SLEEP 
WITHOUT NARCOTICS, 
BY 
SBLDEN H. TALCOTT, M. D., Ph. D., 
MEDICAL srPEKINTKNDENT OF 
The State Homoeopathic Asylum for the Insane, 
MIDDLETOWN, N. Y 
MIDDLETOWN, N. Y.: 
Press Job Printing House 
jS33. SLEEP 
WITHOUT NARCOTICS, 
BY 
SELDEN H. TALCOTT, M. D., Ph. D., 
MEDICAL SUPERINTENDENT OF 
The State Homceopathic Asylum for the Insane, 
MIDDLETOWN, N. Y. 
MIDDLETOWN, N. Y.: 
Press Job Printing House, 
1883. SLEEP WITHOUT NARCOTICS. 
From the mouths of babes and fools proceed, sometimes, the 
choicest statements of worldly wisdom, and the happiest bene- 
dictions upon the commonest of our earthly necessities. It was 
“ one of the fools ” who said : “ blessings upon the man who in- 
vented sleep ; ” and yet, all the wise ones of earth rise up and say 
“ Amen ” to the sentiment. One third of our lives is passed in the 
arms of Morpheus; else we are unhappy. We may fail in all 
other wooings, and feel oidy the throbbings and achings of a dis- 
appointed heart. But if the goddess of sleep fails to respond, 
when we appeal to her for tender and soothing caresses, then, 
indeed, are we not only harrassed in heart, but broken in brain 
and made bankrupt in body. 
Sleep is the prime and choice necessity of our natures. To 
secure it in abundance with system and regularity is the aim of the 
philosopher, the dream of the poet, and the easy accomplishment 
of the working man. 
When we are in health; when we fulfil our destinies by 
steady engagement in useful toil; when harmful care is put aside ; 
then we may sleep, as we breathe, without forethought or worri- 
ment. 
But when disease assails the citadel of life; when idleness 
has bred ennui in our bones; or when overwork lias wrenched 
and unstrung the fine tension of the nervous system, and to one 
or all of these is added the burden of anxious care for the follies 
of the past, or the possible dangers of the future; then the ques- 
tion of sleep becomes momentous and problematical. It is momen- 
tous under such circumstances, because without it we cannot long 
exist; it is problematical because the element of doubt, as to its 
accomplishment, enters largely into each individual case. 4 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
What is sleep ? We are told that “ it consists in a temporary 
suspension of the functions of the cerebral portion of the nervous 
system.” It is needful for purposes of brain repair, and no 
argument is required to prove the assertion. The physiological 
phenomenon of sleep may be thus described : The brain, or at least 
that portion in which the grey matter is distributed, becomes 
anaemic. This anaemia, while sufficient to quiet the ordinary ope- 
rations of the mind, is not far enough advanced to restrict the 
necessary processes of repair. Indeed, the design of nature seems 
to be that the brain shall be rejuvenated while its owner and occu- 
pant, the mind, is at rest. The great thoroughfares of our cities 
are relieved of debris, repaired, and made ready for continued use, 
while the busy merchants, with their servants and horses, are retired 
from active service and regaining strength for the labors of the 
morrow. In a similar manner the busy haunts of the human mind 
are cleansed and repaired and made ready for further use, while 
the haunts themselves are deserted by their subtle owner, it 
having been driven out by the propelling influences of gentle 
yet subduing sleep. 
That the theory of cerebral anaemia during sleep is true, (in 
opposition to old time theories) lias been proved by the numerous 
experiments of Alexander Fleming, the critical investigations of 
Durham, and the observations of the state of the retina in sleep, 
with the ophthalmoscope, by Hughlings Jackson. Fleming tried 
compression of the carotid arteries, and succeeded in causing 
sleep ;• Durham removed the skull cap from dogs, and noting the 
differences in the appearance of the brain when the animals were 
asleep and awake, decided that the brain is always anaemic while 
the victim is in the former state ; and Hughlings Jackson found, 
with equal conclusiveness, that the expansions of the optic nerve 
are paler and less vascular during sleep than at any other time. 
Not only is the brain less freely supplied with blood during 
sleep, i e, not only is the volume decreased, but the velocity with 
which it moves is likewise diminished. This may be accounted 
for by two reasons : firstly, the heart’s action is slower and less 
powerful in its impulses during sleep ; and secondly, it has been 
suggested that “ the blood vessels of the choroid plexuses in the 
ventricles of the brain may become more turgid during sleep, Sleep Without Narcotics. 
5 
and, by a sort of erection, may act as diverticula for the blood in 
the cranium, whilst the cerebral vessels are proportionally emp- 
tied. The less full state of the vessels of the brain substance lets 
been called its nutritive circulation, and the more full condition 
its functional circulation ; the vessels of both the choroid plexus- 
es and the brain may be understood to be governed by the state 
of the vaso-motor nerves.” / 
That the choroid plexuses have duties to perform no one can 
doubt. In health they attend each night to the closing of the 
gates which lead to the temple of intellectual activity. Conscious 
of their great mission, they swell, like drum majors, into congested 
and possibly conceited proportions. But they keep back, with 
faithful hands, the unwarrantable intrusions of the external 
senses; and like willing subjects they guard against all disturb 
ances while their cerebral king indulges in needful repose. When 
these guardians of the brain are enfeebled by too much toil, 
unrequited, and without reinforcements, (like our army and navy) 
then are the gates left open and the antagonist of sleep is permit- 
ted to enter. We have found, in the brains of patients who have 
died insane, marked disease and degeneration of the choroid 
plexuses. 
The condition for sleep—cerebral anaemia—being conceded, 
the questions arise: What are the natural causes of sleep l What 
are the causes which prevent sleep \ And how, and by what 
means, shall the latter he removed ? These conundrums form the 
text of our present dissertation. 
The natural causes of sleep are, first and foremost, fatigue of 
the body from physical exercise, and a corresponding impulse of 
the mind calling upon nature for repose. Active use of the hrain 
produces, likewise, an imperative demand for rest. 
The favoring causes of sleep are the darkness of night, the 
removal of all ordinary disturbing agencies, the horizontal posi- 
tion of the body, cessation from toil and thought, and release of 
the brain from sensorial impressions. Then the access of sleep is 
swift and easy. The mind is “ pervaded by a strange confusion 
which amounts almost to a mild delirium ; the ideas dissolve their 
connection with it one by one; and its own essence becomes so 
vague and diluted that it melts away in the nothingness of slumber.” 6 
Si.eep Without Narcotics. 
Health of the body, and a quiet harmony of the mind with its 
surroundings, are the normal conducements to sleep. Hence we 
find that the young and strong; those of a full habit or lym- 
phatic temperament, and those whose philosophical training in- 
clines them to a peaceful disposition, are the best and most 
natural sleepers. 
Among the proximate or assisting causes of sleep we may 
name monotonous sounds, such as a droning voice during the 
delivery of a dull sermon ; slow music ; the humming of bees ; the 
falling of rain ; the rattle of wagons; the steady rolling of street 
cars ; the dash and roar of waterfalls ; or the surging splash of the 
ocean surf as it breaks upon the shore. These attract the atten- 
tion of the mind from inward cares, or outward irritation, and 
lull the senses to quiet forgetfulness, like the drowsy humming 
song of a gentle old nurse. 
To the foregoing may he add; d the effects of cold upon the 
system as a sleep producer. Moderate cold is an irritant, and 
tends to wakefulness; but severe cold moderates the circulation, 
and produces at first, drowsiness, and afterwards an irresistible 
tendency to sleep. This effect of cold, by producing overpower- 
ing sleep, is a source of greatest danger to the brave explorers 
of Arctic regions. 
Per contra, excessive heat tends to indolent inactivity of 
the body, drowsiness of the mind, and a strong tendency to sleep. 
Alcohol, opium, and other drugs, when used to excess, are 
at first overpowering and sleep-compelling in their action; but 
finally they come to produce the opposite effect. 
In considering the causes which tend to prevent sleep we 
may notv, firstly, those pathological conditions of the brain which 
tend to disturb or derange its normal action. Chief among these 
are cerebral hypersemia, and the opposite, namely, excessive 
anaemia. While healthful sleep is due we believe to a moderate 
anaemia of the brain, a persistent and severe anaemia of that organ 
is one of the most striking causes of sleeplessness. The “ happy 
medium ” is the only condition in which to obtain certain and 
satisfactory sleep. 
Secondly, protracted over-use of the brain—that is over- Sleep Without Narcotics. 
work of that organ until the strain produces, or tends to produce, 
vaso-motor paralysis—disturbs or destroys all natural tendencies 
to sleep. 
Thirdly, over anxiety of the mind—that is unwise worrying 
over the duties of the present; unwise haste in the acquirement 
of wealth or knowledge, and trouble borrowed from the past or 
future—is another of the prominent causes of sleeplessness. 
Work may engross the attention and powers of the mind and 
body during the day. and no harm result; but when worry tyran- 
nizes the will, over-rides the judgment, and holds ruinous carni- 
val in the citadel of the brain at night, then arise the most 
disastrous dangers. An eager desire to become rich impels us to 
unnatural toil while the day lasts, and drives us mad in the con- 
templation of the harrassing theme during the still watches of 
the hours of darkness. But worst of all are the fearful appre- 
hensions in which we sometimes indulge concerning the possibili- 
ties of the future. We are kept awake many times, when we 
ought to be asleep, in our endeavors to make ready for the 
crossing of bridges which we may never reach. 
Fourthly, the natural temperament of some people is a 
formidable obstacle to the securement of needed sleep. Those 
of a bilious temperament are inclined to melancholy; and the 
cheerless gloom which surrounds a person of such a temperament 
is a marked and chilling hindrance to repose. The nervous tem- 
perameut impels its owner to rapid and continued action, until 
the exhaustion and anaemia are so great as to induce irritability 
and sleeplessness. 
Fifthly, we may record the fact that localized disease in 
some portions of the body other than the brain, may, by reflex 
influences, tend to wakefulness. This is particularly true con- 
cerning diseases of the heart, which disturb the circulation ; also 
diseases of the lungs, which produce cough ; and diseases of the 
stomach, such as dyspepsia and gout. The former break repose 
by sudden demands upon the mind for attention ; the latter by 
producing pain after each inception of food. Again, diseases of 
the liver or bowels may so far impede or derange the circulation 
as to produce sleeplessness. The kidneys, the bladder, the 8 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
genital org ns (uarticularly those of the female), are likewise the 
seats of sleep-disturbing disease. 
Having considered in brief' the physiology of sleep; the 
natural causes of sleep; and the causes which prevent sleep, we 
turn to a consideration of the means for removing obstacles to 
that re.-t which the body and mind periodically demand, and 
likewise to a consideration of those remedies, aside from narcot- 
ics, which te:id to aid nature in the attainment of natural and 
healthful sleep. To insure regular and reasonable visits from 
“ Nature’s sweet restorer ” we must offer sufficient and satisfactory 
inducements. To this end we must establish and continue those 
physiological conditions which nature invariably demands. All 
causes which prevent sleep must be systematically removed. 
Here is opened up a vast field of inquiry concerning the regula- 
tion of our daily lives, which field we cannot now sufficiently 
explore; but we hurry on to consider the state of affairs as they 
ordinarily exist among the sick and insane, and among those 
who, by imperfect living, are tending toward the hospital and 
the asylum. As we have already stated, two conditions oppose 
the acquirement of sleep. These are hyperaemia of the brain— 
stimulating it to undue activity and playing the part of a whip 
and spur to a tired horse ; and the opposite of hyperaemia—ex- 
cessive cerebral anaemia. To relieve the former by rational 
methods, a flank movement is required. The blood forces must 
be enticed away from their persistent assaults upon the cranial 
fortress. This can best be accomplished by tilling the stomach 
with solid food, thus furnishing temporary engagement for the 
pugilistic globules on other fields. The food should be of the 
coarsest and plainest variety, else the remedy, like others of a 
Homoeopathic character, might produce an aggravation ! Yon 
all know that the lower animals, after filling their stomachs with 
coarse and abundant food, lie down immediately to rest and sleep ; 
and they succeed, even after the most severe and exhausting toil 
upon the race course, at the plow, or in the field. To a reason- 
able extent man should imitate the unartificial habits of less 
gifted animals. 
Should excessive anaemia exist and a state of nerve irrita- 
bility and trepidation be thus produced, we shall tind that the SlKEP WITHOITT N ARCOTIC8. 
9 
best means with which to combat such sleep-endangering forces 
will be the administration of liquid food, such as hot milk, beef 
tea, and broths, about an hour before sleep is intended. By 
doing this the impoverished blood is speedily nourished, and 
increased not only in quantity but in volume, to the requ.red 
degree. 
Another natural means for inducing sleep is massage, or 
muscular manipulation. This method is of peculiar value to all 
that class of persons who are addicted to sedentary habits; to 
those who take too little exercise; and to those who suffer from 
imperfect circulation, and from imperfect digestion and assimila- 
tion of food. 
The method has been frequently described, and consists 
simply of kneading, compressing, and manipulating the muscles 
of the entire body by a strong, young, and skillful masseur. 
The best description of the process that we have seen is given by. 
Dr. S. Wier Mitchell, in his work entitled: “Fat and Blood.” 
He says: “An hour is chosen midway between two meals, and, 
the patient lying in bed, the manipulator starts at the feet, and 
gently but firmly pinches up the skin, rolling it lightly between 
his fingers, and going carefully over tiie whole teet; then the 
toes are bent and moved about in every direction, and next with 
the thumbs and fingers the little muscles of the foot are kneaded 
and pinched more largely, and the inter-osseous groups worked 
at with the finger tips between the bones. At last the whole 
tissues of the foot are seized with both hands and somewhat 
firmly rolled about. Next the ankles are dealt with in like 
fashion, all the crevices between the articulating bones being 
sought out and kneaded, while the joint is put in every possible 
position. The leg is next treated, first by surface pinching, and 
then by deeper grasping of the areolar tissue, and last by indus- 
trious and deeper pinching of the larger muscular masses, which 
for this purpose are put in a position of the utmost relaxation. 
The grasp of the muscles is momentary, and for the large muscles 
of the calf and thigh both hands act, the one contracting as the 
other loosens its grip. In treating the firm muscles in front of 
the leg, the fingers are made to roll the muscles under the 
cushions of the finger tips. At brief intervals the manipulator 10 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
seizes the limb in both hands atid lightly runs the grasp upwards, 
so as to favor the flow of venous blood currents, and then returns 
to the kneading of the muscles. The same process is carried on 
in every part of the body, and especial care is given to the muscles 
of the loin and spine, while usually the face is not touched. The 
belly is first treated by pinching the skin, then by deeply grasp- 
ing and rolling the muscular walls in the hands, and at last the 
whole belly is kneaded with the heel of the hand in a succession 
of rapid, deep movements, passing around in the direction of the 
colon. 
“ It depends very ranch on the strength, endurance, and 
practice of the manipulator how much good is done by these 
maneuvers. At first or for a few sittings they are to be very 
gentle, but by degrees they may be made more rough, and if the 
masseur be a good one it is astonishing how much strength may 
be used without hurting the patient. The early treatment should 
last half an hour and should be increased by degrees to one hour, 
after which should follow an hour of absolute repose. 
“ After the first few days I like the rubber to keep the part 
constantly lubricated with cocoa oil, which is agreeable in odor, 
and which keeps well, even in warm weather, if a little lime-water 
be left standing on the top of it. Vaseline is also a good lubri- 
cant, and both of these agents make the skin smooth and soft, 
and supple. As soon as a part has been manipulated it should 
be at once wrapped up. In men who are hairy it is often need- 
ful to have the limbs shaved, because the constant pull made on 
the hairs gives rise to very troublesome and painful boils. The 
early use of massage is apt in some nervous women to cause in- 
creased nervousness and even loss of sleep, but these symptoms 
may safely be disregarded, because they pass away in a few days, 
and very soon the patient begins to find the massage delightfully 
soothing and to complain when it is omitted. Women who have 
a sensitive abdominal surface or ovarian tenderness have of course 
to be handled with care, but in a few days a practical rubber will 
by degrees intrude upon the tender regions, and will end by 
kneading them with all desirable force. The same remarks ap- 
ply to the spine when it is hurt by a touch, and it is very rare in- 
deed to find persons whose irritable spots cannot at last be Sleep Without Narcotics. 
11 
rubbed and kneaded to their permanent profit. The daily mass- 
age is kept up through at least fix weeks, and then, if everything 
seems to me to be going along well, I direct the rubber to spend 
half of the hour in exercising the limbs as a preparation for 
walking. This is done after the Swedish plan by making move- 
ments of flexion and extension, which the patient is taught to 
resist.” 
Not only is the process entitled “massage” of singular 
value in the rebuilding of worn and depleted systems, but we find 
in our experience that it is a remarkable promoter of sound and 
healthful sleep. When business men cannot afford a vacation 
for purposes of recuperating, and when they cannot afford time 
during the day to take a sufficient amount of out-door exercise, 
the services of a masseur may be called in for an hour during 
the evening, and the benefits of a five-mile walk be thus obtained, 
not the least of those benefits being a subsequent night’s rest of 
the most grateful and refreshing character. To Americans, whose 
lives are generally spent, while the sun shines, in active competition 
with their fellows, this method of securing passive exercise and 
sure sleep will prove a and health-promoting boon. 
Among the simple means for inducing sleep, to which all may 
aspire, are warm baths, fresh air, comfortable beds, sufficient and 
proper bed clothing, and proper position in bed. 
Health, comfort and sleep may be obtained, after a hard 
and irritating day’s work, by a warm bath, a cold douche follow- 
ing the bath, a brisk rubbing following that, just previous to re- 
tiring for the night. The end in view is to obtain by these sim- 
ple means a normal circulation of the blood and the restoration 
to equilibrium of all the vital forces. The cares and anxieties of 
the day are washed out, so to speak, oftentimes, by an appropriate 
and well conducted bath at night. 
Fresh air should be freely supplied in every sleeping room, 
yet the sleeper should be protected from even moderate drafts, 
for these, though apparently slight at first, will produce chilliness 
of one portion of the body, while another portion may be over- 
heated, and thus a disturbing inequality of circulation ensues. 
Beds should he firm in texture, level and well elevated from 
the floor, for thus complete circulation around the bed is secured, 12 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
and the sleeper is above the influences of some of tlmse dangerous 
gases which are likely to accumulate in sleeping rooms. The 
position of the head is of importance. In cases of hyperaunia 
the head should be well elevated ; in the opposite condition the 
patient should sleep upon a very small pillow. Bed clothing 
should be sufficient to insure comfort, yet care should be taken 
against using too much. Bed clothing should be porous. Soft 
woolen blankets are the best. Tightly woven and stiffiv starched 
counterpanes are objectionable because they do not favor good 
ventilation. 
We come now to medicines for the induction of sleep. These 
may he divided into four classes: Firstly, those which act specif- 
ically upon the vaso motor system ; Secondly, those which act 
upon the heart, modifying or regulating the entire circulation ; 
Thirdly, those which act upon other organs of the body, as the 
lungs, stomach, liver, bowels, kidneys or uterus; and fourthly, 
those acting upon the eerebro spinal system. Against the use of 
the so called hypnotics in massive doses for purposes of producing 
sleep we wage a continual warfare, because we believe that the 
temporary benefits which are supposed to be obtained by their 
use are heavily discounted by the evil effects wich almost always 
follow their administration. The world is burdened by the vic- 
tims of alcoholism, opium habit, bromism, and chloralism. These 
victims knock at every physician’s door for relief, and, disap- 
pointed, they are often driven for seclusion and rest to the wards 
of insane asylums. Those who work or worry over much ; those 
who watch for many nights in succession at the bedside of the sick ; 
those who tarry late and long at the wine cup; and those who 
attempt to drown their sorrows and cares in the Lethal juice of 
the tempting poppy, are all destined to become in time the vic- 
tims of sleeplessness. To relieve the sufferings of this unfortu- 
nate class we may add to the natural physical means, already 
pointed out, the healing virtues of appropriate Homoeopathic 
medicines. By the judicious use of the remedies to be named, in con- 
nection with the means already stated, sleep may be induced with 
satisfactory certainty, while the dangers of narcotism are happily 
avoided. Before noting indications for the remedies to be used, 
we desire, by way of episode, to tell you of a novel cause and Sleep Without Narcotics. 
13 
cure of and for sleeplessness. In reply to one of my questions, 
Dr. Morgan writes: “My attention has been drawn to a peculiar 
cause of insomnia, viz.: optical defects—i. e., errors of refrac- 
tion and accommodation. Within 24 hours, I have received 
testimony of three cases, benefited by glasses duly and carefully 
fitted. One, however, had also had Gels., a second various drugs, 
the third nothing. I am sure this is an important class of 
cases. The mother of the first is insane, and commenced 
with similar eye-strain. He, himself, has optic neuritus.” The 
same gentleman writes me also to this effect: “ I can always put 
myself to sleep by gazing, in imagination, on a vast blue sky. 
Sleep comes almost instantaneously.” You who are sleepless 
should always keep a “ vast blue sky ” on hand, over whose high 
arched dome you may soar on the wings of an exalted imagina- 
tion in pursuit of sleep ! 
From those remedies which affect the vaso-motor sys- 
tem we have selected the following as among the most 
important: Aco., Ars., Bell., Cinchona, Coffea, Moschus, 
Nux V., Opium, Stratn, and Verat Vir. Thpse acting on the 
heart, (thus affecting the circulation) which are of particular value 
in relieving sleeplessness,are : Aeon., Ars., Bry., Cact., Cirnicifuga, 
Digit., Gels., Lach., Phos., Secale, Spigelia and Verat Vir. In 
a third group we may place Bell., Hyos., Phos., and Sang.—for 
their effects upon the lungs, relieving cough, and thus promoting 
sleep; Ars., Carbo Veg., Ignat., Lye., Nux V., Podo., for the 
stomach; Aloes, Aurutn, China, Mercury, Rhus, and Sulph., for 
the liver; Apis., Canth., Cannabis Sat., and Ind., and Terebin- 
thina for the kidneys; Bell., Caulo., Cimicif., Gels., Puls.. 
Secale and Sepia for the uterus ; and Aloes, Anrum, Bell., Cham., 
Coloc., Dios., Hyd., Ign , Lyc., Merc., Nat. Mur., Nux V., Podo, 
and Sulph. for the intestines. For disturbances of the male 
sexual organs we may name Cimicif, Coniutn, Gels., and Pic. Ac. 
For specific action on the cerebro-spinal system we look to Aeon. 
Amm. Carb., Arnica, Asafoetida, Bapt., Bell., Bry., Cact., 
Camph Cannabis Sat., Canth., Caust, Cham., Cimicif., Curare, 
Coffea., Gels., Glonoine, Hyos., Hyper., Ignat., Lach., Nux. Op, 
Puls., Rhus, Silicea, Scutellaria, Secale, Stram., Tarantula, Verat 
Alb. and Vir., and Zinc. Special remedies for the opium habit 14 
Slekp Without Narcotics. 
and for drunkards are : Macrotin, Avena Sativa, Phos., Nux 
Vom., and Ars. 
Again, by way of interjection, a few quaint and ancient pre- 
scriptions for the production of sleep may not come amiss. Lem- 
nius advises that you anoint your temples with virgin wax at the 
hour of sleep. Mizaldus tells us to rub our wearied and sleepless 
brows with rose water and vinegar, together with an ointment made 
of nutmegs grated upon rose cake, and this to be wet with a little 
woman’s milk. Cardan suggests that we smear our teeth at bed- 
time with ear wax from a dog ! To these may be added oil of 
nenuphar, wormwood, mandrake, pillows of roses, fat of a dor- 
mouse, swine’s gall, hare’s ears, violet leaves, lovage waters, 
lac virginale, and many others. Their mode of application we 
will leave to the tastes of the user ! 
We turn now from the prescriptions of the Ancients, to the 
more scientific and more effective medications of modern times. 
Homoeopathy lias done much, and in no department have her 
triumphs been more manifest than in the department of mental 
and nervous diseases. The “ chief' characteristic ” of this depart- 
ment is sleeplessness. For the mental excitements which accom- 
pany acute febrile diseases, with active cerebral congestions, 
intense anxiety, and apprehensions of death or disaster, prevent- 
ing sleep, Aconite leads the list. Disturbances of the mind after 
fright, or anger, are relieved by this valuable drug. One of our 
patients, brought in while suffering with acute mania, after a 
week’s sleeplessness in spite of heavy doses of chloral, and where 
fright, anger, and restlessness were intermingled, so to speak, was 
promptly relieved, and made to sleep sufficiently, with a few 
doses of the third centesimal dilution of Aconite. 
Actea Racemosa works its effects directly upon the cerebro- 
spinal system, as “a rheumatic irritant producing erethistic 
hyj)er(jemia of the brain and spinal cord, and through these the 
whole muscular system.” (Hale.) Sleeplessness from such a con- 
dition is almost inevitable. Hence we find Actea an invaluable 
remedy for the production of sleep, in the cases of drunk- 
ards who are suffering from the effects of stimulation, and who 
are passing through the horrors of delirium tremens. Opium 
eaters, or those, who are trying to stop the use of opium, and Sleep Without Narcotics. 
15 
those who are suffering from the effects of protracted muscular 
strain, from toil, watching, or exposure, are strikingly benefited 
by the use of Actea. Dr. Geo. B. Palmer prefers the use of Ma- 
crotin, the active principle of Actea, for drunkards and opium 
eaters. The symptoms upon which Actea is prescribed are : In- 
tense prostration, pain in the base of the brain, extending to the 
nape of the neck, and sometimes spreading over the shoulder. 
Mentally there is a sense of crushing depression, a feeling as if 
the mind were wrapped in the blackness of eternal darkness. 
Throughout the body there is a condition of active and distressing 
tremulousness. 
Arsenicum is preeminently a remedy for the sleepless- 
ness of those who are suffering from blood degeneration, 
and from mal-nutrition accompanied by exhaustion of the nervous 
system. Not only is the brain anaemic, but the entire body like- 
wise. To anticipate good results from drug action in such cases, 
the remedy must be applied with a view of affecting favorably 
the blood itself, and through it the nerve centres. 
By the liberal use of milk and beef tea, and by keeping the 
weak and exhausted patient in a prone position both day and 
night, the subtle and charming effects of Arsenicum, as a restora- 
tive medicine, are made manifest in pleasant and abundant sleep 
at night, and a rapid regaining of health and spirits throughout 
the coming day. Arsenic has a restlessness and anxiety which 
rivals that of Aconite. But the former is the restlessness of 
anaemic irritability, while the latter is the restlessness of 
erethistic hyperaemia. 
A new remedy for the relief of sleeplessness following 
alcoholic or narcotic stimulation, and mental excitement due 
to any form of overtaxing of the brain, has been put upon 
the stage of active usefulness. That remedy is A vena Sativa, the 
common oat. Its action upon the nervous system is not yet fully 
understood, but the good results following its use by some very 
careful and observing physicians, entitles it to further proving 
and clinical experimentations. 
Among the remedies which control the circulation, and thus 
affect the nervous system, we may name Baptisia, Gelsemium, 
and Veratrum Viride. 16 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
Baptisia overcomes the quiet but persistent wakefulness of 
those suffering with profound melancholia, accompanied by ten- 
dencies to the typhoid state. 
Gelsemium has a somewhat similar form of sleeplessness; 
that is, the patients are quiet, dull, and stupid, yet they fail 
to sleep. The distinguishing difference which exists between 
the Gels, and the Baptisia patient is to be found in the general 
condition, and in the causes affecting the nervous system of the 
individual case. The nervous system of the Gels, patient is ex- 
hausted by overwork or debauch; that of the Baptisia case by 
imperfect nourishment of the nerve tissues with the pabulum of 
impure blood. Gelsemium patients seem ever on the verge of 
profound slumber, but are unable to pass the gulf that lies be- 
tween them and needful rest. Such patients are the victims of 
an overtaxed and exhausted brain. “ I have found,” says Dr. 
John C. Morgan, “insomnia of college professors, of business 
men, and of persons recently drinking too much, with late hours, 
etc., met by Gelsemium, 3d decimal, better than by any other 
remedy.” 
Yeratrum Viride, unlike Baptisia and Gelsemium, has in- 
tense restlessness. In this respect it resembles Aconite ; but the 
latter is full of fear and apprehension, while the former is quar- 
relsome and inclined to be cross like Belladonna. 
Veratrum Viride is useful in the sleeplessness of acute fevers, 
of puerperal mania, and the excitement preceding or following 
attacks of epilepsy. A tendency to spasmodic action of the 
muscles will perhaps serve to differentiate Yeratrum Yiride 
from Aconite; and from Belladonna, by reason of the fact 
that the mental disturbances are somewhat milder in degree, 
while the fever is more severe. 
Of all remedies in the materia medica, probably none acts 
so directly, and so positively upon the brain as Belladonna ; con- 
sequently we come to rely upon it as one of the chief remedies 
for the relief of those cerebral diseases of a congestive or inflam- 
matory nature which tend to prevent sleep. From the insomnia 
of mania to the dazed sleeplessness of melancholia with stupor, 
this drug exerts its powerful influence, and its persuasive charms 
may be exercised upon every form of cerebral disorder and Sleep Without Narcotics. 
17 
mental distress. Its symptoms are familiar to every practitioner. 
As a practical hypnotic without narcotism its success depends 
largely upon its mode of application. When the brain is 
over supplied with blood, and the mind is lashed into a fury by 
the spurring action of the arterial torrents, then the mildest and 
almost imperceptible doses of Belladonna will manilest a control 
over the excited mental forces more marvelous than the strange 
juggleries of the lion-tamer. On the contrary, when the brain 
forces seem utterly befogged and overpowered by the intensity of 
blood pressure ; when the pupils are widely dilated, and when 
tetaniform convulsions seem impending, then material doses of the 
drug are required to dislodge and disperse the enemy. 
Cactus and Digitalis are sometimes required in cases of sleep- 
lessness ; the former where the pain and constriction about the 
heart produce a silent sadness of mind, with a disposition to weep 
and mourn night and day ; the latter where cardiac distress 
induces an anxiety similar to that of Aconite. 
Coca is useful as a sleep producer in cases of mental exhaus- 
tion, where at times the patient seems utterly prostrated, and at 
other times remarkably bright and well, and ready and eager for 
any work. Coca is also beneficial where the patient after going 
to sleep is suddenly awakened by a sense of shock in the brain. 
The pathological condition which exists in such cases is, we 
believe, that of anaemia spasmodica. Weak and nervous women, 
and worn out brain workers, are peculiarly liable to such con- 
ditions. 
Allium Cepa, the common onion, has a popular reputation 
as a remedy for sleeplessness. In mild cases of brain fag, ac- 
companied by catarrhal disturbances of the nasal passages and 
throat, with tendencies to neuralgic pains, and where these exter- 
nal irritations excite the mind, it is an effective remedy. The raw 
onion may be eaten just before retiring, or the mother tincture, 
or lower potencies may be used. 
Chamomilla is useful as a homoeopathic hypnotic if the pa- 
tient suffers from dull, unrelenting, and distracting pain, such as 
a nightly toothache. This remedy is particularly serviceable if 
the patient is cross and irritable, and feels inclined to get out of 
bed and walk the floor. If, instead of being cross and obstinate 18 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
when suffering severe pain, the patient is anxious, fearful, and 
makes a great fuss, then Aconite will relieve. 
Coffea is indicated when the nervous erethism is still more 
acute and sensitive, than it is in either Chamomilla or Aconite. 
The absolute and unutterable aestheticism of sensitiveness is 
reached when Coffea is indicated. The bad effects of quite too 
good news are likewise successfully combated with Coffea. 
Ilyoscyamus has the sleeplessness of Belladonna, but not the 
intense congestions and inflammations of the latter drug. It has 
a high degree of mental excitement, but not the maniacal fury of 
Stramonium. Standing as it does, between these two extremes, it 
is, perhaps, more frequently required in practice than either Bella- 
donna or Stramonium. Hyoscyamine, the active principle of 
Hyoscyamus, is said to produce anaemia of the brain; hence its 
homceopathicity to anaemia when it exists in nervous and over- 
worked persons. For sleeplessness in such cases, particularly 
where the patient is easily perturbed in mind, it is an effective 
remedy. 
Hypericum, “ the arnica of the nerves ” may be used 
after all nerve injuries, and where sleeplessness follows these, and 
where, likewise, the brain has been strained by intense and con- 
tinued exertions. 
For the sleeplessness of grief, no remedy compares with 
Ignatia. The Ignatia patient broods quietly over the sorrowful 
experiences of the past, and rises but slowly from the “ slough of 
despond ” into which the loss of health, friends, or property has 
plunged him. 
Aconite and Opium may be called for in cases of sudden 
shock from bad news, the accompanying symptoms determining 
the demand for either one or the other. In one case agonizing 
restlessness will exist; in the other, dullness and dazed depression. 
Pulsatilla may be serviceable in the sleeplessness of mild and 
tearful young women, while Natrurn Muriaticum is required by 
those who are full of boisterous grief, and who, though young, 
have the appearance of being prematurely aged. 
Kali Bromidum is a drug which produces true anaemia of 
the brain. Its use, in massive and overpowering doses, has caused Sleep Without Narcotics. 
19 
many disastrous results; yet the same may be said of Mercury, 
Opium, and Antimony. 
Where insomnia from anaemia exists with no other marked 
indications, we have found grain doses of the first decimal tritura- 
tion remarkably efficacious. This is particularly true when the 
remedy is used upon patients suffering from acute and painful 
diseases. 
Nux Vomica is a drug whose value, as a hypnotic, is well 
known to the profession. It is specially applicable in cases of 
recent debauchery, or gluttony. Those who are sleepless from a 
recent “ drunk,” or the surfeit of a late and ricli supper, will find 
Nux a panacea for their pains, and a happy antidote for the dis- 
gust which such practices excite in the breast of Morpheus. 
Nnx likewise overcomes the ill effects of hard study, and 
sexual excess, and enables the victim to secure, with comfort and 
safety, a not otherwise easily obtained morning nap. 
Another valuable remedy for sleeplessness following intense 
mental overwork and anxiety, and coupled with a distressing con- 
fusion, pain, and vertigo in the head, is Phosphorus. Five drops 
of the tincture in half a glass of rain water, a teaspoonful every 
half hour during the evening, followed by a bowl of hot soup, or 
a cup of beef tea at bed time, will generally relieve the pain and 
restlessness of brain-fag, and secure to the patient a sound and 
refreshing sleep during the night. Dr. Conant tells me that he 
has found Plios. useful when the patient falls asleep easily and is 
just as easily awakened. The Phos. case sleeps and wakens many 
times in a single night. 
Opium is, par-excellence, the world-famous narcotizing agent, 
by which the brain is stupefied, and unnatural and unhealthy sleep 
produced. Ilomoeopathically, it may be applied to mitigate the 
stupor of severe cerebral congestions, particularly where there is 
a tendency to apoplexy or paralysis. We remember a case where 
Opium thus applied caused the patient to sleep lightly and natur- 
ally, who, previous to its use, was accustomed nightly to sink into 
a stupor from which he could not be aroused until eight or nine 
o’clock in the morning. Under Opium he awoke naturally, ac- 
cording to previous habit, at 6 a. m., without external assistance. Sleep Without Narcotics. 
Secale Cornutum produces at first marked congestions, fol- 
lowed by anaemia and sleeplessness. There is a tendency to 
paralysis, and particularly formication. These sensations, in 
cutaneous nerves, as if ants were crawling over the skin, tend to 
excite and worry the patient, and stimulate a feeling of anxiety 
and apprehension, which prevents sleep. As a “ regulator ” of 
the circulation in anaemic cases, and as a promotor of sleep, Secale 
occupies a prominent position in the materia medica. 
For the sleeplessness of utter mental and physical inani- 
tion, when food fails to nourish, when the heart loses courage, 
and when there is abject despair and total absence of hope, we find 
that Silicea will often work a wondrous and magical presto in the 
condition of affairs. Silicea is one of the most marvelous of all the 
medicines for mental diseases, i. e., when it is indicated, which is 
more often than is generally supposed. It should be administered 
to those who have no “ sand ! ” 
We have given hurried and imperfect indications for the use 
of a few remedies for sleeplessness. No specific for this dis- 
tressing symptom can be named. Each case must be individual- 
ized, and both the conditions and symptoms noted with scrupu- 
lous care. When practicable, the conditions must be changed 
from abnormal to normal, as far as possible, by hygienic and 
dietetic means. Then, as an aid to perfect restoration, the 
appropriate Homoeopathic remedy must be selected and properly 
administered. 
We advocate a careful attention to the measures proposed by 
reason of the fact that, as a nation, we are imperfect and scanty 
sleepers. And we may note another fact, that by the use of nar- 
cotic and overpowering drugs, too freely and indiscriminately 
applied, the American people are drifting blindfolded upon the 
rock of insanity, and into the shoal waters of premature physical 
and mental decay. 
Our modem civilization is tending toward numerous and fatal 
disasters. Even children imbibe with their mothers milk the 
reckless rush, and hurry, and fretfulness of the times. Our schools 
are crowded with weak and failing brains. Our shops, stores, 
counting-houses, and offices are filled with the victims of overwork Sleep Without Narcotics. 
21 
and competitive worry ; and our cemeteries are burdened with an 
increasing crop of youthful skeletons, the sad and suicidal remains 
of short and ill-spent lives. 
National decay can be averted only by a general reformation 
in our method of living; and foremost in the line of reform rises 
a grim and persistent demand for necessary and recuperating sleep. 
Carlyle says that “ the race of life lias become intense; the 
runners are treading on each others heels; woe to him who stops 
to tie his shoe strings.” Just now the race is sharp, but short. 
The time will come, however, when long distances, and long life 
to make the journey in, will be the fashion. And the race will 
be won, not by those who are breathless, haggard, and careless of 
shoe strings, (for such runners will fall by the wayside) but it will 
be achieved by those who toil patiently and steadily, like the tor- 
toise, during the day, and who gather strength for future tieetness 
by solid and sufficient rest at night. The means for securing this 
practical necessity, sleep, have been pointed out. We must prac- 
tice, in these earthly tabernacles, the wisest principles of mental 
and physical hygiene. And then, when disease does assail us, 
and sleep flies from the couch of pain, we must avoid the greater 
dangers that arise from the reckless use of over mastering and 
poisonous drugs. We must remember that beyond and above the 
temporary and deceptive relief afforded by narcotics, we may rind 
more satisfaction, safety, and efficacy by a resort to 
“ Many simples operative, 
Whose power will close the eyes of anguish.” 
That was a wise observation of Meander, when he declared 
that “ sleep is the natural cure of all diseases.” To be so, how- 
ever, it must be induced by mild, and not by savage measures. 
It remains for the medical profession to guide aright the 
millions of earth’s wanderers over life’s desert plains. And it is 
the duty of that profession to not only relieve the sick, but to sug- 
gest and lead up to the means for preserving and continuing the 
good condition of those who are in health. 
He who shall smite the rock, and command an outpouring of 
lethean waters for the comfort of the strong, inducing sweet for- 22 
Sleep Without Narcotics. 
getfillness of every care, and for the consolation and recuperation 
of the sleepless sick, will he recognized as one of the greatest 
and wisest of earth's benefactors. 
Who shall discover the rock, and who shall smite? None 
save the earnest searcher, the anointed leader in the paths of truth, 
and the persistent and patient “ workman in the cause of 
humanity.” REPERTORY. 
Note.—The design of the following repertory is to “ blaze 
the way ” to the selection of appropriate remedies for such forms 
of sleeplessness as are most common in the experiences of the 
active practitioner. The causes, conditions, and times of sleepless- 
ness have been carefully considered. A list of “ characteristic ” 
symptoms is also presented. 
In the preparation of this repertory I am indebted, for 
valuable aid, to my assistant, Dr. C. Spencer Kinney. 
Sleeplessness of old age : Ant, Crud., Apis Mel., Arsen., 
Anrum, Conuim, Kali Curb., Lyeop., Op. 
young children : Aeon., Ambra, Arsen., Bell., 
Cham., Coif., Ign., Nux Y., Snlph. 
Alcoholism: Arsen., Avena Sat., Bell., China, 
Cim., Dig., Hyos., Maerotin, Stram., Yer. Yir. 
excessive anaemia: Arsenic, Cal. C., China., 
Coca, Hyper., Kali Brom., Lyeop., Mere. Y., Nat. M., Nux 
M., Nux Y., Rhus Tox., Sepia, Sil. 
congestion : Aeon., Am., Avena Sat., Bell., 
Berb., Borax, Bry., Cim. Rae., Coca, Coff., Ferr., Gels., 
Glon., Hyos., Melilotns, Nux Mos., Nux Y., Rhus., Seeale 
Cor., Yer. Y. 24 
Repertory. 
Causes of Sleeplessness. 
Sleeplessness f rom ap>prehension : Aeon., Amm. Curb., Bell., 
Bry., Cact., Cal. C., Hyos., Lil Tig., Merc. V., Nat. M., 
Nux. V. 
anger : Aeon., Canth., Coloc., Ign., Lyeop., 
Nit. Ac., Nux V., Staph. 
fright : Aeon., Aloes, Argent. Nit., Bell., Cal. 
C., Caust., China, Coff., Gels., Hyper., Nux Y., Lyeop., Op., 
Plios. Ae., Puls., Strain., Sulpli., Yer. Yir. 
grief : Coce., Coloe., Ign., Plios. Ac., Puls., 
Staph. 
worry: Aeon., Agar. M., Alumina, Ant. 
Crud., Bry., Con., Dig., Graph., Ign., Lach., Mere. Y., 
Nux V. 
excessive joy : Argent N., Ars., Cal. C., Carb. 
Y., Cham., Cotiea., Chin.. Nux Mos. 
Sleeplessness after dreams : Aeon., Agnus Cast., Arg. N., 
Bell., Bry., Mere., Plan., Nux Yom. 
of animals : Aloes, Arm, Bell., Hyos., Hy- 
drastis, Puls., Sulph. 
of falling from height : Aeon., Aur. M., 
Ant., China, Dig., Hep., Mere. Cor., Nux M., Op., Sep., 
Sulph. 
ghosts : Aes. Hip., Atrop., Bell., Canth., 
Caust., Coco., Kali Carb., Op., Sil., Sepia. 
Mania, Sleeplessness of: Aeon., Ars., Bell., Berb., Bry., Cal. 
C., Coca., Chin., Cim., Coff., Dig. Ferr., Gels., Glon., Hyos., 
Kali Brom., Laeh., Lyeop., Maerotin, Melilotus, Nux Y., 
Rlius Tox., Sep., Sil., Strain,, Yer. Yir. 
with incoherence : Agar. Mus., Alcohol, Anac., 
Arg. Nit., Bell., Cann. Ind., Hyos., Kali Bieh., Op., Stram. 
exaggerated ideas : Cann. Ind., Cuprum, Bell., 
Plat., Plumb., Strain., Sulph., Yer. Alb. 
abandon and laughter: Agar. Mus., Cann. 
Ind., Coce., H}ros., Laeh., Lyeop., Nux M., Strain., Sulph., 
Yer. Alb. Repertory. 
25 
Melancholia, sleeplessness of : Aeon., Alumina, Ant. Cruel., 
Argent. N., Arm, Ars., Aurum, Bry., Cactus, Big., Hell., 
Hyos., Ign., Lycop., Moscli., Nat. M., Nux V., Op., Plumb., 
Podo., Puls., Sepia, Strain., Sulpli., Tarant., Thuja, Ver. Vir. 
with despair of salvation : Lycop., Puls., 
Sulph., Ver. Alb. 
from fear of poverty : Ant., Cal. C., Clem., 
Fluor. Ac., Graph., Lach., Nux V. 
loss of friends : Ign., Puls., Lach., Strain. 
with suicidal impulses: Ars., Aur., Bell., 
Carb. V., Caust., Chin., Hell., Hep., Hyos., Lach., Merc., 
Nit. Ac., Nux V., Puls., Illius., Sep., Spig., Stanm, Ver. Alb. 
Pain, sleeplessness f rom : Aeon., Am. C., Aur., Bell., Bry., 
Colch., Dulc., Glom, Hydras., Lil. Tig., Lycop., Merc. V., 
Nux M., Nux V., Op., Plumb., Puls., Sil. 
burning : Aeon., Ars., Ber.b. V. 
sharp, piercing : Aeon., Apis, Bell., Bry., 
Chin., Lach., Merc., Nux V. 
dull, heavy : Arnica., Ledum, Lept., Plios. Ac., 
Rhus Tox. 
stinging : Aeon., Apis. 
throbbing : Bell., Kali Carb., Kali Iod., Ilep. 
Sulpli., Merc., Sil., Sulph. 
Times, Sleeplessness at various : Aeon., Ars., Aurum, Bell., 
Bry., Calc C., Cal. Plios., Cham., Chin., Cim. Rac., Coff., 
Hell., Hepar, Hyos., Kali Broin., Lach., Lycop., Melilotus. 
Merc., Nux Mos., Nux V., Plios., Puls., Op., Rhus Tox., 
Sep., Sil., Sulph., Ver. Alb. 
before midnight: Aur. Mur., Carb. V., 
Kreosote, Merc. V., Op., Phos., Puls., Rhus., Ran. Bulb. 
after midnight: Aeon.,Ars., Aur., Caps., Coff., 
Ferr., Iod., Nux V., Sil. 
Awakens at 1 a. m. : Ars., Kali C. 
2 a. m. : Nit. Ac., Nux V., Kali Bieh. 
3 a. m. : Ars., Bapt., Bell., Cal. C., Kali. C. 
4 a. m. : Plantago, Verbascum. 26 
Repertory. 
Falls asleep readily but wakens frequently : Aeon., Agar, 
m., Ars., Aur., Bell., Cham., Coff., Hyos., Ign., Phos., 
Rhus., Ruta. 
Sleeplessness from abdominal trouble : Plant. 
aching in vertex : Aeon., Brv. 
acute diseases during convalescence : Coff. 
anguish : Bell. 
anxiety : Aeon. 
burning in eyes: Eugenia Jam., Kreosote, 
Rhod. 
chronic cerebral irritation and pulsation in 
neck and body : Gels. 
circulation, excitement of : Aeon., Bry., Meli- 
lotus, Yer. Yir. 
coition, after : Copaiva. 
coldness of feet : Cal. C., Carbo Yeg., Nit. 
Ac., Sil. 
— hands : Yer. Y., Carbo. Veg. 
contraction of chest : Con., Senega. 
conversation, lively : Hepar. Sul. 
coryza: Arsenicum. 
cough : Sticta Pul. 
depressing events'. Ign., Sulph., Nat. M. 
eating too much : Nux Y., Puls. 
ease, lack of in any position : Lyeop. 
electric shocks : Argent Met., Op., Yer. Vir. 
an emission : Piper meth. 
excitement, nervous: Hyos., Moseh. 
exhaustion from uterine complaints : Cypri. 
fancies : Plios , Spong. 
fear : iieon., Rhus Tox. 
figures before his eyes : Sulph. Phos. Ac. 
formication : Guarea, Seeale Cor. 
heat : Bry., Puls., Mere., Nux Yom. 
heat in loins : Ivreosote. 
heat in palms of hands, and soles of feet: 
Lach. Repertory 
27 
heart, dilated: Tabae. 
violent pulsation of: Benz. Ac. 
homesickness : Capsicum. 
images appearing : Arg. Nit. 
itching : Anae., Sulph., Dulc. 
in arms: Aloes. 
—: — thighs,: Ran. Bulb. 
legs, restlessness of: Rhus Tox., Ver. Vir., Zinc. 
loins, cutting and dragging in : Mag. Carb. 
mental exertion : Cim., Nux. Vom. 
menses, during : Am. C., Nat. Mur., Mag. Mur. 
thirst during : Sepia. 
mouth, soreness of: Arum Triph. 
narcotism, after: Cim., Nux., Secale, Strain. 
nervousness : Coca, Colch. 
noise, being awakened by a : Ox. Ac. 
pain : Conium, Phytol., Strain., Mag., Sulph., 
Carb. An. 
in back, loins, headache : Berb. 
before midnight: Ars. 
iVi mouth : Merc. Prot. 
zVt face : Plant. 
intercostal, wo'M anxiety: Ran. Bulb. 
phantasms: Bell., Cham., Hyos., Op., Strain. 
portal circulation being impeded : Merc. 
pregnancy : Bell., Cham., Coff., Hyos., Nux. Op. 
pulsation in pit of stomach and, ears : Cactus. 
scattered about, feeling as if : Bapt. 
sensation of a ball in the throat : Stillingia. 
voluptuous : Nux. V. 
stomach, constriction of: Coeculus. 
study excessive : Actea, Nux. 
surprise, agreeable: Coff., Scut. 
thoughts crowding upon one another: Bry. 
trembling: Ly.cop. 
uneasiness of body : Carbo. Yeg., Sulph. 
— visions, seeing on shutting his eyes : Camph., 
Spong., Thuya. 28 
Repertory. 
wakefulness, simple : Nat. Mur. 
watching at night: Cocculus. 
worms in children : Ferr. 
Sleeplessness alternating with coma : Camph. 
every oilier night: Anaeardium.