H(IO.2







' iju







A


DOMESTIC HOM(EOPATHY,
RESTRICTED TO
ITS LEGITIMATE SPHERE OF PRACTICE;
TOGETHER WITH
RULES FOR      DIET   AND   REGIMEN.
BY
EDWARD C. CHEPMELL, M. D.
FIRST AMERICAN EDITION, WITH ADDITIONS AND
IMPROVEMENTS,
BY SAMUEL B. BARLOW, M. D.
NEW-YORK:
WILLIAM RADDE, No. 322 BROADWAY.


1 8 4 9.




PREFACE.


A domestic practice of medicine, in order to be useful,
must be confined to its legitimate sphere of action; being called into requisition, either in times of sudden
emergency, when no better means are within reach, or
in those ordinary cases for which no further knowledge
is needed beyond the elementary notions of Anatomy
and Disease in general, which most intelligent persons
possess. A slight indigestion, or a common cold, may
always thus be safely treated: an acute inflammation
of the lungs, or a complicated chronic affection of the
digestive organs, imperatively demand all the resources of professional skill.
Under the old system of Medicine, which may
justly be charged with an empirical use of strong remedies, many lives have been lost for want of attention
to this most obvious truth.
A*




iv


PREFACE.


The works hitherto written to adapt Homoeopathy to
domestic purposes, however great their intrinsic merits
in many respects, have not a little contributed to aggravate the mischief. Being composed at a time when
country practitioners of the new school were hardly to
be met with, and the non-professional homceopathist,
was often driven to act as a physician by the force of
circumstances over which he had no control, it was absolutely necessary to include in the plan a number of
subjects, which in treatises of this kind would otherwise have been completety out of place. This state of
things is fast passing away, and it is, therefore, evident, that the semi-popular, semi-professional character
of the manuals which are in vogue must daily lessen
their usefulness, and render them objectionable, and
even dangerous, in the hands of the untaught.
The conviction that the time is now come in which
another description of book is wanted by the non-medical public, has led me to compose the present work.
Its principal object is explained by its title; namely to
restrict the Domestic Practice of Homoeopathy to its
proper limits.




PREFACE.


V


The attainment of this object has been attempted,
first of all, by leaving out the whole of that class of diseases, which none but qualified persons should undertake, with the exception only of those sudden and urgent cases, not to be mistaken, which require immediate attention before better advice can be procured.
Moreover it is laid down as an invariable rule, that if
any disorder is not cured by the treatment ernjoined-a
treatment based upon numerous cases of private and
dispensary practice-a medical man ought to be called
in. As little as possible is left to the uninstructed
judgment* with regard to the choice and repetition of
remedies, it being impossible to allow it much latitude
without also greatly increasing the chances of the commission of dangerous mistakes.
Great pains have also been taken to set forth sound
and practical views on the subject of Diet and Regimen
there being no kind of information more needed, either
by the healthy or the sick, owing to the erroneous opin* Should matters go on favorably, the course of treatment
prescribed may be shortened, but on no account should any addition or repetition be made.




vi


PREFACE.


ions on these matters, which prevail so widely among
the public.
There are yet two more objects to be mentioned,
which have not been lost sight of in this work.
The one is to furnish  persons, who are under
regular Homceopathic Treatment, with supplementary advice and explanation  concerning  remedies
and terms, with which medical men too often take it
for granted that they are acquainted. The other is
to give the practitioner of the old school an opportunity of testing Homoeopathy in slight cases, which are
often much more tedious when treated according to the
common method, and thus lead him on to the study of
the great, noble, and beneficial discoveries of the immortal Halmemann.
E. D. C.




INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.


For the convenience of reference, this work is divided
into Two PARTS.
THE FIRST PART is devoted to the consideration of
Diet and Regimen, of Diseases in general, and of
Homcepathic Remedies.
1. A. Under the head of Diet a concise exposition is
given of the General Principles upon which all sound
dietetic rules are founded, with a view to the individual
regulation of food under a variety of circumstances incidental to human life, such as climate, age, social
condition, the state of health, and the like. A brief
survey of alimentary substances, and of their preparation, together with a Dietary for the sick, especially
adapted to those under Homoeopathic treatment, have
been added.
B. Under that of Regimen, analogous instruction
will be found for the regulation of the following accessory means of promoting health, viz. Air and Light,
Clothing, Exercise, Sleep, Cleanliness, and the Moral
Habits.
2. The remarks on Diseases in general have a reference to theia conventional classification, and to the




EXPLANATIONS


AND
GENERAL DIRECTIONS.
DIET AND REGIMEN.-In all cases, in which a special
diet and regimen are not enjoined, it is taken for granted that the Homoeopathic Dietary, and likewise the general rules with regard to Regimen, will be referred to for
guidance.
PRESCRIPTIONS.-There are two modes in which medicines are prescribed to be taken; namely, in SINGLE
(UNDIVIDED), and in DIVIDED DOSES.
A. When the remedy is to be administered in a
SINGLE (UNDIVIDED) DOSE, the best way is to place the
Dry globules on the tongue, and allow them to dissolve
in the mouth; and this is taken for granted when the
prescribed directions have reference only to the period
of administration of one or more remedies.
For example: SULPH,, 3 glob (18th), or Nux v., 3
glob. (12th), signify that 3 globules of the 18th dilution of Sulph., or of the 12th Nux v., are to be taken
dry on the tongue at one dose.
B. When, however, the medicine is to be exhibited
in DIVIDED DOSES, an equal division is best effected by
dissolving the total number of globules prescribed in
B




X


EXPLANATIONS.


as many tea-spoonfuls (which are perhaps as good conventional measures as any) of pure cold water as there
are fractional parts indicated.
For Example: Ipec., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth
part every four hours, or Ilep. Sulph., 9 glob. (4th), one
fourth night and morning, signify that 9 globules of the
3d dilution of Ipec. are to be dissolved in six tea-spoonfuls
of cold water and taken in doses of one tea-spoonful every
four hours, or that 9 glob. of the fourth dilution of Hep.
Sulph., are to be dissolved in four tea or dessert spoonfuls of cold water, and taken in doses of one tea-spoonful night and morning, until finished.
PERIODS OF ADMINISTRATION.-The remedies are
usually prescribed at specified intervals, either in regular succession, or in alternation.
A. When the medicines are prescribed in regular
succession and at fixed intervals, care should be taken
neither to exclude proper, nor to include improper
periods, in calculating the time at which each successive remedy ought to be taken.
Examples: Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), Sulph., 3 glob.
(18th), and Bry., 3 glob (12th), are to be administered, in succession every fourth night. Such a prescription would signify (supposing the first remedy to be
taken on the 1st of the month, and Monday to be the
corresponding week-day) that Sulph., is to be taken on
Friday, the 5th, and Bry. on Tuesday, the 9th.
Again, a prescription which runs thus: Begin with
Cham., 3 glob. (12th,) then in three days give Arn.,
3 glob. (12th), and lastly Sulph., 3 glob. (18th
in four days more, would   signify  (adopting  the




EXPLANATIONS.


xI


preceding supposition with regard to the day of the
week and month) that Am., is to be taken on Thursday, the 4th, and Sulph., on Monday, the 8th.
The same prescription might be thus worded. Administer Cham., 3 glob. (12th), then wait three days,
and give Am., 3 glob. (12th); lastly, after a further
interval of four days, exhibit Sulph., 3 glob. (18th.)
The terms day and night in all the prescriptions
are synonymous, and stand for periods of twentyfour hours.
B. When medicines are prescribed alternately, they
should be given each in turn.
Example: Acon., 9 glob. (3d), and Bell., 9 glob.
(3d), are prescribed alternately, in doses of a sixth
part, every two hours. Accordingly (supposing the
first dose of Acon., to have been given at one o'clock)
the first dose of Bell. will be given at three, the second
dose of Acon., at five and the second of Bell., at seven
o'clock and so on for the remaining doses of each medicine.
ADMINISTRATION OF REMEDIES.-When a remedy is
prescribed to be taken at intervals of twenty-four hours,
or of several days, the best time for its administration
is just before going to bed at night. The remedy
should be administered fasting, and (if practicable) at
least one hour should elapse before taking a meal, after
the exhibition of the remedy, or after a meal, before
taking the remedy.
Doses.-The doses usually prescribed throughout
this work will very seldom prove too large. Nevertheless, in the case of very young and delicate infants, or




Xll              EXPLANATIONS.
in that of persons who are extremely susceptible to the
action of Homceopathic Remedies, SINGLE (UNDIVIDED)
DOSES of 3 glob. may be reduced to 1 or 2 glob. or even
to half a glob. when administered dry upon the
tongue; or else they may be given without reduction,
provided they are dissolved in two or three tea-spoonfuls of cold water. No diminution will be required
for the DIVIDED DOSES, seeing that the tendency of solution is to render the action of Homoeopathic remedies
more mild.




TABULAR INDEX OF THE MEDICINES.


REMEDIES.
1 Acidumn Nitricum.
2 Acidum, Phosphoricum.
3 Acidum. Suiphuricum.
4 Aconite.
5 Alumina.
6 Antimonium, Crudum.
7 Arnica.
8 Arsenicum.
9 Belladonna.
10 Bryonia.
11 Calcarea. Carbonica.
12 Cantharides.
13 Carho Animalis.
14 Carbo Vegetabilis.
15 Causticum.
16 Chamomilla.
17 Cicuta, Virosa.
18 Cina.
19 Cinchona or China.
20 Cocculus.
21 Coffea Cruda.
2V Colocynth.
23 Crocus.
24 Cuprumn Metallicum.
25 Digitalis.
26 lDrosera.
27 Dulcamara.
28 11Euplirasia.
29 Ferrumn Metallicum.
30 Graphite~s.
31 Hepar Sulphuriv.
32 Hylscyamius.
33 Ignauia.
31 Ipecacuanha.
35 Kali Carbonicum.


ANTIDOTES.
Calc. c., Camph., Suiph.
Camph., Coff., Nux v.
Pulsatilla.
Caloph., Nux v.
Bryon, Camph., Ipec.
Riep. s., Mercur.
Camph., Ign., Ipec.
China, Nux v., Verat.
Coff., Hyos., Puls.
Acon., Chain., Nux v.
Camph., Suiph.
Camphor.
Camphor.
Arsenic., Camph.
Coffea, Nux v.
Acon., Nux v., Puls.
Arnica, Tabac.
Ipec.
Amn., Ars., Suiph.
Camph, Nux v.
Acon., Chain., Nux v.
Camph., Coffea.
Opium.
Bell., Mere., Nux v.
Nux v., Opitim.
Camphor.
Camph., Mere., Ipecac.
Pu Isatilla.
Amn., Ars., Bell, Ipec.
Arsen., Nux v.
Belladonna.
Bell., Cainph., China.
Puls., Camph.
Amn., Ars., China.
Cainph., Cofi'.




X1v   TABULAR INDEX OF THE MEDICINES.


RErMEDIES.
36 Lachesis.
X~37 Lycopodium.
38 M~agniesia Carbonica.
39 Mercurius.
40 Mercurius Soluhilis.
41 Natrum Muriaticum.
42 Nux Vomica.
43 Opium.
44 Phosphorus.
45 Platina.
46 Pulsatilla.
47 Rheum.
48 Rhius Toxicodendron.
49 Sambucus Niger.
50 Secale Cornutum.
51 Sepia.
52 Silicea.
53 Spongia.
54 Staphysngria.
55 Stramonium.
56 Sulphur.
57 Trabacum.
58 Tinctura Suiphuris.
59 Veratrumn.
60 Ziucurn.


ANTIDOTES.
Ara., Bell., Nux v.
Camph., Pulsat.
Camphor.
Arn., Bell., Camph., Suiph.,
Carbo veg.
The same
Arsenic., Camph.
Aeon., Camph., Ceff, Pula.
Camp, iiep., s., Suiph.
Camph., Cuff., Nux v.
Pulsatilla.
Camph., Cuff., [gnat., Nux v.
Camphi., Chain., Nux v.
Bell., Bry., Camph., Cuff.,
Suiph.
Arsenic., C~amph.
Camph, Opium.
Aconit., Spir. ohmr.
Camph., Hop. s.
Camphor.
Camphor.
Ilellad., Nux v.
Aeon., Camnph., Merc., Nux v.
Camphor., Ipec, Nux v.
Aeon., Camph., Mere., MIx v.
Aeon., Ars., Camph., Cuff.
Camph., Ignat., Ilop. s.




XVi          CONTENTS.
Page
Medicinal Aggravation................51
Remedial Antidotes.................51
Actions and distinctive features of the Principal Remedies  52
General Summary of Rules..............56
PART 11.
1. COMMON DISORDERS...................57
Sleeplessness....................57
Nightmare......................58
Drowsiness.....................59
itching and general Irritati~on of the Skin...  59
Skin Diseases.................. 60
Nettle Rash....................61
Common Rash...................64
Warts......................65
Pimples.....................65
Boils.......................66
Corns......................67
Chilblains.....................68
Whitlow.......69
Simple Erysipelas..............   70
Fever; Febrile, or Inflammatory Symptoms..72
Common, or Diary Fever....72
Shivering, an73e~ng~Gad
Inflammation of the Brain..............75
Fainting.....................76
Congestive Headaches.............. 78
Nervous Hleadaches.................79
Sick Headaches..................86
Giddiness.....................86
Determination of Blood to teiad.........86
Apoplexy.....................86
Nervous Depression and Lowness of Spirits  9
Soreness and Runruiný behind the Ears  93
Inflammation of the Eyes................93
Inflammation and soreness of the Eyelids  94
Suye.......................95
Cold in the H~ead, o~r Nasal C'atarr~h.96
Soreness of tile Nose.................  93
Epistaxis, or Bleeding of the Nose.98
Earache..........................100
Swelled Face, and Faceache..............101
Toothache.....................102




xviii


CONTENTS.


Page
Palpitation of the Heart... 152
Spitting and Vomiting of Blood..... 153
Sudden and Acute Inflammatory Affections... 155
Rheumatism. 158
Rheumatic Pains in the Back and Loins.. 160
Lumbago....                     160
Gout....... 160
Cramps and Spasms........ 160
II. ACCIDENTAL DISORDERS..... 162
Moral Emotions......... 162
Fright.......... 162
Passion (Anger).... 162
Grief...........  163
Atmospheric Influences....... 163
From Exposure to cold, dry, frosty (Winter) Weather. 163
From Exposure to cold, wet, and damp tWinter) Weather 163
From Exposure to damp, warm Summer or Autumn Weather 163
From Exposure to hot, sultry Weather... 164
From Exposure to stormy Weather..... 164
From Exposure to the Sun's Rays.... 164
Slight Disorders arising f om the infraction of Dietetic
Rules......... 164
Prolonged Abstinence from food..... 165
Excess in quantity....... 166
The Abuse of various kinds of Food.... 167
a. Solid.
Rich, fat, oily, indigestible Food, Animal and
Vegetable..... 167
Pork, Veal, young Meats, Goose, Salmon, Eels. 167
Pastry......... 167
Salted Provisions....... 167
Indisposition after partaking of Crabs, Lobsters,
Muscles, or other Shell Fish.... 167
b. Liquid.
Indigestion after Acids, Vinegar, Sour Beer, &c. 168
Coffee... 168
Fruit or slightly acid Wines..... 168
Indisposition after lees or Cold Water... 168
Indisposition after drinking Beer, Wine, or Spirits. 168
Indisposition after drinking Tea, especially green. 168
Bodily Fatigue...... 169
Mental Fatigue......... 170
Wounds arid Bruises....... 170
Wounds, simple or incised...... 171
Wounds, punctured........ 172




WM. RADDE, 322 Broadway, New-York, respectfully informs
the Homoeopathic Physicians, and the friends of the System,
that he is the sole Agent for the Leipzig Central Homoe pathic
Pharmacy, and that he has always on hand a good assortment
of the best Homoeopathic Medicines, in complete sets or by
single vials, in Tinctures, Dilutions and Triturations; also Pocket
Cases of Medicines; Physicians' and Family Medicine Chests to
Laurie's Domestic (60 to 82 Remedies)-EI'P'S (58 Remedies).
BERING'S (82 Remedies). Small Pocket-cases, at $3, with
Family Guide and 27 Remedies. Cases containing 415 Vials
with Tinctures and Triturations for Physicians. Cases with
240 Vials of Tinctures and Triturations to Jahr's New Manual,
or Symptomen-Codex. Pocket Cases with 60 Vials of Tinctures and Triturations.  Cases from 200 to 300 Vials with
low and high dilutions of medicated pellets. Cases from 50
to 80 Vials of low and high dilutions, &c. &c. Homoeopathic
Chocolate. Refined Sugar of Milk, pure Globules, &c.,
Arnica Tincture, the best specific remedy for bruises, sprains,
wounds, etc. Arnica Plaster, the be.t application for Corns.
Urtica urens, the best specific remedy for Burns. Also, Homoeopathic Books, Pamphlets, and Standard Works on the System, in the English, French, and German languages.




A  SKETCH


OF
HAHNEMANN AND HIS WIFE.
FROM THE PORTFOLIO OF ONE WHO KNEW THEM.
BY  HELEN     BERKLEY.
WHO is Hahnemann?        What is homceopathia?
C' The master-spirit of the age-the founder of the
surest and safest system of medical treatment," ex.
claims his disciple. " The successful inventor of a
fanciful and delusive mode of practice," retorts his
opponent. Which are we to credit?
It is little more than half a century since homaeopathia was discovered; yet Huhnemann is a familiar name on every tongue, a venerated one on
many. The bitterest enemies to the system which
he founded yield their homage to his gigantic intellectual powers, revere his manifold virtues, and admit that his learning, his numerous philanthropic
deeds, and above all, the elevated purity of his character, have ever preserved him against the imputation of charlatanism. Whether his principles be
received or rejected, his talents, his originality, and
his singular history must ever render him a subject
of general interest.
c




XXii       A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN
In 1839 Dr. Hahnemann was residing in Paris
near the Gardens of the Luxembourg. During the
winter of that year, desiring to consult him in behalf of an invalid friend, I made him my first visit.
That I might obtain an audience as early as possible I entered the carriage which was to transport
me to his residence, at a quarter past nine o'clock
in the morning. After about half an hour's ride,
finding that the coachman stopped his horses without dismounting, I inquir d if we had reached our
destination: " No, Madam; it is not our turn yet.
We must wait a little while. See! there is Dr. Hahnemann's house," he replied, pointing to a palacelike mansion at some distance.  This mansion
was surrounded by a massy    stone wall with
an iron gate in the centre.  Impatient at the
delay, I leaned out of the window and beheld a long
line of carriages in front of us, driving one by one
through the gate, and out again, as fast as their occupants alighted. This was vexatious, I had taken such
especial pains to be early-and all to no purpose.
But if there was any consolation to be found in the
knowledge that others were even worse off than
ourselves, I might have comforted myself by looking
in the opposite direction. Behind us stretched a file
of coaches, lengthening every minute, and already
quite as formidable as the one in front. I had unconsciously taken my station in the midst of a procession slowly advancing to pay homage to this modern /Esculapius. I already knew something of
Hahnemann's celebrity; but my opinion of his skill
was marvellously fortified as I stared behind me,
and before me, and then at the empty carriages driving away around me.




AND HIS WIFE.


xxiii


In about twenty minutes the carriage in which I
sat wondering and waiting, during that time having
moved a few paces forward every minute, at last
drove briskly through the iron gate, around the
spacious court, and deposited me, to my great satisfaction, at the front entrance of Hahnemann's
magnificent dwelling. Three or four liveried domestics, assembled in a large hall, received the visitors as they alighted, and conducted them to the
foot of the wide staircase. At the head of the first
flight they were received by a couple more of these
bedizened gentlemen, who ushered them into an elegant saloon, sumptuously furnished, and opening
into a number of less spacious apartments.
The saloon was occupied by fashionably-dressed
ladies and gentlemen, children with their nurses,
and here and there an invalid reposing on a velvet
couch or embroidered ottoman. The unexpected
throng, the noisy hum of whispering voices, the
laughter of sportive children, and the absence of
vacant seats, were somewhat confusing. I entered
at the same moment with a lady, who, with her
nurse and child, had alighted from her carriage
immediately before myself  Probably noticing my
bewildered air, and observing that I was a stranger,
she very courteously turned to me and said in
French: " We shall be able to find seats in some
other room; permit me to show you the way." I
thanked her gratefully and followed her. After
passing through a suite of thronged apartments, she
led the way to a tasteful little boudoir, which was
only occupied by one or two persons.
1 knew that the lady who had so kindly acted as
my conductress, was a person of rank, for I had




xxiv


A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


noticed the coat of arms on the panels of her
coach, and remarked that her attendants were
clothed in livery. But to meet with civility from
strangers is of so common an occurrence in France,
that her graciousness awakened in me no surprise.
I subsequently learnt that she was the Countess de
R--, a young Italian, who had married a French
count of some importance in the beau monde.
We had hardly seated ourselves in the quiet little
boudoir, when a valet entered, and politely demanded  our cards. They were     presented, and he
placed them in the order received, amongst a large
number in his hand.    It was obvious that we
should be obliged to wait an indefinite period; and
I soon commenced amusing myself by examining
the fine paintings with which the walls were lavishly
decorated-the pieces of sculpture-the costly vases
scattered about the apartments-and a number of
curious medals, heaped upon the centre-table. The
sculpture, vases, medals, and even some of the paintings, had been presented to Hahnemann as memorials of the esteem and gratitude of his patients.
Every room contained several marble busts of Hahnemann himself, some much larger than life, some
as large, and some smaller. These also had been
presented to him on different occasions as tokens of
respect.
I was standing before a most lifelike portrait of
the great doctor, lost in admiration of its masterly
execution, when the young countess, who had retained her seat while I wandered around the room,
joined me and said: " Do you know who painted
that picture?"
" No," I replied, " but although I am not a judge




AND HIS WIFE.


XXV


of art, I should almost venture to say that it was
the work of a master's hand."
" Undoubtedly it is a masterly piece of workmanship. It was executed, however, by Madame Hahnemann."
"( Madame Hahnemann! is it possible! Is Hahnemann married, then?"
" To be sure; and so happily, that to become acquainted with his domestic history is of itself almost enough to induce one to venture upon matrimony."
"I am delighted to hear it. I knew nothing of
him except as a skilful physician, and a man of extraordinary genius."
" His private history is equally interesting, and
quite as remarkable, as his public."
" Have you known him a great while?    How
old is he? How long has he been married?"
questioned I, anxious to obtain all the information in
my power.
" I have been acquainted with his wife and himself several years. He is about eighty-four years
old. He was married to his present wife in his
eightieth year."
"Indeed! Was he a widower then?        Is his
second wife young, or as old as himself?"
"She is about forty-five years his junior, and she
still retains much of the vivacity and freshness of
youth."
" What induced her to marry him?"
" Veneration for his talents-esteem for his virtues
-affection for himself-mingled, perhaps, with a
spice of gratitude for his services to herself. You
are a stranger to her, and will laugh if I say she
c*




Xxvi


A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


adores him, but the term is not too strong to convey
an idea of the truth."
" CPray tell me something of her history. I am
already deeply interested."
"With pleasure. Hahnemann is the father of
the most united, prosperous, and the happiest family
I ever beheld. He had been many years a widower,
when he was called in to attend Mademoiselle
D'Hervilly, who was pronounced by her physicians
to be in the last stage of consumption. He was
residing at the time in Coethen. Marie Melonie
D'Hervilly-Gohier, then his patient and now his
wife, is descended from a noble French family of
immense wealth. She had suffered a number of
years with a pulmonary affection and disease of the
heart. The most eminent physicians in Europe
had fruitlessly endeavored to benefit her.  After
passing the winter in Italy, whither she had been
sent in the hope that a mild climate might effect
what medicine had failed to accomplish, she returned to Germany, in a state which her physicians
declared beyond the reach of me dical aid. She is
a woman of remarkable strength of mind and most
comprehensive intellect. The fame of Hahnemann's wonderful cures had reached her, but she
was unacquainted with his reasons for his peculiar
mode of practice. Though so debilitated by protracted suffering that she was unable to make the
slightest physical exertion, she examined his system
for herself, and then determined upon consulting him.
He became deeply interested in her case, and in an
incredibly short time, her sufferings were relieved,
her cough subdued, and her disease of the heart assumed a different and more agreeable shape."




AND HIS WIFE.


XXVii


"And she married him out of gratitude?"
S"By no means; she was charmed with his
genius, his character, his manners, every thing about
him; and conceived an affection for him perhaps
deeper and truer than the passion which we generally call love."
" Which he reciprocated?"
" Nay, you question too closely; I cannot answer
on which side the attachment first sprang. Nor
do I know any reason why it should not have originated in the doctor himself. Madrnme Hahnemann
is a woman of the most brilliant talents; her information is extensive, her mind highly cultivated, and
she is a proficient in almost every elegant accomplishment you can name. Combine these attractions with that of a prepossessing person, and you
will not find it easy to imagine a man insensible to
her charms."
" How do Hahnemann's children like the idea of
a step-mother?"
" She is tenderly  beloved by them all. Her
delicacy and generosity towards them are worthy of
mention. Hahnemann had amassed a large fortune,
which she refused even during his lifetime to share
with him. She was determined to give no room
for the supposition that she could have been influenced by interested motives in forming this union.
She stipulated, before her marriage, that she should
ever be excluded from any participation in the avails
of Hahnemann's estate; and induced him to settle
the bulk of his fortune on the children of his first
wife, merely reserving for himself an annuity sufficient for his personal expenses."
"How then was she to be provided for?"




XXviii   A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


SShe was already independent as to fortune."
( Madame Hahnemann must undoubtedly be 0
very talented woman, if this painting is hers," said I,
resuming my examination of the fine portrait, which
had first attracted my attention.
"Not only that one but several others in the
larger apartments," replied Madame de R-.
" Some of her paintings have even been admitted
into the galleries of the Louvre. Thus her name
is classed with those of the most distinguished French
artists. She is a poetess, too, and her works have
won a truly flattering approbation from the public."
" A poetess! Where will her qualifications end?"
( I almost believe they have no end. She is mistress of five or six languages, which she both writes
and speaks with ease and fluency."
"She appears to be worthy, indeed, of being the
wife of Hahnemann."
" He thinks so, I assure you. He would not
now find it so easy to dispense with her services."
" Is he infirm, then?"
" Not in the least. He has always enjoyed excellent health. His sight and hearing are unimpaired.
His activity is remarkable. Even yet there are an
elasticity in his movements and sprightliness in his
manners which make you feel that something of
youth has been left to him even in age. He would
never remind you of the fable of the frog, whose
discerning patients cried,' Physician, cure thyself' "
"Perhaps that is quite as remarkable as any
thing you have told me about him; medical men
generally look as though they needed, but feared to
try, the effects of their own medicines. Since he is




AND HIS WIFE.


xxix


so active, I suppose it would be possible to induce
him to visit a patient?"
" I do not think that could be easily accomplished.
In a case of great peril, perhaps, you might obtain
the services of his wife."
" His wife? Why surely----
SAt that moment our conversation was interrupted
by the entrance of a lady. She was attired in a
simple demi-toilette and wore no bonnet; I therefore
concluded she was not a guest. The instant she
entered, the delicate-looking child my new acquaintance had been caressing on her knee, sprang suddenly to the ground, and greeted the lady with expressions of the most affectionate joy. She was an
elegant-looking woman, with a finely-rounded form,
somewhat above the medium height. Her face
could not be called beautiful, nor pretty, but the
term handsome might be applied to it with great
justice. Her forehead was full and high, and her
hair thrown back in a manner which perfectly displayed its expansive proportions. Those luxuriant
tresses of a bright flaxen hue, were partly gathered
in a heavy knot at the back of her head, and partly
fell in long ringlets behind her ears. Her complexion was of that clear but tintless description,
which so strongly resembles alabaster. There was
a thoughtful expression in her large blue eyes,
which, but for the benignant smile on her lips, would
have given a solemn aspect to her countenance.
She exchanged a few words with Madame de
R-, kissed the child with much tenderness, and
addressed several other persons present. While she
was conversing, the child still retained her hand,
following her about, and pressing close to her side,




AND HIS WIFE.


xxxi


" I do. She is almost as thoroughly acquainted
with medicine as her husband. She became his
pupil with the view of assisting him when age
might weaken his faculties. She now attends to all
his patients, as you will find directly; merely consulting him in cases of great difficulty."
" That is being a help-mate, indeed. But are
patients alwnys willing to trust her?"
"Assuredly; she has too incontestably proved
her skill not to be trusted. Hahnemann is no longer able to undergo the fatigue of attending to the
multiplicity of cases crowded upon him. Madame
Hahnemann is universally confided in, respected,
and beloved, especially by the poor."
" I can well believe it. Is Hahnemann assisted
by any of his children in the same manner as by
his wife?"
" Not exactly in the same manner, but still he is
assisted by them. One of his daughters, and a fine
intelligent girl she is, has the sole superintendence
of an enormous folio, containing the names of all
his correspondents, and the dates of their letters;
also of several other folios, containing the letters
themselves, arranged in alphabetical order. His
other children are of service to him in various
ways. To assist him is their chief delight. As
I told you before, I never beheld a more united
family."
"Miss Hahnemann's services alone, must spare
the doctor a vast deal of trouble."
" Yes, but still every moment of his time is employed. He is the most systematic man imaginable.
In his library you   will find thirty-six quarto
volumes, his register of consultation, written entire




Xxxii


A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


ly by himself. Apropos, his handwriting is really
worth seeing. What do you think of a man, eighty-four years of age, who writes a hand firm as a
man's ought to be, fine enough to be a woman's. and
elegant enough to be traced on copperplate, and this
without spectacles?"
" Think?   Why, I think I have wondered at
what you told me as long as I could wonder, and
now I can only come to the conclusion that Hahnemann and his wife should be ranked amongst the
curiosities of Paris, and that the sight-seeing stranger has not beheld all the marvels until he has seen
them."
" Our conversation was interrupted by a valet,
who announced that Monsieur le Docteur was at
leisure, and would see Madame la Contesse."
She bade me good morning, saying, "1 It will be
your turn next; I shall not keep you waiting long."
" I hope not," thought I, as a glance at the clock
informed me that it was somewhat more than three
hours since I first entered the house.
A few moments after Madame de R- left me,
I was startled by hearing the same valet distinctly
pronounce my name, somewhat Frenchified, to be
sure, and announce that Monsieur le Docteur was
ready to receive me. I was too much surprised to
do any thing but stare, until I remembered that I
had placed my card in his hand some three hours
before. I rose and followed him. He led the way
through the same apartments I had traversed on
entering.  The doctor's reception chamber was
situated at the further end of the suite. Throwing
open a door he loudly announced me and retired.
I stood in the presence of Monsieur le Docteur




AND HIS WIFE.


xxxiii


and Madame Hahnemann. The chamber I now
entered was more simply decorated than any I had
visited. In the centre of the room  stood a long
table; at its head a slightly elevated platform held
a plain-looking desk covered with books. In front
of the desk sat Madame Hahnemann, with a blank
volume open before her, and a gold pen in her hand.
Hahnemann was reclining in a comfortable arm
chair on one side of the table. They rose to receive me, and I presented Madame Hahnemann a
letter from  Herr Dr. Hirschfeldt of Bremen, an
eminent physician, who had formerly been a pupil
of Hahnemann's.
While   Madame Hahnemann was glancing
through the letter, I had an opportunity of taking a
survey of lHahncmann's person, for he had not yet
resumed his seat.  His slender and diminutive
form was enveloped in a flowered dressing gown of
rich materials, and too comfortable in its appearance
to be of other than Parisian make. The crown of
his large, beautifully-proportioned head was covered
by a skull-cap of black velvet. From beneath it
strayed a few, thin, snowy locks, which clustered
about his noble forehead, and spoke of the advanced
age, which the lingering freshness of his florid complexion seemed to deny. His eyes were dark, deep
set, glittering, and full of animation. As he greeted
me, he removed from his mouth a long painted pipe,
the bowl of which nearly reached to his knees.
But after the first salutation it was instantly resumed; as I was apprized by the volumes of blue
smoke which began to curl about his head, as
though to veil it from my injudicious scrutiny.
Madame Hahnemann gracefully expressed her
D




Xxxiv    A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


gratification at the perusal of the letter, read a few
lines of it to her husband in an under-tone, and made
several courteous remarks to me; while the doctor
bowed, without again removing his long pipe. It
was evident that he did not immediately recognise
Dr. Hirschfeldt's name; and he was too much
accustomed to receive letters of introduction to pay
any attention to their contents.
Madame Hahnemann placed herself at the desk,
with the doctor on her right hand and myself on
her left. I stated the principal object of my visit,
attempting to direct my conversation to Hahnemann,
rather than to his wife. But I soon found that this
was not selon la r'gle.  Madame Hahnemann invariably repliedasking a multiplicity of questions,
and noting the minutest symptoms of the case as fast
as my answers were given.    Several times she
referred to her husband, who merely replied with
his pipe between his teeth, " Yes, my child," or,
" Good! my child; good!"  And these were the
only words that I as yet had heard him utter.
After some time spent in this manner, Madame
Hahnemann    accidentally asked, "Where was
your friend first attacked?"
" In Germany," I replied.
Hahnemann had been listening attentively, although he had not spoken. The instant I uttered
these words, his whole countenance brightened as
though a sunbeam had suddenly fallen across it, and
he exclaimed in an animated tone: " Have you
been in Germany?     You speak German, don't
you?"   The conversation had litherto been carried
on in French, but the ready, " Certainly," with




AND HIS WIFE.


XXXV


which I answered his question, apparently gave
him unfeigned pleasure.
He immediately commenced a conversation in
his native tongue, inquiring how I was pleased with
Germany, what I thought of the inhabitants, their
customs-whether I found the language difficulthow I was impressed with the scenery, and continuing an enthusiastic strain of eulogium upon his
beloved country for some time. Then he asked
from whom was my letter. When I pronounced
the name of Doctor Hirschfeldt, which he had listened to so coldly before, he expressed the deepest
interest in his welfare, and spoke of him with mingled affection and esteem.
I was too much delighted with the doctor's animated and feeling remarks to change the topic.
Yet I felt that he had lost sight, and was fast inducing me to do the same, of the primary object of my
visit. Madame Hahnemann, however, though she
smiled and joined in the conversation, hal not forgotten the host of good people who were taking
lessons of patience in the antechambers. She finally
put an end to the discourse by a gentle admonition
to her husband; warning him that he must not
fatigue himself before the hours devoted to business
were half spent. Turning to me, she apologized
for the interruption, saying that they received their
friends in the evening, and would be happy to see
me, then immediately resumed the subject of my
friend's indisposition.
After a few more inquiries, I received some
medicine from her hands, with especial directions
concerning the manner in which it was to be used.
She also presented me with a paper, on which the




XXXvi     A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


different kinds of food, vegetables, seasoning, and
odors, which counteracted the effects of homceopathic remedies, were enumerated.  After cordially
shaking hands with the kind old man and his
talented and exemplary wife, I bade them good
morning. One of the domestics in attendance conducted me down stairs, and handed me into the carriage; and I drove home, passing along a file of
coaches, stretching 'from Hahnemann's door rather
further than I could venture to mention and expect
to be believed.
The favorable impression I had received on my
first interview with Doctor and Madame Hahnemann, were subsequently strengthened and confirmed. Hahnemann expressed the same enthusiasm as
before, at the mention of his own country, and on
hearing that I was an American, made many
inquiries about our young land, and especially concerning the progress of hommopathia. I could not,
however,'give him much information which he had
not previously received from other lips.
Hahnemann, amongst his innumerable estimable
qualities, possesses that of the most indefatigable
industry. The pains which he takes in studying
and examining a case, are almost incredible. He
records with precision the minutest symptoms of
every patient, all constitutionil ailments, hereditary
taints, and numerous other particulars; never trusting his memory, and only prescribing after a deliberation often tedious, though always necessary.
To the poor he has ever shown untiring benevolence. Certain hours of the day are set apart for
the reception of persons unable to offer compensation. They are attended with equal care, their




AND HIS WIFE.


Xvii


symptoms recorded, and their diseases prescribed
for with the same precision, which is bestowed upon
the haute noblesse of the land. It frequently occurs
that Hahnemann is so fatigued with his morning
duties, that patients who apply for advice in the
afternoon, are placed under the sole superintendence
of Madame Hahnemann. But they seem to consider this gifted couple one in skill, as they are indeed one in heart.
Hahnemann appears to take pleasure in confessing to the world his affection, almost veneration for
his wife. Shortly after his marriage, in a reply to
the Gallican Homecopathic Society of Paris, who
had made him their honorary president, the following paragraph occurs.    I love France and her
noble people, so great, so generous, so disposed to
rectify an abuse by the adoption of a new and
efficient reform. This predilection has been augmented in my heart by my marriage with one of
the noble daughters of France, in every respect
worthy of her country."  The letter concludes with
the following beautiful sentiment: "Blind as many
still remain, let us render them a service despite
their repugnance. In course of time we shall receive their benedictions; for our principle, like
sunlight, is one of the most prominent truths of
nature."
The manner in which he first discovered that
principle is singularly interesting. And a slight
sketch of his history will show whether or not we
should look upon him as a misguided and senseless
visionary. Samuel Hahnemann was born in 1755,
at Meissen, an obscure town in Saxony.      His
father's means were limited; but young HahneD#




XXXviII  A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


mann's talents and fondness for study so early developed themselves, that his parents made unceasing
efforts to procure him a liberal education.
When quite a youth, he supported himself at the
University of Leipsic, by translating medical works
from the English, and other languages into German.
He practised two years in the hospitals of Vienna,
where he won considerable celebrity. After this,
at Hermanstadt, he was physician, librarian, and
superintendent of a museum of coins, to the house
of Baron Von Brucke:nthal, governor of Transylvania. He obtained his decree as Doctor of Medicine in 1779. After residing in different cities for
ten years, he settled in Leipsic. He there sedulously applied himself to the study of medicine,
chemistry, mineralogy, etc., besides continuing to
make translations from various foreign languages.
The discoveries he made soon obtained him a high
reputation amongst medical philosophers on the
continent. But the more he studied, the more dissatisfied he became with the usual mode of medical
treatment. He lamented its uncertainty, and regarded it as a mere science of guesswork, not yet
regulated by positive laws.
His attention was first directed towards homaopathia by observing that cinchona, or Peruvian
bark, which is a specific for certain forms of intermittent fever, would produce symptoms singularly
analogous to those which develop themselves in
that fever, when the medicine is administered to a
person in health.
He then tried the experiment upon himself, and
experienced the severest symptoms of intermittent
fever. Surprised and delighted at this valuable dis




AND HIS WIFE.


xxxix


covery, he enthusiastically applied himself to making experiments with numerous other medicinal
substances, and found that they produced symptoms
of various diseases. The question then presented
itself to his mind, whether the most efficacious
method of healing diseases did not depend upon
the principle, similia similibus curantur, or " the
application of remedies for the cure of symptoms
similar to those, which the same medicin(s produced
on a person in health?"
He determined thoroughly to test upon himself
the truth of this system, which might prove of such
inestimable benefit to mankind. With unwavering
firmness he underwent the most excruciating sufferings from the effects of different medicines-sufferings, however, which were hailed with joy, because they inspired him with the hope, that he was
at last possessed of the means of making medicine
an actual science. He induced many of his friends,
who were sufficiently enthusiastic to become "martyrs to science," to submit to the experiments he had
tried upon himself. He found the same effects
invariably resulting from the use of particular medicines. He also learned, in searching the records of
ancient and modern medicine, that the operation of
medicines designated as specifics, developed and
confirmed this wonderful homonopathic law. For
instance, sulphur, which is a well-known specific
for some forms of scrofula, when taken by persons
in health, produced a cutaneous eruption. Several
narcotics called forth symptoms of mental aberration,
bearing a striking resemblance to those which they
are celebrated for curing. Musk, which is a specific for a particular form of asthma, occasioned a




xl       A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN


spasmodic suffocation. Arsenic, which is used in
cases of cancer, produced a state resembling that
disease. Burns are relieved, as every body knows,
by the application of stimulating remedies, such as
spirits of wine, turpentine, etc. A frozen limb is
restored by being plunged into ice-water.
Hahnemann gave to his system the name of
homoeopathy, from the Greek homoios, similar, and
pathos, feeling or suffering.
At the time he became acquainted with these remarkable truths, he was enjoying an extensive
medical practice in Leipsic. He was exceedingly
cautious in introducing his new system to his patients.  He noted down and studied their most
trifling symptoms, selected the medicines, and prepared them himself with the utmost care.   On
administering them he was amply compensated for
his pains, by observing that cures much more rapid
and far more certain than he had hitherto been able
to effect, were the result of their steady use.
Hahnemann's next discovery was the importance
of the quantity or size of the doses. In explanation
of this, I quote the following passage from a life of
Hahnemann, by Dr. Hull, one of the most intelligent and experienced of his disciples in NewYork:
"' He observed that medicines, even infractions of
agrain, if hommopathically indicated, frequently
produced an aggravation of symptoms that demanded the intervention of an antidote. To obviate this
objectionable effect, he conceived a peculiar mode of
diluting remedial agents, which divests them of so
much of their specific power to increase, while it
augments the power to extinguish diseases, as in the




AND HIS WIFE.


older method, has been found productive of so much
danger and suffering.  A knowledge of such a
result, prompted conscientious allopathists to inquire
of themselves whether the violent fobrms of disease,
the broken and wasted constitutions, and even lingering deaths, which had occurred so often in ordinaay
practice, were not more attributable to large doses
of medicine indicated homceopathically, than to the
manifestations of illness itself?  The rejection of
allopathia by many who pursued the inquiry requires no comment."
During the year 1800, when the scarlet fever raged epidemically in Germany, Hahnemann contributed a most invaluable addition to his system in the use
of prophylactics. It originated in his observing, that
the skin of children, who were poisoned with the
berries of belladonna, was covered with an eruption
similar to that usual in scarlet fever-also that they
exhibited several other symptoms corresponding to
those, which developed themselves in attacks of the,epidemic. He applied belladonna to the cure of
scarlet fever with great success. The reflection
that vaccine, which is so extremely analogous to
small-pox, served as a preservative against the latter,
suggested in his mind the possibility of belladonna's
proving an equally certain preservative against
scarlet fever. Numerous experiments soon established the existence of its prophylactic power. At
the present day it is very generally used in Germany
as a safeguaud against this fatal fever, botn by allopathists and hommopathists.
Hahnemann keenly felt the greatness of his responsibility in promulgating a new system, which
dealt with human lives; and the accuracy necessary




xlii       A SKETCH OF HAHNEMANN
in the preparation of hornmopathic remedies induced
him to restrict himself to the use of medicines prepared by his own hands-particularly as the interest
of apothecaries made them at variance with his
system. The celebrity which he gained by performing some extrordinary cures upon persons of eminence, excited the envy and animosity of allopathic
physicians to such a degree that they openly persecuted him. Medical men united with apothecaries
in their violent opposition. They discovered an
obsolete law, which imposed a heavy penalty upon
physicians who attempted to dispense medicines, conferring an exclusive monopoly upon licensed apothecaries. This law, the enemies of Hahnemann attempted to carry in force against him. It reduced
him to the necessity of relinquishing a lucrative practice unless he chose to endanger the advancement of
a system of medicine which he firmly believed to be
the safest and most beneficial one. He could not
conscientiously consent to risk the lives of his patients
by trusting the preparation of powerful medicines
to careless and uninterested persons. He therefore
abandoned Leipsic, and repaired to Coethen, in
1821.
The Duke of Anhalt Coethen became his friend
and patron; and he was not only permitted to practise upon his own system, but enjoyed the titulary
distinction of Counsellor of State. Thus he was
permanently placed beyond the reach of his petty
persecutors.
Hahnemann resided fifteen years at Coethen,
prosecuting a brilliant career, and honored by the
highest patronage. After the first seven years he
published a work of four octavo volumes, on chronic




AND HIS WIFE.              xliii
diseases. He was continually perfecting his system
by a series of experiments upon himself, and upon
his friends, many of them of the most painful nature.
His fame soon spread over Europe. At home he
met with the most encouraging success; and patients
of rank from abroad travelled thousands of miles
for the sake of consulting the revered father of this
extraordinary science.
Hahnemann, when he married the second time,
was induced by his wife to leave Coethen, and take
up his residence in Paris, not, however, to increase
his already oppressive celebrity, but to obtain repose.
He arrived in Paris incog., not permitting even his
most enthusiastic disciples to become aware of his
neighborhood. After residing a short time in the
utmost privacy, his retreat was accidentally discovered. From that time, his doors were thronged
from morning until night; and but for the assistance
of his gifted wife, he would have been unable to
endure the fatigue to which he was daily subjected.
He was complimented at once, by royal grant with
the full privileges of medical practice. Those who
have experienced the benefits or evils of his mode
of treatment, can best answer whether that practice
should be hailtd as a blessing to mankind, or denounced as prejudicial to the well-being of the
human species.




Notice to Physicians and Others.


Just Published.
JAHR'S NEW      MANUAL OF HOM(EOPATHIC PRACS  TICE, Edited with Annotations, by A. GERALD HULL,
M. D., from the last Paris edition.
This is the fourth American edition of a very celebrated work,
written in French, by the eminent Homoeopathic Professor Jahr, and
it is considered the best practical compendium of this extraordinary
science that has yet been composed. After a very judicious and
instructive introduction, the work presents a table of the HIomreopathic medicines, with their names in Latin, English and German;
the order in which they are to be studied, with their most important
distinctions, and clinical illustrations of their sympIoms and effects
upon the various organsand functionsof the humain system.-The
second volume embraces an elaborate analysis oftheindications in
disease, of the medicines adapted to cure, and a glossary of the
te.hlmics used in the work, arranged,o luinnously as to frrm an admirable guide to every meldical student. The whole system is here
displayed with a modesty of pretension, and a scrupulosity in slate
ment well calculated to bespeak candid investigation This laborious
work is indispensable to the students and practitioners of Homoeopathy, and highly interesting to medical and scientific mlen of all classes. 2 vols. Price s6.
HARTMANN'S ACUTE AND CHRONIC DISEASES and
their Homoeopathic Treatment. Third German edition, revised
and considerably enlarged by the author. Translated, with additions, and adapted to the use of the Americian Profession, by
C.J. Hempel, M. D. 1849. 4 vols. $6.




PRACTICE


OF
DOMESTIC HOM(EOPATHY.
PART I.
Of Diet and Reginmeo
OF the importance of sound rules of diet and regimen, for the government of individuals and families, no doubt can be entertained, seeing that it falls
to the lot of every one, almost daily, to witness,
either in himself or in others, the advantages
arising from their observance, and the evils consequent upon their neglect. Such rules must necessarily be framed with a view not only to the preservation, but also to the restoration of health.
The subject of diet will be the first treated of in
its various relations to health and disease.
Of Diet.
It is from organized substances alone, strictly
speaking, that man seeks his habitual nourishment;
the animal and vegetable kingdoms supply his
daily wants.   Nevertheless, there are a certain
number of inorganic matters, such as water, salt,
1




2


2            OF DIET.


&c., which, although incapable of fulfilling the requisite conditions of alimentation by themselves,
contribute very essentially, when commingled with
the former, towards this important object.
ANIMAL FOOD is the most stimulating and reparative; it satisfies hunger for a greater length of
time, is more easy of assimilation, and -remains a
longer time in the digestive apparatus than vegetable
food, before its nutritive properties are exhausted.,Almost every class in the animal kingdom has
been put under contribution to satisfy the physical
necessities, or the singular tastes of different portions of the human race.
The herbivorous animals are, however, those
generally selected; the carnivorous, from. the toughness of their fibre, and the indigestibility consequent
upon this cause, combined with other offensive properties with regard to taste and smell, are nearly all
excluded. Birds and fishes, with fewer exceptions,
likewise hold an important place in the animal diet
of mankind.
VEGETABLE FOOD is nutritious in proportion as
the principles which it contains resemble, or become
nearly identical with, those from which animal substances derive their alimentary properties.
Wherever the earth produces vegetables, man
has not fiailed to make the greater number subservient to his nourishment, selecting the entire plant
in some instances, or the roots, fruits, or even the
woody fibres only, in others. The gi'aniferous
plants alone constitute the principal subsistence of'
the gareat mass of the inhabitants of the globe.
The length of time required for the assimilation
of aliments of either kind is in the direct proportionr




OF DIET.


3


of the juices which they contain, of their cohesion,
and also of the wants of the animal economy.
The amount of nutritive matter, and consequent.
ly the proportion which animal should bear to
vegetable food in the diet of the healthy, must vary
with the circumstances of climate, season, social
condition, exercise, individual constitution, sex, and
habit.
SBefore proceeding to lay down general rules for
individual guidance in matters of such vital importance, it is necessary that correct notions should be
formed of the legitimate objects of all nutriment.
These objects are,
First, the renewal of the vital heat which is lost
by the exhalation of the animal fluids, or directly
abstracted by the surrounding media in which the
body is placed.
Secondly, the reparation of the waste, both in
the solids and fluids, which the daily exercise of the
vital function necessitates, so as to maintain the physical structures in their integrity; and,
Thirdly, the supply of material for the progressive development of the various organs until their
full growth has been attained.
It follows, therefore, that the individual supply of
food, both as regards quantity and kind, should be
proportionate to the wants of the organism in each
particular at every period of life. Every kind of
alimentation which falls short of, or exceeds these
conditions, must, sooner or later, prove injurious.
In cold climates, where man lives in a surrounding temperature considerably below that of his own
body, the necessity for reparation will be much
greater than when he becomes the inhabitant of




4                  OF DIET.
more southern countries. Whence it follows that
in a warm climate, there will be a greater demand
for vegetables than for meat; in the more temperate
a mixed diet, of nearly equal quantities of both,
will be suitable; and, lastly, in the most intemperate, animal will greatly predominate, if not sometimes altogether supersede the use of vegetable food.
Our diet in this country should, therefore, be of a
mixed kind, in which one or the other should predoilinate according to our pursuits, and to the degree of exercise which we take. As a general
rule, the healthy seldom require animal food more
than once a day.
In regulating the diet according to the change of
the seasons, the same general rules will be found
equally applicable; thus, in winter, a more highly
animalized diet will be wanted than in summer.
Persons, who lead an active life, or who undergo
much bodily exertion in the course of their occupation, require a greater supply of food, and that of
a more nutritious kind, than those who pass a life
of inaction, or whose pursuits are of a sedentary
character; seeingr that the physical losses of the
former are considerable when compared with those
of the latter, and, consequently, that the demand for
reparative ailment is more urgent.
We shall now consider, in a general manner, the
quantity of requisite nutriment, and the periods at
which it should be taken, so as to meet the wants of
the animal economy at the various stages of human
existence, and also how far these may be modified
by individual constitution and sex.
In early infancy it is well known that the function of digestion is remarkably energetic; in fact,




Or DIET.


it may almost be said to be in a state of perpetual
activity, from the slight intermissions which limit
the prolonged period of its action.  The food adapted to the young infant is its mother's milk, and on
this point all nations and all classes of society are
agreed.  The end of infantile existence consists in
the assimilation of aliment and sleep; the infant
awvakes from its slumbers to take its mother's breast,
only to compose itself again to rest; and thus passes
the first year of a man's life in alternations of repose and refection. When the period of dentition
has arrived, nature requires alilments possessed of
greater firmne 'ss and solidity.  M\'astication and insalivation are then called into play, and the assimilating process is insensibly approaching that of the
adult. Every one is aware that, throughout the
periods of childhood and youth, the digestive functions continue in the greatest activity; the appetite
is keen, imperious, and of frequent recurrence;
every kind of food is relished, and the only requisite is, that the meals should be frequent and plentiful1.  The youth is scarcely aware, so to speak, that
he is possessed of a stomach, and digests unconscious of the process which is going on. In the
suceeeding age, however, when the period of growth
has passed by, matters are widely different;- the
vigor of the appetite has diminished, and with it
the same demand for food; the intervals between
the meals have increased in duration, and the extreme facility of the digestion exists no longer.
The adult seldom makes more than two full meals
daily, and the duration of his digestion is prolonged.
In old age, little demand for aliment is made; the
imperfection which attends the act of mastication




6


OF DIET.


determines the selection of tender and easily digested substances..Nevertheless, in spite of this precaution, the deficiency of the salivary secretion, and
the waning energies of the stomach and intestines,
consequent upon the gradual extinction of the vital
powers, render digestion slow, if not tedious and
painful; so much so, that many old men make but
one full meal a day. It but too frequently happens,
at least in the higher classes of society, when men
haVe attained that age at which all the passions are
extinct, and the taste has become singularly acute,
that they give themselves up to the pleasures of the
table, thus hastening the dissolution of their tottering
frame, at the very period when temperance is almost the only means of preserving the mental faculties unimpaired to the last.
We now come to the subject of individual constitution and sex, and of the circumstances connected therewith, which ought always to be taken into
account as tending to modify general dietetic rules.
Persons of a lymphatic constitution (generally
characterized by softness and flabbiness of flesh,
puffed face and large lips, and great development
of the glandular system), in whom there is a tendency to affections of the mucous membranes and
glands, and especially those who suffer from a languid circulation, require a generous and highly
animalized diet.  To such, when in health, the
light and wholesome wines, in a diluted state, or
good home-brewed beer, may occasionally be allowed.
Those of a nervous constitution (characterized by
great excitability of the nervous system generally,
extreme sensitiveness to all external impressions,




OF DIET.


7


and occasionally by scantiness of flesh) should
habitually confine themselves to nutritious aliments,
which are easy of digestion, and at the same time
not too stimulating.
A mixed diet, devoid of stimulants, in which
vegetable food should occasionally predominate,
will best suit persons of a bilious constitution, (characterized by sallow complexion, dark hair, and
sharp angular features), in whom there is often a
tendency to derangements of the digestive functions,
The same may be said of those of a sanguine temperament (characterized by great activity of the
circulation, a florid complexion, roundness of form,
and regularity of outline), in whom there is a general disposition to inflammatory complaints.
With regard to sex, it is generally allowed that
women require less food than men, and that of a
less stimulating kind.
With regard to habit, it must not be forgotten
that there are aliments which, although they have
been proved by experience to be most wholesome
to the generality of persons, will, nevertheless, disagree with certain individuals, and vice vers&. In
health and in disease these individual peculiarities
must be borne in mind as tending to modify general
dietetic rules.
It is in general along with the solid that the
liquid aliments (of which water invariably forms
the basis) are taken.  They serve a twofold purpose, that of satisfying thirst and of restoring to the
circulation the fluids which it has lost by exhalation
and secretion, and that of diluting the solid aliment.
It is, therefore, a bad habit not to drink at meals.
The regulation of the quantity of liquid requisite




8


OF DIET.


for the individual consumption will be in accordance with the principles already laid down. Thus,
in hot countries there will be a greater demand
for fluid than in cold climates; in summer than
in winter: again, persons who take much exercise,
or who undergo great bodily fatigue, will require
to drink more than the inactive and sedentary.
The question which naturally suggests itself at
present is: By what standard is each individual
to judge of what his daily allowance of food should
be?
The answer is simple; viz., that the only scale
by which this point can be determined is to be
found in our own individual feelings, provided
always that they are allowed to act in an unbiassed
manner. We must not exceed the natural appetite, and, in order to restrict ourselves to its legitimate bounds, we must learn to distinguish the real
from that fictitious state of the appetite which is
created by too great a variety of savory food; moreover, the feeling of refreshment and comfort, or
else that of oppression and discomfort, after a meal,
will show whether nature's voice has been rightly
interpreted or not.  We must also drink only to
quench natural thirst, and should, therefore, take
care that this sensation is not unduly excited by
stimulants and highly-seasoned food.
OF MEALs.-From the state of society in which
we live, our meals require to be regulated, as to
time, rather in accordance with the ordinary affairs
of life than with the original dictates of nature.
However, what we lose by a neglect of these is
fully compensated for by the advantages which we
derive from the periodical recurrence of the hours




OF DIET.


9


of refection. By the force of habit, we daily feel
hungry at the same hours, and, as all our arrangements are made to meet these conventional epochs,
we have the means of satisfying hunger the moment
it is felt. Other advantages no less remarkable accrue from this circumstance. The functions of the
stomach are also the more vigorously performed in
proportion to the regularity with which they are solicited. There are, however, two extremes to be
avoided in the selection of the hours of our meals; that
of too short and of too long an interval. From the
first error, the stomach becomes enfeebled through
the effects of an over-exertion, which leave it no
interval of repose; and, from the second, too full
a meal is likely to be made, in order to appease
the long-continued craving, and the consequent
exhaustion therefrom. It follows that, if the hours
of taking our meals are judiciously distributed, it
will be for our advantage to abstain from food
during the interval; if, under these circumstances,
the appetite should be excited, it will rather arise
from some accidental occurrence, such as the sight
or odor of savory food, than from any real want of
the system.
The number of our meals, independently of the
quantity of nourishment taken at each, must vary
according to the digestive power of the stomach
and the rapidity of the physical losses.  There
are some individuals who can digest only a small
quantity of food at a time; it follows that they
must eat little and often.  This condition may
sometimes depend upon a peculiarity of constitution (idiosyncrasy as physicians term it); but it
is common to the convalescent state from most




101


OF DIET.


acute diseases.  In fine, we must also take into
account individual habits, age, occupation, &c.
The inhabitants of this country are in the habit
of making three principal meals, viz., breakfast, dinner, and supper; to which a fourth, or tea, as it
is called, is added, which often supersedes the
last. When, however, from any accidental cause,
too long a time intervenes between the first two,
a subsidiary meal or luncheon, as it is termed, is
sqperadded.
I shall consider them in their order.
BREAKFAST.-This is perhaps the most natural,
and certainly not the least important, of our meals,
seeing that the stomach has enjoyed a long period
of repose, and consequently, ought to be in a fit
condition to receive a fresh supply of nourishment.
It is in general advisable that a little time should
elapse between the time of rising and the commencement of this meal; much, will, however,
depend upon the individual age, habit, and occupation. Thus, the adult who leads an inactive
life does not require to break his fast for some
hours after getting up, whilst the laborious artisan
and the growing child feel the necessity of taking
food soon after they awake.
The solidity of our breakfast should be regulated by the labor or exercise to be undergone,
and by the earliness or lateness of the dinner hour.
When this is late, a more nutritious morning meal,
or " un dejeuner a la fourchette," as it is termed
by foreigners, may with advantage be recommended in order to supersede the necessity of lunching.
A dry breakfast has been recommended by some
as peculiarly wholesome.   That this is a great




OF DIET.


II


error is clear from the well-known fact of the
superior power of sleep i9 promoting the insensible
perspiration; the body, under these circumstances,
will need, on the contrary, an additional supply
of liquid aliment, to compensate for the expenditure
of its fluids thus occasioned.
DINNER.-Among the ancients, and with our
ancestors also, dinner was nothing but a sort of luncheon, the supper being the principal meal. In the
present day it is, in its turn, regarded as the most
important of all meals, at which, at least among
the higher classes, every kind of luxury in the
shape of eating and drinking may be indulged in;
and so late is the hour generally fixed for this
repast, that the modern dinner may justly be said
to have usurped the place of the supper of our
forefathers.
With regard to the proper period at which
invalids should dine, physicians entertain but one
opinion; it should be in the middle of the day, or
about two or three in the afternoon, It has been
justly observed that it is thus best adapted to the
decline of the animal vigor, because it affords a
timely replenishment before the evening waning
of the vital powers, which naturally precedes the
hour of rest.
An early dinner may also be recommended to
the generality of persons; but especially to the
young who have not attained their full growth.
Persons who are in the habit of supping should
make a light dinner.
TEA.-This is either a slightly restorative repast, usually accompanied with the beverage from
which its name has been derived, or else it is




12'


12           OF DIET.


strictly confined to liquid aliment, if it is to be
followed by another meat
SUPPER.-In the reign of Elizabeth the nobility
and gentry were accustomed to dine at mid-day, to
sup between five and six o'clock, and to go to bed
at ten. In modern times the laboring classes are
perhaps the only ones who constantly adhere to
primitive custom in this respect.
By the term supper, we now understand a late,repast, and, with the exception of dinner, generally
of a more restorative character than any of the
preceding meals, taken not many hours, or else
just before bed-time.
As sleep is not favorable to every stage of
digestion, it is very questionable whether retiring
to rest with a full stomach can, under any circumnstances, be healthy; hearty suppers ought certainly
to be avoided.
Among the intellectual part of the community
there has ever existed a strong predilection for
suppers; the labors of the day are over; the
hour is sacred to conviviality;- and the period is
one not likely to be distuirbed by the calls of business. It is a subject of frequent observation, that
the happy state of mind which usually pervades
the family circle on these occasions prevents much
of the evil consequences which naturally arise
from indulging too frequently in such repa'sts.
All are agreedl that exercise should be 'taken
before meals; but it should not be of so violent a
kind as to induce exhaustion: after a meal, rest
or gentle exercise, according to the individual constitution, may be had recourse to.
A cheerful frame of mind is one of the great




OF DIET*              1


13


essentials for a good digestion; whence it follows,
that the most important meal should be made after
the business and anxieties of the day are over.
Conversation should be encouraged at these times,
as it has, independently of its healthy influence
over the mind, the good, effect of preventing individuals from eating too fast, as well as from insufficient mastication of their food, and thus indirectly tends to the due assimilation of aliment.
During meals all unnecessary tightness of dress
should be studiously avoided, in order to allow of
the due expansion of the stomach. This is particularly applicable to females, who are more addicted to 'error on this point than the other sex.
From the important part which the atmospheric
air plays in all the vital functions, it is almost unnecessary to add that, in the selection of a locality for
the 'purposes of refection, we should prefer a wellaired room.
Of the various mistakes with regard to dict which
men are apt to commit, it must not be forgotten that
errors in quantity, rather than in quality, especially
when they are habitual, are the most injurious to
the constitution.
With the exception of those who are daily subjected to very laborious employments, or who may
chance, from causes independent of their inclination,
to be suffering from insufficiency of nutriment, it
might be said generally of all classes of civilized
society, that the adult memnbers consume a much
larger quantity of aliment than is requisite either
for their subsistence, or for the maintenance of their
moral and physical health. Thus much actual
facts prove, namely, that we can with impunity, as
2




14 -

OF DIET.


far as life is concerned, take a much larger quantity
of food than is necessary to meet the legitimate demands of the animal economy; the stomach becomes habituated to the overcharge, which in time
becomes the daily standard, and the whole system
in turn aecomodates itself to the existing abuse as
best it may.
Occasional abstinence from animal food, and from
stimulants, would certainly do the higher classes,,and the majority of persons in easy circumstances,
no little good in counteracting the pernicious ten.
dencies of too generous a mode of living.  Unless
it be carried to a fanatical extreme, the system of
Fasts prescribed in the Book of Common Prayer
is decidedly beneficial, even to the physical constitution.
Perseverance in a habit which is productive of a
reparation far superior to the actual losses of the
animal economy gives rise to fulness of habit, often
accompanied with excessive obesity, especially of
the belly; and thus, in many cases, is destroyed all
that constitutes the physical beauty of man; inaptitude for exertion of all kinds supervenes, and he
may then be said to vegetate. It is almost needless
to add, that the state of the system so induced is a
very strong predisponent to gout, and to a variety of
inflammatory complaints; the least emotion, or the
slightest mental fatigue, exciting an enervated brain,
will often terminate the existence of persons thus
affected, by bringing on an apoplectic attack.
To a deficiency of aliment, without including the
extreme case of starvation, many diseases may fairly be traced. This source of malady, especially
when it is associated with a vitiated atmosphere and




OF ANIMAL FOOD.         1


15


absence of daylight, is one to which the lower
classes are frequently exposed.  Consumption and
scrofulous diseases of different kinds are thus engendered, both in the child and in the adult.
One of the most important hygienic rules is certainly that which enjoins temperance in eating and
drinkingT. There is one fact which alone ought to
induce men to observe it, namely, that the stomach
and the intellectual powers are ggene rally in an inverse ratio of activity; the gourmand is for this
reason unfitted for mental exertion.
In concluding this general subject, I may observe, that a plain system of diet, in accordance
with the general principles already laid down, and
consequently devoid of unnecessary stimulants, or
at all events in which they occur but exceptionally,
and even then only in inconsiderable quantities, will
prove the most sure means of preserving the moral
and physical health.
As alimentary substances vary in their degrees
of wholesomeness and in their nutritive properties,
some information on the subject will be needed by
those who wish to fulfil the requisite conditions of
such a mode of diet, For this reason, the following brief survey of the principal articles used as
food, and of the modes of their preparation, together with a few observations of a less general
character, will not be out of place.
Of Animal Food.
No meat is generally found to be so digestible,
nor, with the exception of beef, so highly nutritious,
as tender and well-conditioned mutton; it is, on this




16


OF ANIMAL FOOD.


account, admirably adapted for convalescents from
acute maladies, as well as for those laboring under
chronic affections of the stomach. Wether mutton
is in perfection when about four or five years old,
and is usually the most esteemed both on account of
flavor and wholesomeness.
Beef is possessed of a firmer fibre, and on this
account is not quite so easy of digestion as mutton;
but, when fresh, it is the most strengthening of all
lIinds of animal food, and, next to mutton, its consumption in this country is perhaps greater than
that of any other meat. It, moreover, has the
advantage of being always in season. Of the different sorts, ox beef is that which claims the preference.
Lamb is less heating and less dense than mutton,
but inferior to it as regards nutritive properties and
digestibility. When not killed too young, it is,
nevertheless, a light and wholesome food. Like
the flesh of all animals reared in an unnatural manner, that of house-lamb must be considered generally unwholesome.
Veal may be recommended to the healthy for the
sake of occasional variety; although less heating
than beef or mutton, it is by far the least easy of
digestion of any of the preceding meats. Invalids,
above all others, should be very moderate in its use.
Veal broth is, however, less objectionable in the
dietary of convalescents than the meat itself.
The repeated bleedings to which calves are subjected in most parts of this country, in order to
make the meat whiter, only tend to vitiate their
flesh by depriving it of its juices, and render our
veal inferior, in every respect, to that of foreign




OF ANIMAL FOOD.


17


countries, where the calf is usually reared in the
field by the cow, and killed at a more seasonable
age.
Venison, when not kept too long, is a remarkably
wholesome, and, at the same time, a very digestible
and nutritious aliment.
Pork is a very savory food, and affords much
nourishment, but, like all meats in which oily and
fatty matter abounds, must be considered as generally unwholesome, and should only be taken exceptionally by the healthy. As an occasional article of diet,
it is better suited to those who are constantly in the
open air, seeing that it is very apt to produce flatulence in the weak stomachs of those who are deprived of the same healthy stimulant. Ham, from
its mode of preparation, is more wholesome than
pork. Bacon is ordinarily spoken of as a coarse,
heavy, and indigestible food, only fit to be eaten by
robust and laboring people. In small quantities,
however, good bacon is by no means so unwholesome as most dietists would have us believe. The
flesh of the sucking pig is, upon the whole, lighter
and more wholesome than that of the full-grown
animal. The flesh of the wild boar is firmer than
that of the domestic hog; it is certainly equally
nutritious, if not more so, and exceeds it both in
flavor and digestibility.
The hare and rabbit are both wholesome and nutritious. The flesh of the former contains more
nourishment, but it is drier and less digestible than
that of the latter.
The flesh of birds is, in general, less heating,
but, upon the whole, less nutritious than that of
quadrupeds.
2*




is8


OF ANIMAL FOOD.


The domestic fowl, when properly dressed, af.
fords excellent nourishment. The same may be
said of most kinds of game, the flesh of which is
even more nourishing and sooner digested, although
rather more stimulating and heating. Food of this
kind is, generally speaking, very well adapted to
vary the convalescent's diet.
Turkeys and capons, and especially ducks and
geese, as they contain much animal oil and fat, are
wry indigestible to weak stomachs. The two latter
should be sparingly used, even in the diet of the
healthy.
Pigeons afford a nutritious but very heating food,
The eggs of all granivorous birds are wholesome, and, when lightly dressed, well suited to the
convalescent state as an occasional aliment.
Broths made from veal, chicken, or mutton, beeftea, &c., like most kinds of animal nutriment conveyed in a liquid form, are suitable to that state of
the stomach just preceding or during convalescence,
when it cannot bear oolid fpod. Finely-grated toast
or vermicelli will greatly ikicrease the nutritive properties of such preparations. Animal jellies will
be rendered more nourishing if a little bread or bis.
cuit be partaken of at the same time.
Of the various animals killed for alimentary purposes, it may be laid down as a general rule, that
the flesh of those which have attained their full ma.
turity is at once the most wholesome and nutritious.
The chief requisites of all animal food are, that
it should be fresh and tender, and also of good
quality.
The brain, heart, tripe, liver, and lungs of most




Or ANIlMAL FOOD.         1


19


animals are inferior to the fleshy parts, both as regards digestibility and nutriment.
Milk and its various preparations form a very important part of the diet of mankind.
Milk is, above all others, the food of children, as
it is that of the youn g of all mammiferous animals.
As an aliment it is less calculated for the adult;
and, on this account, it will be found to disagree
with many grown up persons when taken by itself
in any quantity. Cream is very nourishing, and,
when taken in small quantities, may be considered.wholesome. The same may be said of fresh butter.
Melted and salted butter are far less wholesome.
Curds in moderation may be recommended occasionally. Cheese is an alimnent only suited to those wvho
take constant exercise, and who are possessed of vigorous stomachs; as it is very indigestible, it should
be partaken of with great moderation by the generality of persons. The mild fresh cheeses are those
to which a preference sh-ould be given. Toasted
cheese is even more objectionable, and should therefore be used with greeter caution.
Whey and buttermilk are wholesome and cooling
drinks.
The turtle yields most nourishing and delicate
food; but the mode in which it is dcessed often
renders it objectionable.  The esculent frog affords
a light and delicate alimnent, well suited for convalescents.
Fish have been considered as holding a middle
place in the dietary of mankind, between the flesh
of warm-blooded animals and vegetable food. Notwithstanding their inferiority to the more highly
animalized aliments, in a nutritive point of view,




20


OF ANIMAL FOOD.


the health and vigor of the inhabitants of fishing
towns are proofs that they are sufficiently nourishing for all the purposes of active life. This species of food is generally lighter, and very much
less heating, than meat, and on this account is
often had recourse to by the convalescent. Moreover, in hot climates, where the necessity of re.
paration is small, and nature's wants are easily
satisfied, it is more grateful and salutary than any
ether kind of animal food.
Salt-water fish are, generally speaking, the most
wholesome and nutritious; they are likewise firmer
and more sapid than those of rivers and lakes. A
preference should always be given to the scaly
fish in the diet of invalids.
Oleaginous fishes, such as fresh-water eels, salruon, mackerel, &c., are difficult of digestion, and
should therefore be avoided by persons with weak
stomachs.
Shell-fish are still more objectionable; they are
well known, occasionally, to produce eruptions
upon the skin and disorders of the digestive organs
in those who are susceptible to their peculiar influence; nevertheless, there are many persons to
whom   they  are very grateful, and sufficiently
wholesome as an occasional aliment.
Oysters in the raw state are, however, light and
wholesome, even to invalids.
Salted meats, and especially salt fish, must be
considered as generally unwholesome, seeing that
the chemical combination, which is induced during
the process of curing, is highly detrimental to the
nutritive properties and digestibility of the fresh




OF VEGETABLE FOOD.


21


aliment.   The same objection may be made to
dried and smoked provisions of either kind.
Plain soups, with the exception perhaps of some
of the fish soups, are reckoned wholesome; but,
when followed by other aliments, they often disagree with persons whose digestions are weak,
because the stomach becomes thereby over-distended, and for the time, incapable of disposing
of more solid food.
Of Vegetable Food.
Bread, the common food of rich and poor, is
emphatically called the "staff of life," and its
abundance is one of the greatest of national blessings.
The different sorts of wheaten bread, commonly
used in this country, are known under the following designations, viz., white, wheaten, and household.
From the first, all the bran is excluded; from.,
the second, only the coarser bran; and, from the
third, none at all.  The last two kinds are the
most wholesome.
Home-made, a day or two old, is preferable to
baker's bread, which is not unfrequently adulterated. When too fresh, bread often proves indigestible to weak stomachs.
Barley bread is wholesome for an occasional
change; it is very well suited to the laboring
classes.
Rye bread is nutritious, but very apt to turn
acid in the stomachs of those who are unaccustomed to its use.




22


22       OF VEGETABLE FOOD.


Bread raised with fermenting powders, containingo potash or soda, is objectionable on account
of the medicinal nature of these substances.
Of the various kinds of unleavened bread, the
common biscuit is the most wholesome.    Plain
cakes partaken of in moderation are sufficiently
digestible and nutritious.  Muffins and crumpets
should be sparingly partaken of;. even by the
healthy.
*Vermicelli and mnacaroni are good adjuncts to
soups and broths. Macaroni is a wholesome and
'very nutritious aliment to those who have been
accustomed to it from infancy, when dressed with
a moderate quantity of fresh butter, or meat gravy,
and good old Parmesan cheese.
Puddings and dumplings, made with flour and
suet, with or without the addition of fruit or preserves, are sufficiently wholesome partaken of in
moderation, but are apt to disagree with weak stomachs. Milk puddings are the most wholesome
Ind light.   Baked pastry, from  the very indigestible combination of butter and flour, which
is created in the process of cooking, is very objectionable; it should, therefore, be very sparingly
used. Pie-crust should always be rejected by those
whose digestive organs are easily disordered.
Oatmeal cakes and porridge, especially the
latter, are wholesome to those accustomed to partake of them.
Oats, pearl-barley, rice, arrow-root, sago, tapioca,
and a variety of similar vegetable preparations, are
both nutritious and wholesome articles of diet when
prepared with milk or water, in the shape of gruel,
barley or rice water, puddings, &c,




OF VEGETABLE FOOD.


23


Of the esculent roots, the potato is the most
important; its value as an article of food is too
well known to be dwelt upon. In preparing it
for the table, the essential point is to deprive it,
as much as possible, of its moisture.
The turnip, Jerusalem artichoke, beet-root, carrot, parsnip and radish are wholesome; the lastnamed vegetable is rather medicinal in its properties. Carrots and parsnips should be very well
done; otherwise they are very indigestible.
Young cabbage, brocoli, cauliflower, and greens
are very wholesome vegetables when they agree.
Spinach, sorrel, artichokes, celery, and tomatoes
are agreeable and highly esteemed, although they
are slightly medicinal.
Green peas and beans are very wholesome and
exceedingly nutritious; dried peas and beans, and
every kind of lentils, are apt to create flatulence
in weak stomachs.
Water-cresses, lettuce, and a variety of salads,
are cooling and refreshing to the healthy.
Mushrooms are esteemed a great delicacy, but
are far from wholesome.
Most kinds of fruit, both in the fresh and dried
state, are grateful and refreshing; and, with the
exception of nuts in general, may be considered
as an invaluable addition to our alimentary resources.
In the eelection of fruit for the table, care
should be taken to reject all that is of an inferior
quality or unripe.
By the process of cooking, several kinds of
fruit, and even fruit which is not fully matured,
often gain in nutritive properties and wholesome




24


24            01' DRINKS.


ness. Thus the chestnut, which in the raw state
is very indigestible, is rendered both nourishing and
wholesome; the same may be said of unripe apples
and pears, of green gooseberries, and similar fruits.
The value of fruit preserves and syrups, both as
condiments and drinks, are too well appreciated to
need any comment.
In the sick dietary, several fruits and preserves
are prohibited on account of their acidity or other
medicinal properties.
As a general rule, vegetables should be young
and juicy, and, above all things, fresh.
Of Drinks&
There is no drink so wholesome., or, to the
unvitiated taste, so agreeable, as pure spring
water; nor is any beverage so conducive to the
digestion of those who live abstemiously.
River water which has been filtered is, however,
sufficiently wholesome when spring water cannot
be obtained.
Toast-and-water is a most wholesome and slightly nutritious drink, and will generally agree with
those stomachs which cannot bear the pure fluid.
Of the vegetable infusions, tea and coffee are
those most generally used.
Tea exerts a powerful influence upon the nervous system, which renders its use higidy objectionable in the cases of persons laboring under nervous and other disorders. Habit, how ever, and
likewise the practice of adding sugar and milk,
or cream, together with the solid meal which
usually accompanies or precedes it, in a great




26


OF DRINKS.


Ardent spirits (such as brandy, Hollands, and
other similar liquors) *are less liable to prove
injurious in very cold and intemperate, than in
ordinarily mild climates, provided great moderation is observed in their use; they are chiefly
adapted to persons who    are  being  constantly
exposed to cold and wet.  In any case, they should
always be   plentifully  diluted with water, and
even then, only taken exceptionally. The moral,degradation, and ultimate physical disorganization,
which follow upon their abuse, especially when
taken in the raw state, are too well known to be
dwelt upon. Invalids who have been accustomed
to spirits for many years should not suddenly discontinue their use without the sanction of competent advice. French brandy, especially Cognac,
and Irish or Scotch whisky, are, perhaps, the least
objectionable in a diluted state.
The habitual indulgence in liqueurs of various
kinds is likewise highly detrimental to the constitution.
Malt liquors contain a larger quantity of nutritive matter, and, in general, a less proportion of
spirit, than any of the other fermented drinks;
they contain, however, in a greater or less degree,
a narcotic principle derived from the hop. Homebrewed beer is the most wholesome and refreshing
of all malt liquors, and is a good beverage for those
who undergo much bodily fatigue or hard labor;
but to the sedentary and inactive it must be considered generally injurious. Ale and porter, as well
as the stronger kinds of beer, are more objectionable, seeing that they are often subject to adulteration. Invalids who have been in the daily habit of




OF DRINKS.


27


drinking malt liquors cannot always forego their
use; but upon this point they must follow the counsel of their medical adviser.
Cider and perry are grateful drinks in hot weather; but, as they are apt to turn acid upon the stomach, they should be excluded from the sick dietary. Ginger and spruce-beer may occasionally be
indulged in by the healthy. Soda-water is medicinal, and its abuse is a very common exciting cause
of indigestion.
The use of strong wines (such as port and sherry,) like that of all highly-stimulating drinks, cannot be considered wholesome, seeing that they contain a large quantity of spirit. Dilution, however,
renders them less pernicious. Port is more objectionable than sherry or Madeira, on account of its
astringent properties. The pure acid wines (such
as claret, and the light Rhenish, French, and Italian
wines) are the least objectionable, and, when copiously diluted with water, are wholesome and refreshing drinks, especially in hot countries. Sweet
wines (such as Frontignac, Tent, Malaga, &c.),
which possess little body, are grateful in small
quantities, and may occasionally be allowed. The
home-made wines are apt to ferment and turn acid
upon weak stomachs; they cannot, therefore, be
considered wholesome. As a general rule, invalids should not drink wine, because the temporary
stimulus which it affords is almost invariably followed by depression. Persons of a weak constitution, who have habituated themselves to wine, should
not leave it off suddenly without competent advice;
nevertheless, the cases are rare where its use requires to be persisted in.




28


OF CONDIMENTS.


Of Condiments.
Under this head are naturally included all those
substances which are taken with our food, rather
with a view to promote digestion, or to correct some
hurtful tendency in the aliment partaken of, than on
account of any nutritive properties which some of
them may chance to possess individually.
Common salt is a natural and necessary stimuolant, when taken in moderation, both to the sick
and healthy.
Good vinegar, in small quantities, is a grateful
and healthy stimulant, seeing that it tends to prevent
the fermentation of both animal and vegetable substances in the stomach. Mingled with olive oil, it
forms an excellent condiment for salads and other
raw vegetables, and for fat and oleaginous fish, such
as salmon, mackerel, &c., as well as for shell-fish.
In disease, its use, like that of other acids, is generally prohibited, as it is apt to disagree with weak
stomachs, and because it is not unfrequently a medicinal antidote. White wine vinegar is the most
wholesome.
Lemon juice is also a grateful acid, and is frequently used, instead of vinegar, as a corrective to
animal fat and oil, especially with fried fish or meat.
Pickles are, in fact, only vegetable receptacles
for vinegar. Walnuts, samphire, and onions are,
perhaps, the best vegetables for pickling, seeing
that they are less apt to be hardened by the acid
than the generality of other vegetables; and, consequently, this property renders them less objectionable when used in moderation by the healthy.
Olive oil proves valuable as a seasoning for raw




OF COOlERV.


which is a combination of mint, diluted vinegarq
and sugar, certainly renders lamb and other gelatinous meats more easy of digestion.
Of Cookerye
Among all civilized nations, the generality of
aliments are not made use of without having undergone some modification from the culinary art.. The art of cookery acts upon alimentary substances by diminishing the cohesion of some and
increasing that of others. It modifies their taste,
savor, and appearance, which, in the crude state,
might have created feelings of disgust through the
medium of those senses which sympathize so intimately with the stomach. By this process, aliments
are not unfrequently deprived of certain volatile or
soluble principles, which, if retained, would prove
injurious to the system; they likewise become more
easy of digestion, and not unfrequently gain in nu
tritive properties. Moreover, by the application- of
heat, they are, under certain circumstances, raised
to a temperature more grateful and beneficial to the
stomach.
The following constitute the common modes of
cooking which are applicable to animal and to most
kinds of vegetable food, viz.:-broiling, roasting,
boiling, baking, stewing, and frying.
Broiling and roasting are the most wholesome
modes of dressing animal food. A just mean
should be observed in cooking meat: it should neither be over-done nor under-dressed.
Boiling is also a good mode of cookery, though
inferior to the two first: it is, however, well calcu*




OF THE DIET OF THE SICK.


31


lated for vegetables. Young and gelatinous meats,
such as veal and lamb, and birds in general, are
more wholesome when roasted.
Baking and stewing come next in point of wholesomeness; whilst frying is the least eligible mode
of cookery, on account of the animal fat, butter, or
oil, which are necessarily used in this process.
As a general rule, young meats, poultry, game,
fish, and vegetables, should be very well done: the
same also applies to the fat and oily meats.
The most simple modes of cooking are best.*
Plain broiling, roasting, and boiling are to be preferred for most kinds of meat; broiling, boiling, and
frying, for fish; and boiling, baking, and sometimes
roasting, for vegetable food. Vegetables are often
rendered more nutritious and digestible by the addition of meat gravy.
Made dishes cannot be recommended to the invalid, who should be very sparing in their use.
Of the Diet of the Sick.
It should always be remembered, with regard to
the application of dietetic rules to the treatment of
the sick, that the rigor of the dietary, and the length
of time during which it should be enforced, ought
to vary with the nature and importance of the disorder which has rendered its observance necessary.
In Acute Disease, the ordinary conditions of existence are so modified as to admit of an extraordinary concentration (so to speak) of the vital ener* SýO MANUAL OF HOM(EOPATHIC COOKERY, designed
chiefly for the use of such persons as are under Homoeo.
pathic Treatment. Price 50 cents,




32


OF THE DIET OF THE SICK.


gies, in order to resist the destructive influences of
morbific agents. Physical activity ceases, and with
it the same necessity for reparation (as far as solid
nutriment is concerned) which exists in health;
moreover, the body is usually kept, when the case
is at all urgent, at a temperature which still further
diminishes the loss of vital heat, and the consequent
demand for nutritious food; whence it follows that,
in the febrile and inflammatory stages of acute diso'rders, only the most simple and least nutritive
kinds of liquid food, such as pure water, toast-andwater, gum-arabic water, with or without the addition of fruit syrups* (according to the taste of the
patient), are proper.
As the inflammatory symptoms subside, barleywater, rice-water, oatmeal-gruel, or whey, may be
given. When, however, the return of the appetite
and the cessation of thirst indicate the approach of
convalescence, a light farinaceous and milk diet,
consisting of preparations of arrow-root, sago, &c.,
to which beef-tea and cocoa may be added, should
precede the gradual return to the ordinary mode of
living. In all cases it is most prudent to begin only
with a few tea-spoonfuls of the food first allowed,
and then to watch their effect for a few hours before
repeating the same quantity; in other words, to
give little at a time and often, gradually increasing
or diminishing the quantity, according as the food
may have agreed or otherwise.
When the acute symptoms are mild throughout
* Except in cases where the bowels are relaxed. The
same prohibition would likewise apply to fruit and milk
under similar circumstances.




HOM(EOPATHIC DIETARY.


33


the attack, light farinaceous food, with a little beeftea, may be allowed; but upon no account should
nature's dictates be violated.
In Chronic Disease, a greater variety is needed
(in fact, often as great as in the healthy state), and
that for reasons too obvious to need any comment.
The dietary which follows, and which is more especially adapted to the sick under Homeopathic treatment, gives a summary of those articles of food
which the patient may generally partake of, or
which, on the other hand, he ought to avoid.
HOMOEOPATHIC DIETARY.


ALIMENTS ALLOWED.
BREAD, &C. - Wheaten
bread, especially home-made,
a day or two old; barleybread, rye-bread; plain biscuits and lightwheaten cakes;
plain currant or sponge cake;
pearl-barley, rice, oatmeal,
Indian meal, arrowroot, sago,
tapioca, potato flour, semolina, macaroni and vermicelli,
plainly dressed.
MEATS.-Beef, mutton and
lamb, not killed too young;
venison, hares and rabbits.
Meat jellies, such as calf'sfoot and other similar jellies.
Pullets, chickens, capons,


ALIMENTS FORBIDDEN.
BREAD, &c.-All kinds of
bread and cakes containing
potash or soda, or which have
been raised with fermenting
powders containing similar ingredients; cakes prepared
with spices or with much butter or fat; all kinds of new
bread, hot rolls, crumpets,
muffins, &c.; oatmeal cakes
and oatmeal porridge.
MEATS.-Veal, calf's head,
sucking pig, fresh corned
beef, salt or hung beef, ham,
bacon, pork (fresh or salted)
wild boar, salted and dried
tongues, sausages (fresh or




36


HOMM-UO PATHIC DIETARYM


suet, plain plum   puddings
rolly puddings with sweet preserves, (such as: strawberry
or raspberry jam), apple puddings and dumplings.
Very light pastry, tarts,
&c., containing sweet fruit
or preserves; pancakes, fritters, &c.
Stewed rhubarb, &c.
Macaroni dressed with meat
* gravy or with a small quantity of good fresh butter and
Parmesan cheese.
FRUIT.-Strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, peaches,
apricots, greengages, sweet
cherries, melons, grapes, figs,
pomegranates, sweet and juicy apples, such as golden and
Ribstone pippins; juicy pears,
very sweet oranges.
Sweet almonds, roasted or
boiled chestnuts.
Turkey figs, dates, raisins,
prunes, French plums, dried
currants, &c,
DRINKS.-Water, especially pure spring water, toastand-water, barley-water, ricewater, gruel, gum-arabic-water, water sweetened with sugar, or with strawberry or
raspberry syrup.
Milk,   fresh  buttermilk,
whey, milk-and-water, boiled
milk, cocoa boiled with milk
or water, homaeopathic choco

FRUIT.-All acid and urripe fruits, likewise all fruit
(whether dried or fresh) of an
inferior description, currants,
mulberries, sour apples, stony
pears, lemons, limes, bitter
oranges, pine-apples, 4<c.
Olives, walnuts, filberts,
hazel-nuts, cob-nuts, hickory
nuts, cocoa-nuts, raw chestnuts, &c.
DRINKs.-All ardent spirits,
such as brandy, hojiands, rum,
arrack, whisky, potato-spirit,
&c.
Beer, porter, ale, cider
perry, ginger-beer, sprucebeer, and all other fermented
liquors.
Wine in general, especially
brandied and strong-bodied
wines, such as port, sherry,




HOMCEOPATHIC DIETARY.


37


late, or Headland's substitute
for coffee, prepared with milk
and sugar.
Exceptionally.
Genuine Frontignac, Montefiascone, Muscat, Malaga,
Tent, and other sweet wines
possessed of little body, light
Rhenish, French (vin ordinaire), Spanish and Italian
(vino nostrale), wines plentifully diluted with water.
Very weak Cognac brandy
and water or whisky and water, weak sherry and water,
mild home-brewed beer.
Weak black tea, with milk
or cream and sugar.
Very weak coffee (caf6 au
lait) with boiled milk and
sugar.
CONDIMENTS.-Salt, sugar,
cream, fresh butter and olive
oil, in moderation.
Exceptionally.
Pure white-wire vinegar,
very much diluted.


Marsala,  Madeira,   Cape,
Burgundy, &c.
Liqueurs of every kind:
cherry brandy, noyeau water,
&c.
Home-made wines, such as
ginger, currant, orange, elder,
&c.
Bitters and other ' so called'
stomachics, soda-water, lemonade, raspberry vinegar,
and all other stimulating or
acid drinks.
Tea, black or green, more
especially the latter, coffee,
and spiced chocolate.
Herb teas, such as cowslip,
violet, sage, chamomile, elder
or nettle tea.
All natural or artificial
mineral waters.
CONDIMENTS. -  Wine   or
beer, vinegar, wood vinegar,
and all diluted vegetable or
mineral acids, and likewise
the receptacles of these, such
as catsups, pickles, and salads
of every description.
Rich sauces.
Garlic, onions, ?:allots,
chivers, leeks, -.c.
Chervil, marjoram, sage,
mint, parsley, thyme, lemon
and orange peel, celery, truffles, capers, horse-radish, and
mustard; black pepper, cayenne pepper, alspice, pimente, mace, nutmeg, cinnamon,


4




38


GENERAL OBSERVATIONS.


cloves, ginger, saffron, vanilla,
laurel leaves, bitter almonds,
peach and other kernels;
peach leaves, curry powder,
aniseed, fennel, coriander and
carraway seeds, rose-water,
&c.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS
ON THE
HOMCEOPATHIC DIETARY.
A REFERENCE to the general principles already
laid down will show that, in the framing of the
Homweopathic Dietary, they have not been lost
sight of.
Thus, the columns of the allowable aliments include almost every kind of food which general experience has proved to be nutritious and easy of
assimilation, and, at the same time, possessed of no
appreciable medicinal properties; whilst those of
the forbidden aliments, in their turn, comprise those
dietetic articles which are inadmissible, either on
account of their indigestibility or else of their
medicinal properties.
None of the articles of food contained in the
columns of the aliments occasionally, or exceptionally allowed, should be partaken of by patients,
under systematic treatment, without the permission
of their medical attendant.
Many of the aliments in the proscribed columns




OF REGIMEN.           3


39


are printed in italics, seeing that they may sometimes be exceptionally made use of; in small quantities, and under certain restrictions, with the sanction of competent advice.
As the legitimate treatment of domestic ailments,
in general, occupies so short a period, the author
would counsel the patient, by all means, to adhere
to the strict diet.
Even amongr those aliments which are generally
esteemed wholesome, there are individual exceptions
which must not be lost sight of; so that, in no case,
should any article of food, however wholesome, be
forced upon a patient wit/h whose stomach it has invariably been found to disagree.
Of Rlegimen.
Under the head of Regimen, the following, viz.,
air and light, clothing, exercise, sleep, cleanliness,
and moral habits, will be considered in their rela.
tion to the maintenance and promotion of health.
Air and Light.
The ancients seem to have been so well aware
of the important part which the atmospheric air
plays in all the functions of living beings, that they
do not hesitate to term it, above all others, the aliment
of life; nor indeed is aniything so conducive to the
maintenance of health, or its restoration, as breathing the pure fresh air together with free exposure
to the light of day.
In the choice of a dwelling, too much attention
cannot be paid to these points, especially in towns




40


AIR AND LIGHT.


where the streets are narrow, and the houses illventilated.
Infants and young children suffer by being confined within doors. Whereas, if freely exposed to
the external air and to daylight, and clad according
to the mildness or rigor of the season, they become
almost as hardened to the vicissitudes of the weather
as young cattle.
The inhabitants of towns should make a daily
habit of taking an airing beyond the suburbs, of at
least an hour's duration, selecting that neighborhood
where the air is cool and moderately bracing; and,
if practicable, they should contrive to go into the
country or near the sea-side, once or twice a year,
for change of air.
Invalids and delicate persons should not go out
too early in the day, nor remain out too late. Any
time between eight in the morning and seven in the
evening may be selected in summer, and between ten
in the morning and four in the afternoon in winter,
care being taken to avoid extremes of heat or cold at
all seasons of the year.
When the weather does not admit of going out,
an airing may be taken by throwing open the windows, and walking backwards and forwards about
the room, as on ship-board, seeing that it is in the
power of every one to protect himself from cold by
additional clothing.
Night air is justly considered unwholesome, more
especially just after sun-set, when the dew begins to
fall. In hot climates, where the country is badly
drained and marshy, exposure to the night air is
dangerous in the extreme.
It must not be forgotten, that the supply of fresh




OF CLOTHING.


41


air is quite as essential, if not even more so, in sickness as in health; and, for this reason, all rooms
which do not allow of free and constant ventilation
are most objectionable as receptacles for the sick.
It is a very common, and at the same time, generally speaking, a very bad practice to darken the
sick-chamber; so that not only is the beneficial influence of daylight in promoting recovery thus lost,
but also the habit of sleep, which the regular alternation of day and night induces even in the sick, to
say nothing of the tedium and weariness of perpetual
night.
Exposure to sudden alternations of temperature, to
the inclemencies of the weather, to draughts, to an
impure atmosphere, or to the tainted air of crowded
assemblies, should at all times and in all places be
carefully avoided, especially by invalids and other
persons.
With all the ordinary care possible, it is sometimes difficult to avoid, in a variable climate, occasional exposure to rain and damp. In such eases,
the wet or damp clothes should be changed as soon
as an opportunity presents itself of doing so, and on
no account should any one, however strong he may
be, stand still or sit down with wet garments or wet
feet.            *
Of Clothing.
The chief object of all clothing is to preserve the
body at an equal temperature without impeding
the free motion of the limbs, and, at the same time,
without altogether excluding the external air from
the surface of the body.
Our garments should therefore be made of soft and
4*




CY
A4


42        OF CLOTHING.


pliable materials, of such a form as to be comfortable from their ease, and of such textures as are pervious to the air. They will necessarily vary, in
kind and texture, with the seasons of the year and
the atmospheric changes, and also with the individual age and constitution.
The body-clothes should be frequently changed;
consequently, they ought to be made of stuffs which
are easily washed.
0Flannel, when requisite, should not be worn next
to the skin, but over a muslin or linen jacket.
Woven cotton jackets will, however, enable most
persons to dispense with the use of flannel altogether.
Robust and young persons, comparatively speaking, require but. little clothing, and. that only of a
lighter kind; the delicate and the aged must, however, be warmly clad.
It is a great error to suppose that the body may
be trained from childhood to resist all changes of
temperature by scanty clothing; nevertheless, the
opposite extreme should be avoided.
In summer, children may be lightly clothed, so
as to admit of the free exposure of their necks, arms,
and legs to the healthy influence of the air; whereas, in winter, their clothing sh~ould be warm, and
made to protect their extremities from the cold.
Invalids and persons of weak constitutions should,
in this country, be careful not to make too great a
change in their clothing in summer, especially in
the evening.
With young girls, the practice of wearing corsets
(stays) is very objectionable; artificial supports of
this kind impede the natural formation of the chest,




EXERCISE.            4


43


an~d tend to destroy the muscular power of the
back.
Exercise.
Of all the accessories for the preservation and
promotion of health, none is more worthy the attention of that portion of the community which is
occupied with intellectual or sedentary pursuits
than the enjoyment of regular exercise, seeing that
this habit tends to strengthen and invigorate every
function of the body.
Most persons require regular bodily exercise of
some kind, and of at least one or two hours' duration daily. It must, however, be borne in mind,
that exercise, no matter of what kind, to be beneficial, should fall short of actual fatigue; so that its
degree will naturally vary with the individual
health, strength, age, and occupation.
The healthiest mode of exercise, and by far the
most naturallos walking. The most suitable time
for walking, and indeed for most kinds of exercise,
is between breakfast and dinner.
Riding on horseback will prove very beneficial
to invalids or weak persons, who cannot endure the
fatigue of walking. When, however, horse-exercise
is too laborious, an airing in an open carriage may
be substituted wvith advantage. Exercise of this
kind has an advantage wvhich has not been sufficiently dwelt upon; namely, that of rapidly changing the air; and on this account may be recommended as a wholesome variation, even to strong
persons who are in the habit of walking(.
Digging is a more beneficial occupation than is




44


EXERCISE.


usually supposed; it will often prove of much benefit to those who suffer from inaction of the bowels.
Rowing is a good exercise, but it is sometimes
attended with serious and permanent injury to the
constitution by being pursued in too violent a
manner.
Gymnastics and games of various kinds, such as
fencing, throwing the quoit, dumb-bells, drilling,
*dancing, battledore and shuttlecock, &c., are also
salutary modes of exercising the body and limbs.
General friction, by means of the flesh-brush,
which may be used night and morning for the
space of fifteen or twenty minutes at a time, is a
practice worthy of high commendation.
Young children should be encouraged to walk
as soon as they begin to put their feet to the ground
of their own accord, but upon no account should
they ever be forced to do so. In exercising a
child, care should be taken not to fatigue it.
Weakly children ought not to be alrlwed to stand
or walk long at a time; but they should be alternately carried in the arms, or drawn in a little
carriage, and encouraged to walk.
It is a very common error with merchants,
clerks, and other persons engaged in sedentary
pursuits, who may chance to live out of town, to
tire themselves by walking several miles to their
residences after the labors of the day, and this by
way of gaining an appetite, as if bodily fatigue
were an antidote to mental exhaustion.




SLEEP,.45


45


Sleep.
There is no restorative so grateful or so niecessary to man, after the daily exertion to which his
body and mind have been subjected, as sound and
refreshing sleep;- and, consequently, there is no
habit so deserving of earnest cultivation.
In fixing upon the hour of rest, and the period
to be devoted to sleep, extremes should be avoided,
seeing that the enervating tendencies of both are
almost equally pernicious - moreover, the time of
life, as well as the individual health and strength,
sex, &c., must be taken into consideration, before
a just conclusion can be arrived at u-pon this important subject.
More sleep is required in infancy than in childhood, seeing that the first stage of human life is
passed in alternations of repose and refection..
Ag~ain, children require more sleep than adolescents; ad~olescents than adults;- adults, in the prime
of life, than the aged; women than men;- and,
lastly, the weak and infirm than the strong and
healthy.
Young children should go to bed at six or 'seven
in the evening, according to the season of the
year, and rise at the same hours in the morningr.
Up to the age of three or four years, children
should be allowed to sleep for an hour or two in
the middle of the day.    Adolescents need frorm
seven to nine hours' sleep in the twenty-four;
adults, from six to eight, and even invalids seldom
more than eight or nine. From half-past ten to
eleven wvill be the most suitable time for the
generality of grown persons to retire to rest at




46


SLEEP.


night; and six in the morning in summer, and
seven in winter, for rising.
The bed-chamber should be light and airy,
and the bed-clothes, especially the sheets, well
aired.
Plants should never be allowed a place in sleeping-rooms, seeing  that they tend to vitiate the
atmosphere.
Light and warm bed-clothes are preferable to,those which are heavy and oppressive; horse-hair
mattresses to feather-beds.  Bed-curtains, which
prevent a free circulation of pure air, are objectionable; for this reason, beds without curtains
are, generally speaking, the most wholesome.
Exercise, temperance, and tranquillity of mind
are great accessories to comfortable sleep.
The use of the flesh-brush, before going to bed,
will often be found beneficial by those who are
kept awake by the languor of their circulation.
Hot-water bottles, or heated flannels, may likewise
be had recourse to by persons who suffer from cold
feet at night.
Sleeping after dinner should never be made a
practice of. Its effect is to hurry on the digestion;
and hence the fever and state of excitement in
which those who indulge in this habit not unfrequently awake.
The practice of forcibly  rocking  infants, in
order to put them to sleep, is highly objectionable,
because it is very apt to induce congestion of the
brain.




48


4CIIANLINESS.


as possible, and should be wiped away before it has
been allowed time to chill by evaporation.
Hot baths have a very relaxing and debilitating
tendency, and, therefore, are seldom or never allowed under Homceopathic treatment.
Sea-bathing, as it is a remedial agent of great
power, should never be had recourse to by the invalid without competent medical advice.
Perfumery and cosmetics of various kinds, such
Sas Eau-de-Cologne, Eau-de-Luce, lavender-water,
strong-scented hair pomades,   medicated  toothpowders, but more especially camphor, musk,
smelling-salts, essence of vinegar, &c., are,,generally speaking, to be considered as detrimental
to the health, and therefore, should be sparingly
used, the preference being given to the milder
scents.   Under Homoeopathic treatment they
are all objectionable, as they  tend to interfere
with the action of the prescribed remedies, independently of their own peculiar influences on the
organism, and   consequently  should be entirely
abstained from.  Honmopathic tooth-powder, and
hair-pomade, may be substituted for the articles
ordinarily sold by perfumers and druggists.
Snufftaking and smoking are bad habits, and
often at variance with cleanliness; they should on
this account be discontinued.
Inveterate snuff-takers, or smokers, when they
*subject themselves to Homeopathic treatment,
should diminish their daily allowance of snuff,
or tobacco; moreover, they should neither smoke
nor take snuff for at least an hour before, and an
hour after taking the Homceopathic remedy.




50


50     OF DISEASES IN GENERAL.


state, or else leave chronic traces behind them,
Measles, scarlet fever, quinsy, and dysentery may
be instanced as acute disorders.   In the intermediate state between an acute and chronic affection, the symptoms are said to be sub-acute.
In Chronic Diseases, the symptoms are less
urgent, but more permanent, sometimes continuing
for many months, or even years; and they are often
very insidious. As compared with acute diseases,
*chronic maladies must generally be considered
much less amenable to treatment, and, if their
progress is unchecked, sooner or later they will
prove fatal; not unfrequently, however, they put
on acute -forms.  Long-standing affections of the
stomach and bowels, asthma, pulmonary consumption, and the various forms of scrofula, come under
the head of chronic diseases.
Only' the slighter kinds of either form of disease
ought to be made the subjects of domestic treat -
ment: and even then, if, after the first indicated
remedies have been given, a decided change for
the better is not observed in a few hours, in acute,
or in a corresponding lapse of time, varying ftrom
one to several weeks, in chronic cases, they must
not be trifled with, inasmuch as the most serious
illnesses occasionally set in with apparently mild
symptoms.
In sudden cases of great urgency, when the
patient resides at a distance from his medical attendant, it is right that his friends should know how
to act during the unavoidable delay of competent
advice, and, accordingly, several such cases have
been contemplated in this work.
In the great majority of those cases which have




OF HOM(EOPATHIC REMEDIES.


51


not been thus specially indicated, the directions
given under.the head of Sudden and Acute Inflammatory Complaints will suffice until the arrival of
the medical practitioner.
Of Hfomueopathic Remedies.
1. Globules saturated (impregnated) with the
alcoholic medicinal dilutions, are the best form in
which Homceopathic remedies can be prepared for
keeping, as they will retain their virtue for many
years, if properly taken care of. For this reason,
the medicines thus prepared are best adapted for
domestic boxes, and they have consequently been
prescribed in that form throughout the present
work.
The lower and middle dilutions have likewise
been selected as best adapted for domestic purposes.
In fact, a very great abuse of the high dilutions
has been made by amateurs.
The low are indicated in the treatment of all
acute affections; whilst the middle and higher
dilutions are more efficacious in the sub-acute and
more chronic forms of disease. The former are
given at short, and the latter at long intervals.
Sugar of milk, or finely-pounded white sugar,
in which the globules may be crushed (whether
they are prescribed to be taken dry, or else in
solution), will prove an excellent receptacle for
remedies not required for immediate administra.
tion, which would, otherwise, not unfrequently be
lost, from their very minuteness, when confided to
a careless person.
2. Of Medicinal Aggravation. -This kind df




OF HOM(E0PATHIC REMEDIES.     5


53


one dose. When other remedies are selected, it
is best to administer from 6 to 9 globules, of the
lowest dilution, dissolved in half a wvine-glassful
of water, at one draught. Coffee may be sometimes given as an antidote to those unaccustomed
to its use, with advantage. A few tea-spoonfuls
of coffee, without milk or sugar, wvill suffice in
such cases.
If there is one piece of advice above another
which the author would give a patient, it is, as
much. as possible, to avoid having recourse. to
antidotes, and in no case to fly from one antidote
to another.
4. Of the Medicines recommended.-A few general ideas on the subject of their action, may be
useful, in so far as they bear upon domestic
practice.
A con. acts, above all other known remedies,
upon the circulating system. Its effects in acute
inflammatory affections and fevers are truly wonderful1.
Amn. acts upon the absorbents, and is consequently admirably calculated to promote the absorption
of effused blood, and the reparation of tissues after
mechanical injuries.
Bell. exerts a very powerful action upon the
brain and its membranes, and is perhaps inferior to
no other medicine in this respect. Its action upon
the glands is also very remarkable; it is, in fact, to
the glandular almost what Aeon. is to the circulating system. The lining (mucous) membrane of
the throa-t is peculiarly susceptible of its influence.
Op. is, from the peculiarity of its actions, of the
5*




OF HOM(EOPATHIC REMEDIES.


greatest importance in the treatment of certain lethargic states of the brain.
Nux v. has a very marked action upon the
nervous system generally, but especially upon the
spinal chords, and upon those nerves which are connected with the digestive organs. It is one of the
most valuable remedies prescribed in the treatment
of derangements of the digestive functions, and is
very generally indicated in cases of inaction of the
bowels, dependent upon want of nervous energy.
Puls. has many points of resemblance with
Nux v. in its acticin upon the nervous system
and the digestive organs. Its action upon the mucous
membranes is, however, much more marked.
As a medicine it is very generally indicated in the
treatment of similar affections of the stomach and
bowels, where the tendency is rather to relaxation
than to constipation,
Ign. holds a middle place between the two pre.
ceding remedies.
Bry. acts upon the muscles generally, and especially upon the fibrous tissues of the joints; it is
admirably adapted to the treatment of rheumatic
cases, in which the sufferings are aggravated by
motion. Its action upon the lungs, and upon the
muscles associated with the organs of respiration,
render it of essential service in most kinds of cough
and catarrh of the chest, especially at their commencement.
Rhus acts upon the same tissues as the preceding, but more especially upon the tendinous structures and cartilages of the joints; hence its value
in the case of sprains and strains. It is chiefly indicated in rheumatism which is relieved by motion.




OF HOM(EOPATHIC REMEDIES.


55


Merc. is a most valuable medicine from its remarkable action upon the mucous membranes, the
glands and the liver, and is very generally used in
the treatment of disorders connected with the digestive organs and glandular system.   Like Hep.
sulph., it acts upon the skin, and also favors the
suppurative process, although in a less degree.
Hep. sulph. is pre-eminent above other known
remedies in its action upon the exhalants of the
skin, and, consequently, is often given with a view
to promoting perspiration, when indicated by nature. The property which it possesses of favoring
suppuration is no less worthy of mention.
Ars., Calc. carb., Graph. and Sulph. are all
remarkable for the long duration of their actions,
and also for their deep and searching effects upon
almost every organ and tissue of the body. On
this latter account they are usually classed among
the anti-psoric (as Homceopathists designate them)
remedies-remedies which are essentially necessary in the treatment of all constitutional affections
of long standing. They differ from each other in
the predilection which they individually manifest
for certain organs or tissues.  Thus Calc. carb.
has a more marked action upon the glandular
system generally, and especially upon certain portions of it, than Sulph. which exerts a greater influence upon the skin.
Again, the sensations which attend their action
differ. Thus the aggravation of Ars. is accompanied with burning sensations, whilst that of
Sulph. is manifested by extreme itching.   All
these medicines should be very sparingly used by




56


OF HOM(EOPATHIC REMEDIES.


amateurs, as the aggravations consequent upon
their abuse are not speedily remedied.
Other things being equal, the constitution, age,
sex, and the vital resources must be taken into
consideration in the choice of remedies,, seeing
that one remedy will often be better adapted for
certain constitutions than another. The same may
also be said with respect to the circumstance of
age, sex and the strength or weakness of the vital
powers.
For instance, Nux v. is suited to persons of a
bilious constitution with a dark sallow complexion,
and hasty, irritable, or hypochondriacal disposition; whilst Puls. is more adapted to the cases
of persons, and especially females, of a mild, timid
disposition, easily induced to shed tears.
Cham. is peculiarly the medicine of infancy. It
is also adapted to the female constitution.
Chin. and Ars. are invaluable    remedies for
sustaining the vital powers under repeated losses
of the fluids and solids of the body.
5. Of the rules to be followed under Homoeopathic treatment.-These, when    briefly summed
up, will be found to consist in the following:
1. The observance of a suitable diet.    (For
particulars of which see Homceopathic Dietary,
page 33).
2. General attention to regimen, as defined in
this work. (See from page 39 to 49 inclusively.)
3. The rejection of every description of patent
and ordinary domestic remedies, whether in the
shape of aperients,* emetics, narcotics, medicated
* In cases, however, of obstinate constipation, when the




COMMON DISORDERS.


57


fbmentations, blisters, leeches, and the like, as well
as of medicated   tooth-powders, perfumery    and
cosmetics; and the restriction, or suppression, of
certain habits. (See remarks on    cleanliness in
connection with these subjects, page 47.)
I. COMMON DISORDERS.
THESE comprise a variety of disorders and slight
ailments common to all periods of life, and to both
sexes; and, in general, requiring only a simple
course of treatment, provided they are attended to at
the beginning.
Sleeplessness.
Wakefulness at night is often merely one of many
symptoms attendant upon a variety of diseases. It
may, however, be induced by the temporary operation of a number of individual causes connected
with moral, physical, atmospheric, dietetic, and other
influences upon the system generally.
Troalt nent. -When no precise cause can be assigned, give Chin. 3 glob. (3d),* and repeat this remedy in two or three days, if the first dose proves
insufficient. Should the sleeplessness, however, still
patient is at a distance from medical advice, recourse may be
had for relief to an enema (injection) of tepid water, to which
a dessert-spoonful of olive-oil or honey may be added, if
necessary.
SThe potency is always put in parentheses, thus: 3 glob.
(3d), indicates: 3 globules, 3d dilution.




58


SLEEPLESSNESS.


continue (three or four days having elapsed since
the second dose of Chin.), administer Cof. 3 glob.
(6th), especially when there is great nervous excitement, followed by Ars., 3 glob. (30th), three or four
days afterwards. Ign., 2 glob. (3d), if caused by
grief. Hyos., 2 glob. (6th), from nervous excitement, either after or during the course of an illness,
especially in irritable and sensitive individuals.
Nux v., 3 glob. (30th), when caused by reading,
"abuse of coffee. Op., 2 glob. (3d), when caused by
fear or fright. Puls., 3 glob. (3d), from overloading
the stomach. Bell., I glob. (6th), to children, if
they cry all the time, without any assignable cause.
Rheum if there be a frequent desire to evacuate,
with tenesmus and colic.
Diet and Regimen.-The exciting cause, if connected with diet, should be abstained from. Regular exercise should be taken, and over-exertion of
the mind and body should be guarded against.
(See also Moral Emotions, Atmospheric Influences, and Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Nightmare.
Under this head are included all manner of unpleasant, confused, or restless dreams; but especially
those of a frightful, horrible, or terrifying character.
Independently of being an ordinary attendant
upon almost every kind of disorder connected with
the organs of digestion, nightmare often occurs after
a hearty supper, various dietetic infractions, fatigue,
&c.; an uneasy position will frequently induce it.
Treatment.-In a general way, Nux v., 3 glob.




SRIN DISEASE.6


61


be alternated with Sulph., 3 glob. (30th), at intervals of five, seven, or ten days. This course should
not be persevered in beyond a month or six weeks,
according as the medicines have been given at the
long or short intervals. In the case of children,
Rhus tox., 3 glob. (12th), may be advantageously
substituted for Merc.
When the eruptions are hot and burning, with
or without a thin watery discharge, Ars., 3 glob.
(6th), may be given, in alternation with $ulph., 3
glob. (12th), at intervals of a week, ten days, or a
fortnight. When the eruptions are scaly, Graph.
3 glob. (12th), may be alternated with Sulph., 3
glob. (30th), at intervals often days or a fortnight.
In no case should the treatment be continued
beyond a month or six weeks without further advice.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, in doses of a sixth
part, or Acon., 3 glob. (12th), may be administered,
either by itself, or alternately with the preceding
remedies, when there are febrile symptoms.
Diet and Regimen.-Every wash which might
drive the eruption back into the system, should
be avoided, and even soap should be used with
great caution. The diet should be wholesome and
nutritious. Regular exercise should also be enforced.
(See also Nettle-Rash, Teething, and Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of Dietetic
Rules.)
Nettle Rash.
This rash occurs chiefly in summer. It is generally connected with a disordered state of the di6




NETTLE RASH.


63


then, a day or two after the last dose of the solution,
three globules of the highest dilution of the same
medicine, and lastly, in three or four days more,
Sulph., 3 glob. (30th), will complete the course.*
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may always be
alternated, when required, in doses of a sixth part,
with any of the indicated medicines, especially
during the eruptive fever which sometimes pre.
cedes the rash.
Bell., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, in doses of a sixth
part, every four hours, or thrice a day, will be useful when there is much inflammation of the skin
which the medicines already exhibited have not
removed.
Acon., 3 glob. (3d), in the morning, and Nux v.,
3 glob. (3d), at night; the face is glowing and
blood-red, the body is covered with rash, the slightest exposure causing violent chilliness, oppression
of the chest, hoarseness, dry burning skin, headache, anguish, and internal uneasiness.
Dulc., 3 glob. (3d), itching after scratching, burning, before the eruption a sensation of needles stick"* For the sake of example, suppose that the affection has
been induced by eating shell-fish. On referring to those
pages which contain the subdivisions of the general subject of
dietetic infractions, will be seen, amongst others, one which
bears upon the case proposed, viz.: that which is headed,
" Indisposition after having partaken of Crabs, Lobsters,
Muscles, and other shell-fish," Rhus tox., 9 glob. (3d),
would, therefore, be given in solution, a sixth part every four
hours, or thrice a day until finished, and, if requisite, would
again be administered in like manner and quantity, a sixth
thrice a day; then, a day or two after the last dose of the
solution, Rhus tox., 3 glob. (12th), would precede the exhibition of Sulph.




WARTS. PIMPLES.


65


lVarts.
These unsightly excrescences may appear upon
almost any part of the body; but they are usually
observed about the hands. As their presence depends upon constitutional causes, there must be always some risk in trying to suppress them by excision or by cauterization.
Treatment.-Administer Dulc., 3 glob. (12th),
for three successive nights, wait three days, and repeat this medicine as before; then, in about four
days after the last dose, exhibit Calc. c., 3 glob.
(30th), -and, if necessary, once more, after a further
interval of four days. Caust., 3 glob. (6th), painful
inflamed warts. Rlius, Sulph, warts on fingers.
Pimples.
Pimples are small, hard, distinct red eminences
of the skin, rising gradually, and then disappearing
after slight suppuration. Any part of the external
surface of the body, but especially the skin of the
face, may afford a site for these little pustules. They
are generally accompanied with some pain or soreness bufore they come to maturity.
Treatcment.-Arn., 3 glob. (6th), administered
twice or thrice every other night, will often cause
their absorption, and the rejection of the matter,
which they would otherwise have contained, by other
surfaces. A course of the following remedies taken
occasionally (that is, at intervals of two or three
weeks), during a few months, in the order prescribed, four or five days or a week apart; viz.,
Merc. sol., 3 glob. (12th), Nux v., 3 glob. (12th),
6*




66


BOILS.


and Sulph., 3 glob. (30th), will generally suffice
when the constitution is otherwise healthy.
Diet, fc.-The exciting causes, such as too great
a proportion of animalized food, spices, stimulants,
&c., should be prohibited, and a light, wholesome,
and nutritious diet enjoined. (See also Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of Dieeteic Rules.)
Boils.
A boil is a small inflammatory tumor, generally
about the size of a hazel-nut, common to any part
of the external surface of the body, hard, red, circumscribed, and acutely tender to pressure; afterwards coming to a head and suppurating, with a
core in the centre.
Treatment.-During the inflammatory stage give
Arn., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part twice or
thrice a (lay, according to the urgency of the symptoms. When, however, the inflammation is great,
Bell., 9 glob. (3d), administered in like manner, will
be preferable. As soon as suppuration commences,
exhibit Hep, sulph., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth
part twice or thrice a day, until it bursts. After the
boil has discharged, give Merc. sol., 3 glob. (12th),
the same night, and lastly, in four nights more
Sulph., 3 glob. (30th).
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be administered in doses of a sixth part, either occasionally by
itself, or else in alternation with any of the indicated remedies, whenever frequency and fulness of
the pulse, or other symptoms of fever exist. In very
slight cases, begin with Arnm, 3 glob. (3d); then in




CORNS.


67


two nights repeat the dose, and lastly, in three nights
more give Sulph., 3 glob. (12th).
When a boil (especially if it be a large one), has
come to a head, and is about to burst, it sometimes
happens that the hardness and tension of the skin
afford a mechanical obstacle to the free issue of the
matter, thereby causing a great increase of the suffering. In such a case, the local application of a
warm bread and water poultice, for the space of
half an hour or an hour, will be of great service in
conjunction with the above prescribed remedial treatment.
Diet.-The diet should be light in all cases.
Corins.
Corns arise in the first instance from hadening
and thickening of the outer skin, which becomes at
length connected with, and as it were rooted in, the
true skin beneath. They are principally confined
to the feet.
Causes.-Long-continued    pressure from  tight
shoes or boots; sometimes, however, family predis.
position alone.
Treatment.-Bathe the feet every other night, for
the space of six or eight days, in a warm Arnicated
lotion (1 part mother tincture of Arnica to 40 or 50
parts of warm water), until the skin becomes soft;
then pare the corns carefully without injuring the
quick; and lastly, apply a piece of Arnica.plaister*
* When Arnica-plaistcr cannot be procured, a small
piece of linen rag steeped in an Arnicated lotion (1 part
Arnica tincture to 14 or 20 parts water) may be substituted.
It should be secured by a piece of gold-beater's skin, and
renewed from time to time as this adhesive plaister peels off.




WHITLOW.


(6th), and Sulph., 3 glob. (12th), at a week's interval. Also Ac. nitr., 3 glob. (6th), after four days.
Diet and Regimen.-Persons who are subject to
Chilblains should avoid too suddenly approaching
the fire, in order to warm their cold hands and feet,
more especially immediately after coming in from
the external air, and during the winter season. It
is, on the contrary, much better to warm the extremities gradually by rubbing. A little attention to
diet generally will also be advisable.
Wlhitlow.
This is an exceedingly painful inflammatory
swelling at the extremities of the fingers, generally
situated at the side of the nail, and usually terminating in suppuration.
Symptoms.-A hard swelling is first perceived at
the tip of the finger, which gradually becomes tense,
hot, and painful. In a few days, the local heat and
pain greatly increase, and the violent throbbing
which is felt in the tumor indicates the formation of
matter. As soon as a free discharge has ensued,
after the abscess has pointed (come to a head), all
the painful symptoms subside. Thirst, loss of appetite, and frequency of pulse, usually attend severe
cases.
Treatment.-In ordinary cases, Mere. sol., 9 glob.
(4th), in solution, a sixth part thrice a day, or MArc.
sol., 3 glob. (6th), only, according to the urgency of
the symptoms, administered at the very commencement, will sometimes be sufficient to arrest its course.
When matter has formed, give Hep. sulph., 9 glob.
(4th), in solution, a sixth part every four hours, or




70


SIMPLE ERYSIPELAS.


thrice a day, in order to promote the pointing of the
abscess, and continue its exhibition until a free discharge has been effected; then, in a day or two after
the last dose of the dissolved medicines, administer
Merc. sol., 3 glob. (6th), and lastly, in four days
more, Sulph., 3 glob. (12th).
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be administered, in doses of a sixth part, either by itself, or in
alternation with any of the preceding remedies, if
Isymptoms of fever indicate its use.
When the skin is hard and tense, a lotion of
luke-warm water will be of service by increasing
its elasticity; and, just as the abscess has come to
a head and is about to burst, a bread-and-water
poultice may be applied, for half an hour or an
hour, in order to soften the integuments. Other
mechanical interference will rarely be required.
Sil., 2 glob. (6th), every morning, when the bone
has become affected.
Diet and Regimen.-Light food should be enjoined for a few days, especially if there is fever.
Gentle exercise in the open air, when the weather
permits, will be beneficial, seeing that it tends to
the improvement of the general health.
Simple Erysipelas.
Erysipelas is an inflammation to which the skin
is liable, and which is generally accompanied by
swelling of the integuments. The face, arms, and
legs are the parts most frequently attacked.
Symptoms.-The skin of the part affected is
hot, smooth, and shining; and of variable color,
from a bright scarlet to a dingy red, or livid tint.




72


F7EVERSz,


allowed.   Exposure to cold should be avoided.
A little dry starch powder is the only local application which can be recommended to allay the
local heat or irritation.
Fever; Febrile or Inflanintatory Symptoms,
In all cases, when heat of skin, thirst, fulness
and  frequency of the pulse-in fact, what are
tjrmed febrile or inflammatory symptoms-predominate, Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be administered, in doses of a sixth part, every two, three, or
four hours, or thrice a day, according to their intensity, either by itself, or else, when these symptoms are attendant upon a more marked disorder
(such as Rheumatism, Headache, &c.), in alternation with any other remedy more especially
indicated under the head of such a disorder. See
also Sudden Acute Inflammatory Afections.
Common of Diary Fever.
This usually runs through its course in twenty,
four, thirty-six, or seventy-two hours.
Exposure to sudden alternations of temperature
is a very common exciting cause.
Symptoms-The attack is usually preceded by a
sudden sensation of cold and shivering: to which a
feeling of general uneasiness succeeds. In the course
of some hours, the skin becomes hot and dry; the
breathing oppressed and hurried, with increased
rapidity, fulness, and strength of the pulse; the
tongue furred, the breath offensive and hot, and the
water scanty and high-colored: loss of appetite,




COMMON OR DIARY FEVER.


73


thirst, a sense of bruising and soreness in the body
and limbs, and, sometimes, headache are complained of   The bowels are generally confined.
The return of the strength and appetite announce
the approach of convalescence. In some cases,
copious perspiration, or relaxation of the bowels,
precedes the termination of the febrile symptoms.
Treatment.--A con., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a
sixth part every four hours, or thrice a day, and
continued, in solution, at similar intervals and in like
manner, until the febrile symptoms abate, will iR
general be all the treatment required.
When a profuse perspiration breaks out upon the
skin, Hep. sulph., 9 glob. (4th), may be given, in
solution, a sixth part every four hours, in alternation
with the Acon. Merc. sol., 9 glob. (4th), similarly
administered, may be substituted for Hep. sulph.,
when exposure to damp cold weather has been the
exciting cause of the malady.
Diet and Regimen.-PPure water, toast and water,
or light water-gruel, will suffice during the acute
symptoms.   Due precaution against taking cold
should be observed, and, in any doubtful case the
patient had better remain in bed for a day or two.
(See Atmospheric Influence, Slight Disorders
arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules, and
if requisite, refer also to Slight Diarrhoea, Dysentery,
and Cholera.)
Shivering.
This symptom is generally a forerunner of some
acute disorder.
Treatment.-When there is no other perceptible
ailment, Acon., 3 glob. (3d), should be taken at once.
(See also Diary Fever, and Atmospheric Influences.)
7




74


INFLAMMATION OF THE GLANDS,


Inflannmation and Swelling of the Glands.
The fatty tissues in which the glands are imbedded, in general, participate to a greater or less extent
in the inflammatory process.
Symptoms.-The affected glands are swollen and
tender to the touch; shooting pains are occasionally
experienced in them, and the surface of the surrounding skin is hot and red. In slight cases, these symptoms gradually subside without suppuration. When
the affection is chronic, the glands are hard, but the
swellings are inconvenient and unsightly, rather than
painful; the skin retains its ordinary color, and there
are no urgent inflammatory symptoms.
Treatment.-In slight acute cases, begin with
Bell., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every
four hours, or three times a day, then give Merc.
sol., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part thrice a
day. Should shooting and throbbing indicate a tendency to suppuration, administer Hep. sulph., 9
glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part every four
hours, or thrice a day, according to the urgency of
the case.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be given at
similar intervals, in doses of a sixth part, either by
itself, or alternately with any of the other indicated
remedies, when symptoms of fever manifest themselves.
A day or two after the last dose of the medicines
in solution, Bell., 3 glob. (12th), followed by Mere.
sol., 3 glob. (12th), and Calc. c., 3 glob. (12th), at
intervals of four days, will generally suffice.
In very slight cases, the medicines in solution
may be omitted.




INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN.


75


In slight chronic cases, administer the following
remedies in the order prescribed; viz., Merc. sol., 3
glob. (12th), Calc. c., 3 glob. (30th), Merc. sol., 3
glob. (12th), and lastly, Sulph., 3 glob. (30th). An
interval of five days between the first and second, of
ten days between the second and third, and lastly, of
five days between the third and fourth of these medicines, should be observed.
Diet and Regimen.-In acute cases, the diet
should be light, and, for a few days, animal food
should be prohibited; in chronic, nutritious and
wholesome aliments are indispensable. Fresh air
and moderate exercise should be enjoined, when
there are no inflammatory symptoms, or when these
have subsided.
Inflamnmation of the Brain.
Bell., 9 glob. (3d or 6th), dissolved in six teaspoonfuls of cold water, and administered in doses
of a sixth part every half hour or every hour. Inflammatory affection of the brain from  measles,
delirium, dull heaviness of the head, fixed, burning
and occasional sticking pains in the head, eyes
wild, rolling about, dread of light, contracted pupils, sparks before the eyes, quick hard pulse, great
thirst, anxious respiration. With the aid of Am.
Also with pleuritic affection, dry cough, sticking
in the breast, headache, vomiting, diarrhaea, violent delirium, the patient carries his hand to the
head automatically, red, puffy, burning, hot face,
subsultus tendinum, twitching of all the facial muscles, dry skin. With the aid of Acon. and Bry.
Also with sopor, patient lies with closed eyes,




76


FAINTING.


does not hear any thing, does not speak or desire
any thing, sunken countenance, frequent excited
pulse, urine and faices pass involuntarily, respiration small and very rapid, alternating with deep
breathing. Unconsciousness, closed eyes, delirium,
singing, murmuring, smiling, automatic movements
of the hands, timidity, dilated pupils, suffused countenance, rapid anxious respiration.
Sulph., with the aid of Acon.-Convulsion, drowsiness, very hot, much  thirst, constipation; on
raising the head, vomiting of mucus.-Sulph. (See
Sudden and Acute Inflammatory Afections.
Fainting.
Fainting may be induced by a variety of causes,
such as over-exertion, fright, general debility, loss
of blood, &c., which must be taken into account
in the administration of remedies; or it may occur
as one of the symptoms of a great many diseases.
Treatment.-Place the patient in the horizontal
position, with the head on a level with, or, if anything, rather below the level of the feet. Loosen
all tight kerchiefs, clothes, &c., about the neck
and body; then sprinkle a little cold water about
the face, chest, and pit of the stomach.  If this
does not suffice to restore consciousness, and the
patient becomes cold, Camphorated Spirits, or Camphor only, should be applied to the nostrils.
As the patient comes to himself, he may sip a
little cold water, or a little very weak brandy and
water (two or three tea-spoonfuls of pure brandy to
a wine-glassful of water), until the feeling of faintness has subsided.




NERVOUS HEADACHE.


79


invasion and cessation; they may be accompanied
with drowsiness or wakefulness, local heat, febrile
symptoms, disorder of the digestive organs, &c.
Exciting causes.-1. Mental emotions; 2. Mental exertion; 3. Bodily fatigue; 4. Exposure to
atmospheric influences; 5. Dietetic errors; 6.
Affections of various portions of the organism
which sympathize with the brain.
The treatment will vary with the causes.
For the treatment of slight cases which have
been induced by one or other of the first five exciting causes, the reader is referred to Mental Emotions, Mental Exertion, Bodily Fatigue, Atmospheric Influences; and, also, to Slight Disorders
arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.
In a general way, Nux v., will be indicated,
when the headache is chiefly confined to the forehead, and is characterized by dull, aching, shooting,
or darting pains, with heaviness and confusion of
the head, and sensation as though the front of the
head were being forced out of its place; these symptoms are frequently accompanied with a confined
state of the bowels, and more or less disorder of the
digestive functions. In such cases, Nux v., 9 glob.
(3d), may be given, in solution, a sixth part twice
or thrice a day, or else Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), followed by Sulph., 3 glob. (12th), four days afterwards.
Acon.-Very violent headache with very irritable tone of mind, from cold. Is readily excited
to break out in loud complaints and upbraidings.
Pain on one spot of the left parietal bone, by every
touch or breath of air. Dose: the same as Nux v.
Arn.-Chronic headache with retching. Head




80


NERVOVS HEADACHE.


ache, the consequence of a blow on the head.
Dose: the same as Nux v.
Ars.-Horrible pains centred in the gum above
the upper incisor teeth, so violent as to prevent
sleep. Dose: as Nux v.
Aur.-Roaring noise in the head. Dose: asNux v.
Bell.--Resulting from  taking cold and cutting
off the hair.-Very violent headache, exacerbated
by  walking, speaking, bright light, and every
movement.-Nervous headache, commences in the
morning and continues till evening, generally bitter vomiting, violent pressure on the parietes of the
head, and on the temples, vertigo on raising and
moving the head, particularly when stooping, congestion towards the head, bewildered feeling of the
head with sleeplessness.-Periodical chronic headache, particularly at the menstrual period.-Periodical headache, from four o'clock in the afternoon
until three in the morning, screwing, boring, rending pain, and roaring in the right ear, occiput and
temples.-Chronic headache, weight, pressing and
tearing in the whole head, but chiefly in the forehead, renewed by motion and a draught of air.
Dose: the same as Nux v.-Bry.: Arising from
congestion of blood to the head, attacking the forehead and the temples, pressing, pushing outwards,
exacerbated by stooping, moving the head, coughing and sneezing.-Nervous headache commences
in the morning, with drawing, digging, pressing
pains in the forehead, then passes into a stinging,
burning, lancinating pain over the whole head,
several hours afterwards ceases after vomitingNux v. mitigated the pain. Bry. removed it in
toto.-Chronic headache, beating, pressing, rend




NERVOUS HEADACHE.


81


ing, more violent mornings.-Violent pain in the
head, commencing early in the morning in bed,
increases till towards evening, when it proceeds to
insupportable violence.  It is of a compressing
nature, the patient could not endure either noise or
light; palpitation, constriction of the breast, inclination to vomit, fretful, angry. Antim. cr. was also
successful. Dose: the same as Nux v.
Calc. c.-Chronic headache in a scrofulous
individual, boring in the forehead as if the head
would burst, when she is in the open air, beating
headache, which compels her to lie down, sometimes buzzing in the head, cutting in the abdomen
during menstruation. Dose: the same as Nux v.
Calc c. et Phosph.-It commences in the forehead like a violent beating, extends through the
right temple into the occiput, as a rending pain,
the head is heavy, she must lie down and is relieved
by it.-Violent rending, boring   headache, on
change of weather or mental emotions, it chiefly
affects the right side where the pains extend themselves like radii. Dose: the same as Nux v.
Chin.-After cessation of the menses, most violent pains in the head, nausea, inclination to vomit,
chill, cold feet, great weakness.-On the crown of
the head pressing, boring pain, the whole head as
if bruised, this sensation is exacerbate by exerting
the perception, great prostration of strength, too
long suckling, sunken countenance, want of appetite, violent thirst.-Sore-like pain of the scalp,
sensibility of the roots of the hairs.-Painful reeling and sensation as if the brain was striking
against the scull, exacerbated by motion. Dose:
the same as Nux v.




NERVOUS HEADACHE.


Coloc.-Vehement intermitting headache.-Rending headache. Dose: as Nux v.
Dulc.-Severe boring, burning in the forehead
and crown of the head, with a pressing on the brain
from within outwards, and as if a board pressed
before the forehead. Dose: as Nux v.
Hell.-Chronic headache of a pressing nature,
and confusion of ideas, the result of intense study.
Dose: as Nux v., Ign.-Nervous headache. Dose: as Nux v.
Magn. carb. and Lyc.-Sticking in the temples,
rending in the forehead, scanty menstruation, accompanied by vomiting. Dose: as Nux v.
Merc.-Rending, burning headache, particularly
in the temples. Dose: as Nux v.
Merc. with the aid of Bry.-Rending headache
and toothache, excited by warmth and cold. Dose:
as Nux v.
Nux v.-Catarrhal headache.-Pressing beating
pain in the forehead, above the eyes, in the temples
and on the crown, as if the head would burst,
stooping and coughing increasing the pain, arising
after a cough and cold in the head.-Nervous keadache-Periodical every ten-fourteen days it commences with a dull pressing pain, vertigo, bewildered feeling of the head, violent pressure above
the eyes, sensibility of them to the light, gastric
and spastic symptoms, asthmatic constriction of the
heart; attacks produced by mental emotion. Dose:
see before Nux v.
Nux v. with the aid of Sep.-Lancinating chronic headache, sometimes occupying the whole head,
continuing twenty-four hours, violent bilious and
mucous vomiting. Dose: see Acon.




NFERVOUJS HEADACHE.


Nux v.-Constringing and pressing pain of the
stomach, extending to the   back, together with
vomiting of an acid fluid, constipation and flatulency, the symptoms appear chiefly in the morning
early. Dose: see Acon.
Nux v. and Bell.-Headache. Chiefly at night,
lancinating pain, very vehement, conjoined with
nausea and vomiting, vertigo, universal lassitude,
constipation. Dose: see Acon.
Nux v.-Periodical headache, commencing every
morning after rising, and continually increasing
till noon, pressing, rending, head muddled, gastric
symptoms.-Periodical headache from youth up.Periodical headache, several doses of Nux v. and
one dose of Sep.-Periodical headache, sore pain,
pressing outwards daily from seven in the morning
till noon.-Congestion to the head, vertigo when
walking, more when stooping, bewildered feeling,
weight of the head, pressing tensive pain in the frontal region, vomiting.-Sometimes a reeling sensation in the brain, bewildered feeling in the head,
pressing beating pain in the head early in the
morning, exacerbation from wine and coffee, constipation.-Daily after dinner until three o'clock,
headache, with general heat and redness of the face.
-Dull pressing headache in the frontal region,
and vertex with soreness and weak feeling, stools
seldom, with the aid of Bell. Dose: see Acon.
Nux v.-Rheumatic headache, very severe pains
in the right side of the head every night from
eleven o'clock until morning--Violent pain of the
head, fiery redness of the face, sparkling eyes, restless sleep.-Bell. produced momentary relief only.
Dose: see Acon.




84


NERVOUS HEADACHE.


Nux v. -Headache changing in a quartgr of an
hour, usually drawing, rending, superficial or again
more penetrating, pulsating and compressing the
temples or frequently pressing outwards, attacking,
different spots, severe heat of head, difficult stool,
very irritable, disposed to anger. Two doses of
Nux v. removed this affection of more than 20
years' standing. Dose: 3 glob. (30th).
Petrol. with the aid of Phosph. and Caic. c."Chronic headache resulting from a fall. Dose:
see Acon.
Phosph.-Violent periodical headache, with stupefaction and considerable congestion of blood to
the head, sometimes darkness before the eyes, sour
eructations, constant secretion of mucus in the
throat. Dose: see Acon.
Plat.-Spasmodic pain in the forehead, principally over the root of the nose, with heat and redness of the face, with prematurely increased menstruation. Dose: see Acon.
Puls.-Pain exacerbated in the evening, appears
to arise from the nape, and centres itself in both
parietal bones, is obliged to lie down, roaring in the
ears, vertigo, appears to be looking through a dark
veil, diurnal chill towards evening with stinging
pains in the limbs, followed by heat without thirst.Acute headache, every twenty-four hours in sudden attacks, very violent pain of the head, with
sticking in the crown and burning in the eyes, is
then attacked with nausea, the face becomes glowing red, must lie down, dares not stir, every motion
excites a feeling as if the brain fell forwards. Relieved by pressure.-Rending pain in the head,
increasing evenings and nights, so violent that she




NERVOUS HEADACHE.


85


cries out, intolerance of light, soreness of the limbs.
Dose: see Acon.
Rhus.-Very violent cephalagic attacks in a
hysterical female, in the posterior part of the head,
so that the patient was obliged to lie down; she
laid for 24 hours without speaking, the slightest
vexation, as well as every motion in the open air,
was sure to renew the attack. Dose: see Acon.
Rhus.-Drawing pain in the left temple, evenings and nights, at the same time, humming and
roaring in the head. Dose: 3 glob. (3d), every
evening.
Sep.-Headache of five years' standing, pressure
in the left supraorbital region, besides pain in the
whole head, commingled with fine sticking pains,
an attack every week. Is exacerbated at the menstrual period, and by mental emotions, irritation to
vomit, vertigo, fainty feelings, sensation of heat,
breast affection. Whites. Dose: 3 glob. (30th),
every three days.
Sep.-Nervous headache. Dose: 3 glob. every
morning.
Sil.-Periodical chronic headache, a sticking
and rending pain commences in the temples, and
extends towards the bones of the face into the lower
jaw, where, as well as in the teeth, it is usually
most poignant. It is increased by a draught of air.
Bell. produced no apparent improvement. Dose:
3 glob. (30th), every morning.
Sulph.--Chronic  headache.-Pressing pain in
the forehead and whole of the frontal region, immediately on awaking early in the morning, which
continues uninterruptedly during the day, easily
8




86 DETERMINATION OF BLOOD TO THE HEAD.
wearied when walking. Dose: 3 'glob. (30th),
every morning.
Diet and Regimen.-The food should be light,
when the sufferings are acute; otherwise, a moderately  nutritious and wholesome diet, combined
with regular exercise in the pure fresh air, will
prove a beneficial accessory to the remedial treatment.
*   Sick Headaches. (See Bilious Attacks.)
Giddiness.
This symptom, where it occurs without any apparent cause, will often have been brought on by a
previously disordered state of the digestive functions.
In ordinary cases, it will readily yield to the treatment prescribed under the head of Indigestion.
(See Indigestion.)
Determination of Blood to the Head.
In slight cases, the treatment prescribed -for Congestive Headaches will suffice. (See Congestive
Headaches.)
Apoplexy.
The name of apoplexy is given to that terrible
group of symptoms in which the whole of the
internal and external senses undergo, either a
temporary suspension, or complete abolition, whilst
the function of respiration still continues to be performed; symptoms, which are invariably dependent
upon that state of the vessels of the brain which




APOPLEXY.


87


precedes hemorrhage, or upon effusion of blood,
which has actually taken place.
A fatal termination of true apoplexy almost never
occurs before three or four, and rarely, before twenty-four, or even forty-eight hours, have elapsed since
the commencement of the fit.*   Moreover, a first
attack does not usually prove fatal.
The fit (as it is popularly termed) is generally
preceded by certain premonitory symptoms, which
ought to induce the patient at once to seek competent advice. Nevertheless, as an attack may come
on suddenly without any such warning, it is right
that the friends of the patient should know how
to act during unavoidable delay of medical assistance; and accordingly, such an emergency has been
contemplated in this work.
Premonitory Symptoms.-Frequent fits of giddiness, with feeling of weight and fulness in the head,
and throbbing of the vessels; transitory interruptions
of the senses of sight and hearing, spectral hallucinations, double vision, noises in the head, buzzing
and ringing in the ears, and other similar symptoms, will often, in the first instance, indicate that
the circulation in the head is not in a healthy state.
If to these the following are conjoined, viz.-excessive drowsiness, unusual loss of memory, thickness and
faltering of speech (in a person whose articulation
was previously distinct,) transitory numbness or paralysis of the extremities, or else paralytic quivering of
one or more of the muscles of the face, then it may be
* Many cases of sudden death, chiefly resulting from
organic diseases of the heart, have been erroneously ascribed
to apoplexy.




88


APOPLEXY.


inferred that an actuil attack is near at hand, and that
it may occur on the first application of an exciting
cause.
Symptoms.-There are two well-marked forms
in which the apoplectic attack may occur.
1. In the first, the patient falls down suddenly,
deprived of sense and motion, and lies like a person
in a deep sleep, from which the usual efforts made
*to arouse him are unavailing, seeing that he is insensible to sound and to external impressions.
The following symptoms are observed during the
fit, viz.Loss of speech, with occasional utterance of inarticulate sounds, more or less contortion  of the
features, foaming at the mouth, and flushed state of
the countenance; the limbs lie motionless and relaxed, or else there may be rigid contraction of the
muscles of one side with relaxation of those of the
other, whilst the skin is usually warm and moist
with gentle perspiration.  The breathing is slow and
embarrassed, often accompanied with a peculiar harsh
snoring termed stertor: moreover, the pulse, which
is generally weak at first, becomes fuller and stronger as the system recovers from the shock; but it is
usually slower than natural.
A cold clammry perspiration on the brow, pallor of
of the face, a dull and glassy appearance of the eyes,
extreme difculty or impossibility of swallowing with
convulsive rigidity of the jaws, and clenched teeth,
great sluggishness of the bowels, or involuntary
evacuations, prolonged stertorous respiration, and
stupor, indicate the greatest danger, being not unfrequently the harbingers of death.
2. In the second form a sudden attack of para




0


APOPLEXY.                 89
hqsis of one side with loss of speech, precedes, and
after the lapse of some hours, passes into the ordinary
apoplectic state which has just been described.
In either form of apoplexy, when the termination
is not speedily fatal, the patient gradually recovers
some degree of sight and hearing arid manifests
consciousness of surrounding objects.
Exciting Causes.-I. Stooping or placing the
head in a dependent position; 52. Severe muscular
efforts; 3. Tight kerchiefs, girdles, corsets, and
other articles of dress which impede the circulation
by compressing the blood-vessels; 4. Surfeits and
other dietetic errors: 5. Extremes of temperature;
and, 6. Mental emotions.
Treatment.-The patient should, if possible, be
conveyed, without loss of time, to a large well
ventilated room, where the cool air can be freely
admitted around him. His head should be raised,
bandages of every kind, especially neck-kerchiefs,
or corsets, ought to be removed, and the same time
hot-water bottles and flannels may, with great advantage, be applied to the feet.
The remedial treatment should now be directed
to the exciting cause when known, and accordingly
the friends of the patient will do well to refer to
the last division of this wvork for guidance upon
this important point.   The medicines indicated
under the head which embraces it may be given,
either by themselves, or in alternation with any of
the common remedies (which are about to be enumerated), in the same dilutions (i. e. the lowest)
and at the same intervals.
(See Moral Emotions, Atmospheric Influences,
Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of
8*




90


APOPLEXY.


Dietetic Rules, Bodily Fatigue, and also Sprains
and Strains.)
In a general way, when the exciting cause cannot be discovered, or else when it has ceased to
operate, 15 or 20 globules* of the 3d dilution of the
following medicines may be administered, in solution, singly, or in alternation (according to their
respective appropriateness to the case), in doses of a
sixth part every ten or twenty minutes, half-hour,
"hour, or two hours, the intervals of repetition being
prolonged or shortened in proportion to the rapidity
or slowness with which the system recovers from
the shock.t
Acon. will be of service, when there are very
marked symptoms of febrile reaction, such as increased rapidity, strength and fulness of the pulse,
heat of skin, &c.
Am. will be indicated in cases when paralysis of
the limbs, especially of the left side, occurs, with
loss of consciousness, stupor, with snoring respiration and moaning, blueness of the face and extremities, particularly of the nails, and involuntary motions
of the bowels, and passing of water.
* 2 or 3 drops of the 3d dilution in tincture, similarly dissolved, will be preferable when they are at hand.
t In a case where the teeth of the patient are so firmly
clenched as not to admit of opening his mouth, the indicated remedy must be administered in the form of an enema
(injection). Two or three tea-spoonfuls of lukewarm water
may be added to the dose prescribed, for the convenience of
injecting. Immediately after the administration of the medicated enema, a plug of cotton-wadding should, if necessary,
be inserted into the orifice of the bowels, in order to insure its
retention.




APOPLEXY.


91


Bell., when the following are the most prominent
symptoms; viz.-heat of head, with beating and
throbbing of the blood-vessels, redness and swelling
of the face, dilation of the pupils of the eyes,
drowsiness with loss of consciousness, loss of speech,
the mouth being drawn to one side, difficulty or impossibility of swallowing; sometimes paralysis of
the limbs, more commonly of the right side, or
convulsive movements of the limbs, but especially of
the muscles of theface, and foaming at the mouth.
Nux v. will be appropriate when the attack has
been preceded by feelings of sickness (nausea) or
marked symptoms of indigestion; and when paralysis of the extremities, especially of the lower, qfterwards, seems to be the most urgent symptom.
Op. should be administered, when the attack is
preceded by frequent fits of excessive drowsiness,
heaviness of the head, and stupor; and when, during
the attac(k, profound stupor, with slow and snoring
(stertorous) breathing, a slow and full pulse, dilated
pupils with insensibility to the light, redness and
bloatedness of the face, foaming at the mouth, and
rigidity of the limbs, or convulsive movements of
the arms, afford the most marked indications for the
treatment.
Puls. might be had recourse to, when violent palpitation of the heart, with a weak pulse, is the most
anxious symptom.
When the bowels are confined, and the abdomen
(belly) feels hard and tense, an enema (injection) of
luke-warm water (from a pint to a pint and a half)
should be given to relieve them.
The mechanical advantages to be derived from
blood-letting are seldom so great as to compensate




92 NERVOUS DEPRESSION AND LOW SPIRITS.
for the risk of the fatal depression which but too
frequently ensues upon its indiscriminate use; and
upon this point the best authorities, even of the old
school, are agreed. The conscientious practitioner
will, however, decide upon its propriety, or otherwise, according to the circumstances of the case.
Diet and Regimen.-Toast and water, or plain
water, or else very weak water-gruel, may be given
gccasionally, by spoonfuls, if the patient seems
thirsty, and is able to swallow. No other nutriment should be allowed until its exhibition has been
sanctioned by competent advice.
Persons who are predisposed to apoplexy, should
live temperately, by all means. They must likewise avoid sudden alternations of temperature, and
getting their feet wet; and, above all things, overexertion and excitement, mental as well as physical.
Nervous Depression and Lowness of Spirits.
When a state of nervous depression occurs without any rlhoral exciting cause, it will almost invariably be found to depend upon some physical disorder, to which the treatment should be especially directed.
Treatment.-In slight cases, where these are the
chief symptoms which fix the patient's attention,
give Lach., 3 glob. (12th), twice, at an interval of
two or three days; and lastly, administer Sulph., 3
glob. (30th), four days after the second dose of Lack.
Diet and Regimen.--Attention should be paid to
diet and regimen.




INFLAMMATION OF THE EYES.


93


Soreness and Running behind the Ears.
(See Skin Diseases.)
Inflammation of the Eyes.
The mucous membranes of the eyes are the
structures chiefly involved in the ordinary affections
of this kind.
Symptoms.-Redness of the whites of the eyes,
which are commonly said to be blood-shot; itching
and heat in the eyes, with sensation as though sand
had got into them; shooting pains; sensitiveness to
light, frequent flow of tears, and sometimes a thick
glutinous, or gummy discharge, especially from the
inner angles of the eyes. The eye-lids are generally affected with redness and itching, and more or
less smarting pain. Thirst, loss of appetite, and
other febrile symptoms, not unfrequently precede
and accompany the affection.
Treatment.-In slight cases begin with Mere.
sol., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part every four
hours; then Mere. sol., 9 glob. (4th), also in solution, a sixth part thrice a day; and lastly, two days
after the last dose of the solution, give Merc. sol., 3
glob. (12th), followed in four days more by Sulph.,
3 glob. (18th).
When there is fulness and quickness of the pulse,
with thirst, heat of skin, or other symptoms of fever,
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be alternated
with the other medicines, at similar intervals, in.
doses of a sixth part.
In very slight cases, the medicines in solution
may be omitted.
The eyes should be protected by a shade. A




94     INFLAMMATION OF THE EYE-LIDS.


little tepid water may occasionally be made use of
as a lotion.
When the inflammation arises from the presence
of something (such as a grain of sand, dust, &c.)
which has got into the eye, the foreign body should
be carefully extracted. After this little operation,
Arn., 3 glob. (12th), may be given internally with
advantage, and a very weak Arnicated lotion (one
part Mother Tincture of Arnica to forty or fifty parts
o'f Water) may be applied locally.*
Diet and Regimen.-The diet should be light for
a few days; vivid light should be avoided, and the
eyes should be allowed to rest.
Inflammation and Soreness of the Eye-lids.
The lining mucous membranes of the eye-lids,
and, sometimes, the small subjacent glands, are the
structures affected.
Symptoms.-Soreness and redness of the eye-lids,
with itching, smarting, or burning pain, with or
without increased secretion, falling of the eye-lashes,
&c.
Treatment.-In slight cases, administer Merc.
sol., 3 glob. (12th), followed in two or three days
by Puls., 3 glob. (12th); and lastly, in three or four
days more, give Sulph., 3 glob. (30th).
Diet, 4.c.-The diet should be light for a few
days. (See also Inflammation of the Eyes.)
* See Diseases of the Eye, treated hommeopathically.
From the German. By A. C. Becker, M. D. 38 cents.




STYE.                  95
Stye.
A stye is a kind of small boil which is situated
at the edge of the eye-lids. The minute glands
which are imbedded in these parts are generally involved in the inflammatory process.
Symptoms.-Very small, red, inflammatory tumors, about the size of a pimple, which generally
come to a head and suppurate; their formation is
usually preceded and accompanied by redness and
painful itching of the eyes and eyelids. These
symptoms continue, in a greater or less degree, until
the styes have run through their course.
Treatment.-Begin with Puls., 9 glob. (3d), in
solution, a sixth part thrice a day; then give Merc.
sol., 9 glob. (4th), a sixth part thrice a day. As
soon as suppuration commences, especially if it is
attended with throbbing and shooting pain, administer Hep. sulph., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth
part thrice a day, until either the discharge or the
absorption of the matter shall have taken place.
A day or two after the last dose of the dissolved
medicines, give Puls., 3 glob. (12th), followed, in
four days more, by Sulph., 3 glob. (30th).
In very slight cases, the medicines in solution
may be omitted.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be given, in solution, in
doses of a sixth part, either in alternation with any
of the preceding medicines, or else repeated two or
three times by itself, when the usual symptoms of
fever manifest themselves.
Luke-warm water is the best and most harmless
lotion wherewith to allay the local irritation.
To persons who are chronically subject to the




96


COLD IN THE HEAD.


formation of styes, and who otherwise enjoy good
health, administer Puls., 3 glob. (12th); and Sulph.,
3 glob. (12th), occasionally, at intervals of ten or
twelve days.
In such cases, these medicines will seldom require repetition more than once or twice, at the utmost, to effect a permanent cure.
Diet and Regimen.-In acute cases, a light diet
should be observed, and animal food should be abSstained from for a day or two. Exercise in the
open air, especially in the shade, if the sun is powerful, will prove beneficial.
Cold in the Head, or Nasal Catarrh.
The mucous membranes of the nose and eyes are
the principal structures involved in this affection,
which is generally induced by sudden alternations
of temperature.
Symptoms. Preliminary Stage.-More or less
headache, with tightness about the forehead, but
more especially at the root of the nose, where a
sense of fulness and stuffing is generally experienced. Secretive Stage.-In a day or two these
symptoms are succeeded by a discharge from the
nose, variable in kind and in degree. The secretion
may be thick, or thin and watery, white, yellow or
greenish, acrid or mild, scanty or moderate, or else
very copious; and attended or not with swelling and
soreness of the nose, fits of sneezing, watering of the
eyes, thirst, fever, &c. After running a certain
course, the discharge gradually ceases.
Treatment.-During the preliminary stage, give
Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part twice




COLD IN THE HEAD.


97


or thrice a day, or every four hours, according to the
urgency of the case.
As soon as the secretive stage is established, exhibit Merc. sol., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth
part twice or thrice a day, if the discharge is thick,
yellow or greenish, and not very corrosive; or else
Ars, 9 glob. (3d), also in solution, in similar doses,
and at the same intervals, if it is thin and watery,
whitish or greenish, hot, acrid, and scalding. When
the discharge is mild, especially in the case of women and children, Chant., 9 glob. (3d), administered
in like manner, may, with advantage, be substituted
for Merc. sol.
As the secretion diminishes, if the case is going
on favorably, wait a day or two after the last dose of
the medicine in solution, and then give either Merc.
sol., 3 glob. (12th), or Ars., 3 glob. (30th), or else
Chan., 3 glob. (12th), according to the preceding
indications, followed, in about three or four days
more, by Sulph., 3 glob. (30th).
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be administered, in doses of a sixth part, occasionally by itself,
or else in alternation with any of the indicated remedies, when fulness and frequency of pulse, or
other febrile symptoms, manifest themselves throughout the course of the affection.
In very mild cases, Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), followed, in a day or two, by Merc. sol., 3 glob. (12th),
or Ars., 3 glob. (30th), or else Chan., 3 glob. (12th),
according to the preceding indications, will generally suffice, without any other remedies.
Diet and Regimen.-The diet should be light,
and animal food should be partaken of sparingly, at
9




100


EARACHE.


their use no real and permanent strength will ever
be gained. Every other legitimate mode of improving the general health, such as driving out in
the fresh air, a variety of little out-door exercises,
&c., may be resorted to.
(See also Atmospheric Influences, and Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Earache.
This complaint is, in general, principally confined
to one ear, although both ears may sometimes be
equally affected.
Symptoms.-Shooting, throbbing, and aching
pains, sometimes extending to the face and teeth, are
felt in the affected ear, which is generally hot, and
sensitive to the pressure. Deafness, or else painful
sensibility to sound of every kind, is not unfrequently complained of. Swelling and tenderness of
the glands in the vicinity; heat of skin, thirst, loss of
appetite, frequency and fulness of the pulse, and
various febrile symptoms, often precede and accompany the disorder. Matter is sometimes discharged
from the ear, as the inflammatory symptoms subside.
Treatment.-In slight cases, begin with Bell., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every four hours,
or thrice a day; and, if necessary, repeat this medicine at similar intervals and in the same doses, until
the inflammatory symptoms begin to abate, then give
Merc. sol., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part
thrice a day, or should there be much throbbing pain
with formation of matter, exhibit Hep. sulph., 9 glob.
(4th), in solution, in doses of a sixth part every four
hours, or thrice a day, instead, then give Puls.




SWELLING OF THE FACE AND FACEACHE. 101
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be given, in solution, in
doses of a sixth part, throughout the course of the
affection, but especially at the commencement, when
indicated by marked symptoms of fever and inflammation, either in alternation with the other indicated
remedies, or else occasionally by itself, as long as
the frequency of the pulse continues.
Two or three days after the last dose of the medicine in solution, give Bell., 3 glob. (12th), then Mere.
sol., 3 glob. (12th), three or four days after; and,
lastly, Calc. c., 3 glob. (12th), in four days more.
In very slight cases, the medicines in solution
may be omitted.
The affected part should be protected from cold
by a handkerchief or covering of some kind.
Diet and Regimen.-Light diet should be enjoined for a few days. When there is no appetite,
and the symptoms are inflammatory, toast-and-water,
gum-arabic water, water-gruel or barley-water, will
be preferable to more nutritious aliment. Sudden
alternations of temperature, sitting in draughts of air,
&c., should be carefully avoided.
Swelled Face and Faceache.
The skin, and the fatty membranes immediately
below the surface, and generally some of the glands,
are the parts affected.
Symptoms.'- Swelling  of the face, generally
accompanied with heat, tenderness and tension of
the surface, shooting, smarting, or aching pains;
sometimes the glands are also inflamed, and occasionally aching in the ears is complained of. Febrile
9*




102


TOOTHACHE.


symptoms not unfrequently manifest themselves at
the outset of the complaint.
Exciting causes.   1. Atmospheric influences.
2. Sympathetic irritation, such as that arising from
a decayed tooth.
Treatment.-In slight cases, begin with Bell., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every four hours,
or thrice a day; then give Merc. sol., 9 glob. (4th),
in solution, a sixth part thrice a day; and lastly, two
~lays after the last dose of the medicines in solution,
administer Bell., 3 glob. (12th), followed by Mere.
sol., 3 glob. (12th), in four days more.
When there is fulness and frequency of the pulse,
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be alternated
with any of the preceding medicines, or else kiven
occasionally by itself, in doses of a sixth part.
For the treatment of Sympathetic Swelling of the
Face, or Faceache, see Toothache.
If necessary, the face should be covered.
Diet and Regimen.-Abstinence from animal food,
and a light diet, should be enjoined for a few days.
Exposure to cold and currents of air should be guarded against.
Toothache.
This distressing complaint commonly depends
upon a variety of well-known causes, such as atmospheric exposure, errors in diet, &c. It may, however, occur merely as an accessory symptom, in a
number of diseases, as well as chronic, almost independently of the usual causes. The nerves of the
sound, as well as those of the decayed teeth, are
liable to attacks of this kind, although not in the
same degree.




~t


TOOTHACHE.               103
Symptoms.-These are as variable as the conditions under which they arise, and under which
they derive aggravation or relief.  Thus: the
pains may be shooting, tearing, throbbing, jerking,
pricking, aching, burning, &c., relieved or aggravated by heat or cold, eating or drinking, &c.;
attended or not with swelling and soreness of the
gums, looseness of the teeth, inflammation of the
glands, congestion, faceache, fever, &c.; lastly, the
sound as well as the decayed teeth may be affected.
Treatment.-The treatment must necessarily
vary with the symptoms and the exciting causes
when known.
In a general way, the following indications will
suffice.
Of the following medicines 9 globules of the lowest or 3d dilution, in solution, in doses of a sixth
part every four or five hours, or thrice a day, or
else, 3 globules of the highest or 12th dilution, only,
according to the urgency of the case, may be given
as indicated. If there is a gradual diminution of
the sufferings after the first dose of the indicated
medicine, it is better not to give the second until the
amelioration ceases.
Acon. will always be of service when the pains
are attended with local congestion, heat of skin,
thirst, frequency of pulse, and general febrile symptoms.
Arn., when the pain is as though the teeth were
being pulled out of their sockets, and sensations of
bruising and soreness are experienced in the jaws
and teeth.
Bell., when the sufferings are worse at night, and
are accompanied with heat and redness of the face,




INFLAMMATION OF THE MOUTH.


107


Inflammation and Soreness of the Gums and
MIouth.
Symptoms.-Soreness, redness, and swelling of
the gums, sometimes extending to the tongue and
lining membrane of the mouth, where slight ulcerations are occasionally perceived; a copious secretion of saliva is of common occurrence in such
cases. Thirst, heat of skin, frequency of pulse,
and other febrile symptoms, may be also present.
Treatment, Diet, 4c.-The same as in the preceding case. (See Gum-Boils.)
Bad Breath.
Fcetor of the breath is commonly one of many
symptoms connected with a disordered state of the
organs of digestion or respiration; so that, in most
cases, where the more general affection, upon which
it appears to depend, is slight, the course of treatment given under the head which includes that affection will prove sufficient.
This unpleasant symptom is, however, sometimes
more immediately dependent upon want of proper
attention to the mouth and teeth; or else it may result from a kind of putrid inflammation of the mouth
and gums. In the first case, the observance of
cleanliness will be all that is necessary; in the second, the treatment prescribed under the head of Inflammation of the Mouth and Gums, or under that of
Gum-Boils, will suffice when the affection is slight.
Where it is associated with a decayed condition of
the teeth, it will generally be for the patient's ad




108


MUMPS.


vantage to have recourse to competent advice on the
subject of his teeth.
Treatment.-In a general way, where the breath
is offensive without any appreciable cause, administer Puls., 3 glob. (6th), Mere. sol., 3 glob. (12th),
and Sulph., 3 glob. (12th), successively, at intervals
of four days; and, if necessary, after a further interval of ten days, exhibit this course once more.
Diet and Regimen.-General attention should
be paid to diet, as well as to the other accessories
for the promotion of health. Animal food should
be partaken of with moderation, more especially
by those whose occupations are sedentary. Moreover, the mouth and teeth should be regularly
cleansed with lukewarm water, at least twice in
the course of the day. (See also Indigestion or Derangement of the Stomach, and Slight Disorders
arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Coated Tongue. (See Indigestion.)
1umnps.
The glands behind the ears, and along the branches of, and below the lower jaw, as well as the fatty
membranes in which all these glands are imbedded,
are the structures involved in this complaint.
Symptoms.-Swelling    and tenderness of the
affected glands are complained of, with heat or redness of the external surface; shooting pains are
often experienced in the glands. Sore throat sometimes attends this affection, and a greater or less
degree of fever may also be present.  In slight




110


SORE THROAT, OR QUINSY.


doses and at similar, or else at rather more prolong(
intervals, until the redness of the throat has abated
then exhibit Mere. sol., 9 glob. (4th), also in solutiol
in doses of a sixth part every four hours, or thric
a day. Should small abscesses or ulcerations, wit
shooting pains in the throat, or else hoarseness c
voice, ensue, or should a profuse perspiration brea
out upon the skin, substitute Hep. sulph., 9 glot
(4th), in solution, in doses of a sixth part every fou
hours, or thrice a day, according to the urgency c
S the case.
A day or two after the last dose of the medicine
in solution has been taken, administer Bell., 3 glot
(6th), then Merc. sol., 3 glob. (12th), four days after
and, lastly, Sulph., 3 glob. (12th), in four or five
days more.
When the symptoms are inflammatory, and th<
pulse is full and strong, Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solu
tion, may be alternated, in doses of a sixth part, with
any of the indicated medicines in solution, and con.
tinued in this manner until they shall have subsided
In very slight cases, Bell., 3 glob. (6th), followed,
in a day or two, by Mere. sol., 3 glob. (12th), will
be the only treatment requisite.
The throat should be protected from cold.
Diet, 4c.-At the commencement of the affection,
when there is no inclination for solid food, and
thirst is complained of, pure water, toast-and-water,
gum-arabic water, or water-gruel only, should be
allowed until the appetite returns. In all cases,
animal food should be abstained from for a few days.
A light diet, consisting of arrow-root, sago, batter,
and milk puddings, beef-tea, mutton-broth, fish, Ho.
macopathic chocolate, milk and water, should pre




i112


INDIGESTION.


seat, and character; loss of memory, with confusion
of thought; inaptitude or disinclination for mental or
physical exertion; tendency of blood to the head,
with whirling, dizziness, and inability to stoop;
buzzing and humming noises in the ears; alternations of relaxation and costiveness, aching in the
limbs, loss of flesh, sallowness or paleness of the
complexion; occasional frequency of the pulse, and
(in females) suppressions or irregularities of a special
kind; besides many other symptoms which it would
be tedious as well as unprofitable to enumerate here,
swell the group already given, and at length render
competent advice a matter of necessity.
Treatment.-in slight cases, which are of recent
origin, begin with Nux v., 3 glob. (6th), (especially in the case of persons of a bilious temperament, with dark hair and complexion, and of a
hasty temper), when the bowels have a tendency to
be confined; then, in two or three days, give Nux
v., 3 glob. (6th), once more; and lastly, four or five
days after the second dose, administer Sulpih., 3
glob. (12th).
Puls., 3 glob. (6th), may be substituted for Nux v.,
and repeated in like manner before the Sulph.,
when the bowels are subject to relaxation (espe.
cially in persons of a mild and timid disposition,
such as young girls, women, and children, with
light hair or blue eyes and fair complexion) rather
than to costiveness.
In those cases where the appetite is craving or voracious, and a dark circle is noticed under the eyes, or
a succession of sleepless nights is complained of; especially if the bowels are inclined to relaxation, begin
with Chin., 3 glob. (3d), then in two or three days ex




OR DERANGEMENT OF THE STOMACH.


113


hibit Chin., 3 glob. (3d), once more; lastly, three or
four days after the second dose, administer Calc. c.,
3 glob. (6th), followed by Sulph., 3 glob. (12th), in
ten days or a fortnight more.
The exciting causes, when known, will afford
the best indication for the preliminary treatment,
and. reference to these is recommended. Should
any slight symptoms remain after the medicines
suggested by this reference have been given, one or
other of the above prescribed causes, according
to the nature of the case, will suffice to complete the
cure. (See Mental Emotions, Atmospheric Influences,
Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of
Dietetic Rules, and also Bilious Attacks.)
Diet, y-c.-The diet should be nutritious, wholesome, and not too stimulating; moreover, great
moderation in the quantity of food partaken of at one
time, and regularity in the time of meals should be
observed. Too long or too short intervals of abstinence and refection should likewise be avoided. It
is almost needless to add, that every aliment which
has been found to disagree, although its use may be
generally sanctioned in the Homoeopathic Dietary,
as wholesome, ought to be prohibited.   Regular
exercise should be taken, and, when practicable,
intellectual exertion abstained from.
Disordered Stomach. (See Indigestion, and
also Bilious Attacks.)
Bilious Attacks.
These attacks are induced by a variety of causes
connected with diet, atmospheric changes, the pas10*




114 *


BILIOUS ATTACKS.


sions, &c., which, when they can be ascertained,
should be taken into account in the treatment.
Symptoms. -Nausea, and disgust for food, followed by vomiting of the aliments which have previously been taken, and afterwards of pure, yellow
bile. In most cases, the bowels are confined; in
some, however, they are relaxed. Aching pains in
the right side, and between the shoulders, are sometimes experienced; the tongue is coated, and a disa-,greeable, bitter, or nauseous tasteis occasionally complained of. These symptoms are frequently attended with sick headache, thirst, heat of skin, and a
quick and full pulse. The return of the appetite
announces the cessation of the headache.
Treatment.-In slight cases, begin with Nux v., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every three or four
hours, especially when the bowels are confined, or
with Puls., 9 glob. (3d), administered in a similar
manner, and at the same intervals, if the bowels are
relaxed; then give Merc. sol., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice a day,
until finished. The next night, after the last dose of
the medicines in solution, exhibit Nux v., 3 glob.
(6th), followed, three or four nights after, by Merc.
sol., 3 glob. (12th), and lastly, in four or five
nights more, by Sulph., 3 glob. (12th).
In very slight cases, Nux v., 3 glob. (6th), or else
Puls., 3 glob. (6th), followed in a day or two, by
Mere. sol., 3 glob. (12th), will suffice, if administered from the first.
When bilious vomiting attends the attack, give
Ipec., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every
two or three hours, either by itself, or in alterna




JAUNDICE.


I15


tion with the other indicated remedy, and discontinue its use as the vomiting ceases.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may also be alternated, in doses of a sixth part every four hours,
with any other indicated remedy, when there is
fulness and frequency of the pulse, with heat of
skin, thirst, and other febrile symptoms.
Diet, C4c.-At the commencement, pure cold
water, toast-and-water, or water-gruel, will generally be preferred to more nutritious food. As the
appetite begins to return, weak cocoa, milk and
water, beef-tea, mutton-broth, dry toast, arrow-root,
sago, milk-puddings, light fish, &c., may be allowed.
The return to animal food and ordinary diet should
be gradual.
When the attack is brought on by Moral, Atmospheric or Dietetic Influences, the treatment must
be varied accordingly. (See Moral Emotions, Atmospheric Influences, and also Slight Disorders
arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Jaundice.
This affection supervenes upori derangement in
the functions of the liver, connected with the secretion of bile, which not unfrequently has originated
in Moral, Atmospheric, and Dietetic Influences.
Treatment.-In mild cases, begin with Merc. sol.,
9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part every four
hours, or thrice a day; then Nux v., 9 glob. (3d),
in solution, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice
a day, until finished. The next night, after the
last dose of the medicine in solution, give Nux v.,
3 glob. (6th), and, three nights after, Mere. sol.,




116              SEA-SICKNESS.
3  glob. (12th); and lastly, in four nights more,
administer Sulph., 3 glob. (12th).
When fits of vomiting, or febrile symptoms,
attend the affection, Ipec., 9 glob. (3d), or Acon., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, may be administered in
alternation with the indicated remedy, in the manner and at the intervals prescribed in the preceding
affection (see Bilious Attacks), under very similar
circumstances.
Symptoms of jaundice will sometimes be brought
on by fits of passion (anger) in children; in which
case, Cham., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, and Cham.,
3 glob. (12th), may be substituted for Nux v., 9
glob. (3d), and Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), respectively,
and administered in like manner, with the exception that the exhibition of the Chain., in solution,
should precede that of Merc. sol. When induced
in adults by the same cause, Bry., 9 glob. (3d), in
solution, and Bry., 3 glob. (12th), may be given
in the place of Cham., and in the same way.
Diet, yfc.-The diet should be light in all cases.
The dietetic restrictions recommended in the preceding disorders will generally be found equally
applicable in jaundice. (See also Bilious Attacks,
Mental Emotions, Atmospheric Influences, and
Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of
Dietetic Rules.)
Sea-Sickness.
There are few persons who do not suffer, in a
greater or less degree, from this distressing complaint, when they make a sea-voyage.
Symptoms.-Nausea and disgust at the sight, or




SEA-SICKNESS.


117


even at the thought of food, with sensation of uneasiness in the stomach, sometimes accompanied
with giddiness and sense of confusion in the head,
and a feeling of general discomfort, are usually
experienced at the first setting out.  To these
symptoms retching sooner or later succeeds, after
which, the aliments taken into the stomach at the
previous meal, if the stomach is not empty, are
thrown up, and vomiting'of pure bile ensues, and
recurs from time to time, especially if the sea is
rough. In some cases, the retching and vomiting
soon cease, and no further inconvenience or suffering is experienced during the remainder of the voyage.   In others, however, it not unfrequently happens that the bilious vomiting is followed by distressing retching, and straining upon an empty stomach,
and ineffectual efforts to vomit, sometimes almost
amounting to convulsion; or else there is scanty
vomiting, which does not relieve, occasionally accompanied with relaxation of the bowels. A painful sensation of choking and constriction in the
throat, as though it were plugged up, is sometimes
superadded. At this period, the taste, the smell,
and, in fact, all the senses have become singularly
and painfully acute; the head is in a dizzy whirl,
whilst the sight is tortured by the instability of
surrounding objects; the mind itself sickens as the
body labors and strains at every fresh shock communicated by wind or wave; in short, every nervous fibril throughout the body seems to shudder
with agony. In very severe cases, a moral apathy
and carelessness of life ensue, from which no impending danger can arouse the sufferer, and which
is equalled only by the accompanying physical pros




SEA-SICKNESS.


119


not by great physical and moral prostration, ensue,
the Arsenical solution will be required, in similar
doses, every half hour, hour, or else every two,
three, or four hours, according to the urgency of
the case.
Cocc. relieves the nausea and vomiting.
Petrol. if there be much pain in the pit of the
stomach.
As a mechanical and auxiliary means of preventing or moderating sea-sickness, a girdle slightly
tightened round the waist and abdomen (belly) has
been recommended.
Lying down in the horizontal position is that
which nature herself generally points out.
Diet,,-c.-Persons ought never to go to sea
with an empty stomach; a light meal should be
taken an hour or two before embarking. When
the sickness is subsiding, and there is a slight
desire for food, a cup of cofee without milk, of
moderate strength, sweetened with a lump or two
of sugar, and a small slice of toast, will often prove
grateful and restorative; or else a cup of good beeftea, with a few sippets of toast, or a captain's biscuit, may be partaken of.
TIE AFTER EFFECTS OF SEA-SICKNESS.
Symptoms.-Feelings of general discomfort, lassitude, and soreness, are complained of for several
days after landing, together with a continuance (al.
though in a lighter degree) of the unpleasant sensations experienced at sea; moreover, the qualmishness at the stomach remains, and the digestive organs are more or less disordered.




120


SIMPLE DIARRH(EA.


Treatment.-Arn., 3 glob. (6th), followed, the
next night, by Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), or Chin., 3
glob. (12th), if there has been much prostration,
will generally prove sufficient.
Inflammation of the Bowels or of the Stomach.
(See Sudden Acute Inflammatory Affections.)
Bowel Complaints.
(See Simple Diarrhoea, Bilious Diarrhoea, In.
Jfammation of the Bowels, Dysentery, Asiatic Cholera, Cholerine, Colic: Bilious Colic, and also Infantile Diarrhea,)
Simple Diarrhuea, or Loosenessb
This complaint may occur in a variety of forms,
the complete enumeration of which would be out of
place in a work of this kind. Slight cases will be
easily cured by the removal of the exciting causes,
in conjunction with the exhibition of one or other of
the remedies which are indicated below.
Symptoms.-Occasional loose stools, which may
be attended with or without griping pains in the
bowels, thirst, heat of skin, loss of appetite, or frequency of pulse.
Common Causes.-1. Exposure to Atmospheric
Influences. 2. Errors in Diet. 3, Over-exertion.
4. Moral Influences.
1.-DIARRH(EA ARISING FROM ATMOSPHERIC EXPOSURE.
Treatment.-Cham., 9 glob. (3d), may be given,
in solution, in doses of a sixth part, thrice a day,




SIMPLE DMARIMBA,2


121


followed, the night after the last dose, by Cham., 3
glob. (12th), when the weather is cold and windy,
or stormy (whether dry or rainy), as in winter; or
else Ars., 9 glob. (4th), and Ars., 3 glob. (18th),
administered in like manner, when the looseness is
attended with straining, and with watery or slimy
stools, or when a sensation of burning in the bowels
is complained of, either before or after the evacuations,
Mere. sol., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part
thrice a day, followed, the night after the last dose,
by Mere, sol., 3 glob. (12th), will be indicated in
cold, damp, rainy weather; whilst Dulc., 6 glob,
(12th), followed by Dulc., 3 glob. (12th), administered like the preceding medicines, will be more appropriate, when the atmospheric humidity is associa.
ted with warmth, as in the mild damp weather of
summer or autumn.
Bry., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part thrice
a day, followed by Chin., 3 glob. (12th), the night
after the last dose, will be suitable for those cases
which are associated with general relaxation of the
body, induced with oppressive heat, as in summer,
Fer., if the diarrhoea generally appears at night)
or after eating or drinking, with easy and painless
evacuations of watery material and indigested food,
loss of appetite; also pains in the back and anus.
Dose: see Nux v. (See also Atmospheric Influen.
ces.)
2.-DIARRHtEA ARISING FROM ERRORS IN DIET.
Treatment.-Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), may be given,
in solution, in doses of a sixth part thrice a day, followed by Nux v., 3 glob. (6th)) the night after the
11




122


SIMPLE DIARRH(EA.


last dose, where wine, beer, or other stimulating beverages of a similar kind have been the exciting
cause.
Puls., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part thrice
a day, followed by Puls., 3 glob. (12th), the night
after the solution has been finished, will best suit
those cases in which fruit, pastry, pork, fat, or rich
food, may have disordered the stomach and bowels.
(See also Slight Disorders arising from the In-. fraction of Dietetic Rules.)
3.-DIARRH(EA FROM OVER-EXERTION (PHYSICAL).
Treatment.-Arn., 6 glob. (3d), may be administered in solution, in doses of one half, night and
morning, followed the next night after the last dose
by Ar., 3 glob. (6th), when the disorder has originated in over-fatigue. (See also Bodily Fatigue.)
4.-DIARRH(EA ARISING FROM MENTAL EMOTION.
Treatment.-Cham., 3 glob. (3d), administered
two nights successively, will generally prove sufficient where anger or vexation has been the exciting
cause, especially in the case of women or children.
Bry., 3 glob. (6th), exhibited in like manner, will
be preferable for adult males under similar circumstances.
Op., 3 glob. (3d), may be administered two nights
successively, in those cases where fright has been
the exciting cause. (See also Mental Emotions.)
General Treatment.-In a general way, when the
diarrhoea is attended with griping and colic pains in
the belly (as though a powerful aperient medicine




DYSENTERY.                125
tender; vomiting sometimes ensues, and the thirst is
more intense; heat and sensation of burning are
sometimes felt in the lower intestines; and the stools
consist of bloody mucous matter, and occasionally of
pure blood. The pulse is variable, sometimes full
and strong, at other times quick and weak, especially when there is great prostration.
Treatment.-In mild cases, which alone should
form the subject of domestic treatment, begin with
Merc. cor., 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part
every four hours; then Merc. cor., 9 glob. (4th), in
solution, a sixth part thrice a day. Should this
medicine not relieve, substitute Ars., 9 glob. (4th),
also in solution, in doses of a sixth part, every four
hours, or thrice a day, especially if the stools are
scanty and insufficient, or if they are accompanied
and followed by fruitless straining, and the burning
pain increases.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be alternated throughout the attack, in doses of a sixth part,
with either of the preceding medicines, when there
is much fever, with frequency and fulness of the
pulse.
Ipec., after the previous use of Acon., and when
the Ipec. fails, Coloc. will be indicated. Dose: the
same as Acon.
The night after the last dose of the medicines in
solution has been taken, Merc. sol., 3 glob. (12th),
followed by Ars., 3 glob. (30th), three or four nights
after, may be exhibited with advantage.
Diet and Regimen.-The diet, generally speaking, should be light; but, where there is no appetite, and the pulse indicates fever, toast-and water,
gum-arabic water, and afterwards water-gruel, rice11*




126


ASIATIC CHOLERA.


water, barley-water, &c., will be preferable to any.
thing else; then, as the appetite returns, beef-tea
with toast-sippets, sago, arrow-root, light milk-puddings, &c., may be allowed. The return to animal
food, and ordinary diet, should be gradual. When,
however, there is no fever, and the appetite continues, arrow-root, sago, tapioca, beef-tea, and other
light food, may be permitted in moderation; animal
food, eggs, fruit, and vegetables should be proscribed
* in any case until the relaxation ceases. Exposure
to cold, or sudden alternations of temperature, should
be guarded against.
Asiatic Cholera.*
On the first appearance of this epidemic, heads of
families should be prepared to carry out the sanitary measures enjoined for its prevention, and, in the
event of an actual attack, they should be able to
apply, without loss of time, the proper remedial
means, until professional assistance can be had.
The Preventive Measures have a reference both
to Hygienic and to remedial means.
With regard to the former, the following judicious advice has been given:"' The house should be well aired; especially the
sleeping apartments, which should be kept dry and
clean.
"All effluvia arising from decaying animal or
* Some excellent Homoeopathic treatises on the subject of
Asiatic Cholera have been published; as those by Drs. B.
F. Joslin and Humphreys. Cases containing the Diarrhoea
and Cholera Medicines of the proper attenuation are put up
by Wm. Radde, No. 322 Broadway.




ASIATIC CHOLERA.


127


vegetable substances ought to be got rid of; consequently, cesspools and dust-holes should be cleaned
out, and drains attended to.
" All exposure to cold and wet should be avoided; and on no account should any one sit in damp
clothes, particularly damp shoes and stockings.
Care should be taken to avoid chills or checking the
perspiration.
"The clothing worn must be sufficient to keep
the body in a comfortable and even temperature.
" Habits of personal cleanliness should be cultivated, and regular exercises in the open air enforced; late hours forbidden; regularity in the periods
of repose and refreshment observed; and, as much
as possible, all anxiety of mind avoided.
' The diet should be wholesome generally, and
adapted to each individual habit. Every one should,
however, be more than ordinarily careful to abstain
from any article of food (whether animal or vegetable), no matter how nutritious and digestible to the
generality, which may have disorded his digestion
upon former occasions, anck to avoid all manner of
excess in eating and drinking.
"No raw vegetables, nor sour and unripe fruit,
cucumbers, salads, pickles, &c., should be allowed.
" The more wholesome varieties of ripe fruits,
whether in their natural or cooked state, and vegetables plainly cooked, may be partaken of, in moderation, by those with whom they agree. Non-acid
wines and beer, of good quality, may also be used
in moderation by, those accustomed to them."
With regard to the latter, viz.,
Preventive Remedial Treatment.- Verat., 3 glob.
(3d), dissolved in a tea-spoonful of cold water, and




128


ASIATIC CHOLERA.


Cupr., 3 glob (4th), similarly dissolved, should be
given, separately and in alternation, at intervals of
three days, to persons of either sex, whether young
or old, as soon as cholera manifests itself in the
neighboring district, and their administration continued in this manner during the prevalence of the
epidemic.
It may be encouraging, for those whose friends
or neighbors are attacked, to know that, in a district
where cholera prevails, no additional risk is incurred by those who minister to the sick.
Premonitory Symptoms.-The following when
they occur, especially during the prevalence of
cholera, are very significative, and should on no
account be disregarded; viz., a feeling of general
uneasiness, headache, pain, and rumbling in the belly, with oppression at the pit of the stomach and
chest, distension of the bowels, diarrhoea (relaxation), and more or less disorder of the digestive organs.
Symptoms.-Frequent thin watery stools, resembling gruel or rice-wator, followed by cramps and
spasms in the stomach and abdomen (belly), and accompanied by intense thirst, uneasiness, and sensation of burning at the pit of the stomach, retching,
and vomiting of an offensive fluid (very similar in
appearance to that voided by the bowels), coldness
and cramps in the extremities, especially in the
calves of the legs, and general vital depression. In
very serious cases, the surface of the body becomes
cold and clammy, not unfrequently assuming a purple and shrivelled appearance; the feet are icy cold;
the features pinched and angular; the eyes sunken
and glazed; the voice low and inarticulate; the




ASIATIC CHOLERA.


129


breath cold; the respiration oppressed; and, lastly,
rapid exhaustion of the powers of life ensues.
Occasionally, the cramps put on a convulsive and
intermitting character; and, in some few cases, the
stools become bloody.
Treatment.-Under whatever form Cholera presents itself (whether ushered in by premonitory
symptoms or not), Spirit of Camphor (prepared homaeopathically) may be given in doses of two drops,
dissolved in a tea-spoonful of cold water, every five
or ten minutes, and continued in this manner (or, in
the event of marked improvement, at longer intervals) for the first hour.
After this period, Verat., in the proportion of 12
glob. (3d), dissolved in six tea-spoonfuls of cold
water, should be administered, in doses of a spoonful, every ten, fifteen, or thirty minutes (the intervals
being prolonged or shortened according as the symptoms become more favorable or otherwise), and continued in the same manner as long as indicated.
Ipec., in slight attacks, with sensation of softness
in the stomach, shiverings, coldness in the face and
extremities, especially if the vomiting predominate,
with watery diarrhoea, colic. Dose: as Verat.
Sec. c., when there are loose, brownish, or flocklike colorless stools, clean tongue, or slight coating
of white mucus; vertigo, anguish, cramps in the
calves of the legs, vomiting before evacuating.
Dose: as Verat.
Verat. is the principal remedy in almost all cases
characterized by sudden and frequent evacuations
upwards and downwards, cramps and spasms in
the stomach and abdomen, coldness of the body and




130


ASIATIC CHOLERA.


of the extremities, cramps in the calves of the legs,
and great weakn.ess.
If, after several doses of this last medicine, the severity of the symptoms increases, and the cramps
change to spasms and convulsions-more especially
when they put on an intermitting character-or
the stools become bloody, recourse must be had to
Cupr., 12 glob. (4th), dissolved and administered in
the same manner, and at similar intervals. In
many cases, Cupr. may be beneficially alternated
with Verat.
Ars., 12 glob. (4th), similarly dissolved, may in
like manner be alternated with Verat. when the
disorder is attended with a sensation as of burning
coals in the stomach and bowels, or with occasional
scalding evacuations, especially if followed by violent colic and extraordinary prostration of strength,
coldness of the skin, clammy perspirations, and insupportable fear of death.
Diet and Regimen.-The patient ought to be
kept warm, and, if necessary, bottles of hot water
or heated bricks applied to the feet and under the
arm-pits; a little cold water nay be given from
time to time to allay the thirst and, when practicable, small pieces of ice. Injections of iced or
very cold water are sometimes benefical in cases of
violent colic or cramp in the bowels, when the remedies do not afford speedy relief.
During convalescence much care will be required to prevent relapse. In fact, the patient is
often tormented with a great craving for food,
which should be restrained, and only a small
quantity of light farinaceous food (such as sago or
arrow-root) should be allowed at first. Then, as




CHOLERINE.


131


convalescence proceeds, beef-tea, chicken-broth, and
Homwopathic chocolate, with a little dry toast, may
precede the gradual return to ordinary diet.
Care should also be taken to protect the surface
of the body, and especially the stomach and extremeties, from cold.
Diarrhuea from Fear of the Cholera.
During the prevalence of Asiatic Cholera, delicate and timid persons are occasionally subject to
a species of bowel complaint, which is induced
solely by the fear of being attacked.
Treatment.-Cham., 9 glob. (3d), in doses of a
sixth part every four hours, or thrice a day, will
generally suffice for such cases.
Diet and Regimen.-The same as in common
Diarrhwea. (See Simple Diarrhea, also Asiatic
Cholera.)
Cholerine, or Griping Watery Diarrhoea.
Symptoms. -Frequent thin watery stools, preceded by intense griping in the bowels, with abdominal cramps, and accompanied by burning thirst,
retching, and vomiting of bilious matter, cramps and
coldness of the extremities. In severe cases, the
face becomes blue, and the features drawn and
pinched, with an anxious expression of the counte.
nance, in proportion to the intensity and frequency of
the vomiting and purging, and consequent depression of the vital powers.
The pulse is variable in this disorder; generally
depressed.




132


COLIC.


Treatment.-In mild cases, begin with Verat,
9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every four
hours; then administer Verat,, 9 glob. (3d), once
more, in solution, a sixth part thrice a day, if the
relaxation continues.
A night or two after the last dose of the solution,
give Chin., 3 glob. (12th), and lastly, in four nights
more, Sulph,, 3 glob. (30th).
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be alternated, in doses of a sixth part with the other dissolved
medicine, when there are marked febrile symptoms.
Phosph. ac., against watery or mucous diarrhcoa,
with evacuations of undigested matter, or with involuntary discharges. Dose; as Verat.
Hot bottles may be applied to the extremities,
when great coldness is complained of, which is
also evident to the touch.
Diet, 4c.--The indications are the same as in
Dysentery. (See Dysentery.)
Pain in the Stomach and Abdomen, Bellyache,
Colic Pains, &c. (See Colic,)
Colic.
This complaint is sometimes very painful; but
it is rarely attended with danger. Flatulent food
is a very common exciting cause in those who are
predisposed to colic.
Symptoms.-- Twisting, pinching, and   griping
pains in the abdomen (belly), but especially about
the navel, usually associated with costiveness, more
or less aching in the abdomen (bellyache), and distressing flatulence,  The pains are relieved by




COLIC,


133


pressure, and, although at times very acute, they
are subject to periodical remissions. These characteristics, together with the absence of fever, will
serve to distinguish the disorder from acute inflam.
mation  of the bowels.    In attacks of Bilious
Colic, vomiting of bile and relaxation of the bowels
with yellow or dark bilious stools, are superadded to
the above symptoms.
Treatment,  When the colic is attended with a
confined state of the bowels, administer Nux v., 9
glob. (3d), a sixth part every hour, or every two,
three, or four hours, according to the urgency of
the case; and, if necessary, Nux v., 9 glob. (3d),
once more, a sixth part thrice a day; then, in a
day or two after the last dose give Nux v., 3 glob.
(6th). Should the bowels be relaxed or tend to relaxation, substitute Puls# 9 glob. (3d), and Puls., 3
glob. (6th), and administer them in like manner,
This medicine is peculiarly indicated in the case
of females who suffer from periodical irregularities.
When, however, the above remedies do not afford
relief, and the pains are intense, give Coloc., 6 glob.
(3d), similarly dissolved, in doses of a sixth part,
at like intervals. Coloc. is singularly beneficial
when there are very acute twisting and cutting pains,
chiefly confined to the navel, or when the sufferings
are relieved after each evacuation from the bowels,
In cases of Bilious Colic, give Cham., 9 glob. (3d),
and Ipec., 9 glob. (3d), in doses of a sixth part, alternately, every hour, or every two, three, or four hours,
and discontinue the latter when the vomiting ceases;
then, if necessary, give Cham., 9 glob. (3d), a sixth
12


tei




134


CONFINED BOWELS.


part thrice a day; and lastly, Chain., 3 glob. (12th),
a day or two after the last dose of the solution.
Carb. v., headache; heat in the body and especially in the head. Congestion to the head and
pressive pain, with constipation; sufferings after
eating ever so little. Dose: the same as Cham.
Diet and Regimen.-During the attack, warm
gruel, or other soothing drinks, will often prove
grateful; and, if they afford relief, hot flannels may
be applied to the belly from time to time.
For some days after the attack has subsided the
patient should abstain from green vegetables, and
other flatulent food; he may then gradually resume
his ordinary diet.
Bilious Colic, (See Colic.)
Confined Bowels.
Costiveness is, in general, only one of many symptoms dependent upon various derangements of the
digestive functions, rather than an affection by itself.
Treatment.-In a.general way, Nux v., 3 glob.
(6th), administered twice, at an interval of two or
three days, and followed by Sulph., 3 glob. (12th),
four days after the second dose, will suffice for slight
cases.
When there is great torpor of the lower bowels,
with sensation as if they were paralyzed, Op., 3
glob. (6th), may be advantageously substituted for
the second dose of Nux v.
In obstinate cases of constipation, attended with
headache and fulness, tension, or hardness about
the bowels, when Nux v. or Op. does not afford




PILES, OR HXEMORRHOIDS.


135


speedy relief, and the patient is at a distance from
a medical practitioner, an enema (injection) of tepid
water (from a pint to a pint and a half) may be
had recourse to.    By this means, mechanical
relief will be afforded without injury to the coats
of the intestines.
Diet and Regimen.-The diet should be light
for a few days, and the proportion of animal food
small. A variety of sweet fruits, when perfectly
ripe, such as strawberries, pears, grapes, figs, and
especially gooseberries, may be partaken of with
advantage, when they do not disagree with the
stomach.   Dried prunes, French plums, dried
figs, dates, raisins, and other dried fruits; conserves and preserves (provided they are free from
acid or medicinal properties, spice, &c.) of various
kinds, cooked fruits, such as stewed apples or pears,
&c., in addition to wholesome vegetables, dressed
with meat gravy, may also be recommended. As
a general rule, vegetable should preponderate over
animal food in the diet of persons who habitually
lead a sedentary or studious life, and who are often
very apt to take more animal food than the wants
of their bodies require.  Regular exercise in the
open air should also be enjoined.
(See also Indigestion, Bilious Attacks, and
Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of
Dietetic Rules.)
Piles~ or Haemorrhoids.
This affection is constituted by enlargement and
swelling of the veins at the orifice of the lower intestines. When bleeding is of frequent occurrence,




136


PILES, OR HMEMORRHOIDS.


the piles are said to be fluent; when, however, this
is seldom or never the case, they are denominated
blind.
Symptoms.-Soft tumors, variable in size, either
internal or external to the orifice of the bowels,
which are generally attended with pricking (like
needles), shooting or burning pains, especially during stool, with or without loss of blood, and which
are frequently associated with a confined state of the
Sbowels.
Exciting causes.--Stimulating food, whether liquid or solid, especially in combination with sedentary habits.
Treatment.-Begin with Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), in
solution, a fourth part night and morning; then
Ars., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a fourth part night
and morning, and the second night after the last
dose of this solution, give Nux v., 3 glob. (12th),
followed in four nights more by Ars., 3 glob. (18th);
and lastly, after a further interval of six or seven
days, administer Sulph., 3 glob. (18th). In very
slight cases, the medicines in solution may be omitted, and the others exhibited at once. Acon., 9 glob.
(3d), may be given, in solution, in doses of a sixth
part, either alternately with the other indicated medicines or by itself, when there is heat of skin, thirst,
fulness and frequency of the pulse, or other febrile
symptoms.
Antim. cr., with burning, creeping, itching; this
remedy can be used in alternation with Puls.
Diet, d4c.-The same as in the preceding disorder. (See Confined Bowels.)




HICKUP.


137


Ilickup.
Hickup is a convulsive or spasmodic catch in the
muscles of respiration, and chiefly in the midriff,
with a quick sonorous inspiration, recurring at short
and regular intervals. It is generally associated
with disordered digestion; but may be induced independently of any other ailment by eating too fast,
swallowing too large morsels of food, &c.
Treatment. -Holding the breath for a short time
or the effect of a sudden surprise, will often be sufficient at once to remove this spasmodic complaint.
Sucking a small lump of white or barley sugar, or
else drinking a little cold water, will sometimes
have an equally beneficial effect. Pressure for a
few minutes with the palm of the hand at the pit of
the stomach will sometimes remove it. When, however, the hickup recurs from time to time, Bell., 3
glob. (12th), may be administered for two nights successively; then, two or three days after the second
dose, Puls., 3 glob. (12th), may be given; and, lastly, Lach., 3 glob. (12th), in four days more, if the
Puls. has not proved sufficient.
Diet, 4c.-Attention should be paid to diet for
a few days. (See also Indigestion.)
Heartburn.
This name is given to an uncomfortable, gnawing, burning sensation, commencing in the stomach,
and extending along the gullet. Heartburn is generally produced by acridity of the secretions, and is
commonly a prominent symptom in many forms of
indigestion.
12*




138


FLATULENCE.


Treatment.-In slight cases, where it is the
chief symptom which fixes the attention, give Nux
v., 3 glob. (12th), twice, at an interval of two or
three days; and, lastly, exhibit Sulph., 3 glob.
(18th), four days after the second dose of Nux.
Drinking a little cold water will often relieve the
immediate suffering. (See also Indigestion, Bilious Attacks, and Slight Disorders arising from
the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Sour Rising. (See Hcartburn. and also Indigestioni.
Flatulence.
Flatulence is generally one of many symptoms
connected with a derangement of the digestive functions; it may, however, be temporarily induced by
the use of certain articles of food.
Treatment -In slight cases, where it is the only
apparent symptom, Puls, 9 glob. (3d), in solution,
in doses of a sixth part twice a day, followed, a day
or two after the last dose, by Puls., 3 glob. (12th),
or else Puls., 3 glob. (12th), only, administered
twice, at an interval of two or three days, will often
afford the desired relief.
Diet,,Sc -As errors in diet, such as vegetables
taken in too large a quantity, the abuse of fermented
drinks, &c., may induce this disagreeable symptom,
the exciting cause, when ascertained, should be removed. A little attention to diet should also be enjoined, and every opportunity should be taken of
improving the general health.




140


URINARY COMPLAINTS.


General Treatment.-Until a medical man can be
had, the following directions should be attended to.
In Retention of Urine or Painful Urination,
where the water is either not passed at all, or else
only with difficulty, and in very small quantities,
give Puls., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part
every two or three hours. Should there be a constant and violent want to make water, with pain
in the bladder, and soreness to the touch in the
~ lower part of the abdomen (belly); or should the
urine be passed in small quantities with cutting and
scalding pain, administer Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in a
similar manner and at like intervals. When the
retention has been caused by a mechanical injury,
such as a kick or a blow in the region of the bladder, give Arn., 9 glob. (6th), in solution, a sixth part
every two or three hours. Should it, however,
have been brought on by over-distension, or straining of the bladder, in a person who, from carelessness or false delicacy, has forcibly resisted the repeated calls of nature, substitute Nux v., 9 glob.
(3d), and administer this remedy in the same manner.
Canth., with violent, but ineffectual desire to urinate, or with painful emission of only some drops.
Dose: the same as Acon.
In cases where the secretion of water seems to
have been suspended, give Acon. 9 glob. (3d), a
sixth part every three or four hours. In any of
the above cases, Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may always
be given, in alternation with any other indicated
remedy, where there are febrile or inflammatory
symptoms.
In Incontinence of Urine, or Profuse Urination,
when the water is either passed involuntarily, or is




HOARSENESS.


141


retained with difficulty, on account of the great quantity which is secreted, give Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), irt
solution, a sixth part thrice a day. Should this state
have been brought on by a mechanical injury, substitute Arn., 9 glob. (3d), and administer this
medicine in the same manner.
Diet and Regimen---In the cases of retention of
urine, in which the bladder is not over-distended,
or of the temporary suppression of that secretion,
warm mucilaginous drinks, such as gruel, gum-water, &c., may be allowed to allay thirst; at the same
time, warm cloths may be applied to the region of the
bladder, so long as they yield any relief. When,
however, the opposite state of incontinence of urine
exists, as little fluid aliment as possible should be permitted. Moreover, a light diet should be enjoined
in both cases, and all exposure to sudden changes of
temperature ought to be carefully guarded against.
(See also Atmospheric Influences, Moral Emotions, and Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Hf]oarseness.
Hoarseness is usually one of many symptoms of
a more general affection. It is, however, sometimes the most prominent symptom in certain affections of the mucous membrane of the throat and
wind-pipe, which have been induced by cold or
other causes. ~
Symptons. -Hoarseness and huskiness of the
voice, often accompanied with a sensation of tickling, dryness, or irritation in the throat; occasion




142


INFLUENZA.


ally there is a constant inclination to hawk up the
adherent secretions.
Treatment.-Give Hep. sulph., 9 glob. (4th), in
solution, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice a
day; in a day or two after the last dose administer
Hep. sulph., 3 glob. (4th), and, lastly, in four or five
days more, Lach., 3 glob. (12th), followed by Sulph.,
3 glob. (18th), after an additional interval of a week.
In very slight cases, Hep. sulph., 3 glob. (4th),
followed by Lach., 3 glob. (12th), in three or four
Sdays will be preferable.
Diet.-The diet should be light for a few days,
and stimulants of every kind should be avoided for
some time. Gum.arabic water, or sugar and water,
will often afford' mechanical relief by lessening the
dryness of the tissues.
Influenza.
An apparently slight inflammation of the mucous
surfaces of the head, gradually extending to those of
the throat and lungs, which is accompanied by longcontinued general debility.
Symptoms.-A sense of chilliness and lassitude,
weight in the forehead, with stuffing at the root of
the nose, and sneezing, pain in the limbs, slight
fever, and general uneasiness, constitute the preliminary stage.
The eyes become weak, and sensitive to the light,
and a very profuse watery discharge from the nose,
sometimes attended with external or internal soreness and swelling of this organ, succeeds. The
sneezing now causes much annoyance, and recurs
in fits, and the feeling of obstruction is more distress




INFLUENZA.


143


ing when anything occurs to arrest the nasal secretions. At this period the voice becomes weaker,
and there is sometimes a hacking cough, with soreness at the chest, oppression, and shortness of the
breath; and there is likewise a marked increase of
the general prostration. These symptoms constitute
the secretive stage, and, after continuing for an indefinite period, they gradually subside altogether.
Treatment.-In slight cases, during the preliminary stage, give Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a
sixth part every four hours, or twice or thrice a day,
according to the urgency of the symptoms. When
the stage of secretion has commenced, administer
Ars., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every
four hours, or twice or thrice a day, according to the
severity or mildness of the case; and, if necessary,
give a second solution in similar doses, and at like
intervals. Should, however, the cough be troublesome, and soreness or oppression at the chest be
complained of, substitute Bry., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, and exhibit a sixth part every four hours, or
thrice a day.
A few days after the last dose of the medicines
in solution, administer Ars., 3 glob. (18th), followed by Bry., 3 glob. (3d), in four days more; and
lastly, after a further lapse of four days, give Sulph.,
3 glob. (18th).
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be occasionally exhibited, in doses of a sixth part, either by itself, or else
in alternation with any of the above remedies, when
indicated by fulness and frequency of pulse, thirst,
heat of skin, or other febrile symptoms, throughout
the course of the affection.
Diet, 4-c.-The diet should be light, especially




144


144 SLIGHT BTRONCHIAL CATARRt114f


at the commencement of the affection: in most
cases animal food should be abstained from for
some days.    Arrow-root, sago, milk puddings,
light fish, beef-tea, cocoa, and aliments of this kind,
may be generally allowed. When, however, there
is no appetite, and the symptoms are inflammatory,
toast-and-water, water-gruel, or barley-water, will
be preferable. Gum-arabic water, sweetened with
a little sugar, will often prove grateful when the
cough is troublesome.   The return to ordinary
"food should be gradual, Exposure to cold or sudden alternations of temperature should be guarded
against,
Slight Bronchial Cftarrh, or Conlmmon Cold
and Cough.
The mucous membranes of the lungs are the
structures principally affected.
Symptoms.--First, or Stage of Invasion,-A sensation as though a chill had been sustained is experienced at the onset of the attack, generally attended
by fever, loss of appetite, thirst, heat of skin and
feeling of general uneasiness, with oppression and
tightness about the chest, and shortness of breath.
To these a slight hacking cough is superadded, with
very trifling expectoration, which is accompanied
and followed by soreness of the chest.
Second, or Secretive Stage.-The cough becomes
looser, the bronchial secretions more abundant, and
the expectoration much easier. The expectoration
may vary in color and consistence. It is generally
white, yellow or grayish; thick and gelatinous, or
else thin and watery. As the disorder advances to




SLIGHT BRONCHIAL CATARRH.


145


wards a favorable termination, the preceding symptoms subside, the secretions diminish, and the appetite and strength return.
Treatment.-First Stage.-Begin with Acon., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every four hours,
or thrice a day; then give Bry., 9 glob. (3d), also
in solution, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice
a day, as soon as the cough becomes troublesome,
and the breathing oppressed, or soreness of the
chest is complained of. This last remedy may be
administered once more, in solution, if necessary,
in similar doses, and at like intervals, and discontinued when the cough becomes looser.
Second Stage.-When the cough is looser, and
the expectoration freer and more abundant, exhibit
Mere. sol., 9 glob. (5th), in solution, a sixth part
every four hours, or thrice a day, if the expectoration is thick and gelatinous, or else Ars., 9 glob.
(3d), in solution, at like intervals, and in similar
oses, if it is thin and watery, or frothy, and accompanied with dfficulty of breathing and palpitation
of the heart. If necessary, either of these medicines
may be administered once more, in solution, in
doses of a sixth part thrice a day, according to the
preceding indications.
As the acute symptoms subside, give Mere. sol.,
3 glob. (12th), or else Ars., 3 glob. (18th), (according to circumstances), a day or two after the last
dose of the medicines in solution; and, lastly, in
four or five days more, Sulph., 3 glob. (18th).
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be given in solution;
either occasionally by itself, or alternately with any
of the other indicated medicines, in doses of a sixth
part, at any stage of the affection, when fulness and
13




S146


COUGH.


frequency of the pulse, heat of skin, thirst, or other
febrile symptoms are present.
In very slight cases, Acon., 3 glob. (12th), Bry.,
3 glob. (3d), Merc. sol., 3 glob. (6th), or Ars., 3
glob. (18th), may be substituted for the lower dilutions, and exhibited in succession, at intervals of
two, three, or four days.
Diet, 4.c.-The same as in Influenza. (See
Influenza.)
Bronchitis, Inflammation of the Lungs, Pleurisy, &c. (See Sudden Acute and Inflammatory Complaints.)
Cough.
A cough is usually one of many symptoms of
a more general affection rather than a disorder in
itself; nevertheless, as it is often the most prominent symptom, the indication which it affords for
the treatment will, in such a case, be sufficient, provided that the cause upon which it depends be slight,
and of recent operation.
The following are the symptoms and treatment
of a few of the common varieties.
COMMON SPASMODIC% OR SHORT DRY COUGII.
Symptoms.-Hard dry cough, which seems to be
caused by a sensation of tickling and irritation in
the throat: it is generally worse at night and early
in the morning.
Treatment.-Give Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part thrice a day, followed, a day or




148


ASTHMA.


Treatment.-Give Hep. sulph., 9 glob. (4th), in
solution, a sixth part thrice a day, followed a day or
two after the last dose by Hep. sulph., 3 glob. (4th),
or else exhibit Hep. sulph., 3 glob. (4th), only.
General Treatment -Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, in doses of a sixth part or else Acon., 3 glob.
(3d), may be given, in all cases where fulness or
frequency of the pulse, thirst, heat of the skin, or
other symptoms of fever, are present, either alone
Sor in alternation with the other indicated remedies.
Diet, 4-c.-The diet should be light, and all aliments of a stimulating kind should be avoided.
(See also the instructions upon this subject in Influenza.)
(For the treatment of other cases not specified
above, see Atmospheric Influences, and Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of    Dietetic
Rules).
Asthma, or Spasmodic Shortness of Breath.
Attacks of Asthma are usually occasioned by
exposure either to cold and wet, or to peculiar atmospheric influences; and also by errors in diet
on the part of those who are naturally predisposed
to this complaint.
Premonitory Symptoms.-A sense of tightness at
the chest, sometimes accompanied by an irritating
cough: a heavy pain across the eyes and forehead;
flatulence in the stomach and bowels, and other
symptoms indicating a disordered state of the digestive functions; together with general languor
and irritability of temper, commonly precede the
acute attack.




ASTHMA.


149


Symptoms.-The attack very generally occurs at
night, especially during the first sleep. The patient is suddenly awakened by a feeling of suffocation, as if from want of air, accompanied by a
cramp-like sensation and tightness at the chest, and
by a short, dry, painful cough: in severe cases the
oppression and difficulty of breathing are extreme;
so that he is forced to sit up in bed, or to rush to the
open window for relief   Throughout the paroxysm, the act of speaking or coughing is attended
with painful wheezing and gasping for breath; the
expectoration is scanty and difficult, and the flatulence very distressing: at the same time, the countenance is anxious, the face pallid and bloated, the
eyes prominent and bloodshot, and the pulse usually
hurried. As the intensity of the sufferings diminish, the cough becomes looser, and a free expecto.
ration of thin, watery, or frothy mucus takes place.
In some cases, relaxation of the bowels, vomiting of
bilious matter, or the breaking out of general per.
spiration, precede the gradual remission of all the
symptoms. The duration of the attack usually varies from half an hour to three or four hours.
Treatment. -During the premonitory stage, Nux
v., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, should be administered
in doses of a sixth part every four hours, or thrice
a day, until finished; and, if requisite, this medicine may be exhibited once more in a similar manner; then Mere. sol., 9 glob. (4th), a sixth part
thrice a day, may be given when the oppression in
the chest has ceased, more especially if the complexion is of a sallow bilious hue, and there is
looseness of the bowels. In very slight cases,
Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), administered for two or
13*




ASTHMA.


151


about makes it worse. This remedy may be given
where Ipec., has not Afficed either by itself or in
alternation with it.
Lach., 4 glob. (12th), when the paroxysm is accompanied by a short suffocation cough, with scanty
and difficult expectoration, inability to lie down, and
earnest desire for fresh air. Nux v. or Ars. may
often be advantageously given in alternation with
it.
Bry., 9 glob. (3d), may be given after any of the
foregoing remedies (especially after Nux v., or in
alternation with them,) when the cough occasions
soreness in the chest, and the asthmatic attack is assuming a catarrhal (that of a cold on the chest)
character.         *
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be alternated in all
cases where there are very decided feverish symptoms.
A day or two after the subsidence of the attack
Nux v., 3 glob. (12th), may be exhibited, and repeated in three or four days; lastly, in four days
more, Su7ph., 3 glob. (18th), may be administered.
This treatment may be had recourse to once or
twice for the chronic tendency to asthma.
In all cases where the attacks are severe, or of
frequent recurrence, a medical practitioner ought to
be consulted.
Diet and Regimen.-When the patient is threatered with an attack he should observe a lighter
diet than usual, and should especially abstain from
stimulating drinks. During the attack he should,
if thirsty, confine himself to gruel, or other similar
drinks, moderately warm, and, in general, avoid
cold drinks, unless his experience should have led




SPITTING OF BLOOD.


153


Bry., 9 glob. (3d), similarly dissolved, and at like
intervals, when the palpitation is attended with oppression at the chest, stitches and sore aching in the
left side, or tightness in the region of the heart more
especially if the symptoms are aggravated by moving about.
Lach., 4 glob. (12th), in a like proportion, if the
palpitation occurs when the patient is lying in bed
at night, and obliges him to sit up; more especially,
if it is associated with great moral depression and
alarm, or even fear of death.Puls., 9 glob. (3d), similarly dissolved, and at
like intervals, will be preferable for women and
children of a mild and timid disposition.
In slight cases, Bry., 3 glob. (3d), Lach., 3 glob.
(12th), or Puls., 3 glob. (3d), may be administered,
as recommended above, twice or thrice, at an interval of two or three days, instead of the solution.
In any case, where palpitation continues to recur,
competent advice should be had recourse to without
loss of time.
Diet and Regimen.-Whilst the exciting cause
should, if possible, be removed, a suitable diet ought
to be enjoined, and every opportunity of improving
the general health taken advantage of  (See also
Moral Emotions, and Slight Disorders arising from
the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
Spitting and Vomiting of Blood.
As these hemorrhages (losses of blood) usually
occur unexpectedly, a few general directions for
their temporary treatment will not be out of place in
a work of this kind


0




154


SPITTING OF BLOOD.


Treatment.-Until professional assistance can be
had, 9 glob. of the medicine which seems best
suited to the circumstances of the case, should be
dissolved in six tea-spoonfuls of cold water, and administered, in doses of a tea-spoonful, every two,
three or four hours, or else (if the symptoms are
very urgent), every half-hour. As soon, however,
as any decided benefit may be perceived from the
remedy, it will be better to suspend its administra*    tion so long as there is a progressive improvement,
Am., (3d), will be indicated when the hemorrhage
(whether it proceeds from the lungs or from the stomach) has been caused by severe physical exertion;
more especially if the blood, which has been expectorated or vomited, is of a dark color.
Chin., (3d), in the most serious cases, where the
loss of blood is attended with heaviness of the head
and dizziness, paleness of the face, extreme feebleness of the pulse, coldness of the extremities, loss of
consciousness, and fainting.
Ipec., (3d), will be of service when the blood is
of a bright red color; more especially in hemorrhages of the stomach, where there is a constant inclination to vomit; or Bry., (3d).
Acon., (3d), may always be alternated with any
of the preceding remedies, when the symptoms
put on an inflammatory character.
Phosph., (6th), in alternation with Sulph., (30th),
is also of great service.
Diet and Regimen.-The patient must be kept as
cool and as quiet as possible, and on no account
should he be allowed to speak; at the same time
care must be taken to remove all unnecessary tightness of dress. Every thing in the shape of food,




INFLAMMATORY COMPLAINTS.


155


especially whatever is drank, should be taken cold;
the diet in other respects should be light.  When,
however, the hemorrhage proceeds from the stomach, no solid food should be allowed. (See also
Fainting.)
Inflammation, or Sudden and Acute Inflammatory Complaints.
Under this head are included all sudden and
acute affections requiring prompt remedial measures,
the seat or importance of which cannot be decided
upon with any approach to certainty by those who
have not made disease and its treatment their exclusive study and occupation, and which for this reason
have purposely been omitted in this work.
As the preliminary treatment of such complaints is
almost invariably the same, a few general directions
will suffice, in order, 1st, that no time may be lost;
and 2dly, that nothing injudicious may be done.
Preliminary Symptoms.-The common preliminary characteristics of such affections are, general
heat of the skin, or of the part principally affected,
thirst, loss of appetite, but especially frequency and
fulness of the pulse. To these a greater or less
degree of moral and physical prostration is generally added no matter with what organs or parts
the symptoms may seem to be more immediately
connected or with what other sufferings they may
be associated.
Preliminary Treatment.-Until medical advice
can be procured, Acon., 9 glob (3d), in solution,
may be given, a sixth part every two, three, or four
hours.
In any case, however, where, in addition to the




156


INFLAMMATORY COMPLAINTS.


general symptoms above enumerated, distressing
headache, with fulness and heat of the head or
congestion of its vessels, throbbing of the bloodvessels, of the neck, forehead, or temples, intolerance
of light or delirium, seemed to indicate Inflammation of the brain or of its membranes, Bell., 9 glob.
(3d), in solution, should be given in alternation, in
doses of a sixth part, every hour, or every two or
three hours.
In like manner, where some of the characteristic
symptoms of an acute attack of Pleurisy, viz., a
sharp cutting or catching pain (stitch) in the side,
imposing an instinctive restraint upon the respiration,
and compelling the patient to lie upon the side affected, or upon the back, distressingly aggravated by the
act of coughing or taking a deep breath; sometimes
preceded by a sudden sensation of cold or a fit of shivering, and usually accompanied by a hard, quick
pulse, heat of the skin, flushed face, and scanty
high-colored urine,-or those of Inflammation of
the Lungs, viz., a deep-seated pain in the chest, of variable intensity, usually of a dull character, attended
with shortness and quickness of breathing, and an
urgent short dry cough (commonly followed, in a
few days, by a thick, glutinous rust-colored expectoration*) together with high inflammatory fever, and,
especially in persons of a full habit, remarkable fushing of the face, and determination of blood to the head,
-are superadded, Bry., 9 glob. (3d), in solution,
* When the symptoms given in italics are well marked,
Phosph., 9 glob. (4th), if this remedy can be immediately procured), exhibited alone, a sixth part every two, three, or four
hours, will be more suitable.




158


RHEUDIATISM.


coated, the bowels more confined, the pulse smaller
and less distincly felt, and the countenance more
anxious than in simple inflammation of the bowels-.
substitute Bell., 9 glob. (3d), and administer this
remedy alternately with Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in doses
of a sixth part every hour, or every two or three
hours, according to the urgency of the case.
Diet and Regimen.--The patient almost invaria.
bly manifests a strong disinclination to solid food,
and usually complains of ardent thirst, so that pure
water or toast-andwater, or at most very weak
water-gruel only, should be allowed.
Where there is much general prostration and
fever, the patient should keep his bed.
Rheumatism.
The muscular and ligamentous tissues are the
principal seats of this affection. Exposure to cold,
wet, and damp, is a frequent exciting cause.
Symptoms.--Shivering, and a sensation of cold,
sometimes precede an acute attack. The skin then
becomes hot, and the pulse full and quick; aching,
tearing, shooting and aching, with stiffness, are ex.
perienced in the parts affected, especially in the
joints, when they are attacked; and there is also, in
most cases, more or less disorder of the organs of
digestion. The acute symptoms generally subside
after free perspiration. In chronic cases, the symptoms are very similar, but less urgent, and more tedious. In all cases, whether acute or chronic, the
times altogether suspended, and the patient is compelled to
lie upon his back, often with his legs slightly drawn up.




CRAMPS AND SPASMS.


101


character. Almost any part of the body maybe
affected, but especially the muscles of the lower
extremities.
Treatment.-During the intensity of the paroxysm, the part affected may either be rubbed, or
frmly grasped; but it is better to wait a little
before administering the internal remedy.
As the paroxysm is going off, or else just as it
is coming on, Nux v., 9 glob. (3d), may be given
in solution, a sixth part every hour, or every two,
three, or four hours; then, in a day or two after
the last dose, Verat., 3 glob. (3d), followed by Nux
v., 3 glob. (6th), in two or three days more; and,
lastly, Lach., 3 glob. (12th), after a further interval
of four or five days, may be administered with
advantage.
In cases of spasm and cramp in the stomach and
abdomen (belly), the same treatment may be had
recourse to. During the paroxysms, the local
application of hot flannels, or sipping a little hot
gruel from time to time, will sometimes afford relief.
In severe cases, smelling Camph. will often lessen
the intensity of the symptoms.
Diet, 4-c.-The diet should be light for a few
days, and every aliment which has been found to
disagree with the patient should be carefully
abstained from. As a general rule, no food should
be taken immediately after the paroxysm, and,
where an exception is made, the aliments allowed
should be of the lightest kind, such as a little beeftea, mutton or chicken broth, and the like. (See
also Moral Emotions, Atmospheric Influences, and
Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
14*




162


1MORAL EMOTIONS.


II.-ACCIDENTAL DISORDERS.*
UNDER this division will be found, moral, atmospheric, and dietetic influences, mechanical and
other accidental or specific injuries, such as wounds,
burns, stings of insects, &c., together with their
general treatment.
Nloral Emotions.
FRIGHT.
The shock sustained by the    nervous system
during a sudden fright may be followed by stupor,
or confusion of thought and action; or else the reaction may be shown by increased activity of the circulation.
Treatment.-In the first case, Op., 3 glob. (3d),
should be given immediately, and repeated in a day
or two; in the second, Acon., 3 glob. (3d), will be
indicated by the frequency and fulness of the pulse,
or else Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part
thrice a day.
PASSION (ANGER).
Treatment.-To prevent any ill effects from a
fit of anger, give Bry., 3 glob. (3d), two days successively, in the case of adults of a bilious temperament, and Chain., 3 glob. (12th), repeated in like
manner, in that of women and children, also Acon.,
3 glob. (3d).


* (See Explanations.)




ATMOSPHERIC INFLUENCES.


163


GRIEF.
Treatment.-Ign., 3 glob. (6th), exhibited twice
or thrice, at intervals of two or three days, will
often be productive of great benefit, when there is
great moral depression consequent upon this cause.
Atmospheric Influences*
General Treatment.-For slight disorders induced
by sudden atmospheric changes, exposure to wet
and cold, &c., two doses of the following medicines,
administered (either dry upon the tongue or else dissolved in a little cold water) at intervals of six,
twelve, or twenty-four hours, will generally suffice,
provided a little attention be also paid to diet and
regimen for a few days.
Nux v., 3 glob. (6th), after a chill sustained in cold,
dry, or frosty (winter) weather, especially when it
is followed by a spasmodic cough, with or without
suppression of the ordinary secretions.
Chain., 3 glob. (3d), after atmospheric exposure,
under similar circumstances, with increase of the
various secretions from the mucous membranes.
This remedy is peculiarly suited to the cases of women and children.
Merc sol., 3 glob. (4th), when the weather is
cold, wet, and damp, especially in winter.
Ars., 3 glob. (6th), after exposure to cold (winter)
rain, especially when fits of shivering supervene,
and the sensation of cold cannot be got rid of.
Duic., 3 glob. (3d), when the humidity of the atmosphere is associated with warmth as in summer
and autumn.




164


INFRACTION OF DIETETIC RULES.


Bry., 3 glob. (6th), or Acon., 3 glob. (12th), for
indispositions during very hot and sultry weather.
Verat., 3 glob. (3d), before or during a thunderstorm, when the atmosphere is loaded with electricity.
Bell., 3 glob. (3d), followed in a day or two by
Lach., 3 glob. (12th), after exposure to the direct
rays of the sun*.
In all cases where there are febrile symptoms,
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, in doses of a sixth
part, may be given in alternation with any of the
above indicated remedies.
Diet, 4c.-A little attention to diet and regimen
for a day or two will be prudent.  It is unnecessary to add, that the exciting cause should be carefully avoided.
Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction of
Dietetic Rules.
To the digestive organs, the brain or other portions of the nervous system, the heart and general
circulation, or even the skin, are referred the principal symptoms of such complaints.
Symptoms.-These will naturally vary with the
causes immediately exciting them, and, in some degree, with the constitutional predisposition of the
person affected. Headache, toothache, sleeplessness or drowsiness, palpitation of the heart or frequency of the pulse, heat of skin, nervous excitement, nausea, faintness, disgust for food, a coated
* In serious cases of SUN-STROKE, the indications for treatment will be similar to those of INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN.
-(See SUDDEN ACUTE INFLAMMATORY AFFECTIONS).




INFRACTION OF DIETETIC RULES.


165


tongue, feverish and tainted breath, thirst, sensation
of fulness about the stomach or abdomen (belly),
heartburn, flatulence, vomiting, relaxation of the
bowels or costiveness, depression of spirits, &c., occurring singly or in combination, will generally
indicate whether the disorder is more immediately
connected with the organs of digestion, the nervous
system, or the circulation.
Exciting Causes.-1. Prolonged abstinence from
nutritive food
2. Excess in quantity of food of a general character, but more commonly of a nutritive kind.
3. The abuse of various kinds of food of a less
generally wholesome character, whether taken in
excess, in the ordinary acceptation of the term, or
not:-a. solid; b. fluid.
As a general rule, the abuse of solid food will
chiefly affect the digestive organs; that of liquid
stimulants, such as wine, spirits, tea, coffee, &c., the
nervous system and circulation.
The treatment of the various indispositions arising from errors of this kind, as it must necessarily
be influenced by the individual exciting cause, will
be given under one or other of the above heads.
I.-PROLONGED ABSTINENCE FROM FOOD.
Indisposition arising from this cause.
Treatment.-When faintness or a feeling of great
general prostration has supervened upon long fasting, great caution should be observed both in the
quantity and quality of the food which is first taken,
especially if the period of abstinence has been at




'166


INFRACTION OF DIETETIC RULES.


tended with much bodily fatigue. A cup of good
beef-tea is perhapi the best restorative in such cases.
After this slight refection, the patient should lie
down and rest for an hour or two, before he is allowed a regular meal, which should be a slight one.
Chin., 3 glob. (3d), or Am., 3 glob. (3d), if there
has been much bodily fatigue, may be administered
internally.
2. EXCESS IN QUANTITY OF FOOD.
Indisposition arising from an overloaded stomach.
Treatment.-If the food is still retained by the
stomach, give a tolerably strong cup of coffee, without milk and with very little sugar, followed in an
hour or two by Puls., 3 glob. (3d), and lastly, in
five or six hours more, exhibit Puls., 3 glob. (3d),
once more. When the food has been rejected by
the stomach, should the nausea and inclination to
vomit still continue, administer at once Ipec., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part every half hour,
two or three times in succession; after which wait
an hour or two, and give Puls., 9 glob. (3d), in so.
lution, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice a
day followed by Puls., 3 glob. (12th),the night after the last dose of the solution; or else give Puls.,
3 glob. (12th), only. In those cases where the
stomach has been relieved without the continuance
of unpleasant symptoms, the exhibition of Puls., 3
glob. (3d), only will suffice.




INFRACTION OF DIETETIC RULES.


167


3. THE ABUSE OF VARIOUS KINDS OF FOOD.
a. Solid.
Indisposition after having partaken of rich, fat,
oily, or other indigestible food of a similar kind
(whether animal or vegetable), such as pork, veal,
young meats, goose, salmon, eels, pastry, nuts, -c.
Treatment. -Give Puls., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part thrice a day; or else Puls., 3
glob. only
Indigestion, 4c., after salted provisions.
Treatment.-Give Ars., 9 glob. (3d), in solution,
a sixth part thrice a day; or else Ars., 3 glob.
(18th), only.
Seafaring men, and other persons, who are frequently obliged to partake of salted provisions, should
also partake of fresh vegetables, when they can be
procured; or else they should make a point of consuming daily a small quantity of lemon or limejuice, either as a beverage in the shape of lemonade, or as a condiment with their food. The facility with which meat and vegetables are now preserved fresh in hermetically-sealed cases, tends
very much to diminish the scorbutic affections to
which our fleets were continually subject.
Indisposition after having partaken of crabs, lobsters, muscles, or other shellfish.
Treatment.-Exhibit Rhus tox., 9 glob. (3d), in
solution, a sixth part thrice a day, or else Rhus tox.,
3 glob. only. (See also Nettle-rash.)




BODILY FATIGUE.


169


may be given in solution, in doses of a sixth part,
alternately with any of the above indicated remedies.
Diet, 4c.-After dietetic infractions of every
sort, but more especially after those in which the
error has consisted rather in quantity than in kind,
a light diet should be enjoined for a few days. In
those cases where some particular aliment has repeatedly been found to disagree, it should be abstained from altogether for the future.
Bodily Fatigue.
Symptoms.-Feeling of general lassitude; dull
pain, as if from contusion, in the muscles, with stiffness of the joints.
Treatment.--Arn., 3 glob. (3d), administered two
nights running, will generally be sufficient.
When the feet are swollen and tender, more especially after much walking, they should be bathed
in Arnicated (one part mother-Tincture of Am., to
thirty-five or forty parts water) warm water. The
hands may be bathed in like manner, when they
have become blistered and chafed, as it not unfrequently happens after rowing.
A general tepid bath, in which about a tea-spoonful of the Mother-Tincture of Arn., has been dissolved, will prove grateful after a long journey.
Diet, -c.-A light and nutritious repast will be
preferable to a heavy meal: for it must be remembered that the digestive organs partake of the general languor.
15




170


MENTAL FATIGUE.


Mental Fatigue.
Symptoms.--Confusion of thought, or too great
mental activity; headache, or pains in the forehead;
drowsiness, heavy unrefreshing sleep; or else sleep -
lessness at night with general weariness and
lassitude.
Causes..-Over-study, or anxious night-watching.
Treatment.-Nux. v., 3 glob. (3d), exhibited two
or three times, at intervals of two or four days, will
suffice in slight cases.
Chin., 3 glob. (3d), may be substituted and administered in like manner, when there is excessive
sleeplessness at night; but, when there is also considerable nervous excitement, Coff., 3 glob. (3d), similarly exhibited, will be preferable.
Bell., 3 glob. (3d), should, however, be selected
when the mind has been over-wrought, especially
if there is determination of blood to the head with
heat and flushing of the face.
Diet and Regimen.-The diet should be light,
and at the same time nutritious. Regular exercise
in open air, and healthy recreation, should be enjoined; moreover, if possible, the exciting cause should
be removed.    See also   Congestive Headaches,
Nervous Headache, and Bodily Fatigue.)
Wounds and Bruises.
Wounds resulting from mechanical injury have
been classified, for the sake of convenient reference,
into: 1. Simple, or Incised: 2. Punctured; 3,
Lacerated'; and 4. Contused, according as they
partake more or less, or exclusively, of one kind or
another.




WOUNDS AND BRUISES.


171


It is only trifling cases which come under consideration in this little work.
1. Simple, or Incised Wounds, are caused by
sharp or cutting instruments, such as knives, razors.
and all manner of edge-tools. Such wounds are
ordinarily termed cuts; their edges are even and
regular, and in persons of a sound constitution,
when slight, they heal readily.
Treatment.-First wash the wound with cold
water; then bring the edges together, taking care
that they are kept in apposition by one or more
compresses of linen rag steeped in an Arnicated (one
part Mother-Tincture of Am., to thirty parts cold
water) lotion, and secured by a strip of linen rolled
round the part. The lotion should be discontinued
in three or four days, or even sooner.
Every time the wound is dressed (once in the
twenty-four hours will generally be sufficient), a
little lukewarm water may be used to soften the rag
which is next the wound, if it should have adhered,
in order to avoid running the risk of separating the
surfaces which have begun to unite. In most cases
the lotion may be renewed without disturbing the
dressing. Am., 3 glob. (6th), may be administered
internally, two or three times successively, at intervals of two nights.
In very slight cases, the local application of a
strip of Arnica-Plaster will be the only treatment
required.
Should the wound manifest a tendency to suppurate, give Hep. sulph., 9 glob. (5th), in solution,
a sixth part thrice a day, and the second night after
the last dose of the solution, Merc. sol., 3 glob.




WOUNDS AND BRUISES.


173


should be rather weaker (one part Mother-Tincture
of Am. to forty parts water) in most cases.
The lotion of the Mother-Tincture of Calen., in
the most serious cases, one part of the tincture/to
forty parts cold water.
Nevertheless, should any foreign substance have
been left in the wound, care should be taken to
leave a small opening for its discharge by the natural efforts.
4. Contusions and Bruises.-These injuries are
inflicted by blows with blunt instruments, or by
kicks, falls, &c. The affected part often assumes a
black, bluish, or greenish hue, from the extravasations of blood which take place just below the
surface.
Treatment.-When the skin is not cut, an Arnicated lotion (one part Mother-Tincture of Arn. to
twenty parts water) will be suitable. Should, however, the surface be grazed or cut, a weaker lotion,
similar either to that for Incised, or to that for Lacerated Wounds, will be preferable.
The local dressing will be similar to that of the
preceding cases, with the exception that it may be
more frequent; for instance, twice or thrice a day.
The part may likewise be bathed with the lotion,
whenever the dressing is renewed.
Arn., 3 glob. (3d), may be prescribed for internal
administration, as in the former cases. (See Incised
Wounds.)
Diet, 4-c.-With the exception of avoiding stimulants, no change need be made in the ordinary diet,
which should be light and nutritious. Perfect rest
of the part affected should be enjoined.
15*




174


SPRAINS AND STRAINS.


Sprains and Strains.
The muscles and fibrous tissues of various parts
ofthe body and limbs, but more especially the ligaments of the joints, are more immediately affected
by these accidents.
Exciting Causes.-Lifting of heavyweights, falls,
sudden jerks, a false step, &c.
The effects of such injuries, if not properly attended to, are sometimes lasting.
Symptoms.-Weakness, soreness, aching, swelling, or stiffness of the part affected: if a joint, inability to extend it without suffering. The injury is
sometimes attended with local extravasations of blood,
as is the case of bruises or contusions.
Treatment.-In slight cases, where there is no
external injury, Rhus tox., 3 glob. (12th), administered two or three times successively, at intervals of
two or four days, will generally suffice.
When the injury is external, absolute rest of the
part affected should be enjoined, together with the
local application of a linen rag, which has been
steeped in a solution of Rhus tox., (one part MotherTincture of Rhus to forty parts cold water), over
which a linen strip can be rolled, and then secured
in any convenient manner. This dressing can be
renewed two or three times a day, and at the same
time the part may be freely bathed with the lotion.
In three or four days the lotion should be discontinued. A sling may be used in the case of sprains
of the wrist, elbow, or shoulder-joints.
Rhus tox., 9 glob. (3d), may also be given internally, in solution, a sixth part thrice a day; then
Rhus tox., 3 glob. (3d), may be exhibited the n igh




178


BITES AND STINGS OF INSECTS.


fic, as it were, to its sting. This simple treatment
will generally be sufficient. If requisite, however,
apply an Arnicated lotion (one part Mother-Tincture of Am. to twenty or thirty parts cold water),
as soon as it can be procured. Ar., 3 glob. (3d),
may also be administered internally.
Bites and Stings of Insects.
BITES OF GNATS, MOSQUITOES, AND OTHER FLIES.
THE bites of these insects, although they are
rarely dangerous, are sometimes exceedingly troublesome by their numbers. This is more especially
the case when the subjects of their attacks are children, or persons endowed with a very delicate skin.
Treatment.-The local application of a little lemon
or lime juice will generally prevent the excessive
irritation and itching which so often ensue. A few
hours afterwards, should any swelling or irritation
remain, an Arnicated lotion (one part Mother-Tincture of Arn., to thirty parts cold water) may be had
recourse to. Arn., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, in doses
of a sixth part thrice a day, may be administered at
the same time; or else Arn., 3 glob. (3d), only.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may be given
alternately, in doses of a sixth part, when there is
fever.
BITES OF BUGS, SPIDERS, ETC.
The bites of these disagreeable insects are sometimes attended with painful itching, redness and
swelling, so as almost to disfigure the person who
has been the subject of their attacks.




SUSPENDED ANIMATION.


179


Treatment.-The local and internal treatment
will be similar to that of the preceding. (See Bites
of Gnats, 4<c.)
STINGS OF BEES, HORNETS, WASPS, ETC.
The stings of these insects, although exceedingly
painful, are not usually attended with danger, except in those cases where a delicate part, such as
the inside of the throat, has been injured, or where
the sufferer has been wounded by a whole swarm.
Treatment.-  Try and extract the sting, when it
is left behind by the bee (a wasp always withdraws its sting), with the finger-nails, or by means
of a delicate forceps. If there is much inflammation, allow the patient to smell Camph., and apply a
little honey to the affected part. An hour or two afterwards, a weak Arnicated lotion (one part MotherTincture of Arn., to thirty parts cold water) will be
of service. Arn., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth
part thrice a day, may be exhibited; or else Ar.,
3 glob. (3d), only.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be alternated in solution, in doses of a sixth part, when febrile symptoms manifest themselves.
Suspended Animation.
CAUTIONS.
Send quickly for Medical Assistance.
1. Lose no time.-2. Avoid all rough usage.-3.
Never hold the body up by the feet.-4. Nor roll
the body on casks.-5. Nor rub the body with salt




I ISO


180     SUSPENDED ANIMATION.


or spirits.-6. Nor inject tobacco-smoke or infusion
of tobacco.
TO RESTORE THE APPARENTLY DROWNED.
1.Convey the body carefully, with the head and
shoulders supported in a raised position, to the
nearest house.
2. Strip the body, and rub it dry; then wrap it
in hot blankets, and place it in a warm bed in a
warm chamber free from smoke.
3. Wipe and cleanse the mouth and nostrils.
4. In order to restore the natural warmth of the
bodyMove a heated covered warming-pan over the
back and spine.                  C
Put bladders or bottles of hot water or heated
bricks to the pit of the stomach, the arm-pits, between the thighs, and to the soles of the feet.
Foment the body with hot flannels.
Rub the body briskly with the hand; do not,
however, suspend the use of the other means at the
same time; but if possible,
Immerse the body in a warm bath, at blood heat,
or 980 of the thermometer, as this is preferable to
the other means for restoring warmth.
5. Volatile salts or harts-horn may be passed occasionally to and fro under the nostrils.
6. No more persons to be admitted into the room
than are absolutely necessary.
General Observations.
The above treatment ought, if necessary, to be
persevered in for three or four hours.  It is an er




SUSPENDED ANIMATION.


181


roneous opinion, that persons are irrecoverable because life does not soon make its appearance; and
it is absurd to suppose that a body must not be meddled with or removed without the permission of a
coroner.
TO RESTORE THE APPARENTLY DEAD FROM INTENSE COLD.
Rub the body with snow, ice, or cold water.Restore warmth by slow degrees; and after some
time, if necessary, employ the means recommended
for the apparently Drowned. In these accidents it
is highly dangerous to apply heat too early.
TO RESTORE THE APPARENTLY DEAD FROM NOXIOUS VAPORS,
ETC.
1. Remove the body into a cool fresh air.-2.
Dash cold water on the neck, face, and breast frequently.-3. If' the body be cold, apply warmth, as
recommended for the apparently Drowned.
Management after recovery.
On the restoration of life, a tea-spoonful of warm
water should be given; and then, if the power of
swallowing be returned, small quantities of warm
wine and water, or weak brandy and water, warm:
the patient should be kept in bed, and a disposition
to sleep encouraged. Great care is requisite to
maintain the restored vital actions, and, at the tame
time, to prevent undue excitement.
16




GUM OR TOOTH RASH.


138


Diet and Regimen.-The affected parts should be
washed with lukewarm water, for the purposes of
cleanliness, and only very mild soap and water
ought to be used for detaching the scabs. A little
starch powder may also be applied locally to allay
the irritation. If the child is still at the breast, the
mother, or nurse, should conform to a suitable diet,
and attend to her general health.
Gum or Tooth Rash.
Children, and especially infants, are subject to
this mild form of rash when cutting their first set
of teeth.
Symptoms.-Numerous minute pimples, rarely
exceeding the size of a millet seed, of a red (Red
Gum), but occasionally of a whitish (White Gum)
color, which commonly break out about the face, especially the cheeks, shoulders, and forearms. Sometimes they are interspersed with red spots.
Treatment.-Administer Sulph., 3 glob. (18th),
in solution, a third part every night until finished;
and, if necessary, three or four days after the last
dose repeat this remedy in the same way.
Should any spots be present, begin with Rhus, 4
glob. (12th), a fourth part morning and night;
then wait two or three days, and exhibit the Sulph.,
as above prescribed.
Diet, -.c.-The child, if otherwise strong and
healthy, should be regularly washed all over, or
bathed in cold or lukewarm water, according to the
season of the year. It ought also to be    kept
from improper food.




184


EXCORIATIONS OF THE SKIN, ETC.


Excoriations tf the Skin in Infants and young
Children.
The fineness and the extreme delicacy of the infantile skin are in themselves strong predisponents
to this inconvenience.
Symptoms.-Sore abrasions of the cuticle (scarfskin) in various parts of the body and limbs; generally, however, confined to the upper and inner portions of the thighs.
Exciting Causes.-Ist, Mechanical friction; 2d,
the action of the different secretions and excretions,
especially those of an acrid nature; and 3d, a combination of both. The treatment will necessarily
vary with these.
EXCORIATIONS OF THE FIRST KIND (MECHANICAL).
Treatment.-A   solution of the Mother-. Tincture
of Arn., (1 part of tincture to 40 parts of cold
water) may be applied to the affected parts, twice or
thrice a day, two or three days in succession, whilst
Am., 3 glob. (6th), may also be exhibited internally
every night for the same space of time, and repeated
once more two or three days after the lotion has
been discontinued.
EXCORIATIONS OF THE SECOND KIND (IRRITATIVE).
Treatment.-Cham., 3 glob. (12th), may be given,
followed by Sulph., 3 glob. (18th), four days after.
Attention to cleanliness, and the local application
of a little starch-powder, will often be all that is necessary.




188


SCARLET FEVER.


of numberless red points, which are first visible
about the neck, face, and chest, and which gradually
become diffused all over the body in irregular
patches. The rash soon acquires its characteristic
bright scarlet color, which may be effaced for a few
seconds by sudden pressure with the finger. It is
almost invariably associated with sore-throat, more
or less inflammation of the tonsils, and a bright red
S tongue, on the surface and at the sides of which
red points may be seen shooting through the white
fur. In ordinary cases, the eruption is at its height
on the fourth day; it begins to decline on the fifth,
and on the eighth has altogether disappeared. The
falling of the scarf-skin commences, about the fifth
or sixth day, in the parts where the eruption was
first noticed, and is much greater than in measles.
Treatment.-Bell., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may
be given, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice a
day, throughout the course of the disease, in ordinary mild cases. These intervals may be gradually
prolonged, as the symptoms become more and more
favorable. In very mild cases, Bell., 3 glob. (6th),
only, repeated two or three nights in succession, will
suffice.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, may always be
given in doses of one-sixth part in alternation with
Bell., when indicated by the frequency and fulness of the pulse, thirst, heat of skin, and other
febrile symptoms.
When convalescence has taken place, Sulph., 3
glob. (18th), may be exhibited with great advantage
three or four days after the last dose of Bell.
Diet and Regimen.-The same as in measles.
Preventive Treatment.--During the prevalence




COw POX.


191


Cow   Pox.
Cow    pox is a   contagious, eruptive disorder,
originally developed in the udder of the cow, which,
when communicated to man, will, in most cases, act
as a complete and permanent homneopathic preservative against the poison of Smallpox.
Vaccination,* as the artificial method of giving
Cow Pox is commonly called, can hardly be availed of at too early an age. Nevertheless, as a general rule, infants under six or eight weeks of age
should only be vaccinated in cases of urgent necessity.
First.-The vaccine mattert (i. e. the fluid contained in the true Cow Pox vesicle,) used for this
purpose, should be taken from the arm of a perfectly healthy childt (one that is free from any herediditary or acquired constitutional taint, such as scrofula or other kindred diseases would betoken) between the seventh and ninth day, before it has lost
its perfect transparency.
Secondly.-After the point of the lancet, or any
other sharp instrument, has been duly charged with
* When practicable vaccination should, for obvious reasons,
be performed under competent direction.
t If not immediately required, the vaccine lymph (matter)
should be dried gradually and thoroughly, before it is laid by
for future use. It may then be placed between two small
squares of glass, and kept in a cool and dry place. In this
state the vaccine matter will regain sufficient moisture for
convenient use, by being held, for a few seconds, over the
vapor of moderately warm water.
t From a neglect of this precaution most serious, and
even fatal, diseases have been communicated to previously
healthy children.




SMALLPOX.


193


matter gradually thickens into a hard round scab of
a brownish color. The scab afterwards becomes
black, shrivelled, and dry, and finally drops off
about the twentieth day after vaccination.
A characteristic peculiarity of the true vaccine
vesicle consists in its internal division into a number
of small cells, which communicate with each other,
and in which the matter is contained: so that, after
the scab has fallen off, the scar, which is permanent
and uniform, may always be distinguished by its
minute pits or depressions corresponding to the number of these cells.
Treatment.-On the third day after vaccination,
Sulph., 1 glob. (18th), may be given for three successive nights.
Diet and Regimen.-No change will usually be
required in the patient's ordinary diet and habits.
Snlallpox.
There are two varieties of this disorder based
upon the quantity of the eruption:-the Distinct and
the Confluent. In the former, the pustules are distinct and continue so; whereas, in the latter, they
run into each other and become continuous, generally disfiguring the patient for life.
Happily, the character of Smallpox, when it occurs in a person who has been previously vaccinated, is sometimes so modified for the better that it
can scarcely be distinguished from Chicken Pox.
Preliminary Symptoms.-The eruptive fever usually commences with a sense of cold, followed by
distinct shivering, and is attended with more or less
languor, drowsiness, headache, and oppression at
17




SMALLPOX.


195


their course as in the distinct form. Extreme swelling of the eye-lids and of the face (which renders
the patient a hideous object), profuse salivation, and
severe inflammation of the throat, which sometimes
extends to the lungs, are of common occurrence
when the pustules are confluent: moreover, there is
usually a secondary fever attendant upon the suppu.
rative stage.
Treatment.-In slight cases, Acon., 9 glob. (3d),
and Bry., 9 glob. (3d), may be administered, in so.
lution, alternately, in doses of a sixth part, every
four hours, during the preliminary stage. Bell.,
9 glob. (3d), should, however, be substituted for
Bry., when the head symptoms are the most prominent, more particularly in the case of children.
During the eruptive stage, Bell., 9 glob. (3d), may
be given, in solution, a sixth part every four hours.
As soon as the stage of suppuration commences,
Mere. sol., 9 glob. (4th), should be exhibited, in solution, a sixth part every four hours, or thrice a day,
and continued until its completion.
Lastly, when scabbing takes place, Sulph., 3
glob. (18th), may be given for three successive
nights.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), may be administered, in
doses of a sixth part, alternately with any of the
indicated medicines, throughout the course of the
disorder, whenever the symptoms are inflammatory.
In more serious cases, the above treatment may
also be had recourse to before professional assistance can be obtained; but it may be necessary to
exhibit the remedies at intervals of two or three
hours.
Diet and Regimen.-If not laid up, the patient




198


THRUSH.


every hour, or every two, three or four hours, according to the urgency of the case, until competent
medical advice can be procured. Acon., 9 glob.
(3d), in solution, might be alternated in similar
doses, and at the same intervals, if indicated by fulness of the pulse, and very marked symptoms of
general excitement of the circulation.  (See also
Convulsions and Fits of Children.)
Diet and Regimen.-Strict attention should be
paid to diet, and the child should be regularly exposed to the beneficial influence of the fresh air,
whenever the weather permits.
General Observations.--During the period of
dentition delicate children often continue for many
months affected with a kind of remittent fever,
usually termed infantile remittent fever, the treatment of which falls without the range of domestic
practice.
Lancing the gums often proves injurious to the
proper development of the teeth, and should never
be resorted to without the sanction of the family
medical attendant.
The Thrushl
An affection of the mouth to which young and
delicate infants are subject.
Symptoms,-Small white ulcerations and excrescences situated at the tip and edges of the tongue,
and in the interior of the mouth; they are generally
attended with a greater or less degree of disorder
in the digestive functions.
Treatment.-In slight cases, begin with Mere.
sol.; 9 glob. (4th), in solution, a sixth part thrice a




CROUPS             0


203


craving or voracious, or else when the glands are
enlarged.
Diet and Regimen. -Vegetables and fruit should
be given sparingly, and those only of the most digestible and wholesome kinds, such as mealy potatoes, French plums, &c., after being properly cooked.
Fresh air and regular exercise are indispensable.
Should this course of treatment not prove sufficient, competent advice should be had recourse to.
Croup*
This is a peculiar inflammation of the mucous
lining of the wind-pipe and of its branches, producing a thick, white, membranous, and viscid (gluelike) secretion throughout its course, by which suffocation is caused in fatal cases.
Of all the acute infantile diseases, Croup is the
most dangerous, and most rapidly fatal: it should
never, therefore, form the subject of domestic treatment. Nevertheless, as much valuable time might
be lost before the arrival of competent medical advice, it is right that heads of families should know
howv to act during the unavoidable delay.
Symptoms.-First, or Inflammatory Stage: A
sense of uneasiness in the throat, and tightness about
the chest, with laborious respiration, sometimes attended with light catarrhial (belonging to a cold)
symptoms, generally usher in the attack. The first
intimation, however, is often given by a peculiar
ringing and single cough, having somewhat of metallic clanging in its tone, which occurs soon after
the child has gone to bed, and during sleep. This
cough is repeated several times, when, at length, the




204


CROUP.


child awakes: the cough is now succeeded by a
crowing noise; the voice becomes stridulous (squeaking) and acute, or hoarse; the breathing more ra.
pid; the eyes watery and blood-shot; the skin hot
and dry, and the pulse quick and hard. If unchecked, the
Second, or Spasmodic Stage supervenes: the
cough becomes husky and suffocating, accompanied
with lividity of the face and lips; eyes staring and
prominent; tongue covered with an opaque viscid
coating; voice weak and whispering, with slow,
harsh (resembling the sound of a saw), and wheezing respiration, and fruitless efforts to expectorate,
with very little secretion of mucus; pulse variable,
sometimes maintaining its strength and rapidity, or
else becoming weak, and so quick as scarcely to be
counted.
Third, or Secretive Stage: The cough has now
become moister and easier, and the difficulty of
breathing arises chiefly from an accumulation of the
mucous secretions in the trachea (wind-pipe) and airtubes of the lungs, as proved by the abundant rattling in the chest when the patient coughs and
breathes; the excitement of the circulating and
nervous systems, and the urgency of the symptoms
of the previous stages, except in the most serious or
fatal cases, generally subside. Membranous shreds
are sometimes coughed up in this stage, and immediate relief succeeds.
Treatment during the First Stage.-Lose no time,
and give Acon., 12 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth
part every half-hour, or hour, or else every two or
three hours, according to the urgency of the case.
Second Stage.-Spong., 12 glob. (3d) in solution,




206


WHOOPING COUGI.


In children of healthy constitutions this affection,
in general, goes through its course mildly.
Symptoms.-Symptoms of a common cold and
cough, lasting from a fortnight to three weeks,
generally precede the attack, and, but for the prevalence of an epidemic of Whooping Cough, would
often escape particular notice. As this preliminary
stage is drawing to its conclusion, the cough assumes a convulsive character, attended with very
scanty expectoration, and comes on in paroxysms.
towards the termination of which, considerable
difficulty of breathing is experienced, sometimes
almost amounting to suffocation, so that the face
and neck become purple and livid, and the eyes
suffused with tears; the paroxysms are generally
"worse towards the approach of night. After a time,
the fits of coughing are terminated by vomiting,
which affords a little respite. Although vomiting
of the food occasionally occurs throughout the day,
the appetite is unaffected, and the digestive functions
remain unimpaired. After a further lapse of some
days, violent inspirations succeed the paroxysms of
coughing, and the characteristic whoop or kink is
heard; the cough is then said to be fully formed.
At this period the lungs begin to secrete, and copious expectoration of mucus ensues; the vomiting
occurs less frequently, the cough becomes looser,
and the intensity of all the symptoms diminishes,
until, at length, the disease ceases altogether. Slight
febrile symptoms, throughout the course of the
affection, are occasionally observed.
Treatment.-In mild cases, the preliminary symptoms require only the same treatment as those of




WHOOPING COUGH.


207


common Cold and Cough. (See Common Cold
and Cough.)
As the cough becomes convulsive, especially
when it is worse at night, give Bell., 9 glob. (3d),
in solution, a sixth part twice or thrice a day,
gradually prolonging the intervals. In very mild
cases, Bell., 3 glob. (6th), repeated every second or
third night, will be preferable.
When the paroxysms are terminated by vomiting,
and also, when there is occasional vomiting of the
food throughout the day, suspend the Bell., and
administer Ipec., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth
part twice or thrice a day, or Ipec., 3 glob. (6th),
every second night, in very mild cases.
When the Whooping Cough is decidedly formed,
and the secretions begin to be established, Dros., 9
glob. (3d), in solution, a sixth part twice or thrice
a day, may be given; the intervals being gradually
prolonged as the symptoms become less urgent.
As the case advances towards convalescence, three
or four days having been allowed to elapse after
the last dose of the medicine in solution, Dros., 3
glob. (6th), and Sulph., 3 glob. (18th), administered
successively, at intervals of four or five days, and
repeated, if necessary, once more, will, in general,
suffice to prevent a relapse.
Acon., 9 glob. (3d), in solution, in doses of a
sixth part, may always be given throughout the
course of the affection, when there are symptoms
of fever, either by itself, or in alternation with any
of the above indicated remedies.
Diet and Regimen.-The diet should be light,
and animal food should be given sparingly; at any
rate, care should be taken not to overload the child's




WETTING THE BED.


209


with either of the preceding remedies, when there
is fever.
In very severe cases, the smelling of Camph.,
will sometimes be of service, when the medicines
already exhibited seem to have had no effect.
In very slight cases, it is better to wait until the
fit has ceased, before administering any remedy.
(See also Teething.)
VWetting the Bed.
It sometimes happens, that without any marked
ailment, the child wets its bed at night.
Treatment.-Begin with Nux v., 3 glob. (12th),
and repeat the dose in three or four days; after
which, allow a further interval of four days to
elapse, and give Sulph., 3 glob. (18th), Chin., 2
glob. (3d), after four days.
Diet and Regimen.-The diet should be nutritious, and regular exercise, in the open air, should
be enforced. The little patient should not be allowed to drink before going to bed. (See also
Indigestion and Slight Disorders arising from the
Infraction of Dietetic Rules.)
IV. COMPLAINTS OF WOMEN.*
The disorders and irregularities to which young
girls and women are peculiarly subject are generally of too serious a nature to be trifled with; so


* (See Explanations.)


1S*




212


MONTHLY PERIOD.


and atmospheric influences, in women of a previously healthy constitution, the directions for the
treatment under these several heads will generally
suffice. (See Moral Emotions, Atmospheric Influences, Slight Disorders arising from the Infraction
of Dietetic Rules, Bleeding of the Nose, d4c.)
In those cases which are of recent occurrence,
when the exciting cause cannot be discovered, Puls.,
3 glob. (6th), may be given, followed in four days
by Sulph., 3 glob. (30th); lastly, in four days more,
Puls., 3 glob. (6th), may be repeated, and followed
by Sulph., 3 glob. (18th), after a further interval
of four or six days. In more severe cases, if a
hydropsic disposition is manifested, a few doses of
Fer, 2 glob. (30th), at intervals of 8 or 10 days,
will probably restore the necessary functional action.
Diet, 4c.-The diet should be light and nutritious. Attention to clothing and exercise should
also be enjoined.
Sufferings during the iIonthly Period.
The sufferings which precede and attend this
period are sometimes severe, even in women, who,
in other respects, enjoy tolerably good health.
Symptoms.-Aching in the back and loins, of
variable intensity, with forcing pains in the bowels
and lower part of the abdomen (belly), sometimes
accompanied with looseness in the bowels, or colicpains; in some cases, shooting and aching, or
numbness, along the inside of the thighs; whilst in
others, nervous or congestive headaches are complained of.




INDEX.


ABSCEss, glandular. (See Inflammation of the glands, 74.)
--   in the mouth and gums.
(See Inflammation of the
mouth and gums, 107.)
-   in the throat. (See sore
throat, 109.)
Abortion. (Miscarriage, 214.)
Abstinence from food, occasional, 14.
-- prolonged, 165.
Abuse of various kinds of food,
167.
ACCIDENTAL DISORDERS, 162.
Acids, indigestion after, 168.
Aconitum, 53.
Actions of remedies, 51.
Acute diseases, definition of, 49.
- inflammatory affections,
sudden, 155.
Administration of remedies, 53.
Aggravation, medicinal, 51.
Air and light, 39.
ALIMENTS ALLOWED, 33.
-    FORBIDDEN, 33.
Anger, 162.
Animal food, 2, 15.
--  jellies, 18, 33.
Animation, suspended, 179.
Anthony's fire, St. (See Erysipelas, 70.)
Antidotes, 52.
Antipsoric remedies, 55.
Aperients, 56.
Apoplexy, 86.
Appetite, voracious. (See Indigestion, 111.)
Appetite. natural, 8.
Arnica, 53.
Arsenicum, 55.
Asthma, 148.
Atmospheric influences, 163.
C  Bathing, 47.
Beer, indisposition after, 168.
Belladonna, 53.
Bellyache, 131.
19


Bellyache in children, 200.
Bile, (See Jaundice, 115.)
-- vomiting of. (See Bilious
attacks, 113.)
Biles, (See Boils, 66.)
Bilious Attacks, 113.
-colic, 132.
- constitution,definition of,7.
-    stools. (See Bilious Diarrhlea, 124)
-- vomiting (See Bilious attacks, 113.)
Bites of gnats, mosquitoes,
bugs, and other insects, 178.
Bladder, affections of  the.
(See UrinaryComplaints,139.)
Bleeding of the nose, 98.
--  from  congestion of the
head, 98.
--    from fulness of habit, 98.
- from general debility, 99.
- mechanical injury, 99.
-- in women, 210.
Blisters, 57.
Blood during a hard stool, loss
of. (See Piles, 135.)
-     faintness from  loss of.
(See Fainting, 76.)
-- spitting ot; 153.
- to the head, determination
of, 86.
-- vomiting of, 153.
Bloody flux, 124.
-- stools, loose. (See Dysentery, 124.)
Blow, effects of a.    (See
Wounds and Bruises, 170.)
Boils, 66, 105.
Bowel complaints, 120.
Bowels, confined, 134.
-   inflammation of the, 120.
-    looseness of the.  (See
Diarrhoea, 120.
-     relaxed. (Looseness, 120.)
Brain fever. (See Inflammation of the Brain, 75.)
Breakfast, 10.




INDEX.


219


Diarrhoea, 120.
---     bilious, 124.
---from atmospheric exposure, 120.
--- from errors in diet, 121.
---   griping watery, 131.
---   infantile, 201.
---     mental emotions, 122.
- from physical over-exertion, 122.
Diary fever, 72.
Diet of the sick, 31.
Diet in acute disease, 31.
---   in chronic disease, 33.
DIET AND REGIMEN, 1.
DIETAR, HOM(EOPATHIC, 33.
general observations on,
38.
Dietetic rules, disorders arising
from the infraction of, 164.
Dilutions, 51.
Dinner, 11.
Directions, explanations and
general, ix.
Diseases, acute, 49.
-- chronic, 50.
---in general, 49.
- of the skin, 60.
Disordered stomach, 113.
DISORDERS COMMON, 57.
-- ACCIDENTAL, 162.
Dizziness. (See Giddiness, 86.)
Domestic remedies,ordinary,56.
Doses, ix.
Dreams. (See Nightmare, 58.)
Dribbling of the saliva or spittle, 199.
Drowning,   apparent death
from, 180.
Drowsiness, 59.
Dysentery, 124.
Earache, 100.
Ears, running and soreness behind the, 93.
Eels, indisposition after eating,
167.


Emetics, 57.
Emotions, moral, 162.
Enema, 56.
Epistaxis, 98.
Eructations. (Flatulence, 138.)
Eruptions on the skin. (See
Skin Diseases, 60.)
Erysipelas, simple, 70.
Excoriations of the Skin, 184.
Exercise, 43.
Explanations and general directions, ix.)
Eyes, blood-shot. (See Inflammation of the Eyes, 93.)
-   itching in the.
-- secretion and     See Indischarge of     flammathick matter      tion  of
from the.         the
-- sensitive to     Eyes,
light.            93.
-- wateringofthe.
-   and eye-lids, Inflammation
subacute of the, in Infants
and Children, 196.
Eye-lashes, falling of the. (See
Inflammation of the Eyelids, 94.)
Eye-lids, agglutination of the,
in children. (See Inflammation subacute of the Eyes and
Eye-lids in Children, 196.)
-   inflammation and soreness
of the, 94.)
--  rednessofi (See Inflamthe.         mation   and
-- soreness    Sorenessofthe
of the.    JEye-lids, 94.)
-- sticking together of the.
(See Inflammation subacute
of the Eyes and Eye-lids,
196.)
Face, swelled, 101,
--ache, 101.
Fainting, 76.
Fall, effects of a. (SeeWounds




INDEX.


221


Inflammation of the air tubes
(Bronchitis), 146.
-- of the stomach, 120.
-    of the brain, 75.
-    of the eyelids, 94.
-   of the eyes, 93.
-- of the glands, 74.
--   of the lungs, 146.
--   of the throat and tonsils.
(See quinsy, 109.)
- (subacute) of the eyes
and eyelids in infants and
children, 196.
Inflammatory affections, sudden acute, 155.
-    symptoms, 72.
Influenza, 142.
Injections. (See Enema, 57.)
Insects, bites and stings of, 178.
Introductory remarks, vii.
Irregularities and sudden suppression of the monthly period, 211.
Itcliiig, 59.
Jaundice, 115
Kidneys, affections of the bladder and. (See Urinary Complaints, 139.)
Light, Air and, 39.
Lifting, over. (See Sprains and
Strains, 174.)
Liver Complaint. (See Jaundice
and Bilious Attacks, 113, 115.
Lobster, indisposition after eating, 167.
Looseness, diarrhoea or, 120.
Lowness of 4pirits, 92.
Lumbago, Iti6
Lungs, inflammation of the, 146.
Lymphatic constitution, defi"nition of, 6.
Malt liquors, indisposition after
drinking, 168.


Meals, 8.
Measles, 185.
Meat, indisposition after, 167.
Medicinal aggravation, 51.
Medicines, xiii.
-    ordinary domestic, 56.
--    patent, 56.
--    recommended, table of,
xiii.
--    action of the principal, 52.
Mental emotions, 162.
--    diarrhoea from, 122.
-     fatigue, 170.
Mercurius, 55.
Milk, sugar of. 51.
Milk-crust, or Milk-scab, 137.
Miscarriage, 214.
Mis-step. (See Sprains and
Strains, 174.)
Monthly period, irregularities
or suppressions of the, 211.
--  snfferings during the, 212.
M1oral emotions, disorders from,
162.
- habits, 49.
Mosquitoes, the bites of, 178.
Mouth, inflammation and soreness of the, 107.
Mumps, 108.
Muscles, (shell-fish), indisposition after eating, 167.
Muscles, pain in the.  (See
Rheumatism, 158.)
Nausea, 139.
Nervous constitution, definition
of, 6.
-   depression, 92.
- headaches, 78.
Nettle rash, 61.
Nettles, stings of, 177.
Nightmare, 58.
Nipples, sore, 210.
Nose, bleeding of the, 98.
--    in women, 210.
-     discharge from the. (See
Cold in the Head, 96.)




222


INDEX.


Nosp, itching in the.
Worms, 202.)
- picking the. (See
202)


(See


ýVorms,


- running from the. (See
Cold in the head, 96.)
- scabs in the. (Sec Soreness of the Nose, 98.)
INoxious vapor-s, app)arent death
from, 18 1.
Nuts, indisposition after, 168.
Nux vomica, 54, 56.
Objects of nutriment, 3.
Opium, 53'.
Over-exertion, mental, 1'I0.
Oysters, indispossition after eating, 167.
Pain in the stomach, 131.
-- in children, '200.
Palpitation of the heart, 152.
1tassion, 162-.
Pastry, indisposition aft er, 167.
Peritonitis. (Nec Sudden Acute
linflamimatory Affec(tions5,155.)
Pile,,, 133.
Pimples, 65.
Pleurisy, 146.
P~ork, indisposition after, 1671.
Fort,Nime, indlisposition after
drinking, 168.
Torter, indispositioni after drinkirig, 168.
P~reface, iii.
Prescriptions, explanation of
the, ix.
Puddings, indisposition after
eating.   (See  Indisposition
aft.,i Pastry, 167.)
Pulsatilla, 51, 56.
Purgyati ves. (See Aperierits, 56.)
Push. (See Pimple, 65.)
Qualmishness.    (See Nausea,
139.)
Quinsy, 109.


Rash, common, 64.
-- gum., 183.
-- ettle, 61.
tooth, 183.
Redl gnm, 183.
- diet and, ix., 1.
Relaxation of the bowels, 120
124.
Remarks, introductory, vii.
Remedhial Atg-ravation. (See
MledicIinal Acggravation, 51.)
Remnedh-t an-tidoles, 52.
Remedies, action of, 52.
administration of, 51.
Retention of' urine. (See Urinaty complaints, 139.)
Rh-umatic pains. (See Rheumatism, 158.)
- in thle back and loins, 160.
11heumnatism, 158.
Rims toxicodendron, 51.
Rose. (Sce Erysipelas, 70.)
Rules; to be followed under the.
lioino.;ýopathic treatment, 56.
Rum, indisposition after, 168.
Runting' behind thne ears, 93.
Sanguiine temperament, definition of, P7.
Scahs, crvptive. (Sec Skin
)i~seases, 6d.)
- in time, nose. (See Soreness
of tim Noý,e, 98.)
Scalds, 175.
Seal.s, eruptive. (See Skin
Diseases, 60.)
Scaly ei uptions. (Sce Skin Disease~s, 6o.)
Scarlet fever, 187.
Sea-Sickness, 1.16.
- the after effects of, 119.
Shell-fish, indisposition after
eating, 167.
Sherry,   indisposition  after
drinking, 168,
Shilvering, 73.




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