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_ "*> PREFACE

TOTHX

AMERICAN EDITION,

The deep, and as-we trttt, abiding in-flaence, which the introduction of the HomcBi^thic practice of Medicine into this country has had upon the minds gf a large and intelligent portion of oqt community, cannot but be bailed as a most auspicious sign of its future destiny. Like every crther new'discovery, however, in ibe artft or in science, which leads to innovations .upon th^ settled order of things, Homceopathy iids encountered its full share of persectiting opposition^ So pron^ «ire mankind to undervalue and oppose what is new, or not well understood, that a revela* tion directly from the Deity vcarcely meets

VIX PREFAOS.

with more favour from man, than the puerile discoveries'.of mortak. Even the divine ibunder of Christianity, who was invested with a commission from Heaven of momentous importance to the human race, was recaived with distrust, treated with obloquy and contempt, and finally yielded up his life to satisfy the infuriated zeal of a false and hypocritical priesthood. With such ^ signal instance of ungrateful persecutions iind many similar ones before him, could the illustrious founder of Homoeopathy, whose beneficent object tended to an amelioration of our bodily sufierings only, expect his doctrines to be embraced more cordially, than were those spiritual mes^ sages announced by the Messiah? What the oAe attempted to do for the body, the other actually accomplished for the souL There, indeed, never has been a master mind, that has outstripped his contemporaries in the march of improvement, whose course lias not been obstructed by those who should have been the first to haye lent him their aid and Support. For Jiis suhr lime discoveries in astronomy, Galileo was rewarded by a residence in a, dungeon and loaded with chains. Harvey, whose difr-

coverr of tbft circulation of the blood, over* threw the prevailing thectfies relating to Phjrfolc^, suffered so much on account of the ridicule and persecution tavisbed upon him by his medical brethren, that he was reduced from affluence to beggary: the history oi Jenner, who is richly entitled to the warmest gratitude 6f posterity, for his invaluable discovery of Vaccination^ afibrds another instance of similar treatment from his contemporaries; and in lat^ times, even within ^he recollection of many now living, who has not heard that the inventive energies of Fulton, whose sagacious ' mind, it is true, but faintly shadowed forth the extent and value of his own discoveries respecting the powers of steam, were regarded as the 8ay-dreams of a disordered iinagination; yet such is their importance, that it is no exaggeration'to assert, that they have affected a revolutioji in mosl^ of our soml delations.

With a mind ardently devoted" to the investigation of truth, Hahnemann, after a serieS'Of laborious, painful and protracted experiments, satisfied-himself that he had discovered a process of curing diseases, far

more simple, safe and certain, than anj previously known.

Immense, however, as were the advantages of his discoveries, they were no sooner promulgated than he became the object of every species of obloquy, and afterwards the victim of persecution so severe that he was obliged to relinquish the practice of his profession, or seek an asylum elsewhere beyond the reach of the shafts of malevolence. The latter course he preferred, and removed to a'nother part of Germany; he subsequently took up his residence in Paris, where he now lives and enjoys the proud satisfaction of seeing his doctrines extensively embraced by eminent physicians in almost every country of the old world, and more recently also in the United States. Such illustrious men, benefactors as they have all been to the human race, must and will live forever on the page of history; while their detractors shall have passed down the stream of oblivion unnoticed and unknown.

Notwithstanding the attempts to strangle Homoeopathy at its birth, were unsuccessful, its opponents now are as implacable as ever; nay, their animosity seems to be increased

by its victories and their own defeat. Gross and opprobrious epithets are lavished upon its practitioners^ and the whole system stigmatized as quackery ; a charge which we can easily prove to be unfounded, and therefore undeserved. We shall also in this connection, exhibit to public view some of the most glaring deficiencies and worthless pretensions of the prevailing system of medicine, leaving it to the judgment of the impartial reader to decide which system is most worthily entitled to the appellation of quackery.

In taking a retrospective view of the history of medicine from the days of Hippocrates, who is emphatically styled the father of medicine, to the present time^ we cannot but be strongly impressed with the conviction, that, medicine as well practical as theoretical, has been subject to continual changes, depending upon the hypothetical notions of the ma«ter-spirits of the time; that its principles, so mi^call^ by its professors* have at best been but conjectures, which have seldom outlived their authors^ Such changeswere npt improvements, and conferred no benefits upon medicine as a sciencei nor did i^ey in the least contribute

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to alleviate the condition of suffering humanity : otherwise^ medicine, after being cultivated for more than tvi^o thousand years, would have approached in its cha*-racter the nature of the certain sciences, and not be now, as it is in the hands of its most skilful practitioners, a conjectural art, a system of guessing.

But that I may not be charged with partiality and accused of drawing a caricature of medicine, instead of its portrait, I shall avail myself of the opinions of several learned and celebrated physicians, who, being thoroughly initiated in ail the mysteries of their profession, have candidly acknowledged the great uncertainty of their art $ and if their confessions give offence, it must be recollected that they are the opinions of practitioners of the very system which they so much deprecate ; that they are the admissions of the opponents, not of the friends of Homoeopathy.

Girtanner* says," Jis the art of healing has no fixedprinciptej as nothing in it is positive, as we have but little sure expe* rience, every physician has a right to act

* Darstellung dea BrownscheD systetna 11.608.

upon his own opinions. Where (here is nothing but conjecture, one conjecture is as good as another. In the gloom of ignorance in which physicians gropo- along, there is no ray of light to guide them. When two of them meet at the bedside of the patient, they can scarcely refrain from laughing, if they look at each other."

** We feel daily," says Krugen Hansen,* ^^ that we are far from possessing <i fitted and sure method of cure. The works on Therapeutics furnish the most eminent proofs what confusion exists even among those physicians who stand the highest in their art. Its state, which has long and deservedly been the object of the lowest jokes, demands, for the benefit of mankind, extensive improvements."

" Whoever," says Schweickert,t " attends to the progress of medical science, must observe, that its practice has not advanced one step since the time of Hip-pocrates and Galen; but that on the con« trary, we are much behind them, for fifty years ago the greatest number of sick per-

* BriUenloae reflezionen and p. 9. t iSchweickerts' Joaraal IV. 120.

sons were killed, according to the prescriptions of their physicians, by Weerfin?**; forty years ago, by purgatives; thirty years ago, by clysterSy and more recently by the Brunonian system, which a celebrated physician asserts, has made victims of a greater number of human beings than the whole revolutionary war from 1793 to 1815."

" The routine practice," says Luther,* ■' does not merit the name of a system^ because it does not satisfy the postulata of a system; it wants order, coherence of parts and scientific unity; it is only a mass of incongruous matters thrown promiscuously together."

The utter want of a general principle in the Materia Medica of the old school, of every thing in fact that can direct 'the physician to a correct knowledge of the virtues of medicines, results from what has just been stated.

Grirtannerf calls it " a mere collection of fallaHous observations. There are in it some correct ones founded upon experience ; but who would waste time in seek-

* Allotopathy and Homoeopatby, p. 70. t Darstelluiii? 11. 600.

ing for a few particles of gold, \n that im-. mense dunghill, which physicians have been collecting for these two thousand years?*'

Hofiinan says, " that few are the reme* dies whose virtues and operations are cer^ tain; but many are those which are doubt/ulf suspicicius, fallaciouf^ and Jaise.^'

Dn Joergr £l celebrated professor in Germany, and an adversary of Homoeopathy, convinced of the uncertainty of the usual Materia Medica, resolved to make a regular series of experiments on the effects of medicines; and he owns that he was astonished to observe that no use of the substances tried, produced such effects as are taught by the doctrine of the Materia Medica. He accordingly calls thaf doctrine a medical Romance, ■

« In allusion to the great number of medicines, which are frequently combined together and ordered for the sick, Luther significaatly inquires, '*■ whether they, who prescribed thus, consider the stomach

to be u sort of general post'Officcy where

* Alloeopatby and Homceopathy, p« 26.

B*

all the drugs that arrive at oncei, are to be despatched* each to its proper destination —one to the nerves, another to the circulation, another to th^ lungs, and another to the brain, &.c."

An air of profound mysticism too has been long thrown around the system, originating in the practice of writing medical prescriptions in Latin, which, says Dr. Buchan, is not only ridiculously but it is likewise dangerous^ for however capable physicians may be of writing Latin, few apothecaries ean read it, and dangerous mistakes often arise from thi»circumstance. But suppose the apothecary hinnself is ever so capable of reading such prescriptions, he is often otherwise employed, and the businessof making up prescriptions is left entirely to the apprentice. By this means the life of the most distinguished and useful individual, however skilful may be tlie physician that he employs, is really entrusted to the charge of an idle boy, who is probably also very ignorant, as well as giddy and careless.' While upon this subject, we cannot let the present opportunity pass without seviBrely reprobating the practice of many apothecaries, who prepare

their medicines suid put up^'^^e prescjrip-^ tions sent to them altogether by proxy; while they themselves are abroad, seeking sources of amusement, or engaged in new and profitable speculations. Knowing these facts, what ought we to think of those pby-•icians, who can thus trifle with the health and lives of their patients, by-putting every thing to the hazard of such contingencies X Sueh, however,' is the common practice of the day, and custom has sanctioned that a^ right and proper, which the reflection of every impartial individual, whether bfr» longing to the profession or not^ n^ust acknowledge to be both improper and dan-gisrous.

Another circumstance, which justly de« servesi to be ridiculed, is that look ofpron found gravity^ which is so often assumed to excite the awe and admiration of tho vulgar, but which ne^er fails to inspire the ikitellig^t observer wit](i feelings of ooiki tempt. .

The too general and almofit- indiscrini)^ nate employment of the niost vident drugs to cure the simplest diseases—such in fact as nature alone, UQtraromeled by profes-^ sional officiousness, would overcome, is very

XYIII PRBFACB.

often the meai^ of protracting and aggravating them, and not unfrequently does it lay the foundation of an incurable chronic disease.

From the preceding statements, we can readily conjecture what is the real state of medical practice: but lest my own repre* sentations of it might seem to be warped by prejudice, I will use the words of others, who were well acquainted with the system of which they 8poke,and therefore their opinions are entitled to full credit, more especially as they were not intended to favour Homoeopathy.

Hippocrates laments the imposture existing in his own days, and says^ <'Mul-tos ease medicos fam& ac nomine, re et opere paucos."*

Boerhaave concludes, <<that if we compare the good) done by the true disciples of iEsculapius* with the mischief that the immense numbers of doctors have inflicted upon mankind, we must be satisfied, that it would have been infinitely better, if medical men had' never existed."—And in

* In name and repute diere are many physicians* in fact and in practidK few.

the Heidelberg Clinical Annals, a journal of the old school, it is admitted as an indis^ putable truth, <^that nnany more die froih the intermeddling of physicians than are saved by tham."

To the late Sir Gilbert Blane,'*' one of the highest authorities of the medical profession, the following observation Js attributed, that, '^in many cases, pdtientsget well in spile of the means employedf and sometimes, when the practitioner fancies he has made a great cure^ we may/airly assume the patient to have had a happy escape.*^

With such facts admitted by sucb authorities, need we doubt the truth of the proverb, ''that the remedy is worse than the disease, and the doctor more dangerous than the disbrder?" The whole history of medicine confirms it.

"I know very well," says an old praeti-tioner,f ''that perhaps more than sevten-tenths of mankind die, not from disease, but from the unsuitableness and excess cf medicine**^

* Lectures oa Pharmacolo|^, Med. Gaz. 34, Oct. 1885. t Allgeni; Anzeiger d. DeutKhen, 1833,235.

Krugen-Hansen says,* ^^Mtdidne^ as it has hitherto been practised, is a pesiilence to mankind; it has carried off a greater number of victims than all that murderous wars have ever done; and it appears to be rather a means of preventing an overpopulation than the art of saving lives."

^<It has always appeared tome most unaccountable/' says Dr. Forth,-)* **hovr man* kind can continue to have the slightest confidence in medicine and its prescribers. It can be explained only by the carelessness with which they look at this destroying art: otherwise they could not fail to see that medicine is only a subtile imposture^ and physicians imposters or ignorant. And the monarchy who should interdict the practice of medicine and the vending of nos-trums, and expel such pestilent persons from his dominions, would be hailed as a benefactor to his species. There is scarce-•ly^the doctor concludes, a more dishonest trade imaginable than the art of medicine in its present state.

Bacon long since observed <' that quacks

* Briilenlose reflexionen, &c., p. 18. t Rbapsodien uber M^iain, p. 87.

and old womeD do often succeed much heU lev in the cure of diseases than learned physicians."

And if the knoi;vledge of a physician be more entitled to belief in this matter, than the opinion of a philosopiier, listen to the words of Sydenham: Quae medieina ap* pellatur, revera confabulandi garrien^ digue poiius est ars quam medendi.'*

That which is called medicine is the art of prating and telling stories, rather than the art of healing.

As bearing upon this subject, I will add one extract more. " f^eri/ few of the valuable discoveries in medicine" says Dr. Buchan, '^have been made by physicians: they have, in general, been either the effect of chance or of necessity, and have always been opposed by the facultyy till every one else was convinced of their importance. An implicit faith in the opinions of teachers, an attachment to systems and established forms, and the dread of reflection will always operate upon those who follow medicine as a trade* *^Few improvements are to be. expected from a man^ who dreads that he might ruin his character by even

Me smallest deviation/rom the establish^ edrule^^^ '

The whole mass of testimony thus adduced, is in noway directed against Aoato-my^ Physiology and Pathology—the great bases of medical science, but solely against the mode of practice pursued by the mere routine practitioners.

Thus does it appear, from the testimony of some of the roost distinguished physicians of the times in which they respectively lived, frofm the days of Hippocrates down to the present hour, that the art of medicine has been conducted without hav« ing any fixed principle to direct the practitioner in the choice and application of his remedies.

Having, as I conceive, fully redeemed the pledge to prove that medicine, as it baa hitherto been practised, has had no abiding foundation in nature, but that the iittempted cure of diseases at all times has been subject to the caprice or fancy of physicians, does it not justly deserve to be considered as the grossest empyrictsm T

With claims so slender to the appelluT tion of a science, is the old system of riiedir cine entitled to the boasted prerogatives,

that it» professors demand for it ? And are their opinions respecting the merits of a kindred science—another branch of the healing a.rt, which they do nol understand, and which differs essentially from their own, iiKhaving a fixed and immutable principle of nature to rest upon—to be regarded as infallible?

^he solution of these questions, I leave to every candid and intelligent reader.

Believing that the foundation of Horn** otopathy rests on a natural and immutable law, I will endeavour in as brief a manner as is consistent with a clear explanation of its principles, to unfold this law.

As^e have de^n, in all past time, medicine has been considered a purely eonjec* tural art; hence multitudes of doctnnes have succeeded and destroyed each other —the inevitable consequence of their hypothetical origin*

It must not however be inferred, that fixed principles for curing disease do not exist, merely because they have remained undiscovered for two or three thousand years.

A great many^ears have not rolled away, since Newton gave to Astronomy the laws

XXtr PREFACE.

which govern the motions of the heavenly bodies in their revolutions. And we see no reason why medicine should not follow the march of the other sciences, and it will be found that Kahnemann has already achieved that for it which Newton did for Astronomy, to wit, the discovery of a law which regulates the application of medicines in the cure of disease.

The basis upon which Homceopathy is founded and upon which rests the whole fabric of practical medicine, is the principle of similarities; expressed in the Latin phrase, *^ similia similibas rurantur,*' like cures like: and the name cx;ircpsin^; this idea is compared to two Greek words o^ofoc like and vraBos, affection or disease.

According to this law, diseases are cured by such. remedies as are capable, when given to healthy persons, of producing symptoms, as similar as possible to those of the disease to be cured. _For example, in the case of Rheumatism, such a remedy must be selected as is capable of producing the peculiar phenomena of that disease. In Hooping Cough,—one which will excite attacks of coughing and the other symptoms chafa^teriatic of that disease. In

PREFACE. XXT

Pleurisy,—one which has the power of producing pains in the chest, oppression in breathing, cough^ fever, spitting of bloody &c. It must hot however be inferred, that the remedy selected, although capable of producing symptoms similar to the disease itself, is given in doses large enough to increase the symptoms and render them dangerous. It is enough that it has the power of producing a similarity of symptoms in a healthy person, and it is in the regulation of the quantity to be given and the repetition of the doses, that the knowledge and. skill of the physician are most requisite.

Illustrations of this principle are met with in ancient medical science—Hippocrates announced it in his aphorism ^^ vomitus vomitu curatur."* Yet until the time of Hahnemann, the cures obtained by the application of this law had never been ascribed to it, nor was it ever recognized as a leading principle in the science. By long continued and laborious researches, Hahnemann incontrovertibly established upon the sure basis of induction, the truth of the important principles that he had discovered.

^Vomiting may be cured l^y mi emetic.

He subjected himself, his family and his friends to numerous and long continued experiments; and when to his own satisfaction he had confirmed the truth of this grand therapeutical law beyond a doubt, he commenced new experiments upon other substances, in order to secure additional means of combating the many and varied diseases to which we are subject This mode of ascertaining the virtues of medi-cines is no less novel, than the law of their application in the cure of disease. That it is the only true one cannot be doubted by any person, who reflects for a moment, that the disturbances produced in a healthy person's system after the use of medicine, must be the pure effects of such medicines; whereas, when they are administered to the sick, how is it possible to individualize the subsequent phenomena, and say with precision, that this symptom is produced by the medicine, and that one by the disease 1

Experience, it is alleged, can easily resolve this difficulty ; in part it may, but it must be purchased at the cost of thousands of victitns. Here the Homoeopathic physician hsis infinitely the advantage over his

PRBTAOX. XZVII

medical brethren of the old school, because he knows, beforehand, when he has selected his medicine, what are its effects upon the human organism, and hence deduces its fitness to cure disorders similar to them. For more than thirty years of his life Hahnemann has been engaged in tryine the effects of many medicines upon himself and his nearest connexions, and the results of all their researches, which tend tO' establish more firmly the truth of his great therapeutical law^^'similia similibus curan-tur,'' constitute Ihe basis of Homceopathic Materia Medica.

The establishment of this law, as a su« preme principle to direct the Homoeopathic practitioner in the cure of disease^ places Homoeopathy far above all the previous unsystematized and inconsistent schemes of medical art; and now for the first time, medicine becomes a system, a positive science. And whoever attempts to over* throw this system, must first attack this law, which Hahnemann has discovered and proposed as a guide to the physician, and which in its nature is unalterable, and in its application universal. Every real cure that is effected, is made by virtue of

this law, just as in the materia) system of the universe, every motion is under the influence of the law of gravitation. The latter is no more certain than the former, though it may be better understood, both of them being equally entitled to the appellation of '<principles," founded in nature, and immutable. The more this law is explained, the more will its correctness be establislied in the mind of all, whose object is the discovery of truth.

Convinced that the cause we defend is a sacred one, we fearlessly maintain our position; and hesitate not to lay ourselves open to every species of attack, in declar* ing that if the Homoeopathic principle be an eternal law of'nature, discovered, not invented by Hahnemann, it is therefore ^notjor an afft^ but for all iimes,'^ and hence we shall be able to trace its opera* lions in every thing that is daily jpassing before our eyes, as well as in the history of past ages.

In conclusion, I will add, that, as a system, it professes to cure all diseases, which in their nature are curable, some surgical ones excepted^ in a certain, easy, safe^ and expeditious manner.

It imposes no i^ncommonly rigid rules of diet, but requires of those under treatment a compliance with temperance and moderation in the enjoyment of all things, such only being excepted as the peculiarity of each case may, in the opinion of the phy« sician require. It dispenses in its treatment of disease with all Alcoholic TinctureSi^and exciting stimulants; thus recommending itself powerfully to the friends of 4empe-ranca

It produces no dangerous or violent revolutions in the human economy; it efiects every change in a manner so gentle as to be almost imperceptible, but not the lesa positive and certain. It offers to the sick and afflicted no noxious draughts, no bitter or disgusting potions, as all its medicinal preparationj are agreeable to the. taste, and hence admirably adapted to the treatment oFchildren; it requires few medici* nal agents^ and» in such minute quantijties, that the patient is subjected to no .expensive apothecaries' bill; neither is h&requir-ejl to undergo the pain and inconvenience of Cuppingf Leeching or Bleeding.

In fine, it is a system possessing all i^nd

more than all the advantages of the prevalent modes of curing disjeases, without their defects.*

^^Faoiiliar ExposiMonof Homceopathy.

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INTRODUCTION.

. It ii$ a received axiom, tbat the practice of medicine should rest with a class of men devoted to the ardoouf iovestigation of ai science so difficult and important.

Among the non-medical public it is at all times a desideratum to diffuse, wholesome view^ connected with the profession. By this means we are enabled to counteract, prevailing errors^ together with the innumerable prejudices which exist in every quarter. At the sam§. time, it places those who may be remote from meaical aid in a position to administer mea^ which may be suited to the emergency oC the moment; and this too without participating in those fearful errors which result from

an ignorance of the acting properties of medicine.

The aim of this little volume is to place the public in possession of enlightened hy-geinic rules, applicable to the various periods of life, and referrible .as well to a state of health as to that of suffering. From the limited number of homceopathic practitioners, such a book is especially important in the present state of the science. * We shall point out the earliest attentions to be enforced in cases of severe acute disease, whilst awaiting the aid of the' practitioner, and shall rapidly, but as lucidly as possible, indicate the treatment of acute affections which may be less serious and of more frequent occurrence.

This will enable parties, who may be resident beyond the ready access of medical assistance, either to treat tbtmselves, or confidently submit to the direction of some intelligent friend^ who may be otherwise upconneeted with the profession of medicine.

' This is iTot the place in 4;^hich to insist upon the va!/ie of sound hygeinic regulations. £very individual is fully impressed with their importance, and the chapter de-

INTRODUCTION. XXJliil

voted to the subject will abundantly prove th^t the homoeopathic hygeine is based upon firm and healthful principles.

The attentions to be observed previously to the arrival of a practhioner* and applicable to patients labouring under agute symptoms, are similarly important In embraping the allopathic routif^e of medi* cine, yve are in danger either of counteracting the efibrts of nature* or of inducing vast disturbance in the animal economy. The consequences of such interference are too frequently irreparable.

With reference to the less important ailments, there is no mother of a family who can fail in appreciating the worth of a wholesome treatise respecting them; for scarcely a day passes in which she is not called upon to remedy a derangement in one or other of ber children: and how is she to act without an intelligent guide? Habit will doubtlessly impel her to tread in the accustomed track: she will have recourse to purgatives; and by this means will, probably for a series of years, entail suffering upon the children she is called upon to nurture and rear.

In the following pages, meriting the at-

XXZIT IlfTRODUOTIOir.

tention of every mother desirous of im* provement, and solicitous that her children should profit by the advances effected in science* will be found the means of preserving a,nd restoring their health, without subjecting thend to unnecessary suffering, or to a discipline violent in its character, and frequently entailing consequences more formidable than the disease itself.

The dawn of reason, however, is at haad; and the period is not remote, when every mother will appreciate and revere the invaluable science which has been given to the world by Hahnemann.

DOMESTIC hom(e;opathy.

OF HYGEINE.

HyoEiNE is a diviaion of the healing art which prescribes the means of preserving health. This branch of medical science will become more and more important, and will still farther extend its happj influence, in proportion as intelligence and morality shall pervade the various classes of society. Not only will the judicious observance of ordinary regimen, of pursuit^ of exercise, andof cleanliness, contribute to^he preservation of the general health, and render epidemic diseases less frequent and intense, but still more will hygeine, as a preventive, neutralise atmospheric influence, and ob-

viate the mischiefs resulting from humidity, or from any external causes producing disease. Again, it must perceptibly conduce to the extirpation of hereditary taints —those poisons which, by reason of any exciting cause, such as a cold, or excess of any kind^ give birth to chronic affections, multiform in character, and lamentably destructive to human life.

Homoeopathy will effect rapid strides to-w^ds hygeine, since by its aid we learn that the greater portion of humanity is more or less deeply impregnated with one or other of three grand mi^ismata, productive of chronic disease. These miasmata are Psora, Syphilis, and Sycosis. They are handed down from generation to genera* tion ; or they may, under certain circum* stances, be communicated by one individual to another.

Conversant, in this manner, with the elementary cause of disease, and possessing a law which promises a specific for every form of nrialady, we may indulge a hope, in succeeding generations, to exonerate the human species from the baleful eiiects re* suiting from herediteiry virus.

Children, deriving their existence from

f

parents affected with chronic ailments^ bear with them the germ of disease, which will develop itself sooner or later beneath the influence of exciting causes, such as irregularities of regimen, atmospheric changes, moral delinquency, &c.

The hygeinic attentions to children, inheriting such predisposition, should be directed with a view to combat this virus, the first grand cause of disease.

Upon this important question, we need say but little in «l volume which is altogether elementary. We shall endeavour to prove, however, that the medical man ought not to be considered as competent merely to check a formidable disease, but that his counsels should serve as a guide in the physical education of children, and, by their hygeinic and medical attentions, should give them an unrestrained and full development of healthful life.

Attentions to be paid to Children,

From the period of birth, man cannot be regarded with too much anxiety: nothing should be omitted which may favour his physical development,, prepare him for a

career devoid of infirmity, and enable him to become serviceable to his family, and to his fellow-creatures, and thus endow him with one of the primary essentials to happiness.

It is remarked, however, that man is from his cradle the butt of ignorance and of prejudice, and the victim of the most baneful practices. Scarcely has the infant been launched into life, when too frequently he receives impressions which destroy or disorder his economy for a long series of years; Recourse is had to various descriptions of purgatives, according to the climate and the custom of the nurses, to facilitate the discharge of the meconium. This practice is particularly obnoxious, from the delicate organization of the iniant: it is mischievous to attempt to aid, or rather to force nature, particularly where she requires no assistance.

The secretions comprised within the intestinal canal, have at this period nothing abnormal in their character, and will discharge themselves without the aid of purgatives. Medicines should be reserved in case of need.

The temperature to which the newly-

born infant is introduced, should approach as nearly as possible to that ^hich it han just quitted: to a frame (bo delicate, every excess of heat or cold must be prejudicial.

The movements communicated to the child should at all times be very guarded. The practice, therefore, of forcibly rocking him is highly objectionable, since by this process he is not unfrequently rendered giddy, and exposed to cerebral congestion.

In case of wakefulness have recourse neither to the cradle nor to the exhibition of narcotics; by such practioes the infant will become disordered, pine, and require medical aid.

Every circumstance should be avoided which may too sensibly afi^ct the child; sound and light must be regulated with great caution; and it is by degrees only that exposure may be made to the noise and full glare of day.

We will offer a few hints with reference to the diet of early infancy. Most persons are conversant with what is most suitable; the milk of the mother, or, in default, thai of a healthy nurse. If the latter cannot be obtained, the milk of a cow, sheep, ass, or goat, diluted with water, and rendered

1*

lukewarm, may be substituted. The milk should be prepared each separate time it may be desirable to feed the iufant, and the periods should be regulated with every possible care.

During the first three or four months, the milk of the mother, or tfiat of the cow, will in most instances suffice. Up to this period we should offer no additional nutriment. White l^ead, stale and grated^ or biscuit* powder, boiled in milk, is now more appropriate. It is at a subsequent period only that pap, made from flour or oatmeal, the fecula of the potato, meal, &c^ and prepared with milk, is admissible.

When the earlUf teeth have protruded* we may in iome measure vary the diet, but it fltiould be exclusively of a vegetable character, alternated with the preparations adverted to ab6ve. Jn the earlier stage we must studiously avoid everything of a greasy ndture. Milk and water should be the only beverage.

Sweatmeats and hon-bons are at all times objectionable, and should consequent* ly be given with very great caution.

Animal food should not enter into the diet until after the accession of the canine

teeth, and even until the period of puberty it should constitute but a small proportion of the regimen. Lean meat is alone suitable to the digestive powers of the in&nt; porky ducky &c. being wholly inadmissible.

Children digest readily, but excess^ of food is prejudicial: their repasts should be at short intervals^ and consist rather of what is nutritious than of what i9«aculat-ed to excite the appetite.

The principal repast of children should he taken about mid-day: they should not eat at too late a period, nor in too large a

Juantityy lest their rest be disturbed by in* ^e$tion.

Strict observance of cleaftUness will con* tribute much to the improvement of the child: ablutions and frequent change of linen are essential; h bath, lukevirarm, for five ois ten minutes every day^ will conduce in a striking manner to health and full '^-velopment, and may be continued with advantage until the second or (bird year.

At a later period we majr have recourse to river-bathing, during the summer season: a repetition several t^mes in the week will prove beneficial.

Air and exercise are essential to the health and full development of infancy.

As regards attire, it should be sufficiently loose to prevent compression of the body, or restraint of motion; and vre should take particular care that it be neither too heating nor too scanty.

With young girls the practice of vtrear-ing corsets is very objectionable, and should be prohibited. They are generally fash** ioned so as to protrude the bosom after its development, and to retain it constantly in a forced position, and in one at variance Vr'ith nature. It is an error to suppose them, of utility in supporting the mammae, and in preserving the upper portion of the body in a vertical position. Instead of attaining these objects, they prevent the natural formation of the breasts, which becomes flaccid by their adoption. In .like manner they destroy the power of the muscles of the. back, and induce a species of atrophy, which renders the wearer incapable ot supporting the body in an erect position. Hence result those malformations so frequently observable in young females.

The neglect of appropriate gymnastic exercise, especially with a sickly constitu-

tion, contributes much to induce rdtalfor-mations; and it is no less true that the adoption of corsets, more particularly as favoring existing predispositions^ is intimately connected with spinal curvature*

On Regimen^

The object of the regimen to which we subject an invalid is to dispose his system to the favorable reception of salutary medicaments. To attain this end, we must keep in observance the two following rules:

1. To prohibit the use of any substance possessed of medicinal properties, and which might thereby modify or interfere with the action of the medicines.

2. To regulate the quantity of nourish-ment) so that the daily loss may be supplied without surcharging the digestive organs.

These two rules form the basis upon which all hygeinic prescriptions should be founded, and they should serve equally as a guide to the regimen of persons in good health. We do not positively maintain that persons in health should avoid everything proscribed to the sick: we merely

\i^isb to observe that every substance vrhich may produce pathological effects becomes ' noxious in course of time, and should be adopted vtrith caution in a judiciously chosen regimen, and one calculated to preserve the mind and body in a state of vigour and serenity.

The basis of the prescribed diet we shall examine according to this principle. It, will indicate the various aliments derived from the vegetable and animal kingdoms, with those which may be admissible for the patient, and those which must be prohibited during the homoeopathic treatment.

Aliments allowed — Vegetables*

Man's principal nourishment is /evident* ly derived from the vegetable kingdom, the family of graniferous plants alone supplying a large portion of his alinient. Wheat-en bread is the most nutritious and the most wholesome of our food, and readily assimilates with our system.

The potato, as an article of food, is equally salutary, and the simple manner in which it is prepared is usually the best,

taking care to deprive it as much as possible of its moisture.

Macaroni, vermicelli, semolino, sago, salep, arrow-rooty the fecula of the potato, rice, French beans, peas, lentils, <&c. as articles of food, and prepared in a suitable manner, furnish healthful nutrition, an4 frequently of theniselves are serviceable in convalescence from serious maladies, where the invalid should be gradually introduced to a more substantial diet

The melon, fully ripe, and in small qtian-tities, may be permitted where the digestion is good.

Strawberries, gooseberries, raspberries, perfectly* ripe, and preparisd with sugar, or in the form of jelly—apricots^ peaches, grapes, pears, and other fruits, not acid, cmd well ripened, may frequently enter into a well-regulated diet.

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Mimmt derived from the Jinimal Kingdom.

Beef is one of the meats best suited to our digestive powers, and should form the basis of our animal nutriment.

Mutton may be ranked in nearly the same class as beef.

Ham^ from its mode of preparation, is generally more wholesome than pork; its adoption, however, during homoeopathic treatment, must be very guarded.

The flesh of the hare^ the roe^buckj and game in general is in most cases very proper.

Poultry^ such as pullets, capons, turkeys, d^c, is admissible; 'but, unless thoroughly dressed, the flesh is too mucilaginous, and must be taken sparingly.

Grouse, pheasant, woodcock, wild duck, dLC. are far more wholesome than the poultry from the farm-yard, provided they are not kept too long after being killed.

Salt and fresh-water fish are generally wholesome, and of easy digestion.

New-laid eggs, in their various modes of dressing, may be recommended with ad-va(ntage.

Liquids,

There is no beverage so suitable, during homceopathic treatment, as pure water; nor is any beverage so conducive to the digestion of those who live abstemiously. In acute diseases we accordingly prescribe

pure water, or eau 9ucree, or toast water, milk-and-water, barliey*water, water-gruel, or gum-arabic-waten

In chronic diseases, similar diluents are appropriate. Individuals, however, who have accustomed themselves to malt-liquor, may continue its use in moderation, pro^ vided it cause no inconvenience and be of perfectly good quality* They, too, who for a series of years have been in the habil of drinking wine, might occasionally suffer much from its total interdiction : although such instances are rare, it is advisable to guard against them: in these cases we may* permit wine in moderate quantity and diluted with water.

Tea is, in most cases^ particularly objectionable as a beverage during^bomceopathic treatment, inasmuch as it possesses medicinal properties by no means equivocal. We should^ therefore, for this reason, be very cautious in its use. Even by those most accustomed to it, it should be taken weak^ and in moderation.

Similar objections are referrible to cof*" lee, which is even more pernicious than tea; it should therefore be still more rigot^' ously abstained from.

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Cocoa, properlj prepared, is of great importance as an article of food, and should in a great measure supersede the use of tea and cofi&e during medical treatment

Chocolate, taken occasionally, provided it be free from spice, is admissible as an article of segimen.

Miments prohibit ed*

Asparagus, sorrel, radishes, celery, &e« should, during treatment, be particularly guarded against, as they contain properties essentially medicinal*

Cooking, in some d^ree, corrects the medical properties of the onion, garlic, shal* latf parsley, and chervil; we should, nevertheless, exclude them as much a» possible from the diet of an invalid.

The mushroom, as difficult of digestion, should be avoided, more particularly by patients whose digestive organs may be unpaired*

All fruits which are not perfectly ripe, or such as are acid, should be prohibited, since they are either difficult of digestion, or may counteract the properties of the medicine*

Chamomile, the elder-flower, and all ptisans should be prohibited.

Seasonings are referable chiefly to aromatic substances, and are classed among the medicaments: they should therefore be excluded as much as possible from the regimen of the sicjc. Salt, butter, cream, and sugar, are generally sufficient to render food agreeable to the palate; it is habit alone which has created a desire for highly-seasoned dishes.

fSnimal Food,

Veal, as an aliment difficult of digestion, should be carefully guarded against by persons whose stomach is delicate, and whose organs of digestion are weak.

Pork should be abstained from as tnucb as possible during homceopatbic treatment.

Ducks and geese are indigestible, and must therefore be prohibited.

If we do not altc^ether exclude white aud mucilaginous meats, such as lamb, chicken, &c., we must at least insist upon their very moderate use.

Drinks,

All drinks too exciting in their character, or possessing medicinal properties, should be expunged from the homoeopathic regimen. These stimulants comprise strong y^ines, spirits, tea, cofiee, &c.

The regimen should at all times be appropriate to the age and temperament of the patient; and from the rules already laid down, we may easily determine upon the regimen adapted to each individual.

Mr and Bodily Exercise.

It will be superfluous to dwell upon the importance of pure air, all persons being fully alive to its beneficial effects upon those who are ill: the patient should enjoy it upon all possible occasions. We are fully aware, too, how essential is bodily exercise to the regulation of our natural functions. It preserves the equilibrium of the system, and corrects, in a striking degree, the mischief produced by a too liberal table, the result of our social habits.

Most persons eat and drink more than suffices for the support of life ; it is fortunate, therefore, that exercise has the power of correcting the inconveniences arising from improprieties of regimen.

In chronic afiections, exercise in the open air is indispensable; it induces an im-

t)ortant and salutary action in the muscu^ ar system, and obviates visceral congestion.

Walking in the open air is most beneficial for the invalid; he should regulate his walks according to his ability, and never prolong them so as to induce exhaustion.

Since walking and dancing generally call into action the lower extremities only, it is important, especially for the young, to have recourse to those gymnastics in wfaich^tbe upper extremities' may participate...

Riding on horseback, or in an open car-rilage, is advisable where the patient may be incapable of walking; but the latter exercise, in connection with gymnastics, is greatly to be preferred.

Hahit$.

Habks, such as late hours, the attendance

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at balls, concerts, theatres, the ganung* table, &c., from their exercising an important influence upon the successful or unsuccessful issue of disease, must- not be passed over in silence. Chronic cases, hy such indulgence are frequently rendered incurable. The patient stands in need of regular repose and serenity of mind, to obviate any interference with the favorable reaction to be brought about by medicine. He must sedulously avoid alt the indulgences we have just denounced^

It is important that the invalid should accustom himself to light clothing, lest an undue warmth should render him susceptible of colds, excite jperspirationy and debilitate the system. The invalid, however, sbaiild be careful in protecting himself againit the inflxience of cold, and more especially against changes of temperature: our remarks refer merely to excess in the use or in the n^lect of clothing.

He should avoid perfumes, both on the person and in bis apartments, and should abjure an excess of sweet-smelling flowers: they exercise a deleterious influence upon homoeopathic remedies.

The use of cosmeticsas similarly objec-

' tbnable. Tobacco should be prohibited, unless the patient have acquired a confirmed habit of taking it, and where the sudden and total interruption of its use might be prejudicial to his health. In all hahits of this class, such as drinking of wine, tea, coffee, &c.y we must gradually diminish the quantity, and not abstain entirely, and CD the instant

The indbcriminate use of warm baths is pernicious, and must be strictly prohibited; cold or tepid ablutions are preferable during medical treatment.

Oburvances to be enjoined on Persons suffer' ing/itom Jlcute Diseases*

The hygeinic observances in acute affec* tions are rest, bodily and mental tranquil-Iity« mild and equable temperature, and the, avoidance, so far as practicable, of such causes as may have given origin to the disease.

It is generally observable, in acute casas, that the greater part of the functional economy is deranged. In most instances the appetite is impaired, or entirely sus-

pended. The failure commences with aversion for food : and nature thuB, of her own accord, indicates the observance of the first hygeinic rule. To an iofalid entirely devoid of appetite, no nourishment whatever should be offered; instinct should serve as a guide, and be implicitly followed. In adopting this plan, we need be un-' der no apprehension of debilitating the patient, for the malady is brief in duration, and the functions are speedily restored* The appetite and digestive powers resume their natural course, and the affected organs are quickly re-established. More particularly we' must bear in mind that the invalid take nothing which may be considered strengthening; h^ should receive only what he may have the power of digesting. In cases where the digestive functions do not act, or act imperfectly, the superfluous food stimulates, to a painful degree, an organ which should remain quiescent; and, far from strengthening the patient, throws him into a state of great debility.

Regimen, or positive abstinence, is not in all cases, or for a long period, essential in homoeopathic treatment; in the more

serious ailments, we may prescribe, after a brief interval, light nourishing food, gradually pro{K>rtioned to the restoration of tiie economy. In a very diort time the patient may have recourse to his ordinary regimen.

In less important afiections, where the appetite is not suspended, we should care* fiilly regulate the diet, and recommend the moderate use of such aliments as may be suitable.

As regards the medical attentions applicable to acute diseases, we shall point them out in the chapters de4icated to the re* dpective maladies. We shall dwell upon the more frequent and less serious affec* tions, giving a glance merely at those of greater magnitude, and which should rest as much as possible in the hands of the physician.

Administration and JRepetition of Medicines,

The homoeopathic remedies are administered in globules^ in tincture^ by olfaction, and externally by means of friction.

The globutes are placed upon the tongue, or, being bruised, are taken in a little sugar

of milk; or i^ain, they may be dissolved (each) in one or more spoonfuls of pure water*

If it be advisable to administer only a portion of a globule, it may be dissolved in as many spoonfuls of water as may corres-pond with the required divisions of the globule; and, pursuing this plan> we may exhibit several spoonfuls, or fractions of a globule^ in the cpurse of the day.

The tinctured are exhibited in solutiou with ^ater. The prescription of an entire drop, in the bourse of the day, is seldom required; consequently, when we have recourse to tinctures, their administration i» virtually the same as that of the globules dissolved in water.

When olfaction is advisable^ ,one or two globules of the selected remedy should be placed in a small phial, and its aperture be applied to the nose of the patient either 'for a few seconds or for a minute or two, as the case may require.

The use of medicaments externally, whether as lotions or as frictions, has been hitherto but rarely practised. .£xperience« however, will doubtlessly point out many cases where this mode may bc'prefdrable.

At present we derive much valuable assistance from arnica, as an external application in contusion, from heated oil of turpentine, or from alcohol, in cases of burns. Iq most instances the medicine should be administered in very minute doses, one, twO) or three globules, or even the fraction of a globule, according to the susceptibility of the patient.

With reference to the most eligible di-lution, the highest should in most instances be selected; nevertheless, as regards this great practical means^ it is the choice of a suitable remedy which chiefly avails. A judicious election once made, we may succeed perfectly well with dilution, 12, 18, 24, or 30, generally selecting the higher number for the more susceptible patients.

As the more suitable method of exhibiting the remedy, it. appears to me that the globules or tinctures, diluted with water, are "preferable; hut it is evident that perfect cures have been effected by other modes.

These signs will assist us in designating the dilution of the doses: ^ signifies a globule of the 3Uth attenuation; x h^s a similar signification. The superior figure

or aign poiots out the number of globules; and the figure, whether Roman or Arabic, placed at the right or inferior part, indicates the degree of attenuation.

6 corresponds to 11. or a billionth.

9 III. or a trillionth.

12 IV. or a quadrilliontb»

18 VI. or a Bextillionth.

24 VIII. or an octillionth.

30 X. or a decillionth..

As regard^ the repetition of the dose» ill is evident that each case, and each sepa* rate constitution, must present variations as; numerous as the circumstances indicating the dose itself. In slight affections, how^ ever, one, two, or three doses will generally suffice; and we find that one or two» doses in the,course of the day, wiU^ in most instances, meet the case. In the* more serious cases, we must have recourse to practitioners of acknowledged repute^ Upon this important subject, which is nod within the pwvince of an elementary volume, we must refer the Feader to the author's *' Practice of Homoeopathy."

It is tobe remarked, that in alt in6lsiitice»

Where improvement is visible, we should never interfere with the favorable reaction ; on the other hand, where the medicine produces no effect, it may be repeat* ed; and where it has been injudiciously selected, we must substitute one more appropriate.

In cases where it is evident that the medicine acts too powerfully, and causes suffering to the patient, we must exercise ikxe caution in repeating the dose; We must carefully note the result^ and if the patient suffer much, we should administer a suitable antidot«» As regards the exhibition of antidotes, we are guided by precisely the same rules as in the administra* .tion of other remedies^

Of Preservatives.

No one, in the present day, can for a moment doubt the importance of Vaccina-tionr aB a preservative against Small-pox« Notwithstanding the early prejudice against its introductiooy it has gained the full coo-fidence of an enlightened public; and the value of the discdvery is ^very day more fully appreciated.

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The preventive agency of the vaccine virus enters perfectly into the spirit of homceopathic medicine. The virus acts as a preventive, by causing an eruption sinoilar to that of the smalUpox. The advantage we hav<e gained in variola^ we may yet hope to obtain in other diseases; and homoeopathy has already put us in possession of certain.preservatives, which I shall immediately proceed to point out.

A child may be protected against Scarlet Fbvsr, the Scarlatina Mitts of Sy^ denhank, by causing him to take JBelta-donna during the period of the epidemic* One or two globules may be administered every four or five days, and from five to eight doses will usually sufiice for the protection of the child. In cases where the disease is already apparent, the exhibition of belladonna will render it mild and trivial in effect.

Against the Measles, Pulsatilla^ alternated with Aconite^ will act as a preventive. We commence with the administration of one or two globules of pulsatilia^ and, on the following day, we may give one or two globules of aconite: this treatment should be repeated three or jEbur times.

PRESERVATIVES. '27

The same medicameDts will serve to modify the disease, if it have already presented itself.

In Miliary Feveh we may exhibit Belladonna and Jiconiie^ alternate)y» as a preventive, during the period of its prevalence. We begin the treatment by giving one or (wo globules of aconite, and after a couple of days we give belladonna in a similar do9e, repeating the medicines three or four times.

Camphor has been administered as a successful preservative against Cholera — one drop of the tincture being taken each time on approaching the sick, or upon entering an infected place. The administration should be alternated with Verairum and Cuprum^ in the proportion of one «r two globules, avery four or five days*

OF DISEASES.

Jlphthss or Thrush.

Aphthje are vesicles situated upon the mucuous membrane which lines the cavity of the mouth. These vesicles are either isolated, or confluent to such an extent as frequently to occupy a great portion of the mouth.

Precursory Sympioma. Great uneasiness, vigilance, difficulty of breathing, and of taking the breast; breath fetid; the voice hoarse and feeble; tongue dry and swollen; dryness, heat, and, redness of the mouth and throat; exhaustion and somnolency; dulness of sense.

Symptoms. Small points or elevations, of a palish or grey colour, subsequently make theii* appearance; these gradually enlarge,and form superficial pustule8,round, about the size of a millet seed^ and filled with a sanious fluid. •

The viscid murus discharging fcom these pustules very rapidly (brms little scabs, which foil off either immediately, or after a few daysy and are very quickly renewed.

These aphthae are oi a trivial moment when they are white, of pearly grey or yellowish aspect, transparent, moist,diminutive, easily crushed^ isolated, and disposed to fall off readily and quickly, and affect merely the mouth. Frequently, however, they become dangerous, and are then of a larger size, dull, blue, grey, brown, livid, gangrenous, red, fetid, numerous, compact, confluent, covered with thick and very adhesive scabs, or entirely dry and hard; are frequently renewed, and readily affect the pharynx, intestinal canal, and even the windpipe. The aphthae usually affecting infants at the breast are very rarely malignant. It is of these last mentioned that we especially treat, since the form adverted to above is in most instances symptomatic of more important afiections.

The most frequent sources of aphtliae in young children are, want of cleanliness; food, prejudicial in quality, or ill suited to their age. In many' instances, too, they originate in improper things which they

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are permitted to suck; or from the suck* ing-bottle not being properly cleansed after each period of use.

Treatment. Borax is one of the most suitable remedies in aphthae of infants at the breast,—dissolving a globule in ten teaspoonfuls of pure water^ and giving three, four, or five spoonfuls a day, according to the result: the child usually recovers in a very few days.

Mercury }& at times indispensable; it is especially indicated for children of a gross habit, and where the following symptoms are remarked: viz.

Aphthae, after slight febrile excitement, extending themselves over different portions of the lining membrane of the mouth; where the whitish aphthae are converted into slight ulcerations with red edges; are white or yellow, with .burning pain, frequent bleeding, and difficulty in swallowing ; pallor of countenance, puffiness of the cheeks; swelling of the lips, with enlargement of the submaxillary glands; salava-tion, fetor of the mouth, resembling the mercurial odour; whitish tongue ; bowels irregular, alternately confined and relaxed;

urine thick and clouded; dry cough, great uneasiness, debility^ ^nd vigilance.

One or two glbbules of mercury in four ounces of water,—two tablespoonfuls every day will speedily relieve this train of symptoms. Should Ho change be perceptible, the dose mav he increased.

Sulphur will be found of great value in cases of complication, and is especially indicated where we remark a psorie tendency ; where tbe mouth, lips, and tongue are incrudted with thick scabs; where the evacuations are green, frequent, cand attended with tenesmus \ where the body is covered with a rash; where the thighs are excoriated; and where the back is affected with a vesicular eruption.

•Srsenic is especially indicated where the aphthsB have assumed a malignant character.

The medicines which Ihave pointed out are not the only ones which are valuable, but they are the remedies which are most frequently had recourse to. Some particular circumstances,however, may indicate the. proprieiy of other «gents. Of tb^ae we shall subjiiAn a list, which the practitioner may consult in case of the inadequa-

cy of the preceding, or in consequence of any special indications:

AcidumMuriaticum; Acidum Nitricum; Acidum Sulphuricunfi; Agaricus; Ambra; Ammonijae Carbonas; Aminoniae Murias; Anacardium; Argentum; Baryta; Bryonia; Calcarea; Cantharides; Capsicum; Carbo Anixnalis; Causticum; Chamomilla; China; Dapbne'Me;;ereon; Dulcamara; Graphites; UelLeborJus; lodium; Kali Carhonas; Kali Hydriodaa; Kali Nitras; Lycopodium; Magnesia; Magnesias Murias; Manganese; Na-trum; I^trum Muriaticum; Nux Vomica; Phellandrium; Phosphorus; Plumbum; Pulsatilla; Ahododendroo; Sepia; Spigelia;Spon-gia; Staphysagria; Strontium; Thermas Toeplitzens; Thuya.

A^ihma of Millar.

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This is an infantile disease, analogous in symptoms to those of croup:, hence it is that these two diseases have frequently been confounded, both by parents and by practitioners of slender experience* This affection is sudden in its attack, and is preceded by no premonitory symptoms; it exhibits itself more particularly in children.

between the ages of two and seven years, and in the winter season, after having con* tracted a cold. The first indication is a sense of choking, great anxiety, with dif« ficult respiration; the voice becomes harsh, and acquires a deep tone ; should there be cough, it is hoarse^ broken, slight, infrequent, dry, and generally devoid of mucus. When the affection is very severe, it is accompanied by heat of skin and frequency of pulse, and perspirations supervene upon the close of the attack. Unless the first attack prove fatal, it usually terminates in the course of a few hours in sneezing, eructation,and vomiting; the child sleeps tranquilly, but on awaking is weak and languid, and his symptoms very closely resemble those of catarrh. A fresh paroxysm^ more serious than its predecessor, comes on within twelve or twenty-four hours.

The most general remedy is Sambucus^ particularly where the patient falls into a state of somnolency, with the eyes and mouth half opened; is unable to inspire freely; is compelled to sit down; and where, even in that position, the air enters the Iuns;s with a whistling sound, accompanied be a sense of sufibcation ; he strikes his

hands together behind him; the hands and face become swollen and purple; there is lieat of skin, vidthout thirst; the child weeps at the access of the paroxysm | where there is cough ; and where the attack comes on about the middle of the oight.

We exhibit, then, one or two globules of Sambucus, to the little sufierer, and care« fully wait the result: if no efiect be apparent, the medicine may be repeated in one orlwo hours' time. Several doses may, in this manner, be required to arrest the progress of this formidable disease.

Mosehua is serviceable in this afiection, when the patient feels as though he had inhaled the vapour of sulphur.

ignatioj Nux FomicOf and Pulaaiilla^ should, under particular circumstances, come under the consideration of the practitioner. In consulting the Materia Medica J^ura, he will ascertain from the symptoms vehich of these medicines should follow the exhibition of the Sambucus or MoschvB^ should the lattei^ remedies fail in the removal of the disease.

Misemrnagt.

By miscarriage we understand an accouchement taking place during the earlier months of pregnancy. The causes of this accident are the psoric condition of the patient; the weakness of the mother; a peculiar irritability of the womb ; predisposition, resulting from prior miscarriages; mechanical lesions, such as disturbance of the lower parts of the abdomen, from a blow, a fall, or violent fit of passion, grief, vexation, anger, or other moral affection. Sometimes a miscarriage takes place suddenly, and without intimation ; in other instances, it may be announced by previous indisposition. The earlier symptoms are violent pains in the uterus, drawing and cutting pains extending^ from the kidneys towards the interior of the pelvis; shiver* ings; great desire to pass water; with viscid and sanguineous discharge from the vagina. Should this discharge increase, and the pains be not readily checked, miscarriage will be almost inevitable.

Treatment, The patient must strive to

maintaia the greatest tranquillity both of mind and body, and must assume the recumbent position.

Chamomi/lOf of the 12th dilution, should be administered u^here the symptoms, as detailed abovej shall present themselves.

Belladonna^ at the dOth attenuation, is indicated where the pains are violent, tensive, and pressing throughout the entire lower portion of the abdomen, and more especially towards the pubic region; where there is depression of the reproductive organs^ and violent pain in the region occupied by the kidneys.

Hyoscyamus is beneficial in cases where we meet with convulsions, and diffiis«l cramp-like pain, succeeded by stiffness of the joints, and accompanied by the loss of sense.

Ipecacuanha is the most appropriate remedy, where the patient is seized with tonic cramp, stiffening the entire body, and conjoined with loss of sense.

Crocus^ of the dd attenuation is servicea* ble where the sanguineous discharge is black and clotted ; where the pains appear to pass through from the umbilicus to the

womb; and where there is pfk\a in the vertebral column.

SabinOf administered in the early stage of pregnancy, will act as a preyetfitive in those who may have a disposition to-miscarry.

Nux Vohiica is valuable in cases where the predisposition results from a varicose state of the reproductive organs, originating either in the abuse of cofiee, or in obstinate constipation, which, from inordinate pressure, induces pretnature contraction ci the uterus.

Carbo Vegetabilis and Lycdpodium are serviceable in ^similar oases where the pso-ric tendency^ is more or less developed.

In cases where. there may be a disposition to psora, but without a varicose tendency, Sepia and Siiicea should receive the preference.

Jirnica is prescribed with success where < abortion is to be apprehended from a fall, or from external violence: we may use it also as a lotion to the injured or contused surface.*

Asarum, Cannabis, Cantharides, China,

* The lotion is maHe by adding from 10 to 20 drops of Tr. Arqica, to an ounce of ?!^tei*.

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Nux Moschata, Platinuoiy Plumbum, Rha» tania, Calcarea, Ferrum, Secale Cornu-tum, Zincum, and Sulphur, may in like manner, be employed in the prevention of miscarriage.

In declaring the principal remedial agents in this affection^ we invite the patient to treat herself in a case of such vital import, and where she may be distant from a homoeopathic practitioner. We specify the disease from the prompt assistance required for its successful treatment.

Nettle Rash. Prickly Heat.

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When arising fron a cold, Dulcamara is the most suitable remedy* Likewise Rhus 12 or Nua: V. and Pulsatilla or more frequently, when caused by indigestion or acrid ingesta, Jintimonium Crud.; Ig-natia 12 when there is a burning, lancinating itching over the whole surface of the body without any appearance of the rash. In chronic caaes of this disease, recourse must be had to the following medicines, viz: Sulphur^ Calcarea, Carb.,V^y Lyco-podium, and Natrum Mur,

OZENA.—^WOUNDS. S9

Ozena.

Discharge of fetid matter from the nostrils. In many cases of this disease, Aurum has been given with the happiest result, especially when complicated with a carious con*-dition of the bone.

Other remedies are frequently reijuired as Bryonia^ Rhus. T.y Coceulus, Vera-trutny MercuriuSf and Stannum^ accord* ing to the concomitant symptoms.

When the discharge is fetid and of a greenish hue, the following are particularly recommended : AW, jRhus, Canium^ Me- ^ zereon, Aurum^ Thuja^ Cantharides. If the disease is occasioned by the abuse of mercury, Hepar 8,^ jSurum, Conium^ and Siliceaf are useful.

Wounds.

In serious wounds we must have recourse to a surgeon of acknowledged repute. In cases presenting but little danger, the following treatment should be adopted. After carefully washing the part, the divided

edges are to be brought into opposition, and kept nnoistened with tincture of arnica. When union has been effected by means of a suitable plaster, we place over the part a compress steeped in arnica, support the whole with a moderately tight band-age^ and administer arnica internally.

The traumatic fever either does not declare itself, or is at least very sensibly mo^ derated by the use pf arnica, applieSd both externally and as an internal remedy. The dose of the tincture in water is in the proportion of from 10 to 20 drops to the ounce. We administer one, two, or three globules during the first four and twenty hours, and, should occasion require, we may have recourse to many repetitions of the medicine.

When the wound becomes very painful, either without any appreciable cause, or from one which we can remedy, such as a bandage too tight, the presence of a foreign body, &c,f the patient at the same time feeling much excitemcQity excessive sensibility, a disposition to iears, agitation, or vigilance, we should exhibit a dose of Cqf-Jea^ some globules or even a part of a drop of the tincture. Should the cofiea prove inefficient, we may follow up the treatment

by a dose of China^ which will complete the cure.

If the wound be circumscribed by an extensive red areola, and if the surface be swollen and inflamed, Pulsatilla will generally produce beneficial results. We administer one, two, or three globules, according to the excitability of the patient, and in most instances select it from the 12tb up the 30th attenuation.

Mercury will yery speedily check any disposition which the wound may have to suppurate.

In the treatment of wounds we should scrupulously avoid the use of all medicinal ointments which are generally in so much request. To prevent any portion of the apparel attaching itseli to the skin, it would be well to shave the hair, and apply small bandageis spread with some greasy substance : simple cerate, dr cocoa-nut oil, is very suitable.

If the wounds are very extensive, and attended with loss of substance, in addition to the bandages which cover the edges of the wound, we may apply an open compress slightly spread with cerate: we may afterwards impose a fold of lint. In these

4*

DISfiASES*

cases we must guard against the exhibition of arnica in too concentrated a fornn, since it may counteract the desired effect: 5 or 6 drops to an ounce of water will be sufficient. The wound must not be exposed more than once during the day, and where there is no suppuration, there will be no need of disturbance until Xbe cure is complete.

£umg.

Burns, as all persons are aware* present various degrees of importance,;and exhibit themselves in three distinct stages. In the earliest srtage the part affected is-inflamed, the skin is puffed up, and blisters are formed ; in the second a portion of the skin is more or less deeply destroyed ; in .the third stage, not only is the skiji destroyed, but also the subjacent structure.

It is principally the two former stages which will be considered here ; the last requiring #he especial regard of an experienced practitioner.

Should the pain be limited in extent, and trivial in its nature, we may derive much benefit from allowing the parts to approach

the fire. This greatly increases the pain for the first few moments, but with courage to persist,the pain very quickly ceases, and the vesications do not present themselves. When the pain is more extensive, we may moisten the farts with heated spirits of wine, or brandy, and we must be careful to keep the compresses constantly wet. Turpentine may be used instead of alcohol or brandy; and to prevent the too rapid evaporation, the moistened cloths should be covered over witii cotton. Serious burns require the unremitting attentions of a nurse, who should never allow the injured surface to becenne dry.

At night we should Withhold the candle from the patient, or place it within a lantern, lest the alcoholic vapours should ignite.

When the hmn induces febrile action, we administer one or <more doses of aconite, from the 18th to the 30th attenuation.

Sapo pura^ administered internally, quickly removes the pain, and induces a rapid cure, without having recourse to any other remedy.

Cardialgia or Heartburn.

The disease which has received this appellation is one having its seat in the stomach, or in the diaphragm, and frequently extending itself over a Targe portion of the abdominal viscera.

This affection presents itself in different degrees and forms, and necessarily requires the assistance of the medical man. In this place we shall consider the disease merely 111 its simplest character; the result frequently of cold, and attacking irritable and sensitive subjects, women, and children.

The region of the stomach, and frequently also the lower part of the abdoiDen^ are swollen, sensitive, and painful; the patient experiences palpitation of the heart, anxiety, constriction across the chest, difficulty of respiration; paint in the hea4, a disposition to faint, frequent rising of the food, sometimes acid and always disagreeable; very rarely flatulence.

Children affected with cardialgia, are *

agitated and restless, have shortness of breath, are fretful, and flex the legs upon the body. It is'generally induced by cold, vexation, acid wine and food, beer, fat meat, &c.

One of the most certain remedies is Cha-momilla of the 12th attenuation. We administer one, two, or three globules, accord* lug to circumstances; and the remedy is repeated after a few hours' interval, or after twenty-four hours, if required. The physician, however, may vary the medicines according to the shades of variety in the disease, and he will generally select them from among the following:

Nux, Chamomilla, Belladonna, Coccultn, Ipecacuanha, Stannum, Staphysagria, Bryonia, Pulsatilla, Ignatia, China, Bismuthi-um, Arsenicum, Plumbum, Argilla, Car bo, Vegetabilis, Calcarea Carbonica, Baryta Carbonica.

Htadach.

Cephalalgia, or headach, is ah afiection very rarely idiopathic: it is generally symptomatic of a more complicated malady, which may be either acute, or classed among the chronic diseases. We shall nevertheless enumerate a few instances where the disease is sufficiently simple to render the attentions of the physician unnecessary.

•Aconite is especially indicated in pains of

the head, excited by determination of blood to the party and where the following symptoms present themselves:

Aching pains in the head, vertigo, gid-diness, and pricking sensation in the fore-bead ; burning heat in the brain, whilst the body and limbs are rather cold than otherwise ; pressive pain with throbbing in the head, which subside on lying down, and are aggravated on rising; the cheeks flushed ftsd tumid, great nervous excitement, irri* tability of temper, incapacity for exertion, vigilance, relief on going into the air.

Belladonna is suitable when there exist great sensibility of the scalp, and even of the hair, swelling of the veins of the forehead and of the hands, buzzing in th^ ear% a mist before the eyes, hypochcndriafsal disposition, absence of thirst.

It is also valuable where there are shiv-erings in the back and shoulders, io the morning, followed by a sense of uneasiness all over the body, succeeded by nausea, with inclination to vomit; pain in the head, pressure and drawing towards the forehead, and becoming insupportable upon the slightest movement of the eyes; aggravation from the slightest breath of air, and

from every motion, rest alone assuaging the pain ; where the pain appears concentrated in the forehead; where there is a burning spot, with'pain, in,the bones of the nose ; aggravation from light, excessive irritability; palpitation of the heart resounding through the head; unnatural craving for food; oppression at the stomach, especially after eating.

Bryortia may be exhibited in pains of the head produced by rough weather, apd by painful emotions of the mipd, and when the following symptoms ^re apparent:

Cephalalgia continuing from Aorning till the evening, contraction affecting the whole of the head, when the sufferer is compelled to Ue down, and is nearly deprived of his sesses; the eyes glassy, dull, and contracted, the face pale; incapability of enduring either Ugbt or noise; disposition irritable and querulous ; in the afternoon, palpitation of the heart, tension across the chest, uneasiness^ inclination to yomit^ retchings, constipation, deafening pain in the head the next day, or even a state of fever.

PulsaHlla is applicable to pains ip the head, characterized by vertigo, as from inebriety, ^vlth paleness of the face, anxiety.

inclination to abed tears, palpitation of the heart, bleeding at the nose, sensibility to light, failure of appetite, &c. The same remedy is suitable when the affection of the head is semilateral, diminishes on walking about, and increases on sitting down.

Cephalalgiaivith shooting and throbbing in the left side of the forehead, in the morning and evening, relieved by. pressure and the open air; aggravation in a room, on lying down, in lowering or raising the eyes; acid or bilious vomitings, after violent pain in the stomach; abdominal pains* as from gripings, colic, contraction^ &c.

Cephalalgia, with shooting pain at the top of the head, burning in the eyes, inclination to fall forwards, pains in the stomachs face flushed, <&c. At the slightest movement, the patient feels as though his head would detach itself from his shoulders ; melioration on compressing the head, debility after the paroxysm.

Cephalalgia, the consequence of keeping late hours, debauchery, and the abuse of wine and spirituous liquors, has for its characteristic symptoms, a pain resembling that of a fracture, heaviness, disposition to vomit, heaving of the stomach, chills, weak-

ness of the limbs, ill humour, irritability. Nux Vomica is particularly suited to this tfain of symptoms.

In cephalalgia produced by the use of coffee, Nux Vomica is very efficient, particularly when the following symptoms are remarked:

Cephalalgia in the morning compelling a recumbent position, and increasing towards the middle of the day ; much confusion in the head on awaking ; repug-nance to food; darting pain over the left eye, with pressure, and affecting the organ itself; increase of pain from the pressure; contraction of the eyelids, dread of light, dimness of vision, discharge of hot tears, heat around the eyes.

Obstruction in the left division of tbe nose, sweats through the violence of tte pain, occasional vomitings, derangement of the reflective faculties during the pain, incapacity of thought after the pain, forget-fulness, great irritability, reluctance to walk, noise and conversation an annoyance.

Nux Vomica is again serviceable in cephalalgia produced by constipation of the bowels;

5

Moschus is applicable to the cephalalgia of hysterical aad hjpocoDdiiacal subjects, more particularly when the under-written symptoms are observable:

Compression above the root of the nose» with confusion of idea; vertigo upon the slightest movement of the head, compression in the head, giddiness with threatened loss of sense, pain throughout the head with twitchings at • the nape of the neck, when the pain becomes tensive ; determination of blood to the head, disposition to sleep, anxiety, and ill humour.

In cases where Moschus has failed of success, we must employ Ni^ Vomica^ which will then relieve the pain.

Chamomilla is a suitable remedy when the headach results from the abuse of coffee, ^nd having frequent recourse to Nux VomicR. It is of value in cephalalgia, characterized by the following symptoms :

Pain, pressiye and stunning when sitting down and reflecting; weight and sense of cracking; pain even during sleep; cephalalgia in the morning, the eyes being still closed, and in a state of semi-sleep, the pain in the head ceasii^ on being suddenly

wakened, and wheft the patient has risen; pain^from laughter, twitchings^ di^c«'

Chamomilla is again admissible in cephalalgia resulting from a coU, and characterized by tearing pains ih the head and shootings in the temples,^ great heaviness over the root of the nose, as though threatening a cold in the head ; yellowness of the forehead; puffiness of the face and of the eyes; dimness of the visual organs.

9

Colic.

Colic, or Gripes, is a disease attended with giinding, tearing, and tensive pains, without Apy inflammatory symptoms, having neither fi^^edness nor continuit j« and affecting the interior of the abd6men, but more especially the umbilical regicw. This pain generally directs itself from ^boVe downwards, and is frequently accompanied with swelling of the lower part of the ab-* domen. Sometimes we observe ^ kind of sinking and constriction in the region of the umbilicus, and occasionally the superior portion of the abdomen becomes swollen, more hot, and painful. The stomach is generally free from pain, and the patient

rarely vomits; if sick he throws up his food, together with a small quantity of bile. Sometimes the complaint is attended with constipatioi^ but more frequently with slight diarrhoea, and there is very rarely fever.

In children, after the discharge of urine more copious than ordinary, we may occasionally remark considerable agitation and impatience, continued crying, sudden screams, contorsions during sleep, vigilance, and cramps; they flex the legs upon the belly, appear as though they were bent double, and are unable tosuck^ being either stretched out or lying down.

The treatment will vary according to the circumstances producing the disease. Among children it frequently originates in a cold, or in worms; in adults, it may proceed from cold, excess in eating or drinking, an8 not unfrequently from a disposition to flatulence, and from hemorrhoids.

Chamomilla or Pulsatilla is the remedy most suitable in cases of colic presenting the following symptoms, and where the origin has been a cold:

Violent cutting and tearing pains in the abdomen, occasioning incessant restlessness;

sensation as though the abdomen were entirely empty, with constant rumbKngin the intestines, eyes appearing discoloured, accumulation of saliva in the mouth, contu-sive pain in the kidneys, nausea, disposition to vomit, diarrhoea, evacuations green, watery and mixed with mucus.

Nux Vomica is indicated where the following characteristic symptoms are observable :

Hardened fasces or, constipation, sensation of a heavy weight in the lower part of the abdomen, with borborygmus; unusual heat, consi^rable tension of the belly, with respiration anxious, ffhort and labored; fulness of the abdomen; sense of fulness beneath the ribs; pain drawing, pinching, and compressed, as though the intestines were squeezed in difierent directions by suffering ; pressure at the pit of the stomach; dinused headach, with confusion of idea ; the abdomen painful to the touch; toss of recollection; coldness of the extremities at the time when the affection is most violent.

Windy colic, having its seat in the inferior portion of the abdomen, yields to the same remedy; when the flatulence, in seeking to escape, produces pressure, as from a

5*

sharp or cutting instrunfient, to the bladder, rectum, or organs of generation; pressure, causing the patient to pause after each step, when in an erect posture, or which is quickly removed when lying down or sitting in a curved position.

Mercury and China are successfully employed in colics produced by worms. We generally observe the following symptoms:

Great inclination to vomit; risings of the food; increased secretion from the salivary glands; torsion of the abdomen; a sensation of hardness around the navel; convulsion in the abdominal muscles; pricking in the throat; frequent hiccough; occasional bulimia; aversion to sweet food; frequent desire to relieva the bowels; the lower abdomen hard and swollen; tensive and burning pain round the navel; diarrhoea ; slimy evacuations; general debility; bad complexion: discoloration of the eyes; itching of the nose; dilatation of the pupils; itching* at the rectum,

China is chiefly applicable to children, more particularly" where they pick the nose, when the eyes are dark beneath, where the sleep is disturbed, when they

scream out, or exhibit any of the symptoms enumerated above. >

Excess of feeding, or ^inwholesome articles of food, frequently give rise to colic; we then remark the following symptoms:

Nausea; weight; sensations of stretch-ing» and painful tension in the lower part of the abdomen; severe pinching; cutting pains in the abdomen, increased by pressure ; salivary secretion, white and frothy; sharp tearing pains above the navel; diarrhoea, the evacuations green or of a yellowish citron colour attended with violent pain in the stomach; complexion pallid; eyes dark beneath; slight convulsion of the limbs; curvature of the whole body; pressure and tensive pain in the head.

A cup of cofiee withoujt milk will disperse these symptoms in persons who have not accustomed themselves to its abuse. Frequently after its exhibition we shall obtain an operation from the bowels, or vomiting of the indigestible food. One, two, or three globules of Pulsatilla^ administered at this juncture, will remove all %*ace of the indisposition.

The Hemorrhoidal Colics are distinguish* able, by the following symptoms:

Throbbing at the pit of the stomach; very painful sense of tightness and constriction, as though everything were too full; borborygmus in the lower part of the abdomen ; flatulence which cannot discharge itself; distressing heat in the lower part of the abdomen, as if resulting from an efier-vescence of the blood; swelling of the belly ; diffused heat, with swelling of the veins of the hands and forehead; the patient is unable to bear any clothing; his sufferings are greater when in bed, and amusement aflR)rds him some relief; pain in the kidneys as though they were bruised; difficulty of rising up; pain in the lower part of the abdomen, as from the receipt of a blow; agitation, anxiety, and vigilance. These symptoms are dispersed by the aid of Pulsatilla. We may dissolve one, two, or three globules, according to the sensibility of the patient, in eight ounces of water, and administer two table-spoonfuls of the liquid every morning. If one dose prove insufficient, we may have recourse to a second.

Nux F'omica is often applicable in Hemorrhoidal Colics, especially when the pains proceed to the bladder, causing a continual inclination, but ii^ant of power,

to pass ^ater; \vbere there exists spasmodic stricture of the urethra, and where the belly becomes very sensitive.

In such casesy then, we administer Nux Vomica in the same manner as Pulsatilla, taking care to exhibit it in the evening in preference, provided there be no necessity for immediate treatment.

Colocynth^ of the 30th iittenuation, is very efficacious in different varieties of Colic, and more particularly where the following symptoms are presented:

Violent pains in the abdomen, unremitting or returning at short intervals, and with renewed intensity. After their complete disappearance, these pains present the peculiarity of leaving, throughout the lower abdominal region, a sensation of bruising, as though the intestines were suspended by threads easily broken* and obliging the patient to walk slowly, and with extreme caution. The suffering experienced in the superior portion of the abdomen occupies chiefly one single point, of slight compass, and returning only at intervals of five or ten minutes, or at all events very rarely. It commences most frequently in slight twitchings of the ribs,

and directs itself towards the centre of the abdomen; becomes cutting, pressive, searching, tearing, and drawing, and attains such violence as to induce the patient to utter loud cries, and to bite whatever comes within his reach. Hesufiers much anxiety, the pain not permitting him to rest in quiet, but compelling him to twist about like a worm, and frequently causing him to be bathed in sweat.

Colics with which many women are af-fecteid at the commencement of their monthly periods, very frequently disperse when menstruation has taken its course; but when the pain continues, it is advisable to meet the case with suitable treatment.

Nux Vomica will apply where the following symptoms prevail:

A kind of twisting in the lower abdominal region, with nausea; searching pain in the same part; a sensation as from a strain; piercing, spasmodic pain in the pelvis, for the most part affecting the pubes and the groin; pain as from a bruise;.a squeezing in the region of the bladder; violent sense of extension in the abdomen as though it would burst.

One or two globules of jVi/a:, of th^ 24th or 30th attenuation, in six ounces of water, and a spoonful taken every hour, will readily assuage the pain.

Coffea^ of the 3d attenuation, is suitable in the following symptoms:

Pains in the abdomen, extremely violent, spasmodic in their character, and extending even to the breast; pain as though all the intestines were divided with a knife, and which deprives the patient of her senses; dreadful curvature of the body, with convulsions of the limbs; grinding of the teeth; frightful cries; general coldness; cramp-like sufferings; loss of breath; repeated sighs; feeling as though the abdomen would burst; fulness of tine lower region of the abdomen; pressure.

Pulsatilla may be exhibited when the menses are accompanied by violent and pressive pain in the inferior portion of the abdomen, and in the kidneys; painful drawing sensations from the trunk to the thighs, relieved when sitting down, and which are conjoined with a painful pressure in the rectum, pains in the bones, and numbness of the thighs.

Belladonna is indicated where there

exists a sensation of pressure in the genital organs, from within to without, as though these organs were striving to escape outwards.

In addition to the roedicanients indicated ahove, a^ tending to check the colic, we mar exhibit the following:

Alum, Asarum, Arsenicum, Calcarea, Carbo Vegetabilis, Cocculus, Hyoscyamus, Lycopodium, Phosphorus, Secale Cornu-tum. Sulphur, Veratrum, Conium, Capsicum, Crocus, Cuprum, Euphorbium, Fer-rum, Iodine, Kali, Lauro-Cerasus, Meze-reon, Acid. Muriatic, Natrum, Nux Mos-chata, Plumbum, Psoricum, Ranunculus, Sarsaparilla, Senega, Senna, Silicea, Spi-gelia, Valerian.

A practitioner, however, must necessarily be consulted where colic is purely symptomatic, in which case it would be highly imprudent for the patient to rely upon his own resources.

Congestion of Blood in the Lower Part of the

Abdomen,

This disease is distinguished by a painful sensation of weight, hardness, tension^

aii4 heat, in the lower region of the abdomen. When it is of long standing, it requires the assistance of the physician, and the antipsoric treatment is often necessary to its removal.

When of recent occurrence, and not ori-ginating in chronic miasma, but arising merely from errors of diet, it may be readily combated by regimen, by daily and moderate exercise in the open air, and by abstinence from spirits. The patient may, at the same time, have recourse to Nux Vomica^ of the 24th or 30th attenuation, two globules of which dissolved in six spoonfuls of water, and a spoonful taken every night on going to bed ; such dose being repeated successively, or after some days' intermission, will speedily check the disease. Should the remedy fail, the advice of the physician will be indispensable.

Mercury is a valuable medicine in venous congestion of the stomach and the lower part of the abdomen.

Congestion of Blood in the Chest,

This disease attacks young persons of plethoric constitution, and more especially

6

those who are liable to chest affections. We^ht and pressure at the chest, palpitations of the hearty asthma, sighings, anxiety, &c. are the most usual syi^ptoms. Such are frequently the avant-couriers of haemoptysis^, or of some other disease of the lungs, or of the heart. Nux Vdmica\ will frequently triumph over these symptoms.

Belladonna is suitable where the asthma is severe^ and is accompanied by a constant becking cough, depriving the patient of rest.

Awrum is a very powerful remedy in cases where the palpitations of the heart are extremely violent.

China is successful in similar cases.

Bryonia is effective against violent and periodical congestions of the chest, accompanied by determination of blood to the head.

Fulsatillu is very powerful against congestion in the head and chest, in connection with the following additional symptoms:

Inclination to shed tears; irritability; disturbed repose; throbbing and beating, especially in the left side of the head; black spots before the left eye; mucous taste in the. mottth; tongue white and moist; great

dryness, without thirst; difficulty of deglu-tinon; giddiness, especially in stooping; expectoration of mucus in the evening; palpitations of the heart; tearing pains in the sacrum, on moving; pricking sensation in^the arms; empty risings; bad appetite; transitory heats ; great debility.

Congestion of Blood in tha Head^

This disease more particularly aJBTects persons leading too sedentary a life. It frequently results from natural predisposition, from mode of living, the use of spirituous liquors, the habit of wearing too warm a head-dress. Infancy and old age are the periods of life chiefly predisposed to this affection. The symptodis are generally the following:

Redness and turgid appearance of the face : swelling of the veins of the head; strong arterial pulsations; giddiness; pains in the head^ increased by stooping ; sleep, broken and disturbed by frightful dreams.

Aconite is, in the first instance, the most appropriate remedy.

Niix Vomica is indicated after the exhibition of aconite, and principally where

the congestion arises from a sedentary life^ intense mental application, the use of coiiee, and of spirituous liquors.

Belladpnna is more particularly suita* ble where we find semi-lateral cephalalgia, violent lancinating and burning, attended with intolerance of light. The administra* tion of this remedy should be preceded by one or more doses of aconite. It is suitable, again, where, during the cerebral congestion, sparks appear to dart before the eyes, where there is dimness of vision, double sight, hissing in the ears, fainting and drowsiness.

These symptoms exist at the period of dentition^ so frequently accompanied by convulsive fits. At the age of puberty, when menstruation is not yet regularly established, this state of things is frequently observable; and indeed, in women generally, where the menstrual derangements have been caused by coldness of the feet, or by reason of suppression from any other circumstance. In such cases we must give aconite, and after one or two doses of this remedy, we may have recourse to bella« donna.

In cases where fright and anger have

been the exciting cause of cerebral congestion, aconite is the specific par excellence.

Where cerebral congestion has been the result of a heavy fall, or severe contusion, we may relieve it by the exhibition of •drnicaj taken internally, and applied externally, as a lotion to the head.

Concussion of the brain is recognizable by the following symptoms:

Giddiness; vertigo; sense of cold in a very circumscribed portion of the head; pressure over the eyes, which have a tendency to close; disposition to be frightened; vomitings.

In cases where the administration of ar* nica produces bleeding from the nose, we should not interfere with it; the hemorrhage will cure itself.

Dulcamara may be given when there is continual buzzing in the ears, with hardness of hearing.

Coffea is very valuable in cases of congestion occasioned by joy of too lively a character.

Chamomilla in cases of congestion induced by vexation.

6^

Ignatia in cai^es resulting from concentrated grief.

Kux Vomica in those presenting themselves after a fit of anger.

Opium against those originating in fright.

Crocus in cerebral congestion either previously or subsequently to the menstrual period.

ConBtipatum*

This disease is one of very frequent occurrence in England, and is oftentimes symptomatic of a complicated affection of the digestive organs, in these cases, therefore, the assistance of the medical man is indispensable; and it would be useless to apply one's self to the constipation merely, since the treatment should embrace the malady in all its bearings. The homoeopathic practitioner, who would direct his attention to this symptom merely, would be equally culpable with the allopathic physician who prescribes purgatives for every variety of constipation with which he may have to deal. When the constipation continues during several days, without being

\

OONSTIPATION. 87

connected with any^ other circumstance, it is frequently the result of top scanty a secretion of the juices essential to digestion, or from the weakness of the intestinal canal. It affects, fdr the most part, persons leading too sedentary a life, women, and aged men. Diet of too dry a character, a state of pregnancy; the abuse of enemata and of purgatives, are the chief predisposiDg causes.

The treatment must have reference to the cause of the ailment. Opium is very salutary in cases of simple constipation, not following in the wake of a long-continued illness, nor resulting from chronic miasma, but which originates in debility of the nervous system, and presents the following symptoms:

Desire to go to the closet, with a feeling as though the passage leading to the rectum were closed ; an imposdbili^ of voiding the fasces; throbbings in the lower part of the abdomen; pressure at the stomach; loss of appetite; thirst; dryness in the mouth.

Nux Vomica proves a valuable remedy where constipation is the^resultof indigestible food, or food taken in too large a quantity; where it occurs as a sequel to

diarrhoea, checked by remedies ill chosen, or ceasing spontaneously. Or, again, where the following symptoms are observable:

Loss.of appetite; disagreeable taste in the mouth; tongue loaded with*mucus; distaste; nausea; lancinating pains in different parts of the lower abdominal region, with tension and pressure; cutting pains in the abdomen; heat; fulness of blood in the face; headach in walking about, in lowering the head; pressure in the temples, relieved neither by sitting up nor lying down; pain in the forehead; in.the nape of the neck; disturbed repose; oppression; peculiar heat in the lower part of the abdomen.

The constipation, at times very painful^ to which pregnant women are liable, will frequently yield to the exhibition of Ifux Vomica^ alternated with ignatia, bryonia, and opium. We must at the same time enjoin walking exercise every day in the ofen air.

In cases refusing to yield to these various means, we must consult a practitioner, who will find Sulphur^ Sepia^ and Lyeopodiutn very frequently indicated.

After an accouchement, where the bowels do not readily perform by the un-

^ided powers of natorey we must employ Nuh Voniicay Ignaiia^ Bryonia^ and Opium. '

Our choice among these different-reme* dies must be regulated by accessary circumstances, and by the moral tendencies of the patient. Nux Vomica responds more especially to temperaments which are ardent, hasty, and inclined to anger; Ignaiiaf applies to persons who are gentle, amiable, and vivacious, variable in disposition, sometimes lively, sometimes depressed; Bryonia is suitable where the disposition receives a powerful impress from the disease; Opium Is adapted to persons who appear devoid ef energy, and whose bodies are in a state of torpor.

The constipation of newly-born infants most frequently originates in their nourishment being ill suited to their age. This more particularly occurs when they are brought up by hand. In cases where the milk of the mother b insufficient, we must apply such additions only as are very light: for instance, the milk of the cow diluted with water, pigeon or chicken broth, water prepared from grated bread, gruel lightly boiled, &c. When the cmistipation ezis&

despite of such measures, we must employ lavements of milk and water.

Nvix Vomica may be, administered^ either in the first instance, or Upon the failure of the enemata.

Pulsatilla is very valuable in infantile constipation, where the following symptoms are evidenced: temperament quiet and ^placid; taste acrid and bilious^ acid risings in the mouth; retchings; mucus in the mouth; inclination to be sick ; burning heat in the pharynx; oppressive tension in the lower part of the aJ>domen ; gripings; livid complexion ; debility ; shiverings.

This medicine' is equally beneficial to women in whom the constipation produces pains on one side of the head, when associated with chilliness, an absence of thirst, melancholy, inclination to shed tears, anxie* ty, and wherc^ the moral tendencies of the patient are mild and placid.

Opium is suitable when the abdomen becomes gradually swollen, and where the disease is unattended with inclination to go to the closet.

Bryonia may be administered where the constipation is accompanied with de« termination of blood to the head, vertigo.

pressure of the temples from without id* wards; when, upon stooping, the brain feels as though it. would force itself through the forehead, and where there is a tendency to epiitaxis.

Sulphur, Veratrum, F]umbum,Conium, Cannabisi Sarsaparilla, Psoricuni, Gra-phites, and Sepia, are verj important remedies in constipation. To render their application effective, however^ we must carefully examine all the other symptoms attendant upon coniitipation ;and the study of the Materia Medica can alone point out that which will be most eligible.^

Omttmons.

ContttsioRs very quickly occasion, as all persons are aware, a swelling, more or less extensive, of the injured parts. I'he tumour is painful, not limited in extent; is more or less hard, and accompanied by extravasation/ of blood, communicating to the part a peculiar hue, red, deep, mottled, blueish, purple, afterwards yellow, and which is more or less obstinate according to the case and the disposition of the patient*

Arnica is a certain specific against this accident It is exhibited internally, and had recourse to at' the same time a^ an outward application. In the latter, fine linen rags must be dipped into a solution of the tincture of arnica and water, in the proportion of from ten to twenty drops to the ounce. The injured parts must be mobtened with the lotion several times during the day.

Generally, one or two doses internally will suffice, provided the malady be treated at the onset; and it is seldom required to apply it externally more than one or two days. In serious cases, however, a continued application may be necessary: we must then be guided in the repetition by general rules laid down in the chapter devoted to the subject.

Cramps*^ Convulsions,

In most instances, cramps are symptomatic of some serious malady, and in such cases it is evident that the medical man alone can direct the treatment. In this place we shall merely consider those spasmodic affections which may be transitory.

l^oung children are frequently attacked v^ith cramp, from trivial causes, and without any other appreciable derangement of health. In such cases cramp usually supervenes during sleep, appears only in the fingers, or displays itself by a slight twitching of the whole body* Here it has its origin in a cold, in worms, or in colic.

Champmilla will generally succeed in restoring the equilibrium, taking care to administer it in water, and repeating the dose on every repeated attack. Chamo-milla is efficient where the child exhibits uneasiness, when one cheek is flushed and the other pallid^ when the eyes are half closest when the patient appears without intelligence, is convulsively affected in the arms and legs, roll hb head uneasily on the pillow, moans, and sufiers from thirst.

Ignatia may be administered under the following circumstances: Frequent accession of heats over the body; waking by starts from light slumber, and composing himself again with difficulty, uttering loud cries, and feeling a general tremor; convulsive movements of the muscles, or of the limbs.

, Merc\iry is an appropriate remedy,

7

*

when, in addition to the convulsive motion of the limbs, we may observe swelling and hardness of the lower belly; ejection of a watery fluid ; change in the intellectual fiiculties ; general debility; and where all these symptoms are evidently referrible to the presence of worms.

Women of delicate and irritable temperament are attacked previously to their monthly periods, or after a cold, or from some moral disturbance, with spasmodic and constrictive pains in the tower part of the abdomen ; and even with convulsive movements, more or less violent in the limbs, the pains contracting and pressive, and extenfding from the loins to the.pelvis and the thighs.

Coffea is an excellent remedy in such cases, particularly where its use has not been habitual. If th^ patient have been accustomed to this beverage, audit; fail in its application, we must have recourse io Pulsatilla ; especially if there be shivering, inclination to weep, anxiety, and when the symptoms become exacerbated during the night. Chamomilla is better adapted to those persons whose vivacity, quickness.

and extreme susceptibility of sufiering^ constitute their moral characteristics.

Jgnatia is efficient in hysterical afiec* tions, afid occasions the disappearance of cramp when in connexion with such symp< toms as the following:

Nausea; Upothymy; loss of sense; general chilliness; pallor; increase of sensibility to light or noise; painful tumefaction of the lower abdominal region; twisting; digging pain in the lower part of the abdomen; increase of heat in the body; pulse some* times rapid and full^ at others weak and amall.

Opium will relieve spasmodic affections induced by fright, and which present, as accessories^ loss of intelligence, a gloomy expression of countenance, general tremor, diarrhoea, difficulty of respiration, weakness in all the limbs.

Men of delicate fibre occasionally experience cramp like sensations, such as impeded respirations, yawnings, constriction, oppression about the chest, general laxity, and sbiveribgs. *

Camphor^ applied from time to time to the nose, will cause these symptoms to retire.

If these symptoms are evidenced by persons of violent and hasty temperament, and who give way to tears, complaints, and abuse, Nux Vomica viiW be the suitable remedy.

Ipecacuanha is serviceable in convulsions, with great oppression at the chest, with distaste for everything but water, with nausea, vomitings, and diarrhcea.

Lemon-juice, Cicuta, Causticum, Cannabis, Aurum, Arnica, Veratrum, Stramonium, Spigelia, Moschus, Menyanthes, Aconitum, Arsenic, fielladonia, Bryonia, Cocculus, Cuprum, Uyoscyamus, Angustu-ra, Lachesis, may be employed in various forms of convulsion.

Cramps of the Stomachy

This malady is one of frequent occurrence ; appears to be sometimes hereditary, to come on in paroxysms, and may continue for years.

At first, there is merely pressure, with tightness and pinching more or less severe, aifecting the pit of the stomach, and the left side of that viscus. The pain frequent* ly extends to the back, where strong pres-

finre is felt as from a hard substance. The pains afterwards become very perceptible," l^ing hot, cramp-like, and insufferable, extending themselves along the oesophagus, with a sense of strangulation. When at their height, they are very severe, accompanied by constriction, twistings, anxiety, pressure^ shootings in the breast and in the back, colic, increase of saliya, sobs, and Upothymy. The fit continues at first for some minutes, afterwards for a quarter of an hour, an hour, and even half the day, and terminates in vomiting. The pain usually disappears when the stomach is * empty, or contaiDS merely light and soft food, and again supervenes <after a repast. ;It is increased, when standing upright; whilst a forivard or beiit position, and frequently even pressure, will procure relief. Sometimes the region of the stomach is a little hard and inflated, more usually contracted, and very rarely sensitive of tense. We frequently remark an inclination to be sick, but the inclination is not always responded to. When the lattar symptom presents itself, a brief melioration is the result.

Cramps of the stomach are more or less ^

7#

obstinate according to the circumstances to Mrhich they are referrible, and frequently resist for a long time the most judiciously directed treatment. At times they disappear for several weeks, and return at fixed or irregular periods.

The most usual causes of this malady, are errors of diet, frequently and for a long time repeated ; irregularity in eating and drinking; the inordinate use of spirituous drinks and cofiee ; grief, vexation, frequent colds, particularly in the feet, ^. ' All these causes, however, are often merely occasional and exciting; and cramps in the stomach originate in some chronic miasma,, which develops itself under the influence of the cause alluded to above. In such cases we must institute an antipsbric treatment, methodical and prolonged, in order to triumph over the disease.

When the affection is attributable to the causes above mentioned, it is generally to be cured by the following remedies: Nux, ignatia, pulsatilla, cofiea cruda, chamomil-la, andcocculus.

Nux Vomica is especially applicable to persons who are addicted to cofiee and

spirituous liquors, more particularJy when we detect the folJowing symptoms:

Constriction, pressure, pinching, and tearing; cramjps in the stomach, with a feeling as though the clothes compressed the body in the epigastric region ; a sensation which may be compared to an accu^ mulation of wind in the left side, beneath the ribs; constriction of the chest, which in many instances e:^tends itself as far as the shoulders and the loins ; nausea, particularly during the fit; accumulation of water in the mouth; rising in the mouth of sour and bitter fluid, with or without a sense of burning in the pharynx; palpitation of the heart, with anxiety; sour and putrid taste in the mouth; constipation ; tumefaction of the lower part of the abdomen from flatus, at times semi-lateral head-ach ; at other times, pressive pains in the forehead.

When the nervous system is highly excitable, the sensibility increased, the disposition of the patient very irritable, and every circumstance annoys him, we shall derive much advantage from chamomilla; more particularly where there is pressure in the region of the stomach, painful swell-

iog at the pit of the stomach, and on the leit side ; asthma, anxiety, and a pressive pain at the vertex of the head.

It may be remarked that a little coffee generally assuages this species of cramp, while it serves to aggravate that which yields to the application of nux vomica.

When the disease has originated in the abuse of chamomile tea, this remedv will not meet the case: it is then that ignatia, Pulsatilla, and coff^a will be appropriate. Coffea is especially indicated in cramps which appear insupportable to the patient, by reason of an increase of sensibility. Cramps in the stomach, excited by an abuse of coffee, are remedied by the exhibition of chamomilla.

When the cramps are connected in their paroxysms with nausea and vomiting, with severe darting pain in the pit of the stomach, they will yield to the administration of Ipecacuanha.

Cocculus may be administered after the exhibition of Nttx, should the latter fail in the entire removal of the disease; or, again, when superadded to the symptoms which characterize the employment of nux vomica, we have constipation and pain in the

lower part of the abdomen, relieved by the discharge of flatus; when there is an increased flow of saliva from the mouth; and when the disposition of the patient is fretful and sombre, and he seems as though he were wrapped up within himself.

The following medicaments are valua* ble in certain descriptions of cramps in the stomach:

' Belladonna, Stannum, Staphysagria, Bryonia, China, Magnesia, Bismuth, Arsenicum, Plumbum, Argilla, Carbo Vegeta-bilis, Calcarea Carbonica, Barytes Carbo-nica, Lycopodium, Sepia, Petroleum, A triplex Olida, Carbo Animalis, Phosphorus, Spiritus Nitri Dulcis, Sulphur.

Cries of Young Infants*

The violent cr;fing of very young children, continuing frequently during one or many weeks, without apparent cause, and almost without intermission, will frequently yield to the exhibition of an extremely minute dose of balladonna, chamomilla, or cofiea. This latter substance is particularly appropriate where the nurse is not habituated to coffee.

Chamomilla is applicable ^hen, in addition to the cries, there is much agitation, and the child is very restless.

Jalap is suitable in cases unattended with diarrhoea.

Sennaf in cases of flatulence and distur* bance of the circulation.

£Aeufn, where there is a disposition to relieve the bowels in the form of colic.

The best mode of exhibiting medicines to very young children is to dissolve a globule in 20 teaspoonAils of pure water, and to give a spoonful to the little patient every quarter of an hour, every half hour, or every hour, according to the effect derived from the medicine.

M%lkcru$t8.

This disease principally afifects infants at the breast. It consists of vesicles filjed with clear and transparent lymph, forming clusters, and covering a surface sometimes considerable in extent. The pimples usually make their first appearance on the face, and will sometimes extend themselves over the entire surface of the body. They soon become yellow, break, and subsequently form

very hard crusts. Should the p^rt wb^e the milk-crusts have their seat be swollen, if the skin be verj red and tender, and if the children be extremely restless, and endeavour to scratch themselves, we must administer one or more doses of Aconitey suc-ceeded, after an interval of thirty-six ot forty-eight hours, by the Viola Tricolor. Two or three globules of this medicine are dissolved in water, and administered during several days, according to* circumstances; and the same medicine may be re<-peated once or many times.*

This treatment readily meliorates the condition of the child; sometimes, however, it re({uires weeks to surmount the evil;.

Should this malady originate in psora^ transmitted by the parents, we shall not at ail times succeed in subduing it by the two medicines alluded to. In such cases we must have Recourse to antipsoric remedies.

Sulphur takes precedence after the exhibition of the viola tricolor, one or two doses being sufficient to effect a perfect cure.

Arsenic, Barytes, Lycopodium, Carbo Vegetabilis, Causticum, Bryonia, Dulcamara, Graphites, Hepar Sulpburis, Psori-

cun\y Rhus, Sarsaparilla, and Sepia, are mediciDes frequently of great service in the more obstinate cases. It is for the physician to determine \^hicb may be prefera* ble, and he v^iil arrive at this choice. by a perfect knowledge of their respective properties. >•

Itchingt.

. This disease is frequently obstinate and very distressing, and chiefTy attacks persons who are declining in years* It has its immediate origin in slight nodositie8,colourl^ss, scarcely perceptible, soft, smooth, isolated^ without vesktes, desquamation, or fsruption, properly so called.

The scratching^ however, produces a slight, redness^ with discharge 4>f lymphs cl^r or sanious, visible at the top of the nodosities. This assumes the appearance of a number of small humid points^ which form^ in the course of twelve or twenty hours, as many minute crusts or scales, about the size of a pin's head, white, yellowish, or dusky, according to the character of the fluid, and frequently rendering the skin rough to the touch. The scratch-

ing at timeSt too, produces vesicles. When this affection is of long standing, it fre^ quently degenerates into a well-defined eruption, and does not yield to time. The scratching, so far from relieving the pain, frequently adds to its violence, and causes much innammation and heat. The annoyance increases towards evening, on expo* sure to warmth, after having recourse to stimulating food and beverage, by motion, and during the monthly periods^ Occa-i sionally it presents a slight intermission, chiefly during repose or occupation; it even disappears altogether, to return at fixed or variable periods, especially at changes of temperature, spring, autumn, &c« These itchibgs are noore usually experienced behind the shoulders, at the nape of the neck, in the bosom, at the inner part of the thighs, and but seldom between the fingers* Sometimes the whole body participates in the inconvenience.

They originate^ in certain cases, in ab» sence of cleanliness, particularly among the lower classes; in checked perspiration; in plethora; in the use, either as food or as beverage, of substances which are sweet, poisonous, aromatic, or spirituous; affections

8

of the liver, gout, scurvy, and albove all in psora, the last of which may ev(Ui be considered a« the originating cause in a majority of ca£es, the others being i'egarde4 in the light of excitants.

The remedy most certain and most prompt is Sulphur^ which may be administered in solution with water, in the proportion of (torn one to three globules every week, and repeated according to circumstances. We must be careful not to exh> bit a second dose whilst the action of the first is in progress.

If the itching be diiTused, pricking/ and burning, and assume the appearance of flea*bites, is unaccompanied by any visible mark, is felt chiefly in the evening on going to bed, if it give way upon the slightest scratching to reappear in another part, we must order the Ignatia amaray iti. the same doses as the sulphur.

When this treatment, united with habjits of cleanliness, may prove insufficient to check the disease^ and particularly when connected with a complication of symptoms^ we must profit by the advice of a medical practitioner.

I

DentUion.

Dentition is rarely observable in young children without bringing in its train symptoms wf>re Or less serious, and which the physician is called upon to jremedy.

The so(t and gelatinous substance of which) at a later period, the teeth ard ibrm-ed| is enirelopedJn a membranous sac, and secreted within the bone of the ja^. This substance gradually increases, and, from its consistency, opens foi* itself a passage by causing a dissolvent irritation in the .bone. The dissolved portion is. removed by the absorbents, iana it. only remains to pierce the gum, which by degrees becomes inflamed and swollen. The gum being but slightly sensitiye, the pain is generally trifling at the point of perforation. ' When dentition advances without unfavourable symptoms, it requires no asris-tance from art If the swelling of the gums, however, be considerable—if they are red, hot, and painful—if the child be incessantly drivelling—if he frequently introduce his fingers into his mouth—if he forcibly bite

t

the nipple when at the breast, or suddenly let go his hold—and if he be restless, we must oppose this irritation by aconite; one globule dissolved in four spoonfuls of water, and a spoonful given every two hours.

When the child is as it were delirious, is unwilling to be pacified, and unable to sleep, we must have reeourse to Coffea^ exhibiting one or two globules in the four and twenty hours.

If the mother make habitual use of coffee, we must then apply to Chamomillft^ administered in the same manner.

When dentition is accompanied by a dry cough, with panting, or hurried respiration, chamomilla is very serviceable; ^oQld' it fail, however, Belladonna will succeed in restoring the health of the patient

These medicines may be employed under other circumstances similac in character to those mentioned above: they are especially efficacious where the child has for' several nights experienced restlessness,* burning heat, constant agitation, ardent thirst, redness of the skin, tremor of the limbs, anxiety, sobbing sighs; respiration short, quick, and loud ; evident oppression at the chest, redness of the eyes; startings.

isalated, and recurring si intervak, an4 even convulsions of the limbs. What should influence our choice in favour of belladonna, would be evident and well-defined symptoms of cerebral congestion.

Qhamomilla is particularly suitable where the general symptoms are the same; and where the congestion appears to influence the abdomen, accompanied by grip-ingSy diajTrhoea, and green evacuations.

In cases where the diarrhoea is watery, ,and very profuse, we may oppose it with Mercury, one globule of the twelfth attenuation beinsc given in the course of twenty-four hours. The diarrhoea, however, being favorable to dentition, we mui^ interfere, with those cases only in which *the symptoms are violent. Constipation, on the other hand^ should be carefidly obviated with Nux Vamicaf which wUl, in most instances, readily meet the case*

Ignatia is appropriate in cases of convulsions which have withstood the action of Belladonna and Chamotnilla, We may repeat the ignatia according to the severity of the attack; one dose every quarter or every half hour.

Cina, Rhus, Arsenic, Arnica, Hyo$cya«>

8*

mus, Ammonium, Cicuta, Stannum, Cuprum, and Pulsatilla, are likewise valuable in derangements resulting from dentition.

m

Passion.

We frequently remark that a violent fit of passion vill exercise a prejudicial influence upon the health, and give rise to diseases more or less important After the first disturbance induced by anger, we may administer a dose of Chamomilla^ should the following phenomena present themselves :

General excitement, agitation, tremor, heat, and redness of the face and eyes; compressive pain in the head, palpitation of the heart, bitter taste in the mouth, excess of saliva, loss of appetite, constriction from tightness of the stomach, nausea, vomitings of green and bitter substance, gripings, diarrhoea, and thirst. In such cases Chamomilla is very appropriate.

Ignatia is indicated for those persons whose passions are concentrated within themselves.

Nux Vomica is appropriate in very nearly the same cases as Chamomillfi, more

especially when the patient indulges in coTOj^aint, murmuring, and tears. : Pulsatilla is applicable to persons of acute sensibility, of irritable temperament, delicacy of fibre, meekness of dispo-skion, inclination to shed fears, paleness of ootfntenance, shivefing, headach, absence of hunger and tUrst, bitterness in the mouth; diarrhoea, glairy or green, ^cur-ring chiefly in the night; continual rumblings in the abdomen, alternations of heat and cold, and vigilance occasioned by an internal anxious heat.

When a violent paroxysm of anger has thrown the patieiit iflto a state' of eltneme distress, so that he scarcely knows which way to turn himself, Jirsenie will be the most appropriate remedy.

When dread is superadded to passion, •Sconite becomes a specific.

Should this remedy, however, fail in the removal of all those symptoms, we shall be able to select one, from those enumerated above, which will perfect the cure.

Pleurisy. In the early period of this disease, cha-

racteriz^d by a sharp cutting pain in the chest, difficult respiration, fever or chilli-ness, flushed face, occasional cough, sometimes severe, \^hich produces agonizing suffering in the part affected; beadacb and nausea, no remedy is superior to ^Aco^ niie. Where, however, there is less eyi" dence of acute inflammatory disease, Bry^ onia may advantageously succeed the use of Jiconite. When the disease is compli* cated with a predominance of symptoms in the head, Belladonna answers very well^ if Jiconite has failed to cure the case. In addition to the above remedies, and in de« fault of their salutary action, Cannabis and Squilla may «K)metimes be required.

Derangement of the Stomach.

This indisposition originates in excess of nutriment, or from the food and drinks being heavy; indigestible, gross, acid, flatu* lent, tainted, &c. The symptoms of visceral derangement generally declare themselves very quickly after a repast, and are as follows:

Risings in the mouth, of an acid character, or tasting of the food which has been

eaten; disrelish, weight, pressure and pain in the stomach; swelling and fulness of this viscus; quivering of the lower lip; vertigo; heaviness in the bead; tickling or scraping in the throat; expectoration ; hemoptysis; unpleasant taste in the mouth; loaded tongue; inclination to vomit; heat in the throat; sensation of weakness; anxiety; face pufied up, pale, covered at times with various coloured spots; discharge of fetid wind; the urine sometimes admixed with mucus, &c.

These symptoms, which usually supervene some hours after the repast, soon terminate in acid vomitings participating in the nature of the food, and sometimes presenting a greenish appearance. There remains, however, for some days, loss of appetite, pains in the abdomen, or diarrhoea.

Persons of delicate constitution«and subject to cramps in the stomach, sufier much from indigestion and its concomitant ills; among which may be mentioned paroxysms of fever. Occasionally the food undigested, or taken in too lai^e a quantity, causes violent symptoms, such as might result from poisoning, &c.; but they are generally brief in duration.

Arnica may be administered where the derangement of the stomach is referrible to a diffused and continued excitement of the nervous system occasioned by intensity of thought, iate hours, excess ouvenery/ Ibodi-ly fatigue, and when accompanied hj the following symptoms:

Vertigo; headach, especially above the orbits; giddiness; heat of the head; dry* ness of the tongue; putrescent, sour, or bit* ter taste in the mouthy unpleasant odour in the mouth; distaste for smokins of tobacco ; want of appetite; desire for acid food; tongue loaded with a yellowbh mu« cus; risings in the mouth, and tasting of the food; fulness in the pit of the stomach; nausea; inclination to vomit; heaving of the stomach; flatulence, colic, swelling of the abdomen; uneasiness and debility; heaviness in the limbs; disagreeable heat; cracking of the knees; disturbed slumber; frequent wakings; waking suddenly; anxious and distressing dreams.

Chamomilla and Nux Vomica will succeed in such cases, provided there be no circumstance to contra-indicate their use*

Nux Vomica will check derangements of the stomach produced by nocturnal de-

dauch, abuse of wine or coflfee, or by a cold, and when the patient displays the following symptoms:

Sensation of giddiness; obnubilation of the head; sensible weight in the occiput; drawing pains in the teeth, sometimes in one of the superior, sometimes in one of the inferior molars; tingling in the ears; heat in the face; efflorescence in the forehead, red and isolated; the same in the nose and at the angles of the mouth; tongue white and loaded; dryness of the mouth, without thirst; collection of sordes in the mouth; heat in the throat; failure of appetite; loss of taste; nausea; accumulation of water in the mouth; vomitings; colic; pressure at the stomach; tension in the lower region of the abdomen; evacuations scanty; con-stipation; disturbed sleep; disinclination for intellectual pursuits; great relaxation; twitchings in the limbs; discontent, queru-lousness, and inward agitation.

Derangement of the stomach, occasioned by vexation preceding a repast, presents the following symptoms:

Heat and redness of the face; painful sensation in the head; redness of the eyes, with burning heat; excess of excitement

pervading ihe nervous system; great sensibility ; failure of appetite; continuous bitter taste in the mouth; bilious eructations; vomitings of green and bilioui substances; colics ; prostration; disturbed slumber; perpetual agitation; frequent wakings.

Chamomilla will generally succeed in dispersing all these symptoms^ Should uneasiness, however, in the epigastrium continue, the appetite still fail, the patient feel great lassitude, with absence of thirst and loaded tongue, Puhatilla will be the remedy to confirm the equilibrium of the functions.

Nux Vomica^ on the other hand, may be prescribed with success, where we find constipation, and the temperament of the patient violent, with an inclination to quarrel.

Bryonia, again, may be employed under similar circumstances, especially if the patient be costive, feel shiverings, and it is perceived that bis moral economy has undergone a signal change under the influence of anger.

Pulsatilla is more especially applicable where the derangement has resulted from the food being gross and flatulent, and

when the under-writteii symptotDs exhibit themselves:

Bitter and salacious taste in the mouth, taste resemUing that of putrescent fish or tallow; mucus in the mouth ; scraping in the throat; bilious eructations; loss of appetite : aversion to warm food ; fulness of the stomach; swelling of the lower region of the abdomen j tension beneath the false ribs; borborygmus; costiveness, or heavy, difficulty and scanty evacuation in the morning; chilliness; prostration ; twitch-ings in the limbs; ill humour, vexation.

In the vernal and autumnal seasons, among persons who reside in humid situations, in the vicinity of stagnant water, in marshy districts, and in closely-confined or densely populated apartments, we observe a peculiar gastric derangement; presenting the following characteristics:

Loss of appetite, without unpleasant taste; constant satiety -, heaviness and fulness of the abdomen ; constriction, prostra-tion, and debility; vertigo; deafening head-ach; flushes, occasionallv alternated with chills; urine thick and clouded; sensibility

9

to external impressions ; disturbed repose; ilUhumour.

ChinOy in one or more doses, speedily arrests this train of symptoms^ the not unusual precursors of Intermittent Fever.

Diarrhoea,

Diarrbcea is an evacuation, more or less frequent, resulting from disease of the in« testinal canaL 1 he voided substance is at times copious, dif^ersified in character, and with or without admixture of fecal matter.

Occasionally this aifection is very trivial, and, in consequence, is attended with little danger; at other times it assumes a graver aspect, more especially when injudiciously treated.

The inost frequent causes of thia malady are oolds, errors of regimen,' du:. The concomitant symptoms are loss of appetite, more or less defined; pain in the stomach; swelling and tension in the lower part of the abdomen; borborygmus; dryness and coldness of the skin; thirst, diminution of urine; prostration; intermittence and irregularity of the arterial pulsations; occasional pains in the abdomen. Then, again,

we have cutting and tearing pains* some* times in one part, sometimes in another^ with inclinations to vomiti subsiding for .the moment to return after a brief interval. Severe and long continued diarrhoea occasions burning pain jn the rectum^ tenesmus^ debility, alteration of feature, and even lipothymy.

Warmth, in conjunction with abstinence and a little coffee, is sufficient to remedy digbt attackjs. Those ca^es, however,which have been produced by colds, must be treated with china, provided the motions are frequent, liquid, sour, clear, and without admixture of fecal matter; are preceded by violent cdic^ spasmodic and pres-sive pain ia the bowels, and accompanied by pains in the abdomen; eructation; bor^ borygmus in the abdomen, with sense of debility in the same organ.

Chamomilla is suitable when the pains in the abdomen are violent and tearing, afford no relief to the patient, and oblige him to writhe and run about here and there; when there is a feeling as though the abdomen were entirely hollow, with constant movement in the bowels, or as though a ball were rolling about in the

side; when the eyes are encircled by a blueish ring; nausea; vomiting; and the' motions mucous and watery, having the odour of rotten eggs.

Gbamomitla, again, is successfully employed against diarrhoea originating in anger, and where there exists a bitter taste in the mouth; risings; a sense of emptiness or repletion in the stomach; pressive pain in^ the head; general debility; re« peated evacuation of matters, which are green, aqueous, hot^ and verj fetid.

Mercury is suitable where the cold has been produced by exposure to the night air, and there exists a pinching pain in the hollow of the stomach; borborygmus; a feeling of relaxation as though an evacuation would take place; cutting pain in the lower bowels, accompanied by pressure; tearing pain in the lower part of the abdomen, which feels very cold; nausea; averdon; titubations; shiverings; sudden and frequent desire to relieve the bowels, in the first instance without success, but succeeded by dejections, frequent, profuse, watery, and green, with disposition to faintings.

Pulsatilla is of great service in cases of diarrhoea proceeding from errors of diet.

and preseDting such indicatioos as loss of appetite, with sensation of dryness and slight burning of the tongue ; absence of thirst ; a salt and bitter taste in the mouthy M'ithout the food being unpleasant; risings in the mouth, as of rotten eggs; hiccough; nausea; disposition to vomit; vomitings; fulness of the lower region of the abdomen; colics; much flatulence; irumbling in the intestines; pressing.desire to go to stool; restlessness; frequent evacuations.

Opium will quickly remedy diarrhoea, dccasioned by fright, anxiety, powerful emotion, &c.

Dulcamara is particularly efficient in aqueous diarrhoea, induced by cold, and aO' companied by neither pain in the abdomen nor by any other accessory indisposition.

Dulcamara is valuable again in cases of infantile diarrhosa, in teething, and which is usually attended with fever and loss of appetite.

Sulphur is an important remedy in diarrhoea among children of psoric habit, and where the following symptoms are evinced:

Acrid diarrhoea, excoriating the anus and surrounding parts, and even the thighs, and exciting in such parts a miliary erup-

9*

tion, occupying a greater or less exteni of surface ; gradual emaciation^ apd consumption arriving at its last stage. »

Byaentery,

Dysentery is a disease of frequent occurrence during warm weather, and is frequently attended with considerable fever; for which Aconite is to be given every 6 or 6 hours.

Afterwards Mercury is the appropriate

remedy when there is much straining at

#stooI or tenesmus: the discharges being

small in quantity^ and consisting mostly of

mucus mixed with blood.

Nux Voinica is also to be used when there is much beat wilh redness of the face, thirst;, bearing down ^ens^tion with bloody sto«ls.

In dysenteric diarrhoea with belcbings and hardness of the abdomen, with numerous dischai^esy producing heat and burning at the fundament; the tongue being dry and brown, the thirst great with much debility and sometimes oppression at the breast, Arsenic may be administered with much advantage.

CHILDBIRTH. 103

Jrn cases of fhis disease arising from M&^9h. Miadmata, China is the appropriate remedy.

When stools occur as often as once in ten or fifteen minutes, consisting of bloody mucus or clear blood, with much efibrt and evident cutting pains, Muriate oi Mercury will often give relief. Besides the above remedies, the practitiorifer may advert to the following, according to their specific virtues,viz: Capsicum^ Acid. Sulph. , ^cid. Nit^ Colchicum^ Colocynth^ Sulphur^ Rhus J Pulsatilla^ Chamoinilla.

Pains following Childbirth.

Not#ithstanding these pains rarely constitute disease, properly so Called, it may be of service to point 6ut the means of relief or dispefrfon. They may now and then prove sufficiently intense to induce conse* quences more or less serious.

These pains are analogous to those preceding the labour; they extend from the lumbar region to the pelvis or the sacrum, are accompanied by irritation in (jie rectum and the bladder, and aiiect tbe pubic

r^ion and the posterior portion'^of the lower part of the abdomen.

They succeed delivery even undef the mo5t favorable auspices; come on in paroxysms day after day ; are unconnected with fever or. abnormal discharge; and during the intervals, howsoever brief, the patient is in perfect health, and her appetite and sleep return. These pain rarely occasion any change in the lochia, the secretion of milk, or the alvine evacuations, and they are terminated occasionally by a dischai^e of blood. Pressure does not increase them, neither is the abdomen swollen nor tender. These after-pains are at times more distressing than those of labour; and it has been remarked that they are generally more severe in women who have borne several children. If trivial in character, they require but little interference, nature herself restoring \he equUibrium. Should they become serious, we may oppose them with Chamomiiia, which if it fail in their entire removal, will very greatly relieve. Should the pain prove very severe, and cause the patient to feel as though the intestines were cut into meces, we may derive beneficial results from Coffea.

Arnica has been employed most success-folly, ift the form of lotioD to the organs of generation; and the exhibition of a dose or two, internally, will contribute in a singular degree to a favorable termination.

In all cases of contusion,the t/^rmca proves invaluable; it must, therefore, of necessity, do good when employed subsequently to an accouchement. If this remedy do not aK t(^ether prevent the accession of after-pains, it will, in most instances, produce a modification; while Chamomilla will accomplish the remainder.

Poisoning.

Accidents of this nature claim the unremitting energy of the most skilful practitioners. It is nevertheless important, that the public should he put in possession of the means by which to recc^ize such cases, and affi>rd the earlier means of relief, while awaiting the arrival of competent assistance.

Where violent symptoms are suddenly evidenced, and without appreciable cause, in persons of sound health or but slightly incQsposed, we may infer that such fhen-

omena result from the exhibition of poison. Poisons are either narcotic or corrosive. The first division, belonging chiefly to the v^etable kingdom, comprises Opiuniy Belladonna, Datura^ Slramoniumt JSy^ 09€yamt$Sf Cicuta, Secale Cornuium^ certain species of mushroom^ &c. The bitter almond and the laurel leaf are poisonous; and being introduced into the stomach in too large a quantity, may become prejudicial to health; while the prussic acid, extracted from the leaves u still more to be dreaded. Under the same head^we may class such atmospheres and gases as are obnoxious to respiration; suSbcating vapours, such as carbonic acid gas, the emanations of sulphur and charcoal, air pent up and vitiated by the breath of too large a number of persons, the odour arising from an assen^bla|re of flowers in a room, &c.

These poisons immediately give rise to the following phenomena:

Painful weight and pressure in the stomach; anxiety; aversion; vomiting; somnolency ; confusion in the head ; distur* <bance of the intellectual faculties; vertigo; duiness; coma, &c. The patient feels

week, mutters iDCoherentlj, totters, his pube is variable, generally slow and soft^ sometimes strong and rapid. In addition to these symptoms, we find giddiness and stupor, breathing laboured and stertorous, bufibonery, delirium, convulsions, parialysis, and lethargy.

The corrosive poisons are chiefly derived from the mineral kingdom : these are arsenic; verdigris, or the green oxyde of copper; mercury, with its difier^t preparations; very strong mineral acids, such as sulphuric, nitric, and muriatic acids in their concentrated form; certain plants whose juice is acrid and corrosive; among others, for instance, the Daphne Mezereon; vegetables uniting a corrosive quality with a narcotic principle, such as Digitalis or •Sconiie. Cantharides also^ on being introduced into the stomach, corrode with singular virulence.

The first results from corrosive poisons are as follows:

Acrid, burning, and very painful sensation in the throat, pharynx, and stomach; pinching pain at the pit of the stomach, mexpressible anxiety; nausea and vomitings ; vomiting of matter tinged with blood;

Bometimes violent diarrhoea, at others* on the contrary, costivefiess, with swelling of the abdomen; abdominal pains, cutting and extreoiely acute.

In the first instance, while awaiting the arrival of the medical man, vomiting should be encouraged by drinking abundantly of warm water, or, what is still better, water in which a quantity of butter has been dissolved, greasy milk, oil, &c. Patients should be encouraged to drink as much as possible, since the removal of the poisonous principle is apportioned to the amount of vomiting. Persons who vomit with difficulty, should provoke it by tickling the pharynx with a feather or the finger, or by drinking abundantly of strong co&e.

If the poison be vegetable,'aftechaving evacuated the stomach by vomiting, the most efficient remedy will be spirits of camphor, of which we may give the patient a drop every three minutes, or less frequently, in proportion as the symptoms sub^de.

Swelling of the Cheeks,

When this affection is the result of toothache* it usually subsides with the cessation of^the exciting cause, and without having recourse to any particular remedy* Should the swelling continue, however, we must enforce some tspecific treatment: this will, in most instances, coniast of the antidote of the remedy that has relieved the toothache : as for instance, Fulsatillay' if the primitive affection have been rfemoved by Mercury or Chamomilla^ and so on of the rest.

If the tumefaction present much obstinacy and hardness, our most effectual reme-dy will, in most instancesy be the 6th at^^ tenuation of Jirnica.

Mercury is particularly efficient where the.swelling is accompanied by erysipelatous inflammation, tearing pains, and profuse salivation.

Should the inflammation be violent, and the remedy be adopted too late, the general result is suppuration. There is formed upon the gums, or upon the neighbouring

10

parts v^ithin the mMth, a small; bard, and circumscribed tumotu*, which as the general swelling is reduced^ enlarges, becomes gradually soft, bursts, at the latest, after a few days, aqjd dischaiages a considerable quantity of matter. The formation of pus may be accelerated by the apf£cation of figs boiled in milk. When the suppura* tionis established, we must leave the cure in the hknds of nature. Warm poultices of Itnseed«4neal will relieve the patient, and are in perfect accordance with homoeo^ pathic treatment.

4

Efdmrgemmt of the GUmds of the Neck and

of the Ears*

The glands of the ear, and those be-neath the chiii,occasionally become swollen, as a sequel to toothache, a cold, &c. A disposition to toothache is very generally succeeded by &n enlargement of the glands, and we are frequently abided to combat this glandular affection, in order to pre« Vent Suppuration, induration, &c.

Mercury.^ in such cases, is a valuable agent, and may be repeated several times, if necessi5iry«

CHlLBLAJHa. nil

Hepar Sulphuris ir of grrat denrice when the paiiis have subsided, or have al* tered in character, add produce throbbmg in the place of lancinations and disten« tion.

If notwithstanding the exhibition of sui* table remedies, the glands attkin copsidera^-ble hardness, Dulcamara, taken at iiitef* yals, will afibrd much relief.

Chilblains.

• Chilblains, as all persons are aware, are specific inflammations of the skin, resulting from cold. The hands and feet, and especially the great toes,are more frequently afiect* ed than any other part' This inflammatory affection usually displays itself at the commencement of winter, and during variations of the temperature. A single remedy will rarely suflSice for its removal, and we are frequently compelled to resort to many.

Chamomilla and Arnica are generally entitled to the prefer^ence. Considerable inflammation, throbbing paiQ% tumefixction, and a reddish-blue appearance of the affected part, require the administration of

Pulsatilla and of Belladonna. If the chilblain be of lopg standing, 'we may give Sulphur, Niiric •^cid^ or Petroieum.

Hoarseness.

This affection is distinguished by harshness of tone, indistinct enunciation, crying, cougby ^c, and produces, in itself, neither pain, asthma, nor M^heezing. It is the result, frequently, of cold, checked perspiration, Ac.'i and is generally accompanied by a dry cough, or by the expectoration of a watery or saltish substance, soon becom* ing mucous^ and more or less profuse and viscid. The hoarseness is scarcely perceptible during inspiration, but is more decidedly marked in expiration, the act of speaking, coughing, (fee. *

Charriomilia is applicable where the hoarseness is associated with cold in the head, dryness bf the eyelids, collection of mucus ih the larynx, sense of burning in the gullet, dryness in the mouth, thirst, dry cough, wifh prurient irritation in the trai-chea, febrile excitement in the evening, chilliness, heat, discontent, inward vexation

at triflesy gravity, inclination to silence^ aversion to lengthened discourse.

Nux Vomica is applicable where there is a smarting in the throat; painful sense of dryness in the larynx, producing cough, accompanied by pain at the pit of the throat: * dry, hoarse, and deep cough ; cold in the head; painful respiration; vigilance; heat, at night, in the hands and cheeks^ with coldness of the feet, and shiverings ; accession of chilis in the afternoon, succeeded by burning heat and thirst; confusion in the head in the morning; discontent; aversion to occupation; plaintive murmurs; wrangling and disputes upon unimportant matters; obstinate self-will.

Pulsatilla is a valuable remedy in the following train of symptoms :

Hoarseness; hardness, with painful sense of excoriation at the back of the throat; roughness of the palate, with dryness of the throat; pain in the throat on swallowing ; cold in the head, with sanguineous mucosity from the nose; cough with expectoration and pain in the chest; ticking at the pit of the throat, inducing cough, with evening exacerbation; cold, with twitchings in the limbs; access of fever to-

10*

wards evening; external beat, IseDse. of fatigue and prostration'; internal heat during the night, with skin perfectly dry; disturbed slumber, broken and agitated by dreams; taciturnity, disposition to tears, sensibility, indifference, irresolution, frequent desire for change*

Mercury is often of service after the exhibition €>f the remedies already pointed out, and v^ill quickly effect a cure.

In this, as well as in all other affections, the repetition of the dose must be regulated by the result •

Belladonna, Bryonia, Calcarea, Carbo Vegetabilis, Causticum, Drosera, Dulcamara, Hepar, Manganum, Petroleum, Phosphorua, Sulphur, Sepia, and Spongia, may be pointed out as serviceable in complicated or chronic cases; and the practitioner will readily .3elect his agent by consulting the Materia fdtdi^a Purcu,

Hooping Cough*

In the early stage of this disease, attended with fever and catarrhal symptoms, •dconiie has proved decidedly useful, ad* ministered daily*

When the patient is fretful and cries much before coughing, Jirnica may be given. If the disease is attended with vomiting of what is eaten or drunk, Bryo* nia is beneficial, and when the cou8;h is worse in the night, Conium is to be selected.— Belladonna may be used when the attacks of cough are preceded by whining or pain in the stomach, or when succeeded by sneezing—when the breathing is quick, short and anxious, v^ith groaning ; when congestions of blood to the chest occur or when blood is discharged by coughing or vomiting. The expirations are violent, and the cough bellowing.

The remedy, however, which Honweo-r pathy has discovered as a specific in most forms of this disease, is Drosera* In the absence of inflammatory symptoms, it is to be at once administered, and such is its energy in arresting this troublesome complaint, that cures generally take place in two or three weeks. When this fails and the cough is short, violent, and such as to jar the whole system ; the attacks followT ing each other so rapidly, as to endanger suffocation, Ipecacuanha in doses repeated several times daily is recommended.

Other remedies may sometimes be re-

Juired as Cina, Carbo. an., ChamomiUa^ Ihina^ Ledum, Sulphur, according to their respective properties.

JSrysipelas.

Erysipelas is a superficial inflammation of the skin, and is indicated by swelling, redness, and heat of that organ. These symptoms are accompanied by pain, more or less severe, and of a burning character; the finger being pressed upon the painful part leaves a white impress, which soon resumes its red appearance ; the hue is of a bright or deep red, sometimes assumes a yellowish cast; the skin glistens, the patient experiences tension and itching, with fever more or less ardent.

Erysipelas chiefly attacks the face and the lower extremities, and especially the joints. Women and elderly persons appear more particularly susceptible.

This afiection displays itself chiefly when under the influence of derangement of the digestive functions, powerful emotion,anger, passion, or cold. In other cases, it is evidently the result of some epidemic cause.

Erysipelas will sometime-assume a very serious aspect, and consequently require the most careful attention.

When the case is simply such as we have described, we are certain to derive very prompt relief from the administration of one or two doses pft^coni^^ at the onset, to check the febrile action. This medicine must be followed up by Belladonna ; or^ in the absence of lever, we may begin immediately with the last-mentioned reme-

i7r^o/ita is of signal benefit where the erysipelas more particularly affects the articulations.

Pulsatilla ia applicable where the disease shifts rapidly from one part of the body to another.

In certain cases we perceive vesicles filled with serosity, forming themselves upon the inflamed surface: these are of greater or less dimensions, and resemble small blisters. When these phenomena present themselves, the Rhus Toxicodendron should follow the exhibition of J^conite*

Under certain forms of erysipelas, and under the guidance ofan assemblage of adventitious symptoms, the practitioner will

derive much valuable assistance from the following remedies:

Ammonium, Antimonium, Arnica, Arsenicum, BoraX| Calcarea, Camphor, Can-tharides, Carbo Animalis, Graphites, He* par, Lycopodium, Mercurius, Nitric Acid, Phosphorus, Ruta, Sulphur.

Quiiuy.

Qainsy is an inflanmiatorj affection of the lining membrane of the throat, of the velum palati, and of the tonsils. This affection occasionally assumes a formidable character, and consequently requires very prompt attention. When the disease is im-

Rerfectly cured, there results very frequent-/ a chronic enlargement of the t<»sils, with elongatimi of the uvala, which symptoms are to be relieved only by a prolonged and radical treatment. Since in such cases we shall invariably find a psoric tendency, either constitutional or acquired, it is among the antipsoric remedies that the practitioner will find the suitable means of relief.

Chamomillais an efficient remedy in quinsy, when characterized by dryness of

the throat, thirsty difficulty of swallo^ving; the sensation of a foreign body in the gullet, when there is an inclination, but at the same time an inability, to swallow; where there is throbbing pain, accompanied by fever towards evening, alternations of heat and cold, melancholy temperatnent, &c.

Ignatia is suitable in quinsy, characterized by the preceding symptoms, and united with the especial sense of feeling, during deglutition, the presence of a ball in the throat, with swelling; and when, in theact of swallowing, we feel the sensation as of a wound.

' Mermtty is efficient in this afiection of the throat, where the act of deglutition is characterized by a burning sensation in the threat; the throat appears contracted, the pains are lancinating, and extend as far as the ears; the tonsils are swollen and throb during deglutition; the posterior portion of the tongue swollen, as also the gums; unpleasant taste in the mouth; and where, as an indication altogether characteristic, the mouth is filled with saliva, more or less viscid and tenacious; febrile action, more or less apparent towards evening, with alternations of cold and heat

Two or three doses of mercury are generally required to check this affection.

Pulsatilla is in request where the throat experiences a sense of soreness, and the gul* let is dry; when there is cutting pain in the throat, so ^s to prevent swallowing without great iaconvenience; when the glands of the neck are tumefied, tendeip ta the touch, and impede deglutition; and when, ^n addition to these symptoms, we experience a sense of diffused coldness, mcreas-ed towards night, and succeeded by heat. Absence of thirst is another indication of the propriety of administering Pulsatilla.

Belladonna is frequently in requisition in quinsy, and the symptoms which proclaim its use are the following:

Sensation as 6f a ligature round the throat, with external swelling; enlargement of the tonsils; bright redness of the entire throat, of the velum palati, and of the tonsils^ with greater or less difficulty of swallowing; constriction of the voice; general and burning heat; much thirst.

In cases where the fever has been violent from the onset, we may commence our treatment by a dose or two of Aconite.

Belladonna^in one, two, or three doses.

will subdue this disease; and| where any trace is left, Mercury will quickly succeed iu the restoration to perfect health.

The following medicines are'j equally with those mentioned abve, entitled to important consideration: Argentuixi> Barytes, Dulcamara, Nux Vomica, Rhus, Sabadilla, ^A Sepia.

Retention 6f Vrine. •" . It not UQfrequently happens that from exposure! to cold, from partial paralysis of the parts, &^., t)iat the urine is retained, the bladder having no power to contract and expel its contents.

In such cas^ recourse .must be had to .Pulsatilla,Nux, Arsenic, Belladonna, Arnica, Aurum,Stramonium, Sulphur,according to their distinctive indications.

Croup.

This disease, with which most persons are coversant, is very important, rapid in its progress, and requires the most efficient means to avert its danger.

At its commencement, this affection is

11

frequently deceptive, and assumes a ca* tarrhal form. The patient complains of hoarsne96f mental and bodily depression, slight febrile excitement, particularly to^ wards evening, united with dry, short, hollow cough, with a 4ight sense of burning pain, and tickling in the windpipe. Soon, however, the sound of the cough, voice, and respiration assumes a special character,^^ presenting nothing analogous to catarrh* It is veiled, sonorous, suspirious, whistling; sometimes grave and resonant, at other times shrill and squeakitig;* the respiration is more or Jess wheezing, and the cougb excites pain, wh^ch the sufferer indicates by carrying his hanci tt> his throat. Occasionally, however, ths disease is sudden in its^ access, and not preceded by catarrhal symptoms. The cough is consequently hoarse,, barking, hollow; or, on the other hand, acute, shrill, and clear; the voice is hoarse, rough, or wheezing; the face is red, mottled, swollen, and at times blue; a clammy sweat suffuses the body, the breathing is difficult, and the head is thrown back to facilitate respiration. Aconite is the first remedy to be admiiV'

BXOORIATION OF THE NIPPLES. 123

istered in this affection, in order to subdue inflammatory action.

After the exhibition of Aconit^^ one or two doses according to circuizustances, we must administer Spongia Usta. Should the symptoms refuse to yield to this remedy, we must afterwards have recourse to Hepar Sulphuris, ^

In ordinary cases, the sponge should be exhibited two or four hours after the aconite, and the repetition of the sponge and of the liver of sulphur should ^ alternated every two, four, or six hounB. It is evident, however, tjiat we must be guided by the progress of the disease. .

" ExcorigUiontif the ISipplei,

This affection attacks women recently delivered, and frequently becomes So painful as to prevent their giving the breast to the child.

The skin of the nipples is so delicate that the most trifling sores, upon the slightest contact, produce in many women almost insupportable suffering; and, discontinuing to suckle upon the affected side, the milk

1

124 DISEASES.

is suppressed^and inflammation of the mamma supervenes.

Women may prevent this afiection by commencing, many weeks previously to their delivery, to wash the nipples every day with spirit distilled from corn.

They should continue a similar application after their accouchementj so long as the nipples are without excoriation, taking the precaution to wash them with tepid water, every time the child is put to the breast.

Arnica is a valuable r«;medy where the excoriations are apparent It is employed externally, in the dose of two or four drops of the tincture in fifty or eighty drops of water, taking care to wash the nipple every time the child is permitted to suck.

When the complaint is so severe as to present a certain degree of inveteracy, and especially where there is an evident psoric diathesis, we must have recourse to reme* dies administered internally. Of these Sul* phur is one of the most important. Should it not entirely succeed, however, we shall, after its exhibition, derive most benefit from Lycopodiuniy Calcarea Carbonicoy and Graphites.

liJlrniea and Sulphur fail in immediate relief, \ve should consult a medical practitioner, since none else can discriminate the cases in which the other remedies may be applicable.

Exeoriafion of Children.

This complaint is sufficiently frequent in early infancy; and the non-observance of cleanliness, moisture, and heat of weather, constitute in most instances the\ exciting cause. These excoriations are observsble upon all those parts of the skin where folds are to be met with, and more particularly in places where there is much fat, as the neck, the hams, the thighs, the arms, and the genital organs. Proper attention to cleanliness will often succeed in preventing this disease, and the tepid bath is tn excellent adjuvant. Nevertheless, we occa-rionally find it presenting itself in defiance of the most scrupulous attention, and this, too, without any assignable cause. Should the afiection be trivial, cleanliness and the application of an innocent drying powder will quickly relieve it.

When the complaint is very severe, and

11*

■

causes much uneasiness to the patient^ we must persevere in ablutions^ and administer internally Chamomilla. In cases where there may have been an abuse of this rtmedy, Pulsaiilla^ or Ignatia will be the appropriate agent.

When the disease assumes a more serious aspect, and the body of the child presents the appearance of a wound, Mercury will prove a specific.

Should the affection resist this means, we must attack it with antipsorics, and Oraphitesj, Sulphur, and Lyeopodium will then subdue the evil. The more serious species of excoriation have their ultimate causa in st psoric tendency, and it is for this reason that antipsoric remedies will espe-* cially avail.

Catarrhal Fevtr.

This disease is frequently the sequel of a cold occasioned by a sudden change in the temperature; or from humidity in the at* mosphere; and it is on this account that we so often find it prevailing in certain places and at certain seasons as an epidemic. If this affection be properly treated, it is of

trivial moment, and becomes important only in consequence of the injudicious treatment to which so many persons are subjected.

The symptoms which characterize this condition are as follows:

Shiverings; transitory chills, shifting from one part to another, and alternating with a sensation of heat; pulse soft, and of moderate frequency; sense of heaviness, twitching or cracking in the limbs; the back and the sacrum leel as though they were broken; the head becomes confused, and is very weighty; pressive pain above the eyes; oppri^ssive wakefulness, or disturbed slumber; diminution of taste and smell; the patient complains of the pit of the stontach, frequently feeling pressure coupled with anxiety; taste in the mouth frequently bitter or mucous; appetite more or less deficient; the febrile symptoms especially augmented towards night;and the«ose, throat, chest, and heart being considerably afiect-ed.

What will aid us in our diagnosis are the symptoms of catarrh: the nose, throat, and lungs secrete a vast quantity of mucus, feel very painful, and afterwards experience a sensation of beat The mucus, at the com-

mencemeDt, is usually thin and white^ but it subsequently becomes thick, viscid, and yellow, or even darker, and acquires a fetid odour.

The remedies most appropriate to combat this train of symptoms are Aconite, Nux Vomica, Chamomilla, Pulsatilla, Ig-natia, and Belladonna. The constitution of the patient, the change in his moral tendencies, and that in the symptoms enumerated above, will guide us in our election.

Aconite is of service only in the commencement of the attack, and where the malady exhibits itself in an aggravated form: it acts in subduing arterial action.

Nux Vomica is almost invariably suited to patients whose temperament is quick and choleric; where the affection is accompanied by thirst and constipation; where the different parts of the body are under the influence of cold shivers, which, especially on moving about, appear to pass over the bones, and alternate with heats. It is similarly eligible in cases where the symptoms are relieved by proximity to the fire; also where the patient endures a sense of scraping in the throat, hoarseness, and se-

vere cough* more particularly in the morning.

Pulsatilla is suitable to persons of placid temperament^ disposed to melancholy and to tears; to individuals of lymphatic habit t to women; and to patients who are but slightly inconvenienced by thirst Also in case3 where the secretions are too abundant, and become thick; where there is clamminess^ as it were, of the mouth, loss of appetite, languor; and where, in conjunction with these, the other symptoms exist in a greater or less degree. This medicine, in certain * instances, is appropriate after the exhibition of Nux Vomicay that is,* where indicated by the change^ in the disease.

ChamoniiUa should be prescribed where there is impatience under suffering, irritability and extreme sensitiveness to pain. This remedy is very valuable for chii dren.

Ignatia, It is frequently the moral symptoms which should guide the choice of the practitioner, and induce him to adopt Ignalia. This medicine is eminently suited to persons of gentle temperament,.who pass rapidly from joy to grief, and who are

disposed to confine their griefs within their own breasts.

When to these moral tendencies are united symptoms of catarrhal fever, there is no doubt but that this remedy should be selected in preference to others.

Belladonna is suitable' to children of sanguine and lymphatic temperaments, and affected with catarrhal fever; where the cough is evidenced chiefly at night; where the viscera are threatened with congestion; excessive irritability; somnolency during the day, with absence of sleep during the ^night; where the sleep is interrupted by sudden starts; delirium, more or less in-tense; prostration of strength; sadness; and where the patient screams out as though under the influence of fear.

Fatigue.

Although fatigue can scarcely be regarded as a disease, since rest, after a cold bath or ablution with cold water, will usually suffice to remedy this state, it is nevertheless desirable to point out the means which will quickly remove it, and avert the symptoms which occasionally follow in it& train.

•drnica, in the dose of one or more glo-* bules, internally, and Arnica with water, as ^n external application to those parts of the body suffering from fatigue, such aa the legs and feet, will speedily remove all inconvenience.

A decoction of hemp seed, as a warm bath to the feet, will readily counteract any fatigue in those organs.

Milk Fever.

This fever exhibits itself in women two or three days subsequently to deliTe^y.. It "is produced by a change effected in the organism secreting the milk^ It siipervenes with slight shivering, heat more or less ardent, anxiety, difficulty of breathing, twitching pains in the bacft and extending. towards the breasts, headach, frequency of pulse, perspiration profuse and sour to the smell. This disease does not affect all women, although the majority are subject to its influence. They who are subject to febrile excitement are chiefly liable; also they who may be exposed to any accidental cause, such as a wound, contusion, pro-

tracted or severe labour, moral impressions, &c.

During the fever, the lochial discharge is diminished, but, if there be no compUca-' tion, the patient is devoid of uneasiness in the lower part of the abdomen. As soou as the secretion of milk is established, the fever subsides, and the lochia resume their full flow and primitive character.

•drnica is the remedy applicable to all cases where the labour has been protracted : where we find contusion or laceration, we may administer it' externally in the form of lotion.

Aconite is indicated where the fever as^ sumes an inflammatory character*

Bryonia i& the remedy where the inflammatory action is less decisive, or where it has been controlled by Aconite; and where we find symptoms of rheumatic pain in the breast, externally and internally.

Belladonna should be given where the fever, more or less severe, is connected with an erysipelatous afiectionof the breast

Emotions of the mind are frequently the exciting cause of milk fever.

Coffea is applicable in cases where th«r patient experiences a lively joy.

Chamomilla^ preceded by Aconite when the fever is high, is an appropriate remedy, more especially where passion has been the excitant.

Opium is efficacious where the afiection may be traced to iright or apprehension.

Aconite should be the remedial agent where fright and passion have been the exciting causes of the mischief.

Concentrated grief, giving place to the disease, indicates the propriety of Ignatia.

We must be careful not to confound this afiection with puerperal fever. The latter malady is of fearful importance, and demands the aid of a professional man. Thus, in all instances, where milk-fever presents alarming symptoms^ and is conjoined with pain in the pectoral organs, abdomen,*or head, we must instantly refer the case to a medical man.

Fhiiulenee.

We do not in this place allude to chronic maladies which develop flatulence: our attention is directed merely to accidental cases, resulting from the use of flatulent vegetables; from having taken, in too large

12

a quantity, cold liquids^ or new and badly fermented beer; or from having partaken of indigestible food. Flatulence swells the abdomen, ei^cites pain, impedes respiration, and causes general uneasiness.

China is often of great utility vrhen colicky pains affect the lower intestines, and where the patient feels a sense of tightness; where the wind is unable to escape; and where, beneath the false ribs^ there is tension and anxiety.

Nux Vomica will principally succeed among patients of lively temperament, and sufiering from constipation.

Pulsatilla is suitable to women whose disposition is naturally mild and gentle; and especially where flatulence follows the use of ri(;h food.

Cocculw is applicable in cases where the patient experiences a sense of tightness and contraction in the lower region of the abdomen, and in the organs of reproduction; uneasiness in the stomach; where no relief is derived from the expulsion of wind; partial swelling of the abdomen, with pressive, tearing, and burning pain; also when the epigastrium becomes swollen; when there exist gripings, twitchings> anxiety, and

ppessure under the cartilages of the ribs; and when these symptoms are relieved by the removal of the ofiending matters*

Sprains*

By a sprain we understand a violent i&A^ tention of the ligaments of a joint, originating in undue exertion, or in a &1L It exhibits itself by pain in the organ affected, and by weakness and swelling in the entire joint

The first injunction is perfect rest; we may afterwards exhibit Armca internally, and at the same time have recourse to friction with tincture of arnica to the injured part. This we may repeat three or Ibur times a day.

When the arnica does not readilv sue-ceed, we may have recourse to RhuSf which may be administered in a similar manner, both externally and inwardly.

The dose of arnica and rhus is from otie to three globules, in proportion to the exigency of the case. Four, or six, or ten drops of the tincture, in one hundred drops of water, may be employed for the friction.

Fright,

The lively and disagreeable impression derived from an impending danger imparts a greater or less degree oi mischief to the nervous system, and the entire ^organism is more or less affected.

Fear may be succeeded by stupor, fainting, suspense of the action of the hearty numbness of the muscles, paralysis, apoplexy, and even by an alienation of the mental faculties. We may conceive that the effects of fright will widely vary according to diversity of constitution, individual susceptibility, d^c. For instance, persons who are delicate and of excitable temperament are ve^^y powerfully influenced by circumstances which would produce no effect upon the more robust.

Opium, taken immediately after the fright, is the' best remedy for preventing any mischievous results, and more particularly so where we remark the following symptoms:

Tearing, frontal headach, pressing from within outwards; risings and acid vomit-

ings; inclination to lie down ; cold and sudden perspirations; sensation as of a weight in the lower part of the abdomen ; anxiety ; internal heat; atupor; sudden numbness of the body, with asthma; tremor of the limbs, with oppression and isolated startings of the body; convulsion in the limbs, with external coldness of the body; a species of apathy, with snoring, &c. •

If some hours or more have elapsed since the accession of the fright, without having administered any medicine, we may give one drop of the tincture otSambuais.

In cases where we find powerful action in the sanguineous system, we must have recourse to Aconite^ subsequently to the administration of either Opium or Sam-bucus,

Bath.

A boil is a circumscribed, elevated, and pointed tumour, slightly indurated, of a deep red colour, and more or less painful, situated beneath the skin in the cellular tissue, and usually varying in size from that of a hazel-nut to a pigeon's egg, or even larger,

12*

This tumour almost invariably terminates in suppuration: a kind of head is formed in the centre, after the removal of which there-is a-discharge of pus mixed with blood. The pains then subside, and all trace of the tumour graidually disappears. We may occasionally observe tUs affection healing without arriving at suppuration ; but in such cases we almost invariably perceive an induration of the skin, and, notwithstanding there may be neither redness nor pain, the skin quickly swells afresR, and there is a relapse of genuine boil.

Jirnica^ repealed at intervals in small doses, will heal these furuncles, and frequently prevent their return*

Belladonna may advantageously supersede the •^rnicOp should the latter remedy fail in its results.

In cases where the boils originate in a psoric condition,^44rnfY;a will not suffice; we must therefore 'enforce the antipsoric treatment.

Swelling of the Olanda,

, Swelling of the glaaier situated bineatb the chin, in the Ihroat, pr in the nape of the neck, rasuUS) among children of scrofulous diathesis^ from the most trivial circumstance ; and along iis entire course the neck appears a» though encircled with a chaplet.

Subjecte disposed to this disease are all under the influence ot the psoric virus, and it is only a prolonged ndedical treatment, suitable exercise^ re^men, exercise in the* open air, and habits of perfect cleanliness, which can remedy such constitutional tendency.

Dulcamara, Mercury and B^ilmdonna, almost invariably succeed in reducing the gla«)ds to their natural aze. An experienced practitioner should always be consulted in pursuing a radical course of treatment*

« Hemorrhage.

Hemorrhage is the name assigned to a. loss of blood which may be sufficient in

quantity to threaten the life of the patient. The discharge takes place most frequently from the mouth, and, among women, from the uterus. Under the former circumstances the blood may proceed from the lungs or from the stomach. When the hemorrhage is from the lungs, it is heralded by a sense of heaviness and constriction in the chest, asthma, palpitation of the heart, anxiety, ebullition of blood, cough, and a sweetish taste in the mouth.

The spitting of blood occurs after a slight attack of cough, and sometimies after a tickling sensation in the upper portion of the chest, or in the throat, which inclines the patient to cough.

The most suitable remedy, and oub to be administered as quickly as possible, is Aconite, which may be repeated every two Or three hours, should circumstances threaten a relapse.

China is applicable after the exhibition o( AconifCj when the sanguineous excitement is calmed; when the patient feels shivering «r transitory heats, fatigue, or weakness; when he is mclined to lie down; ■ when the limbs are tremulous, brief sweats exhibit themselves, and the party contin-

U(^ to expectorate blood, more or less, every day : it is in the intervals between the hemorrhages that we should administer this remedy.

Pulsatilla is appropriate where the patient feels worse at night than by day; when he complains of shiverings, with sense of general debility; of uneasiness in the lower portion of.the chest, shootings in the chest, and difficulty of respiration; when the blood expectorated is deeply coloured, and in clots ; when the feet are cold, and the patient is overwhelmed with gri^f, and inclined to tears.

FuUatilla is very eflScient among women presenting the above symptoms, and who labour under suppression of the menses.

A medical man should always be consulted in cases of hemoptysis, and we merely indicate the first steps to be taken previously to his arrival. The remedies next in importance to those we have pointed out are the following, while the. study of the Materia Medica.and (he diversity of cases will lead the physician to the choice to the most eligible remedy:

Acid. Sulph., Arnica, fielladonn^i Cro*

cus, Digitalis, Drosera, ICali, Ledum, Ly-copodium, Millefolium, Rhus, Arsenic, Ferrum, Carbo Veg., Phosphorus, Ammon. Carb.9 Calcarea,Magues. Carb.^Plumbum, Acid. Nitric.

When the blood proceeds from the stomach the premonitory symptoms are gene-ral uneasiness; heaviness in the limbs; confusion in the head; anxious sense of pressure in the epigastrium; swelling and fulness of the abdomen; costiveness; disposition to vomit, with mawkish and putrid taste in the mouth. The blood which is discharged by the vomiting is of a deep red or blackish colour, and is frequently grumous.

Nux Vomica should be given where the above-mentioned symptoms are observable; we must be careful to prescribe a very weak dose, so that we may repeat it every three or four hours, according to the progress of the disease, while awaiting the arrival of the medical man.

The medicaments appropriate to this disease, and which the practitioner should enquire into, dire-r-

Aconite, Arsenic, Hyoscyamus, Ipecacuanha, Veratrum, China, Belladonna, Stannum, Arnica, Millefolium, Cantharides,

M^zereoD^ C3cuta Viridis, Sulphur, Lyco-podium, iOncum, Calcarea, and Carbo Vegetabilis.

Uterine hemorFhages are the most fre quent, and are particularly dangerous when they occur during pregnancy.

The circumstance oi pregnancy renders it essential to enjoin perfect repose.

Ipecacuanha is the first remedy to be adopted, provided the hemorrhage be not associated with uterine contractions, oi pains similar to those of labour, and whei e the loss of blood is abundant, continual without gusMngSy and accompanied by colic and general prostr^tbn.

Chatnomilla is suitable where the symptoms of the disease consist of loss of blood, with pains resemblmg those of labour. This remedy is especially indicated where anger has been the exciting cause of the disease.

China is an appropriate remedy where the patient feels uterine contraction, with pains resembling those of childbirth, and extending towards the rectum; if the hemorrhage come on in paroxysms, increasing and diminishing with the pains; if the patient feel colic, with painful tension of the lower part of the abdomen \ if the pa-

tient be weakened for the moment; be disposed to fall, and really do fall, into a state of lipothymy ; if the skin be cold, and she have a pressing inclination to make water.

HyoHcyamus is eligible where the uterine discharge is connected with general excitement of the nervous system ; tremor of the whole body; pains resembling those of childbirth ; giddiness; agitated slumber; great inquietude; excessive vivacity; convulsive movements; general heat; swelling of the veins; extreme violence of pulse; alteration of feature, &x,.

Arnica should be prescribed where the symptoms are referrible to external violence, undue exertion, de;c.

Crocus is applicable where the blood which escapes in black, clotted, and viscid, and where the patient feels cutting pains in the lower part of the abdomen, which extend through to the back.

Sabina is a specific where the blood is of a bright red colour, and is expelled by the contraction of the labour-pains.

Belladonna is very salutary where the hemorrhage is accompanied by pressure from above downwards, and from behind forwards, in the organs of generation ; when

the blood is bright red; where there is-agitation, with hard, full, and frequent pulse.

We may stiH furth^ Consult the following medicaments: Bryonia, Platina, Stram-onium, Ignatia, Ferrum, Pulsatilla, Carbo Animali^, Sec^le Coi'nutum, and Sepia.

• Hefnorrhoids.

This very frequent aiTectibnf has its first causie in a p^oric state of the economy, which by development efkcU a change in the circulation of the ffuids in the vessels of * the lowef region of the abdomen, after derangement, more or less evident, in the functions of the abdomiti^l viscera. It principally affects men of middle age, and wometi after the suppression in their monthly periods: it has been observable even'in infancy. •

This disease is characterized by cong^-tion in the head; vertigo; congestion in the chest; palpitation of the heart; pains in the back ; tenesmus; itching at the anu9 and in the rectum; obstinate costiveness; colics; and, lastly, by an excrescence more or less developed around the anus. It re*

13

appears at fixedor intermediate periods, and usually terminates in a discbarge of blood or mucus more or less abundant. At times, however, this excretion does not take place, and the hemorrhoids or piles are termed dry.

This disease is frequently repdered incurable from the injudicious treatment to which the patient has had reco)|rse, or from persevering in a regimen altogether at variance with the malady.

The sufferer should consult a competent medical authority with reference to an an-tipsoric plan of treatment to relieve, if not too late, so painful and distressing a disease.

To rC'^stablish his health, the patient must submit to a very moderate dietary: he must take plenty of exercise in the open air, avoid coldsi particularly in the feet; he must abstain, as muchas po6sible,from wine, coffee, lea, strong malt-liquor, lively emotions, late hours, and too assiduous application.

Nux f^omica is the most suitable application where the occasional causes of the disease are the use of stimulating beverages, such as wine, brandy, &c.; late hours^ toils of the study, costiveness, worms, preg-

nancy, swelling of the abdominal vidcera, excrescentes of considerable size,and which are the seat of burning and-shooting pains; sense of "strangulation in the rectum; contraction of this viscus^ united with dull and shodting pains felt in paroxysms in the loins and in the bones of the ham; cracking pains in the loins upon the slightest movement, inducing the patient to utter cries, and preventing his holding himself erect, or walking in any but a bent position; flow of clear fluid blood after the alvine evacuations, or under other circumstances, but always accompanied by a desire to relieve the bowels.

•^r^cmVis very efficacious where the hemorrhoids present, as a leading symptom, a violent burning in the rectum, the hemorrhoidal tumours, and in the surrounding parts. The evacuations nearly aqueous, and a rapid loss of power, united with the above symptoms, still indicate the same remedy.

Capsicum frequently succeed^ in the removal of the distressing pruritus of the hemorrhoidal tumours; when the patient experiences a burning sensation, more or

less violent, and where there is diarrboeal discharge.

£ellad<mna is valuable in moist piles, accompanied hy paio in the loins, wbicit are nearly insuperable, and with a sensation as though th/at part were broken asunder.

Sulphur is especially adapted to the foU lowing train of symptoms:

Continual desire to go to stool^even after diarrheal or sanguinepus i;notions; darting pain of excoriation in the rectum, and neighbouring parts; itching; burning; moisture of the epccr^scencqs; occasionally a pressive fulness in ih^ rectum, and frequently even the prolapsMs of the part; violent shooting pains in the loins, with sense of stifiness and tension, ^s though the skin and the muscles were contracted.

We may again, according to the circumstances of the case, derive the best results from the following remedies: .

Carbo Vegetabilis, Causticum, Calcarea, Graphites, Kali, Lycopodium, Pulsatilla, Phospho/us, Acid. Nit., Colocynthis, Mur. Acid.

IKFLAMMATIOIf OP TRV TBROAT. 149

Sieeotigh*

Id cases of severe Hic^ugh, when from its continuance, danger is apprehended. Belladonna is a suitable remedy. Bryonia has efibcted cures connected with symp-toi]» like the following, tight feeling in the throat, and long continued vomiting, the faeed flushed apd cold sweats.

Occurrine during pregnancy, Nux removes the diseased condition on which it depends.

Attacks iof vehement hiccoughing are often arrested by Lj/copodium^ especially when attended by sour eructations and heart bum.

Catarrhal Inflammation of the T%roat.

A.scrofulous diathesis is one of the causes especially predispbsine; to this malady. It consists in an inflammatory afiection of the mucous membrane which lines the throat, and also of the ganglions of the part. It exhibits itself chiefly after exposure to colds, errors of diet,du;. It is characterized by redness, swelling of the mucous membrane, hoarseness, difficult and painful deglutition,

■

and by a ticklingfind irritation in tht throat. This disease very frequently affects the individual, by reason of the predisposition indicated above.

Chamomilla is suitable where there is dryness of ihe throat, with thii:st; disagreea-" ble and uneasy sensation in swallowinofy or in bending the neck ; feeling in the throat as of a foreign foody, from which the patient desires to be relieved by spitting; swelling of the glands of the lower jaw, with pulsa-tive pain ; fever towards eveningT alternations'of cold and heal, with Ul-humour.

Mercury is appropriate where an accumulation of saliva induces the patient frequently to spit ; where a sense of burning in the throat renders d^lutition difficult: the throat appears too much contracted ; a smarting pain is experienced^ extending to the ear; \m^ aln^onds of the ears are swollen; a darting pain in swallowing; unpleasant taste in the mouth ; swelling in the posterior part of the tongue and of the gums; access of catarrhal fever in the evening, with alternations of cold and heat. . FuLmtilla is an eligible remedy where the following symptoms present themselves:

Sectgie.Qf excoriation, incisive pain^and

K^FLAMAfATION OF -THE R&AIN. l5l

> •

dryness of the throat; swelling of the glands; shivering, increased towards night, and sqcceeded by heat; absence of t])ir;t.

Belladonna is siiitaUe where, in drink-Mg^ there remains in the throat a cran^p-like feeling pf strangulation, and where the throat is\wQllen externally^

Coffea may be administered under the ioUowing circumstances:

Ooatinual pain extending ffom one side of tlie palate to the pharyax^ and which is* increased by deglutition; swelling of the superior portion of the velum palaii and of the uvula, which is elongated; sense of mucous accumulation in the affected part^ obliging th^ patient always to swallow; sensation of dryness and heat in the throat; inclination to cough; cold in the head; aggravation of symptoms in the open air; sleeplessness: heat; sensitiveness;, melan* choly temperameni.

Inflammation of the Brain.

This disease is of frequent occurrence among children, and at an early period of life it is of fearful import; at all ages it is highly dangerous.

Having attained a certain height, this affection yields with the greatest difficulty even to the most skilful treatment; and, for this reason, it is of the most signal im« portance to be intimately conversant with the premonitory symptdms. These are chiefly the effects of congestion in the head, producing pain and heaviness in that organ; change of disposition; fits of passion; anxiety; pains in the ears; intolerance of light; disposition to costiveness; freqi^ent nausea, succeeded at times by vomiting; coma; inability to fall asleep, or fright during sleep. The earlier symptoms are the following: Heat and heaviness in the head; face* very red and swollen; eyes suffused and brilliant; excess of irritabilitv and sensi-tiveness t giddiness; state of coma; delirium; divers indication of spasm; grinding of the teeth; inclination to thrust the fingers into the nostrils, and to bury the head in the bolster; to seize with eagerness every surrounding object; visible throbbings in the veins of the neck; absence of thirst with great heat; forcing down of the lower part of the abdomen; constipation; occasionally, slight diarrhcea.

This disease demands the most prompt assistance.

Aconite is appropriate at the onset of the attack, io order to modify the sanguine* OU8 congestion in the head; we must not, howevt^r, dwell too long upon the application of this remedy, which, in itselt alone, does not possess the power of arresting the malady.

Belladonna is the remedy which renders the most essential service after the exhibition of Jiconiitf^ provided the latter medicine have been deemed Aecessary: it is eligible where the symptoms already enumerated present themselves.

HyoscyamtLS is appropriate when the patient lies in bed without cognizance, with the eyes closed ; the mouth opening with difficulty; the tongue loaded with white and frothy mucus, raves upon his Qwn pri-vate affairs; sinks down without cognizance ; stutters inarticulately; smiles; or is at times perfectly quiescent; moVes his hands as though to withdraw the coverlid; frequent subsultus; dilatation of the pupil; fixedness of vision; redness of the face; skin dry and disposed to crack; respiration

'%

anxious and weak; full pulse^ and tension of the abdomen.

Opium should be prescribed where the patient is in a soporific state; where the somiolency is accompanied by snoring; the eyes half open; the patient utters no complaint ; is in need of nothing; and has fre* quent vomiting.

Stramonium is applicable where the patient, slumbering naturally, has starting in the limbs; snoriDgs; his movements irregular ; and, upon waking, he appears without cognizance i sometimes fixing his attention ; sometimes withdrawing himself slowly, and with apprehension; sometimes retreating with exclamations of dread; the above symptoms associated with ardent fever, re^dness of the face^ and moisture of the skin.

Arnica, Sulphur, Digitalis, China, and Bryonia, may^ under certain circumstances, be prescribed with advantage: it is for the practitioner to distinguish the peculiarities which should indicate their employ.

Inflammation of the Eyes.

In children recently boroy a too liydj impression of light occasions an inflamma* tion of the eyes^ eharacterized by a secretion, more or less abundant and viscid in character, from the mucous membrane of the eye.

Aconite, aided "by the observance of cleanliness, will quickly succeed in the re» moval of this malady. In cases where tb# intolerance of light is excessive, where the conjunctiva ifr highly inflamed and turgid, Beiiadpnna may be administered with great advantage after the Aconite.

Sulphur, succeeding to Aconite and J9e/-ladonna^ will complete the treatment, should any tr^ce of the disease remain.

Calcarea Carbonica may succeed to the exhibition of Sulphur, should the disease evince a tendency to the chronic state.

Inflammation of the eye, originating in the introduction of a foreign body, requires for its treatment the careful removal of the substance, to bathe the eye with pure water, and to administer Aconite, which

may be repeated according to circumstances. Sulphur may follow this remedy, if the affection be not effectually removed by the Aconite.

Arniea is very valuable when the eye has received any severe contusion: if it do not eflectually prevent the development of inflammation, we may have recourse to Aconite.

Orgelet, or Stye, is an inflammatory affection of the glands of the eyelid. It gives rise to a yellowish tumour, of the size of a grain of barleyf and frequently causes pain in the surpouoding parts. In most instances we gain prompt relief through the agepcy of Fulsatilla^ administered intei^nally, as also in the form of lotion.

When, as a tecj^uel to such repeated in-flammations, there may remain a slight induration of the lid from a thickening of a small gland, with disposition to renewed inflammation—notwithstanding such tendency is not fully developed, but assumes a^ subacute form-, so that the edges of the eyelids are always agglutinated-^—we may administer Staphysc^ria.

Catarrhal Inflammation of the Eyes

Proclaims itself by redness of the eyelids, and sometinies of the conjunctiva, more efr» pecially at the angles of the eyes; ther^ is also a sense of burning and compression, ai from the presence of a grain of sand, dread of light, and discharge of tears: to these symptoms are frequently united catarrh, with or without fever, and a dry cough, which is more or less troublesome*

Aconite is the first remedy by which to arrest the inflamn^atory progress, and may be followed up by Ni^z Fomica^ provided the affection be not too severe.

BeUadonna is appropriate after the ilco/itVe, and where the inflammation of the mucous membrane is intense, the vessels highly injected, and the eyes very sensitive to light; where we find a violent cold in the head, excoriating the nostrils and alae of the nose, the lips, and their commissure^ small inflamed pustules; and cough return*' ing at intervals, with a sense of suffocation and wheezing.

Euphrasia is a preferable remedy where

14

the redness of the lids,—produced by violent cold, with pain in the bead, and exa« cerbation of fever towards night,—extends itself over the whites of the eyes: this remedy is especially indicated where the secretion of tears is abundant.

Ophthalmia presents an infinite numbei of variations which we cannot discuss in this brief treatise: we confine ourselves therefore to those of most frequent occurrence.

The following are the more important remedies to i>e adnunistcred in affections of the eye:

Acid. Nitric, Acid. Sul[^., Arsenic, Belladonna, Calcarea, Caustteum, Chamomil-la, China, Colocynthis, Coniumy Digitalis^ Clematis, Euphrasia, Graphites, Hepar. Sulph., Mercury, Nux Vomica, Petroleum^ Psoricum, Pulsatilla, Rhus, Sepia, Spigelian Sulphur.

Catarrhal Inflammation of the NoBtrilv,

At the commencement of this disease^ when the inflammation is acute without much discharge, Nux is the appropriate remedy; after the secretion of mucus be^

comes abundant give Pulsatilla* In chronic cases, attended with continual burning in the nose—the discharge alternately occurring and disappearing, and of an acrid quality^ •drsenic may be given.

Inflammation of the Lungs.

Inflammation of the lungs evinces itself most frequently >¥ithout any premonitory symptoms: we observe violent, shiverings, succeeded by intense heat; and it is in most instances as a sequel to cold that this a£fec* tion presents itself.

The principal«characteristic symptoms are pressive and darting pains in the chest, considerably aggravated by inspiration; great oppression; shortness of breath; anxiety; cough, attended with much pain, dry at first, and succeeded by sputa tinged with blood. On percussion, the pain in the chest is not sensibly increased, but the parts to which percussion has been applied, and corresponding to the affected portion of the lungs, present a sound more or less dull, whilst the healthy parts are clear and sonorous.

The stethoscope, or even the ear applied to the chest, enables us to detect a peculiarity of sound which indicates perfectly the part affected; and where the pneumonia has attained a high degree of intensity, the lung ceases to be permeable to the air, and the respiratory sound is no longer perceptible. The pulse is full, strong, and frequent, oftentimes with palpitation of the heart; the skin is hot, dry, and burning; the face is red and swollen; the urine is high coloured; excessive thirst, and^ in most instances, constipation more or less obstinate.

As soon as the above details are observable, we should administer Aconite^ two or three globules to the dose; and if there be no favorable change in the general sytiip-toms, or in th^ state of the circulation, we may repeat the medicine. We need be under no apprehension of exhibiting two, three, or four doses of aconite, during the first twenty-four hours.

This remedy alone will frequently avail in arresting the progress of the mischief. Bryonia^ however, is oftentimes indispensable after the administration of Jiconite; and, according to circumstances, we may

give a dose every four^ six, or ten hours. This remedy is especially indicated where there are darting pains in the chest; where the sputa, tinged with blood, present a rusty appearance; and where we find rheumatic pains in the back, with oppression.

The practitioner will readily perceive that Rhus is especially suitable in pneumonia, after the use of aconite and bryonia, and where a typhoid condition is apparent

Squiila will be serviceable where the Jiconite has removed the earlier symptoms, and where there remains a profuse mucal expectoration; also where the patient com-

f>lains of weight beneafli the sternum, widi ancinations iii the right side of the chest, deeply towards the back; respirati(m very shorty quick, and anxious; the patient lies in bed with the shoulders much elevated; the pulse slightly defined; evening chills without being succeeded by heat, together with absence of sleep.

This remedy, then, is adapted to circumstances less decidedly inflammatory than where Bryonia would be appropriate.

In an elementary work like the present, we have no room to indicate the Jess fire*

14*

quent varieties to be met with in pneumonia: we shall content ourselves with pointing out the remedies to which the practi-tioner should direct his particular attention, as being at times of essential importance. These are: ' ' .

Arnica, Arsenic, Belladonna, Cannabis, China, Pulsatilla, Sulphur,. Acid, Phosphoric, Nux Vomica, Hyoscyamus, Stramonium, Veratrum, Opium^ Tartar. Emetic. Dulcamara.

Iflammation of the Breaii in Nurses.

. ■ >

This disease originates in a predisposi* tion peculiar to suckling; in errors of regimen, colds, lively emotions, fright, passion, mechanical lesion, such as a blow, and above all in weaning the infant too sudden* ly. In such cases, it frequently happens that the milk coagulatesin the lacteal vessels; tumefaction more or less considerable occurs; the skin becomes tense, indurations tfre detected in different places; an erysipelatous inflammation supervenes, almost invariably terminating in suppuration, which discharges from without, and causes most agoiiizing suffering to the patient. We

INFLAMMATION or THE BREAST. 16S

frequently observe the establishment of renewed indurations, which terminate successively in a similar manner. This disease may thus continue several weeks, or even months, and terminate at length in deeply-seated cicatrices, and even in indurated tumours.

Belladonna should be administered immediately upon the skin becoming ery;sipe-latous, and attended with gradual tumefao-tiou of the mamma.

Bryonia is very suitable where the secret ion of milk is suspended,—where there is tumefaction of the lacteal vessels,—where the bosom is obstructed,—<-and where the skin can scarcely be considered as erysipelatous., The medicine may be repeated according to the result.

If the inflammation be extensive and erysipdatous, with considerable swelling, and suppuration is commencing, we may give phosphorus; and finally, in order to facilitate the opening of the abscess, now fully ripe, we ma]F give one or more doses of hepar sulphuris.

If the disease have already existed some time, if it have been injudiciously treated, and suppuration goes on without destroying

the iDflammatioD of the breast, we must have recourse to SiHeeOf which, in one or more doses, will quickly restore the patient to health.

Vigilanee or Wakefulntis.

Vigilance in adults, when unaccompanied by any other indication of perverted health, 18 in most instances the result of undue excitement of the nervous system, originating in intensity of thought, powerful emotion, the abuse of stimulating drinks, coffee, &<u

Our treatment must commence by causing the patient to abstain as much ad pos* sible from the exciting causes, and a dose of Kux Vomica may be administered in the course of the evening.

Fulsaiiila is suitable where the wake-fulness proceeds from overloading the sto* mach, giving rise to flatulence and consti-pation. '

Wakefulness in young children frequently alarms their parents, and results, as a matter of course, from some derangement in their health. It frequently originates in errors of diet, and in such cases it is accompanied by swelling of the lower part of the

abdomen, flatttlence, green evacuatioDS, &JC. Chamomiila wi^ be attended with perfect success in retrieving the mischief, and restoring the patient to perfect health. Should this remedy, however, have been abused, we must have recourse to Coffea.

The vigilance which results from weaning will yield to Belladonna^ if in the course oi a few days the evil do not cure itself.

, Wakefulness, in connexion with continued crying, during wjiich the infant contracts t))e legs upon the abdomen, tosses about incessantly, and suffers severe griping pains, with diarrhoea, has its remedy in Cina.

Vigilance, resulting from a complicated state of disease, requires the treatment of the affection of which the wakefulness is merely symptomatic, and such prescription would be irrelevant here.

Irriiability of the Skin,

There are individuals whose skin is so excessively irritable, as to become inflamed and suppurate under the influence of the most trivial causes. This diseased condi-

tion depends upon some peculiar predispcH sition, and rarely gives way except to an antipsoric treatment long persisted in. Cha-momitiay Hepar Suiphuris, and Petro-leuTHf may be successfully opposed to this condition of the skin, and may be varied according to the exigencies of the casc^.

Intoxication-

Vomiting, beihg an excellent means of

Ereventing the mischievous results of ine-riety^ may be facilitated by drinking warm water, or a strong decoction of Co/-/ea. Very frequently, however, Nux Vomica will succeed in dispersing the symptoms indicating such a state of things, and prevent the dependent consequences which are more or less distressing.

Jaundice-

This affection results from innumerable causes, and presents itself under many different aspects.

One of the causes, most frequent in occurrence, is passion: the skin assumes a yellowish appearance, as also the whites of

the ejeSf and the alas of the Dose; the unne becomes brown and tliick; the abdomen contracted; the eva^cuations white, grey, and slimy; the appetite fails, and the mouth acquires a bitter taste. We commence our treatment by Chamomiila, and after its use we administer Nux Vomica and Bryonia.

In cases where we meet with fevtft after the exhibition of Chamomillaj we shall do well to adminbter one or two doses of Jiconiie.

If the jaundice have originated in the abuse of Chamomilla, the symptoms must be combated by tulaatilla and Ignatifi^ and the treatment concluded by China.

This disease among newly-born infants very frequently originates in cold, to which children, during the first few days after birth, are particularly liable; it may also proceed from the abuse of puigatives administered for the purpose of discharging the meconium.

The treatment under such circumstances is similar to that indicated above. ,Chamo* milla and Nux readily mastering the disease. A warm bath every day, fo^ a few

I

minutes, will prove of admirable anistancef in promoting the health of the child.

Tte remaining remedies, which prove of infinite service in jaundice, and which should be scrupulously investigated by pio^ fessional men^ are:

Arsenic, Belladonna, Mercury, Sulphur^ Digitalis^ Calcarea, Carbo Vegetabilis.

Fainting Fits.

Wq thus denominate a train of symptoms presenting numberless varieties, as well in the symptoms themselves, as in thei importance of their results.

The following: phenomena are observa^ ble.

Debility, giddiness, and confusion in the head; twitching in the ears; dimness, obscurity of vision, or the sensation as of a veil be<« fore the eyes; the patient trembles, becomes pale, and experiences anxiety; a cold sweat displays itself upon the forehead and neck; the eyes lose their lustre, and are surrounded by a blue circle; the animal powers diminish, and the patient at length looses all cogniza«nce and sense of fueling. On the other hand, there may remain merely a

bewildefment of sense, confusion, ^nd in-dislinct noise in the ears; the pulse weakens, becomes slow, small, and at times nearly imperceptible; and the respiration > corresponds in all particulars with the pulde.

The more serious faintings, which very nearly resemble dissolution, consist in the complete suspension of the corporeal functions. Not only is there no C(^nizance, sense of feeling, or voluntary motion, but the pulse and the breathing, together with the excretions and secretions,are altogether suspended.

The irritability and sensitiveness, how-•Vf r, are not so far gone but that we may have recourse to galvanism, applied immediately to the denuded nerves and muscles, in order to re-establish the vital functions. This state of things is to be distinguished from death in reality, only by the repeated application of means the most energetic, and by the absence of incipient decomposition.

The treatment of persons fallen into a swoon consists in the application of external excitants, such as friction to the soles of the feet, tickling the nose with a feather, and sprinkling the face with cold water.

15

i^ remedy Xnrhich in most instances wi|l readily succeed, consists in placing the patient horizontally, with the head rather lower than the body and the limbs. 4t is premised, however, that this incKnation must be very trivial, and never put in force where there is any determination of blood to the head. It remains to observe that these swoonings are of rare occurrence, and that a few moments will generally suffice to restore the patient..

The nnedicines, in such cases, are usually administered through the medium of olfaction, but we may also place the remedy upon the tongue. One of the best remedial agents is camphorated spirits of wine, which may be placed beneath the nose of the patient, and with which th^ forehead and temples may be slightly rubbed.

Opium is ^n appropriate agent where the swooning has been the result of fright.

Moschus is suitable in fainting fits, to which men wBo are hypochondrical, delicate, and irritable, and women of hysterical habit, are very liable ; also young girls of a cblorotic tendency.

China is the remedy suitable to fainting^

fits which result irom a considerable losa of the juicdB, such as prolonged nursing, re-< pealed blood-lettings, profuse hemorrhage, frequent .'pollutions, and long^continued diarrhfBa. '

Lypothymy, frequent in occurrence^ and superveiiing without any appreciable cause, is referrable to some dhronic ailment which must be confided to the care of tha medical prdsCtitioner.

Prolap$u9 •Bni'^Falling Down of theFunda^

menu ^

When this accident occurs, it readily yields to the exhibition of Mercury^ or Sepia. Ignatia has also effected cures of this disease.

Fetid Breath.

As fetor of the breath originates in most instances from want of paying proper attention to th£ teeth, the observance of cleanliness will remove the annoyance.

In cases where the-odour proceeds from the stomach, or from the lungs, we must oppose it by the following medicines, pro-

vided the effluvia be perceived immediately on rising : Carbo Animalis, Agaricus, and lodium. •Ammonium is the remedy where the

Caticnt himself remarks the fet<Hr of the reath.

Barytea^ where the breath is very offensive ; but the patient himself unconscious of the annoyance.

Graphites^ where the odour resembles that of the urine, and process from the nose.

Sulphur^ if the odour become more offensive after a repast.

The fetid effluvia from the mouth are often the result of a species of putrid inflammation of its interior, in which the gums, tongue, and palate are affeoted with painful swelling, redness, burning heat, and emanation of putrescent smell with which the saliva is charged: the gums become soft, recede from the teeth, and are covered with small ulcers, the source of the fetor.

Mercury triumphs readily over this species of disease, by restoring to a healthy condition the parieties of the mouth.

Aurum frequently removes fetor of

breath, particularly among young girls about the period of puberty.

Pains in the Loins.

This affection, often extremely violent, has its seat in the vicinity of the lumbar vertebrae, either in the lumbar region itself or in the sacrum ; it possesses the same characteristics in either of these different parts, and is not increased by pressure.— At times the aflfection is confined to one side; flexure of the back and of the thigh is exceedingly painful; the sufferer is compelled to lie upon the back, or upon the affected side; he can neither turn, nor raise his thighs, nor separate them; when out of bed, he is obliged to walk constantly in a curved position; he frequently halts in his gait, and is anable to lift any burden; he complains of a tearing pain affecting the loins wben he is desirous of standing upright, and which renders him nearly incapable of assuming that position. There are no external indications. This pain proceeds in most instances from a cold, excess in diet or drinking, and is frequently accompanied by a hemorrhoidal affection.

16*

Nux Vomica is especially applicable ^here the symptoms have resulted from the causes above detailed ; and where we find constipation with disposition to hemor« rhoids. Where the dbease is referrible to some severe chronic affection, it requires an antipsoric plan of treatment.

Jlrnica is an appropriate remedy where the disease has presented itself after raising a heavy weight, after a fall or contusion^ and where the patient feels the pain so violent as scarcely to admit of bis coughing, sneezing or walking.

Should the Jirnica prove insufficient, Rhus will succeed in perfecting the cure.

Acute Inflammatum of the Lumbar and Fsoae Mueelea (Lumbago Inflammatoria.)

This may be distinguished by the following characteristics :

rain, fixed, violent, drawing, tearing, tensive, and inflammatory, in the lumbar region, and extending itself at times to the back and shoulders, and even to the bladder and the thighs, without following the course of the nerves. It is frequently associated with colic \ a sensation at the anus.

as though inclined to go to the closet; cramps in the bladder ; dysuria, and stran-guary ; afterwards a sensation of debility, numbness, and torpor of the thigh on the affected side ; the patient cannot, except with difficulty, extend or flex the limb; and, the pain increasing, he can scarcely lie upon his back in consequence of his suffering. Sometimes there is hardness, with evident swelling; more or less febrile excitement accompanies the symptoms, which commence in a severe fit of shivering, followed by violent heat; the skin is burning to the touch; there is lively thirst; and the pulse is hard, full, and incompressible^

The treatment should commence by mastering the /general symptoms, and by exhibiting Aconite^ which may be repeated several times according to the exigency of the case.

Bryonia and tfux are serviceable where the pains are more especially experienced during motion.

Rhtis and Pulsatilla may be employed where.the patient suffers principally dfur-ing quiescence.

CantharideSf where we find spasmodic symptoms in the urinary organs^ such as

<fifficulty in passing the water, or inability to micturite.

Mercury and Chamomilla^ where the pains are almost insufferable during the night.

Siaphysagria will prove efficient where the pains are pulsative in their character, and where there is a tendency to suppuration.

In such cases the following medicines will frequently be of service, more parti*-cularly where the pains are drawing, tearing, and inflammatory in their character:

Arnica, Chamomilla, China^ Merciiriiis^ Hepar Sulpfauiis, Aurum, Assafcetida, Belladonna.

The above nemedies, as well as Nux and Rhus^ are valuable both in acute and chronic cases.

' Digitalis, Colocynth, Af^entum, and Plumbum are more particularly appropriate to cases which ftre chronic in their character^

Intermittent Fever.

Iq the treatment of this disease, a very important rule is to be observed, viz : that tEe most efficacious period of administering a remedy, is immediately after the termi* njition of the paroxysm, thus afibrding to the medkinfi, ^ample time to modify the orgaiysnph \ifithout producing any violent impresdon"; or if the interval between the parpzysm is veryt short or disturbed by eoasectttiv^ symptoms of preceding parox-ysmsy the remedy should be given as soon as the perspiration begins to decline.— Another important rule requires the repetition of the medicine some time before the ensuing paroxysms. Intermittent fevers of marshy regions, the diet being duly attended to, yields readily to a few doses of China, when characterised by some of the following symptoms:

Absence of thirst during the chill, yet thirst afterwards before the fever; but if there be thirst with the heat, China is not a suitable remedy. If there is thirst after the heat or during the perspiration,

its use is then perfectly apposite. When the attack begins with an accessory symptom as palpitation of the heart, anxiety, frequent sneezing, excessive thirst, unusual appetite, pressing and pain in the lower part of the abdomen, or paia in the bead, we may expect it will yield to one or more doses of China. Likewise when there is a determination of blood to the head a distention of the veins, with simple warmth in the head or increased general warmtlk When there are heat and redness in the face, and. frequently ccJdness of the re* mainder of the body, appreciable to the touch, or when the warmth is internal, with coldness of the face, and eold perspiration on the forehead, China is equally beneficial.

In interinittent fevers attended with constipiation, Nux Vomica^ Veratrum^ Beiiadonna and Cocculus', are remedies that merit attention. Nux Vomica is certainly a most efficient remedy in the cure of complicated intermittent fevers, especially, wfeere there«is a predominance of gastric of bilious symptoms. Nux V. is also an agent of the utmost importance in the treatment of this disease, attended with

vertigo, anxiety, febrile shiverings and cer* tain species of delirium, consisting of vivid and sometimes frightful visions. WJierethere is a loss of power in the limbs, and weakness of the joints,'trembling, prostration of strength, fainting, vertigo, loss of sense, heaviness of the head, disposition to lie down, difficult and anxious respiration, palpitation of the heart, fear of death, &t.i immediately after, chilliness, succeeded by anxious heat; redneSs of the cheeks; with internal chilliness; heat in the head with coldness of the body; burning in the eyes, though without inflammation; drawing; pulsating and lancinating headach; which is increased by exercise and tke open air; loss of appetite; aversion to bread; bitter and acid eructations; nocturnal delirium, &c. Belladonna^ like NtiXy re» quires great care in its administration, as its utility is more directly indicated by accidental concomitants than' by* febrile symptoms. This medicine being capable of effecting cures of maladies returning pe-riodically, it is evident that it should prove efficient in intermittents, accompanied by painful symptoms, which return by pjftrox-ysms, when the chill is very active^ the

■

heat attended Bometimes by shuddering; the perspiration light, the thirst trifling, the dryness of the inouth and throat alone inducii^ the patient to make use of drinks. It is suitable for those paroxysms returning daily, which are attended by violent headaches, vertigo, redness of the eyes, nausea, vomiting, constipation, shivering, thirst without excessive heat. V^oirum of the 12th potence, Cina^ Pulsatilla^ Aniimonium Crudum and Cocculus 12 or 18, are all' important remedies, in the treatment of this disease, but their Respective use and application must be learned by reference to their virtues in the Materia Medica. •Arsenic, however, is one of the most prominent remedies in the eure of intermittents. When the chills and fever are not distinctly developed, when they alternate or cotomingle with each other, also, when the back is burning, and attended by great agitation and almost inextinguishable, the ^raenic will display its eflScacy^ This remedy is proper, when the pains or other accidental symptoms already existing) though feebly developed, ai:^men]:*at the accession of the fever, or ^)ien they first appear, and are succeed**

ed by and unite with the fever. The Ar^ senic is not less useful in those cases, where soon after the chill, an inclination to vomit or a bitter taste in the mouth is observed; when the taste of aliments or drinks is ex* tinguished .without a constant continuance of a bitter or disagreeable taste in the mouth, though it may occur again while eating or soon after it; where vertigo, ntu-seai trembling and sudden prostration of strength ar^ manifested to the highest degree; where the patient drinks very fre-quently, but little at a time; where, the perspiration does not occur for some time after the heat, and also where it does not appear at all; ajnd where sensation and motion are impaired, with insupportable pains ^nd the highest degree of anxiety. . IgncUia 13 is particularly suitable^ where the exterier heat causes a cessation of the febrile chill, or where there is heat in particular parts qf the body, and cold or shivering in others, and finally, when the beat is simply exterior and unaccompa* nied by thirst. It can also be employed in fevers with great advantage,, where the patient has thirst during the chill, without experiencing it during heat. *

1(5

L

A laj^e Dumber of Homoeopathic medicines, proved upon persons in health, have produced conditions analogous to those of intermittent fevers, and consequently suffice for the cure of all their parallel symptoms. Such ^re the following, whose application is to be directed by their peculiar virtues^as they are found detailed in the Ma-tecia Medica ; Opium^ Sabadi/la, Curb. Vegttabny Tart. Emet.^^rnicay Rhus. T.y Chamomillaj Bryonia^ Natruvn Muriat.^ Lycopodium^ Ammon. Muriat,^ Sepia, and Sulphur.

CMera.

Cholera in this climate is most frequent* ly observed during the prevalence of the summer heats, and assumes an epidemic form; it sometifiles offers a complication of symptoms, and presen1;s itself under a spasmodic or bilious type.

The predisposing and occasional causes are, in most instances, an elevated grade of temperature long continued t a sudden decline in the thermometer during a very hot day; peculiarirritability of constitution; a state of hysteria and hypochondriasis;

the period of dentition; violent <^motion» fear, grief, vexation ; undigested aliments; acid, unripe fruit; cold drinks; coldness of the feet, and of the lower part of the abdomen; suppression of the natural dischar* ges, such as the menses, penipiration, &G.; or even the exhibition of violent remedies.

Cholera not infrequently supervenes unattended by any precursory symptons ; or before the development of symptoms characterizing the affection, we may observe various phenomena, such as an increase of the bilious secretion ; corporeal inactivity ; general uneasiness; heavineas; jaundiced complexion; the tongue clothed with yellow mucus, and the root especially loaded and yellow; a bitterness of taste in the mouth ; aversion for food ; bitter risings ; pressure and cramp-like contraction of the stomach s sensation of fulness at the pit of tile stomach; anxiety in the epigastric re-^on; flatulence; distaste; swelling of the abdomen; a rumbling and colic in the intestinal canal; the urine deposits a reddish sediment^ smells offensively, and pain is caused by the act of micturition.

When these symptoms are not relieved by appropriate remedies, or when the dis-

ease is sudden in its access, we remark the under-written phenomena:

The patient vomits his food, the ejection of which is succeeded by the more or less abundant discharge of a mucous, watery, and bilious fluid; the colour of the vomited matter is yellow, green, brown, gr blackish, and frequently very ofiensive. At the same time violent diarrhoea ja established: at first the secretions are fecal, watery, and bilious, firequently associated with violent colicky pains, burning and acute in character, and occupying chiefly the region of the umbilicus.

Should the malady continue its progress, other symptoms present themselves: these are, fulness in the epigastrium ; quick and anxious respiration ; violent cramps in the stomach, with a spasmodic pulse, at times nearly imperceptible.

These symptoms frequently acquire ex* treme severity^ the strength and the pulse sink rapidly; spasmodic symptoms present themselves in diiTerent organs; superadded to which are painful cramps in the limbs ; spasms in the bladder; cold perspiration ; syncope, with hippocratic expression of countenance.

• «

The preliminary symptoms of cholera are speedily removed by the admini^ration of Chamomilla,

Ipecacuanha is appropriate where the vomitings and diarrhoea are already estab-liskQjeL When the first doses of this medicine do not effectively meliorate the disease, or where it has acquired a high degree of development, we must unhesitatingly have recourse to Viratrum, y/hichwiW act altogether as a specific.

Arsenic is required, when, to the characteristic synfkptoDjs of cholera are united a rapid declension of animal power; much anxiety; insatiable thirst; almost constant discharge from the bowels; th6 matters tinged with blood; vomiting; excraciating pain in the bowels; pul|e scvcely perceptible; hyppocr^tic expresdon.

Chanwmilta is suitable to that ferm of cholera which is excited by a fit of paasion.

PuhaHtla may be employed, where the evacuationB ar&especially mucous, and will succeed perfectly well in subduing the affection.

, The repetition of the medicine i$ of the utmost importance in this disease, since we mu8tl)ear in reoMmbrance^ that frequently

16*

the virtues of the medicament, and vital reaction, are promptly extinguished by the morbific virulence. We should therefore repeat the remedy in accordance with the urgency of the \:ase. In furtherance of this view, we should dissolve from one to six globules in twelve spoonfuls of water, and administer a spoonful of the mixture every quarter of an hour, every half-hour, or every hour, in proportion to the severity of the symptoms. In some instances of extreme character, it will be necessary to repeat the medicine every ten minutes. It is not the dilution of the remedy which is important^ but the frequency of its repeti*-tion.

Medical practitioners will do well to direct their attention to the following medi« cines, in the event of those indicated above not corresponding with the cholera falling under their observatidn, such, for instance, as Asiatic Cholera.

China^ Colocynthis, Dulcamara, Cam-phora, Cantharides, Carbo Vegetabilis, Cicuta, Belladonna,'Cuprum, Lauro-Cera-sus, Nux Vomica, Secale Cornutum.

Food in cases of cholera should be inter-dieted, since all aliments will be rejected

by the stomach. The drinks should be iced, and administered in small quantities at a time. If ice cannot be procured, the drinks should be given as cool ai possible* The reaction of the skin may be promoted by dry friction of the l^mbs. The temperature of the apartment should be mode* rate, as also that of the bed;, and it must be remembered that ajl external applications of a medical character are perfectly futile. The internal exhibition of suitable remedies will promptly remove the evil.

Measles.

t

Measles is an eruptive disease attacking individuals of every age» but more especially those of tender years. It has its origin in some peculiar condition of the atmosphere, of the nature of which we are totally ignorant, and reigns chiefly in an epidemic form: cases piurely isolated have rarely come under observation.

This disease is in many instances slight, and presents but little to excite apprehension; at other times it may be characterized by symptoiDs of extreme danger, and it leaves most formidable traces of its viru-

lence. We may rest satisfied, however, that, under the influence of judicious homoeopathic treatment, this affection may be promptly and radically cured. It is almost unexampled to remark an unfavourable termination, except where the patient is found under circumstances altogether adverse, such as shattered in constitution, in abject misery, in a state of complicated psora; or where there is an utter deficiency of hygeinic observance.

Measles is invariably preceded by a catarrhal and febrile state, generally supervening three or four days previously to the appearance of the malady. The patient feels languid, complains oi uneasiness, debility, of chilis alternating with heats, and frequency of pulse; there is slight cough, with hoarseness and difficulty of respiration, accompanied with coryza; the eyes are de-

{'ected, suffused with tears, sensitive to the ight, red and swollen.

After three or four days we observe an incipient redness of the skin; the fever has acquired much intensity; the cough is nearly incessant; is excited by an annoying tickling in the larvnx and trachea, often with considerable hoarseness; the eyes are

red, swollen, disposed to water, sensitive to light; there is frequent somnolency and agi* tation during sleep; the eruption becomes more and more defined, is characterized by its semi-lunar form, and leaves between the red patches certain portions of the skin preserving their natural appearance. In passing the hand over the skin, it is observed to be slightly elevated, and presents a marbled appearance from the confluence of semi-circular lines. The order in which the eruption is usually observed is as follows : it first displays itself on the face, then behind the ears, on the neck, chesty superior extremities, the trunk, abdomen, and afterwards on the lower limbs. The redness disappears beneath the pressure of the finger, but very quickly returns.

The fever is remittent, with exacerbation in the evening. As soon as the eruption is perfected, the fever gradually subsides, and at this period of the disease the patient frequently exhales an acid odour. Desquamation of the skin is the next phenomenon, but from the delicacy of the scales, it is scarcely observable. The fever has at this time completely ceased, and the

cough, which has become moist, gradually declines.

Sucih is the usual progress of measles, when not in complication with formidable symptoms. The duration of the disease when lefl: to itself, without including the period of convalescence, and when mild^ is usually from twelve to fourteen days.

Treated homoeopathically, all the stages of the disease are equally defined; but they are, in most instances, of briefer continuance, and the infection is invaribly of milder type.

Pulsatilla is the medicine appropriate to the first stage of the disease; this medicine curtails^ renders less painful, and singularly favours the eruption. ' Aconite should be exhibited when the disease is ushered in with intense fever, and even during its progress, where the fever is hijgh and where the symptoms indicate an inflammatory condition of the organs o! the economy.

Belladonna is applicable in cases where the patient complains of continual thirst; where the tonsils and velum palati are inflamed; where the cough is spasmodic, dry> and powerfully affects the chest; the con-

junctiva deeply injected; the eyes appear vitreous; are much disposed to tears; also great restlessness of mind: irritability of the nervous system; vigilance; delirium.

Bryonia is very efficient in cases where the eruption has retroceded: it restores it to the surface, and removes the danger attendant upon such internal diversion.

This remedy is more particularly indicated in cases of inflammatorv affections of the respiratory organs; or when the eyes are excessively sensitive to the stimulus of

light.

Pulsatilla is very useful in cases of diarrhoea i^nd glairy vomitings, by reason of a suppression of the eruption.

Mercuryy in certain cases of inflammation of the neck, may be serviceable. The characteristic symptoms which indicate its prescription are swelling of the tonsils, with ulceration; where all the parts are porered with viscid mucus; the gums in a state of inflammation, with salivary secretion more or less abundant.

Mercury, Pulsatilla^ and China are frequently available in the diarrhoeas which are consequent tipon this disease.

Chamomilla, Ignatia^ and Nux are

serviceable an opposing the drj^ harsh cough, which continues after the cessation of the disease^

Belladonna, Cinay Hyoscyamus, and Conium are particularly indicated where the cough is spasmodic in its character^ and resembles a paroxysm of the whooping-cough. .1

Practitioners who may have to treat this affection should carefully study the following remedies:

Morbillin, Phosphorus^ Nux Vomica, Stramonium, Sulphur, Carbo Vegetabilis,

In an elen^entary work, similar to the present, we cannot discuss the treatment of the more serious forms of the disease, such as are complicated with nervous fever and cerebral inflammation: such cases must rest in the hands of a practitioner competently versed in homoeopathic science. The treatment we have detailed will suffice for ordinary attacks.

The mode of administering the various remedies which have just passed in review must vary according to circumstances. In some individuals, one or two doses will suffice for each of the stages. In others, it

will not only be desirable to repeat the dose, but it will be essential to do so. We must dissolve from one to three globules in twelve spoonfuls of water, and exhibit a spoonful every hour, or even every half lioiir> in cases where the remedies quickly expend their action.

The temperature of the chamber should be moderate.

The beverage should consist of pure water, water-gruel, milk and water, gum-water sweetened with sugar, toast-water, &c.

The nutriment should be very light in the earlier stages of the disease: when the fever runs higb^ the failure of appetite is evidently an indication of the necessity for sthl greater abstinence. Soon, however, the appetite will develop itself and we may gradually revert to a more^ substantial diet.

The animal powers will be speedily reestablished, since the organism has suffered no drawback froin the various evacuations prescribed in the allopathic school of medicine.

17

Scarlatina* > *

Scarlatioa is an epidemic disease, principally incidental to childhood; but all ages are liable to its attacks. Isolated cases of sqajrlatiaa have rarely come under observ-ance, and it usually affects the same individual only once in his lifetime. . The febrile symptoms do not set in several days previously to the attack, as in measles: the patient may be apparently in good health to-day, and on the morrbw be the victim of disease.

The fikin is of a bright scarlet red, similar in colour to a boiled lobster, and the pressure of the finger leaves a white imprint, which instantly afterwards becomes red. This hue of the skin is gradually lost in that of the healthy portion, and is not defined in its margin as in hieasles. The redness is of frequent variation, sometimes appearing more vivid, at other times paler, in order to reassume a greater intensity.

The skin in true scarlatina is smooth and glossy; a characteristic which distinguishes it from every other eruption.

The redness commences upon those parts of the body which are uncovered, or but lightly clothed; first the face, throat, breast, hands, feet, &c.; and the redness Occupies from three to five days in attaining its full development. When the eruption assumes a different course, it is usually much more serious. Those parts which have been Srst attacked are invariably the earliest to be* come pale; and the fever, which is proportionate to the force ^f the eruption, subsides, and disappears when desquamation supervenes, Burtng the progress of the disease, the skin has remained dry over the parts affected, and itis only at its close that the perspiratfon is re-established. Th'e desquamation is more decided than in measles, and the epidermis is removed in scales, at times of considerate magni* tude.

A characteristic symptom' of scarlatina is an affection of the throat. We have observed, that measles is invariably accompanied by cough, and an affection of the eyes; while scarlatina is ever associated with sore throat, characterized by an intense redness very similar to that of the skin, in which the mucous membrane of

the pharynx, mouth, and tongue, more or less participate.

Belladonna is the exclusive remedy for the disease when pure or idiopathic in its character, and free from complication* Frotti one to three globules of belladonna should be dissolved in six spoonfuls of pure water, and a spoonful of the mixture be administered every hour, being guided by the results. We may repeat or intermit the doses at will, and in this manner obviate any loss of time, or, on the other hand, any serious a^ravation of symptoms.

Opium is indicated where the disease is complicated with burning beat, a stunning sensation in the head, with somnolency, agonizing disquietude, tossing about from place to place, with vomitings, diarrhoea or costiveness, convulsions, (&c.' A few attenuated doses of opium will divert the disease into a mote kindly and favorable channel.

Ipecacuanha will be of service when the fever exacerbates towards evening; where there is absence of sleep; failure of appetite; and insupportable melancholy, with disposition to tears.

Mercury will he of essential service

where the angina accompanying scarlatina is attended with considerable swelling; where the throat appears clogged with viscid mucus, and the parts are really or appear to be ulcerated. In such cases we must not implicitly rely up^n the action of Belladonna^ but, without loss of time, have recourse to Mercury.

Jirsenieum is a triumphant remedy in certain cases of angina, especially where the fever has assumed a malignant type. In such instances the throat and mouth are interspersed with numerous ulcerations, exhaling a putrid odour, the animal power is prostrate, the mouth very dry^ and the thirst insatiable.

Nux Vomica may succeed to the exhibition of arsenic, where the symptoms have not been entirely removed by the latter agent.

Aconite is frequently of value where the disease is attended either with violent febrile excitement, or high iaflammatoiry action. .

Practitioners must consult the following remedial agents where the affection is complicated in its character, viz.

17*

Phosphorus, Rhus, Sulphur, Phosphoric Acid, Helleborus, Cahinca, Coffea.

We must in nowise remit our hjrgeinic attentions to the patient, and the reader is referred to what has been said upon this subject generally, and to what has been more especially observed under the head of measles.

Small'Pox.

Small-Pox (Variola) is an eruptive and contagious disease attacking the patient, in most instances, but once in his lifi^ime. The afiection is r^ular in its progress, and the stages, of which four are distinguishable, are well defined.

The first is the febrile stage, in which are perceptible upon the skin numerous red spots, proclaiming the disease. The f(^ver. is attended with headach, melancholy, ill humoui*, lassitude, drdwsiness, congestion in the head, bleeding at the nose, sleepiness, twitching in the limbs, pendipu-lation, swelling of-the ganglions, and vomiting. The patient complains too of excessive pain in the lumbar region, and this symptom is at times entirely characteristic.

The second is the eruptive stage. The spots or stigmata attain a certain height, and present small red elevations, which, after about forty-eight hours, are converted into pustules. They display themselves, in the first instance, on the mc^\ the following day upon the hands, and surface of the body; and on the third day upon the soles of the feet. By this time the pustules are, in most instances, completely formed upon the face, and the patient complains merely of itching and heat of skin, with pain occasionally in the eyes and in the throat.

T^e third stage commences after the perfect establishment of the eruption; that is to say, from the fifth to the ninth day. The pustules acquire considerable development, are circumscribed by a red lineation, and are charged with lymph presenting a dark point in the centre, slightly depressed* This lymph, in the first instance limpid^ becomes yellow, acquires consistency, is purulent, and the pustules are confluent. When the pustules are numerous, there is considerable swelling, especially about the head and eyes, and the aspect is frequently appalling. At the same time the mucous

SOO BISEASES.

membrane of the nose, moutfat and pharynx becomes inflamed, and in many instances we find profuse salivation.

Where the eruption Is very great, a secondary fever is established: this bai been termed the suppurative fev^r, aud^ according to circumstances, is more or less violent. The urine becomes thick and clouded, and attended) as it were, with a purulent deposit ; while the odour, which is exhaled from the patient, is scarcely supportable.

The fourth stage, that of desiccation and desquamation, terminates the disease. Desiccation commences in those pustules which were first established, and as soon as this is somewhat confirmed, the suppurative fever decreases, and shortly after gradually sub-sides. At the same time are observed tumefaction of the face, putrescent odour, and, [subsequently^ an itching on the skin. The suppuration dries up, and there are formed brown, hard, and dry crusts, which fall off more or less slowly, leaving upon the skin cicatrices, more or less strongly de* fined. The skin remains for a long time keenly sensible to atmospheric impressions.

This disease is often very formidable. Hitherto we have merely traced the cha-

ractorizing syoiptoms; but* superadded to these^ we constantly remark an afiection of organs mainly essential to life, such as the lungs, brain, stomacb» bowels, &c.; and it may be observed, that the. more severe the disease, the greater the variety of complicaticHU

The earliest stage of the disease requires the exhibition of Aconite^ in order to moderate fever and visceral congestion.

Belladonna is indicated where the brain is affected with excessive irritability of the nervous system, and where the eyes are particularly sensitive to the stimulus of light.

Opium is available in cases attended with invincible disposition to sleep.

In the second stage, we shall find Stra' monium very efficient in facilitating the removal of the eruption, and in limiting its duration. When this Stage of the disorder is complicated with gastric phenomena, we may exhibit with advantage Cha'^ momilla^ Nux Vomica^ Crude Aniu fnony^ and Bryonia^ or even other remedies, the choice of which must be regulated by the characteristic symptoms, and by the changes observable in the moral tendencies of the patient

Aconite may be productive of much benefit at this period, should fever or in-flammatoiy action be apprehended.

Belladonna is indispensable where the cerebro-spinal economy is affected; where we encounter delirium^ ardent thirst, vigi* lance, and constipation; and where fhere is burning heat of the body, with coldness Iff the extremities.

Bryonia and •Aconite are indicated where the respiratory organs appear to be threatened with infiammation. The eruption, during this period, has frequent tendency to assume a formidable aspect, and either to become identified with putrid fever, or rapidly to disappear. Arsenic will prove invaluable in arresting the danger^ and in restoring the vital energies which have become nearly extinct.

The third stage may present all the complications of the preceding, and requires, in consequence, a similar mode of treatment, varied with reference to circumstances.

When this period Is distinguished by complication, and when we are conversant with its characteristics, there is no remedy more appropriate than Mercury^ which

particularly indicates an affection of the throat, eyes, secretioa of saliva, &c.

The desiccating stage requires merely hygeinic observance, and especially cleanliness. In the first instance, ablution must be enforced with warm water, gradually decreasing the temperature, untiU he water which is used be perfectly cold.

Practitioners will derive much benefit byt directing their attention to the following remedies,, viz:

China, CoiSea, Solanum Mammosum, Sulphur, Variolin, Vaccinin.

m

Megfim

Is a species of cephalalgia afiecting otie side of the head, and at times only a small portion, which might, as it were, be covered with the top of the filler, and feeling as though a nail were driven into the part. Occasionally it is b«t dightly painful, but in the majority of cases the violence is excessive, and its intensity gradui^lly increases.

There is at first experienced in the affected {»art a slight pressure, with sense of coldness, simikr to what would be induced

by pouring cold water upon the part; throb-bingSy after which the pains become lancinating, tearing, staggering^ and insufferable. The immediiite seat of the complaint, too, becomes extremely sensitive, and incapable of enduring the sl^htest pressure.

Occasionally the pain afiects the eydids, whence it ascends to the forehead and temples ; or it may proceed downwards to the lip or the gums ; or it may station itself in the orbit, causing a profuse lachrymal discharge ; the nostril on the side affected is geneially obstructied. At times, the megrim extends itself with severity to the occiput and nape of the neck, or affects at the same time the eye, the temple, and the ear. We observe^ too, a pricking sensation in the fingers, in the iorearm, and in the muscles of the neck; great tension, and strong arterial pulsation in the forehead and in the temples. When the mischief has its seat at the vertex, it occasions.a sensation as though the head would split, and it terminates at times by pervading the entire heiad. In certain cases the eountenance is flushed, the eye dreads the light/and it becomes reddened, prominent^

or contracted by spasms. During a violent paroxysm, we may observe slight convulsive movements in the neighbourhood of the eye, or in the nape of the neck, with diffused perspirations which yield no relief.

The paroxysms, wbioh continue frequently for several hours, or even throughout half the day, return in the first instance at irregular intervals; after a while they supervene every day, or every three days, at the same hour; or even every month, with or without shivering succeeded by heats. •

This affection • is heralded by vertigo, serenity of mio4> or unusual loquacity, mental dejpressipn, failure oi appetite, nausea, colic, acid risings, vomiting, costive-ness or diarrhoea, with swelling of the lower abdomen,and terminating either in sleep, perspiration, vomiting or tears.

This disease is very obstinate, and frequently affects women, sometimes from their infancy, but more usually from the period of puberty, to the age of fifty or sixty years. The accidental circumstances which produce, aggravate, or modify other

18

pains in the b^ad, possess no influence whatever over megrim.

The almost Invariable cause of this malady is a psoric tendency in the constitution, and the patient must necessarily submit to a tedious anti-psoric treatment in order to accomplish a cure. When this psoric condition has been ejQfectually checked, we may derive very beneficial results from iVwa? Vomica^ Ignatia^ and Pulsatilla.

Under certain circumstances, where it is evident there can be no psoric principle, we must commence our treatment by the medicines of which we shall presently speak.

Nux Vomica will stand in the foremost rank, more particularly when the pain commences in the morning on rising, becomes aggravated, and where we find a state of habitual constipation.

Pulsatilla is eligible in hemicrania affecting the left side of the forehead, with throbbing and shooting, night and morning, increased by stooping in the room, or on moving the eyes; also were we find stomach-ache, with bilious, acid vomitings, with griping and pinching pains in the abdomen.

Pulsatilla and Ignatia are equajly valuable to succeed Nux Vomica as an intermediate remedy, since they possess an action very analogous to that of the latter medicine.

When Megrim presents itself in an ex-tremely^violent form, we must have re- * course to Coffea, which, should it fail in its complete removal, will at least render the pain more tolerable. *

When the megrim proceeds from an abuse of coffee, C/iamomilia, Nux Vomica^ and Ignaiia will be the most appropriate remedies.

• Belladonna is especially suitable where the pain in the head is lateral; extends to the orbit, and to the bones of the nose; where the pain is characterized by pressure and darting, with a sense of boiling, as of a liquid, in the head; where the pain is aggravated by the slightest motion of the head, or bf the eyes; and where these organs are extremely sensitive to the slightest ray of light; where every description of noise is insupportable; and where we find strong arterial pulsation; als(^ where the pains are characterized by violent

shooting, nearly depriving the patient of his senses.

Coloct/nthis is appropriate where the pain is compressive, twitching, or pinching; and where the pains are increased either by stooping or lying upon the back.

In an elementary work we must content ourselves with directing attention to cases most frequent in occurrence, and refer the practitioner to the following remedies in the more rare or complicated affections. ' Sepia, Nitric. Acid., Zincum, Petroleum, China, Bryonia, Veratrum, Capsicum, Ipecacuanha, Cicuta, Aurum, Arsenic, Man-gan. Acetat, Causticum, Rhus, Guaiacum, Arnica, Hyoscyamus, Lycopodium, Phosphorus, Conium.

Menstruation.

The symptoms, which generally precede or attend the first appearance of the courses, are a sensation of fulness with heaviness in the head; palpitation of the heart; at times, tightness at the chest, great lassitude; weight in the abdomen and womb ; pains in the loins and legs, with a frequent desire to urinate; chills; stretching, yawning, and other febrile symp-

^_ i

MENSTRUATION. SOd

toms. When these are violent or long continued, Pulsatilla is one of the most efficacious remedies; but Chamomilla and Veratrum are sometimes preferred*

If at the age of pubertj the menses do not occur, and the health of the individual is good, there is seldom occasion to resort to medicines, but to leave the case to nature. When, however, medical interference is deemed necessary, Pulsatilla is to be used, in repeated doses, especially if the patient is of a timid, fretful and complaining disposition. Should she be of a hasty and irritable temper, with a flushed face and plethoric condition of the system, Nux is , well adapted to the case.

If these means do no good. Graphites and Causticum may be recommended, especially when there has been a slight discharge and it has suddenly ceased.

Suppression and late appearance of the Menses. —The symptoms arising from this derangement in the menstrual secretion are to be met by those remedies, which are capable of removing as far as they can be ascertained, the causes or their eiSects, whether produced by fear; grief, anger or improper diet.

*18

Those already mentioned will often be the appropriate remedies; but Cocculus m to be preferred, when the patient experiences violent abdominal spasms, attended with oppression at the breast, anxiety, sighing, groaning and weakness,preventing her from moving or speaking; convulsive motions of the limbs, and almost imperceptible pulse. Other symptoms may require the use of difierent remedies, as Cuprum^ Valerian, PiatinOf Ignatiay Mezereum, Digitalis; for the exhibition of which the practitioner should consult the Materia Medica. Should none of these means restore the menstrual flow, recourse is to be had to the antipsorics, as Magnes. Carb,^ Magnes. Man., Sulphur, Sepia, Zincum, Silicea, Lycopodium,Graphites, and J9cid* Nitric*

When on the other hand, there is too abundant flow of the menses, Nv^ is one of the principal means in arresting it, especially when mental excitement or moral impressions have deranged the nervous system, so that the slightest cause produces a fit of passion, the least noise alarms, with an inclination to lie in bed, and an indisposition to enjoy the open air. In alternation with Nux, Fulsatilla is sometimes useful.

-f.-

MENSTRUATIOHT. 211

Coffea is also indicated to tranquilize.the nervous irritability. There are likewise many cases where Chamomilla is useful, especially when the blood is of a dark colour, almost black and clotted, with draw-itig pains from the loins forward, fainting fits, cold extremities and great thirst

The custom of giving Chamomile Tea to patients, in order to favour th^ menstrual flow^ cannot be too highly reprobated; as it is not unfrequently the cause of much distress, and sometimes of no little danger. Its abuse is to be counteracted by Nux V.^ Ignatia, or China, If the different means indicated above, do-not arrest the excessive discharges, recourse should be had to the anti-psorics, according to the nature of the cases respectively— Sulphur^ Calca-rea, Lycopodium,PhosphoriH,Kali. Carb. Carb. Veg, Mur. Mag.^ Silicea^ and Sepiu*

Diminished Menstrual * Discharge. — In the treatment of this deviation from the healthful condition of tfie function, regard must be paid to other, indeed to all other accessory symptoms—although Pulsatilla^ Nux^ Ferrumj Rhus T,, Dul-camarUf and other remedies should always be first administered, and with success too in

most cases; yet there may be circumstances present, which may prevent their beneficial efiects. In such cases, no doubt that a psoric taint exists, which may be removed by Sulphury after which Graphites^ Magnesia^ Natrum Mttriaticum, CauS" iicum, Sepia, Silicea^ Jlmmon. Carb,^ or Coniummsij be exhibited, according to the analogy of their symptoms to the peculiarities of the ^ase in hand.

Odantal^ay or Toothpche*

This affection in most instances originates in a cold, or access of blood to the head; and amongr hysterical woman, in excitement of the nervous sensibility. In cases which are very obstinate and long existing, it is the result of a psoric tendency; and a treatment, to be crowned with success, must be directed to the remote cause in which it takes its rise.

Homoeopathy is in possession of a variety of efficient means which are applicable to the different perculiarities exhibited by affections of the teeth.

Odontalgia, resulting from a cold,affecting merely a hollow tooth; drawing and boring

in its character, and accompanied by occasional and isolated shooting pain, in which the entire economy' participates; and where we meet with at times a painful swelling of the gums, will yield to the exhibition of Nux Vomica. This result will more particularly take place where fhe pain supervenes earfy In tne morning while in bed ; where mastication is prevented ; and where aggravation is induced by contact witli cold air. This? remedy is particularly suitable to persons of lively temperament, and accustomed to the use of coffee and ^pirituous liquors.

Mercury is applicable where the drawing or boring pain results from a cold; where we find swelfing of the gums and of the cheek ; shaking of the teeth; where the pains increase after a repast, or after having drunk anything hot or cold ; where the salivary glands are affected, and secrete an excess of saliva, causing the patient to spit frequently; and where there is ulceration of the gums.

Hyoscyamus is the most effective remedy s^ainst odontalgia exhibiting itself in the morning, especially after a cold, or under the influence of cool air. with con-

siderable flow of blood to the interior of the head; throbbing and plucking pain from the cheek to the forehead; and thrilling in the tooth, which is loosened; tearttag pain in the gums.

Aconite will be found very useful in throbMng odontalgia, originating in a cold, and accompanied by determination of blood, to the head^ and Duraing flushes df the face. «

The north-pole of the magnet is appropriate in rheumatic odontalgia, where all the various teeth are affected, and where We observe the following phenomena: . The gums swollen, sensitive, and painful to the touch; isolated paroxjsmsr, spasmodic pressure ; tearing, searching pains; burning lancinations: pain in the jaws and the incisor teeth, induced by respiration.

The magnetic pole should be touched during one or two minutes only, and the process repeated one or more times according to the result.

Bhus effects the removal of tearing odontalgia, of which the application of warmth will occasion a decrease; it is eligible, too, where the pain resembles that of a wound; where the shootings are spasifto-

die; and where wc find twitcbings and tearingSy aggravated towards night, or in the open air, and alleviated by warmth.

Staphf/sagria is a suitable remedy where the x)d6ntalgia^ ceasing to afifect the carious tooth, communicates itself to the adjacent ones, or to tho^e on tlie opposite side, and extends even to the ear, accompanied by pressive pain in the temple on the same side* Also, when the sufiering is experienced bn the air entering the mouth; gnawing pain in the'inferior incisors, espe* cially in the night; twitching pain in the teeth after having eaten, and aggravated in the open air.

Belladonna is suitable in odontalgia after a cold, especially amDng woman; and when the pain is rendered insufierable from the touch, the air, and the action of eajtihg. This pain is of a drawing character, and extends from the ear to the hollow teeth of the upper jaw, where at times it becomes thrilling; is aggravated in the night; when the pain is not increased during a mesil, but becomes increased shortly after it. ^Bryonia is av^tilable in cases where the pain impels the patient to go to bed, or where it is exacerbated by heat at night;

on lying down on the side not affected, or relieved by lying on the side which suffers; spasmodic twitchings, with a feeling as though the teeth were too long, and, as it were, loosened, more pairticularly during and after a repast; boring and plucking pain, decreasing in the open air, and by cold water in the nnouth; drawing pain, at the time, in the cheek, and pinchings in the ear, continuing {roai.night till morning.

Chamomilfa may Ije prescribed in odontalgic affections resulting from a cold, with plucking pains in the jaws; after drinking and eating; especially after hot things, cof^ fee, &c.; pains in the teeth extremely violent in the night, with swelling of the cheek, aggravated by cold drinks, and rendered intolerable by the heat of the bed, swelling of the gums, 4*c.

These pains in the teeth presenting a vastly numerous variety, we have confined ourselves to those of more frequent occurrence, referring the practitioner to the Materia Medica for those cases which are aot comprised among the remedies we have pointed out

SAR-ACBB. * 217

Otalgia or Ear-Mte.

We thus denominate a violent pain af« fectingf one of the eats, or both of them at thesauoe timey and which frequently embraces the adjacent parts, where it is accompanied by pains in the teeth, or other rheumatic affections, and of which the most usual cause is a cojd. We rarely observe either redness or external swelling ; the patient complains of darting, throbbing, quivering pain, with tinkling and humming in the ears. He CKperieoces great agitation, anxiety, vigilance, pains in the head, and fever. Frequently, after the lapse of some days, there is established a watery or purulent discharge, which diminishes the suffering.

Mercury should be administered where * the pain eiLperienced in the interior of the ear is tearing or shooting, with sensation of cold or of squeezing, and affecting also the cheek; where there is perceptible inflammation in the auditory canal, and discharge of pus, with ulceration of the conduit.

Arniea is eligible where there is general

sensibility of the nervous system, upon the slightest exciting cause; pressure; dartings in and behind the ears; tearing pains, with sensation of heat: sensibility to sounds which are k>ud and sonorous.

Chamomilla is appropriate where the ear-ache proceeds from cold, or from an ar* rest of prespiration; where there is tearing pain in the ears, and as far as the lips; Ian-cinations strong and isolated; with uneasiness and dryness of the ear.

i^ukaHlla is suitable to persons subject to rheumatic afiection8,and who suffer from paiDs in the ear^^^which are usually characterized by isolated spasms^ with plucking sensations externally and internally; heat, with external redness of the entire ear^ painful sensation in the ear, as though something would be discharged from it; want of sleep; and, among sensitive persons, an in* dination to tear% cold shiverings, &c^

Belladonna is applicable to otalgia with perforating and shodting pain in and behind the ear; plucking and shooting in the parotid glands, even to the pharynx; when the suffering is more lively within than without; and especially where the patient experiences cerebral and sympathetic

I

fiymptoms, such as delirium, convulsions, syncope, aphonia^ &c.

Paipitationa.

Palpitations, in a majority of instances, are merely an accessory symptom of maladies more or less important. Such cases demand, in consequence, the treatment of the affections of which they are merely symptomatic.

In certain individuals of full and ptetbo* ric habit, or where other causes may induce an afflux of blood to the chcf^t, vre sometimes remark palpitations without any ' other affection.

To remedy this ailment we must cate«/ fully ayoid stimulating and spirituous drinkii -Sind take a few doses of Aconite^ at some days' interval. This medkine quiets 4he circulation in a very powerful inarnncr.

After the ^coniiey we may administer one or more doses of Nux Vomicaf. ipt^ vided the mischief be not entirely removed.

Chamomilla is a suitable remedy w'hore the palpitations supeiVene u^»n a fit of passion, or violent'anger, produciti|p great distress. » .

Nux Vomica is especially indicated Inhere the exciting causes of the palpitations are stimulating drinks, coffee, &c.

Pulsatilla is a remedy suitable to women of very sensitive and delicate temperament, and characterized by sweetness of disposition.

Whitlow (Paronychia. J

Is a local infiammation, having its seat in most iastances at the extremity of one of the fingers. As its symptoms, we find swellings violent pain, afterwards suppuration; it frequently reappears among persons who have once been affected. It sometimes displays itself in the absence of all external cause; sometimes after a cold, a contusion, burn, or any other lesion; after the removal of the epidermis at the roots of the nails, from cutting the nails too near the ^uick, or from having touched any corrosive liquid.

The pain is moderate when experience-edin the cellular tissue; more vivid when affecting the periosteum; and intolerable when the inflammation afiects the immediate envelope of the tendons.

It is not unusual to.find this malady producing, among persons of irritable temae* rament, either convulsions or fainting tit*.

Whitlows yield readily to Mercury; but if such {neans should not suffice, we may subsequently have recourse to Sulphur, The North Pole of the Magnet is equally powerful in these affections.

Hepar Sulphuris and Rhu9 are also valuable remedies in these cases; but when they return frequently after the application of the Magnet^ and the ^exhibition of Mer-curt/y it will be important to administer Sulphur and Silicea.

Chicken pox*

This eruptive disease presents no danger in itself, and frequently attecks children, in districts infected with small-pox. In its external aspect, it frequently bears much resemblance to the last-mentioned disease* It may be distinguished, however, by the more pointed form of the pustules; the irregularity of their appearance; the absence of smell peculiar to variola; by the mild character and rapid progress of the disease; and by its briefness df duration. It

19*

more especially afiects the face; is accom* panied by slight cold in the head, trifline cough, and slight febrile excitement, and terminates generally in about seven days.

We administer Jiconite at the moment of fever; and if there be any agitation or anxiety, we have recourse to Coffea* Should spasmodic symptoms supervene among children, and especially during dentition, we must have recourse to Chamo* miila.

Belladonna must be prescribed if the child raise the head with difficulty; if the head and hands are hot; and if there be agitation, and griping pains.

•dcomiCj at the commencement of the evil, will curtail its duration.

Mercury is applicable where the pustules secrete matter. This remedy, however, is more especially applicable in variola and chicken-pox at the period of supura* tioB.

Rheutnutiim,

Tlus affection has its seat in the membranous structure; in the tendons, ligaments, periosteum, and even in the bones;

and chiefly in the muscles and their en-velope.

Rheumatism frequently confines itself to a single muscle^ tendon, or membrane, the other muscles retaining their functions in-, tact In such cases, certain movements and certain positions of the body procure solace or tranquillity to the patient.

Where the rheumatism afiects a lai^e surface, or an assemblage of external muscle, or articulations, it is impossible to move \vithout experiencing the most excruciating pain.

The pain is in most instances tearing/ darting, drawing, and burning; sometimes cutting, extensive or pressive; constrictive; or consisting in a sense of dulness, and seldom assuming a pulsative character.

The suffering is at times extremely violent, aggravated by the slightest external cause, or by the most trivial movement <^ the affected muscles.

It is alleviated by rest, leaving merely a painful sense of weakness, but it is scarcely ever entirely suppressed; and even under the most favorable circumstances, the patient experiences occasional shooting pains. The suffering is not confined to a single

S24 DISEASES.

locality, but is diffused throughout the i^hole affecled region. The heat of the bed increases acute rheumatism; the pain subsides, quickly changes its situation; returns afresh; and in this manner is limited neithef in its seat nor in its duration. It rarely afiects the internal organs, and evinces a great tendency to occupy its original locality.

Among the articulations in which rheumatism produces an effect analogous to that of luxation, we may instance the shoulder, the knee, and the arms; it less frequently Attacks the wrist, and still more rarely the joints of the fingers and great toes. The

firi^ress of the disease is slow, and general-y presents no serious danger.

At times it is dispelled very readily; but there remains a predisposition to its return under the influence of cold, or of any other adventitious cause.

It affects persons even of the most robust habit; of both sexes; and of every age and condition. In youthful persons it more particularly affects the superior parts of the body, from the head to the hands; and among persons more advanced in years^ it

is felt in the back, the loins, the haunches, and the thighs.

Rheumatism is in most instances preceded by premonitory symptoms; it is frequently sudden in its access, and principally results from coldy or from a transition from a , higher to a lower temp^ature: weakness and sensibility of the skm indicate a predisposition : and it may occasionally result from some interference with perspiration.

Chamomiila is a suitable means of relief, when the rheumatism presents the following symptoms:

General uneasiness; heaviness in the limbs; tearing pains in different parts of the joints, aggravated at night, and diminishing on sitting up in bed; all the limbs feel as though paralyzed; pain in the loins; toothache, affecting the entire side of the face, and extending to the ear.

Fuisatilia is effective where the rheumatism is characterized by the following phenomena: Drawing pains, exacerbated towards evening, planting themselves in the limbs, and particularly in the muscles which border upon the articulations; pain in the joints of the feet; sense of general debility; disturbed

sleep; shiverings; pressive pain in the lower part of the abdofheh during motion; cough; sneezing; pains frequently changing their position.

Bryonia is applicable under the follow* ing circumstances: " * , •

Aching pain it^the joints of the arm/the back^ nape of the Deck, and in the breast; and experienced chiefly during motion or inspiration, tpreceptible even when seated or lying down, and aggravated by moving or walking about; pains in the loins; vivid, drawing, tearing pain in the tendons of the muscles, and at the point of union with the extremity of the bones, especially -after rising in the morning; pain in the limbs during motion, as though they were dislocated; stifiness of the body when moving, especially after mid-day.

Nux Fomica is applicable to the following train of symptpms:

Tension and pressure in the external parts of the chest, shooting pains in the muscles of the ibhest, and between the shoulder-blades, during; movement and respiration; pain resembling a cracking in the shoulder joint and in the shoulder-blade ; learjDg pain at the nape of the neck; pain

in Ith.e cervical vetebraB; stifihess of the back; violent pains in the loins; agitation; shiverings; coldness of the feet and hands; disposition niorose and querulous.

Aconite is indispensable where the rheu' matism presents itself under an inflatnipa-tory type; and where the parts are red and s^H)llen. When th^e symptoms have been checked by Aconite, and where the fever has been much subdued, we may administer jSntimonium Cruaum, which may be repeated as circumstances shall indicate. After this remedy, or even after the aconite, we may exhibit Bryonia^ particularly should the pain reappear, or be aggravated by any motion of the affected , part.

Shtis Toaneodendron is of signal service where the rheumatism is characterized by the following indications:

Tension, drawing, and tearing in the limbs; more violent during rest, with sen^ sation of torpor and dulness in the affected parts after motion; pains of bruising, or, as though the flesh were torn from the bones; pressive, drawing pain in the peri* osteum, as though the bone were being 8cr<9.ped; where patiepts suffer more pacr

ticwlarly at idght, anp[ are relieved by motioit

Dulcamara is of nmch value in rheu* matasm afising from a cold, and particitl^r-ly from a cold dampness in the atnaospbere; when the pains are characterized by shoot* ing, drawing, and plucking, and have their seat in the limbs ;%hen the upper extremities are, as it were, paralyzed or cold; feel as though they bad received a ^vere contusion ; andT are more especially expe- ' rienced in the night and during rest.

The practitioner may consult the following medicines with considerable advantage:

Belladonnai Ignatia, Phosphorus, Sulphur, Thuja, Veratrum, Arnica, Calcarea, Mercurius, Cocculus, Silicea, China, Arsenic, Rhododendron, Tinctura Acris.

Cold in the Head

Displays itself after a cold by a particular sensation in the nasal fossae, commencing with dryness and swelling in the part, a little increased during inspiration; frequent sneezing, nasal intonation, and loss of smell. The discharge is frequently watery, saltish, falls droj^ by drop, and

1

CO£D IN THS HEiO). S29

produces excoriatipn, (tryiies(|, aitd crusts upon the nostrila, and lips. The mucous secretion comes from the frontal cavities, the upper jaw, and from the nose, whore the patients experience a sensation more or less painful. This affection is occasionally preceded and accompanied by dryness, and by a disagreeable smell «f dust, with violent pressive pain at the rott of the nose, and ia the frontal einuft, constituting that state ol things which has bean named a cold in the head.

Gold in the head consists Essentially in an irritation of the mucous membrane of the nasal fossas. When this' irritation is very violent, it is accompanied by fever.

Nux Vomica is the appropriate remedy when we find obatructioti^ with gietft dryness of the mouth; heat4»f face increased towards evening; itchiijig in the nose; painful sensibility of the interior of the nose; obstruction during the night only; secre-tion from the nose during the day; heat and confusion in the head; general languor, griefi and vexation.

Pulsatilla exercises a powerful control over the following symptoms:

Tickling sens^^tion in the nose, as from

very fine snufif; very Tiolent sneezing; logs of smell; discharge of blood from the nose on using the handkerchief; secretion ^oi fetid mucus from the nose ; painful ulcerations in the nostrils; sensibility of the eyes to light; pressive headacb; broken sleep } melancholy; inclination to weep.; shiver-ings; hoarseness. *

Chamomilla is applicable to cold in the head, presenting, as its characteristics, a discharge of mucas from the nose; the no&> trils ulcerated, chapped, and inflamed; pain in the lips, which desquamate; somnolency; confusion of the head; giddiness; one cheek red, the other pallid; shiverings; and intense thirst. This naedicine is particularly appropriate to children.

Mercury renders effective service when there is excessive discharge; the nose ex;<» coriated both within and without; and where we find rheumatic pains in the limbs.

Under peculiar circumstances the prd» ceding medicines may fail, the practitioner will therefore refer to the followii^:

Arsenic, Bryonia, Belladonna, Aurum^ Me2ereon, Ammonium, Lycopodium, Sulphur, Natrum, Antimonium Tartarizatum.

Bleeding from Ihe Nen (Eptstaocis.J !

Persons who have frequent dettrniina-tioo to the head, children and yoong people, are particularly Kable to this Inconvenience. The blood is usually discharged from ^ne nostrS onlV ;40inetiines during sleep, it flows Jtoto the pharynx, and causes cough and sickness, so that the disease rmj be mis* taken for vomiting or spitting of blood. If the bleeding be very trivial, we may leave natune to her own resources; since her own unaided efforts will remedy the evil: but when the blood H discharged in considerable quantity, and when t|le hemorrhage is frequently renewed, it is necesiary to interpose a remedy, lest it should become prejudicial to health.

t/Jrnica i^ especially suitable when the flow of blood is preccNled by prickings in the nose and forehead, as from some insect; when the nose is hot, the blood quite fluid, and of a bright red cok>ur.

Pulsatilla is appropriate for adult females, when the monthly periods last a shorter time than is consistent with health.

and are less abundant; and particularly vrhen the moral temperament is sweet and placid.

Crocus is suitable to \iomen who are irritable and sensitive; whose Mood is in a state of ebullitiorty who feel a diffused heat, and discharge thick' and dark-coloured blood from the nose.

Mercury is applicable to epistaxis when the blood coagulates in its flow, and remains suspended. This remedy is similarly ap-^ propriate for children, and for parties disposed to inflammatory afiections.

China may be administered subsequent* ly to the dischai^e, in order to prevent its return; we may commence its exhibition twenty-four hours after the hemorrhage; and, according to the result, may repeat the same medicine two or three times.

Belladonna is very ttscfiil ndiere we meet with discharge of blood from the nose^ with determination to the head, evincing itself by a swelling of the veins; darting pain, returning in paroxysms, in one side of the head, and aggravated by noise, light, or motion; scintilJations before the eyes; dimness of vision ; tingling in the ears; Syncope; tendency to sleep.

Under certain circumstances the following medicines will be similarly appropriate:

Aconite,-Arsenic, Ignatia, Nux Vomica^ CbaiQomilla, Cina, Carbo Vegetabilis, Bryonia, Moschus, Rhus, Secale Cornutum^ Sulphur, Sepia, Graphites, Lycopodinm.

Slomaeaee (Weerative Inflammation of the

Mouth.)

We thus denominate an affection which commences with an attack on the front part of the mouth, and afterwards extends to the uvula and palate. The earlier symptoms are stiffness and twitching in the throat; a taste of copper, with burning; heat, redness, swelling, and extreme sensitiveness of the gums, interior of the iips, cheeks, tongue, and palate. To these phenomena, are subsequently united a cadaverous and nearly intolerable stench in the mouth; painful enlargement of the glands of the neck; profuse discharge of saliva or viscid and ifetid mucus from the mouth. The gums are spongy, extremely swollen or retracted ; tiie teeth painful, foul, and oftentimes loose; mastication, swallowing^ speech* and respiratiqp, attended with

20* '

much suffering. At length upon the afiect-ed parts are formed small fiat ulcerations, very sensitive and obstinate. These ulcer-ation^xtend themselves; the inferior parts are foul, resemble lard, and are fungous; the edges are soft and slightly elevated, inflamed, and uneven. In many cases we observe fungoid excrescences, difiering in form, colour, consistency, and size. Very frequently there flows from the parts which are swollen and ylcerated, particularly the gums, and especially when touched, a putrid sanies or blood of a deep-red colour. At the saiAe time there is much debility, and very frequently much febrile excitement.

Mercury is a very efficient weapon with which to oppose this malady; a few doses will in most instances suffice for its ready removal. ^

Nux Vomica^ in certain cases, is very useful; in derangements, for instance, in the digestive functions; constipation, &c.; and where the affection is characterized rather by an inflammation and swelling. of the membranous parts than by an ulcerative inflammation with discharge of blood or sanious matter.

Cough.

Catarrhal Coughy of which the origin is in most instances a cold, will yield very frequently to the application of Nux Vomicaj more particularly when the cough IS excited by a sense of roughness and scraping in the throat, with titillation in the palate; if the cough be constant, exhausting, and cause pain in the head, which feels, at each access, as though it would split;if, as is still less frequent, a violent

1)ain, as of a bruise, be experienced in the ower part of the abdomen; beneath the ribs, after coughing, a pain as from a blow, and if respiration be impeded during the night. Also, when in addition to these symptoms, we find the sensation of a heated substance, pressing upon the» chest; when the cough is more especially troublesome in the morning towards four or five o'clock; wh^ it is excited by speaking, motion, Slc.

Chamomilla is particularly adapted to children when the cough results from a cold; when it is strong and dry eveQ during

sleep y vfhen it is excite in the day-time by a contiDual titillation in the trachea behind the hollow of the' throat; when it seems, in coughing, as though something were rising in the throat, and likely to take away the breath; when the cough is excited by a fit of passion, especially in children.

Hyoscyamus may be employed with advantage when the cough is dry, frequent^ and especially during the night, so as to

|)revent sleep; if it be almost constant when ying down, and cease when sitting up in the bed; when the patient is compelled to resume the latter positiont at brief inters vals, in order to obtain some slight relief; when to these symptoms is united a tickling irritation in the trachea, with a species of convulsive cough.

Belladonna is often very valuable in dry spasmodic cough, with asthmatic breathing, occurring at night after a cold; pain beneath the sternum at eight, or after a meal, with difficulty and failure of re«' spiration; pain in the hypochondria ; constriction in the chest; swelling of the abdomen ; pain in the loins, with dispoution to

be alarmed; cou^h, xivith stertorous breathing and listlessness.

Aconite is serviceable in cough, at the termination of which the chest feels lacerated ; where the fits are lasting; where the paroxysms are shorf, and leave behind them a sensation of burning in the chest. Ac(Hiite is more particularly indicated where the disease more nearly approaches the inflammatory state.

Ignatia is especially applicable to a dry cough, proceeding from the trachea, with pain in the lower region of the abdomen, and tightness across the chest; and where the tough exists both day and night with similar intensity.

Ipecacuanha should be administered in dry, spasmodic, shaking cough, with suspension of the breath, and loss of sense in dry cough, with painful jerkings in the bead and stomach ; nausea and vomiting; diflused perspiration; constant obstruction of the nose, with loss of smell; mucous expectoration unpleasant to the taste; tickling in the throat, which is, as it were, constricted ; sensation as of a wound in the chest, and aggravated by cold air.

Pulsatilla should be prescribed where

the cough is distressing both ty day and night, with pain affecting both sides, and expectoration after a long-continued fit of coughing; profuse nocturnal sweats; thirst; small and frequent pulse; emaciation ; loss of appetile; cough in the morning, with tremor of the whole body; water discharging from the mouth, with inclination to vomit; expectoration of mucus, yellow, and afterwards salt or bitter to the taste, and producing nausea, sputa occasionally tinged with blood.

In certain cases the following medicines may be successfully administered:

Phosphoric Acid, Aconite, Arsenic, Bryonia, Drosera, Mercurius, Sepia, Spongia, Stannum, China, Sulphur, Conium, Lac-tuca Viridis, Arnica, Calcarea, Lycopodium.

The study of the Materia Medico will explain under what circumstances either of the above remedies will be appropriate*

Swelling of the Parotid and Submaxillary^

Glands.

This malady occasionally precedes affec^ tions of the teeth, with which it will disap-* pear. More frequently it has its imme-^

diate origiD in>a' coM»or in atmospheric changes. It may attain considerable im-' portance, attack both sides of the face, and degenerate, at times, into a hard suppurative tumour. *When the disease is violent it is accompanied by an erysipelatous in-* flammation, together with febrile excitement.

Mercury is the most appropriate remedy^ even at all periods of the disease, as also when the tumour enters upon its su|)pu-rative stage* The remedy may be repeated several times if desirable, at some days' interval, or every day, in water. Belladonna may be administered where we find an erysipelatous inflammation; when the pain subsides we may have recourse to Hepar Sulphurisy which will perfect the cure.

Dulcamara will render powerful aid against an induration of the glands, when the disease has not been checked by the exhibition of Mercury and Hepar SuU phuris.

Iforfns.

Worms are engendered under the in* fluence of uncleanliness, an unwholesonoe character of the food, unhealthful atmosphere, moisture, and by every circumstance which may favour the accumuiation of mucus in the intestinal canal.

The species of worm most frequently encountered, are the Ascarides, the Lumbri-cales» and the Solitary or Tape-worm. Women and children are usually more subject to this visitation than men.

The ascarides bear a resemblance to the mites in cheese; some of them, however, attain the length of upwards of an inch. These worms are frequently met with in children, and excite a very unpleasant itching in the alimentary canal, with frequent and pressing inclination to relieve the bowels, together with other symptoms.

The lumbricales resemble the earthworm. They are white, and have, at the top of the head, a circle studded with slight eminences or warts. These worms attach

themselves in clusters to different portions of the intestines, beneath the parietes of which they create, in moving about and suckingi and especially after having eaten sweet food, an irritation which gives rise to painful griping, more particularly in the umbilical region. The ordinary indica-tiops of their presence are the following:

Nausea; accumulation of watery saliva in the mouth; fetid breath; face pale and swollen; a blue or brownish hue beneath the eyes; dilatation of the pupil; broken sleep; urine thick and white; and the lower part of the abdomen hard and tender to the touch*

The solitary worm is flat and whitish, frequently of considerable length, and comprising a vast number of articulations. . It is sufficiently difiicult to recognize its presence, since—^if it occasion at times distressing synytoms, extraordinary sense of pressure, coldness, undulatory motion in the lower region of the abdomen, lively pain, cramps, epileptic and convulsive fits, &c.—^it at other times gives rise to none of these sensations. In this case, the only positive indication is the discharge of certain detached portions of the worm.

21

An anlipsoric treatment is indispensable^ in order effectually to check the disposition v^hicti favours the generation of worms. Since the conditions which we have pointed out are, in most instances, the accidental causes giving rise to worms, it is equally true that there exists at the same time an internal cause peculiar to the individual^ and this cause is the psora, which must be subdued.

Such course of treatment bears reference to chronic maladies, with wliich it is not the purport of this ti^atise to interfere.

As regards the inconveniences to which parties annoyed with wprms are liable, we must meet them, according to circumstances, by the following remedies:

Against •dsearides^ we may prescribe Aconite, Nuz, Mercury, Ignatia, Fermm, Valerian.

Against LumbricaieSf Nux, Cina, Belladonna, Mercury.

Stramonium will relieve the colic in^ duced by the presence of worms.

Cicuta Virosa is very efficient in fevers ejicited by worms, and accompanied by <:ramp8 and violent pains in the abdomen^

Sulphur removes the itcbi&g in the rets*

turn, FeRulting from a similar cause. iS/tdr Mas^ acknkiistered from time to ti^ae^ will in mo^t iostances relieve the phetiopieDa, frecjuentlj painful and distressing, induced by the presence of the solitary or tape worm.

Vomiting*

The treatment of vomiting must be regulated by the exciting cause, since the latter serves perfectly.well to decide its . character.

. If the vomiting proceed from a superabundance of food, it will be unnecessary to offer any opposition, since it is an efibrt of nature to relieve the stomach from the substances with which it is overcharged.— When the sickness does not establish itself voluntarily, we may assist the vital force, and promote vomiting by draughts of warm water, coffee, &c.

If, after an abundant vomiting, there remain averrion, nausea, and heaving of the stomach, we may cheek such symptoms with one or two doses o( Jlntimoniun^ trudum*

Pulsatilla may be selected in preference where the vomiting has been induced by very gross or fat articles of diet.

Chamomilla is appropriate to cases of vomiting, excited by a violent fit of passieni and especially where we find, as its accessories, a bitter taste in the mouth; bilious and bitter risings; where the ejected matter is green, bilious, and causes a grating sensation in the throat; if the patient complain of fiilnessandpressive pain in the stomach; general languor; total loss of appetite ; anxiety; heat; elcesvve thirst; vertigo; and semi-lateral pains in the head.

Bryonia is a remedy whiqh is applicable where the fit of passion continues dur*" ^ ing the vomiting, and where we perceive a sensation of coldness united to the symptoms above detailed^ as referrible to chamomilla.

•Sconite is the most efficient remedy in vomiting excited by passion^ and accompa* Died by fear.

Valerian is suitable for children who are frequently attacked with vomiting, occasioned fcy the presence of worms, and with which are <»rdikiarily associated pains

in the abdomen, frequent nausea, excess of saliva, with vapid and ropy taste; pallor of complexion, discoloration of the lips, with general coldness, and accession of debility. These symptoms, however, being dispersed by the uiedicine, it is essential that the children be subjected to an antipsortc course of treatment^ which alone will have the power of confirming the cure.

Pulsatilla is very serviceable in vomitings of viscid whitisn mucus, to which many persons of irritable .temperament, and subject to spasmodic afiections, are disposed. These vomitings are usually preceded by vertigo^ pains in the abdomen, by faintings, and in most instances are followed by diarrhoea.

Should Puhatilla fail in its effect, we may administer Coceulu$. The latter remedy is especially appropriate where the vomitings have resulted from carriage exercise.

The following medicines are frequently of great value in vomitingv; and the practitioner csAinot too sedulously study their properties in the Materia Medico.

Arsenic, Digitalis^ Ipecacuanha, Nux

81»

Vomicay Veratrum, Silicea, Grajphifes, FhosphoruSy Ljcopodium, Sulphur.

FINIS.

INDEX.

Aphth© or Thrush (sore mottth of chil-

dren) . . .28

Asthma of Millar, . . 32

Bleeding firomth* NoBCp . ' . 231

5^i'9> • . . \$7

Burns, ^ . , . • 42

Catarrhal Fever, . . 126

Cataiflial LiflarainatioD of the Throat, i 49

** " of the Eyes, 157

^ " *• oftheNostrUs, 158

Cerehral Inflammation, » 151

Chicken PoZ| • , • 221

ChilblainSi , ^ * HI

Cholera, ^. , . . ^182

Cold in the Head, . . 228

Colic, . . .. .51

Congestioa of Blood in the Abdomen, 68

'' " Chest. 61

INDEX.

IKTDU:.

249

a

. • *

-^w**"*** *" '^*