bowels, is by no means an infrequent sequelas in delicate or strumous children. Cases of this nature are often under our care, and from long observation we have reason to believe that such a connexion is far from uncommon. Whenever, therefore, a child makes but a slow or imperfect recovery after an attack of measles, more particularly if there is tenderness, pain, or enlargement of the abdomen, diarrhoea or irregular action of the bowels, a grave constitutional disease may be sus- pected, and no time should be lost in obtaining pro- fessional Homoeopathic assistance. Diet and Regimen.—The same as directed under Fevers, pages 58, 59. The wet pack, see pages 33, 34, is useful at the commencement of the fever. It is especially necessary to guard the patient from cold, and, except during the very height of summer, a fire should be kept burning in his room. Exposure may cause the eruption to recede, and bring on bronchitis or pneumonia. The patient should be kept in bed. Preventive Measures.— Measles is contagious, 4 74 Eruptive Fevers. and may generally be prevented, or modified, by giv- ing children who have not had the disease a dose of Pulsatilla morning and night during the prevalence of the disease. in.—small-pox ( Variola). This is a most contagious disease, and is distin- guished as the distinct, in which the pustules'are sep- arate, and the confluent, in which they run into each other, and form large continuous suppurating sur- faces. Symptoms.—The attack commences like most other fevers, and about twelve or fourteen days after the reception of the poison. There are chilliness, heat, headache, a thickly-furred, white tongue, a deep flush upon the face, a feeling of bruised pain all over the body, but especially in the back and loins; more or less pain or tenderness at the pit of the stomach, and sometimes vomiting. When the pain of the back and vomiting are violent, they may be regarded as the precursors of a severe form of the disease. On the third day the eruption appears in the form of red spots, or small hard pimples, feeling like shot in the skin. It first comes out on the forehead and front of the wrists, is gradually extended over the body, and may also be seen upon the palate. The eruption being completed, the fever subsides, the pustules begin to fill like boils, are depressed in the centre, and sur- rounded by a circular inflamed ring. The eyelids, face, and hands are swollen, and the features obliter- ated. A peculiar, disagreeable odor now begins to emanate from the patient, which, once smelt, cannot Small-Pox. 75 be forgotten. In about eight days from the first ap- pearance of the eruption, the pustules break and dis- charge their contents; scales then form, which dry up, and, in a healthy state of constitution, fall off in the course of four or five days, leaving purplish spots, which do not fade away.before the sixth or eighth week. Dangers.— The greatest danger arises from the secondary fever, about the ninth to the twelfth day, when the pustules are ripening; for then the fever is likely to return, the vital strength having already been much exhausted. In a confluent case, fatal chest symptoms may arise, or there may be ulceration, opacity and loss of sight. Treatment.—Antimonium tart, should be given as soon as small-pox is suspected, and is a chief rem- edy in the disease. The spasmodic retching, nausea, and hoarse cough, often veiy distressing, may be re- lieved by this medicine. Aconitu?n, every third hour, for fever, headache, and restlessness. If the head symptoms are very severe, Aeon, maybe given alternately with Bell. Belladonna.—Stupor or delirium, severe headache, or ophthalmia. Bell, has a direct action upon the brain; it also tends to retain the eruption upon the surface. i Apis —Considerable swelling of the face and eye- lids, the latter often becoming closed. If the swelling is attended with hoarseness and pain in swallowing, Apis and Bell, should be .alternated. Mercurius.—Ulcerated throat, salivation, and diar- rhoea, with bloody stools. 76 Eruptive Fevers. Rhus lox.—Valuable during the eruptive stage, when there are severe pain in the loins and back, and marked prostration. Coffea.—Great restlessness and inability to sleep. A few doses only will be required. Carbo veg.—Low typhoid symptoms, with a ten- dency to putrescence. Also Arsenicum, etc. Accessory Means.—As soon as the eruption appears, the patient should be placed in a moderately dark room, in which there is ample provision made for the uninterrupted admission of fresh air, and the free escape of tainted air. He should be kept cool, and the sheets and linen be frequently changed. As soon as the eruption is well out, the whole surface should be smeared over with bacon fat, the anointing being repeated twice or thrice daily. A piece of boiled bacon, with the skin on, cut horizontally, leaving about one-fourth of an inch of fat adhering to the skin, may be used to anoint the eruption. It completely pre- vents pitting, and allays irritation. As the pimples begin to ripen into pustules, and before they break, Dr. Belcher directs the skin to be sponged with glyc- erine and rose water, in equal parts, and directly after- wards, by the aid of a soft puff, to cover the skin with a powder prepared by mixing one part of the first trituration of Tart, emetic with eight of violet powder. The glycerine-water causes the powder to adhere, and pitting is effectually prevented. The process should be repeated as often as necessary. If the patient is a child, his hands should be muffled to keep him from scratching, which might lead to ulceration. When- ever the skin becomes hot or irritable, great relief will Chicken-Pox. 77 be afforded by sponging it with water, and well dry- ing it with a soft towel. When the pustules have burst, powdered starch should be freely applied to absorb the matter. Diet. As in Fevers. See pages 58, 59. Vaccination.—This is the great preventive means. Its performance is now rendered compulsory during the first three months. In vaccination there are three precautions to be observed: (1.) The vaccine lymph used should be taken from a child free from scrofula and any constitutional taint. (2.) The matter should be inserted in four places in each arm, it having been found that the protective power of vaccination is in proportion to the number of the resulting cicatrices (scars), that being the most efficient which leaves the most and the best cicatrices. (3.) It should be repeated at the age of puberty, the great changes which take place at this period of life rendering its repetition necessary. iv.—chicken-pox ( Varicella). This is a pustular eruption, similar, in its appear- ance to small-pox, for which it is at first often mista- ken. It generally requires little medical assistance, but merely attention to diet, as in inflammatory fever. It differs from small-pox in the slighter degree of fever which attends it; in the pustules becoming filled with a watery fluid about the second or third day, which is never converted into yellow matter, as in small-pox; and in its rapid course. Generally, on the third day the pustules dry up, forming crusts or scabs. 78 Eruptive Fevers. Treatment.—If the fever is considerable, Aconi- tum every four or six hours. As a rule, Rhus tox. is the best remedy, under the action of which the disease soon disappears. For headache and disturbance of the brain, two or three doses of Belladonna. v.—erysipelas (St. Anthony's Fire). Idiopathic erysipelas arises from constitutional causes, and commonly affects the face and neck; traumatic erysipelas follows injuries, and may occur on any part. Symptoms.—Simple erysipelas, the variety treated of here, is marked by a spreading, inflammatory red- ness of the skin, with puffy swelling, tenderness, burn- ing, and a painful sensation of tingling and tension. The color of the skin varies from a light-red to a dark-red or purplish color, becoming white under pressure, but assumes its former appearance on the removal of that pressure. An attack is often ushered in with shivering, languor, headache, and sometimes nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Causes.—Debility, and loss of resisting power from disease; the habitual use of stimulants; exposure to cold; impaired digestion; wounds; badlv ventilated or crowded apartments; and certain conditions of the atmosphere. A recent wound or bruise is a chief exciting cause; neglect of cleanliness, intemperance, unwholesome food, and bad air, are the predisposing causes. Treatment.—Aconitum.—Considerable fever; in- flammation and tenderness of the parts. It is mostly Erysipelas. 79 required before the rash appears, but may be given, if indicated, at any stage. A dose every three hours. Belladonna. — Severe cutaneous inflammation, bright-red, the eruption being without vesicles. Vio- lent headache, thirst, constipation, and thick urine, usually attend this form of the disease. Bell, is often advantageously alternated with Aeon, in the early stages of the disease. Rhus tox. — Vesicles (little bladders), whether on the face or body, with swelling, shining redness of the parts, and restlessness. A dose every second or third hour. Other remedies are, Bry., Apis (rapid swelling), Arson, (great prostration), Carbo veg., Puis., and Sulph. Accessory Measures.—In mild cases, no exter- nal application is required, unless fluid exudes, which may be absorbed by dusting powdered starch over the surface. In severe cases, warm fomentations, and afterwards flour or fine starch should be sprinkled over the parts. If matter forms, incisions, poultices, and bandages may be necessary. Diet.—Gum-water, barley-water, or pure water to allay thirst. Bad and tedious cases require beef-tea, and good nourishment, at regular intervals; and, sub- sequently, a change of air. CHAPTER III. DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF BREATHING. i.—cold in the head (Catarrh, Coryza). This is a very common complaint, and often the precursor of many serious and fatal diseases. It con- sists of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the air passages of the nose, throat, etc. Symptoms.—It usually comes on with slight shiv- erings, pain and a feeling of weight in the head, red- ness of the eyes, obstruction of one or both nostrils, accompanied with a discharge of thin, colorless fluid. These symptoms are usually soon followed by sore throat, hoarseness, sneezing, dry cough, chilliness, gen- eral weakness, more or less fever, quick pulse, and loss of appetite. Causes.—Exposure to wet, changes of tempera- ture, insufficient clothing, and especially deficient warmth when the body is cooling after having been heated. Treatment.—Aconitum. — This is a remedy of gi'eat power, and undoubtedly surpasses every other in efficacy at the beginning of a cold, or in the pre- cursory stages of all diseases resulting from a cold. If appropriately and early administered it will gener- ally remove all the morbid symptoms consequent on Cold in the Head. 81 cold, restore health, and so obviate the necessity for any other medicine; a dose every second or third hour. If the cold has resulted in any of the diseases so often following it, Aconitum may be alternated with, or substituted by, one of the annexed, or some other remedy, according to the directions given in other parts of this manual. Camphor.—This remedy is only suited to the chill or cold stage, when its prompt administration, in two- drop doses, or the Ca?nphor pills, every half-hour or hour, repeated several times, will often terminate the disease in the first stage. It should be chosen in pre- ference to Aconitum during the chill stage, and espec- ially when the patient has still to be exposed to changes of temperature. Arsenicum.—Coiyza, with copious, watery, acrid discharge, and soreness of the surrounding parts; flow of tears, and lassitude; especially for weak and wheez- ing patients. Merc. sol.—Sneezing; soreness of the nose, with thick discharge; profuse perspiration; sensitiveness to cold, and aggravation of symptoms towards evening. Pulsatilla.—Loss of appetite; diminished or per- verted taste and smell; much thick yellow or green discharge from the nose; heaviness and confusion in the head, worse in the evening, or in a warm room. Kali bich.—Chronic catarrh, with hoarseness, tough stringy sputa, chronically inflamed or ulcerated throat, couch, etc. An additional indication is a concurrent affection of the digestive mucous membrane. Dose and Repetition.—See page 46. 3* 82 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. Diet.—As for fever, if there is much present; if no fever, the usual diet. The Hot Foot-Bath.—The following will often arrest colds and fevers in their incipient stages: On retiring to bed, the feet should be put in hot water, the water rising nearly to the knees; the patient should be undressed, but abundantly and warmly covered; the temperature of the water should be maintained and increased by fresh additions of hot water for ten, twenty, or thirty minutes, according to the strength of the patient, and until perspiration breaks out about the face. The patient should then get into a warm bed, be well covered with clothes, and the perspira- tion encouraged by drinking freely of cold water. On rising in the morning the cold plunge-bath should be taken, or cold sponging over the whole surface of the body, followed by vigorous friction. Prevention.—Persons liable to cold on slight ex- posures, should take a cold sponge, shower, or plunge- bath, daily, at all seasons of the year. Delicate per- sons may begin by using tepid water for a few days, gradually lowering the temperature till it reaches the natural coldness. The writer strongly deprecates the habit of washing in warm water. Proper clothing, regulated by the season, is of great importance for all, especially for children and young girls. Catarrhal wheezing patients, going out on a cold day, or passing from a warm to a cold room, may advantageously use a Respirator, if of good construction. Hoarseness. 83 H.—influenza (Catarrhus Epidemicus). This is an epidemic catarrh, and is so called from the Italian word which means " influence," because it arises from some peculiar condition or contamination of the atmosphere. Symptoms.—These differ but little from common cold, except that the general debility is greater and more persistent. There are chilliness, anxiety, heat, headache, pain of the back and limbs, cough, nausea, suffusion of the eyes, sneezing, an acrid discharge from the nostrils, with great depression of strength. Treatment.—Camphor or Aconitum, and, if after- wards necessary, Arsenicum, Mercurius, Bryonia, etc., according to the indications; see under "Cold in the head." Arsenicum is generally a prominent remedy. Diet and Regimen. — Beef-tea and farinaceous food, with repose in bed. If there is much fever with loss of appetite, toast-and-water or barley-water will be most suitable, adopting, as the fever abates, a gen- erous diet. III.—hoarseness. Hoarseness is a frequent accompaniment of a com- mon cold. Treatment. — A conitum. — Dryness, roughness, and sensation of fulness in the throat, with feverishness. Belladonna. — Hoarseness with constriction and soreness of the throat. Dulcamara.—Hoarseness arising from exposure to damp or wet. 84 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. Mercurius.—Hoarseness, with a thick discharge from the nostrils, tickling, and burning in the throat, shivering, and disposition to perspire. The symptoms are aggravated in the evening, in the cool air, and by speaking and eating. Hepar sulphur.—Weak and hoarse voice; wheez- ing breathing. It is indicated in old standing cases, and in persons who have taken large doses of Mercury. Phosphorus.—Hoarseness, with dryness and sore- ness of the throat and chest, especially in the chronic form of the affection, and for patients having a con- sumptive tendency. Carbo veg.—Obstinate chronic hoarseness, worse in damp weather, after talking, and in the evening; and for patients who have been dosed with Mercury. iv.—clergymen's sore Throat. The following remedies are recommended for the sore throat and hoarseness to which clergymen, public speakers, and singers, are liable; in the incipient and acute form, Aeon., Bell., Spong., Dros.; in the chronic, Hep. s., Carbo veg., Kali bich., Caust., Bary. c, Calc, Sulph. For symptoms and general treatment, see " The Vade Mecum of Modern Medicine and Surgery." Prevention.—The morning bath; a uniform and equable exercise of the voice; the wet compress, and the cultivation of the beard. On the two latter we subjoin a few remarks. Cultivation of the Beard.—The beard should be permitted to grow, as it affords an excellent pro- Clergymen's Sore Throat. 85 tection to the delicate organs of the voice, in the case of persons subjected to their undue or irregular exer- cise. After a public address, the tissues in the vicinity of the throat become relaxed, and on leaving the place of assembly and entering the open air, the un- broken force of the atmosphere breaks upon these parts, inducing chronic affections of the throat and bronchial tubes, while the natural respirator—the fine- flowing beard — which our Maker intended to be one of the distinguishing features of the male sex, unshorn, would have effectually protected these important parts. Hair planted on the human face by the wisdom and goodness of our Creator, has its uses, and we may add, its beauties. Let the young man, therefore, never become a slave to the false and pernicious fashion which compels him to shave off the beard, as it is found contributory to the health, if not to the personal improvement, of those who wear it. See also under Chronic Bronchitis. Wet Compress for the Throat.—This is an excellent domestic application in various affections of the throat, and may be used preventively or reme- dially, in the following manner: Wring a piece of linen or flannel, out of cold water, and wrap it, in two or three thicknesses, round the throat ; cover the compress with oiled silk, or gutta-percha tissue, and over this two or three thicknesses of flannel to main- tain the warmth. When this is applied, the patient should retire to bed, and he will generally have the satisfaction of finding his throat difficulty much relieved by the morning. In obstinate cases, the compress should be re-wetted once or twice during the 86 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. night, and also worn in the day-time, re-wetting it every three or four hours. When the compress is taken off, the throat and chest should be bathed with cold water, followed by a good rubbing with a towel. However often repeated, the wet compress never relaxes the throat. v.— cough (Tussis). Cough, like hoarseness, is rather a symptom of some more general disease, than a disease in itself. It is often the forerunner or attendant of some of the most fatal diseases of our climate, and should, there- fore, never be neglected. There are many varieties of cough, but our prescriptions are only intended for such as are common and uncomplicated. Cases that persist, in spite of one or more of the annexed reme- dies, should be regarded as too serious to be treated merely by the aid of books. Treatment.— Aconitum.— A diy hard, cough, accompanied with inflammatory symptoms — flushed face, headache, thirst, scanty urine, confined bowels, restlessness, etc. Ipecacunaha.— Irritating, nervous, and spasmodic coughs, attended or followed by vomiting. The chest is oppressed by the accumulation of mucus in the air vessels, rendering breathing difficult, almost to suffo- cation. Belladonna.—Short, dry, hollow, convulsive cough, generally worse at night, in bed, excited by a sensation of tickling in the throat, and accompanied by a flushed face and headache. Cough. 87 Dulcamara.— Loose cough from getting wet, with much phlegm and oppression at the chest. Bryonia.— A haid, dry cough, attended with pain in the side, chest, and head; cough aggravated by passing from warm air to cold, or vice versa; loose cough, with white or yellow expectoration, sometimes streaked with blood. Hepar sulphur. — Irritating cough, with hoarse- ness and smarting in the throat, excited or aggravated by cold to the surface of the body, or exposure to atmospheric changes. Phosphorus.— Dry cough, excited by tickling in the throat; hoarseness, and pains or soreness in the chest, with rusty-colored, bloody, or purulent expectoration. Cha?nomilla.— Coughs of children during teething, with wheezing breathing, fretfulness, etc. Carbo vegetabilis.— Cough on taking the least cold; obstinate hoarseness or loss of voice. Kali bich.— Cough, with gray or yellow expecto- ration, preceeded by great wheezing, accompanied with difficult breathing, and followed by dizziness. Sulphur.— Obstinate dry cough, with tightness in the chest, and retching; loose cough, with expectora- tion of whitish or yellowish mucus during the day, and dry cough at night, attended with headache, spit- ting of blood, etc. Dose, etc.— See page 46. Beverages.— Gum-water, barley-water, and other mucilaginous drinks, or if preferred, simple cold water, in small quantities, at frequent intervals; these are highly useful in almost every variety of cough. Preventives.— Cold bathing, or sponging the 88 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. whole surfice of the body every morning as directed under Bathing, pages 33, 34. Clothing adapted to the varying conditions of the atmosphere. See Clothing, page 36. Exercise, if possible, every day in the open air, beyond the boundaries of a town or city. Familiarity with a free atmosphere affords a security against excessive sensibility to variations of the wea- ther. Morning air is the best; damp or confined air, or the air of crowded assemblies, should be avoided. vi.—hooping-cough (whooping-cough) (Pertussis). This is an epidemic and contagious disease, usually of a mild character in children of healthy constitutions, but a distressing and sometimes a fatal malady in the delicate or scrofulous. It is most fatal among the poor. Symptoms.— It generally commences as a common cold, accompanied by a cough, which returns in fits at intervals; but in about a week the cough recurs at shorter intervals, in paroxysms of extreme severitv, the child turning red or almost black in the face, and appears as if choking, during which the lungs are emptied of air to the last degree, and then a long, sonorous inspiration, taken to refil them, consti- tutes the " whoop." The attacks recur every two or three hours, or, in severe cases, oftener, and sometimes blood escapes from the nose, mouth, and even from the ears. The fits pass off with the expectoration of glairy, ropy mucus, and sometimes sickness. If den- tition is going on, convulsions are not infrequent. Whooping-cough is sometimes complicated with mea- Whooping-Cough. • 89 sles, small-pox, bronchitis, etc., which add to the difficulties of treatment. Cause.— A specific poison communicated through the atmosphere, the nature of which is at present unknown, but which irritates the pneumogastric nerve. Treatment.— As this disease begins in a common cold and cough, the early treatment will be found under those diseases, the prompt adoption of which will often prevent its development. The general history and symptoms of the patient must be fully considered. Ipecacuanha.— In the early stages of the disease, especially after the use of Aeon, or Bell., when there is dry, hard cough, which threatens suffocation; excessive vomiting of mucus; watery or bloody dis- charges from the eyes and nose. A dose every two or three hours. Drosera.— In the whooping stage, when the cough is loud and hoarse, the paroxysms are frequent and violent, causing perspiration and vomiting of food or slimy mucus. Drosera is generally sufficient in un- complicated whooping-cough; if there are scrofulous or o-astric symptoms, other remedies are required. Veratrum.— Great exhaustion, cold perspiration, involuntary escape of urine during the cough; pains in the abdomen -and groin; anxious expression. Cuprum.— Paroxysms of whooping-cough, causing convulsions, rigidity, and almost a suspension of the breath, followed by vomiting and extreme prostra- tion. Opium.— Stupor, irregular breathing, constipation. 90 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing A few doses are often useful when other remedies do not produce the desired change. Bryonia or Phosphorus, every three or four hours, when the whooping cough is complicated with dis- eases of the chest. Cina.— Whooping-cough with worm symptoms, — picking at the nose, itching at the fundament, irre- gular appetite, dark appearance under the eyes, etc. Cina is often used in alternation with Belladonna, especially if there are indications of water in the head. Accessory Means.— In warm, fine weather, the patient may remain in the open air during a portion of each day; exposure to damp and draughts should be strictly avoided. Fits of anger should be guarded against, as they add to the violence and frequency of the paroxysms. Infants must be watched constantly, * taken up as soon as a fit comes on, and placed in a favorable position. In obstinate cases, change of air, if only for a short distance, will prove of great utility. Diet.— Light, digestible food, only in moderate quantities, avoiding all stimulants. If fever is present, animal food may be withheld for a day or two. Toast- and-water, barley-water, or gum-water, are grateful and soothing. vii.— croup (Angina Membranacea.) Croup is of two varieties — Spasmodic and Inflam- matory. Spasmodic Croup (Larnygismus stridulus) oc- curs at the youngest age, before the end of the first dentition. Croup. 91 Symptoms.— It comes on suddenly, usually in the night, with a spasm of the muscles of the throat, so that the child struggles to get its breath, with a chok- ing noise, and becomes livid in the lips. It generally occurs during dentition, or irritation in the stomach and bowels. Under proper treatment the attack usually soon passes off, but sometimes it is premoni- tory of diseases of the brain. Inflammatory Croup (Cynanche Trachealis) is less frequent, and often occurs after the primary dentition to near puberty. Symptoms.— It is a peculiar inflammation of the mucous membrane of the trachea (wind-pipe), the vessels of which exude a fibrinous or albuminous material, which concretes and forms a false membrane. It begins as a catarrh, with a peculiar barking cough, and after a week, usually at night, the symptoms be- come aggravated, the child throwing its head back to put the wind-pipe on the stretch. A metallic ringing sound is heard in the inspiration and in the cough, which has been compared to the crowing of a young cock, or to the barking of a puppy. The pulse is frequent and wiry, with thirst and great distress. Dangers.— The attack may prove fatal in two to four days, from exhaustion, suffocation, convulsions, or the formation of a coagula in the heart. Causes.— Damp and unhealthy situations; sudden changes of temperature; wet feet; poor or scanty food or clothing; previous illness, etc. Treatment.—Spasmodic Croup.—Aeon., Spong., Bell, Cup., I pec. Inflammatory Croup.—Iod., Hep. sulph., Sambucus, Bromine, etc., in addition to the 92 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. former remedies. This variety should always he under the care of a Homoeopathic practitioner. Aconitum.— Great heat, thirst, short, dry cough, and difficult breathing. In urgent cases, a dose every fifteen minutes; in less urgent, every one or two hours. Aconite is often of priceless value in the early stage of the disease. Spongia.— If Aconite produces perspiration, but the spasmodic breathing continues, substitute Spongia. This remedy is particularly indicated if the breathing is labored, loud and wheezing, and the cough hoarse, hollow, barking, or whistling, and present day and night, but worse towards evening, the patient looking anxious, pale, and as if he would be suffocated. Hepar sulphur.—Loose cough, having the ringing or brassy sound peculiar to croup, with a constant rattling in the chest, during which the patient tries in vain to get relief by expectoration. When adminis- tered early, this remedy often arrests the disease. If febrile symptoms are present, Aeon, maybe alternated with Hepar. Phos. or Carbo. veg. are very useful in removing the hoarseness and cough which often remain after an attack of croup. Dose.— In severe cases, every fifteen to thirty min- utes; in mild, or during improvement, every three or four hours. Accessory Means,—During an attack, water only is admissible. The feet should be kept warm, there should be no strings or tight articles round the neck, and everything avoided that would be likely to excite or irritate the patient. A warm bath, and hot-water Infilaitwiation of the Lungs. 93 applications to the throat, are highly advantageous. In convalescence, milk-and-water, arrowroot, gruels, and, gradually, more substantial food. VIII.--INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS (Pneumonia), AND PLEURISY (Pleuritls). Pneumonia affects one or both lungs, or, in techni- cal terms, is double or single. The right lung is more liable to attacks than the left, and the lower lobes suffer oftener than the upper. In Pleuritls, the inflammation affects the pleura or serous membrane investing the lungs and lining the cavity of the thorax. These diseases 'frequently Co-exist, require similar medicines, and should be treated, if possible, by a Homoeopathic practitioner. Symptoms.— Shivering ; headache ; hard, wiry pulse, about 100 in a minute, and other symptoms of fever; the breathing is hurried, the patient refuses to take a full breath, and breathing is often interrupted by a " stitch " or " catch," by a cough which is short and painful, by lying on the affected side, and by pressure. This is pleurisy. In pneumonia, the skin is burning, especially about the ribs and arm-pits; there is no moisture in the nostrils, and the eyes are tearless; the breathing is much more hurried than in pleurisy, but there is only pain of a dull aching cha- racter; the cough is frequent and short, and there is spitting of rusty-colored phlegm. Causes.— Atmospheric changes, sudden checking of the perspiration, mechanical injuries, etc. 94 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing Treatment.— Aeon., Bry., Bell., Ant. tart., Phos., Am., etc. Aconitum is pre-eminently suitable, either alone or in turns with other remedies, whenever inflammatory symptoms run high, and the secretory functions are suspended. Bryonia.— Labored, short, catching, and rapid breathing; stinging, shooting, or burning puns in the side, aggravated by inspiration; the cough is painful, dry, or with expectoration of glairy sputa; the patient is weary, disposed to retain the recumbent posture, irritable, restless, etc. Phosphorus.—Pains in the chest of a severe sticking character, excited or increased by breathing or cough- ing; the breathing is short, the cough dry, or with expectoration of a rusty color. Antimonium tart.— Greatly oppressed breathing; cough attended with much rattling of mucus; nausea; profuse expectoration; violent throbbings of the heart, and a feeling of suffocation. Arsenicum.—Tedious ca^es, with extreme prostra- tion of strength, and painfully oppressed breathing. Sulphur.— When the lancinating pains in the sides have yielded to Bry. or other remedies. General Treatment.— See "Accessory Mea- sures in Fevers," pages 57—59. External applications of heat,— hot flannels, linseed-meal poultices, etc.— afford much relief. Bleeding in every form must be avoided. Spasmodic Asthma. 95 IX.--SPASMODIC ASTHMA. Symptoms.—-As designated, this is a spasmodic disease, recurring in paroxysms, characterized by great difficulty of breathing, a feeling of tightness across the chest, wheezing cough, and discharge of phlegm. The air-tubes of the lungs are encircled by minute bands of muscular structure, which, like other muscu- lar fibres, may be affected with spasms. These spasms contract the air-tubes, and the difficulty of breathing, and the wheezing respiration are caused by the air being forced tlirough the narrowed channels. An attack often comes on suddenly at night or towards morning, attended with a distressing sense of suffocation, the patient springing up, or even flying to an opened window, wheezing loudly, till after an uncertain time, perhaps an hour, it passes off with expectoration of mucus. Causes.— Atmospheric changes; smoke, dust, gases, metallic and other particles floating in the air; certain odors, as of hay, ipecacuanha, or vapor of sulphur; irregularities of diet, especially heavy sup- pers; and hereditary influence. It is not peculiar to any age, children as well as adults being liable to it. Treatment.— Ipecacuanha.— A feeling of tight- ness of the chest; panting and rattling as if the wind- pipe were full of phlegm; coldness, paleness, anxiety, and sickness. During an attack, a dose every ten or fifteen minutes; afterwards, every three or four hours. Arsenicum,— Short,anxious, and wheezing breath- ing, aggravated at night by lying down, and upon the least movement; with attacks of suffocation, Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. spasmodic constriction of the chest, and pale, sunken, or bluish face. It is especially required in asthma from suppressed eruptions, and in feeble, and impover- ished constitutions. Veratrum.— Violent paroxysms, with cold perspi- rations, and extreme prostration, Nux vomica.— Suitable for robust persons, and for attacks occurring about three or four o'clock in the morning, or after a heavy meal, or for patients of too studious habits, or addicted to stimulants. Aconilu .—Often very useful during a paroxysm, witli tumultuous action of the heart, oppressive anxiety, labored breathing, etc. Sulphur.—Chronic Asthma, apparently connected with some constitutional taint, and after the unsuc- cessful use of other remedies. In obstinate cases other remedies are necessary. A cessory Means.—The diet should be strictly moderate, simple, and digestible, as disorders of the stomach often occasion an attack. Suppers are espe- cially to be avoided. In many cases the food should be weighed, the meal-hours fixed, and strictly adhered to. Cold sponging in the morning, with frictions; moderate and agreeable exercise in the open air; and a strict avoidance of the usual exciting causes are here to be observed. The atmosphere best suited to the patient depends entirely upon idiosyncracy, as some can only breathe a mountain air, and others only in the fogs of London. Bronchitis. 97 X.--BRONCHITIS. Bronchitis is inflammation of the mucous lining of the bronchial tubes, and is a diffused disease, extend- ing more or less through both lungs, thus differing from cold or catarrh, which only affects the lining membrane of the nose and throat. Patients often describe it as u a cold in the chest." It most frequently occurs in old persons, although it sometimes affects children. Symptoms.— The disease begins with febrile symp- toms, headache, lassitude, and anxiety; these are soon attended with a feeling of tightness or constriction in the chest, especially the front portion; oppressed, hur- ried, anxious breathing, with wheezing or whistling sounds; severe cough, at first dry, then with viscid and frothy expectoration, and sometimes streaked with blood, subsequently becoming thick, yellowish and purulent. The pulse is frequent, often weak; the urine scanty and high-colored; the tongue foul; there are throbbing pains in the forehead, and aching pains in the eyes, aggravated by the cough, with other symptoms of fever. The usual cause of death in bronchitis is the complete obstruction of the bronchial tubes with adhesive mucus resembling that expecto- rated during life. The unfavorable symptoms are cold perspirations covering the skin; pale and livid cheeks and lips; cold extremities; extreme prostra- tion; rattling, and a sense of suffocation in the throat; and complete insensibility, ending in death. In favorable cases, however, the disease begins to decline between the fourth and eighth day, and under 98 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. suitable treatment, soon disappears, or assumes the chronic form. Causes.— Exposure to cold draughts of air, to keen and cutting winds, sudden changes of temperature, insufficient clothing, inhalations of dust, or other irri- tative substances. Treatment.—Aconitum.—A rapid and full pulse, hot skin, frontal headache, palpitation of the heart, dizziness, constipation, and other febrile symptoms. A dose every one or two hours till improvement takes place. Kali bich.— This remedy has great power in Bronchitis, especially chronic, with accumulations of tenacious, stringy mucus, difficult to expectorate; cough, and dyspnoea. Ant. tart.— Valuable in the second stage, especially in the aged, when there is a copious accumulation of mucus, and the expulsive efforts are feeble, with par- oxysms of cough, wheezing, dyspnoea, palpitation, etc. Bryonia.— Heat, soreness, and pain behind the sternum (breast-bone), and an irritative cough, with scanty, sometimes blood-streaked, expectoration. It is most useful when the large air-tubes are involved, and less so when the inflammation extends to the smaller; but in diffused bronchitis, Bry. is inferior to Ant. tart. Bryonia is very useful in the acute attacks of children, with suffocative cough, rapid difficult breath- ing, great agitation, and anxiety. Consider, also, Phos. Additional Remedies.— I pec, Arsen., Bell., Carbo. veg., Mercurius, Spoug., and Sulph. For dose, etc.. see page 47 Chronic Bronchitis. 99 Diet.— During an attack, gum water, barley gruel, jelly, etc. Cold water, or toast-water, is the most appropriate drink. In elderly or feeble patients ex- haustion is liable to come on, requiring nutritious support, and, perhaps, stimulants. Accessory Measures.— The patient should be kept in a warm atmosphere (65 to 70 degrees), which should be moistened by steam or evaporation of water. Ventilation of the apartment, however, should not be neglected. Hot linseed-meal poultices applied to the chest are beneficial, as they relieve congestion. XL--CHRONIC BRONCHITIS. This form of bronchitis is common in advanced life. The milder varieties are indicated only by habitual cough, shortness of breath, and copious expectoration. Many cases of winter cough in old people are exam- ples of bronchial-inflammation of a low, protracted character. Treatment.— Kali bich., Bry., Arsen., Phos., Hep. sulph., Ipec, Lye, Calc, and Sulph. See " Bronchitis," and the " Materia Medica." Preventive Means.— The first and most impor- tant is cold bathing in the morning, that particular form of bath being adopted which is found most useful or convenient. (See Bathing, page 32.) Another preventive is the Beard, which protects the respiratory passages against the effect of sudden changes of tem- perature. We may regard the beard as a kind of natural respirator, the shaving off of which is a frequent cause of acute and chronic bronchitis. Can ioo Diseases of the Organs of Broathing. we doubt the wisdom and beneficence of the Creator in giving this ornament to the male sex, which is so frequently exposed to atmospheric vicissitudes, and withholding it from the female, who, as the keeper at home, requires no such appendage ? Hair is an imper- fect conductor of both heat and cold, and placed round the entrance to the lungs, acts like a blanket, which is used for warmth in cold weather, or to prevent the dissolving of ice in hot weather. In many instances, the beard would protect lawyers, clergymen, and other public speakers, as also singers, from the injurious effects of rapid variations of the atmosphere, from which professional men so often suffer. It has been observed that the Jews, and other people who wear the beard, rarely suffer from bronchitis, or analogous disorders; and so may be considered as examples of the utility of the beard. xii.— consumption (Phthisis). Phthisis (from thio to consume) is a disease of the constitution, in which there are deposited in the lungs certain morbid bodies called tubercles, and in which the processes of suppuration and ulceration are set up for their discharge. Although no period of life is exempt, phthisis is most frequent in the course of youth, especially from the 18th to the 22nd year, and, of all the diseases that claim our attention, is the one that has proved most destructive of human life. When once fully developed it is generally supposed to be incurable; but in the early stages of the disease, while the tubercles arc yet small and but slightly irri- Consumption. IOI tated, our preventive and remedial measures may be brought to bear with much hope of success. Symptoms.— The early symptoms of consumption are obscure, and consist chiefly of cough: shortness of breath on moderate exertion; wandering, irregular pains, and constriction about the chest; excessive sen- sitiveness of the lungs to cold air; impaired digestion; debility and loss of flesh without any assignable cause; haemoptysis; flushing of the cheeks, and quickening of the pulse in the evening, followed by disturbed sleep, and early morning perspirations. Spitting or coughing up of blood generally takes place, and often gives the first intimation of the real nature of the malady, and its occurrence before or soon after the setting in of a cough, always indicates gi'eat danger. As the disease advances, breathing be- comes very distressing, the sputa more purulent; and exhaustion and emaciation, from impairment of the digestive functions, are most confirmed and progressive symptoms. Other organs often become implicated, especially the intestinal canal, in which a deposit of tubercles takes place, producing diarrhoea. From thickening or ulceration of the respiratory mucous membrane, huskiness or loss of voice is produced. The skin covering the parts on which the patient lies is apt to become sore and inflamed, and even to perish from the pressure of the attenuated body. Aphtha of the mouth, pharnyx, etc, or oedema of the feet, ankles, and even legs, ensue, and the long and weary struggle is at last terminated by the gentle approach of death. The physical signs yielded by auscultation and ■percussion tend to remove that uncertainty which for- 102 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. merly prevailed on the subject; but as these signs can only be appreciated and interpreted by a medical man, they are not further referred to in a domestic work. All doubtful cases should be early submitted to professional Homoeopathic treatment. Causes.—Tubercular phthisis is generally hered- itary, but it may arise in early life from an enfeebled condition of the system induced by a confined and impure atmosphere, unhealthy or too prolonged occu- pations, innutritious food, anxiety, etc., to which an hereditary predisposition and the scrofulous constitu- tion powerfully contribute. Treatment.—Where tubercles exist in the lungs, either in a latent or partially-developed state, we strongly recommend the following measures: ist. Highly nutritious and easily-digestible food. The diet should be nourishing, digestible, and suffi- ciently abundant, including animal food once or twice daily, or occasionally fish, stale home-made bread, fari- naceous puddings, green vegetables, mealy potatoes, milk, lightly-boiled eggs, etc. Condiments, pastiy, and all articles of food that occasion nausea, eructa- tions, or other symptoms of indigestion, are to be avoided. The diet may include Cod-liver oil, in small quantities, except during active febrile symptoms, when it is inadmissible. The continued use of oil, judiciously given, controls the expectoration and night sweats, soothes the cough, and checks emaciation. 2nd. Daily exercise in the open air, employed in such a manner as to bring all the muscles, especially those of the chest and upper extremity, into moderate and agreeable action, and with the body in an erect Consumption. 103 posture, as in walking. Riding on horseback is also favorable, as affording a large amount of fresh air, the exercise not exciting great difficulty of breathing. In unfavorable weather, some of the well-contrived appar- atus for arm and back exercise, especially that of the cross-bar, should be used in the house with open windows. 3rd. Bathing, followed by vigorous friction, is an important measure, and except in confirmed consump- tion, is generally beneficial. The water may be ap- plied in the form of baths, sponging, or wet sheets, and may even include sea-bathing. Weak children or delicate patients may use tepid water, and gradually reduce the temperature. When admissible, the best plan is rapidly to plunge a child in water, which obvi- ates the exposure consequent on sponging, and ensures a quick and complete reaction. A healthy action of the skin will thus be promoted, and the general circu- lation equalized. Cold bathing is injurious when the surface is rendered cold and pale, and the patient is left languid and dejected. In such a case warm salt- baths should be first used. 4th. Residence in a moderately-warm climate. Warm air soothes the trachea and bronchial tubes, and the external warmth tends to keep the blood to the surface of the body, and so obviates congestion of the lungs; and further, the warm air being rarified, less oxygen is inspired, and less carbonic acid given off, so that less vigorous breathing is required; and, also, the liver in the warmer climates seems to take on some of the offices of the lungs. The climate, however, must be dry, as damp is prejudicial. The 104 Diseases of the Organs of Breathing. writer is strongly convinced that entire change of cli- mate, if adopted before the disease has produced irre- parable changes in the lungs, is the most effective and permanent remedy. 5th. Lastly, all excesses are to be avoided, whether in the pleasures of the table, wine or liquors, busi- ness, intellectual pursuits, or in the gratification of any passion which overstimulates and fatigues mind and body. By the early and persevering adoption of these sug- gestions, and the administration of appropriate Homoe- opathic remedies, much might be done towards the prevention of consumption, as well as the restoration to comparative health of tuberculous persons. We have often administered our remedies with marked and permanent benefit to consumptive patients, but do not prescribe any of them here, as the treat- ment of consumption should always be conducted by a physician. Experience in the treatment of a large number of private and dispensary patients enables us to encourage hope even in grave and complicated cases. In the early stages of the disease, a cure can often be effected; even when considerably advanced, life may be prolonged for many years; and in the last stages of the disease, the patient's sufferings may be mitigated to a marked degree.* * For the pathology, symptoms, signs, causes, and med- ical, general, and preventive treatment of phthisis, see " On Consumption, with Special Reference to its Prevent- ive Treatment," by the Auihor. See notice in Appendix. CHAPTER IV. DISEASES OF THE ORGANS OF DIGESTION. i.—indigestion (Dyspepsia.) Digestion is the process which food undergoes in the stomach, and other organs, for the formation of chyle, a milk-like liquor, from which blood is formed for repairing the continued waste of the animal body; this process goes on in health easily, quickly, and com- pletely. Indigestion is a disease in which there is a deviation from this healthy function in one or more of the qualities just named — it may be painful, slow, or incomplete. Symptoms.—Impaired appetite; flatulence; nausea and eructations, which often bring up bitter or acid fluids; furred tongue, and offensive breath, especially in the morning; confined or relaxed bowels; heart- burn ; pain, weight, and inconvenience or fullness after a meal; headache; palpitations, and other symptoms. Causes.—Excessive eating; too short an interval between meals; irregularities in diet; food of a heavy, indigestible, fat, sour, flatulent, or bad quality; eating too quickly; imperfect mastication; warm and relax- ing drinks; the use of spirituous liquors, tobacco, or the excessive use of tea or coffee; purgative drugs; too little out-of-door exercise; excessive bodily or men- 106 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. tal exertion; late hours; exposure to cold and damp, etc. Business, or family cares and anxieties, are also frequent causes of dyspepsia. " The battle of life " is too often fought with almost overwhelming anxieties and disappointments, or with much mental and bodily wear and tear, and the digestive organs are often the first to suffer. Treatment.—The use of medicines and the observ- ance of such rules and habits as are suggested a little further on, must ever go hand-in-hand; for the former, however carefully selected, will alone be unavailing in the end. Nux votnica.—Distention, tenderness, and fullness of the stomach after meals; heartburn, sour acid ris- ings ; flatulence; hiccough; frequent vomiting of food and bile; sour or bitter taste in the mouth; the head is confused, as after intoxication; the patient feels in- dolent and sleepy after a meal, and unfitted for mental or physical exertion; the complexion is sallow; and there may be frequent but ineffectual urging to stool. Nux is particularly indicated in too studious or anxious persons, of a dark or bilious complexion, who take too little open-air exercise, eat too much, or drink alcoholic liquors. A tendency to piles is a further indication for this remedy, as also for Sulphur, which may often advantageously follow it. Pulsatilla.—Disposition to mucous derangements; heartburn, with acid, bitter, or putrid taste in the mouth; thickly-coated tongue, with a whitish fur; nausea; frequent mucous evacuations, with little pain, and chiefly at night; indigestion, from greasy or flat- Indigestion. 107 ulent food. As a rule, Puis, is best suited to women, or to persons of a mild and timid disposition. Bryonia.—Aversion to food and craving for stimu- lants; waterbrash or eructations after eating; pressure and a sensation as of a stone in the stomach; colicky pains; stitch-like pains, extending from the pit of the stomach to the shoulder blade-bones; torpor of the bowels; irritable disposition. Ant. crud.— The mucous membranes are loaded with mucus, causing slow digestion with fermentation; .nausea, or vomiting of mucus or bile ; foul eructations, or tasting of the food; escape of flatulence of a foetid odor, soon reproduced; alternate constipation and diarrhoea; hawking, and expectoration of phlegm; milky-white, thickly-coated tongue; irritability of the bladder, with mucous deposit. A further indication for this remedy is a concurrent affection of the skin— pimples on the face, sores on the lips or nostrils, pus- tular eruptions, chilblains, etc Kali bich.—Slow digestion; thickly-coated,yellow- ish tongue; bitter taste, nausea, and sour eructations. It is specially curative when the digestive and respi- ratory mucous membrane are simultaneously involved (Hughes). China.—Indigestion from exhausting discharges, or residence in an aguish district, with a feeling of sinking, relieved by food, but soon returning; or sim- ple, generally painless, diarrhoea, leaving the patient exhausted. Ipecacuanha.—Simple retching and vomiting from gastric disturbance, without inflammation of the stom- ach or any grave affection of the mucous membrane. 108 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. Hepar sulphuris.—Chronic indigestion; nearly all kinds of food disagree; also if Mercury has been used in excess. Sulphur.—As an intercurrent remedy, when only partial relief has followed the use of other remedies; also in chronic cases. It is more particularly required in indigestion following or associated with eruptions, piles, constipation, etc. Dose and administration.—See page 46. Accessory Measures.*—Dyspeptic patients must correct all improper habits, pay strict attention to the* quality and quantity of food, and the hours at which it is taken. Directions for particular cases cannot be given, as what agrees with one is often injurious to another, the rule being to select such food as is found easy of digestion. The following habits have been pointed out as requiring correction: Eating too much at one time; eating too seldom or too often; too great a variety of food at the same meal; imperfectly chew- ing the food; the too hasty resuming of bodily or mental occupations after a meal; sedentary habits; neglect of personal cleanliness; habits of drinking; smoking, or chewing tobacco, and opium-eating; the excessive use of tea and coffee, and eating unripe fruits and vegetables. It is especially necessary that the dys- peptic's stomach should never be overloaded. If possible the meals should be taken regularly and with cheerful companions, avoiding reading and study, and dismissing business anxieties from the mind, which should then be free from all injurious * The use of Galvanism is often of great benefit. See Appendix. Indigestion. 109 tension Persons much occupied should not eat full meals during the hours of toil; a light repast is best in the middle of the day, making the principal meal at six or seven in the evening, when the work of the lay is finished. Heavy meals in the hours of physical labor, without sufficient rest, is almost certain, even- tually, to lead to indigestion.* In the list of articles to be avoided by the dyspeptic, we particularly notice the following: hard, dried meats; veal, pork, sausages, salmon, lobsters, crabs, cheese, pastry, flavored soups, new-baked bread, too much tea or coffee, or any liquid, and all substances known to disagree. As a rule, which possibly may admit of some exceptions, malt liquors, wines, and spirits, are injurious. Feather beds, and too much sleep should be avoided; the patient should retire early and rise early; bathe or sponge the body every morning with cold water, and take moderate exercise daily in the open air. Further, a general cheerful and tranquil state of mind is neces- sary. In addition to Cocoa for the morning, and tea for the afternoon meal, the moderate use of pure water is almost the only fluid required in health. This liquid, so often despised, and even considered by many as prejudicial, is one of the best means for preventing or curing indigestion. Too much cold water, however, should not be taken at mealtimes. * Some severe cases find their only relief in the use of carbon crackers. —See Appendix. 110 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. II.— vomiting. Causes.— Indigestion, of which vomiting is often a prominent symptom; too much or improper food; pregnancy*; disease of the brain or derangement of the nervous system; cancer of the stomach; obstruc- tion of the intestines; most of the eruptive fevers, etc. Prognosis.— Nausea and vomiting occurring in diseases of the brain, or in epilepsy, are unfavorable indications; in pregnancy, or hysteria, they are merely symptomatic of irritation conveyed by the nervous system to the stomach. If vomiting affords relief, it is a favorable indication, but if the symptoms preced- ing sickness are not relieved by it, but increase, the disease must be regarded as serious. Treatment.—This must be regulated according to the cause which produces it. Pulsatilla.— Vomiting from fat food, or eating too freely, with dizziness, looseness of the bowels, and when the smallest quantity of food brings it on. Ant. crud.— Nausea or vomiting, heaving of the stomach, with foetid flatulence, white furred tongue, and dislike to food. Nux vomica.— Vomiting with dryness of the mouth, disturbed sleep, and constipation. It is espe- cially indicated when vomiting follows the use of strong drink, indulgence at table, or late or irregular hours. Arsenicum.—Vomiting, with burning in the stom- ach and throat, great weakness, purging, and coldness * For the treatment of "Morning Sickness" in preg- nancy, see "The Lady's Homoeopathic Manual." Sea Sickness. in of the hands and feet. It is indicated in organic or malignant disease of the stomach. Ipecacuanha.— Simple copious vomiting. Arnica.—Vomiting from a fall or injury. Dose and administration.— See page 46. Accessory Means.—In violent vomiting and long- continued retching, small pieces of ice are grateful and soothing. Liebig's extract of beef-tea, in small quantities, till ordinary food can be taken. in.— sea sickness (Nausea Marina). Symptoms.— These need not be described, as they are so well known to persons embarking for the first time, especially during the early part of the voyage, and when stormy weather prevails. Cause.— The motion of the vessel. The seat of the affection is in the brain, with which the stomach is in close sympathy. Persons of delicate nervous organization are subject to similar derangement ftom the oscillations of a carriage, or the movements of a swing. Treatment.— Nux vomica.— The complaint may be prevented or modified by taking this remedy thrice daily, for several days previous to embarkation. Arsenicum.— Severe and prolonged sea-sickness with great weakness. Cocculus, Veratrum, and Petroleum are also recommended. Cocculus is perhaps the best curative agent in this obstinate affection. For convenience, and to prevent injury to the gene- ral stock of medicines, those likely to be required for sea-sickness should be procured in a separate case. 112 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. Accessory Means.— For a week before embark- ing, indigestible food, or overloading the stomach, should be especially avoided. During the early part of the voyage, the traveler should remain on deck as much as possible, in a recumbent posture, and avoid looking at the motion of the waves. iv.—colic (Enteralgia). Symptoms.— Common colic is characterized by severe twisting, griping, tearing pain round the navel, recurring in paroxysms, but relieved by pressure, so that the patient lies on his belly, pressing his abdomen with his hands, writhing in agony. There is a fre- quent desire to relieve the bowels, but often nothing passes except a little flatus. Febrile symptoms, as in inflammation of the intestines (enteritis), are absent, and the pulse is not quickened, unless it becomes so from anxiety. The symptoms abate when vomiting, eructation, or a discharge from the bowels takes place. Causes.— Cold; a mass of heterogenous, acrid, indigestible food; worms, constipation. A condition resembling colic may also arise from stricture of the intestines (intussusception). Painter's colic arises from the poison of lead. Treatment.— The chief remedies are Coloc, Nux vom., Bry., Cham., and Verat. Colocynth.— Violent pains, compared to stabbing, cutting, clawing, or pinching, with diarrhoea. Nux vomica.— Colic from indigestible food, sup- pressed period, or during pregnancy, with severe, Biliousness. 113 contracting pains, ineffectual efforts to relieve the bowels, or alternate constipation and relaxation. Chamomilla.—Cutting, tearing,and pinching pains; bilious or windy colic ; watery, slimy, yellow or greenish diarrhoea, particularly in children. Bryonia.— Mild forms of colic, in which, in addi- tion to fullness and distension of the bowels, there are sharp, stitch-like pains in the sides or abdomen, and irritability of temper. Administration and dose.— See page 46. Accessory Means.—An injection of a pint of tepid water often gives immediate relief. Applica- tions of heat to the abdomen, or a warm bath, are also useful measures. Persons subject to colic should avoid food of a flatulent character, wear flannel round the abdomen, and keep the feet dry. v.— biliousness. What are popularly called " Bilious attacks," and supposed to be due to derangements of the liver, are almost invariably symptoms arising from, and common to, Indigestion, such as furred tongue, vomiting of bile, giddiness, sick headache, etc One of the fol- lowing remedies, according to the particular symptoms, with a restricted, simple diet for the following twenty- four hours, and cold water ad libitum, will usually complete the cure: Nux vom., Pod., Puis., Kali bich., Ipec, Bry., Merc, Verat., or Ars. The whole sec- tion on " Indigestion " should be consulted. ["Biliousness" being much more common in America and especially " at the West," we give more space to the 114 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. subject by adding the following from "Practical Homoeo- pathy." by Dr. J. S. Douglas.—Amer. Editor.] Biliousness.— This is not a scientific term, but one which most persons understand. One feels languid, dull, sleepy, especially after dinner; he gets easily tired, his appetite is impaired; often there is dull headache and tendency to constipation, and the com- plexion loses its freshness, and becomes of a dull or dirty appearance. People generally understand that these are bilious symptoms. They are not unfre- quently the precursors of bilious fever, or jaundice.— Podophyl. is generally the only necessary remedy; a single dose will often remove all these unpleasant feelings in a few days. If not, continue it three times a day. If there is a tendency to chilliness or an inac- tive state of the bowels after a day, take Nux at night and Podophyl. in the morning. This course for a short time will save a fit of sickness and a doctor's bill. VI.--HEARTBURN, FLATULENCE, ETC. These are only different symptoms of Indigestion, and their treatment may be gathered from the article on that subject. vil—jaundice (Icterus). Symptoms.— Yellow tinge of the skin and whites of the eyes; high-colored urine, staining the linen yellow; light or clay-like stools, constipation, but sometimes, especially in children, diarrhoea; bitter taste in the mouth; slow pulse; dejection of spirits; and, often, febrile symptoms. When there is an obstruction from a gall-stone, the sufferings are most acute; the pains come on in paroxysms, often with vomiting and hiccough. Inflammation of the Liver. 115 Causes.—Arrested secretion of bile, and its accu- mulation in the blood; or obstruction to its elimination, so that it again enters the circulation. The condition may be due to atmospheric changes, the impaction of a gall-stone, unrestrained fits of passion^ etc., or, most frequently, to dietetic transgressions, dissipation, etc. Treatment.— Mercurius.— This is a valuable remedy, especially after the inflammatory symptoms have been modified by Aeon, or Bell. A dose every three hours. China.— This remedy is chosen in preference to the former if the patient has been mistreated with large doses of Mercury. Chamomilla.—Jaundice in passionate or fretful patients, especially children. Nux vomica.—Jaundice attended with costiveness, sensitiveness in the region of the liver, and connected with sedentary habits or indulgence in spirituous liquors. Other remedies are often necessary, but domestic treatment should never be trusted to when professional can be obtained. Accessory Means.—See under " Chronic Inflam- mation of the Liver." VUI.--INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER (Hepatitis). Symptoms.— An acute attack sets in with rigors, followed by other symptoms of fever, as hot, dry skin, thirst, headache, constipation, and often cough. There are pain and tenderness of the right side, the pain extending to the top of the right shoulder, and some- 116 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. times down the arm, and is aggravated by taking breath; the breathing is short, thick, and thoracic; and there is sickness, with some degree of jaundice. Causes.— Acute inflammation of the liver is most frequent in India, from the climate and diet not suit- ing European constitutions; in this country it arises from cold, and is then seated in the serous peritoneal covering, and resembles pleuritis. Dram-drinking often leads to a hard, contracted condition of the liver, called Cirrhosis, which leads to dropsy. Treatment.— Aconitum.— Feverish symptoms, distress, restlessness, inflamed,'yellow-colored tongue, and severe pains. A dose every two or three hours. In severe cases, the strong tincture of the root may be used. Mercurius.— Yellow tinge of the whites of the eyes (conjunctiva?); sallow skin; yellowish coating of the tongue, and foul taste. Bryonia.— Shooting or stinging pains, obstinate constipation, especially after Aeon. Nux vomica.—Hepatitis from intoxicating drinks, excessive or stimulating food, or too little out-of-door exercise. Arsenicum — Extreme cases, with great weakness, intense pain, vomiting of bile, and exhausting diar- rhoea. General Treatment.— See " Accessory Mea- sures in Fevers," page 57. Livor Complaint. 117 IX.--CHRONIC INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER-- LIVER COMPLAINT. Symptoms.— Languor, depression, and often a kind of dread of some impending evil. The liver itself may be enlarged or diminished in size, and there is sallowness of complexion, and often emaciation. Causes.— Intemperance; too little out-of-door ex- ercise; misfortune; mercurial preparations, such as calomel and the blue-pill. Treatment.— Similar remedies to those prescribed in the preceding section. Accessory Means.—Water will be found a valu- able auxiliary. Cold sponging or bathing, with vigorous friction immediately afterwards, is highly recommended. The patient should shun stimulants, live regularly, and avoid rich food, pastry, spices, coffee, etc. Two hours at least out of every twenty- four, should be spent in out-of-door exercise, such as walking, gardening, or on horseback. If these sug- gestions are early carried out, before the disease has led to the disorganization of the gland, a cure may be expected, and earthly existence rescued from the dis- abilities and sufferings inseparable from disease. X.--DIARRHCEA--LOOSENESS OF THE BOWELS — PURGING. Common diarrhoea is a functional disorder, consist- ing of frequent liquid fascal evacuations, without inflammation of the intestines. Causes.—Unusual, excessive, acrid, or indigestible food, especially unripe or decaying raw fruits; pork, 118 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. veal, etc.; putrid or diseased animal food; atmospheric influences; mental emotions, etc. Diarrhoea is often a symptom of other diseases, as hectic and phthisis, when it is called colliquative diarrhoea, because it appears to melt down the sub- stance of the body; the diarrhoea of typhoid fever; bilious diarrhoea, from excessive flow of bile, as in hot weather, or after passing a gall-stone; and serous diarrhoea, with watery discharge. Looseness of the bowels is also a very common precursor of cholera, when that disease is epidemic When diarrhoea arises from indigestion or dissipa- tion, it may be regarded as an effort of nature to expel substances which might otherwise give rise to more serious disturbance. Treatment.—Camph., Ant. crud., Puis., Chin., Cham., I pec, Verat., and Ars. are the chief reme- dies. Camphor.— In sudden and recent cases, with chilli- ness, shivering, cold creeping of the skin, severe pain in the stomach and bowels, cold face and hands, or cramps in the legs or stomach. Two drops on a small piece of loaf sugar, repeated every twenty or thirty minutes, for three or four times. Ant. crud.— Watery diarrhoea, with white furred tongue, disordered stomach, nausea, and eructations'. Pulsatilla.— Mucous diarrhoea, occurring chiefly at night, with little pain; the tongue is coated with a whitish fur; the taste is diminished or altered, and there are generally nausea, foul or acid eructations, etc. Puis, is curative in diarrhoea from eating fat or rich food. Diarrhoea. 119 China.— In simple summer diarrhoea, Dr. Hughes has used this remedy invari ibly during the last four years, and found it well-nigh infallible. Mercurius.—Diarrhoea with clay-colored or green stools. Dulcamara.—Catarrhal diarrhoea, watery or yellow- ish, with little or no pain; traceable to damp, particu- larly in the summer and autumn. Chamomilla.—Watery, bilious, or slimy stools of a yellowish, whitish, or greenish color, or resembling undigested food, particularly during teething. Pinch- ing pains, sour breath, and fretfulness are additional indications. Veratrum.— Choleraic diarrhoea, with copious watery discharges, occurring in gushes, and accom- panied with severe vomiting, debility, etc.; involun- tary diarrhoea. Recourse may also be had to this remedy if others fail to produce relief after a fair trial. Arsenicum.—Diarrhoea accompanied or ushered in by vomiting, with great heat of the stomach, ascend- ing to the throat, resembling heartburn; a burning sensation attending the discharge of the motions; coldness of the body, pallid and sunken face, and great prostration. It is chiefly suited to chronic diar- rhoea, with symptoms indicating organic disease. Administration.—A dose every one, two, or three hours, according to the violence of the symptoms, 01 after eveiy motion, until relieved. Accessory Means.—Rest in the recumbent pos- ture; the extremities kept warm; sudden changes of temperature avoided. Individuals subject to diarrhoea on slight causes, and having a feeling of coldness ahoul 120 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. the body, should wear a flannel roller round the abdo- men. Night air and late hours predispose to attacks. Except in severe cases, moderate out-of-door exercise should be taken daily. Mental excitement and animal excesses of every kind should be avoided. Diet.—Food should be given cool and sparingly, consisting of light non-irritating substances — sago, tapioca, milk, arrow-root, baked rice-puddings, white fish, etc.; bland drinks; no coffee, spices, acids, eggs, fruit, or stimulants should be allowed. X.--DIARRHOEA IN CHILDREN. Healthy infants have usually two or three move- ments of the bowels in twenty-four hours. If the dis- charges become much more frequent, unnatural in color, watery, and accompanied with pain, treatment is necessary. Treatment. — Chamomilla. — Diarrhoea during teething, or from cold, with colic, crossness, and rest- lessness ; greenish, watery, bilious, frothy, and offensive discharges. Ipecacuanha.—Summer diarrhoea, (see China, page 213), with vomiting; diarrhoea from overloading the stomach. Pulsatilla. — Loose, greenish, bilious discharges, with flatulence or griping, especially in fair and deli- cate children. Podophyllum is highly recommended by Dr. Ship- man, in his excellent manual, for diarrhoea of teethino- children, especially with falling of the bowel. Mere., Calcarea carb., or Dulc, may be required. Dysentery. 121 Administration.—A dose every two or three hours, or after every movement of the bowels. See the preceding section, and also those on " Teeth- ing" " Worms" and " Thrush" XL--DYSENTERY--BLOODY FLUX. Dysentery — inflammation and ulceration of the large intestine — is most frequent and violent in India, the Chinese seas, and other hot climates. In this country it is generally only subacute; but in all cases it is most likely to take the chronic form. Symptoms.—This intensely painful disease is gen- erally attended with thirst, dry skin and tongue, head- ache, and other symptoms of fever. The most marked symptom of dysentery is frequent, painful desire to stool, with great straining — Tenesmus — without any evacuation, except a little mucus and blood, shreds of fibrine which the patient sometimes thinks to be the coats of his own bowels, and lumps of hardened fasces — Scybala. In hot climates its attacks are acute and violent, the pain being very severe around the navel and at the bottom of the back-bone. The bladder often sympathizes with the rectum, exciting frequent efforts to pass water. Causes.—Exposure to sudden and extreme changes of temperature, as from the heat of day to the cold and damp of night; insufficient protection from cold and wet, as sleeping on the ground; intemperance; a poor or irregular diet, etc. It is therefore often epi- demic among people reduced by privation, particularly soldiers in camps. In consequence of its being an 6 122 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. attendant on war — a practice both old and univer sal — it is the most anciently described of all diseases Treatment.—Aconitum.—If febrile symptoms are well marked, the early use of this remedy often arrests the disease at its onset. It should be administered several times, at short intervals. Mercurius corrosivus.— Bloody evacuations, with pain, and extremely severe straining. Colocynth. — This is often required after Merc, especially when the colicky pains occur periodically, are very severe, and the discharges are mixed with green matter or lumps. If Merc, has not been pre- viously administered, it may be alternated with Coloc. Arsenicum.—Burning pain with the evacuations; excessive weakness; coldness of the extremities; cold breath; faeces and urine putrid and offensive, often involuntary. Ipecacuanha.—Autumnal dysentery, with nausea, severe straining, and colic; the evacuations are first slimy, afterwards bloody mucus. Often advantage- ously alternated with Bryonia. Administration. — In severe cases, a dose every twenty or thirty minutes; in mild, every two or three hours. Accessory Means.—The patient should maintain a reclining posture in bed, in a well ventilated apart- ment, and in severe cases use the bed-pan instead of getting up. Local applications afford great relief, the best of which is the cold compress, i. e., two folds of linen, or a napkin, wrung out after immersion in cold water, and applied over the bowels, covered with oiled-silk, and secured by a flannel bandage round the Asiatic or Malignant Cholera. 123 whole abdomen. If the pains are very severe, flan- nels wrung out of hot water should be applied over the abdomen, a second hot flannel being ready when the first is removed. The drink should consist of cold water, gum-water, milk, etc.; the diet must be re- stricted to arrowroot, cocoa, broths, ripe grapes, etc. Animal food and stimulants, and cold and sudden changes of temperature should be avoided. XII.--ASIATIC OR MALIGNANT CHOLERA. In this disease, which resists the efforts of the old system, Homoeopathy has won brilliant triumphs. Its success in the prevention and cure of cholera,* and other violent diseases, has contributed greatly to its rapid spread in every part of the world. Treatment.— This disease should, if possible, be always treated by a Homoeopathic practitioner. We shall only briefly indicate some of the remedies and measures which have been found most useful. Camphor is one of the first and most important medicines to be administered, under whatever form the disease presents itself. Its special indications are, sudden prostration, the body generally becoming cold; pains in the stomach and bowels; irregular pulse, cold sweat on the forehead; giddiness; noise in the ears; swelling of the abdomen from wind; and severe purging:—Two to five drops of the strong tincture on sugar, or in a spoonful of water, every five or ten minutes; as soon as the patient becomes warm, the doses may be given less frequently, and discon- * See Dr. Macloughlin's testimony, pages 25-26. 124 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. tinued when full perspiration takes place. At the same time the patient should be placed in a warm bed, and have hot water-bottles applied to the feet. Arsenicum.—Violent burning pains in the stomach; excessive thirst; suppression of urine; clammy sweat; weak, tremulous pulse; cramps, and entire prostra- tion of strength. It is the great remedy when the time for curing with Camphor has passed. Veratrum.— The chief indications for this remedy are violent and continuous vomiting and purging; a shriveled appearance of the skin; cold tongue; cad- averous and pinched appearance of the face. Cuprum.—Spasm or cramp, and convulsions. Preventive Measures.— During the prevalence of Cholera, there are usually premonitoiy symptoms, such as general uneasiness, bitter taste in the mouth, fullness and pressure at the pit of the stomach, cramps, and rumbling in the bowels; these symptoms should be promptly checked. Much time may be saved, and life spared, by families providing themselves with a small case of Homoeopathic remedies, including a small bottle of Arsenicum, and Veratrum; also a bottle of Camphor, which must be kept by itself. The following advice is worth remembering: " In an epidemic of Cholera, the means to avoid an attack are, to maintain cheerfulness of spirit (remembering that the dis- ease is not contagious) ; using a temperate but generous diet; avoiding suppers; keeping early hours; sleeping in the highest room in the house; and carrying a small bottle of strong camphorated spirit in the pocket, for the use of others as well as yourself; and if compelled to pass the neighborhood of foetid drains, ditches, or other suspected places, moistening the tongue with a drop of the camphor- Confined Bowels. i25 ated spirit before inhaling the stench, it being known to Homceopathists that Camphor is the antidote to most of their infinitesimal medicines, so it is an antidote to the cholera poison suspended in the air, and inhaled into the lungs in an infinitesimal quantity, provided the Camphor is applied before the poison has begun to operate on the blood."— H. Kelsall, AID. XIII.--CONSTIPATION--CONFINED BOWELS. A tendency to costiveness is not so grave a symp- tom as many persons suppose it to be; indeed, individuals thus predisposed generally live long, unless they injure themselves by purgatives; while those who are subject to frequent attacks of diarrhoea are soon debilitated, and seldom attain old age. The common idea that aperients contribute to health, not only in sickness, but also occasionally in health, and that impurities are thereby expelled from the body, is very erroneous. . The fallacy of this notion may be easily demon- strated. Let purgatives be taken for a week, and however good may have been the state of health pre- viously, at the termination of this period all sorts of impurities will be discharged, especially after taking jalap and calomel. As this is an invariable result, even in the case of those who have never been ill, it seems to prove that impurities are produced by those drugs. In sickness also, purgatives are most injurious. Disease weakens the whole system; " the bowels, therefore," says Dr. Yeldham, "in common with the legs, the arms, the stomach, the brain, and every other organ, partake of the 126 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. general debility, and become deprived of that power by which, in a state of health, they are enabled to discharge their proper functions. Why should they, more than the other organs, be impelled to the performance of a duty to which, at the time, they are totally unequal? "Again, under the process of disease, the whole vital power is devoted to the struggle which is going on in the affected part. The attention of the system is, as it were, drawn off as well from the bowels as from every other organ not immediately engaged in the contest. On this account, also, they remain quiescent; and any interference with that quietude, by diverting the vital energy, weakens that force which nature requires to be undivided, to enable her to conduct her combat with disease to a successful issue — an additional reason why purgatives should be avoided. " Constipation is an effect, not a disease: otherwise there might be some show of reason in the use.of aperients. But, being merely a temporary loss of power, we can no more restore that power by forcing the action of the bowels, than we can impart strength to a weakened leg by compelling it to walk. In the latter instance, we should instinctively rest the part, until, by the removal of the disease, motion might be resumed. The same reasoning applies with equal force to the removal of constipation. The exercise of a little patience, and the employment of judicious means for the eradication of that disordered con- dition on which the inaction depends, would as infallibly restore the bowels to their duty, as in every other instance the effect must cease when the cause is removed." Causes.— Sedentary habits; dissipation; an im- proper quality or quantity of food; the use of superfine flour; mental anxiety; diseases of the liver; exposure to the action of lead, as in painters; want of contrac- tile power in the coats of the rectum; mechanical obstruction of the contents of the bowels; inflamma- Constipation. 127 tory disease of the intestines, brain, or spinal cord, or their membranes. But a frequent cause of constipa- tion is loss of tone of the mucous lining of the bowels, from the habitual use of purgatives. An important point will be gained if we can bring persons to consider constipation simply as a result of other causes, and a want of balance in the general system; and when measures shall be directed to the correcting of this condition as the only rational means of curing constipation. Constipation and Old Age.— Daily evacuation which, perhaps, should be the rule in youth and early life, is an excess in advanced life, when thrice or even twice a week is sufficient. It is desirable that this physiological fact should be known, as old persons often trouble themselves needlessly on (his point. Treatment.— If headache, dry tongue, hot skin, or other distressing symptoms co-exist with constipa- tion, one of the following remedies may be selected: Nux vomica.— Constipation, with frequent ineffec- tual inclination to stool; irregular action of the bowels; constipation, with nausea and sickness in the morning, distention and heaviness of the stomach, ill-humor, fullness or pain in the head, uneasy sleep, etc. It is well adapted to constipation following intoxicating drinks, eating too much or too great a variety of food at one time; excessive study, and sedentary habits. Bryonia.— Constipation from torpor of the bowels (thus differing from the ineffectual or irregular action of the previous remedy) ; constipation, with chilliness, headache, and irritability, or associated with rheuma- tism, or heat of the weather. 128 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. Opium.— Constipation, from a paralytic condition of the system, leading to inertia of the intestines; obstinate constipation, with a feeling as if the anus were closed; hard and lumpy stools; headache, dizzi- ness, dry mouth, thirst, listlessness, and dusky face; also in chronic cases, from too little out-of-door exer- cise. Podophyllum.— Constipation, with flatulence and headache, depression of spirits, and disposition to " bilious " condition of the system. Lycopodium. — Constipation, with itching and tightness of the anus; rumbling and flatulence in the abdomen; waterbrash, heartburn; the bowels feel too warm and dry, and are disposed to swell. Sulphur.— Habitual costiveness, piles, burning and itching of the anus, etc. It is also valuable as an intercurrent remedy. Dose and Repetition.— See page 46. Accessory Measures.— No medicine can be of permanent benefit if the bad habits which led to the constipation are persisted in. Moderate walking ex- ercise is useful, particularly in the morning in the country. Water* is an extremely valuable adjunct, both for internal and external use. Cold baths, espe- cially the shower and sitz, are strongly recommended as being of easy application. The wet compress at night is often an invaluable remedy; also injections, as recommended further on. Regularity in attending to the calls of nature is important; the best time to solicit the bowels to act is in the morning, usually after breakfast. By fixing the mind on this operation for a * See the article on " Water," page 41. Constipation. 129 few days, the bowels will generally respond, and constipation be removed by attention to this point alone. Diet.— Meals should be taken with regularity, animal food eaten sparingly, but vegetables and ripe fruit freely. Oatmeal porridge, with treacle, may be taken for breakfast; and brown bread should be preferred to white. If brown bread is not eaten exclusively, a little should be taken with nearly every meal; its effects will thus be more uniformly exerted through the alimentary canal than if only taken occa- sionally. Strong or green tea, spirituous liquors, highly-seasoned food, and late suppers should be avoided. Injections.— In obstinate and protracted constipa- tion, and when it is ascertained that the lower bowel is obstructed with faecal matter, in too large masses, or too hard and dry for discharge, and the means before suggested prove ineffectual, the enema may be used as a certain means of obtaining the desired relief, while it reduces the temperature of the rectum, and removes the sensation of congestion. At the same time, the use of the enema does not interfere with the administration of any Homoeopathic remedy necessary to cure the disease, of which the constipation is a symp- tom. The injection should consist of about a pint of water, and should be carefully injected up the rectum by means of the enema syringe. On commencing to use injections, the water for this purpose should not be lower than 720, and gradually reduced to 640. Unirritating in its operation, and acting directly on the seat of obstruc- tion, an injection is greatly preferable to deranging 6* 130 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. the whole alimentary tract with strong drugs, which excite violent action only to settle back into a state of greater debility and torpor than before. xiv.—worms (Helminthia). Intestinal worms being the products of certain mor- bid states, the treatment should be directed against the disease itself, rather than against the product it engen- ders. The effect of most allopathic remedies is, at the best, to excite a discharge of the worms from the system, without correcting the morbid condition on which their existence depends. Varieties.—There are three chief species of worms which infest the human body, viz., Ascaris, Lumbri- cus and Tcenia. 1.— The Ascaris vermicularis, or thread worm, infests the rectum (lower bowel). It is small, about a quarter to half an inch long, occurs chiefly in chil- dren, and occasions much local irritation. The chief symptom is intolerable itching about the anus in the evening, aggravated by the warmth of bed; also pick- ing of the nose, foetid breath, depraved appetite, and disturbed sleep. 2.— Lumbrici, or round worms, also exist in chil- dren, their habitat being the small intestines, where they feed on the chyle, and attain a length of six to twelve inches. The symptoms, often obscure, are — pains in the belly, frctfulness, grinding of the teeth, disturbed sleep, or convulsive attacks; also itching of the nose and anus. The child becomes sallow, its limbs waste, but its belly is enlarged, hot, and tense; Worms. 131 the appetite is uncertain, often voracious; the breath is offensive, and the stools contain much slimy mucus. The worms sometimes travel upward into the stomach, and are vomited, or downward into the colon, and are passed with the stools. 3.— Taenia, or the tape worm, is nearly white, flattened, and of a jointed structure; it attains a great length, even many yards, by repetition of the joints; and exists both in adults and children. The symptoms being masked, its presence is unsuspected until por- tions are passed in the stools, the head still remaining. There is seldom more than one worm present at a time, yet each joint possesses an ovary, and its eggs are millions, but they are discharged with faeces, and devoured by unclean animals—swine, ducks and rats; in these creatures they become developed, but not always into tape-worms, for they appear to go through several generations before returning to the jointed form. They are probably introduced into the human body by eating unwholesome animal food, especially tripe and sausage-skins imperfectly cooked. It is supposed that the ova sometimes reach the circulation, and in the liver or other organs are developed into encysted Entozoa, commonly called Hydatids. General Symptoms,— Sudden changes in the color of the face; dark semi-circles under the eyes; copious flow of saliva; nausea; insipid, acid, or foetid odor of the breath; a voracious, alternating with a poor, appetite; itching of the anus; talking, and grinding the teeth during sleep; thick and whitish urine; tightness and swelling of the lower part of the abdomen ; frequently emaciation, and, sometimes, 132 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. convulsions, delirium, etc. Perhaps the only irrefrag- able sign is the presence of worms in the stools, or in the matter vomited. Treatment.*—Aconitum.— At bed-time, for fever, restlesness, and burning and itching at the seat. Cina.— A valuable remedy for thread worms (ascarides), or round worms (lumbrici), with the fol- lowing symptoms: boring at the nose, livid circles round the eyes, tossing about, or calling out suddenly during sleep, nausea and vomiting, griping, itching at the anus, and white and thick urine, sometimes passed involuntarily. Belladonna.— Congestion to the head, starting dur- ing sleep, headache, fever, etc. If there is much fever, a few doses of Aconite should be first adminis- tered. Nux vomica.— For both- thread and round-worms, hard stools, and after indigestible food. Mercurius. — Diarrhoea, slimy stools, distention of the abdomen, difficult teething, and augmented secre- tion of saliva. Ignatia.— Intense itching at the seat, especially in mild, sensitive persons. Sulphur.— For worm-colic, and after the prominent symptoms have disappeared, to complete the cure. Calcarea.— After discontinuing the other remedies, in patients liaving an hereditary predisposition to worms, and with scrofulous symptoms. Dose and repetition.—See page 46. * In addition to the treatment here described, the tape- worm requires other remedies, and often in massive doses. Piles. *33 Accessory Means.— The food should be simple, easy of digestion, and taken only at regular hours; pastry, sugar, sweetmeats, and sweet-made dishes strictly avoided. Salt, as a condiment, should be taken with the food. A draught of spring-water should be swallowed on rising, and the whole body, the abdomen in particular, bathed with cold water in the morning, and afterwards rubbed till the whole skin is in a glow; daily exercise taken in the open air; also injections as recommended in the next para- graph. Injections.— These are most useful as means for expelling the worms; half a pint of water, in which a spoonful of common salt has been dissolved, once or twice repeated, will often suffice to relieve a patient thus troubled. Afterwards, a simple cold or tepid injection should be used regularly about three times a week, for two or three months, to wash away the slime in which the ova exists. But the general and medicinal treatment can only be relied on for improving the health and preventing their re-formation. xv.— piles (Haemorrhoids). These consist of small tumors, sometimes outside (external piles), and sometimes within (internal piles) the opening of the lower bowel, either with or without bleeding. They vary in number, from one small intensely painful swelling, to numbers clustering together like a bunch of grapes. These swellings are attended with pricking, shooting, burning, or pressive pains, increased on going to stool, and sometimes with 134 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. dull pains in the loins. Blood is often passed with the evacuations, sometimes only in drops, but at othei times in considerable and even alarming quantities. Causes.—Obstinate constipation; drastic purga- tives; heating or stimulating food or drink; a luxuri- ous life; sedentary habits; pressure of the enlarged womb upon the vessels of the pelvis during preg- nancy;* sitting on cold stones, or on warm or soft cushions; excessive horseback-exercise; and over-ex- citement of the sexual organs. Treatment. — Aeon., Merc, Nux vom., Carbo veg., Phos., and Sulph. Nux vomica.—A valuable remedy in almost every form of piles, especially in persons of sedentary habits, confined bowels, or addicted to the use of intoxicating drinks, strong coffee, etc. Sulphur.—Chronic piles, from abdominal plethora, or with itching and burning of the anus, and especially when associated with constipation. The evacuations are often mixed with blood; there is great pain, and the tumors protrude considerably, and are pushed back with difficulty; also, smarting pain in passing water. Sulph. is often alternated with Nux, the latter admin- istered at night and the former in the morning; or Sulph. following Nux to complete the cure. Carbo veg.—A burning sensation at the anus, and discharge of blood with the motions, which are con- stipated. Arsenicum.—A burning sensation as from hot needles, and general prostration. * For the treatment of piles during pregnancy, see " The Lady'6 Manual," by the Author. Piles. 135 Aconitum.—Profuse discharges of blood, throbbing and inflammatory symptoms in the parts. Dose and Repetitio?i.—See page 46. Diet and Accessory Means.—Patients should avoid highly-seasoned dishes, coffee, peppers, spices, alcoholic beverages, and all kinds of indigestible food. Light animal food, properly cooked vegetables, and ripe fruits form the most useful diet. Sedentary habits, too much standing, and the use of cushions and feather- beds are prejudical. The pain attending blind piles may be relieved by ablution in cold water, or in tepid water if that is found more agreeable.* Bleeding piles may be relieved by drinking half a tumbler of cold water, and then lying down for an hour. The horizontal position should be maintained as much as possible, especially for ten or fifteen minutes after an evacuation; this gives gieat relief, and favors recovery. An occasional injection of about half a pint to a pint of water up the lower bowel, by means of the enema syringe, acts most beneficially, by constricting the blood vessels, softening the faeces, and obviating strain- ing at stool. The wet compress is also recommended as a preventive, directly the first symptoms are noticed; and also curatively, with other means pointed out. xvi.—protrusion of the bowel (Prolapsus Ani). This unpleasant complaint is occasioned by long- continued constipation or diarrhoea, purgatives, strain- * Hamamelis cerate is said to be an excellent application, and the "Distilled Extract" of Hamamelis is of great value in bleeding piles. 136 Diseases of the Organs of Digestion. ing, and laxity and delicacy of constitution. Although not confined to them, it is most frequent in children. Treatment. — Ignatia. — This remedy is often specific, and is generally the first to be used.* A dose thrice daily, for two or three days; afterwards, night and morning. Nux vomica. — Prolapsus, with costiveness and straining at stool. Mercurius. — Prolapsus, with itching, discharge of a yellowish mucus, and diarrhoea; hard, swollen abdomen. Lycopodium. — Obstinate cases, and when other remedies only partially cure. Sulphur.—For similar conditions. Accessory Means.—When the bowel protrudes, it should be reduced by laying the child across the lap, and making pressure on the protruded part with the fingers, previously lubricated with oil or lard. Bath- ing the parts with cold water, night and morning, and injections of water are very useful. The action of the bowel in the evening, just before going to bed, should be encouraged. The diet should be wholesome and unstimulating. * American physicians prescribe Podophyllum with great success. CHAPTER V. AFFECTIONS OF THE HEAD* I.—headache (Cephalalgia). Headache may be merely an incidental symptom of a general disease, such as indigestion, common cold, typhus, or deranged menstruation; or it may be a more or less local affection, resulting from some irri- " From statistical returns of the Registrar-General of births, marriages, and deaths, in England and Wales, we learn that diseases of the head—congestion of the brain, apoplexy, paralysis, epilepsy, etc.— have rapidly multiplied of late years, being as three to one when compared with earlier, more simple, and less competitive times. This augmented brain affection is no doubt the result of the overtasked energies and feverish excitement in which great numbers live, and of the large amount of stimulants taken to sustain that excitement. Hence it is our honest conviction that if the sugges- tions contained in the present work be faithfully observed, they will lead to the moulding afresh of our commercial and social habits. Daily exercise and recreation in the open air, true temperance, a less selfish and anxious pur- suit of wealth, and a knowledge of the chief causes of disease, must materially reduce the present superfluous physical and mental wear and tear, and conduce to a moie healthy, because a more natural mode of life. The more complete application of the early closing and weekly half- 138 Affections of the Head. tation of the cerebral nerves. Chronic headache should be treated by a Homoeopathic physician. Treatment. — This must be regulated by the cause. Belladonna.—Pains throbbing, tearing, or shooting from one point to another; fullness, pressure, and heav- iness above the eyes, aggravated by mental efforts, noise, or light; congestion of blood to the head, with redness of the face, glistening of the eyes, and exces- sive sensitiveness to external influences. A dose every hour until relieved; afterwards less frequently. Bell. is often useful after, or alternately with, Aeon. Aconitum.—Heat in the head from excitement, and aggravated by motion, with a sense of coldness in the rest of the body; cold water to the head gives relief; holiday movements to all departments of business, bene- fiting alike the employer and the employed, would also greatly contribute to the diminution of diseases of the heart. Having regard to the health as well as the hap- piness of the industrial classes, we strongly urge all em- ployers to pay wages on Friday, and to give the weekly half-holiday on Saturday, our plea being strengthened by the experience of years, that work is better done when it is not excessive or unrelieved by recreation. Rest and out- of-door amusements are to the human frame what oil is to the wheels of the iron machine. To the whole community, then, we commend the rule, Never Shop after Twelve on Saturday, and thus help to secure for the city clerk, the busy shopman, and the toiling artisan, relief from his duties at noon on Saturday, to enjoy amidst the scenes of nature, or in the bosom of his family, the unbending of his back, and the unwrinkling of his brow, and ensuring, from lighter hearts and invigorated bodies, greater diligence and better work. Headache. r39 also in sick-headache, with sickness., vomiting of bile, etc. In rheumatic, bilious, and apoplectic headaches, the strong tincture of the root is recommended. A dose every half-hour, hour, or two hours, until the symptoms are modified; afterwards less frequently. ■Nux vomica.—Headache from intoxicating drinks, sedentary habits, too close attention to business; head- ache with nausea or vomiting of sour and bitter sub- stances; stupifying headache with giddiness and heaviness in the head, in the morning after unrefresh- ing sleep, or after meals, and connected with other symptoms of indigestion. It is well indicated by a dark or bilious complexion, an irritable disposition, and irregular action of the bowels. Headache caused by intoxicating beverages, may require the strong tincture. Podophyllum.—If the patient is inclined to bilious derangement, indicated by dull feeling in the head, low spirits, constipation, or frequent urging, with small stool. Pulsatilla.—Headache from rich food, with acidity of the stomach, heaviness of the head, pain on one side of it, shooting into the ears, paleness of the face, fretfulness, and shiverings. Also in women, from sup- pressed period. Bryonia.—Headache from cold, most troublesome in the morning, or after a meal; digging or tearing pains, and a feeling as if the contents of the head would protrude on stooping. Rheumatic Headache; headache during hot weather; also with bleeding of the nose, burning and watery eyes, or torpor of the bowels. Opium.—Headache with stupor, heaviness, a wan- 140. Affections of the Head. dering expression, sluggish action of the bowels, and after a fright. Ignatia.-^-Ileadache from grief, and in nervous or hysterical patients. Chamomilla, Coffea, Mercurius, Glonoine, etc., are also remedies sometimes required. Dose and Repetition.—See page 46. Preventive Treatment.—An attack of head- ache may sometimes be warded off by a dose or two of Nux vomica (if from indigestion), or of Aconitum (if from a cold), if taken immediately the first symp- toms are observed. General Treatment.—The cause should, if pos- sible, be ascertained and removed. In cases of diffi- culty, an observant physician can generally detect the cause, and, almost as often, point out the cure. Highly stimulating food and drinks, especially spirits, strong tea, and coffee, should be avoided; there should also be regularity as to meals, proper adaptation of cloth- ing to the requirements of our changeable climate, a healthy action of the bowels, and a sufficient amount of recreation taken daily in the open air. 11.—sick-headache. This is the headache of indigestion, and is often erroneously called Bilious Headache. Symptoms.—Giddiness, dizziness, swimming in the head, sickness, etc The headache is stupefying or agonizing, generally commences in the morning, and is often confined to one spot on the side of the head, on the forehead, or over the eye. Epilepsy. 141 Causes.—Errors in diet; indulgence in wine; sed- entary habits; or it may occur in a person whose digestion has been previously impaired without any immediate dietetic infraction. Treatment.—Aeon., Ipec, Puis., Nux vom., or Bell.—See the preceding section, and that on " Indi- gestion." An attack of sick-headache may be broken up im- mediately in almost every instance by taking, as soon as the first symptoms are perceived, five or six drops of mother tincture of Ipecac in a half teacup of water. Stir it well and drink all at once. If not entirely re- lieved in half an hour repeat the dose. Patients subject to sick-headache will find the dis- position to it overcome by taking the 30th potency of Nux vomica and Calcarea, on alternate days, each day a dose, for three or four weeks. 111.—epilepsy (Epilepsia)—falling sickness. Symptoms.—Sudden and complete loss of con- sciousness, with foaming and convulsions, followed by sleep. Epilepsy means literally a seizure; for often in a moment the patient falls to the ground, struggling, foaming, and insensible. Sometimes a fit is preceded by depression of spirits, a gloomy mood, drowsiness, or the aura epileptica, a peculiar sensation, compared to a stream of warm or cold air, the trickling of water, or the creeping of an insect. Causes.—Hereditary tendency; injuries, or mal- formation of the head; local irritation; derangement of the nervous or sexual system; self-abuse; fright, or 142 Affections of the Head. fits of rage; the irritation of worms; the sight of other epileptics, etc. The evidence of hereditary ten- dency exists in the fact that two or more cases of epi- lepsy frequently occur in the same family, far more frequently than it would do if it were a mere coinci- dence. Still, evidence of local irritation as a cause should be sought after, so that it may, if possible, be removed. Treatment during a Fit. — Tight articles of clothing must be loosened, particular care being taken that there shall be no pressure on the vessels of the neck; the patient should be placed in a cool, airy place; the head and trunk slightly raised; a cork or linen pad placed between the teeth to prevent the tongue, which should be pushed back, from being bitten, and the patient prevented as much as possible from injuring himself, without restraining him beyond what is absolutely necessary. After the fit, the patient should be allowed to sleep. Treatment between Fits.—Belladonna.—Great irritability of the nervous system, the patient starting at the least noise; convulsive movement of the mus- cles of the mouth and face, and jerking in the limbs; dilated pupils, or fixed or convulsed eyes, intolerance of light; stammering; congestion of blood to the head; and when an attack commences with a sensation of crawling in the upper extremities. Ignatia.—Nervous, sensitive patients; when anxi- ety or grief has been an exciting cause, and there are deep sighs between or before an attack. Nux vomica.—Indigestion; irregular action of the Epilepsy. H3 bowels,- great irritability between the fits; the patien* takes too little out-of-door exercise. Opium.—Fulness of blood; 'deep and lethargic sleep, between the paroxysms; also if the fits are traceable to fright. Chamomilla.—In children from gastric derange- ments; an attack is preceded by colicky pains, and followed by sudden stretching of the limbs, clenching of the thumbs, often sour vomitings, paleness of one and redness of the other cheek. Where, however, true brain symptoms are present, Cham, must yield to Bell. Phosphorus.—Epilepsy associated with, or conse- quent on, self-abuse. Cina.—From the irritation of worms. Sulphur.—Epilepsy following a suppressed erup- tion or discharge; chronic cases; also as an intercur- rent remedy. Administration.—For the premonitory symptoms, a dose every one, two, or three hours; during the inter- vals, twice or thrice daily. Accessory Means.* — Regular exercise and amusements, but not carried to the point of fatigue; plain, nourishing food, in moderate quantities; cold ablutions every morning. Patients with a tendency to plethora or congestion should wholly abstain from stimulants. Violent emotions, excesses of every kind, more especially sexual, must be strictly avoided. * The current from a galvanic battery, rightly applied, is of great benefit. CHAPTER VI. AFFECTIONS OF THE ETES AND EARS* I.--INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES (Ophthalmia.) Ophthalmia is a general term for inflammation of the mucous membrane which lines the eyelids and the front part of the eye-ball. There are several varieties, such as Catarrhal Ophthalmia, from cold; Strumous Ophthalmia, from a strumous (scrofulous) habit, marked by extreme intolerance of light; Purulent Ophthalmia, of several varieties, and from different causes; Gonorrhoeal Ophthalmia, from direct contact of gonorrhoeal matter. Symptoms.—Soreness in the ball of the eye, attended with a pricking pain, and a feeling as if there were sand or a little fly under the lids; great heat and severe pain in the eyes, often extending into the head; redness and swelling of the parts; extreme sensitiveness to light; scalding tears, and a secretion of mucus gluing the lids together. Causes. — Injuries; foreign bodies under the eye- lids; rapid changes of temperature, especially draughts of cold air; sudden suppression of eruptions or dis- * For many important diseases affecting these organs, not even mentioned in this small manual, the reader is referred to 'The Vade Mecum of Modern Medicine and Surgery." Inflammation of the Eyes. 145 charges; crowding together, especially in filthy dwel- lings; severe exertion of the eyes. Chronic inflam- mation of the eyes points to a scrofulous constitution. Treatment.—Belladonna.— Excessive sensibility to light; redness of the eyes and margins; pressing pains in the .eyes, especially on moving them, penetra- ting deeply into the head; discharge of burning tears, and violent headache. Aconitum.—Ophthalmia, with general febrile symp- toms,—quick pulse, dry skin, thirst, etc. A dose every two or three hours. Mercurius.—Ophthalmia, with a copious watery discharge, afterwards changing to mucus and pus; sensation as of sand under the lids, redness of the eyes, with swelling of the vessels, itching and shoot- ing pains, pustules and scales on the lids; the pains increase in the evening, and on exposure to cold, and there is agglutination in the morning. Calcarea carbonica. — Chronic ophthalmia, in scrofulous, debilitated children; secretion of mucus, causing the lids to stick together in the morning. A dose twice daily. Hepar Sulphur.-—Chronic, scrofulous ophthalmia, especially if much calomel has been administered. It is generally most beneficial after the acute symptoms have yielded to such remedies as Aeon, and Bell. Sulphur.—Frequent relapses in scrofulous persons; or it may follow other remedies after the more urgent symptoms have subsided. Arnica.—Inflammation from external injuries. It may be used both internally and externally. Accessory Measures. — If inflammation lias 1 146 Affections of the Eyes and Ears. been caused by sand, dust, lime, flies, or hairs of the lids, the irritating body should be immediately removed; and if the inflammation is considerable, a shade should be worn. To prevent the eyelids from being cemented together in the morning, they should be smeared with a little olive oil by means of a camel's hair brush, or with simple cerate, at bed-time. The only further local application admissible in domestic practice is a piece of lint, wetted with tepid or cold water, except the Arnica lotion in cases of injury. Patients in crowded and Unhealthy towns should remove for a time to the country, where they may take daily out- of-door exercise in a pure and bracing air. The food should be plain and nourishing, the habits early and regular, and frequent bathing should be practised. Persons predisposed to ophthalmia should guard against unnecessary exposures during easterly and north-easterly winds. II.--BLOODSHOT EYE. Treatment.—Two or three doses of Aconitum at intervals of about three hours. At the same time the eyes should be frequently bathed with cold or tepid water. If from mechanical causes, the Arnica lotion (six drops of tincture to a wine-glassful of water) may be used. Also Arnica, internally, may be administered. in.—stye on the eyelids (Hordeolum). The stye is a painful little boil projecting from the margin of the eyelids. Inflammation of the Ears. 147 Treatment.— Pulsatilla is the chief remedy, and the first to be used in the absence of inflammation. It will not, however, prevent a tendency to return. Sulphur.—To remove the tendency to recur. Silicea and Calcarea.—Scrofulous patients, predis- posed to styes; the remedies may be administered each for a week or ten days in succession, allowing an interval of two or three days between; afterwards, if necessary, the course may be repeated. Administration.—In acute cases, every three hours; in chronic, morning and night. Auxiliary Treatment.—Fomentations of tepid water; if pus form, a bread-and-water poultice at night. IV.--FOREIGN BODIES IN THE EYE. If a particle of sand, a fly, or a hair get under the lids, the flow of tears is usually sufficient to dislodge the substance; otherwise, it can generally be removed by wiping the eye gently with a soft, moistened hand- kerchief, or a feather, or by using a bent bristle, the two ends being held by the finger and thumb. If small pieces of flint or iron are fixed in the front of the eye, they should be carefully picked out with a needle or point of a lancet. When the foreign body shall have been remove 1, a weak Arnica lotion may be applied to the eye on lint or soft linen. V.--INFLAMMATION OF THE EARS (Otitis)--EARACHE (Otalgia). The conditions thus described are the most common affection of the ear. 148 Affections of the Eyes and ~Ears. Symptoms.—Sudden pain, sometimes so acute as to cause delirium; tenderness and soreness; unnatural noises; deafness, or morbid sensibility to sound; more or less redness and swelling of the ear passage, etc. Causes.—Cold currents; imperfectly drying the ear after washing; injudicious bathing; probing or syringing in inflamed ear, etc Treatment. — Aco?iitum.—Recent inflammation from cold. Belladonna.—Tearing pains in the head, delirium, vomiting, or other bad symptoms. Pulsatilla.—Sticking or tearing pains in and behind the ear, swelling, and a feeling as if the ear were closed. It is specially suited to the earache of chil- dren, and after the inflammatory symptoms have been controlled by the former remedies. Chamomilla.—Earache from cold or suppressed perspiration; stabbing, tearing pains in the ears; extreme sensitiveness, susceptibility, and irritability. Mercurius.—Pains in the ear extending to the cheeks and teeth; discharge; swelling of the glands, etc. Sulphur.—After the use of other remedies, as an intermediate one, or to complete the cure. Dose and Administration.—See page 46. Accessory Means.—Hot fomentations, poultices, or the steam of hot water, to mitigate the pain. VI.--RUNNING FROM THE EARS (Otorrh&d). Is commonly met with in scrofulous children, and should be treated professionally. Deafness. 149 Treatment.—Mercurius.—Thick, bloody, or fetid discharge; tearing pains in the side of the head and face; swelling and tenderness of the glands about the ear; also when the complaint follows Scarlatina, Measles. Small-pox, etc. A dose thrice daily. Hepar Sulphur is preferable if the patient has been dosed with Mercury. Pulsatilla.—Simple discharge from the ear with deafness, in non-scrofulous children. Arsenicum.—Excoriating discharge in feeble con- stitutions. Calcarea.—Tedious cases, especially in strumous children. vii.—deafness (Dysecoea). Causes.—Deafness is generally a symptom of some other disorder, such as inflammation of the ears, severe colds, or chronic disease of the ear. It may also be occasioned by loud noises, or by the accumulation of ear-wax and other substances lodged in the ear- passage. Prognosis.—Deafness of recent date may generally be quickly cured by skillful Homoeopathic treatment; long-standing cases are often obstinate. Treatment.—Pulsatilla.—Recent deafness from cold, with noises in the ears. Mercurius. — Catarrhal deafness with swollen glands of the neck and throat; suddenly suppressed discharge from the nose or ears; roaring and buzzing sounds in the head. Also deafness after small-pox. Nux vomica. — Buzzing, tingling, or whistling 150 Affections of the Eyes and Ears. noises, particularly whilst eating, with disordered digestion. Calcarea carbonica.—Sensations as of obstruction in the ears; humming noise; throbbing; dryness of the ear or discharge. Phosphorus.—Deafness of nervous patients, -or following any nervous disorder. Administration. — In recent cases, a dose every four hours; in chronic, twice daily. Accessory Means.—Hard ear-wax, or any foreign substance, causing deafness, should be early removed by skillful hands, after first syringing the ear with warm water. All nostrums, to be dropped into the ear should be eschewed. CHAPTER VII. AFFECTIONS OF THE MOUTH, NOSE, TEETH, AND GLANDS. I.--OFFENSIVE BREATH. In perfect health, the odor of the breath is sweet and agreeable; on the contrary, foetid breath points to disordered digestion or respiration, scurvy, malignant sore throat, etc The breath is offensive and infectious during the progress of the eruptive, typhoid, and pesti- lential fevers; but in no disease is it so extremely offensive as in gangrene (mortification) of the lung; indeed, this condition may be recognized by this symptom alone. Treatment.—If offensive breath arises from indi- gestion, or any other complaint, proceed according to directions given in other parts of this manual. Com- petent advice, however, founded upon all the circum- stances of each case, is almost invariably required. If unable to to obtain professional advice, the follow- ing medicines may be tried : Carbo vegetabilis.—Putrid odor of the breath from decayed teeth, or bad condition of the gums; large doses of mercury, or other causes. A dose thrice daily, for eight to ten days, or longer. Mercurius. — Foetid breath from sore mouth or throat. A dose thrice daily for several days. 152 Affections of the Mouth, Nose, etc. Nux vomica, or Pulsatilla, night and morning for a week, may follow either of the former remedies.— Sulphur, in the same manner, may complete the course. After waiting a few days, the course may be repeated. Accessory Means.—As inattention to the mouth and teeth is sometimes a cause of foetid breath, the remedy in this case is obvious, viz., careful cleansing of the teeth and mouth after meals, especially when animal food has been eaten. Decayed and useless stumps are generally best removed. There should also be careful attention to diet; the internal and ex- ternal use of water; pure air; exercise, and such other means as are indicated in the Observations on Health, page 32. The sections on "Indigestion" and "Tooth- ache" should also be consulted. 11.—thrush (Aphtha;)—frog Symptoms.—Small vesicles or white specks appear upon the lining membrane of the mouth, and are sometimes so connected as to form a continuous cov- ering over the tongue, gums, palate, etc The disorder may also extend to the stomach and bowels, setting up violent diarrhoea, and such general disturbance as to require the greatest skill and care to prevent a fatal issue. In adults, the disease is the result of some other malady, and is always serious. Causes. — A delicate or strumous constitution; insufficiency or unhealthy condition of the mother's milk; or in infants who are fed with the bottle or spoon, an unsuitable quantity or quality of food; want of cleanliness: general disease. As thrush chiefly Thrush. 153 affects infants, or adults in the last stage of disease, it has been called the first and the last disease. Treatment. — Mercurius.—Is indicated by drib- bling saliva, diarrhoea, offensive breath, etc; if ad- ministered when the white specks first appear, it is often alone sufficient. A dose every six hours, for several days. Borax.—The child's mouth should be washed with a weak solution of borax (four grains to one ounce of water), by means of a soft brush. It has a specific power over this affection, and will cure it probably quite as well if used internally only, and if the disease is limited to the mouth, without the aid of any other remedy. Sulphur may follow Mercurius, or any other remedy, if the latter does no further good; when the thrush has nearly subsided, to prevent a relapse; and where there are eruptions on the skin, or sour- smelling breath. A dose night and morning. Arsenicum.—If the affected parts become brown* or black, and have an offensive smell; or if the disease extends to the stomach and bowels, and is attended by exhausting diarrhoea. A dose every four hours. Carbo vegetabilis.—This has similar indications to the last, and may be given if that remedy fails to effect more than a partial cure. General Directions. — Cleanliness, ventilation, fresh air and proper diet, are essential. When thrush is due to ill health in the mother or nurse, the infant should be at once weaned, and fed with the following excellent substitute: 7* 154 Affections of the Mouth, Nose, etc. Neave's Farinacious Food.*—Considerable ex- perience- in its use justifies us in recommending this as the best substitute, in the majority of cases, for the mother's milk, as well as a valuable article of diet for feeble constitutions generally. Competent chemical analyses have found the preparation to contain every constituent necessary for the perfect nourishment of the infantile body, and this has been abundantly con- firmed by what we have frequently observed as the result of its early and exclusive use. A great advan- tage in the adoption of this diet is, that any inteifer- ence in the action of the bowels is altogether unneces- sary, as by varying the quantity of milk mixed with the food, the most regular action is secured. In cases in which farinaceous food cannot be tolerated. Sugar- of-Milk may be substituted. In most cases, how- ever, this intolerance is due to improper methods of preparation. m.—teething (Dentition). Teething is an important process in the develop- ment of a child, and in delicate children is often accompanied by various local and general symptoms of disorder, some of which are referred to under the following remedies. Other complaints, such as con- stipation, diarrhoea, convulsions, etc., may be treated according to the instructions given in this book, under those headings. Causes of Disordered Dentition.— Excessive quantities of food, or improper food; keeping the * Comstock's Rational Food, sold in America, is a simi- lar preparation. Teething. 155 head too hot; local affections of the gums; strumous constitution, etc. The period at which the milk teeth appear is important. Too early dentition taxes the constitution beyond its powers of endurance; too late dentition indicates a feeble or scrofulous constitution. In the latter cases, professional treatment should, if possible, be obtained. Treatment.— Aconitum. — Heat, redness, pain, swollen gums, and restlessness. Aeon, is often inval- uable during dentition. Chamomilla.—This remedy may follow Aeon, for dry cough; short breathing; and fretfulness; flushed cheek; loose, green or frothy stools. A sovereign remedy in many of die ailments of dentition. Coffea.—Morbid excitability, sleeplessness, restless- ness, and frequent changes. It is especially indicated in the absence of fever. Belladonna.—Congestion to the head; cerebral ex- citement; convulsive movements of the limbs; sleep- ing with the eyes partially open; redness of the eyes. Calcarea.— Slow or late dentition, especially in scrofulous children subject to loose bowels, with loss of flesh and strength. Silicea.—Similar symptoms to those of Calcarea, especially when the teeth, though on the point of coming through, are still tardy. This medicine, as also the former, generally obviates the necessity of lancing the gums. Silicea is valuable in rickety children. Mer., Ipec, Nux vom., Sulph., etc., are also some- times required. Accessory Treatment.—See page i57 156 Affect'ons of the Mouth, Nose, etc. IV.--CONVULSIONS DURING TEETHING. Causes.—Irritation of the brain from pressure of a tooth upon an inflamed gum, or anything which over- excites the nervous system; disease of the brain; an insufficient supply of blood to the brain, as in badly- fed children, or an impure supply of blood, as in the eruptive fevers ; the irritation of worms ; fright; powerful emotions of the mother; indigestion. The remote causes are, hereditary predisposition, too early or too late marriages, etc Treatment.— Loosen all clothing about the neck, chest, and body; raise the head, sprinkle the face with water, and admit plenty of fresh air. A warm bath, however, is generally advisable. Warm Bath.— Immerse the child in warm water up to its neck, and directly afterwards apply a cold wet towel to the head, or a large sponge after dipping it in cold water; the cold towel or sponge may be applied for about three minutes, but the child kept in the bath for ten or fifteen minutes. The tempera- ture of the bath should be about 980, or what is agreeable to the back of the hand, and this temperature should be fully maintained till the child is taken out, by additions of hot water carefully poured down the side of the bath. The bath should be given in front of a- good fire, and a warmed blanket be in readiness to wrap the child in directly it leaves the bath. The warm bath is of great service in convulsions; it draws the blood from the over-loaded brain to the general surface of the body. Belladonna.— Convulsions with determination to, Convulsions During Teething. 157 or inflammation of, the brain, hot and flushed face; dilated pupils, etc.; it is especially useful in stout children. It should be given early, and repeated every fifteen minutes for several times. A drop of the tinc- ture in a teaspoonful of water, or one or two globules on the tongue. Chamomilla.— Spasmodic twitching of the eyelids and muscles of the face, one cheek red, and the othei pale; clenched thumbs. It is most suitable for irrita- ble children, and in fits from disorders of the digestive functions. True brain symptoms point to Bell, in preference. Opium.— Convulsions from fright, followed by stupor, labored breathing, confined bowels. Cuprum.— Red, bloated face; shrieking before an attack; convulsive movements, the paroxysm resem- bling an epileptic seizure, but the brain symptoms are less active than those that indicate Bell. Aconitum.— Fever — restlessness, flushed face — and when convulsions are threatened. Dose and repetition.— See page 46. Accessory Treatment.— Diarrhoea during den- tition, unless excessive, should not be interfered with. It may be regarded as an effort of nature to relieve congestion of the brain. " Keeping the head cool, and the feet warm," washing the child in cold water daily, and allowing it to be much in the open air, tend to prevent determination to the head. Purga- tives are to be avoided, and the bowels regulated by suitable diet, or by Homoeopathic treatment. Costive- ness in infancy is due to errors in diet, and if obstinate, or if worms are present, injections of water may be 158 Affections of the Mouth, Nose, etc. used. The mother or nurse should abstain from all indigestible food. For children brought up by hand, we strongly recommend Neave's Farinaceous Food, referred to in the article on Thrush. If prepared ac- cording to the directions, it is the most valuable diet for infants.* v.— toothache (Odontalgia) Causes.— Decayed teeth, sudden changes of tem- perature, indigestion, pregnancy,f or general ill-health. Neuralgic toothache occurs in paroxysms, and comes and goes .suddenly. Treatment.— If Kreasote, or Laudanum, has been used locally, the mouth should be thoroughly cleansed before taking any of the medicines recom- mended further on. Leading Symptoms in Toothache.—In the fol- lowing classification the remedies are named in the order in which they are most frequently required: 1. From Cold.— Merc, Bry., Dulc. (from wet), Cham, (from a draught), or Puis. 2. Rheumatic Toothache.— Bry., Merc, Am., Bell., or Aeon. 3. From Decayed Teeth.— Merc. 4. Nervous Toothache.— Ign., Cham., or Coff. * When there is faulty assimilation of food, and the child has diarrhcea and grows thin and puny, the castillon pow-' der—a combination of sago, tragacanth, and salep — with the trituration of Calcarea, makes a diet of great excellence, one which has saved the lives of many children, and made them strong and well. f See the " Lady's Manual," by the Author. Toothache. 159 5. Pains extending to neighboring parts.— Merc, Bell., Puis., or Cham. 6. With Swelling of the Face or Gums.— Cham., Merc, Bell, or Bry. 7. Toothache during Pregnancy.— Bell., Puis., Nux v., or Cham. In Children.— Aeon., Cham., Calc, ox.Ign. For detailed symptoms, see the following: Mercurius.— Decayed teeth, with tearing pains ex- tending over the side of the face, and to the glands and ears; pains aggravated by eating or drinking any- thing cold, or by cool or damp air; swelling of the face, soreness of the gums, gum-boils, profuse flow of saliva, perspiration, etc. Aconitum. — Full-habited patients, with flushed face, hot, swollen gums, thirst, restlessness. Belladonna. —Drawing, lacerating, or shooting pains, affecting several teeth, the ears, and side of the face, worse at night, in the open air, or by contact; determination to the head, swelling of the cheek, etc. Children are often delirious, or there may be spasms and convulsions. Chamomilla. — Toothache from a draught, sup- pressed perspirations, or from mental emotions; jerk- ing, shooting, violent pains, which affect the ear or one side of the face, are worse at night, after eating, and after taking anything hot; there exist agitation and restlessness, and one cheek is often flushed and the other pale. Especially suited to the toothache of chil- dren. Pulsatilla.— Throbbing or digging pains, extend- ing from the decayed tooth to the eye, with semilateral 160 Affections of the Mouth, Nose, etc. head-ache; the pains are worse in a warm room, in the evening, and in bed, but are mitigated by cold air or water. It is most suited to mild persons, of light complexion, and to females, especially with suppressed or scanty period. Nux vomica.— Toothache from sedentary habits, stimulants, or coffee, with indigestion, irregular action of the bowels, etc. The pains are worse at night, in the morning on waking, or when engaged in mental labor. Bryonia.—Rheumatic toothache, worse in warmth, but relieved temporarily by cold applications. Administration.— Every fifteen or twenty minutes till the pain is mitigated; afterwards, every three or four hours. After three or four doses have been taken without oenefit, another remedy may be selected. Accessory Treatment.— Brush the teeth in the morning, after eating animal food, and at bed-time. They should be brushed on their inner as well as on their outer side, and up and down, and not merely from side to side, using a medium soft brush, and the dentifrices prepared by Homoeopathic chemists. The digestive organs should be maintained in a healthy condition by means of proper food, and correct habits. Chewing or smoking tobacco, the habitual use of strong drinks, drugs, chewing ice, or taking food extremely hot, are likely to injure teeth naturally good. In some cases the only remedy is extraction, espe- cially if the tooth be loose, much decayed, and unfit for mastication; in other cases the pain may be speedily removed by Homoeopathic remedies. If the Toothache. 161 caries be recent and slight, the decayed portion may sometimes be removed, and the cavity filled with a suitable material, thus preserving a useful member for years. A qualified dentist should be consulted. Preventive Means.— The face, temples, ears, and neck should be well bathed with cold water every day, and afterwards rubbed with a dry towel; also the mouth kept sweet and clean by rinsing it with cold water. VI.--SORE THROAT — QUINSY (Tonsilitis). This consists of inflammation of the tonsils and of the subjacent mucous membrane. Symptoms.— Heat, redness, and rapid swelling of the tonsils, with hoarseness, severe throbbing pain, difficult swallowing and expectoration, and general fever. If prompt and skillful means be employed, the pain, swelling, and other inflammatory symptoms gradually subside; otherwise matter forms, indicated by rigors, throbbing, and darting pains, extending to the ears. Causes.— The predisposing are, scrofulous consti- tution, abuse of mercury, and previous attacks of quinsy; the exciting are, cold, atmospheric changes, wet feet, etc. Treatment.—Aconitum.— Sore throat, with gen- eral feverish symptoms — chills, thirst, headache, dizziness and restlessness. Generally required at the commencement. Belladonna.—Acute, bright-red, sore throat, with heat, dryness, and painful difficulty in swallowing, 162 Affections of the Mouth, Nose, etc. flushed face and headache. A valuable remedy, either after, or in alternation with, Aconitum. Mercurius.— Swollen throat; copious accumula- tion of saliva in the mouth; swelling of the gums and of the tongue; shooting pain on swallowing; an inclination to swallow the saliva, although painful; a disagreeable taste in the mouth; foetid odor of the breath; ulcers on the sides of the mouth; pains extend- ing from the throat to the ear. Dose and administration.— In acute cases, a dose every one or two hours, at first; in sub-acute, every three or four hours; during convalescence, every six or twelve hours. If swallowing be extremely difficult or impossible, two drops of the tincture of the remedy selected, on a small piece of sugar, placed on the tongue. Accessory Means.— In severe cases, a hot poul- tice across the throat extending nearly to each ear; in mild cases, the wet compress, described page 106, may be applied. Frequent inhalation of the steam of hot water, or a warm milk-and-water gargle, will be found soothing and useful. The patient should remain in- doors, and, in bad cases, in bed. vii.— mumps (Parotitis). This complaint consists of inflammatory swelling of the salivary glands, especially those below the ears, frequently with pain, soreness, and difficulty in movino- the jaws. A curious circumstance connected with this disease is, that as the swelling of the neck and throat subsides, there is liability to swelling and ten- Derbyshire Neck—Goitre. 163 derness of the testicles of the male, and the mamma! in the female, especially when the swelling subsides suddenly, as on exposure to cold, or from cold appli- cations. Treatment.— Mercurius is the first and chief remedy, and is generally sufficient to effect a cure. A dose three times daily. Belladonna.— Severe pain, with a tendency to deli- rium ; mumps following measles, or with an erysipel- atous inflammation. Accessory Means.— The parts may be fomented two or three times a day with warm water, and in the interval, covered with a flannel bandage. The patient should be protected from cold, damp, or excitement. VIII.--DERBYSHIRE NECK--GOITRE (Bronchocele). A chronic enlargement of the thyroid gland. The swelling is painless, and attended with but little danger, unless it so increases as to interfere with swallowing and breathing. Women are more subject to it than men, in the proportion of twelve to one. It is commonly met with in chalky districts and moun- tainous countries, and in the latter is often associated with cretinism. Cause.— A specific action of water taken as a beverage, from rocks of magnesian limestone. Diffi- cult labors, uterine ailments, twists of the neck, etc, may be exciting causes. Treatment.— Spongia is the principal remedy for reducing the swelling; a dose night and morning for 164 Affections of the Mouth, Nose, etc. a week; then, after pausing a few days, the course may be repeated as often as it does good. Calcarea, Mer. iod., Iodine, Sulphur, etc., are remedies often required. We have sometimes con- joined external applications of the same drug as used internally with excellent results. If indigestion or uterine disease exist, it should, if possible, be cor- rected. CHAPTER VIII. AFFECTIONS OF THE SKIN { Cutaneous Diseases). I.--ITCHING OF THE skin (Prurigo). This condition consists of an eruption on various parts of the body, sometimes nearly imperceptible, which occasions the irritation. Causes. — Rich, indigestible food, stimulating drinks, extreme heat or cold, a constitutional taint, chronic disease, etc. Treatment. — Sulphur. — Severe itching, with dryness of the skin, worse in the evening, or in bed. This is a prominent remedy. A dose twice or thrice daily for a week. Carbo veg.— Obstinate cases, and when Sulphur only partially cures. Aconitum.— Itching, with heat, and redness of the skin, and the symptoms are worse at night. Rhus tox.— Itching, swelling, and redness. Arsenicum.— Itching with burning, or an eruption emitting a small drop of watery fluid like' sweat; chronic cases with constitutional feebleness. Calc, Merc, Hepar., and Puis., are also remedies in our list, sometimes required. 166 Affections of the Skin. Accessory Means.— The skin must be strength- ened by daily ablutions with cold or tepid water, sponging, shower-baths, etc., and frequent exercise taken in a bracing air. Stimulating food or drink, pastry, fat or indigestible food, and irregular hours of diet, must be avoided. Without these measures, medicines will be of little permanent use. The appli- cation of ointments may transfer the disease from the skin to some internal organ, where it might become serious. In severe cases, temporary relief may be obtained by bathing the parts with alcohol and water, in equal proportions, or sponging the skin with a warm infusion made by pouring boiling water on bran. If the irritation or eruption is limited, the use of a wet compress over the parts will be beneficial, although at first it may increase the irritation. Itch (Scabies).— All is not itch which itches. The itch is a vesicular eruption produced by the presence of the acarus scabiei or itch mite: the insect is not found in the vesicle, but a short distance from it. A faint red line marks the course of the canal which he has burrowed from the vesicle to his place of residence. The eruption is found chiefly between the fingers, about the joints, and in the bends of the elbows; sel- dom, if ever, on the face; the itching is much more intense after getting warm in bed. Sulphur should be given internally once or twice a day, and the parts affected washed with a lotion of Ledum, or smeared with lard. If lard alone does not answer, use lard and Sulphury, as much flowers of sulphur as will cover a five-cent piece (nickel) well mixed with a ,tea-cup of lard. This may be well rubbed into the surface affected.—Dr. Ship/nan's Homoeopathic Guide. Prairie Itch. 167 PRAIRIE ITCH--SEVEN YEARS' ITCH. This distressing ailment is very common on the prairies of the Mississippi Valley, and is thought by some to be caused by certain chemical substances peculiar to the soil of that region. The eruption appears much like that of the common itch—but affects the hands less than other portions of the body. The vesicles usually show themselves first upon the under surface of the thigh and arms. In bad or neglected cases, the whole surface of the body becomes more or less involved, covering the person with small eruptions containing a watery, acrid fluid which, when the intense itching leads to violent scratching, is dis- charged, and excoriates the surrounding surface, soon causing a crop of scabby ulcers, filled with yellowish matter. The eruption sometimes affects the scalp, and the hair is filled with these running sores, so that the patient is rendered a great sufferer, and an object of disgust to all around him. The disease can be cured by proper treatment, but seems to affect the system for several years, so that after intervals of many weeks or even months, it will seem to be breaking out afresh. Treatment.— Hepar sulph. 6th three times daily, using externally a lotion of the 3rd trituration of the same medicine dissolved in glycerine, ten grains tp the ounce. After three days obtain the 30th attenua- tion of Hepar sulph., and give a dose morning and night. Cases which have been neglected until the surface of the body or of the head is much excoriated, *?-r> best treated by abundant applications of Tar i6fl Affections of the Skin. ointment, besides the internal remedy mentioned above. At any fresh appearance of the eruption, give promptly the 30th of Hepar. Dr. Rowsey has written a very interesting pam- phlet on this subject. It can be procured at the pharmacies for 25 cents. 11.— nettle rash — hives (Urticaria) Symptoms.— Similar to those produced by nettle- stings. There are white elevations in irregular streaks or wheals, especially well marked after scratching or exposure to cold; much itching; the eruption often disappears suddenly from one part and shows itself in another, the spots contain no fluid, and end in scaling of the skin. It is not contagious, and may trouble the same patient again and again. Treatment.— Ant. crud.— Urticaria from gastric disturbances. Dulcamara.— From cold, with much stinging. Rhus tox.—From eating shell-fish, etc A conitum.—With feverishness. Calcarea.—Chronic nettle-rash, especially in scrofu- lous patients. Dose and administration, see page 46. General Treatment.—Smearing with bacon fat gives great relief. A dry, uniform, and moderate temperature, plain food, exercise in the open air, and great cleanliness, are most essential. Ulcers. 169 III.--ULCERS--SORES. * Ulcers may exist as the result of burns, bruises, in- flammation, varicose veins, or constitutional disturb- ance. " The constitutions most liable to ulceration are those which are debilitated by intemperance or privations, taint- ed with syphilis or scrofula, or broken down by the excess- ive use of mercury, or in which the blood is impure from inaction of the liver, skin and kidneys. The parts most disposed to it are those in which circulation is most lan- guid, such as the lower extremities. On this account, tall persons are more fiequently affected with ulcers than short ones." Treatment.—Ulcers require great care, and many can only be successfully treated by a Homoeopathic practitioner. Kali bich.—Ulcers on the leg, deep, with hard bases and overhanging edges. Belladonna.—Inflamed and painful ulcers. A rsenicum.—Ulcers with burning pain, easily dis- charging blood or thin matter, and presenting a livid appearance. it Carbo veg. may follow, or be alternated with, Ars., the ulcer have an offensive smell. Silicea.—Simple ulcers. Hep. sulph., or Sulph., may also be required. General Treatment.—A little soft linen or lint, wetted in cold water, placed on the sore, covered with oiled-silk, and lightly bound up with a bandage. A Calendula lotion may be occasionally substituted for the simple water compress. Ulcers on the legs re- * For details, etc., see the " Vade Mecum." 8 170 Affections of the Skin. quire rest, the horizontal posture, and constitutional treatment. Out-of-door exercise should be taken; especially during recovery, but much standing, or sitting with the leg hanging down, is unfavorable. iv.— boils (Furunculi). These are inflamed, pointed tumors, painful and tender, of a deep red color, terminating in suppura- tion. Boils generally indicate a disordered condition of the blood, as the result of insufficient, poor, or indigestible food. They are most common in grow- ing persons. Treatment.—Arnica relieves the pain, soreness, and tenderness of the boils. A dose every three or four hours, for several times. Belladonna.—An excellent remedy for arresting and destroying boils in their early stage. Hepar sulphur. — Pain of a pulsative character, indicative of suppuration, the point of the tumor changing to a whitish or livid color. This medicine facilitates the suppurative process, and may prevent its extension afterwards. Sulphur.—To prevent a recurrence of boils. General Treatment. — As soon as Hepar sul- phur is indicated, a poultice, covered with oiled-silk, should be applied, and over all, one or two thicknesses of flannel. As soon as the poultice gets cold it should be renewed until suppuration is completed.* To pre- * In "The Homceopathic Guide" (Dr. Shipman) it is re- commended to bind upon the boil the half of a ripe tomato, which removes the inflammation quickly. When tomatoes cannot be had, the Tomato poultice or the Tomato cerate is used. They can be had of the Pharmaceutist. Chilblains. 171 vent a recurrence of boils, attention must be directed to their causes. If derangement of the digestive organs be the cause, abstinence from seasoned dishes, pastry, sweetmeats, etc., is necessary; at the same time, a generous diet, including animal food once a dav, should be adopted. Correct diet, cold bathing, and recreation in the open air, will go far towards eradicating a predisposition to boils. v.—chilblains (Perniones). Chilblains consist of a low kind of inflammation of the skin, generally of the hands or feet, and are attended with itching, tingling, burning, swelling, and some- times ulceration. Chapped Hands.—This affection consists of slight inflammation of the skin of the back of the hands, which becomes cracked or " chapped." It occurs in frosty weather, when it sometimes gives rise to much inconvenience and pain. It requires similar external treatment to Chilblains* Causes.—Exposure to cold, damp, or to sudden changes of temperature; constitutional tendency. Treatment.— Tamus communis, in nearly all cases, either removes the disease, or affords material relief. Unbroketi chilblains should be painted morn- ing and night with the strong Tincture of Tamus, or it may be used as a lotion. Should the skin be broken or ulcers exist, Calendula should be substituted for Tamus, and applied as a lotion, or in the form of ♦The Calendula and Glycerine Jelly is a most excellent and elegant preparation for chapped hands and lips. It can be had of any Homoeopathic Pharmaceutist. 172 Affections of the Skin. cerate.* Internal treatment is generally required for chilblains. Arnica.—Hard, shining skin; pain and itching of the parts. At the same time the strong tincture of Arnica may be used externally for unbroken chilblains. Belladonna.—Inflammation, pulsative pains, fiery redness, and swelling. Arsenicutn.—Burning pain, accompanied by ulcera- tion, especially in emaciated children. Sulphur. — Chilblains of a blue-red color, with itching, aggravated by warmth. Also to remove the constitutional tendency. Accessory Means. — If ulceration takes place, apply poultices to the parts, or other mild applications until relieved. Pork, salted meats, and all irritating or indigestible articles of food, should be excluded from the dietary. Extremes of temperature are to be avoided, such as a cold stone floor, and warming the feet on a fender, or the hands close to the fire. After washing them, the hands should be well dried. The soreness of chapped hands may be much mitigated by wrapping them in a water bandage and covering them with oiled-silk on retiring to bed. vi.—warts ( Verruca). Treatment. — Thuja. — The warts should be painted once or twice daily with the matrix tincture; at the same time a dilution of the same medicine may be taken internally night and morning. The internal use of Thuja is especially necessary when the warts * See mention of the Quaker Liniment, under Burns, page 190. Corns. 173 appear in crops. This course may be followed for a week or ten days, and if improvement ensues, as it almost invariably does, the treatment should be con- tinued longer. If Thuja does not succeed, Rhus tox. may be substituted, and used both internally and externally in the same way. Sulphur, once a day for a week or two, is an excel- lent remedy for numerous and obstinate warts upon the hands. It is also useful after other medicines, to eradicate the predisposition. vii.—corns (Calvi Pedis). Causes.—Long-continued pressure or ftiction, or both combined. Treatment.—If treatment is required in addition to that pointed out under " accessory means," the fol- lowing remedies may be considered: Calcarea, Sulph., Silicea. A dose of the selected remedy morn- ing and night, for a week or ten days. After waiting a few days, if necessary, the same or another remedy may be administered. Accessory Means.—Corns can only be eradicated by wearing easily-fitting boots and shoes, frequently washing the feet, and change of stockings. As soon as corns appear, the surrounding skin should be softened by a warm foot-bath, the hard head of the corn gently extracted with the finger-nail, or some con- venient instrument, and the thickened skin pared off with a sharp knife; the corn should then be dressed with Arnica-lotion (thirty drops to a wine-glassful of water), and next morning a piece of Arnica-plaster, 174 Affections of the Skin. or an Arnicated corn-plaster, having a hole punched out of its centre, applied. The dressing may be repeated until the inconvenience be removed. vm.—whitlow (Panaris). This is an inflammatory swelling at the end of the Snger, with a tendency to suppuration. Causes.—Cutting the nail to the quick; a bruise, burn, or other mechanical injury; the introduction of poisonous or acrid matter into scratches on the finger; unhealthy constitution. Treatment.—Silicea.—This is one of the first and best remedies for whitlow, and if administered early will often prevent its maturation. If necessary, at the same time, a warm bread-and-milk poultice may be applied, and the finger held in a raised position. Aconitum and Belladonna, in alternation, every three hours, if there is much pain, redness, throbbing, thirst, restlessness, etc. Hepar sulphur, every four hours, if suppuration is going on. ix.—ringworm (Herpes circinnatus). Symptoms.—Small round vesicles, filled with clear or yellow fluid, mostly on the head, at the roots of the hair, and on various parts of the skin. The rings or patches vary in size from a shilling to that of a crown-piece. There is much itching, and in old- standing cases the whole scalp may be implicated; but the general health is rarely disturbed. Shingles.—When ringworm encircles the waist, it is called Shingles or Zona. It occurs in inflamed Ringworm. «75 patches of clustered vesicles in the form of a band, nearly always on the right side of the body. Causes.—It is an epidemic affection, but ill-health, poor food, dark and badly-ventilated dwellings, etc, favor the spread and activity of the affection. Treatment.—Rhus tox. is indicated when the skin is red, painful, and irritable, secretes greenish matter, and there is nocturnal itching. A dose every four hours. Sulphur.—Obstinate eruption, or when fresh places break out, with smarting and itching. A dose thrice daily for four or five days; afterwards twice daily for a week or two. Sepia, Ars., Lye, Calc or Hepar sulph. may sometimes be required. General Treatment.—Cleanliness, and change of air are of gi'eat importance. When the complaint affects the hairy scalp, the hair should be cut short and the head washed with tepid water, using a little mild soap. The patient's towels, hair brushes, combs, sponges, etc., should, on no account, be used by those unaffected. The hair and head should be well brushed, so as to excite the vital action of the skin by the friction. A nutritious diet is recommended; also an occasional tepid bath. Scrofulous, emaciated children may require a teaspoonful of cod-liver oil twice a day. Sudden and extreme changes of tem- perature should be avoided. Popular remedies—ink, tobacco-water, etc, are dangerous. CHAPTER IX. HASMORRHA GES {Losses of Blood.y The term " haemorrhage" means the escape of blood from those vessels in which it is naturally con- tained, whether the discharge be external, or into one of the internal cavities of the body. Haemorrhages of all kinds being dangerous, and the results, even after the discharge of blood has ceased, are often so serious, that it is most undesirable, except in emer- gencies, to trust to domestic treatment. In considera- tion, however, of the frequently unexpected nature of such occurrences, the impossibility of securing at all times the immediate attendance of a medical man, and the importance of being prepared to act promptly to afford temporary relief, we devote a short chapter on the immediate treatment of several forms of haemor- rhage of most frequent occurrence. i.—spitting (Haemoptysis) or vomiting (Hamate- mesis) of blood, from rupture of a blood- vessel. It is not necessary here to determine whether the blood comes from the lungs or stomach, as the imme- diate treatment should be the same in either case. It may be stated, however, that when blood comes from the lungs it is of a bright red color, is discharged with coughing, and is often frothy; but when from Spitting or Vomiting of Blood. 177 the stomach, it is of a dark color, is vomited, and is someti tries mixed with food. Calmness and judgment are especially necessary, as the discharge of considera- ble quantities of blood is otherwise likely to cause such alarm, both in the patient and his friends, as to unfit them for carrying out those prudent measures which are necessary for recovery. Treatment.—Aco?iitum.—Chiefly indicated when flushed face, palpitation, and anguish accompany the haemorrhage; or for the premonitory symptoms in frequent attacks, such as shiverings, quick pulse, pal- pitation, etc. One drop of tincture, in a spoonful of water, repeated in ten or fifteen minutes, or in one, two, or three hours. For the immediate treatment, see under " Accessory Means." A mica.— Haemorrhage from a fall, blow, or severe exertion. If inflammatory symptoms predominate, Am. and Aeon, may be administered alternately. (Hamamelis is often a better remedy.) Ipecacuanha.— Paleness of the face, frequent incli- nation to vomit, short cough, expectoration streaked with blood. Often useful after Aeon., and before the administration of China or Ars. China.— Chiefly required after haemorrhage for removing the consequent debility. Its chief indica- cations are, frequent taste of blood, shivering, flushes, dizziness, feeble pulse, cold hands or feet, fainting, etc A rsenicum.— Difficult breathing, extreme palpit«- tation of the heart, anguish, burning heal and thirst, small and quick pulse. 178 Haemorrhages. Accessory Means.— The patient should imme- diately lie down on a sofa or mattrass, with the head and shoulders elevated. All tight-fitting articles of dress should be removed, and the patient kept cool and quiet, and on no account be allowed to talk. There must be no crowding round him, no noise or confusion, and the room be kept cool and airy, at about 550 Fahr. No food is for some time admissible, and the only drink that can be allowed is a little cold water, or he may suck ice. Should faintness occur, no alarm need be excited, as it is often nature's method of arresting the bleeding. After the haemorrhage has ceased, the patient must still be kept cool and quiet, and the diet be light and unstimulating, while the position of the body should be such as to favor the efflux of blood from the bleeding organ. These measures are necessary to obviate a recurrence of the symptoms. Sometimes haemorrhage is vicarious, as in females, when bleeding from the nose or stomach takes the place of the menstrual discharge. In such cases the treatment should be directed to the establish- ment or restoration of the monthly period. Caution.— As before suggested, the general and medicinal hints here given are only intended for cases of emergency; and the patient should be placed as quickly as possible under the care of a Homoeopathic physician. II.--BLEEDING FROM THE NOSE (Epistaxis). Bleeding from the nose is of frequent occurrence in children; a fit of sneezing or coughing, a slight blow, Bleeding from the Nose. 179 severe exercise, or even the heat of summer, often serving as the exciting cause. Bleeding from the nose also occurs in the course of many diseases, or at their termination, and often affords considerable relief. It should not be interfered with unless it is excessive, recurs too frequendy, or takes place under a weak state of the system. When it arises from injuries, 01 in patients already reduced by disease, and is excessive, remedies should be given. Cause.—Undue fullness of the blood-vessels of the head; local disease of the nostrils; or a constitutional haemorrhagic diathesis. In men it frequently succeeds suppression of the haemorrhoidal discharge, and in young women it may be vicarious of the menstrual function. Under peculiar conditions of the constitu- tion, epistaxis often occurs periodically in some adult persons, and then its cessation, without judicious treat- ment, may become a source of danger. Treatment.— Aconitum.— Bleeding after being over-heated, or in plethoric persons, with fever, strong pulsations of the arteries of the temples and neck, and full and hurried pulse. A dose every twenty to thirty minutes, for several times. Arnica.— Haemorrhage from external violence, a blow, fall, or excessive bodily exertion, preceded by heat and itching of the nose. Pulsatilla.— In females, from suppressed or scanty monthly discharge, Pulsatilla or Bryonia, according to the symptoms present* China.— If the loss of blood has been such as to * See " The Lady's Manual," by the Author. iSo Haemorrhages. weaken the patient, producing paleness, fainting, etc. A dose three or four times daily for a week or ten days. At the same time the food should be nourish- ing, and taken at regular hours, avoiding, of course, over-repletion. Thlaspi.—The '•'•Distilled Extract" of Thlaspi has proven a valuable remedy in severe cases of nose- bleed. Dose: five drops in a teaspoonful of water, repeated in five minutes if necessary. A little of the extract may also be poured into the hand and snuffed up the nostril. Accessory Measures.— So long as the haemor- rhage continues, the patient should be kept standing, that position favoring fainting, which, as before remarked, often arrests bleeding. All stimulating food and drink must be withheld, and every circum- stance likely to quicken the circulation avoided. Cold is a most successful means of arresting haemor- rhage; it may be applied to the nose or forehead by a handkerchief wetted in cold water, or by ice, or by the sudden application of cold water to the neck or back, or by placing a cold key or any other iron instrument to the spine. In these latter instances, the influence of cold is not restricted to the part to which it is immediately applied; the bleeding is arrested by the sympathetic constriction of blood-vessels which it produces in remote parts. In most cases, however, the simple plan of causing the patient to raise his arms above his head, and holding them so for a little time, promptly arrests haemorrhage. Plethoric patients, predisposed to this complaint, or to congestions, should lead a temperate life, avoid Bleeding from the Urinary Organs. 181 stimulants, use frequent ablutions of cold water, and take moderate exercise daily in the open air, avoiding at the same time sudden changes of temperature. Immoderate exertion and much stooping are injurious. Delicate persons, of spare habit, on the other hand, will be benefited by nourishing food. III.--BLEEDING FROM THE URINARY ORGANS (Hematuria). The source of the haemorrhage may be the kidneys, the bladder, the prostate gland, or the urethra. Causes.— Haemorrhage from the kidneys may be due to the irritation of renal calculi, blows on the loins, congestion resulting from scarlet fever, inflammation, and by such diseases as typhus, scurvy, etc Haemor- rhage from the prostate gland, bladder, or urethra, may be caused by the introduction of instruments, the irritation of stone, venereal disease, abuse of Spanish- fly, or by the existence of an ulcer or tumor, of which, indeed, it is often the first manifestation. Diagnosis.— Haemorrhage, from the bladder may be recognized by the discharge taking place principally after the escape of urine; and the quantity is also greater, and often the clots are larger and more irregu- lar, than when derived from the kidneys; the severe pain in the lumbar region, the intimate admixture of the blood with the urine, and other symptoms that accompany the bleeding from the kidney, are not present. Treatment.— Similar remedies to those prescribed for " Retention of urine," which see. l82 Haemorrhages. Cantharis.— Discharge of pure blood in drops, or copiously blended with the urine, especially when associated with difficulty in passing water, scalding urine, and spasmodic pains in the region of the bowels. Camphor.— If the disease has arisen from the use of Spanish-fly (Cantharis), after the allopathic method of administering that poison. Arnica.—Hasmorrhage from external violence, strains, or severe efforts. If the patient is robust, and inflammatory symptoms predominate, Aconitum may be alternated with this remedy. A dose every hour for several times; afterwards Arnica only, every four or six hours. Accessory Meaxs.— Demulcent drinks, such as linseed-tea, gum-water, etc., may be taken in consid- erable quantities. The cold compress, covered with oiled-silk, over the loins, if the haemorrhage proceeds from the kidneys, or over the whole region of the bladder, if the bleeding proceeds from that organ, will mitigate the pain, and favor a more rapid cure. IV.--HEMORRHAGE FROM THE WOMB AND VAGINA — flooding (Metrorrhagia). This may occur under various conditions, many of which are of such an intricate character as to be quite unintelligible to non-professional readers; indeed, it would require a considerable treatise to describe the various functional and organic derangements of the womb, of which haemorrhage is but a symptom. We will, therefore, only suggest such remedies and n;e.i- Hemorrhagic Diathesis. 183 sures, as may be used until medical aid can be obtained, and those most likely to be immediately beneficial, without prescribing for the removal of the cause of die haemorrhage. Aconitum.— Heat and feverishness, at the com- mencement of the discharge, or when the first symp- toms are present. A dose every hour for several times; afterwards, one of the annexed. Ipecacuanha.— Copious flooding, and when the discharge is bright-red. Secale.— Discharge dark and offensive, increased by movement or coughing; loss of contractive power in the uterine fibres; paleface, coldness of the extremities, extreme weakness. Arnica.—Either alone or in alternation with Aeon. when the haemorrhage follows a fall, strain, mis-step, over-exertion, or mechanical injury. Ignatia.—Haemorrhage with hysteria Accessory Means.—The patient should lie down quietly on a hard mattrass, and move as little as pos- sible; the mind be kept calm, and order and quietness maintained in the apartment. Bleeding from the Rectum, see " Hemor- rholds" and '-Dysentery." V.--HEMORRHAGIC DIATHESIS. In some patients a predisposition to haemorrhage exists which appears to be hereditary, and is designated the hemorrhagic diathesis. This condition probably consists in defective contractility of the arteries, which may also be fragile or soft from diseased pro- 184 Haemorrhages. cesses, and so are unable to resist the forces of the cir- culation, especially in congestion; and of loss of coagulability of blood, from a defective or altered character of the fibrine, the chief agent in coagulation, and of some change in the red corpuscles. Hence the most trivial wound bleeds almost uncontrollably, and even life may be jeopardized by a slight injury or surgical operation. The haemorrhagic diathesis may may not in all cases be hereditary, but caused by dis- eases of internal organs, such as the liver and spleen, which exert a deleterious influence upon the constitu- ents of the blood. The knowledge of the existence of such a diathesis is most important, as it would mate- rially modify the medical and surgical treatment of the patient. CHAPTER X A CCIDENTS* I.—WOUNDS. Wounds of the soft parts are of four kinds.—Incised, made by clean cutting instruments; punctured, the depth exceeding the breadth, such as stabs; lacerated,' the parts being torn and the lips of the wounds irre- gular; and contused, or a bruise. Treatment.—The following are the chief points: ist. To arrest the bleeding. In most cases, the eleva- tion of the part, keeping the bleeding surface upper- most, the application of cold, moderate pressure, and the coaptation of the edges of the wound, will suffice. A Calendula \ lotion will serve to arrest hemorrhage, and check suppuration. In severe wounds involving arteries, the parts should be laid open by a surgeon, and the wounded vessels ligatured. See also further on. 2nd.— The removal of foreign bodies.—Dirt, hairs, glass, clots of blood, etc, should be speedily removed by the fingers, forceps, or sponge and water. * For ampler details of treatment, and other accidents not included in this manual, consult the Author's ''Vade Mecum of Modern Medicine and Surgery." + See Materia Medica, " Calendula." 186 A ccidcnts. 3rd.— To bring the injured parts into nice apposi- tion.—Any muscular fibres likely to prevent complete union should be relaxed or divided, and after the sides of the wound have been accurately adjusted, they must be kept so by strips of adhesive plaster, first applied to that side of the wound which is most moveable, and then secured to the other. But, in extensive wounds, where plaster would be insufficient, sutures (stitches) should be employed. 4th.— To promote adhesion.—To secure this, the part should be kept at rest, and, if the injury is severe, the patient should remain in bed. 5th.—When a wound is dressed, say once in eveiy twenty-four hours, a rag should be wetted with warm water, and laid over the dressing, so that it may be removed without the risk of disturbing the surfaces which may have partially united. Often the lotion may be renewed by removing the oiled-silk only, and pour- ing a little lotion on the rag or lint by means of a spoon, and then replacing the oiled-silk. 6th.— To control dangerous bleeding, as from a sharp cutting instrument. If the blood flows in a steady stream, and is dark colored, it is from a vein, and can generally be checked by applying cold water, and exposing the cut surface to the cold air. But if large veins are wounded, they should be compressed with the fingers, or by a bandage. A few thicknesses of linen, with steady compression, are more efficient than heaping on a large quantity. If the blood is bright-red, and flows in jets, it is arterial, and the same means must be adopted as just pointed out, unless the bleeding is excessive, in which case a hand- Bruises. 187 kerchief should be tied round the limb, near the wound, and between it and the heart; ^ stick inserted under the handkerchief, and a firm compress over the course of the blood-vessel; the stick should then be twisted until it stops the circulation, and, consequently, the bleeding. But such means are only temporary, as wounded arteries of size require to be ligatured by a surgeon before bleeding can be permanently arrested. If no surgeon can be obtained, a clever manipulator should grasp the wounded artery with a pair of for- ceps, and draw it slightly and gently forward, so that it may be securely tied by means of a strong ligature of silk. yth.—Should a wound or bruise be followed by constitutional disturbance, fever, chills, and throbbing in the parts, internal medicines should be administered. Arnica (as prepared for internal use) and Aconitum will generally meet the requirements of such cases, and should be administered every one to three hours in alternation, for several times. Belladonna.—A few doses, if the injured part is very painful and swollen. Hepar sulph., when suppuration is established. Silicea, if the suppuration is unhealthy. 11.—bruises (Contusions) black eye, etc Treatment.—In the less severe form of bruises, which alone comes under domestic treatment, the object should be to excite as speedily as possible the absorption of extravasated blood. The bruised part should, if practicable, be raised, and a warm Arnica 188 Accidents. lotion (one part of the, tincture to ten of water) applied by means of lint saturated with the lotion, covered with oiled-silk, and secured by a bandage. A black eye may generally be prevented by Arnica lotion, applied immediately after the injury. hi.—cuts. Treatment. — A moderate-sized cut requires nothing more than the bringing together of the edges of the gaping wound, and maintaining them so by narrow strips of strapping-plaster; then, if necessary, the application of lint, saturated with Calendula lotion* covered with oiled-silk, and a bandage over all. In two or three days the plaster should be removed without disturbing the union, and replaced by new. See also the section, " Wounds." iv.—sprains. Treatment.—The chief point is to keep the parts at perfect rest, by means of a roller nicely applied, and to control the motions of the joint by a splint. In some cases the application of rags, saturated with Arnica- or Rhus-lotion, and covered with oiled-silk, will hasten the cure. When the pain and swelling subside, the joint may be partially liberated, and gentle motion allowed; but the greatest care must be observed for several weeks in using the limb, as the injury may easily be rein- duced, and then the cure becomes difficult and tedious. * See Materia Medica, " Calendula." Burns and Scalds. 189 V.--FATIGUE AND OVER-EXERTION. If the feet are swollen or blistered, or the ankles ache after walking, a warm foot-bath may be used, to which a teaspoonful of the strong tincture of Arnica is added, the relief afforded being immediate and per- manent. If the hands or wrists ache from excessive or unaccustomed exertion, they may be bathed in about a pint of water, to which twenty or thirty drops of Arnica have been added. If necessary, in one or two hours, the application may be repeated. In mus- cular fatigue from long-continued, or short but severe, exertion, affecting the hips, thighs, etc., a hip-bath, to which a drachm of the strong tincture of A mica has been added, is an excellent remedy. The patient should remain in the bath about five minutes. What- ever kind of bath is used, and to whatever part applied, it should be warm if used in the evening or immediately after exertion, but cold in the morning. VI.--BURNS AND SCALDS. Severe injuries from burns or scalds, especially those implicating large surfaces, are very dangerous, and often fatal. The subjoined treatment has reference only to slight cases. Treatment. — A most important object to be attained is to cover the injured parts with some suit- able material that will exclude atmospheric air, which should not be removed till the cure is complete. The following are the local applications most frequently used: (1.) Cotton-Wool.—This should be immediately 190 Accidents. used to cover thoroughly the burnt part, after well saturating it with oil. It must be so closely applied and in such layers as to preclude the access of air. If the wound is large, and the cotton becomes hard and uncomfortable, it should be softened by pouring a little oil upon it, without removing it. The application of a lotion of Cantharides (5 drops of the tincture to an ounce of water), under the cotton-wool is of great service, especially when blisters have formed. (2.) Soap.—Moisten white or brown soap in water, and rub it on a piece of linen so that the soap forms a coating on the linen as thick as a shilling, and larger than the wound it is intended to cover, so that it may the more perfectly exclude the air. (3.) Flour or Starch.—These are excellent substi- tutes in the event of either of the above not being at hand. The finest wheaten flour or finely powdered starch, should be uniformly and thickly applied by an ordinary dredger, so as to form a thick crust by admix- ture with the fluids discharged from the broken sur- face, thus excluding the air. It should be repeated when any portions fall off. Without doubt, a compound known for many years as The Quaker Burn Liniment, is the most prompt and efficient application for burns and chilblains that has ever been devised. It removes the pain of the most severe burns almost instantly, and if applied at once will even prevent the blistering. Its effect in removing the distress caused by chilblains is equally remarkable. It is prepared by the action of sulphuric acid upon flax-seed and turpentine oils. Knowing for many years its excellency in these uses, and aware of its chemical composition — Mr. Halsey—> Broken Bones 191 the publisher of this book, has secured the sale of this Liniment for the United States of America. Having selected the local remedy, the points of greatest importance are, its immediate application to the burn, the complete exclusion of atmospheric air, and the changing of the dressings as infrequently as possible, not, indeed, until they have become loosened or foetid from the discharges. A complete change of dressing often causes pain, depression, and the detach- ment of portions of the new skin, and so retards the cure. If, after the removal of the first dressing, ulcers exist, Calendula or Glycerine cerate will be a most suitable application. If there is much discharge, it should be carefully and frequently removed, and the parts kept as cleanly as possible. Internal treatment, except in slight cases, is always necessary, and must be suited to the part injured, its extent, and the constitutional symptoms present. As a general rule, Aconitum, early, does good, by allaying febrile symptoms, mitigating pain, and moderating reaction. vii.—broken bones (Fractures). A few words on broken bones seem necessary in this manual, as a surgeon is not always immediately acces- sible, and it is necessary to be prepared to act till sur- gical attendance can be had. Symptoms.—A fractured or broken bone may gene- rally be detected by having felt it snap; there is also 192 Accidents. some deformity, such as bending or shortening, and if the upper end of the bone is held firmly by the hand, the lower part may be moved independently; also, if the broken ends are rubbed against each other, a grating noise (crepitus) may be heard. There will, further, be pain, loss of power of the broken part, and other symptoms. Causes.—Mechanical violence is the most frequent; but muscular contraction is sometimes a cause. Old age, some diseases, and prolonged disuse of a limb, render bones very liable to fracture from trifling causes. Immediate Treatment.—The patient must be moved gently, and special care taken to prevent the broken bones being forced through the flesh and skin. He should be placed on a stretcher or litter, and taken to his home or to a hospital. A litter may be made of a couple of poles and a horse- cloth or sack; even a door or hurdle may serve the purpose. Placed on this, and carried by two men, is much better than removing him in a cart or carriage. It is important not to be in a hurry, as an injury is often greatly aggravated by carelessness or too hurried measures. When a surgeon is within a moderate distance, after making the patient as comfortable as possible, it is better to wait a little, so that he may superintend the moving. If there is a wound in the skin and much bleeding, see " Wounds," page 185. When the patient has been placed on a firm bed or mattrass, and the injured part examined, the surgeon wiH bring the broken ends of the bone into close Strangulated Rupture. 193 apposition, and in their natural form, and having done so, maintain them in perfect contact, and at rest, till firm union has taken place. To maintain the proper shape and length of the limb, bandages, splints, and various apparatus are required. Beyond the mere management of such accidents, however, till he arrives, a surgeon only can treat such cases. A broken leg should be fastened to the whole one by handkerchiefs at the ankle, and above and below the knee, before the patient is removed. Fracture of the arm requires the immediate support of a sling, which may be made by a handker- chief and fastened round the neck. Broken ribs require a flannel bandage, about two hands broad, round the chest, and have shoulder straps to keep it up. A rather tight-fitting bandage lessens the movement of the chest in breathing, and is a great comfort. vni.—strangulated rupture (Hernia) Nature.—Rupture is a protrusion of some portion of the intestines through the walls of the abdomen, causing a swelling. If this becomes constricted in any way, so that the contents of the bowel cannot pass onwards, and the circulation of blood is impeded, it is said to be strangulated. Symptoms.—A painful, tense, and incompressible swelling; flatulence, and colicky pains; obstruction; desire to go to stool, and inability to pass anything, unless there be any faecal matter in the bowel below the rupture. If relief is not obtained, inflammation 9 194 Accidents. sets in, with vomiting, extreme pain, small wiry pulse, etc.; and, finally, mortification, with cessation of pain, and death. Causes.— Weakness of the abdominal walls from disease, injury, or congenital deficiency; violent exer- tion, as in lifting; immoderate straining, as in pas- sing urine through a stricture, or in relieving the bowels. Treatment.—Lose no time in trying to push the tumor back into the abdomen, as the patient lies doubled up, and the hips raised. If not quickly suc- cessful, lay the patient on a board, placed so as to form a steep inclined plane, so that the patient's feet and hips are very much higher than his head; he should be firmly held in this posture by an assistant, when, by pressure on the swelling, and often without any, the bowels will fall towards the chest, drawing with them the constricted portion. If the rupture resists these measures, the best surgeon within reach should be immediately sent for. IX.—POISONS. When it is known that a deleterious substance has been swallowed, as arsenic and other mineral poisons, opium, poisonous fish, alcohol, etc., vomiting should be immediately excited, by tickling the back of the throat with a feather or with a finger, and if this fails, by the administration of an emetic. The following is a convenient emetic: mix a teaspoonful of mustard in a teacupful of warm water, for a child, or a dessert- spoonful in a breakfast-cupful of water, for an adult. Drowning. 195 This may be repeated as often as necessary, and fol- lowed by copious draughts of warm water, so as to empty the stomach as completely as possible. The treatment of cases of poisoning must, how- ever, be considerably modified according to the nature of the poison, and a medical man should be sum- moned immediately, while the temporary measures before suggested are resorted to. x.—drowning No time should be lost. The two points to be aimed at are — immediately to restore breathing, and, next, warmth and circulation. The mouth should be cleansed, the tongue drawn forwards, the patient placed on the back, with the head and shoulders a Fig. i—Inspiration. little raised. Take hold of both arms above the elbows, and draw them gently and steadily upwards above the head, and keep them stretched whilst you 196 Accidents. count, one, two. See figure 1* This is inspiration, or filling the chest with air. Then turn down the patient's arms, and press them gently and firmly against the sides of the chest while you count, one, two. See figure 2. This empties the chest of air. Fig. 2 — Expiration. Repeat these movements about fifteen times in a minute, until natural breathing takes place. Next try to promote circulation. Rub the limbs upwards with firm pressure, to favor the return of blood to the heart. Promote warmth by the application of hot flannels, hot bottles wrapped round with flannel, heated bricks, or by any means at hand, to the pit of the stomach, the arm-pits, between the thighs, and to the soles of the feet. * Figs. 1 and 2.—To illustrate the position of the body during the employment of Dr. Sylvester's Method of re- storing Breathing. CHAPTER XI. MISCELLANEOUS DISEASES. I.--RHEUMATISM--RHEUMATIC FEVER. Symptoms.— This disease sets in with general febrile disorder, followed by the attack of acute inflam- mation of the fibrous structures about one or more of the larger joints — the shoulder, elbow, knee, ankle, etc. The affected joints are swollen, tense, slightly reddened, very painful, and the pain so increased by movement that a patient says he has lost the use of the limb. The skin is hot, but covered with a sour sweat, having an offensive odor; the pulse is round and full; the urine turbid; but the head is unaffected. Palpitation, and continued pain in the heart, are unfa- vorable symptoms. The inflammation is liable to metastasis from one joint to another, or to other fibrous structures, as the pericardium, the valves of the heart, etc. (See also under " Gout.") Varieties. —Rheumatism is variously named; when the muscles on one or both sides of the loins are affected, and the pain is increased by movement of the back, it is termed Lumbago (see next section); when the region of the hip-joint, following the course of the sciatic nerve to the knee, or even to the foot, Sciatica ; when the muscles of the chest, False Pleurisy; when the neck, Crick in the Neck, etc. The 198 Miscellaneous Diseases. treatment, however, is nearly the same in the different varieties. Causes.— Exposure to cold and wet; sudden sup- pression of perspiration; and especially evaporation from wet clothes, causing chill. It occurs most often in young people, from twenty to thirty years of age, or younger. Joints which have been sprained, long and excessively exercised, or otherwise injured, are particu- larly prone to suffer. Treatment. — Aconitum. — Acute rheumatism, chiefly at the commencement; violent shooting or tearing pains, aggravated by touch; swelling and red- ness of the affected parts; impaired appetite; high- colored and scanty urine, and other febrile symptoms. A dose every second or third hour. Bryonia.— Lancinating or stitching muscular pains, worse on movement or touch; rheumatism affecting the muscles of the chest, causing difficult or painful breathing (false pleurisy). Rhus tox.— Pains worse during rest, or on first moving the limb, but relieved by continued movement; deep, tearing, or bruised pains; rheumatism from getting wet, aggravated by damp or cold weather. Mercurius.— Puffy swelling of the affected parts; the pains seem to be in the bones, and are worse with warmth and at night; profuse perspiration without relief. Colocynth.— Lacerating, stitching pains, affecting the nerves, as Sciatica and Tic-doloreux; rheumatic- gout. Pulsatilla.— Wandering rheumatism; rheumatism Lumbago, 199 relieved by cold; sensation of torpor in the limbs; pale face; diarrhoea, etc. Sulphur.—Rheumatism in scrofulous patients; and after other remedies, to complete the cure; also as an intercurrent remedy in obstinate cases. Dose and Repetition.—See page 46. Accessory Means.— During the fever, the patient should remain in bed, and the diet be restricted to water, milk-and-water, barley-water, gruel, etc. Warm baths, or hot compresses, are both useful and comfort- ing. Wet-packing of the whole body, or of the affected parts, according to circumstances, is a most useful adjunct.* Chronic Rheumatism.— Chronic rheumatism re- quires similar remedies to the acute form. Persons liable to it should wear flannel and warm clothing generally, and avoid damp and cold. Warm salt, vapor, or hot-air baths are useful. After the use of warm bathing, cold should be gradually tried, as it tends to prevent subsequent attacks. Friction, with Arnica or Rhus Liniment, are beneficial, especially in Lumbago, and other local and limited forms of rheu- matism. Errors in diet should be guarded against, as attacks are very likely to follow derangement of the digestive organs. * Where medical treatment does not give the desired relief, the best resort is galvanism, either by the application of the current from a suitable battery, or by wearing the Voltaic bands and soles. 200 Miscellaneous Diseases. II.--LUMBAGO--PAINS IN THE LOINS. See under " Rheumatism," page 199. Rhus tox.— Chronic lumbago; pains worse during repose, and at night; lumbago from getting wet. Bryonia.— Intense pains, causing the patient tc walk stooping, increased by movement or a draught of air, with shivering or biliousness. Arnica.— From over-lifting, a sprain, or a blow on the loins. Liniments, medicated with the same remedy as administered internally, rubbed into the affected parts are very useful. in.—gout (Podagra). The ancient name of this complaint, podagra — foot pain — indicates the parts usually affected. Causes.— Gout generally occurs in elderly gentle- men who live luxuriously, and suffer much from heartburn, and other symptoms of acid dyspepsia. The predisposing cause is often hereditary. Distinctions between Gout and Rheumatism: 1. Gout rarely occurs till about or after the middle period of life; rheumatism attacks the young. 2. Gout chiefly affects the small joints — the meta- tarsal joint of the great toe; rheumatism the large. 3. Gout is often associated with chalk-stones (urate of soda); rheumatism is not. 4. Gout is decidedly hereditary; rheumatism is less so. 5. Gout is not attended with profuse acid sweats; rheumatism is. Palpitation of the Heart. 201 6. Gout is often the punishment of the luxurious and indolent; rheumatism is the lot of the hard-working and the exposed. Treatment.— Aconitum.— Fever symptoms, es- pecially at the commencement and in stout persons. Arux vomica.— Attacks traceable to stimulants, lux- urious living, with indigestion or irregular action of the bowels. Bryonia.— Gout implicating the chest, or with bilious symptoms; pains increased by movement. Ant-, crud.— Nausea, white-coated tongue, with increase of pains after food. Gouty nodes. Dose, etc., see page 46. Accessory Means.— Flannels wrung out of hot water, or spongio-piline after immersion in hot water, often do good. Preventive Treatment.— The patient should be well nourished, but the consumption of animal food diminished, and the tendency to acidity of the stomach guarded against by avoiding pastry, greasy food, twice-cooked meat, raw vegetables, and port wine. Moderate and regular exercise in the open air, and the sponge-bath every morning. IV.--PALPITATION OF THE HEART (Palpitatio cordis.). In a normal condition we are scarcely sensible of the heart's beat; when, however, its pulsations become much increased in force or frequency, the unpleasant sensation known as palpitation is experienced, Causes.—The predisposing are, nervous tempera- 9* 202 Miscellaneous Diseases. ment, hysteria; a full habit; and diseases of the heart. The exciting causes are, excessive joy, grief, fear, or other mental emotions; severe exertion; profuse dis- charges from the body; menstrual derangements, etc. Treatment.— The subjoined hints are intended for simple cases, unconnected with organic disease of the heart. If possible, palpitation should always be treated by a physician. Aconitum.— Palpitation from excitement, or in plethoric patients, with anxiety, coldness, numbness of the extremities, or a sensation as if the heart ceased to beat; short and hurried breathing; hot and fiushed face. Belladonna.— Oppression, tremor, palpitation ex- tending to the neck and head; congested face. Spigclia.— Palpitation attended with pain at the heart. Ignatia.— Palpitation caused by long-continued, silent grief Coffea.— Wakefulness and nervous restlessness; palpitation from sudden joy. Chamomilla.— Palpitation from passion. Opium.— Palpitation caused by a fright. Pulsatilla.— Hysterical symptoms, and in females, suffering from deranged period. Administration.— During a sudden attack, a dose every thirty to sixty minutes; as the symptoms decline, or in mild cases, every three, six or twelve hours. Accessory Measures.— Excessive exertion, ex- citement, stimulants, and coffee, are injurious. Pure air, cold water internally and externally, moderate Wetting the Bed. 203 exercise, a contented disposition^ arid light, nour- ishing, and regular diet, are excellent auxiliaries. v.— incontinence of urine (Enuresis). In this disease there may be partial or entire loss of power to retain the urine in the bladder, with frequent urging. Causes.—Paralysis of the muscular fibres which surround the neck of the bladder from injuries, tedious and protracted labors,* the pressure of tumors, calcu- lous deposits, syphilitic diseases, the irritation of worms (see the next section), etc. Treatment.— Nux vomica.— Urine retained with difficulty or passed involuntarily, from irritability con- sequent on the use of alcohol. Cantharis.— Acute inflammation of the urinary organs, with irresistible desire to urinate, and discharge of only a few drops of bloody and acrid urine. Mercurius.—Incontinence traceable to a cold, or to syphilis. Aconitum, Belladonna, Calcarea, Lycopodium and Sulphur, are also remedies in our list often required. Dose, etc, see page 46. vi.— wetting the bed (Nocturnal Enuresis). Causes.— Irritation of worms; too large a quan- tity of fluids, especially if warm, and taken towards * For urinary difficulties in pregnancy, see " The Lady's Homoeopathic Manual." 204 Miscellaneous Diseases. evening; improper food or drink, giving rise to acrid urine; constitutional weakness. Treatment.— One or more of the following reme- dies. It is often obstinate, and requires professional treatment. Aeon., Bell., Calc, Canth., Cina, Nux, Sulph. Cina.— Enuresis from the irritation of worms. Belladonna. — Irritability of the urinary organs, without any irritating property in the urine, especially in delicate and too sensitive children. See also the preceding article and the Materia Medica. Accessory Means.— All sharp, salty, and sour articles, malt liquors, spirits, tea, and coffee, should be avoided. Meat may be eaten in moderate quanti- ties, but little fruit and no flatulent food. Milk-and- water, or cocoa, may be taken in the morning, but nothing hot towards night. Cold water and mucila- ginous drinks may be taken in moderation, as they diminish the sharpness of the urine. The patient should sleep on a hard mattrass, take exercise in the open air, and have shower-baths or daily ablutions with cold water. The whole process of ablution, including drying with a rough towel, should not ^>ccupy more than five or six minutes. Vii.— retention OF urine (Strangury). This, the opposite condition to the former, often arises from similar causes, and requires nearly the same remedies. It is a symptom of man}' diseases is often extremely painful, and in many cases life is Retention of Urine. 205 jeopardised. The treatment should, therefore, if possi- ble, be confided to a Homoeopathic physician. Treatment.— Aconitum.— Inflammatory symp- toms, often in alternation with some other remedy. Camphor.— Spasms at the neck of the bladder, especially if caused by Cantharides (a drop on a piece of loaf sugar every fifteen minutes for three or four times). Cantharis.— Urging to pass water, with cutting and tearing pains. A"ux vomica.— Painful ineffectual efforts to urinate, from the use of wine or spirits, and for spasmodic stricture. Sulphur.— Cases complicated with piles. Arnica.—Retention from mechanical injury, or the irritation of calculi. Dose and repetition.— See page 46. Accessory Means.— The introduction of the catheter, so often resorted to under the old treatment, is frequently superseded by the more efficient remedies ■we employ; still it may be necessary in some cases; but as this requires professional skill, it is useless to refer to it further in a domestic work. External applications, such as warm baths, hot or cold cloths, fomentations and injections, will greatly aid the medicines in restoring the functions of the parts, if there be not organic disease. Relief may often be obtained by directing the patient to step suddenly, with naked feet, on to the cold floor, or into cold water. The diet must be sparing, and in severe cases restricted to demulcent drinks, such as gum-water, barley-water, and gruel. 206 Miscellaneous Diseases. VIII.--SPERMATORRHOEA--INVOLUNTARY EMISSIONS. In the preceding editions of this manual, the subject of this section has been incidentally mentioned under one or two medicines in the Materia Medica, and in the ten years that have now elapsed since the first edition was published, the author has been consulted by many hundred persons, in various parts of the kingdom, suf- fering from seminal weakness, proving that the evils of this affection are wide-spread as well as serious. The author's correspondence with patients leads him to conclude that the disease is much overlooked or under- rated by medical men generally; although, probably, in some cases his treatment has been adopted from an indisposition to consult personally a medical man in the patient's neighborhood on such a subject. Causes. — The discharge alluded to generally occurs as the result of a bad habit — self abuse, either accidentally acquired, or learned from associates, espe- cially in schools, and continued under the influence of a morbid imagination, and often in ignorance of the consequences of the vicious practice. Other causes' may be morbid conditions of the urethra, or of the rectum; sexual excesses; frequent excitation of the sexual passion; irritation from worms, piles, horseback exercise, etc.; disease of the brain or spinal marrow etc. Effects.—The effects of spermatorrhoea are__ depression of spirits, often very marked; loss or weak- ness of memory and other senses; indigestion, with oppression after food, flatulence, headache, etc.; sunken eyes, and loss of the healthy tints of the lips and face, Spermatorrhoea. 207 the patient looking older than his years. If indul- gence in the habit has been long continued, the effects, which need not be here particularised, are more serious and general. Happily, a course of judicious treat- ment is sufficient in nearly every case to effect a cure. Treatment.—The treatment, both medical and hygienic, must be varied in almost every instance, and include all available methods for establishing the con- stitutional strength, soothing local excitement and irritability, and forming healthy habits both of the mind and body. The Medical treatment involves the administration of Homoeopathic remedies (only two or three are described in this work—China, Phosphorus, etc.), the selection and the dose of which can only be determined by the local and general symptoms of individual cases. An important feature in the medi- cal treatment should be the correction of any concur- rent affection with which the patient may suffer. The Hygienic treatment involves influences of wide extent, and associated with the commercial, social, and moral relationships of the patient, such as occupations, recreations, books, meals, sleep, bathing, and mental and moral discipline. The management of these several points must be regulated according to the exigencies of each case, and involve details which cannot be described here. Even were a plan sketched out that would apply to many cases, still each case possesses its own special peculiarities, and requires, in certain respects, separate management.* *Dr. Eldridge's valuable little work, "Self-Enervation," will be of use to those requiring further information. It gives both medical and electrical treatment. CONCISE MATERIA MEDICA. In this chapter we have only indicated a few of the prominent uses of the thirty remedies named in the list, page 43, most of which, in consequence of their frequent and general use, are termed polycrests, or many-healing , remedies — medicines possessing curative power in many / diseases. For a wider sphere of the action of each of the ' annexed remedies, the reader is referred to larger works. In prescribing for so many complaints from such a lim- ited list of remedies, it is necessary to remark that the Homoeopathic Materia Medica includes several hundred I medicines; domestic practitioners, therefore, who restrict themselves to these thirty or forty must not, in cases of failure, conclude that they have exhausted the resources of Homoeopathy, nor despair of hope when so wide a range of appliances is available to the professional man. CHAPTER I. I.—REMEDIES FOR INTERNAL USE. 1. Aconitum Napellus.—The English names of this plant are Wolfsbane, because it proves exceedingly poison- ous to wolves, and Monkshood, because its beautiful blue flowers resemble the hood which monks used to wear. "This medicine," says Hempel, "constitutes the back- bone, as it were, of our Materia Medica;" there being scarcely an acute disease in which it is not more or less required Materia Medica. 209 Prominent Uses of Aconitum.—Chiefly at the commence- ment, and often in the course, of all feverish and inflam- matory affections. Its especial indications are thirst, and dry, hot skin; chills and shiverings, succeeded by burning heat; strong, rapid pulse; restlessness, anxiety, flushing of the face; pain ; quick or labored breathing; dry cough, with fever; deficient, hot, or high-colored urine; ophthal- mia, etc. It probably surpasses all other known remedies in its power of controlling the circulatory system, and tri- umphantly supersedes the lancet and the leech. " To enumerate," says Dudgeon, "the diseases for which it is suitable would be to mention the acute inflammation of every possible order and tissue of the body; and if it be not for all of these the sole remedy, it is almost always use- ful either previous to, or in alternation with, another which has perhaps a more specific relation to the part affected." Had Hahnemann's labors extended no further than the discovery and demonstration of the wide and inclusive curative power of this great remedy it would have entitled him to the gratitude of countless myriads of his fellow-creatures in every succeeding generation. He most appropriately ranks it as first and foremost in his Materia Medica, not because its name begins with the first letter of the alphabet, but because of its transcendant power and extended sphere of action: he terms it a "precious plant," whose "efficacy almost amounts to a miracle." 2.—Antimonium Crudum.—The beneficial action of this remedy is chiefly restricted to affections of the mucous membrane and the skin, and more especially when those surfaces are concurrently diseased. The mucous membrane both of the stomach and the ali- mentary canal is loaded with mucus, producing eructations, foul, bitter, or tasting of the food; nausea, and sometimes vomiting; foetid flatulence ; loss of appetite ; constipation, alternating with diarrhoea; mucous discharge from the anus; secretion of tenacious mucus, with much hawking for its removal; milky-white tongue; slow digestion, with drowsiness, loss of strength, etc. It is an excellent remedy in that morbid condition of the intestinal canal which favors the production of -worms. Chronic catarrh of the bladder, with turbid, foetid urine, and sometimes painful micturition. Skin.—Pimples or blotches; rough irregular eruptions on the nose or cheeks; tubercular eruptions about the roots of the beard; scald-head, with unhealthy, coherent crusts; sore eyelids or ears, parts easily becoming sore; ill-con- 2IO Materia Medica. ditioned. unhealthy appearance. A simultaneous affect:on of the mucous membranes and the skin is an additional indication for Ant. crud. 3.—Antimonium Tartaricum. — The chief sphere of action of this medicine lies in the mucous membranes, the skin, and the lungs. In large doses it produces a kind of catarrhal inflammation, beginning in the lining membrane of the throat, and extending to the trachea and bronchial tubes, and even exerting its irritant influence on the lung tissues themselves. We should, therefore, expect that Tartar emetic would prove a valuable remedy in certain kinds of inflammation involving these parts. Experience has amply justified this expectation, and in aitarrhal croup, bronchitis and pneumonia, it has proved a most useful remedy. On the skin it produces a pustular eruption resembling that of small-pox; also, as may be verified by observation, on the lining membrane of the mouth and throat, as, also, probabfy, of that membrane throughout the air passages and alimentary canal. The drug also produces the vomit- ing, and that peculiar alteration of the blood which are characteristic of small-pox. As it might be supposed, then, Ant. tart, has been found a remedy of the first importance in this disease, and, if timely used, scarcely requires the aid of any other medicine. The vomiting to which this remedy is Homoeopathic is nervous and sympa- thetic rather than gastric, and is attended by nausea, cold and pale skin, and great prostration. 4.—Apis Mellifica.—In all affections for which this remedy is thought of, the presence of urinary difficulties, retention of urine, irritability of the bladder, etc., furnish additional indications for its administration. Sore throat, with cedematous swelling of the tonsils, uvula and palate, and stinging pains when swallowing; hoarseness and dry cough ; acute oedema of the tongue, etc. Erysipelas, with rapid swelling, minus the inflammatory redness pointing to Bell., or the formation of vesicles characteristic of Rhus; urticaria, for which it is a final remedy, especially if there be itching with stinging and burning and acute oedema; carbuncles, with extensive erysipelatous blush; and other skin affections, in which burning, stinging and itching are prominent symptoms. 5.—Arnica Montana.—The chief uses are in affections resulting from injuries; inflammations with swelling, red- ness and tingling of the skin ; convulsive and spasmodic affections, lock-jaw, active discharges of blood, vomiting and spitting of blood, and other complaints resulting from Materia Medica. 211 bruises, falls, etc.; severe concussions, such as often occur in railway accidents, or in the hunting field, without leav- ing external marks of violence; pains, supposed to be rheumatic, from long, heavy, physical toil; concussion of the brain ; immediate treatment after operations and child- birth ; rheumatic pains; stitch in the side; fatigue; chil- blains, with hot swelling and tingling; swelling of the breast, soreness of the nipple, etc. (For external uses see page 227). 6. —Arsenicum. — Prominent Uses. — Cold, influenza, asthma, bronchitis, with difficult expectoration, wheezing breathing, etc ; fez'ers—intermittent typhoid, and putrid, with great thirst, debility, etc.; diseases marked by depressed and almost exhausted vitality; cholera, in the more violent forms of the disease; diseases of the stomach and bowels, especially when accompanied with great prostration or burning pains; severe vomiting, diarrhoea with watery, green or dark, burning motions, as in chronic dyspepsia; skin diseases, particularly eruptions about the mouth, attended with burning, and the discharge of a thin, watery fluid; old or obstinate ulcers, with burning or itching, or with a bloody, thin, or foetid discharge; scrofulous affec- tions, and dropsical complaints. 7.—Belladonna.—This medicine almost ranks in impor- tance with Aconite in inflammatory diseases characterised by bright-redness of the parts, pain, intolerance of light and sound, and other symptoms of the head. It is often required after Aconite, or in alternation with it, in inflam- mation of the eyes, with dilated pupils, dread of light, etc.; sore throat with redness and swelling; toothache; com- plaints marked by congestion in the head, or attended with spasms, convulsions, neuralgia, and delirium. Affections of the brain and nervous system ; eruptive fevers, especially scarlatina (for which it is often specific) and erysipelas (not vesicular) ; violent headache, especially frontal, aggra- vated by movement; rheumatic inflammations with hot swellings, swollen glands, etc. Its power in preventing attacks of epidemic scarlatina, as well as of curing that disease, has not only been asserted by Hahnemann and Hufeland, but has been abundantly established by facts. 8.—Bryonia. — Prominent Uses.— Pleurisy; pneutno?iia; dry, severe cough, with a sensation of tickling under the breastbone; stitches, and shooting fains in the chest, acutely increased by coughing, a deep inspiration, or even move- ment; derangements of the liver and bowels; lumbago, sciatica, rheumatism of the joints, and all rheumatic affec- tions in which the pain is aggravated by movement; bilious 212 Materia Medica. fevers, bilious headaches, rheumatic fevers, jaundice, chronic constipation, and colic, followed by diarrhoea. The prominent gastric symptoms are, wati rbrash; bitter or sour risings; pressure on the stomach, or sensation as if a stone were there; and constipation from inertia of the bowels. An irritable state of temper, and a gloomy depres- sion of spirits, are additional indications for Bryonia. 9.—Calcarea Carbonica.—This remedy is chiefly used in ccrofulous, rickety, and tuberculous affec:ions. Glandu- lar swellings of the neck and abdomen; eruptions around the eyes, and agglutination of the Hds; difficult or delayed dentition, with heat and swelling of the gums; deafness, with snapping and roaring noise in the ear, and chronic disease of the ear; chronic diarrhoea; incipient consump- tion of the bowels; swelling of the mesenteric glands; cough, with foetid or bloody expectoration, or difficult breathing; obesity, from a lax condition of the tissues, or, on the other hand, emaciation; diseases of females, when the menses appear too soon and are too abundant; sterility; leucorrhoea; chronic headache, worst in the morning, from menial fatigue; also in inveterate and obstinate diseases of the bones {rachitis) and skin. As a general rule, Cal- carea is more adapted to affections of women and children, and to chronic diseases. 10.—Camphor, Homoeopathic Tincture of.—This rem- edy is valuable in the invasive stage of influenza (when its administration will often terminate this complaint); derangements in general, with chilliness and shivering; malignant cholera, in the incipient stage of the disorder; excessive, sudden prostration of the nervous system from any cause; fainting and dizziness; cramps in the arms, legs, or abdomen; severe purging. "It is antidotal to almost all the drastic vegetable poisons; relieves stran- gury {difficult passage of urine); procures reaction from cold, congested conditions; is the great anti-cho!eraic; and quiets nervous irritabilitysometimes better than Coff., Ign., or Hyos. This is its whole clinical value—and a great one it is—in a nutshell " {Holcombe). In sudden attacks, two drops to be taken on a small piece of loaf sugar, and to be repeated every fifteen or twenty minutes, for three or four times; in cholera, four drops, administered in the same manner, every ten, fifteen, or twenty minutes. The strongest—Rubini's—preparation is the best. In conse- quence of its volatHe properties, it must be kept separate from all other Homoeopathic remedies. 11.— Cantharis.—Acute inflammatory affections of the urinary organs. Pain in the loins; scanty, high-colored Materia Medica. 213 urine, which is bloody and sometimes albuminous; burning and scalding pains on passing water; tenderness at the lower part of the abdomen; strangury. Paralysis of the neck of the bladder, especially in women and children. Sup- pression of urine from acute congestion. The sexual organs are probably only affected by sympathy with the urinary organs. 12.—Carbo Vegetabilis.—Affections of the digestive organs, with oppression after eating; flatulent distension of the stomach, with acidity or heart-burn ; burning and contractive pain and emission of fcetid flatulence; a burn- ing sensation in the lower bowel; tendency to diarrhoea; piles ; worms ; toothache, with spongy or ulcerated gums ; hoarseness, loss of voice, sensitiveness to variations of weather; chronic nettle rash; itching and burning of the skin; unhealthy, burning, fcetid ulcers. Carbo vegetabilis counteracts the injurious consequences of Mercury and Quinine. 13.—Chamomilla.—Chiefly in diseases of children and women, affecting the biliary and uterine system. Convul- sions, arising from teething, anger or pain in the bowels; neuralgia, with tearing, dragging, and lancinating pains; toothache, the pains being worse at night, tearing and stitching, with swelling of the cheeks, and a feeling as if the teeth were elongated; difficult dentition, when one of the cheeks is red and hot, the gums swollen and sensitive, the child irritable, and convulsions are indicated ; diarrhoea of children, from cold or teething, when the motions are watery, slimy, green, or yellow, and preceded by cutting pains; dentition-fever, with crossness, restlessness, and irregular circulation, one cheek being hot, the other cold ; catarrhal cough of children, with hoarseness and rattling of mucus in the throat. The action of this remedy upon the sexual system of women is very marked, especially in various derangements during pregnancy; after-pains. Also for the consequences of passion, and when pains are badly borne. 14.—China—Peruvian Bark.—Weakness consequent on exhaustive discharges—loss of blood, diarrhoea, pro- longed nursing, sexual excesses, etc.; consequences of intermittent and other miasmatic fevers, purgatives, mer- cury, broken rest, etc. It is homoeopathic to many forms of fever of a periodical type; debility lflarked by disposi- tion to sweat, especially exhausting night-sweats; diar- rhoea, especially summer diarrhoea, when the discharges are slimy, bilious, or mixed with undigested food, and very offensive; loss of appetite; bilious taste; flatulence; 214 Materia Medica. jaundice; enlargement of the spleen, with a dirty-yellow complexion; debilitating seminal emissions {spermator- rhea) from sexual vices, with undue excitement of the sex- ual instinct, in patients weak, low-spirited, and dyspeptic. 15.—Cina.—Affections arising from the presence of worms in the intestinal canal, especially thread-ivorms, indicated by picking the nose, grinding the teeth, convul- sions and spasms, voracious appetite alternating with pooi appetite, itching at the seat, d'iarrhcetic motions, discharge of worms, wetting the bed {enuresis), cutting pain in the abdomen, hoarse, hollow cough in children, and other symptoms from inverminous affections. 16.—Coffea.—This remedy is chiefly used for morbid sensitiveness and irritation of the nervous system, especially when following tidings of a joyous character; fretfulness and wakefulness of children; nervous toothache; almost insupportable pains during or after labor; nervous suffer- ings of highly excitable children or hysterical women. 17.—Colocyxth.—This drug has not a wide range of action, and is chiefly prescribed for Colic of a griping, flatulent character, with diarrhcetic evacuations ; neuralgia, sciatica, etc. 18.— Cuprum metallicum.—Derangement of the nervous system characterized by cramps, convulsive movements, and spasms. Chorea, especially of the upper extremities or of one side of the body, with neuralgic pains previous to or during the attack, and followed by paralvsis of the affected parts; epilepsy, which began and is characterized by the violence of the convulsions, and usuallv paleness of the face, vertigo and headache, and muscular tremors; melancholy, debility, very slow pulse, languor, loathing of food, sallow complexion, and emaciation from nervous affections, hysteria, etc. Chronic vomiting and diarrhoea: the cramps and vomiting of asiatic cholera; spasmodic asthma, croup and hooping-cough. 19.—Drosera.—Hooping-cough, with suffocative symp- toms, vomiting, or bleeding from the nose, especiallv when the " whoop" has become fully developed, and after the use of Ipecacuanha and Belladonna; also in spasmodic cough generally, with a tickling sensation in the throat, vomiting or wheezing breathing, and a feeling of suffocation. 20.—Dulcamara.—Various affections, such as cold in the head, nausea, catarrh of the bladder, mucous diarrhoea, etc., resulting from exposure to damp or a thorough wettinc, itching and stinging eruptions on the skin, and other con- ditions following a cold. If taken immediately after expo- Materia Medica. 215 sure to damp, Dulcamara will often entirely prevent the ordinary consequences of a cold. 21.—Gelseminum.—Irritability, dull, stupid, intoxicated feeling of the head. Dull, stupefying, pressive headache. Dizziness. Heaviness of the eyelids ; difficult keeping the eyes open; dim, blurred vision. Double vision, dilated pupils. Cold in the head, with sneezing, and watery dis- charge from the nose. Influenza, measles. Chilliness, as in the beginning of colds, fevers and many inflammatory affections. Chills, with headache, and pains in the back and limbs. Scarlet fevers, bilious fever (early stage); excessive and tedious labor pains ; after pains; labor pains. (Dr. J. S. Douglas.) 22.—Hepar Sulphuris.—This is a compound of Sulphur and Calcarea, and has points of resemblance to each, influencing the skin like Sulphur, and the glands like Cal- carea. It has also an action differing from either of these remedies separately. It is chiefly prescribed in inflamma- tory a /feetions of the wind-pipe and air-passages,—croup; difficult, wheezing breathing; hoarseness; consumptive coughs, etc.; aiso for scrofulous, enlarged glands discharg- ing matter; abscesses; scald-head; salivation, and other consequences resulting from large doses of Mercury. Like Silicea, but to a less extent, it favors the suppurative process. 2^.—Ignatia.—This remedy is especially valuable for the consequences of deep-seated emotions, especially grief, in persons, females particularly, of a highly sensitive tem- perament, who often change from high spirits to a low state of despondency; nervous headache ; hysteric, convul- sive, or spasmodic disorders, consequent on grief, disap- pointment, or ill-humor, with the sensation of a ball rising in the throat {globus hystericus); premature menstruation; nervous affections of girls at puberty, and of women at the critical period; convulsive affections of infants; also some of the symptoms of hypochondriasis in the male sex. 24.—Ipecacuanha.—Chiefly useful in affections of the respiratory and digestive organs. Spasmodic, suffocative cough, with tickling in the throat, sometimes with nausea, vomiting, bloody expectoration, or bleeding from the nose; spasmodic-asthma, especially at night; hooping-cough, during the spasmodic.stage, with rattling breathing; hay- fever, and some-varieties of bronchitis. Derangements of the digestive organs, characterised by nausea and vomit- ing, with diarrhoea, colic, with loose, fermented, or dysen- teric stools, especially in children. Hemorrhage from 2l6 Materia Medica. various organs, the blood being bright-red, with anxiety, pale face, vomiting, etc. 25.—Kali Bichro.micum.—As prescribed in this manual, the prominent uses of this remedy are in affections of the mucous membranes and the skin. On the respiratory mucous lining it has great power, especially in chronic bronchitis with much tough, stringy mucus, difficult to expectorate; cough with wheezing, difficult breathing; chronically ulce- rated throat; hoarseness; chronic catarrh; membranous croup; polypus of the nose. It is curative in catarrhal and strumous ophthalmia, and in syphilitic affections of the eye. In the digestive tract it is valuable in dyspepsia, with heartburn, eructations, nausea, thickly-coated, yellowish tongue, bitter taste, etc. All additional indication for its use is a simultaneous affection of the respiratory and diges- tive mucous membrane. Affections of the skin, within the sphere of the action of this remedy, are chiefly pustular eruptions, ulcers of the legs, (see also Calendula as an external remedy), especially of a syphilitic character, and pimples on the face. 26.—Lycopodium.—Chronic affections of the digestive organs ; pain, sensitiveness, or distended abdomen ; water- brash; chronic constipation; gravel and stone; moist eruptions; scald-head; glandular swellings; rheumatic complaints; scrofulous ulcers; loss of hair. It is adapted to constitutions subject to mucous discharges, women in particular. 27.—Mercurius.—There are various preparations of Mercury used by Homoeopathic practitioners, but in this manual we have chiefly referred to two, as under: 1st.—Mercurius Solubilis.—The following are a few of the morbid conditions for which this remedy is pre- scribed:— Glandular affections, with swelling and some- times suppuration; sore throat; especially scarlatinal sore throat, with swelling, pain, difficulty in swallowing, and ulceration; profuse flow of saliva from the mouth, with a foetid odor; thrush; cancrum oris; toothache from decay, with darting, tearing pains, extending to the temples and glands, the teeth feeling too long; gum-boils; jaundice, yellowness of the skin and of the whites of the eyes • ophthalmia; agglutination of the eyelids; ulcers on the cornea; discharge from the ears, soreness, deafness; diar- rhoea, frequent desire to relieve the bowels, preceded by chilliness, with green-, clay-, or various-colored, slimy and offensive evacuations, especially the diarrhoea of infants and children; "torpid liver," wi'.h deficient secretion of bile, as shown by pale, foetid, and costive stools, dull Materia Medica. 217 pain in the right side, poor appetite, and dejection of spirits; long round worms; syphilitic and scrofulous swel- lings of the glands in the groins; gonorrhcea; syphilitic ulcers, etc. Two marked symptoms indicating this remedy are. aggravation of the pains and general symptoms af night, and profuse perspirations that afford no relief. 2nd.—Mercurius Corrosivus.—Dysenteric affections, with tenesmus (straining), burning pains in the abdomen, and discharge of blood and mucus; cirrhosis; scrofulous, rheumatic, and syphilitic ophthalmia; gonorrhcea, in the first stage, with sharp pain on urinating; syphilitic erup- tion^. etc. 2S.—Nux Vomica.—This remedy is suited to functional gastric derangements from a depressed condition of the nervous system, especially the following:—Constipation, with ineffectual desire for stool; constipation alternating with relaxation, the action being " inharmonious and spasmodic;" waterbrash, heartburn, flatulence, the symp- toms being of a spasmodic character; headache, with gid- diness, flushed face, constipation, and other symptoms dependent on gastric conditions; acute indigestion, with nausea and violent vomiting, headache, trembling hands, and other affections following intoxication. A few less prominent applications of Nux vomica are the following: chronic congestion of the liver; spasmodic asthma; dry coryza; irritable bladder, and spasmodic stricture, from abuse of alcohol. The pains which point to Nux arise from spasms, and not from inflammation. It is especially valuable in affections resulting from sedentary habits, too close brain labor, want of out-of-door recreation, anxiety and business cares, night-watching, the use of tobacco, indulgence at table, and from the use of alcohol. It is chiefly adapted to persons of spare habit, firm fibre, and of energetic, irritable, or hypochondriacal disposition, with tendency to irregular action of the bowels, and piles. The symptoms come on or are worse early in the morning, and are increased by taking food, or by mental efforts. 29.—Opium. — Obstinate constipation, from paralytic obstruction, or want of peristaltic action of the intestines; lead colic; paralytic retention of urine; recent affections from fright, or sudden violent emotions; apoplectic con- ditions, with stertorous (snoring) breathing, and slow and full pulse; typhus fever, with sleepiness, listlessness, and partial retention of urine; general mental and physical torpor. As may be inferred from the last indication, Opium is often useful in that nervous insusceptibility in which remedies, although clearly indicated, fail to effect 2l8 Materia Medica. improvement; in such cases, Opium often restores the lost nervous impressionability, and places the patient in a con- dition to be benefited by the appropriate remedy. 30.—Phosphorus.—This remedy is chiefly valuable in long-continued, exhausting diseases, of which the follow- ing is an epitome:—Pneumonia, especially in children; chronic bronchitis, with considerable constitutional irrita- tion ; hoarseness; dry cough, or cough with expectoration of mucus, sometimes with blood; chronic cough ; phthisis (consumption), in which it is of signal use, moderating the cough, diarrhoea, and congestion of the lungs; chronic ■wasting, diarrhoea, and hectic; chronic inflammation of the stomach ami bowels ; atroph v of the liver, and other hepatic affections; malignant jaundice ; fatty degeneration, in any part; typhus and other fevers, with atonic condition of the brain, and want of vital reaction. Phosphorus is also a remedy for physical and nervous weakness from loss of animal fluids, especially from sexual excesses and self abuse. 31.—Podophyllum. — Adapted to diseases of children while teething; worm diseases. Softness of the flesh, with debility, in children. Moistness of the skin, with preter- natural warmth. Sallowness of the skin, in children. Sleepiness in the day time, with rumbling in the bowels. Too heavy sleep at night, restless sleep of children. Fever, attended with constipation. Giddiness and diz- ziness, with a sensation of fullness o\er the eves. Rolling of the head during difficult dentition, in children. Per- spiration of the head during sleep, with coldness of the flesh while teething. Grinding of the teeth at night during dentition. Satiety from a small quantity of food, followed bv nausea and vomiting. Loss of appetite. Gastric affections attended by depression of spirits, rumbling in the abdo- men, sensation of heat in the bowels, accompanying the inclination to go to stool,—cramp-like pain. Constipation with flatulence and headache. Diarrhoea immediately after eating or drinking. White slimy stools, cholera infantum. Frequent chalk-like stools, which are very offensive, with gagging and excessive thirst, in children Hot, watery stools. Copious evacuations, with blueness under the eyes. Diarrhoea of children during dentition Falling of the bowel. (Dr. G. E. Shipman.) 32. —Pulsatilla. — Mucous dyspepsia, with thickly- coated, rough tongue, nausea and vomiting of bile, mucus or of a bitter, sour fluid, with diminished or altered taste- indigestion from fat, pastry, or other rich food; mucous Materia Medica. 219 diarrhoea, with little pain, chiefly at ni^ht, from indigesti- ble, fat food; heartburn. It assists in cleansing the tongue, moderating the catarrh, and checking the diarrhoea in measles, chicken-pox, remittent-fever, and other diseases of children. In the respiratory mucous membrane it is chiefly useful in catarrhal affections and sub-acute bronchitis, with much mucous discharge. Pulsatilla is much used in pro- fuse lachrymation, agglutination, twitching, stves, and other affections of the eye-lids, especially of a sub-acute character and in scrofulous persons. Deafness from catarrh, or following measles, with noises in the ears; ear-ache of children, with purulent discharge. Varicose veins, and embarrassed venous circulation, especially during preg- nancy. In gout and rheumatism, it is chiefly indicated when the attacks are sub-acute, and the pains shift from one part to another. The most remarkable property, how- ever, of this remedy is its action upon the female" sexual system, as in tardyor suppressed menstruation ; leucorrhoea, false, delayed, or deficient labor-pains; retained placenta (after-birth); excessive after-pain=; suppression of the lochia, and a deficient secretion of milk. Administered some time previous to labor, it facilitates that process. It is also useful in swollen testicle, and other affections of the male organs. Generally, however, Pulsatilla is more suited to the female sex, or rather to persons of gentle dispositions, of fair complexion, easily excited to laughter or weeping, and with a tendency to relaxation rather than constipation. 33- — Rhus Toxicodendron. — This remedy is chiefly used in Rheumatism, and in affections of the skin. Rheu- matism, sub-acute and chronic, worse during rest, and on first attempting to move, but relieved after a little move- ment; lumbago, especially after the use of Aconite; sciatica; paralysis, partial or complete, especially from exposure of the back to damp and cold; vesicular (with little bladders) erysipelas; chicken-pox; ringworm; shingles; scald-head; chronic diarrhoea, etc. 34.—Silicea.—Scrofulous ulcers; glandular and lym- phatic swellings ; affections of bones (rickets); housemaid's knee; ringworm; scabbed head; corns; whitlows; fcetid 6mell of the feet; leucorrhoea, etc. It is most suited to chronic diseases, and to those which involve organic rather than functional changes. Silicea is remarkable for its power over the absorbent and exhalant vessels, especially those of the joints, sheaths of tendons, etc. It promotes the kindly suppuration of abscesses of all kinds, with good or bad pus, and tends to moderate suppuration when it is excessive. 220 Materia Medica. 35.—Spongia.—Dryness of the larynx, with dry, hard, barking cough, worse at night, and excited by a tickling, burning sensation, hoarseness, with dry cough and obstructed laryngitis; laryngeal phthisis ; catarrhal croup (in alternation with Aeon.); painful, dry, hoarse, and croupy cough, such as frequently precedes or follows croups goitre. 36.—Sulphur.—This drug has a specific action upon the skin, and less so upon the mucous membranes; in a minor degree it affects all parts of the animal economy. In affec- tions of the skm it is indicated by an irritation or itching, which yields an agreeable sensation on scratching, and that is aggravated by the warmth of bed; eruptions, chiefly papular, but sometimes vesicular; boils, preventively and curatively; chilblains; whitlows; scald-head, and in many scrofulous affections. Sulph. is strictly homoeopathic for boils, and it is well known that they often result from the excessive use of this drug, as in drinking sulphur waters. " I know a lady," says Dr. Hughes, "who accompanied her husband to Harrogate; and, although herself in good health, joined him in drinking the waters. When she re- turned home, she came under treatment covered with boils." In affections of the mucous tract, Sulph. is chiefly required in those of the eyes, the urethra, and the rectum, as in strumous and catarrhal ophthalmia; incontinence of urine; chronic gonorrhcea; prolapsus of the womb; burn- ing and itching of the anus; piles, and chronic constipation. Sulphur is often of service in arousing dormant nervous energies, so as to render the system susceptible to the action of medicines indicated. On referring to our remarks on that drug, it will be seen that Opium has a like property. 37.—Veratrum Album.—It is very useful in autumnal diarrhoea, when vomiting is superadded to the purging. English and Asiatic cholera; diarrhoea and painful grip- ings; violent vomiting and purging, short of that sudden deadly collapse which indicates Arsenicum. Cramps in the bowels or limbs; headache with vomiting; cold sweat, and coldness of the whole body; black vomit; great weak- ness and convulsions ; vomiting during pregnancy; hysteri- cal symptoms during or after labor. It is often beneficial in the third or convulsive stage of hooping-cough. antidotes. In the event of an over-dose of any of the above medi- cines having been administered, two drops of the strong Tincture of Camphor, or a strong infusion of coffee, will arrest any unpleasant consequences. Materia Medica. 221 CHAPTER II remedies for external use. i.—Tincture of Arnica Montana.—The chief uses of this agent are for the following conditions :—Bruises, con- cussions, incisions, fractures, sore nipples, after extraction of teeth, etc.—The discoloration, stiffness, swelling, and soreness consequent on bruises by blows or falls, may be almost entirely prevented by the prompt use of this remedy. Its striking and rapid remedial effects, however, depend greatly upon the promptitude with which it is applied after the injury. Formula.—A lotion may be made by mixing twenty drops of the strong tincture in about half a teaspoonful of water; the bruised parts should be bathed with this lotion, or linen cloths saturated with it applied and covered with dry cloths or oiled-silk, to prevent its evaporation. Gene- rally, the administration of Arnica, as prepared for internal use, will hasten the cure. Caution.—In some constitutions the application of Arnica Lotion has the property of producing a very trouble- some eruption closely resembling erysipelas. For such constitutions, Hamamelis virg* is generally a better and safer remedy. Arnica should not be used for persons liable to erysipelas. 2.—Tincture of Calendula.—The common marigold exerts a most favorable influence in promoting the union of wounds with the least resulting scars, and with the smallest amount of suppuration. Cuts, whether accidental, or inflicted in operations, or injuries, in which the flesh is much torn, and which do not heal without the formation of matter; wounds penetrating the joints, etc. In all such cases it is preferable to Arnica. It controls haemorrhage (but to a less extent than Hamamelis), and relieves the severest pains attending various accidents. In the late civil war. it was largely used by our American colleagues in the treatment of injuries, and with the most beneficial results. It is an invaluable remedy in ulcers of the lower extremities—bad legs as they are called—such as often occur in broken-down constitutions, especially in the decline of life. See also Kali bich. * The best form for external use is the " Distilled Extract of Hama- melis," as sold by the Homoeopathic Pharmacies. . 222 Materia Medica. Formula.—A lotion may be made by adding a teaspoon- ful of the pure tincture to about a teacupful of water. If the bleeding is considerable, the lotion may be made much stronger. . 3.—Tincture of Rhus Toxicodendron.—-It is emi- nently efficacious in sprains, wrenches, injuries to liga- ments, tendons, joints, and the membranes investing the joints; rheumatism, when the pain is worse during rest. In old chilblains, with smarting, itching, and irritation of the skin, it may be applied with great success. Formula.—A lotion may be made by adding a teaspoon- ful of the tincture to half a tumbler of pure water. Rhus Liniment is useful locally, for rubbing the parts affected with rheumatism, lumbago, etc. genuine medicines. To obtain a beneficial action from the remedies prescribed in this manual, it is essential to procure them absolutely pure. As a safeguard, it is best to obtain them from an educated, trustworthy person, exclusively engaged as a Homoeopathic Chemist. Although there are now many respectable firms in whose ability and integrity the fullest confidence may be placed, yet caution is necessary; many persons offer for sale Homoeopathic medicines who have had but little pharmaceutical training, or who are chiefly occu- pied in preparing or selling strong-smelling drugs and other articles likely to deteriorate delicate and carefully prepared Homoeopathic medicines. When domestic treat- ment is likely to be much resorted to, as in districts distant from a professional man, or in the case of clergymen, mis- sionaries, or emigrants, a medical man should be consulted, who will not only be able to direct to trustworthy persons, of whom the medicines may be obtained in their pure and most efficacious forms, but also to suggest hints as to the most useful remedies, the different dilutions, the propor- tionate quantities of each, etc., most likely to meet special requirements. $art W CLINICAL DIRECTORY. This part being added for the first time, we may here remark that its object is to enlarge the utility of the work by prescribing for numerous diseases and conditions that could not otherwise be included in the manual, and to give at a glance an alphabetically-arranged list of affections, with some of the leading remedies that the author has found valuable. To use this portion intelligently, a knowledge of Materia Medica is essential, as it is only intended to refresh the memory of the initiated. The Clinical Directory will, however, be found of great service if consulted in con- nexion with a good Materia Medica. As far as it can be done, the remedies are arranged to follow the names of the affections in the order of their importance, or in that in which they are most likely to be required. This cannot, however, always be taken for granted; indeed, in some cases, our brief list may not include the true Homoeopathic remedy at all. Individuality and idiosyncrasy may greatly modify our choice. The perfection of prescribing lies in its concentration of atten- tion on individuals, and of bringing into the focus of thought, as it were, the morbid symptoms and signs pres- ent, with the various circumstances of parentage, habits of life, proclivities to diseased action, and any peculiarities which may affect the patient. To decide between any two remedies it is necessary to consult the Materia Medica, and compare them carefully. Finally, as a set-off to many short-comings in the Direc- tory, we take the liberty of adding that it consists of pre- scriptions that have been largely tested and amply con- firmed by clinical {bed-side) experience. 224 Clinical Directory. CLINICAL DIRECTORY. gggp*' The remedies mentioned here which are not found in the case accompanying the book can be had of the Pharmaceutist. ABSCESS : Acute—Bell., Hep. s., Merc, iod., Ars. Chronic—Sil., Phos., Calc, Suiph. Mammary—Bry. {forttie earliest symptoms), Bell., Hep. s.. Merc , China. ACID DYSPEPSIA {Heartburn): Lye, Carb. v., Bry., Nux v.. Puis. AFTER-PAINS: Sec, Coff.. Puis. AGUE: Chin., Ars. ALOPECIA {loss of hair) : From Grief—Phos. Ac, Ign., Staph. From Mercury—Carbo veg., Hep. s. From Debilitating Causes—Chin., Ferr., Calc, Sil. With Frequent Headache—Fluor, ac, Nit. ac, Phos., Sep. ALCOHOL: Excessive use of—Nux v., Opi. AMAUROSIS {complete or partial loss of vision) : Bell., Euphr., Hyos., Nux v., Chin. AMENORRHCEA {absence of the monthly period) : Puis., Sep., Coni. {chronic), Ferr. ANAEMIA {deficiency or poverty of blood) : Ferr., Chin., Phos. ac. Ars., Sil. ANGER : Effects of—Aeon, Cham., Hyos. ANGINA PECTORIS {breast pang) : Aeon., Ars., Dig., Samb., Verat. ANKLES: Swelling of—Ars., Ferr., Chin., Puis., Bry., Phos. Weakness of—Calc, Phos., Sulp. ANUS: Itching of—Nit. ac, Sulph., Cin., Lye Prolapsus of—Ign., Nux v., Pod. ANXIETY, CARE, GRIEF, Etc.: Effects of—Ix., Sulph., Lye. BLOTCHES : Ant. crud., Graph., Lye BOILS: Bell., Sulph., Hep. s. BONES: Caries {decay) of—Phos. ac, Sil. Curvature of—Calc Exostosis {abnormalgrowth of)—Aur., Merc. iod. Inflammation of—Sil. Pains in—Merc, Aur , Mez., Ars. BOWELS : See CONSTIPATION, DIARRHCEA, ANUS, Etc. BRAIN : Concussion of—Arn. Congestion of Glon., Bell , Aeon. Inflammation of—Aeon., Bell , Hyos. Opi. BREAST : See ABSCESS : Mammary. IO* INDEX.* (See Hints to the Rbader, page 7.) For diseases not included in this index, consult the " Materia Medica:" also the " Clinical Directory." Aconitum, the Homoeopathic Lan- cet, 52 Advantages of Homoeopathy, 23 Ague, 62 Air, fresh, importance of, 39, 57,65 Alternation ot medicines, 47 Anasarca (dropsy) after Scarlatina, Cleanliness, 57 Chilblains, 171 Cholera, Asiatic, 123 Cholera, Homoeopathic treatment of, 24 -----Dr. MacLaughlin's testimony, 24 7l Aphtha; (thrush), 152 Asiatic cholera, 123 Ascarides, 130 Asthma, 95 Bacon-fat prevents pitting in small- pox, 76 Bathing, 32, 82, 103, 156 Beard, cultivation and use of, 84, 99 Corns, 173 Clergyman's sore throat, 84 Clothing, 36, 8S Cold in the head (catarrh) 80 ---------chest (bronchitis), 97 Colic, 112 Constipation, 25, 125 Contusions, 1S7 Consumption, 100 Convulsions, 156 Bed-rooms, ventilation of, 39 Beef tea, 59 Beverages, 58 Bilious headache, 140 Biliousness, 113 Black eye, 187 Bleeding of the nose, 178 -----from urinary organs, 181 ---------the bowels, 1S3 ---------wounds, 186 Blood-shot eye, 146 Bloody-flux, 121 Breath, bad, 151 Boils, 170 Broken bones, 191 Bronchitis, acute, 97 -----chronic, 99 Bronchocele (goitre), 163 Bruises. 1S7 Burns, 189 Camphor as a prophylactic, 61 Catarrh (cold in the head), 80 -----epidemic, 83 Cephalalgia (headache) 137 Chicken-pox (varicella), 77 Chinese practice of medicine, 28 Corjza (a kind of catarrh), 80 Cough, 86 Cough, hooping, 88 Cretinism, 38 Croup, 90 Cultivation of the beard, 84, 99 Cuts, 188 Deafness, 129 Delicacies for the sick, 60 Derbyshire-neck, 163 Diarrhoea, 117 -----of children, 120 Diet, hints on, 47, 6o, 108, 129 ---ordinary, 48 ---extraordinary, 48 ---for infants, 154 Difference between Aconite and Gelseminum, 53 Directions for taking medicines, 44 Dentition (teething), 154 Dose of medicines, 46 --- repetition of, 46 Douglas, Dr. J. S., treatment 01 fevers, 52 Dropsy after scarlatina, 71 Drugs, beware of, 50 *Many diseases not included in this index are referred to in the Clinical Directory." 240 Index. For diseases not included in this index, consult the " Materia Medica;' also the " Clinical Directory." Drowning, 195 Dysentery (bloody-flux), 121 Dyspepsia, 105 Early rising, 32 Ears, inflammation of, 147 Earache, 147 Economy of Homoeopathy, 23 Enteralgia (colic), 112 Epilepsy (falling sickness), 141) Epistaxis, 178 Erysipelas, 78 Evacuation of bowels, 127 Exanthemata (eruptive fevers), 66 Exercise, 35, 88, 102 Experimental practice, 29 External remedies, 44 Extract of beef, 59 Eyes, inflammation of, 144 Eye, bloodshot, 146 Falling sickness, 141 Fatigue, 189 Febricula, 54 Fever, brain, 55 -----gastric, 55 -----simple, 51 -----typhoid and typhus, 54 ----- relapsing, 54 -----intermittent, 62 Flatulence, 114 Flooding, 182 Forms of medicines, 42 Foreign bodies in the eye, 147 Food in the sick-room, 59 Foot-bath in colds and fevers, 82 Fractured limbs, 191 Fresh air, 39, 57 Frog (thrush). 152 Furunculi (boils), 170 Future of Homoeopathy, 30 Gelseminum, uses of, 52 Gentle measures of Homoeopathy, 26 Goitre, 163 Gout, 200 Gum-water, 58 Hahnemann, 31 Half-holidays, 138 Haemorrhage, 176 Hajmorrliagic diathesis, 183 Haemorrhoids (piles), 133 Headache, 137 Heart, palpitation of, 201 Heartburn, 114 Hernia 19.} Herpes circinnatus, 174 Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), 115 Hints on diet, 47 History of Homoeopathy, 15 Hives, 168 Hoarseness, 83 Homoeopathy, advantages of, 23 -----economy of, 23 -----success of, 23 -----and cholera, 24 ---------children, 29 ---- preventive, 30 -----the future of, 30 -----history of, 15 -----grand principles of, iS Homoeopathic medicines are spe- cific, 28 Hooping-cough, 88 Hot foot-bath, 82 Hours for taking medicines, 45 Hygiene, observations on, 32 Icterus (Jaundice), 114 Incontinence of urine, 203 Indigestion, 105 Influenza, 83 Injections, 129 Intermittent lever, 62 Introductory, 15 Inflammation of the lungs, 93 ---------------- liver, 115, 11J ----------------eyes, 144 ----------------ears, 147 Involuntary emissions, 206 Itching of the skin, 165 Itch, 166 --- seven years, 167 Jaundice, 114 jerrold's death-bed, 27 Light, 37, 65 List of medicines, 43 Liver complaint, 117 Looseness of the .bowels, 117 .Lumbago, 200 Lungs, inflammation of, 93 MacLaughlin, Dr., his testimony, 24 Malaria, laws of, 63 Malignant scarlatina, 69 Marsh miasma, 63 Meat diet, 48 Measles, 71 -----differ from scarlatina, 72 Medicines, alternation of, 47 -------directions for taking, 44 ------forms of, 42 ------list of, 43 Index. 241 For diseases not included in this i also the " Clinical Directory." Medicines, names of, 43 ■------casus, care of, 43 Metrorrhagia, 1S2 Milk diet, 48 Morbilli (measles), 71 Mumps, 162 Names of medicines, 43 Nettie rash, 168 Nocturnal enuresis, 203 Nu'. -ing the sick, 57 Observations on health, 32 Odontalgia (toothache) 158 Offensive breath, 151 Ophthalmia (inflammation of the eyes), 144 Ordinary diet, 48 Otalgia (earache), 147 Otitis (inflammation of the ears), '47 Otorrhcea (discharge from the ears), 148 Pains in the loins, 200 Palpitation of the heart, 201 Parotitis (mumps), 162 Phthisis (consumption), 100 Piles, 133 Pleurisy (pleuritisi, 93 Pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs), 93 Poisons, 194 Prairie itch, 167 Prevention of disease, 61 .--------cholera, 124 Protrusion of the bowels, 135 Prolapsus ani, 135 Prurigo, 165 Purgatives injurious, 125 Pyrexia (simple fever), 51 Quinsy (sore throat) 161 Recreation, 137 Retention of urine, 204 Repetition of dose, 46 Rheumatism, 197 Ringworm, 174 Rheumatic fever, 197 Round-worms, 130 Rubeola (measles), 71 Running from the ears, 148 Rupture, 193 Scai let fever (scarlatina), 66 Scalds, 1S9 idex, consult the " Materia Medica;" Sea-sickness, m Self-abuse, 206 SequeUe (after consequences) of scarlatina, 70 Seven years' itch, 167 Sick-headache, 140 Simple fever, 51 Small dose of Homoeopathy, 18 Small-pox, 74 Sore throat, 161 Sore throat, clergyman's, 84 Sores, 169 Spermatorrhoea, 206 Spitting of blood, 176 Sprains, 188 Statistics on Homoeopathy, 26 Status of professional Homoeopaths, 16 Stimulating food and drinks in fevers, 59 St. Anthony's fire (erysipelas), 78 Strangulated rupture, 193 Strangury, 204 Stye on the eyelid, 146 Success of Homoeopathy, 23 Sunshine necessary to health, 38 Tape-worm, 131 Teething, 154 The single remedy, 27 Thread-worms, 130 Thrush, 152 Tobacco, bad effects of, 49 Tonsilitis, 161 Toothache, 158 Ulcers, 169 Urine, incontinence of, 203 Urticaria (hives), 168 Varicella (chicken-pox), 77 Variola (small-pox), 74 Ventilation, importance of, 39 Vomiting, 110 Vomiting of blood, 176 Warm bath, 156 Watching patients, 58 Water, purity of, 40 Warts, 172 Wet compress for throat, 85 Wet pack, 33 Wetting the bed, 203 Whitlow, 174 Whooping-cough, 88 Worms, 130 Wounds, 185 II VALUABLE MEDICAL WORKS. THE LADY'S MANUAL OF HOMCEOPATHIC TREATMENT. First American Edition, from thk Third London Edition, with a Chapter on Diseases of Infancy. Rerised, and many valuable notes added, By DR. R. LUDLAM. Price, elegant binding, fine, heavy, tinted paper, $2.00. Free by mail. The Table of Contents includes the following chapters: Menstruation Reproduction, Pregnancy, Labor, Management after De- livery, Lactation and Nursing, Management of early In- fancy and its Diseases. Concerning the English edition of this work, The United States Medical and Surgical Journal says: ' We do not hesitate to say that The Lady's Homoeopathic Manual is the best book of the kind we ever examined. The author knows what to say, how to say it, and how to stop when it is said. Consequently, though not large, the book contains an unusual amount of valuable information, and much not ordinarily found in similar works, to which, however, women have an undoubted right. The author's style is as entertaining as the mechanical execution is simple, beautiful. Altogether, we know of nothing in the "Domestic" line so attractive and useful. The work must become a great favorite with the ladies, wherever known." Of the " Lady's Manual," 10,000 copies have been sold in England, and already a large number in this country. The Homoiopathic Vade-Mecum of Modern Medicine and Sur- gery.—For Junior Practitioners, Students, Clergymen, Missionaries Heads of Families, etc. Third edition, re-arra«ged and greatly enlarged. Toned paper, with extensive Materia Medica, and a Chapter on Toxicology. Price $3. Free by mail. ••♦On Consumption: Its Preventive, General and Homoeopathic Treat- ment.—The work includes Chapters on the Constitutional Origin Pathol- ogy, Curability, Providential Purpose, Symptoms, Physical Signs Causes and Treatment of Consumption. Price 50 cents. Free by mail. The above books for sale at all the Homoeopathic Pharmacies. COMPOUND CARBON CRACKERS, FOR DYSPEPTICS. Composed of recently Calcined Willow Charcoal, etc., combined with Graham Flour. On account of the difficulty and unpleasantness of taking Charcoal, it has not hitherto been employed, either by physician or patient, so much as Us Valuable Medicinal Properties demand. This objection is now overcome, as these biscuits are not only free from disagreeable taste, but are palatable and highly nutritious. Recently calcined Willow Charcoal is a powerful Disinfectant and Absorbent, and when administered internally, is a valuable remedy for Heartburn, Waterbrash, Acidity of Stomach, Nausea, Eructa- tions, Constipation, and other forms of Indigestion. It is employed in these complaints with the most favorable results by eminent physicians, both in Europe and America. Amongst others, M. Belloc found it especially efficacious in Gastralgia, etc., and his observations were con- firmed by the French Academy of Medicine; other noted men recommend its use, for whose opinion see United States Dispensatory, etc. The Carbon Crackers are of great benefit in the Vomiting of Pregnancy. The crackers should be taken three or four times a day, and may be used at meals in place of ordinary bread. For infants, soften one or two in milk or water, and give to prevent Acidity of Stomach, Flatulence, etc. N. B.—Persons suffering from Fetid Breath, arising from disordered digestion or decayed teeth, will find these an effectual and pleasant remedy. Price, 75 cents in boxes containg 3 dozen biscuits. Manufactured by C. S. HALSEY, 66 Lake Street, Chicago. And sold at the Homoeopathic Pharmacies, Are you troubled with Chapped Hands or Lips? THEN BUY A JAR OF THE CALENDULA JELLY. It is neat, inexpensive, elegant and effective. Superior in every respect to any of the GREASY preparations, such as Camphor Ice, Cold Cream, or Lip Salve, now in use. Prepared by C S. HALSEY, PRICE, 25 Cts. 66 Lake St., Chicago. Can be obtained of Homoeopathic Physicians and Pharmaceutists . . United States. in ">' LACTEAL SYRUP, For Increasing the Flow of Milk in Nursing Mothers. Prepared under Instructions of PROF. LUOLAM, The American Editor of " The Lady's Manual" It has been long known that certain plants had the effect of increasing the secretion of milk in cows feeding upon them, and certain experiments have proven that the plant {coriandrnm sativum) from which this syrup is prepared has the power of promoting this secretion in the human mother—while it is per- fectly harmless and healthful otherwise. It is put up in pint bottles, at $1.00 each, and can be had at the Homoe- opathic Pharmacies, and of respectable Druggists. Prepared by C. S. Halsey, 66 Lake St., Chicago. THE CELEBRATED ENGLISH Arnica Corn Plasters. PREPARED ON THICK WHITE FELT, AND SO MADE THAT They at once remove the Pressure from the Corn, AND BY THE ACTION OF THE ARNICA RELIEVE THE PAIN AND SORENESS. PRICE FIFTY CENTS PER BOX. Sent free by mail on receipt of price. PREPARED BY C. S. HALSEY, 66 LAKE ST., CHICAGO, And sold at the Homoeopathic Pharmacies, also by respectable Druggists. The Fountain Syringe. Eminent Physicians who have examined it agree that it is constructed upon the only correct principle ever applied to the construction of a Syringe, and the only one that can be used with safety. Being " self-acting," it is much more easy in its application. It has no valves to get out of order—" no air INJECTED." It consists of a rubber bag, holding, in the medium size apparatus (Xo. 2,) about a quart, attached to about six feet of rubber tube, which has near the end a brass stop cock. Suit- able pipes fitting the end of the tube, are provided for the rectum, vagina and urethra. There is also a spray tube for the eye, or wounds, and a nasal tnbe, making the apparatus an excellent nasal Douche. All that is required in using it is to fill the bag, hang it up above the patient's head and apply the proper pipe where desired. PRICE OF THE No. 2 SIZE, $3.00. FOR SALE BY C. S. HALSEY, 66 LAKE STREET, CHICAGO, And at all other Homoeopathic Pharmacies. SELF ENERVATION, ITS Consequences and Treatment: BY C. S. ELDRIDGE, M. D. ©ent Free "by Mall for One r>ollar This work, though written for professional reading, is also calculated to be of use to intelligent laymen. Parents and guardians, who peruse the work, will thank the author for his valuable hints and suggestions. The fearful prevalence of this vice alluded to, and the terrible evils resulting from it, make it important that every one who has the care of children, should be well informed for its prevention, or for its detection and treatment. THE NEW Veterinary Manual ! GIVING COMPLETE DIRECTIONS For the Homreopataic Treatment of Diseases of Horses> Cattle> S^eep, D°gs> AND OTHER DOMESTIC ANIMALS. FARMERS, STOCK DEALERS, and LIVERY KEEPERS, Will find this little Book and a Case of the Remedies PERFECTLY INVALUABLE The expense is trifling, but the saving thereby is sometimes very great. Published by C. S. HALSEY, No. 33 LAKE STREET, CHICAGO. And for Sale at the Homoeopathic Pharmacies. PRICES OF CASES OF MEDICINES FOR VETERI- NARY USE. 24 2 drm. and 4 % oz- Vials, with Book, 24 % oz. and 51" " " 242 " " " " " 6 00 10 00 20 00 THE CELEBRATED VOLTAIC CURE FOR Neuralgia, Itheuuiatism, and all Nervous Diseases. DR. HALL'S "V O 1L T A. I C ABMOR B^ISTDS and SOLES. A Scientific anj Rational Method of Curing All diseases originating in a disturbed condition of the electrical cm vitalizing forces of the body ; such as Cold Feet, Nervous Heartache, Rheumatism, Neural- gia, Dyspepsia, Paralysis, St. Vitus" Dance, Fits, Cramps, Weak Joints, Sciatica, Contract- ed Sinews, Sprains, Hip Complaints, Spinal Affections, and all Nervous Disorders. These Electrical appliances can. be depended on as a remedial agent of positive reliability in all such complaints, and will save thous- ands from complicating their afflictions by resorting to injurious remedies and improper applications. The Voltaic Armor, Soles and Bands Are made on the principle of the VOLTAIC FILE, and being per- fectly flexible, can be worn under the feet or on any part of the body without the least inconvenience. They Restore llie Equilibrium of Electric Action in the System And impart life and vigor to every organ of the body. For restoring exhausted vital energy, and in all diseases having their origin in the loss of vital power, through excess, sedentary habits, or the use of powerful and pernicious drugs, the Armor may be used with the full- est assurance of success. Circulars eivin* more full description of the Apparatus, also numerous and reliable testimonials of the beneficial results of the use of the Armor are in our possession, and will be forwarded to parties desiring them. PRICE: Soles, per pair.............. .J 1 no I Hands for the Knees, each.....$2 2^ Bands for the Head, each...... 2 00 | Hands for the Thighs, each ... 2 50 Bai ds for the Wrists, each..... 1 00 | Bands for the Waist, each..... 6 00 Bands for the Arm, each....... 2 00 | In ordering, state the size of the boot or shoe worn, also the width re. quired, or, if bands, state the part of the body they are intended for. Sent to all p;trts o' '.he United States on receipt of the above prices. Address * C. S- H-A-LSEY, 66 Lake Street, Chicago. General Agent for the Northwest. <*l or 8 ■z- O IS Q CO Put up in large tin canisters, at $1.00 each ; sample box- es, 25c. We have numerous testimonials from physicians who daily prescribe it in their practice, and from well-known citizens who make use of it in their families. It consists of Malt and Wheaten Flour, mixed in certain . proportions, and heated to a degree which produces chemi- cal changes, resulting in the formation of an exceedingly nutritious compound. The process is patented, and the preparation a strictly scientific one, the substance possessing the same chemical composition as healthy human milk. COMSTOCK'S RATIONAL FOOD has a large sale East and West, and is being employed with wondekful success as a most nutritious, wholesome FOOD for INFANTS, IN- VALIDS, and DYSPEPTICS, and particularly as a SUBSTITUTE FOB. BREAST S&ZXiS: fob Chtldken BROUGHT UP BY HAND, and for WEAN- ING CHILDREN. It can be fed from a bottle like milk. It can be had of C. S. HALSEY, 66 Lake Street, Chicago, and at any other Homoeopathic Pharmacy. CASTILIOT POWDERS AN ARTICLE OP DIET FOR WEAKLY INFANTS. The composition of the Castillon Powders is well known to Physicians and Pharmaceutists. Though it is simply a com- bination of mucilaginous and starchy substances, with a small proportion of carbonate of lime of a peculiar preparation, yet, when combined with pure milk (according to the directions for use), the resulting substance is found to possess such nutritive and medical virtues as to make the Powder an indis- pensable necessity in the treatment of many cases of diseased: conditions of the stomach and boicels of weakly infants. There are numerous instances on record, where children— who, from difficult teething, or other causes, constitutional or hereditary, were pining away, as the result of distaste for food, or from inability to retain and digest any of that given them— have yet taken with avidity the food prepared from these Powders, and thrived upon it, the disease of the bowels quickly disappearing without other medical treatment. This prepared food is also an invaluable aid in weaning children from the breast, and is highly recommended in the ordinary SUMMER COMPLAINTS of children, as well as in many case of DIARRHCEA of adults. ---o---- The CASTILLON POWDICKS are pat ap in neat boxes of one dozen each. PRICE, ::::::• FIFTY CENTS PER BOX. The Castillon Powders are put up in neat boxes of one dozen each, -with full directions. PRICE, FIFTY CENTS PER BOX. They can be obtained from Homoeopathic Physicians and Pharmaceutists, and from respectable Dru°-°-rsts. Manufactured by C. S. HALSEY, 66 Lake Street. THE NORTH AMERICAN UTERINE SUPPORTER This improvement on the well-known "Hockert Supporter," meets with very ready sale and with excellent Buccess in all cases of PROLAPSUS UTERI, which can be relieved by a mechanical support. It has been practically tested, and found to give the most perfect relief. It is light, durable, not liable to get out of repair, can be perfectly fitted to any form or size ; putting it on and laying it off is the work of but half a minute; it is so easy that one is hardly aware of its presence; and the re- li'.f is immediate and delightful. Many who have scarcely been able to walk across the room for years, are enabled to walk with perfect comfort and security the moment after it is adjusted. The new pattern of this Supporter is very easily adjusted, and can be considerably varied in size and shape, so as to suit any form. In ordering, it is only necessary to give the measure round the body just above the hips. The springs can be bent to any shape, and will retain the shape given—and by a screw adjustment at each end can be made longer or shorter at will. Retail Price, each, $12.00 POCKS!!1 ¥0&X^IO BiHEBf. Patented January 36th, 1869. This Battery produces a direct galvanic current of great intensity, and of "force" sufficient to overcome the resist- ance of the human body, and influence all the tissues. It is more constant in action, more simple and durable in construction, and, though it 1 squires only a table spoonful of common vinegar to excite the t urrent, produces a more power- ful current than any other Pocket Voltaic apparatus now ex- hibited. The case containing it is but one inch thickk three inches wide and five inches long. Directions for Operating the Battery.—Press the two sets of plates together, Hdewise, being careful that the red ends of the two backs are both uppermost; then saturate a small piece of sponge with strong vinegar and press it out over the edges of the plates until the spaces between there are filled. Set the Battery, red end uppermost, upon the bottom of the case, putting the copper slip through the loop in the case, as in the engrav- ing. The positive and negative poles where the cords are to be attached are marked P and N. The Voltaic Battery does not "give a shock," but when working pro- perly the wire brush connected with the negative pole will produce a sensation of pricking or burning when applied to the face or bare arm the other electrode being moistened and held in the hand. After the apparatus is used, separate the two sets of plates, rinse In clean water, and let dry a little before returning to the case. If the action of the Battery is too powerful for the patient, slide the plate« partially out of position. By covering the flat electrodes with wet cloth or paper the action is made more gentle. Price of Battery, including a Book of Instructions for Vol- taic treatment of Disease, $6.50. FOR SALE BY DRUGGISTS AND PHARMACEUTISTS EVERYWHERE. C. S. HALSEY, Proprietor, 66 Lake Street, Chicago 4 '■i *'.'.rti'«Vir*»'*.i