ARMY MEDICAL LIBRARY FOUNDED 1S36 WASHINGTON, D.C. HOMOEOPATHIC FAMILY GUIDE, FOR THE USE OF Twenty-Jive Principal Remedies IN THE TREATMENT OF THE MORE SIMPLE FORMS OF DISEASE. BY GEORGE E. SHIPMAN, M.D. TOGETHER WITH DIRECTIONS FOR THE TREATMENT OF DENGUE AND YELLOW FEVER. BY W. H. HOLCOMBE, 'M. lv £. 5 2 ■'• i"ICH SECOND EDITION. !'! ~„ t •'»>'-"*-,■■ '" ir H ' ' lbbl*n, CHICAGO-:__ _ / J C. S. HALSEY, 147 CLARK STREET. j" 1865. 1 rse- Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1865, By C. S. HALSEY, In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States, for the Northern District of Illinois. PREFACE. Why another work on Domestic Medicine ? many may ask. Their name is Legion already. Why another ? In the first place, it may be replied, that this is a free country, and that those who can pay for printers' ink, have the right to shed it; and as no one is compelled to read every thing which is printed, no right is invaded by the appearance of a new book. In the second place, that though there are many works of the kind, there is none which suits everybody, else there would be but one. It has been thought that the peculiar arrangement of this work would perhaps suit a certain class of minds, not entirely content with any of the others. The favor with which the first edition was received, has induced the Editor to prepare, and the Publisher to issue a second, enlarged and revised. The Mate- ria Medica has been compiled from the best author- ities, and it is thought will be found accurate, and as full as consists with the limits of the work. The Editor has been guided by his own experience in the selection of the symptoms, to a great extent, and has added some indications which are deduced solely from that experience. THE OBJECT OF THIS WORK AND HOW TO USE IT. He who purchases this book, buys the right to cure all diseases treated of therein, but not necessa- rily the might. Let him not therefore complain that he receives an inadequate quid for his quo, if he fail to cure sometimes, nor relieve his mind by call- ing the writer a fool, and the publisher a knave. To cure diseases, requires a knowledge of the system in health ; of the way in which diseases manifest them- selves ; of the nature of remedies ; of the best man- ner of using them: and this is a knowledge difficult to obtain and not easily conveyed to the mind of an- other, especially where that mind lacks the prelimi- nary knowledge, and still more especially when it has to be condensed within the narrow limits of such a book as this. But suppose all this knowledge ob- tained, another element of success is needful—skill. This is not transferable—each one must obtain it from the faculties which nature, and the knowlege which education has given him. If he lack, then, either skill or knowledge, let him not blame this book, which pretends to furnish him with but a small amount of the latter, and none at all of the former. It does not profess to make a Doctor of him, but only to enable him to prescribe for a few of the yi THE OBJECT OF THIS WORK, simpler forms of disease, where a physician cannot readily be obtained. The book is divided into three portions. The first, gives the leading characteristic features of some of the most prominent diseases, with a few general hints for their treatment; the second, symptoms al- phabetically arranged with their appropriate reme- dies ; and the third, the Materia Medica. The way to use the book is as follows : A patient is presented—perhaps you know what the disease is —suppose it to be hooping cough; the first part will give some general hints about the treatment; the second, will give you the remedies to be used. As there are more than one, the question is, which shall be given. To decide this, consider the character of the cough—the time of day when most aggra- vated, the nature [of the expectoration, and any and all the other symptoms produced during the cough, or noticed during the paroxysm—find out froi^i the Repertory, the medicines which produce these symp-., toms—this will narrow the choice down to three or* four. Now compare these three or four in the Ma- teria Medica and select the one which best covers the symptoms. Perhaps you do not know what the disease is— note down all the symptoms as above suggested; you may then find the name of the disease in the first part, but that is not essential. It is not the name 01 the disease which the patient wishes to get rid of, but the symptoms, for it is the symptoms which con- stitute all you can know of the disease. Compare these in the Repertory as above directed, and if need- ful in the Materia Medica, and you will have all the light such a work can throw on the subject. Where all the symptoms are found indicating any one remedy, the case is clear ; where two or more AND HOW TO USE IT. Vll remedies are recommended, and past experience throws no light upon the subject, the Third Part must be consulted. After all this examination and comparison, if the matter is still in doubt, there is no way left but to seek other advice, or where this cannot be had, to try first one and then another rem- edy. Where the choice can be narrowed down to two, they may be given alternately. But some one may say this is laborious and cannot be done on the spur of the moment. True, and for this reason those who wish to use the book with advantage must make a study of the Materia Medica, and so famil- iarize themselves with the range of each remedy, that any particular group of symptoms will readily suggest ^he proper remedy. By doing this, they will find themselves eventually able to cope with many diseases or groups of symptoms not at all noticed in this^rjook or any other, for there is many a patient whdse ailments cannot be classified or even named. TIrose unwilling to engage in this necessary study should not undertake even domestic treatment. A remedy having been selected, the question will arise : How is it to be administered, and how often ? The remedies may be given either dry or in solution. Two or three pellets suffice for a child, and six or eight for an adult; for infants at the breast, some pre- fer to give the remedy to the mother. In chronic affections of children, this course will be necessary. If the remedies are given in water, fifteen or twenty •pellets may be dissolved in half a glass of water, and a few drops given to an infant, and to an adult a tea- spoonful or table-spoonful. Where the medicines , are in the fluid form, a drop may be taken for eight pellets; if in powder, as much as will lie on a three cent piece (old style) will be an equivalent. In - determining the size of the dose, regard must be had V11I THE OBJECT OF THIS WORK, to the susceptibility of the patient, but in a work of this character, no more can be done than to call at- tention to the fact, that some constitutions and pa- tients, in some diseases, are more readily affected, and hence need less medicine, than in others. As to the frequency of repetition, this must de- pend upon the acuteness of the disease. Where the progress of the disease is very rapid, the action of the remedy is soon exhausted, hence the remedy must be given oftener. It is always desirable to lengthen the interval as improvement advances. Medicines should be alternated, as already noticed, when it cannot be determined which of two reme- dies is the better. Sometimes neither one of two such remedies answers the purpose, but when given alternately, they are just the thing. Sometimes one medicine corresponds to one part of the symptoms, and another to another—these may be alternated. A word may be said as regards the diet, and but a word. Avoid everything indigestible or difficult of digestion. Each one can soon determine for himself what agrees with him, or what does not. People learn what they should dispense with, easier than they find the self-denial wherewith to practice their knowledge. Avoid every thing of a medicinal na- ture while taking Lfomceopathic medicines. For further directions, reference must be had to popular works on Physiology. In conclusion, it will be noticed that all Chronic Diseases are but slightly treated. The cause is ob- vious. The work is intended for those who are at- tacked with sudden and violent diseases and cannot obtain a physician. Patients suffering from Chronic Diseases can either get to a Doctor or can write to one ; in either case, unless he is a very poor one, they will get better advice than the best book can AND HOW TO USE IT. IX give. No very sensible person will ever attempt to treat himself or his family, who can obtain the ad- vice of a well-qualified physician. If those fail too often, who make the study of diseases and their rem- edies the sole business of their lives, what success can they expect, who know little or nothing of either ? 2 t LIST OF MEDICINES RECOMMENDED IN THIS WORK, WITH THEIR ABBRE- VIATIONS. — i Aconite............................Aeon. — 2 Arsenicum...........................Ars. __3 Belladonna ..........................Bell. -— 4 Bryonia.............................Bry. — 5 Calcarea............................Calc __ 6 Camphora*.......................Camph. 7 Cantharis..........................Canth. — 8 Chamomilla........................Cham. 9 China.............................Chin. •— io Cina ...............................Cin. ~- 11 Coffea..............................Coff. 12 Colocynthis........................Coloc. 13 Hyoscyamus.......................Hyos. _ 14 Ipecacuanha.........................Ipec. — 15 Lycopodium.........................Lye. .-- 16 Mercurius..........................Merc. -— 17 Nux Vomica..............,........Nux. 18 Opium.............................. Op. __ 19 Phosphorus.........................Phos. __ 20 Podophyllum.........................Pod. — 21 Pulsatilla............................Puis. •W- 22 Rhus-toxicodendron...................Rhus. __ 23 Sulphur............................Sulph. 24 Tartar Emetic.......................Tart. _ 25 Veratrum..........................Verat. * Noti.—Camphor will not be found in the case accompanying this work, because it will not answer to keep it confined with Homoeopathic remedies, because it is readily accessible everywhere, and because it needs little or no preparation for immediate use. The Tincture or Spirits of Camphor may be given, six drops on a teaspoonful of sugar, stirred up in half a glass of wa- xii LIST OF MEDICINES. SUPPLEMENTARY REMEDIES NOT TO BE FOUND IN THE REPERTORY OR MATERIA MEDICA. Ammonium Carbonkum............Amm. carb. Arnica...........................'.......Am. Arsenicum Iodidum...............v.^Ars. iod. Dulcamara.......................'Jr.. .. Dulc. f Gelseminum...........................Gels. Hepar Sulphuris...................Hep* sulph. Kali Bichromicum.....................Kali. bi. Lachesis...............................Lach. Ledum.................................Led. Mercurius Dulcis...................Merc. dulc. Mercurius Iodatus..................Merc. iod. Secale.................................Sec. Sepia...................................Sep. Silicea..................................Sil. ter, a teaspoonful at a time, every few minutes. This, also, may be used as a gargle in sore throat. In Quinsy, Camphor may be given by inhalation, thus: where the patient is in a small room, with a stove in it, pour Spirits of Camphor on the stove, and continue till relief is found. A more direct, but less agreeable method, is to put Gum Camphor into a cup-or bowl, with red- hot nails or coals, throw a shawl over the patient's head, put the bowl under the shawl and let the patient draw in the fumes through a widely-opened mouth. The Gum may also be given in such cases, a piece of the .size of a pea may be held in the mouth till it is gone. In sudden colds of children, it often acts well to put a bit of Camphor into their m6uths when going to bed. f This remedy is used by many physicians in cases where Aconite is ic- commended in this work. I index. xiii INDEX. .** - t ---- PAGE Abscess..................................17 Afterpains................................18 Aphthae..................................l8 Apoplexy................................J 8 Asthma..................................J 9 Atrophy (of children)......................19 Bite of Snakes.............................88 Bite of Dogs..............................88 Bleeding of the Lungs...................... 54 'Bleeding of the Nose.......................54 Blood, Spitting of..........................2* Blood, Vomiting of.........................22 Boils....................................*7 Bowels, Inflammation of.....................22 Brain, Inflammation of......................23 Breasts, Inflammation of.....................25 Bronchitis................................2° Burns ...................................85 Camphor, How to use it....................12 Carbuncles...............................27 Catarrh................................•„27 Chicken Pox............................"28 Chilblains................................z8 Child-bed Fever...........................45 Child-birth...............................65 Cholera..................................z8 xiv index. PAGE Cholera Infantum..........................3J Cholera Morbus...........................32 Cold in the Head..........................27 Colic....................................32 Constipation..............................33 Convulsions (of children)...................33 Convulsions (of women)....................35 Consumption....................,........3^ Cough...................................36 Croup...................................37 Delirium Tremens.........................38 Dengue..................................39 Diarrhoea............. ...................4° Diet, Rules of............................. 8 Diphtheria...............................40 Dose.................................... 7 Dropsy..................................42 Drowning................................85 Dysentery................................42 Dyspepsia................................43 Earache..................................43 Erysipelas................................44 Eyes, Inflammation of......................44 External Remedies.........................89 Felons........7..........................83 Fever, Intermittent........................44 Fever, Puerperal.............,.............45 Fever, Remittent..........................46 Fever, Typhoid...........................47 Fever, Yellow.............................48 Food for Weakly Infants........,.,.........20 Flooding.................................55 Freezing.................................86 I INDEX. XV PAGE Gelseminum, Use of........................12 Haemorrhage from the Nose................54 Haemorrhage from the Gums.................54 Haemorrhage from the Lungs.................54 Hasmorrhage from the Stomach...............54 Haemorrhage from the Bowels................54 Hasmorrhage from the Womb................55 Haemorrhoids.............................7° Headache................................57 Hives....................................69 Hooping-Cough..........k................58 How to use this Book....................... 6 Hysterics.................................5 8 Influenza................-................59 Itch.....................................59 Jaundice..................................60 Kidneys, Inflammation of....................61 Leucorrhcea...............................61 List of Medicines..........................11 List of Supplementary Medicines.............12 Liver, Inflammation of......................62 Lock-jaw.................................°3 Lungs, Inflammation of.....................64 Lying-in................................."5 Measles..................................67 Menstruation.............................68 Mumps..................................68 Nettle-rash...............................69 Neuralgia................................69 A. Xvi INDEX. PAGE Object of this Work....................... 5 Piles....................................7° Pleurisy.................................7l Plunge-bath for Infants......................2° Poison...................................87 Quinsy...................................71 Rheumatism..............................72 Ring-worm..........»....................72 Scald-head................................72 Scarlet Fever.............-.................73 Scarlet-rash...............................77 Scurvy...................................77 Sea-sickness...............................78 Shingles.................................78 Small Pox................................79 Sore Mouth...............................18 Sore Throat..............................80 St. Vitus' Dance...........................80 Sun-stroke................................81 Thrush..................................81 Turpentine, Use of........................61 Urination................................81 Vomiting.................................82 Whitlow.................................83 Worms..................................8 % Wounds..............................,.. .87 ' / PART I. Being a Brief Notice of the Causes and Char- acteristics of Some of the Most Common Diseases, with General Directions for Diet, Regimen and Medical Treatment. ABSCESS.* Bell, may be given first, either alone or alternately with Merc.; if these do not afford prompt relief, and the abscess is large, give Phos. and Hep.-sulph. alternately. Besides the remedies recommended in the Reper- tory, see Lycopersicum, under the head of external remedies. Should this fail to relieve, flannels wrung out of water—hot or cold, as is most grateful—are beneficial. Much suffering is avoided by opening an abscess early, if any one with the requisite nerve —and it does not require much—is at hand. If the abscess be very large, it is desirable not to let all the matter out at once, and if the discharge continues several days, the strength must be kept up by a liberal diet. * This may be as good a place as any, to state, that in speaking of any disease, it is pre-supposed of course that the disease is recognized. Many diseases are so masked, that no one but a medical expert can detect them, and it is said that even doctors differ sometimes. In the case of abscess, for instance, some abscesses are so deeply seated, that their existence would never be suspected, save by a medical man—hence they are not subjects for domestic treatment. No attempt, even, can be made in a work like this, to impart skill in diagnosis, or discrimination between obscure diseases: such cases, whei e no doctor is to be had, must be felt after with the Repertory and Materia Medica. 3 18 APOPLEXY. AFTERPAINS. A few pellets of Aconite or Coffea, in half a glass of water, a teaspoonful given every hour, will gen- erally control these—especially if the tincture of Calendula (marigold) one part to twenty of water, be applied to the external parts, or thrown into the vagina. If these fail, compare the other remedies given in the Repertory, with the general symptoms contained in the Materia Medica. APHTHAE Arise from a derangement of the stomach or bowels; are sometimes accompanied with fever, restlessness and loss of appetite; the child drools. Small vesicles first appear on the tip of the tongue, the inside of the lips, chiefly the lower, and upon the inside of the cheek; these soon burst and leave little ulcers behind them; most commonly appear in children and are not attended with danger. The mouth may be washed repeatedly with a weak solution of Borax. Mercurius is the chief remedy; causes likely to produce indigestion must be removed. Compare with Thrush as these diseases are some- times confounded. APOPLEXY Is not likely to be mistaken for anything, but the effedl of some poison, as Alcohol, Opium, etc. Full-blooded people, especially as they advance in life, should live moderately, avoiding undue excitement of mind or body. Bell, and Op. would first suggest themselves. In no case permit the patient to be bled. ATROPHY (OF CHILDREN). 19 ASTHMA Is a disease easily recognized: distressing, but not dangerous; difficult of cure, and in many cases incurable. Attacks may be brought on by over- exertion, errors of diet, taking cold, exposure to various odors, by suppression of the menses, or the hasmorrhoidal flow, or, by anything producing a powerful effect upon the nervous system, as a sud- den fright, great joy. One affected by this disease should avoid all known causes; sometimes change of climate is necessary. Ipec. Nux. and Merc, are the remedies first to be thought of, but consult the Repertory for the various symptoms, due regard being had to the state of the urinary secretion. ATROPHY (OF CHILDREN). Children wont grow sometimes; on the contrary, they grow poor—that is Atrophy. To cure them, is more'a matter of management than medicine. Chin. and Phos. are useful where the child is reduced by diarrhoea. Calc. where it is teething. Merc, where there are worms, alternately with Cina, if there is fever now and then. It is often well to interpose an occasional dose of Sulph., giving no medicine for twenty-four hours after. Further directions may be found in the other parts of the work. As regards the management, the child must have fresh air, plenty of sunlight, regular meals, and sleep as little disturbed as possible. It should be more warmly clad than a thriving child, but not sweltered. Once a day, it should have a plunge bath, tempera- ture about 950 to begin with, gradually lowering it ZO ATROPHY (OF CHILDREN). as the patient gets more lusty. One person should stand ready with a blanket well warmed, and another, taking the naked child, should plunge it into the water—all but its head—as suddenly as pos- sible—not holding it there a second, then wrap it up instantly in the warm blanket and stow it away in its bed. If it takes the bath kindly, it will go to sleep in the blanket, and may sleep, from half an hour to an hour, or even two. When it wakes, feed it, if it has slept long—otherwise not—sponge it off—in the blanket—and rub it well with the hand from head to foot, and dress it. If the weather should permit, a turn in the air would then be in order ; indeed, the more it can be kept in the air the better. It should be understood, that this bath is not to be given just after eating—nor any other. Now, as regards the diet—and this is the most dif- ficult and important of all; for what one child will thrive on, another will not touch ; nay, what answers very well for a few days, may then nauseate, and now the question comes up, what next ? Unhappily, the answer is not always at hand. The following pre- paration has saved many lives, and answers every purpose^ if the child will but take it; to some chil- dren it is nauseous. Put an ounce of grated carrot into half, a pint of cold water—let it stand in a cool place for^ twelve hours—stirring it ever and anon; then strain it; thicken the liquid with arrow root, bread crumbs or cookies ; it may be thin enough to draw through the nursing bottle, or as thick as pap, according to the taste of the child ; if arrow root is used, add a little salt and white sugar; if bread, only sugar, and if cookies, neither; this done, put it on a slow fire, and just let it come to a boil—no more ; then it is ready; this should be prepared night and morning, as it will not keep long. BLOOD, SPITTING OF. 21 Animal broths answer better with some; beef, mut- ton or chicken. The following is a good way to prepare them : Mince up a pound of lean but tender beef, put it into a pint of cold water, and let it stand 3 or 4 hours in a cool place ; put it on a slow fire, add a little salt, some like sugar too, let it boil gently a minute or two, strain it and it is ready for use. When the child will take none of these things, show it various articles of food and let it have what it selects—there is no alternative. A change of air is often advisable, indeed essential. BLOOD, SPITTING OF. A very alarming symptom, but, in general, less immediately dangerous than alarming. The blood may not come from the lungs; a little inquiry will show whether it does not come from the nose, gums or upper part of the throat. If it come from the lungs, it will be mixed with little bubbles of air; spitting of blood is attended with anxiety and appre- hension, and more or less prostration. Where the hasmorrhage is considerable, the patient should lie down at once (the head and chest rather elevated) and maintain as tranquil a state of mind and body as possible. Ipecac or Arsenic may be given, preceded, if there is much excitement of the circulation, by a few doses of Aconite; Ledum also is a remedy of great virtue in the treatment of this affection, where the blood is bright red, especially where there is oppression, or constriction of the chest, rendering respiration painful, or sharp, lacerating pains and quickening of the circulation. 22 BOWELS, INFLAMMATION OF THE. BLOOD, VOMITING OF. This, like spitting of blood, is rather alarming than immediately dangerous. Instances have been known, where large quantities of blood have been ejected from the stomach at various intervals, without destroy- ing the life of the patient. It may be produced by over exertion, suppression of the menstrual or haem- orrhoidal flow, or from ulceration of the stomach. As the causes are similar to those of spitting of blood, the same remedies should be used; perfect repose is also necessary, and a light diet. BOWELS, INFLAMMATION OF THE. This is a disease of which there are several varie- ties, but it is not important in such a work as this to distinguish them. Taking cold is perhaps the most frequent cause ; it may also be produced by various poisons, by irritating food, by worm (in children), by teething ; by perforation of the stomach or bow- els, by which their contents are discharged into the cavity of the abdomen. The pain is very acute, generally located about the navel, and is increased by touch or motion; the patient lies upon his back with the knees drawn up, the abdomen being much dis- tended ; the bowels are constipated, except where the lining membrane of the intestines is the seat of the disease, in which case diarrhoea is present; there is also great thirst, with vomitings; there is general fever, with a small or rapid pulse. The urine is scan- ty and high colored, sometimes suppressed. In the treatment of these cases, applications of flannels, wrung out of warm water, afford much relief; great BRAIN, INFLAMMATION OF THE. 23 benefit often results from the use of the smart-weed or Hydropiper, which happily is abundant, almost everywhere, in the Northern and Western States ; the leaves and stalks may be dipped into hot water, and applied to the abdomen, folded in a cloth. In no case should purgatives be given to move the bow- els. Luke-warm injections are recommended by some, and may be of benefit. As regards medicine, Aeon, is generally recommended as the first thing, to be followed by Ars. and Verat. If but one remedy were to be recommended, it would be Merc. Dulc. or Calomel. It is especially adapted to those cases which are attended with diarrhoea. BRAIN, INFLAMMATION OF THE. Physicians distinguish several varieties of this dis- ease, according as it attacks one part or membrane or another, but for lay practice, these distinctions are alike impracticable and useless. The causes of this disease in adults are, external violence ; the action of the sun (producing sun-stroke), undue mental la- bor, especially where connected with irregularity in eating and sleeping ; intense moral emotions, wheth- er depressing or exalting. In constitutions inheriting a predisposition to this affection, slighter causes will produce it than in others; hence in such cases great care should be taken to avoid these causes. Hyste- ria is sometimes mistaken for this disease, even by physicians; in laical practice, the mistake would not be a serious one, except so far as it occasioned more apprehension for the result than necessary. The symptoms which characterize this disease are as follows: Acute pain in the head, great sensitive- ness to light and noise, face flushed and eyes brilliant, 24 BRAIN, INFLAMMATION OF THE. with the pupils contracted; restlessness and sleep- lessness, tumultuous throbbing of the arteries of the neck and head, more or less delirium, generally heat of the skin, pulse quick and hard, great thirst, retch- ing or vomiting; spasmodic movements of the limbs or muscles of the face are observed, if not general convulsions. If the disease progresses without abatement, a dif- ferent train of symptoms is noticed: the patient be- comes stupid, the eyes dull and watery, a deep and unconscious sleep takes the place of the previous wakefulness and there is paralysis; sometimes the limbs are rigid, at others one or more may be seen in constant motion ; the urine is scanty or suppressed, but sometimes passed unconsciously; convulsions gen- erally end the scene. The disease, as before said, is sometimes produced by a fall or a blow upon the head. Where the head is thus injured, perfect quiet is the first thing needed —in no case permit bleeding—some cases may need stimulants, but if no physician can be had, it is best to depend upon rest. Arnica would be appropriate, in such a case, at the commencement of the treat- ment, and afterwards, the other remedies, according to the indications. In case of sun-stroke, Camph. is the remedy most generally indicated. In the treatment of inflammation of the brain, perfect repose is essential; the room should be dark- ened, water should be applied to the head, warm or cold, as is most grateful; when the patient is uncon- scious, and cannot express his wants, he may never- theless indicate to a watchful eye, which application affords the most relief. As for medicines, Aconite is the first thing; in choice of the other remedies BREASTS, INFLAMMATION OF THE. 25 the symptoms must direct. Where the disease is produced by overtasking the mind, Chin.' and Phos. should be consulted, also Nux. Convulsions are apt to occur in course of this dis- ease, especially in children; they are much more serious in :heir import, than when they occur from teething or indigestion. It is only necessary to add beyond what has been already said, that in convul- sions of children, where the soft place on the top of the head is full, Bell. Canth. Cham. Hyos. Tart. should be considered ; where it is sunken, Calc. Chin. Ipec. Phos. BREASTS, INFLAMMATION OF THE. Though the breasts may inflame at any time, it is seldom that they do, except in infants soon after birth, or in nursing women. Male as well as female infants are subject to this affection—a compress wet with Ar- nica water, is generally all that is needed. In nurs- ing women, the breasts frequently inflame; generally from undue exposure to cold. The breasts swell, be- come very hot and painful, and, sooner or later, matter is discharged : the pain is very severe and throbbing. Bell, and Bry. generally suffice for the treatment; Phos. also is useful, alternately with Bry., in cases which do not yield readily. At the first intimation of this trouble, the breast should be fomented thor- oughly and persistently; take a piece of flannel, large enough to cover the breast well, and of three or four thicknesses; wring it out of water as hot as can be borne and cover it with dry flannel or oiled silk; be- fore it cools, have another flannel ready to put on in its place ; this, if done early enough, will in most cases scatter the inflammation ; the leaves of the Hy- 4 26 BRONCHITIS. dropiper or Smart-weed, steeped in hot water, also make a very good application. A spoonful of a so- lution of Camphor, every ten or fifteen minutes, will render efficient aid, if given early. Where these do not succeed, a light dressing of Lycopersicum cerate should be applied, covered with oiled silk. The opening of the abscess, when it comes near the surface, will save much suffering, and, as far as my observation goes, is attended with no bad results, although a contrary opinion has been maintained by some. There is one thing very cu- rious about this very painful affection—nurses never see it. I never saw but one nurse who had seen a broken breast; she was advanced in years and had seen one. Mothers see them often enough, and as prevention is better than cure, let them, especially if young, keep their breasts well protected, and the milk thoroughly drawn out. If it is said that it is hard to keep breasts covered, to which the baby has full access all night, the reply is: well regulated babies do not nurse all night. BRONCHITIS. This is an inflammation of the mucous mem- brane which lines the air tubes, and is generally produced by exposure to cold. It is not liable 'to be mistaken for anything but inflammation of the lungs, and as the treatment and general management of the two diseases, in lay practice at least, must be substantially the same, the mistake would not be of any moment. The fever, cough, constriction of the chest, character of the expectoration and other ac- companying symptoms, will indicate the proper rem- edy by consulting the Repertory. Where there is CARBUNCLES. 27 much difficulty in breathing, cloths wrung out ot warm water, applied to the chest, afford great relief; they should be well protected from the external air. Aeon, is the first remedy, generally advised, but ii taken in hand as soon as it is discovered that cold has been taken, Camph. will be found to be an excellent remedy. Ipec. and Bry. will render efficient aid. They may follow either Camph. or Aeon. CARBUNCLES Are, to all intents and purposes, large boils, with several openings. Cover the swelling with fresh tomatoes, if they are to be had; canned tomatoes answer very well. If this does not afford prompt relief, the carbuncle shor.ld be thoroughly opened by a crucial incision thus -j— and the tomato re-applied. Silic. is recommended as the chief remedy. Arseni- cum is also needed in some cases, where the pain is of a burning character and the sore is slow in taking on a healthy look. CATARRH. Acute catarrh, or cold in the head, is a very com- mon affection. Camph. is the first remedy, then Ars. if the discharge be very thin, Calc. or Merc, ii thick, Nux. if it be wanting, Lye if offensive, Sulph. if burning. 28 CHOLERA. Chronic Catarrh, which consists in inflammation and ulceration of the lining membrane of the nose and the adjacent cavities, is quite another thing; it is a very distressing disease, and very difficult to cure. Calc, Lye, Merc, Sulph. and Tart, are the chief remedies, which must be selected according to the indications. Snuffing cold water into the nostrils often affords relief, and so does Camphor snuff. After you have exhausted your own skill and patience, consult a Homoeopathic Physician—perhaps you will fail of a cure even then. CHICKEN POX. A very simple eruption, unattended with danger. It comes out like a little bladder on various parts of the body, at once. Aconite is generally all that is needed. For any accompanying symptoms, consult Repertory. CHILBLAINS. Arnica water is recommended as an external appli- cation. Nux. or Puis, may be given internally. CHOLERA. As the Asiatic Cholera has not been seen, as an epidemic, for several years, it may seem hardly worth while to say much about it; nevertheless, its return is possible, and as it is a disease universally dreaded beyond all expression, a few words may not be out of place. If I do not agree with every one ; I can only say my views are drawn from my own observa- tion of three epidemics. ■> CHOLERA. 29 And the first thing to be noticed is, that Cholera is not, or rather need not be, a cause of alarm, and this for two reasons. In the first place, it always gives notice of its approach (as I have not seen all the cases of Cholera which ever occurred, this " always " must be taken in a restricted sense, but as far as my observation goes, this is true). Prof. M'Naughton, of Albany, was, I believe, the first to call attention to the fact that, a white tongue pre- ceded any other symptoms of Cholera, for at least twenty-four hours. Succeeding this, is a mild and painless diarrhoea ; this may continue for days before the fearful symptoms of Cholera set in. Now, in the second place, under either of these conditions, no disease is more amenable to proper treatment— probably one case in a thousand would not die. The danger is, these stages are neglected, and after them the collapse sometimes occurs like a thunder clap. Therefore, in a cholera epidemic, dismiss fear, which is a powerful predisposing cause, and a very poor counselor ; make no change in your diet, except to avoid food difficult of digestion; do not eat when too much heated or wearied; sleep sufficiently warm at night, for the thermometer is apt to fall 3 or 4 or more degrees, early in the morning, when one is likely to take cold. When the white tongue is noticed, consult Ipec Merc. Sulph., and be not fearful, but thankful, that you are able to take time by the fore- lock. If diarrhoea sets in, however slight, go to bed, or at least to your lounge, and lie quietly, in mind and body, till the diarrhoea is checked; Merc, per- haps will reach the greatest number of cases; Sulph. is also good. If there is much colic or any chilliness, take Camph. first, in solution, a teaspoonful every ten or fifteen minutes, and following by Merc.; when these symptoms have abated, Phos. may also be considered. 30 CHOLERA. If the case is seen later in the progress of the disease, after cramps have set in, Camphor is still the remedy. The patient, while taking this remedy, should be well covered up in bed; hot bottles may be applied to the feet and legs. For the diarrhoea and vomiting, consult Ipec. or Verat.; Sec. is also indi- cated for cramps, with diarrhoea and vomiting. If there is much thirst, small bits of ice may be taken, every few moments. Ars. will also come into use, if the above mentioned remedies should fail to check the diarrhoea, especially where there is great thirst and restlessness, with vomiting. The remedies should be given every ten or fifteen minutes, making the intervals longer, as soon as improvement manifests itself. If the patient is seen in a still later stage, in that of collapse, he is found cold and pulseless, the eyes are sunken, with blue circles about them, the nose pinched, the voice weak and husky, sometimes almost extinct—the thirst is intense ; the cramps, with the vomiting and diarrhoea, continue and there is great restlessness—the body is also bathed with a cold and clammy sweat. External heat now but adds to the patient's sufferings—dry friction is requisite, or fric- tion with cold and wet cloths—ice may be given freely. Ars. will here be found the remedy, either alone, or alternately with Secale. In recovering from any of these stages, a return to the usual diet must be gradual: at first, rice water or gruel, then beef-tea. After other dangers are passed, and patients bid fair to recover, there is often a suppression of urine. For this, Aeon, and Secale should be given in alternation, every hour or two. CHOLERA INFANTUM. 3I CHOLERA INFANTUM, As its name implies, is an affection of children, and generally under three years, most frequently occurring in summer. It commonly, but not always, comes on with vomiting, then diarrhoea; the child is restless; drinks eagerly, but is apt to reject what it drinks ; the head becomes hot; the eyes sunken and half open ; the child emaciates very rapidly. Ipec. is the proper remedy at first; if there is much prostration, alternate with Verat.—remember- ing at the same time the use of Camph. as elsewhere recommended, in case of great prostration. Ars. must be used, if vomiting does not yield. ,Merc dulc. also where there is vomiting, frequent stools, great restlessness, heat of head; it may be given alternately with Ipec. Pod. is often useful where the discharges are very offensive—like carrion, of a dirty chalk color ; the child vomits or gags, has dark circles about the eyes. Calc. for whitish discharges, where the children are teething. For diet, see articles mentioned under Atrophy. The vomiting and diarrhoea checked, the food is a mat- ter of vital importance. If the child becomes drowsy and sleeps with its eyes half open, head hot, feet cold, with the soft place in the head sunken in, it is sinking from exhaustion; a warm bath for three or four minutes is soothing, but proper nourish- ment is the main necessity ; sometimes stimulants, as little Camph., or a few drops of brandy even. Chin, and Phos. should be given every hour, or Calc. and Phos. where the child has lumps in the neck or under the arms. The main indication, how- ever, is to keep up the strength. 32 COLIC. CHOLERA MORBUS Is produced by errors of diet, irritant poisons, taking cold, especially in summer, at night, and by suppres- sion of the perspiration, or the menstrual flow. If permitted to run its course, cramps ensue, the patients become prostrated and sometimes die, though this is seldom the case under homoeopathic treatment. Where overloading the stomach, especi- ally with food difficult of digestion, is the cause, give a teaspoonful of coffee (without milk or sugar) every five or ten minutes, till relieved; if poison is suspected, consult the chapter on Poisons. If from cold, Camphor is the first thing to be thought of. Cover the patient up well, and give him a teaspoonful of Camphor solution every five or ten minutes till relieved. If from a checking of the menstrual flow, especially from cold, give Aeon., Nux. or Puis.; the first, however, will usually suffice—the diet should be simple for a day or two. COLIC Is produced by various causes. Where it comes on suddenly from taking cold, Camph. is the remedy; if from undigested food, coffee, without milk or sugar —a teaspoonful every ten or fifteen minutes. Where it is attended with constipation, Bry. or Nux.; if with vomiting and diarrhoea, Ars., Ipec or Verat.; where there is much wind in the bowels, Lye. or Coloc, if connected with menstrual disturbance, Puis, or Sep.; with urinary troubles, Nux. or Turp- entine (see Urination), where it occurs frequently, the cause should be discovered if possible, and /• convulsions. 33 avoided, where it is external—if it is produced by disordered menstruation, disease of the liver or kid- neys, or by worms, these should receive special .attention during the intervals between the paroxysms. In such cases, the advice of a physician should be sought. CONSTIPATION. A great bug-bear, which has frightened thousands of people to death. Time was, when the bowels must move every day, cost what it might ; the people are getting more rational, and " the profession" are gradually falling in with their notions. As a general thing, the best advice to a constipated person, is to take more exercise, and eat less for a short time ; nevertheless, some cases are obstinate, and as it is desirable that the bowels should be relieved 'now and then, medicine sometimes has to be used for this purpose. Nux. taken at night and Sulph. in the morning, will cover most cases of chronic constipa- tion. Bry. and Op. in alternation often afford relief; the Repertory will suggest other remedies. CONVULSIONS. This word opens a wide field of discussion, and would be a sufficient theme for a volume. Any notice of it contained within a page or two, must of necessity be very incomplete. Epileptic convulsions must be left entirely out of the question, and the con- vulsions of women and children alone considered. And first, as regards children. Convulsions are very common in children, and very alarming, but not always very dangerous. They either come on sud- denly, or at least without any very marked premoni- 34 CONVULSIONS, tions, or, in the course of some serious affection, as inflammation of the brain, or lungs, or bowels, etc. ; these latter must also be excluded, as they will be treated of elsewhere. Of suddenly occurring con- vulsions in children, we may also make two classes, those which precede some eruptive disease, as Scarlet Fever or Small Pox, and those which are produced by taking cold, by improper diet, by fright, from a fall, during teething, and it is this latter class only which I shall now notice, and that very briefly. The treatment is twofold: first, as concerns the mother and attendants; and secondly, as regards the child. At the first outbreak of convulsions in a child, the mother especially, should take a large dose of courage and coolness; if she is not a resolute woman, she will need repeated doses—she needs them for herself, that she may direct the treatment of the child; and for the child, especially if it nurses, for any overpowering passion vitiates the mother's milk, and thus prolongs the suffering and danger of the child. Let us suppose, then, the mother thus forti- fied, and the child suddenly taken with convulsions. Do not wait to consider causes, but put the feet and legs of the child into warm water, as warm as can be borne—sponging off the head meantime with cold water. Now is the time to consider causes, and a mind, stimulated by a mother's love, can think very rapidly; has the child had a fall—has it been fright- ened—is scarlet fever, or measles, or diphtheria about —is it teething? If not, the child has probably taken cold or has a deranged stomach, more likely both, since people are not very apt to take cold, especially from slight exposures, who have their stomachs in good order. Camphor may now be given in drops on a bit of sugar dissolved in six tablespoonfuls of CONVULSIONS. 35 water, a' teaspoonful (or part of it according to the age of the child) given every five minutes. While this is being taken, the child should be well wrapped up, so as to promote perspiration. If a cold alone has produced the convulsions, this will in most cases suffice. If there is any reason to suspect derange- ment of the stomach, and especially, if there is vomiting, Ipec. or Nux. will be suitable. A few drops of Coffea might be given to robust children with advantage (as directed under the head of Chol- era Morbus). Nux. will be more suitable if there has been constipation, and the bowels should be moved by an injection of salt and water. Give a large injection—all the bowels will hold—less is useless. If the convulsions arise from fright, give Op.—from teething, Cham, or Bell.—from a fall, give Arnica, and apply Arnica lotion to the parts injured. When the child comes out of the convul- sion it may show signs of hunger, and it is by no means a matter of indifference what food it has. If the child is fed on milk, it would be natural to give it that—but if it soon goes into another convulsion and throws up the milk, give no more milk, but rather beef-tea for a few hours, till the stomach recovers its tone. If the fits are produced by teething, the gums should be lanced, or lacerated by a thimble or bit of white sugar. In women, either before or after confinement, convulsions are dangerous. If there has been sup- pression or scanty flow of urine, give Hyos. every half hour. If the patient is unconscious, with heat of the head, give Bell., if the face looks almost black, with unconsciousness, foam at the mouth, snoring breathing, give Op.; if the pellets do not relieve, give a drop of Laudanum every half hour; if the 36 COUGH. spasms are very violent, the patient seeming in great agony, striking and biting at every one, Canth. is the remedy. Nux. may be given where the patient is conscious, and rather rigid, than convulsed. A useful hint may be drawn from the treatment of lock-jaw. Keep the head cool and the feet warm. If the bowels are confined, give an injection of salt water—not less than a quart. If the convulsions come on after much flowing, stimulants may be needed, as Camph. CONSUMPTION Cannot be treated of in such a work as this. Per- sons who are losing flesh and strength, especially if any of their family have been consumptive, should consult a physician at once. This disease, taken in its earlier stages, may often be cured—the probability of a cure diminishes with every day's delay. Where a physician cannot be had, consult Calc Lye Merc. Phos. The medicines should not be taken too often. An invigorating diet and regimen should be pursued, and everything debilitating or depressing, avoided as much as possible. COUGH. See the various diseases in which cough is a pro- minent symptom, as bronchitis, inflammation of lungs, croup, etc. Sometimes a cough occurs which can be considered under none of these heads. A few general indications may be given; Nux. is useful where the cough proceeds from derangement of the stomach, or Puis.; the former for irritable, the latter for quiet dispositions ; Bell, for a barking cough, Hyos. for dry cough at night. Ipec. and Bry. alter- nately, relieve a great variety of cough. CROUP. 37 CROUP Is a sound of terror to all mothers, and deservedly so; yet all is not croup, that is called croup. True croup is a very dangerous disease—perhaps none more so—yet as far as my own observation goes, a very rare one, and from this very fact, I speak of it with diffidence. It is described by most writers as coming on suddenly, generally in the night, but judging from the cases which have fallen under my own observation, it is a most insidious disease, and often reaches an incurable stage, before it has excited any alarm. It is said that it seldom if ever occurs in children who are properly clad, that is, having the arms and upper part of the chest duly protected, as well as. the rest of the body; if this is true, the prevention of the disease is as easy as the cure is difficult. There are two symptoms peculiar to true croup, which are difficult to describe, but which once heard, can never be forgotten: the cough, which has been compared to the crowing of a young cock, and which, when most severe and violent, has a peculiar sharp, metallic clangor; and the inspira- tion, which is prolonged in a very marked manner, and accompanied with a peculiar whizzing sound, call- ed stridor. Where these two sounds are observed with the usual catarrhal symptoms, there is true croup, whether a false membrane can be seen forming upon the upper part of the windpipe or not. False croup is not usually accompanied with this stridor, nor, in true croup, is the clangor always very marked— according to my observation. The symptoms are always worse at night, and may remit so much during the first few days, as to create but little if any observation, but as the disease advances, the diffi- 38 DELIRIUM TREMENS. culty of breathing increases—the patient is disposed to throw his head back—the chest heaves and labors —the skin is bathed with perspiration and the face becomes livid—these symptoms are worse by turns —during the intervals, the child may be apparently much relieved—calls for its play things and responds to the caresses of,its attendants; there is seldom much trouble to swallow, and water is taken eagerly. In the further progress of the disease, the cough may dimin- ish, or quite disappear, but the other symptoms increase, and the child often dies in convulsions. For such cases, domestic treatment is, of course, inade- quate; and, unhappily, the treatment of physicians is too often unsuccessful. The chest and throat should be enveloped with cloths wet with cold water. Tart, and Phos. given every half hour alternately, should be given persistently. Where the respiration is very difficult, the fumes of Camphor afford some relief. For other forms of Croup, Teste recommends Ipec. and Bry. alternately—as he does indeed for all kinds: and, for anything but true croup, I fully endorse the recommendation; nevertheless, where there is much general fever, preliminary doses of Aeon, can do no harm. Where these remedies do not have the desired effect, Kali bichromicum may be employed ; for the manner of using which, see Diphtheria. DELIRIUM TREMENS Is a mournful, frightful, disgusting, comical disease, just as one sees proper to look at it. It is hardly a disease to be treated domestically, nevertheless, a necessity for such treatment may arise. The chief indication is to produce sleep. Ars., Nux. and Op. DENGUE. 39 are to be considered. Where other remedies have failed, I have seen patients put to sleep very promptly by a teaspoonful of coffee, given every 15 or 30 minutes; on waking from sleep, some easily digested food should be offered. There are few constitutions which can survive many attacks of this affection. DENGUE. BY DR. W. H. HOLCOMBE, NEW ORLEANS. This is a curious epidemic disease, peculiar to Yellow Fever latitudes—and strangely compounded of Yellow Fever, Rheumatism, Scarlet Fever and Influenza. It is sometimes excessively painful—but very rarely fatal under any or no practice. The patient has a chill, a cold in the head, red and watery eyes—high fever, violent pain in the head, back and joints—sometimes in the fingers. The fever lasts two or three days; after which, although sometimes not until the fifth day, and after a deceitful lull like that of Yellow Fever, a rash, with renewed fever, generally appears on the skin. This eruption is singularly diversified. I have seen it resemble Scarlet Fever in one house, Measles in another, Urticaria or Nettle-rash in a third, and all one and the same epidemic. Treat the first stage as directed under the head of Yellow Fever. If rheumatic symptoms decidedly prevail, give Bryonia and Rhus, every two hours. If the rash resembles Scarlet Fever, give a few doses of Belladonna; if it resembles Measles, give Pulsatilla; if it resembles Nettle-rash, give Dul- camara. 4o DIPHTHERIA. The convalescence is sometimes painful and tedious. If there is foul tongue, constipation, no appetite, etc., give Nux. Vomica, three times a day, for several days. If the attack has been very severe, and great debil- ity is the result, give China, three times a day, for a week. DIARRHCEA. Taking cold frequently occasions Diarrhoea, espe- cially in the summer. Camph. is the remedy. Coloc or Ipec. may also be suitable; Verat. may be given if there is much vomiting, and especially if produced by eating acid or unripe fruit. Perhaps no more general remedy can be suggested than Merc Chin. and Phos. are to be given for debilitating watery discharges, Calc. or Pod. for white, offensive dis- charges of teething children, or Cham, if the dis- charges are green or yellow, and make the parts sore; further indications will be found in the Repertory. Repose is a necessary aid in the treatment. Some- times much benefit is found in the use of the warm sitz bath; all known causes must of course be avoided. DIPHTHERIA. It is reasonable to conclude that this disease is not very well understood, when we consider how often it is fatal, notwithstanding the infallible remedies recommended in its treatment. The causes of it are obscure; the blood in the first instance is poisoned; then we have the general symptoms, as lassitude, fever, sore throat, covered with a false membrane, looking like wash-leather; acrid discharge from one DIPHTHERIA. 4» nostril, enlarged glands in the neck, offensive breath, sometimes delirium, sometimes stupor. The pecu- liar false membrane in the throat and the offensive breath are said to be characteristic of the disease, though we are also told, that in some cases the false membrane does not appear, and it is equally certain that in some cases the offensive breath is not very marked. Though attended with inflammation, it should be borne in mind, that it is a disease in which there is great prostration of the vital powers, hence means must be used to keep up the strength of the patient. As regards the treatment, as soon as any appearance of a cold presents itself, give Camph.; if the symptoms of a cold are very marked, put the patient to bed and give a teaspoonful of the solution every fifteen or twenty minutes, till perspiration ensues—after that, less frequently. If the throat should show signs of inflammation, give Merc. dulc. 2d. every two hours, and gargle or swab out the throat with Camphor solution every hour between. Put a thin slice of pork in a thin bandage and tie it about the throat. This treatment will usually suffice for the milder cases; for those which are more severe, give Merc. Iod. i, with the Camphor gargle as before, while the fever is high, and Ars. Iod. when the fever begins to subside. Where the disease seems to be a combination of Croup and Diphtheria, Kali bichrom. is the remedy, a dose every hour or two. A small quantity—as much as will lie on a five-cent piece— may be put into some boiling water, and the child may inhale the fumes; it may be kept boiling near the child, and thus keep the atmosphere impregnated with it; the fumes of Camphor are also useful some- times in these cases. 6 » 42 DYSENTERY. Where the false membrane is thrown out, the danger is not passed : the strength must be kept up by nourishing food; unhappily, at such times, the stomach often rejects what it should retain; here the Ars. Iod. is of use, but the other remedies sometimes come into play—these must be consulted in the Repertory. Other children should be kept apart from the patient as much as possible ; and a piece of Camphor kept in the mouth, by those who must be exposed to the breath of the patient, may prevent infection. DROPSY Is generally the result of some previous disease, and must be considered in connection with these diseases, with the light to be obtained by consulting the Repertory and Materia Medica. Ars. and Merc, are useful remedies. The former especially, after having taken Quinine in large doses, or for a long time. DYSENTERY. The symptoms of this disease are too well known to make any detail necessary. The causes are improper food, and taking cold. Patients suffering with this disease, should be kept as quiet as possible; a cold sitz bath after each movement, is often a great relief. Injections of cold water are also recom- mended. The diet should be light at first, but when the first acute symptoms have somewhat sub- sided, mutton-tea and stale bread and butter may be used, though many writers denounce them. Hering recommends fresh butter, taken without stint, and I know one case, at least, where a little patient cured herself of a dysentery, which had become quite chronic, by a stolen visit to the butter jar, Merc is the chief remedy where there is much griping, Coloc. EARACHE. 43 may be given alternately with it, or Canth., where the passages look like the washings of flesh, and urination is scanty or painful. Nux. is of use where there is much straining at stool, but little accom- plished. Pod. is useful for children, especially where the " body comes down," as it is termed. Ars. is required where the stools are very offensive and the patient seems to be sinking. DYSPEPSIA. " Live on sixpence a day and earn it," was the advice of Dr. Abernethy to his patients, and this . embraces about all that can be said on the subject. Every dyspeptic knows, to some extent at least, the habits which produce dyspepsia with him or her— these must be avoided—then proper exercise will put him into a fair way of being cured. This being a chronic disease, it can only be glanced at here, and a few palliatives be mentioned. Nux. may be given where indigestion is produced by over-exer- tion of mind or prolonged watching, Lye from rich farinaceous diet, Puis, from animal food, Calc. where there are sour risings. In all cases avoid drugging, and especially purgatives. EARACHE. A few drops of warm molasses dropped into the ear, or a few drops of warm olive oil, will afford much relief; sometimes a drop or two of Camphorated oil. Puis, may be given where the pains are shooting —with inflammation of the inner and outer ear, or purulent discharges. Bell, where there is burning in the ears, or tearing pains from above downwards, Cham, when cold has been taken and the pains are shooting and tearing; Merc, for deep seated pains with burning; swelling of the face or of the glands of the neck ; purulent discharges. 44 FEVERS, INTERMITTENT. ERYSIPELAS. This disease is readily recognized. The diet should be light; where the parts burn very much, relief is sometimes obtained by covering the part with a light dressing of cotton batting; sometimes flour. Dr. Pulte recommends cold water dressings where there is great burning, but adds, they should be well covered. Aeon, and Bell, are the chief remedies. Rhus, is to be considered where there are large blisters present, also where the parts affecled have a doughy look and fit on pressure. Phos. is useful where it attacks the face and head, especially in children, and may be given alternately with Bry. or Hep. Sulph. EYES, INFLAMMATION OF. If the inflammation proceeds from an external injury, bathe the eye in Arnica water and give Aeon. internally. Aeon, and Bell, alternately are the chief remedies for-the disease, arising from other causes. Where the inflammation does not yield readily, Bell. and Mere dulc. should be used. The diet should be light and the room dark. FEVERS, INTERMITTENT. These Fevers are too well known to need any prolonged description—it is better to occupy the space in telling how to cure and how to avoid them. Persons living where Intermittent Fever prevails, should avoid overloading the stomach, especially with indigestible food, or food difficult of digestion, as pork, pastry, or things cooked with lard; it is FEVER, PUERPERAL. 45 better also to abstain from coffee; the morning air should be avoided, and it is a useful precaution, to have a little fire, morning and evening, in the sitting room in the early fall. Where the air in the evening is much cooler than during the day, proper precau- tions should be taken against catching cold. In prescribing for these fevers, it is not enough to consider the symptoms of the chill, the fever and the sweat, but all the symptoms which present themselves during the interval, should be brought into the account. In most cases of simple fever and ague, Ipec. will suffice to effect a cure; it should be given two hours before the time of the expected chill. For an adult, three or four drops of the first dilution should be put into half a glass of water and the whole taken at a dose; with children and adults of a sensitive temperament, the pellets may answer the same purpose. If this should not interrupt the paroxysm, any remedy indicated by the symptoms may be given in the interval and Ipec. given again two hours before the next expetted attack. Chin. is useful for intermittents of a regular type, that is where the chill, fever, and sweat succeed in regular order. Ars. on the contrary where one stage or other is wanting, or not clearly marked; Lach. is peculiarly adapted to chills in women suffering from menstrual irregularities. FEVER, PUERPERAL. This is a very dangerous fever, but happily, where the confinement has been conducted under homoeo- pathic auspices, not often seen. It begins, three or four days after confinement, with a chill, soon fol- lowed by fever, with great sensitiveness of the abdomen to the touch, especially in the region of 46 FEVER, REMITTENT. the womb; the usual discharge is suppressed, as is also the milk—the pulse is very quick—skin hot, great thirst, sometimes vomiting. As before noticed, the abdomen is very sensitive to the touch, some- times the weight of a sheet cannot be endured, and the patient lies upon her back, with her knees drawn up, to relax the abdominal muscles. Aeon, should be given at the invasion of the disease, then as the fever becomes marked, Bell, and Bry. If the urine should be suppressed, give Hyos., if urination is painful, Canth. If Bell, and Bry. do not check the fever promptly, give Merc. dulc. every hour. In cases which do not respond readily to the remedies, a few doses of Op. may be of service, where there is a tendency to stupor, or Camph. where there is sinking. FEVER, REMITTENT, Called also Bilious or Bilious-Remittent. In this disease, which commences with a chill, the fever is continued, but once at least in the twenty-four hours, it becomes lighter, or remits, while in the intermit- tent, the fever ceases entirely for a time, or intermits. In this disease, with the other usual symptoms of fever, there is more or less distress in the stomach; the tongue is white or yellowish, sometimes brown; vomiting is generally present; there is headache, and more or less thirst. It does not run any specific course, but if not cured, may terminate either in intermittent or typhoid fever. Aeon, and Bry. may be given where the fever is high, with much head- ache, yellow tongue and much thirst. Tart, where there is great heat, with restlessness, with constant gagging and nausea. In addition to these, Merc. dulc. is often useful, especially where there is much tenderness of the stomach or bowels, especially if FEVER, TYPHOID. 47 they are at the same time much distended. Water may be given freely; and as soon as any desire for food is manifested, it should be gratified. The diet at first should be simple and easily digested. If, as averred by some, a Remittent is a worm fever, the remedies recommended for worms should be con- sulted. FEVER, TYPHOID. This is a very common fever, and at the same time dangerous. Its causes are impure air—insufficient diet—depressing passions ; sometimes it prevails as an epidemic; it begins with weariness and lassitude; more or less chilliness and shivering; these may continue three or four days, though in some cases the invasion is more sudden; headache is also pre- sent, and a pain in the right side of the abdomen, quite low down, especially on pressure. The tongue at first is whitish, with red edges, but sooner or later becomes dry, brownish or even blackish; the teeth also, and the lips, often become encrusted with a blackish exudation from the gums; the fever is apt to run twenty-one or twenty-eight days, and when it " turns," prostration is often observed, when the patient's strength must be kept up by stimulants. Rhus, and Bry. are the chief remedies ; other reme- dies will be called for by various symptoms, as Hyos., where the urine is suppressed, or where there is much delirium; indeed, the two are apt to go together. Merc, for diarrhoea. If the bowels are constipated, it is better to leave them to take care of themselves; if any interference at all is used, it should be nothing more than injections. Water should be allowed without stint, and all the food the patient can digest. This is a very nice point in the treatment of these fevers, but the limits of this work 48 FEVER, YELLOW. forbid details. If there is prostration, give Camph. every few minutes; if this does not suffice, Ars. and See As before noticed under another head, a few doses of Op. are of use, where the system does not respond readily to the action of the remedy. Fre- quent sponging off with water affords great relief, and in the early stages of the fever, the wet pack may be used with great advantage. For other symptoms, see Repertory. It may be added, that the air in the room should be kept as pure as possible and the patient undisturbed. FEVER, YELLOW. The following paper on the treatment of this disease has been kindly furnished for this work, by Dr. Holcombe, of New Orleans : This scourge of the tropics is a peculiar, well- marked disease, generally epidemic and contagious, rarely occurring twice in the same system. It has ravaged all our seaboard cities and towns from New York to Galveston, and has penetrated several hun- dred miles up the Savannah, Alabama and Mississippi rivers. New comers and unacclimated persons suffer most severely. It is especially fatal to drunkards, pregnant women and young children. It is very mild when occuring in the negro race, in Span- iards, Frenchmen, Italians and native born South- erners; it is more severe in Northerners; in English- men still more so; and it is most fatal to Irish and Germans. It is a disease of the hot months, of summer and autumn. Its average duration is about a week, and the deaths generally occur between the third and sixth days. The convalescence is some- times very slow. FEVER, YELLOW. 49 Yellow fever generally begins with a sudden chill, oftentimes in the middle of the night, followed rapidly by intense fever, burning skin, great thirst, excruciating headache, back ache and pains in the limbs. The eyes are suffused, watery, and burning, as if they had been exposed to the pungent smoke arising from green wood. The tongue seems thick- ened, the tip pointed and the edges red, whilst a thick white or yellow fur loads its centre. There is sometimes a good deal of mucous or bilious vomit- ing. The nausea, sense of oppression, restlessness, and the depression of spirits sometimes expressed in the countenance, are remarkable. These symptoms can scarcely be distinguished from those which occur in the first stage of severe bilious fever, typhoid fever, small-pox, dengue, or any other violent febrile disorder. The red, smoky appearance of the eyes, and the dark, suffused and sad or stern expression of countenance, are to the experienced observer the most suspicious symptoms. At the beginning of an epidemic, few physicians would risk their reputation, by declaring a case to be yellow fever in this first stage. After the disease has become fully developed, all other forms of fever disappear, or take on the yellow fever type. The first stage lasts from 24 to 48 or 60 hours, after which the fever subsides, the skin becomes moist and the patient sleeps. A great many mild cases of yellow fever end here, and with good nursing, the patient has a rapid recovery. The second stage is one of abatement or ameliora- tion—sometimes awfully deceptive. In some cases the fever entirely disappears, the tongue becomes perfectly natural, the patient feels hungry, and wants to get up and dress, whilst in reality the most ter- 7 5° FEVER, YELLOW. rible changes are impending. This stage calls for the strictest nursing and dieting. The symptoms which should make you double your diligence and apprehend the third stage, or that of collapse, are the following : Voracious hunger, with a painful, gnaw- ing sensation in the stomach, continued wakefulness, frequent hawking of phlegm from the throat, acid risings into the mouth, flatulence and rumbling in the bowels, a strange feeling of deadness and weight about the abdomen, and the appearance of a light lemon tint in the white of the eyes. A very slow pulse, a little flightiness of mind, a profound apathy of manner, and a countenance expressive of anxiety or gloom, are also bad symptoms at this period of the disease. Sometimes this second stage is but faintly marked or is very brief, and the symptoms of the third are rapidly developed. The prominent features of this alarming condition are the following : Burning in the pit of the stomach, frequently ascending into the throat; pain, sometimes violent in both stomach and bowels; diarrhoea of a brown or black color; very yellow urine, sometimes brown, like porter; increas- ing yellowness of the skin; eructations and hiccough, oozing of blood from the gums or throat; constant tossing about without sleep; pulse weak, rapid and fluttering,or else slow and soft, with cold extremities; delirium, sometimes mild and muttering, sometimes furious ; frequent vomiting, sometimes without nau- sea, of a yellowish-brown liquid, or of a claret-col- ored water, or of mucus or phlegm mixed here and there, with many little dark brown specks, resembling the wings or legs of flies, or little pieces of cobweb; or sometimes of blood, either pure or more or less mixed with the above elements. If the disease is FEVER, YELLOW. 51 not now arrested, you may expect the much dreaded black vomit—which is vitiated blood, looking like coffee grounds, or particles of soot or snuff, suspended in water, to the consistence of thin molasses. A total suppression of urine, profound stupor, and convulsions often precede death. The yellowness of the skin is not caused by a suppression of the bile, nor is the black vomit the product of depraved secre- tions in the liver or stomach, but all the symptoms of the third stage are due to a poisoning of the blood —a terrible occult, physical and chemical alteration of its properties, rendering it unfit to maintain life. Yellow fever is not likely to be confounded with any other disease but malignant bilious fever. Although they have many symptoms in common, they are essentially different maladies. Bilious fever is mainly a disease of the country; yellow fever of cities, towns and villages, never originating in the rural districts. Bilious fever occurs every year in the malarial regions; several years may pass without a yellow fever epidemic. Yellow fever is imported and contagious; bilious fever is native and non-con- tagious. The first cases of yellow fever, like those of cholera, are the most fatal; it is not so with bil- ious fever. Bilious fever consists of two or more similar paroxysms, presenting the same elements, but only deepening in intensity and danger; yellow fever has but one paroxysm (its first stage, resem- bling that of bilious fever); and its three stages are singularly unlike each other. The haemorrhages from the gums, nose, stomach, bowels, uterus, blad- • der, etc., so common in yellow fever, are extremely rare in bilious fever, and when they do occur, they do not present the same physical and chemical pecu- liarities. The yellowness of skin in yellow fever 52 FEVER, YELLOW. deepens in intensity after death, which is not the case with the yellowness of bilious fever. Some people can detect a peculiar musty smell about a yellow fever patient, quite characteristic of the disease. Lastly, there is a singular fierce, dark, apa- thetic or dejected cast of countenance in yellow fever rarely ever met with in any other malady. TREATMENT. When the chill comes on, give the patient a very hot mustard foot bath for ten minutes, and wrap him warmly, but not oppressively, in bed. Give Aconite and Belladonna in alternation every hour. If he vomits, give Ipecac after every act of vomiting. If the febrile symptoms are not greatly relieved in 24 hours, give Bry. and Gels, in alternation every hour. If the stomach continues irritable, give Tart. after every act of vomiting. This will carry your patient safely through the first stage. The first stage may be alleviated considerably by the following adjuvants : a copious injection of warm soap suds to empty the lower bowels—a repetition of the hot foot bath if necessary—frequent cold sponging of the surface of the body to relieve the burning heat—and mustard plasters to the back, shoulders or any point suffering intense pain. Sipping a few spoonsful of very hot water will sometimes relieve the distressing nausea. The diet should be reduced nearly to zero. Water crackers dissolved in very weak black tea. The most sensible Allopaths—/'. e. those of the Expectant school—give nothing in the first stage but a hot bath, a mild purgative and copious draughts of sage or orange-leaf tea. The use of the lancet, quinine, calomel and morphine is simply the con- summation of ignorance and folly. FEVER, YELLOW. 53 Now comes the real danger. Keep the patient closely covered in bed, no matter how well he feels. Do not let him change his room, or even his bed, for any reason in the world. Do not satisfy his demands for food. Give him, in addition to the tea and crackers, a little rice gruel or arrow root. Enjoin perfect quiet in the room. Put him on Ars. and Merc, alternately every two hours. If he is restless and nervous at night, interpose a dose of Coffea. If any symptoms described as belonging to the third stage, show themselves alternate Ars. and Lach. (or Crotalus) every two hours. Keep up these reme- dies faithfully to the end—interposing between them such medicines as may be called for by different dis- tressing symptoms, as for example : For dark, painful or bloody diarrhoea: Phosphoric Acid ; Pod.; Verat. Merc. For painful urination or suppressed urine : Canth. For uterine haemorrhage, with or without abor- tion : Sabina, Secale, Hamamelis. For extreme nervousness, delirium or convulsions : Ign., Hyos., Stramonium. For the vomiting here, Ipecac, and Tart. Emet. seem useless ; Nitrate of Silver and Kreasote, espe- cially the former, offer the best hope of relief. They should be made extemporaneously. Dissolve one-half grain of crystallized Nitrate of Silver in an ounce of boiled water, or distilled water, if it can be got. Give a drop or two every half hour, or after every act of" vomiting. The Kreasote is prepared by dissolving one drop in an ounce of Alcohol, and it may be used at the same dose and in the same manner. The diet should be pure cream in pounded 54 HEMORRHAGE. or rasped ice, beef-tea, wine-whey, or iced cham- pagne wine, if stimulation is requisite. Frictions with dry mustard or hot linseed or sweet oil may be useful when the temperature of the skin is reduced. Carb. veg. has been recommended as a forlorn hope, and forlorn it is. A dose of China every day promotes the con- valescence, but great precautions about diet and exer- cise must be long enjoined. HEMORRHAGE. I. From the Nose.—In most cases this is slight, and needs no other treatment than the application of cold water. With some it seems constitutional; for these cases, consult the remedies in the Repertory. Where it comes from violence, a solution of Am. is sufficient; where it comes from congestion to the head, Aeon, or Bell, and quiet; where it coincides with suppressed or irregular menstruation, Bry., Chin., Sec. Sulph. or Verat. may be consulted. 2. From the Gums.—Fatal haemorrhages take place now and then from drawing a tooth; for such haem- orrhages, salt may be used, or ice, or, if it can be obtained, powdered Matico; this will seldom fail. Turpentine is also efficacious. 3. From the Lungs.—(See Blood, Spitting of, p. 21.) 4. From the Stomach.—(See Blood, Vomiting of, p. 22.) 5. From the Bowels.—When occasioned by Piles: see " Piles." " When produced by worms, Ledum. will generally suffice; turpentine may also be used, HEMORRHAGE. 55 from one to six drops, according to patient's age; may be put upon a little sugar, and stirred up in four table- spoonfuls of water, and a teaspoonful given every hour or so, according to severity of the attack. It sometimes occurs in typhoid and other low fevers; here Ipec, Mere, Nux. and Rhus, will be found of use ; also Ledum. 6. From the Womb. a. From Profuse Menstruation.—Ipec. is the chief remedy for a sudden emergency. Bell, may be given full-blooded women, where there are severe bearing- down pains and the blood is florid, Merc, where it is pale or thin ; occasions may arise where even cinnamon tea might be desirable, but it is not best to check these discharges at once and entirely; see also the Repertory. B. During Pregnancy ; the only cause of Haemor- rhage in this period, of which I shall treat, is: abor- tion or miscarriage. Not that there are no others, but neither their causes nor treatment could be made intelligible in a domestic work. A pregnant woman, then, who begins to flow, should go to bed at once, and maintain the utmost composure of mind and body. If she has suffered from a fall or blow, she should take Arn. every half hour or hour. If the blood is black and clotted, Ipec. will be suitable; if fresh, and attended with expulsive pains, Sec. If the flowing still continues, break up a few bits of cinnamon, pour some boiling water on them, and take a teaspoonful (after it cools) every few minutes. By these means, the haemorrhage may be checked; if so, it will be advisable for the patient to remain quiet a day or two, or even longer. On the con- trary, if the flowing continues, the contents of the 56 HEMORRHAGE. womb will be discharged—to ascertain this fact, the cloths should be carefully examined; when once discharged, if the womb contracts, the haemorrhage will cease—if it does not contract, give Sec.; after miscarriage, the patient should keep her bed five or six days at least; if feeble, a longer time is better. But the ovum may be but partially discharged; that is, it may get as far as the month of the womb, and there lodge; of course the womb cannot con- tract, and the flowing will continue; this fact can readily be ascertained by a vaginal examination, pro- vided one knows how—of course this cannot be taught by a book. Supposing, however, the case made out, one of two things must be done—the ovum must be removed by the finger, or an appro- priate instrument, or, if this cannot be done, and it is not always possible, the vagina must be filled up; this will prevent the flow, and at the same time loosen the ovum from the mouth of the womb. To this end take some small pieces of fine linen, or cot- ton, two or three inches square, dip them in oil and introduce them into the vagina, pressing them well up, till the vagina is full; then bring the thighs ■together, and confine them so, if need be. This may be removed in twenty-four or thirty-six hours, and another attempt made to remove the ovum—if unsuccessful, the vagina must be filled up again and the patient left in quiet; this process will seldom need to be repeated more than two or three times. c. After Delivery.—This does not often happen when the labor has been properly managed, it sel- dom follows protracted labors, to any alarming extent. Immediately after the expulsion of the child, gentle pressure (not enough to give pain) should be made upon the womb, and this should be kept up, HEADACHE. 57 without intermission, till the after-birth is expelled, at least. If, nevertheless, the flowing is profuse, pour cold water out of a pitcher from a height upon the bare abdomen, at the same time making pressure upon the womb. Sec. also will here come in play, or Cinnamon. Such patients should be watched carefully, as the haemorrhage may cease for a time and then return. The haemorrhage being checked, the patient's strength must be kept up, and even during the flow- ing this m t not be neglected. If there is much thirst, bits of ice may be given, or iced water, brandy and water, or camphor may also be required, and beef-tea should also be given liberally. Repose for several days is of course necessary. HEADACHE. For frequently returning headache, the causes should be sought out and removed. It may come from improper diet; from passing the time (waking or sleeping) in confined air; from undue intellectual exertion; from having the lower extremities insuffi- ciently clad; be the cause what it may, discover it if possible and remove it, though self-indulgence or vanity be made the loser. Headache from colds requires Aeon., Hep.- sulph. Nux. From heat (as of the sun) Aeon., Bry., Camph.; from intellectual labor, Chin., Nux., Phos.; with vomiting, Ipec, Nux., Tart. Bell. and Bry., given alternately, are often useful in the nervous headaches of women. Lye or Puis, when arising from indigestion ; Puis, or Sep. when con- nected with menstrual irregularities ; Canth. when connected with scanty or painful urination ; Hyos. where the urine is suppressed. 8 58 HYSTERICS. HOOPING COUGH [s readily recognized. It is generally supposed that it must and will run its course, but this is not so. By appropriate remedies, its course can not only be mitigated, but shckrtened ; the Repertory and Materia Medica give sufficient indications; the patient should be kept in the open air as much as the weather will permit, and should not be kept on too low diet. Ipec. is useful where there is violent dry spas- modic cough, threatening suffocation, the face turn- ing livid; Bell, in similar cases, where it turns red; Merc where there is discharge of very tenacious mucus from the lungs ; Nux. where there is violent coughing, with vomiting of food and constipation; or Verat., where, instead of constipation, there is diarrhoea. HYSTERICS. A Doctor who understands women, never tells one, that she has hysterics, unless he wants to get the case off his hands. It is generally understood to be tantamount to saying, that nothing ails her, or that she is spleenyi Nevertheless, the sufferings are real, and so is the disease. It takes on the appearance of almost every disease to which the system is liable, and taxes the patience of the physician, as well as of the sufferer. The causes of this affection are vari- ous : overtaxing the brain, prolonged watching, irreg- ular or improper diet, disorders of the sexual func- tions, and worms may be mentioned as some of them. These, of course, must be discovered and removed. In addition to the remedies recommended in the ITCH. 59 Repertory, and those indicated by accompanying symptoms in the Materia Medica, Camph. may be mentioned. Camphor with brandy and water, laid upon the pit of the stomach warm, frequently affords prompt relief. It may also be given internally. Salt and water, a teaspoonful every hour or so, benefits in rftany cases; it should be taken sparingly, however, where looseness of the bowels would be undesirable on any account. INFLUENZA, If taken early, is soon cured. Put the patient to bed, cover him up well. Give Camphor solution, a tea- spoonful every five or ten minutes, till free perspira- tion is established; other remedies, if needed, will be indicated in the Repertory; Ars. is useful, if the dis- charge is thin and watery, and there is great prostra- tion; Merc, where it is thick and yellow. Nux. and Hep. sulph. may be given alternately where there is much pain over the eyes, deep, hollow cough and constipation. ITCH. 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 resi- dence. The eruption is found chiefly between the fingers, about the joints, and in the bends of the elbows; seldom, if ever, on the face; the itching is 6o JAUNDICE. much more intense after getting warm in bed. Sulph. should be given internally once or twice a day, and the parts infected washed with a solution of Ledum, or smeared with lard. If lard alone does not answer, use lard and sulphur—as much of the flowers of sulphur as a ten cent piece will hold, to a tea-cup full of lard; this may be applied to the parts affetted, and well rubbed in. Ars. and Merc, may also be required. If the eruption presents a pustular appear- ance, Sulph. and Lye are the remedies, the latter at night, and the former in the morning. JAUNDICE Is a disease readily recognized by the yellowness of the skin and whites of the eyes; the bowels are often constipated, the stools almost white, while the urine is red; the perspiration stains the linen yellow; the skin sometimes is the seat of a terrible burning itching. The wet pack is often of use. The milder forms are not attended with danger, but sometimes a high fever accompanies the disease, and the brain may become affected. Hence, care should be taken, even in the milder forms, to avoid being chilled, or committing any errors of diet; the food should be vegetable entirely. Chin, and Merc, may be given alternately; a few doses of Hep.-sulph. may be interposed, if these do not act promptly. Lach. is recommended for obstinate cases. Also Ars., espe- cially where there is much itching of the skin. Bry. also sometimes relieves this. Where too much calomel has been taken, Bell, and Hep.-sulph. alter- nately should be given; if too much quinine, Ars. is the remedy. LEUCORRHCEA. 6l KIDNEYS, INFLAMMATION OF. In this affection there is more or less pain in the region of the kidneys—not always as severe as the inflammation would warrant one to expect—the pain shoots down towards the bladder; urination is diffi- cult and painful, the urine being hot and scanty, sometimes bloody; fever is present with great thirst, and vomiting; also colic pains; there is, moreover, more or less numbness, extending down the limb of the side affected to the knee. It is sometimes pro- duced by the application of blisters; where this is the case, Camph. is the remedy; if produced by checking of perspiration, nothing is better than Camph., though Aeon., Canth., Tart, and Turpen- tine may be considered ; this latter may be used in case of painful, but almost ineffectual urging to urinate, the discharge being bloody ; from one to six drops may be put upon a little sugar and dissolved in four teaspoonfuls of water, a teaspoonful given every twenty or thirty minutes, according to the severity of the symptoms. Where this disease is consequent upon blows, or straining exertions, Arnica may first be given, though Turpentine will here come into play, if there is blood in the urine. LEUCORRHCEA. A very common, but probably not a very necessary complaint; a due regard to the laws of health, which it is impossible even to glance at here, would prevent this disease to a great extent. Undue indulgence of the appetites and passions, over-exertion of mind or body, a languid, listless, frivolous life are frequent causes. Add to this, the presence of pin worms, 62 LIVER, INFLAMMATION OF. which frequently leave the rectum for the vagina, and the want of cleanliness, and there is a catalogue of causes sufficient to account for the vast majority of the cases of this disease. No treatment can be given, further than what may be gathered from the other parts of the work. A word of caution, how- ever, may be proper. This is a trouble, which, on many accounts, is peculiarly annoying, and women are ready to suffer anything, if there is a prospect of cure. But before delivering themselves into the hands of those who would invade the parts affected with fire and sword> and thus render incurable, what in many cases hardly needs to be cured, consider the many possible causes, and avoid them. Use, then, the remedies recommended in the Repertory and Materia Medica. Injections are of great use, and also sitz baths ; neither should be warm, nor yet cold enough to chill. Of injections, there is an endless variety. Salt water will answer most purposes. Of syringes, too, there is no end; but I never saw but one kind which was of much use, and that is for sale by C. S. Halsey, in this city.* LIVER, INFLAMMATION OF. The habitual use of alcoholic drinks predisposes to this affection; it is most prevalent in hot climates, and may be induced by taking cold. There is pain in the right side, with fever and vomiting; where the upper or convex surface is inflamed, the patient can- not lie upon the right side; the pain is increased by drawing a long breath, and there is more or less * I do not hesitate to say this, because, in the first place, it is true and in the second, I have no conceivable interest in its sale—direct or indirect. It is called the Patent Combination Vaginal Syringe. LOCK-JAW, OR TETANUS. 63 cough; where the lower portion of the liver is affected, the patient cannot lie on the left side, and the skin is yellow. Aeon., Bell., Bry., and Merc, are the principal remedies. A wet bandage around the abdomen affords relief. No animal food must be allowed, fruits, vegetables and farinaceous articles must constitute the diet. LOCK-JAW, OR TETANUS. Lock-jaw is, strictly speaking, a rigidity of the muscles of the jaws, by reason of which the mouth cannot be opened. Tetanus is the proper generic term for this disease, whether affecting the muscles of the jaws, or any other muscles of the body; the distinctive symptom is intense rigidity of various systems of muscles. The chief causes are wounds, especially punctured wounds, and of tendinous parts, as the palm of the hand or sole of the foot. It may also be produced by general debility or prostration of the nervous system, and lastly by several remedies, prominent among which, is Strychnine or Nux Vomica. Preliminary to the medical must be the surgical or mechanical treatment. If the disease occurs in consequence of a wound, remove whatever may be in the wound; if it has healed up, open it, as a needle or sliver may be within; then apply a poul- tice to encourage suppuration. Nux. is the chief remedy where the patient is conscious. Bell, or Op. where he is not. Further medical treatment may be gathered from the other parts of the work. Dr. Isaac Colby, of Salem, Mass., gives a remarkable case treated by cold water only; it may be found in Dr. Pulte's Domestic Physician, p. 70. He poured cold, almost freezing water, on his patient from a 64 LUNGS, INFLAMMATION OF. pitcher, at the rate of a pailful every five minutes ; the pain is not increased by moderate pressure. Am, for half an hour. In twenty minutes the patient began to be very cold and the spasms gave way. At the end of the half hour, he was rubbed dry with a towel, wrapped in blankets, put to bed with a great amount of covering, and allowed to remain there two or three hours, till reaction and free perspiration took place. He was then sponged all over with cold water to carry off the superfluous heat; following this, there was soreness of the muscles, and violent headache; he could not endure noise or motion for several days, and could not be raised from his bed for several weeks, but finally recovered. LUNGS, INFLAMMATION OF. This is a frequent disease in northern latitudes; the most frequent cause is exposure to cold winds. It generally begins with a chill; then there is pain in the chest, difficulty of breathing, fever, cough, at first dry, afterwards moist, with expectoration, which, as the disease advances, assumes a hue like rust or prune juice ; this expectoration is distinctive of this disease; the patient generally lies upon his back; the skin is hot and dry, and the pulse quick. Aeon, and Bry., or Bry. and Phos. will suffice for most cases; where there is much oppression of the breathing, Tart, may be considered; the application of cloths wrung out of cold water, affords much relief; they must be well covered up; some apply warm poultices of bran over the whole chest. The diet should be light at first, but care must be taken to keep up the strength; stimulants even may be necessary in some cases. LYING IN. 65 Typhoid symptoms may sometimes supervene, but Bry., Phos. or Rhus, will usually suffice; the Repertory will indicate the remedy for particular symptoms; here special care must be taken to spare and keep up the strength. LYING IN. It may cnance that a woman is confined where she has neither Doctor nor nurse; it it is her first experience, a few hints may be of service. We must suppose the child to be born, or the few hints would end in a volume. If the child is not breath- ing well, do not be in too great a hurry to cut the cord; if it is, apply a stout silk or linen ligature, three fingers breadth from the body; be careful it is tightly drawn, else fatal haemorrhage will ensue; but one ligature is needed. As soon as the child is born, some one must be detailed, to make gentle pressure on the womb, the upper part of it; this should be kept up till the after-birth comes away. Generally in half an hour or so after the child is born,| a pain ensues, and the after-birth is expelled. As soon as it can be reached, it should be turned several times on its axis, as this ensures a more complete and entire delivery of all the membranes. Sometimes, though the after-birth prefers to stay where it is, and the old ladies will assure you, it is grown fast: that does not follow. Let your attendant dip her hand in cold water and apply it over the region of the womb; this way excite contraction; or let her introduce a ringer into the vagina and make firm, but 9 66 LYING IN. gentle pressure downwards and backwards, taking meantime Sec. every twenty or thirty minutes; the 6th an.swers many a time, but stronger would do no harm; these means and appliances, with pa- tience and resolution, will answer in most cases. The after-birth removed, it is still well to keep the hand of an attendant over the womb for a little while, to ensure its contraction. Have a cloth wet with Arnica or Calendula applied to the parts; put another blanket or so on the bed; put a dry napkin under the patient, if it can be done without moving her too much, and let her rest; a cup of tea may be given her, or a cracker, or bit of toast, as soon as she wants it, provided, she is not flowing, in which case, hot drinks are hurtful. Within two or three hours after the birth of the child, let it be applied to the breast. In twelve hours, sometimes less, the soiled sheets may be slipped from under the patient, and clean ones substituted, and be sure they are well aired. If she does not pass water in twelve or at farthest eighteen hours, give her Hyos. every hour till she does. This being done, the next thing is to secure perfect repose; to this end, request friends to show their kindness of heart by staying away; the more quiet the patient is kept the first three days, the better; and if no company is allowed till after the ninth day, nobody will lose anything, unless it is the doctor or undertaker. As for the bowels, do not think of them, till after the third day; they ought not to move before that time; do not trouble them even then, unless they feel full; in this case, try gentle friction with the hand, moistened with a little sweet oil; if they should not move then, give an injection. The food should be light, till after the third day; if the milk is well established by that MEASLES. 67 time, a little more nourishing diet may be allowed; nothing very hearty, however, till the bowels move. Women should keep their beds till the ninth day, as a general rule: smart women get up much sooner for a time or two, and often fill an early grave in consequence, or have good reason to wish they had. Flooding and convulsions are treated of elsewhere. If you want to try Puerperal Fever, let your nurse give you three or four tablespoonfuls of castor oil, within twelve hours after the child is born. If this does not move the bowels, take some other purga- tive—almost anything will do; this will bring you to the top of the inclined plane; now, any little impetus, as a slight cold, or a little excitement, will push you down. If you find you are about to die, instruct your friends to say that it was a terrible epi- demic. It will be a great consolation—to some of them—perhaps. MEASLES. This is a very common disease, and not usually attended with much danger. It is always preceded or accompanied by symptoms of cold, as running from the nose, watery eyes, and cough. In its ear- lier stage, it is not always easy to tell Measles from Small Pox; the catarrhal symptoms are more marked in Measles than in Small Pox, and in this latter affection there is more back ache than in the former ; the eruption-of Small Pox feels like a shot under the skin; all question is at an end, as soon as the erup- tion is well developed, for that of Small Pox con- tains matter, and is depressed in the center, neither of which is the case with Measles. Aeon, and Puis. are .the chief remedies; Bry. answers well, if the eruption is slow in coming out, and may be neces- sary, alternately with Ipec, for the cough, which is 68 MUMPS. often troublesome; at times a wet compress aoout the throat and chest relieves this cough like a charm. A few doses of Camph. are sometimes useful where the eruption seems inclined to strike in, followed by Ars., if the eruption looks pale. Where the head or lungs suffer, the remedies will be found in the Reper- tory; it may be said in brief, that Bell, and Bry. are useful for head affections; Bry. and Phos. for inflammation of the chest; Puis, for earache; Merc. for diarrhoea. This disease is apt to be followed by various unpleasant consequences; if Puis, fails to relieve, Sil. will do good service; six pills of the 6th (or 30th, in sensitive cases) given once a day. The diet should be light; drafts of air should be avoided, and sudden change of temperature; but the patient should not be stifled, either with too much clothing, or too hot and dry an atmosphere. MENSTRUATION. A very important subject, but not proper for tinker- ing. If women will study the laws of health and obey them, there will be little trouble as regards this function; when they do, practicing medicine will be unprofitable business. Some general hints may be found in the Repertory; but as the most of the troubles in this connection are chronic, a physician should be consulted. MUMPS Is inflammation of the gland situated each side at the angle of the jaw extending up towards the ear; Merc, is the remedy. Relief is obtained by keep- ing the face wrapped up with warm flannels. Care must be taken not to catch cold, as it sometimes goes to the breasts, or the testicles. In the former case give Bell.; in the latter Puis. NEURALGIA. 69 NETTLE-RASH—HIVES. The skin looks as if it had been whipped with nettles. In some it is occasioned by slight errors of diet, and it is hence often accompanied with head- ache and derangement of the stomach; Dulc. is the chief remedy. Puis, may be given when produced by indigestion; Bry. or Rhus., or the two alternately, when it occurs or is aggravated in cold, damp weather. Ars. if attended with intense burning itching. It is not best to apply anything externally. NEURALGIA. The causes, character and seat of Neuralgia are so various, that any direction for its treatment, in such a work as this, must be quite unsatisfactory to the patient, who generally desires a remedy readv at hand, and prompt in action. Aeon, may be given when cold has been taken, and there is tingling or numbness with the pains; Bell, for tearing, shooting pains, coming on period- ically, generally worse in the afternoon. Chin., when produced by exhausting losses, as in nursing. Nux., from cold or undue mental exertion. Ars., where the pain is burning, very violent, relieved by external heat. If the cause can be discovered, it must of course be avoided, or removed, if possible, as derangment of the stomach, over-exertion of the mind, decayed teeth, exhaustion from loss of fluids. For more minute directions, consult the Repertory and Materia Medica. 70 PILES. PILES Are not likely to be mistaken for anything else; hence it is not necessary to describe them. Medical works give a long list of causes; but some people have piles without the causes, and others the causes without piles; some writers think piles are the result of a Hemorrhoidal Diathesis, which is a comforting thought, but does not tell how to cure them. Worms no doubt are frequently a cause. As regards 4 the treatment, Nux. taken at night, and Sulph. in the morning, will relieve the majority of cases. Puis, also has been used with success, especially during pregnancy, or just after confinement. The application of cold water, or even ice, affords tem- porary relief; so do injections of salt water, espe- cially where worms are the cause. Those who suffer from piles, should be moderate, at least, in the use of tobacco, as well as coffee, which is so generally proscribed. Operations are sometimes recommended, but they are not unattended with danger; they do not remove the cause which produced the piles, which cause will very likely be operative in some other quarter. Sometimes it is better to ";bear those ills we have Than fly to others that we know not of." Hamamelis has acquired some celebrity, in curing this painful affection, used as a cerate, a wash, or internally. It is also of use where there is much bleeding. QUINSY. 71 PLEURISY, Or inflammation of the sac in which the lungs are situated. This is characterized by fever, pain in the chest, generally confined to a small spot, and rather more frequent in the left side; the breathing is short, or the patient has a "catch " as he calls it, when he attempts to take a long breath, and he cannot lie upon the side affected; the cough is short and dry, and not usually attended with much expectoration. Aeon, and Bry. are the remedies; the wet bandage may also be used, as in inflammation of the lungs; diet light. There is another disease which is generally noticed in this connection, called False Pleurisy, or in other words, no Pleurisy at all. It is Rheuma- tism or Neuralgia of the muscles between the ribs; there is less fever than in Pleurisy, less cough, and the pain is not increased by moderate pressure; Am. is the remedy. See also the other remedies for Rheumatism and Neuralgia. QUINSY Is a deep-seated inflammation of the tonsils, suffi- ciently well known; the tonsils are swollen, some- times so much so as to threaten suffocation, and it is desirable to render prompt relief. Happily, it is easily obtained. If the patient is able and willing to do as directed, administer the fumes of Camphor, as recommended, p. 12. If the patient is a child, the cup may be passed back and forth before his face, so that he may inhale the fumes, or spirits of Camphor may 72 SCALD HEAD. be poured upon a hot shovel or stove. This may be kept up till relief is obtained, and repeated again in one, two or three hours, as occasions may require. Merc. dulc. may be given every two hours. If any gargle is used, the Camphor gargle is as good as any. RHEUMATISM. Little need be said upon this disease beyond what may be gathered from the Repertory and Materia Medica. Aeon, is appropriate in the earlier stage. Bry., Mere, and Tart, perhaps will cover the majority of cases. The disease is not attended with much danger, unless it affefts the heart, or some of the vital organs; where it goes to the heart, Aeon. and Bry. are the remedies; at the same time, warm water applications may be made to the region of the pain, or even mustard paste. The diet should in this disease be light, but not reducing; meat may be eaten when it can be digested. Extreme care should be taken, when convalescing, not to take cold, as relapses are very apt to occur. RING-WORM. Sepia, is the remedy for this disease; it is to be taken internally and externally; a few of the pellets dissolved in water will suffice for the latter. Rhus. and Sulph. are also recommended. SCALD HEAD. Yellowish pustules form on the head of children, which break and form a thick crust, which is cup- shaped. It is a contagious disease, very obstinate, and not the subject of domestic treatment. The hair should be cut short; the crusts may be moist- ened daily by the application of a linseed meal 3CARLET FEVER. 73 poultice, as Dr. Ellis recommends, or it may be washed with soap suds. Some recommend acetic acid, diluted with three times its weight of water— one application is said to suffice. Dr. Pulte recom- mends Sep. as the prominent remedy at first; the other remedies may be found in the Repertory; the diet should be light. SCARLET FEVER Is a very common disease, and while, in its milder forms, readily yielding to treatment, or scarcely needing any, in its more violent forms, nothing is more justly alarming; cases occur, happily not often, which, from the very first symptom, bear the impress of death. If a physician is remote, the severer forms would terminate fatally, before any advice could be had ; and if one is to be had, after a few hours, it is highly important that these few hours should be well employed. I shall, therefore, attempt to lay down explicit directions for the treatment, hoping, that if they fail to give satisfaction in some cases, they may prove useful in others. As regards the causes of Scarlet Fever, little is known about the matter, and that little sheds no light upon the question, how these causes are to be avoided. Where this fever is prevailing epidemically, the best preventive is to keep the health of children in as robust a state as possible, by proper exercise in the open air, and due attention to the rights of the stomach. Bell, is said by many to be a preventive, and there certainly can be no harm in giving from two to six pellets every morning (according to the age of the child) for a few mornings—then inter- mitting for a few days. 10 74 SCARLET FEVER. V Scarlet Fever is divided, for convenience, into three forms: the simple, the anginose (where the throat is much involved), and the malignant; though it would be difficult for one to say where one class ended and the other began. Nor is it essential in praftice, to discriminate; the symptoms attending each particular case must determine what -remedies shall be given. The precursory symptoms of Scarlet Fever are chilliness, nausea, often vomiting, fever, headache j not differing materially from those of other fevers. It is only when the eruption breaks out, that we can say: this is Scarlet Fever; this occurs after two or three days of precursory symptoms; it appears first on the face, upper part of the chest and arms, which present the appearance of a boiled lobster-shell; on pressure being made with the finger, the skin becomes white. With the appearance of the eruption, or soon after, the throat becomes inflamed, and the papillae of the tongue become prominent, projecting through a whitish or yellowish coating; the fever is high, the skin burning hot. When the eruption is fully established, the other symptoms, in mild cases, generally subside; the eruption gradually spreads over the whole surface ; and about the fifth day, sometimes a little later, the skin begins to peel off; this process continues for two or three days—some- times is repeated several times, and may last three or four weeks. In most cases, even slight ones, chil- dren complain much of the itching of the skin. The treatment of these simple cases, is itself simple; the child should be kept comfortable, neither too warm nor too cool; the diet should be light; the whole body, at least where it itches, should be smeared with lard, bacon rind or glycer- SCARLET FEVER. 75 ine, and if there is much soreness, a slice of pork may be tied about the throat. Bell, is the remedy; it may be given at intervals of from one to four hours, according to the severity of the attack. Aeon. will probably have been given from the first appear- ance of fever, before its character was fully developed, after which Bell, is more appropriate. Many phys- icians give the two alternately. In mild cases, this is all that is needed; great care should be taken, during convalescence, to prevent taking cold, as this may be followed by most serious consequences, even when the fever has been of the mildest form. But now suppose the eruption comes out here and there, in patches—not so promptly and distinctly as in the simple form; sometimes not at all, but there is more sore throat; swallowing is difficult; the glands under the jaw are swollen ; on examining the throat, the tonsils are found to be much swollen, sometimes blocking up the passage, and intensely red; this is the second form—the anginose; the inflam- mation of the throat progresses, the tonsils are covered with mucus, sometimes are ulcerated; in addition to this, there is sometimes a yellowish dis- charge from the nose, making the upper lip sore. In this form, the fever is high, the pulse quick; the brain is sometimes affefted, and there is great rest- lessness and distress; the swelling of the tonsils makes the breathing difficult, and taking of food, sometimes, impossible. In treating these cases, the same aids should be used as mentioned in speaking of the milder form. Gargle the throat with Camphor, if the child is old enough, if not, permit it to inhale the Camphor vapor. Give Mere dulc. z every two hours; alter- 76 SCARLET FEVER. nately with Bell., if there is much disturbance about the head. If the tongue has a dark and dry appear- ance, Bell, and Rhus, should be given every half hour, or hour. If there is a tendency to stupor, and the medicines do not seem to have the desired effedl, give a few pellets of Op. every hour for three or four times, then recur to the remedies previously given. If the eruption fades out, Bry., Camph., Ipec, Tart., may be considered. If these symptoms are considerably intensified, we have malignant Scarlet Fever, but unhappily, this form cannot be described in terms quite so simple. Sometimes the disease comes on with convulsions, in which the patient dies in twenty-four hours or less —though it may be mentioned that all cases which commence with convulsions are not thus dangerous; sometimes the patients fall at once into a profound sleep; at others, into a collapse; diarrhoea carries off some in a short time, while in other cases, the Scarlet Fever runs into a Typhoid. To give direction for the treatment of all these different conditions, and there are yet others, would be of course impossible. An intimate acquaintance with the Materia Medica will throw all the light upon the subject which can be given. Where there are convulsions, however, it may be proper to state that Ammon. Carb. i should be used; have it freshly prepared if possible; also in cases with typhoid complications. In the low forms of this, as well as other diseases, the strength must be kept up; recourse must be had occasionally to Camph. or Op., when prostration seems to be threatened, and wine-whey, beef-tea, and other nourishing articles of diet, must be em- ployed. SCURVY. 77 Great care should be taken against taking cold, during convalescence, as patients are liable to many painful and even fatal disorders, the worst of which is Dropsy. Ars., Bry., Mere, Sulph., may be con- sulted in such cases, but the advice of a physician should be had, if possible. SCARLET RASH May be mistaken for Scarlet Fever, but the color of the eruption is darker, and the skin does not turn white on pressure, as in Scarlet Fever ; small eleva- tions may be felt beneath the skin, wi.ich is rougher than in Scarlet Fever. Aeon, is the remedy; some- times Coffea is necessary to alternate with it, where there is much restlessness and wakefulness. SCURVY, Not a very common disease on land, but common enough at sea. It arises from lack of vegetable food, bad air, want of exercise; depression of spirits, if not a sufficient cause of itself, is an efficient aid of other causes. The symptoms are : swelling of the gums', which become spongy, and bleed easily, offen- sive breath, swelling of the lower limbs, old sores break out anew, fractures of the bones, once healed, become disunited, bleeding from various organs. A change of diet is indispensable in the treatment; fresh vegetables and vegetable acids are needed. The main remedies are Ars. and Merc 78 SMALL POX. SEA SICKNESS, Said to be a distressing complaint by those who have tried it, but readily amenable to Homoeopathic treat- ment. Ars., Ipec, Nux. and Puis, are the chief remedies. Those liable to this affection, should avoid anything likely to derange the stomach, for a day or two before setting sail, and indeed at all other times. SHINGLES Is an eruption of vesicles, or little blisters, situated upon the trunk extending half way around or more; there is a popular notion, that if it extends all the way around, the patient dies; much apprehension on that ground is needless. This eruption is attended with some burning or smarting; it appears sometimes in successive crops of vesicles. Rhus, or Ars. is the remedv. SMALL POX Is easier prevented than cured, though most cases yield readily to appropriate treatment. How long vaccination furnishes immunity against this disease is unknown, therefore it is well to be vaccinated now and then, especially after being exposed. The precursory symptoms—-which occur fourteen days after exposure—sometimes sooner—are chilliness, lassitude, severe pain in the back, with aching of the limbs, and general soreness; this state of things con- tinues two or three days—not equally marked, how- ever, in all cases; then the fever sets in, with violent SMALL POX. 79 neadache and sometimes delirium; great prostration, increased pain in the back; vomiting may be present, or diarrhoea, but are not always. Soon after the fever, the eruption makes its appearance; little red elevations; at first, on the forehead and face; then on the neck and arms, and so on, till it extends over the whole body, which process generally lasts about three or four days. This being done, we enter upon the second stage. The little red elevations become, in the course of a day or two, vesicles, containing a little watery fluid, which in the course of two or three days more, become pustules, /. e.: containing matter; they are roundish, flattened on the top with a pit in the center. About the eighth or ninth day (and this is the third stage) the pustules burst and begin to dry up, first on the face, then on the chest and arms, and so down. Where the pocks do not run together, the fever generally abates before this tim.,.but where they run together, it does not always; but if it does, it returns on the eleventh day. This is called the secondary fever; where it is attended with much restlessness at night, it is a dangerous symptom. _ On the fourteenth or fifteenth day the crusts begin to fall from the face. During the febrile stage, Aeon, is the remedy; but Bell, will be needed if delirium be present, as it often is; in the second stage, while the pocks are developing, Tart, will be all that is needed, in most cases. Indeed, if the fever be gone, and there are no unpleasant symptoms present, medicine is not indispensable. In the last stage, if there is much secondary fever, with restlessness at night, Merc. will be requisite. 80 ' ST. VITUS' DANCE. SORE THROAT. For simple redness of the back part of the throat, Bell, will generally suffice, especially if there is much dryness of the throat, swelling of the glands, difficulty of swallowing, heat and pain in the head, with cold hands and feet. If this does not afford prompt relief, give Merc, alternately with it, or Mere dulc. See also Diphtheria, Quinsy and Scarlet Fever. ST. VITUS' DANCE Is an unpleasant nervous affection, though not dan- gerous ; it attacks children mostly, and girls in pre- ference, between ten and fifteen years of age. Irreg- ular movements of the muscles are the chief char- acteristic; the patient loses control, to a certain extent, of the muscles, which is painfully apparent when he attempts to move them; thus, in bringing the spoon to the mouth, the hand trembles, and the child has much trouble to find his mouth; so in walking, or other movements; consciousness is always present. In severe cases, the intellect is generally dulled, and the child's manner is almost idiotic. In one case, at least, which I have seen, there were severe pains in the bowels, occuring at intervals during the night; very marked imbecility was pre- sent. Merc. 3 cured it promptly in a few days. I am inclined to think it is sometimes produced by worms. Besides the remedies elsewhere noted, the child should be put upon an invigorating regimen; any derangement of the stomach or bowels should URINATION. 81 be removed; nourishing food should then be given; thorough friction of the skin, with cold sponge bathing, out-door exercise, if thd child can bear it— if not, exposure to sun-light; in fine, everything which tends to invigorate the system. Of course all known or even supposed causes should be removed. SUN STROKE. See Brain, Inflammation of, p. 23. THRUSH Is characterized by a deposit upon a child's mouth, which looks as if bits of curd were lying here and there. It is noticed in children of delicate health most frequently; the bowels will be found relaxed, and the passages green, and very sour, some- times making the parts about the anus sore. It indi- cates insufficient nutrition; in the first place, there- fore, this must be regulated; some hints for which may be found under the head of Atrophy, p. 19. The local affection is of no great moment; the mouth, however, should be wiped out every time after nursing or feeding. A solution of borax is sometimes of use. Mere is the main remedy. Cham, may also be useful. URINATION. For full particulars regarding the treatment of dis- orders of this function, reference must be made to the Repertory; a few general hints only can be given here. Especial attention should be given to the manner in which this function is discharged, as regards frequency, quantity, and color of the urine, 11 82 VOMITING. as well as the appearance of the sediment, as much light will thus be obtained in the treatment of many, if not all, diseases.' One remedy, not mentioned in the Repertory, may here be noticed, that is Turpen- tine. Where there is frequent, painful, urgent desire to urinate, while but little is passed at a time and that often, with a most agonizing effort, the urine being, sometimes, more or less bloody, Turpentine is a prompt and precious remedy. The manner of preparing and giving it has been previously detailed. Where urination is painful, attended with great urging and effort, or where it is scanty, or burning, Canth. is the remedy; if suppressed, Hyos.; if too copious, Lye or Merc.; if red, Bell., Merc, or Nux.; if yellow, Cham, or Chin.; if bloody, Canth., Ipec, or Tart. VOMITING Is of much or little significance, according to its cause, the quality of the matter vomited, and the accompanying symptoms. Vomiting of food, where the stomach has been overloaded, affords relief; and if it ceases, when the stomach has been relieved, nothing more is required than rest; if, on the con- trary, it continues, Ipec. may be given, or Ars. if there is much thirst or prostration, or Verat. if with these there is colic and diarrhoea. For vomiting of bile, Cham., Chin., Ipec, Merc, Phos., Tart, may be given; of mucus, Ars., Canth., Mere, Phos. In vomiting of pregnant women, Ars., Ipec, Nux., Puis, or Sep. > WORMS 83 WHITLOW, OR FELON. Pain, heat and throbbing are the tokens of this affeftion, which is usually noticed at the end of one of the fingers. I have heard of many cures for it, but have never seen but one—the knife. Silie is recom- mended, also Merc, and Hep.-sulph., and external applications without end. The trouble is, there is not always time to wait. The matter, lying between the bone and the unyielding membrane which invests it, travels up the finger into the hand, and so onward, and there is danger of losing the finger or even the hand; therefore, have it opened early ; then apply a poultice, and take Silie if you must take something. WORMS. He who could tell Domestic Physicians—or any other in fact—just how to know when and where worms are present, and how to make them absent, would be a public benefactor, and deserve to have his name written with Jenner's, the discoverer of vac- cination. I do not think such a man exists; if he does, he keeps his knowledge to himself. The sub- ject is involved in great perplexity. Some doftors will say that there are no worms; they might as well say, there are no doctors; others will tell you, that they do no harm; this they cannot prove. It is no doubt well to get rid of them. The question is, how to do it ? for troublesome, as they confessedly are, they are not so bad as the thousand and one nos- trums, which are sold as " Dead Shots," and which quite as often prove dead shots to the landlords as to 84 WORMS. the tenants. Beyond what can be gathered from the other parts of the work, I can only say, if your children are suspetted of worms (and the suspicion is reasonable regarding every child of Adam), do not feed them entirely on farinaceous food, but give them meat; not pork, or anything cooked with lard, as pies, fried cakes, etc., but beef, mutton, chicken, etc., cooked any way but fried; a proper quantity of pep- per and salt will do no harm, nor vinegar; regular meals, light suppers. Give them plenty of out-door exercise, but do not crowd them in their studies. Live children, who are not over-smart, are better than dead prodigies. This caution may not seem called for, but the truth is, that worms are fond of precocious children. DROWNING. 85 ACCIDENTS. i. BURNS. Where the burn or scald is very extensive, open the blisters and cover the parts burned, with cloths, wet with a solution of the tincture of Urtica urens, one part to twenty of water. This is not always at hand; Castile Soap is more generally accessible; work it up into a lather, and spread it upon cloths; soft soap answers a very good purpose, or butter even; with any of these, use cloth enough, or cotton batting, to exclude the air from the wound. Where steam has been inhaled, a solution of castile soap in alcohol is the best remedy; two or three drops may be put into a tea-cup of water, of which a teaspoonful may be given every ten or fifteen minutes. A slight burn, as on the finger, is most readily cured by holding it near the fire, or in some warm water. It requires a little fortitude, though the heat need not be sufficient to give much pain. In a few minutes the cure is complete. 2. DROWNING. It is uncertain how long a person may remain urider water, and yet be revived; a case is on record, where life was restored after forty-five minutes' sub- mersion ; so the story goes. I do not vouch for it. Nevertheless, trying to restore life, even after this period, is to be recommended; it will do no harm in any case, and if the effort succeeds, the labor will be well rewarded. 86 FREEZING. As soon as a person is taken from the water, lay him on his face, his forehead resting on one of his arms; his feet a little higher than his head; throw some dry clothing over him, but do not stop to remove the wet; then let an assistant stand at each side, with a hand on the hip and shoulder, and roll him from side to side alternately, about three times a minute; continue this perseveringly for half an hour at least—in one case it was eight hours before respiration was fully established. When respiration is fully re-established, take the patient to his resi- dence, remove his wet clothes, and keep up the warmth by artificial means, if necessary. His food at first should be simple. When re-aftion ensues, there is sometimes headache or fever; Aeon, will generally suffice. 3. FREEZING. When a person is frozen so as to become insensi- ble, bring him into a cold room, remove his cloth- ing; the indication now is to have the temperature restored to the inner parts first, and to this end, cover the patient with snow, all but his mouth and nostrils, or put him into a cold bath, and keep him there, till re-a£lion commences; then put him in a cold room. Where a part is frozen, as a hand or foot, the treatment must be conducted on the same principle, to keep the external heat from the outer parts, till the inner are thawed. In either of these cases, the heat of a stove or fire must be avoided for some time after recovery. WOUNDS. 87 4. POISON. Only a few hints can be given on this suoject. Camphor or Coffea will antidote most vegetable poisons, but it is always better to empty the stomach if possible; large draughts of warm water may be given for this purpose, or the throat may be tickled with a feather, or a finger thrust down. If Opium or Laudanum be the poison taken, in addition to producing vomiting, which must be done early, to be of any use, the patient must take strong coffee, and be walked up and down, till the drowsiness wears off. If mineral poisons are taken, give the white of an egg; if mineral acids, as nitric, muriatic, or sul- phuric, give magnesia £or chalk, mixed with water. The ends of matches are swallowed sometimes by children, for the sake of passing away time, and it is pretty sure to do it, unless properly and promptly attended to; do not give oil or anything greasy, for this dissolves the Phosphorus and makes it more injurious; but magnesia or soda, or even the lime off the wall, with abundance of water. Corrosive Subli- mate, which is used to poison bugs, is sometimes left in the reach of children; whites of eggs is the proper antidote; for potash or any strong alkali, give milk or sweet oil. For Arsenic, give milk, whites of eggs, iron rust. 5. WOUNDS. Contused wounds need Arnica in solution. Lacer- ated wounds, Calendula. Pun&ured wounds, Led- um. Where there is much bleeding, keep the part elevated, unless where, as in case of wounds of the head, diredr, pressure can be made against a bone, 88 WOUNDS. when a compress must be firmly applied. If the wound is in the hand, for instance, hold the hand up, and if the bleeding is very profuse, put a pad, as a pair of stockings, in the bend of the elbow, bring the forearm up towards the arm, and confine it there, or put a larger pad in the arm pit, press it well up, and confine the arm close to the side, which will check the flow of blood in a measure. Where the blood spirts out in jerks, an artery has been wounded, and a surgeon should be had if possible. When bitten by a poisonous snake, drink plenty of whisky, but stop when you get well, for the whisky is the product of a worm worse than the snake. For the sting of insefts, Led. is the remedy, or spirits of hartshorn, diluted. When bitten by a dog, keep your temper—all dogs who bite are not mad; all mad dogs who bite do not give Hydrophobia; do not cut out the part bitten and fill the wound with caustic, as a surgeon did once, on himself, which makes it more remark- able, and then found out that the dog was not mad after all. He had a sore leg for four months, but declared he would do it again, under similar circum- stances; so little do we learn from experience! If the dog is not mad, it is not necessary to cul out the part bitten; if he is mad, it is of no use— the poison is taken up too quickly. Bell., Lach., Hyos., Canth., are the remedies where the symp- toms appear. The two first mentioned, alternately given, have cured cases of this disease. EXTERNAL REMEDIE8. 89 EXTERNAL REMEDIES. Experience teaches that some remedies may be used with advantage externally. Thus, where the disease is local, as in a bruise or burn, we may bring our remedy in close contaft with the disease to be cured, by its external application. In this case, it is usual to employ the remedy, either of its full strength, or but slightly diluted, while advantage is often gained by using the same remedy internally, in an attenuated form. Some of the most important of these remedies are as follows: Arnica Tincture, which should be considerably diluted, as it increases the swelling where it is used too strong. This is a sovereign remedy in bruises or contused wounds, and should be applied as quickly as possible after the injury is received. It is also serviceable in the form of adhesive plasters, strength- ening plasters, and corn plasters. Where there are tumors, or swelling of any kind under the skin, which produce much pain by extending the skin, Arnica is of great benefit. In such case, the Arni- cated Oil would be the proper form. Calendula is to be preferred to Arnica, where the skin is cut or torn. The tindlure may be used diluted, one part to twenty. The wound may be well washed with this solution, and the bandages about the wound may be kept wet with it. Calen- dula is also used, combined with Glycerine, for chap- 12 go external remedies. ped or blistered hands, and chapped lips. A very neat preparation of this kind is sold under the name of Calendula Jelly. The Calendula Adhesive Plaster or " Court" Plaster is superseding the Arnica Plaster for dressing cuts, scratches and slight abra- sion of the cuticle; also in minor surgical operations. Ruta is preferable where the ligaments or tendons are strained; for this purpose, Rhus, also, is recommended, but it should be used with care, since some persons are so easily poisoned by it, that the remedy might be worse than the disease. Asparagus is a desirable remedy for the pain in joints which have been dislocated. The tindlure may be used, or the parts injured may be bathed in water in which the Asparagus has been boiled. In strains or sprains it may contend for the palm with Rhus, or Ruta. Symphytum is to be employed where bones are broken. It relieves the pain, and is said to facilitate re-union. For burns, Urtica Urens has acquired an excel- lent reputation. It may be used in a reduced form, with water, or as a cerate. Cantharis is also recom- mended for the same purpose. Lycopersicum is a capital remedy for carbuncles, boils, or any sore containing matter. It is better known as the Tomato. When the fresh Tomato can be procured, it may be laid upon the sore and secured by a light bandage. Where the fresh fruit cannot be obtained, the tindlure answers very well or the cerate. It is prepared in a suitable form for a poultice, which is highly recommended, by our best physicians, for all suppurating (or festering) external remedies. 91 sores, and has been used with great advantage in the treatment of broken breasts. Hamamelis is the remedy for diseases where the veins are implicated, as in milk-leg or white swell- ing, as it is sometimes called. In piles it has proved itself very efficacious in form of a cerate. In Haem- orrhages it has also been highly recommended. The tindlure may be used undiluted. ADVERTISEMENTS. Will be isstued about January 1st, 1866, .A. ZbTIEW MANUAL: Giving simple and concise directions for the Homoeopathic treatment of the diseases of Horses, Dogs, Sheep & Cattle, Requiring only a few remedies for the cure of all the more common ailments of animals. The astonishing power which Homoeopathic remedies seem to exert upon dumb animals, the ease and almost certainty with which their ailments can be relieved when the proper medicine is employed, and the great need of a simple and practical work, such as the above promises to be, will make the demand for it almost universal among those who have the care of Horses and other animals. Price of the Book, neatly bound, 50 Cents. A suitable Case of Medicine will accompany the book, prices varying from $3 to $10, according to size of vials. Will be for sale at all the Homoeopathic Pharmacies. C. S. HALSEY, Homoeopathic Pharmaceutist and Publisher. 093533 ADVERTISEMENTS. IN COURSE OF PREPARATION. WILL BE ISSUED IN A FEW MONTHS: linn iiiriii OF THE Homoeopathic Guide, FOR THE USE OF TWENTY FIVE PRINCIPAL REMEDIES. Price for Complete Work, - - - $1.50 " " First Part, bound separately, .50 Homoeopathic Fliarmaceutist and I*ublislier, 147 CLARK ST., CHICAGO. ADVERTISEMENTS. 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