Entered according to the Act of Congress in the year 1864 by EDWIN A-. LODGE, In the Office of the Clerk of the District Court of the United States for the District of Michigan. ADV A'No T i it: ADVERTISER. AN:D TRIBUNE STEAM PRINTING.'ESTABLISHMENT, TO THE HOM(EOPATHIC PHYSICIANS THIS VOLUME IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED BY THE AUTHOR. PREFACE. v PREFACE. The object in the preparation of this work has been to furnish the physicians and students of the homceopathic school of medicine, with full and accurate information relative to a class of remedies, mostly indigenous, but few of which have had any place in the published 1Homeopathic Materia Medica, Some of the provings have been incorporated into the Symptomen Codex (Phytolacca, Podophylluzm and Sanguinaria), others have been published in the various journals of our School (Runmex, Cimicifuga, Cornus c., etc.), but the great majority have never been proven until now, and the only mention of them has been in occasional clinical or empirical suggestions. To the first and second classes I have added many pathogenetic symptoms gleaned from various sources, re-provings, poisonings, etc., and added also all the clinical observations that could be collected from reliable sources. The latter class may be divided into two others; namely; those which have been proven, and those of which we have only empirical data upon which to base clinical use, and suggestive or theoretical deductions. As we gather experience in the use of these remedies, and institute accurate provings, the necessity for these suggestions and theoretical deductions will be done away. Each physician should consider himself bound to collect all the symptoms which are really pathogenetic, and note down all reliable curative experience belonging to these medicines, and faithfully report the same to our journals. The causes which led me to investigate the properties and virtues of the remedies mentioned in the following pages, will be patent to every progressive mind. After using for many years those invaluable remedies found in our standard Materia Medica, most of which were handed down to us by Hahnemann and his colleagues, I found that although their curative scope was very wide, it did not apparently include many symptoms and diseases. I was led to investigate the field of indigenous remedies for these reasons: (1) the suggestion of VI PREFA E. Teste,* that plants are adapted to cure the diseases which infest the same localities: and (2) the many cures which had come under my observation, made by these remedies in the hands of eclectic and domestic practitioners (some of the cases will be mentioned in the body of this work). These reasons, together with a natural ambition to enlarge the sphere of homceopathic Materia Medica, induced me to throw away all prejudice, and devote my energies to the task of introducing, by provings and clinical experience, the indigenous medicines which so largely abound in the United States. A few others had' started before me, and Cimicifuga, Cornus, Podophyllum, and Sanguinaria had been proven, and their pathogeneses published. But from some cause they have not attracted the attention which they deserve. After several years spent in the investigation and study of the new remedies, publishing from time to time items from my experience with them, I was induced to attempt the work of collecting all that had been published concerning the indigenous plants of this country, and to add to such all the knowledge, clinical and. theoretical, which could be gleaned from my colleagues, together with my own. To this I have taken the liberty of adding the testimony and empirical experience of physicians of the allopathic and eclectic schools, relative to the medicines under consideration. If any object to this method, I would refer them to the writings of Hlahnemann and his colleagues, —Dudgeon, Madden and Drysdale, of England; Teste and Roth, of France; and Joslin, Marcy, Hempel, and others of this country. I contend that the experience of others, besides members of the Homceopathic school, is often useful in building our pathogeneses, and adding to reliable clinical knowledge. I shall not be held responsible for the opinions of any writer quoted in the following pages. Let each be judged upon his own merits. I do not claim that this work is in any way complete. Indeed, I shall be satisfied if it is only pronounced by the profession as eminently szggestive. Many of the provings are very imperfect, and some of the Clinical remarks, open to criticism. Let the wheat be separated from the chaff by the inexorable test of honest trial. * "Introduction of Materia Medica." INTRODUCTION. He who undertakes to write a Materia Medica which shall come up to the high standard necessary to meet the scientific requirements of the Honomeopathic School of Medicine, has before him a really herculean task. The work even of expunging worthless symptoms, will compare with the cleansing of the Augean Stables. The Allopathic Materia Medica, is not susceptible of much improvement, so long as that school adheres to the dogmas which form the basis of that system of practice; the IHom(eopathic, on the contrary, is capable of immense improvement. I have found that the task of writing a monograph on any one drug, as Gelseminum, was really a laborious undertaking; and the work of collecting, compiling and arranging the material for the elucidation of several drugs, is, of course, proportionately greater. That the profession may see how high an appreciation I have for a scientific Materia Medica, and how much this work has fallen short of my ideal, both in the matter, and the manner of its composition, I will insert an extract from my introductory to a course of lectures, delivered to the class of Hahnemann Medical College, in the winter of 1863 and'64: "Since the time of Hahnemann, nearly all our works on Materia Medica, have been moulded upon the same plan, notwithstanding the progress of all the sciences which properly pertain to medicine; and while a knowledge of chemistry, pathology, and physiology is deemed essential to every hommopathic physician. "The great' desideratum of our school at this time is a purely scientific Materia Medica. itahnemann laid the foun VIlI INTRODUCTIO N. dation upon the imperishable rock of natural truth. Let us build upon it a magnificent temple, which time nor change can ruin, but will ever increase its grand proportions and massive solidity. "Gentlemen:-Would you have my individual conception of an'Iceal Materia Medica' With a few preliminary remarks on the action of medicines, I will give it you. All drugs, and by this I mean all substances which can by any possibility be used as remedial agents, have three modes of action upon the animal economy. "FIRsT-]Mechanically.-This action is only by virtue of their physical conformation. This includes bulk, and the shape of the particles which compose the medicine.' SEcOND- Chemically.-The chemical action of nearly all medicines, when given in appreciable doses, is fully admitted by every authority; thus, we have acids, and alkalies, and numerous compounds, which, by their chemical union with the solids and fluids, effect changes in the constituents of the body. "THIRD-Dynamically.-This method of action may be, entirely independent of the two former. But a medicine may have at the same time a mechanical, chemical, and a dynamic action; or if properly administered, it may have only the latter action. It was a knowledge of this dynamic action that Hahnemann strove to attain. This he attempted to do by stripping his remedial agents of all material forms, or chemical power, and so diluting them as to leave nothing but the'spirit' of the drug wherewith to oppose disease. "Now, it is an indisputable fact, which I shall point out to you more fully in my course of lectures, that our Materia Medica abounds with symptoms due to the mechanical and chemical effects of drugs, and these are so mixed up with the symptonms having a dynamic origin, that they mislead us when we are engaged in the selection of a iremedy. Upon almost every page of our Materia )Medica, is to be found, too many of the natural sensations to which every person is liable. "'In view of these facts, I would have a rational revision of our Materia Medica, expunging all but undoubted INT RO D U CTI O N. Ix dynamic symptoms; and I would have these symptoms arranged in natural groups, in strict accordance with their rise and progress. "In order to elucidate more clearly my views in relation to drug proving, we will suppose that a society is formed, by a number of patient, conscientious, and self-sacrificing men, whose object is to make a perfect and complete proving of a drug or number of drugs. We will suppose that the drug selected be Phosphorus — that most excellent of all polychrests, The first desideratum would be to ascertain the exact physiological and pathological condition of each person who intends to experiment upon his own person. We should ascertain if every organ performs its functions properly; whether any organic disease be present, and if so, what is its character. We should inquire into the nlature of all the secretions and excretions, aiding our investigations by the use of the microscope, and those delicate tests which science has applied to such uses. If the prover is in perfect health, the fact should be noted; if not, his condition and symptoms should be carefully recorded. "The drug selected should then be taken by each one, in similar quantities, and at the same time. The. quantity of the drug should be just enough to induce symptoms and pathological changes in the organism, by its dynamic influence, and not by any chemical action. It would be next to impossible to administer Phosphorus in sufficient quantities to set up any mechanical action; but with such drugs as Mercury, Stannum or Podophyllum, such effects might readily be obtained. "The chemical action of Phosphorus upon the surfaces with which it comes in contact, would be the most important to be guarded against. It is doubtful if inflammation of the stomach could be produced by minute quantities of this drug; but we know that material doses. will cause gastritis, by its actual combustion while in contact with the mucous coats of the stomach. Such chemical symptoms would be worthless to us, when obtained. Only the specific, dynamic affects of a medicine are of value in a strictly therapeutic point of view. I N T R O D U C TION. xI objective symptoms in the manner above, stated, we shall have what we will term a true physiological proving. But we must consider that it would endanger the life of any individual, to carry our experiments so far as to get all the objective phenomena desirable. What shall we do to perfect our pathogeneses? I answer, by subjecting to the slow action of drugs, some of the lowest animals, after the manner of some of the greatest physiologists of the age. Already have Curie in France, and some members of our profession in this country, begun the laudable work. Such experiments I would term pathological provings. By such investigations we could learn the ultimate effects of drugs; what structural changes they cause in the tissues, and what extreme organico-pathological conditions they can induce. The experiments of the physiologists of the allopathic school were crude and unsatisfactory. They destroyed life with huge mechanical or chemical doses of drugs, and the results are of little value to our school. Our aim should be, not only to cause death, but to cause disease, of longer or shorter duration, and then by a careful scientific analysis of the artificial malady, classify it, and determine its character, in order that we may use it as a guide in the selection of a remedy wherewith to combat a similar, and ascertained disease, existing in the human body. "Do not deem these views utopian in their character! Much more than is here advised will yet be attained, and some of you will live to see the day when just such provings shall be made. Aye, more! Some of you may live to look upon the realization of a dream which has haunted me for years-an Inconographic Jateria.Medfica. Let me illustrate. Going back to our first proposition of a proving of Phosphorus, we will supp6se all the subjective and objective symptoms recorded in strictly scientific language, but in addition to this written pathogenesis we have correct drawings of all the pathological changes; of all the organic alterations in various organs and tissues, upon which the drug exerted its poisonous influence. Let us call to our aid the photographer and the painter, and invest the delineations of morbid specimens, with all the wonderful similitude which those arts are capable of creating. xII INTRODUCTION. "W'ith such an illustrated Materia Medica would not the Art of Healing be so far perfected as to leave, little to be desired, and so enhance our skill in the management of disease as to rob it of half its terrors? "We will now suppose such a Alateria Medica attainable, we will also suppose the existence of works on Diagnosis and Pathology, similarly illustrated, or, that all are combined in one complete work, in beautiful and massive volumes. What then would be the status of the practice of medicine? We will imagine the young physician just returned from his visit to a child, ill with malignant scarlatina. He turns to his library and finds written down the subjective symptoms of similar cases; and he also finds a written description of the objective symptoms, the latter illustrated with colored plates, the whole giving a striking portrait of the case he has just visited. "He now turns to his Iconographic Materia Medica, and finds, it may be, in the pathogenesis of Belladonna or Apis, all the subjective symptoms of the case; and more satisfactory still, he finds that the objective symptoms correspond, and the conditions of the skin, the throat and the mucous surfaces, are in every way similar to the case under inves. tigation. "What, I ask, would be the result of this method of study? What the consequence of this correspondence between the malady, the illustrated pathology and pathogenesis of a drug in the materia medica? "Would it not be the selection of a remedy whose action would be eminently specific to the totality of the symptoms, and therefore curative,? Would it not elevate medicine to the position of one of the exact sciences? Would it not strip disease of half its terror, and much of its fatality?" ** 1B IN T I O D U C T I O N. xIII In the British Journal of Hlomeopathy, number 87, will be found a Review of Coe's "Concentrated Medicines;" in which the writer, Dr. Stokes, seems to have the idea that the book belonged, to the literature of the homueopathic school, at least one easily gets such an impression firom some remarks the writer makes, relative to certain opinions and assertions put forth by Dr. Coe. I cannot account for the stupidity which could entertain such an idea. Dr. Coe is a sort of mongrel, half allopath, half eclectic, and quite an enthusiast in regard to indigenous remedies. When Keith & Co. established their manufactory of concentrated medicines in New York city, Dr. Coe was selected by theml as a proper man to set forth the merits of indigenous remedies in general, and their preparations in particular. Consequently, Dr. Coe's work abounds in extravagant assertions and unreliable opinions. I consider Keith's medicines generally unfit for use in homeopathy. Their concentrated powders do not come up to the required standard of chemical purity. Tinctures are to be preferred. In the provings, more symptoms were elicited from tinctures than from the resinoids of the same plant. The tinctures should be carefully prepared from the fresh plants. Tinctures of the allopathic -pharmaceutists, made from old dried herbs, etc., are, for homceopathic uses, always unreliable and unsatisfactory. NOTE.-It will be noticed that after the few first pages of this work, the word "female" is not used, but the term "'woman" is substituted. This was not done without considerable deliberation, and from the best of motives. This alteration was suggested to me by the talented. authoress, Mrs. Sarah J. Hale. While on a visit to Philadelphia, in June, 1864, I visited my gifted relative, and in the course of a conversation, I happened to use the term "female" as applied to woman. Mrs. Hale called my attention to the impropriety of this mode of expression. Is it not a little strange, that men of education, scholars, divines, and others, should have overlooked this matter so long? Yet, writers and speakers have used the term "female" instead of "woman,"? for the last several centuries, and the thought of its impropriety never occurred to them; or if it did, they failed to mention it. To Mrs. Hale, is due the honor of arresting the improper use of' female," as a synonym for ":woman." In the "Lady's Book," for July, 1856, will be found her able and incontrovertible arguments against the practice. I will state a few, enough to convince any person of their importance: ist." The word "female" is only used twelve times in the Bible, and in contradistinction to man, as male, while the word "woman" is used over thirteen hundred times, and in each case as designating the human feminine. Any one will immediately recognize the impropriety of using the term "female," if he substitutes it, in any of the latter instances, thus: " Man that is born of a female, &c." A female what-Dog, Horse, or Sheep? How absurdly it sounds! This brings us -to the 2nd.-" The term "female," does not imply anything pertaining to a woman,-it cannot be construed to mean a lady,-it does not even imply anything feminine, for feminine means-literally-pertaining to woman. The word female, then, should never be used except in contra-distinction to man as a male. Its appropriate place is to designate the sex of an animal. To use this term in any other way, is to degrade woman. "The poets are the best expounders of language, because they must use the most appropriate words in their truest sense, which is their noblest signification, in order to exalt, beautify, and perfect their themes of song." If we take a few examples, changing the style in regard to woman, to the vulgar word of "female," the following will be the result: "For none of female born'shall harm Macbeth."-Shakspeare. "0! femrale in our bowers of ease."-Milton. The intense absurdity is at once apparent. LIST OF MIEDICINES TREATED OF IN THIS WORK. IESCuLUS U GLABRA, B2uckeye........................... 17 EOSCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM, Horse Chestnut......... 18 and 439 ALETRIS FALINOSA, Unicorn root.............. 34 APOCYNSU ANDROSEMIFOLIUM1 Dog-bane........... 36 APocYNIuM CANNABINUM, Indian Hemp....................41 ARUM TRIPHYLLUM, Indian Turni..p.56 ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA, Milk weed.................................. 58 ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA, Pleurisy root...................... 63 BAPTISIA TINCTORIA, Wild Indigo............................. 69 CAULOPHYTLLUM THALmICTROIDES, Blue Cohosh........................... 84 CHIMAPHILA UMBELLATA, Pipsissiwa................................. 96 CIMIIFUcGA RACEMOSA, -Black snake root..............................101 (COLLTNSONIA CANADENSIS, Hard hack, Stone root.......................125 CoRNuS CIRCINATA, Green Osier...................132 CoRNus FLORIDA, Dogwood...............................139 CYPRIPEDIUM PUBESCENS, Large yellow Ladies' slipper.................143 DIOSCOREA VILLOSA. Colic root........................ 146 and 435 ERIGERON CANADENSB, Canada flea-bane..............................150 ERYNGIU. QUATICUM, tButtont snake root......156 EUPATORT4II Us.., W.': ite snake root... 157 EUPATOSIUM PERFOLIATUM, Boneset................................158 EUPATORIUM PURPUREUVI, Queen of tahe Meadow...16......5.....115 EUPHORBIA COROLLATA, Milk weed. Spurge..........................167 GELSEMINUM SEMPER VIRENS, Yellow Jessamine.173 GossIPiuM, Cotton plant.............................................. 217 HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA, Witch fazel........................221 HELONIAS DIOICA, False 7Unicorn root.....-.237 HYDSASTIS CANADENSIS, Golden Seal..........................247 IRIS ERSICOLOR, Blu/e Flag.......................... i......263 LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA, Black root.................284 NUPHAR LUTEA, Small flowered yellow pond-lily......................... 302 PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA, Poke 307 PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM, Mfansdrake.327 POLYGONUM HYDROPIPER, Smart-weed....................... 351 rruMEx CRISPUS, Yellow dock........................................ 354 SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS, Blood root................................368 SARRACENIA PURPUREA, tuntsman's Cup.. 84 SCUTEIJLARIA LATERIFOLIA, Scull. ~ 389 SENECIO GRACILIS, Life root....390 SILPHuIum LACINIATUM, Co2mpass weed.................395 STICTA PULMONARIAm, L2ngwort...................3. l*.3-06 TRILLIUM PENDULUJ, Birth root.................................... 403 VERATRUM VIRIDE, American Hellebore..........................408 XANTHOXY1LUBM FRAXINEUM, Prickly ast...............................429 DIRECTIONS TO PHARMACEUTISTS. ALL the medicines treated -of in this book can be prepared in TINCTURE, and this form is generally preferable..ssculus Glabra, Esculus Hippocastaniu, and Aluin Triph7ylltu, are also frequently required in form of TRITURATION. Triturations are also made of the Resinoids Aletrin, Asclepedin, Baptisin, Caelophyllin Cornin, Cypripedin, Dioscorein, Eep9atorin, _upurpurin, Gelserninin, Hydrastin, l'risin, Phlytolaccin, Sanguinarin, Senecionin, Trillin, and Xanthoxylin. Some have prepared tinctures of the resinoids, such as Aletrin, Baptisin, Caulophyllin, etc., etc., but these are very unreliable preparations.- They will never produce all the symptoms upon the healthy, that the tinctures made directly from the fresh plants will develop, and are consequently not *as potent for the cure of disease. The tinctures should be prepared from fresh plants, gathered during their time of flowering, soon after the dew has dried off and when they are free from dust. They should be collected where indigenous, and should not be made from cultivated plants.'We mak e use of RooTS. Aletris, Apocynum. a., Apocynum c., Arum t., Asclepias s., Asclepias t., Caulophyllum, Cimicifuga, Collinsonia, Cypripedium, Dioscorea, Erigeron can, Eryngium, Euphorbia c., Eupatorium aromat., Eupatorium purp., Gelseminum, Gossipium, Helonias, Hydrastis c., Iris v., Leptandria, Nuphar 1., Phytolacca, Podophyllum, Rumex c., Sanguinaria, Silphium, Trillium' p., Veratrum viride. VWHOLE PLANTS. Baptisia, Chimaphila u., Eupatorium perf., Polygonum hyd., Sarracenia, Scutellaria 1., Senecio g., Sticta p. NUTS. iEsculus glabra, ZEsculus hyppocastanum. B1ARKS. Cornus c., Cornus f. IHamamelis v., Xanthoxylum f ISCULUS GLABRA (OIIOENSIS). (Buckeyle.) THIS tree is so well known, that it does not need description. It grows on the banks of streams, in rich alluvial soils. The fruit contains its most active poisonous principles, although the leaves, bark, and roots possess active toxical powers. It is often eaten by domestic animals; cattle, in particular, are apt to partake freely of the fruit. In my boyhood, I have seen a great many cows fall victims to their careless imprudence in diet. Even when a student of medicine, I have witnessed deaths in cattle from its effects; and it is a matter of sincere regret, now, that I did not make a careful post mortem examination of the animals. The general symptoms exhibited in cases of poisoning in animals may be summed up as follows: 1. Distention of the stomach and abdomen; staggering; reeling; apparent loss of sight; constipation. 2. Falling; paralysis of the hinder extremities; "Palsy; wry neck; convulsions; fixed eves, and death." There have been cases of poisoning in men and children, who ate of this fruit, but I have not been able to obtain any account of the symptoms exhibited. Two of my pupils once attempted to prove the Buckeye, but did not continue the experiments, on account of the apparent gravity of the few symptoms which manifested themselves. It caused1. Vertigo, severe, with reeling like drunken men; vertigo with nausea vertigo with dimness of sight; fullness and heaviness of the head; confusion of ideas; a confused stupor; "thickness" of speech; loathing of food; nausea; cramp in the stomach; sensation of fullness of the stomach. 2. Great weakness; trembling of the lower limbs; a strong tendency to contractions of the legs; constipation. It seems to stand in relation both to Opium and Nux vomica,possessing some of the narcotic'properties of the former, and the cerebro-spinal affinities of the latter. It may be called a cerebrospinal irritant. The fruit is used to stupefy fish, by the Indians-a decoction of the nut is thrown into the water. 3 18;NEW lHOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. Dr. McDowell, who tested the properties of the rind of the fruit, says, " f2hn grains of it are equivalent to three grains of Opium." The following theoretical and clinical remarks are all that we have to offer in relation to this medicine: 1. It should prove curative in some forms of vertigo, congestion or gastric cephalalgia, dyspepsia, nausea, vomiting and constipation. 2. In some severe brain affections the symptom "wry neck" in animals is quite suggestive. Wry neck is not always a rheumatic affection. It may arise from irritation at the base of the brain, or in thEe cervical region of the cord. It is a symptom of tuberczlcar meningitis, apoplexy, meningitis, and many other brain diseases. When this symptom occurs, during these affections, the ~Asculus glabra will be indicated. It will probably prove useful in paralysis of the lower extremities, when Nux vomica fails to cure. It has been used in the treatment of some typhoid symptoms. But its principal use up to this time has been in hemorrhoidal affections. It is a popular belief with many of the country people in Ohio, that the fruit of the Buckeye, carried in the pocket, or worn as an amulet, will act as a prophylactic and curative remedy against the piles. Dr. Hill (Surgery, p. 371,) says, "A number of cures have been reported to us, effected by the use of the Buckeye, taken in repeated small doses." Dr. J. S. Douglas considers it quite specific in some severe hemorrhoidal diseases. I have prescribed it in constipation and piles, and in some instanfces got good effects from its use; in other cases it did not seem to cause any curative action. I gave the -10loth and 1-100th dilution. /iESCULUS HIIPPOCASTANUM. (Horse- Chestnuzt.) BY H. M. PAINE, M. D. HISTOuY. —The horse-chestnut is a highly ornamental tree, and is greatly admired for its majestic proportions, and for the beauty of its flowers and foliage. It grows rapidly, and'often attains the height of forty or fifty feet. It is a native of middle Asia, but flourishes well in the temperate climates of both hemispheres. Its genus comprises about twelve known species, the genus cesculus, however, *Although the oEsculas hippocastanum is not indigenous to this country, yet. asit has been naturalized, and proven by American physicians, I have thought best to include it in this work. It is a near analogue of theo.Escuus glabra, and will doubtless prove a valuable remedy. 2ESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 19 is incomparably the finest, and is the only one found in the Northern States, and this even is not indigenous in New England. It was introduced into Europe nearly three centuries ago by Baron Ungnad, ambassador of the Ottoman Porte, who, in the year 15.76, sent the seeds of the common horse-chestnut to Clausius, at Vienna. It is now extensively cultivated as an ornamental tree in Europe as well as in this country. The name mesculus was originally applied to a species of oak, also to a tree which bore esculent fruit, and probably is derived from esca -" food.)) It was transferred to this genus by Linnmus to the exclusion of the earlier and more appropriate name of " hippocastanum " (horse-chestnut), on account of the resemblance of the large seeds to chestnuts, and because the Turks often grind them into a coarse flour, which is mixed with other food, and given to horses which are broken-winded. In the Southern and Western States there are several species, which bear the name of buckeye, from a resemblance of the seeds to the eye of tha:t animal. BOTANICAL DESCcIPTION. —In the language of flowers this tree symbolizes luxury. The beauty of the horse-chestnut consists chiefly in its inflorescence-surpassing that of almost all our native trees; the huge clusters of gay blossoms, which every spring are distributed with such luxuriance and profusion over the surface of the foliage, and at the extremity of the branches, give the whole tree the aspect of some monster flower, than of an ordinary tree of the largest size. Early in June this beautiful tree puts forth large pyramidal. racemes or thvrses of flowers, of' pink and white, mottled with red and yellow-finely contrasting with the dark green of its foliage, which has great grandeur and richness in its depth'of hue and massiveness of outline. ORuDER. —Hippocastanace (sapindacem, Gray,); genus, aesculus;: species, hippocastanum. Leaves opposite, digitate, of seven obovate-cunate, acute, toothed leaflets, serrate and straight-veined. Flowzers showy, in large terminal thyrsoid racemes or panicles; pedicels articulated. Calyx campanulate of five united sepals. Corolla spreading white, spotted with purple and yellow, and composed of four or five petals, which are irregular, unguiculate, and nearly hypogynous. Stamens usually seven, unequal, inserted on the hypogynous disc. Ovary large, round, echinate when young, dehiscent, loculicidal, three cornered, three celled, crowned with a single filiform, conical style, containing two ovules in each cell, only one of all of which, sometimes two or even three matures. These seeds are very large, shining, roundish, coriaceous, imahogany-colored, with a broad, round, pale hilum, without albumen.: The LEsculus Ohioensis (Ohio buck-eye) differs firom the oesculus hippocastanum in having five leaflets-stamens red, curved, much longer than the corolla, which consists of' four upright yellow petals. Fruit prickly when young, but smooth at maturity, about half the size of the hippocastanum. This tree is small in size, and exhales an unpleasant odor, particularly while in flower. 20 NEW HOMIEOPATHIC PROVINGS. MEDICINAL PROPERTIES. —The timber is not valuable. The large farinaceous seeds contain a considerable amount of nourishment, which is rendered unavailable, because of.the intensely bitter and narcotic principle with which they are charged. Common horse-chestnuts, nevertheless, with some precautions, are largely and advantageously used in Switzerland for fattening sheep. They are also eaten eagerly by deer, horses and oxen. Starch prepared from them, is superior to that of wheat, and excels as an article of diet, that of the potato. Paste prepared from them is preferable to any other, not only because possessing great tenacity, but also from the fact, that no moths or vermin will attack anything cemented with it. They have been recommended as a substitute for coffee. They contain sparingly a saponaceous principle. The young leavels are aromatic, and have been used instead of hops in brewing beer. The roots contain a mucilaginous and saponaceous matter, which is thought to be poisonous. Active and poisonous properties pievail in the root, seeds, bark and foliage. The bark has little odor, but an astringent and bitter, though not disagreeable taste. It contains, among other ingredients, bitter extractive and tannin, and imparts its virtues to boiling water. Its active constituent is supposed to be tannin, hence it has been employed in tanning. It is recommended as a tonic, astringent, narcotic, and antiseptic; in fevers as a febrifuge, for gangrene, and as an errhine. A strong decoction is recommended as a lotion to gangrenous ulcers. It has attracted much attention in Europe, as a substitute for Cinchona, although it certainly cannot be considered comparable to Peruvian Bark in its power over intermittents. It is at present seldom used, and never in this country. The bark of the branches from three to five years old is considered the best. It should be collected in spring. The powdered kernel snuffed up the nostrils produces sneezing, and has been used with advantage as a sternutatory in complaints of the head and eyes. In Europe the oil at present' is a fashionable remedy for gout and rheumatism. Maceration in an alkaline solution removes the bitter principle. iEsculine is the name given to the extractive matter. Hahnemann thus speaks of it: "WVe can, from the morbid effects which the bark is able to produce, form a just estimate of its medicinal powers, and determine whether it is suitable for pure intermittent fever, or some of its varieties. The sole phenomenon we know belonging to it is, that it produces a constrictive feeling in the chest. It will accordingly be found useful in (periocical) spasmodic asthma." -Digest of Symptomns.-The following digest of the symptoms have been arranged from provings made by Dr. Woodward Warren, and by Dr. O. A. Buchmann, upon himself and six other persons-four females and three males, all in middle life: AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 21 In each instance the mother tincture or crude drug was employed, in doses of from five drops to twenty grains. Dr. Buchmann introduces the provings in the following words: "Horse-chestnuts have been occasionally used as a popular remedy, and the tfavorable results heard from their use in glandular swellings of horses, in chronic catarrhs of the respiratory passages and of the intestinal canal, determined me to undertake a careful proving of them on the healthy, in order to ascertain if their vaunted curative powers were on the homceopathic principle.'"* Symptoms-,-Compiled firom eighteen provings, by eight persons. The figures represent the number of times the preceding symptom was mentioned. by the provers. ]General Symptoms.-Feeling of extreme illness. Great weakness. Totters when walking (2). Weariness (3). Fatigued feeling, as from a long walk. Sensation as if she would faint. General feeling of malaise. Duration of action, from two to six hours. Sleep.-Inclination to sleep. Yawning and stupefying sleepiness. Constant yawning (2). Falls asleep when sitting. Sleep for a quarter of an hour. Slept well. Fever.-Chilliness and goose-skin. Attack of rigor, lasting ten minutes. Cannot get warm. Rigor for half an hour. Rigors. General perspiration. Heat in the whole body. Sensorhinm.-On waking cannot recognize what she sees; knows not where she is; nor whence come the objects about her (2). Inward cheerfulness and placidity of temper. Head.-Feeling as if a board were on the head. Aching in the forehead. Feeling as during a cold in the head. Sensation as if intoxicated. Confusion of the head (2). Giddiness. Vertigo, with sensation of balancing in the head. Formication in the front of the temple. Heaviness in the head.' Heat in the head and eyes. Headache over the left eye (2). Headache over the right eye. Dull pains in the head, here and there, chiefly in the right temple and occiput, followed by dull stitches in the forehead and left temple. Dull pressure in the forehead. Throbbing in the right fiontal eminence. Fine stitches in the left temple. Dull pain in the left temple. Sharp pressing pain in the right temple. Dull stupefying pain in the head. Dull pain in the occiput (3). Bruised feeling in the occiput. Heat in the integuments of the occiput (3). Heat extending from the occiput to the ears (2). Eyes.-Burning in the internal canthi. Burning and stinging deep in the left orbit, as if the pain surrounded the eye-ball. Weight and heat in the eyes. Coldness in the left eye. Jerking in the right eye. Quivering of the lids. Lachrymation (2). Flickering before the eyes (2). Can see well at a distance; can read without spectacles, which she could not do before. Ears, —Burning of the ears. Heat in the occiput, extending to the ears. Nose.-Severe fluent coryza (8). Burning in the nostril. Raw * See Britis7 Journal of Homceopathy, Vol. XVIII., pages 88-194. 22 NEW H OMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. feeling throughout the whole nasal cavity. The nasal mucus becomes watery. Thin mucus from the nose, causing a frequent use of the pocket-handkerchief. Dry feeling and sensation of heat in the nose, especially its point, as when a severe coryza is about to come on. Disposition to sneeze. Feeling as after having taken a pinch of snuff. Formication in the nose (3).' Sensitiveness of the nasal mucous membrane to the respired air (3). The respired air causes a feeling of coldness in the nose (2). Drawing in the right nostril, as in violent coryza. Twisting sensation in the front part of the nose. Shooting pain in the head. Face-Looks ill. Pale miserable appearance (2). Flying heat and redness of the left side of the face,2). Burning in the left cheek. M3Iouth-The taste was something like, that of aloes. Bitter taste (3). Coppery taste, acting as an astringent in the mouth and esophagus; at first bitter, then sweet. Sweetish taste (6), as after taking Dulcamara —like liquorice. Burning in the mouth (3). Biting and stinging at the tip of the tongue. Increased flow of saliva (9), producing an inclination to swallow. Throat.-Contractive pain in the throat (2). Sort of constricted scraped sensation, causing a disposition to hawk. Irritation in the throat and cesophagus. All the throat was excoriated and constricted. Dryness and contraction of the throat. Dryness in the throat. Burning in the throat (12), like fire, when swallowing; at one time slight, then severe; with raw feeling. Constant shooting and raw pain in the throat. Scraping sensation in the throat. The mucus in the throat becomes thinner. Hawking of thick (2), afterwards watery mucus. Frequent call to expectorate mucus, which becomes watery. The mucus in the throat excites a cough. Tickling in the throat (2), causing a cough. Inclination to swallow. Formication in the fhuces. Dull pressing and pricking in the fauces. Biting and stinging pain in the fauces. Stinging and burning in the soft palate and posterior nares. Increased pain in the throat, after eating a grape. Stomach.-Nausea (15). Retching (2). Inclination to vomit. Violent vomiting. Burning in the stomach (4). Heart-burn for half an hour. Water-brash. Eructations of wind (16); of mucus; of thick mucus; of viscid mucus (3); empty eructations. Flying heat before the eructation. Fullness of the stomach (3). Periodical tightness in the scrobiculus cordis, with labored breathing. Twisting in the scrobicults cordis. Aching and rumbling in the stomach. Cutting stomach-ache. The aching in the stomach extends. Comfortable feeling in the stomach. Hunger. Abdomen. —Constricted feeling in the bowels. Cramp-like constriction in the bowels, followed by stool (the fourth time). Griping in the bowels (2). Cramps in the bowels. Motions, preceded by pain in the bowels. Pinching below the navel. Fine pricking pains around the umbilicus. Pain from the bowels to the small of the back. Burning in the bowels. Pressing downwards in the abdomen. Rumbling in the bowels, half' an hour, without pain. Distention of the abdomen, Pain in the hypochondria, through to ~.ESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 23 the back, especially on inspiration. Tearing pain in the right side, above the hip, deeply seated. Colic, with pinching pains in the righlt hypochondrium. Stitches in the right hypochondrium. Stitches in the left side. Fine stitching in the left hypochondrium. Cutting in the left inguinal region. Rumbling in the hypogastriumn. Stoolsa.-Eructations of wind, with desire to go to stool. Three moderate fcecal evacuations half an hour after taking the drug. Four loose evacuations within a quarter of an hour. In two hours several thin evacuations. In two hours after taking the drug, two moderate evacuations. Constant urging to stool, after two hours. Pressure in the rectum, with desire to go to stool. Ineffectual efforts to stool. Difficult scanty stool. Difficult hard stool, followed by burning and constriction in the rectum. Constriction in the rectum (2). Itching in the anus (2); with raw feeling. Stool of a mixed character. Two liquid motions, preceded by griping. Motions preceded by pinching in the bowels. Frequent expulsion of flatus (2.) The usual stool did not take place (2). UJrine.-Shoots in the orifice of the urethra. Call to urinate. On two occasions, at short intervals, urging to urinate. Genital Organs.-Leucorrhcea. Burning in the mlamin3. iarynx. —Hoarse voice; speaking brings on a cough. Short cough, increased by swallowing and breathing deeply. The mucus in the throat excites a cough (2). Tickling in the larynx, causing a cough with mucus expectoration. Cough from irritation. Dry cough. Repeated cough. Dryness in the larynx. Frequent call to expectorate mucus, which becomes watery. Pressure in the throat-pit, as if something had stuck there which required to be expelled. Lungs.-H- ot feeling in the chest, with cold rising up (2). Burning and heat in the chest. Raw feeling in the throat and chest (2). Warm feeling in the chest. Shooting pain in the sternum. Pains in the sternum, as if a piece were torn out of the chest. Sudden stitches throughout the chest. Pains in the right scapula, andcl in the left side of the chest, increased on inspiration. Rheumatic pain in the right scapula. On the right side of the chest a sensation as if the lung painfully moved up and down at each respiration (2). Inerease of the pain on drawing a deep inspiration. Pain in the chest, alternating with pain in the abdomen. Stitches leave the left side of the chest and go to the right. Twitching from the chest to the left shoulder. Tightness in the chest (6). Labored breathing (2). Palpitation of the~'heart (4); severe, periodic, frequent, with great anguish. Upper Extremities.-The arml and hand of the left side become strikingly warmer, and feel as if they were heavier and swollen. Heat in the shoulders. Burning in the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Constant jerking in the right arm. Paralysis of the right arm —cannot raise it. Baek.-Pains in the small of the back, and lame feeling. Pain extending from the abdomen to the small of the back (2). Weariness in the small of the back. Tearing pain in the back. Lameness and sensation at if strained in the right lumbar region, extend 24 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. ing to the gluteal muscles. Heat in the back of the neck and shoulders. Weariness in the back of the neck. Lameness in the back of the neck (2). SUMMIARY. General Symptoms. — Weariness, faintness. Sleep.-Sleepiness. fever.- Rigors; chills. Head.-Confused, dull, aching pain, as if from a cold. Eyes.-Burnin(g heat, as if from a cold. Nose.-Severe fluent coryza. Mouth. —izcreased flow of saliva. Throat. - Burning; razo; stinging; cdryness. Stomach,-Erluctations; nausea. Stools.-Dicarrhcea; burning, constriction, pressure, tenesmus, and itching in the rectum, indicate the utility of this drug in hcemorrhoids. Larynx. — Laryngitis? Lungs.-Bronchitis? Asthma Y Palpitation? Back. —Pains and lamenzess in the small of the back. These symptoms indicate a wide range of influence. They exhibit decided action upon the mucous surface of the air-passages, upon the stomach, bowels, and rectum. The chills and rigors, stupifying sleep, confusion and dullness of the head, congestion of the liver and spleen, palpitation and impeded respiration, indicate an accumulation of blood in the central parts of the organism. The burning in the eyes, fluent coryza, water in the mouth, burning in the throat, nausea and eructations, the evident bronchitis, and hemnorrhoidal disturbance, indicate congestion of the cappillary vessels, chiefly, we believe, venous congestion. Dr. Buchmann thus concludes his article: "I trust these provings may induce others to institute more provings, and to test the therapeutic action of this drug. I may merely add, that I have succeeded in curing radically a chronic cough with emaciationwhich had long been treated without effect-by daily administration of as much powdered chestnut as would lie on the point of a knife; and that I have heard from persons on whom I could rely, of the rapid cure of a chronic cliarrhcea, in which many remedies have been used in vain, by a single dose of powdered, horse-chestnut.)" Let these abundant evidences of its usefulness become an incentive to renewed diligence in developing and perfecting the pathogenesis of this important remedy. It is usually prepared by grating the nut, after removing the shell. When dry it can easily be reduced to a fine powder. Triturations are made as of any other homceopathic remedy. [It is also prepared in the form of tincture.-'Ed.] ~SCULUS HI PPOCASTANUM. 25 PROVINGS. PROVING BY C. W. BOYCE, MA. D., OF -AUBURN, N. Y. Read before the Oneida County omrn. Med. Society. August 24. Took ten grains of the first decimal trituration at 9 A. -. Nausea immediately. Constant desire to swallow, with feeling of dryness and stiffness of the throat when swallowing. August 28. At 11 A. Ar., took ten grains of the same preparation. Nausea immediately. Constant nausea. Feeling of dryness and roughness of the throat, as'if from taking cold. At 5 P. m., took ten grains more. Nausea. For two following days, constant tendency to diarrhea. Almost constant inclination to stool, but without any, or very slight evacuations. September 12. At 9 A. M., took ten grains of the same preparation. Nausea i mmediately. Sick feeling in the stomach all day, with increase of appetite. At 4 P. A., took ten grains more. INausea. Salivation. Metallic taste in the mouth. Sensation and dryness of the rectum. At 8 P. AI., took ten grains more. Nausea. The thought of the medicine is unbearable. Dryness of the throat. Dryness and itching in the rectuim, with feeling of stiffness of the skin and adjacent cellular tissue, continuing for several days. September 24. At 3 P. M., took ten grains. Nausea imluediately. Diarrhcea for twenty-four hours following. Septe.mber 26. At 4 P.:m., took ten grains. Nausea immediately. Increase of saliva. The taste of the drug remained in the mouth several hours. Diarrhcea of ingesta. For several days following there was a sensation as if the mucous membrane of the rectum was thickened, obstructing the passage of fTeces. Dryness of the passage for several days, followed by a secretion of moisture. Soreness of the rectum, with a feeling as if something would pass off all the time I induced several other persons to make a few trials, but with no result except increased scliivatiozn. October 3. At 3 P. xi., took ten grains of the first decimal trituration. Nausea immediately, and continuing all the afternoon. Dryness of the throat. Dryness of the rectum. October 4. At 1 o. M., took ten grains. Nausea. Increase of saliva. Dryness of the larynx, with tickling, scraping feeling of the laryngo-pharyngeal mucous membrane. Sensation of swelling of the nasal mucous membrane, as if from taking cold. Sneezing. October 5. At 9 A. M., took ten grains. Sensation of dryness and stiffness of the glottis, and all the pharyngo-laryngeal mucous membrane. Slight nausea. At 2 P. Ar., took ten grains. Increase of the dry feeling in the throat, followed by secretion of mucous, quite like the second stage of catarrh. Dry uncomfortable feeling in the rectum, which feels as if it were filled with small sticks. October 6. At 2 P. sr., took ten grains. Painful dryness of the throat, lasting six hours. Feeling of prostration of the whole system. Great repugnance to the drug. 4 26 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. October 7. At 10 A. M., took ten grains. Nausea. Increase of the saliva. At 4 P. M., took ten grains. Nausea.' Desire for a passage from the bowels without result. Desire to remain at stool a long timle, with straining. Excessive dryness of the rectum, with feeling of heat. At 9 P.ar., took ten grains. Nausea immediately, with ineffectual attempts to evacuate the bowels. Feeling in the rectum as though folds of the mucous membrane obstructed the passage, and as if, were the effort continued, the rectum would protrude. October 10. There has been during the past three days soreness in the rectum, with increased secretion of mucus. Frequent inclination for and ineffectual efforts at stool. At 3 P. Mr., took ten grains. Nausea as soon as the drug was taken. At 8 P. lr., took ten grains. Nausea. October 11. Early in the morning a feeling of emptiness and gnawing in the stomach. At 10 A. hr., took ten grains. Nausea. Dryness of the throat after eating. After eating the stomach feels full, as if the walls were greatly thickened. Considerable pain in the stomach for four or five hours after eating, which continues until after taking food again. Dyspepsia. Quite severe pain in the right side of the head above the temple. Metallic taste in the mouth. Increase of secretion from the submaxillary glands. Good appetite. Dryness and soreness of the rectum. At 3 Pr.., took ten grains. Soreness of the tip of the tongue, like that produced by ulcers. Thinking of the drug always produces nausea. The dryness of the rectum is followed by increased secretion of nmucus. PROVING BY W. WARREN, M. D., OF DEERFIELD, N. Y. Read before the Oneida Coulnty Homwopathic Medical Society. Dr. WOODWARD WARREN, aged thirty-six, nervo-bilious temperament, subject to bilious and gastric derangements. May 22. Took two grains of first decimal trituration at 4 P. x. In half an hour felt a dull, pressing and pricking in the fauces, with a sensation of fullness in the epigastrium, with empty eructations, followed immediately by burning in the stomach and bowels. At 4.45, dull pains in the head, here and there, but principally in the right temple and oecciput, followed by dull stitches in the forehead and temple. At 5.30, colic, with pinching pains in the right hypochrondrium; empty eructations. At 6.30, fine, pricking pains around the umbilicus. May 29. Took two grains of second decimal trituration at 2 P. M. At 2.25, felt a dull pressure in the forehead, with a slight feeling of nausea in the stomach, followed immediately by stitches in the right hypochondrium. At 2.45, bruised feeling in the occiput, with feeling of lameness in the back of the neck. At 3.30, pressure in the rectum with inclination to stool, with empty eructations. At 4.45, ineffectual efforts to stool. At 8.25, feeling of constriction in the rectum. MIay 30. At 6 A. n., difficult scanty stool. At 8 A. N., took three grains of first decimal trituration. In ten minutes coppery IESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 27 taste in the mouth, with increased flow of saliva.'At 8.30, dull' pain in the occiput, extending to the ears; fine stitches in the left temple, with slight feeling of nausea in the stomach. At 9 o'clock, feeling of lameness and weariness in the back of the neck, and small of the back. At 10 A. M., empty eructations. May 31. Took two grains of second trituration at 8.30 A. rI. At 9, copious soft stool, followed by burning, and a feeling of swelling and constriction in the rectum. At 9.15; empty eructations. At 9.30, slight burning and nausea in the stomach, with increased flow' of saliva; fine stitching in the left hypochondrium. At 9.45, confused feeling in the head; giddiness. At 10, dull pain in the occiput, with flushes of heat in the integuments of the occiput, back of the neck, and shoulders. At 11.25, burning in the ears. June 7. Took five grains of second decimal trituration at 12 A. Mr. At 12.30, coppery taste, with increased flow of saliva, and a dull, pressing pain in the left hypochondrium. At 12.45, dull pain in the left temple; giddiness and confused feeling in the head; sharp, biting, and stinging pain in the fauces and tip of the tongue. At 1 P. M., rumbling in the hypogastrium, with.cutting pains around the umbilicus.; burning and stinging deep in the left orbit, as if the pain surrounded the ball of the eyes with a feeling of coldness in the eye. At 1.15, heat in the integuments of the occiput, extending to the edrs. At 1.30, cutting in the left inguinal region; slight nausea with empty eructations. At 2.30, general feeling of malaise, with dull, stupefying feeling in the head. At 4 P. M., dull pain in the occiput, and lame feeling in the small of the back. June 8. At 7 A.MI., difficult, hard stool, followed by burning and feeling of constriction in the rectum. At 9 A. M., took three grains of second trituration. At 9.45, stinging and burning in the soft palate and posterior nares; bitter taste, and increased flow of saliva. At 10, vertigo, with sensation of balancing in the head; throbbing in the right fiontal eminence. At 10.15, empty eructations, with burning in the stomach, and fine, pricking pains around the umbilicus. At 10.20, sharp, pressing pain in the right temple. At 2 P.M.,'lameness, and sensation as if strained in the right lumbar region, extending to the gluteal muscle. PROVING BY H. MI. PAINE, M. D., OF CLINTON, N. Y. Read before tfhe Oneida County Homneopathic Medical Society. September 28. In usual health. Took ten drops of the pure alcoholic tincture at 10 p. m. September 29. Took ten drops at 10 P. M. September 3'0. Took thirty drops at 10 P.'M. October 1. Headache, general, through the whole head. A sensation of fullness in all the upper part of the head. Vertigo, very annoying all the afternoon. General malaise. October 2. Experienced a repetition of similar symptoms again to-day. Disappeared after 4 o'clock, P'.M. Took forty drops at 9 P. M. Observed a few minutes after a quick, severe, griping pain in the epigastric region. It continued about half an hour. 28 INEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. October 3. Feel miserably, cross, disinclination to perform any labor. Headache in the upper part of the head. The pain is uniform and constant. The sensation is that of fullness and pressure rather than acute pain. Vertigo, quite troublesome. The above symptoms continued till toward evening, and theni disappeared. At 10 P. 3r., took forty drops. Experienced a severe griping pain in the epigastrium a few minutes after taking the drug. It continned until I fell asleep-about half an hour. It extended from the stomach to the umbilical region, and appeared to be produced by fiatus, as there was at the same time quite a perceptible sensation of motion in the bowels. October 4. Feiv abnormal sensations to-day.' No headache. Slight vertigo. Took forty drops at 9 P. hr. October 6. Sore throat, quite troublesome in the forenoon; none in the afternoon. For the first time since commencing the proving had rather a difficult stool. Took forty drops at 9 Pr. r. October 7. Slight soreness in the pharynx during the day. Rather a difficult stool about noon, followed for at hour by a slight soreness, aching and fullness in the rectum, indicating piles. Took fifty drops at 9 P. M. The taste of the drug is at first intensely bitter, and is peculiarly unpleasant and nauseous. The bitter taste is soon displaced by a,pleasant, sweetish flavor, very similar to that of.ordinary liquorice root. This sweet taste remains about an hour. Immediately on taking the drug there is a sensation of scraping, irritation, or burning, extending from the mouth to the stomach. It usually passes off in an hour or two. It remains longer in the stomach than in the throat. Another very unpleasant sensation experienced immediately on taking the drug is nausea. It is transient, recurring at short intervals, and usually disappears in about half an hour. CLINICAL NOTES I. P.-Have been subject for several years to occasional attacks of hemorrhoids, attended with little hsemorrhage, although considerable pain, aching, swelling, and rigid hardness of the rectum. The paroxysms usually accompany constipation. The pain commences about an hour after an evacuation, and continues from two to six hours. About ten grains of the crude nut, finely pulverized, were placed in a half-ounce vial of alcohol and water, in equal parts. Of this ten or twelve drops were taken nearly every evening for about five weeks —commencing August 11, 1860. The piles were uniformly relieved after three or four doses. Observed on two or three occasions, that when the remedy was discontinued for a few days, the symptoms soon returned. It is now four months since all symptoms of the disease disappeared. No other effects were discovered. II. R. Had been suffering severely from hmmorrhoids for ten or twelve days, with a constipated state. of the bowels, and severe pain in the tumors —making it very unpleasant to stand on my feet or walk. Also more or less nausea, loss of appetite, furred tongue, a sensation of fullness about the navel, flatulent pains in AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 29 the bowels, and very dark stools. About two weeks previous to the attack of htemorrhoids, had a severe attack of bilious colic, which was relieved by Colocynth, Chamomilla, and MIercurius sol. On the morning of June 13, 1860, took 200. pellets of the sixth centesimal attenuation of JEsculus. The only symptom referable to the drug was irritation of the throat and cesophagus —a sort of constricted, scraped sensation, causing a disposition to hawk. *This occurred about an hour after taking the drug, and continued for several hours. Continued the remedy for several mornings in succession. The piles are entirely relieved; the bowels act regularly; the appetite fair; nausea and flatulen~ce gone; and, in short, enjoy my usual standard of health. Dr. L. B. Wells, of Utica, has employed this remedy in all cases of hemorrhoids occurring in his practice during the past two years, and generally with very good results. Dr. Wm. M. Cuthbert, in N. A. Journal for February, 1864, says: "I proved the drug to a limited extent on my own person, not being subject to piles, using the first potency. The effects produced being a painfjiu weakness of the loins, with dull, aching pain, accomnpanied by severe tzemors around the anus. These symptoms becoming so severe as to interfere with professional duties, I was reluctantly compelled to end the proving, and one dose of Nux vomica antidoted in a few hours. all the painful symptoms, since which I have experienced none of them." Cases referred to by Dr. Cuthbert: 1. Man; aged 37; mechanic. One dose of third potency not only entirely relieved the piles, but also enabled him to lay off a,truss which he had worn for years for an inguinal hernia. 2. Mrs. M. Piles (protruding at times) of ten years' standing, cured with three doses. It is now three years since, and she has never had any symptoms of it in that time. 3.. Mr. B. External piles. Promptly cured with one dose; Nux vomica never having any effect. 4. Mr. L. Blind bleeding piles of twenty years' standing, cured with three doses, one every two weeks. A cerate has been prepared from the JEsculus, which has been found a very efficacious and convenient external application to pile tumors. PROVING BY W. H. BURT, M. D. The following thorough proving by Dr. Burt, of Lyons, Iowa, I present to the profession without any clinical remarks. It speaks for itself. The Asculus h. seems likely to prove a valuable remedy. —(Hale): March 14th, 1864. At.10 A. M., took 10 grs. of the first dec. trituration of the dried nut; 11 A. M., neuralgic pain in the region of causality (right) darts towards the left, with a constrictive feeling of the skin of the forehead, followed by flying pains in the epigastric region (lower right lobe of the liver); constrictive feeling of the fauces; 12 M., neuralgic pain in the region of the heart lasted 30 NEW HIOMBEOPATHIC PROVINGS. one minute, with frequent pains in the epigastric region. Dull, aching pain in the small of the back, very much aggravated by walking; 1 -. M., there has been very frequent neuralgic pains in the region of the apex of the heart and stomach, with a severe, dull, aching pain in the lumbar region; 4 r. Mi., constant, dull, aching pain in the small of the back, aggravated by motion —took 20 grs.; 5 P. M., slight frontal headache, acrid constrictive feeling in the, fauces —there has been frequent, sharp'pains in the region of the apex of the heart and stomach, constant, quite severe, aching pain firom the pit of the stomach to the right lobe of the liver, slight back-ache, knees ache severely; 10 P. M., there has been frequent flying pains in the forehead and temples, feeling as if something had lodged in the fauces that produces a constant inclination to swallow, good deal of distress in the stomach, and flying pains in the bowels, very severe and constant backache, knees ache severelytook 20 grs., no stool. 15th. Called up three times through the night, back ached very hard all night, and is still aching; 7 A. M., took 20 grs.; 12 M., dull frontal headache, fauces feeling very dry and constricted, burning distress in the stomach, fiequent eructations of air, very tired and languid, back aches severely; 9 P, M., there has been frequent pains in the umbilical and hypogastric regions all.day, but they were not very severe, dull backache; no stool. 16th. Up most of the night with the sick; very hard and dry stool at 7 A. i., followed by colicky pain in the umbilicus, and severe cutting pains in the anus. Took 10 grs. at 9 A. r. 10:30Por the last hour there has been constant burning distress in the epigastric and umbilical regions, with a very severe aching pain in the lumbar region, very painful when trying to walk; occasional neuralgic pains in the forehead and apex of the heart; dry feeling of the fauces with frequent inclination to swallow. 11 A. M., dull frontal headache; severe constrictive feeling of the fauces, with fuequent inclination to swallow; constant burning distress, with a constrictive feeling of the lower part of the chest; frequent pains in apex of the heart; constant dull, aching distress in the umbilical region, with a very severe headache; walking is very painful. 12Pulse 68, soft and weak; dull frontal headache, with fluent coryza; constant burning distress in the stomach; dull, aching pain in the lumbar region; took 40 grs. 3 P. M., slight frontal headache, with great tightness of the skin of the forehead. At 1 P. ii. there was great constriction of the fauces, with great irritation of the epiglottis that produced a dry hacking cough; does not trouble me now; there has been constant burning distress in the stomach and bowels, with a severe fluttering sensation in the pit of the stomach, lasting five minutes at a time; came on five different times; empty eructations; frequent dull aching pains in the right hypochondriac region; dull pains in the umbilicus, sometimes they are very sharp; constant dull backache; weariness in the small of the back; tearing pains in the smrall of the back and hips when walking; weariness with faintness at the pit of the stomach. 5 P.'Nr., dull headache; frequent ne ralgic pains in the fauces, with frequent inclination to 2ESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 31 swallow; constant burning distress in. the stomach; severe aching pain in the lumbar region.'9 P.. —Frequent twitching of the muscles under the left eye; stomach and bowels distress me very much. ] 7th. Was up all night with my wife who has a violent attack of diphtheria, compelled to stop my proving; feeling very much prostrated; back aching violently; walking is almost impossible; great desire for stool. At 5 A. M., a very hard and dry knotty stool, voided with great difficulty; violent backache all day; almost impossible to get up after sitting down. 18th. Slight backache all day; no stool. 19th. Hard stool, followed by a prolapsed feeling of the anus..20th. No stool. 21st. Natural stool. 22d. Feeling well; took 20 grs. of the pure pulverized nut at 10:30 A. M. 11 A. m. —Severe smarting of the eyes; tongue feeling as if it had been scalded, with great constriction of the fauces; constant dull pain iii the region of the navel. 11:45 A. M. Seve'e neuralgic pain in the region of the heart; it is so painful that it. arrests the breathing; lasted 10.minutes; dull aching pain in the right hypochondriac region; back commencling to ache severely. 12 M. —Dull frontal headache, with a constricted feeling of the skin of the forehead; great dryness of the fauces, with frequent inclination to swallow; dull burning distress in the stomach; severe neuralgic pain in the right inguinal region; constant backache, affecting the sacrum and hips, very much aggravated by walking and stooping forward; pulse 70. 3 P. M. —Slight fiontal headache; great dryness of the fauces; constant and severe burning in. the stomach, with a very severe backache in the lumbar region. 6 P. M. —There has been frequent flying pains in the forehead and temples all day; fauces feeling constricted, with frequent dull pains on each side of the tonsils; they look very dark and congested; frequent eructations; constant burning distress in the stomach; frequent and long, lasting, dull pains in the right hypochondriac region; dull backache. 9 P. M. —Great distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, and a very urgent desire for stool, with rumbling in the bowels; a very large and hard stool, voided with great difficulty, followed by severe pains in the anus, with'a feeling as if a portion of the anus was protruded, accompanied with dull pains in the umbilical and hypogastric regions; this feeling lasted all night and until late in the morning, with a very severe backache in the lower part of the lumbar and sacral regions. 23d. Slept soundly; feeling quite well, excepting a feeling as if a portion of the anus was prolapsed, with a dull backache; flat slimy taste in the mouth. 9 A. M., took 30 grs. 11 A. M.-Frequent flying pains through the temples; profuse secretion of mucus in the nostrils, with coryza. The acridity in the mouth and fauces is very slight; constant and severe burning distress in the stomach, with an inclination to vomit; constaht dull, aching pain in the right hypochondriac region, and regi6n of the gall bladder; burning, aching distress in the umbilicus; constant dull pain across the hips and sacrum; sharp pains in the region of the apex of the heart. 32 1NEW HOM(EOPATHtIC PROVINGS. 3 iP. r.-Feeling very depressed and low spirited'; constant dull, burning, aching pain in the epigastric and umbilical regions; the greatest pain is in the pyloric portion of the stomach; at 4:30 P. M. took 30 grains. 6 r. x. —Great congestion of the tonsils and soft palate; frequent sharp, neuralgic pains in the region of the heart, with a great burning in the same region; constant and very severe burning in the stomach and bowels; very hard to endure the burning distress; feeling faint and weak; very severe backache, worse by motion. 9 P. M.-Frequent flying pains in the temples; constant dull, burning pain in the pyloric portion of the stomach; constant dull pains in the right hypochondriac region, aggravated by walking; dull pains in the umbilicus; very urgernt desire for stool. 7 P.. -Very hard, dry stool, followed by pain in the anus; frequent stitches in the region of the heart; dull, aching pain in the sacrum. 24th. Slept well, but awoke three times and found I had a dull, burning pain in the stomach; sweet, flat, slimy taste in the mouth; tongue very much coated yellow; fauces congested; constant dull pain in the cardiac portion of the stomach; very severe pain in the small of the back and hips when getting up, not much after moving a minute or so; pulse 76. 10 A. 3r.-Severe burning distress in the stomach (superior cardiac portion). Took 30 grs. 12 M.; pulse 72;. constant burning, aching distress in the epigastric region, with constant dull, aching pains in the right hypochondriac region; constant dull backache; frequent pains in the region of the apex of the heart and between the shoulders. 2 P..- Great desire for stool; stool, first part black and hard, the last part about the natural consistence, but almost white as milk, showing that the secretion of bile is almost completely suspended; the stool was followed by severe tearing pains in the anus; constant burning distress in the epigastric region; the small of my back aches so severely that it is almost impossible to stoop dclown, or to get up when sitting down. 4 i. Ph., took 40 grs. 6 P. M.Severe congestion of the tonsils and soft palate, with a constant aching distress in them; constant aching, burning distress in the epigastrium; constant dull, aching distress in the right lower lobe of the liver; the backache is very severe when moving. 9 P. l.Constant aching distress in the tonsils and fauces, with frequent inclination to swallow; the burning, aching distress in the epigastrium is almost unendurable, it makes me feel very faint and weak; constant dull, aching distress in the right lobe of the liver; great pain in the back and hips when trying to move; legs aching severely, feeling so weak that I must lie down all the time. 25th. Slept soundly; feeling so weak, and my back pains me so much when trying to move, that it is with great difficulty that I can get up; moving produces violent pains in the sacrum, and hips; very severe frontal headache; flat, bitter taste in the mouth; tongue coated yellowish white; tonsils and soft palate very much congested, b'ut no enlargement-; constant pain in the cardiac portion of the stomach; dull, aching distress in the right liver; urine very high colored; good deal of dull, aching pain be ~ASCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 33 tween the shoulders. 12 rI., have had a very hard frontal headache all day; back and legs have ached so severely that I was compelled to lie down all the forenoon; feeling very feverish, hands hot and dry; pulse 66, soft and weakl; disposition to stretch and yawn all the time; feeling as if I had the ague; great deal of distress in the epiga,strium and liver. 3 P. iM.-Feeling very weary and low-spirited. Took 30 grs. 6 P. x. —Constant distress in the stomach, with frequent pains through the bowels; back pains severely when moving. 9 P. Ar. —Great desire for stool; stool about natural consistence, followed by a prolapsed feeling of the anus. 26th. Slept soundly; back pains me when first moving, otherwise feeling well. 10.- r. —Slight pain in the epigastrium; took 60 grs. 11 A. i. —For the last half hour there has been a constant dull, aching, burning pain in the region of the heart; pulse 66, soft and regular; constant aching distress in the tonsils; frequent inclination to swallow; constant pain in the stomach and right lower lobe of the liver; very severe pain in the lumbo-sacral region when stooping; dull, aching distress: in the dorsal region; fieling very faint and weak. 5 P. M. —Dull pain in the tonsils, with frequent inclination to swallow.; the tonsils are congested of a very dark color; constant dull and very severe aching painjust below the pit of the:tomach,. which produces a very weak, faint feeling; it is very hard to endure the distress; constant dull, aching distress in the right lobe of the liver, and between the shoulders along the dorsal region; dull pain when moving in the lumbar in the lumbar-sacral region; frequent rumbling in the bowels. 9. r. Mii. —Stool about natural consistence, but very white, showing a great deficiency of bile; constant dull pain in the liver and back. 27th. Slept well; feeling quite well excepting good deal of pain in the lumbar-sacral region when moving. 7 P. M. —For the last two hours there has been constant very severe pain about and just below the pyloric extremity of the stomach; severe pain in the sacrum and hips when moving; a very dry stool at 9 P. r., voided with difficulty; dull pains in the right lobe of the liver and dorsal region. 28th. Back is feeling very stiff when moving; dull pains in the small of the back and sacral region; constant dull, aching pain in the right hypochondriac region, with frequent pains in the stomach all day, with constant desire for stool; had two soft stools, without giving relief to the desire for stool; feeling very sad. 29th. Slept well; constant dull, aching pain in the right lobe of the liver all day, with frequent pains in the stomach and bowels, and constant desire to stool; stool at noon very black and soft, without relieving the desire for stool. April lst. There is still a good deal of pain in the lumbar region, with soft, mushy stool. I believe if I had used nothing but the first trituration it would have produced large hemnorrhoidal tumors, the large doses that I took kept the bowels too loose. Not one of our remedies produce so many and so strongly marked symptoms of hmemorrhoids as the aesculus. I would also call the attention of our physicians 5 34 NEW HOOMUaOPATHIC PROVINGS. to the powerfutl egect eesculus has on the liver. I intended to experiment on animals with the aesculus, but could not get the time to do it, but hope I will soon. It is a remedy that will well repay us for all our trouble. W. H. BURT, M. D. ALETRIS FARIINOSA. (Unicorn Root, Stone Grass.) This plant is the true Unicorn, as distinguished from the fialse, Helonias dioica. From all accounts it possesses many properties in common with the latter. The root is the officinal part, and is with difficulty distinguished from the HIelonias. Aletrin, or Aletridin, the active principle, is an Oleo-Resin, and is said to possess the medicinal virtues of the plant. GENERAL EFFECTS.-No proving of this plant has yet appeared, and the clinical experience of our school, is very meagre. The eclectic school however, speak highly of its value. " In the recent state, and in large doses it is considerably narcotic, with emetic and cathartic properties. When dried these properties are destroyed, and it becomes a bitter tonic." (King.) "The aletris is tonic, stomachic, narcotic, discutient, emetic, cathartic and expectorant. In large doses it is said to produce nausea, vomiting, purging, dizziness and other unpleasant effects, which would seem to indicate that it is possessed of acro-narcotic properties."* (J. and S. Mat. _Med.) "It is believed, that no American plant exceeds the Aletris, in intense and permanent bitterness. In this respect it is not inferior to aloes or quassia. It seems to be a pure bitter, having also some emetic and cathartic properties. As a tonic stomachic, it is not surpassed by any of our indigenous plants, and for this purpose it is extensively employed as a popular remedy and in regular practice. It has long been held in high repute among the Indians. There is some reason to believe, that it possesses narcotic properties. Rafinesque, who seems to have experimented a good deal with it, says, that "only small doses must be used, because large ones produce nausea, dizziness and narcotic effects, and that the powdered root should not be given in larger doses than twelve grains. Its uses are the same as gentian and quassia. In some parts of the country it is used by botanics as a remedy for dropsy, dysentery and colic. W'e regard it as an alterative tonic, very similar to hydrastin." —(Prof. -Lee.) It is highly probable that a thorough proving of this medicine would develop its value, and mnake it almost an equal with Helonias, or perhaps China, although it does not appear to possess the, antiperiodic properties of the latter drug. It has, however, some reputation in Intermittents, and one of the common names of the plant is "6 ague root." ALETRIS FARINOSA. 35 SPECIAL EFFECTS. —-SensOriUum, Head, etc.-Vertigo; dizziness, With vomiting; purging; sleepiness; and even stupefaction. CLINICAL'REMVBRKS. —Theoreticallv, I would suggest that it may be useful in certain congestions of the head, when the above symptoms are present. In certain cases of lf~eningitis, in children and adults, the disease is ushered in by a similar train of symptoms. A high dilution of' the tincture of the fresh root might in such cases prove curative. It is highly recommended by Dr. King (" Diseases of Females ") in hysteria. G(astrie Symptoms —Vomiting; purging; excessive nausea, with giddiness, etc. CLINICAL REMIARKs.-Small doses are said to promote the appetite and assist digestion. It is used in cases of flatulent colic. It is highly recommended in cases of dyspepsia, with much general debility. All drugs which derange the digestive organs are, of course, homceopathic to some form of dyspepsia, or gastric disorder. Until we have a proving of Aletris, the indications for the use of this remedy cannot be given. It may, however, be used empirically as a dernier resort when other remedies fail. A case treated by me, may throw some light on its probable sphere of action. A lady in the fourth month of pregnancy became very much debilitated; had nausea, but no vomiting; disgust for all food; the least food caused distress in the stomach; very constipated; frequent attacks of fainting, with vertigo; sleepy all the time; emaciated. I used Pulsatilla, China, Iron, Sepia, Nux vomica, Ignatia, and many other remedies with no apparent result. Discouraged at the result of my treatment, she declared her intention to procure some "bitters." She'"knew some bitter tonic would help her." I happened to have a drachm of Aletridin in the office. This I dissolved in four ounces of sherry wine, and ordered a teaspoonful three times a day. In a week she came into my office exclaiming, "Your bitters have cured me." The improvement was really great, and no other medicine was used. A constant pressure and pain in the uterine region was also removed by the medicine. In a similar case I have since used the first dilution with apparent good results. Female Generative Organs.-Colic in the hypogastrium. Pressure in the region of the uterus. Labor-like pains at the time of the menses. Weight in the uterine region. Premature and profuse menses. Abortion. Leucorrhnea. CLINICAL REMARKS.-The Aletris, is by general consent of Eclectic physicians, considered to possess specific relations as a curative remedy, on certain diseases of the U terus. I quote some of the testimony: "The root exerts a tonic or stimulating influence upon the reproductive organs of the female. In amnenorrhcea, dysmenorrhcea, and engorged condition of the uterus, it will be found of' especial benefit, removing the difficulties by restoring the uterus to its normal condition. It will also be found advantageous in those instances when there is an habitual tendency to abort, not depending upon syphilitic taint, or other causes independent of the reproductive 36 D~NEW EOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. organs. I have found it useful in prolapsus uteri, and am inclined to believe that it exerts a peculiar influence upon the uterine ligaments, having cured several severe cases of uterine prolapsus by this agent alone, without the aid of any mechanical means."-(King's Obstetrics, page 638.) "The Aletris is recoinmended in diseases peculiar to females, as an article of great value. In cases of frequent abortions, or when a disposition to abort exists, and uterine derangements in general." —(J. & S. 3fat..Afed.) If the aletris possesses the power of preventing recurring abortions, it is certainly worthy our investigation. A firagmentary proving even may establish the basis upon which this recommendation is based. Several physicians have verbally given me their testimony in favor of its power of preventing abortion, even after pains and hbemorrhage had set in. I have been assured that it has been used in domestic practice, to produce abortion in the early months. It is evidently homceopathic to abortion when accompanied by the symptoms named above, as arising from over doses of the fresh root; also in cases which seem to depend upon a want of tone in the uterine tissues and general system. APOCYNU1[ ANDRIOSEMIFOLIUM. (Dog-bane, Milk Weed, Bitter Root.) This in an indigenous, perennial, herbaceous plant, friom three to six feet in height, and abounding in a milky juice which exudes when any part of the plant is wounded. The stem is smooth and simple below, branched above, usually red on the side exposed to the sun, and covered with a tough fibrous bark. It grows in all parts of the United States, from Carolina to Canada; is found along fences, in wet places, the skirts of woods, and flowers in June and July. The leaves are opposite, petiolate, ovate, acute, entire, smooth on both edges and two or three inches long. The flowers are white, tinged with red and grow in loose nodding, terminal or axillary cymes. The peduncles are furnished with very small acute bractes. The tube of the corrolla is larger than the calyx, and its border spreading. The fruit consists of a pair of long, linear, acute follicles, containing numerous imbricated seeds, attached to a central receptacle and each furnished with a long seed-down. The root is the part employed, and is large, and like other parts of the plant, contains a milky juice. Its taste is unpleasant and extremely bitter. Great care should be taken not to confound this plant with the apocynum cannabinum, which it closely resembles; for the medicinal effects of the two are very different, and the use of the one for the other might hazard the lives of our patients. The allopathic and eclectic schools have used it in a crude empirical manner, as an emetic, alterative, tonic, aperient, diuretic, APOCYNTUM ANDROSEMIFOLIUM. 3 7 detergent, deobstruent, diaphoretic and anthelmintic, &c., much as they use other drugs, especially those of whose virtues they know the least. What little we do know of its real sphere of action, and its pathogenetic effects, have been ascertained by Dr. J. H. Henry, a Southern homceopathist, who proved it upon himself and two ladies, in pretty large doses, ranging from 50 to 1,800 drops of the mother tincture, of the fresh root. (The tincture must have been a very weak preparation.) All the provers were well when they commenced taking the, medicine, with the exception that one of the ladies had suffered from leucorrhzea, and Dr. H. himself had suffered from hoemwdrrhoids. May 14th.-Each person took 50 drops fasting in the morning. Two: of them felt cramps in the bottoms of the feet; the third had violent heat of the bottoms of the feet, with profuise sweating of the whole body. May 15th.-Each took 100 driops. All felt cramps and burning in the bottoms of the feet, most severely in the right foot, with severeppain in the joint of the left big toe, and heat in the right leg and knee. One of the ladies and Dr. H. complained of great fulness and pain in the head, of an indescribable, character. The next morning the three persons complained of constipation of the bowels. Mlay 16th. —All took 150 drops, and experienced about the same symptoms as on the 15th. Dr. H.'s feet tingling pains in his toes, sharp pains in the middle; trembling of the body in two provers; most delightful taste in the mouth of each. Everything smelled like honey to Dr. H. All complained of pains in different parts of the body, and Dr. IH. of much pain in the knee and right shoulder. The ladies complained of pain of all the teeth of the lower jaw, left side. May 17th.-Each took 200 drops. Neither, except Dr. H. felt cramps in the bottom of the feet. All experienced symptoms like those felt on the 16th; pains and stiffness in the back of the head and neck; dull heavy pain when breathing seeming to go from above downward. May 18th.-Each took 250 drops. Dr. H. and one of the ladies sufferred fiom painful bilious diarrhcea. May 19th.-Each took 300 drops, and experienced heaviness of the body, with a great desire to sleep; flying pains in different parts of the system; pain in the head and back of the neck, swollen sensations of the face and body. violent itching of body and face. May 20th.-Each took 350 drops, and experienced all of the above symptoms, with profuse flow of clear urine; pjlsating pain in back of the head, and between the right hand and elbow, constipation of two persons; diarrhea of the third, with much pain and rumbling, only two evacuations, but copious and affording much relief. IMay 21st.-Each took 400 drops and experienced much pain all over the head; stiffness of the neck; pain on turning of the left 38 NEW HIOM(EOPATH IC PROVINGS. side; itching andl burning of the face, much lassitude, frequent passing of clear urine. MIay 22d. —Each took 450 drops, and felt all the previous symp. toms, together with great sneezing, twitching of the face, most violent pains in all the joints, great itching and irritation in left nostril. May 23d.-Each took 500 drops. Violent pain in the left zygomnatic process, chilliness, lassitude, heat of head and neck, -inability to sleep at night, violent dreams, sleep not refreshing, pain in the left groin of a shooting character. May 24th.-Each took 550 drops. Ladies suffered from prqfuse menstruation, lasting eight days, with violent pressing pain; other symptoms as before. May 26th.-Each took 650 drops. Some efforts to vomit; pain increased in back of neck, and extending to frout; pains severe above each wrist. One prover had four bilious evacuations, another ten, and another, constipation. May 27th.-Each took 1,800 drops. All sick; vomiting, purging, great prostration and trembling of the body.'I his was truly heroic proving, bringing out boldly the characteristic symptoms of the drug. General Symptoms. -- Nrves of Sensation. - Although the remedy produces a great many pains, and pain implies that the nervous system is involved, still it would seem that these were not simple nervous pains or neuralgias, but rather simulated rheumatic or dyscratic pains. It may prove useful in rheumatic-neuralgias. NERVES OF MOTION.-It produces cramps in the soles of the feet, pains and stiffness in back and neck, sneezing, twitching of the face, etc., yet it seems to act far more specifically upon the fibrous tissues and nerves of sensation, than upon those of motion. Fever and Inflammatlon. —It causes violent heat in the bottoms of the feet, with a profuse sweating all over; heat and pain in the toes, legs, and knees. Swollen sensation of the face and body, with violent itching of those parts; pulsatory pain in head and back of neck, and between the right hand and elbow; chiliness, heat of head and neck, so that one cannot sleep at night. CLINICAL REMARES.-According to Dr. Henry, it has been much used in the South, in bilious diseases and fevers; in the marsh fever of the rice plantations, in yellow fever, in colds and inflammation of the bowels and lungs, in dysentery and diarrhcea, of all these it seems most homceopathic to biliouts fever, when attended with bilious diarrhcea, in rheumatic catarrhs, dysenteries and fevers. On the Fibrous Tissues.-This seems to be the great field of its action. It has;produced cramps in the feet, probably in the muscles and tendons; great pain in the joint of the big toe; heat in the right leg and knee; tingling pains in the toes, pains in different parts of the body, but especially in the knee and right shoulder; pains and stiffness in back of head,nd neck; dull heavy pain in the chest while breathing; flying pains all over the system; most violent pain in all the joints, etc. CLINICAL REMARKS. —All the above prominent symptoms were APOCYNUM ANDROSEMIFOLIUMI. 39 brought on by tangible doses of the drug. They seem to have been specific, for all the provers felt them. In Rheumcatism and Rheunmatic Gout. —It is perhaps the most homceopathic remedy that we are yet acquainted with; it may be most suitable in bilious subjects, or when there is a prominent bilious disorder in connection with the rheumatism. It seems to be absorbed into the system and to penetrate into the innermost portions of the body, similarly to the rheumatic poison, and even to produce those critical evacuations from the bowels, skin, liver and kidneys, which terminate an attack of rheumatism; and according to the law of "Similia," it ought to be specific for that protean disease. Mucous Memnbranes.-We have no decided proof that it acts specifically upon this tissue, although it produces sneezing and itching of nostrils, still it would seem homceopathic to catarrhal affections of a rheumatic character. Skin.-It causes profuse sweating when taken in large doses; also swollen sensation of the face and body, and itching all over, and burning itching of face, etc. CLINIcAL REMARKS.-It may prove useful in those disagreeable perspirations which attend or follow rheumatic fever; and is certainly indicated in prurigo, especialy when attended with derangement of theliver. Read.-Great fullness and pain in the head; pains and stiffness in back of head and neck, pain in head and back of neck. Pulsatory pain in back of the head, and between the right hand and elbow. Pain all over the head with stiffness of the neck. Heat of head and neck, and chilliness, lassitude, sleeplessness and troublesome dreams. Great pain in all of left side of head with pain above each wrist. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is homreopathic to bilious, rheumatic, and congestive headaches, especially when attended with rheumatic pains in other parts, preceeded by constipation, followed by diarrhzea attended with swelling and itching of the face, and terminating with profuse flow of urine, or perspiration. It is also indicated in rheumatic or neuralgic hemicrania. Eyes and Ears.-No symptoms involving these organs have yet been evolved, but judging from its general effects, it ought to prove useful in rheumatic affections of those organs. Nose.-With the pains all over, had severe sneezing with great itching and irritation in nostril Everything smelled like honey. CLINICAL REMARKS. —With'the country people this plant in decoction, is considered a specific for worms and verminous fever, and in one case I saw good effects from it after Cina and Santonine had failed. Its moderate use expelled large quantities of ascarides. The above symptoms of the nose, are such as often indicate the presence of worms, Face and Teeth.-Swollen sensation of the face and body; violent itching of body and face; itching and burning of face, twitching of the face. Pain in all the teetA of the lower jaw, left side. CLINICAL REMARKS.!-rhe sensation of' swelling of the face anrd body is also caused by aconite, and is probably a purely nervous 40 NEW IHOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. sensation. The itching etc., is like that caused by Opium and Morphia, is probably of a nervous character, not like that caused by _Rhus, which indicates an impending eruption. The twitching of the face and pain in the teeth, point it out as a remedy in those rheumatic neuralgias of a similar character. Gastric Symptoms.-Most deliclhtful taste in the mouth of each. Nausea and efforts to vomit. Vomiting, purging and great prostration. Nausea with constipation, bilious vomiting. CLINICAL REMARKS.-So uniform is its emetic effects in large doses, that it was named by the Botanics, American Ipecac. It generally caused profuse vomiting of bile. When we have bilious vomiting with or without diarrhmea; but with pains in the limbs, cramps in the feet, etc., then the Apoc. Andros. will prove a specific remedy. In cases of gastric irritability and debility from habitual biliousness, it will improve the tone of the stomach. Stomach and Bowels.-Flying pains in the stomach, fullness and pain in right side, (region of the liver,) with feeling as if something would pass the bowels, with slight nausea. Constipation (f'rom small doses 50 drops.) Bilious and painful diarrhcea. Diarrhcea attended with pain and rumbling, but only two large evacuations, giving much relief; 650 drops caused four bilious evacuations in one prover, two in another, and constipation in a third; constipation and diarrhmea every alternate day. The largest dose caused sickness vomiting, purging, prostration, etc. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is indicated in bilious diarrhcea with pain in the bowels and region of the,liver; in constipation like that caused by jaundice when the bile does not find its way into the bowels, but is retained in the blood and tissues. It is indicated in bilious headaches; also in bilious fever, when there is much heat and pain in the head, great tendency to- drowsiness, or restlessness with troublesome dreams, and either bilious diarrhoea or constipation, with pains in the limbs. LTrinary Organs. Profuse flow of clear urine. Frequent passing of clear urine. CLINICAL REMrARKS.-Previous to a bilious attack some person's have profuse flow of clear, limpid urine, with chilliness, headache, etc. This remedy would seem homceopathic to such symptoms. It has been used successfully in dropsy from diseased liver. Genital organs.-Profuse menstruation lasting eight days, and attended with violent pressing down pain. One of the ladies was troubled with leucorrhcea before taking the medicine. She was cured, and has not since had a return. Prof. Lee says, "The Choctaw Indians use it extensively for the cure of venereal affections, for which they regard it as specific. They chew the fresh root, swallowing only the juice. There is no doubt of its efficacy in secondary and tertiary syphilis." Black and Extremities.-It caused severe pains in different parts of the body, back of the head, arms, legs, feet, shonlrider, and violent pains in all the joints. (See "General Symptoms," and "Fibrous Tissues." CLINICAL IREHAIRKs.-No remedy seems more indicated by its APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 41 pathogenesis, for muscular and articular rheumatism, than this. It seems the analogue of Bryonia, Cimicifuga, Aconite, Phytolacca and Colchicum. APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. (Indiian -lierr p.) This' should not be confounded with the A. Androsemifolium, which it resembles only in appearance. The medicinal properties of the two are widely different. It is a perennial plant, stems herbaceous, erect, branching, of a brown color, and two or three feet in height; the leaves are opposite, ovate, oblong, acute at both ends, and somewhat downy beneath; the cymes are pedunculate, many flowered and pubescent; the corolla is small and greenish, with a tube not longer than the calyx, and with an erect border, the internal parts of the flowers are pinkish or purple. The pod, or follicle is from three to five inches long, and resembles the pods of the asclepias syriaca, or common silk-weed, but are much smaller. The stalk and root abounds in a milky juice which concretes into a substance closely resembling caoutchouc. It is the juice which contains the active principles. The root, which is the officinal part, is horizontal, five or six feet in length, about one-third of an inch thick, dividing near the end into branches, which terminate abruptly, of a yellowish brown color when young, but dark chestnut when old, of a strong odor, and a nauseous, somewhat acrid, and a permanently bitter taste. It grows in damp places, by marshes and running streams, and is indigenous to nearly every part of the United States. The tincture should be dark red and intensely bitter. It is said by old authorities to be emetic and cathartic, sometimes diuretic, and like other emetic substances, promotes diaphoresis and expectoration. ~When it does cause nausea, it is persistent and intense; it then diminishes the frequency of the pulse, and appears to induce drowsiness independently of the exhaustion consequent upon vomiting. These crude notions however, convey but a faint idea of the qualities of this plant. No thorough and systematic proving of this plant has been made. A fragnmentary but suggestive proving was once made by Dr. Peters. My own observations of its effects, enable me to record many of its pathogenetic symptoms. Dr. Peters took half wine-glass full doses of Hunt's decoction, three, times a day —morning, noon and night. For the first few days he noticed no perceptible effect, except an increased inclination towards constipation. (This decoction must have been very 6 42 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. weak, for a table spoonful of a decoction such as I have made, would have acted on him as a powerful cathartic.) He noticed a decided scantiness of urine: occasionally there was some flatulence, and slightly uneasy sensation in the bowels. About the fourth day, decided distention of the abdomen began to occur. Especially after a moderate dinner, all the sense of fullness seemed about the stomach, liver and spleen, while the lower bowels did not seem more flatulent than usual. The sense of oppression about the epigastrium and chest was so great, that there was often the greatest difficulty in getting breath enough to speak with any comfort, and this happened after lighter meals than ordinary. He was confident that his urine diminished to one-third its usual quantity, but there was no pain or uneasiness about the kidneys or bladder, on the contrary these organs felt remarkably comfortable; they seemed simply torpid; the little water that was passed, flowed as easily as if it were oil, and there seemed to be but little expulsive power about the bladder. The urine was generally of a light golden sherry-yellow color, not depositing any sediment on exposure to cold. "This torpicd action of the kidneys was rather peculiar as the weather was severely cold, and I was much exposed to it, and in my ordinary state, my kidneys act frequently and rather freely. It is right to add that during the experiment I was growing very stout, and had just recovered from fever and ague, which may account for the oppression of the chest and flatulence." (Peters.) This may be, but his own experiments afterwards brought on similar symptoms, even when the drug was taken in minute doses. The symptoms observed by him and others, will be found under their appropriate heads. General Symptoms.-Weakness, lassitude. " I took for 6 days, 5 drops, three times daily, of the 3d dilution. No unusual sensations were observed until the fifth morning of the proving, when on waking we felt a sinking at the stomach, dryness of the mouth, thirst, nausea, irresistible disposition to sigh, short and unsatisfactory respiration, short and dry cough, scanty expectoration of white mucus. These symptoms continued during the day, and on retiring, we had in addition unusual heat of the skin, general restlessness and desire to sleep without the ability to do so. During the entire day, urine was natural in quantity, and gave the same color to test papers as in health. The night of the fifth was one of great restlessness and little sleep. On the morning of the sixth day we awoke at about five o'clock, unrefreshed by our sleep, and with the same symptoms as on the fifth day, with the exception of a dimininution of the quantity of urine. During this day we were unable to detect any alteration in the composition of the urine, either by test paper or with acids. The symptoms of the seventh day and night were a continuation of the sixth, on the eighth day the stomach and chest symptoms had diminished, but the urinary secretion had increased in quantity and much lighter in color than in health. On the evening of the eighth day we experienced an unusual heaviness of the head, with dull aching pains in the small of the back and limbs. There was no tenderness of the region of the APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 43 kidneys on pressure, but a slight soreness of the parts when bringing the muscles into action, indicating the muscles as the seat of the pains. From the ninth day the symptoms continued very gradually to decline until the thirteenth day, after which no further abnormal phenomena were observed. (Marcy.) CLINICAL REMARArs. —The above fragmentary proving, is a very suggestive one. The groups of symptoms resemble those of noninflammatory dropsy, having a rheumatic or congestive origin. We often meet such symptoms in practice, where it is difficult to give a satisfactory diagnosis. Before we can know the real action of apocynum, we shall have to make pathological provings of the drug. In cases of general debility, from a watery condition of the blood and poor digestion, if at the same time there is scanty urine, apocynum will restore the strength and tone of the system. Skin.-Unusual heat of the skin. Cold skin-with nausea, vomiting, etc. Copious sweating. CLINICAL REMARKS.-In nearly all the dropsies, the skin is dry and harsh. When from natural processes or from the action of medicines the skin becomes moist and soft, we may be pretty sure that improvement will soon follow. Whenever I have been successful in the use of apocynum, the skin became moist before the urinary secretion became more abundant. It has been found useful in some inveterate eruptions, as psoriasis. Sleep, —Desire to sleep without the ability to do so. Great restlessness with little sleep at night. On retiring unusual heat of skin; waking unrefreshed about 5 A. r. induces a tendency to sleep. Sleepiness with heaviness of the head. CLINICAL REMARKS.-In nearly all dropsies, especially postscarlatinal, the patient is feverish at night, and very restless. This often occurs before the dropsical effusion is noticed. In this stage the apocynum will prevent the malady from being established. Fever. —Unusual heat of the skin with general restlessness and desire to sleep with inability to do so-at night. Pulse very slow, with nausea. CLINICAL REMARKsS.-Dr. Trent claims for the apoc. anti-periodic virtues, but he gave it combined with oil of black pepper. Such observations as made by the allopathic school are perfectly worthless, yet upon such flimsy foundations does their vaunted materia medica depend! It is probably not useful for the ague properly, but is of value in the dropsical sequele which so often follow that disease. It is homoeopathic to the thoracic oppression, the bloating of the stomach and bowels after eating; the cedema and even night sweats; in all of which I have used it with advantage in the 2nd and 3d dilutions. In catarrhal fever with nightly exacerbation, short dry cough with scanty expectoration of white mucus, and oppression of the chest, it will be found curative. Read.-Heaviness in the head. Heavy stupid headache with drowsiness. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is undoubtedly slightly narcotic in its effects. The drowsiness which it causes is very similar to that 44 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PPROVINGS. which occurs in all dropsical affections which have reached a high degree of intensity. In such cases sleepiness is an unfavorable symptom, and should warn us to be on our guard against coma and apoplexy. In such conditions we have in this medicine a prompt and reliable remedy. Several times in the course of my practice' have I rescued my patients by giving promptly the apocynmrn. If the dilutions failed of effect, as they sometimes will in cases marked by such torpidity, I have not hesitated to resort to the decoction, for I have ever considered the life of my patients to be of more importance than a blind adherence to established forms. We should recollect moreover that the tincture is not always the best preparation. With many valuable plants the decoction is the best method of administration, because hot water alone, is capable of extracting all their medicinal virtues. In a case of supposed hydrocephdalus in a child of Pirof. Renwick, of New York, aged 16 months, after all other remedies had been given up and the case regarded as hopeless, the use of a decoction of Indian hemp was followed by perfect recovery. " The sutures of the head were opened; the forehead projecting considerably; the sight of one eye totally lost; the other slightly sensible; the child lying in a stupor, with constant involuntary motion of one leg and arm. The urinary secretion had ceased for more than twenty-four hours. A tea of apocynum was prepared by dropping pieces of the root into a coffee cup until nearly frill, covering with water, and steeping for half an hour: of this a teaspoonful was given every hour. In the course of a few hours free action of the kidneys was restored; the sight of both eyes were perfect; stupor and insensibility passed away. The child steadily convalesced, though the hemp was given for a fortnight, gradually diminishing the dose, until but half a teaspoonful was given in 24 hours." This was undoubtedly a case of hydrocephalus, and the ccpocynuzrz as undoubtedly cured it. The lower dilutions may have done as well, perhaps as the higher; but in such a case, of a generally fatal disease, what conscientious physician would hesitate to use other preparations? The dose given was not more than 10 or 15 drops of a 1st decimal dilution would contain, and no p thogenetic symptonls were caused. One cannot but be struck with the similarity between the symptoms cured, and those for which Hartman so confidently recommends iHelleborus. In fact, the two medicines are very nearly allied. Some undoubted cures of hydrocephalus have been made with Helleborus, but we have given it faithfully and in various potencies in that disease; and yet the little patients died. What physician has not lost patients with that dreaded malady in spite of Belladonna, 1Hellebore, Sulphur and Zinc? How gladly we would have resorted to any remedy, in any form, if we thought it would restore health? Let a fair trial, then, be given to the Apocynum. Eyes.-" I was once waked up early in the morning with severe irritation of the left eye, as if several sharp grains of sand were in it, attended with much heat, irritation and redness, often lasting several hours. This disappeared as suddenly as it came on, not leaving a trace behind; although the symptoms were severe enough APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 45 to make me believe I had an attack of catarrhal rheumatic ophthalmia, which would last at least three or four days." —Peters. CLINICAL REMARKS. —The above symptoms would indicate its usefulness in some forms of ophthalmia. In the case of hydrocephalus, it restored sight to one eye. It may prove very useful in many diseases of the eye and disorders of vision due to effused fluids in the eye or brain. Ears.-In hydrocephalus there is often more or less deafness, for which condition this remedy will prove curative. Nose.-" A very peculiar catarrhal attack was experienced, viz: without any other sign of having taken cold, I would wake up in the morning with the nostrils and throat filled with thick and well cemented, yellow mucous, as if I had had a severe catarrh for at least seven or ten days, and which had skipped its first stage and commenced in the second."-Peters. CLINICAL RE mARKs.-The action of apocynum on the mucous surfaces is not yet fully understood. I have cured one case of obstinate nasal catarrh with the 1st dil. It seems to cause catar. rhal states similar in nature to those induced by Pulsatilla, Sumbul, Copaiva and Paris quadrifolia. Mouth. —Dryness of the mouth, with nausea, thirst, &c. (See general symptoms.) Dryness of the tongue. Throat.-Throat filled with thick, well concreted yellow mucus in the morning. Unpleasant degree of heat in throat. CLINICAL REMARKS. —Some persons are much troubled with hawking of yellow mucus from the throat and fauces every morning. In such cases the apocynum will probably give relief: Stomach.-Distention of the stomach after meals. Sense of great oppression about the epigastrium, with great difficulty of getting breath, after lighter meals than ordinary, Occasionally a sense of sinking was experienced at the pit of the stomach, with general but transient debility. Sinking at the stomach (this is a prominent symptom of the drug). Intense nausea, but cannot vomit. Severe vomiting (from very large doses). Violent vomiting, with prostration and drowsiness. Increases the appetite and digestion (curative). CLINICAL RE1AmRKs.-. —It causes symptoms of the stomach similar to those which are nearly always presented in cases of impending or existing dropsy. It should be tried in that troublesome symptomr-" Sinking at the stomach " —which occurs in women at the climacteric period. In diabetes this symptom is nearly always present, and may be relieved by this drug. It seems quite homceopathic to the vomiting which occurs in the first stage of hydrocephalus, for "' violent vomiting with drowsiness" is quite pathonomonic of that disease. Dr. Freligh cured with it an "irritable stomach so bad that the patient could not retain even a draught of water," which occurred as a complication of dropsy. Abdomen.-Decided distention of the abdomen, especially after a moderate dinner. The upper bowels seemed distended-the lower not at all. Occasional flatulence, with slightly uneasy sensations in the bowels. 46 NEW IHOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. CLINICAL REMARKs.-Of the great value of apocynum in ascites we have an immense amount of proof from the allopathic, eclectic, and homceopathic physicians. All unite in pronouncing it a generally useful remedy, a veritable " vegetable trocar," as Dr. Rush called it. The mass of evidence in its favor would fill many pages, and we will only record a few of the most prominent cases. The first accounts of its great value in ascites were from the reports of Dr. Griscomb, in the Amer. Jour. of Medical Sciences, Vol. XII. Afterwards, Prof. Merrill, Dr. Knapp, Dr. Valentine Mott, and Prof. Lee, and many others bore testimony to its great usefulness. Prof Merrill related to his class a case of ascites in a boy of 12 years old, which was promptly relieved by this remedy, after every other treatment had failed, and the disease had progressed so far that a time had been fixed for the operation of tapping. The extract was given, first in doses of one grain, afterwards increased to ten grains, three times a day. The effects were, moderate catharsis of a bilious and feculente haracter, free diuresis, without being profuse, and copious perspiration. Great relief and relaxation was obtained in the first 24 hours, and in five days there was no hydrophic condition remaining." (Other cases of ascites will be found under the head of " General Dropsy.") To Dr. John F. Gray, of New York, is due the the credit of fairly introducing this remedy in the treatment of dropsical affections. He could, if he would, make known hundreds of cases successfully treated by the Apocynum. But with advancing years he has an invincible dislike to making his great and varied experience public. Happily, other homceopathic physicians have reported cases of anasarca, &c;., of great value to the profession. Dr. Jas. T. Alley, in the N. A. Journal, reports a case of ascites, supposed to be caused by cirrhosis or hobnail liver. In this instance it was used in conjunction with a'pis and nitro-muriatic acid. He bears testimony to its value in cases of dropsy "when there is no organic derangement to impede its action." Even when there is, he thinks it may aid other and more specific remedies. In " abdominal drosy from hob-nail liver, I believe it to be a sure, though not rapid remedy." He gave quite large doses, "as much," he says, " as could be perfectly well borne without disturbance to the digestive organs. In Hull's Jahr is reported a case of ascites caused by Quinine, cured by Apocynum. Dr. Freligh (N. A. Jour., Vol. IV., p. 519,) reports several cases of ascites cured with this drug:" Mrs. C., aged 49, and Miss M., aged 23. The former was referable to a cessation of the menses, and the latter arose from congestion of the liver and portal system. "Within six months I treated an aged lady, who had been.under treatment for the best part of eight months by one of the professors of our city, who pronounced the case' incurable organic disease of the heart,' cured with apocynum." APOCYNUM CANNABINUM, 47 I once cured a notable case of ascites with this remedy. The patient was a lady, aged 45. Her climacteric period had passed without much disturbance. She caught a severe cold in the month of March; had some fever and pain in the bowels, and was treated by an eclectic physician for "inflammation of the bowels." When I first saw her she was much emaciated, very weak, no appetite, red tongue and sore throat, abdomen slightly distended, and the seat of a great deal of heavy, "bruised" pain. The urine was scanty, high colored; bowels costive. The treatment was commenced with Arsenicum 30th. No improvement following in a week, the 3rd, and finally the 1st trituration was given, but.the ascites rapidly increased. For six weeks various remedies were tried, among which were Kali carb, HIelleborus, China, Colchicum, Cantharis, Cannabis, and Kal. iod, but no benefit accrued from any thing. The effusion had now increased to an enormous extent. She was obliged to sit erect in a chair all the time. Lying down brought on fits of suffocative dyspncea. Her body and extremities were exceedingly emaciated. No cedema of the feet. Urine nearly suppressed; only one or two ounces a day. Bowels very constipated, moving only every four or five days. At this time, an experienced allopathic physician was called in, who advised blue pill, gamboge, and a resort to tapping. This treatment was not tried. I then gave Apocynum 1st, for two days; no effect; then 10 drops of the tincture every two hours for two days. She got worse. Then I made a decoction of the dry root, half ounce to one pint of water. Of this she took a tablespoonful every four hours, but no effect was noticed. I proposed tapping to save her life, but she decidedly refused to submit to the operation. I then procured some of the fresh root (in the month of July), and made a decoction (one ounce to one pint of water). She took a tablespoonful of this every two hours. In 12 hours the urine became more profuse, the bowels moved freely, the skin became moist, no nausea or pain was produced. In a week she could lie down and sleep all night. Under the use of similar doses, four times a day, she ultimately recovered, and in two months was considered as healthy and strong as ever. Bowels.-From small doses; loose feculent bilious stools, with slight uneasiness in the abdomen. Loose, but not very copious bilious stools. Sensation as if diarrhcea would occur. From very large doses; copious watery discharges with severe griping pains, nausea and vomiting, slow pulse, cool skin and copious perspiration. CLINICAL REMARKs-In moderate doses it does not seem to irritate the bowels much. The best Allopathic authorities do not deem it necessary to produce its hydrogogue effects, in the treatment of dropsy; Prof. Lee says it need not be given, even to nausea, all its best cures have been made without giving it to the extent of causing watery evacuations. It has even cured dropsy, while the bowels remained obstinately costive and the stools light colored. Dr. Payne, of Albany, states that it has been used successfully for diarrhceas and intestinal lhcemorrhcayes, and 48 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS.. suggests it in cholera morbus, and cholera-infantum. Its analogues are Elateriumn, Helleborus niger, Euphorbia cor, Colocynth and Arsenicum, yet it has a specific effect upon the kidneys which these have not. Kidneys and Urine.-Dull aching pain in the region of the kidneys, with increased secretion of straw-colored urine. No tenderness in the region of the kidneys on pressure, nor was the composition of the urine changed any. (Marcy's proving with 3d dil). Decided scantiness of urine. Urine diminished to one-third the usual quantity, but no pain or uneasiness about the kidneys or bladder. The little water that passed flowed as easily as if it were oil, and there seemed to be but little expulsive power about the bladder. The urine was generally of a light golden sherry-yellow color, not depositing any sediment on exposure to cold. Very peculiar torpid action of the kidneys. (Peter's proving with crude doses.) Very profuse, light colored urine. Several quarts, and even gallons of urine were passed every day. It causes copious diuresis when given in dropsy. CLINICAL REMARKS.-In all the provings, so far, it has caused no particular pain in the urinary organs, but a decided scantiness of urine. Probably the experiments were not thorough enough. My experience is, that it is the most reliable diuretic in use. No drug may be more confidently relied on to produce profuse urination, when given in disease. Dr. Freligh says, "I have found it equally efficient in urinary difficulties, particularly dysuria, strangury and anury, and it appeared quite immaterial, judging from its effects, whether the symptoms depended upon common catarrh of the bladder, diseases of the prostrate, or upon a morbid irritation of the bladder, and whether from gravel, or from a want of tone in the parts concerned in its evacuation. I have never known it to fail even in cases of retention depending upon paralysis, having used it successfully, in a case of paralysis of the inferior extremities, caused by injury to the spine. Every remedy had been tried in vain, and the catheter afforded the only relief, which had been used once and sometimes twice a day for a fortnight. The first dose had the desired effect, I have treated many other interesting cases of urinary difficulty successfully with the apocynum. The doses administered in the case referred to, were from two to five drops of the tincture, (never more than seven) in a tumbler two-thirds full of pure cold water, a desert spoonful given, for the dropsical affections, every four hours; in urinary difficulties every hour until relief was afforded. Dr. Freligh reports several cures of dropsy effected with the Apocynum:' "Mr. L. aged 64, who had been under medical treatment for several months, and gradually grew worse, until his symptoms were of the most alarming character, and threatened immediate suffocation. I found him laboring under the most agonizing difficulty of breathing, being supported in the sitting position in bed, by two or three persons alternately. His stomach was in such an irritable condition that he could not retain even a draught of cold water, countenance APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 49 expressive of anguish, abdomen distended, urine entirely suppressed and very extensive cedema. This case was denominated organic disease of the heart, by his physician. In a fortnight from the time I recommended the treatment, he rode out with ease and comfort, and now appears perfectly well. If the diagnosis of the other physician was correct, the apocynum will not only cure dropsy depending upon organic disease of the heart, in a less time than would appear credible, but also the primary or original disease, pronounced incurable."'"Mr. G. aged 62, ascites, and anasarca, and (edema of the inferior extremities, succeeding typhus. His abdomen very much distended and painful, pulse small and irregular, skin dry and husky, urine high-colored, diminished in quantity, voided with difficulty, breathing very laborious." "Master P. aged 8, post-scarlatinal dropsy, face much swollen, also neck, chest and extremities. When I was called they thought him dying; he was gasping for breath and could not utter a syllable although perfectly conscious and would answer by signs. "Dr. F. adds that during the last seven or eight years he has used the apocynum with the most decided success in almost every form of dropsy. He has succeeded with it in hydrothorax, ascites and general anasarca, when Arsenicum, Apis, Hellebore, Digitalis and Kali iod, with vapor baths, &c., have failed. lDr. Peters has reported several interesting cases:Case 1. A gentleman aged 70, over six feet high and splendidly proportioned, became dropsical. The urine became scanty, bowels constipated, feet, legs and abdomen grew slowly larger, and gradually great difficulty in breathing from the slighest exertion or on lying down ensued. From the thickness of the abdominal walls, and the great quantity of fat in the omentum, fluctuation in the abdomen was long masked, but finally became very distinct.. The thickness of the walls of the chest also rendered the physical signs of hydrothorax indistinct for a long time, but they finally became very manifest. The action of the heart became very feeble, but was always distinct, the pulse often vanished down to a mere thread, was often almost imperceptible for several beats, frequently so compressible that slight pressure would obliterate for the time, and altogether so strangely irregular, weak and intermitting, that the sudden death of the patient was expected as a matter of course. These symptoms progressed steadily in spite of the use of Arsenicum, Hellebore, Scilla, Digitalis, China, &c.. HEe was finally put upon the use of Hunt's decoction of apocynumr. At the suggestion of Dr. Gray, commencing with tea-spoonful doses every two or three hours. In less than 48 hours the patient was comparativbly comfortable, was a.ble to lie down and sleep with pleasure, whereas previously. he had looked forward to the approaching night with the utmost dread and horror; the urine increased moderately and steadily, and in a few weeks, the patient who had been ill for upwards of four months, was not only well, but felt better than he had for years. The bowels remained sluggish under the use of the Hemp. This improved state of things lasted for more than a year 7 50 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. then a relapse was speedily cured by Hemp; a third attack was cured by Apis; a fourth by Digitalis, Squills and Mercurius; and a fifth by Iodide of Potash. During the larger portion of this time the patient had contracted a most invincible dislike to Apocynum; but in a sixth attack, all the other remedies failing, he was persuaded to resume the Hemp, after his condition was almost hopeless, and distressing in the extreme, from excessive oppression and difficulty of breathing, &c., hydrothorax and edema of the. lungs, inability to walk or step without being thrown into the most violent suffocating attacks, and in short fiom the numerous and complicated symptoms of gbneral anasarca, ascites, hydrothorax, hydro-pericardium, &c. After using the apocynum three or four days, in doses of one-third of a wine-glass full three times a day, the urine increased from less than a pint in 25 hours, to fully three quarts, with a progressing diminution of all the symptoms. This case has since died without any return of the dropsy." Case 2. "A man aged 32, had sufferred with anasarea, ascites and commencing hydrothorax for many weeks, under active Allopathic treatment by means of Cream of Tartar and Digitalis, Eleterium, &c. When I first saw him, his largest pantaloons had to be cut open andcltied with strings, to accommodate his elephantine limbs; he was utterly unable to lie down or sleep; urine especially scanty and bowels costive, The apocynum was commenced in table-spoonful doses, gradually increased to a wine-glass full every four hours, by night and day; this was continued for upwards of ten days without any unpleasant symptoms, the urine slowly commenced to increase, and finally became enormous in amount. In less than a month he was entirely well; was soon able to go to sea, and remains well until this day, upwards of two years after. Case 3. A gentlemen aged 67, had gradually been growing dropsical for eleven months; he had first been treated homceopathically in the country, by an exceedingly able, but excessively high dilutionist; he then fell into the hands of two of the most distinguished Allopathic profession of this city; then he was again treated with high dilutions for several weeks by one of our oldest and best-known homceopathists, finally he came into my hands and was immediately put under the use of Apocynum. One desert spoonful per dose, every four hours; his urine which had been excessively scanty for months and finally had decreased to a small half pint, in twenty-four hours, thick yellow and turbid, as if yellow clay, had been dissolved in it, increased to upwards of two quarts in one. night; two large chamber pots full were passed in one day. In less than 48 hours after commencing the apocynuin the urine also became clear and of a light straw-yellow color; all the signs of ascites, anasarca, hydrothorax, and zedema of the lungs disappeared in less than ten days, after using about one pint of Hunt's preparation of Apocynum, (about one-half oz. of mother tincture). Case 4. A gentleman, aged about 50, was attacked with inflammatory rheumatism, and treated by an eminent old school physician for about eight weeks, when he became discouraged from the severity of his sufferings and placed himself under our care. I-e APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 51 had taken the usual routine medicines of the other school, Colchicure, Mercury, Iodide of Potash, Opium, etc., etc., and when he came into my hands, was reduced by the combined influence of the disease, and the drug to the following condition: Severe rheumatic pains in the back, shoulders, elbows and wrist joints, dull pains and great stiffness, and immobility in the lower extremities, cedematous condition of both legs, effusion of water in the chest and abdomen, excessive dyspncea with constant,sense of suffocation, acute pains in the cardiac region at every respiration, pulse rapid, feeble and very irregular, almost entire suppression of urine, dry and hot skin, thirst, dull headache, excessive anxiety and constant dread of suffocation, inability to assume the recumbent position, dryness of the tongue and mouth, inability to sleep from constant feeling of suffocation, short dry and painful cough. For this group of symptoms we prescribed the first dil. of Bryonia every hour. After a few hours the rheumatic and cardiac pains were ameliorated, and the oppression of the chest and difficult breathing were somewhat better. At the expiration of ten hours we prescribed Aconite 1st, in alternation with Bryonia every hour. During the night, some ten hours after the first dose of aconite, the patient had profuse perspiration for several hours, followed by an amendment of the entire condition. These two remedies were continued for two days longer, but caused no further improvement. The first dilution of apis, was next ordered in drop doses, every two hours. This was continued for three days without any notable improvement. The patient was now ordered to take a teaspoonful of HIunt's apocynum every two hours. In a few hours the urinary secretion was much increased and it continued for several days, until the dropsical effusions, and the dclematous condition of the limbs, had entirely disappeared. While under the use of apocynum occasional scarifications were made upon the legs and feet, giving exit to much serum. As the dropsical effusions diminished, nearly. all of the symptoms, first enumerated, gradually disappeared, until finally the patient complained of debility, and occasional paroxysms of palpitation of the heart, the remains of the rheumatism. After a few weeks the patient returned to his-home in the West, remained in a comfortable condition for several months, was again attacked with dropsy and after an illness of about two months, died. (Marcy.) "' Apocyntm is utterly useless in Bright's disease, except to remove the dropsy. I ought to add that albuminaria was present in none of the above cases. It is also comparatively useless when inflammation is present." (Peters.) "I have seen it very effectual in ascites in the hand of Dr. Okie of Providence, and have seen it remove the dropsical accumulations in Bright's disease, but never knew it to cure the disease." ( Watson.) Dr. Win. P. Fowler says he prolonged the lives of three dropsical patients, in which the disease was hepatic cirrhosis, (proved by post morterm) for several years, by the use of apocynum. In Dropsy after Scarlatina the apocynum has not been as 52 NEW OV OMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. thoroughly tested as it should be. Before I became acquainted with its value, I relied almost entirely upon Apis, Colchicum and Digitalis, and with very good success. But now and then a case would occur, marked by bloody urine, very scanty, with general cedema, which would utterly resist the action of these remedies. My first case treated with apocynum, was a little girl, aged about 2 years, who had been given up to die by the allopathic attendants, who had given squills, calomel, cream of tartar, etc. No urine had been voided for 24 hours, and all that had passed for several days previously was thick and black (from blood). I commenced with apocynum, 10 drops of the tincture in half a tumbler of water, a spoonful every hour. She was cured in a week, of the dropsy. The urine became pr9ofuse in 48 hours. Since this case, I have treated twenty or thirty, and with uniform success. I never got much effect from the 3d. dil. Sometimes the tincture, even in drop doses failed to act, but a resort to a weak decoction of the fresh root always had prompt effects, (one-half oz. of fresh root to one pint hot water, steep an hour or two.) In several cases marked by excessive debility, and typhoid symptoms, I gave 10 drops of a tincture prepared with spirits nitre dulc. instead of alcohol. It acted beautifully. I am inclined to think this mode of preparation a good one. Prof. Lee, who claims to have had large experience with this drug, says: "It is more certain as a diuretic, if the skin is kept cool, and cool drinks used. As the chief causes of dropsies are certain preexisting lesions of certain organs, as the heart, liver, and kidneys, we, of course can only expect our remedies to act as palliative, unless these organic lesions can be removed. In cases of idiopathic dropsy, when the exciting causes are external or physical agents, as cold, conjoined with moisture, malaria, suppression of' eruptions, or accustomed discharges, excessive depletions, etc., etc., we may expect curative effects from apocynum, aided by other remedies adapted to the pathological state." In chronic and asthenic forms of dropsy, connected with a watery, non-albuminous state of the blood, and general weakness of the system, the apocynum is most efficacious, in small and frequently repeated doses. In cases dependent on mere -debility and mal-nutrition, this remedy aided by suitable diet, will often effect a permanent cure. In advanced stages of albuminuria when there is considerable effusion, great relief may often be obtained from its use. Case 1. "General dropsy in a man of 68, of plethoric habits, brought on by exposure to cold. Small doses of the decoction were given, and in a short time all the dropsical symptoms disappeared."M Case 2. A lady of 58, of a full and plethoric habit, subject to congestion of the brain, and paralytic seizures of a hemiplegic nature, in which repeated bleedings had been practiced with apparent good effect, but followed by serous effusion into the pleural, pericardial, and peritoneal cavities, and cellular tissues generally, the effusion was successfully removed by small doses of the decoction." APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 53 Case 3. A gentleman of 66, a gentleman of spare habit and accustomed to luxurious living, began to be affected with cough, shortness of breath and symptoms of aqueous deposit in the pleural cavity followed by (edema of the extremities. The apocynum was found to exercise complete control over the disease for many years. He finally died of dropsy. Dr. Griscomb reports many cases of the same character, in which the apocynum was successful. In idiopathic dropsies it generally effected a cure, while in dropsies depending on disease of the liver, heart or kidneys, its effects were mainly palliative, prolonging life for years. Probably, had it been aided by proper remedices, homieopathic to the pathological conditions present, permanent cures might have been effected. From the foregoing, the physician should get a pretty plain idea of the sphere of action of this valuable drug, in the treatment of dropsical affections. As the result of my individual experience, I would lay down the following rules for its administration. 1) In cases of acute idio2pathic dropsies, use the dilzutions beginning with the highest and descending more or less rapidly, accorcding to theprogress of the disease. 2) In chronic or atonic dropsies, (secondary) use the tincture, or if: necessary the decoction, in one or two dram doses. Sexual Organs. —The few experiments which have been made with the hemp, have not developed any pathogenetic symptoms of the male sexual organs. None of the provers were females, and its action on the uterus, is only known by some curative effects noticed by D. ]. Marsden, X.*, D., who gives the following cases: He says-" For about ten years, I have been in the habit of using the apocynum in arresting menorrhagia as well as some other forms of uterine hbemorrhage." Case 1. "A lady was laboring under alarming uterine haemorrhage. It was her regular catamenial period, the flow had been moderate for a day or two, and then suddenly set in with so much violence that she soon became too weak to be out of bed. She was about 25 years of age, the mother of three children; in her last labor she had hemorrhage previous to delivery. When I arrived at the bed side she was almost pulseless and disposed to faint, whenever she attempted to raise her head from the pillow. There was great irritability of the stomach, and vomiting. The haemorrhage which ceased at intervals, always resumed when the vital powers rallied,, and the heart resumed in some degree its wonted action. The blood was usually expelled in large clots, but sometimes was fluid. I prescribed one after the other, all the remedies laid down in the books, but with no good results. Several days had now elapsed, and I now resolved to try the Apocynum cann. I prepared some extempore tincture from the fresh root. Hastening to the bedside, I found the haemorrhage still going on undiminished. I prescribed one drop of my tincture (of uncertain strength) every hour. Almost immediately after commencing the medicine the flow became less profuse, and regularly and rapidly declined, without a single recurrence of its violence." 54 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. cGase 2. The patient was a house-keeper, about 40 years of age, accustomed to hard service, and but little careful of her health. She was the mother of one child, born about 15 years before. She had been suffering from the most exhausting menorrhagia for about six weeks, and had been taking medicine from an allopathic physician, but without benefit. I found her greatly debilitated, pulse feeble and quick, palpitations very troublesome whenever she attempted to move about the house, stomach excessively irritable. She had been obliged to leave off her occupations, and passed her time for the most part in bed, or seated on a chair by the bedside. The discharge was fluid, and still undiminished. I left apocynum to be taken in drop doses at an interval of two hours (same tincture as used in first case.) The next day she had severe vomitings. Her stomach was too irritable to bear the dose I had prescribed, and which was probably unnecessarily large. The discharge seemed, however, to be diminished. After givivg some medicines to allay the irritability of the stomach, I again gave the hemp, a few drops in a teaspoonful of water. I believe I decreased the strength more than once, before the remedy could be borne without creating nausea. The flow, however, still continued to diminish, and in about a week from the time of my first visit was reported to have nearly ceased. It was, of course, some time before the patient regained her strength. Upon inquiry made some mopths afterwards, I was informed that at one or two periods immediately subsequent, the flow was somewhat above the normal amount, but soon subsided spontaneously, and that then she was as regular as is usual at her time of life. Dr. Marsden says he could furnish many other cases in his own practice equally striking, but will only give the following, reported to him by his friend and former pupil, Dr. WY. H. Cook:"Mrs. N., aged 38 years, was taken ill in June, 1863, with uterine hmemorrhage, and was attended by an Allopathic physician until about the middle of December following. During this period she experienced the most frightful floodings, as she termed them, and for more than three months of the time the flow was continuous, requiring her to keep her bed for weeks together. After having hmmorrhage for several weeks, she expelled a mass of membrane, (as she has since informed me,) which I supposed to be the deciduous lining of the uterus. But, even after this the hmmorrhage continued, and in exhausting quantities-so much so, that there was not a blood-vessel perceptible upon the surface of the body, and the emaciation was extreme. She had only had a cessation of a couple of weeks together, and but two or three times since the commencement in June. The flow was excessive at the time of my first visit. I saw her at 12 ir., and after inquiring into the case, I left her four grs. of the 1st dec. trit. of apoc. can. (bark of the root) to be dissolved in 2 oz. of water, a teaspoonful to be taken every hour until the hbemorrhage should cease, or I should see her again. By 12 o'clock, midnight, the hmemorrhage had almost entirely ceased, and she left off the medicine. I then gave her other remedies to assist in recruiting her almost exhausted APOCYNUM CANNABINUM. 55 system, under the use of which she improved rapidly. In about two weeks the hbemorrhage set in again, when I left her the same prescription, and in less than 24 hours all was right. Since that time there has been no return, except at her catamenial periods, and then not excessive. I am now, (April, 1864,) treating her, with a prospect of success, for an ulcerated os tincm. I also gave the same prescription as the foregoing to another lady who had suffered with uterine hmmorrhage about three-fourths of the time for several months. Some three months have since passed, and she now reports herself entirely rid of the trouble and regular. When I first employed the Apocynum, as above stated, I had seen no proving of that drug. In my own practice, however, I have seen enough of its pathogenesis to satisfy me that it is homieopathic to uterine hemorrhage. On two different occasions, when I gave it to a lady past the turn of life, in doses of ten drops of the tincture three or four times a day, for ascites, it had not the slightest perceptible influence on that affection, but was followed in both instances, after a few days, by the return of the catamenial flow, very much in the natural manner. I also remember the case of a young girl, in whom the catamenia had ceased without any apparent cause. She still retained her health and usual appearance. After taking the medicine in pretty large doses for a few days, she was reported all "right." By the way, I would suggest that in cases where amennorrhcea depends not upon deranged health, but upon some strong revulsion diverting the female circulation into other channels, this remedy might be legitimately used, with the hope that by its primary effects it would restore the accustomed discharge, and break up the abnormal condition of things. Larynx, Bronchia, and Chest. —Unpleasant sensation of heat about the fauces and larynx.-(FJireligh.) Irresistible disposition to sigh. Short, dry, cough, and scanty expectoration of white mucus in the morning. Oppression of the chest on waking. —(cMarcy.) Sense of oppression about the epigastriumn and chest. It was difficult to breathe enough to speak at times. CLINICAL REMAIRKS.-Eclectic physicians use it constantly as an expectorant. They expect the same effects from it which the allopath gets from his Ipecac, Squills, or Tartar Emetic. It undoubtedly increases the natural secretions of the bronchial surfaces. Such hints may be made useful. It indicates that we may use it in hoarse, loose coughs; with heat of the fauces; or cough with oppression of the chest; or short, dry cough, with scanty expectoration. Accompanying hydrothorax, and even ascites, we generally find a short, dry cough with oppression, and in such cases Apocynum is doubly indicated, both for the cough and dropsy. It has cured many cases of hydrothorax, and relieved many cases of dropsy from heart disease. As it causes the pulse to be slow, it probably quiets the action of the heart-a very important desideratum in hydro-pericardium. Back and Extremites. —Unusual heaviness of the head, with dull, aching pains in the small of the back and limbs. There was no tenderness of the region of the kidneys on pressure, but a slight 56 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. soreness of the parts when bringing the muscles into action, thus indicating the muscles as the seat of the pains. — (fcarcy.) Hara aching was felt several times in both knees, sufficiently severe to make me fear that an attack of inflammatory rhematism was coming on. CLINICAL REmAR~KS.-It may be found useful in some rheumatic affections, but probably more for the other effects, as (edema. In synovitis, after the acute stage has passed, it will probably help to cause absorption of the effused fluid. It has been found useful in edema of the feet and ankles remaining after typhus. ARUM TRIPHIYLLUM. (Indian Tirnnip, Jack in the Plkpit.) The A, triphyllum of the United States corresponds closely with the A. maculatum of Europe; both have very similar effects. Our native species is found throughout North and South America, growing in rich, shady woods and swamps. The cormus is an inch or two in diameter, and covered with brown, wrinkled epidermis, and internally white, fleshy and solid. The whole plant, when recent, has a peculiar odor and violent acrid taste; the root, when chewed, causes an insupportable burning and biting sensation in the mouth and throat, continuing for a long time. This acrid principle is very volatile, and is expelled by heat. Hence they are roasted and ate by the Indians. The acrid portion is not imparted to water, ether, alcohol, or olive oil. By drying, the root loses all its activity. The medicinal qualities of the root reside principally in this acrid, volatile principle. Owing to its unstable nature, it will be found very difficult to procure any preparation in which it will be retained. I would recommend, as the most probable way of preserving this volatile principle, that the juice of the fiesh root, be rapidly triturated with sugar of milk, (according to the decimal scale) and the trituration kept in bottles sealed hermetically, and guarded from the light and heat. The acrid principle has been called Aroine, and becomes an inflammable gas, by heat or distillation. Prof. Lee says: "The only way to preserve the active principles of the root is to bury it in dry sand, by which method it may be preserved for a year." GENERAL EFFECTS.-" The Arum may well be ranked among our most active alterants, for besides being a powerful local irritant, when taken internally, it stimulates all the secretions, particularly those of the skin, and lungs. It also quickens the circulation and rouses the nervous energy, so that there is no organ or function but feels its influence." —Lee. "It has been advantageously given in asthma, pertussis, chronic ARUM TRIPHYLLUM. 57 catarrh, chronic rheumatism, and affections connected with a cachiectic state of the system."- Wood. The fresh root grated, or reduced to a pulp, with three times their weight of sugar, is palliative to flatulence, cramp in the stomach, asthmatic and consumptive affections; and also in lingering atrophy, debilitated habits, great prostration in typhoid fevers, deep seated rheumatic pains, etc."-Rafinesque. All writers agree that it is a remedy which may be used to advantage as a stimulant. We have no proving, except that which relates to its local effects upon the mouth and throat. Its analogues are allitum sativa, and cepa, phosphorus, capsicum, etc. General Symptoms. -The fresh root, in doses of four or five grains, causes a sensation of burning heat in the stomach and (esophagus, which seems rapidly to spread all over the body. Then follows a quickening of the circulation, heat of the skin with warm perspiration, and some exaltation of the nervous energy. All the secretions are somewhat increased. LocAL EFFECTS.-MOuth, Throat, Tongue, ete.-The fresh root,when chewed, causes an insupportable burning and biting sensation in the mouth and throat, continuing for a long time. The sensation experienced in the mouth, throat, and tongue is absolutely indescribable. I never felt any sensation so tormenting and unbearable. The following narrative of the effects of the Arum maculatumn, copied from the British Journal, Vol. xvI., p. 321, so nearly resembles the effects of the Arum tryphyllum, as I have observed and felt them, as to be nearly identical: "After chewing a young leafstalk for a few seconds, a very intense, prickling, stinging pain was felt upon the tongue.and mucous membrane of the lips and throat, accompanied with a flow of saliva, which seemed to relieve the pain a little-the pains were as if a hundred little needles had been run into the tongue and lips. A friend, who followed my example, had, in addition to these symptoms, constriction and burning in the larynx, his tongue was swollen, and its papilla injected and raised. The mucus membrane of the throat and lips was inflamed. The pains on the tongue and lips were increased by pressure with the teeth. In two or three cases the leaves have been eaten by children, and have produced very distressing effects. In one instance, three children partook of them. Their tongues became swollen, so as to render swallowing difficult, and convulsions followed: one died in twelve, and another in sixteen days; the third recovered." Some cases of dangerous poisoning have been reported, as occurring from eating the A. tryphyllum. CLINICAL REMAREKs. —Although the local effects of Arum are very notable, yet we have no clinical experience to show its practical usefulness in cases of disease effecting the mouth and throat. Dr. J. S. Douglas recomm'ends it in Quinsy and Angina. Dr. Hill, in his Surgery, proposes it in similar affections. If we could preserve the volatile, acrid principle intact in our preparations, we might expect good results from its use, perhaps, in cases to which it is hoinmeopathic. It is indicated in the following affections: Glos8 .58 NEW HIOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. sitis, when the swelling is rapid and accompanied with prickling and burning pains. Stomatitis, in its most acute form, with great tumefaction of the lips, mucus membrane of the mouth, etc., followed by superficial ulceration. (Edema of the Glottis.-The symptoms of Arum-poisoning present many points of resemblance to this fearful disease. The rapid tumefaction of the tissues, the pains and many other local symptoms, are very similar. It may prove more useful than Apis, Belladonna or Rhus, but we cannot expect much from any preparation of the Arum, unless it contains the acrid principle mentioned. lMercurial or Idiopathic Salivation, in some of its forms, may be met with this remedy; also, Inflammation of the mucus follicles of the throat, with exudation of mucus, constant "hawking," and profuse secretion from the diseased tissues. Acute and Chronic Catarrh of the fauces and posterior nares, may come under the curative range of this remedy. It has been used with advantage in enlargement of the Tonsils. Respiratory Organs.-The Arum has a time-honored reputation in Coughs. In dry coughs the dried root is valued highly. It promotes expectoration and mitigates the paroxysms, and has even cured some obstinate cases. In loose coughs, occurring in children and aged persons, when there is inability to expectorate the accumulated mucus, this medicine is said to act in a beneficial manner. In this respect it resembles Squills, Phosphorus, etc. Asthma humidum has been relieved and notably palliated by the powdered dry root. In all these affections the lower triturations of the dry root will be the best preparation. This is one of those peculiar remedies which can never come into extensive use, because of the evanescent character of its effects, and the difficulty of making a thorough proving of it. Its sphere of action is limited, being but a faint analogue of its great prototype Phosphorus. ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA. (Alilk- Weed.) This milk-weed is one of our common plants, growing by roadsides and in dry sandy fields, from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. The stem is simple, and from three to four feet high, surmounted by numerous umbels, or balls of flowers, of a pale, purple color. The leaves are oblong, lanceolate, petiolate, pointed at the end and whorled, the under surface covered with a short matted hair; segments of the corona, five; petals and sepals reflex; corona erect. The seeds are enclosed in oblong, pointed, rough pods of from two and a half to three inches in length; each seed is attached to a mass of long, silky fibres, which can be made ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA. 59 into a beautiful thread. The whole plant yields an abundant milky juice. This plant has not been used much in the dominant school, but several eclectic physicians have claimed to use it successfully in dropsy, colds, catarrhs, and lung affections. They call it expectorant, diaphoretic, alterative, anodyne, &c. In acute rheumatism, Prof. Lee says it bears a close resemblance to cimicifuga. Of six cases of acute rheumatism which he treated with asclepias syr., the average duration was eight days; the inflammation confined to the large joints, with considerable pain and swelling. It had a remarkable effect in relieving the pain. Dr. Pattee, a progressive allopath, has made some physiological experiments with the plant, which may be considered as a good " fragmentary" proving. It is to be regretted that all the symptoms were not noted. He says: "Two ounces of the cold infusion, made from the fresh root gathered after the leaves had fallen; taken once every 4 hours, proved diuretic; two oz. of the warm infusion, taken every 2 hours, proved diajphoretic; 15 drops of the saturated tincture, taken once every 3 hours, had well marked alterative (?) effects; and one drachm of the saturated tincture, repeated once every three hours, until 8 drachms were taken, cause headache, drowsiness and sleep. In all the experiments, it increased the bronchial secretion. "The first experiment was made upon myself. The urine for three days immediately preceding the experiment was as follows: 35 oz. per day; specific gravity 1019.7; solid matter 568 gr.; pulse 68. After 12 oz. had been taken the first day, the quantity of urine passed in that time was 128 oz.; specific gravity 1020; solid matter 600 gr.; pulse 67. Second Dcay. There was but a small increase of water. The specific gravity and solid matter about the same; pulse 66. Third Day. (Quantity of medicine same as preceding days). Quantity of urine 130 oz.; specific gravity 1019.97; solid matter 608 grs.; pulse 63. On the 4th, 5th and 6th days, the quantity of urine passed averaged 135 oz. per day, and the amount of solid matter 700 grs. each day; pulse 60. The diet and exercise were not materially altered from what it had been for a month past. The medicine did not seem to cause any derangement of the health; the urinary organs were not irritated in any way; the only perceptible effect it had upon the brain was to cause a calm, quiet feeling, perhaps a little drowsiness towards night." "The subject of the second experiment was a young man 18 years of age, of good health; pulse 75. At 9 P. M., gave him 3 oz. of warm infusion; the young man in bed; in half an hour commenced sweating; in an hour he was sweating profusely, and continued to do so the rest of the night, the infusion being given every two hours. The effect it had upon the brain was an agreeable sensation 60 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. at first; after that had passed off he expressed himself as "awful sleepy." When he awoke the next morning, said he had " slept rather hard," but felt no inconvenience through the day. It produced the same effect the following night. The third day, I'gave him one dram of the saturated tincture, made from the dry root, one every three hours, commencing at 6 P. M. At 9 P. M., said his head felt a little dizzy, and had some headache; slept sound through the night; skin quite moist; passed 4 oz. more urine than usual, in the morning. After continuing this for four more days, had to discontinue it on account of the derangement it caused to the system; he had but little relish for food; appeared dull and stupid; bowels had moved oftener than usual; the tongue was covered with a white fur; pulse 64. In a few days he was well as ever." " In cases where the pulse had been from 50 to 60, they have increased to 65 and o0. Large'doses in any form will produce nausea., vomiting, and, in some instances, ardor urince. If the medicine does not produce diaphoresis, diuresis, or catharsis, violent headache will sometimes ensue, but when given in medical doses and for disease, we do not see much headache." (The italics are my own. I will refer to the subject hereafter.-HZ.) If this experimenter had understood the value of recording the characteristic symptoms evolved by the medicine, we should have a much clearer view of its pathogenetic action. As it is, however, the fragment is a very suggestive one, and we may draw some really valuable conclusions from it. Arranged after the Hahnemannian method, the symptoms would stand as follows: General Symptoms. —Sensation of calmness and quietude of the whole system. In rheumatism, its action was very favorable. It had a remarkable effect in relieving the pain. Skin.-Profuse sweating all night (from the warm infusion); in a low state of typhus fever it has produced a moist state of the skin, when other diaphoretics had failed, and convalescence was at once established. The milky juice that exudes from the stalk has been used externally for warts. A poultice of the fresh root, boiled, has considerable reputation for the cure of carbuncles, felons, and boils. (No specific effect is here produced-a poultice of ulmus fulva would do as well.) Sleep. —Calm, quiet feeling, with drowsiness towards night. Great sleepines, with profuse sweating; sensation in the morning on waking as if he had "slept hard." Ieever.-It does not seem to cause febrile symptoms, as a primary effect, but it is said to cause the pulse to rise from 50 to 70, with increased heat of skin, when it does not cause diuresis or diaphoresis. CLINICAL RETIrARK.-It would seem indicated in cases of fever from suppressed perspiration; with scanty urine, headache, and pulse at 75. Rlead.-The only perceptible effect it had upon the brain of one of the provers, was to cause a calm, quiet feeling, perhaps a little drowsiness towards night. The other prover said it caused ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA. 61 " an agreeable sensation at first," afterwards sleepiness; vertigo, with headache. When the medicine does not cause diuresis or diaphoresis, violent headache will sometimes ensue; dull and stupid. CLINICAL REMARIs.-From the above it would seem to be homoeopathic to sleepiness, which has followed upon any excitement of the brain -of an agreeable nature; also, headache with vertigo. But it promises to be most useful in those cephalalgias which occur after suppressed perspirations, or which arise from the retention of effete matters in the system which ought to have been carried off through the skin or kidneys. It will certainly prove useful in nervous headaches, which are followed by profuse diuresis; in this respect it resembles ignatia, pulsatilla and gelseminum. Headache with dullness and stupidity. Gastric Symptoms, etc. —Tongue covered with a white fur; had but little relish for food; bowels moved oftener than usual; diarrhcea with persistent nausea, and with vomiting. Kidneys, etc.-The following table will best illustrate its action upon these emunctories: Quantity I Increase Increase of Specifc I Total of of Urine. Gravity. Solids. Urine. Solids. Normal Standard. -------— 33 oz. 1019.7 568 gr. Asolepias Syriaca First Day. —----------------...- 128 oz. 1020 600 gr. 63 gr. 82 gr. Third Day. —-. 180 oz. 1020 608 gr. 95 gr. 40 gr. Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Days... 185 oz. 1020 700 gr. 100 gr. 132 gr. By this it will be seen that the asclepias syr. notably increases the solid matters of the urine. This is an important fact, for from the careful experiments of Dr. Eammond (Hammond's Physiological Memoirs), it appears that colehicum actually increases the organic and inorganic solids of the urine, while digitalis, squills and juniper increase only the inorganic matter. Now, as it is the organic matter which is generally considered as contaminating the blood in disease, it is evident they (digitalis, squills and juniper) exert no effect whatever in depurating the blood, but on the contrary are positively injurious. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Asclepias syriaca then, is a congener of colchicum, and as such must be found useful in many diseases in which the latter drug has been successfully used. In Scarlatina, when the head symptoms correspond, it may prove a useful auxiliary remedy. In Scarlatinal -Dropsy, I predict it will be found as useful as colchicum (which I have found one of our most important remedies), apis, apocynum, hellebore or arsenicum. It is now fully established that the dropsy, which follows scarlet fever is caused by the scarlatinal poison which, in its passage into and through the kidneys, sets up an "acute desquamative nephritis." Dr. Todd (" Urinary Diseases," page 120) says: "There are three conditions, which I imagine gives rise to the production of the dropsy. These are: 1st, a peculiar irritated state of the kidneys; 2d, an analogous morbid state of the skin; and, 3d, a 62 NEW HOMClEOPATHIC PROVINGS. certain depravity of the blood-by which I mean not only a deficiency in the amount of red corpuscles of that fluid, as well as of the solids of the serum, but also the unnatural presence of certain poisonous matters which interfere with its proper nutrient changes.' It is this " poisonous matter which irritates the skin and kidneys and causes the dropsy." Now, it will be recollected, that the asclepias syr. causes "violent headache, increased rate of pulse, vertigo, dullness and stupor," when it did not cause diuresis or perspiration. That is, when the impression which the drug, after pouring into the blood, caused upon the nervous centres,, did not react upon the kidneys and skin; the brain felt the force of the medicinal action. (Similar conditions occur from the use of alcohol.) Also, when the scarlatinal poison in the blood, is not carried off through the kidneys or skin, the.brain and nervous system suffers, and convulsions more or less fatal ensue. Asclepias syriaca, seems to be a more rational remedy for this condition than any other, not even excepting colchicunm, and I predict that its use in scarlatinal dropsy will bear me out in my belief. It will also relieve, I think, those rheumatic pains which often occur after that disease. I would advise the patient to be placed in,bed, and this remedy administered as follows: a few drops of the 2nd, 1st, or even the mother tincture, in an ounce of warm sweetened water; the dose repeated every hour, until the skin and kidneys begin to act normally. (Apis, Hellebore, Apocyc, or Colchicum, should be given in the same manner.) If more convenient, give a weak warm infusion —1 dram of the root to 1 pint water. In Dropsy, especially when arising from suppressed perspiration, or some forms of renal disease, it will be useful. We do not know what are the peculiar pathological changes which it can cause in the kidneys, and we are equally ignorant of the pathological effects of Apis, Apoc. c. and most of our best remedies for dropsy. But it may be considered a general rule, that a drug which primarily causes diuresis, will secondarily cause dropsy. In proof of this, we may cite the provings of Canth., Apocynum c., Arsenicum, Apis., and all the so-called diuretics. They first excite the kidneys to abnormal action; then the reaction follows, and we have suspension of function, and consequent effusion. Asclepias syr. then is truly homceopathic to renal dropsy. Dr. Pattee says: "It has in my hands certainly proved useful in the removal of dropsical effusions.:Dr. Smith relates the case of a man of 80, who had general dropsy, caused by taking cold; he was enormously swollen; he commenced taking 2 oz of the cold infusion every two hours; in 24 hours he had passed over three gallons of water, and in a week, all the dropsical symptoms had disappeared." I once treated a case of general dropsy from disease of the heart. In the advanced stages, after all the usual remedies had one after the other failed to give relief, I resorted to the Asclepias syr.; not having any tincture, I ordered an infusion —1 oz. to a quart of ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA. 63 water-the fresh root was used; a tablespoonful of this preparation was given every two hours. Under its use the urine increased to nearly a gallon a day, and the breathing was much relieved. The patient was made comfortable by its use fobr many weeks, but finally died of the cardiac disease. Dr. Pattee says, in large doses it will produce ardor urince." The persistent use of small doses will have the same effect; in fact, all " diuretic" medicines have the same effect. By the continued irjtliiont h wl;ch they keep up in the urxnary organs, inarnmmaton is finally induced. This inflammation may lead on to organic disease, and consequent anasarca. Here we have the foundation for a general rule, viz.' That all diuretics are secondarily homoeopathic to the various forms of renal dropsy. Uterus, etc. In the case of dropsy from heart-disease, referred to above; the patient's menses had not appeared for 4 months; she showed no signs of pregnancy; indeed, it was deemed impossible, that such condition could exist. Such was the general cedema that no vaginal examination could be made. About 24 hours after she commenced the use of the Asclepias syr.; and after diuresis had set in, she was taken with severe laborlike pains; pressing down from small of the back to the hypogastrium, with a scanty discharge of pale red blood. These pains increased with each dose, but disappeared a few hours after suspending the medicine. Upon resuming it, the pains again appeared. The experiment was tried several times with similar results. In her feeble state, it was not deemed prudent to carry the experiment further. CLINICAL REMARKS. —In this case, whether pregnancy was present or not, the Asclepias syr. manifested a decided specific action upon the uterus. It caused intermitting, bearing-down, laborlike pains, which but few drugs will do. (Macrotis, Caulophyllum, Uva ursi.) The uterine pains caused by Ergot, Tanacetum, and others of that class are more constant, remitting. In domestic use it has some reputation as an emmenegogue, and abortivant. It has been employed in dysmenorrhcea and amenorrhcea by eclectic physicians with alleged success. The above experiment would go to show, that it was homoeopathic to dysmenorrha Hiul tbhrgnud abortion: E;pecially when there is oopious discharge of urine. Dysmenorrhwoa is often accompanied by diuresis, in which case this remedy would be perfectly indicated. ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA. (Pleurisy Root.) The root of this variety of Asclepias is perennial, and gives origin to numerous stems which are erect, ascending, or procumbent, round, hairy, of a green or reddish color, branching at the top, and about 18 inches -in height. (It rarely exceeds this, although it 64 NEW HOM(EOPATllIC PROVINGS. is stated to be three feet by some authorities.) The leaves are scattered, oblong-lanceolate, very hairy, of a deep rich green color on their upper surface, paler beneath, and supported usually on short foot stalks. The flowers are of a beautiful reddish-orange color, and disposed in terminal or lateral corymbose umbels. The fruit is an erect, lanceolate follicle, with flat ovate seeds, connected to a longitudinal receptacle by long silky hairs. This plant differs from other species of Asclepias in not emitting a milky juice when wounded. It flourishes from Massachusetts to Georgia, and when in full bloom, in the months of June and July, exhibits a splendid appearence. The root is the part used in medicine. This is large, irregularly tuberous, branching, often somewhat fusiform; externally brown, internally white and striated, and in the recent state, of a sub-acid nauseous taste. When dried it is easily pulverized, and has a bitter, but not otherwise unpleasant taste. It is considered by the eclectic school and others to be diaphoretic and expectorant, and in large doses cathartic. It is employed in regular practice and domestic use, in catarrh, pneumonia, pleurisy and consumption. It is held in high estimation in dysentery, rheumatism, and in cardialgia from flatulence or indigestion. The following proving, if such it can be called, was communicated to the Jour. de la Societe Gallicana de Med. Hom. by A. Savery, M. D., who, it seems was a pupil of Dr. B. Mure, of Brazilian provings "notoriety." I insert the "proving," in order that no accusation of unjust bias can be made against me. At the same time I must enter my honest protest against the manner in which th'e experiment was made; and state my conscientious belief of the utter worthlessness of the proving. I will state the grounds of my objections. Only two drops of the tincture was taken; no repetition of the dose was made, and all the symptoms, sensations, &c., felt by the prover, for the ensuingforty days were recorded. It is stated that at the commencement of the proving, the prover was sufferring from irritation of the respiratory organs and stomach. Now when we consider that the Asclepias is a mild, unirritating medicine, except in large doses, much milder in its action than Ipecac, or Apocynum; that in domestic practice it is common for those having catarrhs, fever, or any simple ailment, to drink a pint of the decoction, and feel no other effects than gentle diaphoresis, and complain of no after symptoms; that eclectic physicians use it in almost every disease, in large doses of the fluid extract, or even the -active principle asclepin, and note no bad effects; and finally, when I state that I have taken the tincture in 10 and 20 drop doses tour times a day and never noticed any unpleasant effects-any such symptoms as Savery records, it seems incredible that the long list of serious symptoms should be caused by only two drops of the tincture. We must remember, too, the admission that the experimenter had " respiratory and gastric irritation," when he took the first dose, and this alone should lead us to look with suspicion upon the proving. It is with a good deal of hesitation that I have admitted this "proving" into the volume, for it is a very grave and important ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA. 65 matter to give a proving, which may be instrumental in determining the life or death of a patient. Suppose the proving of Veratrum alb. had been unreliable and false? How many thousands of cholera patients would have gone down to the grave without an administration of the proper remedial specific. We hold in our hands, oftentimes, the lives of our patients, and it behooves us to be solemnly conscientious in the selection of those remedies which we use at the bedside of the sick. We should neither be swayed, by theory, prejudice, or the dictum of other men, but carefully weigh the value of a pathogenesis by the light of reason and experience. I copy the proving as it was translated and arranged by Dr. Rhees, and published in the Amer. Hoim. Review, vol. 2, and will not offer any clinical remarks of my own with this proving, but let it stand by itself, and if any physician sees fit to accept the pathogenesis as a reliable one, let him do so upon his own responsibility. The symptoms enumerated bear some resemblance to those which have been cured by asclepias tuberosa; but throwing aside all other circumstances, this proving should be substantiated by others beforp it could be received. I fully agree with Prof. Small, that the true test of the reliability of all provings is the multiplicity of experiments. If they all evolve the same or similar symptoms, we cannot hesitate to accept them. (The numerals indicate the days after taking the medicine.) DR. SAVERY'S PROVING. General Symptoms.-Sensation of numbness in the whole body. Excessive weakness in the morning in bed. Walking seems impossible. Sensation while walking as if he run but forward toward the left side. Aching in the bones, and rheumatic pains in the extremities, principally in the joints; those pains appear in one arm and in the opposite leg at the same time; thus if the left arm is affected the right leg suffers in sympathy, and the left leg with the right arm; this circumstance was almost constant. Quivering and twitching of the muscles in different parts; emaciation. Skln. —Pimples, vesicles or pustules began to appear on the 15th day, and spread gradually over almost the whole body, but particularly on the arms, legs, and in the face; they are very painful and itch excessively, and continue more than eight days. A red inflamed spot on the upper part of the right thigh, as large as a dollar, painful and itching, continuing several days, and leaving a dark stain (23). Many vesicles on the lips (23). Pock-like pustules on the arms. CLINICAL REMARKS. —We believe it be a powerful anti-psoric, useful for cutaneous eruptions.-SAvERY. Sleep. — Difficult and late sleep at night, with great sleepiness in the morning, and through the day. Confused and anxious dreams. Fever.-Feverish the first day, the pulse being at first 55, afterwards 70. Sometimes much thirst, sometimes none. On the eighth day, pulse 92. Pulse thready, 65, during diarrhoea. Mind and Sensorium. —Excessive dejection (15). Weakness of 9 66 NEW HIOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS. memory (2). Difficulty of thinking, collectedly. Feeling of drunk.enness after smoking very little, with weakness of vision. Read.-Pain in the forehead with a feeling of heaviness in the side, continuing the whole day, (1). Headache is present almost daily, generally more severe early in the morning. Headache in the morning, while rising, with weakness, that he must lie down again; it continued the whole day, and all the following night, (7). Pricking as with nails in the head, and at the same time in other parts, (2). Pains in the scalp, in the left side of the occiput, like touching a pustule, (16). Falling of the hair, (39). CLINICAL lREAIARKS. —[t has proved useful in Cephalalgia; gastric headaches, neuralgias. —S. Eyes.-Transitory pain behind the left eyeball, in a few minutes. Broad dark spots before the eyes, with slow pulse of 55, (1). Itching in the angles and lids of the right eye, (3). Inflammation of the conjunctiva fbr many days; (this, however, is not an unusual symptom with the prover). Pain in the eyes, by gaslight. The eyes look lanquidl and fatigued. Feeling as if sand were in the eyes. The lower lids are painful as if ulcerated. Face.-Yellowness of the face, (15) Facies hippocratica (after violent diarrhcea on the 15th day). Yellow coating on the teeth. Pain in the right inferior molars, (24). Iouth. —Itching of thelips. Lips inflamed and covered with herpetic vesicles. Gums very pale and almost yellow; they bleed easily and repeatedly. Yellow, tough coating on the tongue, putrid taste. Pharynx.-Transitory constriction and stinging in the throat, extending to the larynx, (1). Pains in the throat. Soreness of the throat, (26). Appetite, &c. —Deficient appetite, especially in the morning, insatiable hunger, (2). Eructations on the first day, less frequent on the second. Nausea in the morning on rising, (17). Taste of blood in the mouth. Stomach. —Burning in the stomach (after 25 minutes). Pains in the stomach; nervous, even amounting to violent gastralgia; also cramp-like. Sensation as if the stomach would burst, while laughing. The pains in the stomach continue, almost without a day's intermission until the 42nd day. CLINICAL REuMKR.-Gastralgia.-S. Abdomen.-rhrobbing in the left hypochondria. Pains in the intestines, (after 20 minutes) subsequently attended with burning in the right hypochondriac region and stomach. Much flatulence, smelling like the medicine, with colic-like pains, with a sensation when walking as if the belly would drop. Violent pain in the hypogastrium as if the region were ulcerated with tenderness to pressure. Colic, while going up stairs; while walking; after one o'clock, (8-14) and also in the morning, during each stool. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is indicated and useful in enteritis. (Jaundice), etc. SAVERY. Stool.-Fluid, painful stool (2) of very strong smell (37). Clammy stool, of green color, and smelling like spoiled eggs, followed ASCLEPIAS TUBEROSA. 67 by pain in the arms. On the 14th day, at 1 o'clock at night, a painful and copious stool with violent colic, and a sensation as though the bowels would come out; half an hour afterwards, small but very painful stool; at 2 o'clock the same kind of stool, but with increased pain, (Verat. 8, relieved the pain). At 11 o'clock, another stool almost black in color, clammy, with many ascarides, and yellow spots like fat, attended with a feeling as if a stream of fire passed through the abdomen. In the afternoon, a stool of intense yellow color, with green and yellow flakes. In the evening, a stool exactly like the white of an egg, with no fcecal matter whatever. The following day the facees are entirely enveloped in froth. Tenesmus. CLINICAL REMARKS.-We have found it curative in acute enteritis; and it is indicated in dysentery, diarrhcea, etc. * Urine.-During the first 12 days the urine is red to saturation. On the 17th day it looks as if mixed with blood; after standing a short time, small, dark red, almost black points of the size of a pin's head rise on the surface, and much mucus is deposited on the bottom of the vessel. The urin'e is more red than normal all the time. Male and Sexual Organs.-Painful stitches in the urethra, repeatedly, Ulcerous excoriations on the glans, resembling chancre, with a pus-like secretion, (disappearing in a few days from washing in urine.) [The prover had chancre 10 years ago. One year ago, while proving this medicine, on the 3d day a chancre appeared on the left side of the prepuce, then on the right, lasting two days. Copious perspiration of the genitals. CLINICAL REMARKS.-We have employed this medicine with uniform success in constitutional syphilis, and it is indicated in venereal diseases. * JCatarrhal. —At first dry, then fluent coryza during the first few days, with much sneezing. Subsequently a blowing out of some blood from one nostril for several days. CLINICAL REMARKS. —It may prove useful in asthma and affections of the nose. * Larynx and Chest, leart.-Pain in the larynx. The breath smells like pepper. Necessity to inspire hurriedly, followed by a sensation of oppression. Want of breath like asthma, often very great, particularly after eating and smoking. Pain in the right lung. Pricking pain in the region of the heart. Contracting pain in the heart. CLINICAL REMARIKS.-We have employed it successfully in cases of phthisis and asthma. It seems indicated in carditis. 3Back and Extremities.-Stinging, transitory stitches between the shoulder blades. Pain in the loins like lumbago. Pain in left shoulder, soon after, in the right, like rheumatism. Pain in bones of left arm. Rheumatic pain in fore arm down to fingers. Numbness of right hand. Violent itching in bands and fingers. Pain in hips like coxalgia. Rending pain in knees up to the hips, when walking and rising. The ankle feel as if sprained. Pain in bones of left ankle, drawing in soles and in the toes. Violent itching on the legs up to the knees. BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. 69 stance has obtained for it one of its popular names." It relieves difficulty of breathing in general, together with pains in the chest. Several writers have stated that they "have used it in many cases of pleurisy and pneumonia with the most marked advantage, and this too, in nearly every stage of these complaints. * * It not only operates favorably as a diaphoretic, but is an expectorant of trancendent value, invariably increasing the freedom of breathing, and exerts a specific control over inflammation of the thoracic viscera." " It has been used with benefit in asthma," etc. (b.) I have found it useful in vomiting of mucus, and gastic debility. Pro. Lee says, "It is useful in atonic dyspepsia, restoring tone to the stomach, and relieving.gastric pains and flatulence." Any drug which is capable of causing irritation of the stomach, induces weakness of that organ; deranges the digestive function, and thence dyspepsia. Asclepicas tub. then cures this condition in small doses because it causes it in large. (c.) In the colic from flatulence, or from intestinal irritation, in children or adults, or in catarrhal diarrhcea, this remedy will be found useful. In this respect it resembles Chamomilla. I have found it useful in the dysenteries occurring in the autumn months, when the nights are cold and damp. Dr. Parker, of Mass., employed it for 25 years in dysentery, and had the greatest confidence in its powers. I have known it to cure in a few hours, severe rheumatic pains from a cold, with chilliness alternating with heat. I have generally used the tincture in doses of two or three drops, or the 1st or 2d dil., in same doses. I have no doubt but the higher dilutions would act equally well especially in young children. BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. (Wild Indigo. HorsefJy- Weed,) This plant is indigenous, growing in most part of the United States, in dry and poor soils, in woods and on hills. It blooms in July and August, having bright yellow flowers, in small loose clusters at the end of the branches. It resembles a shrub, and grows from one to two feet high. The fruit is an oblong pod of a bluish black color. It contains indigo, tannin, an acid, and baptisin. When the whole plant or any portion of it is dried, it becomes black and affords a blue dye, inferior to Indigo. In some parts of the country the young shoots are used as a substitute -for asparagus, to which they bear some resemblance, and they occasionally cause drastic purgation, especially if eaten after they assume a green color. Alcohol and water will take up its active properties. Its medicinal virtues reside principally in the bark of the root. This agent promises fair to become one of our most powerful and 70 NEW HOMhiEOPATHIC PROVINGS. valuable polychrets. We have several provings of it, made by Drs. Burt, Hill, Douglas, Thompson and others. But the proving of Dr. W. H. Burt, is the most thorough and suggestive. Dr. B. is one of the most correct and enthusiastic provers in the homceopathic ranks. Eclectic writers utter their usual indefinite phrases, in. relation.to this agent. Without any clear idea of its physiological action, they assert it to be anti-septic, astringent, tonic, emetic, cathartic and alterative. One only wonders that they did not use all the rest of the terms found in Materia Medica. Not a few of that school consider it a "febrifuge," and many deem it to be powerfully "depressant" in its action over the nervous and vascular systems, while King says it is a "' stimulant." It is only by a study of the general and special symptoms elicited by our provings, that we can arrive at any correct conclusion as to its real effects upon the healthy organism. There is one property which the physicians of the eclectic school allege the Baptisia to possess, which should command our attention and investigation. I allude to its asserted anti-septic power. Applied in the form of a wash, to ulcers, mucous surfaces, etc., when there is a tendency to putrescency of the fluids and solids, gangrenes, fotid discharges, etc., it is said to correct the conditions alluded to, in a very prompt manner. It is therefore advised in " malignant sore mouth and throat, mercurial sore mouth, scrofulous or syphilitic oplhthalmia, erysipelatous ulcers," etc. My experience, and that of some of my colleagues in the homceopathic school, would seem to verify some of these assertions. Its action seems to be somewhat analogous to the chlorine compounds. General Symptoms. —' If given in very large doses it causes a very disagf'eeable prostration of the whole system."'-(.King.) Lying in one position for a few minutes, as upon the back, caused the sacral region to become exceedingly painful, as though I had lain on the hard floor all night, and inducing the conviction that a short continuance of the same position, would cause bed sores. When turning on the other side, the same sensation was produced on the hips, obliging me at last to turn on my face to relieve those parts. (D) (Arnica causes the same symptom, and it is very commonly met with in typhoid fever. —.Hale.) Intolerance of' pressure on all parts upon wliich pressure was made. Felt weak and tremulous, as though.recovering from a fit of sickness. Incapable of making any vigorous mental or physical exertion. An indescribable sick feeling all over, with great languor. Stiffness of all the joints as though strained. Rheumatic pains and soreness all over the body. CLiNICAL REMARKs. — All these symptoms, indicate clearly that the Baptisia is an analogue of Rhus, AMercury, and even some of the "nervous-sedatives."' It powerfully lowers the vitality of the organism. CHARACTERISTIC SYMPTOMS. —All the symptoms increased by taking a glass of beer. The pains are of a pressive, drawing character; aggravated by motion, relieved by rest and excitement. The right side of the body is most affected. BAPTISIA TIN CTORIA. 71 Nervous System.-The hands felt large and were tremulous, with a peculiar thrilling sensation through both hands and feet, somewhat like "going to sleep," a want of circulation. Intolerance of pressure on all parts of the body-it caused soreness. (D) Artns and legs tremble. Numb sensations all over the body. Sensation of paralysis of the eye-lids. The.geeral action of the Baptisia, upon the nervous system, is that of a sedative. It seems to cause a degree of paralysis, both of sensation and motion. In this it resembles Rhus, Aconite and Gelseminum. It may cause a peculiar erethism, of the nervous system, but this condition is due to debility and not stimulation. Lymphlatic System.-Swelling of the inguinal glands. Swelling of the tonsils.-(Burt.) Like Mercury and Phytolacca, the Baptisia seems to stimulate or rather irritate, the glandular system. Allopathic writers decree that Mlercury is a stimulant to the lymphatic and glandular system, although it depresses all the other fhnctions of organic life. This is the general belief of the adherents of that school. It is not a healthy stimulation, but rather an irritatiozt. Phytolacca and Baptisia have the same action. They are therefore homceopathic: primarily, to irritation of the glandular system, and secondarily: to indolent atonic states of that system. It may be as well in this place to quote the testimony of eclectic writers, as to the specific action of Baptisia upon the glands. "It acts powerfully upon the glandular systems, increasing all the glandular secretions. The leaves applied in fimentations have discussed tumors and swelling of the female breast, resembling schirrus.")-(King.) "It has been used with advantage as a deobstruent, in visceral obstructions and "engorgements." (J. & S. Mat. Med.) "Baptisia is a sure and powerful alterative, and may be employed with confidence in all affections of the glandular system. In scrofula and cutaneous disorders few remedies are more beneficial." —(Coe.) I have khown it used in phagadenic ulcerations of glands with excellent results. In several cases of ulceration of the tonsils, after scarlatina, or in diphtheria, it has, in my hands, surpassed my expectations: I used it both internally and locally. Mucous Membranes.-By examining its special effects as recorded in the proving, it will be seen that the Baptisia causes ulcerations, of many mucous surfaces, particularly of the buccal cavity. In this respect it resembles Mercurius, Nitric acid, Phytolacca, and Cornus cir. It is specifically indicated in discharges fiom mucous surfaces having a fcetid odor, and a sanious excoriating character. The particular indications for its use will be given under appropriate headings. Vascular System, Fever, etc.-Feeling of greatly increased compass and frequently of the pulsations of the heart; pulsations seem to fill the chest; the pulse (usually but little over 70) 90, full and soft. Uncomfortable burning heat of the whole surface, especially the face. Tongue felt dry, smarted and felt sore, as if burnt. The heat compelled me to move to a cool part of the bed, and finally to rise and open a window, and wash my face aUd hands; 72 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. with these symptoms there was a peculiar feeling of the head, which is never felt except'during the presence of fever; a sort of excitement of the brain which is the preliminary, or rather beginning of delirium. For a short time, slight febrile, chilly horripulations on the lower limbs and back. (D) Burning sensation over the body, followed by perspiration, vomiting, and diarrhbea with dark stools, debility slow, round, full pulse. (Beckwith.) Thirst and flashes of heat over the face. General heat after going to bed. Heat and burning in the lower extremities, so intense as to prevent sleep. Chill all day with fever at night, with rheumatic pains and soreness all over the body. Pulse at first accelerated; afterwards became very low and faint. Surface of the body chilly. CLINICAL REMARIKs.-The careful investigator, cannot fail to be struck with the evident fact, that Baptisia, if long continued in large doses, would be capable of inducing a condition of the blood similar to the "' typhus crasis"; and a state of the fluids of the body, nearly identical with that occurring in low fevers. Its action on the nervous system also would tend to set up a typhoid erethism, and its effects upon mucous surfaces would indicate its power to cause those peculiar intestinal lesions which constitute the characteristic of typhoid fever. Before giving the experience of our school in the use of Baptisia in fevers, I will present the testimony of eclectic physicians. King says it is indicated in typhus, and all cases when there is a tendency to putrescency. He uses it in the low stage of typhoid fever, and in all typhoid conditions, occuring in other diseases. Jones asserts, that it has been used successfully in cases of typhoid and typhus fever, whenever there is a tendency to putrescency. It is resorted to by eclectic practitioners in low fevers, with the same confidence, that we administer the mineral acids, Rhus, Bryonia, etc. Under its use, they claim that the disease is materially shortened in duration, and robbed of its intensity; but they unluckily compound it so often with other drugs, that we must look to homceopathic authority for clear proof of its usefulness. The following cases, related by Dr. Hoyt, in the North Amer. Jour. Vol. 6, p. 226, were the first to bring the Baptisia to the notice of the profession. It was used by many physicians however, before the cases alluded to were published: Case 1. —Mrs. C. was taken with typhus fever, and treated allopathically. She became so reduced that her life was despaired of, and after the continuation of the fever for thirty-one days, as a last resort, Mr. C. prepared a decoction of the Baptisia; taking a piece of the root about three inches long, and 8th inches thick, steeping it in - pint of water. HIe commenced by giving her 5 or 6 drops of the decoction once in 15 minutes, increasing till he gave nearly a teaspoonful at a dose. In about- one and one-half hours the surface of the patient presented an appearance as though she had been literally scalded, so red was the skin, accompanied with a most intense superficial heat; at the same time noticing large drops of sweat standing on he forehead, the medicine was discontinued. In a few moments a profuse perspiration appeared all over the body, which continued for nearly 12 hours, or till she was bathed BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. 73 freely with brandy and water. From this time she began to improve, and with the occasional administration of a drop or two of the remedy, got well, without any febrile symptoms. It is worthy of remark that immediately upon the administration of the remedy she became quiet and fell asleep; she had been restless and delirious for three weeks previous. Cases 2 and 3.-Mr. and Mrs. S. being very unwell, I was called, and found them suffering with symptoms of continued fever. After prescribing Aconite, Rhus tox, etc., without much effect, and my patients growing rapidly worse, I was induced to use the Baptisia in decoction, as in Case 1. I remained to watch the operation of my remedy. To my great surprise in about an hour, the perspiration appeared upon the foreheads of my patients, and it gradually covered the entire surface. In about six hours they were thoroughly bathed with tepid water, and the next morning scarce a vestige of the fever remained, and a rapid recovery followed. Case 4.-Mr. R. was taken with typhus fever, and had the usual homceopathic remedies for several days. An unfavorable prognosis was given, and the Baptisia was decided upon. It was administered and its effects watched. In this case, drop doses of an alcoholic tincture were used. The fever was reduced more than one-half in a few hours, and by a continuation of the remedy he was saved. A fierce delirium was present in this case, but it rapidly gave way under the action of the medicine." Several other cases of undoubted typhoid fever have been reported as arrested, by the use of Baptisia. Indeed some physicians are so enthusiastic that they assert its power to " break up" a continued fever, in any of its stages. Were it necessary to substantiate the value of Baptisfi in continued fevers, with typhoid symptoms, I could record the testimony of scores of homceopathic physicians, who have related their successful experience with this remedy. I have used it for nearly six years in my practice, and consider it equally important with Rhus, Phosphoric acid, and Arsenicum, when indicated. The following are, in brief, the characteristic indications for its use: Chilliness all day; heat at night; chilliness with soreness of the whole body; heavy, dull, bruised sensation in the head, stupefying headache, confusion of ideas, delirium at night, heavy sleep with frightful dreams, dry red tongue, or brown coated tongue, sticky mouth, fcetid breath, fetid sweat, and great factor of the discharges, (urine and stool), great debility and nervous prostration with erethism; ulcerations of a bad character, etc. I usually use the mother tincture, or the lower dilutions a few drops in water, every one, two, or three hours. It acts well, when alterated with phosphoric or muriatic acid, and may be used with benefit in nearly all the stages of a typhoid, and even in the premonitory or forming stage. I am certain, that its timely use has prevented the establishment of the fever, if given when the first symptoms of languor, chilliness and soreness of the whole body begin to appear. It is doubtful if Baptisia is indicated in all fevers. It is one of the misfortunes of all schools of medicine, that when a new remedy comes up, it is seized upon by certain enthusiastic members of the profession, and they, losing sight of its specific 10 '74 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. indications, proceed to laud it in the most extravagant terms, as a panacea in all diseases. This has been the dase with several new remedies lately introduced in the'homceopathic materia medica. Rumex crispus, a really valuable remedy for pulmonary affections; an analogue of Phosphorus; was so highly lauded, that physicians, not finding it equal to the task of curing every kind of cough, threw it aside, and is now too much neglected. Some practitioners like Dr. Wolf, have gone stark mad about 4Apis mel.; others upon Aconite, Gelseminum and Atropine. Such has been the fate of Baptisia. Dr. Hill, does not hesitate to recommend it in nearly every type and variety of fever. (See "Epitome.") This wholesale recommendation, has been an injury to the reputation of the medicine, and indirectly an injury to our school, and our patients. The range of action of Baptisia is as limited as any other feverremedy. It may sometimes be indicated in catarrhal, bilious, rheumatic, or congestive fevers; occasionally in the exanthematous fevers, when they assume an adynamic type; but only when the symptoms and conditions resemble thlose caused by the medicine. Mind.-Restless, uneasy, frightful dreams-gloomy and cast down for several days."-(Burt.) "Troublesome dreams, mental excitement bordering on delirium." Indisposition and want of power to think; unhappy; mind seems weak. (D.) CLINICAL REMARKs. —The above symptoms are similar to those which precede a typhoid fever. I have often given the Baptisia one-tenth in these premonitory states, with the apparent effect of preventing the establishment of the fever. Sleep.-"Slept two or three hours and waked with difficult breathing, a kind of night-mare, dreams of laboring hard in the snow, suffering with heat from the exertion and finally being smothered in the snow; unusually sound sleep, dreams about.fighting and disputation, always come off second best." —()Dozcflas.) Drowsy, stupid, tired feeling. Very restless after midnight. Restless night with frightful dreams. Restless until 2 A. M., then sleep with frightful dreams. (B.) Dreamed of being bound down with a chain across the mouth. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The symptoms above noted bear a close resemblance to those occurring in typhoid fevers. The restless nights, with delirium, and frightful dreams, all point to its specific applicability in many low fevers. iHead.-" Feeling as if the skin of the forehead would be drawn to the back part of the head, great tightness of the skin of the forehead, with pain in the right eye, frequent pressive pain in the right temple. Sharp pains in both temples, dull pressive pain in the forehead, feeling as if the forehead would be pressed in, dull heavy, pressive headache, very much aggravated by motion. Feeling as if the head was too heavy, numb feeling of the head and face." —(Dr. _Burts Proving.) Dullness of head. Vertigo. Confused feeling in the head, swimming sensation very like that one experiences before the operation of an emetic." (Dr. Thomrson's proving, N. A. J. Vol. V. page 547. "Peculiar feeling of the head, which is never felt, except during the presence of fever, BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. 75 excitement of the brain, such as precedes delirium. Dull feeling in the occiput with slight pain and fullness, vessels of head full, head feels large. Dizziness, severe frontal headache, heat in forehead, soreness in front part of head, soreness in the brain, worse when stooping. "Brain feels numb with occasional stitches or shocks in various parts of the head, bruised feeling in forehead. Vertigo. Sharp pain over right eye, then over the left, dull pain in both temples, growing more intense, dull stupid feeling all over the head with severe pain in the occiput. Head feels heavy as though I could not sit up, headache day and night, causing a sensation of wildness, noise increases the headache." —(Provings by Prof. Douglass, and Beck7with, Messrs. Rowley, Smith, Hoyt and Sapp, N. A. J. Vol. VI., pages 228 and 234. CLINICAL REMIARS. —The head-symptoms of Baptisia resemble those caused by Bryonia, Gelseminum, Arnica and Muriatic acid. It is indicated in the headache which precedes and accompanies typhoid fevers; and is useful in some bilious, nervous and rheumatic cephalalgias. I have often given it in the febrile paroxysm of an intermittent, when the headache was similar to that caused by Baptisia. In such cases it not only relieved the head, but often hastened the critical perspiration and shortened the hot stage. My former pupil Dr. Rogers, of Laporte, Ind., thinks very highly of it in similar instances. He prescribes it at the commencement of the cold stage, and continues it through all the stages, and claims that it modifies the paroxysm, but has no anti-periodic power, in preventing further attacks. He claims also to have used it with benefit in his own case, during an attack of " cerebro-spinal fever," which was epidemic in his locality. The Baptisia has many symptoms which resemble very much, those which are said to occur in the so-called "spotted fever." We would suggest to our colleagues a careful comparison of the symptoms of this dreaded malady, with the proving of Baptisia. It may be found to be a valuable remedy in the treatment of that fatal epidemic. Eyes.-" Feeling as if the eyes would be pressed into the head with great confusion of sight; cannot place anything till after looking at it a few seconds; everything seems to be moving. Vertigo attended with sensation of paralysis of the lids, eyes smart and ache severely." (B) "Bloated feeling of the eyes; eyes unusually glistening; disposition to have the eyes half closed; soreness in front part of head upon moving the eyes or turning them upward; soreness of' eyeballs, eyes feel swollen with burning and slight lachrymation; congestion of the vessels of the eye, they look red and inflamed."-(Doug. et al.) CLINICAL REMARKS.. —Many of the eye-symptoms of this medicine are similar to those caused by Gelseminum and resemble those sensations which in the eyes are premonitory to typhus. It is evidently homceopathic to some varieties of ophthalmia. ZKing and others recommend it internally, and as a "' wash,"' in scrofulous and purulent ophthalmia. Nose. —"Thick mucus discharge from the nose." (T) "Severe 76 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. drawing pains along the nose." (B) "Catarrh, dull pain at the root of the nose." (D.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-Internally it may be found useful in some forms of catarrh and ozvena, as a topical application. I know the infusion, or dilute tincture to be serviceable in obstinate feetid dis. charges from the nasal passages. Face.-Burning heat of face, face flushed and hot; external vessels of face distended and full, flashes of heat over the face, feels flushed and very hot, cheeks burn." (D) Ears.-Deafness, or dullness of hearing. Roaring in the ears, with confusion of the mind. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Dullness of hearing is a common symptom of debility, particularly the debility of typhoid states. Baptisia is indicated when deafness occurs during a low fever. It is useful as an injection in fcetid, corrosive otorrhcea. IMouth, Tongue. etc.-"Profuse flow of saliva; well developed ulcers in the mouth; long, continued flow of saliva. Tongue feels as though it had been scraped." (T) " Tongue coated yellow along the centre; flat bitter taste in the mouth." (B) Tongue feels dry on rubbing it against the roof of the mouth, smarted and felt sore as if burned, slight, dry burnt feeling of the tongue. Saliva abundaht, somewhat viscid and flat tasting, appetite somewhat impaired, food does not taste quite natural. Filthy taste with flow of salivia loss of appetite, slight yellow coat on the tongue; two days afterward, tongue coated whitish and slightly congested. Tongue coated, at first white with reddish papilla here and there, followed by a yellowish brown coating in the centre, the edges being red and shining; tongue feels thick and swollen, numb pricking sensation of the tongue, bad taste in the mouth. Teeth and gums feel sore. Oozing of blood from the gums. CLINICAL REMARKS.-The above symptoms of the buccal cavity, afford excellent proof of the law of "Similia' as a law of cure. They show that the Baptisia will cause conditions of the mucous membrane of the mouth, etc., similar to those for which it is so much used in eclectic practice. An exhaustive proving would undoubtedly develop symptoms of a more aggravated character, as putrid ulcerations, etc. King speaks highly of the Baptisia as a wash to malignant, ulcerous sore mouth; mercurial sore mouth, and many other pathological conditions of the buccal cavity. It causes salivation and ulceration; I have used it for many years in chronic, mercurial sore-mouth, when the gums were loose, flabby, -dark red or purple, and the breath was intolerably fcetid. Next to chlorate of potash, it is the best remedy we have to remove and palliate that disagreeable condition. It is indicated in stomatitis materna; cancrum oris; and nearly all diseases of the mouth and tongue, characterized by ulceration, putrescency, etc. But in all these diseases, it should be used topically as well as internally. Like chlorate of potash, the mineral acids, hydrastus, etc., the cure is materially hastened by the local application of the diluted tincture, or watery infusion. I usually prescribe it as follows: Baptisia root one drachm, hot water one pint, or, Tincture Baptisia one drm. BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. 77 cool water four oz. This may be used as a wash, gargle, or local application in any form, when it is indicated. At the same time, the tincture or the dilutions may be given internally, at suitable intervals. In typhus conditions we find many of the above pathogenetic symptoms, in nearly every case. They afford special indications for the selection of this medicine. Throat.-" Soreness of the throat with scraping and burning. Raw sensation in the pharynx with a large amount of viscid mucus Constrictive feeling in the throat, causing frequent efforts at deglitition. Pricking sensation in the upper part of pharnyx. Slight angina, throat feels swollen or full; tonsils and soft palate injected with pain in the root of the tongue when swallowing. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The action of Baptisia upon the throat is quite marked. It irritates the tonsils, uvula, and follicular glands. It is homiceopathic, and has been found curative in ulcerating sore throat, suppurating tonsils, catarrhal angina, etc. If the angina tends to assume a putrid character, the ulcers dark, and breath lcetid, the Baptisia is particularly indicated. Many of my colleagues as well as myself value it very highly in the treatment of diphtheria, as an auxiliary to Mere. iod, Kali bichrom. or Kali bro. It is indicated when putrescent symptoms appear, when the nervous system becomes depressed, and there is much prostration. The premonitory symptoms of diphtheria, bear a strong resemblance to many of the symptoms of Baptisia.. It should be used as a gargle. Stomach.-" Good deal of distress in the stomach, severe pains every few moment in the cardiac region of the stomach; disposition to vomit, but no nausea. Dull pain in the epigastric region, frequently recurring and aggravated by turning over, constant pain in the epigastric and hypochondriac regions aggravated by walking; burning distress in the epigastrium" (B.) "Frequent eructations of fiatus; nausea"' (T). "Gone," empty feeling of the stomach. Slight nausea, followed by vomiting; pain in the stomach; pains and cramp in the stomach:; feeling as if there was a hard substance in it. Stitching pain in cardiac extremity of stomach. Slight nausea with want of appetite and constant desire for water." (Doiug. et al.). CLINICAL REMArKs.-Typhoid and bilious fevers are ushered in by symptoms which resemble those above given. Baptisia seems to act specifically on the gastric mucous membrane. It is highly probable, that it causes the same lesions in that tissue, which it causes in the mouth and fauces, namely, inflammation and ulceration. Dr. Coe, says he found it very servicable in certain forms of dyspepsia, particularly those cases accompained with irritability of the stomach, acid eructations, griping pains and looseness of the bowels, with frequent, small, and offensive stools. Abdomen. —" Constant pain in the right hypochondriac region; sharp shooting pains all through the bowels. Severe colicky pains in the umbilical and especially in the hypochondriac regions; the pain comes on every few seconds, with rumbling in the bowels and 78 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. desire for stool. Constant dull pain in the umbilical region; shooting pain in the umbilical region," (Burt). "Pain in the abdomen on pressure; dull heavy aching pain in the lumbar region on going to bed at night. Loud borborygmus, with diarrhoea, fullness of the abdomen, flatulence. Pain in the hypogastrium, soreness of the abdominal mucles as if from cold or coughing severely," (Doug. et al.) "Distension of abdomen, feeling as though it would be a relief to vomit, rumbling in the intestines " (T). (In a cat, poisoned with Baptisia, Dr. Burt found the small and. large intestines congested and filled with bloody mucus). CLINICAL REMiARKS.-It is highly probable that the Baptisia causes similar intestinal lesions to those observed in typhoid fever. It is a drastic cathartic, and is homoeopathic to profuse, dark, feetid diarrhceas, sub-acute enteritis, colics, and other bowel affections. Liver, &c.-Pain in the right hypochondriac region, aggravated by walking; constant dull pain in the region of the gall-bladder; pain extends to the spine. Soreness in the region of liver, pain in the liver. CLINICAL REMARKs.-Ring says it arouses the liver to a normal action. Coe declares that in hepatic derangements it will be found a valuable auxiliary to other remedies. Dr. Burt found the liver congested in a cat poisoned with Baptisia. Its pathogenetic symptoms show that it is homceopathic to some disorders of the liver, the exact nature of which, furt-her provings, and clinical experience can only decide. Stools and Rectum.-Rumbling in the bowels and desire for stool, soft, papescent stool with a good deal of mucus, soft mushy stools with rumbling in the bowels, "constipation, severe constipation with hemorrhoids, diarrhcea two days before, bowels loose which is uncommon with the prover. Bowels costive for two days. Vomiting and diarrhcea with dark stools. Bowels constipated during whole proving." (Douglas et al.). [A cat poisoned with Baptisia had bloody mucus stools. The intestines were found congested and filled with bloody mucus.]'In large doses Baptisia is a drastic cathartic; and in smaller doses a laxative. The stools are generally dark, offensive, mucous, and even bloody. In quite small doses it rather constipates. This, however, is an effect of all cathartics when given in small quantities. Baptisia then, is primarily homceopathic to diarrhcea, dysentery and acute mucous enteritis; secondarily, to constipation, with indigestion, torpor of liver and hbemorrhoids. Coe says, "in the treatment of ulcerative inflammation of the bowels and stomach, and chronic diarrhcea, and dysentery, its use should never be omitted; also, that it is useful in "acrid fiecal discharges, and " frequent, small and offensive stools." Thus it is that both allopathic and eclectic schools of medicine, use remedies successfully for the very symptoms they cause, thereby unwittingly treating their patients homceopathically. It is indicated particularly in adynamic diarrhcea and dysentery, with the general condition of the system usually present. But it has been found useful in those affections even when sthenic in character. In its action on the bowels it resembles Leptandria, Arsenicum, BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. 79 Nitric Acid and Rhux-tox. Dr. Burt, one of the provers of Baptisia, thinks highly of it in dysentery. He reports the following: Case 1st. A pregnant woman was attacked with dysentery. It brought on labor, after which the dysentery grew worse. A council was to he held at noon, but on the morning of the same day Baptisia, (4 drops of the tincture every hour) was given; at noon she was much better, and her convalescence was rapid. Her symptoms were violent colic-likepains before every stool, and great tenesmus. Stools every five or ten minutes. They were pure blood, with a very little mucus, pulse 20, soft and full. Aconite, Bry, Colocyuth, ]lierc. Veratrum alb. were given for four days without any benefit, while the Baptisia cured her perfectly in four hours." In ten cases of dysentery I have never seen medicine act better. They all had violent colicky pains in the hypogastric region before a stool, the stools were mucus and blood, great tensemus which was relieved by the Baptisia in two or three hours, better than by any remedy I have ever used; the cases were not generally attended by much fever. Urinary Organs. —Urine high colored, not'very copious, but of dark red color. A sort of burning when urinating" (Doug. et al). Shooting pains in the region of the left kidney. The urine increased in quantity during the proving, and continued acid throughout. Female Genital Organs.-Increased menses. Menses too soon and too profuse. Abortion. CLINICAL REMAKS. —This medicine has not been proven upon the female organism. But it has been known to cause the above symptoms. Its real action upon the uterus, ovaries, etc., has yet to be accurately determined. Dr. Coe, says, "Baptisia is possessed of more energetic emmenagogue properties than the plant has generally been accredited with. We have employed it with gratifying success in the treatment of dysmenorrhoea and defective menstruation. Also in cases of vicarious menstruation, in combination with Podophyllin, with signal success. In the treatment of vicarious menstruation, particularly those cases accompanied with periodical diarrhcea, we have found the following combination entirely successful when administered during the intermenstrual period: Baptisia grs. xx, Podophyllin grs. x. Caulophyllin grs. xx. Mix and divide into ten powders. Give one every night or every other night according to the condition of the bowels." One of the most ridiculous things in the old school practice, is the custom of prescribing a farrago of drugs like the above, and then giving to one of them the credit of curing the malady. Who knows which drug was the curative agent? If Baptisia is a specific for vicarious menstruation, its administration simply will prove its virtues. Coe adds that it "should not be used during the period of utero-gestation, as it is capable of producing abortion, for which purpose we have known it to be used by quacks and empirics. The danger to the general health is very great, when used in sufficient quantities to produce this result." It follows, then, that Baptisia is homceopathic to abortion when occurring as a consequence of debility, physical or mental depression, nervous prostration, etc, as in typhoid 80 NEW ilOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. fevers, and other adynamic conditions. It is a useful application, in the form of injection, in cases of virulent leucorrhcea, ulcerations of the os uteri and vagina, with acrid fcetid discharges; also in unhealthy lochial discharges, and those peculiar putrid discharges which occur after an abortion, and depend upon the presence of shreds of membrane, or pieces of the placenta, remaining in the cavity of the uterus. In these cases the Baptisia, injected in the form of infusion or dilute tincture, will remove the fcetor and prevent mischief from the acridity of the discharges. The chlorate of potash, or still better the permanganate of potash will prove more effectual in grave cases. As there is usually present in all these cases, a general debility of the. system, and a sort of crasis of the blood, the Baptisia should be given internally, in the lower dilutions, in conj unction with a nourishing diet, wine, etc. Larynx, Trachea, etc. —Hoarseness to such an extent as to' require the utmost effort to be understood. Tickling in the throat, constantly provoking a cough. Great hoarseness. Complete aphonia. u Chest.-Difficult breathing, increased compass and frequency of the pulsations of the heart, pulsations seem to fill the chest. Dificulty of breathing, the lungs feel tight and compressed, cannot get a full breath. Tightness of the chest, feeling of want of power in the respiratory apparatus such as is felt during fever (D). "Constriction and oppression of the chest,' (Burt.) Oppressed respiration, sharp pains in the chest when taking a long breath, throbbing in the heart so as to be distinctly heard. Awoke with great difficulty of breathing, the lungs felt tight and compressed; could not get a full breath, felt obliged to open the window, to get my face to the fresh air. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It may prove curative in some varieties of asthma, also typhoid pneumonia. I am inclined to the opinion, however, that many of the symptoms of oppression, are due to nervous atony, and resemble the anxious oppression which occurs during the low stages of fevers. Back. -Dull heavy pain in the lumbar region very much aggravated by walking; back and hips are very stiff and ache severely; chills up and down the back as if ague were coming on; dull heavy aching in the lumbar region on going to bed at night, flashes of heat from the small of the back in all directions," (Douglas et al.). Upper Extremities.-Stiffness of the joints as if strained, twitching in the left deltoid, also in latissimus dorsi of left side. Soreness of the muscles of the neck, muscular debility, feeling of weariness especially in the right arm and shoulder, hands feel too large and are tremulous with a peculiar thrilling sensation, somewhat like going to sleep or a want of circulation," (D.) "Drawing pains in arms." (B.) Lower Extremeties.-Dull drawing pains in the right groin and testicle. Drawing pains in the legs especially in the knee joints. Severe drawing pains in the calves of the legs; legs are very weak and tremble." (B.) "Burning heat of the feet with feeling of pulsation, sacral region and hips exceedingly painful; feet become BAPTISIA TINCTORIA. 81 painful from resting on the floor; dull pain in the sacrm, compounded of a feeling as from pressure and fatigue from long stooping, soon extending round the hips and down the right leg; weariness of the lower limbs especially the, right. Aching irn limbs, heat and burning in the lower extremities so intense as to prevent'sleep most of the night. Soreness in the anterior part of the thighs worse after sittihng awhile; darting pain in the'left knee and malleolus of left side. Extremities feel hot except the feet which are cold," (Douglas). "Sensation of weakness in lower limbs with weak knees." Cramp in the calves when walking. DR. BURT'S PROVING OF BAPTISIA.* Oct. 12th. Am in perfect health. Took 10 drops at 10 A. M., at 12 M. feeling of tightness across the forehead, with pain over the right eye. At 3.'M. severe pain every few minutes in the cardiac portion' of the'stomach. Took 15 drops, 4 P. M. Skin of the forehead is feeling as if it was drawn very tightly over the forehead, with sharp pain over the right eye, quite a number of times there has been sharp shooting pains all through'the bowels. Took 20 drops, 8 P. M.-Frequent pain over the right eye of a pressive character. There has been constant pain in the region of the gall bladder, very severe when walking. Dull pain in the epigastric region. Dull drawing pain in the right groin, legs ache. Took 25 drops. Oct. 13th. Slept well until midnight, then could not sleep any more. Frequent pain in the epigastric region, very much worse by turning over which I had to do all the time; dreamed of being bound down with a chain across the mouth; drawing pains in the arms and legs. Slight rumbling in the bowels. Tongue coated vellow along the centre. 7 A. M.-Took 30-"drops,'10 A. M. Dull pressive pain in the forehead. Sharp pains in both temples; dull pain in the right hypochondriac region. Slight raumbling in the bowels with a mushy stool. Dull pain in the small of the back; drawing pains in the legs. Took 35 drops, 2 P. M. There has been constant pain in the epigastric and right hypochondriac regions, very severe when walking, the pain is of a drawing character. Took 40 drops, 9 P. M. Have suffered constantly and severely all day, with pain in the liver and stomach, the pain causes a numb feeling to pass all over my body. Dull pain in the forehead. Drawing pain in the calves of the legs. Urinated 40 oz. acid. Oct. 14th. Had a very restless night, with frightful dream. Good deal of dull pain in the liver, stomach and umbilical region. Tongue coated yellow. 9 P. x. Have had constant pain in the umbilical region with slight rumbling of the bowels all day. Soft stool. Urinated 26 oz., acid. Oct. 15th. I-Iadrestless night, with frightful dreams. 9 A. C,. Feeling quite well. Took 40 drops. 2 P. x. Have had constant pain in the stomach and right hypochondriac region. Took 50 ldrops, 5 P.'. Skin of the forehead feeling very much contracted. Slight rIhis proving was made with the mother tincture, and crude bark. 11 82 NEW ItOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. pain all day in the stomach and right hypochondriac region, the pain in the right side is very severe when walking. Severe drawing pains in the right groin and testicle and right foot. Took 60 drops, 9 P. M. There has been constant pain in the stomach and right hypochondriac region. The pain was of a dlull aching character and extended to the spine, very much worse by motion. Took 60 drops, slept until 2 A. 3., then could not sleep any more. Took 40 drops at 4 A. X. Had a good deal of pain in the epigastric region all oi oht. TTtrinated 8 oz., acid. Oc(t. T'Jr5th. ]-'eeir~' iq,~i w oell. -}-i,:,'ted -1:t dl.rops indler tl e s,;t11. I' fik.lti.h.'.jt'(Lio'm.) t,' a;,n. 101'ly: i Hi'IS,. it. a. ~,' oe k,i ui.ftil iii tVa, II'' tk.ivif( 0g 1 1i }e inclision tilghrol' the skin; tBen llutes ale tr the skin:or'l tle thbrehiead felt as though it would be pulled to the back part' of nlm head, with a numb feeling of the forehead and face; in fifteen minutes, feeling as if I would vomit but no nausea, with severe'shooting pain in the left kidney and left side of the nmbili6eLs. Thirty minutes, feeling as if the forehead would be pressed in. Slight pain in the stomach and right hopochondriae region and umbilical, fiequent gulpingl up of air. At 10 A. si., slight pressive headache and dull pain in the loins. The part where the incision was made became so numb that I could cut the skin without the least feeling of pain. I can assure my readers that the most painfuil part is holding the chloroform lbottle on the arm. *Took 100 drops, 2 P. -I. Dull heavy pressive headache; by spells sharp pains in the temples; heavy aching pain in the stomach and liver, with a very hot sensation in the same palrts. Soft stool. Took 120 drops 9 r.:i. Feeling very weak and tremble a good deal. Pressive pain in the forehead, constant dull aching pain in the stomach and liver. The pain in theliver extends from the right lateral ligament to the gall-bladder-it is almost illpossil)le to walk it makes the pain so severe in the region of the oall-bladder. Severe drawing pains in the calves of both legs. Took 106 drops. IUrinated 42'oz., acid. Oct. 17th. Slept well until 2 A. ~I., then very restless until morning; frightful dreams. Dull heavy headache inl the forehead, constant dull aching pains in the umbilical region, aggravated by a full inspiration. Dull aching pain in the ltumbar region, very severe when walking. Tongue coated yellow along the centre. Flat taste in the mouth, 9 A. xr. Took 150 drops, 12 xr. Head feeling very heavy, sharp pains by spells in the right and left temples, const.ant dull pain; in the region of the gall-blaldder, very severe when walking. Took 200 drops, 3 v _i. Skin of the forehead feeling very tight, with sharp pain in the temples. Constant pain in the stomach and liver, quite sharp at times. Fefaring that all the medicinal properties of the drulg was not in the tincture I was using, I concluded to take the green bark of the root and chew it. Took 30 grs. lHad a natural stool, 9 r. ir., constant burning distress in the epigastriulm, with severe colicky pains in the umbilical and especially in the hypogastric region, every few seconds, with rumblin(g in the bowels and desire to vomit, but no nausea; 84 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. grs.'3 P. x.-There has been constant dull pain in the umbilical region. At times drawing pains in the right wrist and left ankle. Took 14 grs. Constant dull fiontal headache, and dull pain in the bowels all the evening. Oct. SOth.-Slept well until 1 A. M. Awoke with severe cutting pains' in the hypogastric region, with loud rumbling of the bowels, very restless after; had frightful dreams. Tongue coated yellow, along the centre; flat bitter taste. Soft papescent stools. The inguinal glands of the left groin are very much swollen, one of them as large as a common sized hickory nut. Is this an effect of the medicine, or the effect of a cold?- I have no symptoms of a cold. They are very painful when walking, 10 A. M. W. H. BURT, N. D. CAULOPHYLLEUM THALIICTROIDES. (Bluwe Cohosh. Squaw Root.) This is a smooth, glaucous plant, purple when young, with a high round stem, from one to three feet high, simple, from knotted and matted rootstalks, and dividing above into two parts, one of which is a triternate leaf-stalk, the other bears a biternate leaf, and a racemous panicle of small yellowish-green flowers, which appear in May and June. Panicle small, darker than the leaves. Pericarp thin, caducous, dark blue, resembling berries on thick stipes. Seeds one or two about the size of a large pea, erect and globose. It is a handsome perennial plant, growing all over the United States, in low, moist, rich grounds, near running streams or on grounds which have been overflowed with water. The seeds ripen in the latter part of the summer and are said to form an excellent substitute for coffee, when roasted. The fruit is dry, sweet, insipid, and resembles that of the Vaccinium. The officinal part is the root, which is sweetish, somewhat pungent and aromatic, and affords a yellow infusion or tincture. The resinoid, active principle of this root, is called Caulophyllin, and may be used instead of the tineture in nearly all cases. In the following clinical experience, it will be stated which preparation was used in the prescription. In our school Caulophyllin has been most used. I believe I was the first to call attention to this remedy. The original article was published in the North American Journal, Vol. 6, p. 373; since which time it has been quite extensively used The first mention that I find of it, by any medical writer, is in the work of John Thonison-author of the so-called " Thomsonian Practice;" who, after mentioning its employment by the Indian females to expedite delivery, and to relieve uterine pain and spasm, reports a case of inflammation of the uterus, cured rapidly by a decoction of the CAULOPHYLLUM THALICTROIDES. 5 root. It is also'highly spoken of by Smith, Matison, Beach and other "botanic" writers; but the best description of the plant, and' resume of its properties and uses, is to be found in King's Dispensatory. He says: "It is principally used as an emmenagogue, parturient and anti-spasmodic; but it likewise possesses diuretic, diaphoretic and authelmintic properties. it has been successfully employed in rheumatism, dropsy, colic, cramps, hiccough, epilepsy,'hysteria, uterine inflammation, etc. It is a valuable agent in all chronic uterine diseases." Other writers, as Jones and Scudder (Mat. Med.) and Coe, (Cone. Org. Med.) give the same statement of its virtues. If I were to compare any of our well-known remedies with it, I should name Asa f:., Platila, Secale, Murex, and perhaps Pulsatilla. GENERAL EFFECTS.-Sensation of comfortable languor and disposition to sleep. A fine prickling sensation all over the body. Increased mental and physical vigor. Tremulous weakness of the whole system. Nervous System.-The action of Caulophyqlum on the nervous system is similar to that of Cimicifuga. It is sedative to the nerves of motion, and is secondarily homceopathic to spasms, cramps and even convulsions-especially when they arise from reflex irritation, originating in the ovaries or uterus. Its primary action is antagonistic to Ignatia, Nux vorlica or Secale. It causes, secondarily, conditions which those drugs cause primarily. The nerves of sensation, are not directly influenced by this remedy. It relieves pain by arresting the cramp or spasm by which the pain is caused, or by some specific influence over the pathological condition known as rheumatism. I have not known of its successful use in neuralgia, nor do I think it indicated in that disease when idiopathic. "Eclectic" writers class it with the " anti-spasmodics." It has an extensive reputation in that school, in hysteria and other nervous affections. "It appears," says Jones, "to impart a vigorous and healthful energy to the nervous system. It has been found useful in epilepsy, chorea, tremors, spasms of the stomach, bowels etc." (Ec. Mat. Med.) If homceopathic to epilepsy, at all, it must be in that form known as "Menstrual" or "Uterine- Epilepsy." In Idiopathic Epilepsy, neither Caulophyllum or anything else is of much service; while in the epileptiform spasms which occur during or near the menses, or in hysterical convulsions, connected with dysmenorrhcea, the caulophyllum is the most appropriate remedy, and has been useful in such cases, in my own practice. Cimicifuga, (Macrotys) and Bromide of Potash are also suitable in such cases. In Chorea, it has proved as useful as its near analogue Cimicifuga. Several cures of that malady by the use of Caulophyllin, one-tenth have come under my own observation. Nearly every case occurred in young girls, and had their origin in some menstrual irregularity. One case, however, was of a decidedly rheumatic origin. It is useful in the tremors of nervous women, and drunkards; also in the cramps of pregnant females. Mucous Membranes.-It seems to, act upon the mucous mem 86:NTEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. branes of the mouth, fauces and vagina. It has been found curative in aphthous conditions of those surfaces; also in leucorrhmea. Muscular Tissues.-It appears to have a specific relation to the muscular and ilI,rous tissues, but, whether directly or through the nervous system, is not yet determined. Its efficacy in rheumatism is undoubted, but it isinot used in that disease as much as the Cimicifuga; indeed it is hardly mentioned in relation to that affection in works on "eclectic" medicine. The homoeopathic school, have used it successfully in certain forms of rheumatism, as the following cases will show: Dr. P. H. Hale, of Hudson, Mich., reports as follows: "A plethoric man, of nervous temperament, was attacked with rheumatic swelling of both feet. In a few days the swelling shifted to the knees, and from thence to the wrists and hands. No percept~ihle benefit accrued from the administration of Pulsatilla, Bryonia, Rhus, or Aconite. One night about the third week of his illness, I was called in great haste to see him. The pain and tumefaction had suddenly left The extremities, and he was suffering from excruciating pain in the cervical and dorsal regions, with spasmodic rigidity of the muscles of the back and neck; could not bear to be moved, slight twitching of the muscles of the arms; paroxysms of quick, panting breathing; complained of great oppression of the chest; high fever, severe delirium, and great nervous excitement. The tincture of Caulophyllum was administered, 30 drops every half hour. In a few hours the symptoms rapidly gave way, and from that time the patient rapidly improved, and in a week was attending to his usual avocations. I have also found it useful in rheumatism of the uterus." Dr. R. Ludlam contributes the following interesting experience relative to the use of this remedy. 1' A clergyman had inflammatory rheumatism, which became fixed in the carpal and metacarpal joints of the left upper extremity. No remedy seemed to be of any benefit. The pain was severe and constant. Caulophyllin was administered and a rapid amelioration, followed by a prompt cure, was the result.' "A young lady had inflammatory rheumatism of the hand, after using the usual remedies with unsatisfactory results, Caulophyllin was given, and a rapid subsidence of the disease was the gratifying result." Rheumatism of the Uterus is a common cause of dysmenorrhcea, and many other painful affections of that organ and its ligaments. Caulophyllin will be found very useful in such conditions. Cimicifiga is also indicated, but the former is more useful in rheumatic affections when spasmodic symptoms are present; that is the chief diagnostic difference between the two remedies. Sleep.-More sleepy than usual during the day. Sounder sleep at night. Disposition to sleep in the evening. (Primary). Sleeplessness at night, fiom a kind of nervous relaxation. Wakes frequently during the night. (Secondary). CLINICAL REMARUKs.-Some eclectic physicians decree the Caun lophyllin to be narcotic, while others as Coe, deny that it has such powers. It has a calming effect upon nervous subjects, and the provings show that it disposes to sleep in healthy subjects. A CAULOPHYLLUM THALICTROIDES. 87 remedy may cause sleep however, indirectly, by acting as a sedative to irritated nerves. Dr. Ludlam reported the following case, illustrative of the action of Caulophyllin to insomnia. I abridge the case fiom my pamphlet on "abortion," page 17. A lady aborted at the third month; she had terrible floodings, which so shattered her nervous system as to render her very miserable. Her pulse was feeble,; threadlike, and at times imperceptible; skin cool, extremities, upper and lower, as well as her features, and cellular tissue generally, cedematous. and her nerves in the most pitiable contit ion i r.n-'i:le,lc' t I h (-,,o. it pi:,'rorineni, t:;i"ltl'oI' ofwhih dc",'1,'iel -t nic:It pl: il.i', ni, not I wio tk: )'Je I,:p. A ll tit,.o I,. tmles W ee triedL, )at withilut avail. NApis relieved the:,,_iitl, all l under occasional doses of' Arsenicum, her pulse approached a normal state. Upon the recommendation of Dir. P.. EI. Hale, I gave her Canloph. 2. A few doses sufficed to brealk the spell, and I have never since failed to procure her the most refreshing sleep with this agent. llead.-Sliallt mental exhilaration, swimming in the headl, a sort of vertigo, with dimness of' sight. Sensation of* fulness of t-le lead, with pressure behind the eyes, and fulhiess of the temporal arteries. CII-NICAL RMrAlxs.. -It is useful in rheumatic and neuralgic headaches, the latter, when dependant upon uterine disorder, or, spinal irritation. Eyes. —Dimllness of sight. Pressure behind the eyes.,Mouth. —Sensation of' dryness in the mouth, or as if' scalded. Heat inl the mouth and fiuces.' CI,1NICAL x REmR[IV-lKS. — Iin' says: " Combined with equal parts of powdeired Hydrlstis, made into an infusion, and sweetened with honey, it formns'tn elegant and effectual -wNash for apthous soremouth and throat." Caulophylluin alone will cule aphthlm of the mouth, especially in prenalsnt and nursing fema-nles, and even in children. A wea.k solution of the tincture in water; used as a wash, and taken internally, rill often prove curative in- quite severe cases. Stolnach. —eatl; in the stomach. Slight nausea. Fullness in the stolnach. Empty erluctations. CLINICAL REANIP.mrKs.-I have found the Caulophylluirm useful ill some of' those reflex affections of the stom.ach occurring in fetnales, such as spasms, cardialgia, spasmodic vomiting, excessive nausea (when attending uterine irritation). -King does not mention its use in gastric affections, nor does any other writer, except Jr. Coe, who asserts thlat "it is an admirable remedly in some forms of dyspepsia, particularly those cases attended with spasmodic synmptorns. When therle is o:rstriC irrlitability with vonliting of' foQd, it may be eml)loyed wtith advlantage." Abdomen, etc — Distention of tle abdoimen. Fullness of' tile abdomen with sorme tenderness. Rumbling, in the bowels. Constipation. Stool only every other day. It is said to expel wrolrms. C[,INICAL 1MArxmVs. —a Combined with dralLstic purgatives, suiC11 as Aloes or PIodoplhyllum, it prevents tornmilnl better thal any other 88 NEW: HIOMEOPATHIC. PROVINGS. known drug." —(Klng.) It is said to relieve attacks of spasmodic and flatulent colic. Caulophyllum is undoubtedly applicable when there is spasmodic action of the muscular tissues of the intestines, arising from the irritation of the motor nerves, or from rheumatism. Urinary Organs. —Copious emission of pale, or straw colored urine. Slight pain in the neck of the bladder after urinating. CLINICAL REMARKs.-This remedy is recommended in spasmodic retention of urine, such as occurs in nervous and hysterical females. Dr. Scudder says he has employed it with advantage in chronic nephritis, albuminuria, cystitis and urethritis, but we have only his bald assertion. He gives no cases to substantiate his testimony. Female Sexual Organs.-Sensation as if the uterus was congested, with fullness, heaviness and tension in the hypogastric region. Drawing in the groins-(uterine ligaments.) Menses too soon-3 days. Labor-like pains. Abortion with little or no flooding. Intermittent uterine contractions. Relaxation of the os uteri. Profuse secretion of mucus from the vagina. Increases the natcural pains of labor. Spasmodic pains in the uterus, broad ligaments and various portions of the hypogastric region. CLINICAL REMgARKS.-It may be interesting to those unacquainted with this medicine, to read the statements of medical writers of the eclectic school, concerning it. I quote from the most prominent: "It is principally used as an emmenagogue and parturient, * * a valuable agent in all chronic uterine diseases, appearing to exert an especial influence upon the uterus, and has been found serviceable in uterine leucorrhcea, amenorrhcea, dysmenorrhcea, etc. When used for several weeks previous to the parturient period, it is said to facilitate that process. It acts as an uterine tonic. In the more common unhealthy conditions of this organ and its appendages-even passive menorrhagia and congested cervix, it is equal to, if not surpassing the Cimicifuga."(King.) Dr. Kindleberger writes to Dr. King that he has used it with much advantage in after-pains, menstrual suppression, and in dysmenorrhlea, * * it is far superior to Ergot, both in its acting more mildly and with more certain results. "In neuralgia and rheumatism of the uterus it has frequently been administered with benefit. * * It expedites delivery in all those cases when the delay is owing to fatigue, debility or want of uterine energy; the contractions it occasions, more nearly resemble the natural ones, instead of the continuous, spasmodic contractions effected by Ergot, * When there has been a tendency to hemorrhage from relaxation of the muscular fibres of the uterus, after delivery," it will cause firm contractions, and arrest the bleeding. —Xng's Obstetrics, p. 650). " Amenorrfhca-.that is-simple amenorrhcea is successfully treated with Caulophyllum. If there be hepatic aberration alternate with Podophyllin; if Ansemia-with Iron. In dysmenorrhcea, it is an admiirable remedy, both for the relief of the present symptoms, and for the radical alteration of the derangement. It relieves the distress attendant upon dysmenorrhwea, and its continued use during the CAULOPHYLLUM I THALICTROIDES. 89 inter-menstrual period, and when the menses are present, with Erigeron, Trillium, or Lycopus. For the relief of afterpains it will be found efficient in a large number of cases. As a parturient, it quiets and harmonizes the action of the uterus, and the nervous system generally, relieving cramps. and other unpleasant symptoms. -(CUoe's Cone. Org..edicines). "We have used it often, and known of its being frequently used by others, for a few weeks, prior to confinement as a preparatory measure to the important changes which take place at that time, with great apparent advantage.- In many instances, when the females have been invariably the subjects of'tedious and difficult labors, by the use of Caulophyllum for two or three weeks before confinement, all the anticipated difficulty vanished, the labors were rapid and easy, and the recovery speedy, when compared with previous confinements. "Although it may be somewhat difficult to assign a satisfactory reason as to the effects stated, or in other words its therapeutic action may be difficult of explanation, yet' the effects have been. so apparent, that any one knowing the character of different labors, would be forced to ascribe the different results to the use of this remedy. We have known many highly intelligent ladies, who, after having used it once, could not be prevailed upon to dispense with its use in subsequent pregnancies. It has appeared to us to afford great relief in that restlessness, and disturbed state of the functions, which generally obtains in the advanced stages of pregnancy. It allays false pains, if we can rely upon the testimony of those who have had the greatest opportunity to test its virtues."(Jones & Scuzddeers Mat. lAed). Bating a little for the enthusiasm which eclectic physicians have for indigenous remedies, the above is a pretty fair enumeration of the virtues of Caulophyllum. The testimony of the homceopathic school is decidedly in concurrence with the above, as the following reported cases will show. My own experience, during the sixiyears which I have used this remedy, has been such as to entitle me to speak decidedly as to its curative virtues. A thorough knowledge of the physiology of the female organs of generation; the pathological changes they undergo; and the reflex disorders they often give rise to, when diseased, is quite necessary, in order to understand and appreciate the therapeutical powers of this medicine. The uterus, in its healthy condition, possesses the/ qualities known as normal torte, contractility, etc. But when that organ is diseased, we have either atony (arrest of function) or abnormal irritability, (resulting in painful cramps, contractions, etc). These purely functional derangements of the uterus may exist with or without organic changes in that organ. Caulophyllum causes primarily,' increased action of the uterine-motoe nerves. -In healthy conditions of that organ any action beyond the normal contractility, as to force and period, is a diseased state. Abnormal activity of any organ is disease. The uterus then when aroused by Caulophyllum, takes on increased action, which manifests itself in the form of p ainful contractions, congestion, undue irritability, and many other conditions of irritation, which are not confined to that organ alone, but extend 12 90 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. to those- contiguous, and connected. This remedy is therefore primarily homceopathic to dysmenorrhoea, uterine cramps, congestion, spurious labor -pains, abortion, premature labor, after pains, when these diseases are caused by exaltation of natural function, or hyper-stimulation. When administered for these conditions, small doses will be found most applicable, (the 3d or 6th dilution or trit.) Prolonged stimulation may wear out the normal irritability of any organ or tissue; we then have atony, a condition simulating paralysis, or, irritation from atony, which closely simulates the irritation from hyper-stimulation. These latter conditions are caused by the secondary action of Caulophyllum. Hence it may be indicated secondarily in the above named disorders, from causes opposite-to those named in connection with them, also in such affections, as menorrhagia and metrorrhagia from deficient contractility, as after abortion and labor; habitual abortion, from uterine debility, a variety of pains, cramps, etc., during pregnancy, etc. When administered for its secondary effects, the doses should be somewhat larger —(the lower dilutions). I have not found it as useful in Anmenorrhcea as many other remedies, and am of the opinion that it is seldom indicated in that affection, unless accompanied by spasmodic action, or extreme atony. The following cases marked "H," were originally published by me in the N. A. Jour. of lom. "Miss N. aged 17, plethoric, nervous, lymphatic, menses suppressed two and a half months. When I called to see her, found her in spasms, evidently hysterical, but resembling epiliptiform spasms, affecting the chest, larynx and uterus. She was unconscious. For three hours, under the administration of Bell. Hyos. and Lobelia- (which latter relieved the spasm of the chest and larynx somewhat) and even chloroform, and the hot bath —she remained in those peculiar and frightful spasms. As a last resort, after giving no medicine for an hour, I gave Caulophyllum 1-10 one half a grain. In fifteen minutes the spasms ceased; the patient lay in a stupid condition, free from pain. In the course of the night the menses came on, and in a few days she was about the house," (H). The Cauloph. was eminently indicated in this case, and it evidently acted as a prompt curative agent. In my "Monograph on Abortion," page 18, Dr. R. Ludlam, of Chicago, gives his experience with Caulophyllum in menstrual irregularities. "' Still another indication for the use of this remedy will be found in menstrual irregularities, occurring subsequent to, and consequent upon miscarriage. They are frequent and sometimes very perplexing cases, when neither Puls. Secale, Sabina or other remedies appear to be especially indicated, and we, have either of the following symptoms: Spasmodic, bearing down pains, with scanty flow; sympathetic cramps and spasms of neighboring organs, as of the bladder, rectum and bowels, or, the motor power of the uterus seems almost entirely gone, and when we may reasonably suppose the menstrual flow is retarded from a simple lack of the excito-motor force, either in'the Fallopian tubes, on the parietes of the uterus itself; the Cauloph. will afford almost instantaneous relief. In a case of this kind, post-abortive, when the spasmodic pains were CAULOPHYLLUM THALICTROIDES. 91 located in the right lumbar region, occupying a limited space, say about the size of a silver dollar, and there was almost a total sfip~pression of the catamenia, the Caulophyllin, 3d, dec. trit., repeated once in three hours, afforded prompt and permanent relief. We know of no other remedy which is so efficacious under these circumstances. It seems in general practice, to be indicated in many cases of suppressio-mensium, approaching dysmenorrhoea in some of its features, being always accompanied by the above named characteristic pains and sufferings of a spasmodic nature. Our experience would render us very loth to attempt the treatment of these and kindred cases, without a frequent resort to Caulophyllin." In Dysmenorrhoea, the testimony in its favor is very large. My correspondence with homieopathic physicians convinces me that it is one of the most successful remedies, in that distressing affection, now in use. It should be given in appropriate doses, once or twice a day during the inter-menstrual period, and every few hours, in the attack. In lMenorrhagia, it is indicated for about the same symptoms as-Ergot and Cimicifuga, and under some circumstances is superior to both. Dr. Williams reports several interesting cases of flooding after abortion, when ordinary allopathic and homceopathic remedies had been used in vain, but were promptly cured by Caulophyllin 1-10. The haemorrhage was passive, had lasted several weeks, and was probably due to deficient contractility, or profuse involution of the uterine tissues. When similar conditions obtain after labor, immediately as in part portem hkemorrhage; or more remotely, as in profuse lochia, and that form which comes on several weeks after confinement, after every exertion of the patient, I have found the Caulophyllin as useful as any other m'edicine. Its action is pot as rapid as Erigeron or Sabina, but more permanent. Caulophyllin will cause abortion, in the later months of pregnancy. Of this, I have conclusive testimony. As a remedy in threatened abortion it has no superior. " Mr. S. has had several abortions at about the third month. Each preceded for a week or more by a sensation of weight and pressure in the pelvis. When I saw her, laborlike pains had already set in, and the os uteri was partly open. Gave Caulophyllum first, one drop every half hour. In a few hours the pains abated. She has since given birth at full term to a healthy child," (H). In uterine pains during pregnancy —" false pains," etc., there is no remedy upon which we can rely with more confidence than Caulophyllin. It has never failed to give relief, in my practice, and its effects are so apparent that my patients are unanimous in its praise. I usually give the 2d decimal trit. every three or six hours, as the case demands. It is equally useful in too severe and spasmodic pain occurring during parturition; also in deficient br absent labor-pains. In the former case, however, it should not be administered lower than the 3d, and even the 30th might be efficacious; but in the latter condition the one-tenth trit. frequently repeated, is the most advisable. -Deficient Labor.-Mrs. E., atprimipara, had been in labor twentyfour hours-a midwife attending her. I found the os uteri about the size of halfa dollar, (the membranes had roQken during the first hours 92 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. of pain,) hard, rigid and unyielding, vagina dry, the pains frequent and spasmodic. Gave Belladonna and Plulsatilla and ordered warm fomentations. Twelve hours afterwards there was scarce any alteration in the condition of the patient, except that she had some fever, and -was a little delirious. Gave Aconite, 1st. Six hours of agonizing pain and no progress; by auscultation I discovered the child to be dead; it was alive twelve hours before. I began to fear for my patient. Ergot was plainly inadmissible owing to the yet rigid condition of the os. I therefore gave Caulophyllin, one half grain every 15 minutes. In one hour the os uteri had become soft and dilatable, the vagina relaxed and moist; fever abated, moist skin, pains less agonizing, but strong and expulsive, and in one hour more she was delivered' of a dead child, weighing 10 1-2 lbs. The mother had a good recovery. I do not think any other medicine could have produced so favorable a change in so brief a time. As an agent for inducing premature labor, after rupturing the membranes, it is invaluable. It is always safer, and in many cases, superior to Ergot," (H). The chief danger, both to mother and child, when Ergot is administered, is the powerful continuous contraction which it causes. It has been the cause of rupture of the uterus and perineum, and death of the foetus by pressure on the cord, etc. These casualties are avoided by giving Caulophyllin. In Sutppression of the Lochia, with symptoms- simulating inflammation, such as pain, cramps, distention, and some tenderness, the Caulophyllin aided by warm fomentations of Hops, or Polygonum (smart-weed) will restore the discharge in a short time. To sum up the curative properties of this medicine-I do not doubt but it is homceopathic, primarily or secondarily, to all the morbid states mentioned by eclectic authors. It only needs an exhaustive proving to establish the special indications for its use. I can bear testimony to its value as a preparatory remedy, in case of: difficult labor. Myy experience with it in such cases has been very satisfactory. Caulophyllin inz Paraplegia.-iDuring the session of the Western Institute of Homceopathy, held in Chicago, May, 1864. Dr. Burbank, of Illinois, related a remarkable case of Paraplegia which he cured with this remedy. The patient was a middle aged ladv. On the sixth day after her confinement she was attacked with Metritis-so called by her Allopathic physician. Under the usual treatment of the old school, the affection apparently subsided, but left her nearly completely paraplegic. There was partial loss of sensation,ui and complete loss of motion; could not move the limbs in bed, or stand upon them. There was considerable emaciation, anoemia, and general debility. When Dr. B. first saw the case, two years had elapsed since the seizure, and she was growing worse. After consultation with some of the most eminent physicians of Chicago, he gave her Cocculus, Nux. vom., Citrate of Iron and Strychnia, and several other medicines. Upon examining the uterus it was;found:retroverted, congested and enlarged. The patient was put upon the use of Caulophyllin 2nd, and its use was persisted in until the paraplegia was cured. Improvement set in CAULOPHYLLUM THALICTROIDES. 93 soon' after taking the medicine, and in a few- weeks she was able to move her lower extremities; and now —six months after the commencement ofthe treatment-is as well as ever. The uterus, even, has assumed its normal position and condition. This case -is one that demands our careful, consideration. It is probable that real metritis never existed at all. My impression is that it.was originally a case of retroversion of the uterus, existing before the process of involution had taken place. After the retroversion, a certain degree of inflammation may have existed; the process of involution was arrested, and the uterus remained in a congested or engorged condition. The, case was one of reflex paraplegia, and the abnormal state of the uterus its real cause. Such being the ease Nux. vom., and the other remedies given, were not appropriate, but Caulophyllin, by acting in a specific manner upon the uterus, restored it to a normal state, and the paraplegia disappeared of itself. I predict this remedy will be found a very useful one in many cases of paralylis of the lower extremities. Male Organs of Generation. -This remedy does not appear to have been used in any of the diseases of the male genital organs. I can only find it recommended in one disorder- Gonorrhcea. But a remedy capable of affecting so profoundly the sexual organs of one sex, must assuredly affect those of the other. I predict that it will sometimes be found useful in some' diseases of the testes, etc. Even if the Caulophyllin, like Ergot, acts, upon these organs through the spinal cord, it would not affect.the above conclusions. Respiratory Organs.-No chest symptoms have been elicited in any of the fragmentary provings. It may prove useful in certain spasmodic affections of the the thoracic organs, idiopathic or reflex, such as hooping cough, hiccough, asthma, spasms of the chest and lungs, and even cardjif derangQmQnt~. B aiv auno Extremities.-Pain in the small of the back, like those of labor; Weight in the region of the sacrum; General lame feeling in the: whrole length of the back. Lassitude and weakness. of the legs; Trembling of the lower limbs'; Aching in the joints. Cramps. CLINICAL REMARKs, —Dr. R. Ludlam reports two cases of inflammatory rheumatism of the joints of the hands, cured rapidly with Caulophyllum. NoTE. —Since the above was prepared for the press, I received a proving of Caulophyllum, accompanied by the following letter. LYONS, May 2nd, 1864. E. M. HALE, M. D. —Dear )oter; I t ing roiv& d na Wld from yau Iice I last wrote? I hve ooancludcd to send you my short proving of Crulophyllhim I have taken it, until I have become so used to the drug, my system fails to give out any more symptoms. I think you will be surprised to see what massive doses I took for such a few symptoms. I do not like to make provings with the active principles, so-called. They never give me half as many symptoms as the tinctures do. This is the first proving I have ever seen of Caulophyllum,-I am disappointed; with it. As it has such a great influence over the female organs of generation, I expected 94 NEW HOM(EOPATIIC PROVINGS. that it would affect the male organs also, but not so. My genital organs were not affected in the least. Please tell me, if my proving corresponds with the provings of others, if you have them. I could not get any of my female friends to prove it. All the symptoms produced were of a rheumatic character. It appears to arrests the secretion of bile in a marked manner. The watery stool I cannot account for. Truly yours, W. H. BRT. DR. BURT'S PROVING WITH CAULOPHYLLIN. April 28th, 1864. Am in perfect health; tongue not coated; tonsils are natural; good appetite; bowels move once a day;? urine acid; temperament sanguine-nervous; age 27; weight 148 lbs.; pulse 75. 4 P. M.-Took 10 grs. of pure resinoid. 5 P. M.-.-Dull frontal headache, with a contracted feeling of the skin of the forehead; drawing pains in the thighs, knees, legs and' ankles'; very sharp pains in the left knee joint, inside; elbows and wrists ache. 5 40.-Very hard pains in the forehead, with a sensation as of needles being stuck into the forehead. 6 P. M.-Constant flying pains in the arms and legs, first in one part and then' in another, remaining only two or three minutes at a time in a place. Severe drawing pains in the inside of the left thigh; very hard dull frontal headache; distress in the fauces that causes frequent inclination to swallow; dull backache in the lumbar region; every few minutes sharp stinging pains in the glans penis. 9 P. M. —Severe frontal headache; severe colicky pains every few minutes in the umbilicus; very severe drawing pains in the sterno-cleido-mastoid muscle, that draws the head to the left side; severe drawing pains in the joints of the arms and legs; the ankle and toes of the left foot are very painful; dull backache. April 29th. Slept well until 3 A. M.; after that I was very restless; skin was hot and dry; severe drawing pains in my hips, knees, ankles and feet, wrists and fingers. Shutting my hand produced severe cutting pains in the second joints of all the fingers, they were very stiff; frequent colicky pains in the umbilicus, relieved by emissions of flatus; severe drawing pains over the left eye. 10 A. M. —Have the same symptoms. Took 15 grs.; had a natural stool at 7 A. M. 12 M.-Distress in the stomach and bowels, with drawing pains in the right hypochondrium; drawing pains in the fingers, legs and feet; the pains are very severe in the feet. 4 i. x. —PDull frontal headache, by spells there is a very severe pain in the temples that produces a feeling as if both temples would' be crushed together; frequent slight colicky pain in the stomach and umbilicus; slight dull backache; drawing pains in the right side over the liver; severe drawing pains in the legs and feet, but more especially in the feet; drawing pains in the fingers; natural but dark stool. 2 P. M. —Took 25 grs. 6 P. M.-Dull headache'; profuse flow of tears; drawing pains in'the nose; good deal of pain and distress in the stomach and umbilicus; dull pains in the lumbar region; severe drawing pains in the ankles and feet; severe pain in the wrists and joints of the fingers. 9 P. M. —Slight frontal headache; good deal of distress in the stomach, and small intestines; constant and severe CAULOPHTYLLUM THALICTROIDES. 95 drawing pains in the wrists and fingers, ankles,feet, and toes; the left ankle pains very severely; took 30 grs. April 30th. Had a restless night; there was so much pain in the joints of the fingers; they look red, and are very stiff; closing the hand is very painful; slight frontal headache; teeth all feeling sore and elongated; slight dull pain in the umbilicus when moving, relieved by emissions of flatus; drawing pains in the knees, ankles, feet anditoes; walking produces severe painin the metatarsal bones; natural but hard stool. 10 P. M.-Feeling quite well, excepting my knees are very weak when walking; another rather soft, stool, followed by slight pain in the umbilicus; took 50 grs. 12 M. —empty eructations; sligh distress in the stomach; drawing pains in the knees and toes, very sharp by spells. 5 P.. —Feeling weak and nervous; dullness of the head; slight burning distress in the stomach; slight drawing pains in the wrists and fingers, ankles, feet and toes; took 75 grs. 10 P. M.-Frequent gulping up of a very sour, bitterfluid; frequent spells of vertigo; slight burning distress in the stomach; drawing pains in the fingers, ankles, feet and toes, but more especially in the toes; knees feeling very weak when walking; eyes aching with a feeling of something under the lids; profuse secretion of tears. May 1st. Slept well until 1 A. M., then awoke with a great rumbling in the bowels, and a very urgent desire for stool; stool mostly of water that ran a perfect stream from my bowels, passed a great quantity. There was no pain. 8 A. M.-Feeling quite well; tongue coated white; canine hunger; fingers are quite stiff; slight backache; drawing pains in the toes; want to drink a great deal of water. 8 A. M.-Frequent slight pain in the umbilicus; drawing pains in the elbows, wrists, fingers, knees, ankles, feet and toes; all of my joints crack frequently when walking or turning. May 2d. Restless night; my fingers, ankles, feet and toes pained me so much; fingers are very stiff. 7 A. M.-Soft stool, very white showing a great deficiency of bile in the excretions. REMARKS.-The urinary or genital organs were not affected in the least; the pulse remained about natural all the time; its great centre of action on myself was the small joints; (the fingers and toes; the carpal, metacarpal and phalangeal; tarsal, metatarsal and phalangeal joints.) DR. HALE'S REMARKS. I know of no more remarkable substantiation of the truth of the law of Simrilia, than the above graphic proving. How perfectly Dr. Burt describes the rheumatic affection, so similar in its character to that variety in which Dr. R. Ludlam found the Caulophyllum curative? I know of no coincidence in my experience which has ever given me greater satisfaction. To settle any possible cavil or doubt in the minds of the most suspicious, I will say that Dr. Burt did not know of the use of Caulophyllin in rheumatism, much less had he any knowledge of Dr. Ludlam's experience with the remedy in that disease. I append Dr. Ludlam's report of the cases. 96 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. CHICAGO, May 4th, 1864. E. M. HALE, M. D. —Dear' Doctor: Meeting my friend, the Rev. Dr. C-, socially in the autumn of 1860, he inquired if I had ever prescribed the Caulophyllum for rheumatism? I replied in the negative. He then told me that he had once suffered from a very severe and protracted attack of articular rheumatism, in which the pain and swelling finally settled in the wrist and fingers of one hand. The usual remedies were tried but without avail. His physician finally prescribed, as a; dernier ressort, a decoction of the Caulophyllum. In a short time he was perfectly relieved. "I would not," said my friend, "spend a night without the Caulophyllin in my house for half the city of Chicago!" It so happened that I was at the time treating an inveterate case of rheumatism affecting the metacarpal joints of the left hand of a servant girl in the family: of D. S Esq. The remedies which I had prescribed did little good, and all concerned were impatient the girl should, be well and at work-again. I gave her empirically two grains of the second decimal trituration of the (Caulophyllin. She was ordered to take a powder of that size and strength every two hours until relieved. The poor sufferer had not slept for two or more nights. After taking the second dose she fell asleep, and her pain vanished fro.m that time forward. There was no metastasis of the complaint, and in two days she was down stairs at work. While she remained in the family-two years-she had no return of the disease. Since the above result was obtained, I have frequently prescribed the Caulophyllin for articular rheumatism affecting the smaller joints, and several times with as signal success. It has however, appeared more effectual in case of females than of males, who were ill with this painful disease. Very respectfully, R. LubDLrO. CHIIMAPHILA UMBELLATA. (Pipsissiwa.) This plant, known also as Prince's pine, ground holly, etc., is a native of this country, but grows in many parts of Europe and Asia. It is found in moist, shady places, and in a loose sandy soil; it flowers in June. The dried plant has scarcely any odor, with a sweetish, somewhat astringent and pleasant taste. It yields its medicinal virtues to boiling water and alcohol. The leaves are the officinal portion, but it is probable the root has some virtue. Chemical Analysis:-Dr. Holff obtained from 100 parts of the plant, 18.0, bitter extractive; 2.04, resin; 138, tannic acid. The remainder was woody fibre, a small portion of gum and some calcareous salts. Its medicinal virtues are decreed to reside in the bitter extractive, resin and tannin; but it may be that some of its medicinal powers reside in the calcareous salts-said salts may consist of Calcarea, CHIMAPHILA UMIBELLATA. 97 Sulphur and the Phosphates, each of which are powerful ciurative agents. King says the plant contains an acrid and volatile principle —ad saline substances.- The great reputation which this plant has in chronic scrofulous and psoric affections may suggest the idea that its curative properties in this direction maybe due to the antipsoric substances residing in the plantsi I shall refer to this subject when treating of Rumex crispus. GENERAL PROPERTIES.-Wood (Therapeutics, vol. 1, p. 133)says-" The fresh leaves bruised and applied to the skin, are said to be rubefacient and even vesicating. Internally they are mildly astringent and tonic, with the property of somewhat increasing the secre-7 tion of urine, to which they probably impart some degree of remedial power. It is, I think, scarcely doubtful that their peculiar active principle, through which they stimulate the kidneys, passes off, either unchanged or changed, with the urine." "Pipsissiwa was much employed by the aborigines of this country, to whom it owes the name by which it is now generally designated., From the Indians the medicine passed into popular use, whence it was adopted by the profession. It was used chiefly in scrofala, rheumatism, and a ffections of the kidneys, and urinary passages. King says it is diuretic, tonic, alterative and astringent. Jones & Scudder decree it to be diuretic, tonic, astringent, diaphoretic and alterative. Lee, Coe, and other allopathic and eclectic writers entertain similar views. General Therapeutie E ee$ts —It has been found curative in chronic diseases, among which is Scrofula. Prof. Wood says; "'In Scrofula it is, I-think, a valuable remedy. The late Dr. Joseph Parish used it very extensively in this affection, and had great confidence in its powers. I have myself been in the habit of employing it in cases of external scrofula during the whole period of my practice, and have found few remedies which have appeared to me more efficacious. * * * It has seemed to. me to exercise a favorably alterative influence in- scrofula, independently of:its -astringency and tonic power; but itis extremely difficult to discriminate, in affections of this kind, between the course of nature and the effects of remedies, so that it is proper to speak of the latter with some reserve. Fully aware of the necessity of this caution, I am still of opinion, as the result of considerable experience, that pipsissiwa deserves to rank next to cod-liver oil, and. the preparations of Iodine andIron in the treatment of Scrofula. In order that its full effects maybe'obtained, it should be long continued, with interruptions now and then should any considerable degree of fever supervene (?). In cases attended with ulcers of an indolent and flabby character, it may be used with advantage as a wash." These: are the deliberate statements of one of the best authors in the allopathic school, and are entitled to some weight. They should stimulate us: to make a thorough proving of this plant. It: may become a valuable antipsoric. Other writers give: their testimony in its favor in - scrofula. Prof. Lee -quotes Wood, expressing his ". entire confidence in: the opinions so strongly set forth." He has advised this remedy for a, long time in the same class of cases, both in city and country prac13 98 NEW HOMaEOPATtIIC PROVINGS. tice, and with marked success: "It is a tonic-astringent of peculiar efficacy in the whole class of cachexia." The late Prof. Mitchell, of New York, made it the subject of his inaugural thesis (Phil. 1863): "In Scroftla it has proved eminently useful, and with some practitioners is held in very high repute in the various forms of this disease, both before and after ulceration. Some have thought it possessed of specific powers and hence it has acquired the title in some parts of the country, of the' King's Cure.' D1r. Justice, of North Carolina. informs us that he " has known it to effect perfect cures in several obstinate cases of Scrofula, without the aid of other means.:" (Jones & Scudder's Mat. Med.) This last assertion which I have italicized, is of great import to the homceopathic physician. The true test qf a remedy in disease, is its effects when given singly. The Illinois Homaeopathic Medical Association, and the Western Institute of IHomceopathy, which held their sessions in Chicago this year (1864), each appointed a Bureau of Provings. The Chimaphila has been selected by this Bureau as a proper medicine to investigate, and obtain its pathogenesis. I am sanguine that the profession will gain a valuable remedy in the Pipsissiwa. -Fevers.-In several instances in which I have administered this medicine, the following symptoms have been observed: About half an hour after each dose (of the 1st dil.) a flushing of the cheeks, with some general heat, and acceleratedpulse. Wood seems t o imply a caution not to use the Pipsissiwa when fever is present. It may be homeopathic to some form of fever, probably those having a hectic character. ".During the Revolutionary War it was used extensively by the army surgeons as a tonic and diaphoretic in typhus fever.' (ZLee.) Prof. Mitchell relates many cases of intermittent fever effectually cured by it. Rheumatism.-As a popular remedy in this disease, i thas always been in high repute. It is chiefly in chronic rheumatism that its curative powers have been most noticed. A proving, however, is necessary to show the particular variety for which it is indicated. Special Effects.-In the absence of any proving I shall not venture any theoretical suggestions as to its influence on special organs and tissues, or portions of the body. I deem it proper, however, to note the large amount of testimony given by the allopathic and eclectic schools, in favor of its specific action upon, and curative influence over disorders of the Urinary Organs.-Dr.- Wood says it has been chiefly used in afections of the kidneys and urinary passages: "Its diuretic powers have recommended it in dropsy. In cases of this disease attended with debility, but little reliance can be placed upon its efficacy; and at best it should be used only as an adjuvant to other more powerful diuretics." Dr. Lee says: "In Germany it has long been deemed one of the best remedies in abdominal and renal dropsies, increasing the urinarysecretion and the depurating function. We have employed it to a considerable extent for many years, especially in the treament of dropsical affections, in broken-down constitutions and intemperate subjects, and generally with manifest CHIMAPHILA UMBELLATA. 99 advantage. It has tended to carry off the dropsical accumulations, while at the same time it imparted tone and vigor to the digestive system. In Albuminuria also, its effects have proved decidedly beneficial. It ranks with.Buchu, Uiva Ursi and _Pareira Brava, all tonics, and all exerting a specific influence over the genito-urinary organs. Dr. Barton extols it highly for its anti-lithic properties, and ranks it with Uva Ursi.: It may; however, well be doubted, whether it has any specific powers of this kind." Dr. Coe says it is useful in dropsy, (especially ascites) gonorrhcea, strangury, gqavel, and syphilis, when these affections are attended with torpor and debility. "It exercises a specific influence over the urinary apparatus, increasing the renal secretion, and at the same time it is thought by some to lessen the quantity of lithic acid, or lithates secreted. It is especially serviceable in chronic diseases of the genito-urinary mucous membrane, as in chronic catarrhal affections of the bladder; chronic nephritis, or urethritis, attended with a purulent or profuse mucous discharge. It is also beneficial in calculous and prostatic affections; diabetes; in the advanced stages of albuminuria; and in other disorders of the urinary organs attended with local debility. In atonic or passive dropsies it has been found useful."' (Jones & Scudder Mat. Med.) The last paragraph contains, in my opinion, the best resume of the curative properties of the chimaphila, as regards its action on the urinary organs. I believe a proving will establish its homceopathicity to the affections named. I will now give my individual experience in the use of this remedy. My attention was first called to it in a case which happened in the early part of my practice. A young woman applied to me for a distressing dysuria which had troubled her for several weeks. She was plethoric, hysterical, had disorders of the digestive organs, constipation, haemorrhoids, and scanty menses. The urine was scanty, but was voided frequently, with much pain before, (passing), during (scalding, smarting) and after. (Vesical tenesmus.) The urine was high-colored and deposited a copious mucous sediment. I gave her Cantharis, Cannabis, Pulsatilla, Capsicum, Copaiva, Sepia, Terebinthina and many other remedies, which seemed indicated, for several weeks, but they only palliated the difficulty. Cool hip baths, the wet bandage, mucilaginous drinks, and Nux Vomica, Sulphur and enemas for the constipation, etc., were tried, without much effect. An examination of the vagina and uterus was instituted, but elicited only a tenderness of the anterior portion of the vagina (bladder) and urethra, some prolapsus, and slight leucorrhcea (uterine). At this juncture, an old nurse proposed the'use of the' Prince's Pine." I assented, having no prejudice against the plant, and hoping it might benefit my suffering patient. A decoction of the plant (of uncertain strength) was prepared, and a wine-glassful administered three or four times a day. In a week I called to see what the effects of the medicine had been. To my surprise, I was informed that improvement had set in the next day after the remedy was commenced. Not only was the dysuria nearly removed, but the, sediment had almost dis 100 NEW -HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. appeared from the urine; and, stranger still, the constipation was cured, and the digestive organs were in a normal condition. In two weeks she was as well as ever. The prompt cure wvhich the Chirlaphila effected in this case led me to use it in many cases of strangury, catarrhal affections of the bladder, etc., and in many instances I found it act certainly. It failed in some cases, probably.because it was not truly indicated. I was once called in counsel to a case of chronic renal and vesical affection, in which the amount of sediment of a thick, ropy, character, and a pink color (the color was found to be owing to blood) was really enormous in amount. The patient, a young man, was debilitated, ansemic,'dyspeptic, had hectic fever and night sweats, and altogether was in a bad condition. Various remedies, including China, Phosphoric acid, Cannabis, etc., had been given.:Uva Ursi was tried with good results for a time. At my suggestion the Chimaphila was used, a few drops ofthe fluid extract in a glass of water, a spoonful every two hours. He improved rapidly under its use, and in a few weeks was able to resume his usual avocations. A relapse occurred after six or eight months. He was again benefited bythe medicine, since which time I have not heard from the patient. It has -one generally uniform effect, namely: to cause mucous sediment to disappear from the urine. I believe it will be found curative in albumiqnaria, as well as catarrhal affections of the urinary organs. In that distressing symptom, vesical tenesmmus, occurring from prolapsus or retroversion, it is an excellent palliative, before the uterus is replaced; and curative after that operation. I have used it successfullyin two cases of long lasting:gleet. Under its use the discharge disappeared, and the general health improved. fI have noticed the follow'ingpathogenetic symptoms from its use: Copious discharge of clear: limpid urine. Frequent and profuse urination. Urging to urinate after voiding urine. Pressing fulness in the region of the bladder. Loose stool, three or:four times a day. For the above symptoms, which are primary effects, I have found the 6th attenuations- most useful. In chronic disorders and catarrhal affections of these organs, the lowest dilutions: seems to act more beneficially. I have not tried the high potencies. Case illustrating its value in irritable bladder:A married lady, aged, 34, had been troubled for many years with prolapsus uteri, leucorrhcea, ulceration of the neck, etc., but. who is now somewhat better of those difficulties, applied to me for the relief of an obstinate vesical irritability. Her' symptoms were as follows: Frequent desire to urinate: during the day. At night the urging was so constant as to deprivp her of all sleep, She had to get up and urinate as often as everyhour. The urine was high colored, deposited a copious light-colored sediment (mucous), and there was considerable smarting, burning and pricking pain during its emission. The quantity of urine voided was not larger than CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 101 normal. The patient. was constipated, an evacuation only every third day. Some tenderness over thehypogastric region. She had a severe, racking, dry cough, but no indication of pulmonary difficulty. The prolapsus was aggravated by the cough. April 2. Inserted an India rubber inflatable pessary. This relieved the prolapsus, and stopped the cough altogether, but the vesical irritation was not alleviated, at the end of five days. April 6. Gave Cannabis 1st (4 pills No. 5, dry,) every four hours. The effect of this remedy was prompt in relieving the irritation, and indirectly causing sleep. She declared it acted as a direct anodyne. This improvement continued for five days, when the medicine ceased to give any relicf, and she grew worse than b efore. April 11. Gave Chimaphila first decimal dilution, 10 drops in a spoonful of water, every four hours. For several days no effect was noticeable, except a flushing of the cheeks for about twenty minuztes after each dose. On the fourth night, however, she was able to sleep all night, and next day she noticed that the usual copious sediment was notably lessened, and the dysuria and frequent urging rapidly gave way. The bowels began to act regularly; the tenderness of the bladder disappeared, and at this date, April 20th, she is more comfortable than for many months previously. Several things relating to the action of this rehledy are worthy of note: 1. The pathogenetic symptoms mentioned above. 2. Its power in relieving dysuria. 3. Its influence in lessening the sediment (there was an evident vesical catarrh.) 4. Its curative action in constipation. C I MIC IF UG A R AC E M OSA. (Mfacrotys racemosa. Black Snake-root.) This powerful medicinal plant has been used more or less since the settlement of New England by the whites. It was much used by the Indians, under the name of Black Cohosh or Squaw Root, for:rheumatism and -diseases of their women. It thus became introduced into domestic, and finally, to some extent, into regular practice. Still it has always been most in use among the eclectic school, who value it as we do our Bryonia and Pulsatilla. It is a tall and stately plant, growing in shady and rocky woods, rich grounds, from Maine to Florida, flowering from June to July. The root is the part generally employed in. medicine, though probably the seeds will be found active; the root should be gathered early in the autumn and dried in the shade. It consists of a thick, irregularly bent, or contorted body or caudex, from one-third of an inch to an inch in 102 NEW HOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS. diameter, often several inches in length, furnished with many slender radicles, and rendered extremely rough and jagged in appearance by the remains of the stems of successive years. The color is externally, dark brown, almost black; internally a yellowish-white; the odor is feeble and disgreeable, and the taste bitter, somewhat astringent, leaving a slight sense of acrimony. It yields its virtues partially to boiling water, but wholly to alcohol. The taste of the tincture reminds one strongly of that of laudanum. From the root is obtained the concentrated principle Mfacrotin, which contains most of the essential properties of the plant, and is often used in the place of the tincture. The stem is simple, herbaceous, smooth, furrowed, from 4 to 8 feet high. The leaves fine, alternate, one nearly radical, large, decompound, and tripinnate; upper one bipinnate. The leaflets are ovate, oblong, sessile, opposite, three to seven, incised and toothed. The flowers are fetid, white, in a long terminal raceme, with oftentimes one or more shorter ones at base. Thefruit or capsule is ovoid, dry, with one cell, containing numerous flat, smooth seeds, which are packed horizontally in two rows. In the late autumn, and winter, any motion of the plant, causes a rattling of the seeds, so much resembling the alarm of the rattle snake as to cause the hunter to start-hence the country people call it Rattle-weed. The following pathogenesis which is pretty complete, is made up of the provings of Drs. Marcy, H. M. Paine, Hill, Douglas and others. The provings were made with doses of the crude tincture, the dilutions, (3d and 6th) and many of the symptoms are firom its poisonous effects. Altogether it -is probably as reliable a proving as any of our polycrests, and I predict that in a few years it will rank as high in the estimation of our school, as any remedy we possess. I have taken pains to collect all the reliable clinical facts which have appeared in the records of any school, in relation to its curative action in disease. My own experience with it has been large. GENERAL. —Feels very tired. Nervous weakness during the afternoon. Great sensitiveness to the cold air, which seemed to penetrate the system. Continual restlessness in the afternoon, desire to move about, not knowing what to do or where to go. General feeling of illness; weak, trembling exhausted sinking feeling, with slight nausea. Easily fatigued, as after great exertion. Miserable dejected feeling. Tremors; so weak and trembling as not to be able to go out or study; believes the condition to be but one remove from mania a potu. Desire to lie down and close the eyes. General bruised feeling as if sore. Sensation as from severe muscular exercise, especially in the small of the back. It effects the?left side most. Feeling which only those know who "spree "or watch all night with the sick. Soreness and stiffness of the whole body, as after hard labor. CLINICAL REMARKS.-NO particular indications are proper under this head. The general symptoms of a drug may be primary-as when the nervous system is profoundly impressed-and the local affections, the result'; or, they may be secondary, as when particu CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 103 lar organs are first affected, resulting in constitutional disturbance. I would classify its general action as follows: Nervous System.- Wood classifies it with the "Nervous Sedatives," and I am inclined to think its primary action in pathogenetic doses is in that direction. How it effects the nervous system is beyond our ken. We know that it causes all those symptoms known to the profession under the name of "nervous prostration," and even extreme conditions which resemble dilirium tremens. This malady is defined by Watson to consist essentially of a state of "nervous irritation." He thinks this' is as good a name as any for a state which we know exists. He contends that the nervous system can be irritated, as well as any organ in the body. It is also proper to designate certain conditions as states of "1nervous exhaustion "-" nervous excitement." Cimicifuga seems to cause all these states of the nervous system. When given to a healthy person it causes first nervous excitement, which soon leads to irritation and finally exhaustion. Some observers have the folly to state that " very large doses cause no alarming effects."?' I have seen not only alarming, but dangerous effects arise from dram doses of the "fluid extract." administered to a girl, by a botanic quack. Nerves of Sensation. —It seems to exercise considerable control over this system, independently of its action on the vascular system. It cures many of those purely neuralgic pains to which females are liable. Our provings show it to be capable of causing various aches and pains of a similar character. Nerves of Motion.-It causes "nervous tremors "- with great restlessness-(See general symptoms.) It seems to exert a peculiar and specific action upon some of the diseases of the nerves of motion, especially in chorea, Not only in that variety which arises from rheumatic irritation, but when arising from other causes. A great number of cases of chorea treated successfully with this remedy have been reported, a few of, which we collect. Case 1st. A boy aged 11, had had Chorea for foar months; one side was affected, and in almost constant motion, except when asleep; he had been under medical care all the time without avail. He then took one teaspoonful of pulv. black snake root every morning for three days, then omitted it three, then resumed it again until he had taken it nine times. When he had taken six doses he was almost well; when he had taken nine doses he was perfectly well, and remained so for at least four years.-Dr. Young. Case 2nd. A girl sick with Chorea for a month; after taking three doses she was very much improved; six doses cured her entirely. It caused pricking all over every time it was taken.Ibid. Case 3rd. A lady, aged 19 had Chorea for two weeks; her left side was almost constantly in motion; it did not prevent her gleeping; Jher general health was perfectly good, and no cause could be detected. She was dosed with Calomel, Jalap, Tartar emetic and Cream Tartar, for seven days, when Dr. Young was startled, for he found that the Chorea had extended to the right side and was tenfold aggravated. Her arms, legs, head, face,, tongue and every 104 NEW IHOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. muscular part, was in continual and irregular motion; she could with great difficulty speak intelligibly. The power of swallowing was lost to a great degree, she could not walk one step, nor stand up without support, nor could she sleep day or night on account of the constant twitching and jerking of the muscles. A teaspoonful of the powdered root of Cimicifuga was given three times a day; in five days she was much better, could walk 300 or 400 yards, could speak and swallow as well as ever; slept well at night; her legs had but little irregular motion, her head was steady, and the muscles of her face scarcely agitated; her arms were more affected than any other part. In seven days more she was quite well-. It neither vomited, sweated, purged or acted on her kidneys; the only sensation she had was an uneasy sensation, almost amounting to an ache, through all her limbs, after every dose, and continuing three or four hours. Dr. Physic cured several cases with ten grain doses every two hours. Dr. Wood cured a case after the failure of purgative and metallic tonics'; also a case of periodic- convulsions connected with uterine disorder. Case 4th. A girl aged 9, whose mental faculties were much disordered, and who had lost nearly all power over the left arm and leg; bowels irregular, headache, and pain frequently shooting down the left arm. Was cured quickly. A very intractable case was cured by Dr. Otto.; A girl aged 18-Chorea with considerable gastric derangement, with suppression of menses for five months. Five grains of the pulv. root every 3 hours; no improvement for nearly a week; then improved rapidly and was well in three weeks. Dr. Davis says we can no longer doubt its efficacy in Chorea, in all cases arising from undue irritability or mobilityi of the nervous system, especially when induced by exposure to cold; in short, when Chorea arises from a rheumatic irritation of the motor nerves, and muscles, or of the anterior column of the spinal marrow. In the various Eclectic Journals, there have been reported from- time to time very many cures of Chorea, made with Cimicifuga. I In some cases the powdered' root was used; in others the tincture, resinoid (macrotin), or the fluid extract. According to my experience it ismost useful when the disease occurs in females, is aggravated at the menstrual periods, and seems to be somehow connected with derangement of the generative functions. The first decimal of the pulv. root seems to act more promptly in these cases, although the first dec. dilution is quite reliable. Physicians are in duty bound to report their failures as well as their cures. I have given the Cimicifuga in some cases without deriving any benefit from its use. One case was a child about 10 years of age. The first symptom was a "catching" of the lower limb, like the disease called " spring-halt" in horses; afterwards came twitching of the mouth, arms, fingers and feet. Cimicifuga -lst or 3d trit. did not cause any improvement in ten days. Agaricus was tried a week:; but Nu:x vomica`2d. dil. five drops threetimes a day arrested the malady. A simila-I'case also resisted its action, probably because it was not strictly homceopathic, but when the citrate of Iron and Strychnia was given, a rapid recovery was the result. This last medicine was selected because of CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 105 the antemia which indicated Iron, and the peculiar spasmodic symptoms called for Nux vom.. One grain of the first decimal was given three times a day. Improvement immediately set in, and continued until the recovery was complete-about four weeks, F'ever.-Chilliness during the forenoon. Occasional cold chill. Coldness and chills, particularly of the arms and feet soon after waking. At 3 A. M., the whole surface became cold. Slight cold perspiration, and sensation as if it would become profuse, continuing for an hour, accompanied by lancinating pain along the cartilages of the false ribs, left side, increased by taking a long inspiration. Disposition to perspire at night for three weeks; irregular, usually three or four times a week, occurring about 3 A. nv., commencing while asleep, and disappearing a few minutes after waking, never profuse. During the first week the surfacewas cold with the perspiration, but during the last ten days the perspiration was accompanied by heat rather than coldness; pulse too slow, every third or fourth pulsation intermitting. In three quarters of an hour, increased heat of the face; slight inclination to sweat; pulse rather full, 90 in the minute, it being 80 before taking the drug. In three quarters of an hour after taking the second dose, pulse weaker and very irregular, 80 in the minute. At the end of an hour pulse 80 and irregular. Pulse quick and weak. In morning pulse feeble, with weakness and trembling. Drowsiness, with creeping chills upon the back during the evening, followed by frequent wakings during the night, and desire to throw off the bed clothes, although the thermometer was below zero. CLINICAL REMARIKs.-The febrile symptoms developed during a proving of Cimicifuga are very slight. Careful obsevers have almost uniformly foundit to lessen the force and frequency of the pulse, at the same time soothing pain and allaying irritability. Dr. Davis says, it causes a depression of the pulse, which remains for a considerable time. Dr. Marcy says: " Like many other drugs which exercise a specific action upon the nervous system, the primary effect of actea, when given in small doses, is slightly stimulating to both the nervous and vascular systems, causing a slight increase in the force and frequency of the pulse, and followed speedily by a permanent depression of the circulation. When administering it for mild attacks of rheumatism, we have in several instances observed this primary and secondary action. Among the secondary effects which are strongly marked, are, diminished nervous irritability, and disposition to sleep." In Rheumatic fever, it is a valuable remedy. It will sometimes act promptly in reducing the force oI the pulse, and bringing on a healthy perspiration. Some severe acute attacks of inflammatory rheumatism have been cured with Cimicifuga in a very short time. But it has been usually given ill too large doses, by the dominant scho6l, (30 to 60 drops of the tincture every two or four hours). Such doses are useless and injuri. ous. I have succeeded with five drops of the first dilution, and rarely resort to the tincture. Five drops every hour should be the max imum dose. In Yellow fever, it is recommended by some writers. It would 14 CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 10~ symptoms existed. A few pellets of the 3d, seemed to palliate as well as Coffea. Mind and Sensorinum.-Not disposed to fix the attention on any subject; vertigo; impaired vision; dizziness; dullness in the head; vertigo; fulness and dull aching in the vertex; ten minutes after taking the third decimal dilution, a sort of delirium, with an inclination to run over the subject on which he was reading. Miserable dejected feeling; mind dull and heavy. Feels grieved, troubled, with sighing; next day a feeling of tremulous joy, with mirthfulness, playfulness and clear intellect. Considerable exhilaration. Pleasurable excitement. Cimicifuga soon shows its action on the sensorium, when administered to sensitive persons. Dr. King made casual mention in his dispensatory, that this drug had caused symptoms simulating delirium tremens. To get at the real history of such action I wrote to Dr. King, who kindly favored me with the following statement: * * "I did not pay that attention to the symptoms as one of your school would have done, but merely noticed them in the aggregate. In the cases referred to, I gave the tincture for the cure of rheumatism, in ordinary doses of 20 to 30 drops, every hour, but finding the symptoms resulting therefrom to be similar to those, of delirium tremens, I omitted the medicine until they had disappeared, and again administered it, but in smaller doses, and so continued until I found that even two or three drops would be followed by the same symptoms, and was therefore compelled to cease its use altogether in such cases. I have not met with this effect in but three cases, and in the first one that occurred, so positive was I from the symptoms of the patient, that his wife had allowed him the use of some liquor, that I came very near being discharged on account of the scolding I administered to both the patient and his wife. In fact, I did not believe in that case that the tincture produced the effects, nor until I met with the other cases. As near as I can recollect there were nausea, retching, dilated pupils, tremor of the limbs, incessant talking and changing from one subject to another without any order, though perfectly sensible when the attention was aroused by any person addressing them, or conversing with them, but soon relapsing into their vagaries when not disturbed; great wakefulness, imagining strange objects upon the bed, and in the room, as rats, sheep, etc. Sometimes arousing from their incoherent talkativeness as if startled, and inquiring regarding persons present: —'Who is that man?''What does he want here?''Tell him to go home,' etc. With quick, full pulse, a wild look of the eyes, and the peculiar indescribable expression of face commonly observed among those who labor under delirium tremens." I can corroborate Dr. King's experience with the Cimicifuga. I once gave the tincture to a girl who had dysmenorrhcea. I ordered her to take one drop every two hours during the premonitory stage, and when the pains, which were intense, painful, like labor-pains, and extended to the hips, thighs and ovarian regions had become severe, to take one drop every half hour. By some misunderstanding she took five drops every half hour for six hours. When I saw her she had no pains, 108 NEW HIOMEEOPATHIC PROVINGS. but said her head felt " strange and wild;" her pupils were dilated, she talked incoherently, and exclaimed that she saw rats, mice, and insects, on the bed and on the floor and ceiling. She also complained of a roaring in the head, very distressing. CLINICAL R:EMARKS.- In its effects on the sensorium, (brain) Cimicifuga is analogous to Arsenicum, Belladonna, Hyoscyamus, Opium, Stramonium, and a few other drugs, but it has important points of dissimilarity which should be considered in the selection of the drug. I treated one mild case of delirium tremens with this remedy. It seemed to remove the condition. Wrhen the symptoms above narrated occur in typhoid, or hysteric states, the Cimicifuga will act beneficially. A few drops of the 3d dilution in water every hour seems the most appropriate method of administration. Itead. — eaviness and dullness of the head; slight fulness of the head; slight dull pain in the head; acute pain generally through the head during the day, at times more severe on the left side; slight pain in the head in the evening; remittent headache of long standing, more or less severe every day, but increased every second day; dull pain deep in the forehead; dullness of the head and pain in the forehead and occiput; dull pain in the forehead in the afternoon; dull, boring pain in the forehead, over the left superciliary ridge, continuing for two hours, from 10 A. M; pain in the forehead and occiput, with heaviness of the head after one hour; pain from the eyes to the top of the head, which seemed as if the nerves were excited to too much action, lasting three hours-under large doses, it lasted six hours; pain over the eyes; pain over the left eye, extending along the base of the brain to the occiput; slight pain in the forehead; dryness of the pharynx; aching in the eyes, apparently between the eyeball and orbital plate of the frontal bone. At 10 P. Mi. occasional transient pain in the forehead, over the right eye; dull pain in the head; fullness in the forehead, over the eyes; severe pain in the head, particularly in the forehead and eyeballs; severe pain in the forehead over the right eye, and extending to the temple and vertex with fulness, heat, and throbbing, and when going up stairs, a sensation as if the top of the head would fly off; fulness in the vertex; aching pain in the vertex and occiput in paroxysms, at times quite severe, immediately after rising. Pain in the vertex during the afternoon and evening; sensation as if the temples were compressed occasionally through the day; dull, heavy headache, more in the left temple; slight pain in the left side of the head; aching pain in the head, particularly in the'ociput,; exlperienced only while indoors, relieved by the open air-it increased during the afternoon, and was quite severe in the evening; about 9 P. M., it disappeared entirely after a walk in the open air; constant dull pain in the head, particularly in the occiput, and extending to the vertex, during the forenoon and part of the afternoon. The pain in the head is always relieved by open air; dull sensation through the head as though he had been on a " spree" and was getting over its effects. Brain feels too large for the cranium; brain feels compressed. Awoke at 2 o'clock A. M., with excruciating, though dull CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 109 pain in the forehead, extending to the temples, with coldness of forehead; pain in the eyeballs. Dull pain in the region of moral organs-a pressing outward and upward, as if there was not room enough for the upper portion of the cerebrum. This pain was very oppressive and intolerable; it began about 5 o'clock p. M., after taking the second dose, and continued unabated till morning, when it was relieved in thirty minutes by a dose of Bryonia. CLINICAL REMARiS.-There is no remedy in our Materia Medica which so promptly and uniformly causes headache as the Cimicifuga-with the exception of Glonoine. It is homceopathic to a variety of headaches, particularly the nervous, rheumatic and menstrual. It effects the brain in a manner similar to Digitalis. Some of its symptoms resemble Nux., Ign., Glonoine, Spigelia and Belladonna. It has cured a headache with "severe pain in the eyeballs, extending into the forehead, and increased by the slightest movement of the head or eyeballs," also " dull pain in the occipital regions with shooting pains down the back of the neck." Case 1st. A lady aged 35, has suffered from dyspepsia for several months, and for nine days past from severe pain in the forehead over the right eye, and extending to the temple and vertex, with fullness, heat and throbbing, and when going up stairs a sensation as if the top of the head would fly off. Coldness and chills, particularly of the arms and feet; faintness in the epigastrium; pain and regurgitation of food after eating. Cimicifuga first, three drops three times a day, afforded prompt and permanent relief. — Paine. Case 2nd. Mrs. W. aged 47, has not yet passed the critical period, and suffers from various neuralgic pains incident to that time. Now suffers from severe pains in the head, particularly in the forehead and eyeballs. Cimicifuga second, afforded prompt relief in a few hours. Case 3rd. Dull pain in the head; fullness in the forehead and eyes; pain in the eyeballs,: increased secretion of tears; fluent watery coryza; frequent sneezing; soreness of the throat; cough at night, caused by tickling in throat-cured in two days by Cimicifuga 2. (Dr. Paine). This is a well marked case of catarrhal headache. I have found it useful in similar cases. Dr. B. L. Hill states that the pains in the head caused by Cirnicifuga are all from within outwards. It is particularly usefulin headaches of delicate, nervous and hysterical females, when the headaches occur at or near the menstrual periods, during pregnancy, and at the change of life. ("Sabina.") It is useful in the headaches of drunkards, occurring after a debauch; in the headaches of students and literary men; after mental labor, and that peculiar heaviness, dullness and gloominess which results fiom want of sleep. (Nux.) Children, during teething, or in the course of many diseases, frequently show symptoms of irritation of the brain. This is denoted by peevishness, wakefulness, flushedface, injected eyes, etc. In such cases eclectics claim the Cimicifuga has a calming influence, and prevents cerebral congestion, spasms, etc. Eyes.-Aching of the eyes, at 10 A. M. Heaviness of the eyes, 110 NEW HOMWEOPATHIC PROVINGS. as if caused by cold. Dull pain in both eyeballs. Pain in both eyeballs. Pain in the centre of the eyeballs, and also sensationas if pain were situated between the eyeball and the orbital plate of the frontal bone, in the morning, on rising, continuing all day, but not severe as in the morning; aching pain in the centre of both eyeballs, rarely in one alone, continuing for three weeks after discontinuing the drug; aching pain in both eyeballs through the day; aching in the eyeballs, in the evening; on going up stairs, eyeballs painful for a short time; pain in the eyeballs; increased secretion of tears; pain in the eyeballs, in the left more than in the right, and sensation as if they were enlarged —most severe in the morning; severe aching pain in the right eyeball, after. retiring at night; constant dull aching pain in right eyeball, and across the forehead, accompanied with nausea. Pain extending from the right eyeball through to the right side of the occiput, slightly affecting the ear, at night; Stinging in the eyelid, stinging in the eyelids, an hour after taking the drug; stinging of the eyelids, dulness and heaviness of the head and eyes, as if produced by cold; inflammation of both eyelids; sensation of swelling of right eyelid, with heat as if inflamed, after four hours. Pain in the right eyelid when closing it, in the afternoon. (The above is fron Marcy's proving.) Redness of face and eyes;. eyes feel as if swollen; black specks before the eyes. Myopia increased. During the headache the eyes were so congested as to attract the attention of every one, although there was no disagreeable feeling in them. (Hill's proving). CLINICAL REMARIKs. —Few medicines cause such intense and persistent pains in the eyeballs. The pains are principally aching. (Bell., Digit., Merc., Ilepar., Cupr., Crocus., Cocc.) The pains caused by this drug simulate rheumatic and neuralgic affections of the eyes. It will probably be found useful in i" ocular hyper-msthesia" -a condition of irritation and over-sensitiveness of the optic nerves. It appears to effect the eyes in a manner somewhat similar to Spigelia in causing intense pains in the eyeballs. A young lady aged 20, of light complexion, had suffered for several weeks fromr ophthalima, pain in the eyeballs-a sensation as if they were enlarged - most severe in the morning; prickling in the inner canthus, aggravated'by reading; inflammation of the eyelids; slight secretion of mucus early in the morning; sore throat; reading causes headache. Cimicifuga first, three drops, three times a day, entirely removed all the pains in the eyeballs and head. (Paine.) It seems to be indicated in Amaurosis, but we have no clinical experience in this disease. Dr. King (eclectic) says, "In doses of one dram of the tincture every hour, it has effected thorough cures of ophthalima conjunctiva, without the aid of any local application." Nose.-Stinging sensation in the nose in the evening; obstruction of the left nostril, in the evening; inclination to sneeze twice in the afternoon. -Frequent inclination to sneeze, inlthe afternoon; sneezing; headache; sneezing several times, at 10 A. Mr.; frequent sneezing and fluent coryza during the day. Fluent coryza; fluent coryza of whitish mucus during the day; constant coryzai during the day; abundant watery coryza; copious coryza; copious coryza CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 111 during the forenoon; fluent coryza; aching and soreness in the nose during the day. Fluent watery coryza; frequent sneezing; soreness in the throat, causing difficulty in swallowing. Profuse coryza in the forenoon; aching pain in the head; pain in both eyeballs, many times through the day. Very profuse greenish and slighty sanguineous coryza, after rising; fulness of the pharynx, and constant inclination to swallow; dulness of the head, and pain in the forehead and occiput; fluent coryza, more so than for many weeks, as if caused by cold; dryness of the pharynx; sneezing, at 4 P. ir. (Payne's proving). Stuffed condition of the nostrils, which was soon followed by an open moist condition, with great sensitiveness to cold air, as if the base of the brain were laid bare, and every inhalation of the brain brought the cold air in contact with it. (This is exactly similar to that produced by a sudden change of weather in winter, from cold dry, to damp thawing, as by a south wind which melts the snow). (Hills proving). CLINICAL REMARKS.-Some authors say that they have never known it to produce a perceptible increase of any of the secretions; others again say that it operates powerfully upon the secreting organs and absorbents, and that it is expectorant and diaphoretic. From the above symptoms it would certainly seem to have a specific affinity for the nasal mucous membrane, and causes a real catarrhal state. In acute rheumatic-catarrhal attacks, with pains in the limbs, head, face, eyeballs, chilliness, heat, and fluent watery coryza, it is certainly indicated; and in one epidemic influenza I found it useful for such conditions, also in the cough and sore throat by which it was accompanied. Face, Jaws and Teeth.-Severe pain in the left jaw. Heat on one side of the face, with lassitude all over. Very severe pains in the face, more in under jaw, lower teeth, and articulations of lower jaw. The pains in the head and face constant, and very severe. Pain in the right superior maxillary bone, and teeth. CLINICAL REMARKS.-The above are just such pains as are nearly always present in catarrhal-rheumatic attacks in the winter and spring. I once took five drops of the first decimal for similar symptoms occurring in myself. The one dose seemed to cut short the attack, at least it mitigated the pains..Mouth. —Offensive breath; dryness and soreness of the lips; dry lips; small ulcer on the inner surface of the lower lip. Unpleasant taste in the mouth, accumulation of thick mucus upon the teeth; spitting of thick saliva which seemed to stick to the mouth and throat, and to be detached with difficulty. Mouth dry in the morning. Swelling of the back part of the tongue. Root of tongue and fauces swollen. CLINICAL REMARKS. —In many cases of rheumatism, the gums and buccal mucous membrane became swollen and tumefied. In such cases this remedy may be found useful, used as a weak wash to the inflamed surface. Throat.-Dryness of the pharynx; sneezing, at 4 r. M.; dryness of the pharynx and inclination to swallow, during the night; fulness of the pharynx and constant inclination to swallow; soreness of the 112 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. throat when swallowing; sensation of fulness high up in the throat with fulness in the vertex and stiffness of the neck; sensation of rawness in the throat; slight difficulty in swallowing; hoarseness, which increased towards night; constant unpleasant fulness in the pharynx. Palate and uvula red and inflamed. Inflammation of the uvula and palate, fifth day more severe than the day before; copious coryza. Hoarseness, roughness and scraping in the throat; roughness and dryness of the throat, with thirst; dryness and soreness of the throat on swallowing, and on pressure worse on the left side. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It has cured Chorea when attended with almost complete loss of the power of swallowing. In sore throat, and cynanche maligna a decoction of the root is recommended by Dr. Barton. Dr.Marcy says it is an excellent remedy against dryness of the throat, or a dry spot in the throat ca-using cough (Lachesis), also in dry coughs proceeding from irritation and tickling at the lower part of the larynx. In a late nuniber of an Allopathic Journal, it is highly recommended by a Boston physician as a most excellent remedy in Diphtheria, used in decoction as a gargle. Appetite and Stomach.-Eructations tasting of the medicine; eructations and slight nausea, immediately. Pain and regurgitation of food after eating. Loss of appetite; no appetite for supper; repugnance. Nausea for fifteen minutes half an hour after taking the drug; nausea with loathing, soon after the dose; sense of internal tremor in the stomach, after breakfast; sensation as if too much food had been taken into the stomach; acute darting pain in the epigastrium, after a light supper; slight pain in the epigastrium, extending to the left hypochondrium, with faintness and sensation of emptiness; faintness in the epigastrium, with repugnance to food, which, however, did not prevent his partaking of a moderate breakfast; faintness in the epigastrium, generally in the morning before eating, particularly if the medicine had been taken over night, not preventing eating, which was followed by a sensation of repletion, as if too much food had been taken; faintness of the epigastrium; faintness of the stomach; slight faintness in the epigastrium, during the forenoon; faintness of the stomach two or three times, of short duration; violent retching and vomiting, with pain in the head. In a " proving," which Dr. Hill reported to the iN. A. Journal of Homceopathy, he copies the above, with a few additions, and appropriates them to himself. The fact is, that proving (in vol. 7) is nearly all taken from Dr. Paine's original proving. Hill and Douglas also state that in their proving " all the stomach symptoms were produced on females; the drug producing no dis-turbance in the stomach of males." But in Dr. Paine's provings, men and women were alike affected with nausea and vomiting. The statement of Dr. Hill, reiterated in his "epitome," is therefore unreliable. It was probably originally put forth to favor the idea that Cimicifuga was specific to nearly all diseases of females, morning sickness, etc. CLINICAL REMARKs.-That Cimicifuga may cause sympathetic nausea and vomiting, by its irritating influence over the female CXMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 113 organs of generation, I do not deny. But it is by no means a specific in' morning nausea'" of pregnant women. If the uterine and general symptoms correspond, the remedy may be found useful for that distressing symptom. I have in a few cases found it useful, but no more so than Nux vom., Ipecac, Puls., or Oxalate of Cerium. Like its analogues-Digitalis, Belladonna, Opium, etc., this medicine may cause vomiting through its irritating effect upon the brain. Powerful vomiting is often the first symptom of Meningitis, Hydrocephalus and' other brain diseases, and the so called "nervous sick headaches,"' which are accompanied by severe vomiting, probably consist eventually of cerebral irritation. It is in this type of " sick headache" that Cimicifuga is useful and not in the headaches which proceed from derangement of digestion. Abdomen.-Flatus; rumbling in the lower part of the abdomen, at 10 A. M. Flatulence, causing a sensation of fulness in the abdomen, rumbling of flatus below the umbilicus, at 10 P. M. Fulness and pressure in the lower part of the abdomen. Increased pressure in the lower part of the abdomen with some pain. Acute cutting pain in-the umbilical region, which, although acute, was not so severe as to prevent attending to his usual business; uninfluenced by eating and continuing during the afternoon; wandering pain in the bowels, slight pain in left iliac region; afterwards severe pains in the bowels, mostly below the umbilicus, with weight and pain in lumbar and sacral region; soreness of abdominal muscles, on taking full inspirations. Dull griping, twisting at the umbilical region, more towards the left. Pain in the left hypochondriac region, worse on motion, and on taking a deep inspiration. Periodic colic with inclination' to bend forward, relieved after stool. CLINICAL REMARiS. -There are three diseases of the abdominal structures, in which this remedy may prove useful: (1) Rheumatism of the muscular structures; (2) Neuralgia; (3) Peritonitis, especially puerperal. I have found it useful in thefirst and secolnd, but have never used it in the third, nor have we any clinical experience of its use in that affection. Stool, —Evacuation regular and natural during the proving, but for a month afterwards, alternate constipation and tendency to diarrhoea; disposition to diarrhcea, in the evening; slight disposition to diarrhoea, after rising. Constipation; feeces hard and dry. Large papescent stool with general indisposition. Scanty diarrhcea with tenesmus. Copious papescent stool in the morning. CLINICAL REMARKs. — We have no proof that this drug has any laxative or cathartic effect. It cannot be homceopathic to abnormal intestinal discharges, at least we have no clinical testimony to that effect. Urine.-Disposition to frequent urination. Increased flow of urine. Increased secretion of pale urine; retention of urine for eighteen hours followed by frequent micturition. Profuse flow of pale watery urine. Stitches in urethra in the morning. CLINICAL REMARKS. —The dominant school'assert the Cimicifuga to be a diuretic. It does increase the quantity of urine, but probably not from any influence it has over the kidneys primarily. All 15 114 NEW -HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. drugs which bring on depression of the nervous system, will cause something akin to "nervous diabetes." In hysterical states, and many forms of uterine disorder, we find this condition: —a profuse flow of watery uline, with nervous prostration;.sinking sensation at the stomach, chilliness, headache, over the eyes, in the eyes; lowness of spirit, and sometimes aching pains in the limbs. With this state of the system, it is supposed by physiologists, there occurs a waste of phosphorus-which is eliminated by the kidneys in the form of phosphates. Loss of phosphates indicates innervation. Dr. Lee says, " In some instances it acts as a renal hydragogue, increasing to a considerable extent, the amount of urinary secretion; but, in a majority of cases, this result cannot be anticipated with any considerable degree of confidence. We are rather disposed to regard it in the light of a renal alterative; increasing generally the amount of solicds in the urine, without any great increase in the amount of water. To eliminate solid matters from the blood, whether lithates, phosphates, or animal matters, the cohosh, with the free use of diluents, may rank among our most efficient agents. Cimicifuga, has a similar action, over the renal organs, to Aconite, Asclepias syr. and Colchicum, all of which increase the solid constituents of urine. This condition is admirably met, by the dilutions of the remedy. It may be found useful in spasmodic retention of urine, from a cold, mental emotion, or as a symptom of rheumatism. Genital Organs of Men.-Pain and retraction of the right spermatie cord; drawing pain along the right spermatic cord; pain and tenderness of the testicles. CLINICAL REaIARKs.-It is said to cure old standing cases of gleet and spermatorrhcea. Genital Organs of Women.-Leucorrhea; menorrhagia; suppression of the menses; feeling of heaviness; weight bearing down in the uterine region, with feeling of heaviness and torpor of the lower extremities; appearances of the menses eight days before their time; labor-like pains during pregnancy; abortion in the fourth, eighth and twelfth weeks of pregnancy; cold chills and prickling sensations during the day-in the mammae; prickling sensations in the breasts. CLINICAL REMARKS. -No remedy stands higher in the estimation of the eclectic school, for the treatment of diseases peculiar to females, than the Cimicifuga, and its concentrated principle-Cimicifugin. It is used by them in all uterine diseases, of the most opposite character. Dr. King, one of their highest authorities, says (Amer. Eclec. Disp.)" it is useful in amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhcea, leucorrhcea and other uterine affections. As a partus accelerator, it may be substituted for ergot. It brings on expulsive action of the uterus speedily and powerfully.: After labor it will be found effectual in allaying the general excitement of the nervous system and relieving after-pains." In " King's Amer. Obsts." he recommends it, in addition, for menorrhagia, amenorrhoa, prolapsus uteri, etc. "It does not produce the powerful and continuous contractions of the uterus which follow the uise ofergot, and, consequently, is not as dangerous to the child; neither.does it lessen the susceptibility of CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 1l5 the organ to subsequent doses,, as is apt to be the case with ergot; it appears to excite the uterus to a normal activity only." Jones and Scudder, in their, "Mat. Med.," reiterate the above recommendations. The writings of that school are full of clinical experience relative to the usefulness of this remedy in diseases of females. The; homceopathic school are beginning to realize the value of this agent, in similar affections, and although the pathogenesis which we have is meagre, and the recorded symptoms of the drug, so far as relates to its action on the reproductive organs, few in number, yet those -who have used it much, upon the indications derived ex uso in morbis, are enthusiastic in its praise. I will proceed to give what I conceive to be its peculiar' sphere of action, and point out the indications for its use in the various affections arising from derangements, of the organs of generation. In amenorrhca, or delayed appearance of the menses in young girls, from deficient nervous energy in: theovaries, and when the abnormal nervous influence is directed to other organs, giving rise to chorea, hysteria, nervous headaches, etc.,: the Cimicifuga will restore the functions of the reproductive organs to a normal state. Should there be, at the same time with the above conditions, a chlorotic state, Ilelonias or Ferrum should be alternated with this remedy. In suppression of the menses from a. cold, mental emotions, and febrile symptoms, when rheumatic pains in the limbs, or intense headache, or uterine cramps, are present,. this remedy will be found very useful. In dysmenorrhcea, the Black Snake root has been used successfully by all schools. The eclectics consider it a sort of panaccea. Many of our own school speak, highly of its value. Dr. Hill, in his "Epitome," advises it in all' cases, and in alternation with Caulophyllum. It is not a general specific, yet will benefit a majority of cases. It is most useful in rheumatic and neuralgic cases; but is often of benefit in congestive, dysmenorrhbea, when alternated with Veratrum viride, or Belladonna. The best method of administration in these diseases, is to give Cimicifuga, first decimal or one hundredth, three or four times a day during the inter-menstrual period, and every hour or thirty minutes during the severity of the pain. The Cimicifugin, second or third decimal trituration, will in some cases act more satisfactorily than the tincture. Several of my colleagues have reported cases of dysmenorrhea cured or very much relieved. Dr. Ludlam thinks more highly of the Cimicifugin in the neuralgic type, than of Caulophyllum. The latter is more indicated in cases complicated with uterine spasms or general hysterical convulsions. Dr. -Williams sends me the record of two severe cases of dysmenorrheea, probably of a rheumatic origin, which were apparently cured under the action of Cimicifugin,. first. I have treated many cases of difficult and painful. menstruation, arising from various causes, and while in all there was improvement, in many the morbid condition- seemed to be permanently removed. I consider the following symptoms as indicating its use: Before the menses the peculiar headache, similar to that caused by this medicine; during the menses,: aching in the: limbs, severe pain in the back, down the thighs and through the. hips, with heavy pressing-down, labor-like pains, weeping mood, nervousness, hys. 116 NEW HOMCOPATHIC PROVINGS. teric spasms, cramps, tenderness of the hypogastric region, scanty flow of coagulated blood, or profuse flow of the same character; between the menses debility, nervous erethism, neuralgic pains, tendency to prolapsus, etc.; in menorrhagia, when the flow is profuse, but more of a passive character, dark, coagulated, and accompanied by the above mentioned pains. The Cimicifuga does pot primarily cause hemorrhage, like Sabina, Erigeron or Crocus, but secondarily, by impairing the tonicity and normal vitality of the uterus. In Jeucorrhaea, the eclectics speak highly of its efficacy. The late Dr. Morrow, to whom is mainly due the introduction of the remedy into that practice, gained much celebrity by his treatment ofleucorrhcea, with the internal and local use of the black cohosh. He gave it until it produced and kept up its peculiar action on the brain in a slight degree; a decoction of the root was to be used as an injection every day. Leucorrhcea may be vaginal, cervical, or uterine. In the present state of our knowledge of the action of the drug, we cannot point out accurately the particular form of leucorrhcea for which it is indicated. It may be beneficial in all varieties; the general symptoms of the patient must, to a great extent, be our guide. Dr. Hill mentions a "leucorrhcaa of long standing cured during a week's proving," and another case of "cleucorrhcea, and chronic inflammation and congestion of the uterus, cured during the proving, while no other symptoms were observed on the provers until the disappearance of the uterine disease." Believing in the local, as well as general action of a drug, I would advise it to be used both topically and internally. The lower dilutions seems to act most beneficially. It is now more than sixty years since it was claimed by Stearns' in the American Herbal, to have an especial affinity for the uterus, particularly over the menstrual function, and Dr. Tully regards this claim as well established by the experience of New England practitioners. As a parturiefacient, it was in general use among the Indians in the early settlement of this country. Bigelow speaks of it as an active agent in facilitating parturition; and Tully says he has known many cases where it has produced abortion in pregnant females, when prescribed for a cough. The evidence on this head is far more full and satisfactory than in regard to its emmennagogue properties. Prof. Lee says: "It is believed to exert a specific influence on the uterine contractions lasting longer than that of ergot, and followed by -less torpor and greater susceptibility and capacity for action in the uterus than before its employment. Its operation, also, is not attended by that deleterious and stupefying influence on the fcetus which often follows the administration of spurred rye." It is doubtful if the ergot acts medicinally upon the faetus at all. It is the continued, unintermitting pressure of the uterus upon the child, or the cord, which causes the coma or asphyxia in the infant, before birth. "After delivery, also, it has been extensively used for the purpose of inducing firm uterine contraction, expelling the placenta, and checking post-partem hammorrhages. For this purpose a drachm of the saturated alcoholic tincture should be given every half hour, or oftener, until the desired effect is produced." This knowledge of the uterine-motor action of CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 117 Cimicifuga should be appropriated by homoeopathists. They are capable of making much more valuable use of such knowledge than the adherents of other schools of medicine. The homeeopathic school gladly avail themselves of the use of ergot, in slow and difficult, labors arising from an atonic condition of the uterus, or perverted function. I cannot give my assent to those mythical relations of the effects of Secale third or thirtieth, in causing uterine contractions when deficient during labor-the proof is not sufficient. I consider the Cimicifuga, as well as Secale, Caulophyllum and other drugs possessing similar powers, as being secondarily homceopathic to conditions of uterine inertia. To explain: The priniary action of ergot in moderate medicinal doses is to cause contractions, more or less persistent of the muscular tissue of the uterus. Under the continued action of the drug these contractions will become more intense and firm, until, from over-stimulation, an opposite condition or muscular atony obtains. Now, this latter condition, with its accompanying symptoms, is a secondary effect of the drug, as much due to pathogenetic action as was the primary. When, in practice, we meet with similar conditions, i. e., when the uterus, after vain and powerful efforts, becomes exhausted, ergot is the proper remedy, if the primary symptoms corresponded with those ofthe drug, viz., persistent and unintermitting contractions. But ifthe uterine atony be caused by ergot, then that medicine will not answer our purpose, and we must resort to Cimicifuga, Caulophyllum, Uva ursi, or galvanism. Secondary states of uterine muscular atony may be brought on by all the last named agents, and for this reason they will all be found useful in similar morbid conditions. The dose which should be used in such cases should be as large as can be given with safety to the patient, and just large enough to arouse the torpid muscular tissue. My theory of dose, and which experience strongly substantiates, is, that for symptoms which simulate the primary effects of the medicine selected as the remedy, minute doses should be administered, but larger doses for symptoms simulating its secondary effects. In resorting to the Cimicifuga, in atonic labors, we need not give the massive doses of the eclectic school-doseswhich tend to bring on secondary exhaustion. I have found five to ten drops of the mother tincture, every fifteen or twenty minutes, to be amply sufficient to bring back or arouse the deficient vitality of the uterus. But there is an opposite condition of the uterus which sometimes obtains during labor, a state of hyperexcitation, in which the normal uterine contractions are spasmodic, painful, and intensely powerful, but intermitting, sometimes with cramps in the extremities, and a tendency to general convulsions. Here the Cimicifuga is primarily hommeopathic, and a small quantity of the third or sixth attenuation will suffice to restore the normal parturient action. This medicine will be found useful after labor, in producing firm contraction of the uterus, expelling the placenta, or checking post-partem hemorrhage. But I think for this purpose the Secale is to be preferred, because of its power to cause firmer and more persistent contraction. After-pains are often readily relieved by small doses of Cimicifugasecond or third, or Cimicifugin 118 NEW HIOMMEOPATHIC: PROVTINGS. third. I have used it with signal benefit in those cases which seemed to be kept up by a neuralgic disposition, or mental and nervous irritability, and the patient was sleepless, restless, sensitive and low spirited. Suppression of the Lochia is treated successfully with this remedy. When from a cold or mental emotion the discharge is arrested, uterine spasms and cramps in the limbs sometimes occur, accompanied with headache, and even delirium. A case of this character which came under my treatment, was relieved in a few hours by Cimicifuga second trit., two grains every half hour. Warm fomentations were applied to the abdomen and vulva, as should always be the practice in such instances. It is useful to relieve those bearing-down pains, indications of. prolapsus, which women frequently suffer after severe confinements. It is eminently homeeopathic to a tendency to abortion. It has caused abortion in many instances, and is commonly resorted to for that purpose by reckless women, and advised by still more reckless physicians. It has been used successfully in those instances of " habitual abortion," with the result of preventing the usual miscarriages in the second and third months. But unless the general symptoms correspond, Caulophyllum, Sabina, Tanacetum or Helonias will have to be selected. When the chill, uterine pain, tenderness of the hypogastric region, and flooding have already set in, and the loss of the feetus becomes imminent, the Cimicifuga, in small doses, may arrest the progress of the morbid process, provided the membranes have not become extensively detached. If the separated portion; be slight, and the patient be kept quiet, and the proper remedy given, I believe it possible to prevent a further separation. If all hope of saving the fetus be abandoned, and the uterus is deficient in expulsive power, then this medicine may be given, as recommended for uterine atony in labors. But no physician should rely alone upon medicinal action in such cases. The placental forceps and blunt hook should be used early and efficiently, to effect the entire removal of the contents of the uterus. In prolapsus uteri, the Cimicifuga is recommended by all eclectic authors. But here, as in other diseases, it can be no general specific. When the prolapsus is due to congestion, general or/cervical, cervical leucorrheea, or comes on as a result of abortion, or getting up too soon after confinement; and when a deficient innervation seems to lie at the root of the difficulty, then this medicine will be found an excellent remedy. Dr. Morrow, who probably used this agent more than any other physician in this country, was very successful in the treatment of prolapsus by its internal and local application. It already stands high in the homeopathic school in the treatment of uterine displacements. (Podophyllum, Caulophyllum, Helonias and Asclepias tub. will also be found useful). In Ovarian diseases, it will- undoubtedly be found valuable. A medicine which exercises such profound influence over the reproductive organs must of necessity influence powerfully the ovaries. Dr. Cleveland recommends it for Ovaritis, and spasm of the broad ligaments (in:the latter affection Caulophyllum and Mlagnesia mur. are specifics). In irritable uterus, next to Platina, CIMICIFUGA RACIMOSA. 119 Sabina, Aconite or Caulophyllum, it will be found the most useful remedy we posses. Some writers recognize a variety of epilepsy, having its origin in uterine disorder-the epileptic convulsion being due to reflex action. This form of epilepsy generally occurs at or near the menstrual period. In such cases Cimicifuga has effected cures. It has also broken up the tendency to hysterical attacks occurring during the menses, also hysterical spasms due to uterine displacements after the womb has been restored to its normal position. In puerperal mania it has been found curative. In part 43, Braithwaite's Petrospect, Prof. Simpson reports a case of Puerperal Hypochondriasis treated with tincture Cimicifuga. "A lady, the mother'of several children, was twice the subject of the most painful mental despondency a month or two after delivery. On one of these occasions she was confined in London, and had the advice of several eminent physicians; but the disease took a very long and tiresome course, seeming to defy all remedies, and gradually and very slowly terminated. On the last occasion on which the attack occurred, this patient was confined under my care here, and went home to England some weeks subsequently, perfectly well. She returned, however, in about a month, to Edinburgh, in the lowest possible state of depression, a perfect picture of mental misery and unhappiness. I tried many plans to raise her out- of this dark and gloomy state. All failed. At last, fancying from some of her symptoms and complaints that there might be a rheumatic element in the affection, I ordered her fifty drops of tincture of Actea, thrice a day. After taking one dose she refused to continue it, as the drug had a taste so similar to Laudanum, and as all opiates made her worse.'On being reassured that there was no opiate in the medicine, she recommenced it, without any faith, however, in the results, as she had in a great measure lost faith in all medicinal means. When I saw her next, some eight or ten days:afterwards, she was altered and changed in a marvelous degree, but all. for the better. On the third or fourth day, as she informed me, the cloud of misery which had been darkening her existence suddenly began to dissolve and dispel, and in a day or two more, she felt perfectly herself again, in gaiety, spirits, anrid energy. But nothing would induce her, to give up the Actea for six or eight weeks longer; and the last time she passed through Edinburgh, she told me that she had prescribed her own remedy to more than one melancholic subject with nearly as great success as she had used it in her own cease." The successful treatment of this case was rather a piece ofluck than otherwise. It is doubtful, first, whether there was any "rheumatic element" in the case at all; and:second, the medicine did not cure by anti-doting any "rheumatic element," butby virtue of its power of causing a similar state of the brain, and of inducing similar symptoms. This medicine has always had great r'eputation, not only as an accellerator in childbirth, but as a preventive of painful and difficult labor. Wishing to test its value in these cases, I have often given it to ladies whose previous labors had been slow and difficult, and generally with excellent results. It is best to begin three or four weeks before 120 NEW HO'M(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. the time of the expected confinement, and have the patient take a few drops oft he first or second decimal dilution, or trituration, three times a day. During the last week, the doses may be given every four hours. One case will illustrate the success attending its administration, as it is the type of many others. A lady, the mother of three children, expressed great anxiety regarding her expected confinement. She was in the eighth month of pregnancy. Her previous labors had been unusually severe, very tedious, painful, and accompanied by fainting fits, cramps, agonizing pain, etc., before the birth, and flooding, syncope, and many unpleasant symptoms after the expulsion of the placenta. She took for nearly three weeks, about ten drops of Cimicifuga first dec. dil. four times a day. Labor came on at the proper period, lasted only six hours; was not painful nor difficult; there was no flooding, no fainting, and no cramps, aind both patient and friends were agreeably surprised. She got up in nine days, and had a better convalescence than ever before. If this remedy was useful in this condition alone, it would stillbe invaluable to the profession. The editor of the London Lancet, writes: "We are disposed to admit the correctness of the observations of American Physicians who allege that it has a peculiar action on the uterus. In the irritable condition of that organ, often observed in patients for some time after menstruation has ceased, or irregular when about to cease, and marked by pain more or less periodical in the lumbar region, Cimicifuga affords rapid relief. In neuralgic pains, often met with in such patients in other localities, it is equally beneficial. Females at the period of life we are speaking of, frequently suffer from a distressing pain in the upper part of the head, recuring with greater severity at night. These cases are very. satisfactorily met by this remedy. Pains in the mammae also, whether referable to uterine disturbance or to pregnancy, are relieved by the Cimicifthga very speedily." In phlegmasta alba dolens, I would' advise it on theoretical grounds; not having used it in that disease. Some of the symptoms of the drug simulate that disease very closely. Larynx.-Hoarseness, after rising; hoarseness; unpleasant fulness in the pharynx; constant inclination to cough for half an hour, caused by a tickling sensation in the lalynx, at 7j P,. r. An attempt to speak is followed by an inclination to- cough; slight dry cough four or five times, produced by tickling in the- larynx; hoarseness in the evening; short dry cough, several times during the evening, caused by tickling in the larynx; fluent coryza; cough, particularly at night, caused by. tickling in the throat; very troublesome, hacking cough, of some month's standing. CLINICAL REMAERKS.-The two last symptoms mentioned above are marked " curative" in one of the provings. In my experience it has been used beneficially for coughs. It is well known that many laryngeal symptoms result from uterine irritation. The morbid excitation is transmitted through the medium of reflex action. The Cimicifuga is especially indicated in such cases, or when cough arises during pregnancy, or from ainenorrhaea, etc. It is also use CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 121 ful in those spasmodic actions of the larynx occurring in hysterical females. Chest.-The pain in the head continued for ten days, followed by coryza, with sore throat and a gradual extension of the disease to the bronchial mucous membrane; dry, short and hacking cough, night and day, continuing two'weeks, which is -uncommon, the prover not having had a. catarrh or cold for several years; acute pain in the right lung, extending from apex to base, about two inches to the right of the sternum, aggravated by every inspiration, continuing for two hours, and gradually diminishing in intensity until after retiring; similar pain the next morning for half an hour, but much less severe; lancinating pain along the cartilages of the false ribs, left side, increased by taking a long inspiration, soon after waking at three P. M. The same pain, very severe and piercing, so as almost to prevent inspiration for a short time, immediately after retiring, between ten and eleven P. m., and continuing for half an hour; soreness of the chest; cold chills and prickling sensations during the day, in the (female) mammae; prickling sensations in the breasts. Dr. Tully says it causes cardiac palpitations, which, though transient and fugitive, are often quite severe, with neuralgic pains through the chest. In Drs. Hill and Douglas' proving, we findStitches in the region of the heart, or in the heart; pain in the left side of the chest. CLINICAL REMARKs.-Dr. Lee says "the Cimicifuga has been found a useful remedy in certain chronic affections of the pulmonary organs." Dr. Garden, of Virginia, was the first writer who called the attention of the profession to this article in this class of cases. Having observed its utility in domestic practice, he was induced to resort to it in his own case, which he considered one of "gastrohepatic, or dyspeptic phthisis," though the physical signs are not given. The principal symptoms were: a pulse of one hundred to one hundred and twenty, harrassing cough, purulent expectoration, pain in the right breast and side, hectic paroxysms, loss of flesh and strength, frequent hamoptysis, and great derangement in the functions of the stomach and liver. No other medicine was taken except the Cimicifuga, and to this, aided by a suitable regimen, the cure, which was completed within a few months, was wholly attributed. Other cases of tuberculosis are given where striking benefit was derived from its use, and where the disease was evidently ar. rested by it. Dr. Garden used it in his own and other cases in doses of " an ounce or two of the tincture of the root once or twice a day. The tincture was prepared with good rye whisky." He considers its effect on the head is the test of the extent to which it should be carried. Such gross abuse of a valuable remedy is worse than foolish. Just in the same manner does the dominant school advise Quinine to be given until it effects the head unpleasantly. But it is as unnecessary in the one as in the other. A few drops of the mother tincture, or lower dilutions, frequently repeated, will have a better and more lasting effect. Dr. Hildreth (allopathic) says: " In nearly every instance the pulse was reduced to near the natural standard, the hectic symptoms disappeared, and with it the cough and 16 122 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PRO VINGS. other signs of phthisis." In acute phthisis, uncomplicated with much inflammation,-Dr. H. states that he has often seen the most prompt action from the decoction, in throwing off febrile excitement, or the hectic paroxysms, allaying cough, reducing the rapidity and force of the pulse, and inducing gentle perspiration; also, he has found it of the greatest benefit "in those intermittent congestions and inflame mations, so frequent in the second and third stages of phthisis from atmospheric exposures." Prof. Lee says, " there is every reason to place considerable confidence in Cimicifuga in the early stages of tuberculosis, when there is a frequent hacking cough and other signs of the malady. We have used it for many years in such cases with much benefit, and have come to regard it as possessing almost specific power in allaying pulmonic irritability, thus abating cough, while it proves invigorating to the digestive organs. It speedily checks the diarrheea and night sweats of phthisis." Dr. Wood thinks it proves useful in pulmonary complaints only by its allaying irritation through its sedative properties. Prof. Chapman has ranked it under the head of expectorants. This is all old school experience. But we have good reason, judging from our provings, to expect much from this remedyinsome pulmonary complaints. It cures cough, pains in the chest, dyspncea, fever, night sweats, and even diarrheea. My own experience with it in this class of diseases has not been extensive, yet I have cured some harrassing coughs, with pains in the chest, difficulty of respiration and general debility, with the lower dilutions. In diseases of the lungs, bronchia, etc., it ranks with Aconite, Bryonia, Arnica, and Veratrum viride. In pleurodynia it has been used successfully in many cases. A student came to me complaining of a severe stitch between the sixth and seventh ribs of the right side. It had seized him suddenly and was agonizingly intense. He stated that such attacks generally laid him up several days. He had usually taken Bryonia for it. Cimicifuga, first decimal, ten drops every half hour, effected a cure in twenty-four hours. For those obstinate pains in the left side, which females so often complain of, this remedy is as nearly a specific as anything can be. Dr. Simpson (Obstetric memoirs, vol. 1. p. 27) inapaper on the diagnosis of uterine diseases, mentions those " sympathetic pains in different and distant parts of the body, "which are really reflex pains or neuralgias, caused by uterine irritation. Among these reflex pains are —" pain in one or both mammaes" —" pain under the left mammse and upon the edges of the rib on that side"'-" pains in the right side "-pain in some of the vertebrae of the back-pain in the sacral and lumbar regions-pains in the abdominal parietes -and pains in the joints extremities, head and face." For all these reflex pains, when dependent on uterine or ovarian disorder, there is no more useful remedy than Cituicifuga. But it is peculiarly useful in the "pain under the left mammae." It occurs more commonly in unmarried females, and is probably as frequent in cases of uterine affections, as pain in the shoulder is in cases of hepatic affections. The pain is sometimes diffused along the side, but more usually it is limited to a small spot not larger than a half-dollar. When it is not severe it is not affected by the act of respiration, but in CIMICIFUGA RACEMOSA. 123 more severe cases it is increased by deep inspiration, and many a poor patient has been bled, blistered, leeched, etc., over and over again, under the idea that it was an indication of pleuritic inflammation." Dr. Simpson used the Cimiciftiga in some of these severe and obstinate cases, and the pain rapidly subsided underits use. Diseases oqf the heart may be cured or greatly palliated by Cimicifuga. The functional disorders of that organ, the palpitations, irregular action, etc., dependent on rheumatic or uterine irritation, are benefited by this remedy. In cases simulating angina pectoris I have found it useful. In one instance, the pain, or rather intense anxiety about the heart, with pain in the shoulder (left) and extending down the left arm, (the shoulder and upper arm feel as if " bound to the side"')-all subsided under its action after taking three drops three times a day for a week. It has occasionally appeared since, but promptly disappears after a single dose of Cimicifuga. In one case of pericarditis following an attack of inflammatory rheumatism, Dr. Marcy observed excellent effects from the use of the third dilution. It is better than Digitalis in heart affections, for while it controls abnormal action it invigorates the nervous system and the general dition of the patient. It does not interfere with digestion as does Digitalis. Bacek.-Stiffness of the neck; drawing pain in lumbar region; pulsating pain in the lumbar region; in the morning, on bending the neck forward, he experienced a severe drawing, tensive pain, at the points of the spinous processes of the three upper dorsal vertebrse, which continued for several hours; trembling and weakness in the back; weak trembling; pain in the small of the back; same tired feeling in the back, extending from the region of the kidneys to the sacrum, relieved by rest and increased by motion; dull, heavy aching in the small of the back, extending to the sacrum; dull pain behind the right scapula; stitches in the back, below the right scapula; dull pain in the region of the lower dorsal and upper lumbar vertebrae; pain below the left scapula; pains as of boils on the back and extremities; cramping in the muscles of the neck on moving the head, first in the left, afterwards in the right side; occasional slight pain in either scapula and right shoulder; weight and pain in the lumbar and sacral regions, sometimes extending all around the body, somewhat below the crest of the ileum; rheumatic pains in the muscles of the neck and back; a feeling of stiffness and contraction; feeling of weight in the small of the back; drawing pain in a single muscle between the right scapula and spine for some hours. CLINICAL REMARKS.-The Cimicifuga exercises an undoubted influence over the spinal cord, or its membranes, and for this reason is capable of curing many affections arising therefrom. In true spinal irritation, which is a functional disease of the spinal marrow, this medicine is ofgreat value. In this disease the spinal tenderness, and all the painful symptoms, is accompanied by no organic change in the cord or the vertebrae. The cause of this disease, says Wood, is not well understood. It occurs most frequently in women, and especially during the menstrual period. It would seem, there 124 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. fore to have some connection with the uterus. Of the exciting causes, changes in the weather are probably amodng the most frequent. Mental disturbance seems to be capable of inducing it. The most rational view of the nature of the disease, is, that the affection is seated essentially in the ligaments of the vertebra, and is generally of a rheumatic or gouty character. It is readily conceived that irritation may be propagated from this structure to the nervous tissue of the cord, or at least to the nerves which proceed from the cord, and receive as they pass an envelop of the diseased tissue." In this affection I use the remedy internally and externally. The Cimicifuga in drop doses of the first decimal —or Cimicifugin first decimal or one hundredth, and apply a lotion of one part of the tincture to ten of water. Dr. Cleveland considers it specific for that painful affection —crick in the back. This may be only a symptom of lumbago, but is in some cases due to a rupture of some of the fibres of those ligaments which connect the spinous processes. Dr. Simpson and the editor of the Lancet consider the Cimicifuga almost specific in lumbago. Our provings give us ample basis upon which to select this medicine. It causes nearly all the symptoms of lumbago, as well as rheumatism of the dorsal and other muscles of the back. It is hommeopathic to that affection which Dr. Inman so correctly describes in his work on " Spinal Irritation" - a weakness (atony) of the muscles attached to the spinous processes, etc. With regard to the dose to be resorted to in these affections, I would advise the lowest attenuations, f'or the reason that the rheumatic or neuralgic affec-.tions are caused by Cimicifuga, secondarily. I have never received much benefit in those diseases from any dilution or trituration higher than the third. The physician should not hesitate in obstinate cases to resort to drop doses of the mother tincture. If we do get up a slight medicinal aggravation, it cannot do as much harm as the continuance of the disease we are trying to combat. Superior Extremities.-Dull pain in the right arm, deep in the muscles, extending from the shoulder to the wrist, continuing during the next day; itching and redness of the dorsal surface of the right hand, in the afternoon, and especially in the evening; a single pimple on the dorsal surface of the left hand, secreting a little pus at the apex, disappearing in three or four days; itching of the dorsal surface of the left hand and wrist, particularly on the dorsal surface of the thumb, in the evening; small red papula first appeared, becoming, after slight irritation, a diffused redness, which disappeared in a few hours, but could be reproduced at any time by slightly irritating the surface. This symptom gradually disappeared in a few days. Dr. Tully says it causes neuralgic pains in the extremities. It has caused some pains in the arms, with a numbing sensation, as if a nerve had been compressed. These pains were first felt in the shoulder, and passed down the arm and then the forearm, producing a very peculiar, lame, numb, and sometimes cramping sensation, as in heart disease. Similar pains in the legs. but more severe and constant in the upper part of the thigh, about the hip joint and inguinal region. (Sciatica.) COLLINSONIA CANADENSIS. 125 Lower Extremities.- Stinging in the left great toe, for a moment, on the lower surface, and afterwards on the upper, in the afternoon; dull, aching, burning pain in the second joint of the right great toe, extending up the limb, continuing an hour, from eight to nine P. YM.; the same pain, less severe, on the third evening. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It has been used with benefit in Sciatica, and other rheumatic affections of the extremities. Dr. Marcy writes: " We have been in the habit of employing this remedy occasionally in rheumatic affections, during the past eighteen years. We have prescribed all doses, from the nauseous decoction of the old school, to the highest homceopathic attenuation, and good results have followed both forms of the medicine-although experience has long since taught us to rely upon the latter form. It is most serviceable in articular rheumatism of the lower extremitieswith much swelling and heat in the affected parts, and pain on moving the parts. Like Bryonia, it exercises a special control over inflammation of serous membranes; but its range of action, and consequently its applicability in rheumatic affections, are decidedly inferior to this drug." The Cimicifuga may be inferior to Bryonia in its action on serous tissues, but it is far superior to that drug in its influence on nervous tissues, or rather the neurilemma or fibrous portion of nerve structure. Bryonia does not cause or cure rheumatico-neuralgic pains, while Cimicifuga does, in an eminent degree. Bryonia has no influence over reflex-nervous pains, cramps, etc., while Cimicifuga controls many such abnormal manifestations. COLLINSONIA CANADENSIS. (Ox-Balm. JKnot-Root. cHard-Hack. Stone-Root.) This plant is found in the Eastern and Northern States. It is herbaceous, with broad, cordate, ovate, smooth, opposite leaves; the flowers in terminal panicles of a yellowish violet color; flowering from July to September. The whole plant has a peculiar balsamic smell, which is milder and pleasanter in the flowers than in the root, this having a somewhat rank, disagreeable odor. It has a warm and pungent taste. The plant grows to the height of two feet, with a perennial, knotty root. It contains a volatile oil,-a resin, tannin, gallic acid, starch gum, sugar, and a peculiar, bitter, neutral principle, Collinsonin. "The medicinal virtues of this plant has been pretty extensively tested in domestic, if not in regular practice, and is regarded as tonic, astringent, diaphoretic, and diuretic. With some practitioners, it ranks very high as an alterative, especially in chronic affections of the genito-urinary organs, as cystitis, catarrh of the bladder, gravel, leucorrhoea. By the com 1206 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. mon people it is highly esteemed as a remedy for headache, colic, indigestion; while mlany cases of dropsy have been reported to have been cured by it. Its influence over the secernent and absorbent systems is strongly marked. Like all aromatics, it produces an agreeable feeling of warmth in the stomach, increasing the force and frequency of the pulse, and the warmth of the surface; while it diffuses a pleasant glow over the system, without any special influence on the cerebral functions. Its effects seem rather manifested on the organic and sympathetic systems and the capillary circulation."-(Prof. Lee-Allopathic.) This is about as definite as an old school writer usually writes about any medicinal agent. It leaves the student in a state of profound uncertainty as to the real nature of its action. Let us be sincerely thankful that Hahnemann gave us a system of drug-proving, whereby we may escape from the uncertainties of old medicine. I have not been able to get an extended proving of this plant, but have noted some characteristic symptoms from its use, and have collected a good many clinical observations, which may serve us as a guide until we obtain a good pathogenesis. " In the mountains and hills of Virginia, Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia," says Rafinesque, " this genus is considered a panacea, and used outwardly and inwardly in many disorders. It is used as a poultice and wash for bruises, sores, blows, falls, wounds, sprains, contusions, and taken like tea for headache, colics, cramps, dropsy, indigestion, etc." It is therefore used much as the common people in Germany use Arnica, which it somewhat resembles in some of its general effects on the system. Head.-Slight fullness of the head; throbbing in the head. CLINICAL REMARuS. — I am inclined to think it only useful in gastric and hammorrhoidal headaches. In headaches from indigestion, I have known relief to follow promptly upon its administration. Gastric Symptoms.-Vomiting (from small doses of the fresh root); vomiting, with pain and heat in the stomach; cramp-like pain in the stomach, with nausea; sensation as of flatulence in the stomach; rumbling in the stomach and bowels; agreeable feeling of warmth in the stomach, with general glow of the system; increases the appetite; excessive appetite. CLINICAL RIEMARKS.-In indigestion, from want of tone of the stomach, and associated with constipation and hbmorrhoids, it rivals Nux vomica. Both eclectic and allopathic physicians consider it a valuable remedy for the expulsion of flatulence and the relief of spasms of the stomach and intestines. Coe says (Cone. Org. Med.) "' no better remedy can possibly be had for the relief of cramp in the stomach, flatulent and bilious colics, and all spasmodic affections of the stomach and back. Drs. Fowler and Carroll have found it promptly curative in many cases of indigestion, loss of appetite, etc. Intestines, Stool, etc. —Constipation, with a good deal of flatulence; sluggish stool, with distention of the abdomen; heat and itching of the anus; hamorrhoidal tumors; the hkemorrhoids 128 NEW IIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. absolute martyr, in fact crippled with hemorrhoids." The remedy was Collinsonia, and this patient was cured by the following preparation: A small handful of the chopped root was put into a quart of water, and it was boiled down to a pint. This he took three times a day,-a small wine-glass full. He was cured in two weeks. This gentleman added that he " had made some most'remarkable cures among his friends." Dr. Fowler adds: " Upon his description of the root, I remembered having in early boyhood gathered from the woods some of the same kind of root for an old gentleman, who was by its use fully freed from haemorrhoids of over twenty-five years standing." Dr. F. reports the following cases: Case 1. " Mr. J. E. J.,whose sufferings fiom hemorrhoids rendered his life almost a burthen, and completely disabled him from business. I gave him two or three handsful, and directed him to use it in the manner described to me by my friend. He commenced its use,' but fbund that it acted as an emetic. I then told him to take a dessert spoonful twice a day. This he did without disturbance to the stomach, and in somewhat less than three weeks reported himself to us, to use his own words,' the humble and grateful subject of a real miracle-cured.' About two months after he had a slight return of the old trouble, but after taking the Collinsonia four days, was again well. lMy attention was attracted to another feature in this case. For years the patient had been a victim of most resolute constipation, and never had relief without the aid of enemas; and as these could not be administered without irritation and pain, the consequence was, that about four or five days were allowed to intervene between each time. The patient said that he was not more surprised at the rapid cure of such an old chronic complaint as the hfemorrhoids, than by the fact that the remedy had established a free and natural daily action of the bowels, which continued after the use of the medicine was suspended. Before the second attack he became again constipated, and was again relieved as before. He also attributed a cessation of dyspeptic troubles and an increase of appetite, which was never more than indifferent, to the use of the drug. But, whether this may have been owing to the direct action of the drug upon the stomach, or whether it may have been a secondary effect from relieving the intestines, is, of course, difficult to decide." Case 2. "Was a gentleman afflicted with' flowing piles,' who had submitted to almost every kind of treatment, both local and that addressed through the system, and invariably leaving the successive doctors' hands in a more miserable condition than he entered them. He had, in fact, come to consider medicine as a downright humbug, and came to me in a state of incredulity, only by having heard of some of the cures that I had made with Collinsonia. This patient was troubled with alternate constipation and diarrhoea, and the hemorrhage was incessant, though not profuse. He was light complexioned, thin, nervous, and dyspeptic. I put him on one tablespoonful of the decoction three times a day. For the first week the action seemed to be almost wholly confined to the kidneys, and just as I -was upon the COLLINSONIA CANADENSIS. 129 point of considering the case non-amenable to the remedy, the renal action ceased, and the hsemorrhoids began to be relieved. Gradually the bowels gained a regular, normal, peristaltic action, the appetite and power of digestion became improved, and at the end of eight weeks, the patient pronounced himself in every respect well-in mind, as well as body. Case 3rd. "Was an engineer of extreme bilious, nervous temperament. He came to me for Varicocele, which was considerable, and at times irritable. He had extreme constipation, and from various indications I deemed his complaint consequent upon constipation, and having observed the effect of Collinsonia in this respect, I gave it to him in the same manner as I had. done to the preceding cases. I do not remember the exact length of time that he was under my charge; it was less, however, than four weeks, the action of the bowels became regular and natural, and the varicocele disappeared. This was about a year ago and he has remained well since.' Case 4th. "This case was a lady who sufferred from a bad form of hcemorrhoids, also from terrible dysmenorrhoea. Gave her the Collinsonia, as I had given it to the others, and at the end of six or seven weeks the hemrorrhoids were gone, and she had been exempt from dysmenorrhcea. She has since had one or two slight returns of hzemorrhoids, but which have rapidly yielded to a two day's use of this remedy. In this case there was almost constant diarrbhca and loss of appetite; the diarrhea ceased, and the appetite became, as the lady thought,' quite indelicate'." Dr.. Fowler found it " an excellent remedy for the tenesemus of dysentery." "So far as my experience goes, this root seems to be a prime remedy for hcemorrhois, ysorrhoids dysnno ea, constipation, and dyspepsia, in fact it seems to be soothing to all inflammation of the lower viscera." Urinary Organs.-" For the first week its action seemed to be almost wholly confined to the kidneys.-"(Fowler). Probably in increasing the amount of urine, as it is a diuretic. CLINICAeL REIMRKES. —iKing says, " it is used in gravel, catarrh of the bladder, and urinary disorders." Jones & Scudder record that it is esteemed diuretic, and has been used in dropsies, and chronic diseases of the urinary passages; it is reputed lithontriptic, but we doubt its capability of dissolving urinary concretions, although it may be serviceable in allaying.the irritation caused by them." Prof. Lee says it is a " valuable alterative in chronic diseases of the genito-urinary organs." Some patients of mine have related to me some extraordinary cures by means of this remedy, of" gravel," of which they were once victims. What the real disorder was I could not determine, although from the description of the patients it must have been some chronic affection of the kidneys or bladder, in which calculi was present. We may safely deduce, from our actual knowledge of its virtues, that it will be found more useful in chronic than acute affections of the urinary organs. It will probably prove useful in chronic cystitis, urethritis and nephritis; also in affections of the bladder arising from diseases of the rectum. 17 130 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. Genital Organs of Women.-Dr. Carroll thinks that it is capable of producing abortion in the early months of uterine gestation. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is said to be curative in some forms of leucorrhcea. It has cured, in the hands of homceopathic practitioners, leucorrhcea, prolapsus, dysmenorrhcea, etc., as the fbllowing cases will show. It will strike the critical reader, however, that nearly all the abnormal conditions of the uterine organs were really dependent upon disease of the rectum or bowels, as constipation or piles, and that when the Collinsonia removed the latter diseases, the uterine disorder disappeared. It is too often overlooked by the careless and unobservant physician, that a prolapsus or retroversion may be caused by constipation; a pruritus or leucorrhoea, by haemorrhoids, and even a congested cervix by an acute or chronic dysentery. It seems very probable that it will be found curative in vicarious menstruation, when the substitutive bleeding is from the hoemorrhoidal veins. In Amenorrhcea fiom congestion of the uterus aud pelvic viscera, it may be found beneficial. In menorrhagia from the same cause, it will prove equally useful. Abortion may be prevented by it use, when that accident is impending, as a result of constipation, piles, etc. I am not prepared to believe, however, that its action on the uterus is direct. Dysrmenorrhsca.AWe cannot find any recommendation for the use of this drug in painful menstruation in the literature of the allopathic schools, but it appears to have been used successfully by homceopathists in that affection. Dr. A. L. Carroll, of New York, (N. A. Jour. of Hom. Vol. 5, page 546,) says: "In dysmenorrhcea its action is most powerful —so powerful that I am led to believe it capable, during the early periods of utero-gestation, of producing abortion. In no instance that has fallen under my notice, has it failed to relieve promptly this menstrual derangement, which is so common among all classes of women in our climate, and I am convinced that when more extensively known it will be found a specific in this form of disease." Dr. Fowler, "case four "-under the head of Hmmorrhoids reports a cure of dysmenorrhea, complicated with piles, loss of appetite, and constant diarrhma. Dr. Snelling adds his testimony to Dr. Carroll's, in regard to its efficancy in dysmenorrhcea. " There is no doubt," he remarks, "''that it exercises a strong specific influence over the female organs of generation, as we have also seen distressing symptoms of pruritus, and prolapsus of the womb yield under its use. "A lady aged about 35, unmarried, had sufferred for a long time past with all the distressing symptoms of a uterine prolapsus, complicated with pruritus, dysmenorrhcea, and most obstinate constipation. She had been for some time under the care of a distinguished practitioner for the prolapsus uteri, who, after relieving the more urgent symptoms, and restoring somewhat the tone of her system, told her that her only safety lay in avoiding constipation; and to this end prescribed a cathartic pill, which was to be taken as occasion required. Under this course she was gradually but steadily retrogading. Each recurring menstrual period brought its days of acute suffering, and confinement to the bed. Every movement of the bowels was accomplished only by the COLLINSONIA CANADENSIS. 131 aid of a strong cathartic, and this had come to be an act of suffering and dread from the painful prolapsus of the womb at these times. The bowels refusing to act, it became necessary firequently to repeat again- and again the opening pills, before their torpor could be overcome, and then a quick succession of copious and debilitating liquid stools would leave her prostrate for days. She thus alternated between a state of absolute inaction of the bowels, with its train of attendant evils, and the exhaustion consequent upon hypercatharsis. April 3d. —She was put upon three grain doses of Collinsonia can. one quarter trit, three per diem, with directions to abstain from the use of the habitual cathartic as long as was possible for her to do so; no other change whatever was made. Twenty-four hours had elapsed since the bowels had moved. Slight pains at times in the back and uterine regions, with distressing pruritus. Appetite small, pulse normal. April 5th. —Natural movements of the bowels without other assistance. No other effects. April 7th and 8th.Healthy movements from the bowels. April lOth. —Much improved in every respect; constipation entirely removed; symptoms altogether so marked better that the medicine was discontinued for one week. During this week the monthly turn passed over, with much less than the usual amount of suffering, though some imprudence in diet was followed by colicky pains in the abdomen; these, however, passed over. At the end of the week the constipation having somewhat retulrned the remedy was resumed, followed in twenty-four hours by a natural movement from the bowels. The medicine was continued for one week and then given up. The relief was complete and permanent. No subsequent symptoms made their appearance, and a few days since she expressed herself as perfectly and entirely well, " without an ache or a pain." During the course of the administration of the remedy, the pruritus, dysmenorrhcea, and symptoms of prolapsus uteri, were quietly and completely removed." It may be that Collinsonia does not act specifically and directly upon the uterus, but cures congestions, pains, prolapsus, etc., by removing diseased conditions from other pelvic viscera. Genital Organs of Men.-It has proved useful in gleet. It is indi. cated in spermatorrhaea from hremorrhoids and constipation. Dr. Fowler (case 3rd) cured a case of varicocele from the above mentioned causes. Respiratory Organs.-We find no mention in Allopathic or eclectic tharapeutics, of the use of Collinsonia in affections of the pulmonary organs. It has, however, been used in the new school with success. The following case illustrating the use of Collinsonia in pulmonary homorrhage was reported by -Dr. Liebold, of Newark, N. J., in the iYortA American Journcl, vol. 7, page 494. " On the evening of the 11th of August last I was called in haste to the bedside of Mr. G., an American.about forty years of age, who had just the third attack of pulmonary hemorrhage under Allopathic medication, in the space of four days. He had lost about a pint of moderately fresh looking blood each time, but this time more than previously. The history of the case was, that he had "infiamma 132 NEW HIOMCFOPATHIIC PROVINGS: tion of the lungs " two years ago treated allopathically. Up to this day he was comparatively well, and could assign no cause for his present sickness. On the first day he got sick he passed blood per anum too, but not subsequently. With a short hacking cough, he raised almost without intermission, and spat very tough and dark coagula of blood, as large as a bean, enveloped in viscid phlegm. Of course he felt somewhat uneasy in his chest, but had no pain. I put him on Hamamelis Virginica for the next three days but the hemorrhage returned twice, on the 12th and 14th, although diminished; the spitting of blood remained about the same. Then I gave.Ferrurn-aceticumn; for twenty-four hours, some hemorrhage. Lycopus virginicus for twenty-four hours. August 16th. No better. Complains of great inconvenience from constipation. Gave Callinsonia Canadensis one-fourth, one powder every three hours (having in view only its gentle laxative power). The next morning I was greeted, "Well, Doctor, that is the right remedy, that will cure me," and so it did almost. I say almost, for notwithstanding he took it up to the 25th, " by and by at longer intervals," there appeared for the last four days, two or three times blood in his sputa. The cure was completed by Conium first, in two days. Saw him well to-day. The Collinsonia can. acted in this case not in the least on the bowels, more on the kidneys, but developed an admirable carminative power. So also said a lady who took it for dysmenorrhcea, and who called them only by the name of i"wind-powders." MIr. G. never had hemorrhoids." C ORNUS CIRCINATA, (Round-leaved dog-wood. Green Osier.) This is a shrub from six to ten feet high, with warty branches, large, roundish, pointed leaves, waved on their edges and downy beneath, and white flowers disposed in depressed cymes. The fruit is blue. The bark, when fresh, is of a bright -green color; when dried, is in quills, of a whitish or ash color; its taste is bitter, astringent and aromatic. The plant grows on hill-sides and banks of rivers. It flowers in June and July. WooD, LEE, and nearly all the allopathic authorities make but slight mention of this variety of Cornus. With characteristic want of accurate knowledge, they assert that all the varieties of this plant possess the same medical virtues. The general effects of all may have a general resemblance, but each has a peculiar action of its own upon the human system. @eneralitles,-Dark and bilious stools with griping and tenesmus; dysenteric symptoms; bowel complaints generally, with pains CORNUS CIRCINATA. 133 in the bowels before, during, and after the discharges; general debility, and impaired mental energy, with great drowsiness; bilious derangements; dull, heavy sensation in the head; shooting, aching, or throbbing pains in the head; disposition to perspire on slight exertion; nausea, loss of appetite, bitter taste, lassitude; symptoms resembling jaundice; cholera infantum; diarrhea, with excessive debility and nervous excitability; chilliness, followed by flushes of heat and sweat; sleep unrefreshing, and disturbed by unpleasant dreams; diarrhzea, with great prostration of the whole body. CLINICAL REMARK. —Dr. Marcy found it curative in all the conditions mentioned above. Skin.-Itching of the scalp, legs, and feet, increased by scratching or rubbing, and succeeded by a painful burning sensation; aggravation of an habitual scurfy eruption of the scalp; amelioration of a long standing herpetic eruption while under the influence of the drug; occasional paroxysms of itching of the skin of the back, legs, and feet, mostly at night; fine scarlet rash on the breast, attended with itching; itching in various parts of the body; burning sensation over the whole face; skin covered with a copious clammy perspiration; itching around the genital organs; itching and burning sensation over the whole body; 1pricking sensation in the arms and legs. CLINICAL REmrARs. —These symptoms would seem to bear out the popular belief that it is a good " blood purifier." Dr. Beach, a veteran of the Botanic school, says:- "it is valuable in saltrheum, scrofula, cancerous humors, itch, and all cutaneous diseases." A sweeping assertion truly! It might be classed among our antipsorics. Fever.-Flushes of heat, followed by easy general perspiration; chilly sensations, succeeded by transient flushes of heat; congestion of blood to the head and face; throbbing pains in the temples and vertex; flushes of heat and coldness in alternation; followed by cold perspiration; soreness of the scalp; aching pains in the eyeballs; rumbling of wind in the bowels; stitches in the chest and under the scapula; sense of debility and fatigue; heaviness of the head; drowsiness; nausea; dull pain in the forehead and vertex; copious general clammy perspiration, succeeded by general chilliness; transient flashes of heat pervading the whole body, with shooting pains through the brain; heaviness of the eyelids; peevishness; aversion to meat. and bread; and itching of the legs, thighs, and around the genital organs; head and face hot; coldness, followed by flashes of heat and perspiration; general itching of the: skin; loss of appetite; drowsiness; and griping pains in the bowels. CLINICAL RE IARKIs. —In certain forms of bilious remittent fever, if the gastric and intestinal symptoms correspond, this medicine will be found useful. Professor Ives says this variety of Dogwood, resembles the pale Peruvian Bark. (C.,Lancifolia.) It is used in domestic practice as an anti-periodic. (See C. florida.) Sleep.-Profound sleep during the night; drowsiness and lassitude; very great drowsiness, and disposition to perspire; sleep 134 NEW IOMCEOPAT HIC0 PROVINGS. disturbed by frightful dreams; very sound, but unrefreshing sleep; very great disposition to sleep, with entire loss of mental and physical energy; sleep disturbed by fulness and pressure in the head; sleepy, and weak during the day, with dull pains in the head, back, and limbs; stupid and sleepy feeling with nausea, and burning of the face, hands and feet. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Those physicians who have had to deal much with bilious disorders, will recognize the above symptoms as bearing a striking similarity to those Which precedes a bilious fever, hepatic congestion, jaundice, or even an ague. Should the totality of the symptoms correspond, it is quite likely that the use of the Cornus c. will prevent the establishment of either of those affections. Mind and Sensorium.-lDrowsiness; confusion of ideas; indifference with respect to subjects which usually interest; drowsiness, with entire disinclination to mental or corporeal exertion; depression of spirits; difficulty in fixing the mind, and in attending to ordinary business; mind confused, stupid, with inability to concentrate it upon any subject-worse toward night; lightness of the head; great depression of spirits, and petulence; very great disposition to sleep, with apathy and indifference; feeling of indolence, and loss of energy; lassitude, confusion of ideas, vertigo; giddiness, and lightness of head, worse on shaking it or on stooping; dread of making any exertion. CLINICAL REMARKS.-The suggestions offered under the preceding paragraph, are also applicable here; the stupor, indifference, etc., all resemble the premonitory symptoms of disordered conditions of the liver. In hypochondriasis it will be found curative, when arising from hepatic torpor. Hlead.-Dull, heavy pain in the whole head, with drowsiness, the headache increased by walking, stooping or shaking the head; sense of fulness in the head relieved by a copious stool; dull pain in the forehead; aching pains through the temples, and on the top of the head; confused feeling in the head, and sense of fulness in the brain, with unusual heat in the head'and face; congestion of blood to the head and face; throbbing pains in the vertex, and soreness of the scalp; heavy, aching pains in the head, with almost irresistible desire to sleep; drawing sensation (pain) from the back of the head to the nose; dull throbbing pains in the temples and side of the head; deep seated, pulsating pains in the occipital and parietal regions; deep seated, dull pains under the centre of the skull; dull pain in the back of the head; pulsations extending from the front to the back part of the head; Severe pulsative pains in the temporal regions, which passed off during the evening and night; heavy, confused feeling in the top of the head'; slight, tensive aching pains through the whole brain; slight pain over the right supra-orbital ridge; dull pain in the forehead and vertex; flushes of heat in the head and face; heat in the top of the head; head feels light and giddy, worse on shaking the head, or on stooping; shooting pains through the whole brain; drawing.pains in the back part of the head, and in CORNUS CIRCINATA. 135 the nape of the neck; sense of fulness and pressure in the head, preventing sound sleep. CLINICAL REMARiS.-D-r. Marcy found it curative in cases when there was-" Dull heavy sensations in the head; shooting, aching or throbbing pains in the head." It would seem to be indicated in various forms of bilious headache. One particular form of bilious cephalalgia is well represented in the symptom — "Sense of fulness in the head, relieved by a copious stool." Allopathic physicians, noticed long ago that some forms of headache were relieved by free evacuations from the bowels, occurring spontaneously. This led to the use and abuse of cathartics in head affections generally. I have treated many cases of habitual headache, which were relieved naturally, by diarrhoea, in which the pains in the head and the subsequent diarrhcea symptoms corresponded well with the above. In such cases it should be tested. Eyes.-Aching pains through the eyeballs; heaviness of the eyelids; eyes sunken; yellowish tinge of the conjuctiva; hollowness of the eyes; dark circle under the eyes; sense of weight around the eyes; very dull sensations over the eyeballs; sense of contraction around the eyes; eyes dull and heavy, as after a debauch; sore pain in the eyeballs. CLINICALREMARKs. -The " aching pains through the eyelids," are with some patients always premonitory of an attack of ague, or a bilious fever. We find it prevents a jaundice and bilious headache. The "yellow tinge of the conjunctiva " is often one of the first symptoms of jaundice. Dr. Marcy found it useful in " symptoms resembling jaundice." (See remarks under "stool.") Dr. Beach says it is useful for "inflamed eyes." This is about as correct an indication as Botanics usually have. Theoretically, I would strongly recommend it in ulcerations of the cornea; ulcers of the conjunctiva, from scrofula, or apthous ophthalmia; also for herpes of the eyelids. It should be used internally, and a wash or collyrium. (See remarks under the head of " mouth.") Nose.-Itching of the nasal mucous membrane; coryza early in the morning; prickling sensation in the nasal canal; severe prickling sensation in the bony part of the nose. Mouth and Throat. —Tonigue covered with a thin, yellowish fur; insipid taste and clammy mouth; tongue covered with a whitish fur, with dry mouth and throat; pungent taste in the mouth; bitter taste in the mouth; smarting in the mouth and throat; bad taste in the mouth, with loss of appetite; white fur on the tongue, with desire for cold drinks.'CLINICAL REMARKS.-The above symptoms are those found in bilious affections generally. But it is a little remarkable that no symptoms of ulceration, inflammation, or apthae of mucous membrane of the mouth were elicited in this proving. Perhaps stronger doses would have caused more decided lesions. During the early part of my practice I was surprised, and sometimes mortified, at the facility with which my patients would cure " sore mouths,"' with the decoction of the bark of the green osier, after I had vainly used mercury, nitric acid, sulphuric acid and other remedies laid 136 - NEW llOM1EOPATlHIC PROVINGS. down in our books. In apthous stomatitis of children, and even in stomatitis materna, I have known it to effect a prompt cure after all other means had been used in vain. Even in mercurial salivation it will arrest the diseased process, but not so surely and permanently as chlorate of potash. In ulceration of the buccal mucous membrane from a cold, or gastric derangement, and in that affection sometimes called "bilious sore throat and mouth," it has, under my observation, proved specific. Persons of a scrofulous habit are often troubled with frequently recurring ulceration of the tongue, grlus, and mouth generally. Such patients I have known who always resorted to this remedy with a certainty of absolute relief. One patient in particular always carried some of the inner bark in his pocket, and chewed it as a substitute for tobacco, alleging that if he suspended its usethe " sore mouth" very soon returned. Another patient had this "sore mouth" occasionally, alternated with ulcers on the conjunctiva and cornea. At my suggestion he used the cornus as a collyrium with the happiest result. It may prove one of our most valuable remedies in all ulcerations of mucous surfaces. The infusion is generally made by pouring hot water upon the bark, in the proportion of one ounce of bark to one quart of water. For homceopathic use, this method might answer in case the tincture was not readily obtained. A few drops of the mother tincture in half a teacup of water, would be about the proper proportion. I have rarely used the tincture, as the infusion is so easily made and readily administered. In order to test its virtues, in minute doses, I once gave a child, suffering under apthous ulceration of the mouth, the coronus c. prepared as follows: One drachm of the inner bark was placed in a vessel containing one quart of hot water. This was left standing one hour, then filtered. Nitric-acid, Chlorate of Potash, Borax, had been previously used internally and locally. In twenty-four hours after using the medicine the mucous membrane began to assume a healthier appearance, and in about a week, was quite well. The child was in ill health, and had had diarrhcea for weeks, and had become quite emaciated. Under the use of the remedy the diarrhcea ceased, and the general health decidedly improved. The dose was one teaspoonful of the above preparation every four hours. (No attempt was made to wash the mouth). Eclectic writers call it an "Anti-scorbutic," and so fr as my observation goes, it seems worthy the appellation. In this respect it is the analogue of the mineral acids, Baptisia, Kali Chlor., Mercurius and Hydrastis. Appetite and Stomacoh.-Nausea, with bitter taste, and aversion to all kinds of food; empty feeling in the stomach, with tasteless eructations; aversion to food, and desire for sour drinks; burning sensation in the stomach, which lasted an hour and a half; flatulent distension of the stomach; nausea; bitter taste, and a gnawing, faint feeling in the stomach; heavy pulsations in the stomach, with nausea and impaired appetite; pain at the pit of the stomach during dinner, with distension of the stomach and bowels, relieved by a copious stool after dinner; nausea, with great debility and eructations; fulness and oppression in the stomach, with CORNUS CIRCINATA. 137 bad taste and dry mouth; nausea, with bitter eructations and loss of appetite; smarting and burning in the mouth, throat and stomach, with desire for stool; weakness of the stomach, with bitter taste and nausea; sensation of faintness in the stomach and bowels; drawing pains from the stomach to the lower part of the abdomen. CLINICAL REMARs. —Many of the symptoms of this drug, especially the gastric, closely resemble those of Nux vomica. It stands somewhere between Nux and China in this respect. It has been used successfully in vomiting of pregnancy and dyspepsia. Abdomen.-Slight griping pains in the abdomen, accompanied with rumbling of wind; the pains penetrated the whole abdomen, but were most severe in the vicinity of the umbilicus; pressing down pain in the rectum during stool; slight burning pain in the rectum during an evacuation; pressing pain in the rectum, and smarting at the anus in the morning, during and after a thin and scanty stool; tenesmus at stool, with griping in the umbilical region rumbling of wind and large discharge of offensive flatus; urging to stool, with fulness and uneasiness of the bowels; vague pains and general sense of uneasiness in the bowels; slight tenesmus, and considerable burning at the anus, after a bilious discharge; abdominal pains more acute during stool; urging to stool, (sensation in the rectum) in the morning, at five o'clock; on taking more of the drug, this bearing-down sensation extended to the bowels, increasing the disposition to evacuate. Stool accompanied with some tenesmus and burning at the anus; distension of the stomach and bowels with wind; constant working in the bowels, as if their contents were all in motion; shooting pains fiom the centre of the thorax to the lower part of the abdomen, the pains coming on severely at intervals, and then remitting; distension of the bowels with wind, relieved by a copious, dark and bilious stool; immediately after dinner; sense of weight in the lower part of the abdomen; burning sensation in-the stomach and bowels, with same desire for stool; urging to stool very early in the morning, but unable to accomplish anything satisfactory, the discharge consisting of a few slimy lumps, with pressing and smarting at the anus; sensation of emptiness in the stomach and bowels; drawing sensation from the stomach to the lower part of the abdomen. CLINICAL REMARKS.-No drug, except, perhaps, mercury, pre. sents a more formidable array of "bowel symptoms." Dr. Marcy says "its chief action appears to be upon the liver and intestinal canal. A markedinfluence is likewise exerted upon the brain, but whether the action of the. drug is direct upon this organ, or whether the head symptoms proceed from the bilious derangement induced by it, is a question. We have found it curative in all the intestina symptoms found under the head of " Generalities."' "It was firsi introduced into practice as a remedy for bowel complaints, bJ Prof. Ives, of New Haven, some thirty years ago. Its empirical us( in the hands of this gentleman, proved it to be a valuable remedy i! bilious diarrhcea, dysentery, cholera, infantum, and against the diarrhceas peculiar to abdominal typhus." If it so promptly cure 18 138 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. ulcerations of the mouth and fauces, why should it not prove just as much a specific for the intestinal ulcerations, which are peculiar to this form of typhoid fever? The result most to be feared in all inflammatory affections of mucous surface-as in inflammatory diarrhoea, dysentery, abdominal typhus, etc., is ulceration. Had the experiment been carried far enough by the provers, we have no doubt this pathological condition would have occurred. The dysentric symptoms did not proceed so far as to cause bloody discharges, yet any physician who reads the above will perceive that it was only a question of time; blood evacuations would have soon been obtained if the drug had been continued in large doses, and if the prover had stifl persisted, zdceration would have certainlyresulted. We cannot come at any other conclusion than that the Cornus cir. will prove as valuable in a certain class of diseases as Mercurius, Leptandria, Podophyllum, or Nitric acid. In one case of dysentery, in a child, when there was unmistakable ulceration of the mucous membrane of the rectum, the mother, by my permission, used enema of a weak infusion of the green-osier. After using it a few times the pus disappeared from the stools, and the child suffered less. It had not improved, under the use of Mere. cor., 6th, and subsequently Nitric acid, 3d. Would it not be well to try this form of application, as well as internally, at the same time? Stool. -Sightly loose stool in the morning, accompanied with slight pressing-down pain in the rectum; Stool, thin and scanty, with burning at the rectum, and at the anus, during the discharge; thin, scanty and slimy stool, attended with griping in the umbilical region; tenesmus, rumbling of wind, and large discharge of offensive flatus; copious, thin and bilious discharge, succeeded by some tenesmus and burning at the anus which lasted half an hour; dark green, thin, and very offensive stools, accompanied by copious emission of offensive flatus; bilious and slimy st.ol, with much wind, some tenesmus, and severe, burning pain at the anus, and a short distance within the rectum, whichcontinued after the motion; dark, thin and moderately copious stool, with some tenesmus, and a burning at the anus; frequent, small, dark and slimy stools with much offensive flatus; copious, dark stool of the natural consistence, attended with pressing-down sensation in the rectum; large emission of very offensive flatus; hard, dry and scanty stool, with pressing in the rectum; stool, consisting of a few thin and slimy lumps, with pressing and smarting at the anus. (See remarks under " Abdomen.") Urine.-Urine, scanty and red or pale; sensation of fulness and weight in the region of the bladder; urine, scanty and high-colored, and frequent inclination to pass water. Genital Organs.-Strange and persistent erections through the night; increased sexual desire during the evening and night, with diminished power. Larnyx and Chest.-Stitches in the chest and back; stitches in the chest and under the right scapula; a fine scarlet rash upon the chest, attended with itching; sensation of dragging or bearing down on each side of the thorax, with accelerated pulsations of the heart; a sore, bruised feeling in the chest and back; shooting CORNUS FLORIDA. 139 pains from the centre of the thorax to the lower part of the abdomen, severe at times and then remitting; choking sensation in the upper part of the thorax; smarting in the mouth and throat; frequent inclination to take a long breath. Back.-Dull pain in the small of the back, with drowsiness and lassitude; stitches in the back and chest; pain in the lower part of the back; sore pain in the lumbar region, worse on bending forward or to either side; occasional paroxysms of itching in the back, especially in the evening. Upper Extremities.-Burning and itching sensation in the hands and arms; coldness of the hands following a loose stool; prickling sensation in the arms; stretching sensation in the arms, mostly in the evening and at night; sense of weakness and fatigue in the arms. Lower Extremities. —Weary feeling in the legs; itching in the legs; weakness and weary feeling in the legs; weakness and trembling of the legs; itchings on the legs and thighs, and around the labia; burning sensation in the feet; coldness of feet following a loose stool; tired feeling in the legs when walking or ascending stairs; prickling sensation in the legs; paroxysms of itching in the legs in the evening. CORNUS FLORIDA. (Dogwood, Boxwood). Common throughout all our forests; conspicuous in spring-time by its festoons of large, white blossoms, and equally so during the autumn, fromu its clusters of scarlet berries; a handsome little tree, usually about fifteen to twenty feet high, is the Cornus florida of the United States. In this genus of Cornacece, there are about twenty species, of which America has, north of Mexico, eleven. The Flowering Dogwood is the most beautiful and showy plant of its genus. It is too well known to need description. The bark is officinal, though that of the root contains the greatest amount of the active principle. "The principle obtained from it is.called cornine, and has all the properties of' Sulphate of Qninine." This loose assertion must be taken curn grano salis, like all similar assertions of the dominant school. No pathogenesis of the Cornus florida has yet appeared. I propose, therefore, to collect what has been written of its therapeutic uses, and gather the few pathogenetic symptoms which are scattered through the pages of various authorities. We can, by these means, get some idea of its sphere of action, which will lay the foundation for rational clinical experience, and stimulate us to prove the drug, as Hahnernann did its great analogue, China. Prof. Lee (Jour. of Mat. 2Med., vol, 1., p. 294,) thus speaks of it: " The physiological effects of the Cornus 1140 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC: PROVINGS. bark are similar to those of the vegetable bitter tonics generally, viz., increased frequency of pulse, exalted temperature, diaphoresis, sensation of fulness or pains in the head, and gastric derangement. Of these, the most strongly marked are the increased temperature of the skin, and the general perspiration. Some experimenters have observed a constant tendency to sleep, which has continued for several hours. This, as occurs in many other cases, does not indicate any specific narcotic properties, but is the result of the cerebral fulness." Dr. Blackie says that it causes "severe headache, quickens the pulse, and produces violent pains in the bowels." Other writers give testimony to the above statement. Here we have good evidence that the Dogwood will cause febrile symptoms of a peculiar character. Who can doubt its ability to cause a type of intermittent, bilious, or remittent fever, with gastric and intestinal irritation? Just such types of fever are found in the West, and may be treated successfully with Cornus. We have considerable testimony in favor of its yalue in intermittents. 1Eberle states that thirty-five grains of the bark are equal to thirty of Cinchona. Its effects are closely analogous to those of the cinchona bark, for which it may often be successfully substituted. Lee says: "Our own experience with this article has satisfied us that most cases of our periodic or miasmatic fevers will yield to its judicious use." Prof. Barton says: "That it may be asserted with entire safety, that as yet there has not been discovered within the limits of the United States any vegetable so effectually to answer the purpose of Peruvian bark in the management of intermittent fevers, as the Cornus florida." yDr. Norton, who experimented largely with the bark, declares that in an extensive practice of many years he used no other remedy in intermittent and remittent fevers." -Dr. Coe writes: " Its anti-periodic powers render it of peculiar value in the treatment of intermittent and other periodic fevers. In such fevers we have employed it with much success. It is certain that Cornine has cured fever and ague when quinine has failed, and that in all cases when the latter cannot be employed, the Cornine answers as a substitute." In domestic practice, I have observed for many years that it was often more successful than quinine in certain types of ague.. The country people generally make an infusion of uncertain strength, and drink of it during the apyrexia. If taken during the paroxysm, it causes an aggravation of the fever, headache, etc. From its known effects when taken in large doses, as well as certain observations of my own, I would lay down the following indications for its use in miasmatic fevers: Paroxysm preceded fobr days by sleepiness; sluggish flow of ideas; headache of a heavy, dull character; nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; and sometimes bilious or watery diarrhbea; chill, with cold, clammy skin; nausea and vomiting, and violent pains in the bowels; fever, with violent headache; hot, but moist skin; stupor; "cerebral fulness;" pulse quick and hard; confusion of intellect, etc. Apyrexia-Debility, gastric irritability; painful diarrhoea. In bilious remittent, and even typhoid fever, it may prove a useful remedy. It seems to occupy an intermediate position between China and Podophyllum. CORNUS FLORIDA. 141 Lee admits that it will aggravate an existing febrile condition, but resorts to the usual false logic to explain its curative action: " A person in health may take the Cornus, as well as any of the other vegetable. tonics, in moderate doses, and for a long time without any marked effects on any of the functions; but taken in the same manner and the same quantities, in certain pathological states, as a general lowering of the vital forces and nervous energy, independent of organic disease, or when miasmatic poison has caused a tendency to paroxysmal attacks, the therapeutical influence of Cornus will be promptly manifested in a general invigoration of the vital forces and suspension of the paroxysms. Here, as in regard to Cinchona, we must be satisfied with the result, for the manner in which it is brought about must ever remain a mystery. In certaini morbid conditions, as hectic fever or great debility, attended with frequency of pulse, and cold, colliquative sweats, the Cornus would seem to possess the power of a sedative, as manifested in decided lowering of pulse, and abatement of perspiration. This effect is common to all neurotic tonics, in certain pathological conditions of the body. It depends on their imparting increased tonicity to the muscular fibres of the heart through the organic nerves, thus enabling the central organ of circulation to throw out a greater quantity of blood at each contraction. The cardiac irritability also is lessened by the temporary increase of tonic power and vital contractibility. On the contrary, if Cornus and other analogous substances be given in acute and sthenic conditions marked by those phenomena which are characteristic of inflammatory action, the circulation will be correspondingly increased by an increase of infammatory actionz; in both conditions, however, acting as a stimulant." The above is open to much just criticism. We will take up a few of his propositions. 1. A person in health cannot take Cornus, or any other vegetable tonic, for a long time, without any marked effect. His own statement regarding the effects of Dogwood disprove it. Besides, the slightest knowledge of physiological processes teaches us that no tonic can be taken with impunity by a healthy person. We soon have an exaltation of function, then derangement of function, and, finally, more or less depressed condition of the vital powers. 2. We are not obliged to remain in mystery relative to the action of Cornus and Cinchona. Hahnemann discovered that the latter cured disorders like those it was capable of causing; and the Cornus acts in a similar manner. Trosseau and Wood-highest allopathic authorities-admit this virtually, but cloak the real fact, under the term, " Substantiation." 3. Cornus cannot be a sedative, and at the same time a stimulant. The terms are contradictory, and used in the manner above, causing no idea at all. The whole truth is, that the Cornus, like all other drugs, have two series of actions-primary and secondary. The primary action is, to cause exaltation of the functions of the vital organs, thence fever, congestion, inflammation. The secondary effects are nearly opposite, such as depression of the vital forces, loss of tonicity in the heart and muscular fibre generally, irritation of the various tissues, coldness, colliquative sweats. 142 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC: PROVINGS. Prof. Lee's facts are not to be disputed, but his theory of the action of the medicine is untenable. Cornus is homceopathic to both the primary and secondary symptoms above enumerated, in doses varied to suit the existing conditions; and it can cure such -pathological states only by virtue of its power to cause similar ones. 4. Cornus and its analogues will not aggravate existing inflammatory conditions, if given in proper quantities. Administered in minute doses, it will promptly remove inflammations and congestions, if indicated by the symptoms, and if the'quantity is small enough, no aggravation will follow its use. Prof. Lee, King, and other authorities assert that the tincture of Cornus will cause " violent pain in the bowels, purging, derangement of the digestive organs, vomiting, nausea, gastric derangement," etc.; yet all are equally free to admit, and even advise its use in similar conditions. They say, "It will promote the appetite and digestion, and is useful in atomic and enfeebled conditions of the stomach; and will act as an anthelmintic, by improving the functions of the alimentary canal, and correcting those conditions of the digestive organs which favor the production of worms." And yet, if it was suggested to these worthy writers that the medicine might act according to the law of similia, they would reject the proposition with contempt! It is just possible that many of the indications laid down for the Cornus circinata may be applicable to this medicine; to be exact we ought to have a scientific proving. But most Hom-.eopaths are not aware that, although it is asserted by both schools that the varieties of Cinchona bark differ considerably in their action, yet our pharmaceutists use the C. augustifolia and C. lancifolia almost indiscriminately. To meet the demands of a perfectly scientific materia medical eacht variety of Peruvian bark should be separately proven. It is quite suggestive, that authorities recommend Cornus florida in about the same cases and conditions for which Hahnemann used China, viz: general debility from loss of fluids, or in the convalescing stages of acute diseases; hectic fever, night sweats, indigestion, lientery, etc. A tincture made from the berries when ripe, is considered by some as being most efficacious in the above conditions. Reports of cases of ague successfully treated by the late E. J. Bates, M. D., with Cornus florlda, will be found in American HIomceopathic Observer, Feb. 1864, page 29. CORNINE.-This is the so-called active principle, of the C.florida, and stands in the same relation to the bark, as does Quinine to the Cinchona. Some prefer the Sulphate, as the best preparation. I have not used the Cornine extensively. In a few cases of debility from loss of fluids, when China, Quinine, and Phos. acid failed to act beneficially, I used the first trituration with apparent good effect. Those of the eclectic school who use it largely, declare it to be a prompt remedy for the cure of the usual types of intermittent fevers.: They assert that it does not affect the head as do other preparations of the bark; nor' does it cause gastric or intestinal derangements. Here let me call attention to one notable fact in relation to all these so-called " active principles," resinoid, alka CYPRIPEDIUM PUBESCENS. 143 loid, or whatever they are called. While they retain to a considerable extent the specific properties of the drug, they are destitute of many of its more important virtues. Thus Quinine possesses not all the curative power of China; Macrotin does not represent all the properties of Cimicifuga; and Leptandrin has no such specific effect upon the brain as the tincture of Leptandria. So with Cornine; it represents only a part of the qualities of the original drug. These " active principles " ought to be subjected to separate provings. But we are partly justified in using them; for, it may be asserted with truth, that, while they do not possess all the virtues of the tincture of the bark, etc., they do not DIFFER in their action. They have lost something, but have gained no new qualities. Thus we may use the Cornine in states of general debility, although the bowel symptoms which indicate the Cornus, are not present. D)r. Coe says, " for ague, Cornine should be given in three to five grain doses every three hours, preceded by, or alternated with Leptandrin." I would advise the lower triturations instead, and know they are just as efficacious. The same writer teaches that, "although Cornine does not possess the power of neutralizing acidity of the stomach, yet it is of exceeding utility in those cases of indigestion, in which that symptom is a troublesome feature. It gives almost instant, immediate relief in that distressing symptom called "heartburn," and its continued use will prove a sure preventive of its occurrence, by restoring the tone of the stomach, and so obviating the tendency to fermentation. CYPRIPEDIIUM PUBESCENS. (Large Yellow Ladies' Slipper). There are eight varieties of Cypripedium indigenous to this country, but the C(I. pubescens from some cause appears to have been selected as the variety to be the most used in medicine. It is known by the common names of American Valerian, (this name is Smith's, applied to the Scutellaria,) Nerve-root, Yellow moccasin flower, etc. For minute description of this and other varieties see King's Dispensatory. The root is the officinal portion. The roots of all these varieties are undoubtedly collected, sold, and used, with the officinal article indiscriminately. Homceopathic pharmaceutists should therefore be very careful in the selection of the root. This plant has, always been a favorite remedy in domestic and " botanic " practice. As a " true nzervinze," it meets a great many indications in the treatment of females and children, and its harmlessness commends it to general use. It, is an analogue of Valerian, Coffea, Thea, Chamomilla, Scutellaria, Sene6io gracilis, and Ambra-grisea. The Eclectic school thus estimates its proper 144 NEW HOMUI]OPATHIC PROVINGS. ties: Dr. King says it is "Tonic, stimulant, diaphoretic, and antispasmodic. Useful in hysteria, chorea, nervous headache, and all cases of nervous irritability; has proved useful in neuralgia, delirium and hypochondria. Combined with nepeta, and scutellaria, it has permanently cured headache (nervous) not dependent on acid stomach. An infusion is said to be beneficial in the pains of the joints following scarlet fever." Jones and'Scudder, (Mat. Med.) write-"In numerous affections termed neuropathic, we have employed the Cypripedium with decided advantage. It equalizes and energizes the nervous powers, lessens excitement, allays nervous irritability, alleviates pain, and appears to invigorate both body and mind, leaving the patient more cheerful and lively than when any of the narcotics, or many of the anti-spasmodics are prescribed. The diseases in which it is indicated are hysterical affections, hypochondriasis, delirium tremens, epilepsy, chorea, hemicrania, neuralgia, ataxic or nervous fevers, etc. In low fever accompanied with morbid nervous excitability, or irritability, as manifested by ruthlessness, vigilance, watchfulness, with great sinking of the vital powers, the Cypripedium produces a calm or tranquil state of mind, invigorates the system, and favors sleep. It is not so important in the relief of spasms or convulsions as llany other agents, yet its peculiar nervine and stimulant qualities admirably adapt it to the relief of that morbid state of the cerebro - spinal system, upon which spasms depend." Dr. Coe places about the same estimate upon the medicinal powers of this plant. He says: "As a substitute for paragoric, Godfrey's cordial, etc., it is most advantageously employed in alleviating the disorders of children, requiring the use of an anodyne. It possesses, however, some narcoticpower, and many times will be found as inadmnissible as opiunm." This last admission is quite an important one, and throws some light on the action of this remedy. I have noticed this narcotic effect upon the persons of some of my patients who were in the habit of using this plant to excess. In country practice, it is not unusual for the practitioner to find persons who are as strongly addicted to the habitual use of the Cypripedium, as others are to the use of Opium. They are generally persons beyond the middle age, whose nervous systems have once been shattered by some serious illness, and they have resorted to the ladyslipper for palliative relief. Such individuals, under the influence of the -drug, are lively and talkative, disposed to work, and are really capable of making unusual exertions without much fatigue. They are tranquil, feel no pain, and altogether very comfortable. But when the use of the drug is suspended they become irritable, irascible, fretful; their motions are hurried and, uncertain; they are agitated by the least contradictory word, a noise, or any excitement of those around them; they cannot sleep, and even have jactitations, pains, and hysterical spasms. These are the primary and secondary states and symptons which are directly caused by the pathogenetic action of the Cypripedium. I do not think the plant has any specific influence over the skin or mucous membranes. CYPRIPEDIUM PUBESCENS. 145 CLINICAL REmiAARcs. —My observations and experience with this remedy has given me the following impressions relative to its true sphere of therapeutic action. (1.) Its action on the brain, is similar to that of Tea, Coffee, Cannabis indica, Cocoa, and a few others of that class. Its pathogenetic action does not extend as far as that of Agaricus, Belladonna, Hyoscyamus, Stramonium, and others of that group. I do not believe its toxical effects go beyond the causation of functional irritation. It is therefore not homecopathic to congestion, inflammation, or apoplexy of the brain and spinal cord and its membranes, but only to conditions of morbid irritability, or hlypercesthesia of the nervous tissues. I do not doubt its ability to cause serious brain affection in young children, for the nervous mass in infancy is so delicate and sensitive, that any agent capable of causing simple irritation, (tea, coffee, bright lights, noise, fright, etc.,) may induce a condition, which readily runs on to serious disorder. In young children, irritability of the brain often appears many days or weeks before more serious disease sets in. Proper remedies will often arrest this condition, and prevent congestion and inflammation. Children thus afflicted are noticed to be more lively than usual, more inclined to laugh and play at unwonted hours, even in the night; will often laugh in their sleep, or are very wakeful and excitable. If the little ones are urged to play, are excited by light, noise and laughter —all these tend to fix the irritation more strongly upon the over-sensitive brain, and soon the child is attacked with spasms or convulsions, and a meningitis closes the scene. It is in these premonitary conditions, or states of simple irritation, that the Cypripedium and Scutellaria, as well as Coffea and Cannabis indica are really indicated; and in my hands, the first named remedy has acted admirably, and in a highly satisfactory manner. To very young infants I usually administer the third or sixth dilution in water, or pellets, as often as the case seems to demand. On the Nervous System generally, of children or adults, it acts as a pure hyperfestheseant; primarily, elevating the excitability and activity; and secondarily, decreasing the strength, and awakening a morbid irribility of a low gL'ade. It is not therefore homeopathic to neurotic diseases due to inflammation, congestion, or any organic change, but to a peculiar irritability such as I have described above. In many cases of Neuralgia, "the pain is the disease." In such instances the Cypripedium will be found curative in many cases. The same observation will apply to chorea, epileptiform symptoms, hysteria, etc. I have used it with good effects in the watchfulness, and nervous agitation of low fevers; but only as a palliative; for the drug is manifestly not homceopathic to the pathological conditions which are present. In the treatment of diseases of females its use will give satisfaction to the practitioner who adapts it to the symptoms for which it is truly homceopathic. The Dose is to be graduated according to the age of the patient, and whether the symptoms are primary or secondary, ranging from the 6th dilution or trituration, down to drop doses of the mother tincture. DIOSCOREA VILLOSA. 147 every five, ten or twenty minutes." It is useful in cramp of the stomach, flatulence, and even uterine cramps. Coe (Conc., Org., Med.,) says: "The wonderful efficacy of this remedy in the cure of bilious colic, renders it an indispensible agent to every practitioner of the healing act. In this complaint it is as near a specific as any remedy can well be. The relief it affords is both prompt and certain. But its entire value does not relate to this disease alone, as it has been four d useful in cholera morbus, nausea attending pregnancy, spasms, couo-hs, hepatic disorders, after-pains, flatulence, dysmenorrhcea, and in all cases where an anti-spasmodic is required." "In our experience of the management of cholera morbus, as well as vomiting from other causes, we have found that small doses, frequently repeated, will oftentimes control the symptomrs, when large doses fail," (one-fourth grain of Dioscolein.) "In conclusion, we would reiterate.he fict that Dioscorein is eminently anti-spasmodic, and diaphoretic, and that its power of relieving spasms, relates more particularly to the stomach and bowels, in the disorders of which it has become to be looked upon by many as nearly a specific. We speak of our own knowledge when we state it to be the most reliable remedy yet discovered for bilious and flatulent colic, and intestinal spasm and irritation generally. It is a safe and harmless remedy, but in over-doses will produce vomiting." T'he italics above are our own. If it will cause vomiting in over doses, why may it not cause spasms, cramps, irritation, and other phenomena of bilious and flatulent colic, for which it is so specific? I do not doubt its power of inducing these affections, when long given in pathogenetic doses. "Jones and Scudder assert that it acts as "a very gentle diaphoretic, without exciting the action of the heart and arteries, or increasing the temperation of the body. It has been but little used, however, for this purpose, although it;might undoubtedly to employed with much advantage. It appears to act as an anodyne and anti-spasmodic, and likewise as an antiemetic, in the diseases in which it is principally employed. The only affection in which it has been used sufficiently to give it a fair test to its virtues, is bilious colic. In many instances it has appeared to act with great promptitude in allaying nausea and vomiting, and relieving the pain and spasmodic action invariably present in that disease. "In various cases of great severity, when other remedies had been faithfully and perseveringly employed, and when all had proved unavailing, the nausea and vomiting, severe pain and spasms continuing unabated, with a dry and husky state of the surface, the Dioscorea has afforded entire relief in every respect, in twenty or thirty minutes, and the patient has fallen into a comfortable state of repose, and slept quietly the first time since the attack." Of the Dioscorein, they add," "We have used it in bilious colic with much Success; and as an anti-emetio in other cases. In the cholera-infantum of children, it is one of our most efficient agents; combined with Leptandrin, we have succeeded in curing cases which were considered hopeless. From our experience with this agent, and it has been somewhat extensive, we believe it has a specific action upon the liver, not only increasing, but changing the character of the 148 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. bilious secretion." The above is better and more definite testimony than we usually get from allopathic sources. We can afford to lauglh -It the name " anti-emetic," when their own authorities admit that ",causes vomiting. Yet they will not see that it cures according to the law of similia. Doubtless they would seek to explain its action upon some other hypothesis even if was known to cause intestinal spasms. Dr. I. G. Jones, late professor of practice in the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati, and author of an extensive work on Practice, writes concerning this medicine: "The remedy upon which I rely in the treatment of bilious colic is ZDioscoreac villosa. I have used it with entire success in all the cases that have come under my care. In one case that had been previously treated forty-eight hours with injections, fomentations, anodynes, and cathartics, without success, the patient was relieved in half an hour by taking one dose of Dioscorea. In another case, to which I was called in the night, the patient, who had been suffering severely for twelve hours, was perfectly relieved in a few minutes and soothed into a quiet sleep. It has never been known to fail, and I should rely upon it with entire — nfidence in all cases of this disease. The philosophy of its therape& tic action may not as yet be fully understood, or clearly explained. That it is eminently adapted to the case is very certain, and that, after all, is the main point in practice." It may be interesting to us to know what condition Dr. Jones calls "' bilious colic." He think it does not depend-on hepatic disturbance at all. The symptoms are gastric derangement; furred tongue; constant pain, aggravated by regular paroxysms of increased sufferings; pain located at first in the centre of, but gradually diffused over the whole abdomen; febrile reaction, vomiting, distended, tender and sensitive abdomen, etc. The clinical experience of the homoeopathic school, with Dioscorea and Dioscorein is not extensive. In fact I find no published record, and can only give the statements of my intimate colleagues. Dr. P. H. Hale, of Hudson, Michigan, informs me that he has used the tincture and lower dilutions successfullyin cramps of the stomach, flatulent colic, bilious colic, and cholera rmorbus. Dr. A. R. Smart, who administered the remedy at my solicitation in the same affections, writes me that it seems to act curatively in cases in which Colocynth, Nux vomica and'Chamomilla are usually given. Dr. C. A. Williams, reports the following cases: "Mr. —, aged 50, subject to severe attacks of cholera morbus, attended with vomiting, diarrhoea, painful cramps in the stomach, bowels and extremities, from which, under allopathic treatment, he would not recover for several days. I was called in the night to see him after the attack had lasted about an hour. He was suffering intensely from the above symptoms and supposed he was to have an illness of several days duration. Wishing to test the alleged virtues of Dioscorein, I gave him about two grains of the first trituration every fifteen minutes. After the third dose he became easier, and before the sixth dose, expressed himself as quite comfortable. He shortly fell asleep, and in the morning went about his usual avocations." To this I will add my own observations. I have used the 1st, 2nd and 3rd dilutions, and triturations, in the above DIOSCOREA VILLOSA. 149 affections. In cramps of the stomach, (Cardialgia) the oiXst decimal dilution often acts more promptly and satisfactorily than Nux vom. In the dioscorea-gastralgia there is generally a great tendency to erucate, and the pain is paroxysmal. In spasmodic colic, it seems to be indicated when we usually give Colocynth and Chamomilla. In these cases there is usually much flatulence, rumbling; and paroxysmal pain. In the colic of children, accompanied or not by diarrhcea, and attended witb screams and cries, and emission of flatulence, the second and third triturations have been useful. The true sphere of its action, whether upon the muscular or nervous tissues of the abdomen, etc., cannot yet be defined. I am inclined however, to the opinion that it acts more specifically upon the former. Its action is probably confined to the stomach and intestines. If useful in after-pains, or hepatic disorders, it must be because they depended upon some intestinal derangement. I once treated a gentleman fbr several years, for an anomalous disease of the abdominal organs, of which I could never form any satisfactory idea. He had been troubled with it from early youth. The pain, for that constituted nearly the whole of the malady, appeared at irregular intervals, sometimes once a week, at others once a month, and lasted several days. I never prescribed anything, nor did any other physician, which seemed to give him any relief. Anodynes dulled the pain for a time, but gave no permanent benefit. It was a crampy spasmodic pain, commencing near the crest of the ileum, and extending to the lumbar region and hypogastrium. Physical or mental labor would bring on an attack. It would gradually increase for days and end in an attack of vomiting; or at other times affect the head. When it did leave, it was always suddenly. Lying on the left side and back, only, was endurable. My impression was that it was a spasmodic disease of the vermiform process, excited by some matters introduced into that portion of the intestine. A travelling "Spiritual Doctor," prescribed for him a medcine or compound which gave him more relief than anything he had ever used. The chief ingredient in this mixture was the Dioscorea. The clairvoyant insisted that the malady was "piles in the bowels.' (?)-a disease which is not down in our nomenclature. I have been promised a proving of this unique relmedy, but it has not come to hand. I know of no drug that would better repay a trial, and none that would aid more in establishing the universality of the law of Sireilia, if we got a pathogenesis verged, wherein we could see a picture of those painful affections, in the cure of which it has gained such empirical reputation. I have repeatedly taken the tincture and first dilution several time a day for several days, but never elicited any notable symptoms. I have also tried it in several patients, affected with other than gastric complaints, but with no better results than in myself. If this work should be so fortunate as to reach a second edition, we hope to give a proving of Dioscorea. At present, we can only treat this, as we have many other drugs, namely: make such mention as will stimulate our co-laborers to investigate its pathogenetic powers, and curative virtues. 150 NEW HIOM(EOPATlIC PROVINGS. ERIGERON CANADENSE. (Canada Fleabane. Colt's Tail.) This plant is common to the northern and middle portions of the United States, growing in fields and meadows, by road-sides, and in waste places, and flowering in July and August. It is an indigenous, annual plant, with a high, branched, furrowed and bristly, haired stem, from six inches to nine feet high. There are several other varieties-as the E. annuum, E. strigosuln, etc., all possessing similar properties. The whole plant is officinal and should be collected while in flower. It has a feeble but agreeable odor, and a bitterish, acid, and astringent taste, and yields its properties to water and alcohol. It may be prepared and used in the form of tincture, or the dilutions made from the volatile oil. In most cases the Oleum Erigeroni is the best preparation from which to prepare the dilutions. It is decreed to be " tonic, astringent and diuretic." tfing says it is useful in the form of infusion, in diarrhcea, gravel, diabetes, dropsical affections, dysuria of children, painful micturition, etc.-" The volatile oil, acts as an astringent, and may be used as a local application to hemorrhoids, bleedings from small wounds, etc., also in rheumatism, boils, tumors, and sore throat." But it is in henzorrhlages that the oil has been most strongly recommended; and the testimony relative to its successful use in this condition is so large that we must accord some specific virtues to it. It is considered by the country people as being quite infallible in its power over hemorrhages. The usual practice is to apply the bruised fresh plant to the wound, binding it on with a compress. I have known it thus applied to arrest quite alarming arterial bleedings. In its general action, it is an analogue to Terebinthina. Its primhary action is similar to Turpentine, in causing intense congestion of the kidneys, etc. It is primarily homceopathic to active arterial hemorrhages, with congestion, and even inflammation; secondarily, to passive hemorrhages, with relaxation, ulceration, etc. Large quantities cause a large stimulating effect, increasing the heat of the body and the foice of the pulse. Skin.-When the oil is applied to the skip. it " causes a burning sensation, much resembling that produced by Capsicum, but will not vesicate. It is a powerfiul rubefacient, but we never remember to have seen it vesicate."-(Coe). Dr. White, however, says that it causes " slightly elevated, sharply defined vesicles." Eyes.-Applied to the conjunctiva it causes redness, swelling, inflammation, with profuse muco-purulent discharges. Yet Jones and Scudder,'Mlat. Med.,' say that the infusion is useful, as a local application, in ophthalmia, after the acute symptoms have subsided. It will form a useful application to ecchynioses upon the eyeballs, or around the eye, from a blow, etc. It should be given internally, and a weak dilution of the tincture applied locally. Nose. —It is a useful remedy in epistaxis. It may be applied locally by injecting a weak dilution in water, or saturating lint ERIGERON CANADENSE. 151 with it, anad plugging the nostrils. But it is undoubtedly usefil. in epistaxis, when administered internally. A few drops of the first or second decimal dilution of the oil, given every fifteen minutes, will often arrestprofuse bleedings from the nasal passages. When given for active hemorrhage from the nose, accompanied with congestion of the head, febrile action, red face, etc., it should be given in the third or sixth dilution, and in alternation Aconite, Belladonna or Veratrum viride. But, when the hemorrhage is passive, occurring in debilitated subjects. or is chronic, and associated with ulcerative catarrh, the one-tenth, or even the tincture, in drop doses, may be resorted to with benefit. Mouth, Throat. -In bleeding fiom the gums, profuse bleeding from the cavity aftekr a tooth has been extracted, it has been used, locally, with benefit. -Dr. Coe says, " as an application to inflamed and enlarged tonsils, and inflammation and ulceration of the throat generally, the remedy has few superiors. It should be applied with a probang, of the strength of one dram to two ounces of alcohol. It should be applied externally to the throat at the same time." This recommendation will remind the practical physician of the popular use of Turpentine in similar cases. Indeed, it is quite certain that in the early stages of Tonsillitis, the latter remedy will arrest the disease, when applied to the external throat over the situation of the tonsils. Its local curative action is as strictly homeopathic as that of Nitrate of Silver, for either remedy when applied to the mucous surface will cause inflammation, and even ulceration. Stomach, etc.-Nausea; violent retching and vomiting, with burning sensation of long duration in the stomach; sensation of heat in the stomacbh. CLINICAL REMtRKs.- It should be useful in hmmatemesis. Vomiting of blood may be caused. (a) by erosion of the mucous coats of the stomach, (b) inflammation of the stomach and consequent ulceration, (c) rupture of an artery, (d) cancer, (e) disease of the liver and spleen. In all these cases the Erigeron will prove a valuable auxiliary to such remedies as Hamaimelis, Sulphuric acid, Ipecac, etc. When the vomiting is the result of acute inflamrnmation the higher dilutions will be most appropriate, but when it proceeds from ulceration, rupture of an artery, or when the blood is black and grumous, then the lowest dilutions will prove nost efficient. Abdomen, Intestines, etc.-Cathartics, with burning sensation throughout the alimentary canal; thin, papescent stool, ~vith burning in the bowels and rectum; burning in the margin of the anus. (The experiment of Dr. Burt, in which he injected the oil under the skin of' a cat, throws some light on its-action on the bowels. He got the following symptoms: Undigested stools of meat; stools loose and streaked with blood. Autopsy showed the colon and rectum much congested, and in which was dry fecal matter, agglutinated to the surface so firmly as with difficulty to be removed. All these symptoms, and the pathological condition, point to an inflammation of the mucous coats of the colon and rectum). 152 NEW HOM(EOPATHIIC PROVINGS. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It has been found curative in diarrhaea and dysentery. In some portions of the country it is considered a specific for "bloody flux." In domestic practice I have often known it to be used in the form of an infusion, with astonishing results. Taking the hint iirom this observation, I have given the lower dilutions in dysentery, with excellent results. Several of my colleagues bear testimony to its curative action in this disease. It is indicated when the urinary organs are sympathetically affected, and we find dysuria, or suppression of urine. The stools are small, streaked with blood, accompanied with tormina, burning in the bowels and rectum. The appearance of scybala (lumps of indurated feces) in the discharges would be a further indication for the Erigeron. In hemorrhoids, especially in the bleeding variety, this remedy is specifically indicated. In profuse bleeding from the hemorrhoidal tumors, we should not rely entirely upon its internal use, but apply the diluted tincture locally. li, hemorrhage from the bozoels, the Erigeron will probably prove as valuable as Terebinth. to which it bears so close analogy. Both remedies are capable of causing inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal mucous membrane. In typhoid fever, dysentery, and several other diseases, ulceration occurs, resulting in copious and often fatal hemorrhage. The usual remedies are Nitric and Sulphuric acids, and Turpentine. These remedies arrest the bleeding, and heal the ulceration. Erigeron I believe to have a similar curative action, and should the above medicines fail, I should resort to the first or second decimal dilution in ten drop doses, repeated every hour, with a confidence in the result. Urinary Organs.-The Erigeron has a specific affinity for the urinary apparatus. Dr. Burt found the cortical substance of the IKidneys, (in a cat poisoned with the oil) slightly congested. At first the urine was suppressed, then increased. In this its action resembles Cantharis, Cannabis, Copaiva, Turpentine, etc., when given in large doses. The pathogenetic symptoms in men are: (1) Complete suppression of urine, with pain in the region of the kidneys; urging to urinate, with emissions of only a few drops of burning urine (large dose). This condition was followed in a day or two by copious emissions of pale urine, smelling of the oil. (2). Small and repeated doses caused frequent urination, with burning in the urethra when urinating; discharge of mucus with urine. CLINICAL REMARKS —Dr. Ring was the first to introduce this remedy to the hormaeopathic schools fbr the treatment of urinary affections. In the N. A. Journal of Hom., Vol. V., page 282, he writes: "Recently I have had two cases of dysuria in teething children, which yielded to no remedy until I made use of drop doses (two or three drops every two or three hours) of a tincture of the Erigeron c. The symptoms in the two cases were more particularly -pain so as to cause a great deal of crying on voiding urine, the calls for which were frequent. The secretion was abnormally increased, and had a very strong odor. The parts externally-both were female children-were in both cases very much inflamedf or ERIGERON CANADENSE. 153 irritated, with considerable mucus discharged. The children were very fretful at all times. Several remedies we tried in both cases without any benefit, but prompt relief followed the use of the fleabane." Nearly every writer upon indigenous remedies has recommended the Erigeron for similar cases, as well as for other affections of the urinary organs. King says it has been found efficient in gravel, diabetes, dropsical affections, dysuria of children, painful micturition, and also many nephritic affections. "It has been used with benefit in diabetes, nephritis, cysitis, and to subdue the irritation arising from the presence of calculi in the bladder; also, in gonorrhcea and gleet." —(Jones and Scudder). Several cases are reported in the Eclectic Journal of its successful use in heematuria, also in chronic vesical catarrh. Coe says he has used the Erigeron in gonorrhcea with the most marked and beneficial results: " It allays the scalding of the urine, and assists materially in cutting short the disease. It is of much service in inflammation of the kidneys and bladder." All this testimony is eminently suggestive to the homceopathist. In the study of a medicine, it is most implortant to ascertain its specific affinity for any particular organ or tissue. This inquiry settled, we may rationally prescribe it in affections of those structures, even before we know the peculiar pathogenetic symptoms which it causes in those organs. We have ample testimony that the Erigeron has a specific affinity for the urinary organs, as much so as Cantharis or Turpentine; and although its characteristic symptoms may differ from those medicines, yet we know it will prove useful in nephritis, cystitis, haematuria, dysuria, etc. A good proving should be made; but, if we can have such careful observations as that of Dr. Ring, we can be guided materially in our selection of the drug. Genital Organs of Women. —Uterine hemorrhage, with violent irritation of the rectum and bladder; hemorrhage from the uterus and bladder; abortion, with profuse hemorrhage, diarrhe3a, and dysuria —(from very large doses); scanty menses. CLINICAL REMARKS.-We have at command a large amount of clinical testimony, from the most reliable sources, both allopathic and homceopathic, as to its curative action in hemorrhages from the hterus, and other abnormal discharges from the sexual passages. Beach says (Mat. Med.): "The oil is an infallible remedy in hemorrhages, in doses of from five to ten drops."' King (Obstetrics) says it "exerts a powerful influence in menorrhagia and uterine hemorrhage. From two to ten drops, on sugar, or dissolved in alcohol, and mixed in a little mucilage or sweetened water, repeated every ten or twenty minutes, usually acts promptly. It may possibly have some other influence in checking uterine hemorrhage than that of a mere astringent; f6r, without the muscular fibres of the uterus are caused to contract, I do not believe the hemorrhage after delivery can be checked." King's theory of the action of Erigeron is doubtless correct. In tympanitis, the gas cannot be expelled, unless there is a contraction of the muscular coats of the intestines. Turpentine has the same effect in tympanitis that Erigeron does in uterine hemorrhage, namely: causing 20 154 NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. contraction of muscular fibre; but Erigeron must have also the general power of causing contraction of the muscular coats of the arteries, else it could not be so specific in all forms of hemorrhage (arterial). Coe (Conc. Org. Med.) writes: "Although not a specific, it is undoubtedly the best agent we possess for the relief of uterine hemorrhage. The dose of the oil, in these cases, is from five to tell drops, repeated every thirty or sixty minutes. It will act more promptly, being rendered more diffusible, by being previously dissolved in alcohol. In addition to its internal administration, it may also be applied locally with the best results. A case occurred under the observation of the writer, over twenty years ago, in which the patient, from excessive loss of blood, was reduced to a comatose condition, and incapable of swallowing. A piece of cotton wool, saturated with the oil, was introduced into the vagina, and placed in close contact with the mouth of the uterus, when an instantaneous stop was put to the bloody flow. During the past season we were consulted in a similar case, in which we advised the adoption of the above plan, and with complete success." Coe says, "it allays the spasmodic pains accompanying leucorrhcea, and restrains, without suppressing, the menstrual flow when too profuse." Cases have come under my observation, however, where the Erigeron in small doses, has undeniably restrained the menstrual flow, when not too profuse. One cannot read the above testimony from Eclectic sources, without noting the similarity of its curative action with that of Sabina. In fact, it is a very near analogue to Sabina. Both cause, in poisonous doses, abortion, hemorrhage, etc. Both are indicated in nearly the same conditions. Like Sabina, it is capable in toxical doses of causing congestion, inflammation, and even hemorrhage from the kidneys and uterus. We have, in addition to the above, some reliable homeopathic testimony as to the specific curative action of Erigeron in uterine hemorrhage. Dr.'White (Trans. Ill. Hom. Med. Ass., vol. 9, p. 55,) states: "I have used the volatile oil in the first, second, and third att., as well as the crude oil. In uterine hemorrhage, it is the first remedy I have recourse to. It has never failed me. I have given from one to ten drops of the 1st, and the same internally, as an injection into the uterus, in extreme cases." Dr. Rogers reports to me the follow: ing cases: (1). A lady, aged thirty-five, had an abortion, followed by profuse and alarming hemorrhage, which continued for six weeks, in spite of all the efforts of her allopathic attendants, who used all the astringents, etc., at their command. She became almost exsanguined, nearly catamose; could not move without flooding; and the case was given"up as hopeless. Erigeron, 1st dil., was given in ten drop doses, every hour. A piece of cotton wool was wet in the same, and applied to the os uteri. No more hemorrhage took place after the first six hours, and under the use of appropriate nutriment, &c., the lady made a good recovery. (2). A case of profuse and alarming flooding after labor was promptly arrested by the internal administration of Oleum Erigeron 1st dil. Dr. P. H. Hale used it in a case of post-parturient hemorrhage. Cold applications, posture,'etc., were tried without ERIGERON CANADENSE. 155 perceptible effect, but the flooding ceased soon after giving the patient the oil of Erigeron, 1st dil. in fifteen drop doses, every thirty minutes. I might add the testimony of a score of other homceopathic physicians, as to its efficacy in hemorrhage from the uterus, but enough has been adduced to show that it is a valuable and important remedy in such conditions. It will hereafter prove a powerful auxiliary to such remedies as Sabina, Trillium, Crocus, Secale, Platina, and others of similar virtues. The following may be considered a good resume of its curative indications in diseases of women: (a.) In profuse and frequent menses. (b.) In dysmenorrhcea with menorrhagia. (c.) In hemorrhage after labor, or after an abortion. (d.) In threatened abortion with flooding. (e.) In hemorrhage previous to labor. (f.) In profuse lochial discharges. (g.) In profuse uterine and vaginal leucorrhea. It has been found useful in palpitation of the heart, when arising from uterine irritation. It is alleged to have been used " with remarkable success in those peculiar headaches which accompany defective menstruation." Organs of Generation of Men.-(See Urinary Organs.) It has been found curative in gonorrhcea and gleet. Respiratory Organs.-Jones and Scudder (Mat. Med.) say: "In coughs and chronic bronchial affections, when attended with copious mucus or purulent secretion, and in the incipient stages of phthisis attended with bloody expectoration, this agent, used in the form of a syrup or infusion, will be found to answer an excellent purpose. It is of value in haemoptysis." King records his estimate of its value in hemoptysis, also various other eclectic writers. DR. BURT'S EXPERIMENT WITH ERIGERON CANADENSE. Sept. 5. 4 A. M., injected five drops of the oil under the skin of the foreleg of a cat. Quarter of an hour afterwards mews constantly; runs about; appears restless, uneasy. 5 P. x., lies quiet, with eyes half closed. 7 P. M., injected thirty drops of oil. After half an hour appears in great distress. Profuse secretion of saliva. At 8 P.m. is quiet, with mouth open. Sept. 6. Passed four stools, natural, during the night; the last slightly streaked with blood; has not urinated; refuses to eat. 9 A.M., injected fifty drops under the skin of the foreleg; followed by great agitation as before. 10 A. M., ears and legs very cold.; excessive trembling. 4 P. M., has had two undigested stools, and urinated. 6 P. M., injected forty drops; one hour after unable to get up; trembling excessively. Sept. 7. Appears quite natural; has passed stools and urine during the night. Injected thirty drops under the skin of side. 5 P.M., very weak; has been trembling all day.' P. M., injected fifty drops; tries to walk, but is unable to do so. 8 P.M., injected thirty drops. Sept. 8. Just alive. Injected 30 drops. Ears and legs very cold. Died at 9 A. M. AuTOPSY.-Nine hours after death, encephalic and thoracic viscera natural; liver much congested; also, the colon and rectum, 156 NEW HO1MWEOPATHIC PROVINGS. which were filled with dry, foecal matter, agglutinated to the intestines so firmly as to be removed with difficulty. Kidneys, cortical substance, slightly congested. Bladder much distended; other abdominal viscera natural. ERYNGIUI.R AQUATICUM. (Button Snakceroot.) This plant is a native of the United States, growing in swamps and wet lands, from Virginia to Texas, and especially on the prairie lands. The root is the officinal part. Water and alcohol extract its properties. (For full botanical description, see King's Dispensatory). No proving of this plant has yet appeared, and the clinical experience is very scanty. King says: "it is very useful in dropsy, nephritic and calculous affections; also, in scrofula and syphilis; it is said to be diuretic, stimulant, diaphoretic, expectorant, and, in large doses, emetic. It has been recommended as a substitute for Senega." "The pulverized root, in doses of two or three grains, has proved very effectual in hcemorrhoids, and prolapsus ani. Two ounces of the pulverized root, added to one pint of good Holland gin, has effected cures in obstinate cases of gonorrhcea and gleet (one or two fluid drachms three or four times a day). By some practitioners this root is employed as a specific in gonorrhcea, gleet and leucorrheea. Howard speaks of it as a powerful diuretic, and says he has cured asthenic dropsies with it. He has also used it with benefit in gravel. The only mention made of this remedy in the literature of our school, is to be found in Hill and Hunt's Surgery, page 400. In the treatment of Spermatorrhcea, after referring to various remedies, they propose the Eryngium, and give two "remarkable cures" made by Dr. Parks, of Cincinnati. Case 1st. "A married man injured his testicles by jumping upon a horse; this was followed by a discharge of what was considered semen, for fifteen years, during which time he was treated allopathically and homaeopathically. Dr. P. exhibited a number of the usual remedies without permanent benefit. He then gave a half grain dose, three times a day, of the third decimal trituration of Eryngium aquaticum. In five days the emissions were entirely suppressed, and have not returned to this time (over two years). The emissions were without erections, day or night, and followed by great lassitude."' Case 2nd. "A married man, not conscious of having sustained any injury, was troubled for eight or ten years with emissions at night, with erections. The semen also passed by day with the urine. The loss of semen was followed by great lassitude and depression for twelve or forty-eight hours.'There was also partial impotence. He had been treated allopathically. Dr. P. gave him EUPATORIUM AROMATICUM. 157 Phos. ac. for two weeks without material benefit. He then exhibited the Eryngium as above, with like excellent and prompt result." It does not do as well in the hands of others, for several physicians have informed me they never found it of benefit in similar cases. I have tested it in several instances with like poor success. That the remedy has some specific affinity for the urinary and genital organs appears probable, but we want a pathogenesis to guide us in its selection. EUPATORIUM AROMATICUM. (White Snake Root.) This is an indigenous plant, growing from Massachusetts to Louisiana. The root, which is the officinal part, has a pleasant aromatic odor, and a bitterish taste. " This species of Eupatorium (see Eclectic Mat. Med.) is anti-spasmodic, nervine, diaphoretic, and expectorant. It is esteemed a valuable nervine, and anti-spasmodic, and one peculiarly adapted to many cases of debility and irritability of the nervous system, such as hysteria or hysterical affections, chorea, tremors, convulsive, or spasmodic diseases, subsultus tendinum, restlessness and morbid watchfulness, etc., occurring in the advanced stage of fevers. It is diaphoretic and expectorant?' The only mention of this medicine in our literature is the assertion of Dr. B. L. Hill in his epitome that it is a specific for apthous stomatitis in females and children. We can nowhere find that he has given any reason for this recommendation. Judging, however, by the perfect reliability of that gentleman's teachings, we should perhaps have all confidence in his dictum. Some of our physicians say that they have found it useful in nursing sore mouth and in apthie of infants. It may be worth a proving, but so long as there are such drugs as Trillium and Leptfindria to be proved, we shall not recommend it. Dr. Wm. Huntington says: "My use of Eupatorium aromaticum is quite limited. I have derived considerable benefit from its use in alternation with Hydrastus c. in- nursing sore mouth. It acts as a palliative only. I have also used it with good results in apthons affections of the mouth and throat closely resembling nursing'sore mouth, but the most benefit that I have ever derived from its use has been in those cases of burning at the stomach so often met with in pregnant females for a few weeks previous to confinement. In such cases it seldom fails to give very marked relief." Dr. Smith Rogers has found the Eupatorium aromaticum effectual in curing apthab and nursing sore mouth without giving any other drug in connection with it. Dr. Lodge states that many other physicians have made similar reports. 158 NEW lOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. EUPATORIUMI PERFOLIATUM. (Bone-set —Ague weed.) There are at least sixteen species of Eupatorium in the Northern States alone. The stem of the Eupatorium perfoliatum is villous, hirsute, cylindrical; the leaves, opposite, connate, perfoliate, oblong, tapering, acute, senate, rough above, tomentose beneath, heads about ten-flowered. The root is perennial, horizontal, crooked, sending up many erect stems, which are simple at base, branched above, round, hairy, and of a greyish-green color. The whole plant is officinal. The whole plant is intensely bitter, having a peculiar flavor, but without astringency or acrimony. Its odor is but slight, and it yields its sensible and medicinal properties to water and alcohol. It is supposed to contain a resinoid.Eupatorine which is said to contain the specific virtues of the plant. General Effects.-It is decreed by the old school to be diuretic, diaphoretic, purgative, emetic, alterative, expectorant, and tonic. It proves emeto-cathartic when given in large doses. (Therefore, it is homceopathic to vomiting, with diarrheea —bilious). Prof. Lee gives his testimony in favor of its successful use in intermittents, but doubts its asserted anti-periodic power. It was in general use among the aborigines of this country, on its first discovery, as a remedy for intermittent fever, and was accordingly adopted by the whiteg for the cure of the same disease. "Whether it proved 5uccessful or not depended very much on its mode of administration. Sometimes it would arrest the disease, if fieely given in warm decoction just before the expected recurrence of the paroxysm, proving emetic, or emeto-cathartic, and in other cases it would prove successful if given in cold decoction, or the powdered plant, at frequent intervals between the paroxysms; but in a majority of cases it failed to subdue the disease " (because it was not homceopathic to a majority of the cases, any more than is quinine or any other medicine). Prof. Lee says: "With regard to the use of this plant in Inrfluenza, whether sporadic or epidemic, we have proved it possessing great efficacy —relieving the pain in the back and limbs, as well as the general lassitude, with great promptness; for although in this disease the skin is often bathed in perspiration, yet it is of a morbid character-the surface being pale, and morbidly sensitive, and the excretion of a passive kind. When the secretions are of this morbid nature, and the pulmonary system is involved, the Boneset has proved in our hands a most valuable remedy, inducing a healthy and free perspiratory discharge, and replacing the chilly or febrile sensations with a uniform or healthy glow." (Yet the Eupat., in large doses, will cause the same unhealthy perspiration and state of the skin which Dr. Lee nmentions, so that he uses it homceopathically after all.) "As it has but slight influence in augmenting the action of the heart and arteries, it may be employed with advantage in almost every variety of inflammatory action.' "In the atonic forms of dyspepsia and general debility it is relied on by many practitioners as an efficient remedy, EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM. 159 In that form of indigestion consequent on the use of alcoholic drinks, it has proved highly beneficial, as well as in that ofold people." "Its efficacy in certain forms of dropsy has been dwelt upon by some writers. Dr. Thatcher, who has tried it extensivelyin various diseases, says that in anasarcous swellings of the extremities, depending on general debility, it may be safely recommended as an excellent tonic." Dr. Zollickoffer thinks it possesses medicinal virtues which are admirably adapted to a variety of affections, and that in conjunction with sup. tart. potassa, it is one of the most valuable remedies in tinea capitais DosE. —In old school practice, the concentrated tincture or fluid extract is given in doses of one to four drachms. The Eupatorine in doses of two or three grains. The Infusion, (one ounce to one pint of boiling water) in doses of two to six ounces, the latter dose causing emesis and catharsis. In hommeopathic practice, it has been used successfully in agues, in drop doses of thefirst dilution; also in ten-drop doses of the tincture; and teaspoonful doses of a cold infusion (vide Trans. Amer. Ins. of Hom.). Fever.-Chilliness through the night, and in the morning, with nausea from the least motion; aching pain and soreness, as if from having been beaten in the calves of the legs, small of the back, and in the arms, above and below the elbows; nausea as the chill goes off; aching in the bones of the extremities, with soreness of the flesh; chilliness, with excessive trembling and nausea; chilliness in the morning, heat through the rest of the day, but no perspiration. The patient feels worse in the morning of one day, and in the afternoon of the next day. Nocturnal sweat, with chilliness, from motion, or removal of the covering. A greater amount of shivering during the chill than is warranted by the degree of coldness. Retching and vomiting of bile; vomiting after every draught; trembling in the back during fever; thirst several hours before the chill; chilliness from motion; pungent heat attending the perspiration at night; alternate chilliness and flashes of heat. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The Eupatorium is recommended by Drs. Jaynes, Neidhard, Gray, Williamson and Douglas, in intermittent fevers, quotidian, tertian, and quartan. The general and specific indications for its use are said to be: (a.) The paroxysm generally commences in the morning. Thirst several hours after the chillwhich continues during the chill and heat. It has proved curative when the symptoms have been:-Chill at seven o'clock in the morning, preceded by thirst, and attended with moisture of the hands; vomiting at the conclusion of t/he chill; chill in the morning; heat during the rest of the day; slight perspiration in the evening; heavy chill early in the morning of one day, and a light chill about noon the next day, and so on successively; chill preceded by pain above the right ilium, with thirst and disposition to yawn; pain in the bones early in the morning before the paroxysm; the chill is induced or hastened by taking a drink of water; headache, backache and thirst during the chill; coldness, with a great deal of trembling, attended with nausea; coldness and stinging 160 NEW HOMCEOPATlHIC PROVINGS. and pricking, as from pins, in both feet, at the commencement of the chill; aching in the bones of the extremities, in the latter part of the chill and in the beginning of the heat; stiffness of the fingers during the phill; aching pain, with moaning throughout the chill. (b.) Throbbing headache during the chill and heat; violent pain in head and back before the chill; distressing pain through the scrobiculus cordis throughout the day; chill and heat; flushed face and dry hot skin during the fever; fever, accompanied with sleep and moaning, and followed by slight perspiration; nausea and sickness at the stomach at the commencement of the heat, with violent throbbing headache; headache and trembling during the heat; fever in the forenoon, preceded by thirst early in the morning, but no chill; attended by fatiguing cough, and not followed by perspiration; great weakness and prostration during the fever, with faintness from motion; the patient cannot raise his head from the pillow while the fever lasts; the heat goes off with moderate perspiration, during sleep in the evening; the thirst continues during the chill and heat, with vomiting after each draught of water; vomiting of bile at the close of the hot stage; nocturnal perspiration, with coldness; fever, with despondency of mind, morbid sensitiveness of the skin and sleeplessness. (c) Loose cough in the intermission; cough in the night, previous to the paroxysm; thirst throughout the night, before the paroxysm, (in tertian ague). "I have for'many years applied the Eupatorium, in cases of intermittent fever, when there was little or no sweat, at any time during the disease; and consequently in those forms closely verging upon the remittent type." —(Dr. Gray). The above clinical symptoms I select from the proving published in "Trans. of Amer. Ins. of Hobm." They are there marked with an *, and are the result of the clinical experience with the remedy, contributed by Drs. Neidhard, Williamson, and others. The cases from which they were taken I give in full:CASES OF INTERMITTENT.-Dr. Neidhard has observed the most decided effects from the Eupatorium perfoliatum in -the treatment of certain cases of intermittent fevers, in two of which the following symptoms were present: Violent thirst before the chill, and slight during it; nausea and sickness of the stomach (in one case vomiting) at the commencement of the heat, with violent throbbing headache; tastelessness of food; want of appetite; tongue coated yellow; the chills set in in the morning and lasted for one or two hours; heat during the rest of the day, and slight perspiration in the evening. Type certain. In one case the sulphate of quinine had been administe.f.Whithout preventing the recurrence of the paroxysms. Dr. Williamson has exhibited it successfully ill various cases of fever. Cdse 1st: The chill generally began at nine o'clock in the morning, and lasted four hours from the time, when they commenced, and continued about seven hours, and was seldom followed by perspiration. The next day there was a lighter paroxysm, which usually EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM. 161 commenced at twelve o'clock and ceased about the same time in the evening, as the heavier on the day preceding. The paroxysms continued to oeOur tMlf alternately with bln lIttle varlatlon for the spaoe of twenty-thrtu dayS, notwithStindig my uncoeaing efforts to arrest them by the administration of a number of remedies. On the 12th of December the following symptoms were present: Chill commenced at nine o'clock in the morning, and lasted four hours, attended with a good deal of shivering and trembling; raging thirst before the chill, and during the chill, and heat; vomiting of whatever was taken into the stomach, and of bile, with distressing pain in the epigastrium; distressing headache during the heat; fever ceased about eight o'clock in the evening, and was followed by inconsiderable perspiration. Eupatoriumrn perfoliatum first, in water, a teaspoonful every hour, in the apyrexia, cured the case, without the occurrence of another paroxysm. Case 2d: Bilious diathesis; tertian ague; chill at nine o'clock [in the morning, which lasted an hour and a half; thirst in the night before the chill; raging thirst during the chill and heat; violent headache throughout the paroxysm; some perspiration; retching and vomiting during the chill, immediately after drinking; vomiting of bile. Eupatorium perfoliatum first, five drops in as many teaspoonfuls of water, of which she took a teaspoonful every two hours on the alternate day. Early on the morning of the expected chill, Eupat. perf. tincture four drops, in eight teaspoonfuls of water, a teaspoonful every hour. The paroxysm did not return. This patient had been subject to frequent attacks of intermittent fever for several years, and had always suppressed them with sulphate of quinine, but since the above attack, now a period of four years, she had no return of the disease. Case 3rd: A girl of fourteen years of age; tertian intermittent fever; thirst before the chill; became stretchy and looked pale at nine o'clock in the morning; felt cold and chilly, but did not shake; walked about the house crouched up; was very thirsty during the chill and beat, but took only a little sup of water at a time; headache and trembling during the heat; the coldness lasted one hour, and the heat about two hours, followed by very little perspiration. Eupat. perf. tinct. a few drops in water. Dose, a teaspoonful every three hours. Case 4th: At eight o'clock in the morning was attacked with pain above the right ilium; thirst and a disposition to yawn; fingers became stiff, with slight coldness; upon taking a drink of water shuddering commenced immediately; chill lasted two hours and a half:; headache, backache, and thirst during the chill; nausea as the chill was going off; the headache was increased, but the thirst was diminished during the heat; sensation of great weakness during the fever, so much so that she could not raise her head from the pillow; trembling in the back, with faintness from motion during the fever; the fever terminated by moderate perspiration during sleep in the evening. She felt pain in her bones early in the morning before the attack. Eupat. perf. tincture in water a teaspoonful every three hours. 21 162 NEW IHOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. Case 5th: Tertian ague, for two weeks, isickly, sallow countenance; chill at eight o'clock in the morning; thirst throughout the night previous to chill; thirst during the chill and heat, and vomiting immediately after each draught of water; vomiting of bile at the close of the hot stage, which was followed by inconsiderable perspiration. Eupat. perf. tincture, in water, a teaspoonful every three hours. No -more chills. "Nearly half a century ago, there prevailed throughout the United States, but particularlyin the State of Pennsylvania, a peculiar Epidemic, which, from the constancy of the attending symptom of " pain in the bones," was called break-bone fever. The Eupat. perf., though a diaphoretic, so signally relieved the disease, notwithstanding copious perspiration was a frequent attendant, that it was familiarly called bone-set, a common name by which it is extensively known. "In all cases of typhoid disease, attended with hot, dry skin, it is reputed to be an estimable medicine." "It was used with great success in an epidemic of Influenza and lakefever, which prevailed a few years ago in the neighborhood of Lake Ontario." " In miasmatic districts, along rivers, at fisheries, on marshes:2land their several neighborhoods, where intermittent and remittent fevers have prevailed epidemically, the Eupatorium has been a favorite remedy with the most successfill practitioners, as well as a deservedly popular one in the hands of the people, very often superseding the necessity of calling in medical aid. In 1812, it was substituted for Peruvian bark, in the treatment of intermittent fevers, in the New York Alms House, and with uniform success.' Dr. Williamson recommends it in gastric fevers, remittent fevers of typhoid character, bilious fever, etc. It is highly recommended, as a prophylactic against agues. IRead.-Headache with a sensation of soreness internally, better in the house; aggravated when first going in the open air; relieved by conversation; pain extending from the forehead to the occiput, greatest in left side; throbbingq headache; beating pain in the nape and occiput, better after rising; darting pains through the temples, with sensation of blood rushing across the head; distress on the top and in the back part of the head; shooting pains -from left to right side of the head; painfult soreness in the right parietal protuberance; heat on the top of the head, with pain, which is relieved by pressure; thumping in the side of the head, above the right ear; soreness and beating in the back part of the head. CLINICAL RE3ARKS.-Besides those symptoms which are italicized above, the Eupatoriumn has cured certain forms of periodical headache, namely: " A headache with nausea, every other morning, when first awaking, which continues all day, with loss of appetite during the day, but good appetite during the intervening day." Nux vomica will cure such headaches when they occur every day. Eupatorium has also cured a " pain in the occiput after lying, with sensation of a great weight in the part, requiring the hands to lift it." This kind of headache is common in ague patients. EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM. 163 Eyes.-Soreness of the eyeballs; intolerance of light; redness of the margin of the lids, with glutinous secretion from the meibomian glands; increased lachrymation; pain and soreness in left eyeball. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Soreness of the eyeballs is one of the most common and permanent symptoms of ague, and usually preceeds an attack for several days; this symptoms would be a good indication for the selection of this medicine. Face.-Sickly, sallow countenance; flushed face; redness of the cheeks, with dry skin; pale face. Mouth.-Paleness of the mucous membrane of the mouth; tongue coated yellow; white coated tongue; sores in the corners of the mouth; dryness of the throat; soreness of the fauces with catarrh. Appetite.-Insipid taste in the mouth; tastelessness of food. Want of appetite; distaste of food; nocturnal thirst for something cold; thirst for cold water; desire for ice-cream; great appetite. CLINICAL REMA'RS. —When the Eupatorium is taken in small doses for a few days, the appetite is first increased; a still further continuance gives rise to unnatural hunger, accompanied by disorders of digestion, and finally to complete loss of appetite, and loss of taste for food. This remedy is homeeopathic to the canine hunger which attends or precedes ague; also when arising from abuse of quinine. It is also indicated (secondarily) in the loss of appetite and indigestion from the same causes. It will be found useful in many forms of dyspepsia, anorexia of drunkards, loss of appetite, etc. (See general effects.) Stomach.-Belching of tasteless wind, with a feeling of obstruction at the pit of the stomach; sensation of something in the stomach that ought to come up, without the ability to raise it. General shuddering proceeding from the stomach; sensation of fullness in the stomach; beating in the epigastrium-in the night; heat in the stomach; nausea; nausea and vomiting of food; vomiting of bile; vomiting of mucus and bile; vomiting of bile with trembling, attended with pain in the epigastrium, with nausea and extreme prostration, almost syncope; distressing disposition to vomiting; nausea and vomiting with free perspiration, and expectoration; qualmishness from odors, the smell of food, cooking, etc. CLINICAL REMARKs.- When a warm infusion or decoction of this plant is administered, it invariably causes profuse and longcontinued vomiting, nearly always of bile. Hence its reputation as a domestic remedy for bilious affections and fevers of that type. Its use is resorted to with a great deal of confidence in the forming stagesiof a bilious fever, and it seems to have the power of arresting the attack. It is eminently homceopathic to vomiting of bile, of food, and even of drinks, as soon as taken. Liver.-Soreness around the waist; tight clothing is oppressive. Soreness and fullness in the region of the liver; tightness in the left hypochondrium. 164 NEW HlOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. Intestinal. —Purging stools, with smarting and heat inr the anus. Four or five watery stools in the day; tenesmus, with small discharge of loose stool; morning diarrhcea; constipation. CLINICAL REMARKS.-WVVhile the warm infusion causes vomiting only, the same preparation when taken cold acts as an active cathartic, causing profuse bilious watery stools, with nausea and severe colic, prostration and relaxation. Catharsis is a primary effect of Eupatorium, constipation the remote, secondary. Urinary Organs. — Urine scanty and high colored; copious evacuation of limpid urine; dark, brown, scanty urine, depositing a whitish clay-like sediment; voided but once in twenty-four hours. Dark colored; but clear urine; itching of the mons veneris. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It seems homceopathic to the dark colored urine met with in bilious disorders; also the watery urine observed during intermittents. It is said to have been very successful in the treatment of a peculiar -berpetic eruption, affecting the anus and adjacent parts, as the scrotum and thighs, and also extending its ravages to the rectum. Catarrhal Symptoms. —Flowing coryza; sneezing; hoarseness, with roughness in the voice; hacking cough in the evening; cough with soreness and heat in the bronchia; cough aggravated in the evening. CLINICAL REMARKS,.-The Eupat. per. has an extensive reputation in colds, influenza, and catarrhal fevers. In domestic practice it is usually given in small doses of the warm infusion, and produces copious sweating. Some physicians consider it almost specific in colds, etc. In homceopathic practice, it has cured, in small doses: "I ectic cough from supposed intermittent fever; nocturnal loose cough; hoarse rough cough with scraping in the bronchia; violent cough with soreness in the chest; cough with flushed face and tearful eyes-the patient supports the chest with the hands; cough preceding measles; cough following measles; disposition to cough with dyspncea." The above are quite prominent symptoms, and show this remedy to have quite a specific action upon the bronchial mucous membrane. In eclectic practice it is highly esteemed as a "cough remedy."'Its effects on the respiratory tract, seems somewhat analogous toPhosphorus, Tartar emetic, and Causticum. It has been found useful in epidemic influenza. (See General Effects.) Chest.-Diffculty of breathing, attended with anxious countenance; perspiration, and sleepiness; painJul irritation of the pulmonary organs with heat in the chest; aching pain under the left breast; inability to lie on the left side; soreness in the chestfrom taking a full inspiration; grating sensation in the chest at every deep inspiration. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It has been used successfully in asthma, bronchitis and even pneumonia. It has given relief in a case when the " Dyspncea was very great, obliging the patient to lie with his head and shoulders very high," also the two symptoms italicized. Back.-Weakness in the small of the back; deep seated pain in the loins, with soreness from motion; pain in the back as tiom 166 NEW IHOMCEOPATIIC PROVINGS. country practice for many years, I found it used successfully in the most obstinate cases of dropsy, gravel (so-called) and chronic renal and vesical diseases. It is fiom these popular uses that the eclectic physician has gained his empirical knowledge of this remedy. It is decreed to be diuretic, stimulant, astringent, tonic, and antilithic. "There is no doubt but what this agent exerts a specific influence upon the kidneys, increasing the quantity of urine secreted, and to some degree the amount of solids excreted in it. It has been employed in atonic dropsies, chronic nephritis, catarrhus vesicle, attended with ulceration; chronic irritation of the bladder, attended with increased mucous secretion. It has also been employed in haematuria, gleet, leucorrhcea, and other forms of female weakness, rheumatism and gout, with success. It is a popular remedy in gravel, and said by some to possess solvent powers; although we cannot award it any positive powers of that kind yet, as it increases the amount of water excreted, which is acknowledged to be the best solvent for stone, and always allays irritation of the bladder, we must consider it at least the equal of Uva ursi and Chimaphila. We have used the Eupurpurin, and consider it among our most efficient curative agents in diseases of the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. In one case of marked albuminuria, when other agents had failed to produce any relief, the continued use of this remedy for two weeks entirely relieved the patient. In two cases of Diabetes insipidus, its use was attended with the same results. We have also employed it in incontinence of urine, especially in children, with good effects. It is of the most importance, however, in allaying irritation of the bladder; in many casqs of this kind caused by displacement or chronic inflammation of the uterus, or arising during, or after pregnancy, we have obtained more benefit from its use than from any other agent." (Eclec. Mat. Med.) Dr. King says: "It is used with excellent effect in dropsical affections, strangury, gravel, and all chronic urinary disorders, haematuria, gout and rheumatism." It is in the class of diseases just named, that I know it to be more useful. I have known it to remove symptoms of the urinary organs, that had resisted the use of Canth., Cann., Copaiva, Pulsatilla and Thuya. My experience with this variety of Eupatorium has been quite extensive, and my observation of its use are equally so. It seems to be a close analogue of Uva ursi, Cannabis, Chimnaphila, Pulsatilla, and Copaiva. I have known it, when taken excessively, as it often is by the country people, to materially aggravate renal difficulties, and even give rise to the very symptoms fobr which it is so strongly recommended, and so really useful. To be more specific, I have cured with this remedy a severe case of strangury, in a female, due to uterine displacement; the usual remedies had been used without benefit. In a case of excessive irritation of the bladder, with large deposit of lithates in the urine, it removed all the symptoms in a week. Several minor cases might be mentioned. Next to Apocynum cann., I consider it the most powerful remedy we possess, for the alleviation, and even permanent cure of Dropsy. EUPHORBIA COROLLATA. 167 It is even superior to that medicine, for its action on the kidneys is of a more pervading and profound character, i. e., it is capable of modifying the various tissues of those organs, to a greater degree than the Apocynum. One of the most intractable cases of dropsy, due apparently to renal disease, that ever came under my care, I believe to have been permanently cured by the tincture of this root. I usually use the mother tincture, and lower dilutions; a few drops at a dose, every two or six hours, as required. EUPHORBIA COROLLATA. (Go-Quick. Milk-wced. Spurge.) This plant is as yet but rarely used in Allopathic or HIomceopathic practice, but our Eclectic colleagues have made extensive trials with it in disease for many years, and thus indirectly given us some valuable pathogenetic hints. But, much as it is used by that school, their literature contains but little in its reference to therapeutic power. With physicians of that school it supersedes the use of Lobelia or Ipecac, as an emetic or diaphoretic; and is substituted for the Podophyllum, Jalap, &c., as an active cathartic. But in the doses in which it is administered, it is often productive of unpleasant and even dangerous symptoms, and capable'of doing much injury to the gastric mucous membrane. I have never administered it in disease, save in a strictly homceopathic manner, but I have experimented upon myself, testing the effects of the dried root in grain doses; and I have often had opportunities of observing its immediate and remote effects upon the persons of the patients of eclectics. The Euphorbia cor. belongs to the Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceve, with the Euphorbia off., of lHahnemann; and the Euphorbia ipecacuanha of American writers. There are two other varieties, the Euphor. maculata, and E. hypericifolia but as their effects are quite different from the former, they cannot properly belong to the same group of remedial agents. The E. off., of which we have a proving by HIahnemann himself, is one of the most irritating and powerful agents known, in its action upon the skin and gastric mucous membrane. It is said to have an irritant effect upon the brain. It is seldom if ever used internally by the old school, because of its severity of action. Its principal use is externally as a rubefacient or vesicant. Hahnemann, although he does not give a picture of its general effects upon the skin, mentions its causing erysipelas of the face of a severe character. But its real sphere of action is more like that of Croton tiglium, than any other drug. It causes a most intense inflammatory cezema, which often puts on an erysipelatous appearance. 168 NEW HOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS. In Hlahnemann's proving, sufficient prominence is not given to its effects upon the stomach and intestines, although he'gives a few of the symptoms indicative of its peculiar action in that direction. The E. Ipecacuaha has been used by American botanic physicians, and by the country people in domestic practice, for many years, as a prompt and easy emetic. It is the mildest of this class, causing free and copious emesis and catharsis, with little pain, except when given in large doses. Yet the milky juice of this variety will, when applied to the skin, produce vesication and eczematous inflammation. It is used by the eclectics as an emetic, diaphoretic, expectorant, and epispastic. They claim that it is superior to Elaterium as a hydragogue in dropsy; that it will bring on the menstrual discharge when given in cathartic doses; and is useful in hepatic torpor, bilious colic. &c. Probably it is not specifically indicated in any of these diseases but may prove homeopathic to some form of eczema, gastric disorder, with irritation of the mucous coat of the stomach and bowels. But it is the Euphorbia corollata which I prefer to consider, as being the more powerful remedy, and perhaps more capable of attaining a position in our Materia Medica, by the side of the E.-off. This plant is incorrectly termed by Wood, King, and other writers as the "large flowering spurge." In their botanical descriptions, the peculiarities of the different varieties are mingled together, so that I can nowhere find a correct description of the E.-Corollata. It grows in waste and sandy places all over Canada and the Northern States, flowering in July and August. It has several straight stems rising from a small yellowish root, which, when broken, yields a milky juice which irritates the skin when applied to it for a few minutes, creating a pustular eruption. The stalk contains the same juice, but of less strength. The bark of the root is the officinal part, and, together with the whole root, inodorous and tasteless! Its virtues are imparted to water and alcohol. The tincture of the powdered bark, or the bark itself, triturated with sugar or milk after the usual manner, is the best method of preparation. Being destitute of taste, it is easily given to children, should it be necessary to use the lower triturations. Pellets saturated with the mother tincture, the first trituration or the strong tincture, or powdered bark, should be used in provings. Its action' on the system is intense and peculiar. It is called by the country people by the expressive name of Go qtgick, referring to its quick and prompt action. I am indebted to Dr. A. R. Brown, of Litchfield, Mich., for many interesting facts relating to its action. It is considered by those who use it, as the most powerful "revulsive agent" in their Materia Medica, in all cases of local congestion, especially of the lungs and head; also in inflammation of the pleura, lungs and liver, and it is used as a substitute for bleeding and Calomel. Its admirers allege that it will certainly arrest the progress of the above affections in a few hours, and break up all simple fevers. This is of course erroneous, but it reminds one of the ilelleborism of the ancients, so graphically described by Hahnemann. In fact no drug with which I am EUPHORBIA COROLLATA. 169 acquainted so much resembles the Veratrum album. It will be seen that its near analogues are also Jatropha, Elaterium, Croton-tig. Arsenicum, Tartar-emnetic, Verat. viride; and will undoubtedly prove as useful in practice. Dr. Brown, who has repeatedly tested the pure effects of the root upon his own person, thus describes the action. After taking the dose (twenty-five grains of the powdered root) and while in good health no effects were noticed for about one hour and a half, when suddenly, with no premonitory symptoms of pain, a distressing sense of deathly nausea set in, accompanied in a few minutes by faintness; then sudden and powerful vomiting of, first the food, etc., in the stomach, then of large quantities of water mixed with mucus, then clear fluid like rice-water. In less than a minute after the vomiting commenced, great commotion in the bowels, followed immediately by copious watery evacuations, set in. This simultaneous vomiting and diarrhcea continued for nearly an hour, at short intervals, or intermissions, all the while accompanied by great anxiety, a death-like sense of faintness and exhaustion; cool-skin — covered with beaded sweat; cold hands, feet, and nose, and great weakness. In about two or three hours all these symptoms passed away, leaving only weakness as from hunger, no pain or distress, only a peculiar languor. During the height of its action the pulse sank to forty. After taking fifty grains the effects were much more intense, but lasted only a little longer. It resembled more nearly a severe attack of sea-sickness, or cholera morbus, than anything the doctor could imagine. Taken in doses of two or three grains every two or three hours, it causes languor, perspiration, and softness of the pulse. King (Dispensatory), says, "fifteen or twenty grains of the powdered root will excite emesis, rarely occasioning pains or spasms, and giving rise to very little previous nausea or giddiness. Four grains given every three hours, will act as a diaphoretic. When given in large doses it is apt to induce inflammation of the mucous coat of the stomach and bowels, with hyper-catharsis. It causes distressing nausea with prostration." Wood, (Therapeutics, Vol. II, p. 442). It is not like Ipecacuanha., safe in over doses, but when taken too largely acts with great harshness, causing much nausea, violet vomiting, hypereatharsis, and symptoms of general prostration. Other medical writers speak of it in much the same manner; but the most extended notice of its virtues which has yet appeared, is from the pen of Dr. Grover Coe, in a work on "Concentrated Organic Medicines." Were Dr. Coe a homceopathist, he would appear in a much better light in his essay on remedial agents, as it is, he makes himself obscure and sometimes ridiculous, by seeking to account for the modus operandi of certain medicines, upon vague and theoretic grounds, and by ignoring the law of Similia. Of Euphorbin, the concentrated principle of the E.-corrollata, he says: c" The Euphorbia is a reliable acquisition to our indigenous materia rmedica, and fulfills many important indications. In small, repeated doses it acts as a diaphoretic, inducing free perspiration, 22 170 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. deterges the mucous coats of the stomach and bowels, stimulates the functions of the liver, and corrects the tendency to colliquative diarrhceal discharges."(!!) "When administered as an emetic, it will generally vomit without exciting any previous nausea, while at other times considerable prostration of the muscular system with lingering nausea will be observed; paleness of the countenance, and cool, moist state of the skin, from which, however, the patient rapidly recovers, as soon as the medicine has operated on the bowels." "We deem the Euphorbia one of the most powerful and at the same time, safest revulsive remedies that can be administered for the relief of cerebral congestions. It excites powerfully the absorbent and venous systems, and is therefore frequently employed for the removal of dropsical effusions, removing them when other means fail." [This is all vagae theory. It acts similarly to the Elaterium.] After stating pretty fully its irritating action on the mucous coat of the stomach and bowels, this author, strangely enough, goes on to say: c We have found the Euphorbin of much ability in the treatment of cholera infantum, diarrhcea, and dysentery. (!) It seems to exercise a peculiar control over the glandular structure of the intestinal canal, correcting and giving tone to the action of the secreting vessels, and promoting the assimilation of nutritious matters." All of which is mere nonsense. It acts by virtue of its power to cause similar pathological conditions in healthy persons. Is it not strange that allopathic writers should labor so hard to cover up the real action of drugs, when the actual law of their remedial action is so apparent to every sensible mind'? With a full knowledge of its power to cause "'hypercatharsis with inflammation of the bowels, cramps, and vomiting," he says: "'We (I) have administered it in cases of cholera infantum, when the alvine discharges were watery, copious, and offensive, and had, as the result of its operation, well-digested stools without feetor." Then, to gloss this, to him incomprehensible power, he resorts to unworthy special pleading, thus: "We have been unable to discover that the Euphorbin acts as a special irritant upon the bowels, but, on the contrary, esteem it as a corrector of irritation." (In small doses.) "Our observations of its operation have led us to the conclusion that the irritation sometimes observable is the result of an increased activity on the part of the eliminating vessels of the alimentary canal, and the consequent depurition of certain morbid and acrid materials from the blood, which being brought in contact with the mucous surfaces, constitute an extraneous cause of excitement." This language reminds one of the obscure and foggy reasoning that our medical grandfathers indulged in a few centuries ago-a jargon of unmeaning phrases. The Euphorbium-cor, causes, like the Verat.-alb. and its analogues, a decided and profound depression of the vitality of the nerves of the stomach and bowels, and an utterly relaxed condition of the intestinal capillaries. It induces a pathological and pathogenetic state, which presents a picture resenmbling with wonderful fidelity cholera morbus, cholera infantum, EUPHORBIA COROLLATA. 171 colliquative diarrhewa, sea-sickness, and many other forms of lesion affecting the digestive tube. It may act in large doses as a direct local irritant, in the same manner as Tartar-emetic; for the juice of the root will produce vesication and pustules upon the skin, and perhaps upon the mucous membrane. But it certainly possesses a dynamic power, which exercises a profound influence through the medium of the nerves. Pathogenesis.-A resume of the symptoms after Hahnemann's method would be as follows: Read, &c.-Vertigo; Swimming in the head, with faintness, dimness of sight, and prostration; everything seems to be whirling around; vertigo, witheringing in the ears; he fears he is going to die; death-like sensation, with anxiety of miud; no desire to live unless relief comes soon. Digestive Tract, &c.-Burning in the mouth and on the tongue after taking the dry powder; vesicles on ithe lips and tongue after taking the fresh root; sudden nausea one hour after taking the powder, followed in a few minutes by sudden and forcible vomiting and diarrhcea of watery (rice-water) fluid, with sinking, anxious feeling at the stomach, faintness, slow and week pulse (40), cool skin, cool hands and feet, which become affected with painful cramps; profuse colliquative discharges from the bowels, like the evacuations in cholera, with painful spasms of the intestines; cold sweat on the body and extremities; spasms of the legs and feet. Pathology. —I had intended to make some experiments on animals, with the view of showing its pathological effects upon the mucous membranes of the stomach and bowels, but have been unable to devote the necessary time. I hope to present the profession with the results of such experience soon. This article is published to call the attention of my colleagues to this important remedy, and ask their assistance in perfecting its pathogenesis. If we may be allowed to judge from analogy, we can safely affirm that its physiologico-pathological effects are similar to those caused by the Elaterium, Verat. alb. and viride, Jatropha curcas., and perhaps Aconite. CLINICAL REMARKS. —This remedy is perfectly homceopathic, judging from its pathogenetic symptoms and its known effect in disease, to many morbid conditions of the digestive tube; many serious and severe diseases of the stomach and bowels, as well as some affections of the liver, kidneys, and skin. In some forms of aphthce, accompanied by vomiting or diarrhcea, and that condition of the alimentary mucous membrane characterized by any aphthous exudation extending from the mouth to the anus. This condition is often seen in children and nursing women, and vulgarly known as " thrush." In this affection I should advise the lower dilutions of the tincture of the plant. After this; Hydrastus, Rhus-vernix, Borax, and Arsenicumrn or Tartar-emetic may be tried. In weakly subjects Phosphoric and Sulphuric acids will prove useful. Chlorate of Potash is an admirable remedy in some cases. Sea-sickness and the severe vomiting of pregnancy will be benefitted by the medium dilutions of the tincture of the dried root. It is useful in the 172 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. vomiting which arises from fright, over indulgence in ices, fruits, etc., or from the effects of acrid matters in the stomach, such as large doses of Ipecac., Antimony, Lobelia, etc. In cholera morbus and cholera infantum we have abundant proof of its utility. I have known it to cure these affections after the usual remedies had entirely failed. In such conditions, if the evacuations be acid in their nature, the acidity should be corrected by small quantities of Carb. soda or MlIagnesia, otherwise the prompt curative effects of the Euphorbium will not appear. This is a point too often ignored by homceopathic physicians. Hahnemann taught that these chemically altered conditions of the fluids were the result of actual acid fermentation of the contents of the stomach and intestines, and must be met by remedies which act in a chemical manner. Many remedies, apparently well chosen, will not act beneficially in such conditions, but act promptly upon its removal, the acid in such cases antidoting, perhaps destroying, its medicinal principle. In acute enteritis, gastritis, and other inflammatory diseases of the gastric and intestinal mucous membrance, I should consider it admirably indicated, if the other symptoms correspond. In toxical doses it undoubtedly causes active inflammation of their structures, and then, instead of watery evacuations, we may have mucous and bloody discharges, accompanied by pain and tenesmus. In these diseases the higher dilutions would be preferable. The colliquative diarrhcea of consumptive and typhoid patients may be benefited by this remedy, as also those obstinate chronic diarrhceas which are prevalent among soldiers in camps, and are probably caused by bad food and worse water. It will undoubtedly prove useful in many of the diseases of children, such as sympathetic or irritative fever, worm fever; in fact, all febrile action when caused by irritation of the bowels. Dr. Coe says: "We value it exceedingly in the treatment of the indigestion of children, and for the removal of all that train of symptoms which is usually supposed to indicate the presence of worms. These are: loss of appetite, or it may be variable, voracious at times, and none at others; furred tongue; feverishness; fcetid breath; bloating of the stomach; constipation, or, on the contrary, a troublesome diarrhcea; emaciation; peevishness; wakefulness, etc." In such cases I had the best effects from the first decimal trituration of the root-bark, or the third trituration of the Euphorbin. But Santonine is the most reliable specific. Finally, it may prove useful in some of the exanthemas, such as eczema, pustular ring-worm, erysipelas, and milk-crust of children when associated with diarrhcea. I do not know whether its internal administration will cause its peculiar effects on the skin; my experiments were not carried far enough to test the matter. We may safely suppose however, that it may thus act, similarly to Croton, Rhus, and Tartar-emnetic. In all affections of the skin, its external use as a lotion, Cerate, or Glycerole should accompany its external administration. I earnestly solicit a trial of its remedial virtues in the above mentioned diseases; and careful provings on healthy persons, and the lower animals. GELSEMINUM, SEMPERVIRENS. 173 GELSEMfNUM SEMPERVIRENS. (Yellow Jessamine.) The Root is the officinal part, and yields its virtues to water and alcohol. DEScRIPTION.-This plant is likewise known by the name of Field Jessamine, and Woodbine; it is the Bignonia Sempervirens of Linnaeus, and the Gelseminum nitidum of Michaux and Pursh. It is named the Gelsemium nitidum by some authors. It has a twisting, smooth, glabrous stem, with opposite, perennial lanceolate, entire leaves, which are dark above, pale beneath, and which stand on short petioles; the flowers are yellow, having an agreeable but rather narcotic odor, and stand on axillary peduncles; the calyx is very small, with five sepals; the corolla is funnel-form with a spreading border, and five lobes nearly equal; stamens five; pistils two; capsule two-celled, compressed, flat, two-partible; seeds flat, and attached to the margins of the valves. The berries are black. This is one of the most beautiful climbing plants of our Southern States, ascending lofty trees, and forming festoons fiom one tree to another, and in its flowering season, in the early spring, scenting the atmosphere with its delicious odor. On account of its gorgeous yellow flowers, and the rich perfume which they impart, as well as the deep shade it affords, it is extensively cultivated in the gardens of the South as an ornamental vine. It grows in the North as an exotic. It begins to blossom about the first of March, and its blossoming season lasts until the end of May. The root is several feet in length, with scattered fibres, and varies from two to three lines in diameter, to nearly two inches. The internal part of the root is woody, and of a light yellowish color, the external part or bark, in which the medicinal virtues are said principally to reside, is of a light snuff color, and from half a line to three lines in thickness. A vine, the root of which is sometimes gathered for the Gelsemminum, resembles it very much in appearance, though it is of a lighter color, and the outer bark is covered with white specks or marks somewhat similar to those on young cherry or peach limbs, and the lower part of old vines become rough and have small tendrils that fasten upon the bark of trees, and which are never seen on the Gelseminum. The bark of the vine is also more brittle, and the leaves are always on long footstalks, which are opposite, at the end of which are two opposite leaves, almost exactly resembling the Aristolochia Serpentaria. The root is almost white, very tough, straight, and about the same length of the medicinal root, and has a slightly bitter, disagreeable nauseous taste. I never saw any of the flowers, though they are said to resemble the others in shape, but are snowy white, with a slight, unpleasant, odor. The vine is called the White Poison Vine and White Jessamine. I am thus particular in giving a correct description of this plant, in order that there shall be no mistake about the matter. 174 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. Homweopathic pharmaceutists, above all others, should be scrupulously careful to prepare the medicines we use in their utmost purity. The Gelseminum, more than any other vegetable remedy, demands the most careful preparation. It is not known to me whether the leaves possess any medicinal qualities. But I should suppose from analogy that they possess as much comparitive power as the leaves, etc., of Aconite, or Veratrum viride. The tincture made from the flowers is comparatively inert. TOXICOLOGICAL EFFECTS.-We do not find any well authenticated report of any case of fatal poisoning from the use of Gelseminum, and do not knowtherefore what pathological changes it produces in the human body. Case 1.-This is said by King to be the first known case of poisoning by Gelseminum; and that by it, the' plant was -first brought into notice. "A planter on the Mississippi, while laboring under a severe attack of bilious fever, which resisted all the usual remedies, sent a servant into his garden to procure a certain medicinal root and prepare an infusion of it for him to drink. The servant by mistake collected another root, (the Yellow Jessamine,) and gave an infusion of it to his master who, shortly after swallow-' ing some of it, was seized with the followingSymptoms.-Complete loss of muscular power; was unable to move a limb, or even to raise his eyelids, although he could hear, and was cognizant of circumstances transpiring around him. His friends, greatly alarmed, collected around him, watching the result with much anxiety, and expecting every minute to see him breathe his last. After some hours he gradually recovered, and was astonished to find that his fever had left him." —(Xing's Disp.) In this case no treatment was reported to have been given, yet the man recovered perfectly, besides being rid of an obstinate fever. No one can compare the above symptoms with those of Catalepsy, without remarking the striking resemblance. It ought to prove a specific fQr that malady. Case 2.-Several deck hands of a steamer on the Mississippi river, tapped a barrel of tincture Gelseminum which they supposed to be whisky. All who drank of it were more or less affected. The symptoms were about the same as in case 1. It was reported that two out of these three died, but Dr. H. H. Hill, who was present, says they were saved by the employment of Quinine and Capsicum in large doses, aided by external stimulation. He makes the following report of these cases: "In the summer of 1853, late in June or early in July, I had five barrels of tincture of Gelseminum shipped from Vicksburg, Mississippi. The boat grounded on a sand bar on the Ohio river near night. I happened to see the barrels on deck, they having been taken out of the hold in shifting freight. I requested the mate to have the barrels lowered again as they contained medicine, and it was not safe in case the hands should get at them. The next morning another boat made its appearance, and the captain told us we had better get aboard of that boat as it was of light draught. As we were getting aboard, I heard two physicians say to the captain that GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 175 some of his men had been drinking alcohol or some poison, and two or three of themn were about dead. They told the captain to give them an emetic. Being well convinced what they had been drinking, I told him not to do so, as they were already too much relaxed, and that they needed stimulants. During the night they had opened a barrel and drawn a bucket full, as I learned from the men, and had drank it from tin cups, it was supposed from half a pint to a pint each. They looked very much like dead men, their eyes were closed; circulation very feeble; no pulse perceptible; and breathing so low that it could hardly be perceived at all. Two of the men were taken on board the other boat and the other three were left. I went up the river with the two men and gave them stimulants, and in less than two hours they were able to walk. They recovered. When I got to Louisville, I learned that there was a statement in: the Louisville Journal that it was supposed that the three men who were left behind were dead, they having been left in an apparently dying condition. Some three days afterwards the boat got up, and another statement appeared in the paper that stimulants had been given to them and they had recovered." Case 3.-A lady aged 24, suffering from Typhoid Pneumonia, took ten drops of Tincture Gelseminum; in an hour eleven more; and in two hours after twelve drops. Shortly afterwards appeared the followingSymptoms.-She could not see any one in the room, although persons stood close by the bed. Her eyes were wide open, pupils dilated, pulse regular and full, skin natural and healthy in color, feet and hands cold. She seemed to know all that was going on; described her symptoms; said she felt faint; felt as though her blood had ceased circulating and that her head felt very light. Treatment.-She was given a teaspoonful of Aromatic spirits of Ammonia in water, and repeated in fifteen minutes. At the expiration of half an hour she said she felt perfectly well, complained of no pain whatever; the fever was subdued, and in. four days she was quite able to rise from her bed. (Dr. Lungren, of Franklin, N. C.) Case 4.-Dr. B -, a practicing physician in one of the upper counties in Georgia, while suffering from a severe nervous toothache, took what he guessed was about thirty drops of the tincture. Symptoms. —In ten minutes he said, "I cannot see you." His eyes were wide open, pupil dilated; pulse eighty to ninety. He attempted to walk, and staggered like one intoxicated. (He was immediately given a dose of Ipecac, as an emetic). He wrote with a pencil on paper, for he could not speak, "I am very sick; wish to vomit but cannot." In a few moments he vomited, but the discharge passed through the nostrils. His hands and feet became icy cold, pulse regular, eighty to ninety. Treatment.-Warm bricks were applied to his feet, his hands and ankles were chafed; strong Aqua ammonia was placed to his nose and upon his chest. In an hour he was able to speak. The 176 NEW HOMCE OPATHIC PROVINGS. next he complained of being very faint; took aromatic spirits of Ammonia, and the next day rode home a distance of twenty-three miles. It is needless to say the toothache left him-[Ib.] Case 5.-A convict in the N. I. State Prison swallowed oneand-a-half ounces of the fluid extract, with intent to poison himself, The effects were, great prostration, nausea and vomiting, dilated pupils, inability to speak or move, coldness of the surface, feeble pulse, etc. The effects passed off, with proper antidotes, in about twenty-four hours.- (Dr. Pattee, in Tilden's Journal.) In this case we observe nausea and vomiting, which is a rare effect of the drug. Chase 6. —"In one case a lad of twenty-seven yeatrs of age swallowed six fluid drachms of the tincture without any permanent injury." —(IDr. King.) ANTIDOTES. — Unless the person is seen immediately after the drug is taken emetics, it is said, are not safe or advisable, on account of the additional prostration they may cause. In fact none but the most stimulating emetic substances would have any effect upon a stomach paralyzed by a large dose of Gelseminum. Probably the best emetic remedy is mustard, a teaspoonful of the ground seed in half a cup of warm water. Ammonia is a valuable antidote to the prostrating effects of the drug, as also are Quinine, Capsicum, and Brandy. Dr. King states that a piece of common coarse salt, about the size of a pea, chewed and swallowed, will produce a restoration in five or ten minutes in many instances. A spoonful of salt and water may be given, if the patient be too weak or insensible to chew it. Electro-Magnetism is a powerful antidote to its paralyzing influence. In bad cases it should be perseveringly used. A strong preparation of Xanthoxylum would prove a reliable stimulating antidote. The HIomceopathic antidotes against the primary symptoms of prostration, etc., are Aconite, Verat. viride, Verat. alb., Arsenicum album, Secale, Chloroform, Carbo veg. and China. Against its specific effects on the head and eyes, Opium, Bellad., Stram., Hyos., Agar., and Spig. are indicated in small quantities. The proper antidotes to its secondary symptoms, convulsive, spinal, etc., are'Nux vom., Ign., XEsculus g., Cuprum, Agar. and Ethusa. The warm bath, mustard to the extremities, and cool applications to the head and spine would be valuable palliative means. GENERAL EFFECTS, ON THE N:ERVOUS SYSTEM —Nerves of Sensation.-Gelseminum does not exert the decided and specific effect upon the nerves of sensation that we witness from the effects of Aconite. It causes none of the numbness, tingling, prickling and crawling sensations which mark the action of that poison. The pains which may be caused by Gelseminum are not, in my opinion, caused by a primary affection of the nerves of sensation, but depend upon a certain morbid condition of the nerves of motion. Such pains are caused by cramp-like contractions of muscles and tendons, constricting certain nerves or blood-vessels, or they may arise as in case of Aconite from irritation of the ganglionic nerves, about the blool-vessels —many are probably congestive in GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 177 theirnature, like the pains in the head and eyes. In pure Neuralgia, this remedy can be of but little service; although it may be very useful in removing many consensual symptoms, such as excessive nervous irritation, drawing and twitching of the muscles of the affected parts, etc. Dr. Douglas, however, declares that "A majority of all cases of Neuralgia will be promptly relieved by Gelseminum but it sometimes requires to be given in pretty large doses,, repeated every half hour till the pain is relieved." He says: "My experience does not perfectly coincide with your remark upon the action of the Gelseminum upon the nerves of' sensation. It does not, certainly,'cause the numbness, tingling, prickling and crawling sensations' of Aconite, but in my individual experience, it causes the pains. In my own provings, I have frequently experienced a succession of acute, sudden, darting pains evidently running along single nerve branches in almost every' part of the body and limbs, sometimes so sudden and acute as to make me start. At one time a quick succession of these acute sudden pains coursed down the outside and front of the tibia for over half an hour, leaving a line of considerable tenderness marking its track. These pains which seemed clearly neuralgic, gave me the palpable indication for its employment in this disease. And it has certainly been successful. But while it has promptly cured some distressing cases of neuralgia, in which Aconite had been fully tried without benefit, there have occurred some other cases in which it has failed and Aconite has succeeded. What is the explanation of this? If we suppose that in some cases of this disease there exists a real inflammatory state of the nerve, and in others a mere excess of sensitiveness, the explanation is easy: Aconite cures the first, and Gelseminum the last." Dr. P. P. Wells, says, "we feel warranted in predicting that the class of fevers to which Gelseminum will be found related, is that based on blood dyscrasia, with a tendency to decomposition of its hommatine and globules, or to fevers of a miasmatic origin, which Aconite seldom or never is." Nerves of motion.-Gelseminum, like Nux vomica, Angustura, ~Esculus, Ignatia and Strychnia, does primarily affect the nerves of motion, but in an opposite manner. It depresses and paralyses these nerves which they excite and irritate. But while the action of Gelseminum differs from that of Strychnia in this respect; in another it affords a remarkable resemblance. Both cause hypersmia of the spinal marrow, which may increase to actual engorgement or extravasation. This condition is not brought about as soon by Gelseminum as by Nux vomica, but the condition when obtained has very nearly the same results. But while the active congestion of the spinal marrow caused by Nux vomica, is accompanied by an exalted and tense state of the motor nerves, even to tetanic spasm; the passive congestion of Gelseminum is accompanied by a paralytic or debilitated state of those nerves, or a condition exactly opposite to tetanus. Gelseminum may cause death by prostrating and exhausting primarily the energies and vital power of the nerves of voluntary and involuntary motion. 23 178 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. While Strychnia, Nux vomica, etc., would produce death from the same cause, but the fatal prostration would be secondary; the exhaustion being preceded and caused by the primary irritation and spasmodic action of those nerves. Gelseminum may also cause death by congestion and apoplexy of the brain and spinal marrow. Nux, Ignatia and Strychnia may also cause death by producing such a congested condition of the spinal cord and its membranes as to lead to fatal hemorrhage into those important tissues. CLINICAL REMARKs. —The primary homceopathicity of Gelseminum to paralysis from loss of motion will be discussed in other places. Its use in very many forms of Convulsions may here be alluded to. The other schools of medicine, viewing this drug as a powerful anti-spasmodic, would see it indicated in nearly all forms of convulsions. It has been used in both clonic and tonic spasms; in Epilepsy, Chorea, Hysteria, etc. I gave it in one case of severe Hysterical Epilepsy, a young girl after suppressed menses had attacks every evening, lasting an hour or two, during which time so severe was the spasm of the glottis that asphyxia seemed really impending. The attacks had been every day for two weeks. Five drops of the tincture were given at three and again at six, P. m. At seven, the usual hour, no spasms appeared, and did not return until the next menstrual period, when the remedyhad no effect; and Asafcetida, in one grain doses, every four hours was resorted to, which brought on the menses and cured the spasms. I have treated many cases of Hysteria from various causes with Gelseminum, and I know of none more generally useful. Eclectic writers claim to have cured cases of Chorea with Gelseminum. In the three cases treated by me, one recovered, one was benefitted, and one, a case of years continuance, seemed to be aggravated. In Tetanus, it would seem to be one of the most powerful antipathic remedies, yet I cannot find a single recorded case treated with this remedy. After testing the medicines homceopathic to the disease, like Nux Vomica, Ignatia, Aconite, etc., I should resort to the Gelseminum with a good deal of confidence. We know that it produces its peculiar prostrating effects, even to an extreme degree, without causing any local lesion. Now it often happens that no material traces of disease can be discovered either in the brain and spinal marrow of persons who have died of Tetanus. Dr. Gerhard declares that of the twelve cases he examined no lesion whatever could be detected. Some of the secondary symptoms of Gelseminum strongly resemble this disease. Some months after writing the above, we have the following report from Dr. O. G. Strong "I tried the Gel. two weeks since, in a severe case of Tetanus. I gave ten drops of the mother tincture, fifteen minutes apart. After the third dose, the spasmodic action entirely ceased, and the patient recovered. It produced the most satisfactory specific action of any remedy I ever tried in such a case." In Hydrophobia, also, no appearances have been found which could account for the fatality of the disease. In this terrible malady, GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 179 Gelseminum ought to be found useful if not curative. In material doses, it relaxes all the muscles, calms the fury of nervous excitement, relaxes the glottis and prevents spasms. Why should it not be valuable in Hydrophobia? The spasms in this disease are brief and clonic, similar to the secondary ones of Gelseminum. The circulation is much disturbed (excited). A dog killed with it could not drink while under its influence. Were I to become hydrophobic, I should take Gelseminum and "await the end." Since writing the above, several of my colleagues have reported to me cures of spasmodic croup in children, made with Gelseminum, used according to my suggestion. I have no doubt but it will prove an invaluable remedy in that malady, named by Wood"_Infantile Spasm of the Glottis."' It is known in medical works under the name of Laryngismus stridulous, Asthma of Millar, etc. The essential nature of the disease is a general morbid excitability of the nervous system, directed especially to the muscles of the glottis, which contract spasmodically. It has been said to arise from irritation or inflammation of the cervical portion of the spinal marrow, (that portion most irritated by Gelserninum) the presence of worms in the intestines, etc. From whatever cause it may arise, the Gelseminum, if not a curative remedy, properly, will be a valuable palliative, used in drop doses of the first dilution or mother tincture, frequently repeated; it must procure relief in the majority of cases, while during the intermediate time, it should be alternated with Bell., iHyos., Ars., or Moschus. Muscular System. —The most prominent of all the effects of Gelseminum is to induce a profound and intense prostration of the whole muscular system. Its effects are first manifested on the voluntary muscles, afterwards on the involuntary, No remedy so suddenly and surely destroys the tone of muscular structure; but it acts not by causing any disintegration or disorganization, but by impairing the vitality of those nerves which supply it with life. This property of Gelseminum can be made subservient to the physician in many ways. In cases of obstinate tonic convulsions and cramp-like rigidity, full doses, sufficient to bring the muscular system under its pathogenetic action, will promptly remove such morbid conditions. There is no danger in this method of administering the remedy, for one of the peculiarities of its action is, that there is no permanent injury done to the tonicity of muscular structure, unless its use is long persisted in, and wantonly abused. In this respect it acts wonderfully like chloroform. Like chloroform, it will be found very useful to the Surgeon, when in cases of dislocation or fracture, reduction is rendered difficult or impossible by a rigidity of the muscles of the part. In such cases the system may be brought under its influence very readily. It does not, however, give that insensibility to pain which is the prominent effect of chloroform. It is freely used by some obstetricians in cases of rigidity of the os-uteri, or external parts. King advises it in all such cases as being much superior to Lobelia, as well as pleasanter, as it does 180 NEW HOMCIEOPATHIC PROVINGS. not nauseate nor cause that sense of deathly prostration so peculiar to that drug. I have used it successfully in such cases, as well as for those severe spasmodic pains which sometimes come on in labor. In such instances it must be given in appreciable doses, of five, ten or fifteen drops, repeated if required; a slight dimness of sight is a good indication that the remedy is acting. Dr. Moore, of Illinois, reports to me, relative to the- curative action of' Gelsemenum in muscular pain (Myalgia), from great over exertion. He stated that after a day's fatiguing walking, such as usually laid him up with lameness and stiffness for several days, he took thirty drops of a common tincture of Gelseminum. In half an hour the peculiar weakness and pains in the limbs and muscles were ameliorated, and he shortly fell asleep. In the morning, much to his surprise, he awoke feeling as comfortable as though he had not walked so unusually the day before. He had no lameness or soreness, as usual. This case illustrates the specific affinity of Gelseminum for the motor nerves and the voluntary muscles under their control. It should prove one of the best remedies for acute Myalgia which we possess. Vascular System —Heart and Arteries. —Pulse frequent, soft, weak, -so feeble as to be sometimesimperceptible; fluttering pulse; pulse full 120; pulse slow and full, or slow and soft; sensation as though the blood had ceased to circulate; pulse reduced from 112 to 55 in twelve hours; heart's action slow and feeble; the beats of the heart cannot be felt; the action of the heart and arteries much depressed, with cold hands and feet, chills and pain in the head. -(lDouglas). Dr. P. P. Wells (Amer. Hom. Review, Vol. 4 p. 84,) states that from the twelfth dilution he had the following spmptoms: "A peculiar irregular action of the heart which had never been experienced before; this was a sensible motion of the heart as though it had attempted its beat, which it failed fully to accomplish, and the pulse then each time intermitted; this occurred at iirregulr intervals, and more frequently when in repose than when in motion, the worst and most frequent attacks being in the evening and worst of all on lying down in bed when retiring for the night, and these attacks aggravated by lying on the left side." These symptoms lasted eight or ten days. Dr. Finke stated to me that he experienced similar symptoms from a higher dilution. In Philadelphia, Dr. Lippe, Helry and others are using the Gelseminum in the thirtieth, two hundredth and one thousandth potencies, with apparent good results; I notice this fact however, that they find these high attenuations curative for the primary smptoms of the medicine. CLINICAL:REMAuKs. —In diseases of the heart, particularly in those in which the chief indication is to diminish the action of that organ, Gelseminum will be found a valuable remedy. In some forms of functional derangement it will often efect a cure. In material doses it will alleviate those cases of excessive action of the heart from plethora, congestion, neuralgic or rheumatic irritation, or hysterlic palpitation. Like Aconite and Veratrum viride, Gelseminum is not hornceo GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIREN S. 1S8 pathic or curative in any organic affections of the heart; but like the above named remedies and Digitalis, it is a very valuable auxiliary in the treatment of those maladies. It is an excellent palliative in those troublesome symptoms which affect the head and eyes during the progress of heart disease. The sensation of fulness, heaviness, giddiness, throbbing, jerking, etc., the dimness of sight, and other amaurotic symptomsare admirably met by small doses of Gelseminum or its resinoid. Fever.-Within a few minutes, sometimes within two or three, a marked depression of pulse, which becomes ten, fifteen or twenty beats less in the minute, if quiet, but greatly disturbed by movement; chilliness, especially along the back; pressive pain in the head, most generally of the temples, sometimes in the occiput, at others over the head. The chilliness is soon followed by a glow of heat and prickling of the skin, and quickly succeeded by perspiration, which is sometimes profuse and disposed to be persistent, continuing from twelve to twenty-four hours. As soon as the reaction takes place after the chill the pulse rises as much above the normal standard as it was before depressed below it. With these symptoms is a puffy, swollen look, and feeling of fulness of the eyelids, slimy and disagreeable or bitter taste in the mouth, languid feeling in the back and limbs and sleepiness. —(Douglas.) Febrile chilliness, cold extremnities, especially the feet, heat of head, and face with headache; pulse uniformly depresse d and rendered less frequent with chilliness, cold feet, heat and pain -of the head.-(Hull's Jahr.) Have felt chilly all day, particularly in the morning. This statement regarding the pulse is erroneous. I have found that in both men and animals, it often increased the rate and frequency of the pulse. Sometimes even the volume of the pulse seemed increased, but generally it is diminished. An explanation of this phenomenon will be found in the paragraph "ead."' Derangement of circulation as shown in the fltictuations of the pulse from seventy to 120; chilliness with vertigo; headache and coated tongue; cold extremities; inclination to "hug the fire," with chills following each other in rapid succession from sacrum to base of occiput.-(Dr. F L. V.incent.) Dr. M. E. L zarus, a well known painstaking prover, could not get any such prominent symptoms as recorded by Dr. Douglas. He however experienced a languor, with inclination to stretch, some slight chilliness, with feeble flashes of heat. He suggests that perhaps Dr. Douglas is very susceptible to the action of Gelseminum. iMy impression would be the same, as I have given it to healthy persons, in all manner of doses, yet never heard any one mention such decisive symptoms as those of Dr. Douglas. Still it is undoubtedly primarily homceopathic to the pathological conditions upon which all real chills depend; and secondarily honreopathic to febrile conditions or the reaction which follows those conditions. In this respect it is somewnat similar to Aconite, and others of the same group. But it is only a general, not a particular resemblance. Dr. J. S. Douglas says:-" You and Dr. Lazarus remark that you have not been able to elicit such marked symptoms in your provings as were experienced by me. The symptoms particularly referred 184 NEW IHOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. violent pains, referable to the cerebro-spinal, rather than the ganglionic system, and by correspondingly intense burning fever, great nervous restlessness, sensitiveness to light and sound, mental agitation or anxiety, delirium, sleeplessness, curious sensations of falling, swimming from giddiness, partial blindness or deafness, especially applicable to nervous, excitable subjects, and to mild fresh cases, without prominent gastric or hepatic symptoms, in short, before any visceral complication has been engrafted on the nervous phenomenon." (This last clause, I (Hale) regard as well indicating the sphere of action of Gelseminum in agues, but in the "indications " proper, Holcombe has mixed up the primary with the secondary symptoms of the drug, which rarely appear together. The dose, however that he advises is very nearly of the proper quantity. Of the quinine, I think he prescribes altogether too much. In very similar cases, I have succeeded admirably with one-fifth or one-tenth grain doses of Quinine, alternated with one-tenth or one-twentieth grain of Gelsemin, or two or three drops of the mother tincture. Holcombe's prescription would undoubtedly arrest the paroxysms promptly, but it would be apt to give rise to visceral complications, which smaller doses would avoid, and at the same time be equally as efficacious). Dr. Ludlam writes me —"Perhaps in the whole range of its clinical virtues there is no more satisfactory and really valuable use which can be made of the Gelseminum than in the treatment of those intermittents which might properly be styled post-typhoid. It is to this especial form of intermittents, which succeeding upon an adynamic condition of system, are characterized by a want of distinctness in their several stages, and which are of a masked type and intractable in nature, that the Gelseminum has in our experience seemed to be particularly applicable. We have remarked the evident tendency in patients suffering with enteric fever, and who had but recently removed tothe city [Chicago] from miasmatic districts, to sequels of this order. Scarcely any such patient has ecsaped this characteristic convalescence, and in none of those cases in which we have ordered this remedy have we failed to witness the best results from its employment, while in years past, such cases were especially perplexing and tedious, we are free to express our pleasure in and appreciation of a means so entirely successful. These patients were all from the Southern States." John C. Morgan, M. D., author of a short proving in Dir. Shipman's Journal of Materia H2edica, writes as follows: "It seems worthy to be called a specific for fresh cases of Intermittents, and will modify even old cases, changing double to single tertian. My dose is one-fourth drop in a teaspoonful of water, usually. I send a few clinical cases." (a) "'W. S., a swarthy soldier of large frame, on going into camp, May 11, had no blanket; slept on straw under leaky shed;the night being cold, awoke early in the morning with a severe chill, —but little shaking; fever ensued. Took at a dose ten drops common tincture Gelseminum; fever augmented with slight delirium. Took five drops-some aggravation. During the after GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 185 noon and evening took fractional drop doses; no fever at night. The next day took one-fourth drop every two hours. He had no other paroxysm." REMARK.s —This nmay not have been an attack of Intermittent. Such chills, followed by fbver, art often the result of qp6oure, or of getting wet. Still had it not been for the Gelseminum, it might have resulted in some form of protracted fever. (Hale.) (b) "A soldier of sanguine temperament had Diarrhoea and rheumatic pains, with symptoms of Intermittent; took for several days one-fourth drop tincture Gelseminum, and was cured." Intermittent Fever-Case 1.'-"In one case I had used all the usual anti-periodics, as Cornine Salicine, Quinine, etc., without succbss. Even after producing the constitutional effects of Quinine the chills would sometimes, return every day for awhile, then every other day. Thus the case continued for several weeks, until I despaired of success with the other anti-periodics, so I determined to try the tincture of Gelseminum. Accordingly, I left an ounce of the tincture of the fresh root, directing it to be given in doses of thirty drops every two or three hours, until the eyes were affected; then the medicine was to be suspended until that passed off, then again resumed as before, and so on until the fever was broken. I saw the patient just as the chill was gone off, and commenced the tincture of Gelseminum immediately. The fever did not rise very high, nor continue long, nor did the chill ever return. The patient recovered from the time he commenced the medicine, and was soon up at his usual avocation. Now, what still more astonished me was, that the medicine never affected his eyes in the least, yet it suspended the chills immediately. I had frequently combined the tincture of Gelseminumr with the other anti-periodics before and met with very prompt success, yet I attributed it to the other articles; but this time I determined to try the Gelseminum alone.' — [Sensible!-Hale.] (Dr. Goss, Eclectid Medical Journal.) Caase 2. Nov. 4.-Intermittent Fever (tertian type). Has been affected six'months; has pain in the head, and pains over the body, whenhe has no chill; tongue not much coated; other symptoms common to the disease.'Treatment-Alkaline bath once a day; tincture Gelseminum, one-half dram three times a day. Nov. 17, discharged, cured. —lewton's Clinical Reports. The above are the only two published cases of Intermittents cured by this medicine alone. Very many cases are reported of pretended cures by Gelseminum; but, as it was always given so mixed with Quinine, Hydrastin, or other drugs, no reliance can be placed upon the reports. Dr. Holecombe writes me that the Gelseminum was the basis of several celebrated patent medicines, noted at the South for the cure of remittent and intermittent fevers; that it certainly was the prin. cipal ingredient in "Speed's Tonic," which at one time was: popularly considered an unrivalled febrifuge, but, failing to cure those cases attended with organic complications, it fell into disfavor, although it is still used by many people in the South. "From large doses I have seen blindness, partial deafness, singular torpor, stupidity 24 GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 187 of it in their reports to our Homceopathic Journals. They relied upon Aconitum, Belladonna, Arsenicurh, Lachesis, and Argentum nitricum. The Eclectic and Allopathic schools have used it to some extent, but the only published report I can find relating to it, is a pamphlet by Drs. White and Ford, of Charleston, S. C. This report was entitled the "Bradycote (whatever that may mean) treatment of Yellow Fever by Gelseminum sempervirens." They prepared a tincture from the fresh root, as follows:-Radix Gelsemini, four ounces; Alcohol (95 per cent.) and Aqua communis, each eight ounces. To adults they gave of this twenty or thirty drops; to children from five to twenty, every hour for the first four hours; then at longer intervals, and with doses half as large. Total number treated with Gelseminum twenty-five; all of which recovered. Of these, fifteen were males and nine, females; adults twelve; children twelve; whites twenty-two; blacks two. Of the whole number treated, two vomited black vomit, five passed black vomit downward. In three cases hemorrhage occurred from the tongue, gums, or nasal passages. One woman was in the sixth month of her pregnancy, and did not abort. Average duration of treatment; about eight days. No marked prostration was caused by this remedy; the pulse being, however, much less quickly reduced than by Veratrum Viride. In few cases was the heart's action fully lowered in less than twelve hours, and it was well controlled throughout the rest of the disease, in the majority of cases. The concurrent treatment was the same as with Veratrum. Mercurialization was complete in ten cases; incomplete in fourteen cases. In a few instances a marked redness of the tongue was observed, a condition that was not distinctly noticed during the administration of Veratrum. [This symptom has been often noticed in my provings. —Hale]. The Gelseminum appeared to produce a general calming influence, even during the early period of its administration, but was not found to possesss any marked narcotic properties. It seemed to promote the action of the kidneys, and during its use only, in several cases, an erythema of the skin was noticed. This drug appeared to influence the volume of the pulse, before it affected its frequency, and in most cases for the rest of the disease to control both conditions in an equal manner. Emesis was not observed to ensue upon the administration of this medicine; the gastric irritability peculiar to the disease being moreover, to all appearances, favorably influenced. There were treated by Veratrum viride 11 7 cases, of which fifteen died. Of six treated by the ordinary method [without Veratrum or Gelseminum] three died. In Scarlet Fever the Gelseminum bids fair to rank with Belladonna. Besides being indicated in the peculiar, intense fever, with nervous erethism, its well known action on the skin will render it of value in impelling the eruption to the surface. It causes a peculiar erythema, which has some resemblance to the eruption in Scarlatina as well as some f6rms of Purpura. Its analagous relation to both Belladonna and Aconite, strongly commends it to our favor, and if we are to judge its curative powers from its pathological effects, 188 NEW ItOMUEOPATHIIIC PROVINGS. it will be be found efficient, alone, where the former remedies are indicated. Dr. H. W. White speaks very highly of its effects in Scarlatina. He asserts that it will control the pulse, calm the nervous erethism, determine the eruption toward the surface, relieve pain, and lessen the cerebral congestion, in a manner superior to Bell., or Aconite. Cases which seemed quite formidable at their commencelnent, soon assumed a milder character, and terminated safely. }I considers it effectual, alone, to control the majority of cases. Should the disease assume a malignant character, Dr. White alternates it with Amm. carb., Carbo.veg., Mur. acid, or Ars. Its use should be suspended if symptoms of prostration set in. In Measles the Gelseminum appears to be specifically indicated during the forming and inflammatory stage [the eruptive]. Among its pathogenetic symptoms we find prominent catarrhal conditions, as " chilliness, watery discharge from the nose, hoarseness, with feeling of soreness of throat, and in the chest, cough, etc." Among its effects upon the skin we find "a papulous eruption, very much the color of measles, which it closely resembles, but the papule are more distant and distinct. It appears most frequently upon.the face." Relying upon these fragmentary, yet prominent indications, I have treated several'cases of Rubeola with this remedy, and apparently with good results. It seemed to prevent a continuance of the cough beyond its proper limits, and to act as a prophylactic to chronic catarrhal affections, bronchitis, or pneumonia. Dr. Douglas considers it quite capable of modifying the disease in a marked manner, when given in the first stages, after which Pulsatilla, Euphrasia, and Sulphur will be more useful. Dr. Lodge states that he has used Gelseminum in measles, in some cases to the exclusion of any other remedy, and is satisfied that it is a valuable medicine in this disease. In the treatment of ]_Eryszpelas, Gelseminum may be found of unequivocal benefit. It is certainly homceopathic to the febrile symptoms, if not to the peculiar eruption or external manifestations of the disease; yet, Gelseminurm causes an erythema, which certainly bears a resemblance to some of the milder forms of Erysipelas. It is also homceopathic to those dangerous, and often fatal congestions, or internal metastases, which often Complicate the malady. I gave it one severe case of Facial Erysipelas, in alternation with Rhus. The case progressed very favorably. Dr. Coe advises it as a topical application: "We have found the tincture beneficial as an outward application in erysipelatous affections. Diluted with from four to eight parts of water, we have applied it with excellent results. The parts should be kept covered with cloths wetted in the diluted tincture. It abates the local inflammation, and has a very soothing and pleasant influence." In c7ariola the Gelseminum may prove as useful as Aconite and Bellad., in allaying the intense and painful fever which accompanies that disease. It has been used advantageously in Varioloid. In all eruptive fevers, especially in children, there is a strong tendency to convulsions, at or about the time of the appearance of the eruption. I know of no remedy which is so likely to prevent GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 189 that unpleasant, and often fatal complication, as the one under.consideration. In the treatment of Rheumatic Flev4r, and Rheumatism generally, Gelseminum has its advocates in the! Homceopathic school of.the North-west, or that portion of them which have adopted the.use of the remedy. The, Gelseminum is highly praised by some practitioners, in.Fectic fever, and there are some reasons for supposing it to be peculiarly adapted to that form of fever. VENOUS SYSTEM.-Dr. Marcy declares Aconite to be c" homeopathic to intense or excessive venous congestion, with entire paralysis, or depotentization of all the arterial activities, carried up to the point of actual cyanosis." I Hale]'once supposed Gelseminum to be homceopathic to the same condition, but recent investigations have satisfied me that Holcombe's remark is true, that " Gelseminum holds a position midway between Aconite and Belladonna." It is rather difficult to define exactly what this condition is, but it is certainly more homoeopathic to arterial congestion than Aconite or Veratrum viride. Still, one of the effects of Gelseminum in moderate doses, is undoubtedly similar to Aconite; for, like it, it " depotentizes the arterial activities," It needs further trial and investigation to determine the exact relation of Gelseminum, to the venous system. It may be asserted, however, that while Aconite and Veratrum viride are only homceopathic to primary passive venous congestion, Gelseminum is primarily homceopathic to that form of intense passive congestion, of both veins and arteries, in which an irritation of the congested organs sets in, nearly as severe as though the congestion had been active., This condition may be attended by inflammation or hemorrhage, and may end in active arterial congestion, etc. Eclectic writers seem to be aware of the danger of using Gelseminum inr some cases. WKing says, "' It is contra-indicated: in congestive fever, in cases where there is great muscular and nervous prostration with relaxation, and when there exists a determination to the brain or other important viscus." LYMPHATIC SYsTEm. —Although Coe, and some other writers, crudely declare Gelseminum to be an "alterative," we have no direct proof of such action. I have never seen any indications of its action on the glandular system, nor can I imagine any such action, unless it be from congestion to certain large and important glands, which it may induce. LOCAL EFFECTS. Mind. —Irritable and impatient mood; incapacity to think or fix the attention; confusion of mind; stupid, intoxicated feeling; dulness of: all the mental faculties, in one case great mirthfulness; inability to concentrate the mind; depression of spirits; anxiety; incoherency of thought. The sensorial modification consisted of a mistiness within the brain, not much affecting the lucidity of thought, but somewhat confusing perceptions, so that I experienced some difficulty in attending to the physical details connected with 190 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. my practice. There was at first a cheerful, careless morale, afterwards depression of spirits. Rather dull and stupid for some days, with disinclination to conversation. This -was remarked by my friends who knew nothing of my taking the medicine. Aversion to study; melancholy and depending mood. I found it to affect the power of concentration very materially. I could not fix my mind on the contents of a newspaper, although the matter was of an exciting character. I could not pursue one train of thought for any time; ideas would vanish and leave a vacancy of mind which was quite annoying. CLINICAL REMARKs.-Gelseminum is particularly recommended when there is excessive irritability of body and mind, in mental derangement with vascular excitement. No remedy is more useful in the causeless nervous excitement of hysteric patients; or in those feverish conditions accompanied by great restlessness, tossing about, sleeplessnes and irritable mood. In those conditions, one or two drops of the tincture every hour, will be the most proper mode of administration. It is'indicated in those attacks of frenzy,,attended with congestion or inflammation of the brain; also in those stupid, comatose conditions attending typhoid fever, and in a low muttering delirium of typhus.' Here we should give drop doses of the second or third dilution. I have found it homceopathic, or curative, to that state of semistupor, with languor and physical prostration, caused by protracted night-watching; also in that mental apathy which follows intoxication from use of ardent spirits. Hysterical insensibility is much more readily controlled by this medicine than with Opium or Cann. indica. Hysterical catalepsy is a similar malady, and one in which Gelseminum is primarily indicated; also many other hysterical states of body and mind, while Platinum, Asaf., Val., and Scut., are secondarily homceopathic to similar states. Head.-Pain in the head across the fbrehead; after breakfast experienced a dull aching pain in the head in region of occiput, which increased in severity as the day advanced; excruciating headache, accompanied by slight nausea; the pain seemed slightly mitigated by shaking the head, but the relief thus obtained was not marked. Headache extending from occiput to os frontis; great heaviness of the head; sensation as if the brain was heavy; heaviness of the head with dulness of mind; dimness of sight and vertigo; pain in the head quite constant, dull, stupifying, and pressive; most frequently in the forehead and temples; bruised pain above and back of the orbits; tightness of the brain; often more or less headache with' nausea; giddiness is pretty constant; an intoxicated feeling and tendency to stagger, often with dizziness and imperfection of vision, aggravated by smoking; heaviness, with sense of fulness in the head, which increased to a severe headache relieved on the third day of the proving by copious urination, after which a pleasant languor pervaded the system for some hours; dulness in the head with stupor; dry mouth, coated tongue, bitter taste; pulse full, and 80; intoxication, vertigo unto falling; sort of mistiness within GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 191 the brain, not much affecting the lucidity of thought, but somewhat confusing perception; staggering like one intoxicated; swimming sensation in the head; head felt very light, with -vertigo. He could not hold the head erect. Pain over the whole top of the head, extending back to the occiput; general dizziness, and disagreable pain in the head; a band-like pain which surrounds the head, with shooting pain in each jaw and parietal bone; pain in left side of head, extending from the prominence of the parietal bone to the mastoid process of the temporal and is periodical in its nature; dull headache in right ride of head; in the morning on rising a dull pain in occiput, and a slight tendency to throbbing in right side of head; headache in the top of the head, in the left occipital region, then changing to the sides and vertex; a settled, dull, dragging headache, mainly in the occiput, mastoid, and upper cervical region, extending to the shoulders; relieved when. sitting by reclining the head and shoulders on a high pillow. These last symptoms delineate a form of headache very often met with, and in which Gelseminum is a specific remedy. No remedy has a greater influence over the circulation of the blood in the vessels of the brain. It causes intense hypernemia of that organ, which stops just short of inflammation. But its paralyzing influence on the great reactive forces of life, prevents that termination by destroying the reactive power of the system. In this respect it differs from Bellad., Stram., and Quinine. CLINICAL REMARKs. —It is homceopathic to that intense and overwhelming congestion of the brain which often attacks children during the period of dentition. In these cases the nervous energies soon lose their integrity. No reaction comes on, and the patient dies comatose, or in feeble convulsions. Owing to its primary homceopathicity to this condition, Gelseminum should be used in the second or third decimal dilution, repeated every fifteen minutes. It is also homceopathic to Coup de soliel, a condition very similar to the above. In the so-called'" brain fever " of children and adults, it will be found beneficial in alternation with Aeon., Bry., Bell., or Hyos.: In inflammation of the membranes of the brain, it will be found a valuable auxiliary to other well-known and reliable remedies in that affection. It is homceopathic to many varieties of headache, in which it has been successfully used, both by homceopathic and allopathic physicians. In nervous headaches, where the pain commences in the cervical portion of the spinal column, and spreads thence over the whole head, it will afford prompt and timely relief. Dr. Pattee says: "-Headache of the nervous kind may often be relieved, and I have found no one medicine so useful in this troublesome disease." Hemicrania when accompanied by abnormal symptoms of the eyes, such as dimness of sight or double vision, or with great sensitiveness to all sounds, will be promptly relieved by it. The so-called nervous sick headache, will generally be arrested by a few doses of a low dilution of Gelseminum, while the true sickheadache, which arises from gastric derangement, will only be palliated by this remedy; a cure can only be effected by proper GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 193 inflamed and weak, with great flow of tears at intervals; great heaviness of eyelids. Pains of a shooting character in the frontal sinus, extending to the'eyes and, jaws. The pain in the eye is of a pricking character, extending from the bridge of the nose to the'eye. Pains deep in the ball of the left eye, extending from above downwards. Pain in the eyes is of a pricking character, extending from the centre to the angle. The pains seem to wind round the right eye. Pain extending from the bridge of the nose to the eye. Deep-seated pain in the eye of the left side, extending from above downwards. Smoky appearance before the eyes, with pain above them. Total blindness ensued in a very short time after taking thirty drops with violent dizziness. LT (NICxL REMkRRKS.-Gelseminum has a remarkable and peculiar affinity for the organs of vision.'No other remedy except Bell., so promptly and so specially affects the eyes. It must become, in time, a-valuable homesopathic remedy for many serious internal and external diseases of these organs. Before its relaxing effects are felt in the general muscular system, its local effects upon the eye-lids become apparent. The lids feel heavy, and are lifted with difficulty. After a time complete paralysis of the lids obtain. This constitutes an affection designated by opthalmic writers as Ptosis. It may arise from paralysis of the levator' muscle, or from an affection of the third pair of nerves. Gelseminum may cause Ptosis by inducing either of those conditions. But there is some reason to believe that the Ptosis caused by this drug may have a deeper seated origin. Mackenzie (Diseases of the Eye) says:-" The cerebral variety may be either sudden or slow; the sudden, arising after fatiguing exertion, violent mental excitement, exposure to the direct rays of the sun, intoxication, blows on the head, concussion of the body, etc. The slow, from organic changes going on in the brain. The disease often wears an apoplectic aspect." Mackenzie gives several cases, evidently caused by congestion of the brain. It is to such cases of Ptosis that Gelseminum will be found curative. It will probably be found efficient in the Ptosis of drunkards, from exposure to the sun, and the so-called rheumatic variety. It is eminently homceo. pathic to those cases caused by paralysis of the third pair of nerves. Diplopia- is another prominent and primary effect of Gelseminum. Double vision, according to Mackenzie, may proceed from paralysis of some of the muscles of the eyoballs. Doubtless Goelsominum causes such a form of this disease, and would be found curative to paralytic cases. But diplopia often proceeds from a congested state of the encephalon. I suspect that Gelseminum is homaeopathic to such a morbid state, as also to the Diplopia caused by alcohol and chloroform, to which it seems to have a great resemblance in many respects. Gelseminunm is homonopathic to asthenopia or debility of the eyes; in those cases of weakness of sight caused by exhaustion of the nerve from over-exertion of the eyes, especially when accompanied by dimness of sight; feeling of weight in the head and eyes, with some dryness and double vision. It is not indicated in chronic 25 GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 195 more especially candle or lamplight, which had resisted Phosphorus and Conium, and was probably caused by an idiopathic over-sensitive state of the optic nerve, as there was no trace of inflammation. I used drop doses of the tincture, however. Dr. Peters declares Belladonna to be antipathic- to photophobia. It must resemble Gelseminum in this particular symptom, and probably many others. Under the action of Gelseminum. the pupils are always dilated. I have never witnessed contraction. Aconite on the contrary, generally causes contraction of the pupils.. It will be well to bear this fact in mind, as it is an. important diagnostic symptom in many cerebral diseases. Ears.-Rushing and roaring in the; ears; sudden and temporary loss of hearing; the pains which ascend from the back to the occiput often affect the ears; digging in, the right ear; stitches; pain behind both ears. CLINICAL REMARKS.- There: are no instances on record of its being used in affections of the ear. One of the symptoms of catarrh in the head, or a common cold, is roaring in the ears, with sudden deafness. In such cases it might prove of benefit. It may be found of service in neuralgic otalgia, also in paralytic deafness. Coe says, " The diluted tincture dropped into the ear will soften the accumulation of hardened cerumen, and relieve the ringing roaring, from diseased secretion."' Nose. —Watery discharge from the nose; sneezing with dull headache; tingling in. nose; bloody mucusdischarge. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Dr. Douglas considers it a specific for colds in the head, accompanied by a discharge of watery fluid from the nose, hoarseness, cough, soreness in the throat- and chest. Dr. D. W. Rogers prized it highly in an epidemic of influenza in which he tested it. It: has. been a valuable remedy in my practice in mild and severe attacks of influenza, with loss of smell, coryza, headache, etc. Dr. Pattee' says, "In coryza, or cold in the head, this is one of the best remedies I have; ever used; it cures the severest cases in from twelve to forty-eight hours." Face.-A papulous eruption on the face, very nearly resembling measles; erythema of the face and neck; heavy, besotted appearance of the face; sensations of stiffness in the muscles of the jaws; the muscles of the face seemed to contract, especially the orbicularis oris, somewhat impeding speech:; numbness of the face; pale face; cold face, covered with perspiration. [Toxical effects.] Itching of small points on. the face; pimples on the temporal:ridge; yellow complexion. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It has been used successfully by myself, and some other: homceopathists, in the treatment of facial neuralgic&. It cured one case of neuralgia of the infra-orbital nerve, which did not yield to Acon. or Bell. One drop of the tincture was given every hour, and the diluted tincture rubbed on the affected part. Dr. Coe says, "Neuralgia, when arising from functional disturbances of the nervous system, is successfully treated with Gelseminuml." It is best indicated, when, in connection with the pain, there are contractions and twitching of the muscles near the portion 196 NEW HOM(EOPATHIIC PROVINGS. of the face affected; also in those cases accompanied with extreme general nervousness, and loss of control over the voluntary muscles, giving rise to odd, irregular motions. Dr. Douglas has found it curative in several cases of prosopalgia. Prof. Ludlam writes me, "In some cases of orbital neuralgia, characterized by distinct paroxysms of acute pain, of a quotidian type, located along the superciliary ridge, especially over the left eye, with contractions of the eyelids, and a peculiar expression in the eye of the affected side —the organ appearing to the observer as if the patient were laboring urnder a maddening delirium, the opposite eye appearing quiteno: mal, meanwhile-we have given the Gelseminum with good effect. In one example, where Quinine had failed at the hand of another physician, the Gelseminum affordprompt relief. In most cases thus remedied, the relief of suffering has been gradual, the pain tapering off quietly and imperceptibly. We have never employed it locally in this disorder. To speculate upon its modus operandi would perhaps be of little service, but that it has the property of interrupting certain nervous disorders, of which the more prominent system is their periodicity, there can be no question. The introduction of the element of time, into the organism, whether viewed in a physiological or pathological light, is one of the most marvelous and entertaining phenomena connected with the history of the species; and any remedy capable of relieving abnormalities of this function-if such we may style it-in any of their protean forms, merits our study and most earnest attention. If it be demonstrated by actual experiment that the Gelseminum is capable of palliating and removing a local hyperaesthesia of the supra-orbital nerves, or indeed of any other nerves, the profession should be made aware of this fact; and it is for this reason that we are led to record our own limited experience in the direction indicated." It may prove useful against erythema of the face, also to certain palpulous eruptions of the face, not of a constitutional character. The sensations of tension, stiffness, and contraction of the muscles of the face and jaws, would seem to indicate that it might be useful in some cases of Trismus. (Scuttellaria causes simnilar symptoms.) Acting upon this suggestion I once gave it to a female patient, who, in a hysterical attack of unusual severity, had such rigidity of the muscles surrounding the mouth and jaws, that it resembled an attack of tetanus. The jaws could not be forced open, nor hardly the lips. I succeeded in getting two or three drops between her teeth. In eight or ten minutes the jaws began to gradually relax, and in a short time had assumed their normal condition. In Erysipelas of the face, the internal and external use of Gelseminum is sometimes of much benefit as a palliative remedy. Teeth and Jaws. —Stiffness of the jaws; difficulty of opening the mouth; on the right side, pain extends from the last back tooth up to the temple; pains of a shooting character in the frontal sinus, extending to the eyes and jaw. CLINICAL REMARkIS. -In some cases offacial neuralgia, especially in nervous females, when the jaws seem to be spasmodically affected, Gelseminum may be useful in combating that symptom. In GELSEMINUM SEMPERIVIREN S. 197T Odontalgica from a cold, or when purely nervous, Gelseminum may be useful. It is said that a bit of cotton wet in the tincture and applied to the tooth, or pushed: into a cavity, will relieve the pain. Mouth and Tongue. —Dryness of the mouth; astringent sensation in the mouth; thickly coated tongue; painful dryness in the fauces; tongue red; tongue red, raw, and painfuhl; sensation as if the tongue was paralyzed, impeding speech; partial paralysis of the glottis and tongue. (Toxical effects.) Tongue coated with light, whitish coat; several times during the day saliva was found colored yellowish, and all the latter part of the day a bad, foul taste and bleath; yellowish white fur on tongue; yellow coat on tongue. CLINICAL REMAKs. —-From its effects upon the tongue and glottis, we may find it curative in many cases of irritation, or paralysis of those parts. Throat.-Dryness; irritation and soreness of the fauces; difficulty of swallowing; paralytic dysphagia; when vomiting, the fluids passed through the nostrils; acute sensation of heat and astringency. (Toxical effects.) Painful sensation of something having lodged in the Esophagus. I once observed the following symptoms, which occured in a woman, to whom it had been given to arrest daily hysteric convulsions. The patient had never experienced similar symptoms before. The tinc. Gels. was given in doses of ten drops every four hours. The spasms were much relieved, and their periodicity broken up, but on the second day of its administration there appeared dryness andburning of thefances; red tongue inflamed in the middle; severe burning in the cesophagus, from the mouth to the stomach; spasmodic sensation, and cramplike pains in cesophagus; hawking up of bloody matter. During the spasms, bloody, brown foam would run out of the mouth. The burning sensations at times seemed intolerable; deglutition was painful; food and drinks, warm, aggravating. At this juncture I was called, and for the relief of these symptoms gave Arsenicum 3d, then Carbo vegetabilis 3d, with mucilaginous dripks, but without much benefit. A more careful study of the symptoms determined me to try Phosphorus. Pellets of the second dilution were given with prompt success; relief followed in a few minutes after the first dose, and in a few days the symptoms disappeared. In this case there must have existed CEsophagitis,-a true inflammation of its mucous tissue. As the Gelseminum was taken largely diluted with water, it must have been a specific and not a mere local effect. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It may be found a valuable remedy in inflammation and irritation of the aesophagus, from acrid secretions of the stomach. Dr. White, of Coldwater, Mich., praises the Gelseminum highly in Tonsilitis, and inflammation of the pharynx, palate, and uvula, He considers it equal to Belladonna in Scarlatinous Angina. I have only used it in slight catarrhal inflammations of the fauces and tonsils, in which it seemed to act favorably. It would seein to be perfectly specific to paralysis of the glottis, and all other portions of the organs of' deglutition. In all the above affections, the medium or high dilutions are best indicated, especi 198 NEW HOMneOPATHIC PROVINGS. ally if the patient be susceptible to the action of the drug; if not, large doses must be used. Its action on the throat resembles very much the effects of Belladonna. Dr. Douglas advises it in inflammation of the tonsils, and other throat affections.. In the spasmodic affections of the throat, so frequent in hysteric females, it is superior to any other drug, but will have to be given in-material doses. Dr. Lodge, reports, that the G'elseminum has proved very useful in cases of paralysis succeeding diphtheria, particularly in paralysis of the organs of deglutition and aphonia. He relates the following case: "A young man of 18 who had been treated for diphtheria by an allopathic physician was found with the following symptoms: great prostration; partial paralysis of the right side; desire for food, but difficulty of swallowing, and vomiting after taking ever so little; cannot speak above a whisper; great difficulty in articulation; cough with expectoration of fi-othy mucus streaked with blood; severe pain in different parts of the body, immediately after lying down, preventing sleep; pulse 120, and small. He had been kept up by stimulants. Treatment-Gelseminum tincture, five dops in half a tumblerful of water; teaspoonful: every hour. Commenced the medicine at 3, P..M.; rested better the following night; pains very much less; next day could swallow easier;: in four days could swallow well and partook moderately of roast turkey, with relish. The improvement continued under the use of the Gelseminum, all the symptoms disappearing, except those of bronchial irritation, which Gel. did not remove. Phosph. and the ordinary remedies were then resorted to, and the cure completed. This youth is now in the enjoyment of good health. Taste, Appetite, Gastric affections, &c.-Thirst during the sweat; mawkish taste; clammy feverish taste; great hunger; eructations, nausea; hiccough; yellowish-white coating of the tongue, with fetid breath; alternate increase and loss of appetite, slight nausea; sour eructations; bitter taste; bad, foul, spoiled taste and breath, with frequent need to rinse the mouth, or spit; raising of tasteless, semi-solid matter in the oesophagus, with flatus. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is homceopathicto loss of appetite from debility of the stomach, or a paralytic state of the organs of digestion, or increased appetite caused by active hypceremia of the coats of the stomach. It does not seem to be homceopathic to many gastric conditions, as it rarely causes nausea or eructations. It does not induce vomiting, like Verat. viride, Ipecac., or Tart. emet. It only causes vomiting when taken in large quantities'; then: it:irritates by its bulk and acridity only. If useful: in any variety of vomiting, it is in that form which arises from atony of the stomach,; in which case Nux vom., Iron, and China are better. Stomach.-Feeling of emptiness and; weakness in the stomach and bowels; distension of the stomach with pain and nausea; sensation as of something wanting in the epigastric region:; rumbling, and dull pains in the epigastrilum, relieved by expulsion of flatus; burning in the stomach extending up to the mouth. CLINICAL REMXARKs.-Sensations of great weakness, emptiness, GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 199 "goneness" at the stomach, arises from a debilitated state- of the great sympathetic nerve, and may be uncomplicated with any other morbid state, in which case Gelseminum may be useful, in small doses. It may, however, arise from congestion of the portal system, and a torpid state of the liver, in which case Nux vom., Aeon., Lept., Pod. or'Mer. would be applicable, alternated with Gelsem. It is often caused by uterine congestion, or prolapsus, when Cimicifuga, Helonias, or Sepia must be given. Ignatia, Coffea, or Thea, in cases caused by mere nervous excitement, or sudden emotion. It is primarily homeopathic to accumulation of flatus in the stomach,:distention, eructations and dull pain, probably caused by want of tone in the muscular fibres of that organ. For such symptoms the 2d or 3d dilutions will suffice. It is secondarily homceopathic to many forms-gastralgia, cardialgia, cramps in the stomach, and all spasmodic conditions of that organ. It is homceopathic to congestion of the stomach, with hyperaemia of its mucous lining. The svmptoms indicating its use are: sensation of a heavy load, with weight, tension, and dull pain; sometimes with empty, faint, sensations in the epigastrium, and a false hunger-a kind of gnawing. Of late, the Gelseminum is much used in all active hcemorhages, by the Eclectic and Allopathic schools. They rely upon its sedative power. Many other remedies, however, will prove more useful in these affections. In active haemorrhages, Hamaml., Ipecac., and Erigeron; in the passive variety, Trillium, Terebinthina, and Sulph. acid, will be found efficient remedies. Abdomen and Stool.-Rumbling and rolling in the abdomen, with emission of flatus above and below; periodical pains in the abdomen, with yellow diarrhcea coming on in the evening; pain in the left iliac region; bowels loose, but great difficulty to discharge anything-; there seems to be great strength in the sphincter muscles; dull pain in bowels, which becomes quite severe towards morning; dull aching pain in the umbilical region; palpitation of muscles of the abdomen, which continued about three minutes; slight pain in the transverse colon; gnawing pain in the transverse colon. Seventeen hours after taking the drug, was awakened by:severe gripings in the lower abdomen, soon followed by a very natural stool, but followed by no diminution of pain until another large, deeply bilious discharge; followed by instant relief of pain..Evacuation of flatulence both ways; movements of flatus in the lower bowels; slight colicky feeling, as if the bowels would be moved, and constant eructations of wind and bland fluid. At breakfast, dull-ache on the rightside of theihead; gastric oppression; had to loosen the waistbands; after which colicky sensations to the left of the navel, as if a stool would shortly be passed; slow stool, leaving:a sensation of more remaining to be passed, and of abdominal repletion. Pain- behind the fifth rib, to the left of the stenum, from flatus relieved by eructation. Stool at first consistent, then papescent, bilious, homogeneous, preceded all the morning by flatulence. Coincident with the intoxicated feeling, gastralgia and colic. Colicky pains below the navel, extending to the testes, and causing flatus; relieved by its expulsion; stool of a deep yellow 200 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. color and papescent; soft, bilious stool, preceded by threatenings of diarrhoea; Colic; attempted stool, much wind only passed; teacolored, semi-solid stool; dull pains in the abdomen; sharp pains in the bowels with stools of a light creamy color and pappy consistence:; sleep disturbed by lancinating pains in abdomen, relieved by copious discharges of flatus; intoxicated feelings, with painless but slightly diarrhceic stool; tenderness of the abdominal parietes. Writers bf the dominant and eclectic schools have decreed that Gelseminum does not act as an internal irritant, or a purgative; they assert that it is not known to increase any of the intestinal secretions. Homcepathic provings seem to lead us to different conclusions, as many of the above abdominal symptoms demonstrate. CLINICAL REMARrS.-If Gelseminum be homceopathic to Colic, it is to the spasmodic and flatulent. As either of these varieties may run into and induce the other, we will consider themin one paragraph. Flatulence is generally caused by the imperfect digestion of articles of food, some kinds of which, such as raw vegetables, and substances of a fermentable nature, are more prone to have that effect. But in a perfectly healthy state of the digestive organs, all varieties of food may be eaten with impunity. The powers of digestion then, must be morbidly enfeebled before flatulent or spasmodic colic can ensue. Any cause, therefore, which is capable of debilitating digestion, may act as a cause of flatulence. In Peritonitis, we cannot expect much specific benefit from Gelseminum except from its power to control the fever, and the nervous erethism from excessive pain. While it might not be as valuable as Aconite, it would be better than Veratrum viride or Tartarus emeticus. An external application of the tincture in peritoneal inflammation might allay the pain somewhat. I have used Aconite for that purpose with the best results. In Enteritis it may prove more valuable. As it causes congestion and hypera3mia of the intestines, it may prove homceopathic to the first stages of acute Enteritis. It will probably blie useful to restrain the spasmodic action of the bowels, which is often a distressing symptom of this disease. In Neuralgia of the Intestines I have found the tincture, in single drop doses, given every fifteen minutes, to be a successful remedy. The symptoms were acute, lancinating pains in the bowels, with great agitation and restlessness, cold hands and feet, rapid pulse, and a tendency to general spasms. In Strangulated hernia, the Gelseminum in sufficient pathogenetic doses, ought to be a most valuable aid. More relaxing than Chloroform or Lobelia, or Opium, it is surprising that physicians and surgeons of the other schools have not resorted to its use. It would be the first medicine I should resort to, and no remedy holds forth greater promise of usefulness in such dangerous accidents. Its internal administration would be aided much by external application. In Diarrhceaj Gelseminum may prove useful when the stools are bilious, papescent, and accompanied by much flatulence; also when theire is much nervous prostration —more weakness than the discharge could cause. It will not be found useful in diarrhcea with watery, mucous, or profuse GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 201 discharges; or in looseness from indigestion. Dr. Morgan noticed that while proving the drug, any exciting news would bring on "threatenings of diarrhcea." This fact is suggestive. We know that in certain impressible people, whose nervous systemhas become enervated,,any fright, excitement, or emotion will cause a temporary looseness of the bowels.' Now, the effects of Gelseminum on the system are just such as would make it homceopathic to such conditions and its effects. Dr. Lippe, of Philadelphia, reports to me, several cases of diarrhcea, caused by fright, grief, and depressing, emotions, treated with the 1000th dilution, a single dose sufficed. In Dysentery, so far as my experience goes, the results attained are very similar to those noticed from the use of Aconite, viz: sub. sidence of the inflammatory symptoms, disappearance of blood from the stools, less fever, and a mitigation of the tenesnmus. I have treated many severe caseskwith it, in alternation with Merc., Podoph., Ipecac. and Aloes. Besides its internal administration, I adopted the suggestion of Coe and others, and used the tincture in an enema, in the proportion of ten drops to four ounces of warm starch or gum water; injecting all at once, and repeating every few hours. It mitigated the severe tenesmus. In Constipation, Gelseminum does not appear to be primarily indicated, in many cases. It may be useful in simple retention of stool from deficiency of tone in the muscular coats of the intestines [in 2d and 3d dilution]. It may be useful, also, in constipation, from spasm of the muscular coats at some point in the intestinal tubes, in drop doses of tincture. In the Southern States it is much used, in infusion, as a domestic remedy for intestinal worms, and with alleged success. Dr. Coe advises the Gelseminum in half or one grain doses, two or three times a day, combined with Podophyllin and Santonin, and says it has proved effectual in expelling the ascaris lurmbricoides and tricocephalus dispar. I have had unusual success in treating worm affections with the Gelseminum, 2d trituration, alternated with Podophyllin 1st or 2d, and Santonin one-tenth, each in grain doses, two hours apart. After two or three days the worms are either expelled in large numbers, or the verminous symptoms all disappear. A weak dilu. tion of the tincture injected into the rectum, will often bring away large quantities of ascarides. Liver and Spleen. —The provings of Gelseminum so far do not show any pains or abnormal sensations referred to the hepatic or splenic regions. Its effect upon the alvine evacuations, however, show that it has some effect upon the liver. For instance, we have, "large, deeply bilious discharge; bilious, papescent stool; stool of deep yellow color, and papescent; soft bilious stool;" all denoting increased action of the liver. We have also, "tea-colored stool; stool of a light creamy color, and pappy consistence') indicating a deficient amount of bile in the evacuations. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Judging from these symptoms, we may cobsider it primarily homceopathic to some forms of bilious diarrhoea, probably from a relaxed condition of the biliary ducts, or the ductus communis choledochus, or it may be hepatic hypervemia. It iE probably primarily hommeopathic to passive congestion of the liver 226 202 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. denoted by prostration, and a languid circulation; languor, dullness, drowsiness, or depression of spirits; dimness of sight, and dull headache. Jauncdice, with prostration, clay-colored stool, etc. There are two symptoms above mentioned, viz.: tea-colored, [slatecolored?] and creamy, papescent stool, which indicate that Gelseminum causes either deficiency or retention of bile. Now, from what we know of the action of the medicine, it is hardly to be supposed that it can cause, primarily, any excessive secretion of bile; but it may cause deficient secretion, from atony of the liver, in which case the yellow coloring matter of the bile would fail to be eliminated from the blood, and its accumulation in the circulation would be a necessary consequence. This, Wood believes to be the most common origin of Jaundice. Gelseminum, 3d dilution, alternated with Mere., Leptandria, Podophyllum, would be most applicable in such conditions. The Gelseminum seems to have a specific effect upon the nerves and muscles of the rectum. Dr. W. H. White has seen it cause paralysis of the sphincter ani, with tendency to prolapsed rectum. Urinary Organs. —Urine rather increased in quantity; clear and watery; friequent micturition; frequent emission of clear and limpid urine, with seeming relief to the dullness and heaviness of the head; urine at times clear and limpid, at times milky and turbid. Urine much increased in quantity. [Bird, " Urinary Deposits," p. 210, says that it is characteristic of phosphatic urine to be pale and colorless; also that such urine deposits pale urate of ammonia, nearly white. Phosphatic urine is often foetid). "The effects of Gelseminum were dissipated within a few hours. As I have remarked an augmented secretion of urine, I suppose my kidneys eliminated the drug rapidly, and so prevented its action on the divers organic spheres." I [Hale] have noticed symptoms similar to the above, whilst under the influence of the drug; and in nearly every instance the profuse emission of watery urine was accompanied by transient chilliness, tremuloussness, and an evident alleviation of the sensations of heaviness of the head, dullness of mind, and dimness of sight. Several persons who made partial provings for me, noticed the same symptoms, with the alleviation. Contrasting the effects of Gelseminum on the urinary organs, with some of the phenomena of disease, and they become interesting and significant. In real Diabetes, Gelseminum cannot be of much service. It is probably not pathologically indicated. In XNephritis, Cystitis, Urethritis it may be used as we would use Aconite in similar diseases, viz: to reduce the local hyperaemia. In these affections we must rely entirely upon the-secondary action of the drug; using it in larger doses. In my practice it has benefited some cases of frequent urging to urinate, with scanty emission, attended with tenesmus of the bladder. In Enuresis,- Gelseminum ought to prove as valuable a remedy as Belladonna, for like that drug, it induces a paralytic state of all the sphincter muscles. Those cases, then, of involuntary micturition depending on a relaxed or paralytic condition of the sphincter muscles of the neck of the bladder, may be much benefitted, or GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIREKNS. 203 cured by the use of the dilutions of Gelseminum. Gelseminum will probably prove useful in spasms of the-ureters from the passage of Calculi. In this most painful affection, the object is to produce, in the promptest manner possible, a relaxation of the ureters. This is generally accomplished by the use of hot sitz baths, Chloroform,and Lobelia or Nux vom. Gelseminum, if properly administered, would prove as efficient as either of the above means, and secondarily more homaeopathic to the condition. In! that most distressing affection, Spasm of the bladder, it would certainly prove useful, by promptly relaxing the circular fibres of that organ. This disease is often, in the case of females, confounded with uiterine spasm, and in males with spasmodic colic. But in either disease Gelseminuml will prove a valuable remedy, aided in some cases by Cauloph., Cimicif.,Colocynth, or Nux vomica. Case reported by Dr. Neidhard -" Mr. T. S., one of the most celebrated artists in the United states, upwards of eighty years of age, was afflicted for more than four months with a constant involuntary discharge of urine, every quarter to half hour, day and night. The disease seemed to consist in a relaxed, paralytic condition of the sphincter muscles of the neck of the bladder. It was impossible for him to hold his water. Cantharides, Bromide of Potash, Dulcamara, and some other remedies were prescribed, without the slightest beneficial effect. It was now thought best to omit all remedies for several weeks, but without any improvement. Having lately studied-the pathogenetic effects of Gelseminum nitidum, it was resolved to try it in the above case. Five drops of the 2d dil. were administrred three times a day. In a few days its beneficial effects were already perceptible, and in the space of a week the whole disease was conquered, and has not returned now within six months.' Genital Organs. —(1) MEN. Some irritability of the right testis, and afterwards dragging pain in the same, extending to both groins, and the hypogastrium, followed by escape of flatus; irritation of small spots on the mucous surface of the prepuce, with surrounding congestion; painless redness about the orifice of the urethra; agreeable sensation during micturition, throughout the course of the uretha; involuntary emission of semen, without an erection. One of the most careful and conscientious provers inour ranks, writes me as follows: —" A seminal weakness, formerly removed by Conium, returned during this proving, and was the chief reason:why I discontinued it." This statement throws much light on the action of this remedy upon the male generative system, and accounts for its alleged usefulness in seminal emissions. My own provings of Gelseminum developed the following symptoms: In connection with the general prostration, accompanied by diuresis, there was always much flaccidity with coldness of the genital organs. CLINICAL REMARKs.-Gelseminum is primarily indicated in impotence from muscular paralysis and atony; in seminal emissions with or without amorous dreams, but caused in all cases by direct debility of the genital organs, or, rather, of the great nerves upon which depends their healthy condition. It is also secondarily honm 204 NEW HOMCEOPATHIIC PROVINGS. ceopathic to seminal emissions from excessive irritation of the organs of generation, either from emotional or local congestive causes, and when accompanied by a condition similar to Satyriasis. In the former cases, small doses of the dilutions mayprove efficient, but in the latter, large quantities will have to be admlinisteed-two or three drops of the tincture every two hours. I have used the first trituration of Gelseminum in cases marked by local itritation, and succeeded in effecting a cure, when other remedies had failed. Cases from allopathic authorities. Coe says:-" For spermatorrhcea, in connection with tonics we have found it of exceeding utility. It many cases it is better to administer the Gelseminum alone for several days, or until a remission of the symptoms is induced, and then follow with tonics-Cerasin, Lupulin, or Hydrastin." CASE 1.-From Keith's Journal, in a letter from a physician:"About four years ago, I was badly afflicted with spermatorrhbea, and had nearly despaired of finding relief, for I had tried every plan of treatment suggested by my medical friends. I acceded to your advice to try Gelseminum and took~ but four doses [of how much?] before the emissions ceased-; and by continuing the medicine my appetite returned, the peculiar: cadaverous hue of my face yielded to a niore healthy color, and, as subsequent years have proved, I was cured of my disease." In another number we have the following statement: " We believe it to be, in the treatment of spermatorrhcea, as near a specific as any medicine can bb. Administer the following powder each night, on retiring:-Gelseminum, one-half grain; Lupulin, three grains; mix. Gradually diminish the dose as the patient shows signs of improvement. We have cured several cases with from six to ten doses." The above prescription could only benefit those cases belonging to the irritative variety, due to some local congestion, or exalted. state of the nerves of those organs. The Lupulin alone has a deserved repiiutation for curing similar cases of the disease. In Gonorrhoea the Gelseminum has been much used, and highly praised by some enthusiastic eclectics. According to Coe, "Gelseminum has gained considerable repute in the treatment of Gonorrhaea. We have employed it for some three years past, in that disease, but have neverrelied on it exclusively. Our principal object in employing it, is to overcome the urethral inflammation and prevent chordee, and for these purposes we have found it reliable. We usually administer it at bed time, finding that the patient is more apt to enjoy a quiet night's rest thereby. We cannot say with certainty whether the Gelseminum possesses any specific alterative value in the above disease, or not, but we believe it does." He advises it in two grain doses, but small powders of the first decimal trituration, or repeated doses of the first dilution, will probably be found as useful, and less hazardous than the one large dose. Case. —Dr. J. S. Douglas states that some thirty years ago a patient came into his office with Gonorrhoea, of several months standing, which had been- improperly treated. One of his pupils begged him to allow him to treat the case, saying he' could cure the most obstinate case in a few days, with the root of Yellow Jes. GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 205 samine, A small handful of the root was put into a common junk bottle of whiskey, and the patient ordered, in a day or two, to take a tablespoonful of the mixture night and morning. He took but a few doses when he became much alarmed with the effect upon his eyes, thinking the medicine had destroyed his vision. Every symptom of gonorrhcea had, however, disappeared, and the cure was permanent. Since that time he has treated many cases with it, and invariably with the same success. Dr. Morgan writes me:"The Gelseminum is in repute for the cure of spermatorrhoea; and an allopath of my acquaintance uses the tincture in the very largest doses in Gonorrhcea with, as he asserts, perfect success, even in old cases. (2.) WOMEN7. —Besides the few pathogenetic symptoms which have observed, none of the provers of our school give us any symptoms of Gelseminum upon the organs of generation of women. The following symptoms came under my notice: Sensation of heaviness in the uterine region, with increase of the white, leucorrhceal discharge; a feeling of fullness in the hypogastrium [in a girl of 17]; slight uterine pain (to which she had not been subject); aching across the sacruin-a sensation as when the menses are coming on. [These symptoms appeared from taking five drops of the tincture every two hours-in a pregnant female in the ninth week. On examination, the os was slightly open,.and somewhat patulous. Notwithstanding the small amount of experience which the profession possess relative to the action of the Gelseminum on the organs of generation of wonmen, there seems to be considerable unanimity of opinion among Eclectic authors, regarding its effects in that direction. We will examine the testimony. ZDr. King, who seems to understand its sphere of action very well, and who has had much practical experience in the use of the medicine, says: "In obstetrics it has been efficaciously employed in dysmenorrhcea, gastralgia, cramps, and odontalgia - during pregnancy; in rheumatism of the uterus, rigid os uteri, hour-glass contraction, retained placenta, and puerperal fever, puerperal convulsions, etc. We will examine its merits in the above affections briefly' in detail: In,Dysmenorrhoea of a neuralgic or spasmodic character, the Gelseminum would undoubtedly prove beneficial in material doses; minute doses would fail to reach the malady, because dysmenorrhcea is not one of the primary effects of the drug. Its neuralgic and spasmodic symptoms are secondary. But in the congestive form the dilutions will be useful. In the inflammatory form, King advises it, in connection with tincture of Aconite, both in large doses. Coe asserts that "forrelieving the pain of Dysmenorrhlea we know of no single remedy equal to it."' He gives one-half grain of Gelseminum every two hours, and frequently alternates Caulophyllin or Viburnin with it; both of the latter remedies I know to be valuable in this affection. He further says:-" When caused by functional derangement we deem it specific; we have earned the gratitude of many sufferers by its employment." I would advise a candid trial of the remedy in the hands of homceopathists. In 208 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. Amenorrhcea, Coe advises it, and says the menses will frequently return under the use of half grain doses of Gelseminum, three times a day. In the congestive variety, induced by a cold, it will undoubtedly prove of service. in Abortion, King recommends it on the ground that it will have the same effect as blood-letting in preventing that accident. Coe says: "The opinion has been entertained by some that the Gelseminum is capable of producing abortion, but our experience with it, inclines us to the contrary belief. As before stated, when administered in small doses, it gently stimulates uterine contraction, but when given in large doses, it will arrest the progress of labor with much certainty. Still, we are unable to say that it will NOT produce abortion under some circumstances, although we have never seen any evidence of its power to do so, and we have administered it to women at all the different stages of utero gestation." Drs. White and Ford thought that when used in Yellow Fever, the Gelseminum rather prevented abortion, as one woman so treated, was in the sixth month of pregnancy, and did not abort. Still, my observations c6nvince me that under some circumstances the medicine may be capable of causing abortion. The pathogenetic symptoms above noticed would go far to substantiate such a belief. Let it be borne in mind that anything which has a severe depressing influence upon the nervous and vascular systems may cause miscarriage. Thus, profuse bleedings, a chill, debility from acute disease, grief, fright or other depressing emotions, will in some constitutions tend to such an accident. Now the effects of this drug on the female organism, are very similar to the above, and may therefore under similar circumstances bring on the same results. Its general action on the uterus will be considered further on. In the vomiting and gastrodynia of pregnant females, when of a spasmodic character, Gelseminum may prove beneficial. Some writer has called, attention to the similarity between this vomiting and sea-sickness. It is a curious fact that the remedies found beneficial in one, are those most useful in the other. Thus Nux vomica, Cocculus, and Chloroform are the remedies for sea-sickness, and I have found them equally reliable in the severe vomitings of pregnancy. As Gelseminum bears a remarkable resemblance to the last mentioned agent, I would advise its use in single drop doses, in cases where the usual medicines had failed to give relief, and where there was present considerable nervous, debile irritability. The troublesome cramps of pregnancy, although generally amenable to the usual Verat. alb., Coloc., and Nux vom., may be controlled as readily by the use of Cauloph., Vibur., and Gelseminum. Dr. King in his Obstetrics, speaks of it in hour-glass contractions, and inversion of the uterus, in order to aid manual operations, but doubts its safety under all circumstances. In those cases it would be expected to have many of the effects of Chloro. form, especially relaxation. He also strongly advises its use in puerperal convulsions. Cases reported by Dr. J. S. Douglas: Case ist,-On the night of the 3d inst., (Nov. 1861) a young married woman, of highly nervous temperament, and seven months GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 20o.'pregnant with her first child, was attacked with violent convulsions, frequently repeated, and soon followed with complete unconsciousness, and the wildest delirium. This state of things continued till the afternoon of the 5th, when she was delivered of a dead foetus. The convulsions now ceased, but she continued in a state of wild delirium, incessantly talking and without a moment of sleep for three days and nights. During the next half day her delirium was somewhat more subdued, the incessant talk less furious, and she seemed to sleep once or twice for a minute or two. During all this time, the arterial action was inclined to be excessive, as in acute inflammatory disease, though no such state could be detected. This excessive action was successfully controlled by the frequent use of Aconite. I now resolved to try the effect of Gelseminum. She accordingly took tea spoonful doses of a mixture of three drops, third dilution, in one-half a tumbler of water. During the night, after two or three doses, she had three sleeps of from one to two hours, and in the morning gave the first evidence of consciousness. This, however, was of short duration. A few minutes of mental effort seemed to exhaust the power of the brain and she relapsed into wakeful delirium. But whenever she has become delirious and sleepless, the Gelseminum, in the above doses, has uniformly and promptly procured quietness and sleep. The intelligent nurse has come to rely implicitly upon it whenever needed. The patient has steadily improved fiom the above date to the present, Nov. 23d, though it has been necessary to give occasional intermediate doses of Aconite, which alone has controlled the excessive arterial activity. She now leaves her room, though her mind is weak, and wanders when too long excited. In this case it is evident that Gelseminum has uniformly and perfectly succeeded in quieting excessive nervous irritability and delirium, and procuring sleep, where Aconite, Bellad., Cham., Coffea, Hyos.,' Ign., Puls., Stram., etc., had proved powerless. Case 2nd. —On the 5th inst. I was called to see a lady eight months pregnant, the mother of four children, the two last of which had been born at about the same period (of eight months). All her labors had been exceedingly tedious, from three to six or seven days, apparently from the great rigidity and unyieldingness of the os uteri. In her last confinement she had violent puerperal convulsions. - When I was called on the 5th she had had - regular labor pains for three days, but, accustomed to protracted labors, she had not thought it time to send for me till she was seized with a convulsion, which was repeated before my arrival. I founde the pains quite active and frequent, but on making an examination not the least result was observable. The os uteri was not in the least developed, but rigid, and perfectly closed. With the vivid recollection of her last two labors, at the same period of eight months, their extreme tediousness, the violent and alarming convulsions which now bid fair to be continued through a labor of days-perhaps many days'; of all the exhaustive appliances formerly employed to. subdue the convulsions and to stop or 208 NEW IiOM(EOPATIJIC PROVINGS. hasten the premature labor, with.nearly all my time necessarily occupied with the case above related, no one will marvel at my extreme anxiety and perplexity. On reflection, as all other known means had, on the. former occasions, proved so fruitless, I resolved to try the effect of Gelseminum. It might, by its great sedative power, subdue the spasms; it might allay and put a stop to the premature labor pains. If it failed of accomplishing these objects, it might relax the rigidity of the os uteri, and thus facilitate the labor. She was not of a nervous, but a bilious temperament. I gave five drops of the tincture, directing it to be repeated after each spasm, or, if no spasm occurred, every hour unless the pains were abated, or she experienced some of the characteristic symptoms of the drug. After three doses I saw her. No more spasms had occurred.' The pains were unchanged. Directed one drop every two hours. Six hours after, the pains were nearly the same, but a very palpable change was effected in the state of the os uteri, which was now soft, relaxed, and sufficiently dilated to admit the finger easily. I had no doubt the labor would now go on, and fromn the much more rapid relaxation of the os uteri than on former occasions, would be much less tedious. I left to call again in six or eight hours, or to be notified if needed sooner. At my next visit the pains were much less frequent and much lighter. No symptoms from the drug. Continued one drop every four hours. On the following day, the pains had altogether ceased and the patient was feeling entirely comfortable. Three days since she was in her usual good health and attending to her usual duties. She was safely delivered at the proper time, and after an easy labor. Others can draw their own inferences from this case, and I will not comment upon it, except to say, it is obvious that Gelseminum accomplished in it what every hitherto known means had entirely failed to effect, on two precisely similar occasions, with the same patient., Case reported by Dr.:. A. Williams: —Mrs. S --—, a large woman of plethoric habit, about twenty-eight years of age, in her sixth month of pregnancy, was taken, April 25th, 1864, with flowing.,It not being very severe, the patient, from some cause, allowed it to continue to the 28th, when, thinking she was about to be confined, sent for me. (I attended -her through a case of the same kind the year previous.) On calling I found the above history, with the following condition: considerable flowing, but no pain.:On examination, I found the os slightly dilated, and at once proceeded with the usual remedies, to check the hemorrhage, but with no success, and the discharge continued until the eve of the 29th, when the waters were expelled. Immediately previous to the last act, she had had two or three quite severe pains. On examination I found the: os uteri rigid, with the orifice about the size of a three cent piece. As she was free from pain I put her on Caul., two grain doses every two hours. I continued this until the 30th, 11 A. M., when, on examination, I found no change. The patient had been comfortable, with the exception of slight nausea; I then gave her Caul., first dec. trit., three grain doses every two GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 209 hours, until the eve of the same day. Still no change. I then gave her Gelseminum fid. ext., two, drop doses, every hour. The following morning, May 1st, I called again. She had rested well, had flowed but very little, and concluded she was no better. I made an examination and found the os fully dilated, and the head of the fwetustpartly expelled. I very soon delivered her, and cut the cord; the child lived nearly an hour. The placenta was retained, and about ten minutes after the child was expelled, the os had contracted, and was rigid as before. I again gave her Caul., in its various potencies, with no success. I then gave Ergot, but got no effect except nausea. This occupied the time from May 1st, until the 3d, Friday, the os still rigid. I gave Gelsem. as before, and with the happiest results, as in a few hours the os uteri was fully dilated, and the placenta expelled. Mark, that during the whole course of this case there were no pains, except the few before the liquor amnii was discharged. The patient progressed finely, and in a few days was convalescent. The discharge was quite light after confinement, and of a pale color. In the treatment of the form of puerperal convulsions depending on Uraemia, I should place much reliance on the remedial powers of Gelseminum. It will be found of much service in moderating the violence of the fits,'as well as to run off by its diuretic effects, some of the urea and carbonate of ammonia upon which the primary morbid condition depends. Of the use of Gelseminum in rigid os uteri, Dr. King says: " It has within the last few years, been recommended to overcome this difficulty, and I have administered it in a considerable number of cases with benefit. It possesses an advantage over Lobelia in not causing nausea and vomiting, but as a general rule its influence is not so readily experienced as with that drug, and when once effected is of a more permanent character."?' (Do not give so much then, Doctor.) Prof. Cleveland, Dr. L. E. Miller, and many other writers eminent in the Eclectic and Allopathic schools speak very highly of the use of Gelseminum in difficult labor, from rigidity of the os or vagina. They consider it much more efficient, and its administration attended with less suffering and danger than Chlorof., Bellad., Lobelia or artificial dilatation. I think that Gelseminum, in rigidity of the os uteri, is superior to any remedy usually recommended in our school. It may be applied locally to the os, in the form of the glycerole of Gelseminum; one or two drams should be rubbed into the rigid os, with the finger. Croserio advises the administration of a few pellets of the 30th [!] of Belladonna. Jahr says, "If the neck should remain closed, and a hard rim should be felt all around the orifice, three globules of Belladonna dry upon the tongue will bring about the regular evolution of the progress of labor,s or "if the dilatation of the vagina proceed too slowly, or be too painful, a few doses of Coff., Sec., Puls., or Nux vom., will remedy this trouble." This latter prescription is much more scientific than the former for Coff., See. Puls., and Nux vom. undoubtedly cause rigidity of the vagina and os uteri, as a primary effect. But there i unot particle of proof that Bellad. does. On the contrary, the 27 210 NEW HOMCEOPATIIC PROVINGS. well-known and invariable primary effect of Belladonna is to cause paralysis or relaxation of all the sphincter muscles. Gelseminum has many points of resemblance to Belladonna, but none more similar than its effects on the sphincter and circular muscles, all of which are primarily relaxed, and even paralyzed. It dilates the pupil, paralyzes the glottis, relaxes the sphincter of the bladder and rectum, and those muscles of the os uteri and vagina, upon which their contractile power depends. While, then, it has a similar action to the Belladonna, it can be used with greater safety, for its effects are generally transient, and may be controlled, if excessive, by such a general remedy as common salt; or specific, such as Secale or Caulophyllum. The large doses of Gelseminum advised by Eclectics, are not necessary. From two to five drops of the tincture, or even first dilution, if good, will, in most cases, be fbund sufficient. There is one other argument for the use of Gelseminum in some difficult labors, which, if made reliable by the test of observation and experience, will bring the medicine into deservedly high repute. I allude to the statement made by several prominent writers, but particularly by Coe, whom I quote, as follows: "Some division of opinion exists in relation to the true action of this remedy upon the uterus. We have had considerable experience in the treatment of female disorders, and have used the preparations of Gelseminum quite extensively.: For five years past we have employed it as a parturifacient, and with better satisfaction than any other remedy. We use it for the purpose of relieving cramps, or other spasmodic difficulties, vertigo, nervous irritability, wakefulness and other symptoms accompanying gestation. It seems to prepare the system for the parturient effort, and labor is completed in an unusually short period of time. When administered in small doses, it gently stimulates uterine contraction, but when given in large doses it will arrest the progress of labor with much.certainty." The same writer seeks to account for this and other peculiarities of its action as follows: "Gelseminum is one of those medicines which are peculiarly governed in their action, by the quantity administered. Thus, in small doses it acts as a gentle stimulant and tonic to the nervous system, giving vigor and harmony of action; while in large doses it proves a powerful relaxant, completely prostrating the muscular system, and by over stimulating the brain and nerves, produces irregular and disturbed nervous action." This sentence undoubtedly embodies the real sphere of action of this wonderful remedy, as well as the true rationale of its curative powers in disease. The explanation is worthy the staunchest disciple of Hahnemann, for it indicates as strongly as words can, that it cures according to the law of Similia, i. e., it cures in small doses, that which it causes in large. Air Passages.-Paroxysms of hoarseness, with dryness of the throat; voice seems weak; sneezing followed by tingling and fulness in the nose; sneezing with dull headache; tingling in nose; paralysis of the glottis, with difficulty of swallowing; ineffectual efforts to articulate; voice thick, as if the tongue was too large; cough fiom tickling and dry roughness of the fauces; burning in the larynx and 212 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. or debility of the lungs,. of a nervous origin; and in passive congestion; it is secondarily indicated in all affections of the lungs and pleura., which are marked by erethism, or vascular irritation; or when congestion is to be feared, or is already present; also in all spasmodic affections of the lungs and diaphragm, such as convulsive hiccough, certain forms of asthma, spasms of the air passages, convulsive coughs, etc. In real Pneumonia and Pleurisy, it is not truly homaeopathic, but may be used with benefit. Dr. J. S. Douglas, says: "A word in regard to the homceopathicity of Gelseminum in inflammations, as pneumonia, etc., etc. In all inflammatory diseases, there is a forming or congestive stage, characterized by chilliness, depressed pulse, etc. According to my view, to this stage, and this only, is Gelseminum homieopathic, When this stage is passed, and congestion gives place to inflammation, the indication for Gelseminum ceases, and that for Aconite begins. This is the clear distinction which I make between these two valuable drugs. I do not, however, mean to exclude Aconite from the congestive stage of inflammatory diseases, but I believe Gelseminum still more strongly indicated." The remarks of Dr. Marcy, relative to the action of Aconite on the lungs, are perfectly applicable, it appears to me, to Gelseminum:-'"It is highly probable, as I have already observed, that many of the pulmonary symptoms, produced by Aconite, are due to its specific action upon the brain, rather than any direct impressions on the lungs. Normal respiration and circulation can only be sustained by an unimpaired condition of the brain. Even when the impression upon this organ is slight, we observe an immediate change in the action of the heart and lungs. The inhalation of Chlorofobrm or Ether, for example, which exercises a specific influence upon the brain, causes an almost immediate acceleration of respiration and circulation-the pulse often rising to 140, and the respirations to 26 or more, in the minute.." I have called attention already to the similarity of Gelseminum to Chloroform. It is probable that as soon as the Gelseminum produces a decided impression upon the brain, the symptoms of pulmonary sedation cease, because counteracted by the cerebral influences, and we have acceleration of the respiration and circulation. Let it be borne in mind too, that in some spinal diseases, various spasmodic affections of the lungs set in. The influence of Gelseminum on the spinal cord may induce similar symptoms. Dr. Douglas, says: "In the first stage of the disease (Pneumonia) as in most other inflammatory diseases, Gelseminum is capable of breaking up the- disease in the first twenty-four hours, by producing free perspiration. Repeat it as occasion requires till the fever and pain abate. Gelseminum is more prompt and effectual than Aconite and ]Bryonia if given at an early stage." Back and Neck. —Dull, aching pain in back, particularly in lumbar and sacral region; pains in the neck, which confine themselves to the upper part of the sterno-cleido mastoid muscles directly back of the parotid glands; dull pain under scapula of left side; pain in the back as in the cold stage of ague, (in many cases); chilliness GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 213 and chills running up the back from the loins to the nape of the neck; rheumatic pains in the left side of the neck; contractive sensations in the right side of the neck; a settled, dull, dragging headache, mainly in the occiput, mastoid and upper cervical region, extending to the shoulders, relieved when sitting, and by reclining the head and shoulders on a high pillow; aching in the left anterior part of the trapezius muscle; aching in the sacro iliac and lumbar regions, and the lower part of the left thigh, as when a fever is commencing. CLINICAL REMARKS, —NO remedy so certainly causes 3Myalgia by its seconadary action, than Gelseminum, and no remedy is more certain to relieve such pains, temporarily, at least. (See Dr. Moore's case on page 180). It is most useful in the acute variety; when chronic, myalgia mustbe treated by China, Nux, Helonias, etc. (See Inman's treatise on myalgia.) It is homceopathic and curative, as I have often verified, in many of those aches and pains in the back, shoulders, neck, and occiput, which so often precede or follow attacks of ague or nervous fevers; also when these or similar pains are of a neuralgic nature, arising from some form of spinal irritation; or come on as the result of a cold, having somewhat of a rheumatic character. It will doubtless prove to be homaeopathic to many of those anomalous cases of spinal irritation, or chronic myelitis, which resist the usual remedies. In paralytic conditions of the lumbar or sacral muscles, it is especially indicated. Upper Extremities.-Deep seated, dull aching pains in upper and lower extremities, and joints generally; severe pain in both upper extremities; seemed to be deep-seated in muscles; the pains were most in left arm and fore-arm; severe aching pain in left elbow; rheumatic pain in extremities; sharp shooting in last phalangial joint of right thumb; dull pains in muscles of right arm and shoulder, and some of the time in the left arm; sharp pain in right wrist; weakness and numbness of both arms; coldness of the wrists and hands; itching about the elbows and fore arms; some heat and dryness of the hands; the palms feel hot and dry; drawing-ache about the left elbow. From large doses the arms become powerless, with loss of voluntary motion; sensation remains intact. In dogs, poisoned with Gelseminum, the fore legs were not paralyzed until some time after the hinder limbs. In attempting to walk-dragging the posterior extremities-the fore legs tottered as if weak, and finally gave way; then clonic contractions seized them. It would seem to be homceopathic to paralysis of the arms, with loss of motion, but not sensation (the reverse is true of Aconite), also when the paralyzed arms are affected with cramps arid contractions. It may be found useful in some forms of rheumatism of the arms, induced by a cold, and not inflammatory, attended with loss of motion. Lower Extremities. —Dull pain in the left thigh; dull pain in left humeral region, also in lower extremities-these are deep-seated in the muscles; rheumatic pains in bones and joints of extremities, and in the back; deep-seated aching pains in muscles of extremities, 214 NEW HIOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. relieved by motion; severe pain in calves of both legs; paroxysmal pain in the left lower extremity; shooting pain in calf of right leg; violent shooting pain in the leg, which comes on in paroxysms; every one is more violent; the pain is half way between the knee and ankle; pain in hip of left side, confining itself tothe joint; it at times extends to the outside of the thigh; the pain is of a drawing, sharp character, and much worse on motion; pain in little finger and the one next to it; pains in left foot and ankle, with spasmodic contraction and drawing pains in the toes; excessive drawing, contracting, and crampy pains in the lower limbs, extending from the thighs to the toes-the pains seem to proceed from the bones as well as the muscles; excessive crampy pains in the whole right foot; during and after a walk, the symptoms are much aggravated; it seems as if the limbs could not be made to move another step; when the pains are felt above the knee, they are not felt below, and vice versa; excessive drawing and contracting pains in the gastrocnemius muscle of the left leg; the other pains in the limbs all abate while sitting; this does not; no position seems to relieve it; drawing and aching pains, which seem to come from bones; heaviness and feeling of weight in the limbs; coldness of the extremities, especially the feet, often severe; feet feel as if in cold water, aguish feeling, with pain in the legs; pain in popliteal spaces; aching in the left rectus femoris muscle, and drawing in the right calf; transient crampy pain in the inner part of the thigh when walking: rheumatic pain in the right knee, and left side of the neck-the latter when lying down; the former when walking; while walking, a feeling in the knee joint as if the relation of the bones were deranged, and did not fit, as in partial luxation; pains in the left thigh and knee; sudden catch or twist in the inside of the patella. Paralytic symptoms made themselves manifest throughout the entire muscular system-first experienced in the knee, and then in the inferior tibial region, increased unto falling. Loss of voluntary motion in the lower extremities; fatigue of the lower limbs after slight exercise; soreness in the gastrocnemii muscles as if they had been beaten. The paralysis caused by Gelseminum is first manifested in the lower limbs, which become weak and then powerless, but with no loss of sensation, at least not until the near approach of death. It seems to be homceopathic to rheumatic (myalgic) pains in the legs, accompanied by crampy sensations and weakness of the knees.-(See case reported under heading "Throat.") Skin. —The Gelseminum produces a very marked eruption in most of the cases. It appears on the face most frequently, but sometimes also upon the back, and between the shoulders. It is papulous, very much the color of measles, which it closely resembles, but the papula are more distant and distinct. Though very conspicuous, they are attended with little or no sensation-the patient being unaware of any eruption until he happens to see himself. Persons have frequently been asked what was the matter, or if they had the measles, when they were not aware of the eruption. It generally appears the second or third day of the proving, and GELSEMINUM SEMPERVIRENS. 215 continues one or two weeks more. An eruption of vesico-pustules -painless, but having no other analogy with measles —appeared, during proving, on the inside of the thighs. Intense but transient itching of small points on the face, at the edge of the hair, and on the scalp; pimple, quite sore, having the areola embracing the diameter of a pea, red and inflamed (such an eruption not experienced at any other time). The pimples appeared on the forehead and neck, sore to the touch, and seemed like a small cutaneous induration, or minute furunculi. They finally disappeared without suppuration. During its use in yellow fever a constant erythemna of the skin was noticed, and a redness of the tongue; neither appearing during the administration of Veratrum viride. CLINICAL REMAIRKIS. —Its action on the skin is at once specific and peculiar taking into consideration its catarrhal symptoms, we may consider it indicated in measles, as well as some other painless non-suppurating eruptions. Its use in erysipelas and exanthematous fever, has already been alluded to. Dr. Coe writes: "bWe have found the tincture an excellent remedy for poisoning by the Rhus toxicodendron, and Rhus radicans. Dilute the tincture with from four to eight parts of water, and apply as directed for erysipelas, keeping the parts constantly moistened with it. If there be any febrile excitement present, administer the tincture internally at the same time. * * * We have experienced the value of this remedy in our own person, and can recommend it as reliable. Other practitioners have used it with success. * * Many forms of skin diseases [what?] may be benefited and cured by the internal and external application of the tincture." Sleep.-Very restless; during the night was very restless with unpleasant dreams after midnight; but little inclination to sleep; when it does come on, dreams much of business, etc.; disposition to sleep; a sort of stupor; cannot keep the eyes open; is obliged to lie down and sleep. Drowsiness and long sound sleep are very general symptoms. Drowsiness with dimness of vision; kind of drunken stupor; heaviness of the eyes as after night watching; at first it seemed to cause drowsiness;' afterwards aggravated the habitual sleeplessness; unusually sound morning sleep, with difficult, weary waking (after taking twenty-five drops the day and evening previous); languor and drowsiness when trying to study; slept an hour in the afternoon, and on being roused felt unwilling at first to move; eyes transiently bloodshot. It cannot be considered a narcotic, ranking with opsium. Still it has some narcotic traits, in common with Aconite, Chloroform, Alcohol, or Hyoscyamus. Unless taken in large quantities, it rarely induces sleep by its direct effects, but it may give sleep by removing nervous erethism. It more resembles the so-called nervines, uScutellaria, Gypripedium, etc. We have the following opinions of writers of other schools: Professor Tully considered it a narcotic, and places it in a group with Spigelia. " It must be borne in mind that Gelseminum is narcotic. Some division of opinion exists as to whether the Gelseminumn has a narcotic property. We should think that a very slight experience would be sufficient to decide this question. When the 216 NEW HlOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS. patient is brought fully under its constitutional influence, the symptoms are so marked that we cannot conceive how the remedy should be deemed otherwise. On attempting to move about, the patient appears as if intoxicated; the muscles refuse to obey the mandates of the will, while the head is dizzy and the senses confused. In some respects the symptoms much resemble those produced by Stramonium, and in like manner pass off as soon as the remedy is discontinued; at other times the patient appears as if under the influence of Alcohol, and evinces a decided disinclination to motion, and tendency to sleep, from which he awakes invigorated and refreshed." (Dr. Coe.) "Whether it is a narcotic, is not yet satisfactorily established." (Dr. King.) CLINICAL REMARKS. — In those comatose states caused by cerebral congestions, we shall find it a valuable remedy. I have called attention to its usefulness in the stupor attending the fevers of children. [Infantile remittents.] It will be equally useful in the stupor of typhus cerebralis, or any form of typhoid, when coma is a prominent symptom, and the other symptoms correspond. It may also be beneficial in the low delirium of typhoid fever. When used for the above, the low dilutions are advised. In that peculiar stupor, or drowsiness, felt by students and persons of sedentary habits, especially in hot weather, and not caused by hepatic torpor, this remedy in small doses, continued for many days, is as capable of affording relief as any drug I have ever used. When depending on hepatic derangements, it is removed by Podoph., Lept., or Nux Vomica. In Delirium trem'ens, or morbid wakefulness of drunkards, large doses (five or ten drops) of the tincture repeated as often as necessary, will be found as useful as opium, in some cases, and more efficent in others. No remedy so happily controls the sleeplessness and agitation of teething children, students, persons laboring under mental excitement, or hysteric females. The first dilution will usually suffice. CASE.-Reported by Dr. Lodge. A commercial traveler asked for advice under the following circumstances: —He said that he was engaged during the day taking orders, settling accounts, etc., nerves on the stretch all the time; that at night he would go to bed with a feeling of exhaustion, and great desire for sleep but without obtaining any rest; the transactions of the day would be turned over in his mind again and again-repose coveted but not gained. I gave him a drachm vial of tincture of Gelseminum, with directions to take three or four drops in water when retiring. The prescription was successful. A few months afterwards he reported that it was only necessary to resort to the Gelseminum occasionally, but that when he did use it, it calmed his nervous system, produced slight prespiration and quiet refreshing sleep. In sleeplessness, from nervous irritation, it is invaluable. General Sympntoms.-Weakness and trembling through the entire system; listless and languid; great lassitude; feeling of lightness in the body; fear of falling; easily fatigued; general feeling of illness as in fever, so prostrated that he can neither move hand or GOSSIPIUM HERBACEUM.' 217 foot; no power over any muscle; strange, indescribable feeling through the entire system. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The only symptom in the above which we need to notice in this place is the one in italics. It very frequently appears in persons suffering from spinal exhaustion, particularly when caused by onanisn. This fact I have observed in several cases. A very few other remedies in our Materia Medica have this symptom. (Ambra-grisea.) G O SSIPIUM ERBACEUM. (Cotton Plant.) The Cotton plant is a native of Asia, but is extensively cultivated in this country. No proving of the Cotton root has been made, and its medicinal effects are so uncertain and unreliable that it will be mentioned merely to call the attention of the profession to the agent, and stimulate some one to institute provings on the healthy, in order that we may have some reliable data for its use. Dr. Bouchelle, of New Orleans, I believe, was the first to call attention to its powers as a uterine motor-stimulant. He published his observations in Southern medical journals, and other physicians substantiated his statements. Ie says: —"The inner bark of the cotton root has a special affinity for the sexual organs, modifying their functions in a remarkable manner; it not only possesses oxytocic properties, invigorating feeble contractions of the uterine fibres, but it originates expulsive contraction at any period of gestation, and will induce immediate abortion when taken in the proper quantity, and without any detriment to the health of the female." IIe asserted that it is " habitually resorted to by slaves in the South as an ec6olic, forthe criminal purpose of inducing abortion, a fact which I have had named to me a number of times by Southern practitioners." Dr. B. infers, from its influence on women, that the use of it destroys the generative capacity, rendering the person sterile, without impairing the health. Dr. King, in his Eclectic Obstetrics, quotes the above, and says: "Should this eventually prove to be the case, this agent will become a most important article of our Materia Medica, a boon to physicians, and likewise to females with deformed pelves." It is used in strong decoction-four ounces of fresh bark to one quart of water, boiled down to a pint-dose, two fluid ounces every twenty-five or thirty minutes. He adds:-" A tincture of the bark in spirit of nitric ether, and administered in doses of from thirty to sixty drops, several times a day, has produced the most decided and prompt relief in nAmenorrhca owing to a torpid condition of the uterus, or a mere derangement of its fuunc28 218 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. tions, not connected with disease of other parts. It has likewise proved efficacious in cases of recent dysmenorrhcea. I have successfully used it in a few cases of uterine hemorrhage, in combination with ergot and cinnamon." How mercilessly would Hahnemann have criticized this last statement! How can a sensible physician write such a sentence? Which was the efficient agent? Which had any power over the hemorrhage? Yet, of such loose statements is the ordinary Materia Medica of the opposite schools made up! Drs. Jones and Scudder place the Cotton root among the Emmenagogues, but at the same time assert that it is "not Abortiva or Parturient in the slightest degree." They say, "It may be emmenagogue; at least, in some cases in our practice, the warm infusion, drank freely, with other auxiliary measures, has reproduced the menstrual discharge. It is hard to determine, however, in such cases, how much to attribute to the agent, as any warm fluid, taken freely, with the use of the warm foot and hip bath, will sometimes be sufficient to reproduce the discharge.." Coe's statements are all loose, and are of no reliable character. He recommends it for all sorts of uterine diseases. (His employers, Keith & Co., manufacture the Gossipin, and wish it lauded in the highest terms.) I commenced experimenting with the Gossipium, about eight years ago; I have given it in small and large doses, to the' healthy and the diseased, and have yet to see the first symptom, of pathogenetic or curative action arise from its ruse. I have ordered it in strong decoction in Amenorrhcea, and also in the third dilution of the tincture; I have prescribed the Gossipitum in massive and minute doses, in dysmenorrhcea, uterine hemorrhage, etc., but never noticed the slightest effect; nor have I ever seen anything which would lead me to suspect it was an abortivaut or parturient. Dr. Holcombe, of New Orleans, and other Southern physicians, inform me that they have no confidence in its alleged virtues. On the contrary, we have the testimony of many Eclectic and Homceopathic physicians, that the Cotton root is a remedy which really does exert an influence over the generative organs of women, and has been found useful in uterine pains, cramps, hemorrhages, atony, amenorrhcea, and as an efficient agent in difficult labor pains. "Mr. Shaw, of Tennessee, writing to the Nashville Journal, says:'I consider this root one of the' very best emmenagogues of the materia? medica, and I think it should be so classed. My reasons for considering it such, are grounded upon the different experiments which I have made with it, within the last twelve months. I sometimes use a decoction, and; at others an infusion, but most generally a decoction, prepared thus: Cotton root, four ounces; water, two pounds. Boil down to one pint. S.-A wine glass full every hour. This produces the most salutary effect in dysmenorrhcea; it acts as an anodyne in allaying the pain, and as an emmenagogue in aiding or augmenting menstruation; its action is very speedy; after its exhibition, in this case, it produces an effect which, indeed, appears almost natural, that is, almost without pain; the patient, after its exhibition, feels but little inconvenience from pain, GOSSIPIUM H:ERBACEUM. 219 which soon subsides, and menstruation is immediately augmented, without acceleration of the pulse or gastric uneasiness. There are few other emmenagogues that can claim this feature. "'Its action in amenorrhiea I think superior to any other emmenagogue belonging to the materia -medica, though it would be proper to pay some attention to the general health of the patient before exhibition. It is superior to anything that I have tried in the way of emmenagogues. I have had cases in which I first tried the usual emmenagogues, with but little effect, or success, when I would determine on trying the decoction of this root, which would far surpass my expectations, by acting with the most marked effect; menstruation being produced on the following day after its exhibition. All of the symptoms disappeared on exhibition of this medicine. I believe this to be the best emmenagogue that we can employ in mere suppressio mensium, where there is no other disturbance in the general health. "'With the usual emmenagogues, I was unable to produce the catamenia on a young lady, which continued for about twentyfour hours, then suddenly became very sparce and painful; and in a few days after this period had passed, I employed the infusion of the cotton root as a means of exciting this function, which it did on the following day, a plentiful discharge being produced, which continued for five or six days. She has been regular at every period since that time, and has enjoyed good health with the exception of a few simple attacks, which caused no derangement of the menstrual function. For about twelve months previous to the exhibition of this medicine, her health was very much impaired, but she commenced improving, and soon recovered her health. I could detail other cases similar, in which I have tried the decoction with the same effect, but I deem it unnecessary to mention its action in each individual case. C"' As a parturient agent, I think it superior to ergot in one sense of the word, and in another about its equal, its action being about as prompt as that of ergot, and attended with much less danger. I have tried both in parturition, and found the cotton root decoction to act with fully as much efficacy as ergot. In some cases in which I have tried it, the pain was to some extent allayed, and labor promoted with as much speed as when ergot was administered. It appears to be perfectly harmless, from the fact that its action is almost unattended with pain. It causes neither gastric distress, or acceleration of the pulse —if it does,"it is not perceptible-both of which are occasioned by ergot to some extent. "'I have witnessed its action in retained placenta with good effect, which was an expulsion of the mass in about twenty minutes after the exhibition of the first dose. It may be proper to say, that I gave two doses before the placenta was thrown off. I believe it to be safer as a parturient agent, or an emmenagogue, or at least as safe, as any other article of the materia medica. "'It should have a fair and impartial trial by the profession generally, because it will prove itself worthy of the time and labor spent in its investigation. It is handy to all, and free of expense. 220 NEW IOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. A few trials by the profession will confirm the truth of this short essay. Give it a trial, and it will prove itself in some cases of amenorrheea, dysmenorrhbea, or probably in some lingering case of labor, which may require the assistance of medicine, to produce contraction of the uterus for the expulsion of the child. I think it worthy of the attention of the profession, in the above cases. "' Tincture of Cotton Root as a Tonic.-There is a condition of the system in which this tincture acts as a valuable restorative. These cases are of a leuoco-phlegmatic temperament of both sexes, but it is to the female sex that I wish to draw the attention of the reader. Where there is general bad health, accompanied with tardy menstruation, I have used it with the happiest effect; in a few cases of emansio mensium, caused by anemia, where the patient was troubled with pains in the loins and giddiness of the head, with;a derangement of the digestive organs, such as anorexia, accompanied with an uneasy, depressed feeling at the scrobiculus cordis, every month, which was promptly relieved by the tincture, but not with the effect of producing the menstrual flux, which was afterwards produced by the decoction, I find it necessary to continue the tincture from two to four weeks. The strength of the tincture that I have been in the habit of using, is prepared thus:-Bark of the root (dry), eight ounces; diluted alcohol, two pounds; digest fourteen days, then filter and give it in one drachm doses, three or four times a day. The tincture which I used was prepared by myself; and as I have seen no account of its use, I claim the first preparation of it, as well as the first experiment with it. My brother, Dr. H. J. Shaw, has since tried it, with the same good effect; in fact, his experience coincides with mine throughout.' ",L'The cotton seed has acquired considerable reputation as an anti-periodic in cases of intermittent fever, the use of which originated with a planter in South Carolina, who says: —I have never failed to cure a patient, with a single dose of it, even where large doses of quinine have failed.' " It is, however, in the peculiar active properties, of the root, that the profession will be chiefly interested. The, oftentimes, great danger in administering ergot, prevents its use, even when its specific effects seem to be called for. If these specific effects can be obtained by the use of the cotton root, and this too, without the liability of injury to the general system (and these have been attributed to it), the profession would do well to give it a thorough and extensive trial."-(Tilden's Journal). I here leave the consideration of this plant for the investigation of my colleagues. HAMAMELIS,' VIRGINICA. 221 HAMAMELIS- VIRGINICA. (iPitch ITazel.) This is an indigenous shrub, sometimes called Winter-bloom, Snapping-chazlenut, Spotted Alder, etc. It consists of several crooked, branching trunks, from the same root, from two to six inches in diameter, ten or twelve feet in height, and covered with a smooth, gray, and spotted bark. It is a much larger shrub than the -edible hazle-nut, which has a straight trunk, not spotted, but brownish. The IHamamelis vir., grows in almost all sections of the United States, especially in damp woods, flowering from September to November, when the leaves are falling, and maturing the seeds the next summer. The bark and leaves are the parts used in medicine; they have a pleasant, aromatic odor, and a bitter, astringent taste, leaving a sense of pungency and sweetness in the mouth. Water extracts their virtues. The shoots are used as " divining rods" to discover water and metals under ground, by certain adepts in the occult arts. They have been used, also, by certain superstitious quacks, for the cure of old ulcers, etc., by rubbing them on the diseased surface. Strange as it may seem, cures are alleged to have been made in this manner. There has always been a large amount of superstition connected with this shrub. The popular preparation known as " Pond's Extract of Hamamelis," is made from the leaves and twigs, by a process of distillation. It is used by all the schools of medicine as an anodyne application. It cannot be expected, however, that it will relieve or benefit all the diseases mentioned on the extensive labels of the manufacturer, and the physician who pins his faith thereupon will be disappointed. This remedy, like all others, has its limited sphere of usefulness. General Application.-Allopathic authors deem it hardly worthy of mention. WVood barely notices it in his Dispensatory, as a mild astringent, and discutient. Eclectics make more mention. King says it is tonic, astringent, and sedative; useful in haemoptysis, hmematemesis, and other haemorrhages; also diarrhiea, dysentery, and excessive mucus discharges: —"It has been employed with advantage in incipient phthisis, in which it is supposed to unite anodyne influences with its others; used as an application to painful tumors, and external inflammations; also, as a wash for sore mouth; an injection in bowel complaints, prolapsus ani and uteri, leucorrhcea, gleet, piles, and ophthalmia." These authors say that the decoction may be taken internally, in any quantity, and applied externally of any strength. N-o fears are entertained that it will prove injurious. The Hamamelis has been used in homoeopathio practice for twelve or fifteen years. Several physicians claim the honor of introducing it to the profession, among whom are Hering, Okie, and Preston. I believe Dr. Okie was the first to write concerning the medicine, although he says Dr. Hering was the first to call his attention to the remedy. Dr. Hering, it seems, became acquainted with its virtues while attending Mr. Pond, the proprietor of the Extract, who informed him what it was. Dr. Okie says: 222 NEW, HOM(EOPATHIC PRO VINGS. " Hering proceeded at once, by scientific trials, to discover for himself whether the remedy did, or did not, possess any or all of the virtues attributed to it by its proprietor." Hering informed Dr. CGushing that he had used Pond's Extract in "chronic effects from mechanical injuries," painful and bleeding hemorrhoids, and c" severe pleuritic stitches supervening on tuberculous phthisis." He considers it a " union of Aconite and Arnica." It is a little strange that no regular proving has been made. If Dr. Hering has made any proving the profession has never seen it. Dr. Preston made a fragmentary proving, which was published in the Philad. Jour. of Horn., vol. 1., page 460. We shall have to make use of that, and the pathogenetic and clinical notes scattered through the various journals. Vascular System — Arterial System.-Hamamelis does not seem to affect the heart and arteries directly. It does not appear to control arterial inflammation, or congestion, or hemorrhage; but, according to all observers, its sphere of action is especially upon the Venous System. Of the few pathogenetic symptoms we have, not many point unmistakably to an affection of this system. But we have abundant clinical experience to prove that this remedy is one of the most prominent we possess for inflammation of veins, venous congestion, hemorrhage, etc. In Dr.Preston's proving will be found the pathogenetic symptoms in full, such as " crowding fulness of blood in the head and neck; sense of suffocation, etc.; also "uterine hemorrhage," "Epistaxis." CLINICAL REATIARKS.-AS early as 1851, Dr. Preston writes: "It has been used by many physicians in Rhode Island, in cases of venous congestion, and haemorrhage, with great success.":' "Ex uso in morbis," I have made many trials of the efficacy of Hamamelis. Have given it successfully in a number of cases of Epistaxis, some of which were of an alarming character, and the cure has been prompt and effectual. One case of active uterine hemorrhage, caused by a fall, was promptly relieved by it, but, its particular sphere seems to be in passive hbemorrhages and venous congestions. I have cured many cases of passive uterine hmemorrhages with it, and have given it with success in a few cases of pulmonary haemorrhage. But the crowning point of its virtue rests in its peculiar, prompt action in cases of phlegmasia alba dolens, and in varicose veins. In old cases of varicosis I have never seen its equal, and have cured many cases of varicose veins of the leg and foot, which have resisted all other treatment for years." Dr. Preston states that Dr. Henry, then of Selma, Alabama, was the first to recommend the Hamamelis to our use, and thinks he might furnish us with valuable therapeutic and pathogenetic information, but I have not been' able to find anything from his pen on the subject. Dr. Okie estimates the Hamamelis highly, in phlegmasia alba dolens, varicose ulcers, and varicoses. He has used it successfully in hbemoptysis, epistaxis purpura, bleeding and painful piles, etc. (Phila. Jour. of Hom., vol. 1, p. 536). Dr. Belcher reports the following cases, which I have somewhat abridged:-. HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 223 Case lst.-Vomiting and purging of blood (see "Intestinal" ). Case 2nd.-A boy, aged fourteen, growing rapidly, with a good appetite, has had Epistaxis at irregular intervals of from four to twenty-four hours, by which he has become pale and much enfeebled. Ham. 3rd, one-eighth of a drop twice, a day was given, and since the first dose to the present time, three months, he has had no return. Case 3rd.-MIelcena (see "Intestinal "). Case 4th.-A case of VFarioloid. At a certain stage of the disease there came on Epistaxis, which lasted about an hour, ceased, and returned in a few hours, and continued. " The blood was dark, discharging freely in drops; the pulse rapid; breathing hurried; lips and mouth dry; the face and body were covered (besides the papulM, which seemed to me not to have progressed, but to have shrunken) with a dusky red erythema, with purpural spots, varying from the size of a pin-head to that of a three-cent piece, here and there-but over the abdomen, which I more particularly examined, occupying one-third of the surface. The vessels of the conjunctiva were so congested, as at first sight to appear like chemosis. Gave Hamamelis, three drops of the first dilution in a tumbler of water, of which a table-spoonful was given every fifteen minutes. In twenty minutes the hemorrhage had ceased entirely, and returned no more. The medicine was then continued every hour. The next day he had one ejection of a dark, bloody character, but the purpura had not increased, and he had slept some. Gave Rhus. 2, and Ham. 2, alternately every hour. In two days he was out of danger, and convalesced rapidly —(N. A. Jour. vol. 3, page 463.) Dr. Belcher states that -" hemorrhage with asthenia or anaemia, or from asthenic tendency, is of itself an indication for the use of Hamamelis." ILe considers sulphuric acid an analogue of Hamamelis, but its action is not so prompt. Further notice of its action in venous diseases will be mentioned under other heads. Head.-A crowding fulness of blood in the head and neck. The epistaxis was accompanied with a feeling of tightness of the bridge of the nose, and considerable crowding pressure in the forehead, between the eyes, with a benumbed sensation over the whole os frontis.-(Preston.) A painful fulness of the brain, especially at the top, with a desile: to hear lofty, sublime conversation, attended with perfect indisposition to talk, myself; feeling as if a bolt was passed, from temple to temple through the head, and tightly screwed, accompanied by a feeling as if she ought to be reverenced by all around her.-(Burrett.) CLINICAL REMARKS. —The above symptoms would seem to indicate a condition of passive congestion, or venous stagnation, resulting in hemorrhage from the overloaded vessels. In headache, arising firom congestion, and resulting in epistaxis, this may prove an excellent remedy. Many cases are only relieved by bleeding from the nose. The Hamamelis acts by removing the cause, and in this manner arrests the bleeding, if present, and removes the condition upon which it depends. We have but little clinical testimony as to its value in Ceephalalgia. It will probably never be found as useful as Belladonna, Aconite, or Getsemmum. 224 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. Nose.-Epistaxis, with a feeling of tightness of the bridge of the nose, and considerable crowding pressure in the forehead between the eyes. (This was caused by one drop of the 3d, in Dr. Preston, who never before had bleeding from the nose.).Profuse Epistaxis (ten:hours after taking one drop of the 3d). CLINICAL REMARKS. —-We have found in the various Journals, over one hundred cases of epistaxis, some of them of an alarming character, which were promptly arrested by the use of Hamamelis in some form. A few of these cases have been given under the head of "Venous System," and others, of a notable character, are given briefly: below. Dr. Belcher cured a severe case in a boy aged fourteen, with Hamamelis 3d, one-eighth of a drop. The bleeding had not returned several months after. Dr. Preston in an article on venous hemorrhages writes:-" Epistaxis, or bleeding from the nose, forms the most common hemorrhage of childhood, and in a great proportion of cases is simple and perfectly harmless. When it is dependent upon active congestion it is usually arterial, and proves its own remedy; when it is the result of mechanical congestion, or forms one of the developments of the hemorrhagic diathesis, it is passive and probably venous." Dr. P. gives an interesting case, illustrating its treatment with Hamamelis. " An old gentleman, hemiplegic, who had been subject to ~occasional attacks of hsemorrhage from the nose, often profuse and very debilitating, and on several occasions requiring Mr. Abernethy's operation of plugging the nostrils, before it could be stopped. He had now been afflicted at intervals of several days with slight oozing of very dark blood from the schneiderian membrane, particularly three times a day and shortly after meals, corresponding to the rhythmical exacerbation of the pulse; after the afternoon meal the bleeding was very profuse. He was able to walk about, but complained of feeling very weak and faint, with occasional vertigo or confusion of ideas; his countenance was pale, and his pulse decidedly hemorrhagic. I ordered him home, and to keep perfectly quiet; to use a strong nourishing diet, with wine at each meal, and gave him China and Hamamelis 3rd, in alternation every two hours. I was sent for to his house in the afternoon and evening, and the bleeding had been almost constant, but, slowly oozing from his nose since he got home; by evening he was too weak and faint to set up, but lay in bed with his head raised; gave China and Hamamelis 1st. The hemorrhage increased however, all the next day, when small pieces of linen were wet with iHamamelis tincture, rolled up in the shape of a funnel, and pushed as far into the nostrils as possible. The next morning the bleeding had been very slight, exhaustion much less, and all other symtoms improving. In three days he was able to go about his business." Dr. Burnet, of N. O., reports "a lady of plethoric habits, had epistaxis twenty-four hours, which all ordinary means had failed to relieve. At a previous attack she came near bleeding to death; I gave her Hamamelis 3rd, and a wash of diluted tincture for her nose. The hemorrhage was arrested in a few moments, but HIAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 225 returned, by coughing, the next day. It was again arrested by the same means, and did not return." Mouth.-Dryness of the mouth; burnt sensation on the tongue. CLINICAL REMARI(S.-I have used the Hamamelis satisfactorily in bleeding fiom the buccal cavity, bleeding and spongy gums, and hemorrhage fiom the cavity after extraction of a tooth. In cases of burns of the tongue and lips, from hot drinks, a weak solution of this medicine held in the mouth gives prompt relief. Eyes. —It has proved curative in painful inflammation of the eyes; excessive congestion of the conjunctiva and bruises of the orbits. It is useful in extravasations under the conjunctiva, and painless sugillations on the eyeball. During pertussis the eyeball sometimes becomes congested, and the minute vessels are ruptured. A wash of Hamamelis quickly dissipates the extravasations. Throat.-Dry, thirsty feeling of the throat, which water would not relieve, lasting full twenty-four hours.-(Burritt.) Fulness in the neck; have to sleep with the neck free of any covering. CLINICAL REMiR1KS. —There is a condition of the fauces, and throat, which might not inaptly be designated as varicosis, the posterior fauces, uvula, and pharynx are of a blueish hue, caused by distended veins which ramify on the surface; this causes a fulness, with cough, and pain in swallowing, and sometimes hawking of dark colored blood, mixed with mucous. In one case of this character the internal and topical use of Hamamelis proved curative. Stomach and Bowels.-itcematemesis, Constipation, lcemorrhoids. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The primary effect of Hamamelis in material doses, is to diminish the secretions of the mucous surfaces of the intestinal tract; a form of constipation is the result. In none of the fragmentary provings which we possess is there any symptom relating to congestion, or hemorrhage from the stomach and bowels, but our clinical experience is rich in cases of such hmmorrhage. Dr. Burnett in Am. Tom. Review, vol. 1, page 512, reports:'a lady who had been expected to die for several days, from hmmatemesis. I had none of the Hamamelis by me, and ordered a decoction of the bark-a teaspoonful every three hours. It cured the patient immediately." Writing of hsemorrhage from the bowels, or meltena, Dr. Preston says: "I have given Hamamelis withsuccess in arresting hbemorrhage, when I knew the bleeding proceeded from carcinomatous ulceration, as well as where it arose, from simple mechanical congestion of the portal circulation. To show that others have had like success with the same remedy, I relate a case of melena, probably of the latter kind, reported to me by my brother-in-law, Dr. George S. Green, of Hartford, Ct. July, 1855, Mr. M --—, aged twenty, light hair, dark eyes, spare figure, etc., came home from his business with a violent headache, and took a dose of Calomel at night, followed by one of Castor Oil in the morning; this he did on his own responsibility, and the consequence was a severe diarrhea, for which Dr. Schae was called upon to prescribe. Du. S. attended him ten days, and reports his discharges to have been very profuse and watery, as 29 226 NEW HOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS. often as every half hour, accompanied with more or less fever, but no pain. After ten days the Dr. left him convalescent, but quite weak, and, intending to leave for his home in Massachusetts. Two days after, quite early in the morning, he had a very large discharge of dark clotted blood, and within an hour, two more discharges, the three filling a large-sized chamber pot; very offensive but attended by no pain. At this time I first saw him, in consultation with Dr. S. I examined the discharges; found the patient pale and much exhausted, aware of danger but notfrightened; pulse 120-130, weak, intermitting, haemorrhagic; no tenderness on pressure in any part of the abdomen; no enlargement of liver or spleen that could be felt; no pain, nothing but great weakness, and occasional faintness. A week previous to this hemorrhage he had two discharges from the bowels, that were liquid, and brick colored, with a greasy scum; his appetite had been unusually good, but his countenance pallid and sunken. On the seventh day after this attack, when I was called, he had another discharge from the bowels, of dark, grumous, offensive smelling blood, which continued to pass away from him with a gurgling noise, until three large sheets ware saturated. On the next day he passed about a tea-cupful of bright red blood, and the hammorrhage ceased. He was sick in' the house eight weeks; his hair fell off, and he was somewhat anasarcous in the lower extremities, but from the first, had no pain, and, after the h1emorrhage, no fever; his recovery, perfect. The only remedies used were stimulation, China, and Hamamelis virginica. This case was unquestionably one of mechanical congestion of the portal circulation, and the hvemorrhage was probably caused by the action of the powerful cathartics taken in the commencement. It is unnecessary for me to say, that in my opinion, both the diarrhcea and hemorrhage might have been avoided by judicious treatment in the beginning, because the congestion might have been removed without such violent result:; but the symptoms having been caused, the treatment certainly proved Isuccessful. We might relate several other cases of melhena, as well as of hwmatemesis, dependant upon other causes besides mechanical congestion, in all of which Hammamelis was of great service in arresting and preventing hemorrhage, which otherwise would probably have proved fatal. George E. Belcher, M. D., of New York, reports the two following cases: Case 1., James (a porter), aged about thirty, a well-built, muscular Irishman, after complaining about three days (as near as I could ascertain) of fullness, and grumbling, aching pains in the abdomen, and irregular febrile flushes, was attacked with vomiting, and purging of blood, which gradually increased. In the morning of the day the hcmorrhage began, his employer sent him Nux v. 3, and Aeon. 3; to be taken alternately; but, as by evening there was no improvement, I was sent for, and gave Ipec. 1, and _Mere. sol. 2, alternately, every hour. Early on thefollowing morning I received information that the hemorrhage continued, and that he was faint, cold, and sweating profusely. I found him so, indeed, with a weak, rapid pulse, restless, and complaining of the fullness and grumbling in the abdomen; but, owing to the imperfect domestic arrangements, HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 22T I could not ascertain how much blood had been vomited or purged. I gave Hfamamelis, two drops of the tincture dissolved in half a tumbler of water, of which a dessert-spoonful was given every fifteen or twenty minutes, until improvement took place. This was very apparent, when I called two hours afterwards; a reaction was moderately but firmly established, and the patient felt better. He had vomited once only, and but a small quantity of blood; and the melmena from this time diminished, so that it disappeared, nearly, if not entirely, in two or three days. I substituted Chin. and le'rc. for the 11am. in about twenty-four hours after improvement had begun, and continued them, on account of the apparent hepatic congestion, to convalescence. Case 2. W. A. B. A man aged about forty, temperate, of a spare habit, after complaining two or three days of fulness through the hypochondria, and attacked with diarrhmea, on account of which he called at my office, and for which I gave him Ars. 3. The next day, not being relieved, I was sent for; found him feeble, with blank, dingy-reddish countenance; thirst; frequent pulse; and having a loose evacuation about every three or four hours, which he described as offensive, and of the color of dark rosewood. Not seeing it, I concluded that it must be melaena, and gave H/am. and Aeon.; a solution of two or three drops of each in tumblers of water, of table spoonful doses, were directed to be given alternately every two hours, until better. The next day I found him feeling decidedly improved, having had but one small discharge since. From this time he rapidly convalesced. Dr. L. Pratt communicated to the Chicago IHom. Medical Society, 1859, the following case of Intestinal hemorrhage. A young man whose health had been injured by ague and quinine, was attacked, during the course of a typhoid fever, with copious bleeding from the bowels. The blood passed by the rectum amounted to at least two quarts before I saw him. He had stools of blood about once in fifteen minutes; it was of a dark grumous nature. Four drops of the mother-tincture of HIamamzelis, in a tumbler of water, a desert-spoonful to be taken every ten minutes until the discharges were arrested, for an hour-r-omit for an hourthen to take one dose more. Afterwards omit until a relapse occurred. The next day ascertained that the bleeding had twice returned, but was at once arrested by a single drop each time. The patient recovered under the use of Arsenicum and China. In this case the bleeding probably originated in ulceration of some portion of the intestines; was of a passive character, and perhaps venous. It would seem from the above cases, that Hamamelis is curative in several forms of hemorrhage from the bowels. (1) That caused by portal congestion. (2) From a ruptured vessel. (3) From ulceration of the bowels. (4) From a hemorrhoidal vein. In -Dysentery, the Hamamelis is indicated when the amount of blood in the stools, is unusual in quantity, and amounts to an actual hemorrhage. The blood in such cases is generally dark, in small 228 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PIROVINGS. clots or patches, scattered through the mucus. Dr. Dunn, of Ill., (I11. State Hornm. Ass., 1858) said he "had not found Mercurius so effectual in the treatment of dysentery, during the past summer, as it had formerly been; but he had been highly successful with Hamamelis, in cases of dysentery, in which the alvine evacuations were largely loaded with blood." In the so-called hcemorrihoidal dysentery, this remedy is almost specific, alone, although it may sometimes have to be alternated with Aloes or Podoph. In ~my practice benefit has accrued both from the internal and topical application. A few drops of the tincture or lower dilutions, every hour or two, internally; and an enema of one drachm of tincture -Iamamelis to four ounces of cold water, or starch water. The decoction of the bark (one oz. to one qt. water) is even better than' the above preparation for an enema, both in dysentery and bleeding hemorrhoids. In lDiarrhaea, the alamamelis is said to have been found useful, but the indications for its use are not ascertained. It will require more extended provings and clinical experiments, to establish its applicability to diarrhea. I would suggest that it may be useful in mucus and serous discharges. It is in lemorrhoids, that the Hamamelis has achieved some of its greatest victories. It seems to have extraordinary power over this disease, not only as externally manifested in the form of hemorrhoidal tumors, but against the primary cause, which is often located in the portal system. It has been used in this affection from the earliest history of the country. The aborigines first imparted a knowledge of its curative virtues to the first settlers. It is mentioned as a remedy for piles, used externally, in the works of the early "Botanic " physicians. When Pond first sold his Extract, it was recommended particularly for this complaint. Dr. Hering was Pond's family physician, and was induced by him to try its efficacy in some diseases. In 1850 Dr. Hering informed Dr. Cushman, a pupil of Dr. Okie, that he had used it successfully in " painful and bleeding hemorrhoids." Dr. Okie was then induced to test its virtues, and in a letter to Hering, published in 1853, he says: "I next made use of the Hamamelis in a nlmber of cases of painful and bleeding piles. Those cases in which it has proved most beneficial in my hands, are characterized by burning, soreness, fulness, and, at times, rawness of the anus; in the back a weakness or weariness, or as the patients graphically express it,' Doctor, my back feels as if it would break off.' The hemorrhage is generally profuse, and I have in several instances seen this latter symptom cured completely, with shrinking of the over-loaded hemorrhoidal vessels, so that the full, pouting look of the anus was changed to its own more natural and demure pucker, while the burning and itching, depending more upon cutaneous irritability, or some herpetic taint, still remained. I have here likewise made a wash of the remedy, applying it externally while giving it internally in the more dilute form. Mr T., a highly respectable agriculturalist, somewhere in the fifties, had been troubled with painful and bleeding piles for a number of years. On examination I found the anus surrounded with a crop HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 229 of tumid hemorrhoidal veins, bluish in color, and the whole anus encircled by a red- erythemic halo. I found he suffered with'backache,' has a'pasty mouth,' digestion tolerable, was not much constipated; I gave Hamamelis first dilution six drops night and morning and applied a lotion, one-third of the remedy, two-thirds distilled water. In a fortnight he called again and I found him much relieved. I repeated the prescription, to be taken once a day. Since which time he has remained well." -Dr. )Davicdson, (Monthly Horm. Review, London,) reports a case of "burning, painful hemorrhoids," in a lady, who had been subject to attacks of piles for the last ten years. Her symptoms were'"great suffering from weight, and pressure, at the anus; hemorrhoids protruding; great exhaustion from frequent hemorrhage from the rectum; bowels constipated; severe frontal headache; restless nights; mouth parched and dry on awaking. Hamamnelis 6, ten drops in six ounces of water; one table spoonful three times a day. The third day after, the hemorrhoidal symptoms were much relieved, but she complained of severe pains in the back. Continued the medicine. Five days after, the hemorrhoids were painful and protruding. A new symptom had also developed itself. My patient wished me to examine her arms, as during the past two days she had suffered severely from a peculiar pricking pain, from the wrist to the shoulder, which pain is increased on pressure. On examining the arms, I found that the patient indicated the direction of the pain along the course of the superficial veins. Ordered Sacch. lactis to be continued the next three days, when the pricking pain had quite left her arms; but the hemorrhoids were still troublesome. Hamamelis 6-thirty drops in six ounces of water, to be used as a lotion. A pledget of lint, saturated with this, to be applied to the protruding hemorrhoids every night. Six days after she reported herself well. Six months after, the same patient applied again. She was suffering from protruding hemorrhoids, accompanied by severe inflammation. she also had catarrhal symptoms, and was very desponding. Hamamelis 6 was given as above, and the lotion used as before. She toolk only five doses, because,-' after the fourth dose she became very much alarmed by a pricking pain in the region of the heart. The hemorrhoids, however, were imuch relieved. Ordered Sacc. Lact. Two days after, the pricking pain "about the heart" was still very severe; it was also now felt in the courses of the superficial veins of both arms. These pricking pains continued for a period of ten days, increasing in intensity during that time. At length I prescribed Arnica 12, three times a day. Two weeks after the patient states that she feels better than she has done for years; and the piles, to use her own expression,'have been completely vanquished. I must not forget to record, that while under treatment, this patient had been relieved, by the Hanmamelis, of a peculiar tightness of the chest, from which she had suffered from childhood.") This case presents some interesting peculiarities, namely: the apparent pathogenetic symptoms caused by the Hamamelis, simulating inflammation of the veins, and even the heart. 230 NEW HIOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. The question might arise, would not the same pains, etc., have arisen during the course of an attack of inflammation of the hemorrhoidal veins, had the Hamamelis not been administered? However, Hahnemann would undoubtedly have placed these symptoms in: the pathogenesis of 1Iamamelis, and we may do the same; still, we could wish that further experiments would substantiate the reliability of these symptoms as purely belonging to the drug, in which case they would be very important as indicating, unmistakably, its sphere of action. Urinary Organs.-Scanty, high-colored urine. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The Hamamelis has been found useful in hcematuria. Several cases presenting the symptom-bloody urinehave been reported, cured by this remedy. " In Hsematuria "-writes Dr. Preston-" China and Hamamelis are the principal remedies, unless there be ulceration of the prostate, or neck of the bladder, when these should be alternated with Asterias-rubens. In all hemorrhages dependent upon Scirrous, or carcinormatus ulceration, we have used IIamamelis to control the hemorrhage, and Asterias rnbens to arrest the ulcerative process, and we have had more than ordinary success with these remedies in a number of cases. In urethral and rectal hemorrhages, China, Cantharis, Mezereum, and Terebinth, are recommended, but we have had'cases of congestion of the tubuli uriniferi, following Scarlatina, and attended with discharges of black blood from the kidneys, when neither of them, nor Dig. Hamamelis, Zinc, and a host of others, had any good effect, that were cured in two or three days by the use of Gallic acid, in three grain doses three times a day." Dr. Belcher reports the following case, which perhaps can be classed among renal effections: "A lady, who, while pregnant, had alburminaria and general anasarca, with occasional vaginal discharges of blood. She was prematurely confined, when about six and a half months advanced, and then had adherent placenta, which, until detached, caused her to flood so profusely as to be faint andfainting for four or five hours. About twelve or fourteen days afterwards she was attacked with dysentery, which lasted four or five days; about ten or twelve days after this, with the ague,and fever; after this, flooding again, which last attack was controlled without difficulty by the Hamamelis second, repeated every three or four hou rs." Organs of Generation of Women. —Iemorrhage from the uterus, of bright and fresh blood, not coagulable, about midway between the menstrual periods, (from one drop of the third —(Dr. Preston). Active uterine hemorrhage in a young lady. (See Preston's fragmentary provings.) CLINICAL RE MAKNs.-Dr. Preston, who reports the pathogenetic symptoms referred to above, remarks that in the first case, that " a leucorrhoea which the lady had been troubled with for years, ceased as soon as she began taking the Hamamelis, and has not again appeared." It is a common and popular domestic remedy, in form of a decoction, used as a vaginal enema, and generally with considerable success. Eclectic writers recommend it in leucorrhoea HfAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 231 with relaxation of'the vaginal walls, but consider its action that of an "astringent." True, the Hamamelis contains tannin in quite an appreciable quantity, but even tannin'is homceopathic-secondarilyto some fbrms of leucorrhcea. Harnamelis, used internally and topically, is one of the most useful medicines in those varieties of leucorrhcea which similate a hemorrhage, and constitute a drain on the system as severe as a bleeding. In most cases, however, it should be alternated with Pulsatilla, Sepia, Helonias or Senecio gracilis. Dr. Okie, in his letter to Dr. Hering, says he found it useful in Ovarian Disease: " My first use of the remedy was in the case of a colored girl, twenty-two years of age, of plethoric habit, who at' the age of eighteen, had received a violent blow over the left ovarian region, and since that time had suffered with violent pains, at times concentrating themselves in the seat of the original injury, and again producing a diffused and agonizing soreness over the whole abdomen; the touch aggravated these sufferings intensely; the left ovarian region was swollen, flat on percussion; the menses were irregular, very painful, with exacerbation of all the sufferings at the catamenial epoch. Examination per vaoinum, disclosed exquisite tenderness of the canal, a swollen and tumid os uteri, which was likewise extremely sensitive; passing the finger by the side of the neck of the womb, and pressing upward toward the left ovarian region, likewise caused extreme suffering. This patient was frequently afflicted with retention of urine, and I had been obliged to use the catheter for several days together. I made use of the Hamamelis in this case, both internally and externally. I made use of Pond's extract. After using it she was much relieved; could bear pressure upon the swollen part (the swelling having notably diminished); the diffused soreness was less marked. She bore the vaginal examination with more ease. A gradual return to health set in, from the time the HIamamelis was commenced." Dr. R. Ludlam informs us that he has found this medicine a most important remedy, internally and locally, in all ovarian diseases, accompanied with swelling and tenderness of those organs. He advises compresses, wet in the dilute tincture, constantly applied to the sensitive locality. It was found very useful by Dr. Burnett, in varices during pregnancy.-" A woman in the fourth month of pregnancy with her seventh child. She was compelled to labor for her livelihood; suffered almost always with varicose veins; at this time she was very lame; suffered much pain and could scarcely move about. I gave twelve globules of Hamamelis third dil., and a wash of diluted tincture. She took four pills at a dose, two doses a day. The first day she felt entire relief firom pain, and could exercise with ease. She required no further treatment; I attended her in her confinement and' found no trace of her former malady." "A lady pregnant with her fourth' child. She complained of a painful stiffness and a sensation of swelling and weakness in her left leg, which continued to some extent during pregnancy; but the Hamnamelis gave her prompt relief, and there was no return of it after confinement.' " A woman pregnant with her fifth child. During her last 232 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. three pregnancies she had been troubled severely with varicose veins, which, after the fifth month, had burst above the ankle and bled profusely. When I was called to see her, she was only four months advanced in pregnancy, but the bleeding had commenced, and she was anticipating a serious time. I gave her Hamamelis three times a day, diluted tincture for a wash. She had no more bleeding, and is now well." Dr. F. Burnett, of New Orleans, found the Hamamelis useful in Dysmenorrhcea: —"A colored woman aged thirty-five. Two years previous, at the time the menses should have appeared, she experienced severe pain through the lumbar and hypogastric regions and down the legs; fullness of the bowels and brain, with severe pain through the whole head, resulting in stupor and deep sleep, lasting twelve to thirty-six hours, from which it was impossible to arouse her; after which she gradually returned to her natural state, and so remained till the time for the next menstrual period, when the same suffering was repeated. She was brought to me at'the commencement of one of these paroxysms; the pain in the back, pubic region, and head, had already commenced. I gave eight globules of the fifteenth dilution of Haniamelis, to be taken in two doses, four hours apart, which established her menses perfectly without any further medication, and she continued to menstruate regularly afterward." "An Irish girl, aged eighteen, strong, robust make. She had never menstruated, but had suffered instead with haematemesis, constant constipation and varices of the legs. I gave lier Hamamelis fifteenth, to be taken three times a day. Her menses appeared immediately, her legs got well, and I knew of her perfect health for three years afterwards, during which time she became a mother." This case illustrates its curative virtues in vicarious mnenstruation, when the condition is in correspondence with that caused by IIHamamelis. An interesting case of vicarious menstruation is reported by Dr. Kenyon (Amer. Hom. Review, Vol. 2, p. 412): " Mary F., aged fourteen, has always enjoyed tolerable health until the last eighteen months, when she menstruated. The first time there was considerable pain in the back and head, for several days preceeding it, with nausea, vertigo, etc. The flow was natural, and recurred two succeeding months quite regularly, and without any of the unpleasant sensations which preceded the first. When the fourth period came round, there was no indication of menstruation, but in place of it, quite free epistaxis; this continued for several months, increasing in severity each month. She was emaciated very much; no color in the cheeks or lips; pulse 140, and feeble; action of the heart very labored, but not giving any signs of organic lesion; extremities considerably bloated; stomach very irritable; bowels constipated; urine scanty and clear; some cough, and great dyspnaea. It was the day when the bleeding was to return, and I watched the case; there was over a quart of blood lost; it was thin, forming very slight coagula. I gave her the sixth and thirtieth dil. in alternation, two doses of each in the twenty-four hours, which was all the medicine she got during the month following, except a few doses of Arsenicunm for dyspucea, when it was troublesome. When the next month came round, she menstruated regularly, and had no HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 233 more bleeding, and from this time she went on rapidly to a perfect recovery, under the use of iamamelis." In Uterine femorrhage, it is highly extolled by some physicians. Dr. Preston cured a case of " active uterine hemorrhage caused by a fall; it was promptly relieved by it;" but, he thinks," its particular sphere seems to be in passive hemorrhages and venous congestions." He has "cured many cases of passive uterine hemorrhage with Hamamelis." Dr. W. E. Payne states, that he has not used the Hamamelis successfully in uterine hemorrhages, except when the blood flowed steadily, was venoues in its character, and without uterine pains. My own experience accords with that of Dr. Payne's; therefore, I would not advise the use of this remedy in hemorrhage after labor, for here we want a remedy like Secale or Erigeron, which causes contraction of the muscular tissue of the uterus, and perhaps of the arteries. ]Erigeron is antipodal to Hamamelis. It is as directly indicated in active, arterial hemorrhage, as the latter is in passive venous bleedings. Organs of 4Generation of Men, etc.-We are not in possession of pathogenetic symptoms relating to these organs, but it has been used in some diseases affecting the veins, testes, and contiguous tissues. Dr. Preston, in an able paper on " Diseases of the veins " (N. A. Jour. of Hom. 1887,) says. "The homceopathic treatment of Circocele. (Varicosis of the spermatic veins) is very much the same as for varicose veins in the leg, and in a number of cases under my own observation has been found successful. To illustrate this treatment, I prefer to give the following report of a case, sent me by Dr. Geo. Barrow, of Taunton, Mass.-" A friend of mine, about thirty years of age, a merchant of Chicago, of scrofulous tendencies, was taken some three months since with drawing pain in the left spermatic cord, with swelling heat, redness and pain in the cord and in the left testicle, for which an allopath treated him four or five days with warm fomentations and laudanum applied to the part. The testicle swollen four or five times its usual size; very hard and painful, was closely enveloped with collodion frequently applied (to support the tumor?) while seidlitz powders were given to keep the bowels open. As this treatment gave no relief, but the symptoms rather grew worse, my friend was easily pursuaded to abandon it and try the homceopathic plan. In consultation with Dr. Smith, of Chicago, where I happened to be present on a visit, I gave the patient, Bell., Puls., and Clematis, for a week, with very little benefit when I proposed to try Hamamelis. I accordingly obtained a bottle of "Ponds' extract," of which I administered drop doses every two hours, and enveloped the scrotum in a bandage wet with a solution of the same medicine, one part of the tincture to about ten parts of alcohol and water. In twenty-four hours he was free from all pain, the swelling gradually disappeared, and with the help of a silk suspensory bandage, he was able to resume his business in a few days, and now is entirely well." The Hamamelis was at one time highly lauded as an excellent remedy in the treatment of Gonorrhcea. It was advised to administer the remedy internally, and use the diluted tincture (or Ponds' ext.) as an injection. Dr. 30 234 NEW HIOM3EOPATHIC PROVINGS. Smallinforms me that in the first stage of this disease it has appeared to be of benefit, in allaying pain and inflammation. It may be useful in all stages, but cannot be looked upon as a specific remedy. I have advised it in long standing cases of Gleet, with apparent benefit. In Orchitis, it is highly praised by Dr. Ludlam. He states that under its external use the tumefaction and pain rapidly subsides. He considers it to have some specific power over inflammatory affections of the testes and ovaries. Thoracic Organs.-Return of inflammation of the diaphragm with the following symptoms: —labored respiration; opressive tightness of the lower part of the thorax, inability to make a deep and full inspiration; when attempting to assume the recumbent posture breathing became alrnost impossible; a crowding fullness in the neck and head, and a sense of suffocation so as to prevent his lying down; unable to make a deep inspiration when standing up. (Preston.) Pricking pain in the region of the heart; felt also in the superficial veins of both arms. The pricking pains in the heart continued for ten days, increasing in intensity all the time. (Arnica twelfth was then given, and the pains disappeared.) — Davison. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Hamamelis has cured cough, and hlemoptysis, with taste of sulphur in the mouth, and dull frontal headache." Also " tickling cough, with taste of blood on waking." In Hcsrnoptysis, it is considered by some as, a remedy par excellence, applicable to nearly all cases; but this is going too far. It can never take the place of Aconite. Dr. Preston (Diseases of Veins) says:-"In general we look upon Hamamelis as a specific for passive venous hemorrhages, and we have seen it successful in arresting this particular form of bleeding fiom the pulmonary mucous membrane; but we speak from only a few years experience, and that a few observers, and therefore we must be impartial enough to mention a few of those remedies which other practitioners have recommended as useful in the cure of some forms of hsemoptysis:-Aconite, Ipecac., Ferr., acet., Arnica, Millefol, etc. Dr. E. M.Payne (U. S. Jour. of Hom.Vol., I. p. 730) reports the following case:-A young lady aged sixteen, was seized while at school, and without any premonitory symptoms, with blood-spitting. The patient was of slender build, light hair, blue eyes; fair complexion, lax fibre, and phthisical diathesis; menses regular and normal. The blood-spitting commenced with a slight hack, and continued, with scarcely a moment's intermission up to the time of my visit, a period of nearly an hour. I found her lying upon a sofa, calm, with a napkin in hand nearly saturated with apparently pure venous blood, and spitting about the amount of a tea-spoonful at intervals of one or two minutes. The blood came into the mouth without any effort. She described it as issuing about ten inches below the right clavicle, in a warm current, making apparently a tortuous course, and at the same time there was a sensation in that region, as from the pressure of a hard body. Pulse somewhat accelerated, eighty-five. Ferrum aceticum was given but caused no improvement in three hours, Millefolium, Aeon., Ipecac, and Belladonna caused no amelioration. Hamamelis, four drops of the tincture to half a tumbler of water. A spoonful was given. The HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA. 235 bleeding immediately ceased, and did not afterwards return. I have never used the Hamamelis successfully, in cases of blood-spitting when the blood was of light fluid red, frothy in appearance, and raised by much cough." Dr. Okie reported an interesting case in which hbemoptysis was present, in a complicated lung affection. Hamamelis controlled the bleeding, but was powerless to cure the patient. A girl, aged, nine, was said'to be in a dying state. She was sitting upright, supported by pillows, her breath greatly oppressed. She had been ill about two years, dating her first loss of health to a cough, which was said to have resulted firom swallowing a small piece of straw; since that period, she had been tormented with incessant cough. She bled from the lungs pints at a time. She had raised large quantities of offensive matter; at one time "nearly a tumblerfil." Examination elicited general anasarca, great swelling of the lower extremities; the abdomen swollen from the areolar infiltration; face much puffed, closing athe eyelids; -a number of spots resembling purpura were found upon the lower extremities; she had been troubled with profuse epistaxis. Auscultatory examination elicited the presence of a very long cavity, extending from the mammary region to near the base of the right side. The respiration in the left lung was puerile, with a mingling of rhonci and mucous rales. The urinary secretion was almost null, the urine itself of a deep brandy color, depositing a heavy lateritious sediment. I feared a fatal result, and speedily. The scant urinary secretions and pleuritic pains, the hydropic tendency, and the state of thethoracic organs, led me to fear the superventon of anaemia and:serous effusion into the pleural sac. Iodine was given; for about a fortnight she improved; the urine was much increased; the dropsy lessened; the respiration easier; petechiae did not appear; cough about as usual. At this time she was seized with Epistaxis and Hocemoptysis pulse full, etc. Hfarnamelis checked the hamorrhage promptly, and there was no recurrence. The strength, appetite, and general health of the patient improved, so that she was up, and about her usual avocations. She lived about eighteen months, but finally died from pulmonary abscess. -Philal. Jour. Vol. 1 p.' 538. Back.-Tearing pain across the small of the back, with fulness of the joints of the legs. — (Burritt.) CLINICAL REMARIs.- It has been found useful as an external application to lumbago, "crick in the back," myalgia, bed-sores, and petechia. Upper and lower Extremities.-Pricking pain in the superficial veins of both arms, extending from the wrists to the shoulder. (Davison.) Painful fulness of the joints of the legs, as if they would burst, which soon extends to all the joints of the body; after the fulness of the joints disappear, then there was a dread of moving the limbs, as if it would cause suffering, with a weary, stiff, full feeling. CLINICAL REMARKs. —The greatest triumph of Ilamamelis, has been in the treatment of varicoses of the limbs. Dr. Preston, writing of varicoses remarks:-" Homeopathy has, as in many other cases, directed us to a specific remedy, which in my 236 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC O PROVINGS. practice, as well as in that of a number of my colleagues in this section of the country, has been attended with uniform success in the treatment of this annoying disease. "Since 1851 (six years) I have prescribed Hamamelis in upwards of fifty cases of varicose veins of the lower limbs, and in no single instance has it failed to make a decided curative impression; but in the great majority of cases, it has, thus far at least, proved a radical cure. My plan is, first, to bandage the limb tightly from the arch of the foot to a little above the knee, or to the hips, if the varices are above the knee, and the best bandage, in my opinion, is an elastic silk stocking, manufactured for the purpose. Under this, compresses of linen are laid over the dilated veins, and kept wet with Hamamelis tincture, or Pond's extract. I give the 3d dil. internally, two or three times a day. Some few cases, with large, indolent ulcers on the tibia or malleolus, have been under treatment a year, but most of them have been cured, or at least have disappeared, in less than half that time. The crowning point of its -(Hamamelis) virtues, rests in its peculiarly prompt action in cases of phlegmasia alba dolens, and in varicose veins. In old cases'of varicosis, I have never seen its equal; and have cured -many cases of varicose veins of the leg and foot, which'had resisted all other treatment for years?' Dr. Belcher reports several cases of varices in pregnant women, cured by Hamamelis. (See cases uider " Organs of Generation of Women." Dr. Barrows found this medicine a valuable auxiliary in the treatment of a child, with the folliowing symptoms: -"Inflammation of the femoral vein, with the erysipelatous spot near the groin, and over the veinj spreading over nearly one half of the thigh, with flexion of the leg; swelling of the entire leg and foot, with tension; heat and pale appearance of the limbs; scanty urine, stiffening the linen (albuminous); tympanitis; cedema of the whole body, limbs, and face. Calc., Hepar and other remedies, were used. (See case in full, in N. A. Journal, vol. 6, page 317.) Dr. R. Ludlam informs me that he considers the Hiamamelis of the greatest advantage in all cases of articular rheumatism, with swollen and painful joints; as a local application it seems to possessdecided anodyne properties. He advises that cloths, or cotton wool, wet in the dilute tincture, be applied constantly to the painful parts. NOTE.-Just as this paper was ready for the printer, I received the "Hom. Review," for April, 1864, which contains a case of Phlebitis, reported by Dr. H. Robinson, Jr., cured by YEamamelis. The symptoms were: "' Great pain in right leg, from the knee to the hip; leg much swollen, and quite sensitive to the touch. The cutaneous veins were hard, knotty, swollen, and painful. The skin erysipelatous; pulse small and wiry; much thirst; no appetite; bowels costive; urine'red and scanty; veins of abdomen, hard, like cords, red and painful. Gavo Hamamelis I., five drops in half a goblet of water." Cured in ten days. HELONIAS DIOICA. 237 HtELONIAS DIOICA. (False Unicorn Root.) This plant is known by the names of Drooping Starwort, Devil's Bit, etc. It is indigenous to the United States, growing in woodlands, meadows and moist situations. It is found in Canada, and as far south as Georgia and Louisiana. "The plant is sometimes mistaken for the Aletris Farinosa, but may be identified by the leaves of the Aletris being sharply pointed, with a straight, slender spike of scattered flowers, while the Helonias is not so sharply lance-shaped in its leaves, and has a thick plumose dioical spike. The root is the officinal part; it is tapering, fibrous, about an inch and a quarter in length, and from two to six-eighths of an inch in diameter, very hard, transversely wrinkled, and abrupt or premnorse at the end, appearing as though it had been cut or bitten off. There has been, and still exists, much difficulty among druggists, in determining the difference between the roots of the Aletris farinosa and Helonias dioica. It has often been the case that these roots have been indiscriminately bought and sold."'(King.) King, in his Dispensatory, gives a very minute description of the root of the Helonias, which I would advise our pharmaceutists to examine, for it is highly important that the preparations used by our school, should be genuine. It is quite probable that much of the fluid extract and active principle, Helonin, made in this country, is prepared from both plants mixed. GENERAL PROPERTIES.-" The Helonias is tonic, diuretic, and vermifuge; in large doses, emetic; and, when fresh, sialagogue. The plant is said to kill cattle feeding on it, and the decoction to kill insects. In doses of ten or fifteen grains of the powdered root, repeated three or four times a day, it has been found very beneficial in dyspepsia, loss of appetite, and for the removal of worms. It is reported beneficial in colic, and atony of the generative organs, etc."-King. "It is tonic, stoinachic, diaphoretic, and pectoral; it is adapted to atonic states of the system; it has been recommended in cases of chronic rheumatism, jaundice, strangury, etc., also in colds, and coughs; it has been used as a remedy in low grades of fever, as a stimulant, with success, etc." —Jones and Scudder. "'It is alterative, tonic, diuretic, vermifuge and emmenagogue, used in prolapsus uteri, amenorhcea, dymenorh ea, leucorrheea, to prevent miscarriage, dyspepsia, worms, etc."- Coe. We can glean but little information as to the general sphere of action of this medicine, from the above farrago; that it has been used with benefit in the above mentioned diseases and conditions, I do not doubt, but we are still at a loss for any special indications; those which can only be obtained from a thorough proving. The great majority of medical men of other schools do not realize the value of physiological experiments. They rely more upon uncertain empirical data, judging of the curative virtues of a medicine by its effects upon the sick. That this method has its 238 NEW IHOM(EOPATHI -O PROVINGS. value, we do not dispute; indeed, we may always feel confident that, a medicine which will cure a given group of symptoms, will cause similar ones, in healthy persons. We, therefore, look upon curative effects, as indication of pathogenetic effects.'We have but a meagre proving of H-Ielonias, and that only on the male. This I regret very much, for its action on the organism of women is notable and peculiar. I shall be able to present to the profession, however, some suggestive clinical facts, which will throw some light upon its remedial action. The following symptoms are obtained fromn a fragmentary proving sent me by Dr. C. H. Burr, of Portland, Maine. The proving in its original form, appears at the end of this article. General Symptoms.-An unnatural degree of languor and a feeling of weariness and weight in the region of the kidneys; general weariness. (Burr.) "Decided increase in muscular power which continued as long as the remedy was taken" (in large doses).I)r. Close. CLINICAL REMARKS. —This medicine is a peculiar and powerful "Ctonic," or, as Headland would have it "restorative." It is considered, particularly indicated when the disease has proceeded, (1) from disease of the generative orgqans, (2) or from functional disorders of the stomach,; hence it is considered valuable in anemia and chlorosis, in alternation with Ferrum; and in dyspepsia, in alternation with;Nux vom., if indicated. It does not belong to the China group, because it has no anti-periodic powers; nor does it cause a hyperstimulation of the nervous and vascular systems like that powerful drug. Neither does it have much more affinity for the Nux' vomica group, for it does not excite or irritate the spinal system. It is more nearly allied to Ferrum than any other article of the Materia Medica,, while, at the same time, it has some points of resemblance to the members of both groups above referred to. China and Nux vomica, together with their analogues, cause a condition, which may be described as increased tonicity of muscular fibre. China brings about this condition, through its influence upon the processes by which the blood is formed; it probably tends to augment the quantity of that fluid, and to render it richer. Thus, by its own operation upon the nutrition of the heart, and through the agency of the enriched blood, it gives greater energy to the contractions of that organ; and hence the fuller and stronger pulse, not unfrequently resulting from its moderate and continued use: But in cases of anmernia, chlorosis, and some other conditions of the system, China will not improve, apparently, the condition of the blood, or at least; the tissues do not respond to the stimulus of the improved blood. Then it is that Ferrum, or Nux vomica, given alternately with it, will place the diseased tissues in a condition to be benefitted by the circulating fluid, and a cure is soon effected. Nux vorica increases the tonicity of tissues, mainly through its influence upon the spinal system. It is a spinal stimulant, and nearly all its therapeutic effects arise from this action. In a great many cases-of atony of any organ, or tissue of the body, this medicine will, alone, effect prompt and permanent cures; but, like China, it will sometimes HELONIAS DIOICA. 239 fail, unless superseded or assisted by the action of China or Ferrum. There are also other instances wherein China, Ferrum and Nux will fail to improve the abnormal conditions for which they seem indicated, and the Helonias will here come in play,, and be found very useful. Helonias enriches the blood, through its influences upon the nutritive processes; not as iron does, for iron is a metallic substance, and a vegetable substance cannot act in the same manner. But Helonias does not act like China or Quinine, for the latter stimulates by its direct primary action, while the former does not. Mental Symptoms.-Mind dull and inactive. The previous cheerful state was followed by dullness, and gloominess;'irritable; could not endure the least contradiction, or receive any suggestions in relation to any subject; all conversation was unpleasant; desire to be left alone; he desires to find fault with every one around him. (This state of mind lasted several days-see proving.) CLINICAL REMARs. —One cannot help being struck by the similarity of the above symptoms, to those mental states common to diseases of the genital organs in both sexes, particularly in women. Such symptoms are quite common to uterine disorders, and to unhealthy pregnancies. In disorders of digestion'we also meet with a similar group of symptoms. I consider such symptoms to be an excellent guide, in default of other pathogenetic ones, to the selection of Helonias in uterine disorders, etc.' Cerebral Symptoms.-Slight pain through the temples, with a. feeling of iulness in the head, and vertigo; a feeling of pressure from within upward to the vertex, aggravated by looking steadily at any fixed point; pain in the occiput, with pulsative pain in the vertex-increased by stooping, attended with vertigo; pain in the forehead as if a band about an inch wide was drawn across from temple to temple. (Iod., Merc., Stann., Nit. ac.) Gastric, etc.-Wakes every morning at 5 o'clock (an unusual hour) with the lips, tongue and fauces dry, and a bitter taste in the mouth; appetite not as good as usual. Soon after taking each dose sensations of pain, tightness, and pressure felt in the stomach, which was partially relieved by, the eructation of tasteless gas; cramp-like pain in the stomach; motion and rumbling in the intestines, as if diarrhcea would come on. "In Ohio, and many of the Western States, it is in very general use as a common emetic' operating with great certainty, but with more activity than Ipecac. or Eupatorium.")-Lee. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Dr. Coe says the "H relonin will be tolerated by the stomach when other tonics are rejected. It invigorates the appetite, promotes digestion and depuration, and so improves the quality and increases the quantity of the blood. In this way the foundation for a cure is laid, by improving the tone of the entire system." A thorough proving would doubtless show that this medicine produces a long train of gastric symptoms, beginning with hyper-stimulation, and ending in atony. I have found it very useful both in idiopathic functional diseases of the stomach, and especially in those sympathetic gastric disorders, which accompany diseases of the uterus. Loss of appetite, eructatimuns ful 240 NEW HOMiEOPATHIC PROVINGS. ness, cramp, and painful congestion, with lowness of spirits, are the chief indications for its employment, Dr. Close (Tilden's Jour. of Mat. Med., vol. 2, p. 297) reports the case of a woman with general dropsy: "Her stomach was in a very irritable condition, rejecting her food and medicines. After giving iHelonias (fl. ext.) I remained and watched with no little solicitude its effects, expecting it would be likewise rejected; but instead, I had the satisfaction of seeing it retained, and in a little time she became less restless, the moaning noise which she had been accustomed to make almost constantly, ceased, and at the end of half an hour after it was given she fell asleep; the pulse became decidedly softer, and slower, than it had been for a long time. When she awoke there was a decided increase of muscular power." (Dose of fi. ext. one to three drachms, according to Tilden. Dr. C. probably gave as much.) In Dyspepsia, etc., I have generally used the lower dilutions and triturations. r'inary Organs.-Kidneys somewhat stimulated, and a larger amount than usual, of clear, light colored urine has been voided. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is deemed to be a diuretic by medical writers: "In the treatment of the various forms of dropsy, the IHelonin has proved of remarkable utility. It operates in a general manner, and is, seemingly, a powerful resolvent. The only manner in which it proves evacuant, is, in some cases, as a diuretic-except when given in over-doses, when it is emetic."- Coe. There are few forms of dropsy which are not due to an asthenic state of the system, or which do not bring on this condition during their course. Therefore, not only do we need to use in dropsy such remedies as Apis, Apocynum,' Colchicum, which act specifically upon the kidneys, but possess no "tonic" power; but we are obliged to resort to such medicines as China, Arsenicum, Phosphoric acid, etc. Indeed, these latter medicines have, alone, cured many cases of general dropsy by their influence over the general system. The Helonias will be found valuable'to the homceopathist in that class of cases, when there is anasarca, with general debility, and an atonic condition of the generative organs, such as chlorosis, amenorrhcea, dropsy from uterine hemorrhage, etc. Genierative rgans, —Pain in lower part of the back, through to the uterus, like inflammation, piercing, drawing; breasts swollen, very tender, and will not bear the pressure of even an ordinary dress; nipples very sensitive and painful; great uterine hemorrhage came during the proving, and continued until the medicine was discontinued. [The above pathogenetic symptoms were noticed by Dr. E. Clark, of Portland, Me. He states he has noticed the same train of symptoms in six or eight cases. The medicine was given at the first trituration (Helonin). These symptoms were received after the following was written.] CLINICAL RXMARKis. —rhe Helonias is one of those indigenous medicines, which from the earliest days of medicine in this country, has had a peculiar reputation-first with the Aborgines, then with the early white settlers, and finally with the medical profession in the country-as being a remedy, even the remedy, for those disor tHELONIAS DIOICA. 241 ders generally termed "uterine," and which depended upon an atonic condition of the organs of reproduction. I regret exceedingly that I cannot present the profession with a proving upon the organism of women. I have given it to healthy women, but never observed any notable symptoms. Primarily, it always increases the tone and physilogical activity of the generative organs. I there. fore consider it secondarily homceopathic to those diseases or conditions for which it has been used so successfully. Were it not so, it never could have been used successfully in the doses usually administered by the opposite school of practice. It would have produced aggravations, and been by them considered contra-indicated. Before giving the clinical experience of our own school, I will quote the opinions and clinical remarks concerning this remedy, which I find in the records of allopathic literature. Prof. C. A. Lee writes (Tilden's Journal of Mat. Med. II., p. 123):-" Numerous trials have satisfied us that it has a specific action on the uterine organs,-an alleviative, regulating influence over their functions. Hence, in Amenorrhoea marked by general atony, and an anmmic and torpid condition of the system this, plant proves of great service; giving tone to the digestive organs, favoring nutrition and sanguification, and promoting the secretions generally. So, in Leucorrhcaa, associated with similar conditions of the general system, it will be found equally serviceable. Its influence as an uterine tonic is also well marked in cases of atonic or passive Menorrhagia. Here, by imparting tonicity to the muscular fibres of the uterus, and by a stimulating power over the plexuses of organic nerves, which supply the pelvic viscera, the exudation of blood is checked, and he predisposing, as well as the proximate cause of the disease, removed. If it has the power of obviating sterility and impotence, as is alleged by some writers, it must be by a similar mode of operation. It may be slightly aphrodisiac, but there are no well-attested facts bearing on that point. It is very probable, however, that it may, in common with Senecio and other uterine tonics, produce such effects; but if it does, I have no proof of the fact, except what may by drawn from analogy. It is very probable, also, that in cases of dysmenorrhoea and liability to abortion from atony of the reproductive organs, it may.prove highly advantageous by a similar mode of action, just as we find in the case of Iron, and other tonics which improve the general health. But, in addition to this, it would seem to be endowed, to a considerable extent, with specific properties and powers. Dr. Coe (Cone. Org. Med.) is very enthusiastic, he says:-" No agent of the Materia Medica better deserves the name of uterine tonic. The remarkable success attending its administration in the diseases peculiar to females, has rendered it an indispensible remedy to those acquainted with its peculiar virtues. Like the Senecin, it is alike appropriate in the treatment of diseases apparently calling for dissimilar properties as, for instance, amenorrheea and menorrhagia. Its alterative and tonic influence will account, in a measure, for its utility in those complaints. In the treatment of amenorrhoea, it will be found most beneficial in those 31 242 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. cases arising from, or accompanied with, a disordered condition of the digestive apparatus, and an anvetnic habit. It; has an especial influence on the organs of generation, independent of its general constitutional influence. For this reason it has proved of eminent value in the cure of prolapsus uteri, tendency to miscarriage, and atony of the generative organs; sterility and impotence have also been relieved and cured by this remedy. Certain writers have classed it as an aphrodisiac, and stated that its continued use induces an abnormal desire for sexual indulgence. Such a statement could only have been made in the absence of actual knowledge, and as the legitimate fruit of a prurient imagination. We have probably used the Helonin quite as extensively as any other practitioner, and we must confess to a want, of sufficient penetration to discover any such results from its employment. The only aphrodisiac we recognize, is the natural proclivity of a sensual mind. That the HIelonine is a special tonic to the organs of reproduction we are well aware, but only to a normal and healthy extent. Did its action extend further than this, it would be a disease-producing, and not a disease-curing remedy. When a medicine so acts upon a diseased organ as to restore it to a physiological condition, we very naturally conclude that said organ will manifest the fact of its restoration by the resumption of its functional activity. This is precisely the case when the Helonin is employed. If administered for the cure of indigestion, the appetite improves, the food is digested, absorbed, and assimulated, and thus the curative action of the remedy manifested. If, on the other hand, the case be one of amenorrheea, sterilty, menorrhagia, or impotency, secretion is restored, tone imparted, and the healthful flow of returning stimulus is manifested by the usual physical signs. The sexual appetite is sequent, and not the antecedent of the restoration of the ability of the organs. to perform the functions assigned them by nature." A portion of Dr. Coe's remarks, namely, that which relates to the effects of curative doses of medicines, is in the main correct. But his general statement contains one great, fundamental error, which has ever been the glaring fault of allopathic therapeutics. Ile states that Helonin is a special tonic to the organs of reproduction, but only to a normal extent; did it extend beyond this, he remarks, it would be a disease-creating remedy. The old school of medicine, has always been wilfully blind to the truth, that all medicines may be disease-producing. That a medicine is a "special tonic" to any particular organ, is the strongest proof that it is capable, if long continued, even in small doses, of causing disease in that organ. If, then, IHelonias be given for uterine atony, and acts curatively, when that organ has regained its tone, if the remedy be continued, it will urge or elevate the physiological functions of that organ, and induce an abnormal condition,' the result of hyper-stimulation. If Helonias is a special tonic to the organs of reproduction, we do not doubt, that if given to a healthy individual, it would cause an excess of sexual desire, congestion of' the uterus, ovaries, etc., and even amenorrhcea, or menorrhagia, dependent on active congestion; then, after a time the irritability of these organs would be worn out and 244 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. prescribed remedies for symptoms present-the principal, Nux., Bell., Secale., Sabina, etc. I repeatedly replaced the womb; the treatment was very discouraging to myself; but symptoms would give way to the action of the remedies readily. About seven months ago, I procured the Vaginal Syringe, and had her use it with water and Tannin. About six months ago I replaced the womb for the last time, and did not prescribe again for four or five months, when she called on me, informing me that it had not been down since my last services, then five months; but still she looked rather badly, and still a dark, ugly discharge, pain in the small of back, etc. "December 19.-Helonin seond dec.; three a day, for two days. "December 21. —Improving; twelve powders, about one grain, three a day. " December 25. —Reports marked improvement in general health the discharge had changed to a bright red-more like the menstrual. "December 30.-No discharge for five days; she could dance, run up and down stairs; her cheeks have the bloom of health, and in spirits she equals the youngest. So you may see what a few doses of the Helonine has done; finished up the case in grand style, very much to my own and her gratification. "' Case 2.-A young woman who has hadtwo abortions at four months; she was in her fourth month again, with all symptoms of again aborting. Left Secale; saw her again in a day or two; it was then time for her courses, and I was fearful that would augment her trouble; she was suffering the usual pain as in such cases. I left her Helonine second dec., and saw her in town yesterday; she had walked in; has had no trouble since taking the last prescription. You may be able to glean but little from the foregoing; but it still points to the remedy as sure to be the foremost in the rank of uterine remedies." The following cases came under my own treatment, and I have since used the HIelonin in similar cases with good results: Case 1.-A woman, aged 25, the mother of two children, and enciente with a third. The usual symptoms of pregnancy were not present, but in their stead, a peculiar prostration of the nervous and muscular system obtained. She was anaemic-pulse small and feeble; skin sallow and pale; digestion bad; no desire for any kind of food, and all kinds of food caused distress and epigastric oppression. She became emaciated, debilitated, and very low spirited. There was also present constipation, and almost constant uterine distress and pain, of a pressing down character; also leucorrhcea. China, Sepia, Pulsatilla, Ferrumn, Nux, and Ignatia were given, with but slight benefit. Upon purely empirical data, I prescribed Helonias,. five drops of the mother tincture, one hour befor6 each meal. The effect was surprising. In a few days her appetite increased; all dyspeptic symptoms disappeared; strength returned rapidly. The blood improved in richness, as was manifest by the returning color, and healthy complexion. The uterine disturbance ceased, and a normal pregnancy resulted. HELONIAS DIOICA. 245 Case 2.-A lady, aged 45, at the climacteric period suffered much from frequent and repeated floodings, profuse serous leucorrhcea, and dropsy. She had also much uterine and ovarian pain. Her complexion was very sallow, unhealthy looking, earthly, and pale..She had taken muriated tincture of iron from an allopath, for some months, but grew worse under its use. A report of the treatment of the whole case would be of interest, but want of space prevents its narration. The floodings subsided under the use of Trillin one-tenth; the dropsy and ovarian pain was removed by Apis. 2; the uterine pain was palliated by Sepia and Macrotin. But she still remained weak, emaciated, and the complexion did not improve. Leptandrin 2nd improved it somewhat; the icterus had disappeared. Helonias 2nd dec. trit., two grs. every four hours was then prescribed. Under its use the nutritive functions rapidly recovered their tone; strength and increased vitality returned, and in a few weeks she felt quite well. Back, etc.-A feeling of weariness and weight in the region of the kidneys; sharp, spasmodic pain in the back, running to the crest of the left ileum; severe rheumatic (?) pain in the right hip joint, worse during motion; pain, and a feeling of lameness, in the whole back; pain in lumbar region, about the upper portion of the sacrum, and pelvis; the pains in the back are more troublesome during the night. (See generative organs.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-Pains in the back, also lameness, stiffness, etc., located in the sacra-lumbar region-a common symptom in~ all uterine disorders, and even in diseases of the male organs of generation. Helonias seems to cause these pains in quite a notable degree; they often simulate rheumatic pains, and may be mistaken for them. PROVING OF HELONIN, BY DR. C. H. BURR, OF PORTLAND) ME. The preparation used in this proving was a solution of thirty grs of Helonin in one ounce of alcohol, diluted with half an ounce of water. It was thought best to commence with small doses, and increase hourly, until decided symptoms were produced, and Oct. 15th, in accordance with this idea, two drops were taken at 10, A.M., four gtt., at 11; eight gtt. at 12 M. Soon after taking each dose, sensations of pain, tightness, and pressure were felt in the stomach, which was partially relieved by the eructation of tasteless gas. At 1 P. M.,twelve gtt. were taken; at 2, sixteen gtt.; at.3, twenty gtt.; motion and rumbling in the intestines as if diarrhmea would come on. At 4, thirty gtt. were taken; at 5, forty gtt.; at 8, fifty gtt. Slight pain was now felt through the temples, together with a feeling of fullness in the head, and vertigo.: At 10, P. M., took fifty gtt. October 16th.-The symptoms produced yesterday were not of a decided character. Took at 7, A. M., forty gutta; at 9, fifty gtt.; at 11,'sijty gtt.; at 12, sixty gtt. Still, but little effect is produced, and I should be unconscious of being under the influence of any remedy were it not for an unnatural degree of languor, and a feeling of weariness, and weight, in the region of the kidneys. At 2456 NEW HOMEOPATtIC PROVINGS. 2, P. x., sixty gtt.; at 3, sixty gtt. At this stage of the proving, the alcoholic preparation was put aside, and an aqueous one substituted; Helonin twenty grains, water one ounce; of this, forty gtt. were taken at 4, P. r.; at 7, fifty gtt. The symptoms mentioned as occurring in the head, are more decided; the sense of fulness increases, and there is a feeling of pressure from within, up to the vertex; the latter feeling is aggravated by looking steadily at any fixed point; the kidneys have been somewhat stimulated and a larger amount than usual of clear, light-colored urine has been voided during the last twelve hours; the pulse ranges at eighty-four, full, and a little irregular. At 9, P. M., took sixty gtt.; no nlew symptoms. October 18th.-No medicine was taken during the 17th, until evening, when at 7, half a drachm was taken; at 9, half a drachm; at 12, half a drachm. In the afternoon and evening, there was a great deal of weariness, and feeling of weight in the region of the kidneys, and with much more general fatigue than usual; mind dull and inactive. October 19th.-Took at 8, A. M., half a drachm; at 12, half a drachm; pain in the vertex; the pain in the head is increased by stooping, and attended with increased vertigo; sharp, spasmodic pain in the back, running to the crest of the left ilium. At 5 P. x., took half a drachm. Have awoke every morning since the proving was commenced, at 5 o'clock, aft unusual hour, with tongue and fauces dry, and a bitter, disagreeable taste in the mouth. The symptoms during the day have been more marked, and principally confined to the head and back; the appetite has not been as usual. October. 21st.-Took at 12, x., one drachm. Soon after taking this dose felt a cramp-like pain in the stomach. At 8, P. x., took one drachm; severe, rheumatic pains in the right hip joint, worse during motion; pain in the forehead, as if a band about an inch wide was drawn across from templeto temple; pain and feeling of lameness in the whole back, and dryness, and bitter taste in the mouth. Oct. 22nd.-Took at 9, A. M., one drachm; at 12, m., one drachm. Last evening was engaged in singing until 8 o'clock, at which time I took one drachm. Previous to taking the remedy, I never felt better, more cheerful, or in better spirits. Ssoon after taking it, there was an entire change in surrounding circumstances; I very soon became dull, gloomy, and irritable; could not endure the least contradiction, or receive any suggestions in relation to any subject; all conversation was unpleasant, and what I most desired was, to be left alone, reserving to myself the privilege of finding fault with every one around me. I consider that this moral condition was not accidental, but purely a pathological state, produced, and kept up by the action of the medicine. Previous to the 22nd, this state assumed an intermittent form, but after that date, it was unchanged for several days, and was one of the most constant and marked effects. October 26th,.-No medicine has been taken since the 22d. Pain in the lumbar region, about the upper part of the sacrum and tIYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 247 pelvis. These pains during the last twenty-four hours have been more constant and severe than at any other time; the pain in the back seems more troublesome at night than during the day." HIYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. (Golden Seal.) This well-known plant is indigenous. It has a perennial root, which is the officinal portion. It consists of a tortuous, knotty caudex, with numerous long fibers, and is of a bright yellow color internally. The plant is found growing in shady woods, in rich soil, and in damp -meadows, in different parts of the United States, but is more abundant west of the Alleghanies. It flowers in, May and June. The root in its fresh state is juicy, and when dried looses much of its weight. Its odor is strong and somewhat narcotic, with a very bitter taste. Its virtues are imparted to water and alcohol. A peculiar nitrogenous, crystallizable substance called Hydrastin, is considered the active principle of this plant. In homeoopathic practice we usefive different preparations of this agent. (1.) A tincture and dilution of the fresh root. This should be made with diluted alcohol. (2.) A trituration of the pulverized root. (3.) A trituration of the Hydrastin. (4.) A glycerole made with the tincture. (5.) A cerate. The Hydrastin is not considered to possess all the virtues of the root. It stands in the same relation to it, as Quinine does to Peruvian Bark (China). It possesses all the tonic properties of the root, but not all the peculiar specific action on the mucous tissues, which is possessed by the preparations of the root. We ought to have a good proving of both preparations. GENERAL EFFECTS.-There is no medicine in use in eclectic practice about which there is such a general unanimity of opinion as to its therapeutical effects. The unequivocal testimony is that it is. (1.) A mild, certain, and permanent tonic; (2.) An alterative to all the mucous surfaces, and indeed to all tissues with which it is brought in contact. When we come to speak of special indications, its various applications in disease will be fully considered. I hope to be able to show that this agent, so truly valuable even in empirical practice, is realy homceopathic to nearly every condition for which it has been used successfully by eclectic physicians. The allopaths seem to know or care but little about this remedy. Wood thus mentions it in his Dispensatory. "It probably possesses the ordinary virtues of the vegetable bifters, 248 NEW I HOMEOPATHIIC PROVINGS. and is soid to be employed as a tonic in some parts of the country. In the form of infusion, it has been used in the Western States as a topical application in ophthalmia, and the Indians are said to employ it in the same manner, in old ulcers of the legs. The notion of its efficacy in cancers, originating in a report which reached the late Professor Barton, that it was used in the cases of this complaint by the Cherokees, is probably altogether groundless." In his " Therapeutics" and "Practice" Wood does not mention it. In homceopathic practice it has been used for a few years, but only upon empirical data. GENERAL SYMPTOMS. —The universal'testimony of those who have had experience in the use of Hydrastis, is, that it increases in a marked manner the physical strength, and elevates the functions of the stomach, as regards digestion, assimilation, etc. It probably increases the appetite, and acts in many ways as China does when given during convalescence from disease, or in diseased states characterized by debility. This is to the Ecle6tic, what Quinine is to the Allopath, and China is to our own -school. The first-named school look with surprise upon the indifference with which this, their favorite tonic, is treated by their rival school. I have known eclectics in large practice, rely upon it almost to the exclusion of Quinine or Salicine, in intermittents and other malarious fevers. They usually prescribe one drachm of the tincture or fluid extract, or one or two grains (even as high as six grains) of Hydrastin, every one, two, or four hours, as the case seems to demand, and assert that it always acts as a pure tonic, and that its effects are not attended with any stimulation of the circulation, or congestion of the brain, as is the case with Quinine. Yet, curiously enough, English homaeopathists assert that a "' few drops of the mother tincture will cause a sensation of physical prostration." It could not do this by its primary action, like chinaits scondary effect may be prostration. Drs. McLimont and Marston state that " one of us has for upwards of a month at a time, endeavored by experiment, to ascertain its pathogenesis; but we have been unable to elicit any very decided symptoms, except upon the sensorium and heart, which were affected for a very short time, by doses of half an ounce and upwards, smaller quantities appearing to pass off without any effect at all." The tincture used by the gentlemen must have been of a very poor quality, or half an ounce would have shown its effects in quite a decided manner. They state, however, that they " know of no medicine which has caused so great an improvement in the general health of our cancer patients as has this, an improvement which, in most cases, has become visible in the bettered expression of the countenance, to all who had previously known the patients." It is appropriate in this place, that I should give some account of the use of Hydrastis in cancers by our English colleagues. In the October No., 1863, of the British Journal of jHomceopathy, we find an article entitled, " Cancer; its Pathology, etc.,' by Drs. McLimont and Marstonm After mentioning other remedies, as Arsenicum, Aurum, Hyoscyamus, Conium, and Carbo. veg., they pro HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 249 ceed to notice the Golden Seal. They say: "We are not sure who it'was that first adopted and recommended the use of Hydrastis c., but have reason to believe that this application of the root was first made in America." We have looked through the various works published in this country, in which this plant has been noticed, but do not recollect that it is once mentioned as having been used in cancerous affections. King, Jones and Scudder, Kost, and others, mention that it possesses a marked action upon mucous surfaces, and is curative in ulceration, chronic inflammation, etc., of those surfaces; also old ulcers on the extremities, etc. In domestic practice it is used somewhat as we use Arnica, as an application to bruises, abrasions, and sprains. The first mention of the use of Hydrastis in cancer is found in the earlier numbers of the British Journal. Dr. Bayes and Dr. Pattison both reported cases cured with an external application of the drug. But Dr. P. published his cases in a pamphlet, much as the cancer doctors of this country publish their wonderful cures, and there was much room left for doubt, as to the genuineness of the statements. Drs. McLimont and Marston do not, however, rely entirely upon the use of Hydrastis alone, but consider it -necessary to "enucleate" the tumor. This process of enucleation is described in full (see page 628). IHydrastis was applied to the tumor, after it had been incised. But it will seem strange to American homceopathists, who have always loked upon their English brethren with something akin to reverence, when they learn the manner of its application. "A piece of lint is applied to the surface, spread with equal parts of a paste composed of a strong decoction of IHydrastis root, chloride of zinc, and jfour, andstramoniucm ointment." Shade of Hahnemann, have mercy upon English homceopathists! Is this Homceopathy? What, in the name of common sense, can a mild, non-caustic medicine like Golden Seal do, mixed up with such caustics and narcotics as chlo.ride of zinc and stramonium? Is the.British Journal so badly in want of original articles, as to be obliged to publish such absurdity under the name of homceopathy? It is equally ridiculous with old school practice. If the I-ydrastis was to be tested, why not do it in a proper manner, by applying it in a concentrated form to the diseased part? In some of the cases reported, a "lotion" of Golden Seal was applied with apparent good effect. Of the constitutional treatment they say: "This "-the Hydrastis-" is the medicine upon which we chiefly rely in our treatment of cancer, usually putting our patients under a course of it for a month or so, before commencing the enucleation of the mass. Our doses vary from one or two drops of the sixth dil., to drop doses of the mother tincture; the lower forms being used chiefly in those cases in which the cachectic condition is fully marked; and. we must confess that we know of no medicine which has caused so great an improvement in the general health of our patients as has this. We continue the medicine during the whole of the treatment, and for some weeks after. "' In some cases, however, the ulceration has extended into such parts as to prevent much treatment by the application of the paste, and here we have obtained much good from the Hydras32 250 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. tis lotion, combined with its internal administration; the pain decreases, the factor dimninishes, the discharge is lessened, and the ulceration progresses less rapidly. * * Our experience, on the whole seems to lead to the conclusion, that fbr the most part the health (as connected with the disease) improves more rapidly under Arsenicumrn than under Hydrastis, while on the other hand, the local condition participates more decidedly in this amendment when Hydrastis is taken." Several example cases are given to illustrate the curative effects, a few of which we condense: Case 1.-A lady had observed for some years a hard substance in her right breast, which, for a few months before coming under treatment had rapidly increased in size, and had become so painful as to prevent all rest by night. On examination, a tumnor of strong hardness, and about the size of a duck's egg, was discovered in the upper portion of the left breast. It was non-adherent, but the skin was slightly puckered, and the nipple retracted. Another physician had called the tumor a malignant one. Hydrastis sixth was administered in drop doses. The pain was at once relieved. The enucleation of the tumor, however, was decided upon. The wound speedily cicatrized, and the patient remains perfectly free from disease. Case 2.-"A lady had suffered for six months from a swelling in the left breast. The pain-which was compared to knives thrust into the part-had become almost unbearable, and the patient was already beginning to assume that worn appearance so characteristic of the cancerous diathesis. The tumor, which attained a considerable size, was hard, heavy, and adherent to the skin, which was dark, mottled, and very much puckered, the nipple also being much retracted. The patient was at once advised to come to town for the enucleation of the tumor. This, however, her circumstances prevented, and without any expectation of affording much relief, a lotion of Hydrastis was ordered, with the internal use of the same medicine. The pain almost imnlediately ceased, and the tumor so speedily decreased in size that -at the end of two months it had altogether disappeared, leaving but the puckered skin, which had otherwise regained its natural appearance. When we last heard of this patient she continued perfectly well. It is needful to state that her health rapidly improved under the treatment, and that her countenance regained the aspect of health." This is a notable case, and if the IHydrastis will always act as well, it will prove a great boon to humanity. Ten cases are given, in which the Hydrastis was used. In most cases it relieved the pain, and in some it checked the progress of the disease. The writers claim that it failed to give relief in no case. They predict gr-eat advantage from:the use of this medicine. But we protest against its combination with powerful caustics and anodynes, if we are to have all the good effects of the "paste" attributed to the Hydrastis. I would suggest that American homceopathists test the pure paste of Hydrastis (pulv. root) applied to the "incised" tumor, or the lotion, or even a strong cerate, giving at the same time the remedy internally. The Hydrastis is also recom HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 251 mended for Lupus. Three cases, says Drs. M3cL. and M., have been treated successfully with it. I have been treating a case of scirrous of the breast by the use of Hydrastis. The lady had a scirrous tumor extirpated from the right breast six years previously. Three months before I was consulted she noticed a small induration, or tumor, near the site of the one which had been extirpated. It gradually increased in size and became very painful. The pain was lancinating, and extended up to the shoulder and down the arms. I applied a lotion of Hydrastis, one-tenth in water, and ordered her to take five drops of the onetenth three times a day. It is now one month since she commenced its use. The pain ceased the first week, and the tumor has decreased rapidly in size. Dr. H. I. Saxton, of St. Joseph, Mich., writes nme that he has had considerable experience in the use of HIydrastis as an external application; and gives the following cases illustrating its use: Case. —A girl seven or eight years of age fell, and lacerated the scalp above the left temple. The wound was several' inches in length, in the form of a crescent. It suppurated, and became a troublesome sore. After cleansing the surface, the Hydrastis, in fine powder, was applied. It checked the suppuration, allayed the inflammation, and under its use, the ulcer healed in a few days. Case 2.-Was an ulcer from a burn, on the back of a child's hand. It was much inflamed, very painful; she could hardly move her wrist. The powdered Hydrastis was applied lightly. Although the child irritated it a good deal, it soon healed, and left the cuticle smooth, and without a cicatrix. Case 3. —Infantile Intertrigo. "Excoriation in the folds of the neck." The dry powder was applied, and it healed in three davs. As a wash, one part, of the tincture to ten of water I have found more useful in obstinate excoriation of the skin, in children, than Arnica. Glycerine is a better vehicle than water. The Glycerole of Hydrastis is used with great advantage in cases of intertrigo, sore nipples, and ulcerated surfaces. While Arnica seems specific for contusions, with extravasations, and Calendula for incised and lacerated wounds, even when unhealthy suppuration ensues, the Hydrastis seems the best remedy for chronic ulcers, arising from either of the above causes, or from burns, scalds, or some diseases of the skih. Skin.-'Enough has been said above to indicate the conditions of the skin, etc., for which Hydrastis is indicated. It is probably not specific against any idiopathic diseases of the skin, but only for some of the effects of such diseases. It has been found useful against lupus, psoriasis, rhagadqes, and excoriations. It may be employed as a simple lotion, a glycerole, or in the form of a cerate. If the general condition of the system is cachectic its internal use will be found beneficial. Sleep.-Awakened several times during the night by severe pains in the small of the back, and hypogastric region, with dull pain in the umbilicus. 25 2 - NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. Fever. -Chilly sensation all night, notwithstanding abundance of covering; chilliness, with aching in the back and limbs. CLINICAL REMARKS. -Its use in Intermittent fevers has already been alluded to. It is most serviceable in quzoticiansj when there is considerable gastric disturbance, jaundice, and a general cachectic condition. Also in cases where mercury and quinine have been used injuriously. In the debility which follows gastric, bilious, and typhoid fever, it will be found very useful. Mind.-Feel very sad and gloomy. llead.-Dull, heavy frontal headache; constant dull headache, with pain in the hypogastritiu and small of the back of a dull aching character; dull frontal headache present most of the time. CLINICAL REMARKIS.-I have found it useful in headache from gastric difficulties, those arising from dyspepsia, and in those frontal headaches which occur in chronic catarrh. It has been found curative in headache from habitual constipation. Eyes.-Mucous membrane of the eyelids much congested; discharge of large quantities of thick white mucus; profuse secretion of tears; eyelids agglutinated together; mucous membrane of lids congested; smarting of the eyes; burning of the eyes and lids. CLINICAL REMARKS.-We find here distinctly manifested, the specific action of Hydrastis. It affects all mucous membranes, that of the eyes seems to be prominently affected by the pathogenetic influence of the drug. We also find that this remedy has been used very successfully by eclectic practitioners, in diseases of the eyes. In catarrhal conjunctivitis, -after the acute stage has passed, it has been used as a collyrium with unequivocal benefit. King advises it in opacity of the cornea. Jones and Scudder assert that, "' A decoction of it is very useful as a detergent and antiphlogistic application to the eyes, either in acute or chronic inflammation; in acute ophthalmia we have obtained much advantage from applying a poultice of equal parts of Hydrastis and ulmus fulva, wet with cold water; it relieves the pain and burning, and in many mild cases will effect a cure without any other application. In the chronic form of the dis'ease we employ it without the ulmus fulva, directing a large poultice to be applied to the affected eye upon going to b;ed, and retained on through the night, wetting it occasionally with water' if it becomes:dry." Were it not for the senseless combinations which they use, some valuable clinical experience might be gleaned from the works of writers on eclectic medicine. From the above testimony as to the use of Hydrastis in Ophthalmia, we may deduce some practical suggestions. The " eye symptoms" noticed by the provers show that Hydrastis is an analogue of Pulsatilla, Euphrasia, Hepar sulphur and Sepia. The two former correspond more particularly to acute catarrhal inflammation, while the latter, and HIydrastis are more appropriate to the chronic condition. (IzEthusa effects the eyes similarly to Euphrasia.) Pulsatilla is but indicated when the discharge is thick, mucus, or even muco-purulent, and there may be superficial ulceration of the conjunctiva. Bat the discharge for which Hydrastis is indicated, proceeds from a more obstinate catarrhal inflammation, in which HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 253 ulceration is a prominent symptom. It is a little strange that the above mentioned writers do not mention or advise the use of this remedy internally in Ophthalmic diseases. It may be remarked, however, that the older allopathic writers do not mention the internal use of Pulsatilla or Euphrasia, although they used them as topical agents, in the same diseases for which we use them. -Dose, etc. —In acute conjunctivitis give the' third dilution, and apply about the same attenuation, (in distilled water), to the eyes. In the chronic, attended with ulceration, use the one-tenth or one-hundredth internally and as a collyrium. Nose. —Very much stuffed up; constant discharge of thick white mucus- from the nose; constant coryza with profuse secretion of tears; obstruction of the nasal passages with frequent coryza; constant coryza with frontal headache; (B) "excessive secretion from the mucous membrane of the nose, so much so that the secretions were removed in long tenacious shreds or pieces."(Ki ing.) CLINICAL IREMARKS.-This last symptom, which I find in King's Disp., shows very clearly the sphere of action of the drug; also that the mucous membrane- of the nose is specifically affected; this symptom was caused by internal administration. For several years I have been in the habit of treating chronic nasal. catarrhs, ozmna, and diptheritic affections of the nose, with Hydrastis. In simple catarrh, the second dil. may be given internally and used as an injection into the nostrils, two or three times-a day. When there is ulceration the first dec. trituration will afford more satisfactory results. In Ozaena, it may be used still stronger, and in alternation with injections of Baptisia, giving at the same time internally, Iodide of Arsenic, or Nitric ac. In acute coryza, with copious secretion of white mucus and tears, nightly chilliness, despondency, etc., I would suggest the use of the high potencies. Its internal and topical application may prove of benefit in nasal polypi. If its asserted power of discussing scirrous and other tumors be but substantiated, it may prove useful in cancer of the, nose. Mouth.-Large apthous sore on the mucous membrane of the under lip; fiat taste in the mouth; "excessive secretion of tenacious mucus from the buccal mucous membrane, so profuse that it may be removed in long tenacious shreds." —(Kizng.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-We have here the same blenorrhagic symptoms noticed under "Nose." Hydrastis has always been a favorite domestic remedy in "sore mouth." Many physicians use it in all forms of stomatitis with alleged success. It has been found useful in common apthous stomatitis of children; in simple ulceration of the buccal mucous membrane; in mercurial sore mouth;: and in stomatitis materna. I have witnessed the most obstinate varieties of these affections, yield to the local application of Hydrastis in decoction or powder, after the mineral acids, astringents, nitrate of silver of the old school, and even homceopathic remedies had been tried in vain. The best method of application is to put one drachm of the tincture into half a pint of water, use this as a wash every 254 NEW IOMiEOPATHIC TPROVINGS. four hours; enough will be swallowed or absorbed, to exert its specific constitutional action. In Dr. Ludlam's report on "stomatitis materna. (Trans. Ill. Hobm. Society) mention-is made of the use of this remedy in that *disease. Dr. Murch has been very successful in many cases, using it as a wash, and the dry powder applied to ulcers in the mouth. Fauces, Throat, etc.-Tingling and smarting in the throat; hawking up of tenacious, yellow or white mucus, with rawness of the fauces; some pain on swallowing, as from excoriation. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is a favorite remedy with many homoeopathic physicians in the West, as a gargle in cases of simple ulcerated sore throat; also in Angina with ulceration, when accompanying scarlatina; it does not, like Baptisia, remove the fretor in a direct manner, but its curative effect over the ulceration tends to remove any putrefactive condition. I consider it as useful in.Diphtheria, as any remedy we are acquainted with. (Use as directed under "Mouth.") The pathogenetic symptoms are quite similar to, those for which Dr. Gray, of New York, so highly recommlendsMerc. Iodatus; and the pathological condition, namely, inflammation and engorgement, with profuse secretion of mucus from the mucous follicles of the throat, very much resemble the condition which Mercurius causes. In some varieties of Chronic Angina, we find the mucous membrane of the fauces studded with round, protuberant spots, of a red color, as if injected with blood, and the patients complains of an aggravation from the least exposure to cold. For this state of the throat Hepar sulphur is generally prescribed, but its permanent curative effect is much aided by the internal and local use of Hydrastis. Syphilitic Angina, has been benefited by the use of this medicine; indeed, in its action on the glands of the mucous membrane, Hydrastis is an analogue of the mercurials. There is a kind of sore throat, which often attends dyspepsia; it is sometimes known as "bilious sore' throat," although the name is inappropriate; it is a sympathetic disorder, arising from irritation of the stomach and lower portions of (esophagus; for this troublesome affection, the Hydrastis internally is an excellent remedy. Gastric Symptoms.-Eructations of sour::fluid; faint feeling at the stomach; -dull aching pain in the stomach, which causes a very weak, faintish feeling; burning pain in the umbilical region, with a faintish " goneness' in the epigastric region; cutting pain in the stomach. CLINICAL REMARKs. —This remedy seems likely to prove as prominent a remedy fbr those conditions which are.known under the name of dyspepsia, as Nux vomica, Sulphur, or Pulsatilla. W'e will glance at the testimony of eclectic physicians on this subject: -" It is successfully administered in dyspepsia and chronic affections of the mucous coats of the stomach; in chronic inflammation of the stomach it is very valuable; it will be found of especial advantage in the treatment of persons who are intemperate, gradually removing the abnormal condition of the stomach, and in many instances destroying the appetite for liquor.-(King.) "In HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 255 anorexia, indigestion, and' general debility, arising from a languid, or atonic state of the stomach, it is unsurpassed, restoring tone to the. stomach, promoting the appetite, and acting as a general restorative. It may also be employed in those cases of chronic gastritis and chronic irritation of the stomach with altered secretion, which constitute the worst and most persistent forms of dyspepsia. In acid indigestion the Hydrastis, associated with calcined magnesia or prepared charcoal, will be found truly valuable, especially when attended with a torpid condition of the bowels. In those sympathetic diseases of the digestive organs, arising from uterine disease, we have obtained more benefit.from this than from any other agent.-(Jones & Scudder Miat. Med.) "The cases in which we have known this plant used with most success, were atonic dyspepsia, attended with torpidity of the liver; languid circulation, and constipated bowels." (Prqfessor Lee, Allopath.) The few pathogenetic symptoms which we have, point to its use in dyspepsia with acidity, and dyspepsia from atony. The faint feeling, is quite suggestive of congestion of the portal system; but we should be guided, perhaps, more by the general action of Hydrastis upon mucous membranes. We know that it causes (1) blenorrhagia; (2) excoriation and ulceration (supe:ficial?); and a condition simulating chronic inflammation. I have used this medicine in gastric disorders, for several years, and my experience, together with a knowledge of its general effects, lead me to consider it homceopathic to the following conditions; I use the nomenclature of Dr. Chambers-(see Disorders of Digestion): (1) Mucous Flux (chronic.) (2.) Excess of epitheliuml (chronic). (3.) The Anvamic state. (4.) (Chronic Inflammation, (mucous). (5.) Ulcer of the stomach. (6.) Deficiency of gastric juice. It may prove of value *in cancer, or scirrous of the stomach, if the experience of our English colleagues should be verified; it palliates those symptoms of flatulence, distention, and painful digestion, so common to dyspeptics. Stomach and Bowels.-Slight pain in the umbilical region, with a hot sensation in the same parts; severe cutting pain in the hypogastric region, extending into the testicle, where it is of a dull aching character, occurring after stool and accompanied by a very faint feeling; constant distress in the umbilical region, with loud rutlbling in the bowels; dull pain in the hypogastrium and small of the back; dull pain in the umbilicus, aggravated by moving, and accompanied by great rumbling in the bowels; severe pains in the hypogastrium with very faint feeling following stool; constant dull pain in the right side of umbilical region; constant dull aching pain in the stomach that produces a gone, or faint feeling; constant pain in the cardiac portion of the stomach, that produces a very weak, faint feeling; severe cutting pains in the stomach and umbilical region; at intervals sharp pain in the region of the spleen, with constant dull pains in the stomach and bowels, 256 NEW HIOMEOPATHIC PROVINGS. accompanied by a hot burning sensation; the aching pain in the umbilicus prevents my sleeping; great deal of pain in the umbilical and ccecal regions, continuing all night, with pain in the whole bowels all the fbllowing day; sharp pains in the region of the ccecum. CLINICAL REIMARKS.-It will be well here, to inquire into the general action of Hydrastis upon the intestinal tube. It is not considered as a cathartic, yet I have known large doses of the powdered root to act as a purgative. This, however, may have been in part owing to the irritating effects of the woody fibre in the powder, as the tincture does not, in quite large quantities, have that effect. King says that in some instances "it proves laxative, but without any astringency, and seems to act in therapeutical action between Rhubarb and bloodroot." Prof. Lee says it "proves laxative to the bowels." Dr. Burt, who made a portion of this proving, writes me that he did not have any very loose stools during the experiment; that he did not notice any mucus in the evacuations; the burning pain in the bowels was quite troublesome; but his proving was not continued a sufficient length of time to develope its peculiar blenorrhagic effects upon the intestinal mucous membranes. We feel safe in asserting that Hydrastis is not primarily or directly homceopathic to diarrhoea, unless in the catarrhal, in which it should be used highly potentized; but it is decidedly homoeopathic to the following conditions: (1) Chronic mucous flux of the intestines. (This condition has been treated under -the name of intestinal catarrh, blenorrhcea of the bowels.) It seems to be a near analogue of Ammonicum muriaticum in its effects upon mucous surfaces. (2.) Erosion, chronic ulceration, etc., with "defective absorption;') it is also homceopathic to flatulent colic; and pain in the bowels when accompanied by faintness. Stool.-Soft stool, followed by severe cutting pain in the hypogastrium, with dull aching in the testicles, accompanied by a very faint feeling; soft, mushy stool, with great rumbling in the bowels. (Burt). Obstinate relaxation of the bowels; griping pains in the bowels; tenesmus. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Prof. Lee (allopath), says this medicine has been used with most success in atonic dyspepsia, attended with languid circulation, torpidity of the liver, and constipated bowels. If it really proved curative in material doses, in constipation, it must be secondarily homceopathic to that condition. The reports of our English colleagues seem to support this theory by actual cases. Dr. Hastings, Surgeon (British Hom. Journal, Vol. XVIII, page 317,) writes: "My assistant, Mr. Clifford, uses it extensivelr in very chronic and obstinate cases of constipation, and says, that a drop of the mother tincture, in water, first thing every evening, has been most effectual in these cases." The following cases, illustrating the use of Hydrastis can. in constipation, were reported by Dr. Rogerson in the British Journal, Vol. XVIII., page 526:Case 1. —" Margaret Shaw, aged thirty-eight, came to the dispensary, with the following symptoms:-for the last eight years, HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 257 she had: been troubled with constipation, during which time her bowels had never been moved more than once or twice a week, and then only by the aid of opening medicine. Castor oil and pills generally had been taken, consequently she complained of constant headache, more especially in the morning; bad taste in the mouth; foul tongue; pain in the back and shoulders; a sense of constriction in the hypogastric region, which was only relieved by opening medicine; rather bilious; yellow complexion; skin smooth and dry; great pain after each stool, which was of a hard nodulated consistence, and of a brown or gray color. I now ordered her to take Iyd. c., every morning and evening, and to leave off taking all opening or purgative medicines; after four days had elapsed, her headache, pain in the back and shoulders, were much better; the bowels having moved. Four days afterward, the headache had entirely disappeared; free from pain; stool quite easy and healthy; yellow hue disappearing from the face; the appetite much better, and at the end of four weeks she reported herself quite well." Case 2. "Sarah HIowarth, aged twenty-nine, complaining of sore neck and throat, the latter much relaxed and inflamed, more especially the, posterior part; headache, cough and spit; pain in side;while stooping and rising from a recumbent position; breath bad; tongue foul and coated with a thick white fur; appetite bad; and bowels for some seven or eight weeks very much confined; had been obliged to resort to opening medicines every Saturday evening; they were generally moved three or four times every Sunday, and not again until the medicine was repeated on the following Saturday. She was ordered Hydrastis c. every morning and evening; one week afterward, she felt rather better; breath not so bad; tongue moist and more healthy; appetite increasing; bowels moved every day since she commenced taking the medicine; continued the Ilydrastis; one week later she feels nearly well, excepting a slight pain while swallowing any food; bowels free from all uneasy sensation, and move every day; appetite greatly increased and gaining strength every day; continued the medicine, which resulted in a perfect cure at the end of two weeks longer." C'ase 3.-Thomas Oscar, aged forty-six. Has been for several months troubled with general anasarca-difficulty in making water, which was of a high color, depositing a cloudy sediment while standing;: and having been in active service during the Crimean campaign was accustomed to sleeping out in the open air, and being- so exposed for a series of weeks and months, suffered from an acute attack of rheumatic fever, which laid the foundation of his present illness; his bowels for the last two months having been very much confined, so much so, that he was necessitated to resort to opening medicine once or twice a week. On my first visiting him, however, on the twenty-first of April, I prescribed IIydrastis every morning and evening. April 29th.-Has, since taking the medicine, had his bowels moved two or three times every day; he also makes much more water-more freely and of a better color; continue Hydrastis. May 4th —Iis bowels have been moved every day, with the 33 258 NEW -IOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. exception of yesterday!; his water increases; tongue better; sleeps very well, and feels in every respect great relief from his former sufferings; continuei Hydrastis every morning. May 26. Bowels more quiet, regular; swelling much diminished; water freer, clear and copious; feels now nearly well; continue Hydrastis every other morning." "The above cases are only a few of the many in which I have tried it with great success; it seems to act most beneficially. on those who have undergone, or constantly resort to a course of opening medicine;. itt also seems to act best on those who have spent an active life, but have be.come of sedentary habit." It is tobe regretted that Dr. Rogerson did not give the doses he used. iHydrastis is indicated in some forms of dysentery; in mucous enteritis when of a catarrhal. character, and the inflammation' sub-acute, the Hydrastis at the third dilution will prove curative. In chronic enteritis, when the discharges are tenacious, slimy, and accompanied with tenesmus; or when the feeces are in the form of hard balls, coated over with yellowish, tough mucus; this medicine will be of service in the first and second potency. The topical application of the remedy must not be forgotten in these cases. Enemas of Iydrastis will be found useful, and will bring about a cure unaided, or at any rate materially aid its internal action; when- the disease is located in the rectum, this form of application will be found particularly beneficial.In Ulceration of the recttem, occurring after bad cases of dysentery, the local application of Hydrastis will effect prompt cures; also, in fissure of anus. (The cerate will be the best preparation in these cases). In Hoemorrhoids, this plant has some reputation. Reliable practitioners have: assured me that they have cured the most obstinate cases by the alternate use of Hydrastis and Podophyllum, using enemas of Hydrastis every night. In Excoriations of the anus, as it occurs in little children, or even adults, in diarrhoea and dysentery, no better remedy can be advised; it should be used in the form of glycerole. Liver.-Our provings do not point to any particular symptoms, relating to the liver, but it is considered valuable in hepatic disorders, by the Eclectic school. C(oe says:-"I'Upon the liver it acts with certainty and efficacy; as a chologogue and deobstruent it has few equals; it is of inestiinable value in the treatment of chronic derangements of the' liver and portal circulation; it seems to exercise an especial influence over the portal vein, and hepatic structure, generally; resolving biliary deposits; removing obstructions; promoting secretion, and giving tone to the various functions. It may be relied upon with confidence for the relief of hepatic torpor. In intermittent fever, we have found it most reliable in- those cases in which the prolongation of the disease depended upon a disordered condition of the functions of the liver."' King does not mention its applicability to hepatic diseases. Other writers, however, recommend it in affections of that organ. If the liver eliminates the principle of the HYDRASTIS CAXNADENSIS.- 259 Hydrastis, we may safely assert that it will disorder its functions. I have quoted the above, to draw the attention of our school to its alleged uses. There is one condition of the liver, however, in which I consider the Hydrastis homcopathically indicated; I allude to to 1"catarrhal inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the gall bladder, biliary ducts, etc. Urinary Organs.-Dull, aching sensation in the region of the kidneys; dull, heavy weight in the lumbar region; urine increased from twenty-eight to sixty ounces per day, and changed from an acid reaction to neutral." (B). CmNIcAL REMARKS.-NO mention has been made of the diuretic action of Hydrastis, yet it would seem to have such effect; it needs confirmation, however, and further provings may clear up the matter. From analogy, it is more than probable, this medicine has the same effect upon the mucous membranes of the urinary organs, that it has upon the mouth, nose, and fauces, above alluded to. The resinoid principle of the drug, may be eliminated through the kidneys, the same as Turpentine, Copaiva and others; if so, it would undoubtedly cause those blenorrhagic conditions of the bladder, urethra, etc., for which it is considered almost a specific. KXing, and every other Eclectic writer on'therapeutics, assert, its "great value in; gleet, chronic gonorrhcea, incipient stricture, spermatorrhcea and inflammation and ulceration of the internal coat of the bladder." " Many cases of ulceration of:,the internal coat of the bladder have been cured by the decoetion of Hydrastis alone. It must be injected into the bladder,: and held there as long as the patient can conveniently retain it-to be repeated three or four times a day, immediately after emptying the bladder." It may be. prepared as follows: Tincture Hydrastis, c., one drachm; hot water, one pint;' inject about blood-heat. Its internal use alone would undoubtedly cure the disease, but it would require a longer time. (I have cured cystic blenorrhcea with Copaiva, Chhinaphila, and Uva-ursi internally.) In Gleet, it is beneficial, used in the same manner as above recommended. Dr. Hastings, U. S. Marine Hospital, San Francisco, California, reports in the Paciflc Journal, his treatment for Gonorrhaea. Patients in the acute stage are freely:purged; kept quiet; placed on half rations for three days; after which they are allowed full diet. The urethra from the time of the reception, is injected night and morning with a saturated infusion of fresh Hydrastis. He is first directed to urinate, and after the injection,' to lie on his back for an hour or so to retain it. After:the first purgation, no medicine is given internally. This treatment allays the chordee and ardor urinae immediately, and in the course of a febw days the disease is removed. Dr. H. says that, having used all kinds of treatment, he finds this produces a quicker cure, with less pain to the- patient, than any other. Dr. Hastings has also employed the Hydrastis as an injection into the bladder in Cystitis. For this purpose, the temperature should be brought to blood-heat, and about four ounces thrown in daily. The pain on micturition is remarkably relieved." From this crude treatment, we may draw some practical sugges 260 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. tions. We can use the Hydrastis in minute quantities, with just as good effects as are gained from massive doses. Dr. Coe, says, it should be given internally in small and repeated doses in chronic inflammation of the blader. In congestion of the- ureters, chronic suppression of urine, and gravelly affections, also in incontinence of urine, and diabetes, it will be found highly useful." This may be taken cum grano salis. Generative Organs of lMen.-It is homeopathic to chronic gonorrhoea, gleet, balanitis, balanorrhsba, etc. For the debility after spermatorrheea it is an admirable remedy. (See urinary organs.) Gtenerative Organs of Women.-We regret that we have no provings of Iris v. upon women. But the clinical experience relating to use in some disordered states of the reproductive organs, is quite extensive. From its peculiar, specific action on other mucous tisues, we should consider it homeopathic to conditions marked by abnormal secretions, such as uterine and vaginal catarrh, or mucus leucorrlhea (which according to Tyler Smith is a hyper-secretion of the glandular portion of the cervix uteri). In this form of leucorrheea the: discharge is tenacious, sometimes hanging from the os, in a long viscid string. It should also be useful in epithelial abrasion of the os and cervix uteri, and vagina, especially when superficial ulceration is present. When these conditions are accompanied with considerable debility, and disorder of the digestive functions, I have found the iydrastis one of the best of medicines. It should be given internally, in the lower attenuations, and used as an injection, of about the strength of one drachm Of the tincture to one pint or quart of water. The enema should be retained five minutes, repeated twice or three times a day. The following Eclectic testimony may not:be inappropriate in this place:-" It is of singular efficacy in leucorrhcea when the complaint is complicated with hepatic aberration."- (.Dr. Coe.) " In those sympathetic affections of.the digestive organs, arising from uterine diseases, we have obtained more benefit from it than from any other agent. Not only does it exercise a tonic influence upon the digestive organs, but if there is one agent more than another that deserves the name of uterine tonic, we believe that this is the agent. As a vaginal injecion in leucorrhea, or inflammation, (J. & S. Met. M/Ied.,) of the cervix uteri, it has no superior." Dr. H. M. Saxton, of St. Joseph, writes me that he has used it very successfully in various forms of leucorrhaea. Very many other practitioners of our school consider it; indicated in this class of affections, not fromn any special affinity for the generative organs, but by its general sphere of action, both as a restorative, and from its power to-influence the conditions of mucous membranes. Catarrhal Symptoms, etc. —Dull, frontal headache, with frequent coryza and constant secretion of tears; nose very much stuffed up; constant tickling of the larynx, with a dry harsh cough; chilliness; itching of the back and limbs; eyes smart: and burn; scraping sensation in the larynx; constant rough, hacking cough. CLINICAL RErARKs.-Although our eclectic colleagues recommend it in "all chronic, and even acute inflammations of mucous HYDRASTIS CANADENSIS. 261 membranes," yet they make no mention of its use in catarrh of the air passages. The above pathogenetic symptoms point directly to its effects on the respiratory tract. It causes many notable catarrhal symptoms. I would reccommend it, theoretically, in acute catarrhsnasal, laryngeal and bronchial (in the sixth dil.), also in chronic catarrhs of those passages. It is homceopathic when the discharge is thickl yellowish, very tenacious, "stringy," and profuse. In these cases the low attenuations should be used, aided when practicable by the topical application in the form of injection. In the bronchial catarrh of old people, with debility, loss of appetite eachectic conditions, it should prove very useful. Back and Upper Extremities.-Aching in the lower region; weariness in the arms. CLINICAL REMARS. —I once treated a lady, during her climacteric period, whose chief complaint was an intense aching pain in the small of the back. This pain sometimes changed to a burning. The profuse menses, were lessened with Platina; the nervous symptoms by Lachesis-and Pulsatilla, but neither these nor Sepia relieved the pain in her back. Upon the recommendation of a nurse she drank a decoction of ilydrastis, with the effect of removing the back-ache in a few days. The cure seemed permanent. -Lower Extremities.-Legs feel very weak, and ache; pain in the small of the back; severe pain in the right knee, lasting all day, and much aggravated by walking; dull aching in the loins. CLINICAL REVERES.-In irritable ulcers on the legs, this medicine may be used in the form of a very weak wash, also internally. In indolent ulcers, a stronger preparation, even the pure tincture would be more useful. DR. BURT'S PROVING QF liYDRASTIS. Nov. 9th.-Feeling well, bowels regular once a. day; urine natural; took ten grains 3. P. m., all day constant, slight pain in the umbilical region, with a hot sensation in the same parts, 7. P. M., soft stool, followed by severe cutting pains in the hypogastric region and dull aching pains'in the testicles, accompanied with a very faint feeling; eructations of sour fluid; dull-heavy weight in the lumbar region.; Nov. lOth.-Feeling well, 9. A. M., took twenty grains 12 M.; dull, heavy, frontal headache; constant distress in the umbilical region, with loud rumbling in the bowels, dull aching sensation in the region of the kidneys; took fifteen grains 5. P. M., dull headache; slight constant, pain in the umbilical region; dull pain in the region of the kidneys; took forty grains; constant dull headache, with great deal of dull pain in the hypogastric region and small of the back; slight stool, with a faint. feeling afterwards; legs feeling very weak, and ache; urinated twenty-eight oz. acid. Nov. 11th. —Awoke several times in the night, with severe pain in the small of the back and hypogastric region, and dull pain in the umbilical region, aggravated by motion, with great rumbling in the bowels; stool at 6. A. M., soft, papescent, followed by a very faint feeling and severe pains in the hypogastric region; dull head -262 NEW- HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. ache; eyes secreted large quantities of thick white mucus; mucous; membrane of the eyelids good deal congested; nose very much stuffed up; slight hacking cough, with a scraping sensation irt the larynx; took fifty grains at 10. A. M. 5.:iP. M., constant dull frontal headache; nose secreting constantly a thick white mucus;,constant rough hacking cough; soft mushy stool at 2.P.M. with great rumbling in the bowels; constant coryza; my right knee has pained me very severely all day-walking aggravates it very much; took sixty grs. 9. P. M., there has been constant dull headache; frequent coryza with profuse secretion of tears; nose running constantly a thick white mucus; constant, slight, hacking cough; constant dull pain in the umbilical region; soft mushy stool.; urinated forty-two oz. acid-heat has no effect upon it. Nov. 1 2th.-Slept well; eyelids agglutinated together; mucous membrane of the lids congested; obstruction of the nose with thick mucus; frequent coryza; slight, hacking, rough cough; constant dull pain in the right side of the umbilical region; soft mushy stool; dull aching in:the loins; apthee-like sore on the mucous membrane of the under lip; took seventy grains at 10. A. M., 12. X,. there is a constant, dull, aching pain in the stomach, that produces a gone or faintish feeling; dull, frontal, headache: 5. P. x., there has been constant pain in the cardiac portion of the stomach, that produces a very weak, faintish feeling; soft. mushy stool; feeling very sad and gloomy; took eighty grains; constant pain in the stomach and umbilical region all the evening; dull heavy back-ache; urinated thirty-six oz., acid. Nov. 13th.-Awoke a number of times with severe cutting pains in the stomach and umbilical region; nose stuffed up; apthbe is better; soft papescent stool; 10. A. NM., took 100 grains; 12. l., constant dull pain in the umbilical region by spells quite sharp pains in the region of the spleen; feeling very gloomy; all the afternoon, dull pains in the stomach and bowels, with sharp pains in the region of the spleen, accompanied with a hot sensation; 4.. r., took seventy drops of the tincture; constant dull.burning pains all the evening, cramps in the umbilical region, with smarting of the eyes; urinated forty-one oz., slightly acid. Nov. 14th.-The dull, heavy aching pains in the umbilical region prevented me from sleeping, most of the night; dull heavy headache; eye-lids agglutinated together; mucous membrane congested; nose stuffed up; soft mushy stool; 9. A. i. took fifty drops of Tildens fluid extract; 12. x., there has been constant, dull, burning pain in the umbilical region, accompanied with a faintish goneness in the epigastric region; dull frontal headache; burningin the eyes; took seventy-five drops; same symptoms were present all day; urinated sixty.one oz., slightly acid. Nov. 15th. —Vas very chilly all night, notwithstanding I had an abundance of clothes over me; great deal of pain in the umbilical and: cceum region all night; pain all day in -the whole of the bowels; soft, mushy stool; urinated fifty oz. Nov. 16th. —Feeling quite well. IRIS VERSICOLOR. 263 I RIS VERSICOLOR. (BIlue Flag.) DESCRIPTTON. —This indigenous species of Iris has a perennial, horizontal, fibrous root, and a stem two or three feet high, round on one side, acute on the other,: and frequently branching. The leaves are sheathing at the base, sword-shaped, and striated. The flowers are from two to six in number, and are usually blue, or purple, though varying much in color. The capsule has three valves, is divided into three cells, and when mature, is oblong, three-sided, with obtuse angles, and contains numerous flat seeds. The Blue Flag is found in all parts of the United States and Canada, flourishing in low wet places, and flowers in June. The root is the medicinal portion and yields its virtues to water, but more especially to alcohol. MEDICAiL HISTORY. —-It is probable that its employment as a remedial agent, was first suggested to the profession by the Indians, who, it is said, value it as one of their most powerful medicines. Indeed, so important a place does it hold in their estimation, that a traveler among the tribes in Georgia and Florida, mentions having seen an artificial pond in almost every village, covered with a luxuriant growth of the Iris, and which was constructed especially for its cultivation. In times of prevailing sickness, they would partake freely of a decoction of the root, which, together with prayer and fasting, they considered an efficient guard against an attack of the epidemic. In allopathic practice it has been considered useful in dropsical affections, on account of its power as a diuretic, but it is more especially mentioned in the books as a cathartic and emetic, and is highly spoken bf by some physicians for the promptness and certainty of its action in the direction its classification indicates. Dr. Bigelow states that he has found it efficacious as a purgative, though inconvenient firom the distressing nausea and prostration which it is apt to occasion. DR. WM. H. BURT'S PROVING WITH IRIS. May 15th.-Took three grains of the green root at 3 P. M.; the acrid property wAs strongly marked; back part of the mouth and fauces felt on fire all the afternoon, with profuse flow of saliva; 8, P. M., took three more grains; slept well, but had a discharge of semen with amorous dreams, something I am not accustomed to. May 16th.-Mouth and tongue feel as though they had been scalded, natural stools; anus feels sore, or as if sharp points were stickling in the parts; 8 A. m.; took ten grains; so acrid it was with difficulty that I could get my breath; constant discharge of ropy saliva dropped from my mouth during conversation; constant distress in the anus, feeling as if it was prolapsed. 1 P. m.; took twenty grains of the dried root; no acridness to it, great distress in the stomach: half an hour after taking it; lasted two hours; no other symptoms. May 17th. —Took thirty drops of a poor tincture; no symptoms, except that the next morning I awoke feeling very: irritable. 264 -NEW IIOMC(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. May 18th.-Took forty grains of the green root; fifteen minutes after, profuse flow of saliva and tears; mouth and stomach feel on fire; almost impossible to breathe, it is so acrid; one half hour of great pain and distress in the stomach; it is awful to bear; continued all the afternoon and evening; it is not a sharp pain, but an awful, burning distress; appears to be deep in the region of the pancreas, cold water does not touch it; profuse flow of saliva all day; constant eructations of tasteless gas; sleep; very restless all night, with bad dreams. May 19th. —Awoke at 4 A. X., with great rumbling and distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, and with great desire for stool, followed immediately by a copious, thin, watery stool, which could not be retained a moment without much pain; mouth feels as if it had been scalded 4ongue thick and rough. 8 A. M., another thin, watery stool, with great rumbling in the bowels; no appetite; loss of taste. 11 A. M., took forty grains; acridness not felt so much. I Pr M., in great distress in the epigastric region; the distress is horrible to endure; profuse flow of saliva. 2.30 P. m., the distress in the epigastric region is still increasing; very restless; cannot be still one moment; think I cannot live; very much frightened; copious discharge of thin water from the bowels, but no abatement of the awful agony in the epigastric region; inhaled chloroform, which gave a little relief. 3.15, P. x., another large stool of water, tinged with bile; the water ran from the bowels in a continuous stream; nearly two quarts of water passed; there was great rumbling in the bowels, but no pain; this gave great relief; felt quite well at bed-time; sleep, very restless; amorous dreams, with discharges of semen. May 20th.-Very irritable through the day; otherwise quite well. I had constant eructations of tasteless gas during the whole period. June 9th.-Took fifty grains of the green root, chewed it, and swallowed the juice, at 11.30 A. M.; immediately a great burning distress in the epigastric region, but not much in the mouth; profuse flow of saliva; the burning in the stomach is awful; cold water does not seem to reach it. 2.30 P. 1x., large, yellow, papescent stool; with great rumbling, tut no pain; five minutes more, another large watery stool; the burning in the pancreas is fearful to endure; constant rumbling in the bowels, but no sharp pains. 2.45, P. i., another watery stool with colicky pains in the epigastric region; flow of saliva abating. 5.30, P. M., there has been severe colic in the epigastric and umbilical region for the last two hours; every few momrents copious watery stool, with great rumbling in the bowels. 6 P. M., great pain and distress in the bowels, followed by a large watery stool; still the pain continues; begin to feel very faint and exhausted; knees weak and tremble. 6.30, P. M., another watery stool; anus feels on fire. 7, P. M., another watery stool, with disposition to strain and bear down; great burning in the anus; food rises very sour. 9, P. M., another watery stool with straining; anus feels on fire; becoming very much exhausted I was compelled to retire. At 4 A. At., great rumb IRIS VERSICOLOR. 265 ling in the bowels, with desire for stool; had a profuse one of a watery nature; followed by great straining, with the passage of a little mucus. 5 A. M., another watery stool, followed by great straining, with the passage of blood and mucus. 5.30 A. Dr., another stool of mucus, streaked with blood, with great tenesnus. / A. DI,) stool of water and mucus with great straining; mouth tastes flat; tongue feels thick. 9 A. x., another copious stool of water and undige1ted food, with groat strlini;ng have become very much exhausted; eyes much sunken in; teeth feel too long, and are very sore;'dlill, heavy headache; very hoarse; urine very scanty-deep reddish color; stomach very sour; bowels very tender.on pressure; loss of -appititt, 10.80 A..I.,!mlth el atoll oP. a. watenr with grealt enesmus, and rumbling in the bowels; dull heavy headache in the forehead; calves of the legs pain very much when walking, especially the right; thick flat taste in the mouth. 12.45, P. AI., small stool of mucus, with great tenesmus; constant rumbling in the bowels; almost impossible to walk, my limbs are so weak and painful; -for the last six hours the mucous membrane of the anus has been prolapsed with great smarting pains. 3 P. x., another small stool of mucus, with severe tenesmus; urine very scanty, and burning when voided; constant eructations of sour gas; flying pains all through the bowels. June IOth. —Dull, heavy headache in the frontal region; flat, thick taste in the mouth; quite hoarse; urine very scanty, red and burning the whole length of the urethra for half an. hour after voidihg it; inflammation of the glans penis; it is very much swollen and e'td; sever-e...:i -che; teeth all fe el6soe and elongateda. June 11lth.-Feel quite well; little hoarse; inflammation in glans penis about gone. June 13th.-At 4 P. Ai., natural stools, urine about natural. Jiine 15th. —Tery hard lumpy stool; anus feels prolapsed; pained all day. June 16th. —Very severe back-ache, but otherwise well; for two weeks occasionally, severe, shooting pains would pass through my temples several times a day. I was surprised that no constipation followed such a long course of diarrhiea. DRl. BURT'S PROVFIiG WITH IRISIN. May 26th. —At 11 A. ii., took four grains of the first decimal trituration. 12 ni., dull, heavy headache in the forehead; by spells sharp pains in the temples; tight constrictive feeling of the scalp; 3.15, P. M., food rises very sour; 4.30 P. i., took eight grains; 10 P. x., soft papescent stool without pain, but rumbling in the bowels; dull headache in the frontal region; very restless night; dreams of fighting, etc. May 27th. —Great deal. of rumbling in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, with desire for stool; had a soft, papescent stool, without pain; flat taste in the mouth; teeth feel elongated and sore; back, upper, and lower molars-dull, heavy, aching pain in them for three hours; pain in. the forehead and left temple; pain in the 34 266 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. temple very sharp by spells; passed water but twice during the day-very red color; restless night; discharge of semen, with amorous dreams. May 28th. —At 9 A. i., took ten grains; frequent eructations of tasteless gas; rumbling all the afternoon in the umbilical region; pain in the right kidney —lasted three hours; teeth still feel elongated and sore; great desire to sleep in the day time; fell asleep while reading; dreamed of dissecting a woman hanging up by the heels in my office; awoke very much frightened; made several attempts to get up to shut the door, but could not; it was a regular night mare. 4.30, P. r., took fourteen grains; soft papescent stool at 9 Pi ~.; hands hot and dry all dclay; dreamed of snakes, and every thing bad; discharge of semen; restless night; teeth still sore. May 29th. —Took twenty grains at 9 A. M.; hands hot and dry all day; cannot fix my mind on my studies; constant eructations of tasteless gas; great diminution of the secretion of urine; made a very little water morning and night, followed by great burning in the urethra for half an hour after voiding it; dull heavy headache in the forehead and temples; by spells the pains in the temples are very sharp and shooting; dull heavy pain in the lumbar region all day; soft papescent stool at 2 P. M. At 5 P. i. took thirty grains; restless night; horrid dreams; great rumbling in the bowels all the time; discharge of semen, with amorous dreams. May 30th.-Mouth tastes flat; tongue- coated white; dull heavy headache in the forehead and temples; at times the pain in the temples is very sharp; constant pain in the lumbar region, aggravated by motion; urine'very scanty and high colored; very soft, yellow stool, with great rumbling in the bowels but no pain. May 31st.-Took forty grains at 8 A. M.; dull, heavy headache all day; great pain in the lumbar and sacral regions; almost impossible to walk. 12 m., took eighteen grains; soft, mushy stool at evening, with great rumbling, but no pain; restless night; bad dreams. June lst.-Dull, heavy headache; back pains me very severely; very much worse by walking. 8 A. n., soft, papescent stool with great rumbling in the bowels; constant eructation of gas. June 2d. —Took five grains of the pure Irisin; good deal of pain in the forehead and temples. 5 P. M., severe colic in the umbilical region; pains come on every few minutes; lasted two hours; great rumbling in the bowels; soft, papescent stool in the evening; restless night; dreampt of digging up dead people, and finally fell into the grave which awoke me, feeling very much frightened. June 3d. —Top of the head has twenty-six pustules on it, some of them as large as a three-cent piece; the pustule is situated upon an inflamed base of a rose color; with red streaks running from one to the other; they contain yellow matter; very tender to the touch; gradually disappeared in four days. Took ten grains at 4 P. M.; dull heavy pain in the forehead and temples; great rumbling in the bowels; very restless night; dreampt of the' dead, as usual; discharge of semen. IRIS VERSICOLOR. 267 June 4th.-Flat taste in the mouth; teeth sore; natural stool; took twenty grains at 9 A. x.; dull heavy pain in the forehead and temples; the pain in the temples is very sharp at times; very restless night; awful dreams of the dead; discharge of semen. June 5th.-Flat taste in the mouth; headache is very troublesome to-day; dull, heavy pain in the lumbar region all day. 5 P. rM. soft, papescent stool with pain in the umbilical region; restless night with bad dreams; discharge of semen. June 6th. —Dull, heavy headache; back pains me very much; had the soft, painless stools, with great rumbling in the bowels; great increase of urine; urinated eleven times profusely. June 7th. —Natural stool; backache all gone, but voided urine in large quantities. June 8th.-Feel well, but pass urine in large quantities; stool natural. I would advise Allopaths to use Irisin for constipation, if they must use cathartics to cure it. In the last number of Braithwaite's Retrospect is a short notice of Irisirn. It states that "the effects of Irisin are very similar to those occasioned by a combination of blue pill, rhubarb, and aloes. It seldom fails to produce a mild catharsis with bilious evacuations, and' appears to possess the advantages (1) of not requiring the addition of murcurial, (2) not irritating the rectum as aloes is apt to do, (the green root does irritate the rectum very much); and (3) it has no astringency' and therefore does not produce subsequent constipation, like rhubarb when given alone. (This last statement is correct,, constipation does not follow the use of Iris.) In a sluggish state of the bowels, arising from torpidity of the liver, or when the stools are pale, particularly as we find them in the intervals of overt attacks in gouty persons,.we have found the Irisin one of the best aperients, much gentler than Podophyllin, and more reliable when a slight cholagogue action is required, to be maintained for a lengthened period." (Lancet, Aug. 30, 1862, p. 239.) PROVIFNGS BY J. G. ROWLAND, M. D. The following provings, with one or two exceptions, were made from the tincture prepared in the customary manner. The attenuations used were made on the decimal plan. No. I used the third and first dilutions, and the mother tincture; No. 2 and No. 3, same; and No. 4, the first trituration. No. 1.-About fifteen minutes after taking the third dilution, an uneasy feeling was experienced in the scorbiculis cordis, together with rumbling in the lower part of the abdomen; these symptoms increased until the lower part of the sternum seemed protruding; nausea and eructations of wind; dull pain in the right parietal protuberance, which increases steadily until it becomes a hammering pain, and so much aggravated by motion, that for the moment it appears unbearable, but by continuing movement it gradually abates, returning again when at rest; rheumatic pain in the right shoulder, worse on motion, especially by raising the arm; a disposition to feel displeased with everything and everybody, which 268 NEW HOM1(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. gives place to a feeling of liveliness and activity, immediately after taking the first dilution; sneezing; nausea and slight' vomiting of watery and extremely sour fluid; about two hours after, stitch in inferior part of occiput, more on the right than the left side; severe rheumatic pain in the whole right arm and right knee joint, worse on motion, and continuing when at rest; acute and extremely severe boring pain in right parietal protuberance, causing him to bend down his head; pain in the left side, as though the ribs were were pressing hard upon the lower portion of the lung; unable to take a long breath, for the pain in the left lung, which was of a sticking and cutting character; a short dry cough, excited by tickling in the larynx; slight toothache in a warm room; headache, much aggravated by coughing; rumbling and uneasiness in the stomach, accompanied by diarrhwea, with little pain;'stools lumpy, brown, and very offensive; sweat over the whole body, particularly in the groin; dry cracked lips; a sharp cutting pain in the urethra, when conmmencing to urinate; after taking medicine five days, several small vesicles appeared on the right wrist, which gradually formed into pustules, having a depression in the centre; these dried up in the night, leaving crusts, which remained nine days before disappearing. (The prover thinks it proper to state he had been attending a severe case of small pox.) Half an hour after taking nearly half an ounce of the mother tincture, a feeling of rawness in the throat; general languor; ill-humor; inability to fix the mind on any subject; when writing, mind will wander to other things; diarrhea, with colic; nausea, and vomiting of a thin watery fluid, of an exceedingly sour taste; constant nausea for more than an hour, and vomiting several times; diarrhcea, with rumbling and cutting in the lower part of the abdomen; heat over the whole body, then chilliness, with cold hands and feet; head feels very heavy, the eyes dull, with pain directly over the left superciliary ridge; severe burning pain in the internal canthus of the right eye; the eye filling with tears; sensation of fulness of the head; head feels hot, and face flushed; whenever attempting to laugh a sensation as though,a band were drawn tightly around the forehead; the day after taking mother tincture, feeling of sleepiness, with great chilliness,' only at all comfortable when near a hot fire, and even then, cold, chilly sensations are felt down the back; violent tearing pain in the right hip-joint, knee and shoulders, very severe,: indeed; the most severe only lasting about three minutes; vomiting of the sour matter before mentioned; and great chilliness over the whole body the whole night, although abundantly covered; weakness; despondency; thinks he is going to be very sick, then a disposition to laugh at his fears, which, however, soon return; dreams of'suffocation and fire; cutting and sticking in the urethra when making water, with coldness and itching over the genitals, the itching being worse on scratching; six dysenteric stools during the night, with pain and rumbling in the lower part of the abdomen; also great lassitude; after these symptoms have abated, there remains a sore-throat and slight headache. No. 2. Feeling of weakness and weariness in the lower part IRIS VERSICOLOR. 269 of the back; pain of. a dull, aching character, in right hypochondria when walking; pains in the.right, then in the left knee when walking; feeling of weariness in the back for several clays; sharp pain near outer side of left arm, when moving it; swelling of gums on the inner surface of left side of lower jaw, under the molar teeth; pain in left hip joint, when walking; redness of the conjunctiva, as if from cold; for a day or two much fetid flatulence; pain in abdomen, which is relieved by discharge of flatus; sharp pain in first joint of great toe of right foot, when walking, renewed frequently during the day; pain in last joint of middle finger of left hand; a number of shooting, shifting, and momentary pains in the phalangeal and metacarpo-phalangeal articulations, all of these pains coming on more during the evening, and being worse on motion; boils on back, face and hands; pain along posterior part of cristi ilium of the right side; urine more copious; the pain in first joint of great toe occurs, during walking,' for a number of days;' pain in left thigh; pulse accelerated; after increasing doses more frequently renewed, empty eructations, and pain in the stomach; unusual restlessness during the night; sleep disturbed by startings; aching pain in the stomach before breakfast; pains tensive and sticking in right shoulder during motion, pcarticulctrly on raising the arm. (This symptom set in soon after commencing the proving', continued sit weeks after discontinuing the medicine.) Pains in the metacarpal joints of both hands, muscles of right arm, and pectoralis-major, mostly during motion, and in the evening; woke two hours- earlier than usual, with no disposition to renew sleep; pain in the bowels, going off by discharge of flatus; feeling of a greasy coating over mouth and tongue, early in the morning; aching pain in the stomach after drinking cold water; pains through the day in most all the limbs; urine increased in quantity, tensive, momentary, and constantly recurring pains in all thu joints, but mostly the smaller; which shift rapidly about, mostly in the evening, that is, from supper to bed-time; pain in abdomen above the crest of the ilium, both sides; after breakfast a diarrhceaic stool, with subsequent pain in the epigastrium; in writing, pains in phalanges of right hand, and in the end of index finger of same hand. (Observed several weeks after proving.) Pain in left thigh; shooting, sticking pain in the right foot; continuous sharp pain along the left side of first phalanx of middle fingers of right hand; sharp pains in the middle fingers of left hand succeeded instantly by a similar pain in the axillm of same side. (Occurring fiequently during about five minutes.) Sudden diarrhceaic stool after supper; sharp, cutting pain, frequent in the metacarpo-phalangeal articulation of thumb of right hand; vexed, irritable mood, disposed to find fault. (Proving No. 2 was made by the same individual, at three different periods.) No. 3. —Pulse somewhat accelerated; headache for two days; the third day he was seized with a peculiar headache; the pain shot, as he describes' it, like an electric shock, from the right temple to the left part of occiput, and continued about half an hour; headache with great depression of spirits and general debility; 270 NEW. HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. crampy pains in right lumbar region in the evening, continuing several hours, and causing a sweat to break out; woke up unusually early, with dry mouth and general depression; headache occurring irregularly during several days; observed a pimple on middle finger of left hand; the next day the inflammation was extended over the hand; the day after it became more violent, and occasioned great pain, and was afterwards opened to obtain relief; no pus was found, but it was subsequently formed, and discharged through the opening, which penetrated'as far as the bone; a fungous growth meanwhile had taken place around the edges; pain extended from this hand up the arm; there was much swelling and pains* in the part affected, which had much the appearance of a malignant boil; there was a disposition to a similar formation on the index finger but the inflammation subsided after a time, and finally disappeared; during the proving the urine was very copious, and. had a strong disagreeable odor; restlessness for five nights in succession; headache with pain in the bowels; sickness of stomach in the evening, obliging him to lie down; pain in left side of chest. No. 4.-Colicky pains during the evening and night, obliging him to bend forward for relief, and attended with loss of appetite and great restlessness during the night; this colic continued the next day, but was immediately removed by a dose of Nux vomica; no appetite the next day; restless at night, with troubled dreams; several pimples on lower extremities and other parts of the body, like mosquito bites; constipation several days; languid and feverish in the afternoon; no disposition to mental or physical exercise; next day flushed face, fever, drowsiness and loss of appetite weakness and languor, with rumbling in the bowels; the morning after, a thin watery diarrhcea, continuing through the day; debility and loss of appetite; diarihoeaic stools the next day, succeeded by pain in the umbilical region; colic in the afternoon, ceasing at night. CHARACTERISTIC PEcuLIARITIEs.-The symptoms appear mostly in the evening and at night. (In myself the symptoms appeared mostly in the day time.) Pain aggravated by motion; right side most effected. EFFECTS UPON ANIMALS. EXPERIMENTS OF DR. BURT. June 5th.-Gave a young female cat, weight three and onefourth pounds, a decoction of Iris ver.; at 2 P. x., five minutes nausea and vomiting of firothy mucus; stares at it as if frightened; ten minutes after, constant nausea, nothing but mucus vomited. Quarter after 2, lies on the lounge and appears quite natural; gave half an ounce of tincture (wasted a little); six minutels after, veiy restless; crying fearfully; nausea and vomiting. Twenty minutes alter 4, nausea and retching; mewing; eyes half closed; respiration very rapid; restless. Half past 4, mewing and efforts to vomit; lies still thirty-six minutes; running across the floor with efforts to vomit; mews; saliva runs from mouth constantly. Forty-three minutes after, desperate efforts to vomiit but cannot. Ten * The pain in the finger was accompanied by perspiration, although the weather was cold. 272 NEW HIOM(IEOPATHIC PRO VINGS. GENERAL SYMPTOMS. Nervous; irritable, with prostration of the whole system; weakness, so that he can hardly stand; nearly all the symptoms are aggravatd by motion. CLANICAL REMARKs.-Nearly all the conditions for which Iris is applicable, are characterized by unusual lassitude, prostration and lowness of spirits; it is most useful in persons of bilious temperament, subject to gastric and bilious disorders. Slkin.-Several vesicles on the right wrist, gradually forming into pustules, which dried up in one night, leavihg crusts which remained nine days; malignant sore resembling a boil, on middle finger of left hand, forming a cavity reaching to the bone'; pimples resembling mosquito bites, on body and extremities; small boils on the back, face and hands.-(Rowland). Twenty-six pustules on the scalp, (vertex) some as large as a three-cent piece; the pustules are situated upon a rose-colored, inflamed base, with red streaks running from one to the other; they were painful on pressure, and filled with yellow pus. —(Burt). CLINICAL REMARIS. —It has been highly recommended for scrofulous affection's, and skin-diseases; it would seem homeopathic to certain pustular eruptions. Case.-Reported by Dr. Burt, treated since he made the proving. "A child aged eight months; the vertex and sides of the head covered with a thick crust from the exudation of lymph; under the scab it looks-red, and bleeds if the incrustation is disturbed. There are also scabs at the back of both ears, which look red and bloody. Gave Iris versicoler, ten drops of the mother tincture in a tumbler full of water, one teaspoonfull three times a day; a cerate of the same remedy to be applied twice a.day; the head to be washed once a day with castile soap. The one prescription cured it in two weeks. It is now nine'weeks, and there is no return of the eruption." Sleep.-Feeling of drowsiness; sleepiness with chills; unusual restlessness during the night; waking much earlier than usual; startings during sleep; restless every night; dreams of suffocation and fire. —(Rowland.) Very restless at night; bad dreams during the whole proving; dreams of the dead every night; amorous dreams, with nocturnal emissions, (from Iris v). Dreams of snakes, of the dead; of dissecting a body; awoke very much frightened; tried to get up and shut the door, but could not. (This attack resembled nightmare). Dreams of fighting; amorous dreams (from Irisin). —Burt. Mind. —Desponding; low spirits; easily vexed, and put out of humor; afraid he is going to be very sick, and afterwards laughs at his fears, which soon return, succeeded by blindness and activity. (Rowland.)- VFery irritable; confusion of the mind; dullness of the mental faculties; cannot fix the mind on his studies; fear of death;'waking with fright. —(Burt). CLINICAL REmARKS. —rhe above symptoms of mind and sleep are probably not due to any direct irritation of the brain, buf rather to the disturbing action which the Iris exercises upon the liver and gastric mucous membrane. The lowness of spirits is an IRIS VERSICOLOR. 273 indication for its use in hepatic disorders, and perhaps in spermatorrhcea; it would seem particularly applicable to the night cries and "terrors" of children, from intestinal irritation. Fever, etc.-Sweat, from violent pain in the finger; sweat over the whole body, but particularly in the groin; heat over the whole body, followed by chill, with cold hands and feet; desire to be close to the fire, and even then, chills along the back; chills over the whole body at night, although abundantly covered; feverish, during pains in abdomen; pulse accelerated.-(Rowland). Dry, hot skin; hands hot and dry; pulse slightly accelerated (during the whole proving).-(Burt). CLINICAL RrEmAKS.-It is used by eclectic physicians in bilious fevers, much as the allopath uses calomel; it is considered a sort of "vegetable mercury," causing copious bilious evacuations, salivation, etc. Dr. Kitchen, (North Amer. Jour. of Hoem. Nov. 1851), recommended the Iris v. very highly in typhoid fever. He reports several cases: Case. —"A boy, twelve years of age, had typhoid fever. I had given a number of remedies without effect; he had fever; muttering delirium; yellow, watery, fcetid diarrhcea; involuntary passage of water and faeces; coated tongue, dry, brown, crusty; edges red; sordes on the gums and teeth; foul breath, and all the marked symptoms of this disease. I gave the Iris, third dilution. It certainly produced a very marked change, showing its effect, first on the tongue and bowels, and thence extending its beneficial action to other parts. It was on the tenth day of the disease when I gave it, and in five days he was convalescent, although I had no idea he could possibly recover; the tongue became moist; diarrhcea eased off, fever subsided; delirium ceased; and he soon became rational, slept well, and had a rapid convalescence." Case..-" An old lady aged eighty-three, had fever; stupor-; black, stinking, involuntary diarrhaea; tongue dry and brown; fhetid breath. Cured (?) in 48 hours." Case 3.-" A middle aged woman. Fever; intense headache; pain in small of the back; black dysenteric passages; nausea and efforts to vomit; cured in four days. (After she took a few doses she lost all power over her lower extremities; had cramps of the legs, nausea, and some retching.)" Case 4. —" A young man, aged fourteen, with an attack of bilious pneumonia; could not retain even a mouthful of water on his stomach; continued easy through the subsequent course of the disease.' The provings here given show Iris to be homceopathic to all the above symptoms in each case. Itead.-Dull, heavy headache in the forehead, acccompanied by weakness, nausea, and even vomiting (from Iris); heavy headache in the forehead and temples —at times sharp, shooting pains in the temples, (this pain occurred as often as every half hour during the whole proving); pain in the forehead and right temple; constrictive feeling in the scalp (from Irisin); dull pain in the right p/*tal protuberance; (Batrt), be6oming a hammering pain, 274 NEW HOM(EOPATHIIC PROVINGS. aggravated by motion, which if continued relieves it-but it soon returns when at rest (see Rhus); severe stitch in the lower part of the occiput, more on the right side; extremely severe boring pain in the right parietal protuberance, causing him to.bend the head down; headache aggravated by coughing; sensation of fullness in the head; head and face feel hot; when attempting to laugh, sensation of constriction around the forehead; head feels heavy; lancinating pain under outer extremity of right eyebrow; pain shooting firom the temple to left occiput, compared to an electric shock. —(Rowland.) CLINICAL REMARKS. — The Iris-headache occupies generally the forehead and right side of the head; aggravated by rest, and on first moving the head, but relieved by continued motion: accompanied by lowness of spirits, nausea, and even vomiting. Dr. lKitchen, who published the first clinical experience with this remedy, says of its use in " sick-headache:" —" It is the most prompt and effectual remedy I have ever given in this truly annoying malady. The first dose. will arrest the trouble, in some patients. I have experienced this effect in several cases. I have made comparative trials with it and other remedies, telling my patients to observe, and let me know which number would relieve them the most speedily; they have invariably, on the attack, sent for the number attached to Iris'; this I consider conclusive respecting this complaint, so that I need not comment on it further than to recommend it very highly, so far as my experience goes. Let it be tested by others." The Iris has been tested by many homaeopathic physicians, in sick-headache, and the testimony is generally in its favor; from our knowledge of the sphere of action of the medicine, it would seem most likely to be indicated in those " sick-headaches " of a gastric or hepatic origin; in the purely " nervous sick-headache" or that variety arising from congestion, other remedies may prove more useful. This matter, however, can only be decided by careful observation. In Neuralgia of the head, eyes, etc., Dr. Kitchen recommends the Iris: "A lady afflicted at intervals with this most distressing complaint, and who had swallowed the whole allopathic and homceopathic Mat. Med., with only partial benefit, has been more relieved by the Iris, than by any remedy I have yet administered to her. It is usually in the head, temples, eyes, etc., and attended with most distressing vomitings, of a sweetish mucus; and occasionally, when with much straining, with a trace of bile. It is the only medicine which has much control over the stomach, arresting the vomiting in the few trials I have made with it, very soon, and allaying in some degree, the violent pain of the head, so that I have been asked by her whether I had not given her morphine. I have been asked the same question by patients in bowel affections; they frequently going to sleep after its administration; this is easily accounted for by the cessation of pain, which is almost invariably followed by sleep." Eyes,-Redness of the conjunctiva, as if from a cold; the eyes IRIS. VERSICOLOR. 275 feel dull, with pain over left superciliary ridge; severe burning pain in internal canthus, with effusion of tears. - (Rowland.) Eyes sunken, with blueness around the eyes.-(Burt.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-Dr. Kitchen relates that while giving the Iris to a child for summer complaint, the mother said to him:"Doctor, you have not only relieved the diarrhaea, but you. have cured my child of isificmed eyelids, which it has been troubled with for some time." He states that he has tried it in several cases of that affection, and with success. The cases in which it seemed to be of benefit, were those of simple palpebral inflammation, apparently arising from a cold —nothing that I could perceive of a scrofulous taint —they did not adhere in the morning, at least very slightly. Ears.-Singing and buzzing in the ears (in a lady-after two grains of Irisin second, given for bilious diarrhaea, which it cured after Chamomilla, Pulsatilla and Ipecac had failed).-(Burt). Mouth, Fauces, etc.-Greasy feeling over tongue and gums on rising in the morning; feeling of rawness in the mouth; slight soreness of throat; dry mouth; slight toothache in a warm room; dry, cracked lips; swelling and soreness of gums, inner part below molar teeth of left side.-(Rowlacnd.) Back part of mouth and rauces feel on fire (constant symptom); tongue feels as though it had been scalded; flat taste in the mouth; constant discharge of saliva-it dropped from the mouth during conversation; tongue coated white; diminution of taste; teeth feel sore and elongated; ulcers on the mucous membrane of the cheeks [Iris]; dull, heavy, aching pains in all the teeth; teeth feel very sore and elongated; severe pain in the back upper and lower molars, lasting three hours, [Irisin].-(Burt.) CLINICAL REmrAKs.-The Eclectics class this plant among the "sialagogues," Dr. Burt, who proved the fresh root in large doses, does not doubt that it would produce sloughing and deep ulceration, if continued for a long time. There is a rather curious and remarkable similarity between the adtion of the Iris and that of Mercury; this is all the more singular when we consider that the former is a vegetable remedy; not only does this Iris affect the mouth in a similar manner to Mercury, but this similarity of action extends throughout the whole glandular and mucous systems, and perhaps, all the tissues except the osseous. I have taken patients from off the hands of Eclectic physicians, who were so completely salivated by the Iris, that were it not for the absence of the peculiar fcetor, I should have taken it for a mercurial salivation. Even the sympathetic fever which the Iris causes, has considerable resemblance to that of Mercury. Dr. Coe (Cone. Org. Med.), thus speaks of the Irisin: —-" Irisin is justly esteemed as one of our most valuable alteratives. It is eminently resolvent, and exercises a marked influence over the entire glandular system. It increases the salivary flow, and has the reputation of producing ptyalism. But a careful distinction must be made between the effects produced by vegetable agencies upon the mucous and salivary glands, and mercurial salivation; the IRIS VERSICOLOR. 277 and even the alkaloid, causes the above-named condition when taken into the stomach, is proof that those effects belong to the whole drug. If this was not sufficent proof, we could refer the physician to the fact that this peculiar action may be caused by the dilutions of the remedy, up to the third, and perhaps higher. THtERAPEUTIC DEDUCTIONS.-It is a strange comment on the practice of the opposite school, that they should recommend the Iris highly'in mercurial cachexy, syphilis, etc.! No drug is more thoroughly homceopathic to diseases of the mouth, similar to those caused by Mercury, and in the few cases in which I have used it, it has acted well. Even in mercurial salivation it has been found useful, but it cannot be relied on with as much confidence as the Chlorate of Potash. In Stomatitis, with or without ulcera. tion (canker), when there is painful burning in the mouth and fauces, Iris is strongly indicated. In these cases I would advise the tincture of the green root, administered in the third or sixth attenuation. Gastric:ynmptoms. —Loss of appetite; nausea and empty eructations; nausea, and vomiting of a watery and extremely sour fluid; constant nausea and vomiting for an hour; aching in the stomach before breakfast, and on drinking cold water; sickness of stomach obliged him to lie down.-(Rowland.) Eructations of tasteless gas; rising of water, very sour; great burning distress in the epigastric region; it could not be allayed by drinking cold water; colicky pains every few minutes in the epigastric region; Intense buzrning in the region of the pancreas (this was a constant symptom during the whole proving. —(Burt.) Severe and profilse vomiting; vomiting with much pain in the stomach; distressing nausea and vomiting; vomiting and purging; vomiting with diarrhea, accompanied with great prostration; burning in the mouth, fauces, and cesophagus. CINICAL REMARKRS.-The Iris has probably an irritant action upon the gastric mucous membrane, as seen upon the mouth, fauces and esophagus. By refering to Dr. Burt's heroic provings, this action will be seen portrayed in strong colors. I know of no one of the new remedies which promises to be more useful in gastric disorders, than the Iris versicolor. Even now we have some valuable clinical observations. Dr. Kitchen in his paper on Iris, says it is useful in vomiting: "Effectual in almost all kinds-simple sour, bilious, of food, with or without pain. In every case of vomiting or sick stomach in which' I have yet given it, it has been successful, and, in severe cases, on the administration of a few tea-spoonfuls. Such has been my experience. I:have recomended it in some cases in which the other usual remedies had failed, and in no case in which I have given it, have I been obliged to abandon it, and resort to other remedies. Such, I again say, has been my experience thus far, but I would not be understood as saying that this will always be the case in future. No doubt it, like all other remedies, has its appropriate sphere, which it will take time and opportunity to make out and define correctly. I merely state what I have discovered up to the 278 NEW lHOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. present, with the limited opportunities I have had of testing it in different forms of disease. I have for some years attended a little girl, now about nine years of age, who has periodical vomiting spells, coming on once every month or six weeks, sometimes not for three or four months, but certainly three or four times in the course of a year. I have tried in various attacks, all the different remedies usually successful in such cases, but not with much benefit; the attack would last two or three days, and would seem to wear itself out. A single tea-spoonful of the Iris arrests it at once. It comes on with vomliting of the ingesta, then sour fluid, and at last, bile, yellow and green, with great heat of the head, some general iever, and great prostration; the perspiration is warm, caused by the efforts of straining and vomiting." — (AT. A. ou. qf iorm.) The Iris is eminently homceopathic to some varieties of gastritis (mucous), cesophagitis, dttoclenitis, and many of those disorders of digestion which go under the general name of dyspepsia. In many points it resembles Pulsatilla, especially the tendency to " acidity of the stomach," and " rising of'ingesta;" also the sympathetic disturbances having a gastric origin. The peculiar and severe symptoms elicited by Dr. Burt, and referred by him to the pancreas (see proving,) and which, in all probability, were really in the gland, point to its applicability to infiammation, and other disorders of that important organ. In that disease known as "Pancreatic salivation" it ought to prove specific. A thorough knowledge of the physiology of the pancreas will lead us to define pretty clearly the derangements likely to be caused by the Iris. The pancreas is usually regarded as belonging to the group of salivary glands. " The pancreatic juice is analagous to saliva. It acts upon starch even more energetically than saliva, transmuting it into sugar and lactic acid; and upon fats, by forming them into an emulsion so that they are readily absorbed. -(Draper.) It is generally conceded that a normal pancreatic juice (as regards quality and quantity), is necessary for the digestion of' fatty food. Many of the derangements of digestion, are undoubtedly due to deficiency, and unhealthy conditions of this juice. There can be no rational doubt of the action of Iris upon this gland. Even had we not Dr. Burt's suggestive provings, we could judge of its effects upon that gland from analogy. A remedy which irritates and stimulates the salivary glands, must have a similar action on the pancreas-a similar tissue, possessing similar functions. —(Puls., Mere., Iodine, Podoph.) Prof. Lee (Allopathist) says: —"It acts as a stimulant to the liver and pancreas." Our list of pancreatic remedies are five in number, and the symptoms they possess, directly referring to that gland are quite indefinite. The Iris promises to prove very valuable for the removal of morbid states, induced, directlyr or indirectly, by functional diseases of that organ. Dr. Burt succeded in killing several cats with the tincture of Iris versicolor. One of the most noted morbid appearances noticed on examination was a highly congested condition of the pancreas. A portion of one pancreas was sent, through me, to Dr. Ludlam of this city, who subjected it to a critical examination, which proved the presence IRIS VERSICOLOR. 279 of intense congestion of the minute vessels, and even a rupture, and extravasation of blood into the tissues of the gland. Dr. Kitchen says he " cured a case of gastrodynia characterized by violent pains in the epigastric region, coming on at intervals" with Iris. The Iris relieved him at once, and he had no return. He has also relieved and cured, "vomiting of food an hour after meals," with Iris. Liver, Hypochondria, etc.-Pain in the right hypochondriaworse on motion; pain above the cristi ilii on' both sides, first on the right; crampy pains in the right lumbar reigon. —(Rowland.) Cutting pains in the'egion of the liver. —(]Aitchen.) CLINICAL REMARKS. —PrOf. Lee (allopathic) says, the Iris "stimulates the liver." A writer in the London Lancet, asserts the irisin to be a powerful and efficient cholagogue. King intimates that it acts upon the liver in a manner similar to the mecurial preparations; not as active as Podophyllin but more lasting. The opposite school believe it stimulates the liver, increasing the secretion and excretion of bile, by; virtue of its general stimulative action on the glandular system. Dr. Kitchen (homceopathic) says: —"May it not be administered beneficially in some affections of the liver? It undoubtedly acts on this organ. I have had full evidence of that in several cases, producing a manifest secretion of healthy bile." Abdomen, Stool, etc. —Uneasy feeling in the scrobiculis cordis; rumbling in lower part of abdomen; lower part of sternum seems protruded; cutting pain in the lower part of the abdomen, relieved by discharge of flatus; colic, obliging him to bend forward for relief; fetid flatulence; diarrhcea with slight pain, accompanied by rumbling and uneasiness in the stomach; stools lumpy, brown, and very offensive; diarrhcea with colicky pains;. diarrhcea with rumbling and cutting in the lower part of the abdomen; six dysenteric stools at night, with rumbling and pain in abdomen, and great lassitude; sudden liquid evacuation after supper; constipation for some time, succeeded by thin watery diarrhcea.-(Rgowland). Colicky pains every few minutes in the epigastric and umbilical regions, with desire for stool (during the whole proving); four yellow, papescent stools, with rumbling in the bowels; fourteen thin watery stools, followed by two stools consisting of water and mucus, with tenesmus; watery stool; copious running from the bowels in a continuous stream; stool tinged with green; stool of undigested food; stool of blood and mucus, with great tenesmus, and a sensation as if the anus was on fire; anus feels as if sharp points were sticking in it; mucus membrane of the rectum prolapsed; great smarting and burning of anus after every stool. —(Dr. Burt, fromn Iris.) Swelling of the stomach and abdomen. —(Kitchen.) [The Irisin produced severe, intermittent colic in umbilical region, with soft mushy stool; also soft, papescent stools, with rumbling, but no pain.] CLINICAL REMARKx S. —The Iris is esteemed by the opposite schools as a powerful cathartic, but one which, they assert, does not 280 NEW- HOMCEOPATHIIC PROVINGS. leave constipation after its cathartic action. Dr. Burt sustains this assertion by the results of his own proving of massive doses. Prof. Lee says:-"As a cathartic it is said to act on all parts of the canal, but more particularly on the upper portion.' It has been rejected by some as unsafe and dangerous; but it was probably administered in over doses.' Iris undoubtedly causes bilious discharges from the bowels. Dr. Burt thinks he has seen evacuations of pure bile follow its use. The burning and smarting, however, at the anus and rectum, noticed in the proving, is rather the result of its acridity, than the effect of bilious fluids; the sensations in the rectum are probably due to the same cause as the burning in the mouth and fauces. Regarding its therapeutic action, we cannot do better than quote Dr. Kitchen's experience: Colic. —" Some cases I have relieved. The colic of infants is benefited by it. There is a peculiar condition of the abdominal region of the adult also, which may come under this head, and which may be termed a grumbling bellyache. It is most prevalent at] the changes of the, seasons, Spring and Autumn, and appears to be owing to a vitiated secretion of the liver, and mucous membrane of the bowels, and consists in an almost constant uneasiness and grinding in the bowels; a kind of sub-colic; a mushy passage once or twice a day, in some cases, but in the generality of cases, a very fcetid discharge of wind,'f a coppery smell, attended occasionally with an involuntary escape of fluid, soiling the shirt, and sometimes a passage of scybalous matter, together with fluid, mucoid fceces of an offensive, putrid, and coppery odor. It was a case of this kind which first led me to a use of this remedy. I had tried several medicines without the least relief, for nearly a week, and administered the Iris at random, never having given it in any disease. To my surprise the patient was shortly relieved, and had no return; his bowels soon became healthy and regular, and he praised the good effects of the remedy very highly. The sphere of the Iris appears to be chiefly the stomach and abdominal contents." -Diarrhcea.- "I have not yet been able to obtain with any degree of accuracy, the symptoms of those cases in which it proves to be the most appropriate. I think, however, that burning in the rectum and anus, after a passage, is one state which it arrests almost immediately. It also seems to be appropriate to cases in which there are pains, and green discharges, relieving the pains very frequently in a short time, and changing the green passages after some doses have been given. There is one very curious feature which I have frequently observed, which is, that when the diarrhcea is'not arrested after a few doses, it seems, after the administration of it for twenty-four or forty-eight hours, to produce an aggravation; there is an increase of pain and several free feetid passages, and then the diarrhcea ceases. This generally has taken place about two or three o'clock in the morning. Whether I have given it in too low dilutions, generally from second to sixth, I cannot tell, but such a feature I have frequently observed, and have administered it with perfect success in a few cases of periodical nzight diarrhoea, attended with pain, and two or three free IRIS VERSICOLOR. 281 discharges towards morning. I have also cured all my cases of cholera infantum? with it this summer, and some of them in a few days. I look upon it as a very valuable addition to our remedial measures in this complaint. "In Cholera morbus, I have succeeded in every case in which I have yet administered it, even the most violent. A single teaspoonful, of a few drops in a half tumbler of water, has in many very severe cases, put immediate stop to the vomiting. I consider it a specific in this form of disease, and I would earnestly request physicians to try it in the first cases of Cholera Asiatica, which may fall under their notice, and give the result to the profession. In cholera morbus, it arrests the pain which is so violent in many cases at the pit of the stomach, or around the navel, or, in some cases, still lower down in the abdominal region, at or before every fit of vomiting or purging. In fact, it seems, as far as I have as yet been able to judge, the more appropriate the more violent the pain, and in some cases, acting, as the patients and bystanders express themselves,'like a charm.' ZDysentery.-" Some mild cases I have cured with Iris, but it is not the remedy in this disease. The cases which seemed to be benefited were of the nature of dysenteric diarrhcea, attended with green discharges, or slimy mucus, without blood, or much straining. (Dr. Burt's proving elicited these very symptoms, however, and quite severely.) In one case it evidently acted favorably on the secretion of the liver, producing a free flow of healthy bile, and an immediate abatement of the unhealthy passages. In those cases in wliich there was bloody flux, I did not rely on it, not knowing sufficient of its curative powers." The pathogenesis of Iris points directly to its sphere of usefulness in some varieties of dysentery, probably in bilious-dysentery; yet there can be no doubt of the power of Iris to cause acute mucous enteritis, but the inflammation mzay be located higher in the intestinal canal, than in ordinary cases of dysentery. - (Here it appears the opposite of aloes and podophyllum, which affect the lower portion of the canal, rectum, etc."') It will be seen by the proving, however, that it has many symptoms analogous to Podoph.-the prolapsus of rectal mucous membrane,' " pricking in anus," etc. Dr. Kitchen's successful use of Iris in abdominal typhus, proves its applicability in some quite severe forms of intestinal inflammation, and perhaps in organic lesions of that canal. (See Ferri). I would simply add, by way of testimony that many homceopathists, with myself, have found the Iris a valuable remedy in nearly every disease of the bowels for which Dr. K. recommends it. I would also suggest its use in hcemorrhoids, bilious colic, fisure of the anus, fistula in ano, etc. Urinary and Genital Organs. —A sharp cutting pain in urethra when beginning to urinate; urine copious; strong, disagreeable smell to the urine; cutting and sticking in urethra when urinating; coldness and itching of the genitals.-(Rowland.) Dark red urine, with burning in the urethra for half an hour; increase in the quantity of urine; nocturnal emissions with acmorouts dreams (friom Iris): profuse urination —-eleven times a day-for three 36 282 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. days; nocturnal emissions,with amorous dreams for seven consecutive nights; glans penis much swollen and red, (fiom Irisin).(Burt.) CLINICAL RE)IARIKS.-The Iris seems to have a special affinity for the genito-urinary organs, causing not only irritation, with increased secretion, but symptoms of inflammation even. Eclectic physicians have elevatedthis plant to a high position, as a remedy for affections of these organs. King says it is a diuretic. He recommends it in dropsy, but advises it to be given:until its hydrogogue effects are obtained. Although such a course will often run off the dropsical effusion, yet it is unnecessary and injurious. As with the Apoc. cann., the Iris, if appropriate, will eliminate the serous fluid through the kidneysi without any action on the bowels. The dropsies in which Iris will be found curative, will probably be found to be hepcatic in their origin, generally. Sygphilis. —Not only King, Jones, and other eclectics, but Coe and Prof. Lee, positively attest that "In Syphilis, either primary or secondary, it acts as a powerful and efficacious agent. In eradicating the syphilitic virus, and correcting the diathesis of the system, it is not only powerful, but positive, and certain. In the secondary or tertiary forms of syphilis, after mercury in all its forms of administration had proven abortive, this agent has restored patients to perfect health. A gentleman who had studied medicine, but abandoned the practice for the ministry, informed us that he had used, and heard of others prescribing it with entire success in a large number of syphilitic cases, after the disease had passed into the secondary or tertiary stages, and often after mercury had been liberally used for a long time. The dose in which he employed it was one or two fluid drachms of the tincture, six or eight times daily." —(Jones and Scudder's 1iMat. Med.) If these recommendations of Iris, in that terrible malady, are reliable —and we have no reason to doubt the veracity of the above named authors-this remedy would be far preferable to its metallic analogue, Mercury. The general sphere of action of the Iris, as developed by our provings, would certainly point us to its use in Syphilis and Gonorrhea, even if we had no previous intimation of its use in those diseases. Some homceopathic author remarks that in no proving of Silicia, Calcarea, etc., do we get those ulcers, abscesses, etc., for which those remedies are so specific. So it is with Iris. It would be carrying the provings of this medicine beyond proper bounds to produce the ulcers, and other characteristic symptoms of Syphilis, even if it were possible so to do. Dr. Headland's theory of eliminative action may explain why Iris, and some other medicines cure Syphilis, namely: by eliminating the virus through the proper glands, thus ridding the system of the poison —not antidoting it in the system. N either my colleaguesso for as I can learn-nor myself, have had any experience in the use of Iris in syphilitic affections. In Gonorrhcea it would appear by its pathogenesis to be indicated. I used it in one case, with apparent good results. It was given at the first dilution, five drops four. time a day. IRIS VERSICOLOR. 283 In Seminal Emissions, when accompanied by dmorous dreams, it is very appropriate. When consulted in a case of spermatorrhcea, the first question to be asked is, "Do you have amorous dreams, with emissions? " If the answer is in the affirmative, I consider the case one of irritation, and treat it with Phos.,,Canth., Cann., Puls. and Iris. If a negative answer is received, the case is classed with those arising from want of tone, and lack of vitality and which call for such remedies as Kali brom., Conium, Phos. acid, Agnus castus and Caladium. This method of ascertaining the pathology of this affection, was first laid down by the astute Lallemrand, whose researches in this direction have been so valuable. No proving of this medicine upon the female organism has been made. Judging from its effects upon the male organs, we can safely consider it capable of deranging the female organs of generation. Eclectic physicians claim to find it useful in the treatment of "leucorrhbea, congestions of the cervix, ulceration, and other disorders of the uterine system." Coe thinks it "particularly indicated in uterine leucorrhcea, in which affection it seems to be of almost specific value." As this variety of leucorrhcea is the result of a hyper-secretion of the glandular follicles of the cervix, it is quite probable the Iris may act curatively, as its primary effect is' to cause a similar condition in glandular tissues. "A physician who had used this article extensively, and had had ample opportunities of testing its virtues, informs us that he had found it more effectual in hemorrhages, particularly nenorrhagia, than any other agent he had ever tried."-(Jones and Scudder 1Mat. Med.) If the Iris should prove a true homweopathic remedy for syphilitic affections, it will be found useful in many diseases of the vagina, uterus, and ovaries, caused by that pervading poison. Larynx and Chest.-Short, dry cough; excited by a tickling in the larynx; pain in the left side, as though the ribs were pressing against the lungs; unable to take a long breath for the pain in the left chest, which was of a cutting and sticking character; pain in the left chest.-(Rowland.) Hoarseness and ringing in the ears; soreness and rawness of the fauces. —(Burt.) Taken in connection with the above symptoms, the experiments of Dr. Burt on animals, are quite suggestive. Back.-Constant pain, aggravated by motion, in the lumbar and sacral region, was a constant symptom when proving Irisin. -(BPurt.) Upper Extremities.-A sharp, tensive pain in right shoulder; worse on motion, especially by raising the arm, and continuing a long time; this pain occurs most in the evening; severe pains; shooting, momentary, and shifting about rapidly, in the phalangeal and meta-carpal-phalangeal articulations; and also in the sides and ends of the fingers, of both hands-these pains more in the evening; sharp pain in the end of middle fingers of left hand, succeeded instantly by a similar pain in axilla of' left side pains in phalanges when writing.-(Rowlancd.) Hands hot and dry all the time.(PBurt.) Dr. Rowland advises the Iris in rheumatism of the shoulders, wrists, and hands. LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 285 (1).-The tincture of the fresh root, which will contain all the medicinal virtues of the plant. (2). —The tincture, or triturtion, of the dried root which will contain only a portion of its virtues, as the narcotic and acrid principles are probably volatile. (3).-The Leptandrin, which possesses about the same properties as the dried root, with perhaps less of its irritating qualities. GENERAL EFFECTS. —-King thinks the fresh root is too drastic and uncertain for medicinal use, as it produces vomiting, bloody stools, dizziness, vertigo, and in pregnant females, abortion, unless used with much care. (He should give it in minuate doses.) The dried root is decreed to be " laxative, tonic, cholagogue, and alterative. * * It exerts a powerful influence over the absorbent system, * * It is thought to possess narcotic properties. Leptandria is by the same author said to be a " powerful cholagogue, with but slight laxative influence." Prof. Hill, when an Eclectic, thought it to be "aperient, alterative, and tonic." Dr. Coe regards it as "alterative, deobstruent, cholagogue, laxative, and tonic." No remedy is held in higher estimation by the Eclectic school than this; and they use it profusely, in all diseases, with the same disregard for special indications, that the Allopaths use mercury. The following proving, and clinical experience, though meagre, may do something toward showing the real pathogenetic and curative power of this agent: Mucous Membranes. —" No remedy with which we are acquainted, is more to be relied upon in chronic affections of the mucous surfaces." —(Coe.) The fresh root, especially, seems to have a peculiar irritating effect upon mucous surfaces. This may proceed to inflammation. It may cause pseudo-membranous inflammation in the intestines, as occurs in acute enteritis. Coe says Leptandria is curative in this condition when it occurs in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery. It causes an increased secretion and discharge of mucus from the intestinal surfaces (the mucous follicles), and in higher grades of its toxical action,, the secretion is so much increased that the discharges are profuse and watery. It may even cause ulceration, sloughing, and gangrene. (See Intestines, Stools, etc.) Serous Membranes.-It seems to have some action on these membranes, but probably only indirectly. Nerves of Motion and Sensation.-Its action upon the nervous system is probably not direct or notable. Glandular System. —" The glandular system, including the skin, partakes of its healthful impress." —(Coe.) Gatchell says it causes pain in the sub-maxillary glands. In Dr. Burt's proving it seemed to cause pain in the inguinal glands. Its action upon the liver seems to be well attested. It arouses its secretory and excretory functions. It probably irritates the whole intestinal glandular apparatus, when given in large doses. In small doses, used homneopathically, it restores these glands to a healthy action. General Symptoms-Languid, tired feeling; feel very weak and faint; very weak and languid, can hardly walk,; faintness from the 286 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. severe nausea at night; general relaxation of the system; great prostration; great lassitude, with disinclination to talk; talking is very laborious; physical and mental depression, with vertigo and drowsiness. CLINICAL RE MARKS.-Notwithstanding the assertion of Eclectic physicians, Leptandria in large doses, depresses the general strength of the system. It is only when it is used in proper medicinal (i. e. homceopathic) doses, that this medicine acts as a tonic. It is a tonic in the same manner as Arsenic, Nitric acid or Mercury, by removing abnormal conditions. Dr. Gatchell says "a characteristic indication for its exhibition is excessive debility." Dr. Coe declares that " one great advantage possessed by the Leptandria is its tonic power. It never debilitates, but, on the contrary, invigorates while it deterges." Yet he admits that its operation is frequenty attended with considerable prostration. I have witnessed cases in which a decoction of the fresh root had been administered, where the prostration was excessive, and resembled that caused by mercury. Fever.-Pulse diminished in frequency; feet and legs from knees down feel cold and numb pulse full, but reduced from sixty to forty; great lassitude; languor of the whole system; disinclination to talk, which is very laborious; chilly sensation at the shoulders and down the back; tendency to shiver; sore and lame feeling in the small of the back.-( Gatchell.) Skin hot and dry; pain in the bowels with chilliness along the spine.-(Burt.) Universal chilliness. CLINICAL REArARKS. —Coe remarks that when the Leptandria is given in disease, and the patient is fairly brought under its constitutional influence, "the skin, which was before hot, dry, and constricted, becomes soft, moist, and flexible; expectoration becomes easy, the arterial excitemelnt is lessened, and the patient, before restless, wakeful, and delirious, becomes calm, rational, and inclined to sleep." HIe considers it a valuable remedy in typhoid fevers, and in this opinion King, Jones, Morrow, and others concur. Some homceopathic practitioners, as Hill, Gatchell, and many of my correspondents, place the same high estimate upon its curative powers in typhoid states, when there is present, great prostration, stupor, heat and dryness of the skin, calor mordax, or coldness of the extremities; dark, foetid, tarry or watery stools, mixed with bloody mucus, and an icterode condition. In JIntermittent.Feer it is a favorite and much-used medicine by nearly all Western physicians, of both schools, who combine it with Quinine. They assert that it renders the action of Quinine more certain, and prevents the liability to a return of the disease, at least for the season; and is useful in periodic diseases generally, of an obstinate character, in which Quinine alone produces little or no result. In my experience, which was at one time very large, in diseases of the character referred to, the Leptandria did really act in a very beneficial manner. kMy method was to use it in alternation with Quinine, China, Nux vom., or any other medicine indicated, and always in acordance with what I always considered to be LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 287 its homceopathic applicability. I do not consider that it has any real anti-periodic power, as some drugs undoubtedly have, but it removes conditions of the liver which often tend to keep up a continuance of intermittent maladies. I usually gave it for the following symptoms: considerable prostration; loss of appetite; heavily coated brown tongue; bitter taste in the mouth; constipation, or diarrhcea, with dark fcetid stools; jaundice; yellow, saturated urine. In Bilious fevers, I have given it for nearly the same symptoms, using Leptandrin second or third dec. trit. In bIrfantile remittent, I have had some excellent results from its use, administering the second or third dilution of the tincture, or the third and fourth trit., as seemed most proper. Mind, Sleep. —Gloomy; desponding; sleep disturbed by the pains in the head and bowels, sleep more disturbed after midnight; very gloomy and irritable all day; drowsiness; a kind of stupor of of the mental faculties. CLINICAL REMKARKS.-It causes symptoms of the mind, similar to those occurring during disordered conditions of the liver, such as hepatic torpor, congestions, and the like. Some writers consider the fresh r;oot to possess narcotic properties. It seems honmceopathic to the drowsiness attending hepatic torpor, or that occurring in typhoids. Skin.-Skin. hot and dry, with frequent pains in the bowels. CLINICAL REMAARKS. —It is probably not hommeopathic to any of the various affections of the skin. But may be found useful when they are aggravated by the retention of bile. In the intolerable itching of the skin, occurring in jaundice, in will prove useful, (See Liver,) Iead.- Constant, dull, frontal headache, worse in the temples slight frontal headache, with a dull aching sensation in the umbilicus; dull frontal headache, apparently deep seated in the cerebrum; slight frontal headache, with neuralgic pains in the right temple; very severe frontal headache, made nearly unbearable by walkin.; very dizzy while walkiing; feeling as if the hair was being pulled at; vertigo. CLINICAL REMARKs.-With the knowledge we now possess of the action of this medicine, especially on the liver, we can very properly decide the above-described headache to be the so-called " bilious headache.)" It somewhat resembles the cephalalgia caused by Nux and Brvonia. A "bilious headache" is usually accompanied by constipation, furred tongue, bitter taste, indigestion, yellow urine, languor, and depression of spirits. A free discharge from the bowels, of dark-brown, or greenish, feculent matter, usually dissipates the pain. Such headaches are relieved, and even cured, by the use of Leptandria, second or third trituration. - Eyes. —Eyes smart and ache very much (this symptom was present during the whole of the proving); eyelids agglutinated; profuse secretion of tears; eyes smarting constantly, with dull, aching pains in the eyeballs; painful sensation in left eyelid; lids and balls feel constricted.-(lDr. Gatchell.) 288 NEW HOM(EOPATHIIC PROVINGS. Mouth, Throat, etc.-Tongue coated, yellow along the centre; pain in sub-maxillary glands. Gastric Symptoms.-Tongue coated yellow along the centre; flat, pappy taste in the mouth; nausea, with deathly faintness upon rising in the night; painful distress in the stomach, with rising of food, very sour; canine hunrger; nausea, with faintness; nausea followed by vomiting; severe vomiting, accompanied by diarrhcea. CLINICAL RE.mnARIS.-Among the Eclectics, it is considered a "valuable remedy for dyspepsia."' This phrase is continually used in reference to Leptandria. But "dyspepsia" may be caused by many various morbid states, both of the stomach and liver, thus: it may depend upon an excess or a deficiency of bile; on gastric catarrh, and degeneration of the gastric glands; atony of the stomach; deficiency of gastric juice, etc., etc. My experience with Leptandria inclines me to the opinion that it is chiefly homceopathic to those varieties of dyspepsia which depend upon disordered states of the liver, and atony of the stomach. I have found it very useful, used in alternation with Nux vomica, in men, and Pulsatilla in women. If there is present constipation, headache, jaundice, and bitter taste in the mouth, I prefer the first decimal trit. If there is diarrh(ea, rising of sour ingesta, nausea, pain in the bowels and debility, the third or sixth trituration. Stomnach.- Constant distress in the lower part of the epigastrium and upperportions of ucmbilical regions; sharp, cutting pains at intervals in the same parts; constant aching distress in the stomach and umbilical regions; constant aching, burning sensation in the stomach and liver, aggravated by drinking cold water; severe aching pain in the stomach immediately after rising, and continuing all the forenoon; dull, aching pain in the cardiac portion of the stomach; great distress in the stomach and small intestines, with great desire for stool, that could not be retained one moment; weak, sinking sensation at the pit of the stomach. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It would seem homceopathic to some forms of gastralgia, cardialgia, pyrosis, and some of the various pains and distressing sensations which accompany indigestion. The "sinking sensation at the pit of the stomach," caused by Leptandria, is probably due to portal congestion, for which condition it is one of the most valuable remedies. It should be administered at the 2d or 3d dec. trit. iaiver.-Dull aching pain in the lower part of the right hypochondriac region, near the gall-bladder, with dull aching pain in the umbilicus, and rumbling in the bowels; dull aching in the whole of the liver-the pain extends to the spine, but is worst near the gallbladder; constant dull, burning distress in the epigastric and hypochondriac regions; dull, aching burning distress in the region of the gall-bladder, with frequent chilliness along the spine; profuse, black, undigested stool, followed by great distress in the region of the liver, extending to the spine; the pain is of a hot, aching character, with chilliness along the spine; sharp, cutting pains near the gallbladder; great burning distress in the back part of liver, and in the spine; pain in left shoulder and arm. LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 289 CLINICAL REMARKs. —The eclectic school of medicine, and even the allopathic, claim for Leptandria, that it possesses a specific affinity~for the liver; that it profoundly modifies its functions in various ways. King says of Leptandria: " It is a chola.gogue. It causes the liver to act with great energy, and without active catharsis, and is employed with success in all hepatic affections * * It is indicated by an inactive state of the liver, and all functional diseases of that organ." And of Leptandrin he says: " It is the only known medi. cine that efficiently stimulates and corrects the hepatic secretions, and removes functional derangement of the liver, without debilitating the system by copious alvine evacuations." Other writers of that school reiterate the same statements, and all eclectic practitioners use it with unhesitating confidence. It is to that school what " blue mass "' is to the allopathic, while the Podophyllin is considered to take the place of calomel. But the wide recommendation of Leptandria in 1" all functional derangements of the liver," is too sweeping, and resembles the assertions of the allopaths, that Mercury is the only remedy in " all hepatic derangements." We are aware that the researches of Inman and Thudichum seem to render it doubtful if Mercury acts directly upon the liver; but the great mass of the allopathic school still use it, and probably will, for the next ten generations. Dr. Burt's admirable proving of Leptandria, which we herewith present the profession, establishes the fact beyond all controversy, that this medicine does exercise an influence of no doubtful power over the liver and its secretions. The hepatic symptoms are well marked, both the subjective and objective, and the whole experiment goes to prove what I have so often asserted in my writings: that all the remedies successfully used by the allopathic schools, are used strictly in accordance with the homceopathic law of cure; and being administered under that law, do effect cures, notstanding the large doses in which they are given-doses which very often produce needless and painful, and sometimes injurious medicinal aggravations. In regard to the real action of Leptandria on the liver, and its secretions, I do not propose to hazard any decided opinion, inasmuch as the action of Mercury even, upon that organ, is involved in considerable mystery. The same may be said of such analagous medicines as Iris versicolor and Podophyllum. But I may throw out a few suggestions, which can be taken for what they are worth: " (alomel," says Draper, m" increases the fluid, but diminishes the solid constituents of the bile." It is my impression that Podophyllum and Iris versicolor act in a similar manner. Leptandria, on the contrary, seems to increase the solid, and decrease the fluid constituents of that secretion; or, in other words, Leptandria may have the power of facilitating the elimination of the proper exerementitious portions of the bile, or an excess of the non-excrementitious portions. It is at present believed that the retention of cholesterine in the blood is very injurious. That substance acts somewhat after the manner of Urea, namely: as a direct poison to the nervous centres. Its non-elimination causes headache, vertigo, languor, depression of spirits, painful sensations in various portions of the body, etc. Now, it is highly probable that Leptandria 37 290 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. increases, directly, the elimination of this substance, for under its action, when given in proper medicinal doses, the symptoms enumerated above, are rapidly dissipated. The retention of other excrementitious constituents of the bile cause various morbid conditions, and the Leptandria, by its peculiar action, seems to be the remedy most likely to be of benefit when we wish to eliminate such substances through the liver. As it does not appear to increase the fluid constituents of the bile, as does Podophyllum and Iris v., its apparent tonic effect, even in material doses, may thus be accounted fbr. Mercury, however, seems to have in some instances, a similar action with Leptandria. In minute doses, in certain states of the system, it acts as a tonic, i. e., it removes the morbid state by its homweopathic action, and the vital powers resume their normal sway. Some further suggestions relating to the action of Leptandria may not be amiss. Its primary pathogenetic action seems to be that of a stimulant, or irritant of the hepatic cells. Chambers states that "Mercury, Nitro-Muriatic Acid, and Manganese, cause an increase of yellow matter in the cells of the liver." Podophyllum may have the same effect; so also Leptandria. As a consequence of this plimary stimulation or irritation, we have the increased elimination before mentioned, and sometimes acute congestion and inflammation. Leptandria therefore is primarily homeeopathic to an irritable concdition of the liver, in which the discharges are of the peculiar character described under "Stool," and the pains and abnormal sensations are similar to those under "Liver." The secondary effect -of Leptandria is over-stimulation, or a condition of exhausted irritability, in which the hepatic cells refuse to perform their office (particularly that of eliminating the excrementitious substances from the blood?). In such cases we have the following conditions, namely: Jaundice from retention of biliary matters in the blood; so -called " bilious symptoms;" congestion of the liver, and even chronic inflarmmation of that organ, with its complications of enlargement, abscess, and various other structural changes. Leptandria is therefore secondarily homoeopathic to the last-named pathological states. The size of the dose, let me remind the reader, will depend on its primary or secondary homceopathicity. Abdomen.- Constant, dull, aching distress in'the umbilical region with ocasional, sharp, cutting pains in the same region: pain and distress in the bowels, preventing sleep;. dull pain in the lower part of right hypocondriac region and near the gall-bladder, with dull, aching distress in the umbilical region, and rumbling in the bowels; great distress in the whole of the bowels; sharp, cutting pains, with rumbling and desire for stool; stool followed by very weak feeling in the bowels and rectum; constant, dull, aching distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, with sharp pains every few minutes-the pains make me feel very faint; constant, duill, aching pains in the right inguinal region, passing down to the testicle; dull aching in the lumbar region; great rumbling and distress in the hypogastric region, with a profuse, black, fetid stool, followed by slight pains in the bowels; great distress in the hypogastric region, with great desire for stool-the pain is aggravated by drink LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 291 ing cold water; a good deal of distress in the stomach and bowels, with a burning sensation; stool followed by very severe, cutting pains in the small intestines; distension of abdomen; sense of vermicular motion in the colon; sense of coolness in the alimentary canal; pain in the left iliac region; rumbling in the intestines; flatulence. CLINICAL REMARKS. —The Leptandria is homceopathic to a variety of chronic enteritis, especally that form which is so common inl camps, and among the lower class of our population in cities. It should be useful in bilious enteralgia, and the colics from flatulence, etc. During the course of cases of typhus abdominalis, symptoms will often arise, which call for its administration. Every practitioner has met with cases in which the icteric symptoms, the prostration, and frequently the abdominal pain, and the character of the intestinal discharges, resemble very closely these found in the provings of Leptandria. It is not suitable for conditions of such intensity as call for the use of Arsenicum, but for those cases where the derangement is still functional, and there is yet no real decom. position of the fluids and solids, no ulcerations, etc., such as Arsenicum causes. I have used the second dec. trit., in a few cases of typhus abdominalis, with unequivocal benefit. Stool.-Hard, black, and lumpy; afterwards soft and mushy stool; stool soft and mushy, and followed by a very weak feeling in the bowels and rectum; great rumbling and distress in the hypogastritnm, with a profuse, black, and very fetid papescent stool, followed by slight pain in the bowels; great desire for stool; very profuse black stool, of the consistence of cream, and partially digested, followed by great relief; profuse, black, fetid stool, preceded by severe pain in the umbilical and hypogastric regions; inability to retain the stool, which is followed by great relief; great distress in small intestines and desire for stool, followed by a soft very fetid and black stool; watery stool, followed by severe cutting pains in the small intestines; inability to retain the stool, which is very profuse, fetid, and watery, with large quantities of mucus, and followed by very severe pain in the hypogastrium; desire for stool with great rumbling in the bowels, followed by profuse stool of watery mucus intermingled with a yellow matter-the evacuation was followed by very severe pain in the umbilicus; profuse, thin stool, with large quantities of mucus, followed by sh'arp, catting pains, and great distress iu the umbilical region. CLINICAL REMTARIS.-It, is a stereotyped phrase of eclectic writers that the Leptandria causes " copious, dark, tar-like'dejections from the bowels." They teach that when this symptom occurs, after the administration of Leptandria in disease, it is a very favorable symptoti, and recovery is confidently predicted, This assumption is based upon the well-known fact, that similar evacuations do often occur during the course of bilious and other fevers hepatic diseases, etc., and seem to be of a " critical" character, i. e., they relieve the system of certain morbid matters, which had caused the malady. I have treated many malarious fevers of a 292 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. pernicious character, when these tar-like discharges ocurred under the homceopathic use of Arsenicumand Rbhus, and when the peculiar evacuations were not due to the medicine, but to the vis mnedicatrix naturce. I have known them to occur during an attack of supposed portal congestion, when no medicine had been taken. But this pathognesis of.Leptandria proves that those peculiar dark discharges, are not always the result of natural disease-in other words, that this medicine is not alone an eliminative of such morbid matters, but actually cures such evacuations, when given to healthy persons. Eclectic writers erroneously teach that when the Leptandria causes black evacuations, it shows that the system was being poisoned with "vitiated bile," or some other morbid matters. It is this belief that has led them to the indiscriminate routine, and injurious use of this remedy in many diseases. They did not stop to ask themselves the question, whether the tar-like discharges, might not be due to the poisonous action of the drug? I have known patients under eclectic treatment to be kept under the action of Leptandria day after day, until the third stage of poisoning-namely, that state when watery mucus and bloody stools occur; because the physician supposed he must continue the administration of the medicine until the black discharges ceased. When they did cease, then the disease was said to "run into dysentery;" but it was the dysentery of Leptandria. So much for the blind adherence to pervading opinion, which is the curse of all medical schools. There are some interesting peculiarities in relation to the symptomatology of the evacuations caused by Leptandria. The catharsis caused by it may be divided into four stages: (1) Discharge of black, thick, tar-like, fcetid substances. (2) Thinner, brownish, often feetid evacuations. (3) Stool of mixed mucus, flocculent, and watery matters, with yellow bile, or blood. (4) Mucus, bloody stool, mixed with shred-like substanceoften pure blood is discharged. Now, to prescribe a drug successfully, we should know the different stages of its pathogenetic action. This is just as important as to know the stages of disease. The catharsis of Podophyllin differs materially from that of Leptandria, and although it causes some of the varieties of stool, they occur in a different order. If we are called upon to prescribe for a diarrhoea, we should investigate its history; if that history corresponds in order and nature, with the Leptandria-disease, then that drug is the specific remedy. In the treatment of a dysentery the same rule holds good; dysentery occurs in the fourth stage of Leptandria-poisoning, while it occurs in the second stage of podophyllum-intestinal-irritation. With some drugs, scanty, bloody, and mucus stools, occur, as a primary symptom, as in cases where the rectum is the seat of inflammation. Teste was the first to call attention to the importance of selecting remedies upon this data, and the practitioner will find the rule a valuable one. Dr. P. P. Wells, of New York has lately called the attention of the profession to the importance of the characteristic symptoms LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 293 of drugs; those symptoms which make it differ from all other drugs. Thus, there are many remedies for "11black stools," but not all will remove that condition; the collateral symptoms must correspond. This subject will be noticed in another place. In the subject of the proving of Leptandria, it should not escape the notice of the physician, that the evacuations per anum are accompanied by some peculiar symptoms: The pains in the intestines usually occur after stool; in the podophlyllum diarrhcea they occur before, while the diarrhea of mercury, and many others, the pain is severe during the stool. It will also be noticed that the evacuations are not followed by tenesmus. The proving here given does not mention it, nor do I find it mentioned in any article refering to its action. In practice I have not found it useful when there was marked tenesmus attending the disease. Such remedies as Podophyllum, Aloes, and Mere urius are more applicable. I am inclined to believe that Leptandria does not have any direct specific effect on the rectum. Its action on the liver and portal system, undoubtedly causes it to effect, the rectum and hemorrhoidal vessels but this action is indirect. If we carefully study the symptoms of Leptandria, after the method proposed by Dr.P. P. Wells, we shall find it a drug possessing a distinct itdividuality, as much as any other drug in our Materia M[edica. In Acute Diarrhcea, we shall find this medicine often indicated, and it will prove a valuable specific when administered for the pathological conditions in which it is indicated-those, and the symptoms, are well shown by the proving. In Chronic Diarrhcea, this drug is even more reliable for the general condition, which is shown by the following extracts from my lecture on Leptandria, delivered before the class of Hahneman Medical College, in the winter of 1864:"The three principal varieties of chronic diarrhbca, in which Leptandria will be found useful, are: "(a) From chronic inflammation or irritation of the mucous membrane. "(b) Dependent on hepatic derangement.'"(c) Diarrhoea of debility. "Some of the indications for Leptandria in the first-named variety, I have already given. But I will here call your attention to one form of this affection, which bears the common name of "Camp Diarrhbea." This disease is usually contracted in camp, where the soldiers are illy protected from atmospheric changes, and are exposed to cold, dampness, and fetid exhalations, from refuse matter, decaying vegetation, etc. These, together with improperly cooked food, and bad water, are the principal causes of this malady. Its onset is sometimes gradual, lasting for days and weeks before the surgeon's attention is called to it by the patient; but it often attacks its victims suddenly, and assumes the character of a cholera morbus, or acute enteritis. It is one of the most intractable diseases with which our army has to contend. Under allopathic treatment it is almost incurable, and sometimes resists all medication, so long as the man remains in camp or bar ~294 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. racks, exposed to the same influence which caused it, and obliged to subsist upon the usual hospital diet. In the acute stages, the following treatment will be found most applicable: If it is evidently caused by a cold, or exposure to dampness, Dulcarnara, Aconite, or Pulsatilla will be found most efficacious. When caused by bad diet, and improper food or water, Pulsatilla, or Podophyllum will be most useful. If hepatic derangement is evidently present, Mercurius, Podophyllum, Leptandria, or Iris versicolor will be indicated. If the attack is choleraic in its character, Arsenicum, Veratrum alb, or Euphorbia cor., and perhaps Aconite, should be selected. But when it assumes a chronic character, and persists in spite of altered diet, change of location, etc., then Leptandria or Leptandrin will be found an invaluable remedy. In many cases its persevering use will alone effect a cure, although there are cases in which we may be obliged to resort to the auxiliary aid of Phosphoric acid, Nitric acid, Arsenicum, Sulphur, or Mercurius corrosivus. "It is in most cases absolutely necessary that the patient (the subject of Camp Diarrhcea) should be removed from camp, or barracks, as soon as possible, and transferred to some healthy locality. For obvious reasons, a return to the patient's home is to be preferred. Here his military dress should be changed for his former civilian's apparel and his diet should consist of plain, nutritious, easily-assimilable substances. My experience has been that patients do the best upon a milk diet; plain bread and milk being the best' form of its use. In addition, hie should have a certain limited amount of good fresh beef, mutton, or game, every day. Taking the hint from the practice of an eminent Russian military surgeon, who successfully adopted the treatment in the great military hospitals, I have advised the use of raw, or nearly raw, beef, and in most instances, with the most satisfactory results. Tender, lean steak should be selected, and chopped very fine, a very small quantity of salt may be added if the patient insists. Of this an adult may eat one or two ounces, three times a day, with his bowl of bread and milk. Potatoes, salted meats, warm bread, raw fruit, pastry, coffee, preserves, and liquors, should be prohibited. Moderate exercise will be of advantage; too much, injurious. If the chronic diarrhcea depends for its continuance on debility, and resembles the colliquative diarrhcea of phthisis, accompanied by hectic fever and coiliquative sweats, the Leptandria is still useful, but should be given in alternation with Phosphorus, Arsenicum, China, or.Ferrum. The two latter are especially indicated if a lientery is developed, and the food passes the bowels unchanged, or in a state of putrefactive fermentation. "In some cases such is the debility and relaxation of the mucous' membrane, that the serous and even fibrinous parts of the blood' escape, attended sometimes with more or less of the red coloring matter. An increased degree of the same affection constitutes passive hemorrhage. It is not unfrequently associated with a watery state of the blood, which becomes incapable of sustaining a due energy in the extreme vessels. In such conditions, Leptandria LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 297 derived from the surface of the bowel with which the fceces lay in contact. There is usually more or less tormina, and tenderness on pressure; the pulse, skin, and appetite are affected as in chronic diarrhcea, and there is nearly the same emaciation. Chronic Dysentery is seldom an original disease, but when it occurs, is almost always in consequence of an acute attack. It is very often a result of acute attacks of "camp dysentery," and even " camp diarrhea'' may run into a chronic dysentery. In this disease we have in Leptandria a valuable and efficient remedy, but it is more applicable to those cases in which a chronic enteritis complicates the disorder. In Cholera Infantum it has proved a very useful remedy. Dr. Kling (Eclectic), says:-" In cholera infantum, a disease which sometimes sets at defiance all the skill of the physician, I have met with excellent success by the following combination: Leptandria six grs., Quinia three grs., Camphor one and a half grs., Ipecacuanha threefourths grs., mixed and divided in twelve powders, of which one may be given every two or three hours, and its use continued thus for several days. Its action at first is to increase the alvine passages, and apparently augment the disease, but in a few days the character of the evacuations change, become more and more normal, as well as more regular in their appearance; after which, one or two powders per day for a week will render the cure permanent." I have quoted the above, to show that this mixture, absurd as it is, really cured the disease homceopathically. Leptandria, the main ingredient, is eminently homeopathic to the disease in most cases, as the proving shows conclusively. Quinia, for which we substitute China, is indicated by the general condition (prostration from -loss of fluids), and by the special symptoms (copious, dark, or light, watery stool, etc). Ipecac. is one of our best remedies, when there occurs vomiting with the diarrhmea, and Camphor, as shown by Hahnemann is quite homeopathic to choleraic symptoms, with considerable prostration. By the use of Leptandria third trit., China second dil., and Ipecac., first or second, with Camphor tenth, as an intercurrent remedy, the hommopathist, can cure his patients, without the danger of doing injury to the organism, especially in cases of children, that is apt to occur from such massive doses as is advised by King, who admits that the disease is apt to be aggravated at first,by the medicines. Dr. B. L. Hill, when an Eclectic, wrote as follows concerning the action of Leptandria, in dysentery. "In the epidemic dysentery which has prevailed for the last two seasons (1854,55,) in many parts of our country, this article has been of great service. It was usually given with the best success, after evacuating the bowels freely, with a combination of Podophyllin and Leptandria, or Rhubarb. For this purpose give from one-half of a grain to a grain every hour, gradually lengthening the interivals as the discharge becomes darker. Though it may not be 38 298 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. applicable in all cases of dysentery, it is doubtless one of the most useful articles in this dangerous disease." The epidemic referred to was of an adynamic character, quickly prostrating the patient, and often ran into a typhoid condition. For the same epidemic, Dr. Hill would now advise and use with as good results, minute doses of Leptandria, Podophyllum, Arsenicum, and Baptisia. It may be remarked here that Podophyllumr is indicated for a much higher grade of inflammation and irritation of the bowels, than Leptandria. The following was Dr. Hill's estimate of the action of Leptandria: —"It is not strictly cathartic. It is aperient, alterative and tonic. In cases of children affected with summer complaint, where there is evidently a lack of the proper biliary secretions, but when owing to the already irritated condition of the bowels, the ordinary remedies for arousing the liver are inadmissible, this article seems to be the very thing needed. While it acts freely upon the liver, instead of purging, it seems to change the discharge from the light, and watery, or slimy condition, to a darkened and apparently bilious state rendering them more and more consistent, until they become perfectly natural, without having been arrested entirely, or at any time aggravated. It at the same time seems to act as a tonic, restoring the tone of the stomach, and increasing the strength and activity of digestion." Dr. Hill the homoeopathic, values the Leptandria as highly as did Dr. Hill the eclectic, but he accounts for its action in a more rational manner. As the latter he gave one-fourth to one grain every hour or two, in acute cases, or one to two grains three times a day in chronic cases; as the former he finds one-tenth or onehundreth of a grain equally servicable. In those severe cases of disease which clearly resemble the primary symptoms of poisoning with the fresh root of Leptandria, the thirtieth, if prepared from a good tincture, would doubtless act curatively.'Urine.-Urine at first slightly acid, then neutral and rather scanty; urine very red, and does not affect litmus paper; dull, aching pain in the lumbar region. CLINICAL REMARKS.-King says " it exerts a powerful influence upon the absorbent system, and in combination with cream of tartar, has been successfully used in obstinate cases of dropsy." If Leptandria is homeopathic to any variety of dropsy, it is probably that dependent on disease of the liver. In order to test its value in dropsy, or, indeed, any disease, it should be given alone. To combine medicines is to lose all data concerning the real action of any single agent. It is doubtful if Leptandria exercises any specific act;on on the functions of the kidneys, yet a medicine may be useful in dropsy without being a diuretic. It may act curatively by a certain general restorative power. Thus China, Iron, Helonias, etc., may remove dropsies by bringing the organism up to a normal condition. Any cause which obstructs the circulation in the portal system of veins, will induce dropsy. Chronic tumefaction of the liver, and organic diseases of that organ; also inflammation of the portal vein, are the principle causes of the varieties of hepatic dropsy. 300 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. gall bladder, with dull, aching distress in the umbilical region, and rumbling in the bowels. Took twenty-five grains, 2 P. M.; dull, aching distress in the whole of the liver that extends to the spine; the most distress is in the region of the gall-bladder; great distress in the whole of the bowels, with sharp, cutting pains, rumbling, and desire for stool; stool, soft and mushy, followed by a very weak feeling in the bowels and rectum; 5 P. M., frontal headache; eyes smart a great deal; constant, burning, aching distress in the region of the stomach and liver; dull, aching distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions. Took twenty-five grains, 9 P. AB.; dull, frontal headache that is very deep in the cerebrum; eyes smart very. much; burning distress in the whole epigastric and hypochondriac regions; constant, dull, aching distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, with very.sharp pains every few minutes; makes me feel very weak and faint; constant, dull, aching pain in the right inguinal region, that passes down to the right testicle; it is very hard to endure the pain in the testicle; dull aching inthe lumbar region; urine rather scanty, and does not affect blue litmus paper. February 1st. —Had a restless night after midnight; skin was very hot and dry, with firequent pain in the bowels; eyelids agglutinated; unpleasant; flat taste in mouth; tongue coated yellow, along the centre; great rumbling and distress in the hypogastric region, with a profuse, black, very fcetid, soft, papescent stool, with slight pain in the bowels afterwards; feeling very languid. At 6 A. A1., took thirty grains; 11 A. M., frequent, dull, aching distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions. Took forty grains, 2 P. x.; for the last two hours I have been in awful pain and distress in the epigastric, umbilical, and hypogastric regions; drinking cold water aggravates the pain and distress very much; dull, aching, burning distress in the region of the gall-bladder, with frequent chilliness along the spine; great distress in the hypogastric region, with great desire for stool; very profuse, black stool, about the consistence of cream, with undigested potatoes in it. This gave great relief; but was followed by great distress in the region of the liver, extending to the spine; it is of a hot, aching character, with chilliness along the spine; 5 P. r., slight, frontal headache; there has been constant distress with very sharp pains by spells, in the lumbar region; 10 P. x., slight frontal headache, with sharp pains in the temples; there has been constant distress, with pains in the whole of the abdomen, since 5 P. xf., but, for the last half hour, the pains in the umbilical and hypogastric regions have been awful to endure, with rumbling and great desire for stool; a very profuse, black, fetid stool, that ran a stream from my bowels, and could not be retained a moment; this gave great relief; but, did not stop the pain altogether; urine very red, does not affect blue litmus paper. February 2nd.-Slept soundly; feeling very languid; both wrists are very lame and ache quite severely the left one aches the most, pain lasted until noon; tongue coated, yellow along the centre; flat taste in the mouth. Immediately after getting up, a LEPTANDRIA VIRGINICA. 301 very severe, aching distress came on in the epigastric region. At 10 A. M., the distress in the stomach is constantly getting worse; I cannot sit or stand still, it is so severe; food rises very sour; 12 M., the painful distress in the stomach has been unendurable all the forenoon; it is a hard, aching, burning sensation, and appears to be in the stomach; 9 r. Mi., the painful distress in the stomach has not been so hard, but have had severe pains in the umbilical region all the afternoon; urine neutral; no stool to-day. February 3rd. —Slept soundly; awoke at 5 A. Mi., feeling very hungry, with great distress in the epigastric region, and continued until I had breakfast; frequent pains in the epigastric region all day. February 4th.-Slept well; feeling quite well; great desire for food; stool, first part natural, last part soft and mushy. February 5th.-Awoke at 2 A. I., feeling very hungry; have a great appetite; 11 A. M., took twenty drops of the fluid extract of Leptandria; 12 x., dull, frontal headache; profuse secretion of tears; dull, aching distress in the stomach and umbilical region; 3P. M., slight headache; constant, aching distress in the umbilicus with sharp pains by spells; sharp, cutting pains near the gallbladder. Took thirty drops, 4 P. x., dull, frontal headache, with a sensation as if the hair were pulled at; good deal of distress in the stomach and bowels, with a burning sensation; 6 P. Mi., dull, aching distress ill the umbilicus. Took forty drops; 10 P. M., there has been a great deal of distress in the umbilicus, with a great burning distress in the back part of the liver and in the spine; soft, mushy stool; took fifty drops. February 6th.-Slept well; arose once in the night; immediately I became sick at my stomach, with a deathly faintness; tongue coated yellow; flat taste in* my mouth; 7 A. xM., took six drops; 10 A. 31., slight headache; great distress in the small intestines, and desire for stool; stool soft, very fcetid, and black. Took seventy drops; noon, dull, aching distress in the umbilical region, with very sharp pains by spells. Took eighty drops; 3 P. m., slight frontal headache; eyes smart a good deal; constant, dull, aching pain in the cardiac portion of the stomach; great distress in the umbilicus. Took one hundred drops; 10 P. x., slight frontal headache, with neuralgic pains in the right temple; eyes smarting constantly, with dull pains in the eyeballs; have had very severe pains in the stomach and small intestines, with great distress and desire for stool; stool soft, very fmtid, and mushy; have been very gloomy and very irritable all day. Took one hundred and twenty drops. February, 7th.-Up all night with a very sick patient; had frequently severe pains in the umbilical and hypogastric regions; stool, 3 A. MI., that run a stream friom my bowels, followed by very severe cutting pains in the small intestines; 8 A. x., very severe frontal headache, walking makes it almost intolerable; great distress in the stomach and all of' the small intestines, with great desire for stool, that could not be retained one moment; run a stream from my bowels, very fetid, with large quantities of NUTPHAR LUTEA. 303 n. lutea, not the large-flowered, common yellow lily —from which, however, it is said to be sometimes difficult to distinguish it.' This proving was made with the fourth, sixth, seventh and eighth dilutions, by Dr. Petit, and translated from the Joour. de la Societe Gallicane, and may be found in the North Amer. Jour., Vol. 3, p. 250. I have arranged the pathogenesis according to the general plan herein adopted. General Symptoms.-Weakness; restlessness; diminution of the strength; and flush, healthy complexion. Emotive $phere. —-Excessive moral sensibility, giving one great pain on witnessing the suffering of animals; great impatience at the slightest contradiction. Sklin.-Toward the end of ten or twelve days which followed the commencement of the proving (first), there appeared, on different parts of the body, a number of red blotches, tolerably regular in outline, oval or circular, prominent, and covered with little scales, of a silvery white; in short, resembling psoriasis. There were a few on the posterior surface of the arms, but they were most abundant on the anterior surface of the legs; they itched violently, especially in the evening. Friction removed the little scales, which were rapidly reproduced; remained a few days, then fell off again from the scratching induced by the itching. This eruption lasted a month and a half. As it disappeared, and the scales ceased to be reproduced, the skin at the place of each blotch became pale, red or yellowish. It would be impossible to mistake the character of psoriasis in these symptoms. Were they pathogenetic or unconnected with the remedy?' —(Petit.) Aggravation of a moderate ptyriasis capitis, of several years standing; morning and evening, especiallyy the itching is intolerable, and the comb brings away a great quantity of hair (second proving). (Dr. P. doubts whether this was a drug symptom, as the pityriasis was constitutional with him.) Sensation like flea-bites in different parts for several days; a red, slightly prominent patch, covered with little white scales, and itching violently, on the interior surface of the right arm, near the axilla; a red, oval, prominent patch, as large as a five-cent piece, on the internal surface of the left arm, exactly like a patch of psoriasis, covered with silvery scales, falling off, and renewed again every few days, itching violently especially in the evening. With very commendable frankness Dr. Petit offers the following: REMARKS.-" We have seen during my first proving, an eruption like psoriasis appeared on my lower limbs. Although of an eminently psoric constitution, manifested in childhood by temporary enlargements of the cervical lymphatics, chilblains, catarrhal inflammation of the eyelids, etc., and in adult life by symptoms resembling, at one time, the commencement of tubercular consumption, and which only yielded to hommopathic treatment, it was nevertheless thefirst occasion in which I had been affected with an eruption of this nature. It continued for a month and a half. In the second proving, subsequently instituted a few months after, there was no eruption. But in the third, five months afterwards, 304 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. two patches appeared on the internal surface of each arm. Four years afterwards, while an interne at the RZospice de la Salpetri~re, and brought every morning in contact With some hundred patients affected with itch, I was seized with a general psoriasis, which lasted more than a month, without being in the least affected by any medicament, and only yielded, at the end of three or four weeks, to the alternate use of manganum and nitric acid. Every year since has been marked by the appearance of two or three patches of psoriasis. Quite recently I again proved the Naphar 1., and in less than a fortnight the patches of psoriasis appeared on all sides. * * * What conclusion shall we draw from these facts? Did the Nu2phar act three times in succession to produce the eruption? Or did it simply act by awaking the pathological susceptibilities of the economy, and depressing the vital functions, and thus favor the appearance of the disease? Or is the whole thing a mere coincidence? I shall willingly adopt the latter conclusion as the wiser one, until further provings, and an extended clinical experience shall have thrown more light upon the subject." This conclusion does honor to his judgment. Let further provings on healthy persons be made. Itead.-Pressive headache in the forehead and temples, ceasing in the open air; boring pain in transitory attacks in the left anterior part of the forehead, in the evening; dull, or teasing pains, sometimes in the forehead, at others in the whole upper part of the head; heaviness in the whole head, in the middle of' the day; dull, deep lancinations behind the left frontal eminence; dull pain in the left anterior central lobe; very painful, bruising, shaking in the brain at every step when walking; dull pain and sensation of painful weight in the orbit all day, in the right anterior cerebral lobe, and right side of the occiput; painful heaviness in the orbit, at the base of the brain —a very frequent symptom since the beginning of the proving; lancinations in the left anterior part of the brain; Weight in the temples in the morning.. CLNLICAL REMARKs. — The pains about the orbital regions are peculiar. Dr. P, is of the opinion that its action is deep, direct and primary on the nervous centers. Eyes.-Dull pain, and sensation of weight in the orbit; discolored eyes, (around the eyes2? H.) (For other symptoms of the orbit, see Head.) Face. —Face pale; discolored eyes; though otherwise as well as usual. Gastric and Intestinal Symnptoms.-Sweetish taste several times a day; sense of weakness; slightly painful over the whole anterior surface of the stomach; soft stool, preceded by some colic, for several days; diarrhceaic stools, morning and evening, preceded by violent colic pains in the rectum; six stools from 8 P. Ar., to 6 A. M.; diarrhceaic stool during the day, after breakfast and another after dinner; yellow diarrhcea, especially in the morning, for three days, five' or six stools a day, without colic or epigastric trouble, except at times a sense of weakness in the epigastric region; the stools are always more numerous toward five or six o'clock, A. A.; NUPHAR LUTEA. 305 emission of flatulence in evening, with wind colic; smarting, and burning pain at the anus, after every stool; stitches, as from needles, in the rectum. CLINICAL REmARKS. —" In the chronological order of the symptoms, those which are seated in the digestive organs do not commence until a number of days after the disturbance has been manifested in the nervous functions. Their seat, so far as can now be judged, is in the lower part of the digestive canal. Thus the pains which accompany or precede the stools, are principally seated in the rectzum. The appetite is not at all disturbed, still the strength is not renewed, nutrition languishes, the face becomes pale, the eyes dark colored. The stools are sometimes soft, generally languid, yellow, most frequent between four and six o'clock, A. AI. It is indicated in acute or chronic cases of entero-colitis., when the aggravation takes place, in the early morning, and generally in cases where there is depression of the virile functions."'-(Dr. Petit.) Case l.-" M. B., At. twenty-eight, had had a morning diarrhcea for three months. He had to rise every morning towards five o'clock, several times for this purpose of going to stool-never any colic. Bryonia and Sepia, did no good in a fortnight; the diarrhcea continued of the same character, and the slightest error in diet aggravated it. Nuphar cured it rapidly.-(lb.) Case 2.-" M. Louis B., aet. twenty-one, Professor of Literature, had scarce returned from the country, towards the end of last autumn, when he was taken with a morning diarrhma, with colic. Between four and six, A. AM., he had two or three stools, and comnionly one in the evening. This state had lasted eight days. After first dose of Nuphar, taken at night, the diarrhcea ceased." Case 3.-"M I. L., cWt. forty-three, musician, had suffered three years from entero-colitis, contracted by excesses at the table, and venery, and domestic troubles. He had exhausted the resources of the old school, and of quackery, without benefit; and when he consulted me, towards the end of last November, he presented the following case:-Appetite good, sometimes excessive; frequent regurgitations of an acrid and corrosive taste; digestion slow; colic and rumbling every night, awakened several times from five to seven, every morning, to go to stool, which was liquid or soft, yellowish, and either sour or fietid; the least excess, of any kind, produced an aggravation of this state, and generally obliged him to remain in bed for a day or two-ordinarily he was enabled to attend to his affairs; his sleep was agitated; heat in the palms of his hands; frequent pulse; at times a dull pain in the left renal region, which was sensitive to the touch. From the first doses of N2uphar he derived more benefit than he had previously experienced from any treatment, and in two months he was well." —(It.) Case 4.-" NM. D., a jeweler, cet. thirty-three, hadl had a diarrhmea for a fortnight, which obliged him to get up several times for stool, towards five or six, A. M. He had no colic, but experienced burning at the anus, together with general depression. The diarrhcea ceased from the second day-."-(Jb.) 39 306 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. Case 5. —" M. B., ct. thirty-seven, wood carver, consulted me on the 26th of May. He had been sick for three months. His tongue was white, mouth pasty, and his stomach the seat of a painful sensation of weariness; digestion slow. He had wind colic, principally early in the morning, with liquid or soft, sour-smelling stool. For several years the virile functions had been badly performed; he had tolerable frequent pollutions during sleep; constant itching of the scrotum and perineum; small desire for coitus; infrequent and feeble erections; the diarrhcea, colic, digestive troubles, and general weariness, were aggravated on the day succeeding sexual connection. I prescribed N2iuphar, and eight days after the first consultation, the patient not coming to visit me, one of his friends told me he was better' —(Ib.) This remedy has much resemblance to Iris v., in the character of the intestinal symptoms, and also the seminal emissions, but is not so active and intense in its action. iJrine.-The urine deposits a copious, reddish sand, which adheres to the vessel. Generative Organs of Men.-Diminution of lascivious thoughts and the sexual inclination for ten days; opposite effects during the succeeding days; complete absence of sexual desire; penis contracted; scrotum relaxed; entire absence of erections and sexual desires; the voluptuous ideas which fill the imagination, do not cause erection; lancinations in the right testicle; dull, transitory pain in the right testicle for several days in succession; a similar pain at the extremity of penis, right side; severe lancinations in left testicle, with pains in extremity of penis, left side; an interne en pharmacie, of the hospitals of Paris, took for several days a quantity of tincture of this drug, and remained for two months without perceiving either propensity or power of performing the generative act. CLINICAL REMARKS, ETC. -- Nuphar possesses a remarkable power of modifying the vital forces, particularly in the matter of the generative functions, as was already known to the ancients. (Dioscorides, Pliny, etc.) This action is exhibited in depressed phenomena, more and more marked, and lasting sometimes as long as thirty days. The reaction then commences, and proceeds, but with considerable slowness. Cause i.-Having administered a dose of Nuphar 6th dil., for several evenings in succession, to a patient convalescing from typhoid fever, whose feeble state was aggravated by nocturnal emissions, these latter diminished in number from the first day, and gradually disappeared. Case 2.-Gave the drug to a man who, for nine years, had had involuntary seinal losses, during sleep, at stool, and when urinating, with complete absence of erections. He was pale and languid, and had been treated in vain, for several months, by Opium, Quinine, etc. The first evening he had violent headache, accompanied by vertigo, as if from intoxication, extending into a part of the night; with soreness, nausea, epigastric pains, ahd bitter mouth; the next morning general bruised feeling, as if it had been PIHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. 307 beaten with a club. (There is a connection between these pains, and the bruised pains produced by Nuphar in the brain and thorax, which are sensibly aggravated by the shock of every step. (P.) During the following evenings, the patient, who was taking the remedy twice a day, experienced heaviness in the head, vertigo, as if from intoxication (similar, he declared, to those he had felt while taking opium), and bitterness in the mouth. For a month he took the Nuphar, at two different times. His paleness diminished, his general weakness disappeared by degrees, and his digestive functions took a new start. At the same time the pollutions ceased, erections came on, accompanied by a decided propensity for the generative act, and before the thirtieth day of the treatment he was able to satisfy it with success, and without fatigue." —(P.) Thorax. —Painful sensation behind the sternum when running, as though the subjacent organs were violently shaken. Back and Extremities.-Deep, dull pain at the lowest part of the left lumbar region, and in the posterior superior part of the external iliac fossa; it coincides with a similar, but not constant pain in the internal iliac fossa of the same side; weakness of the limbs in the evening. PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. (Poke.) This plant is indigenous, growing in nearly all parts of the United States, in fence corners, and cleared land not under cultivation. The root is collected in November, cut in slices and dried in the sun; the leaves are gathered just before the berries ripen, and the berries when fully ripe. An active principle termed'PAytolacein has been obtained from the root, and is much used in place of the tincture, or pulverized root. The tincture should be made with purified alcohol, from the green root-the dried root tincture is comparatively inert. Phytolacca is asserted to be emetic, cathartic, alterative and discutient. It acts as an emetocathartic, and exhibits some acreo-narcotic powers, such as impaired vision, vertigo and drowsiness. In over doses it is said to cause excessive vomiting and purging, with great prostration, and occasionally convulsions. "While the most prominent effects of Phytolacca appear to be produced on the stomach and bowels, the skin, the nervous system, and the urinary and genital organs of both sexes share largely in its influence. When given to animals in large doses it produces vomiting, purging, bloody stools, perspiration, drowsiness or stupor, cough, tremors, convulsive motions, increased urination, and distention of the abdomen. The flesh of wild pigeons and other birds which eat the berries, acquire a highly red 308 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. color, a disagreeable flavor, and is destitute of adipose substance; and in some instances whole families have been excessively purged by eating game which has fed upon these berries, although children frequently eat the berries without any bad consequences. Phytolacca has been successfully used in veterinary practice, for discussing tumors, fistulous ulcers, and in a disease called'yellow water.' "(TraCns. Amer. Ins. -ornt.) The Phytolacca is an analogue of Mercury, Iodide of Potash, Iris versicolor, Podophyllumn, Arsenicum, and other drugs. It is'a little strange that a vegetable remedy should be so analogous in its action to the Iodide of Potash; one symptom is quite notable-the loss of adipose tissue in birds which have eaten of the berries. Kali hyd. has this power of causing absorption of adipose in a great degree; so also both are useful in periodical, mercurial, and so-called syphilitic rheumatism. Two provings are here given, (one f6und in the Trans. Amer. Inst. of Hom. Vol. II.; the other lately made by Dr. W. H. Burt): General Symptoms.-Many of the symptoms, especially those about the head and thr6at, are better after breakfast, while tile heat, and many of the abdominal symptoms are worse in the afternoon; dryness of the fauces, most in the morning; some of the abdominal symptoms disappear in the night; the symptoms of the chest are worse after midnight, better in the afternoon, and most of them on the right side; the pains in the head are chiefly in the forehead, and worse after dinner; dullness, giddiness and vertigo; the prominent, feeling in the eyes is that of smarting; the symptoms of the eyes and eyelids are worse in the morning, but the vision is worse in the evening; increased sense of hearing, the right ear is most affected; sensation of a lump in the throat; the symptoms of the stomach, throat, and mouth are worse in the morning. The first appearance of the pain in the right hypochondrium was in the afternoon, but afterwards it was always worse before daylight in the morning; griping pains without diarrhcea; pain in the left iliac region; the symptoms of the lower extremities are worse in the afternoon; the pains are sometimes followed by itching and burning; the pains shoot inwards and upwards; transitory pains. Many of the symptoms are attended with heat; neuralgia in the perinaeum in the middle of the night; the cough is worse towards morning; sudden translation of internal pains to the extremities. During one of the provings, the symptoms of the eyes became so severe, that Sulphur was taken as an antidote, and all the subsequent symptoms appeared on the left side.-(r4cans. Amer. Ins. Hrom.) Great prostration accompanying the vomiting and purging; much debility. — (Dr. Burt.) Mucous Membrianes.-This medicine appeals to act as virulently upon mucous tissues as Mercury, and the preparations of Potash. Like them it appears to cause something like false membranes (throat), and severe ulceration and inflammation in the intestines, stomach, etc.) MIuscular Tissue.-It seems to exercise a marked influence over this tissue. It causes muscular pains (myalgia) and rheumatic symptoms, and has been found very useful in the latter disease. No PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. 309 remedy is more popular in domestic use, for chronic rheumatism, than a rude tincture of the ripe berries in whisky. I have observed several marked cures of obstinate cases from its use. "The extracte of the root is an excellent remedy for the removal of those severe pains attending mercurio-syphilitic affections (ostea-copus), in which it is more beneficial than Opium." —(Jing.) This would seem to indicate that it affected the periosteurn., Nervous Tissue.-The Phytolacca has been known to cause convulsiQns in men and children. Dr. Burt's experiments on animals elicited many convulsive symptoms. According to Dr. King, it causes " a tingling and pric kling sensation over the whole surface." In its pathogenesis we found many neuralgic pains, which are clearly distinguished from the. myalgic. No post-mortem examinations have been made of men or animals-poisoned with this plantwith sufficient accuracy to point out the peculiar pathological conditions it causes. Vascular System.-Heart, Fever, etc.-Neither of our provings, contain any mention of the effects of Phytolacca upon the vascular system. I find no "fever symptoms," and but one "heart symptom." "Occasional shocks of pain in the region of the heart; as soon as the pain in the heart ceases, a similar pain appears in the right arm.' This is quite a valuable symptom, as it appears in some rheuniatic affections, and may indicate grave cardiac disease. I find no mention of its use in any forml of fever; it is quite probable, however, that a remedy of such power will be found useful in some febrile diseases. (Enteric gastric, etc.) Glandular System.-It is esteemed very highly in glandular affections. In our pathogenesis we find the following symptoms:"A very peculiar tension and pressure in the parotids; hardness of a gland on the right side of the neck; suppuration of a tumor behind the right ear, with a discharge of matter and blood." Dr. Burt found the Phytolaccin to cause swelling and inflammtation of the tonsils. Several homoeopathic physicians, with myself, have found it useful in swelling and induration of glands; ib seems to have a specific affinity for the mammary glands (see " Generative Organs of Women".) According to King, 1"the root excites the whole glandular system, and has been highly extolled in syphilitic, scrofulous, and cutaneous diseases. It is said to hasten the suppurative process; it has been used with alleged success in bronchocele. Cancer, Scirrous, Ulcers, etc.-King says: "An inspissated juice of the leaves has been recommended in indolent ulcers, and as a remedy in cancer.' According to Coe:' Phytolaccin has been much employed in the treatment of carcinomitous affections. It is undoubtedly as efficient an alterative as can be safely employed in that disease; its beneficial effects are most apparent in cases of open cancer. The patient's system should be freely brought under its constitutional influence, and the dry Phytolaccin applied to the ulcer. The Phytolaccin applied either in the form of a paste with water, or in strong alcoholic tincture, has been found quite effectual in that species of cancer known as lupus, when used in the early stages." Other eclectic physicians advise the Phytolacca in old, a12 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. hieavy, aching pains in the eyeballs, aggravated by motion, light, and especially by reading T sensation as if there was a feather over the sight; eyes agglutinated every morning. CLINICAL REMAmS.s.-The Phytolacca has a large number of symptoms of a prominent and suggestive character, relating to the eye, and affecting its various tissues; it is eminently indicated in rheumatic, catarrhal, scrofulous, mercurial and even syphilitic opththalmia. I have used it with success in one case of rheumatic pain in and about the eye, and another of chronic conjunctivitis with granulation. In the "Chicago Medical Examiner" is found the following mention of the curative virtues of Phytolacca in Granular Conjunctivitis. Although from allopathic sources, the testimony is worthy our consideration. In this case as in all others, the pathogenesis of the medicine proves its homceopathicity to the disease: Dr. C. S. Penner, of Memphis, Tenn., in the N. A. Med. Chirurg. Review, January, 1857, highly extols the efficacy of the Phytolacca in preventing relapses of inflammation in granular lids. "Regarding," he says, "these exacerbations, accompanied with circumorbital pain, soreness in the periosteum and scalp, as of rheumatic origin, about two years ago, I was induced to try the poke, friom its well-known efficacy in rheumatic inflammations, and the result has far exceeded my most sanguine expectations. With the aid of this remedy, I have been enabled to effectually cure cases of granular conjuctiva, that, without it, would have resisted all my efforts; indeed, with me it has almost proved a specific for the exacerbations attending this complaint. Patients fully under the influence of the Phytolacca, often expose themselves, and take a severe cold, without affecting the eyes in the least. I use the root in the form of a strong decoction or tincture, and give it in large enough doses to produce fulness of the temples and head; I have not yet seen a severe recurrence of acute inflammation in this disease, where the patient was kept fully under the influence of the Phytolacca." An allopathic physician claims to have effected several cures of Jtstula lacrynmais, with Phytolacca. I cannot find the paper which makes mention of it in such, cases, and therefore the. manner in which'it was used, is not known to me. But, as in granular conjunctivitis, it was probably used topically and internally. Ears,-Shooting pain in the right ear, very quick; pain in both ears, worse in the right one; irritation in one of the eustachian. tubes; a sensation of obstruction in the left eustachian tube, with a rushing sound in the ear of the same side, and a feeling as if the hearing were dull, while at the same time it is sensitive to the most minute sounds; increased sense of hearing with pain in the forehead.-( Trans. A~mer. hist. Honm., Vol. II.) Nose.-Drawing sensation above the root of the nose; feeling in the nose and eyes as if a cold would come on; cold in the head; stoppage of the right nostril; coryza; flow of mucus from one nostril while the other is stopped; discharge of mucus from one nostril at a time, sometimes one and sometimes the other; total PHYTOLACCA.DECANDRA. 313 obstruction of the nose when riding, so that one is forced to breathe altogether through the mouth, and cannot relieve himself by blowing the nose. —(Trans. Amer. Inst. Hiom,, Vol. I.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-Persons engaged in pounding or grinding the root are generally affected with symptoms like severe coryza. Even those engaged in making the second and third triturations of Phytolaccin are similarly affected. It is a powerful irritant to the nasal mucous membrane; it is indicated in acute and chronic nasal catarrhs; in ozsena, and syphilitic ulceration of the nose. It has cured a small cancer on the ala of the nose. Face. —Palenesss of the face; heat in the face after dinner; heat on the left side of the face in the afternoon; heat with redness of the face, and a sensation of fullness about the head, and coldness of the feet; eruption on the upper lip, left side; aching pain along the lower half of the right orbit.-(Trqans. Amer. Inst. of Homn.) CLINICAL REMARKS. —The inspissated juice of the berries, applied to cancerous or scirrous tumors, and ulcers of the face and lips, has effected cures of such ulcers, etc. It has been found useful in prosopalgia and rheumatic pains in the bones (periosteum) of the face. Mouth, Teeth, and Tongue.-Small ulcers on the inside of the right cheek, like those caused by mercury; tenderness and heat in the roof of the mouth and on the tongue; flow of saliva into the mouth; mouth fills with water; the saliva is yellowish, and has a metallic taste; dryness of the palate in the morning; swelling of the soft palate; slight feeling of smarting and coldness towards the tip of tongue. Shooting pains in the molar teeth of the upper and lower jaws of the right side; disposition to bite the teeth together; irresistible inclination to bite the teeth together. -(Trans. Amner lis. of thom.) Tongue feels rough, with blisters on both sides, and a very red tip; great pain in the root of the tongue when swallowing; teeth all ache, and are very sore, and feel elongatod (the same symptoms were caused by Phytolaccin;) metallic taste in the mouth.-(Dr. Burt.) CLINICAL REXMARKS.-Some of the symptoms of the medicine strongly resemble those of Mercury, even to the metallic taste, and soreness of the teeth; it has been used with benefit in mercurial ptyalisim, and mercurial pains of the teeth; it is indicated in inflammation (rheumatic) of the gums, and buccal cavity; rheumatic odontalgia, ulceration of the buccal cavity, and various forms of sore mouth are amenable to its action. Pharynx and {Esophagus.-Sensation in the pharynx like that caused by eating choke-pears; pressing pain in the right side of the throat; sore throat, and swelling of the soft palate in the morning, with a thick, white, and yellow mucus about the fauces, after the removal of which the throat feels better, and still better after breakfast; soreness of the throat, and a feeling when swallowing saliva as if a lump had formed there; the same sensation is felt on turning the head to the left side; the throat feels very dry and sore, especially on swallowing in the afternoon; general soreness of the posterior fauces, and apparent extension of the irritation 40 314 NEW HOMOEOPATEIC PROVINGS. into one of the eustachian tubes; roughness in the pharynx; nnpleasant sensation of dryness in the pharynx towards morning, which makes him cough; great dryness of the throat; dryness of the throat on going to bed; dryness in the throat, worse in the morning; sensation of dryness of a spot in the fmuces on the left side in the morning, continuing until after breakfast. —(Trans. Amer. Izs. of Htom.) Great dryness of the throat; roughness in the pharynx (constantly); sensation as of a lump in the throat that causes a constant inclination to swallow; sensation as if an apple core had lodged in the throat; great congestion and swelling of the soft palate and tonsils; the right tonsil is half as large, again as the left; both are of a very dark red; feeling as if a ball of red hot iron had lodged'in the faiuces, and whole length of the cssophagus, when swallowing; the pain was so great that I could eat nothing but fluids for two days, constant choking sensation; roughness and rawness of the throat; tonsils and palate congested, and of a dark purple color; great pain in root of tongue, fauces, etc., from Phytolacca and Phytolaccin; (Dr. Bzurt.) CLINICAL REMAsRKs.-One of the most prominent symptoms observed in all cases of poisoning with Phytolacca, is'inflammnation of the fauces;" it seems to have a decided affinity for these tissues. Dr. Burt wrote me during the time he was proving the drug, that it would certainly prove a valuable remedy in diphtheria, and his prediction has been verified. A few weeks after his provings Dr. Burt had an opportunity of testing the virtues of Phytolacca in that disease. He reports the following cases for the " Investigator, Vol. I, p. 30 " Miss, B.,'et twenty. November 8th had a severe chill at night, with great pain in the back of the head, back and limbs, followed with fever and sore: throat. 10th, was called to see her; found her suffering very much, with great headache; worse in the back part; back and limbs aching fearfully; both tonsils very much swollen, and covered with a grayish pseudo-membrane; tongue very red at the tip, coated white; great prostration; cannot stand; if she raises up in bed, she immediately faints away. Prognosis unfavorable. Gave Phytolacca, four drops at a dose`every hour, and a gargle of the same between. Morning, decided change for the better. Continued the same treatment for three days, when the false membrane came off, and the fifth day discharged her cured. She took a large spoonfhl of beef tea every two hours. She had no other remedy. It was remarkable to see how quickly the fever abated under its influence. " Mrs. B., set. thirty-one. November 16th. —Throat commenced to feel sore in the morning, followed by high fever all day; right tonsil very much swollen; at noon commenced to see white substance forming on the tonsil. I was called 10 v. ir.; found the right tonsil covered completely with a white pseudo-membrane; fauces and soft-palate very much inflamed; deglutition almost impossible; loss of appetite; great frontal headache; bowels moved every two hours, with severe pain in the umbilical regi6n; great prostration; vertigo is so great that she cannot walk. Pulse 127, soft. Gave PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA 315 Phytolacca, four drops every hour, and a gargle of the same every hour, cn:msisting of fifty drops in a tumbler of water. 18th.-Very much better; pulse 100; throat does not feel near as sore; false membrane beginning to come off; back and limbs ache but slightly; headache nearly gone; continued same treatment three days. Discharged her cured. The diarrhoea stopped the second day. "Miss. H. Aet., twenty-five. December 3d.-Had a severe chill in the night followed by high fever and sore throat. Took Aconite and Belladonna all day, but continued to get worse. Midnight I discovered patches of pseudo-membrane on the tonsils; she conplained most bitterly of the back of her head and neck; back and limbs aching. Pulse 120; bowels costive; loss of appetite. Gave Phytolacca, three drops every hour, with a gargle of the same between. 4th, noon.-Feeling better; continued the same treatment. 5th.-No fever; feeling quite well, but thinks her throat is more sore; both tonsils are swollen and covered in patches with false membrane; continued the same treatment, giving six drops at a dose. 6th,-Feeling a great deal better; pseudo-membrane is off of the tonsils; continued same remedy every two hours for two days, when I discharged her, cured. "A. Snyder, set. thirty-nine. November IOth.-Throat commenced to feel sore, with severe headache; back and limbs aching severely. ilth.-Was called to attend him, and found the following symptoms: Throat very sore; both tonsils covered with a grayish pseudo-membrane, soft and swollen; palate and fauces violently inflamed; deglutition impossible; severe frontal headache; back and limbs aching severely; high fever; pulse 128; delirious at times; bowels costive; has not slept through the night. Ordered fat salt pork to be put around his neck; beef tea every two hours, and gave Phytolacca every half hour; four drops at a dose, with a gargle of the same. 13th. —Decided change for the better; pulse ninety-eight; head, back and limbs do not ache so hard as they did yesterday; throat feeling very sore, but the false membrane does inot seem to be spreading; continued the Phytolacca every hour, 13th.-Feeling much better; pseudo-membrane commencing to fall off leaving great holes in the tonsils, that bleed a little; continued same treatment. 14th.-Pseudo-metnlbrane all off; tonsils are very much swollen, and look very red and ragged; continued the Phytolacca for three days, once in two hours, when I discharged him cured. I have given the Phytolacca in two cases of children, and two in adults, where the pseudo-membrane was well formed (but there was not so rhuch fever), with the same gratifying result. These are all the cases I have had this fall, and Phytolacca has cured every one of them. I believe there is no medicine in the Materia Medica to be compared to it in diphtheria, if the respiratory organs are not involved. I had no cases where the air passages were involved, to know its effects." Other cases reported by Dr. Burt to the "A' merican Homa-o pcathie Observer."'iM. F. ret. twenty-six, Jan. 4th. 9 P.M.-Slight pain in the left tonsil when swallowing; rested well until 2 A. iu.; awoke with a 316 NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. severe frontal headache; back and legs aching very hard, with high fever and sore throat; could not sleep any more; 8 A. M., pulse 120 and very soft; head, back and legs are aching violently; throat very sore; left tonsil very much swollen and covered with a grayish filse membrane; right tonsil has patches of the pseudomembrane on it; delgutition is almost impossible; great prostration; can stand up only a few moments at a time, it makes him so faint and dizzy. Gave Phytolacca, four doses every hour, with a gargle of the same, consisting of fifty drops in a tumbler of water. 5th.Feeling very much better; fever nearly gone; head, back and legs do not ache half as much as they did yesterday; pulse 100; throat is feeling very sore; left tonsil is very much swollen and still covered with the pseudo-membrane; the right one looks very red with small patches of membrane on it; deglutition almost impossible; continued treatment. 6th.-Feeling much better; pseudo-membrane is off from both tonsils; they look very red, and the left one is still swollen; no fever; slight appetite; continued treatment. 7thFeeling quite well, but throat pains him when swallowing; discharged cured. "' Mrs. G. at. twenty-one, nursing a babe. Jan. lth —Throat commenced to feel sore; had a very restless night. 12th.-Slight headache with, a severe pain in her back and legs; very chilly all the time; throat very sore; both tonsils very much swollen, and covered in patches with a dark-colored pseudo membrane; deglutition very difficult; face very much flushed; great prostration; cannot sit up any, she is so faint and weak;* bowels regular. Gave lPhytolacca, four drops every half hour, with a gargle of the same. 13th. —Feeling very much better; fever all gone; back and legs do not ache any; throat is feeling very sore; tonsils very red and swollen, and covered in patches with the pseudo-membrane; deglutition is very painful. Continued same treatment once an hour. 14th.-Feeling quite well; pseudo-membrane is off' from both tonsils; there are large holes eaten into the tonsils; can swallow quite well. Continued same treatment every two hours; discharged her cured the next day. The babe nursed her all the while, and did not take the disease. I attended a lady once before who nursed her babe through the disease, and it did not take it. "Miss. K. set. 9. December 12th. —For the last two days has had a fever, with chills all the while; throat has been very sore, and is getting worse all the time; head, back and legs are aching constantly; pulse,1 30; very weak and soft; soft palate, and tonsils are violently inflamed and swollen; both tonsils are covered with grayish pseudo-membrane; cannot swallow anything; very weak; cannot sit up; has not eaten anything for two days, neither can she be pursuaded to take any kind of nourishment. Gave Phytolacca two drops every hour; morning feeling a little better; pseudomembrane looks about the same; continued treatment; morning feeling quite well; f'alse membrane is all off, but the throat is feeling very sore; continued same treatment one day more, and then dischar:ged her cured. " Little Henry. wet. 4. For two days has had a little fever and PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA..317 sore throat; says he is cold all the time; refuses to take food; both tonsils are as large again as they ought to be, and covered in patches with a whitish false membrane; pulse 118; very weak; he lies on the lounge all the time. Gave Phytolacca, ten drops in a tumbler one-half full of water; cured in two days." A young lad was taken with diphtheria, and treated by an old school physician, and died. His sister, twenty-eight years of age, was taken with it, three days after, and treated by an eclectic, and died the fourth day. A young lady who waited on them was taken down with it four days after the death of the sister. I was sent for, found her with a very sore throat, and the tonsils and soft palate covered with the false-membrane, of a greenish color; both tonsils were twice as large as they ought to be; neck was very stiff; pulse 128. She was very much frightened, was sure she would die; hands and limbs trembled constantly. I tried to quiet her, and gave Bellad. and Iodide of Mercury, every hour, in alternation. Morning found her very much worse; left tonsil was swollen so much that she could not swallow; fever the same; and still trembling. I gave one dose of Aconite, and then a gargle of a tincture from the green root of Phytolacca, every half hour, and gave internally about six drops of the same every hour. Remained with her through the day, and all night; morning, she was not so nervous, and the disease had not made any progress; continued the same treatment; next day about the same; continued same treatment, but made it a little stronger. Morning, decidedly better, the pseudo-membrane looks as if it would soon drop off; continued same treatment. Morning, feeling quite free from fever, and about a quarter of the membrane has come off; she has a fine, scarlet eruption all over the body and limbs, but more on the legs than there is on the body; urine is albuminous; continued the same treatment every two hours. Morning, one tonsil (the right) is free fiom the membrane, but looks very raw, and burns a good deal; continued the same. Next morning, false-membrane all gone; swelling has disappeared excepting the left tonsil; continued Phytolacca. This case was cured in a few days. Dr. Burt says he has succeeded with Phytolacca in thirty-two out of thirty-four cases of Diphtheria treated. Case of Scarlatina, with Diphtheritic complications reported, by Dr. Geo. F. Foster; "I had an opportunity last week of trying the Phytolacca dec., in a case of diphthera, with better success as to time of curing patient than with Bell. Iod. Mlerc. etc. The patient, in the room with a scarlatina patient, was taken sick; high fever, headache etc., not complaining of throat for two days, when the child's mother told me she complained of her throat. I examined it and, sure enough, there was the trouble; both sides covered with the membrane, with rash on the body. I stopped Acon. and Bell., and gave the Phyto. dec. (tinct. root), fifteen drops in one-third glass of water two teas-poonsfill at a dose every hour, with gatgle of same, three drops to a glass of water. It was the quickest cure of the disease I ever made. Dr. G. C. Brown says: "I have been experimenting a 318 NEW HOM(EOPATEIC PROVINGS. little with Phytolacca in enlarged tonsils, and so far have found it very beneficial. In two cases they were so much enlarged as to materialy interfere with deglutition, and had sulface ulcers. WTere speedily reduced by the use of Phytolacca. a few drops of the tincture in a tumbler of water; a tea-spoonful every two hours." Dr. C. W. Boyce reports that he has found the Phytolacca universally beneficial in diphtheritic sore throats. Dr. Stearns, uses the thirtieth attenuation, of Phyto., in diphtheria, with striking curative results. Appetite arnd Taste.-Taste like nuts in the mouth-bitter at first, but leaving a slight feeling of smarting and coldness toward the tip of the tongue; raging appetite; hungry soon after eating; diminished appetite; the usual appetite remains, notwithstanding the nausea of the stomach. (Trans. A. Inst. Honz.) Gastric Smptoms. —Eructations.; eructations with spitting of water; eructation, with flatus; violent pressure in the stomach on walking in the morning, with accumulation in the mouth-disappears after rising; constrictive feeling at the proecordia, with pressure in the temples; sickly feeling in the stomach; nausea on being awoke out of sleep in the night; feeling of sickness, as if he would vomit; sickness of stomach accompanying the headache; vomiting, with but little distress in the stomach. (Trans. A. Inst.- orm.) Stornach.-Cutting in the pit of the stomach, and in the abdomen; tenderness to the touch of the pit of the stomach; pain in the region of the pvlorus (Trans. A. I. Ii:.); eructations of air; eructations of sour fluid; great distress in the stomach and bowels; pains in the cardiac portion of the stomach, aggravated by a full inspiration and by walking; nausea with a very faint feeling; nausea with severe pain in the umbilical region; slight nausea with profuse vomiting,' without much pain attending it, but good deal of distress in the stomach; nausea and violent vomiting (in dogs). (Burt.) CLINICAL REMAFRKs. —The vomiting caused by Phytolacca comes on slowly, preceded by nausea, much prostration, and sometimes fainting and convulsions. When the vomiting does set in it is intense, thorough, and composed of bile, mucus, ingesta, worms, and even blood. This medicine ought to prove useful in a variety of gastric affections, and disorders of digestion. Liver, Hypochondria. -Digging pain in the right hypochondrium, in the upper and lower portion of the liver, preventing motion; first felt at two o'clock in the afternoon, then every morning before daylight; some soreness remaining through the afternoon and evening; pain in the region of the pylorus; cannot lie on the right side after midnight, on account of penetrating pain in the right hypochondrium; violent dull, pressing pain in the left hypochondrium, in the evening, so that he cannot remain in the sitting posture, he lies on the painful side all night and the pain is gone the next morning; *soreness and pain in the right hypochondrium during pregnaney. (Trans. A. Inst. Horn.) CLINICAL! REMARKs.-The Phytolacca is recommended in chronic hepatic disorders, also in diseases of the spleen. It PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. 319 undoubtedly has some influence over these organs, by virtue of its tendency to irritate all glandular structures, It has cured'"soreness and pain in the hypochondrium during pregnancy. Abdomen. —Boring pain to the left and a little above the umbilicus, continuing but a few minutes; deep-seated, but not severe pain, in the left iliac region; neuralgic pain in the left groin; cutting in the abdomen; griping pain, as before a diarrhcea; griping all day long, followed by the passage of offensive flatus; the griping disappears in the night; sensation in the bowels, as if a diarrhea would follow; rumbling noise in the bowels; frequent passage of wind downward. (Trans. A. Izst. Hom.) Stool and Anus. —*Constipation of long standing; hard stools; three stools during the day; the first one is hard, and preceded by griping, and the others with pains moving about in the abdomen i continual inclination to go to stool; mushy stool; diarrhcea attentended with a sickly feeling in the bowels, but no tormina or tenesmus; copious discharges of bile from the bowels; in the middle of the night, neuralgic pain shooting from the anus and the lower part of the rectum along the pelrinaeum, to the middle of the penis, followed ill a few minutes by a neuralgic pain in the right big toe, (Trans. A. 1. E.) Constant dull pain in the umbilical region, worse by motion; severe, colicky pains in the umbilical region; rumbling in the bowels, sometimes with desire for stool; burning distress in the umbilical region; bowels very tender on pressure, and pain severely when walking; stool natural; stool soft and mushy, with undigested food in it, sometimes with straining; stool of mucus, with straining; dark, lumpy stoo(l; soft papescent stool, followed by a very faint feeling; wind passes the bowels constantly, of a very fetid nature; emissions of flatus relieves the pain in the bowels; loss of appetite; canine hunger vomiting of worms (in animals); pain in the left hypochondriac region when walking; loss of appetite; hiccough with great inclination to vomit, but no nausea; nausea and violent vomiting (in a dog); great rumbling in the bowels, with pain in the umbilical region; great pain in prtecordial region, very much worse by walking; great distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions; stool soft and mushy; dark, papescent stools with undigested fbod i-f them.; pain in the umbilical region with desire for stool. (-Burt.) Toxicological efects, trachea and lungs filled with mucus; stomach highly congested at the base; colon and rectum appear congested; liver highly congested; kidneys appear very much congested. CLINtCAL RE IARKS.-The Phytolacca is an emeto-cathartic. It causes many of the symptoms of a severe attack of cholera morbus. It is homaeopathic to some forms of cholera, diarrhcea., dysentery, and hemorrhoids. In piles it has been found curative (by eclectics) in many cases, applied locally, and given internally. It is also hormlaopathic to enteritis and colic. It has cured a case of "constipation of' long standing." Urinary Organs.-*-Urgent desire to pass water; copious nocturnal urination; weakness, dull pain and soreness in the region of the kidneys,-most on the right side, and connected- with heat; 320 NEW IOMCEOPATITIC PROVINGS. uneasiness down the ureters a chalk-like sediment in the urine, a gurgling sensation in the prostrate gland, repeatedly in the afternoon; *pain in the region of the bladder, before and during urination; *dark-red urine which stains the chamber of a mahogany color, and which is hard to get off. —lrans. Am. Ihst. Ilom. The urinary secretion was at first diminished, afterwards increased. The urine remained acid and became decidedly albuminous. The speciAc gravity became greatly increased.'rhe bottle used to measure the urine became completely covered with a twhite deposit, about one-sixteenth of an inch thick.-D,. Burt. CLINICAL REAtRKS.'-The urinary symptoms in the original proving were quite notable, but those elicited by Dr. Burt, are really of great importance. The urine, under the usual tests, was decidedly albumninous. When we consider how important albuminaria becomes, in Scarlatina and Diphtheria, we can easily realize the full value of Phytolacca in those maladies. It is indicated in many renal and cystic disorders. Generatire Organs of Men, —Complete loss of all sexual desire for two months; no erections during the whole proving; sexual organs unusually relaxed. CLINICAL REhMAmRs.-It would seem quite homceopathic to inlnotence. It seems likely to prove a valuable remedy in Syphilis, although our provings do not bring out any objective symptoms. "' The Cherokee Indians, is is said, used to dress the venereal sores with the powder of the dried root; and some physicians aver that it will cure syphilis without the aid qf mercury." If we are to credit the testimony of eclectic physicians, it has not only been found curative in primary syphilis, (chancre, etc.) but in secondary and tertiary syphilis, (ulcers, eruptions, throat and nasal diseases, bone pains, etc.) " For the cure of syphilis, and mercurio-syphilitic disorders, the Phytolaccin is quite equal to any other organic remedy. * The severe pains attending tertiary-syphilis and mercurio-syphilitic complications are more effectually relieved by the use of this medicine, than by any other remedy."-( Coe.) It is said to be particularly useful in cases of chronic and obstinate gonorrhcea and gleet. Dr. Small thinks highly of it in some forms of syphilitic rheumatism, and I have found it promptly curative in many of the conditions mentioned above. It has cured Orchitis. Generative Organs of Women.-*tMeteorrhagia; *menstruation too copious and too firequent; painful menstruation; violent pains in the abdomen during menstruation, in a barren female; *leucorrhnea; *inflammation swelling and suppuration of the mamma.(Trans. Amer. Inst. IZom.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-All the above symptoms are marked with the asterisk, in the.original proving, I have no means of ascertaining whether they were originally pure pathogenetic symptoms. The asterisk implies they were; but had been substantiated by curative effects. The proving in Symptomen codex, is not accompanied by the name of any prover, or those physicians who contributed clinical notes. In the clinical observations I find the following: "Being given in a case of chlorosis, when the leucorrhea PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. 321 had been cured by Pulsatilla, it brought the leucorrhceaz back again." (Possibly?) It always appeared surprising that eclectic writers should say so little about the Phytolacca in diseases of women. I find no mention of its use in that class of diseases, in King, Scudder, and others, yet the extensive range of action of the medicine precludes the idea that it will not be found useful. In my estimation the sphere of action of Phytolacca is principally upon (a) the glandular system, (b) the serous and fibrous tissues, and (c) the mucous membrane. Phytolacca has a specific effect upon the:thyroid and rmammary, also parotid, and other glands of the throat, and by analogy ought to act powerfully upon the ovaries, and glands of the uterus (also the testes). Accordingly it ought to prove curative in ovaritis, and other affections of the glands, such as neuralgia, etc.; in uterine leucorrhma, or that variety which proceeds from the glandular portion of the cervix. Its powerful influence over ulceration should make it curative in ulcerated os-uteri, whether of a nonspecific, or specific character. Finally, it should cure rheumatic affections of the uterus. The metrorrhagia and frequent menstruation mentioned above, may have proceeded from ulceration of the os; the dysmenorrhcea from rheumatic irritation, and the leucorrhaea may have had a glandular origin. In organic affections of the uterus, as tumors, cancer, scirrous, ulceration, I would strongly advise the Phytolacca, internally and locally applied, and its use persevered in for some time. The action of Phytolacca on tlie,nammary glands is specific and decisive. In No. 84, page 201, of the British Journal of Homceopathy, will be found an article from my pen, which covers this subject as much as the present state of our knowledge will permit. I would urge upon physicians to test its virtues in the various diseases of the mammnae. Since the article was published, I have used it successfully in many cases of mammitis as well as tumors and nodosities in these glands: "It is the intention of the writer to call attention to only one particular use of this remedy; viz., in certain diseases of the main.imary glands.'"The various writers ori' Materia Medica of the dominant and other schools not homoeopathic, while they recognize its value in diseases of the glands, do not mention this particular sphere of its action. In the homceopathic proving above referred to we find the following:"'Iznflamnation, swelliftg, and suppuration4 of the mammca.' But I am not aware that; this symptom, has ever been put to practical test by homceopathists, with the exception of Dr. Hill, who recommends it in some diseases of the breast. (See lill and Hunt's Surgery.) My experience with the drug dates back nearly fifteen years, before I had seen the: proving referred to, or indeed any published statement of its value as a medicine. " When I was a student of medicine in my father's office (he was then an allopath), a neighbor had a valuable cow, which, after a clandestine confinement, was brought home from the woods with a most enormously'swollen udder. It was as hard as a stone, 41 322 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. intensely hot, painful, and sensitive, and not a particle of milk could be drawn. In his anxiety the owner came into his office, and asked my father to suggest something to discuss the swelling and engorgement. A dose of Epsom salts was administered, but after twentyfour hours the cow was worse than before. At this juncture an old woman of the neighborhood brought in a piece of a large, white, succulent looking root, which she called scoke, and ordered the farmer to cut a portion of it up finely and give the animal in some " bran mash." Another, the larger portion, was made into a decoction, and the cow's udder washed with it frequently. The effect was magical! In less than twelve hours the milk could be drawn, the gland softened, and in a few days the morbid condition was removed. "This incident was nearly forgotten until a few years after, when I was engaged in practice, and was having trouble with mastitis and abscess of the breast in the ipersons of my patients. I found the remedies laid down in our books notoriously and obstinately inefficient. In spite of Aconite and Belladonna in high and low attenuations, the inflammatory engorgement would run on to suppuration. I then tried larger doses and other remedies, among which the Xfali hycd. was most valuable; also topical application of Belladonna, Arnica, Iodine, etc., after the manner-of the dominant school, and will give then thhe credit of preventing much suffering and deformity. But I determined on making a trial of the virtues of the Phytolacca, and before I commenced its use, made inquiry among the farmer's of my acquaintances, and found to my gratification that it was considered a specific in all cases of inflammation and engorgement, "'caking" of the udder of cows, and even mares. "The next case of engorgement of the mammae which came under my care was an aggravated one. The woman, the mother of several children, had had "broken breasts" with every confinement, and the cicatrices in the glands bore testimony to the truth of her assertion. About four days after delivery she had a severe chill followed by some fever,.and in a few hours both mammoe were hard,. swollen, and painful. The child made ineffectual efforts at nursing, the nipples became very sensitive, and she was in much distress for fear of the inevitable sufferings apparently in store for her. Here Was a case wherein to test the efficacy of the Phytolacca. Ten drops of the first decimal dilution were administered every hour, and a lotion was prepared by adding one-half oz. of the tincture to one-half pint of warm water. This was applied constantly by means of folds of cotton cloth laid upon the breasts. In the course of the next twenty-four hours I had the satisfaction of finding some signs of resolution. The heat, pain, and swelling became less, and in a few days, with the aid of low diet, and careful extraction of the milk, the woman recovered with only a small abscess at the site of an old cicatrix4 instead of extensive suppfiration, as usual. Since that time I have used it in very many cases, with the same excellent results, and it is only in the severer forms, PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. 323 accompanied with erysipelatous inflammation, that I have had to resort to Belladonna internally and externally. "But this Phytolacca is not only useful in simple and inflammatory engorgement, causing rapid resolutions, but it is valuable in those cases where suppuration has already commenced. Here it reduces the inflammation, increases the activity of the absorbents, and will often condense an apparently large abscess into the smallest dimensions. "It is often the case that neglected or ill-treated mammary abscess degenerates into illconditioned, fistulous ulcers. In such cases I have seen the best effects follow the judicious use of this remedy. " C'ase 1.-A young woman, a primnipara, very corpulent, with very large mammary glands, was taken with chills and fever a few days after confinement. The family were poor, and lived a long distance in the country; no physician was called, and nothing was properly done, but very improperly the breast was poulticed for nearly two weeks, when several large abscesses opened spontaneously and discharged enormous quantities of unhealthy pus. Six weeks afterwards she carne to me for advice. The breast affected was a most loathsome sight, long, pendulous, distorted, the seat of several large fistulous ulcers, discharging a watery, fcetid, ichorous pus; the gland was full of hald, painful nodosities, of the size of a walnut and larger. I suspended the breast by the application of long strips of adhesive plaster, placed in various directions across and around the gland, and prescribed ten drops of Phytolacca first, four times a day; also a preparation of one-half oz. of the tincture to eight oz. of distilled water, to be thrown into the fistulous canals with a small glass syringe; this treatment, together with a better diet and a little wine, so much improved the case in a week, that but one small ulcer remained open; and in a fortnight the treatment was suspended. The gland will never return to its normal condition, but will probably retain its irregular shape and knotty feel. " Case 2.-A woman, aged 40, applied to me to be treated for what had been declared an "open cancer" of the breast. It originated one year previously after the birth of her seventh child, and was the result of a neglected abscess. The ulcer was an inch in diameter, gaping, angry, filled with unhealthy granulations; a probe passed obliquely downwards until it reached a hard sensitive tumor about the size of a hen's egg; the discharge was offensive and sanious. The case was treated by suspension and compression, and the use of Phytolacca as above. Cured in two weeks. "Many.similar cases might be cited, but these will suffice, as they are good examples of the many cures made with this remedy. "It may here be mentioned, that the local application of this remedy is useful in cracked and excoriated nipples. It should be given at the same time internally. If the fissures are syphilitic in their origin, this remedy is still usefil. I once treated a case of irritable tumor of the breast as described by Sir Astley Cooper. PHYTOLACCA DECANDRA. 325 tolacca is of less value, or none at all, but this remains to be proven. If it is specific to the disease, it may be curative of it, let it be located where it will. It is said to have been used in asthma, and chronic coughs, with benefit. Chest and Respiration.-Shortness of breath; aching pain in the right side of the breast; pain in the right side of the chest about the region of the nipple, passing through to the back, felt on taking a long breath, and on bending the shoulder backwards, better in the afternoon; pain in the right side of the chest, so bad after midnight as to prevent sleep, aggravated by lying on the right side, disappears after getting up in the morning; tenderness of the muscles of the chest, as if they were bruised; occasional shocks of pain in the region of the heart, and as soon as the pain in the heart ceases, a similar pain appears in the right arm.- (Trans. A. I EHf.) CLINICAL REMARKs. —Some eclectic writers suggest its use in pulmonary turberculosis, and analogy might suggest its use in ulcerative diseases involving the lungs and bronchia, but we have no clinical records of its successful use in such cases. I found it beneficial in one case of intercostal rheumatism of several years' standing. It ought to prove curative, as the symptoms indicate in some rheumatic and neuralgic affections of the thorax and heart. Baek.-Pain in the left lumbar region, followed immediately by severe itching; a lasting pain in the left shoulder-blade, as if' from a blow; an occasional sensation as if a small piece of cold iron were pressed on the painful shoulder-blade; sensation of weight and pressure on both shoulder-blades, as after carrying a heavy load; stiffness in the right side of the neck, worse in bed, after midnight; a very peculiar pressure and tension in the parotids; hardness of the gland on the right side of the neck; suppuration of a tumor behind the right ear, with a discharge of matter and blood; severe pain between the scapulas, when walking; constant dull, heavy pain in the lumbar and sacral regions, aggravated by motion; the back is very stiff every, morning. (Dr. Jhurt.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is indicated by the symptoms, and has proved curative in cases of' stiff neck," lumbago, and even spinal irritation. Upper Extremities.-Dull aching pain and tenderness along the top of the right shoulder, along the superior edge of the trapezius muscle, increased by pressipg upon the part and by contracting the muscle; pain throughout the muscles of the left shoulder; pain in the humeral insertion of the left deltoid muscle; slight drawing pains in the right upper arm; pain appears in the right arm after a similar pain ceases in the heart; tenderness in the outside of the left arm just above the elbow, when pressing upon it, and when extending the arm; dull aching pain and excessive tenderness, as if from a bruise in the muscles of the outside of the right upper arm, most severe for about two inches above the elbow, fel,t particularly when the part is pressed, upon and touched, and when extending the arm; twitching and fluttering of the muscles of the right upper arm, while it is resting on a table; weakness and aching in the bone of the right arm above the elbow, aggravated 326 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. by motion and extension; rheumatic drawing in the right forearm; rheumatic drawing in the left forearm along the ulna, and the same sensation in the right leg; rheumatic pains in the hands and feet, sometimes in the arms and legs; drawing pain in, the right hand, now and then, by shocks upwards to the elbow; rheumatic feeling in the little finger of the right hand, very annoying when writing; rheumatic pain, first in the left hand, and afterwards in the right one; shooting, like needles, in the left thumb; violent shooting pain in the fleshy part of the left thumb, lasting about half a minute; lancinating pain in the little and ring-fingers of the right hand; neuralgic pains in the palm of the right hand; occasionally frequent sudden pricking in the points of the fingers, as if from eclectic sparks; shooting in the finger-points, sometimes in one hand and sometimes in the other.-(Trans. A. I. IT) Arms ache; ends of the fingers all throb and ache, as if they were going to suppurate, (this symptom lasted three days). —(Dr. uBrt.) CLINICAL REAIARtI(s.-Dr. Burt recommends the Phytolacca in whitlow, felon, etc., because of the remarkable similarity of the symptoms. It is a popular domestic remedy in those troublesome affections (the green root is applied raw or boiled). Indicated in rheumatic affections of arms and hands. Dr. Burt has cured warts on the hands with the tincture locally applied. lower Extremities.-Sciatica; neuralgic pain on the outer side of the left thigh; neuralgic pain in the external part of the right thigh; neuralgic pain in the external part of the left thigh; neuralgic pain in the left groin; heaviness in the knee joints, tired from a little walk; heaviness in the lower extremities, as if they were asleep, in the afternoon; rheumatic pain in the right knee, in the afternoon, increasing in the open air, and especially on a damp day; rheumatic drawing in the right leg and in the left forearm along the ulna; rheumatic feeling in the left knee, with the sensation of shortening the tendons behind the knee when walking; rheumatic pains below the knees and in the arms; pain on the dorsum of the right foot at four o'clock in the morning; coldness of the feet with increase of the capillary circulation about the face and head; free sweating of the feet, most under the toes; neuralgic pain in the right big toe, in the middle of the night; pains at a spot on the ball of the right foot, which had been frost-bitten years before, and in a corn never painful before. —(Trans. A. I. Hf.) Legs ache, and feel very stiff about the knees, aggravated by walking; weakness; could walk with difficulty. —(Dr. Burt.) CLINICAL REMARKS. —It is stated that from the application of the juice of the root to corns " the whole toe became inflamed and turned black, like gangrene." It seems almost incredible that this should have been a direct result of the Phytolacca. It has been used successfully in chronic rheumatism of the lower extremities; for chronic inflammation of the knee joint, with or without effusion, and in sciatica and nightly pains in the limbs. Syphilitic and mercurial rheumatism (periostitis) generally selects the tibia, as the chief point of its operations. I have used it successfully in nightly. pains in tibia, with nodes, and even irritable ulcers on the legs. It PODOPHYLLUMI PELTATUMV, 827 will be found useful in nearly all those cases in which Iodide of Potash is so frieely used in allopathic practice, and strangely enough is quite as successful as that salt. Characteristic Peculiarities.-The pains all partake of the nature of neuralgia; they are pressing and shooting, sometimes sore, drawing and aching; the pains are all made worse by motion and by pressure; the pains in the extremities are always in the outer portions of the limbs; the secretion of tears, saliva, bile, urine and the menses is increased; irresistible inclination to bite the teeth together; vomiting attended with but little distress in the stomach; the diarrhcea appears to be kept up by the increased action of the liver, and consequent redundancy of bile, with but little tormina and tenesmus; with the increase of the secretion of bile, there is a dry, irritative cough, and almost constantly recurring transitory pains in different parts of the head. We find the symptoms predominating in the right side of the head and neck, the right upper, extremity, the right side of the chest, and the right lower extremiity; when enumerating the symptoms of the eyes only, we find the left one most fiequently mentioned; in the above extract there are forty symptoms located on the right side, and thirty-one on the left, In several instances, the symptoms appeared on the left side first, and either passed over to the right, or the next symptom occurred on the right side, —(Trans. Am. 2st..iom.) PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM. (1-landrake.) This plant is also known by the common name of 3May-Applek It is so well-known that no description is here necessary. It is found in great abundance in all parts of the United States, The firuit is eaten and much liked by some persons, but extremely disagreeable to others. It is slightly aperient, and popularly supposed, to cause an eruption of boils. The pulp only should be eaten. The fleshy portion contains much medicinal power, but inferior to the root, which is the officinal portion. It was well known to the Indians before the whites settled the country, and was one of their most active purgatives. It should be collected soon after the ripening of the fruit; its active plinciples are readily taken up by alcohol; it contains a resinous principle, called Podophyllin. The preparations used in hommopathic practice should be the tincture from the fresh root; a trituration from the dried root, and from Podophyllin; and dilutions made in the usual manner from the third tritliration of the last-named preparation, or the tincture. Toxical Effects.-The entire plant in its recent state is an irritant poison, producing vomiting, hypercatharsis, tormina, stupor, and 828 NEW HOMiEOPATHIC PROVINGS. bloating of the body; the root recently dried, operates as a drastic cathartic and emetic, when given in large doses, but the violence of its action is materially modified by age. Several cases of poisoning by the fruit, in children who had eaten the rind, have been brought under my observation, but in no instance was a fatal result induced. The following narrative of cases by Dr. D. C. Owen, which I take from the " Chicago iMedical Examiner," are of interest, as showing the principal toxical effect of the medicine:-" On the 4Lh of August, 1860, I was called upon to visit two children of E-I. C., who, the messenger said, were vomiting themselves to death. I inquired what the children had been eating or taking; he replied, that the parents thought the vomiting was caused by May-apples, which the children had eaten in the morning. I drove briskly on, and arrived at the place in, perhaps, half an hour, where I found two very pretty little girls, aged respectively, six and eight years, stretched upon their beds;bbathed in cold perspiration; their faces pale as corpses; eyes sunken in their orbits; noses pinched; pulse very weak, and scarcely perceptible at the wrist; great thirst; and the stomach contracting so hard and rapidly, in efforts to vomit, that the wrenching pain would cause them to utter sharp screams, one after another, for five minutes at a time. I was told that the vomiting had been going on for the last four hours, almost without intermission, it being now 12 M. On examining the matters thrown:from the stomach, I found them to consist, for the most part, of seeds, pulp, and membraneous covering of the ripe May-apple, having the peculiar odor of that fruit. I asked them if they had eaten the rinds of the apples. They said, no; but they had used their teeth to rupture the rinds. I informed the parents that the recovery of the oldest child was not to be expected, owing to the prostration already produced; but that the chances for the younger were much better. I gave the oldest, one gr. sulp. morphine, covered the epigastrium and entire abdomen, which was tympanitic and very tender, with a blister; invited the blood to the extremities with hot flannels and sinapisms; gave carbonic acid water, in small quantities, to allay thirst;. and, as the bowels had not been moved since the vomiting begun, ordered an enema of castor oil and molasses in warm water. To the younger I gave, perhaps twothirds: gr. morphine, and ordered the same course as for the other, except that for the blister I substituted mustard. They were now kept as quiet as possible for, perhaps, an hour and a-half, when the younger child was sufficiently under the influence: of the narcotic to fall into a quiet sleep. The oldest now vomited again bilious matter mixed with blood-the bile dark green and very thick, the blood dark and coagulated. She complained frequently of burning sensation in the throat. Finding that the injections had failed to move the bowels, I gave HIydrargyri sub. mur, gr. xij., Morphine sulph., gr. j. They were now both getting warm extremities, the youngest still sleeping, I left powders of morphine and camphor, one of which was to be given after each act of vomiting, should it commence again, or aiter each stool, should the bowels act too freely. I directed the parents to do everything in their power to 330 NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. organism, and there is scarce an organ or tissue of the body but feels its malign influence, when it is introduced into the system in toxical doses. It has been used in nearly every disease in the nomenclature, and is said to have proved curative in those of the most opposite character. I shall try to show in my clinical remarks the causes of its great popularity, and attempt to define its real sphere of action. I will here remark that I shall use the statements relative to the Podophyllum and Podophyllin, indiscriminately-as I believe both to act in a similar (perhaps identical) manner upon the system. The latter may not have as wide range of action as the former, because it does not contain all the medicinal constituents of the plant. To meet the requirements of an exact science, such as hommceopathy aspires to be, there should be a proving of both preparations, bat until we reach that desideratum we must do the best we can. In the clinical remarks I shall designate as far as possible which preparation was prescribed, in order that the physician may use the same in similar cases. (I shall, for the sake of brevity, adopt the abreviation " Pmn." for the one, and "Pz?)." for the other preparation.) GENERAL EFFECTS. —Ner~voUS System.-Podophyllum does not act specifically upon the nerves, as does Aconite or Nux vomica. In this respect it ranks with Bryonia, Aloes, and other medicines of the same class. The pains induced by the Mandrake are probably moyalgic in their character. In idiopathic neuralgia,* or indeed neuralgia in any form, it is of doubtful utility. Muscular System.-We have not sufficient proof, nor do we find anything in the pathogenesis, which would lead us to suppose that Podophyllum acted directly upon the muscular fibre, as does Bryonia, Mercurius, or Helonias. To fully understand the action of Mliandrake, and other similarly acting and depressing drugs, one should read that instructive book, "Inman on Myalgia." I would suggest that Podophyllumn causes pains, cramps and other sensations and affections of muscular tissue by (a) its irritating action upon mucous membranes, and (b) by its depressing action upon the vital power. According to Inman, all drastic purgatives may cause myalgia, and even cramps, and wasting of muscle. Viewing the action of this medicine as I do, I cannot consider it indicated in rheumatism affecting muscles or tendons. If it has been found beneficial in that disease, it has been from some indirect action, and not from any specific effect. I have known it to cause severe myalgic pains and soreness, and have found it curative in similar conditions, but never in true rheumatism. The Podophyllin has the power to cause other pains besides those referred to the bowels, stomach and other portions of the digestive tract. I have known It to cause pains in various parts of the system, but I believe them to be generally rmyalgic. Dr. Coe, whose testimony is sometimes valuable, says: "Podophyllin is sometimes very tardy in its operation, not acting under eighteen or twenty hours, and frequently it will operate more freely during the second twenty-four hours, than during the first. In cases of chronic disorders of the liver, spleen, and other viscera, considerable pain will frequently be experienced in the diseased PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM. 331 organs during the operation of the medicine. Sometimes the pain will be in the liver, at others in the spleen, again in the kidneys, (medicinal aggravation), also in the back of the neck and head, in the pleura, intercostal muscles, etc., (rnyalgic), but these symptoms will subside with the operation of the medicine." He thinks these are favorable indications, "showing that the remedy is at work arousing the dormant energies of the system." It is not necessary, however, to cause'these pains, etc. Mucous Tissues.-In its action on mucous membranes it ranks with Mercurius, Iris v., Veratrum album., and other drastic cathartics. It is powerfully irritant to the tissues, especially those of the digestive tract. It is not directly specific in its action upon the mucous membrane of the respiratory and urinary passages. It will however irritate and inflame any mucous surface when brought in contact with it, sometimes acting as a powerful escharotic. Of its power to cause inflammation of any and all portions of the mucous tmemnbrane from the mouth to the anus, there can be no doubt. Such effects have been too often observed in practice, by all physicians who lhave had opportunity to notice its action when adminministered in material doses. It even causes ulceration of this tissue, and may be said to act as Dr. Freligh asserts of mercury" as a solvent of the living solids," but not to' the extent of the former poison. Mandrake is hommopathic to enteritis, gastritis, etc., and even to bronchitis and urethritis, under certain circumstances, which will be noticed under appropriate headings. Serous Tissues.-It is said to affect, by its " alterative action," the serous membranes of the body, and prove curative in pleuritis, peritonitis, synovitis, and even meningitis; but its action in this direction, is not, in my opinion, specific or direct, as is the case with Bryonia. Glandular System.-It is here that mandrake is a close analogue of Mercury, Iodine, Iris versicolor, etc. When taken up into the circulatiop, it is eliminated by the glands, and is thus rendered capable of causing irritation, inflammation, and even suppuration of alrnost any glandular organ or structure. To those who would thoroughly understand the action of that class of medicines termed "Eliminants," I would advise a careful perusal of that masterly work, "Headland on the Action of Medicines." According to King and others, "It produces a powerful and lasting impression upon the glandular system and secretory organs, unequalled by any other article." It is highly recommended and habitually used in scrofula, induration, and swelling; also inflammation and suppuration of glands. It would be useless to waste our space in recording all the laudations of eclectic physicians in relation to its Curative action upon the system. Like the praises the allopathist bestows upon mercury, they are too often based upon an unsubstantial foundation. Vascular System, Fever.-Chilliness while moving about during fever, and in the act of lying down, with perspiration immediately afterwards; chilliness when first lying clown in the evening, followed by fever and sleep, which is disturbed with talking and imperfect PODOPHYLLTUM PELTATUM. 333 Mercurius, Leptandria, Iris, etc., which act as curative agents in Intermittent fevers, by another power, namely, of correcting the condition of particular organs, as the liver, and. thus removing the obstacles to a recovery. In my practice, which was at one time extensive, in a district cursed with ague, I had ample opportunity to observe the action of Podophyllum in this disease. I. never found it of benefit unless the hepatic, intestinal, and gastric symptoms corresponded with those of the fever; when given for the symptoms of the fever alone, enumerated above, it was not curative. In fact it would remove all the other symptoms, and the paroxysms of fever would still occur in a modified form. But if alternated with Ipecac., China, Cornus, or Nux vomica (in quotidian), Arsenicum, Cedron, or Quinia (in tertian), the cure would be prompt and permanent. Those who are opposed to alternation of remedies can use the Podophyllum first, and the appropriate remedy afterwards. As the testimony of eclectic physicians may be interesting on this point, I will quote:'In bilious fevers, either remittent or intermittent, it not unfrequently arrests the diseases, at the first prescription, if given in the proper manner, or it so far modifies the attack that the case becomes mild and manageable." (King). Dr. Morrow makes the same statement, but says it is only indicated when there is evident hepatic torpor or congestion. "IDuring the early stages of most febrile diseases, particularly intermittent and bilious remittent fevers, podophylline is an agent of superior efficacy. A single dose often arrests the severest attacks of fever." (Jones and Scudder). "In the treatment of fever and ague, we almost invariably precede the employment of the other remedies by the free exhibition of Podophylline. By so doing, in this climate, we cut the disease short at once, and oftentimes have no occasion for further medication. We have known many cases of intermittent fever yield to a single dose of the Podophylline, and, we have no doubt, but the credit of the cure is frequently due to this agent, where it is attributed to other means." (Dr. Coe.) The above embodies the general estimate of the eclectic school, as regards the value of this medicine in agues. No writer pretends that it has any actual anti-periodic power. It has been noticed in many. of our provings, that certain febrile and even painjul symptoms were decidedly aggravated, or had a tendency to recur at certain hours in the day, or on alternate days. This peculiarity renders a drug an "anti-periodic." In the proving of Podophyllum, we find that certain febrile and other symptoms, tend to occur in the morning, but this I consider rather an indication of its remittent action. Future experiments will decide. In Bilious Fsevers, this medicine is an excellent hommcopathic remedy. No other drug so often corresponds with the symptoms, particularly when there is much intestinal irritation. It is admirably indicated in the various forms of remittent fever; which in the west are generally considered " bilious " in character. The febrile symptoms are quite strongly marked, and may afford some data for the selection of this drug, but we should 334 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. be guided principally by the general symptoms. As above stated, eclectic physicians, and of late many allopathic, are enthusiastic believers in the power of Podophyllum, when given at the onset of nearly all fevers, in cathartic doses, of arresting or "breaking ups" such attacks. But I need not acquaint the homceopathic physician that such practice is sometimes fraught with the most deplorable consequences. When the patient is strong and robust, the vitality of the organism may rally from its depressing action, or medicinal aggravation of the malady; but if such reaction does not take place the fever, which may have been mild in its character, is changed to a serious and intractable one. The intestinal irritation which the Podophyllin sets up, will go on and withstand all the rude means of the eclectic to arrest. In this way I have known simple remittents changed into enteric or typhoid fever. In irritative fever, and infantile remittent, no remedy will give better satisfaction, not even Mercurius. But it should be used with caution in all fevers accompanied or caused by intestinal orgastic irritation. In these cases it is primarily homoeopathic, and should be used in the fourth and sixth dec. dil., should the symptoms denote inactivity of the liver and glandular system of the intestines, and constipation, with jaundice exist, then the second or third dil. may be used safely. In Typlhoid and Typhusfevers, (enteric) the Podophyllum is often indicated. It is quite as homceopathic to the irritation, inflammation, and even ulceration of Peyer's glands, as Mercurius and Arsenicum, but it is not so well indicated by the general symptoms; namely, the condition of the blood, etc., as Baptisia, Phosphoric and Muriatic acids, or even Leptandria or Iris. Dr. Hill, (Epitome) says Podophyllin is the best remedy for the diarrhcea of typhoids, but homceopathists can accept no such whoselale assertion. If' the diarrhzea, in a case of typhoid, corresponds to the Podophyllum-diarrhcea then, and only then is it a specific remedy. The best writers in:the eclectic school are aware of the danger of giving large doses of Podophyllin in typhoid and other low fevers, and all are particular to warn the physician not to use it when there is much prostration or intestinal irritation existing. Notwithstanding this, the physicians of that and the old school, are generally so ignorant of disease, and so reckless of consequences, as to give this powerful drug in typhoid fever. The consequences are that but few patients, under that treatment, have vitality to resist the toxical effects of the drug and the disease. If Podophyllin is prescribed in true enteric (or typhoid) fever, it should be only the middle and higher potencies —the tenth and upwards. The Podophyllum may be used lower, in the third or sixth. These general remarks, I deem sufficient to point out the applicability of the remedy in the various forms of fever. They will serve to guide the practitioner in the selection of the drug by the special symptoms.. Even the excanthematous fevers form no exception. Sleep.-Sleepiness in the day time, especially in the forenoon; PODOPHYIJLUM PELTATUM. 335 sleepiness early in the evening: restlessness the fore part of the night; distress after the first sleep in the evening; rising up in the bed, during sleep without waking; moaning in sleep with eyelids half closed; *restless sleep of children, with whining at night; unrefreshed by sleep on waking in the morning; too heavy sleep at night; drowsy and difficult to wake in the morning, *afeeling of fatigue on waking in the morning. CLTNICAL REAMARKs.-Stupor and even coma occur in cases of poisoning with Podophyllum. The above symptoms form a group very often met with in persons who are supposed to be "bilious," or have "liver complaint." In other words, they are common to "hepatic torper, and are premonitory to many kinds of fever. The symptoms marked *, are said by Dr. Williamson to have been cured by this medicine. Skin.-*Sallowness of the skin in children; *moistness of the skill with preter-natural warmth. CLINICAL REAREKs. —-The two symptoms above, are the only ones recorded as skin symptoms, and those appear to be curative. I have never noticed any irritation or eruption of the skin appear from its internal use. It is probably not homoeopathic to any cutaneous disease. Its topical application, by virtue of its escharotic power, results in redness, vesication and even pustulation and ulcers. It forms an ingredient of the "irritating plaster" of the eclectics. In this manner of application it may prove locally homceopathic, as does Argentuma nit., etc. I have known its abuse and prolonged use to cause jaundice, but that symptom more properly belongs to another paragraph. Like mercury, it causes a peculiar irritative fever, characterized by heat of the skin with moisture (fever with sweat). This symptom may be of value, in aiding us in the selection of the medicine. (Jo says the resinoid "possesses a degree of escharotic power, and when applied to fungous growths will dissolve them down. It produces a rapid pustulaton, which appears first in the form of minute vesicles filled with a serous fluid which speedily changes to a whitish or yellowish hue. This superficial inflammation is at the same time quite severe. The pustules are slow in healing. Mental Symptoms.-Depression of spirits; imagines he is going to die, or will be very ill. CLINICAL RE:AR:EKs. —According to Dr. Williamson it has been found curative in the delirium of fevers. Beyond this we know but little of its homceopathic use in mental or emotional disorders. It is evidently indicated, judging from its sphere of action, and has been found useful, in depression of spirits, and hypochondriac state of mind arising from hepatic disorder. lcead.-Giddiness and dizziness, with the sensation of fullness over the eyes; momentary darts of pain in the forehead, obliging one to shut the eyes; dullness and headache with sleepiness in the morning; *morning headache with flushed face; pain on the top of the head when rising in the morning; morning headache with heat in the vertex; pressing pain in the temples in the forenoon, with drawing in the eyes as if stra, 336 NEW IIOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. bismus would follow; stunning headache through the temples relieved by pressure; sudden pain in the forehead with soreness of the throat in the evening; heavy dull pain in the forehead, with soreness over the seat of pain; headache alternating with diarrhmea; vertigo while standing in the open air; pain in the left frontal protuberance aggravated in the afternoon; vertigo with inclination to fall forwards; * perspiration of the head during sleep, with coldness of the flesh while teething; face pale as a corpse's with pinched nose and a cold perspiration. CLINICAL REMAIRKS.-Dr. Williamson found the Podophyllum curative in " rolling of the head during difficult dentition in children;" also the two symptoms marked with the asterisk. The head symptoms are quite notable, particularly the " morning headache' so:common in bilious affections; also the "headache alternating with diarrhoea "-one of the most frequent symptoms is hepatic difficulties. We have no proof that this drug will cause inflammation or congestion of the brain or its meninges; but the symptomn recorded above as cured by Dr. Williamson: "rolling of the head," etc., together with another-wrongly placed under the head of teeth; namely, "grindinog of the teeth at night, especially with children during dentition," would seem to point to irritation of the brain, whether idiopathic or reflex, we cannot decide, but would suggest an intestinal origin.! Podophyllum has been much used against brain affections'by electic physicians, but in such large doses as: to act as a/ "revulsive " or "derivative " as they express it. I would not undertake to decide that it could not cause disease of the brain: it would need a pathological proving to elucidate that point. I will quote some eclectic testimony as to its value' in their hands in brain affections, and the reader may judge of the nature of its action for himself. Prof. AMorroy says:' "In no'class of cases has the medicine manifested a higher degree of' value, so far as I have been able to observe its effects, than in:those cases marked by strong determination of blood to the brain, producing either congestion or incipent inflammation of that organ. In several cases of this description, in the treatment of which I have witnessed its effects, I was agreeably surprised to find every trace of congestion eradicated by one or two thorough operations of this article. It seemed to exercise a more completely controlling influence on this pathological condition than any medicine I have ever used for this same purpose." It was given of course, in strong cathartic doses. Still a mere cathartic would not have such a "controlling influence," and it may after all have exercised some specific curative effect upon the condition of the brain; i. e., the small amount of the drug which was absorbed by the stomach. _Dr. Coe, strangely. enough does not say much about its use in brain diseases, as he considers it specific for almost every other class of maladies. He says it does good, as a revulsive cathartic, in congestion of the brain and apo 338 NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. CLINICAL REMARKS. — Dr. Williamson contributes the curatin symptoms marked with a star. The effect of Mandrake upon the mouth is quite specific and note-worthy. All writers agree that it will cause symptoms like salivation. I have known it to cause severe ptyalism in numerous cases, when abused by electic physicians. Even in the 3d trit., this effect is quite noticeable in persons who are subject to stomatitis, or have been mercurialized. Dr. Coe says: "It has beeh said that Podophyllin is capable of producing ptyalism, but we have never seen any evidence of the fact in persons who had never taken nzercury. The only symptoms of salivation we have ever observed have been in those cases where mercury has been taken at some previous time. Podophyllin is powerfully resolvent, and by its peculiar excitation of the glandular system will sometimes dislodge deposits of latent mercurial atoms, and so bring about a season of mercurialization. Lobelia, Irisin and Phytolaccin will frequently do the same." This is a species of special pleading, often resorted to by eclectic practitioners, but it is untenable. If these drugs will cause ptyalism when mercury is in the glands it will cause the same symptoms when mercury is not present. The only difference will be that the presence of mercury renders the glands'more susceptible to the action of these agents. Podophyllin is homeoopathic to ptyalism, even mercurial; to stomatitis and many inflammatary affections of the gums and buccal mucous membrane. It has been found curative in "'nursing sore mouth," "canker in the mouth." I have cured with the dilutions, used as a wash, a case of chronic inflammation of the tongue, which was red, dry, cracked, and often bleeding, and somewhat swollen. It seemed idiopathic, as no greater derangement was noticeable. Throat.-Sore throat, commencing on the right side and then going to the left; soreness of the left side of the throat, especially painful when swallowing liquids, and worse in the morning; dryness of the throat; soreness of the throat extending to the ears; *rattling of mucus in the throat; *goitre; *sore throat, commencing on the right side and going to the left. CLINICAL REnARKs.-The three curative symptoms are from Dr. Williamson. The first is due to the excited secretory action of Mandrake upon the tonsils and mucous follicles of the throat. This medicine has made undoubted' cures of Goitre in the hands of homceopathic as well as eclectic physicians. The testimony on this point appears conclusive, but I cannot say that I have ever seen much benefit from its use in my hands, at least no such decided effects as follow the use of Iodine, Bromine, and their salts, even in minute doses. Nor have I found it of much value in tonsillitis, in which it is inferior to Phytolacca or Iris versicolor. Appctite. —Voracious appetite; regurgitation of food;- loss of appetite; indifference to food; satiety from a small quantity of PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM 341 abdomen is often mistaken for Peritonitis. We have the same intense burning pain in certain localities, (the attachment of muscles) the same exquisite tenderness, and the same distention, noted as belonging to puerperal peritonitis. Any treatment, says Inman, which will give tone to the muscles, causing contraction of the muscles involved, will restore the patient. This statement accounts for the benefit which has accrued from the use of stimulants, tonics, Opium, and even Turpentine and Podophyllin. The two first give tone to the muscles —Opium gives them rest, which is so necessary to a cure; and the two latter by a certain specific influence which they seem to have over our muscular fibre; for turpentine cures tympanitis, in small doses, too small to irritate the bowel, (it causes tympanitis), and Podyphyllin causes all the symptoms of Peritonitis, as will be seen by reference to the cases of poisoning above. In the fatal case, Enteritis could not have been present, for the time was too short, and if the peritoneum was affected it was by the direct toxical action of the poison. No post mortem having been made of the fatal case, we do not know whether peritonitis was present, and the symptoms may have been due to some other lesion. Liver and Spleen.-(1.) Fullness in the right hypochondria; hypochondrium with flatulence; stitches in the right hypochondrium, worse while eating; twisting pain in the right hypochondrium, with sensation of heat in the part; *fullness, with pain and soreness in the right hypochondrium; chronic hepatitis with costiveness; pains in the region of the liver. (2) Sensation of weight and dragging in the left hypochondrium, close under the ribs; sensation of flatus in the left hypochondrium; pains in spleen. CLINICAL RMARKS. —It is difficult to decide whether all the pains above mentioned are myalgic or really in the organs referred to in the headings. Some of the symptoms are undoubtedly myalgic. The curative symptoms of fullness, etc., has been so often verified by Dr. Williamson and others of our school, that we may safely say that it indicates hepatitis, or congestion of the liver. The " chronic hepatitis with costiveness,' is also a valuable observation. It is not necessary, however, that constipation should be present; it is asuseful when that diseaseis attended with diarrhea, or the two states alternately. From many years, experience with, and observation of, the use of Podophyllin in diseases of the liver, I feel qualified to venture the following observation relative to its pathogenitive and curative action upon that organ. I believe the Podophyllum and its active principle to be a direct stimulant of the liver. I am aware that some of the most astute investigators of the allopathic school deny that Jercury has any direct or specific action on that organ. They would probably allege the same of the Mandrake, but there are certain reasons which I shall give further on, why I consider the arguments against Mercury not valid in the case of Podophyllum. The primary action of Podophyllum in large doses is generally to cause vomiting and diarrhcea of undoubted bilious PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM. 343 Carpenter street, had been subject, for several years, to attacks of supposed gastralgia, which would pass off in a few days under the use of anodynes, leaving her slightly jaundiced. This attack had been much more severe, and she had been under the care of two professors in the allopathic colleges in this city for six weeks when I was called. They pronounced her disease "neuralgia of the stomach." The character of the pain had not changed, only to grow more severe since its onset. She had been drugged with.Blue-mass, Calomel, Opium, Dover's-powder and Chloroform, and'received only temporary benefit from their use. I found her emaciatied, jaundiced, (her skin of the hue of bronze), tongue coated white; no appetite; headache most of the time; pulse quick and hard, but small; urine very scanty, a yellowish brown color, and was found to contain bile when the usual tests were applied. The pains in the epigastrium extended to the right side, region of the gall-bladder, and were remitting i. e., there were paroxysms of great intensity, but some pain all the time; excessive nausea, when the pain becomes severe; constipation and diarrhmea alternated, and in either condition the evacuations were now, and had been destitute of bile for several weeks. At my first visit I was undecided as to the pathological condition at the bottom of the difficulty, but gave Aconite and Nux-vomica. The next I decided that the malady originated frorm the presence of gall-stones in the gall-duct, obstructing completely the passage of bile into the intestines, and giving rise to the interior pain; no relief had been obtained from the remedies, and she had been obliged to resort to Chloroform all night. I now resolved to try Dr. Marcy's treatment. Six ounces of tepid Olive-oil were ordered, but she could only be induced to swallow three. This was at 3 P. M.; at 9 P. xr., the other three ounces were administered. Nux and Aconite were continued as before. Third dayno improvement. She took Chloroform about half the time to get relief from the intense spasmodic pain; urine more scanty, and of a deeper color; slimy, white diarrhcea, not a trace of bile in the discharges; vomiting of mucus; no bile had been vomited for several weeks. I ordered a hot bath. In the attempt to take it, a very severe chill set in with fainting; this was followed by some fever. In the evening she became stupid, would not answer questions, and I feared she would go into coma. Dr. Coe, (Conc. Org. Med., page 247) gives the following treatment for gall-stones: He gives at bed-time a powder composed of Podophyllin, grs. ij., Euphorbin, grs. j., Caulophyllin, grs. ij. The next' morning, Ias soon as the nausea attending the operation of the powder has subsided, administer eight ounces of pure Olive-oil.''We have known," he asserts,'as many as two hundred of these concretions, varying in size from that of a small pea to that of a hazle-nut, to be passed after the administration of a single dose of Podophyllin and the Oil.' ly patient was rapidly sinking, and I knew that if the obstruction was not soon removed, the blood would become irretrievably poisoned with bile. I did not deem it necessary to fbollow Coe's practice. Podophyllin is the real agent which dislodges 344 NEW IHOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. the concretions from the gall-duct. This it does, I believe, by increasing the expulsion power or peristaltic action, so to speak, of the gall-bladder and its duct. The Olive-oil may aid in relaxing and dilating the duct, and carries the concretions off through the bowels, after they have been expelled. I accordingly gave one grain of Podophyllin in the evening; she was allowed Chloroibrmn during the night. In the morning she swallowed three ounces of Olive-oil, at 6 o'clock. At 9 o'clock she vomited bile; at noon she had a free evacuation from the bowels, of a bilious appearance. At 3 P. x., another bilious stool, and with it a discharge of several gall-stones-they fell into the vessel with a metallic sound-as the nurse informed me. All pain ceased about the time she vomited, and did not return. The concretions were round, about the size of a cherry, rough externally, yellowish, and when broken in two, showed a radiating appearance from a common centre. No account was kept of the number passed, as the nurse was somewhat negligent, and failed to collect them. In a few days, under the use of Aconite and Nux, the jaundice had nearly disappeared; her appetite returned, and in two weeks she was able to ride into the country, and has since enjoyed good health. In the words of Dr. Marcy, I assert that'this affords us example where the consistent homceopathist is justified in employing a chemical and purgative agent to rid the system of foreign substances which nature is struggling to throw off. It is not disease which we are to remove; not a therapeutic agent which we are to administer.' 1 recognize three methods of restoring health; viz: the chemical, the mechanical, and the homceopathic. By the first we can remove an irritating cause of disease, as by the use of Nitric-acid, in Oxalic-acid urine by the second, we can expel a biliary calculus with Podophyllin and Olive-oil; and by the lastthe only law of cure-we can remove, with Aconite and Nux, the hepatic inflammation consequent upon the passage of the stones. I maintain that my treatment was as rational and cientific as that of the surgeon who removes the spiculae of bones or the musket-ball, and then uses his specific remedies, and his surgical apliances." It is amazing to witness the vast confidence which the eclectic physicians have in Podophyllin in nearly every disease of the liver. They use it almost indiscriminately in the most opposite states and conditions, and in functional organic affections of that organ. I have not space to quote their observations and praises, but would refer the reader to their works on Practice and Materia Medica. In congestion of the portal circle, this medicine appears to have an immense curative power, in which it is only equalled by Mercury and Leptandria. In _Diseases of the Spleen, the Podophyllum has been found useful. It may be tried in acute inflammation, or chronic enlargement. Enteric Symptoms. —Stool earlier in the morning than usual, but natural; frequent stools during the day, but of a natural consistence; six soft yellow stools a day, with some griping: (from grain doses of the third trit); profuse diarrh(ea, worse in the morn PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM. 345 ing; very frequent papescent, yellowish stools for forty-eight hours; diarrhcea early in the morning, which continues during the forenoon, followed by a natural stool ill the evening; evacuations of green stools in the morning; diarrhcea immediately after eating or drinking; *extreme weakness and cutting pain in the intestines adier stool; *painful diarrhcea, with screaming and grinding of the teeth, in children, during dentition; white slimy stools; *hot, watery evacuations; stools watery, frequent, profuse, and attended with prostration and cramps as in cholera; stools muco-gelatinous, small and infrequent, with flatulence, and pain in the region of the sacrum; after an evacuation of a large mass of gelatinous substance, like white of egg, the severe tormina ceased and did not return; *food passes the bowels in an undigested state; copious evacuations, with blueness under the eyes; *evacuations which consist of dark, yellow mucus, which smells like carrion frequent chalk-like stools, which are very offensive; *with gagging and excessive thirst in children; *constant pain in the lumbar region, which is worse during evacuation, and particularly after stool; stools yellow, green or watery and brown; stools streaked with blood; evacuations in the morning, attended with strong urging in the bowels, with heat and pain in the anus; flashes of heat running up the back after a stool; sensation at stool as if the genital organs would fall out, (in a female); too much bearing down at stool, as if from inactivity of the rectum; severe and painful tenesmus after a watery stool; *chronic diarrhrea, worse in the morning; diarrhoea with prolapsus ani at every stool, (in children); desent of the rectum from a little exertion, immediately followed by stool, or a discharge of thick, transparent mucus, sometimes of a yellow color, and mixed with blood; the prolapsus ani occurs. most frequently in the morning; secretion of mucus from the anus; the anus feels very sore, sensitive and swollen; aggravation of existing hemorrhoids; several hard, painful hemorrhoidal tumors around the anus; one of which bleeds profusely, (primary symptoms): constipation for two days after the diarrhea; constipation with headache and flatulence; the fieces are hard and dry, and voided with difficulty; constipation, with hemorrhoids and prolapsus ani; alternate constipation and diarrhoea, (secondary symptoms): hard stool, coated with yellow, tenacious mucus. CLINICAL REmARKS.-It will be seen that I have arranged the above symptoms in a peculiar order, different from that adopted in the original proving. The plan of arranging the symptoms of a drug without reference to its primary and secondary action is much to be deprecated. The entire symptoms (I"stool,'" etc.) of all our drugs begin with " constipation." Now, no one supposes that this is the first symptom of all drugs. On the contrary, frequent and loose evacuations are the rule. The first symptom from even small doses of Podophyllum is diarrhea. It is not until the purgative action has subsided, or the irritability of the intestines exhausted, that we have constipation. In fact this medicine rarely causes constipation, and then only secondarily. To avoid repetition, I have designated those symptoms cured by Williamson and Jeanes with 44 PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM. 341 panied with violent pains in the region of the colon, rectum and anus; it causes and aggravates hemorrhoids, and severe tenesmus, with prolapsus ani, especially in children; sometimes nausea and vomiting go with -the above symptoms. The active principle, or Podophyllin, at the third trituration, is often more effectual and prompt in its action, than the tincture. Altogether, it is one of the best remedies we possess for the cure of dysentery, enteritis, and many other inflammatory diseases of the intestinal track. —I.) Dr. G. also advises Leptandrin in typhoid dysentery, and mentions that Dr. Morrow was very successful with it, in that formidable form which appeared after the cholera of 1849. "-In the practice of the writer, the second and third trituration, has often been used successfully in low conditions occurring in dysentery, chronic diarrhcea (especially the obstinate diarrhcea of soldiers), and in typhoid fever."-Arner. Mag. Ioemr., vol. 1, p. 370. In Cholera morbus, is sometimes treated very successfully by the use of Podophyllumn. It causes, in large doses, similar watery, flocculent discharges, very profuse and exhausting, accompanied with cramps in the abdominal, and flexor muscles of the extremities. Ir this respect it is the analogue of Elaterium, Jatropha, Euphorbia cor., Arsenic, and Veratrum. Asiatic Cholera, in some:of its phases, ought to find a specific remedy in this medicine. So abundant are the alvine evacuations of serum caused by Mandrake, that Eclectics use it as a hydrogogue cathartic in cases of dropsy. In Cholera Infacntum it was found by Dr. Jeanes and Williamson to be eminently useful. I have used it in a good many cases of this disorder, as well as diarrhcea from teething, and nearly every intestinal disease to which children are subject, and have found it as useful as Mercury, Chamomilla, or Pulsatilla. In the bowel complaints of children the practical physician is cognizaft of the colic with spasmodic retraction of the abdominal muscles, the spasmodic tenesmus, and tending to prolapsus ani; all strong indications for this medicine. Hemorrhoidal affections are admirably under the control of Podophyllum. The specific affinity which this drug has for the liver, portal system, and rectum, as shown in the pathogenesis, enables it to cause hemorrhoids from portal congestion, chronic hepatic affections, and primary irritation, congestion, and even inflammation of the veins and mucous membrane of the rectum. It will be found useful in internal or external piles-for those which bleed and those which do not. The sensations it causes in the rectum, anus, and hemorrhoidal tumors are similar to the effects of aloes, of which it is a congener. Urinary Organs.-*Enuresis; *involuntary discharge of urine during sleep; *frequent nocturnal urination during pregnancy, (primary effects); pain in the region of the kidneys, followed by flow of urine with calculi sediment; *diminished secretion of urine; *suppression of urine; scanty urine, with frequent voidings, (secondary effects). CLINICAL REMAxrcs. —All the above symptoms are marked by Dr. Williamson, as curative. They are also pathogenetic, as I propose to show by Eclectic authority. I quote such testimony because it PODOPHIYLLUM PELTATUM. 349 Podophyllum useful in many of the diseases of women, especially when involving the uterus and ovaries. It is still an unsolved question in what way the medicine affects the uterus; in some cases it would seem. to do so by its action on the bowels and rectum, as is the case with: aloes. It is well known that any drug which powerfully irritates the lower bowel will cause congestion and even inflammation of the womb, by extension of effect through contiguous tissues; thus, aloes may cause the above, as well as uterine cramps, menorrhagia, prolapsus, etc. It is thought by some that Podoph. has a similar action, but it would seem from our proving, as well as numerous clinical cases reported, that the medicine must have some direct action on the uterus and ovaries. Prolapsucs Uteri et Vagina. —CAsE 1. —A lady who had lately: given birth to a still-born child, of large size, with a serious loss of blood, and had, undoubtedly, the symptoms of a severe prolapsus of the womb; Arnica was given a few days, followed by China and Carbo veg.; these greatly increased the strength of the patient, after which I gave Mercurius 3. four powders, and Podophyllin 3. four powders, on alternate days. In four or five days she: was completely cured. —-r. Prowell, Amer. MIag. Hom., vol. i. p. 70. CASE 2.-A lady had been confined about four weeks previously, but had been suffering ever since, with violent bearing-down pains in the' region of the womb; intolerable pain in the back; great degree of weakness; apthwe; and several scrofulous swellings: about the neck. On examination, I found a moderate degree of prolapsus, swelling and induration of the os uteri, a profuse excoriating leucorrhcea, and great ardor urince. I gave, in this case, Mercurius sol., and Podophyllin, in alternation daily, which relieved in ten days the prolapsus, and reduced the os uteri to its normal size. The apthae yielded at the same time, to a great extent, Belladonna, relieving this symptom; Sulphur, Sepia, and Mere. iod., removed the leucorrhcea, and swelling of the glands, in three weeks time. The 3d attenuation was used. (Ibid). CASE 3.-Prolapsus uteri, brought on by a violent strain, seven years ago; she was emaciated from violent suffering, loss of appetite, cold and debilitating night sweats, violent burning in hypochondriac region, extreme low spirits. Mere. viv. 3d removed the night sweats permanently; Podophyllin 3d removed the other symptoms, with the prolapsus, and she remains cured-more than one year.'Induration of Os Uteri. —Dr. Gatchell mentions, incidentally, that Dr. Brown, of Cincinnati, cured with a trituration of, Podophyllin, an induration of the os. which had resisted the efforts of the distinguished Prof. Morrow, until he abandoned the case' in despair. This remedy is used extensively by the eclectics in all diseases of the liver; uterus, and in dysentery; diarrhaea, acute and chronic; glandular enlargement; scrofulous and venereal diseases. (Amer. Mag. Hom., vol. i. p. 63); According to some physicians, Podophyllin is useful in swelling and inflammation of the ovaries; its general specific action on the glandular system would lead us to suspect it of the power of causing disease of those organs. I once fbund it beneficial in a case'of chronic ovaritis, with symptoms 352 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. courses, in most parts of the United States. It has but a slight odor, and a pungent, acrid taste. It yields its medicinal properties to water and alcohol. GENERAL EFFECTS. In allopathic works it is: generally classed as an Emrmenagogue, but is said to be " diaphoretic, diuretic, stimulant, antiseptic, rubefacient, and disciitient." Probably no indigenous plant is in such general, almost universal use, in domestic practice in the country and city, and no remedy is so popular in a great variety of complaints. It may be one of the many popular delusions, but certain it is, that the remedy gives satisfaction to the patient in a majority of cases. -In the country it is almost useless for the homceopathic physician to attempt to prohibit the external use of the Polygonum; and, as its. use is no more objectionable than Arnica applications, and prevents officious friends from applying some worse article, it may as well be permitted, and even advised, as a fomentation in internal inflammations, spasms, pains, etc. The green herb, bruised, and applied to the surface, acts promptly as a rubefacient. Anti-septic properties have been assigned to it, and from the testimony in its favor, we doubt not it may be advantageously employed as a local application for that purpose. "It constitultes an important fomentation in hysteritis, eystitis, nephrttis, peritonitis, pneumonitis, pleuritis, articular rheumatism, local pains, sprains, bruises, indolent and painful tumors, etc., one of the best in use.' —(Eclectic MJ/at. Med..). Dr. B. L. Hill, when an eclectic, reported a "protracted case of epileptic fits entirely cured by the use- of the extract, made into pills." "In combination With Sulphate of Iron and Gum Myrrh, it is said to have cured epilepsy-probably dependent on some uterine derangement.i'-(King.) Which erned. "The infusion, or a fomentation of the leaves, has been beneficially applied in chronic ulcers, hemorrhoidal tumors, also as a wash in chronic erysipelatous inflammations and as a fomentation in tympanitis and flatulent colic." -(lb.) It has quite a reputation as an external application in poisoning by the different varieties of Rhus. Dr. Small informs me that a proving of this remedy Was once made by himself, aided by some of the students of the Philadelphia Homceopathic College, when he was Professor in that institution. The records of that proving, are, however, unfortunately lost. He states that its general sphere of action is quite similar to that of Pulsatilla. It acts upon the mucous membranes, skin, and sensory nerves; It has a great reputation in acute catarrhal affections, to which it appears to be homceopathici also to some rheumatic disorders. We append to this notice of the Polygonum, Dr. Joslin's fragmentary provings. We shall not-arrange the symp. toms, nor attempt any clinical observations, except as relates to the Sexual Organs of Women.-D)rs. Tully, Eberle, Wood, and others, class it among the emmenagogues. Dr. Eberle states that it causes the following symptoms:-" Warmth, and a peculiar tingling sensation throughout the whole system; in most instances slight POLYGONUIM HYDROPIPER. 353 aching pains in the hips and loins; a sense of weight and tension within the pelvis." He states that he has used it in about twenty cases of amenorrhcea, and says:-' I can affirm that with no other remedy or mode of treatment have I been so successful as with this. I have seldom. found it necessary to continue its use for nmore than six or seven days, before its emmenagogue powers were manifested."'He says that those to whom he recommended it, found it effectual. He used it in the form of a saturated tincture, in doses, of a teaspoonful three times a day. The warm infusion is used successfully in domestic practice-a wine glassfull every few hours. I have known this simple treatment to prove effectual after all the usual remedies failed. FRAGMENTARY PROVINGS OF POLYGONUM HYDROPIPER, BY DR, B. F. JOSLIN, OF NEW YORK. FIRST'PROVING.-A specimen was collected September 12th, 1854.-A heavy rain a few days before had washed the leaves. The earth in the vicinity had not yet become dry, so that no dust had since fallen on the leaves. The weather and' time of day were favorable, all dew having been removed by the sun shining in a clear sky. The flowering season of the plant had commenced. At noon, immediately after collecting the specimen, a leaf was thoroughly masticated and' wallowed; the taste pungent, like that of black pepper. SYMPTOM 1. —At 12.30 P. M., momentary pain in the right frontal protuberance, and instantly afterwards in the right occipital protuberance, after half an hour. In the afternoon of the same day, two dozen of the leaves were thorougly bruised in a clean agate mortar, and not being sufficiently succulent to allow of the expression of juice, the mass was put into a vial with alcohol, reduced by water to about fifty per cent. At ten in the evening eat another leaf. 2. —September 13th. —Intolerable itching at the left shin, a little above the ankle, in the morning at six o'clock. 3.-Severe aching at the fore part. of the left tibia, about four inches below the knee, from one till two o'clock, P. M. 4.-Aching in the left shoulder, when recumbent, about 11 P. M., soon after going to bed. SECOND PROVING.-On the 7th day of May, 1856, I decanted a second time a second sample of the tincture, from a specimen collected September 16th, 1854, and prepared in a similar manner. At 1.30 P. M. agitated one drop of this tincture with half an ounce of water, and took it at once. 1.-At 1.40 r. M., painful pressure on the palmar-radial side of the right fore-arm, an inch and a half above the wrist, at -the spot where the radial artery is distinctly felt, lasting seven minutes, commencing ten minutes after the dose. 2. —IDiy cough in the night, excited by titillation in the upperanterior, part of the chest, with a dry sensation in the larynx when coughing, after about twelve hours. May 8th.-At 1 P. M.. put one drop of the tincture, Polyg., in one gill of water, and after agitating it several times, occupied a minute in sipping it. 45 354 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. 3.-Sensation of heat in the mouth and throat within the first quarter of an hour, commencing at the tip of the tongue and extending to much of the mouth, then to the throat at the right upper part. 4.-Cough excited by a pricking, tickling sensation, behind the upper part of the sternum, at 1.30 P. x,; i. e., after forty minutes. 5. —May 9th and 10th.-Pain pressive and remittent, for two ~consecutive evenings, at the anterior-inner surface of the head of the left tibia. 6.-On thej 9th, in the evening, the interior of the anus was studded with itching eminences, as from corrugation without contraction —a kind of hemorrhoidal tumor; they disappeared within two days. The above is an exact copy of records made at the time of the provings. Short as they are, I call them two' because the latter was made after such an interval as precludes the possibility of continuance of action. NOTE.-It would seem homeeopathio to hemorrhoids. RUMEX CRISPUS. (Yellow Dock.) This plant is a native of Europe, though naturalized in this country. It follows closely the match of emigration, and even precedes it, so thAt it may almost be looked upon as belonging to the class of indigenous plants. It grows in fields, gardens, and waste places, and is so well known that it needs no accurate description. The root which is the officinal portion, is large, spindleshaped and yellow; it has but little odor, and a bitter and astringent taste., It yields its medicinal properties to boiling water and alcohol. This is one of four species of dock used in this country in medicine, but of the others we have no provings or clinical experience. To the late lamented B. F. Joslin, M. D., of New York, the profession owe the valuable and accurate provings of this medicine. He first called the attention of the profession to it in the first and second volumes of the Philad. Jour., of Hornm., afterwards in other Journals, and finally in the American Hom. Review, in which he published the " verified symptoms ot Rumex Crispus."? The original provings and clinical contributions, were made by some of the best men in our schools, namely Drs. Joslin Sr. and Jr., Bowers, Bayard, Kellogg, IIoughton, Payne, Rhees, and others. We may implicitly rely upon the accuracy of their observations. I cannot omit in this place to render my tribute of respect and reverence for the genius, virtues, and sterling RUMEX CRISPUS. 855 qualities of Dr. B. F. Joslin. He was one of those representative men of our profession and school, ranking'with Hartmann, Hempels Neidhard and a few others whose "mighty footsteps' will "E:chlo down the Corridors of Time." Among his many excellent qualities, the most to be admired were his industry, honesty, and consistency. In the domain of Materia Medica and Therapeutics, no man has done more in this country. He has given us some exact and reliable provings, and a volume on "Epidemic Cholera," which is one of the finest monographs ever published in our school. He was rigorously honest in that' he allowed no prejudice to sway his judgment, but examined carefully the testimony relating -to drugs, fiom any and all sources, selecting the reliable, no matter from what source it emanated, or how obtained. He also recorded his observations with that truthfulness and candor which commands our highest regard. Although a staunch champion for the " high potencies,"., he did not allow his enthusiasm to degenerate into bigotry, or his preference into prejudice. He was thoroughly consistent, always relying upon the higher dilutions, even in Cholera, and his success in their cure was something astonishing, but probably owing to his carefulness in selecting his remedies. We can admire such a man, as much as we can despise others, who, constantly harping upon the highest potencies, habitually resort to the lower, and'even cruder drugs. For myself, who allow the largest lattitude, I can sincerely respect the consistency of a Joslin, even though I cannot adopt his practice altogether. According to Dr. Joslin's "verified symptoms," and clinical experience, the Rumex c., is closely analogous to Sulphur Phosphorus, Causticurn, Calc., MIercurius, and Spongia. In fact it has many symptoms which are to be found in the pathogenesis of these remedies. This may partly be accounted for by a fact too little heeded by our school; namely, that the chemical analogue of a plant is some clue to its pathogenetic effects. Rumex c.', contains, besides starch, mucilage, lignin, etc., Sulphur, and various salts, among which are the phosphate of lime. Here we have three of our best remedies represented indirectly in the yellow-dock; namely, Calcarea, Phosphorus, and Sulphur. Its use in the old school, for diseases of the skin, and other obstinate affections, all of which are covered by the symptoms of the medicines above named, and its undoubted success, should have led us, without any proving, to decide nearly the sphere of action of this plant. The following provings, however, show its real properties, and proves the reliableness of the above assertion. The provings were made with the mother tincture, lower and higher dilutions; the thirtieth causing the same or similar symptoms, that were aroused by the crude tincture. GENERAL EFFECTS.-Allopathists have decreed the Rumex c., to be alterative, tonic, astringent and discutient. In the first volume of the Philad. Jour. of Homceopathy, Dr. Joslin comments on the Allopathic use and statements concerning this medicine. As it would be improper to copy his remarks entire I would refer the reader to that article (page 289). He remarks:-" Its only 356 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. definite and well-ascertained property was its power of curing itch, when administered ifiternally and applied externally. This was as well known to the laity as to the profession." He goes on to say that the Allopathist compounds the medical properties of the difp ferent varieties of Rumex, and would have us consider their effects nearly the same. Ignoring as they do the necessity of proving each drug, in order to ascertain its true action, they grope in the dark. They reverse the true order of investigation. " But these" he remarks "are not specially the faults of the professor (Wood); they are almost inseparable from. the school." Dyr.'Wood remarks: "We have placed together the three officinal species of dock (i. e. R., aguaticus, R. brittanica and R. obtusifolius)," because their virtues are so nearly alike that a separate consideration would lead to unnecessary repetition. All the otherspecies may be used'indiscriminately with those which are considered 6fficinal. The medical properties of dock root are those of an astringent and mild tonic. It is also supposed to possess an alterative property which renders it useful in scorbutic disorders, and cutaneous eruptions, particularly the itch. It is said to have been useful in scrofula and syphilis. The roots of some species unite a laxative, with the tonic and astringent property, resembling rhubarb, somewhat, in their operation." (Wood.) " Dr. Payne, in his judicious compend of the Allopathic Materia Mledica, comes to the conclusion, that Rumex is similar but inferior to Rhubarb. Our school; after a comparison of the provings, would consider the difference to be more qualitative than quantitative." ([odine). The eclectic school estimate the docks more highly than their Allopathic brethren. Jones and Scudder in their Materia Medica say:-'"The dock appears to exert its silent alteratve action upon the constitution in many chronic cutaneous eruptions, as scabies, the different forms of herpes, etc.; syphilis, when it, has assumed a constitutional form, attended with an ulceration of the fauces, eruption or ulceration upon the surface, also in mercurio-syphilitic disorders, mercurial cachexy, cancerous tumors or ulcers, scrofulawhether manifested by a general depravation of the system, enlarged glands, or foul and indolent ulcers-or in any other form of ulcer, especially if dependent upon any constitutional taint. In caries, necrosis or other morbid conditions of the osseous system, in scurvy or scorbutic affections, and in numerous other abnormal states, its resolvent, depurative and detergent qualities, render it an excellent auxiliary and corroborant, all the agents desired under this class (alteratives) are either associated or alternated with other remedies and not relied upon as individual curative agents." This last sentence contains the elements of all the errors of Allopathic therapeutics. They mix a number of drugs together, and then affirm certain curative properties of one of these, because the compound seemed to cure. It is in this manner that the estimate of Rumex quoted above is made up. It is generally given in combination with Stillingia, Iodide of Potash, or some other drug. N early all the curative effects above named may be due to the latter medicines. It is also recommended for " dyspepsia, debilitated RUMEX CRISPUS. 357 states of the intestinal canal, diarrhcea, and dysentery." I Dr. J. Williams. says: —" Boiled in milk, and taken in hematemesis, it is an infallible remedy.' It is said to be useful as a wash or gargle in spongy states of the gums, ulceration of the mouth, throat, etc. Howmuch of value there may be in the above statements, will be shown by the proving. GENERAL SYMPTOMS.-General languor; general pulsation or throbbing through the body; sensitiveness to the open air in cold weather, or fo the cold. CHARACTERISTICS.-Locality and character. —The left chest has' more verified symptoms than any other region; they are generally sharp pains. The) other regions which afford a considerable, and nearly equal number of symptoms, as compared with each other, are the head, stomach, abdomen, and inferior extremities. The symptoms of the head.are, generally, dull pains in the fiontal region. The symptoms generally appear to be either in a mucous membrane, or in a muscular locality, and to be about equally numerous in both. I leave' it for others to decide whether the latter are neuralgic. They present about the same number as the former. (Joslin.) Conditions. —Headacbe, worse on movement; sensation of weight of a hard substance in the stomach, or pit of the stomach after a meal; liquid diarrhcea, evacuations in the morning; pain in the chest when in bed at night; unquiet sleep, with dreams of danger or trouble, early in the morning; itching of the skin, worse on uncovering, and exposing it to the air, especially on going to bed in the evening, or at night. (Joslin.) The above careful remarks by the astute observer, Dr. Joslin, are very valuable, and quite practical. Skin.-Itching in various parts of the body, either in this order: left portion of the back, left ear, left shoulder, and left loin, or else principally on the lower extremities. On various, parts a stinging, itching, or pricking itching; itching on the shoulder in the evening, with itching in the lumbar or dorsal region; itching on the body, principally on the lower extremities; itching of the skin when uncovered and exposed to the air; eruption on the limbs, first perceived in'the evening; itching of the vesicles on undressing in the evening to go to bed; an itching rash, in which numerous small red pimples are developed; the eruption itching in the evening, and worse on exposure to the air. CLINICAL REMARKS. —For the allopathic use of Rumex, in skin diseases, see " General Effects." No clinical records of cures of skin diseases, treated with Rumex, have yet appeared in our school, but Dr. H. M. Payne, while experimenting with Rumex, got the following notable symptoms fiom the crude tincture: " While undressing and for some time after, considerable itching qof the surface of the lower extremities.'" This occurred several nights, when he says:-" There is no appearance of an eruption until after irritating the skin by sdratching, and then rather a. diffused redness, which soon disappears. Frequent scratching of the surface has produced a number of little sores, (which, however, readily heal,) on the calves of the legs, and about the knees, especially the posterior surfaces; 358 PNEW HOM(EOPATIICO PROVINGS. the rash is not usually troublesome until after the surface is exposed to the air while undressing at night, or on getting up in the morning; the warmth of the bed soon relieves the itching." (The contrary occurs in most cases of skin diseases, the itch especially; also in the provings of Mercurius, the opposite obtains.) Many persons are troubled with a peculiar irritability of the skin, like the condition above described. Exposure to air, working in water, scratching, wearing flannel or new cloth, will get up considerable irritation, and even cause erythematous and other eruptions. In such cases the Rumex will probably form an admirable remedy. I would also suggest its persevering use in those eruptions which seem constitutional, and which,.when suppressed, or not appearing upon the surface, are replaced by cough, hoarseness, and other lung symptoms. May not the peculiar irritation which Rumex causes in the bronchial mucous membrane be analogous to the condition of the skin noted above? The remarks of Dr. C. Dunham are pertinent to this suggestion. They will be found under the head of " chest." Sleep.-Great propensity to sleep in the evening before the proper time; unquiet sleep at night; restless and uncomfortable in the bed at night; unquiet sleep, with drcams of danger and trouble early in the morning; dream of theft or burglary; an unpleasant dream in the morning between five and six o'clock, just before waking; unquiet dreamy sleep, followed by headlache, and bitter taste on waking in the morning. Fever.-Heat and other symptoms of fever in the morning, preceded by restlessness at night; increased frequency of pulse; sensation of heat, followed by that of cold without shivering. Head.-Sensation of fulness in the head; headache after awaking in the morning, preceded by a disagreeable dream; headache worse by motion; dull pain in the head, between the time of waking and breakfast, preceded by a disagreeable dream in the morning; dull pain in the head in the forenoon, commencing at 10 o'clock; dull pain in the forehead; frontal headache on awaking in the morning; pain over the right eyebrow; pain on the right side of the forehead in the region of causality; pain in the left temple; darting pain, or sharp, piercing pain in the left side of the head, for half an hour or less; dull aching pain in the occiput. Eyes. —Sore feeling in the eyes, without any external signs of inflammation. Ears.-Ringing in the ears; itching in the ears; sensation as if the ears were obstructed; constant roaring in'the ears, not relieved by pressing the fingers into the ears. Nose.-Obstruction of the nose; fluent coryza, attended with painful irritation in nostril and sneezing; epistaxis; mucus discharge from posterior nares; violent and rapid sneezing; sensation of great dryness in the nose, day and night; feeling of dryness in the, posterior nares. Face.-Sensation of heat in the cheeks, within the first hour; RUMEX CRISPUS. 359 heat and redness of the face in the evening; heat and redness in the face with dull headache in the evening. Teeth.-Toothache with aching in the head; grumbling, stinging toothache in right superior molars, while riding in cold wind, attended with dull aching in forehead..Mouth. —Sensation as from a burn or scald on the tongue; sensation of excoriation, or slight stinging, at edge of tongue; flow of saliva within first hour; dryness of the mouth and tongne at night. Throat.-Sensation of excoriation in the throat; sore feeling in the throat on swallowing in the forenoon; sensation as of a lump in the throat, not relieved by hawking and swallowing; raw feeling in throat, with secretion of phlegm; mucous secreted in upper part of throat; aching sensation in the throat, as if a lump were sticking fast in the cesophagus, aching in the pharynx, with collection of tough mucus in the fauces. Gastric Symptoms.-Awoke with bitter taste in the mouth in morning; flatulency after meals; heaviness, or a sensation of hard substance in the stomach or epigastrium soon after a meal; after a meal has a sensation of weight in the stomach, like that produced by the presence of undigested food in it (the first symptoms in two provers, with the tincture*). Tasteless eructations; sensation of fullness or distension in the stomach or scrobiculous cordis, with eructations on going to bed or in evening; nausea in the morning and forenoon, also in the evening; nausea with eructations; nausea either with a sensation of fullness in the abdomen, as if diarrhaea were forming, or else with moving in the intestines as from a cathartic; sharp pain in the pit of the stomach, either worse on movement, or occurring while riding out in the open air; stitching, then cutting pain in stomach. CLINICAL REMARKS. -It has been used with alleged success in dyspepsia. Many of the above symptoms would seem to indicate its applicability in some forms of gastric derangement. Dr. Joslin reports the following cases in the "Review:"-" A young lady complained of shootings from the pit of the stomach into the chest in various directions; sharp pains in left chest; dull aching in the forehead and slight nausea; ordered her to take Rumex thirtieth, morning and evening. She called the next day; all her symptoms had been removed by a single dose, and her appetite, which had been defective, improved; having eaten an unusually full dinner, there is a partial return of the shootings; gave Rumex thirtieth, evening and morning; there was no further complaint."'A lady about fifty years of age, who had suffered about three weeks with pain in the pit of the stomach, aching in the left chest, flatulence, eructations, pressure and distention in the stomach after meals; was permanently cured of these dyspeptic symptoms in two or three hours by one dose of Rumex, two hundredth."-" A * "Dr. Payne, who experienced this symptom several times, adds, that this sensation of weight,In the stomach, was accompanied with a pressing sensation as far upward as the throat pit; it descends towards the stomach upon every empty deglutiIli.n, but immediately returned. har e clinical conatrmati-a of this, as well as the symptoms of the text."-(Joslin.) 360 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. younag lady has a sensation of fulness and pressure in the pit of the stomach, extending up towards and to the throat, and afterwards carried down again towards the stomach when she swallows, and then rising again to the throat. This curious alternation has been observed in the proving of Rumex. She was cured by Rumex two hundredth." "A gentleman, not accustomed to the use of tea, took a cup of it, very weak, of the'black kind; then followed aching in the pit of the stomach and aching and shooting above it in the chest, at, and especially on each side of the lower end of the sternum. These symptoms were removed in a few minutes by one dose of the Rumex, thirtieth." IHypochondrium.-Pain in the hopochondrium in the afternoon, after dinner; worse on movement, or occurring while walking; hypochondrium pained by coughing, rapid walking, or deep inspiration. Abdomen.-Dull *pain in the abdomen in day time, continuing two hours; pain in the abdomen in the night; pain in the abomen in the morning; pain in the abdomen in the morning in bed; protuberance or hardness, or else sensation of fulness in the abdomen; rumbling in the bowels, or much flatus moving obout in them; pain in the abdomen, occurring or increasing during deep inspiration; moving in the intestines; flatulent colic near the umbilicus soon after a meal, mitigated by discharge of flatus; emissions of flatus in the morning; pain in the umbilical region, with eructation, soon followed by pain over eyebrow; pain in the abdomen, in the morning, followed by an evacuation of the bowels; griping pain in the bowels below the umbilicus, which is partially relieved by the discharge of very offensive flatus, after breakfast; sensation in the bowels as if diarrhcea would ensue. (See clinical remarks under "stool.") -Stool and Anus. —Dark-colored fieces; stool brown, or else black; constipation, or else scanty feeces; sensation in the bowels as if a diarrhceaic evacuation would ensue, the sensation passing off without subsequent evacuation; liquid diarhceaic stool in the morning; diarrhceaic stool in the morning, preceded by eructations; diarrhmaic stool in the morning preceded by pain.in the abdonen; sensation as if from pressure of a stick in the rectum;- itching in the anus; discharge of offensive flatus, -CLINICAL REMARBKS.-It is considered by allopathists, as similar in its action to, Rhubarb, and has been used by that school in diarrhmea and dysentery. It is hommeopathic to some forms of intestinal disorder. Dr. A. E. Small informs me that at-one time he found it very useful in the bowel complaints of children. Dr. C. Dunham, writes (Am. Hom, Review, vol. ii, p. 533); "I have noticed in one case the cessation of a brown, watery diarrhoea after the administration of: Rumex. A boy of five years, had brown, watery diarrhcea, chiefly in the morning, having five stools from 5 to 9 A. r., attended with moderate griping pain in the lower part of the abdomen; this continued several days, notwithstanding two prescriptions which I made for it. Observing that the boy had a cough, which presented the characteristic features of the rumex RUMEX CRISPUS. 361 cough, I gave that remedy, and both diarrhcea and cough were speedily cured." A writer, (" I") in the Hom. Review, reports two cases. "A lady about the turn of life, had diarrhoca in the morning, four evacuations, between 6 and 10 A. Mr.; faeces very thin; evacutions painless; nausea on movement in the night, preceding the evacuations; mouth dry, tongue slightly coated yellow.; the day previous had dull pain on the right side of the sternum; sharp pain on the left. Gave Rumex 30th., in solution, once in three hours. The next day all the symptoms were removed.'"-".Diarrhea in the morning with cough —a lady about fifty years of age, has had diarrhea every morning for four days; the evacuations, profuse, offensive, and thin, and have even become watery; she is also suffering from a cough, excited by a sensation of tickling in the throat-pit. It is usually dry, but when expectoration takes place, this is tasteless; the cough shocks the stomach, and is attended with a sensation of excoriation in the chest; it keeps her awake at night. Rumex 30th., every four hours, on 30th of March, in the evening the cough was immediately and decidedly improved, so that she slept all night. Next morning she awoke with the most severe headache she had ever suffered; it was a continuous aching in the temples, forehead and eyebrows, and lasted all the morning; the cough and diarrhcea were removed without any other medicines. All the above symptoms, except the fRetor of the fbeces, have been observed as pathogenetic of Rumex." Urinary Organs, etc. —Urine extremely pale, or colorless; very sudden and urgent desire to urinate; copious discharge of colorless urine in- afternoon; complete loss of sexual desire for several days. Larynx.-Pain in thelarynx; in the second prover in a few minutes, and the first rumex symptom in six years; tenacious mucus in the throat or larynx, detached and removed by an expiratory effort, or attended with a constant desire to hawk and raise it; in the first prover it was the first symptom in the second proving, five years after the first; much mucus in the bronchi, or in the larynx; expectoration made by coughing and hawking,.or attempted by hawking, worse at night; scraping and tenacious mucus in the throat, or else much tough mucus in the larynx, with a constant desire to hawk and raise it, but without relief; cough excited by tickling or irritation behind the sternum; cough excited by irritation in the chest; cough, attended with pain in the head. Sudden change of voice at the same hour on consecutive days;- the first and second of the proving, it becomes suddenly hoarse at eleven at night, or else rose several notes in pitch at two in the afternoon. CLINICAL REMARKS. —The Rumex c. seems to have'a specific affinity for the laryngeal and bronchial mucous membrane; the recorded clinical experience with this remedy is quite extensive. Dr. C. Dunham makes some valuable observations concerning its therapeutical properties. I copy a portion of his article (see Amer. Hom. Review, vol. ii., p. 530): "I have used the Rumex chiefly in acute catarrhal affections of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. In these cases it seems to me to present a close analogy in its, action to 46 362 NEW HOMChEOPATHIC PROVINGS. Belladonna, Lachesis, Phosphorus and Causticum. Without assuming to present an exhaustive analysis of the action of Rumex on the respiratory organs, I proceed to state the indications for its use to which my studies of it, thus far have led me. Rumex diminishes the secretions, and at the same time exalts in a very marked manner, the sensibility of the mucous membrane of the larynx and trachea, exceeding in the extent of this exaltation, any remedy known to us. The cough, therefore, is frequent and continuous, to an extent quite out of proportion to the degree of organic affection of the mucous membrane. It is dry, occurs in long paroxysms, or, under certain circumstances, is almost uninterrupted. It is induced or greatly aggravated by any irregularity of respiration, such as an inspiration a little deeper or more rapid than usual; by an inspiration of air a little colder than that previously inhaled; by irregularity of respiration, and motion of the larynx and trachea, such as are involved in the act of speech;and by external pressure upon the trachea, in the region of the supra-sternal fossa." The subjective symptoms, are, rawness and soreness in the trachea, extending a short distance below the supra-sternal fossa, and laterally into the bronchi, chiefly the left; and tickling in the suprla-sternal fossa, and behind the sternum, provoking the cough; this tickling is very annoying and very persistent, and is often but momentarily, and sometimes only partially, relieved by coughing. The cough occurs chiefly, or is much worse, in the evening after retiring, and at the time the membrane of the trachea is particularly sensitive to cold air, and to anyirregularity in the flow of air over its surface; so that the patient often covers the head with the bed clothes to avoid the cold air of the apartment, and refuses to speak, or even listen to conversation, lest his attention should be withdrawn from the supervision of his respiratory acts, which he performs with the most careful uniformity and deliberation, and all in the hope of preventing the distressing tickling and the harrassing cough which would ensue from a neglect of these precautions. I have frequently witnessed this state of things during -the last three years, and have invariably given prompt relief with Rumex. In the group of remedies in which I have placed Rumex (along with Bell., Lach., Phos., Caust.), it stands pre-eminent in respect to the extreme sensibility of the tracheal mucous membrane. All of these remedies produce symptoms identical in kind: the characteristic of each is to be found in the relative degree in which each symptom is pronounced in the different remedies, quite as much as in the possession by any one of them of symptoms not produced by the others. Thus, Belladonna, Lachesis, and Rumex produce each, a dry cough, induced by tickling in the larynx or trachea, and provoked by deep inspiration, by speaking, and by external pressure on the larynx or trachea. The cough of each is spasmodic and long continued, and is worse at night after retiring; but, apart from the fact that Belladonna and Lachesis act more upon the lower part of the trachea, we observe that, in the case of Lachesis, the slightest external pressure on the larynx or trachea produces violent and long-continued, spasmodic cough; the RUMEX CRISPUS. 363 patient cannot endure the least constriction in that region, not even the ordinary contact of his clothing. There is, moreover, a sense of fiulness in the trachea and a very painful aching in the whole extent of the-os hyodes. In the case of Belladonna not only is cough produced to a moderate extent by pressing upon the larynx, but soreness and pain are experienced with a sense of internal fulness and soreness which at once suggests the presence of Acute Laryngitis sub-mucosa. In Rumex, on the other hand, there is no sensibility, strictly speaking, of the trachea, but simply such an instability of the mucous membrane that cough is produced by the change of position induced in that membrane by external pressure on the trachea. As regards the extent and intensity of this symptom, Rumex holds a lower rank than the other remedies named. But the irritability of mucous membrane by virtue of which cough is induced by hurried or deep inspiration, or by speaking, while it is common to Bell., Lach., Rumex, and Phosphorus is produced in the most exalted degree, as we have already seen, by Rumex, which, as regards this symptom, takes first rank. A sensation of rawness or roughness in the larynx, trachea and bronchia is produced by each of the four remedies above named, but the locality and the degree in which it is produced, vary in such a manner as to serve in some measure as a characteristic of each. It is most marked in Phosphorus and Belladonna, less prominent in Rumex, and least of all in Lachesis. In Belladonna and Lachesis it is most marked in the larynx; indeed it is almost confined to that region. Rumex produces it in the trachea and upper part of the bronchia, while Phosphorus induces it in the whole mucous tract, from the larynx to the smaller bronchia, and bronchi; and, moreover, in the Phosphorus proving this'rawness' of the air passages is accompanied by a no less characteristic sense of weight and constriction across the upper part of the thorax, which indicates an affection of the finer air tubes, and of the air vesicles, of such a character as seriously to impede the function of respiration. In considering this last symptom we must mention Causticumr also, which produces'rawness,' extending the whole length of the sternum. All five remedies, again, produce hoarseness: Phosphorus, Causticum, and Belladonna most eminently, Rtumex less decidedly, and Lachesis in a still less degree.-As regards complications, Belladonna and Lachesis apply especially to those which involve the fauces and pharynx, and are acutethe one of a sthenic, the other of an asthenic character:-Phosphorus, those of the pulmonary tisques of a definite inflammatory character; and, Rumex, to certain affections of the lungs and their envelopes of which their nature is not clearly defined in the proving. They are indicated by pairs, generally sub-acute, in the upper part of the lung, near the clavicle and axilla, and more frequent in the left than in the right lung. The following case from my clinical record will illustrate the character of the Rumex cough. M., aged twenty-two of feeble constitution, strumous, subject for several years to sub-acute rheumatism, has had a severe cold for several days, and is now confined to the bed. The pulse is RUMEX CRISPUS. 365 fauces; cough excited by pressure on throat pit; cough is violent, with scanty, difficult expectoration; shocks the head and chest, as if the head would fly in pieces, and he feels as if he might raise blood at any minute. He is greatly exhausted after the paroxysms of coughing; head aches during the cough. You have the group above in the order as written down for me by his brother, and upon which I prescribed the medicine, which was followed by the happiest results. Dr. J. M. Rhees, reports several cases of Aphonia: one of three months standing; with sore throat- during deglutition; posterior surface of pharynx irritated and in places excoriated, edges of soft palate and uvula red and somewhat swollen, and covered with an eruption of minute red pimples; slight hacking cough produced by a tickling in larynx and' upper part of trachea. Under Carbo veg., Caust., and Mere. she grew worse; her cough became almost constant; tickling at the root of the tongue; 1tyos. and Rhus. were given, but gave no relief. Runmex 6th was then given, and she commenced to improve the day after. On the third day her cough was much better, and the pharynx looked almost natural. The eruption on the palate had almost disappeared, but, there was still some redness on the edges, Rumex 6th as before, cured. Dr. B. F. Joslin, in the first Vol of Pthilad. Jou. of IHom.,reported eleven cases of cough, cured with the 30th dilution of Rumex c. I give a brief abstract of the cases:- Case 1. Dry cough; tickling in the throat pit; excoriation in larynx and behind the upper portion of the sternum; cough worse on working; pain in chest..Rumex 30th cured the case; three doses only were given. The cough had lasted several weeks before the Rumex was prescribed. Case 2. Fluent coryza, with cough excited by tickling in the throat pit; sensation of excoriation behind the upper part of the sternum while coughing; Rumex 30th, morning and evening. Cured promptly. Case 3. A lady: of highly nervous temperament, had confusion of the head; hoarseness in the evening; cough; excoriation behind the whole of the sternum on coughing, and inspiration, and coldness of the fingers; Rumex 30th, three times a day. Cured in a few days. Ccase 4. Severe, dry cough, excited by an irritated pressure in the throat pit; excoriation in the larynx, and chest; Rumex 30th morning and evening. Cured in a few days. Case 5. Cough excited by pressing, on the throat, and attended with excoriation in the larynx and chest, and hoarseness, He took one dose of Rumex thirty drops, in the morning; in afternoon of same day was much better; no cough next day, nor did it return. Case 6. Violent cough in evening, worse about 11 o'clock at night; aggravated by lying down; excited by a tickling behind the sternum, and attended by a sprain-like aching near the sternum, and with accumulation of mucus in the fauces, near the posterior orifice of the nares. One dose of Ruinex 30th, removed the paroxysm in a few minutes, and it did not return. Case'7. A young lady complained of shootings from the pit of the stomach into the chest, in various directions; sharp pains in the left chest; dull aching in the fore 366 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. head, and slight nausea; Rumex 30th, morning and evening. Cured in two days. My own experience with Rumex, has been mainly with the third dilution I have cured many cases -where Phos. Mere. and Caust., semed indicated, but failed. The remedy has not been used as much by the profession, as its merits seem to demand. Chest.-Pain in the chest, right and left; either aching pain in the anterior portion of both lungs, which harrassed him day and night for five days, or else raw pain just under each clavicle while hawking mucus out of the throat; pain in chest when in bed at night; pain in outer-superior part of chest near the axillas; near the left axilla, pain undefined —near the right, sharp; both after the same dilution; first symptom in two provers; in one, in ten minutes, the first symptom ever produced in any proving of Rumex; in the other, two minutes, his first symptom —sharp pain in right chest; a burning pain in the left chest; dull pain in the left chest; sharp pain in left chest; shootings in the left chest; sticking pain in the left thoracic region; stitches in the left chest; sharp, cutting pain at or under the left breast; pain in the chest a little below and to the right of the left nipple; burning, sticking, or burning, stinging pain in the left chest; burning-smarting, or burning-stinging pain in the left chest; a very acute stitch, or burning-stinging pain in the left chest; shootings, or else dull pain in the left side near the back, a little above th'e seventh rib; pain in the left chest when recumbent; a sticking or stitch in the left chest while riding in the open air; painful sensation in the anterior part of the left chest, immediately after waking, about two o'olock at night, and between five and six hours after taking a low dilution; an acute stitch in the sternal region, or a severe stinging, which obstructs the respiration; itching at or near the sternumn; dull pain in the region of the heart; burning pain in the region of, or near the heart; palpitation of the heart, or else a sensation in the left chest, as if the heart suddenly ceased beating, followed by a heavy throbbing through the chest. CLINICAL REMARKS. -Some of the provers, especiallyDr: Rhees, experienced some peculiar, and severe cardiac symptoms, which we could hardly, at first thought, expect from this remedy. Yet we have no right to judge, before we prove a remedy thoroughly, of the probable effect of a drug. It does seem, however, if Rumex thus affects the heart, that of the thousands who have taken the Dock in large doses, some of them would have had dangerous heart-disease; but we hear of no such, instances. Dr. M. J. Rhees, one of the original provers of; this remedy, furnished the following interesting case: "Joseph H., aged thirteen years, subject to violent attacks of Inflammatory Rheumatismrn. In the spring of 1858 I attended him in a severe' attack, in which the disease concentrated itself on the heart with so much violence that I almost despaired of his recovery. Pulsatilla cured the disease at that time. In December, 1858, he was again attacked, but the heart was the principal seat of the disease from the first. On the 24th of December, his symptoms were: violent palpitation of the heart, with throbbing of the RUMEX: CRISPUS. 367 carotid, and throughout the body, visible to the eye and shaking the bed; pulse 120; violent aching pain in the region of the heart; great dyspnmea, especially while lying, so that it was necessary to prop him up in a sitting posture in bed; face red and:somewhat puffed up, especially:about the eyes, which were red, heavy, and lustreless; tongue coated with white fur, with red tip and edges; excessive thirst; no appetite; bowels costive. I commenced the treatment by giving Aeon. 3rd., and Puls. 3rd., alternately. Some relief followed the administration of these remedies, but the improvement was slow. From December 28th to January 9th, 1859, various other remedies were used, as they seemed to be indicated, but without decided improvement on the whole. On the latter date the patient complained of a stinging pain in the region of the heart, which was increased by lying down and by breathing deeply. In my arranged proving of Rumex crispus the following symptoms may be found:-" No. 41, burning, stinging pain in the whole of the left side of the chest; suddenly, when taking a deep inspiration while in the act of lying down in bed at night."-" No. 49, burning stinging pain in the left chest near the heart; came on soon after lying down in the bed at night. These symptoms were fresh in my memory, and I accordingly gave Rumnex crispus 6th, in water, two tea-spoonfuls every three hours. January 10th, consicerably relieved of the pain in the chest, and otherwise improved; continued Rumex. January 11th, the pain in the chest is almost removed. Rumex was continued several days after this, with the effect of entirely relieving the pain in the chest; but the improvement in other respects ceasing, Rumex was discontinued, and other remedies substituted. Bell. 30th, and Phos 30th; eventually cured the case, and there has been no return of the disease." This case is'in many respects a marked one. But it will require further clinical experience to prove satisfactorily, that Rumnex will cure serious heart-affections.. Spinal Region, —Sore or burning pain at or near the sacroiliac symphysis; chilliness in the back; sensation of heat in the back; pressive or aching pain in back'at the inferior angle of scapula; aching pain in the back, on the left side of the dorsal spine, either extending from the spine half way to the side, or else situated under and below the apex of the left scapula; stinging pain in the left dorsal region near the inferior angle of the scapula; pain in the back in the evening; itching in the evening. Superior Extremitles.-Pain in shoulder; either pain in the left shoulder, and from it along the upper arm to the:: elbow, including the joint, and leaving the arm with a sensation as if strained, commencing after four minutes, or else pain in the right shoulder on waking in the morning, ameliorated by rest, and passing off in two hours; itching on shoulder. in the morning; pain in upper arm in the evening; numb sensation in the right hand about 10 P. M., or else in the left upper arm after lying down in bed; pain at the inner side of the right upper arm; dull, aching pain in.the left upper arm; pain in the upper arm and elbow, undefined or 368 NEW IIOMCE OPATHLIC PROVINGS. dull; pain in wrist, the left aching, or ulnar half of the right, character undefined. Inferior Extremities. —A sensation of weakness or fatigue in lower limbs; aching of the lower extremities; itching on lower extremities when the'part is uncovered and exposed to cool air; stinging or prickling itching at an upper part of inferior extremity, either at the anterior part of the left thigh, or on the nates; pain in knee when in erect posture; stitch-like pain at the inner part when stepping, or rending aching in the flexure of the left while standing; the legs feel weak in the evening, or tired, then, though he had done but little walking; pain in an anterior part of both lower extremities, either rheumatic pain at the anterior part of the tibiae, or rending in the anterior part of the ankle joints, running down the insteps; aching in the calves, or drawing pain in the right calf; itching on the calves of the legs; legs densely covered with a rash, composed partly of small red pimples; itching worse on exposure to the air in the evening when undressing to go to bed; aching or reniding in the upper-anterior part of the tarsus, the instep: sensation of coldness of the feet during the forenoon. SANGUINARIA. CANADENSIS. (Bloocd-root.) This plant is indigenous, growing in open woods, in light, rich soils. It, appears early in the spring, and flowers in April. The tincture for Homnceopathic use should be prepared from the green root. The root is from an inch to two inches in length, and half an inch in diameter, terminating abruptly, as if bitten off. When the fresh root is broken, a light red fluid exudes, resembling blood; when dried the root becomes dark brown externally, contracted, wrinkled, breaking with a short waxy fracture, the broken extremities presenting an orange red color. Its odor, is feebly narcotic and disagreeable, its taste acrid and bitter; the powder is a grayish red. The active principles of Blood root are said to be Sanguinarina and Sanguinarin, the former a pure alkaloid, the latter an alka-resinoid. The Sanguinarin is supposed to represent'the plant more nearly, and is the one generally used in practice. Homteopathists generally prefer the green root tincture and its dilutions, but triturations of the root or the Sanguinarin are not to be discarded. General Effects.-" Blood-root is an acrid emetic, with narcotic and stimulant properties, it is also expectorant, sudorific, alterative, emmenagogue, tonic, anti-septic, detergent and escharotic, according to the mode in which it is employed. It is a very active SANGIUINARIA CANADENSIS. 369 agent, and is capable of exercising a powerful influence on the system. When given in small doses it stimulates the digestive organs, accelerates the circulation; in larger doses it occasions nausea and consequent depression of the pulse; in a full dose it produces active vomiting; in overdoses it chuses violent emesis, a burning sensation in the stomach, tormenting thirst, faintness, vertigo, dilmness of vision, alarming prostration and even death. (ting's Disp.) "'Sanguinaria is emetic, expectorant, diaphoretic, acro-narcotic, sedative, alterative, and in small doses, tonic and stimulant; in full doses it induces nausea and vomiting, with a sensation of warmth in the stomach, acceleration of pulse, and slight headache. It acts on the fauces, producing an acrid impression, and in some cases it proves cathartic. The leaves and seeds possess similar properties. The seeds however are said to exert a marked influence upon the brain and nervous system, occasioning torpor, languor, disordered vision and dilatation of the pupils; in large doses the emesis is violelt, there is a burning sensation in the stomach, i:aintness vertigo, dimness of vision and alarming prostration. (Jones and Scudder's Mat. Med.) Wood,, Tdaly, Eberle and other writers use about the same language in describing the general toxical effects of the Sanguinaria. It is undoubtedly one of the most powerful agents in the vegetable materia medica, and ranks as an anallogue of such potent medicines as Arsenicum, Phosphorus, Tartar'emetic and Veratrumn viride. SPECIxAL EFFECTS.-Nervous System.-The toxical and pathogenetic effects of Sanguinaria indicates that it has a profound effect upon the nerves of sensation and motion, but the exact nature of this action has not been sufficiently investigated. Among the symptoms we find-" a quickly diffused and transient, but at the same time a very peculiar nervous thrill, which is often extended to the minutest extremity." In large doses it causes " torpor, languor andl dilatation of the pupils." Mucous Membranes. -There are a'few drugs, like Pulsatilla, which seem to affect the mucous tissues of the whole system; others, like Squills, have a specific affinity for the pulmonary mucous membrane; Sanguinaria is -an analogue of the latter to a certain degree, although it more nearly approaches the action of Tartar emetic. It was known as an expectorant, long before the allopathic profession brought it- into use, and now, both that and the eclectic school value it highly for that purpose. (See Respiratory Organs.) Blood -root does not seem to notably increase the mucous secretions from the intestinal or other mucous tissues. Serous Membranes.-Said to be useful in pleuritis, synovitis. Muscular and Fibrous' Tissues.-Sanguinaria seems to cause pains of a rheumatic or myalgic character. It is difficult to decide which of the two affections were cured by this medicine in the reported curative symptoms. I am inclined to the opinion, however, that Sanguinaria, although it may cure some neuralgias, will not, like Colchicumn and Cimicifuga, act specifically in rheumnatic affections. (For cases cured see " Extremities.") Vasculnar System.-Ileart.-Pressing pain in the regions of the 47 SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS. 371 small tea-spoonful every three or four days; (verbally from Dr. B. Becker,) convulsive rigidity of the limb. REMAIRKS. — We can sometimes comprehend the sphere of action of a drug, by comparing the ensemble of its symptoms with that of other drugs; a careful analysis-of the symptoms and toxical effects of Sanguinaria show its marked resemblance to those of our most important medicines, namely: Arsenicum, Phosphorus and Tartar emetic; more remotely it resembles Belladonna, Verat. viride and Iris versicolor; Lycopodium, Sulphur, Kali carbonicumn and Rumex c., have some symptoms in common with Sanguinaria. Sleep.-Sleeplessness at night; he awakens at night with affright as if he would fall; dreams two nights in succession of sailing on the sea; dream of a fiightful and disagreeable character; he awakens earlier than common. Skln. —Heat and dryness; increased itching of an old tuberclelike eruption on the skin; itching and nettle rash before the nausea. CLINICAL REMARKS.-The blood-root has been used successfiully for scaly eruption; old indolent ulcers; ill-conditional ulcers with callous borders and ichorous discharge; the powdered root is escharotic, and when applied to fungous growths causes their rapid disappearance. Iconsider it the best application we have for this purpose; it has also cured warts, and polypi, when given internally and applied topically. Dr. Sholl uses it externally and internally for carbuncle with alleged success. Mind and Disposition. —Extreme moroseness; anxiety before the vomiting; hopefulness; sanguine of recovery from illness. CLINICAL REMARKS. —The last two symptoms were observed by me several times, from the blood root. Every physician is aware of the peculiarly hopeful condition of mind in phthisis. Sanguinaria is quite honmeopathic to that mental state. Sensorium.-Vertigo, with singing in the ears; flatulent eructation, and then tickling in the throat, which excites cough (immediately after taking it); frequent vertigo, and diminished vision before vomiting, after large doses; vertigo with nausea, long continuing, with debility and with headache; *vertigo on quickly turning the head, and looking upward. CLINICAL REMARKS. — It has cured,'vertigo on quickly turning the head and looking upward." Read.-Confused and dull feeling in the head, which became better after eructation; determination of the blood to the head, with whizzing in the ears, and a transitory feeling of heat; then a sensation as if vomiting was about to take place, but instead of this there succeeded slight cutting drawings in the abdomen, and then a stool; heaviness in the head; pressing drawing in the forehead; pain of a short duration in the right side of the forehead, like a pressing, only while standing still, better while walking; at the same time a pain deep in the ear; headache as if the forehead would split, with chill and with burning in the stomach; a pain occurs suddenly in the interior angle of the right eye, and thence to the forehead; about five o'clock in the evening a severe quickdarting pain in the forehead and temple on the right side, which SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS. 373 ness during the paroxysm, that no one dared to walk across the room. Sanguinaria 6th, was given, but the first dose produced such an aggravation that, the patient became almost beside herself; after the second dose, she fell into a pleasant sleep, from which she awoke refieshed. Dr. Helfiig always gave Aconite and Belladonna during the paroxysm of sick headache, and used Sang. thirty, during the interval, unless some other remedy was more indicated. (ibid). Many of the symptoms of Sanguinaria, are similar to those pains which Inman discribes as belonging to Xliyalgic headaches; particularly the superficial sensitiveness, and drawing pains. Congestions of the head are controlled by this medicine, when the temporal veins are distended. It is probable that it is also homceopathic to some of the varieties of Apoplexy. Its known carative influence over hmmorrhage from congestions, would suggest its use in Sanguineous apoplexy. The symptoms would seem to imply that venous congestions (if the term may be allowed) are most under the control of Salguinaria. Face.- Feeling of fulness in the face; distention of the veins of the face, with excessive redness, and a feeling of stiffness; severe burning, heat and redness of the face; paleness of the face, with disposition to vomit; twitching of the cheeks, towards the eves. CLINICAL REMArKmrs.-It has caused the following symptoms when occurring during other affections: " A red cheek, with burning of the ears;" "redness of the cheeks, with cough," "cheeks and hands livid in typhoid pneumonia." These symptoms are also found in the provings of Phosphorus, Lycopod., Sulphur, and Lacnanthes tinctoria. Nose.-Heat in the nose; smell in the nose like roasted onions; dislike to the, smell of syrup; much sneezing; fluid coryza, with frequent sneezing; severe fluid coryza in the right nostril; watery, acrid coryza, which renders the nose sore; copious watering of the right eye; the eye painful, especially on being touched; and soon afterwards there occurred a copious watery discharge from the right nostril; in the evening two diarrhceic stools, and then all the symptoms disappeared; fluid coryza, alternating with stoppage of the nose. CLINIcAL REMARKS. —No drug so surely produces intense irritation of the nasal mucous membrane, when inhaled, as the Sanguinaria. Even its internal administration causes coryza; It is not strange, therefore, that homceopathists have found it curative for acute and chronic coryzas, also for "loss of smell." It has cured "Influenza, with rawness in the throat, pain in the breast, cough, and finally, diarrhboea. This last is a characteristic peculiarity of the drug, and as many catarrhal affections tend to end in intestinal irritation, or diarrha-a, the Sanguinaria should be remembered in each instance. Dr. Barton (ailopathic) says he has "heard of the application of the powdered root to a fungous tumor within the nostril, with the effect of producing detumescence, and bringing away frequently, small pieces of the fungous, which, in the first instance,. impeded the 374 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. progress of the air through the nostril, and was supposed to be a polypus." Dr. Smith (botanic) says: "Applied to fungous flesh it proves eseharotic, and several polypi of the soft kind were cured by it." Dr. Becker (homceopathist) states that a polypus of the nose ceased to grow from the time the powder of the root was snuffed. Several physicians of my acquaintance claim to have cured nasal polypi by the internal administration of the tincture of blood-root. It was used in the lower dilutions, in some cases. The finely powdered root forms one of the ingredients, of many, of the "catarrh snuffs " sold in the shops. It is often used as a domestic remedy for chronic catarrhal affections of the nose. Dr. Powers, late of Coldwater, Mich., was very successful in the treatment of obstinate nasal catarrhs, and ozcena. He prescribed the 2d trit., of blood. root, as a':snuff," to be forcibly inspired up the nose, and gave at the same time Sanguinaria 3rd, or Nitric acid, internally. It has cured in my hands, many cases of ulcerative ozaena, also epistaxis. Eyes.-Pain in the right eye; pressing pain in the left eye; stitch in the upper eyelid; watering and burning of the right eye, which is painful on being touched-then coryza; feeling as if the eyes were affected by sour smoke, afternoons about two o'clock; in the afternoons dimness of the eyes, and a feeling as if hairs were in them; very great glimmering before the eves; diminished power of vision; dilation of the pupils (by the seeds). CLINICAL REMARKS. —It is homceopathic to catarrhal ophthalmia, granular lids, and even ulcers on the cornea. I once cured a case of the latter, very happily, by the use of Sanguinalia 3rd., internally and topically. The case had proved obstinate under ordinary treatment, and I bethought me of the beneficial effect of blood-root in indolent ulcers. A wash of about the strength of the third dilution was prepared in distilled water, and used as a collyrium. Under its use the ulcers healed in a week, leaving but a slight opacity. Ears.-Beating under the ears at irregular intervals, frequently only a couple of strokes; * burning of the ears, with redness of the cheeks; pains in the ears, with headache; singing in the ears, with vertigo; humming in the ears, with determination of blood; slow stitches in the left ear during the pain in the forehead; beatinghumming in the left ear; painful sensitiveness to sudden sounds; a crackling in the right ear when he draws his fingers lightly over his right cheek; on the left side this is not the case. Jaws.-Stiffness of the jaws; pain in the upper teeth; pain in a hollow tooth, especially when touched by the food; toothache from picking the teeth; pain in one or more of the incisor teeth, and in a carious molar tooth; shooting and thrilling pain in a carious molar tooth of the upper jaw, which passes away gradually in that form of pain which is often termed a "grumbling toothache;" on awaking, toothache in an upper carions tooth oin the right side, at the same time headache in the same side; the toothache is made worse by cold water, and better by drinking warm drink; pain in SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS. 375 a carious molar after cold drinking, two mornings in succession; looseness of the teeth; salivation and looseness of the teeth; he supposes himself able to take them all out; spitting, with nausea; feeling of dryness of the lips. CLINICAL RErMAnRs.-IBlood-root is useful in expulsive gingivitis, in cases where the gums become very spongy, bleeding, and fungous. Throat.-Feeling of dryness in the throat, not diminished by drinking; heat in throat, alleviated by the inspiration of cool air; a long-continuing impression in the fauces; a transitory, but marked sensation in the fauces, as if he had swallowed something acrimonious; burning in the fauces after eating sweet tilings; burning in the cesophagus; a feeling in the throat as if it were swollen up, and would suffocate him, with pain in the throat when swallowing, and with aphonia; in the evening a pain with a feeling of swelling in the throat; worse on the right side, and mst perceptible on swallowing; feeling of swelling in the throat when swallowing. CLINICAL EMARRKS. — Angwia, in several'cases, particularly a species of pharyngitis. Ulcerated sore throat. I was once informed by intelligent persons, that they had been permanently cured of recurring quinsy with ulceration, by using a gargle of blood-root. Upon testing it in practice, I found it quite equal to Hepar sulphur in its power of preventing attacks of tonsillitis; also in actual ulcerations of the throat. The lower dilutions were used. Moouth.-A prickling sensation on the tongue and roof of the mouth, as after chewing mezereum, but slighter; crawling on the point of the tongue, after which an acerb feeling extends itself over the whole tongue, in the morning on awaking; prickling on the point of the tongue; tongue feels as if burned; a feeling of dryness and rawness, as after acrid things; begins on the right side qf the tongue, and spreads over the whole tongue, mornings on awaking; * tongue sore; pains like a boil; stitches on the left side of the tongue; white-coated tongue, with loss of appetite; loss of appetite, with uncertain cravings; * increase of appetite; loss of smell and taste; a piece of sugar-cake tastes bitter, followed by bulning in the fauces; fatty taste in the mouth; slimy taste in the mouth; disinclination for butter, which leaves a disagreeable after-taste; dislike to the odor of syrup; craving for he knows not what, with loss of appetite; craving for piquant food. Stomach.-Pressing in the stomach; soreness in the epigastrium, aggravated by eating; feeling of warmth and heat in the stomach; barnin, in the stomach from large doses; buruimzig in the stomach, with headache; jerking in the stomach, as if from something alive; great weakness of digestion; loss: of appetite; * strengthens the stomach; excites the appetite, and aids digestion; soon after eating a feeling of emptiness in the stomach; * inflammation of the stomach. CLINICAL REMARKs.- -By reference to the " gastric symptoms," as well as the above, it will be seen how closely the symptoms similate those of Arstnicum, Phosphorus, and Tartar emetic. It will cure, according to Dr. Tully, " atonic, sub-acute, and chronic inflam 376 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. mations of the stomach." No remedy, however, is more decidedly homoeopathic to acute gastritis. We have the terrible burningq, the unquenchable thirst, the pain, vomiting and prostration which mark that disease. In acute gastritis, the sixth or thirtieth should be used. In chronic gastritis, the lower dilutions may be as useful. It ought to be useful in zulceration of the stomach. Gastric Symlptoms.-Severe nausea friom large doses; nausea as if vomiting would succeed; nausea after eating; nausea which is not diminished by vomiting; loss of appetite and periodic nausea; nausea by stooping; nausea with much spitting; extreme nausea with great salivation; nausea, with flow of saliva, and constant spitting; long continued nausea, with chill; nausea without vomiting, then headache; nausea with headache, with chill and heat; nausea before the nettle rash; heartburn and nausea; regurgitation and disposition tovornit; flatulent eructation; spasmodic eructation of flatus; hiccough while smoking tobacco; frequent flatulent eructations of unpleasant odor, with disposition to vomit, and paleness of face; after the eructation of flatus, the dullness of the head becomes better. Vomiting with severe, painful burning in the stomach, and intense thirst; many unpleasant feelings previous to vomiting; before vomiting, great anxiety; before vomiting, slight pressure to stool; vomiting of bitter water; bitter vomiting, with headache; vomiting, with craving to eat in order to quiet the nausea; vomiting and diarrhea; causes vomiting, without nausea or perceptible weakness. CLINICAL RrEMAIRKs.-Blood-root is fully indicated for nausea or vomiting from irritation of the coats of' the stomach. Allopathists have cured vomiting of food and bilious vomiting with small doses of the tincture. It is doubtless homceopathic to many functional and organic diseases of the stomach, and I would suggest its use in gastric disorders not amenable to the ordinary remedies. Dr. F. W. Hunt in an article on "Dyspepsia, or Diseases of the Stomach," (U. S. Journal of Homceopathy, vol. i. p. 190,) thus speaks of the virtues of Sanguinaria canadensis: "This is one of the most important remedies for various diseases of the stomach, throat, liver, lungs, etc. In almost every form of indigestion, for many years, it has given me satisfactory results. It is especially useful in deficient gastric secretion, with loss of appetite and periodic nausea; heartburn, nausea, and irregular chills; torpid state of the liver; dyspeptic headache, terminating by regurgitation, and vomiting of bitter, greenish fluids; soreness in the abdomen, increased by eating; feel-. ing of heat in the stomach; chronic gastritis; red tongue, which burns as if fiiom contact with something hot; lips red and dry; throat hot and dry; tickling at the entrance of the larynx, which excites cough; cough peculiarly severe, not relieved by expectoration, with pain in the chest and redness of the cheeks. When digestion is imperfect from deficiency of the true gastric fluid; when the food undergoes chemical decomposition, and gas is evolved in large quantities, Sanguinaria will generally change the action of the stomach, and digestion becomes more complete. When the 378 NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. given, nor the name of the observer, and consequently we are at a loss to know their character. Stool. —Pressure to stool without evacuation, with the sensation of a mass in the lower part of the rectum; this sensation recurred frequently during the day, without stool; inoperative pressure to stool, then vomiting; feeling to pressure to stool; in the afternoon frequent pressure to stool, but only discharges of flatus; frequent discharges of very offensive flatus; in the morning a hard stool; diarrhoeic stools with great flatulence; purging; after cutting pains, stools; after severe pains, stool like water; diarrhoea in the evening, with disappearance of the coryza and catarrh; diarrhcea terminated the pain in the breast; dysentery; the food passes away undigested in the stool; five natulal stools in the day; two small but not fluid stools the first day; the first days the stools more laxative and frequent, afterwards rather costive; hemorrhoids, a twisting pain on the left side above the groin, equi-distant from the symphysis pubis, and the crest of the ilium; worse whilst sitting, standing, or bending towards the right side, increased by pressure; better whilst walking erect; afterwards this pain passed towards the hip, around and upwards until it reached posteriorly on the short ribs and remained peculiarly sensible by bending to the right. CLINICAL REMARKs. —The blood-root does not generally purge unless given in large doses, hence it will not be found often indicated in diarrhoea. There is one variety of diarrhoea, however, in which it has been found curative, by Dr. Bute, namely:' With the diarrhea, termination of the coryza and catarrh," also, "The affection of the breast always ended with the feeling as if hot water were poured from the chest into the abdomen, which was followed by diarrhceic stool." The "D )ysentery," marked as curative in the original proving, is merely an observation of Rafinesque, (botanist). Some dysenteric symptoms, however, are found in the pathogenesis, which may be made use of. Dr. Bute asserts its curative power in hemorrhoids, but gives no special indications, nor do we find any in the proving. The last symptoms under "Stool," would seem to. be misplaced. It denotes either an affection of the left ovary, or was simply a myalgic pain. (Take it all in all, the so-called proving *of Sanguinaria, as made up for the "Transactions of the American Institute,"' cannot be considered a commendable production. Some of the most notable of the symptoms marked * (curative) were the mere assertions, or theoretic deductions of allopathic observers, not verified hy homceopathic physicians. I would advise the student or physician, before he attempts to use this drug upon the information obtained in that proving, to study the original, and judge of its merits for himself.) Urine. —*Frequent urination, also at night; large and frequent discharges of urine, as clear as water; frequent and copious nocturnal urination; seminal emissions during sleep, two nights in succession, after which he feels very well; *gonorrhcea. CLiNICAL REMARKs.-The first curative symptoms belonged originally to the following group reported cured by Dr. Bate, SANGUINARIA CeANADENSIS. 379 namely: "In a lady, pain in the left hypochondria, which was rendered worse by coughing, but was better fiom being pressed, and by lying on the left side; very copious irritation at night."?' The whole group of symptoms may have been of renal origin. According to Dr. Coe, Sanguinaria is very useful in many functional disorder of the kidneys. Our provings are, however, too meagre to give us any clue to its action on those organs. I cannot ascertain who reported the curative observation " Gonorrhoea." Dr. Coe advises it for chancres, buboes, secondary and tertiary syphilis, but says nothing of its use in gonorrhcea, nor does any other writer. I can readily imagine it might be useful in phagadenic chancre, used internally and as a topical application. Generative Organs of Women.-Abdominal pains, as if the menses. would appear; abdominal pain the whole night, like the menstrual; at times it increases menstruation; the menses appear a week too early, with a discharge of black blood; abortion on account of too strong operation on the uterus; causes uterine hemorrhage; amenorrhcea; the menses appear at the proper time, but still much more freely than at other times, with less pain and weakness in the sacrum, but with pain in the right side of the head and forehead, and a feeling as if the eyes would be pressed out of the head, worse on the right side. CLINICAL REMARKs. — Rafinesque used it successfully in Amenorrhoea. Dr. O' Connor, (allopathist), writes: —" For the last twelve years I have used the tincture of Sanguinaria exclusively, in the treatment of amenorrhoea, and have recommended it to others, who speak favorable of its effects. In that time I have treated as many cases of this disease, as usually falls to the lot of a village practitioner, and, as yet, have no cause to find fault with the efficiency of the remedy. I consider it superior to Eberle's great remedy, the tincture Polygonum. hydropiper. I commence a fortnight before the expected return of the menses, and give teaspoonful doses of the tincture three times a day, and a teaspoonful on going to bed (preceded by a warm foot-bath). If the secretion is not restored at the time, I remit the use of the remedy for a fortnight, and proceed as before. When the full effect of the remedy is produced, it is characterized by slight nausea, pains in the loins, extending through the hypogastric and iliac regions, as well as down the thighs. These symptoms sometimes manifest themselves once or twice before the discharge is completely established." (Cin. Lancet and Observer.) The symptoms which I have placed in italics are worthy of being noticed, as purely pathogenetic. I esteem the blood-root a good remedy in suppressed menses, but chiefly indicated when the suppression has been Jfollowed, or preceded by pulmonary disease. Its use in such cases has generally been attended with good results. Dr. Miller, (eclectic), advises it in dysmenorrhoea, when occurring in torpid subjects, but says it is "' contra-indicated in patients of plethoric habit." This would indicate to us that it would be useful in dynamic doses in dysmenorrhcea, when menses too frequent in such patients, when there is a tendency to congestion of the brain or lungs. It is hoomceopathic to threatened 380 NEW HOM(IEOPATHIC PROVINGS. abortion, when the symptoms mentioned by Dr. O'Connor are present, accompanied with some hemorrhage. It is used for this criminal purpose in domestic practice, and by unprincipled physicians. Dr. Bute reports the following case cured with the bloodroot, " a female who had distention of the abdomen in the evening, and flatulent discharges per vaginum, from the os uteri, which was constantly open, at the sametime a pain passing in rays from the nape of the neck to the head.'? This was probably an instance of that rare disease in which the lining membrane of the uterus secretes a gas. Dr. Bute also reports cases of affections of women at the climacteric period, characterized by "burning of the palm of the hands and soles of the feet, compelling her to throw the bed clothes off the feet for the purpose of cooling them." Used internally and topically, (by injection), it has cured. ulcerations of the os uteri, corrosive and fetid leucorrhmea, and polypi of the uterus. Catarrhal symptoms. —Much sneezing; fluid coryza, with frequent sneezing; severe fluid coryza in the right nostril; watery, acrid coryza, which renders the nose sore; copious watering of the right eye; the eye painful, especially on being touched; and soon afterwards there occurred a copious watery discharge from the right nostril; in the evening two diarrhoeic stools, and then all the symptoms disappeared, (five hours after taking it);' fluid coryza alternating with stoppage of the nose; aphonia, with swelling in the throat; tickling irritation to cough; influenza; coryza; rawness in the throat; pain in the breast; cough, and finally diarrhea. Respiratory Organs, —Slight cough, especially whilst eating; tickling in the throat in the evening, with slight cough and headache; a slight cough from tickling in the throat, many evenings after lying down; a dry cough, awakening him fiom sleep, which will not cease until he sat upright in bed, and flatus was discharged both upwards and downwards; *chronic dryness in the throat, and sensation of swelling in the larynx, and expectoration of thick mucus. —(Dr, Neidhcarcd.) *Continued severe cough, without expectoration, with pain in the breast, and circumscribed redness of the cheeks. —(Dr. -Burt.) *Feels stronger and freer in the breast in the mornings, and in the, afternoon, and in the evening the customary dyspncea does not appear.-(Dr. ilusnman.) A hot, burning, streaming in the right breast, begins under the right arm and clavicle, and draws itself downwards towards the region of' the liver, (afternoon of the third day,) acute stitches in the right breast in the region of the nipple. CLINICAL RIEMARKS.-Sanguinaria has always had an extensive regutation in the cure of coughs. The aborigines of the Eastern States often astonished the early settlers by the cures they effected with this remedy. It is said that the most obstinate coughs disappeared during the use of the blood-root. The physicians of an early day seem to have used blood-root more fiequently than their successors. Rafinesque, Barton, Tully and others, all assert its great curative power in many varieties of cough. They even assert its power to cure pulmonary consump SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS. 381 tion. Besides the above curative symptoms the following are reported: "Cough, with coryza; then diarrhcea;" "tormenting cough, with expectoration and circumscribed redness of the cheeks. " Several instances have come under my observation, where the blood root really appeared to cure phthisis. Breast.-Whooping cough; hydro-thorax, (a); asthma, (a); pneuilonia, (a); typhoid pneumonia, with very difficult respiration, cheeks and hands livid, pulse full, soft, vibrating and easily compressed, (a); diseases of the lungs, (a); pain in the breast, with periodic cough, (h); pain in the breast, with cough and expectoration, (h); pain in the breast with dry cough, (h); burning and pressing in the breast, then heat through the abdomen, with diarrhcea, (h); slowly shooting pain in the right side of the chest about the seventh rib; acute stitch in the right breast; slowly shooting pain in the left side of the chest near the axilla; stitches fiom the lower part of the left breast to the shoulder; pressing pain in the region of the heart; stitches in the left side in the region of the short ribs, by moving and turning the body; continued pressure and heaviness in the whole of the upper part of the chest, with difficulty of breathing; slowly shooting pain under sternum numb pain the whole length of the scapula, along the inner edges, which is also increased by breathing; pressing pain in the breast and back; palpitation of the heart, from immoderate doses, with great weakness; stitches in both breasts; severe soreness under the right nipple, aggravated by being touched; the nipples are sore and painfill. CLINICAL REMA:RRS.-The "curative" symptoms above, which are designated (a) are from allopathic sources; (h) from homceopathic sources. Eclectic physicians use it in thoracic diseases where the allopath censiders Tartar emetic indicated. In this they are not far fi'om the truth. Sanguinaria, in affections of the lungs, occupies a place midway between Phosphorus and. Tartar emetic. It has many symptoms in common with both, and others possessed by neither. I have used the blood-root for many years in bronchitis, pneumonia, and other diseases of the respiratory organs, and have obtained from it some very satisfactory results. In the massive doses of the old school given to nausea and emesis, it was productive of great injury, but in dynamic doses its use is never attended with any aggravations; a few drops of the mother tincture may be used in some chronic affections of the pulmonary organs, while in acute diseases, with a high grade of irritation, the 30th is the safest and best attenuation. In the majority of cases of pneumonia, there occurs a group of symptoms for which we have generally used phosphorus or sulphur, with good results, although the convalescence under those remedies is apt to be lingering. But when those symptoms and conditions are met with, under Sanguinaria, 2nd dil. (decimal), or Sanguinarin, 4th trit., a rapid subsidence of the diseased action occurs. At the second, and during the ekistence of the third stage of the inflammation, we have as physical signs: dullness on percussion, bronchial respiration, etc., denoting the presence, of red, or even 382 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. gray hepatization, and purulent infiltration of the pulmonary parenchyma. Watson considers it doubtful whether recoveries take place from the third stage of pneumonia; but under homceopathic treatment, I do not believe such recoveries impossible. The general symptoms indicating Sanguinaria are extreme dyspncea, short, accelerated, constrained breathing, the speech ceases to be free, the sputa becomes tenacious, rust-colored, and is expectprated with much difficulty. The position of the patient is upon the back; there is not much pain in the chest, unless the pleura are involved, and then it is of a burning, stitching character. The pulse is quick and small-the face and extremities inclined to be cold, or the hands and feet burning hot, with circumscribed redness and burning heat of the cheeks, especially in the afternoon. Under the use of this remedy, the dyspncea subsides, the bronchial breathing disappears, we hear afresh the small crepitation, and first, alone, then mixed with the natural respiratory murmur, which in its turn becomes alone audible. The sputa becomes again less tenacious, less red and yellow, and more like the expectoration of catarrh, and is expectorated in large, heavy masses; the febrile symptoms gradually abate, and a favorable convalescence is established. I give the medicine every two hours, generally alone, but occasionally in alternation with Phosphorus or iTartar emetic. In its power over chronic, bronchial or laryngeal coughs, it rivals Lycopodium and Sulphur. It relieves, and often cures, "coughs with chronic dryness in the throat, and sensation of swelling in the larynx; continual severe cough without expectoration, with pain in the breast, and circumscribed redness of the cheeks;" C' cough, with coryza, then diarrhcea." This last symptom is an important indication for the use of Sanguinaria. After a severe cold, or undue exposure, some persons are attacked with coryza, catarrhal headache, severe pains in the chest, with tightness of breathing, and dry harrassing cough, all of which subsides upon the recurrence of diarrhoea. In such cases Sanguinaria is eminently indicated, as it causes a similar group of symptoms. Dr. Morrow praises it very highly in hcemoptysis. In one case which came under my observation it seemed to correct the bleeding, promptly. Cases have been reported to me, where the tincture of blood-root, cured spitting of blood, which had resisted other means. It will undoubtedly be found useful in some cases of Asthma, Croup, Larygnitis, and perhaps Pleurisy, but we have no homceopathic testimony of its effects in those diseases. Back.-Pain in the nape of the neck; soreness of the nape of the neck on being touched; pain in the left side of the nape of the neck; pain in the right side of the neck, as if sprained; stiffness of the nape of the neck; -pain in the back; pain in the sacrum and bowels —(Dr. Bute); * painin the sacranm from lifting; pain in the sacrum, which is alleviated by bending forward; rheumatic pains in the nape of the neck, shoulders and arms; pain in both shoulders; severe pains in the left shoulder, in the evenings; pain under the sholder-blade, with chill; pain from the left breast to the shoulder; rheumatic pain in the right shoulder, worse in the fore SANGUINARIA CANADENSIS. 383 noon when she has retained the arm for a long time in the same position, drawing itself downwards to the elbow; pain on the top of the right shoulder; sudden rheumatic pains in the shoulder joints; in the upper part of the shoulder joint, severe pain on every motion; * rheumatic pain in the right arm and shoulder, worse at night, in bed; cannot raise the arm, —(Dr. Bute); * pain in the right shoulder, and in the upper part of the right arm, worse at night on turning in bed. —(Dr. Jeanes). CLINICAL REMARKS.-Nearly all the symptoms of the back, etc., are purely nzyalgic, and are easily mistaken for rheumatism; in prescribing this medicine, this distinction should be made. The curative symptoms appear to have been rheumatic, all but the "pain in the sacrum from lifting." Superior Extremities.-Rheumatic pains in the arms and hands; rheumatic pains in the right forearm, in the evening; severe pain in'the hand, with aching in the arm when lying quiet and warm in bed; it is al:o often felt in the left foot, now above, then in the instep, and then in the tocs; in the right palm near the index finger, a severe pain as from a boil; *burning of the palms redness of the hands, and severe burning; *lividity of the hands in pneumonia; numb pain in the ball of the right thumb; cutting pain on the left joint of the left middle finger; sticking in the point of the right small finger; stiffness of the finger joints; pain, as fiom a boil, at the root of the right thumb nail, then in the left, fiom this to all the fingers, one after another, from the thumb to the small finger, alike on both hands; * ulceration of the roots of the nails on all the fingers of both hands. Inferior Extremities.-Rheumatic pain in the left hip; pain as from a bruise in the left hip joint, whilst walking, but worse on rising from a seat; *a rheumatic pain on the inside of the right thigh; *a bruise-like pain in the thigh, alternating, with burning and pressure in the breast; * stiffness of the knees; stiffness and tightness in the bend and sides of the knees; cramp and pain in the calf of the left leg; drawing in the calves and into the instep, worse right than left; sticking pain in the right ankle; continual stitches under the right exterior ankle bone, as from the sting of a bee; pain in the left fbot, with headache, and during the pain in the right arm; sticking as from a needle in the instep, in the morning in bed, and in the afternoon; coldness of the feet; * burning in the soles of the feet, worse at night; burning of the hands and feet in the night; pain in the corns; great weakness of the limbs, with pains in the sacrtumrn whilst walking; *acute swelling of the joints of extremities. Limbs.-Rheumatic' pains in the limbs; acute, inflammatory, and arthritic rheumatism; acute swelling of the joints of the extremities; stiffness of the limbs and rheumatic pains, with headache; pain in those places where the bones are least covered with flesh, but not in the joints; on touching the painful part, the pain immediately vanished and appeared in some other part. CLINICAL REu{ARKs. —Tne clinical symptoms above, are mostly firom homceopathic sources. The physician can draw his own deductions fromn them. SARRACENIA PURPUREA. 385 again observed. Before morning, the pulse rose to 100 by the watch, resuming its usual frequency after a time. We were prevented by sleep, which was much disturbed, from ascertaining positively the co-existence of strange impressions on the sensorial functions. The general vigor of the digestive apparatus was increased. The appetite following, the next day, was unusually active, seeming to demand much more to satisfy its requirements; but there was a sense of pain about the stomach like that following inflammation, or that felt in the muscular tissue after a limb has been overtasked.' In the first experiment, in which Dr. Porcher took 140 grains of the fresh root, the symptoms produced were very similar to those detailed in the above quotation, pointing distinctly to the parts of the system influenced by the drug; namely, the gqastric filaments. of the gcnglionic or organic system of nerves. This produced an increased action of the circulatory system, and drove the blood to the head. It also increased the peristaltic motion of the entire alimentary canal, and promoted the renal and other glandular secretions, without any apparent effect upon the nerves of animal life. As the experiments of Dr. Porcher are directly corroborative of those made by the writer, and confirmatory of the utility of the plant in all cases where there is a sluggish or torpid condition of the stomach, the intestines, the liver, the kidneys, or the uterus — producing co&tiveness, dyspepsia, amenorrhea, dysmenorrhcea, and the various functional derangements which are so commonly to be met with-it must be evident that this plant possesses valuable properties, which render it well worthy the attention of the enlightened practitioner. Within the past year, several articles have been published in regard to it, of such a nature as to attract considerable attention; and, although some of the statements made in regard to it are certainly erroneous, and others may prove to be too strong and positive, it seems entirely proper to place them on record, and in the way of repeated and thorough tests." The Am. Medical Times has the following letter by Fred. W. Morris, M. D., Resident Physician of, the Halifax Visiting Dispensary: "Sir-You have by this time, in all probability, heard something of an extraordinary discovery for the cure of small-pox, by the use of' Sarracenia purpurea,' or Indian cup, a native plant of Nova Scotia. I would beg of you, however, to give full publicity to the astonishing fact, that this same humble bog-plant of Nova Scotia is the remedy for small-pox, in all its forms, in twelve hours after the patient has taken the medicine. It is also as curious as it is wonderful that, however alarming and numerous the eruptions, or confluent and frightfuill they may be, the peculiar action of the medicine is such that very seldom is a scar left to tell the story of the disease. I will not enter upon a physiological analysis now; it will be sufficient for my purpose to state, that it cures the disease as no other medicine does-not by stimulating functional re-agency, but by actual contact with the virus in the blood, rendering it inert and harmless; and this I gather from the fact that if either the vaccine or variolous matter be washed with the infusion of the Sarracenia, they are deprived of their contagious properties. 49 386 NEW HIOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. The medicine, at the same time, is so mild to the taste, that it may be mixed largdly with tea or coffee, as I have done, and given to connoisseurs in these beverages to drink' without their being aware of the admixture. Strange, however, to say, it is scarcely two years since science and the medical world were utterly ignorant of this great boon of Providence; and it would be dishonorable in me not to acknowledge that had it not been for the discretion of Mr. John Thomas Lane, of Lanespark, County Tipperary, Ireland, late of Her Majesty's Imperial Customs of Nova Scotia; to whom the Mec-Mac lIndians had given the plant, the world would not now be in possession of the secret. No medical man before me had ever put this medicine upon trial, but in 1861, when the whole Province of Nova Scotia was in a panic, and patients were dying at the rate of twelve and a half per cent., from May to August, Mr. Lane, in the month of May, placed the' Sarracenia' in my hands to decide upon its merits; and, after my trials then and since, I have been convinced of its astonishing efficacy. The only functional influence it seems to have, is in promoting the flow of urine, which soon becomes limpid and abundant, and this is owing perhaps to the defecated poison or changed virus of the disease exclusively escaping through that channel. The'Sarracenia,' I have reason to believe a powerful antidote for all contagious diseases, lepra, measles, varicella, plague, contagious typhus, and even syphilis, also a remedy in jaundice. I am strongly inclined to think it will one day play an important part in all these." Report by Dr. Herbert Miles, of the British army:-" Early in the last winter a small coasting vessel landed a portion of her crew at an obscure seaboard village a few miles from Halifax, N. S. These persons were sick with small-pox, and the disease soon spread, first among the cottagers, with whom the fishermen mixed, and subsequently among those friom the capital, who resorted to the village for purposes of trade. Through the early weeks of spring, rumor constantly asserted that vast numbers of the seafaring population were attacked with the, complaint; but it was not until early in March that the large Civil Hospital of Halifax, by the number of its weekly admissions for variola, began to corroborate rumor, and to authenticate the justice of public anxiety. The disease, in process of time, extended to the troops in the garrison, but the proportion of attacks to those among the civil population, was singularly small. While certain portions of the inhabitants of Halitax were suffering from the epidemic, alarming accounts reached that place, relative to the terrible ravages of the scourge among the Indians, and colored people generally. Variola is the special plague of the Indians; and when they are invaded by this pestilence, it sweeps them off by scores. Like the fire of the prairies, it passes over their encamping grounds, destroying all of human kind in its path. On this occasion the most painful details were given of whole families being carried off by this loathsome disease. After some time, however, it was said that the pestilence had been stayed. One of the Indian race, it was asserted, had come into the diseasestricken camp, possessed of a preparation which had the extraordi SARRACENIA PURPUREA. 387 nary power of curing the kind of cases that had hitherto proved so fatal. This remedy was believed by the Indians to be so efficacious, that if given to them when attacked with small-pox, they looked forward with confidence to a speedy and effectual cure. An old weird Indian woman was the fortunate possessor of the remedy in question. She had always been known as the Doctress of her tribe, and had enjoyed celebrity for many years in consequence of her reputed knowledge of Medicine, and wonderful acquaintance with the herbs and roots of the woods. So well established was hler fame.among the Indians, that when sick they resorted to her in preference to the white doctors, whom they considered to be'No good.' Captain Hardy, of the Royal Artillery, an accomplished and int(elligent officer, who has been for years among the Indians, says that' the old squaw's remedy had long been known to them as an infallible cure for small-pox,' and that' the Indians believe it to be successful in every case.' From the inftormation gathered from the Indians, the following observations have been carefully sifted: 1. In the case of an individual suspected to be under the influence of small-pox, but with no distinct eruption upon him, a wine-glassful of an infusion of the plant,'Sarracenia purpurea,' or pitcher-plant is to be taken. The effect of this dose is to bring out the eruption. After a second and third dose, given at intervals of from four to six hours, the pustules subside, apparently losing their vitality. The patient feels better at the end of each dose, and in the graphic expression of the' Mec-Mac,''knows there is a change within him at once.' 2. In a subject already covered with the eruption of small-pox in the early stage, a dose or two will dissipate the pustules, and subdue the febrile symptoms. The urine from being scanty and high-colored becomes pale and abundant, whilst fi-om the firlst dose the feelings of the patient assure him that' the medicine is killing the disease.' Under the influence of the remedy, in three or four days the prominent symptoms of the constitutional disturbance subside, although as a precautionary measure, the sick person is kept in the camp until the ninth day. No marks of the eruption (as regards pitting, etc.,) have been left in cases examined, if treated by the remedy, 3. With regard to the medicine acting (as is believed by the Indians) in the way of a preventive, in those exposed to infection, it is curious to note, that in the camps where the remedy has been used, the people keep a weak infiusion of the plant prepared, and take a dose occasionally during the day, so as to'keep the antidote in the blood.'" We find also that the'following result of a trial of the Sarracenia has been communicated to the London Times by Mr. Cosmo G. Logie, Surgeon-MIajor Royal Horse Guards (Blue). Eleven men of Mr. Logie's regiment, which is stationed at Windsor, contracted the disease..After expressing his disbelief in the perfect protecting power of vaccination, he writes: "Some time ago, seeing a paper written by Assistant Surgeon Miles, of the Royal Artillery, on the efficacy of the North American plant, called the Sarracenia purpurea, or pitcher-plant, in the treatment 388 NEW HOM(CEOPATHIC PROVINGS. of small-pox among the Indians, my colleague (Mr. Agnis) and myself have given this remedy. Four of the cases in my hospital have been severe confluent cases; they have, throughout the disease, all been perfectly sensible, have had excellent appetites, been free fiom pain, and have never felt weak. The effects of this medicine which I have carefully watched, seemed to arrest the development of the pustules, killing, as it were, the virus fiom within, thereby changing the character of the disease and doing away with the cause of pitting, and thus avoiding the necessity of gutta percha and India rubber applications, or opening the pustules. In my opinion, all anticipations of disfigurement fiom pitting may now be calmed, if this medicine is given from the commencement of the disease." A proximite analysis of the Sarracenia by Theobald Frohwein, of New York, gave: " Organic elements-traces of volatile oil, gum, starch, vegetable albumen, tannin, resin, bitter principle, with acid reaction and extractive matter. Inorganic elementssulph. lime, carb. acid, sulph. acid, phosph. acid, traces of lime, magnes., potass. and soda, iron and silicic acid." A committee of the New York Med. Society (Allopathic) made a report on Sarracenia, which will be found in fill, pages 7 and 19, American Mled. Times, Jan., 1864. They thus close their report: " Your committee has endeavored to lay before the Society the history and recorded experience thus far in the use of the Sarracenia purpurea, for the treatment of small-pox; and, in conclusion, would respectfully submit the following as their deductions from the testimony here accumulated: —st. That the analyses already made of the plant do not give any active principle or elements which would indicate any great medicinal potency. 2d. That the discoverers and advocates of the specific remedial power.of the Sarracenia purpurea over variola have given, apparently, too great credit to the'post hoc' circumstances, as being'propter hoc' influences, (one reason for this latter inference being suggested by the loose, unscientific, and eulogistic style of the communications). And, 3rd, that the reliable experience thus far, appears to preponderate against the remedial efficacy of this plant in those forms of disease which do not generally recover under the administration of ordinary remedies." From these allopathic deductions we dissent. 1. The analysis showing the presence of sulph. lime, carb. acid, sulph. acid, phosph. acid, and traces of lime, magnes., potass. and soda, and silicic acid, also tannin, bitter principle, etc., would evince that it is a remedy of considerable power, rather than an inert substance. 2. Although the reports have been exaggerated in many instances, the recommendations, homceopathic and allopathic, are too numerous to be discarded. The testimony relates to the empirical use of the plant. Until we obtain a thorough proving, we shall not have any reliable data for its homceopathic application. SCUTELLARIA L ARIA LATERIFOLIA. 389 SCUTELLARIA LATERIFOLIA. (Scull Cap.) This is an indigenous plant, growing in most parts of the United States, in woods, meadows, and near small streams and ponds. There are several varieties of this plant, and they should not be confounded with each other by our pharmaceutists. The whole plant is ( ficinal; it should be gathered while in flower. The tincture is best when made firom the green herb. For my estimate of the general therapeutic and pathogenetic effects of this plant, I would refer the reader to my notice of the Cypripedium pubescens; not that I consider these two remedies as possessing identical properties, but they are such close analogues, and affect the system in such a similar manner, generally, that many of my remarks applied to Cypripediuml, will be applicable to Scutellaria. I have used the latter in diseases of children, and offections of the nervous system, similar to those in which I recommended the former, and with like good results. That a careful proving would elicit dijferent symptoms, I do not doubt. If I were to attempt a differentiall estimate of the two remedies, I should say that the Scutellaria afected the spinal cord more, and the brain less, than the Cypripedium. I believe this statement will be verified by experience and observation. As substantiation, in part, of this opinion, I quote the following from Jones and Scudder's Materia Medica: "It has been found remarkably efficacious in Chorea, or St. Vitus' dance. Dr. Beach states that he has cured a great number of cases with it. We have used it in several instances with apparent benefit. In cases of great nervous excitement, with severe tremors, also in attacks of delirium tremens, it has in several cases afforded prompt relief." It has been highly extolled in many of the- nervous and spasmodic affections so very common among women. It has attracted much attention in Hydrophobia, and at one time it enjoyed a high reputation in the treatment of. that formidable disease, although the same reliance is not now placed on it that was some years ago; still, it is resorted to, both as a prophylactic and curative agent, in cases of canine madness. Testimony is not wanting to establish the fact that many persons have been bitten by rabid animals, and avoided the development of the disease by the free use of Scutellaria; while others, bitten at the same time, by the same animal, became hydrophobic. So many circumstances may concur to prevent the inception of the canine virus at the time of the bite-as the interference of clothes, or the speedy removal of it from the parts bitten and thus preventing it from being absorbed-that we must view many of the cases said to have been cured by the exhibition of this article, as highly equivocal. "A physician, bitten by a mad dog, has assured me," says Rafinesque, " that himself, alone, had avoided the disease by using it, while others bitten by the same dog, died.? Dr. Vandesveer, who is said to have introduced it to the notice of the profession in 1772, or, rather, to have 394 NEW ItOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. gracilis, I prescribed five drops of the mother tincture three times a day, and continued its use until the next menstrual period. To the patient's gratification and my own, the menses appeared at their proper time (in 29 days), and were normal in quantity, and unaccompanied with pain or suffering of any kind. Sinme reporting the above case I have treated several cases of a similar nature, and with success. In one case the first dec. dilution was used; in another the first of Senecin, and in still another the second decimal. I have used it in but one case of Amenorrhbcea; Pulsatilla failed to restore the discharge, but Senecin second, apparently had the desired effecte Respiratory f rgans.-Increased secretion from the bronchial mucous membrane; loose cough; rattling in the chest. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It affects the respiratory organs in a manner somewhat similar to Asclepias tub., Dulcamara and Pulsatila. "In coughs, colds, and other complaints of the chest, Senecin in one of the most valuable remedies we possess. It is especially serviceable in mucus coughs." (Dr. Coe.) "It has acquired considerable reputation in chronic coughs, catarrhal affections, hbemoptysis, incipient phthisis, attended with troublesome cough, the result of obstructed 2nenstr uation, with unequivocal advantage. (J. & S. fMat. Med.) I have used it in a few cases of cough occurring in females, according to the indication given above. It seemed to act admirably. These suggestions may seem bare and valueless, unless backed up by more pathogenetic symptoms. But it must be recollected that many of our best remedies started from just such small beginnings. The following case reported by Dr. Thomas Irish, to the American Homceopathic Observer, seems to prove that it ranks high as a remedy in pulmonary affections.'"In the year 1822, in the State of New York, I was taken suddenly with profuse hcemorr]hage fromr the left lung. Physicians were sent for; consultation took place; they manifested much wisdom in endeavoring to stay the red current of life by tapping my arm. The blood refused. to flow in that direction, but the lung continued to perform its office in opposition to these endeavors to change its current, by cutting the cephalic vein. All to no purpose; the life current continued to flow until it would hardly stain a white cloth. They gave me up as lost without hope, and then gave rules and ordered medicine taken. I refused to take medicine. I became a living skeleton; the dry, hacking cough,. the hectic flush and sleepless nights were my companions for day and night for about five months, and still living in opposition to the wisdom of the prophets, I was in the daily habit of wandering about the fields on my father's farm, and pulling and testing of roots and herbs. The Sernecio was before me, near a small stream, I tasted and was impressed to try its virtues. I had it gathered, roots and tops-a pailful, and prepared a strong decoction, of which I took half a table-spoonful four times a day. Improvement set in soon after commencing the use of the Senecio. In six weeks the cure seemed complete. This was in the fall. I SILPHIUM LACINIATUM. 395 continued well through the winter; in the spring went to work; in a month was prostrated by hemorrhage from the lung again; continued to work until fall. A(gain the life root was taken, chewing the root and drinking a tea of the same. Again, contrary to the expectation of all, health was mine in the spring of 1824. I came to Michigan; worked hard all summer; in fall was taken sick; continued feeble until spring At every attack of the disease the lungs would sympathize, so as to have it terminate in a lung fever with bloody expectoration. I employed no physician, but always used the Cure-All, as I often called it. In the too free use of the green root it proved a laxative, which was not favorable to the healing process. At every attack, for eleven years or more, of lung fever, which were many, I always used the same remedy with the same success. I have never known it used in such attacks without some benefit, and the number would be hundreds. I saw.the blood spirt the size of a common straw from a cut in the leg. The Senecio, roots and tops bruised and applied, immediately stopped the blood; it was the only dressing. The person was not kept fromL his work an hour in all. It was a bad cut, and healed in a few days. It is the best dressing for cuts, bruises and sores, known to me. It has more power over diseases of the LUterine Organs than any other medicinal plant, in my opinion. In Erysipelas it has with me proved a useful remedy, internally and externally." It would seem by the last paragraph to have a general clrative influence over hmmorrhage, making it analogous upon some points with Erigeron, Trillium, and Lycopus. With this I leave the consideration of the plant, and hope my colleagues will prove it, and at the same time collect clinical data, illustrating the sphere of the remedy. SILPHiIUM LACINIATUM, (Compass Weed.) This is an indigenous, perennial plant, found on the prairies of the United States, from Michigan southward to Texas. The lower leaves present their edges north and south, hence the name " compass-plant." Dr. King, speaking of the S. gummiferum and S. laciniatum, says: " They are emetic in' decoction. They have effected cures in intermittent fever, and are beneficial in dry, obstinate coughs. Said to have cured heaves in horses," Dr. A. E. Small, uses and advises it in asthma and moist coughs with dyspncea. Its present use in our school is quite limited, and until we have a thorough proving of the plant, we do not expect it 396 NEW I HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. will be much favored. The testimony, however, of homeopathic physicians, in regard to its curative power in gleet, is unequivocal. In the acute stage of gonorrhcea it does not appear to be of much service, but in the chronic stage, as well as in blennorrhcea, leucorrhbea, and vesical catarrh, it is of great value. We hear of its use in allopathic practice in nasal catarrh, asthma, and other diseases of the respiratory organs. It is doubtless an analogue of Copaiva, Thuya, etc., and possesses similar properties. The peculiar range of action of the Silphium remains to be developed by future provings. STICTA PULMONARIA. (Lungwort.) *Nov. 9th, 1859, I commenced proving this plant, having previously prepared a strong tincture. At 7 o'clock, A. M., I took ten drops of tincture. About one hour after I had sharp, darting pains in the arms, legs, and shoulders, commencing first in the muscles of the arms, then in the finger-joints and shoulders; next in the thighs, knee-joints, and toes; also dull sensation in the head, with sharp, darting pains through the vertex, side of the face, and lower jaw. There was a feeling of fulness at the root of the nose and in the left hypochondriac region. These symptoms were well marked; they continued for two or three hours, and were followed by a general feeling of dullness of two or three hours duration. Nov. 10th, 7 o'clock, A. M., took ten drops. The symptoms which followed were similar to those produced by the first dose. There was also, a dull, oppressive pain in the cardiac region; slight oppression of the lungs; dull pain in the right hypochondrium. Duration from three to four hours. Nov. 11th, took at 7 o'clock, A. ii., twenty drops of the tincture. About one hour after, I experienced the previous dull sensation in the head, with dull, heavy pressure in the forehead and roots of the nose;, darting pains in the temporal region; burning in the eyelids, with soreness of the ball on closing the lids, or turning the eyes. There were burning, biting, sticking pains all over the body; lancinating pain in the second joint of the middle finger; inability to concentrate the mind upon any one subject; a general confusion of ideas. The above symptoms continued to increase in intensity during the entire day, and most of them continued until the 13th, without repeating the drug. * Partial proving and clinical observations by S. P. Burdick, IM. D., from the North American Journal of Ilomceopathy. (Sticta Sylvatica.) 398 NEW HIOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. more, as it appeared to affect his throat favorably. While taking the remedy, he was exposed a good deal, and took a severe cold; but he was entirely free from those distressing symptoms of coryza, which had for many years accompanied the slightest cold. He had been treated by several homceopathic physicians, besides taking quantities. of allopathic medicines; but he had never experienced any decided benefit from any of them. In February following, he had a slight attack, and I gave him Sticta tincture as before. He said the first dose gave him great relief. This was in the evening. The next morning he was entirely free from all traces of the troubles of the previous evening. I met him almost daily for two years after, during which time he had no return of the disease. 5.-The next case was that of a young lady who was' subject to coryza. During one of these attacks, which came on in the morning, I was requested to see her. In the afternoon I found her sneezing almost incessantly, with a feeling of fulness in the right side of the forehead, extending down to the root of the nose, with tingling in the right side of the nose. Sticta tincture was given as in previous cases. Two doses effected the cure, and the next day she was feeling perfectly well. Previous attacks lasted from three days to a week. 6.-August 21st, 1862. Mr. F, aged fifty years, came to me, saying he had rheumatism all over him, and could get no relief, he said he had tried everything, had been to two or three allopathic physicians, but was getting worse every day. His troubles commenced about six months ago, with sharp, darting, lancinating pain, first in the knee-joints, then in the elbow and shoulder. The finger-joints were next involved, and it gradually extended to every joint in the body; the pain in the neck and head were intense. At the present time the joints are all swollen and stiff. He cannot sleep for the pain, and can scarcely walk. iBy comparing the above with the provings of Stictapulmonaria, I found a perfect type of the disease before me in this drug, and I at once determined to test its curative power; the following are the results:-I gave Sticta 1st, five drops.to a tumbler of water, a table-spoonful to be taken every hour. August 23.-Mr. F - reports himself greatly improved; pains not so severe-has slept better. Sticta 1st, as before. Aug. 26th —-Reports a great deal better; can walk better than at any time during the past five months; pain in the head and neck gone; all the pains are less severe, and the joints are not so much swollen. Continued Sticta, 1st, as before. Aug. 28'Sth.-Reports himself entirely well; has no pain; swelling all gone; says he feels better than at any time during the past nine months; stiffness of the joints all gone; he is getting young again, and walks as sprightly as a young man. 7. —At the time the above was under treatment, I was.also treating a Mrs. G, aged about forty, for rheumatism of the wrist-joints. She had been under treatment for nearly three months, with very little, if any, improvement. The wrists and hands, with little if any redness; very painful on moving them. I STICTA PULMVONARIA. 399 had given her nearly all the remedies that are usually given in rheumatic troubles; none of them had afforded relief to any extent. After the results produced in the last case by Sticta, I determined to try it in the case of Mrs. G... I accordingly gave her five drops, first, in a tumbler of water, a tablespoonful every two hours. On the second day after, I called, and on entering the room, she exclaimed, "Doctor, you have done it this time!" To my great surprise, I found her sewing. The pain and swelling were nearly gone. Sticta, first, was continued for a few days, and the cure was permanent. (This last case is reported from memory.) 8.-Aug. 20th. Mrs. M - came to me, complaining of headache with severe pain in the eyes, which felt very sore on closing the lids or turning the eye-bail. The pains and soreness as she described them, were very similar to those I experienced while making the above provings, and I prescribed Sticta, first, five drops to a tumbler of water, a tablespoonful to be taken every two hours. Aug. 27th.-Reports greatly relieved soon after taking the medicine. Sticta continued as before. Aug. 28th-Reports perfectly well. 9.-In the month of February, 1862, while treating a patient very susceptible to the influence of medicine, I had administered Sticta one-tenth. Very soon after taking it she said, "Doctor, I feel that medicine all over me." In a few months after, she said her leg felt as though it was floating in the air, feeling light and airy, without any sensation of resting upon the bed; this continued for some time, and gradually passed off. 10. —.Mrs. F, age about forty years, had hemorrhage of the bowels. She had lost large quantities of blood during the previous weeks, looked pale and ghastly, and could scarcely walk, she had become so reduced. I gave HIamamelis, which arrested the hemorrhage; but she could not sleep, and had not for over a week; saying that as soon as it came night, her feet and legs would dance and jump around in spite of her; so that she was compelled to either hold them down on the floor with her own hands, or have some one hold them for her; and as soon as she would lie down, her limbs felt as though they were floating in the air as light as feathers. This brought to mind what had happened to the last patient, and I administered Sticta, first, a few drops in a tumbler of water. To commence taking a tablespoonful as soon as the above symptoms should re-appear, and repeat every hour. The next morning at about six o'clock, the dancing commenced. The medicine was repeated every hour until eleven o'clock, when she slept for the first time in over a week, did not awaken until seven next morning. Medicine discontinued during the day. Next evening symtoms returned, but not so severe. Medicine repeated every hour. Fell asleep at 10, P. ni. Slept quietly until awakened next morning. Next evening slight recurrence. Two or three doses of Sticta were given, and she slept quietly all night. Next evening no recurrence; Sticta one or two doses; slept at 7 P. ai., did not awaken until the next morning. Medicine discontinued. Recovery rapid without any further medication. 400 NEW TOM(EO3PATH[IC PROVINGS. 11.-A lady about fifty years of age, complaining of attacks of great anxiety about the heart. Very nervous. Had had a good deal of' mental trouble. Ignatia and Digitalis afforded great relief; but after two or three months she called, saying that she was troubled at night by awaking with a strange sensation about the heart, and for a few moments after she would feel as though she was floating in the air. A few doses of Sticta first, effected a complete cure. In coughs and colds, it has proved very efficient. And I have never used a remedy which has been so efficacious in procurilg quiet, refreshing sleep as Sticta. I have given it when all other remedies have failed, and have never, save in one or two cases, had it disappointed me; and now if I have a patient who cannot sleep, it is my first resort. I have reported two cases of rhematism which it has cured almost by magic. I have also given it in several cases in which it produced not the slightest effect; but in these cases there was not a perfect representation of the drug in the disease. The following cases are from the Case Book of the Northern Hiomoeopathi c -Dispensary, New York, where this remedy has acquired some reputation: 1. —Ellen Murphy, aged nineteen, scrofulous; had hoemoptysis three years ago. Every cold, damp spell brings on cough with expectoration of dark blood. Suffers now with loose cough in the morning, expectoration less free during the day; pain in left side below the scapula, foul taste in the mouth, tickling in the larynx and bronchia; costiveness; courses regular. Bry. 3rd. Aug. 5-Pain in the left side less, other state the same. Sticta first. Aug. 8-Great relief. Aug. 12-Nervous headache which she complained of in the temples improved.'Cough steadily improving. Sticta. Aug. 20-Cured. 2.-Anna Ernst, aged fifty-one, oppression in the pit of the stomach; great thirst, no appetite, tongue clean, disgust for food; soft cough with expectoration. Vertigo, restless at night. Bry. third. Aug. 5.-Some relief. Bry. twelfth. Aug. 9-Cough the same. Morning cough. Symptoms of change of life. Sticta first. Aug. 19-Cough improving. Raises more easily, especially mornings. Sticta first. Aug. 29-Cough well. Only some vertigo yet. Puls. sixth. Aug. 31-Cough all right. Vertigo the same. Cyclamen third. 3.-Joseph Weidner, aged forty. Dyspepsia. Cannot bear anything tight on the stomach. Vomits phlegm. Hemorrhoids. Nux. Aug. 8-Cough raw and sore. Better otherwise. Sticta. Aug. 11-Cough only after meals. Bry. Aug. 16-Cough easier, but very hoarse. Puls. Aug.' 20-Cough worse, expectoration tighter. Bry. Aug. 24-Morning cough continues. Well every other way. Bryonia. 4.-Ellen Minaman, aged twenty-five. Cough for six weeks. Hoarseness; nightly expectoration of whitish phlegm. Sticta. Aug. 12 —Greatly improved. Does not cough near so much. Sticta. 5.-Ida Hatfield, eighteen months old. Tussis morbillosa. Had measles two weeks ago. Sticta. Aug. 8-Greatly improved. 402 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. when cough comes on he can hardly breathe; choking sensation in the throat, free expectoration; slime coated tongue with indigestion. Sticta. Oct. 2-State the same. Sticta. Oct. 4-No improvement. Bry., AIerc. Oct. 6-Cured. 17.-Philip West, aged seven months. Oct. 3 —Diarrhcea mucosa, and loose cough. Sticta. Oct. 5-6 -Some rattling in the throat yet. Cough and diarrhcea improving. Sticta. Oct. 7Only restless at night now. Oct. 9-Cured. 18.-Julie Eitler, aged nine months. Oct. 22 —Diarrhea, dentition, cough, and rattling in the chest. Passages green, like chopped eggs. Oct. 24-Diarrhea improving, but cough the same still. Sulph. Nov. 4-Slimy diarrhea again. Cough abating. Sulph. Nov. 12-Cured. 19.-Charles Bennet, aged twelve years. Oct. 26-Catarrh of the head for four years. Sneezing mornings with greenish discharges; firontal headache and epistaxis. Sticta. Oct. 25-Less bleeding firom the nose. Left foot and right arm often benumbed and cold. Sticta. Nov. 4 —Free from catarrh, but full of boils. Sticta. Nov. 20-Entirely well. The following brief' references to the Sticta are found in the American I[oileopathic Observer, for July, 1864: Dr. F. W. Bathlrick cured a case of Catarrh with Sticta, after failure with the ordinary remedies. tIe proposes trying it in the form of inhalation. Dr. B. M. Pettitt, finding that an epidemic Influenza prevailing in Cayuga county, New York, would not yield to the usual remedies, resorted to Sticta, and had the most gratifying success. Timothy Baker, Esq., says, "that Mrs. Baker has been very much benefitted by Sticta, used for her cough, (character of cough not reported.) Dr. Jno. C. Fall, says, " I have used the Sticta pulmonaria with very happy effect. I wish I had time to write of the r emedy ih extenso, but may in future." Dr. C. W. Boyee writes, July 16th, 1864: —"Dr. Lodge,Dear ASir:-In the July number of your'Observer,' I notice a reference to Stieta, in Catarrh. This remedy has been of the greatest value in this vicinity, in that troublesoine disease. During the past spring, there was an epidemic influenza which affected nearly every one, and which produced symptoms quite unusual here. These consisted of an extensive dryness of the nasal mucous membrane, which became painful. The secretions were so quickly dried, that they were discharged after great effort, in form as hard as scabs; the soft palate felt like dried leather; deglutition became painful from the same cause. Often, the catarrh extended to the chest, leaving an irritation lasting for weeks. There was, usually, a distinct exacerbation in the latter part of the day, and fore part of the niglht; the morninmg hours were nearly free from distress. Sticta was the only remedy thiat relieved." TRILLIUM PENDULUM. 403 TRILLIUM PENDULUM, (Birth Root). This is but one of eight species of Trillium, growing in' the Northern States. Few of our indigenous plants surpass them in elegance and beauty, and they are all endowed with active medicinal properties. The root of the T. atro-purpureum, or purple species, is generally believed to be the most active. "The Trillium has somewhat tuberous roots, having a faint, slightly terebinthinate odor, like cedar, and a peculiar, aromatic taste. Tannin, and a bitter extractive, however, form two of its active ingredients, to which its medicinal effects are doubtless owing." (Lee.) Nothing seems more ridiculous and puerile to the rational physician, particularly the homceopathist, than the senseless reiteration, that "certain drugs owe their medicinal power to the tannin, or other chemical principle, which they happen to contain." Thus, they (the allopaths) decree that Trillium arrests flooding, etc., because it is an aostringent, and the tannin is the curative principle; they blindly deny the specific (dynamic) action of drugs, and, therefore, are obliged to take up with all such absurd subterfuges. Geranium mac. contains more tannin than any other plant, yet possesses no specific control over hemorrhages, which the Trilliumn undoubtedly does. (H.) Prof. Lee says:-" From all I have observed, and can gather from others, I am led to believe that the Trillium is one of our most valuable tonics, astringents, alteratives, and especially beneficial in most cases of passive, atonic hemorrhages, as menorrhagia, etc. Less astringent than many other plants, it is far more alterative and tonic, yet it has decided efficacy, as an astringent, when this indication is present." The late Dr. Williams used the powdered root in all kinds of active hemorrhages, in doses of one drachm to an adult, repeated according to the urgency of the symptoms. Dr. Stone, of Mass., has nmade very extensive use of it, in all forms of bleeding, especially from the womb and lungs, and, as he thinks, with great and decided benefit. In the various forms of scrofula and cutaneous diseases, he has also seen great advantage from its use. In popular practice, the -Birth-root is used in parturition, and is believed to facilitate the birth of the child, hence its name. -Dr. _Lee found it employed extensively for this purpose, among the Chippewa Indians, on Lake Superior. They also believed it to be a certain specific for the bite of the rattlesnake. It seemed to be their favorite remedy in all female complaints, especially those attended with discharges; indeed the evidence in its favor, in cases of vaginal and uterine leucorrhcea, is very strong and satisfactory; also in passive bronchorrhcea and hemroptysis.") Dr. Coe (Concentrated Organic Med.) says: " Its dynamic influences are chiefly directed towards the mucous surfaces, over which it seems to exercise a special control. Though mostly employed in affections of the uterine system, it is neverthe 404 NEW HEOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. less, of great utility in the treatment of all diseases involving the mucous membranes. It is decidedly antiseptic, and is useful in correcting a tendency to putrescency of the fluids, and the fretor of the critical discharges. Slight hemorrhages occurring from wounds, cancerous ulcerations, etc., may be corrected by its local application." Skin. —Applied to erysipelatous and other ulcers, it is said to restrain the profuse discharges; slight hemorrhages, occurring from wounds, cancerous ulcerations, etc., may be arrested by the same means. Nose,-" A solution of the Trillin, or the dry powder, snuffed up the nostrils, will immediately check an epistaxis." (Coe.) This use of Trillium is quite common in domestic practice. It is asserted, on good authority, that epistaxis may be arrested by smelling of the recent root. I found it to act promptly in a case of obstinate passive epistaxis, after other remedies had failed; it was given in five drop doses of the first dilution and a solution of the same strength, was snuffed up the nostrils. Teeth.-A small quantity of the powder, or cotton saturated with the tincture, introduced into the cavity from which a tooth has been extracted, will effectually arrest the hemorrhage. Mouth. —" It is useful in cancrum oris; putrid sore throat, etc., and as a wash or gargle." (Coe.) Stomach, etc.-Heat in the stomach; burning in the stomach; thirst; increase of appetite; heat rising up from the stomach into the msophagus. CLINICAL REMARKE.-The above symptoms were noticed in several cases from the 1st dec. trit. It is recommended in dyspepsia by eclectic physicians. Theoretically, I would suggest it in "G gastric catarrh;" erosion of the mucous coat, with hmematemesis. Abdomen, Stool, etc$-Constipation; hard, dry stool. CLINICAL RIEMARKS.-It is undoubtedly useful in chronic diarrhcea, where the discharges are mainly of mucus, or of bloody mucus; in dysentery, when the amount of blood is considerable, and the discharges are fcetid, after the acute stage, and when the disease threatens to become chronic. It is evident that a remedy which exercises such specific power over passive discharges from nearly all mucous membranes, should be useful in chronic intestinal discharges of that character. Urinary Organs.-It is highly recommended in hbematuria. Its action on the urinary organs is similar to that of IUva ursi, Chimaphila, and Copaiva. Dr. Kifng says: "An infusion of equal parts of Trillium and Lycopus v. has been highly recommended for the cure of diabetes." Dr. Jones (Mat. Med.) asserts: "I have used it freely in diabetes, and from the advantages derived from its use in those diseases, we think it merits a conspicuous place among the list of our therapeutical agents, and one upon which much reliance can be placed in that formidable disease." Judging from its curative action in other diseases, it should prove useful in chronic catarrh of the bladder, chronic urethritis, gleet, and even in some conditions found in chronic nephritis. Dr. E. G. Wheeler reports TRILLIUM PENDULUM. 405 the following cases illustrative of its effects in flooding, menorrhagia, and leucorrhbea. (Jour. of ]fat. Med., vol. ii., p. 448.) CASE 1.Mrs. G., at the third month of pregnancy, was taken at 6 o'clock, A.'A., with a bloody discharge from the uterus, with pain in the back, considerable sickness at the stomach, and occasional chills. I was called in at 9 o'clock; the flooding had greatly increased during the last hour, and the patient fainted as I entered the room. The pains had ceased-os uteri dilated to the size of a twenty-five cent piece, but rather tense; loss of blood very great. I made a strong infusion of the Trillium root, and gave her two table-spoonfuls every ten minutes; in half an hour the bleeding had greatly diminished; the infusion was continued, but given at rather longer intervals, and in two hours from the time I was called in, the hemorrhage had ceased altogether; pains returned during the following night, and the f~etus was expelled with but very trifling loss of blood." CASE 2. —" Was called in at 4 o'clock, P. M., to see Mrs. S., at the full term of pregnancy; os uteri dilated to the size of a half dollar; no pains; flooding excessive. Administered the Trillium as in the preceeding case; it acted promptly, so that in an hour from the time of giving the first dose, the bleeding had entirely ceased. In about four hours more, labor pains came on, and she was shortly delivered of two healthy children, with no more than the usual amount of hemorrhage." CASE 3. —" Mrs. M., at about the third month of pregnancy, had had slight uterine hemorrhage, for two or three days previous. At 8 o'clock in the evening of the third day, she became alarmed by sudden and excessive flooding. I was immediately called in, but her fainting turns were so frequent and so protracted, that I could not give the remedy as fast as I desired; and notwithstanding I brought all the means to my aid, that I could command, I greatly feared I should lose my patient; in about three hours, however, she had taken an infusion, made with about three drachms of the bruised root as nearly as I could judge, and the hemorrhage was perfectly controlled. Thirty-six hours after this, pains came on, and the fcetus was expelled without further trouble. It may not be amiss to state, that I think I have found this remedy of decided utility in facilitating labor. I have treated cases of leucorrhema, satisfactorily. The plant I made use of is the Trillium atro-pururzreum." This is allopathic testimony, and better than the average; it is surprising that the medicine was given alone. According to their general usage, the physician should have given it in combination with Kino, Plumbum aceticum, or some,powerful drug, and then claimed it as a cure with the Trillium. The medicine was given in; large doses, yet not inordinately so-not more than two or three drachms of the mother tincture in each case. The specific curative action was promptly manifested, apparently without inducing any pathogenetic effects, showing that no injury was done by the material doses. In the'cases which follow, it will be seen that more minute doses act just as well. It is decreed by some writers, that the Trillium is most useful in passive hemorrhages, but the cases above reported were of an opposite character. We have no proving of this remedy, 40.6 NEW HOMIEOPATHIC PROVINGS. showing its pathogenetic action upon the generative organs of women, nor can we decide with any certainty, as to the pathological states which it would induce in the uterine tissue. To say it acts by giving tone to the uterus would not convey any exact idea, although it actually has that effect; it stimulates the uterine nerves to healthy action, and as a consequence, we have muscular tonicity, and a healthy condition of the mucous membranes. Hemorrhages from the uterus, either arise from relaxation, or laceration of the blood-vessels of that organ, or from abrasion or relaxation of its mucous coats. Any drug, therefore, whose symptoms correspond, will possess the power of causing just such pathological changes, and will, therefore, cure similar lesions. The analogues of Trillium are Terebinthina, Sabina, Pulsatilla, and Erigeron canadensis. The following clinical cases occurred in my own practice:-CASE 1.Menorrhagia-Mrs. M., aged twenty-eight, had been subject for several years, tofrequent and profuse menstruation. The menses came on every fourteen days, and lasted seven or eight. In the intervening periods, there was profuse leucorrhcea, of a yellowish color, and creamy consistence. The blood was once bright red, and but lately, owing to her anaemic condition, has been pale and mixed with a leucorrhceal discharge. She took Crocus, Platina and Sabina, but with no apparent benefit. Trillium second dec. was then given, in doses of one grain, four times a day. The first effect noticed was a diminution of the leucorrhcea, then the menses delayed one week. The medicine was continued, and the next menstrual period came on at the end of four weeks, and was not followed by leucorrhcea. She was then put upon the use of Ferrum met. 1st dec. and Helonin 1st dec., one grain of the former after meals and a similar dose of the latter, before eating; and in a few weeks the strength and color returned. Several other similar cases were treated with the same medicine, and all recovered. CASE 2.-3-ietrorrhagiaS-Mrs. S., aged forty-six, passing through her climacteric, had occasional attacks of profuse flooding, at irregular times, so profuse as to bring her down very low; the blood was thick, dark, and clotted, and would continue several days. The attacks had been partially controlled by the use of Sabina, and Crocus, but being called during the first day of a seizure, I determined to test the Trillium. Ten drops of the 1st dec. dilution was given every half hour; in a few hours the flooding had decidedly diminished, and subsided completely in two days. This was continued, in alternation with Sanguinaria 3d., and she had no more attacks, but menstruation ceased normally. CAsE 3. —Mrs. T., aged fifty, had been subject to attacks, similar to the above, but ansemic, dropsical, and much debilitated. Apis. 2, relieved the dropsy promptly; Helonin gave her more strength, and better digestion than she had had for months; and when an attack of "flooding" came on, Trillin 2nd decimal arrested it in two days. These attacks were of a peculiar character; the discharge was pale, watery, only slightly tinged with blood, but very profuse, accompanied with prostration, vertigo, dimness of sight, palpitation of the heart, and a painful sense of "sinking at the pit of the stomach." 408 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. toms, and curative results. The above is mainly suggestive and clinical, but may serve as the basis upon which to build a proving. Mode of administration.-It may be used in the dilutions from the mother tincture, triturations of the root, or the Trillin. I have usually used the 2nd decimal trituration of Trillin. VERATRUM VIRIDE. (American Hellebore). This plant, known also by the names of Swamp Hellebore Indian Poke, and Itch Weed, is indigenous to many parts of the United States, usually growing in swamps, wet meadows, and on the banks of mountain streamlets, flowering from May to July. For homceopathic use a tincture is made of the green root. The root is said to contain a principle nearly identical with Veratria, but Dr. King thinks it is like Colchicia, a distinct, though analagous principle. From old school and eclectic sources, we glean the following estimate of the properties and uses of this medicine. We have no regzular and exhaustive proving, only fragmentary ones, but enough to guide us pretty correctly. Dr. W. C. Norwood, who has done much to bring this plant into notice, states that actual experiments made by himself, have proved. I.- "It is slightly acrid, and confining this action mostly to the mouth and fauces. 2. —Expectorant, and unsurpassed by any other remedy for which this property is claimed. 3.-Diaphoretic, being one of the most curative belonging to the materia medica; often exciting great coolness or coldness of the surface; sometimes rendering the skin merely soft and moist, and at others, producing free and abundant perspiration, without reducing or exhaustingc the system. 4.-Adenagic, deobstruent or alterative, far surpassing Iodine, and from which much advantage may be expected in the treatment of Cancer and Consumption. 5.-Nervine, and never narcotic. This property renders it of great value in the treatment of painful diseases, and such as are accompanied with spasmodic action, convulsions, morbid irritability, and irritative mobility, as in chorea especially, epilepsy, pneumonia, puerperal fever, neuralgia, etc. And it produces its effect in this respect, without stupefying and torpifying the system, as opium is known to do. 6. —Emetic; it is slow but certain in its operation, efficient, rousing the liver to action during its operation, and vomits without occasioning the prostration or exhaustion which follow the action of most other emetics. It is also superior to most other emetics in not being cathartic. It is peculiarly adapted as an metic in hooping cough, croup, asthma, scarlet fever, and in all VERATRUM VIRIDE. 409 cases when there is much febrile or inflammatory action. 7.-Arterial sedative. This he considers its most valuable and interesting property, and for which it stands unparalleled and unequalled as a therapeutic agent. 8.-In small doses it creates and promotes appetite beyond any agent with which we are acquainted." Dr. Norwood was doubtless too enthusiastic in his praises of this medicine, just as the ancients too highly estimated the value of the Veratrum alb., its nearest analogue. He has reduced the pulse by use of the tincture to thirty-five beats per minute, without exciting the least nausea or vomiting. The antidotes to its excessive action, are morphine, ginger, brandy, and laudanum. Dr. Osgood says it is an emetic, and its action violent and long continued. HIe denies its cathartic action. It increases most of the secretions, and when freely taken, exercises a powerful influence on the nervous system, indicated by faintnes, somnolency, vertigo, headache, dizziness of vision, and dilated pupils. Prof. Tully regarded it as an excellent substitute for C(olchicum, in gquty, neuralgic and rheumatic affections, to which diseases it seems best adapted. Prof. Wood classes it among the "nervous sedatives" along with Digitalis, Aconite, Verat. alb, etc., and records many symptoms resulting from its use, which will be found recorded in the pathogenesis. We present the bold and heroic proving of this powerful drug, by Dr. Burt. It is a faithful record of the symptoms caused by large doses. In a note to the proving, Dr. B., writes. " I am confident that had I not assumed the horizontal posture when on the point of fainting, the syncope would have proved fatal," he intimates that a "' heart-clot" would have formed, but it is doubtful if that effect would have happened: paralysis of the heart would have been the most probable result. PHYSIOLOGICAL EXPERIMENT WITH VERAiTRUI'L VIRIDE. By Mltn. I. Blurt,.M. D., of Lyons, Iowa. Dec. 21st. —In perfect health; bowels regular, once a day; pulse seventy-four; respiration twenty; took thirty drops of the 3d dec. dilution of fluid extract of Veratrum viride, prepared in water. At 10 A. i., ten minutes after, sharp drawing pain over the left eye, with a contracted feeling of the skin of the forehead; one-half after ten, constant, dull, frontal headache, with neuralgic pains in the right temple, close to the eye; eleven A. M., dull pains over the eye with quite severe drawing pains in the umbilical region-pulse sixty-seven, took fifty drops; 12 M., slight frontal headache with prickling pains in the region of the heart, frequent drawing pains in the umbilical region; pulse seventy, took sixty drops; 2 P. M., dull drawing pains in the forehead, natural stool, took one hundred drops; 3 rP. r., dull, heavy, frontal headache, with prickling pains in the praecordial region; took 150 drops; 5 P. r., slight frontal headache, neuralgic pains in the region of the heart and cardiac portion of the stomach; took 200 drops; 7 P. ir., very frequent neuralgic pains in the cardiac portion of the stomach; took 175 drops; slight, dull, frontal headache, neuralgic pains in the right side of the umbilicus, passing down to the groin; slight drawing 52 410 NEW IiOMEOPATEItC PROVINGS. pains in the right elbow and calves of the legs; sharp flying pains in the epigastric and umbilical regions, pulse sixty-six. Dec., 22d. —Slept well, but had frightful dreams of being on the water, feeling well, pulse 79; 9 A. 31., took three drops of fid. ext. one-half after nine, pulse seventy-six; slight, dull, firontal headache, with a contractive feeling of the skin of the forehead; 10 A. 3M., respiration twenty; took four drops; 11 A. M., dull frontal headache with neuralgic pains in the temples; sharp pains in the epigastric and umbilical regions, passing down to the pubes; pulse seventyone; 12 M., took five drops; 2 P. ri., very severe frontal headache, with dull aching pains in the umbilical region; pulse seventy-four; took six drops; 4 P. x., constant dull headache, pulse seventy; took six drops; 9 P. Mr., dull frontal headache, with neuralgic pains in the right temple; tongue feeling as if it had been scalded; dull aching pains in the epigastrium; very sleepy, took eight drops. Dec. 23rd.-Had a restless night, frightful dreams of people drowning; flat taste in the mouth; tongue coated yellow along the centre; soft papescent stool, at 9 A. M., took ten drops; pulse seventy; 10 A. M., there has been constant and severe cutting, aching pains in the umbilical region with rumbling in the bowels, with a soft stool; took twelve drops; dull heavy aching pains in the region of the gall-bladder, with dull pains in the umbilical region; arms ache; 12 3i., took twelve drops; 1 P. ai., very severe aching in the back of the neck; very difficult to hold my head up; constant burning distress in the region of the heart; am very weak and tremble all over; pulse forty-six, soft and very weak; can hardly be felt; mushy stool without pain; 2 P. xr., dull frontal headache; face is very pale; nose looks pinched and blue; constant hiccough with violent and constant spasms of the upper part of the (esophagus; cannot swallow; profuse vomiting of thick glairy mucus and water; profuse secretion of tears, and mucus from the nose, also saliva; neck aching severely, pulse forty-four, soft and very weak; twenty minutes after 2, violent vomiting; with severe frontal headache and hiccough; cannot walk; if I attempt it, I am very faint and completely blind; obliged to keep in the horizontal position; 4 P. r., pupils dilated; neck and arms ache severely; dull aching pains in the umbilical region with rumbling; cannot walk across the room without becoming blind; pulse forty-four, soft and very weak; 5 P. M,, constant dull aching pains in the urmbilicus, with sharp neuralgic pains in the left groin; can walk about ten rods, when I become blind, and am compelled to sit down; pulse forty-six; 8 P. xr., feeling much better, pulse sixty-one, soft and weak, constant dull pain in the umbilicus, and pain in the region of the gall-bladder, took eight drops and retired. Dec. 24th.-Slept sound, frightful dreams of the water as usual; flat, bitter taste in the mouth; tongue coated yellow along the centre; slight dull pains in the bowels; pulse sixtyfour, soft and full; took ten drops; at 8 A. M., dull aching pains in the umbilicus; by spells they are very sharp and shooting, dull pains in the region of the gall-bladder, tongue VERATRUM VIRIDE. 413 without benefit; chloroform was administered internally and by inhalation; opium and its preparations seemed to make her worse; so, after all the family had given up all expectation of recovery, upon the suggestion of a medical friend, who had twice used the Verat. viride, in three cases of chorea, with the most satisfactory results,' I at once commenced its administration. And as she was gradually brought under its influence, the turmoil began to cease; the face, which had been worked by its muscles into the most ludicrous and horrible distortion, became placid and intelligent; the head ceased its everlasting jerking, the extremities lay still, the body left off writhing, and the patient quietly passed into a peaceful and profound slumber. This sleep was deep and long, as it was the first, with few and slight exceptions, that she had had in nearly two weeks; and the quiet that the muscles now received was all that had occurred, save during those few and short slumbers. At a subsequent visit, I found the family cheerful and hopeful, and the patient quiet and sleeping, the pulse but little depressed; there had occurred no vomiting-I roused her, and to my great satisfaction, when awake, there was no jactitation of the extremities, and but very little twitchings of the muscles of the face. The Veratrum was continued, and for the first few days, if withheld, the commotion began to return; under the quiet induced, the sleep was so continuous at the outset, that the family called the preparation'the laudanum mixture.' After a time the convulsions ceased altogether, and the patient was restored to health under a course of tonics." Dr. Terry reports three cases of chorea, in which the Verat. v. was employed. r he first was a child, cet. twelve. "It had been confined to bed for three weeks, and was reported to have been under treatment for about six weeks; first, for worms, with spigelia, worm-seed, etc., and subsequently, for chorea, with cimicifuga rac., iron, quinine, and the usual routine treatment, until the child was apparently dying. It is not in the power of language to convey a proper conception of the truly pitiable state in which I found this child. It had slept none, neither taken any nourishment for days. It was evidently dying from exhaustion and inanition. The muscular commotion was violent, universal, and unaffected by sleep; the lips embossed with foam, worked up by a continued champing of the teeth. Three drops of the tincture of Verat. viride were administei'ed every three hours, the vehicle being gum water. In twenty-four hours, I had the gratification to see the symptoms greatly improved; the muscles were much quieter, and the child could swallow without difficulty. The trouble in this respect had constituted the greatest embarrassment in the treatment. At the end of the fourth day, all convulsive action had ceased. Clacse 2, was an ordinary one, in a girl of fifteen. After purging, four drops of the Verat. v. were given every three hours. Prompt convalescence ensued. Case 3. —A womian vet. thirty-six, childless, and subject to menorrhagia, immediately after an attack of which, she had a continual nodding of the head, and violent convulsive action in one arm, together with jactitation of one leg. In this case 414 -NEW IIOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. six drops of the tincture of Verat. v. were given every three hours. The fourth dose occasioned slight nausea, and after the fifth dose, the convulsive action ceased, when the Veratrunm was withheld. In eight or ten hours the symptoms returned. Upon resuming the medicine, they again disappeared-the doses were then reduced. The case recovered. Dr. Baker also mentions a case of puerperal convulsions in which Chloroform by inhalation, copious bleeding and forceps were employed; child dead; weighed eleven and a half pounds. Patient was left quiet and comfortable. Seen after four or five hours had elapsed; she was found in a most violent convulsion, which was said to be the seventh, since delivery. Fifteen drops of the tincture of Verat. viride were given, and ten more were directed to be given in two hours, after which the intervals should: be prolonged to three or four hours. There occuirred no more convulsions, and the woman recovered perfectly, She was not even nauseated, though the medicine was given at regular intervals during the whole night. -Dr. Woodward, of Galesburg, Illinois (Philadelphia MI. and S. Reporter), writes: — "In a late case of puerperal convulsions, I did not resort to the Veratrum, but used the lancet twice, taking. away forty-five ounces of blood before the convulsions ceased; but in about four hours after the last convulsion, the lady became furiously delirious, requiring to be held on the bed. Two doses, of ten drops each, of tincture Verat., v., quieted her so completely that she slept for hours, and had no return of the delirium." Skin.-Coldness of the skin, which is usually perspiring; the sweat is often warm, but sometimes cold and clammy; it causes vesication of the skin, when applied externally; tingling and prickling of he skin. CLINICAL REMARKS.-We harve no proof in our proving, or in the cases of poisoning on record, that it causes any eruptions when taken internally; externally it causes erythema and vesications. Prof. Lee says it is an 1" epispastic;'" it causes perspiration; not like -Opium, which stimulates the skin, but like Tartar Emetic. In other words, the sweating is passive from depression of function. In Tilden's Journal we read that the Verat. v. has been used externally in local inflammations. The tincture should be combined with Glycerine two parts to six. Apply by saturating lint, and putting it on the inflamed spot. It is reported to have cured a case of shingles, applied externally in the form of diluted tincture. In chronic skin diseases, it has been used according to Prof. Lee, with much benefit. A popular ointment for the cure of scabies, tinea capitis, etc., is made from this plant, but its external use in such cases is not devoid of danger. S1eep.-Sound sleep every night, but has frightful dreams of being on the water; restless night, with frightful dreams of being drowned. CLINICAL RrEMARKS.-The above symptoms, are quite commonly experienced in cerebral congestions. In the incipient stages of meningitis, or hydrocephalus, dreams of' being on the water are not unusual. Dr. Coe says it is a "soporific," but decrees that it VERATRUM VIRIDE. 417 severe spasms and convulsions. In these cases this remedy is superior to Aconite or Belladonna. Under its use the intensity of the paroxysm will soon subside, and the threatened convulsions be arrested. I have sometimes given one or two drops of the mother tincture every half hour to an adult, and half as much to a child, with the happiest results. Remittent or bilious fever, when not dependent on miasmatic influences, will often be amenable to the therapeutic influence of Veratrum viride; but will have to be alternated with other remedies like Bryonia, Mercurius, Podophyllum or Leptandria, as the symptoms and conditions demand. When the gastric symptoms are predominant, this remedy will have to be used in smaller doses (2nd or 3rd dil.) than when the stomach or bowels are irritated. When this form of fever assumes the character of a pernicious remittent, the Verat. v. is to be used with extreme caution. It is still indicated, but primarily, for the primary action of the drug is to cause conditions very similar to a pernicious fever; namely, prostration of the vital forces, with typhus symptoms, etc. My experience in such fevers has taught me that the best and safest treatment is to use Baptisia, Verat. viride, Aconite, or Verat. alb., 3rd, in alternation with a remedy secondarily indicated; namely, China, Quinine, Nitric acid, etc., in material doses. Indeed, it is often necessary in those low conditions which occur during pernicious fevers, to give Quinine in five or ten glain doses, repeated in brandy, every hour. Those who have had to combat with these terrible malarious diseases will know and appreciate the necessity of resorting in some cases to such doses; and those who know the least, practically, of these diseases, are they who are loudest in denouncing what they term "gross medication." In Yellow Fever, the Veratrum has been used by the dominant school, with alleged success. Drs. White and Ford of Charleston, S. C., treated many cases with Verat. v. In the Charleston Medical Journal and Review they give the results of their treatment. They gave from eight to ten drops to adults, and from one to six drops to children, repeated every hour or two. "By the administration of the Veratrum in this manner, the pulse was sooner or later subdued, and as it sank, became somewhat irregular. The first doses were often vomited, in severe cases, but the succeeding ones were commonly retained, and the patient did not vomit again until the pulse was reduced, when the effect of the remedy was occasionally marked by emesis. This vomiting was rarely severe, ceasing of itself upon a temporary discontinuance of the medicine, or yielding readily to common restoratives. The reduction of the pulse was accompanied by a notable cooling of the body, by a well-marked diminution of the;headaches, pain in the back aid limbs, of the restlessness and anxiety, of the frequency of the respiration, of the congestion of the skin, flushing of the face, tumefaction of the tongue, and injection of the conjunctiva. The patient felt much relieved, and slept tranquilly as soon as the vomiting had ceased; nor would the symptoms tend to recur for some hours, as they would always do, however, if the drug were not again prescribed." 53 418 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. The pulse was kept by the Veratrum fifteen beats below the normal range. If the pulse was small and frequent, it was given in small doses; if black vomit supervened, and the pulse was slow, the Veratrumn plainly was not required; if, however, the pulse was rapid, the Veratrum was continued in doses proportioned to its frequency, which were usually small, and repeated every two or three hours. Without regard, therefore, to the ordinary accidents of the disease, whenever it was required, and only then, the Veratrum was uniformly, or specially administered, until convalescence was declared." Together with the Veratrum, however, Mercury was given, pushed to salivation and catharsis; also, saline, diuretic and refrigerent mixtures; so that the results are anything but satisfactory to the investigator, who would ascertain the pure effects of drugs in disease. Of the whole number treated with Veratrum; namely, 117, there recovered 102; died 15. Adults, 80, recovered 66; died 14. Children 37, recovered 36; died 1. The subjoined table shows the mean range of the pulse under the Veratrum viride, as compared with its mean range before the Verat was given: Mean Fiequency. ) Adult Males. | Adult Females. Children. When Veratrum v. was first given-... —..- 1 102.5 114.2 137.5 Sevenhours after - --------.. —--- 61.3 65.2 71.0 Remainder of disease - ---- 52.8 64.7 74.8 This table shows the power which the medicine exercises over the pulse and the heart's action in disease, and by it we can judge pretty correctly of its action on the healthy organism. In Typhoid fever, the Veratrum viride has not been used much in bomceopathic practice; not as much, as in our opinion, it is entitled to. Many of its symptoms strongly resemble the symptoms of typhoid, particularly the abdominal and cerebral varieties. The only cure on record in our literature, illustrating the action of this remedy in typhoid fever, is reported in the Philadelphia Jour. of Hom., by Dr. Henry. He says: " It is the best remedy I have ever used in the treatment of those diseases which have a tendency to assume a typhoid form of fever. As far as I have been able to test this remedy, in fever of all descriptions, I must say I am better pleased with it than with Aconite." Case 1. —A little girl, aged thirteen, had been suffering with continued fever for ten days. She complained of violent pain in the back; inclined to sleep most of the day; very sick at the stomach, but not so as to produce vomiting; black diarrhcea; pulse varying from ninety-eight to one hundred and ten during the day;. pain and weakness in the lower limbs. I took the case to be a mild form of typhus. I immediately put five drops of the mother tincture in a tumbler half full of water, and ordered a tea-spoonful to be taken every half hour, until perspiration was produced. I called in two hours, found the pulse down to eighty-four; the patient was in a general perspiration; she recovered without any other remedy, in two days.; Case 2. — Mr. H., a young man, aged eighteen, sick two weeks. Found him VERATRUM VIRIDE. 419 with a very high fever; pulse 120; face very much flushed; fulness, with slight pain, and great buzzing in the head; gnats and bugs fly before the eyes; inclined to jumnp out of bed; talking at random; slight bearing down pains in the bowels, attended with black diarrhoea; great weakness of the lower extremities, with general prostration. Six drops of the mother tincture of Verat. v. was mixed with twelve tea-spoonfuls of water, a tea-spoonful to be taken every half. hour. In three hours found the pulse down to ninety-five; before the day was out he was in a fine perspiration; no fever for three days; has now a slight fever, which lasts two or three hours a day; every other symptom right." There is no question in my mind, but that a continuance of the pathogenetic action of Verat. v. would result in such lesions of the intestinal canal, as result in the typhus process. Rubbed on the skin, or held in the mouth, it causes erosions and vesicular eruptions, and it will probably affect, similarly, the whole intestinal tract. I regard it as secondarily indicated in all fevers of the synochal or inflammatory type, and even in some typhoids. The above cases have many symptoms which resemble those caused by Verat. v.; but Baptisia, Belladonna, Phosphoric acid, and Mluriatic acid, are more generally indicated. A large amount of testimony could be produced from allopathic sources, in regard to the value of Verat. v. in typhoid fevers, and many grains of truth gleaned from the chaff, but we cannot give the space. In Small Pox, or VcTriola, when the fever is intense, with excessive pain and restlessness, the Verat. viride will prove as reliable as Aconite, and in some cases, even more satisfactory. I have used it in but one case of variola-four drops of the 1st dec. were given every hour, with the effect of mitigating the severity of the fever, and hastening the occurrence of the eruption. The recent use of the &Sracenia pur., in this dreaded disease, now attracts much attention, and bids fair to supersede all other remedies. In feleasles, during the febrile stage, and especially if pulmonary congestion is feared, the Verat. v. is a most useful remedy. Under its use the dyspncea, cough, and pain, rapidly subside. In children, convulsions often precede the outbreak of the eruption. If Verat. v. is given at the outset, this accident will generally be prevented. The next most useful remedies in this disease are, Gels., Puls., Euphr., and Mere. iod. In Scarlatiza, it is infinitely superior to Aconite, Gelseminum, or any other remedy, except Belladonna. I allude to the Scarlatina simplex, and S. Anginosa, during the first, or febrile stage. It controls the pulse, even when given in the low dilutions, better than any other remedy, and hastens the normal appearance of the eruption. The testimony of some of the most prominent physicians of the homceopathic school sustain this assertion. Dr. Small prefers it to any other remedy, when the arterial excitement is intense, and there is danger of cerebral congestion, or irritation of the spinal centres. It is well known that in this disease the arterial excitement is more severe, the pulse more frequent, and the heat of the skin greater than in any other; the Verat. v. will sooner modify this condition than Aconite or Gelseminum. It should be given in alternation with Bella VERATRUM VIRIDE. 421 sion, occurring during the progress of a pneumonia. I consider it as perfectly hommeopathic to these before-mentioned congestive conditions, as any other drug in our materia medica, for it has caused all the symptoms of such morbid states. It does not cure by " depressing the action of the heart," as bleeding does. Those who denounce the use of Verat. v. in vascular irritation, fever, etc., might as well denounce Aconite and Gelseminum, for they all act in a similar manner. The increased action of the vascular system is a secondary effect of these medicines. In.feningitis, the Verat. v. should be used promptly, and in the lowest dilutions, alternated with Belladonna, when the latter remedy seems indicated. I believe it to be more useful in this disease, as well as Cerebritis, than Aconite. In Tubercular meningitis, or Hydrocephalus, it can do no good, except in the stage of active inflammation, if that stage exists; but it may be palliative in preventing or arresting spasms in the later stages. Face and Nose.-Pale, cold face; face cold, bluish, and covered with cold perspiration; convulsive twitching of the facial muscles; mouth drawn down at one corner; paleness of the lips, and around the alke of the nostrils; nose looks pinched, cold, and blue; profuse secretion of mucus from the nostrils;'singular contortions of the muscles of the face. (See spasmodic symptoms.) CLINICAL REMARKS.-We have in the above facial symptoms these conditions indicated, namely: collapse of the general system, spasmodic or chorectic states, and a congested or apoplectic condition of the brain. It has cured several cases of chorea, and is of great value in cerebral congestion. The "drawing down of a corner of the mouth " would point to a sanguineous effusion into the brain substance. Ears. —Ringing in the ears; moving quickly produces complete deafness; dull roaring in the ears; the ears are cold and pale. CLINICAL REMXRKSs. —Most of the effects of Veratrum upon the ears and eye arise from a depressed state of the circulation. The same condition is present, as after excessive bleedings, or loss of any of the vital fluids. In high potencies it may prove useful in similar affections. But Veratrum v. causes, secondarily, congestion of the brain, with ringing of the ears. In low dilutions, it is one of the best remedies for the latter condition. It is well known that anemnia and plethora will produce nearly the same array of brain symptoms, although opposite pathological states are really present. Thus, acute hydrocephalus is often simulated by the hydrocepkhaloid disease, which arises from sheer debility. Eyes.-Profuse secretion of tears; dimness of sight; walking brings on blindness with faintness; dimness of vision with dilated pupils; immense circles of a green color appeared around the candle, which, as vertigo came on, and I closed my eyes, turned to red; double vision. CLINICAL REXMARKS.-It is primarily hommeopathic to Amaurosis from anwmia, or from loss of fluids, or from debility during convalescence (should be alternated with China, Phoe. acid 1st), and given in the 6th dilution). It is also indicated in amaurosis from 422 NEW HOMCEOPATHIC PROVINGS. imitation or congestion of the optic nerves, when the symptoms correspond with its pathogenesis. Mouth, Fauces, and (Esophagus.-Tongue feels as if it had been scalded (constant symptom); tongue coated yellow along the centre; flat, bitter taste on the tongue; copious secretion of saliva; intense burning in the fauces, with constant inclination to swallow; burning in the (esophagus; spasms of the cesophagus; burning and spasm of the cesophagus, with rising of frothy, bloody mucus into the mouth (this symptom was intensely disagreeable, lasted several days, and was relieved by Phosphorus 3d, after several remedies had been tried in vain); sensation as of a ball rising in the eesophagus. CLINICAL REMARKs.-The yellow coating on the tongue, and the bitter taste, were both noticed in the morning, and point to irritation of the liver. The Veratrum v. produces undoubted inflammation of the mucous membrane of the (esophagus, with superficial erosion, spasm, etc. We have here a truly homaeopathic remedy for cesophagitis. It is also homoceopathic to spasmodic stricture of that tube. Stomach.-Uneasy constriction of the stomach, with tendency to sickness; excruciating pain in the lower part of the stomach, the pain extending to about the size of the hand; the constrictive pain is increased by warm drinks, which seem to go under the pain; violent nausea and vomiting; vomiting of glairy mucus with blood, with running from the nose and eyes; excruciating pain in the pit of the stomach, with heat and constriction of the throat; vomiting of, first food, then mucus, finally a small quantity of blood; painful, empty retching; sensation of dryness and heat in throat, extending to the stomach, with disposition to hiccough; severe hiccough of fifteen or twenty times per minute; violent vomiting, coming on in about ten or fifteen minutes; great irritability of the stomach, the smallest quantity of food or drink is immediately rejected-this irritation continued for three weeks (from thirty drops); great uneasiness, followed by intense pain in the stomach; the pain was drawing, twisting, and pressing; the stomach felt as if drawn tightly against the spinal column, causing pain in the back, in the dorsal region; the stomach seemed to press against the spine when lying upon the back; the pain in the stomach would culminate every five or ten minutes, with powerful and expulsive vomiting; the pain was aggravated by the least noise; vomiting; not preceded by nausea.-(Various sources.) Vomiting of bile and blood; hiccough before and after vomiting; very frequent neuralgic (?) pains in the cardiac portion of the stomach; sharp, flying pains in the epigastrium and umbilical region, passing, down to the pubes. -(Dr. Burt's proving.) Dr. Osgood —an allopathic observer — noticed in his, own case, that the vomiting was effected by a spasmodic contraction of the stomach itself without participation of the diaphragm, and abdominal muscles; and in another individual was preceded by a sensation as of a ball rising in the aesophagus —the result no doubt of spasmodic contraction of the tube. Dr. Norwood says: " We have seen it produce emesis in very susceptible VERATRUM VIRIDE. 423 persons, and the contractions of the stomach were so rapid as to be almost continuous, and uninterrupted" He also remarks that: "' there need be no danger apprehended of causing inflammation of the stomach; we have given especial attention to that particular. It is peculiar, and at the same time interesting in its effects, from the fact of its acting as a sedative on almost every other portion of the system, diminishing the vascular and muscular action and motion of every other part, and increasing that of the stomach." Dr. N. asserts that it increases the appetite and desire forfood. CLINICAL REMARKMs.-We have in the above a notable array of symptoms, pointing to excessive gastric irritability. Its action on the stomach is quite similar to that of Verat. alb., Tartar emetic, or Arsenicum. It is evidently homceopathic to cardialgia, gastralgia, and neuralgic or spasmodic affections of the stomach, when accompanied by vomiting, retching and excessive irritation. Dr. Burt considers it the best remedy in such cases-better than the V. alb. He uses it at the 3rd or 6th. It should not be given lower. It should prove curative in gastritis, erosion of the stomach, and ought to palliate the pain and vomiting in cancer of the stomach. It causes all the symptoms of pyrosis, water-brash, and many of the symptoms of " dyspepsia." Bowels, Stool, etc.-Frequent drawing pains in the umbilical region; neuralgic (?) pains at the right side of the umbilicus, passing down to the groin; sharp, flying pains in the epigastrium and umbilical regions, passing down to the pubes; dull, heavy, aching pains in the umbilical region (constant symptom); cutting, aching pains in the umbilical region, with rumbling in the bowels, and desire for stool; soft, mushy stool preceded by cutting pains in the bowels, and followed by cutting pains in the rectum and anus. "At three different times, on the second day of the proving, I had severe neuralgic and long-lasting pains in the rectum; neuralgic pains in the left groin; I never had such pains before." — Dr. Burt. "'The first day after I left off proving the Verat. v. I had neuralgic pains in the anus and rectumn. They came on twenty or thirty times a day for three weeks, when there appeared a large tumor which pained me constantly. One-half the tumor was very red, the other half dark blue. I never had piles before in my life. My alvine evacuations were natural all the time."-B.urt. CLINICAL REEMARKs.-It is agreed by all allopathic medical writers who speak of this plant, that it irritates the bowels much less than the Veratrum alb. Som'e, however, claim that it should not be used in diseases where any intestinal irritation exists. Wood, however,, does not mention it as a purgative. Dr. Coe remarks: " The employment of Veratrum v. in the treatment of, diarrhcea and dysentery affords occasion for some remarks in regard to the action of this remedy upon the bowels. We have seen it stated by some writers, that Veratrum is objectionable on account of its irritating influence upon this organ. Such has not been our experience. We have employed it much in the treatment of bowel complaints, and with the most happy results." Yet he admits that it has an "' emeto-cathartic" action, and says it is con 424 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. tra-indicated in " intestinal ulcerations." He says it is useful in all cases of "torpor and debility of the abdominal organs," and is of utility in mania, epilepsy, hysteria, convulsions, melancholy, etc., when arising from " functional obstructions" of the abdominal viscera, and disturbed and discordant action of the abdominal nervous plexus." All this, however, is quite conjectural, although it is apparently indicated in abdominal congestions. Dr. Norwood says, " it is not cathartic," but he speaks of "' avoiding its drastic effect," and mentions that " the only cases in which we have seen it purge, were when given in combination with Tartar emetic. In most of these cases it excited a violent cholera morbus. Concerning its therapeutic effects, he states: " We have found it of great value in the treatment of typhoid dysentery, and would feel unable to combat that disease without it, or some other remedy of equal power." It seems homzeopathic to about the same condition of the bowels as Verat. alb.; also to hemorrhoids. Kidneys, Urine, etc.-Profuse urine; increased secretion of pale urine. CLINICAL REMARKS.-Its action on the kidneys has been pretty well investigated by allopathic observers. Prof. Lee says: "its diuretic action has been established by numerous experiments. It is worthy of particular note that it does not act as a mere renal hydrlagogue, but like colchicum it increases the solid constituents of the urine. While it increases the amount of organic and inorganic solids, it is not positively established that it augments the quantity of uric acid. Like colchicum it increased the amount of urine, as well as the total amount of solids eliminated, but it is pretty certain that this is mainly dependent on an increase of organic matter. Its curative influence in gout and rheumatism may thus be explained. It is said to eliminate lithic acid through the kidneys." Dr. Abbott made some experiments which proved that it causes a considerable increase in the amount, and a corresponding decrease in the specific gravity, of the urine. It would seem to be honceopathic primarily to certain forms of diuresis, enuresis, and perhaps diabetis. It is curative in acute inflammation of the kidneys and bladder. Male Generative Organs. CLINICAL REMARKS.-It is used successfully in severe inflammatory diseases of these organs. Dr. Osgood considered it almost specific for Orchitis. It will probably prove as useful as Aconite in affections of these tissues. Generative Organs of Women.-We have yet no symptomatic proving of Veratrum viride upon the female organism. It is said to have caused abortion in numerous instances, yet Drs. Ford and White, who used it so freely in yellow fever, thought it prevented that accident. It may not cause abortion directly, as Sabina or Cimiciftiga, but indirectly, by the great prostration of the general symptoms, the severe efforts to vomit, etc. In the same way it would cause hemorrhage from the uterus. It is probably homneopathic primarily to passive congestions of that organ. Mya experience:with the VeratrumT viride in this class of dis VERATRUM VIRIDE. 425 eases, is confined principally to acute inflammation of the uterus, or puerperal metritis, in which I place a high estimate upon its value. I think I have arrested the inflammation, or materially modified it, by the use of the lower dilutions. There are certain conditions attending uterine disorders, in which the Verat. v. has proved very successful in my hands. I allude to those congestions of the head or lungs which occur during uterine disorders, such as menstrual corgestions of the head (menstrual headache), also congestion of the head or lungs from suppressed menses, suppressed lochia, etc. In these accidents a few drops of the lowest dilutions has never failed to prove promptly curative in my practice. It is highly recommended by Dr. Miller (eclectic), in Dysmenorrhcea, occurring in plethoric subjects (i. e. congestive dysmenorrhoea). In anenmic subjects he pronounces it decidedly injurious. It is probably indicated in this affection, for similar symptoms to Aconite and Belladonna. It has been found useful in palliating violent attacks of hysterical convulsions. Many allopathic writers, among them Dr. Simpson, of Edinburg, extols it highly in puerperal fever. It may prove useful in the vomiting.q, pyrosis, and other symptoms occurring during pregncancy. Many of the symptoms occurring during the change of' ife, are simulated by this medicine. In acute mastitis, with high febrile action, and great tumefaction of the breasts I have used it alternately with Belladonna with very satisfactory results. It has been used boldly -recklessly-by the allopathic school, in puerperal convulsions (eclamsia) as a substitute for blood-letting, but in such doses as to be nearly as injuriously pernicious as the abstraction of blood. I have never used it in that affection, but I have administered it in cases where I thought convulsions would ensue if not warded off, and with the apparent result of preventing that terrible array of symptoms. In puerperal marnia it -has proved curative. (See a case reported by Dr. Woodward.) Dr. Atlee reports a case as fnllows: "The labor had been preternatural, child delivered dead, by podalic version. She did well until ten days after confinement, when she became silent, suspicious, and distrustful of those about her, without any obvious cause. In the hope that the change was temporary, opium and perfect rest, with careful watching was enjoined. Two days after, symptoms of puerperal mania were still more developed; it was impossible for the doctor to come near her; his presence seemed to terrify her, and her husband told him that since the previous visit, she expressed strong apprehensions that'the doctor had poisoned her and meditated her destruction. She had slept little or none, and it was difficult to keep her confined to her bed and her room. In the hope that some benefit might result by'controlling the general circulation and diminishing the'nervous excitement, five drops of the tincture were given every three hours, as long as it did not produce nausea, vomiting, or prostration. On the following morning, on entering -the room, he found his patient lying quietly and calmly on the bed, with a total absence of the sinister expression of the day before. She answered him slowly but in a whisper, put out her tongue, and let him feel her pulse 54 426 NEW IHOl/I(EOPATHIC PRO VINGS. without resistance. Upon inquiry he found that soon after the administration of the third dose of Veratrum on the previous evening, she had become calm, had rested quietly, and had remained so. Pulse fifty-six. She was cheerful and obedient, conversed rationally and freely, and without allusion to her previously unhappy condition. She recovered perfectly in a few days. Dr. Coe (Art. Veratrin, Cone. Org. IMbed.) states that a majority of the cases of mental aberration arise from and are dependent upon a morbidly increased activity of the nervous structure of the abdomen." "This," he says, "would seem to explain why Veratrin is of utility in the treatment of mania, melancholy, and mental weakness." (Very doubtful, H.) "In cases of mental aberration, accompanied with torpor and debility of the abdominal organs, Veratrum will be found serviceable." (Mere theory, H.) Chest. —Oppression of the chest; sensation as of a heavy load on the chest; anxious oppression of the chest; constant, dull, burning pain in the region of the heart, under the sternum; burning pain in the region of the heart; oppression of the chest with nausea. The respiration decreases from 30 and 40 to 16 and 12 (in pneumonia;) respirations 12 to 14 (in healthy persons under the influence of the drug). RiAtARxs. —The symptoms of oppression enumerated above are due principally to the debility caused by the drug; the oppression comes on just before the vomiting, and with nausea. Dr. Burt's experiments with the Veratrum v. on cats, seem to show that it causes intense engorgement of the lungs. We would refer the reader to his paper, published herewith. In Dr. Burt's proving, made on himself, he makes no mention of any pains which may be termed pneumonic, or pleuritic; the pain in the heart, only, was noticed. It is a notable fact, however, that in the proving of Tartar emetic, we have the same absence of acute thoracic pain; yet the latter drug has a high reputation, even in the homreopathic school, in the treatment of pneumonia. It is well known by all practical physicians that severe cases of pneumonia may run their course with little or no pain at any time being present. The Veratrum v. has not been extensively used by homceopathists in the treatment of thoracic diseases. Satisfied with that time-honored remedy, Aconite, they prefer to adhere to that drug. But many of my colleagues, both East and West, agree with me in considering the Verat. v. as superior to Aconite, in pneeunonia in particular. MIy own experience with it has, so far, been satisfactory. In the incipient stage of that affection, when simple engorgement only exists, I believe it has the power of arresting the disease, and in the later stages it proves a valuable auxiliary to such remedies as Bryonia, Phosphorus, Tartar emetic, and Sanguinaria. I usually give the lowest dilution, ten or fifteen drops of the 1st dec. every thirty or sixty minutes to adults, and half the quantity to children. In a few cases only have I been obliged to resort to the mother tincture. In one case, that of a strong, robust man, five drops were given every two hours; after ten hours, profuse vomiting with sweating set in; the previously intense fever subsided, and did not VERATRUM VIRIDE. 427 return, and a rapid convalescence followed. It was given on the third day of the fever, when there was bloody sputa, severe oppression and pain in the chest (left side), and all the physical signs of the first stage of pneumonia. I deem it my duty, in this place, to give some of the large amount of allopathic testimony, for and against, the use of this remedy; for, as with their experience with Tartar emetic, we may gain valuable hints from their observations. Dr. Davidson (Nashville Journal of Medicine), says:'"I have followed no other particular treatment for the last two years in pneumonia and pleurisy, than this medicine, and I am happy to say I have never seen a case terminate unfavorably under the treatment. I look upon the Veratrum as being worth all the other treatments combined, for pleurisy, pneumonia, and all other diseases of an inflammatory character." Dr. Wood, in his Therapeutics, does not give you his personal experience, but says: " The testimony in its favor is so strong, and from so many sources, that it is impossible to refuse it credence." Dr. A. F. Patton (Tilden's Journal of Mat. Mled., vol. i., p. 369,) writes: "' Pneumonia is the disease in which Veratrum viride is particularly indicated. It seems to have more controlling power in this than any other disease, reducing the inflammation, and favoring the expectoration in a very few hours; in some instances, vomiting is induced, which is generally of tough, viscid mucus; the pulse now rapidly declines, if not affected before; the breathing becomes very easy, and the patient falls into an easy sleep, with, perhaps, a gentle perspiration-the dose, now, is to be managed so as to sustain the depressed circulation. I find that, in pneumonia, it is better to reduce the pulse as soon as possible. The inflammation being in a degree arrested, the lung is saved from the more severe consequences of the second stage, or that of red hepatization, for the concrete fibrinous exudation being caused by a peculiar inflamma. tory action-thus, the cause being in part removed-this exudation is, in a great degree, arrested, and the patient, in a majority of cases, enters. into a favorable convalescence." I have quoted the first authorities that came to hand, but I have looked on the immense amount of material, which is to be found scattered through the various periodicals, etc., and the opinions expressed above coincide with a majority of physicians who have written concerning the use of this medicine in pneumonia. There are, however, many of the most enlightened minds in the allopathic profession, who sturdily and rationally oppose its indiscriminate use. Among the most prominent of these, is Prof. Charles A. Lee. His objection can also be aptly applied to the use of Taltar emetic, an article so much abused by his school in the (mal) treatment of pneumonia. That dirug, and the Verat. v., act in a similar manner. In poisonous or pathogenetic doses, both cause engorgement andt passive congestion of the lungs (primarily), and inflammation of those organs (secondarily). The allopath who uses Veratrumn viride for pneumonia, in the doses usually prescribed by his school, brings about the very conditions which caused the disease, namely, congestion. The homropath who administers this remedy, in the 428 NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. first stage of pneumonia, in minute doses, —a drop of 1st or 2d dec. -gives it upon the law of Similia, and arrests the disease, or notably modifies it. In the second stage, when the inflammation is fairly established, it should be given in alternation with Phosphorus, or Sanguinaria; but, the moment the pulse ceases to be the pulse of sthenic action, that moment the Verat. must be omitted. The same may be said concerning the use of Aconite or Gelseminum; or, if these remedies are administered at all, in such conditions, only the highest potencies should be selected. No greater error can be made, than to give Aconite, Bryonia, Gelseminum, or Veratrum, in the low potencies, because the pulse is qeuick. A quick pulse must have many other qualities, to be the pulse of active inflammation, and to indicate these medicines. In Pleuritis, the Veratrum, will probably never be a very useful remedy. Like Tartar emetic, it does not seem to affect the serous tissues, as does Aconite or Bryonia. Cardiac Symptoms. —Prickling pains in the region of the heart; dull, aching pains in the region of the heart; constant, burning distress in the cardiac region; faintness after rising from the recumbent position; syncope when walking, only relieved by lying down. (Burt.) The heart's pulsations reduced from sixtyeight to twenty-four (in health); and from one hundred and forty to thirty-three, in fevers; beats of the heart, low and feeble, scarcely perceptible (primary symptoms); palpitation of the heart; fluttering sensation in the region of the heart; palpitation on taking the least exercise; strong, loud beating of the heart, with quick pulse; palpitation with dyspncea (secondary effects). CLINICAL REiMARKS.-It is generally believed that the Veratrum viride acts upon the heart, through the nervous system. paralysing the nerves of motion. It is supposed that Aconite and Verat. alb. act in a similar manner. (Gelseminum, I believe, to act more directly upon the muscular structure of the heart.) The Verat. viride is primarily indicated in cardiac oppression, with passive congestion; cardiac debility, with fainting and collapse therefrom. In those heart affections, occurring during prostrating diseases, after hemorrhages, etc., it may be used, but always in the minutest doses. No remedy exercises a more depressing action on the heart, than the Verat. v. in large doses. It is secondarily indicated in increased activity of the heart, after previous depression. In carditis, and pericarditis, it has been used with alleged success by allopathic practitioners. In rheumatic affections of the heart, it is especially lauded, but may do as much injury as bleeding, if used in large doses. Having a similar action to Aconite, it will, perhaps, be found as useful as that medicine in heart affections. It does not, however, cause that intense cardiac anxiety, with fear of death, which Aconite does. It will be found palliative in many organic diseases of the heart, but should be used with great caution. It is not a " cardiac tonic," in material doses, as the Digitalis is said to be. It will alleviate, according to my experience, those palpitatioils, attended with faintness, or dyspnea, which occur in many diseased conditions of the heart, or attend the " change of life " in VERATRUM VIRIDE. 429 women. Some of the symptoms felt by Dr. Burt, resemble those found in the pathogenesis of Spigelia. It may be a matter of doubt, whether the "burning sensation," experienced by Dr. Burt, was really in the heart; the cesophagus may have been the seat of the sensation. Back. —Very severe, and constant, aching pains in the back of neck and shoulders, so that it was almost impossible to hold the head up. CLINICAL REMARKS.-By some practitioners it is valued very highly, as a remedy for Lumbago, also for neuralgic pains in the back. It may prove valuable for some forms of spinal irritation, and even myelitis. We do not know what pathological changes it effects in the spinal cord. Extremities.-Drawing pains in the right elbow, and calves of the legs; cramp of the legs (Burt); the fingers and toes cramped as in cholera; galvanic shocks in the limbs, frequently'of such violence as to precipitate the patient out of bed (Coe); coldness, blueness, and dampness of the hands, feet, and limbs, with cramps of the extremities; weakness and loss of power in the extremities; paralysis of the lower limbs; prickling, and partial loss of sensation in the extremities. XANTIIOXYLUM FRAXINEUM. (Prickly Ash.) * Nat. Ord. Xanthoxylaceme.-This shrub is known by the various names of Yellow-wood, Toothache-bush, Northern Prickly Ash, etc. It is an indigenous shrub, ten or twelve feet in height, with alternate branches, which are armed with conical, brown prickles, at the insertion of the young branches. The leaves are alternate and pinnate; the leaflets about five pairs with an odd one, nearly sessile, ovate, acute, with slight vesicular serratures, somewhat downy underneath. The common petiole is round, usually prickly on the back. The flowers are in small, dense, sessile ulmbels and have a somewhat aromatic odor. The Prickly Ash is a native of North America, growing from Canada to Virginia, and west to the Mississippi, in woods, thickets, and the river banks, flowering in April and May before the appearance of the leaves. The entire plant contains medicinal properties. The fragrance is due to a volatile oil which may be extracted by ether or alcohol. Both the bark and berries are officinal. The bark from which the tincture was prepared for proving, comes in fragments * A Report of the Committee on Materia Medica of the Massachusetts Medical Society. By Charles Cullir3, M. D., Boston, and contributed to this work by him. 432 NEW HOMCE OPATHIC PRO VINGS. PROVINGS BY WoMEN. —lst. Miss D., aged twenty-six; black hair; active habit; good health. Took twelve drops of the tincture. In five minutes felt pressure in the head, with fulness of the veins. In ten minutes, dull pain in right knee. In fifteen minutes, pain in both elbows, and back of the head, also a bewildered sensation; pain in the lid of the right eye. Half an hour after sense of heat all over the veins, with a desire to be bled; flash of heat from head to foot. One hour after taking the medicine, pain in ankle; flash of heat; pain in left heel; a feeling of enlargement of the throat; pain in right side of the throat; dull pain in left elbow, passing to the palm of the hand, then to the shoulder; pain in left side; heavy feeling in the top of the head; pain in the left leg between the hip and knee; pain in left elbow and left side of the head; dull pain in left knee, also in left elbow, extending to the hand, then in left side and top of the left foot; a feeling of numbness through the whole of the left side of the body from head to foot, the division made perceptible in the head, affecting half of the nose-this feeling lasted two or three minutes; pain in left knee. Two hours after, pain in left knee, very severe; slight pain in left side, and under the left shoulder-blade, alo the left hip; the pain in the left knee has lasted, without cessation, a little more than half an hour; pain in lower jaw and left side; the whole left arm and shoulder numb; pain in both feet, shooting up to the knees. 2nd. Mrs. H., aged 30. Took ten drops of the tincture at 9:20 P. M.; pulse, 80. Soon after taking it began to experience a feeling of depression and weakness; weakness of the lower limbs, with pain in the knees. At 9:30 P. M., pulse 74 soft; slight nausea, with sense of oppression at the stomach; nausea increased as did the pains of the extremities, accompanied with frequent chills. Next evening same prover took twenty drops of the tincture; did not experience the feeling of depression inso great degree as the night before; the weakness of the limbs and pain in the knees about the same; some pain in the left side; menses appeared next morning, being one week before the usual time; was attended with a good deal of pain. 3rd. Mrs. J., aged twenty-eight; light complexion; sanguine temnperament; good health. Took twenty drops of the tincture at 8 o'clock P. xr. In about twenty minutes noticed a tightening of the scalp, and heavy pains in temples, with a twitching in left knee, and trembling in right. On the following day took at 11 o'clock A. M., twenty drops; felt same feelings in head; did not notice lower limbs. 2 o'clock P. A., took twenty-two drops; felt the same headache, or severe pain and tightening. 3 o'clock P. Ml., took twenty-five drops; increase of head difficulties, with.a great heat and a quiet flowing (menstrual), being two days in advance of proper time. 8 o'clock p. xr., took twenty drops; some headache; all the system quiet, with an unnatural forcing of nature; went to sleep as usual, and in dreadful distress and pain, baffling description; profuse flowing; the pain (or agony) continued until noon of next day, when it gradually subsided. 4:34. NEW HOM(EOPATHIC PROVINGS. ~Generative Organs of Women.-Appearance of the menses too s;oo(n. Profuse menses with violent pains. Leucorrhbea. CLINICAL REM~Ars. —Clinically, I have used this remedy in ]Dysmenorrhcea and Amenorrhcea with marked success. One or two cases will serve for illustration: Miss A., aged twenty-five; brunette; has suffered from menstrual irregularities since their first appearance; the catamenia appearing in three, four, or five months, ind at that time her sifferings were excruciating. Her general health otherwise was good. At the time of consulting me, she had iot had her catamenia for two months. I gave her Xanthoxylum 1st dilution, five drops three times a day. In three days her menses appeared, and much to her joy, with little pain. Miss B., light complexioned, nervous temperament, aged twenty-five, consulted lle for suppression of menses received by getting her feet wet, she being then about one week past her time. I gave her Xanthoxyluin 1st dec., five drops every three hours. Her menses appeared the next day. Mrs. C., aged thirty-two, mother of ten children, a large, fleshy woman, had not menstruated for five months, and previous to that time had not for three or four months. Gave Xafnthoxylum 1st, to be taken three times a day. Menses appeared in four days. In Dysmenorrhcea, I have used this drug with very satisfactory results. I will quote one marked case: Mrs. D., aged twenty-six; spare habit; scrofulous diathesis; had suffered for years from dysnienorrhcea. Her sufferings were so great that she would be confined to her bed for two or three days. She had tried all sorts of treatment, but without any relief. She came under my care, saying the only way she could live through her menstrual period was to drink whisky or gin until she was intoxicated. For several months I treated her with the usual remedies, but without any beneficial result. I then gave her Xanthoxylum 3rd dec.; this completely cured her. She was extravagant in the praise of this remedy. It has'never failed to relieve her. I think Xanthoxylum more especially indicated in females of spare habit, nervous temperament, and delicate organization. In some cases of plethoric habit it has failed me. In Leucorrhcea with Amenorrhcea, it has proved very successful. In after-pains in obstetric practice, I have found it of inestimable value; also, in profuse flowing and threatened abortion. I have used it in Opthalmia, both locally and internally, with excellent results. DIOSCOREA VILLOSA. 4.35 APPEN DIX. DIOSCOREA VILLOSA, [This was received too late for insertion in its proper place.] DR. W. H. BURT'S PROVING. May 5th, 1864, 10 A. M. —Took 30 drops of the fluid extract of Dioscorea. Half an hour after taking the medicine, commenced to have pain in the whole epigastrium, and region of the gall-bladder, quite severe, of a cutting, tearing character, at times spasmodic. 3 P. M.-Slight distress in the stomach; took forty drops. 5 r. M.Slight, dull, frontal headache; frequent empty eructations, constant dull pain in the epigastric and umbilical regions, with frequent colicky pains of a cutting, tearing nature; great depression of spirits. 8 P.. -Slight frontal headache; frequent, sharp pains in the stomach and region of the gall-bladder; frequent, sharp, cutting pains in the umbilical region, aggravated by walking; frequent drawing pains in the left shoulder and neck; drawing pains in the knees and ankles, the knees are very weak when walking; constant dull pain in the lumbar region, aggravated by stooping or walking; took fifty drops. May 6th.-Awoke three times in the night with severe cutting pains in the umbilicus. There is constant dull aching pains in the umbilicus, with occasional colicky pains; severe frontal headache; thick yellowish-white coating on the tongue; rough, flat taste in the mouth; black, dry lumpy stool; dull heavy pain in the lumbar-sacral region, very much worse by stooping; fingers ache and are quite stiff; drawing pains in the ankles and feet. Took sixty drops, 9 P.. —Slight, dull headache; rough feeling in the fauces, with constant inclination to swallow; constant aching distress in the umbilicus; dull aching pains in the back; drawing pains in the calves of the legs and ankles. Took 100 drops, 11 A. m.-Dull, frontal headache; dry, rough feeling in the fauces, with frequent inclination to swallow; constant, dull, aching pains in the whole umbilical region, with frequent, sharp, cutting pains all through the small intestines; dull drawing pains in the fore-arms and wrists; drawing pain between the shoulders; constant, severe drawing pains in the calves of the legs and ankles; knees are 436 NEW HOIOaEOPATHIC PROVINGS. feeling very weak; disposition to yawn and stretch. 3 p. r. —The pains are all the same, only more mild, took 200 drops. 5 P. xr.Slight frontal headache; rough feeling in the fauces, with frequent inclination to swallow; constant distress in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, with severe cutting, colicky pains every few minutes in the stomach and small intestines; bearing down prolapsed feeling of the anus; feeling very weak, hands and legs tremble constantly, can hear my heart beating after walking a little. Pulse 80; sharp pulsating pain just at the top of the sternum, lasting an hour; severe drawing pains in my elbows, wrists and fingers, at times the pain in the fingers is very sharp; constant dull aching pain in the lumbar sacral region, very much worse by bending the spine; dull drawing pains in the knees and ankles, very sharp cutting pains in the bottom of the feet and toes; the right ankle and foot has the most pain init. 9 P.. —Slight frontal headache, with occasional sharp pains in the right temple; dryness of the fauces; constant aching distress in the whole of the bowels, with frequent sharp cutting pains in the stomach and small intestines. Three hemorrhoidal tumors have made their appearance, and are partially prolapsed; there is constant dull pain and distress in the anus; the pulsating pain at the upper part of the sternum is still there, it is very distressing; flying pains all through the chest and back (cervical portion); constant dull pain in the small of the-back, and hips, cannot bear to stoop down, it is so painful; constant, dull, drawing pains in the elbows, wrists, hands and fillgers; the pain in the fingers is very severe, of a cutting, tearing nature; constant, dull, aching pain in the ankles, feet and toes; the pain the toes is of a tearing, cutting character; took 150 drops. May 7th, A. M.-Slept soundly, but perspired a good deal, awoke at 2 A. M., with great burning distress in the stomach; dull frontal headache, tongue coated white; flat pappy taste; tonsils slightly congested; constant aching distress in the stomach and bowels; stomach is quite painful when pressed upon; stool, first part black, very dry and.hard, last part mushy and white. The stool was followed by the protrusion of four hemorrhoidal tumors, the size of large red cherries, with great pain and distress in the anus; constant dull backache; hands and fingers ache and are very stiff; closing the hands is very painful; ankles, feet, and toes are also very stiff, and ache constantly. After exercising two hours my hands and feet felt quite free from pain. Took 100 drops, at 10 A. f.i — Slight headache; constant distress in the umbilicus. The hoemorrhoidal tumours are constantly prolapsed, which is very distressing and painful; dull aching pains in the wrists, hands, and fingers, ankles, feet and toes; they are feeling quite stiff. Took 200 drops. 12 m.-Slight frontal headache; constant aching, burning distress in the epigastric and umbilical regions; dull, heavy aching distress in the right lobe of the liver; constant, dull, aching pain in the whole lumbar region; bending the spine produces sharp, cutting pains all. along the lumbar region; dull pains in the hands and feet; three of the hnmorrhoidal tumors are of the color of the mucous membrane of the anus, and are the size of very large red DIOSCOREA VILLOSA. 437 cherries; the other one is not so large, and is of a very dark, livid, blue color. 4 P.. —Very severe frontal headache; feeling very faint and weak; hands and legs tremble constantly; vertigo with great faintness; have to lie down to keep from fainting; seems to all centre at the stomach; great distress in the stomach, with frequent, sharp, prickly pains in it; sharp, cutting pains every few minutes in the umbilical region; dull, aching distress in my wrists, hands, fingers, ankles, feet and toes. Fearing that I would have, spasms, I took three doses of camphor with no relief. I then inhaled chloroform every few minutes until 7 P. m. The chloroform gave great relief, but would last only a short time, when the great faintness would come on again; at 7 P. M., the faintness left me. 9 i. m. —severe frontal headache; constant and very severe burning distress in the whole of the epigastrium; distress in the umbilicus, and desire for stool; very hard, dry, lumpy stool, followed by prolapsus of the anus, with great pain and distress in the hiemorrhoids; feeling very weak in the knees; constant, aching distress in the hands and feet; very weak in the knees, can just walk; constant trembling of the arms and legs; very severe backache. May 8th. —Slept well until midnight, after that, was very restless until morning; skin dry and hot; pulse 62, while lying down; dull, frontal headache; great distress in the stomach, but not so much of the burning; tongue coated yellowish white; flat, rough taste; stomach is very tender, cannot bear to have it pressed upon; very severe pain in the upper portion of the lumbar region, when bencling the spine; soft mushy stool, very yellow, at 8 A. M., followed by a very weak, faint feeling; hands and fingers ache all the time; fingers are very stiff; dull pain in the ankles and feet, 8 P. 3r.; felt quite well until 2 P. M., when the great burning distress came on again in my stomach; dull headache; very lame back; the hemorrhoids are very troublesome; my hands and feet have been feeling quite easy all day after the first hour; exercise relieves all of the rheumatic symptoms. May 9th. —Slept well; awoke at 5 A. M., with severe pain in the umbilical and hypogastric regions, and great distress for stool; very profuse thin, yellow stool, that did not relieve the pain in the bowels; feeling very faint at the stomach, and weak; 7 A. M., another very thin deep yellow stool, which relieved the pain a good deal, followed by the great faintness at the stomach; eating would not relieve it; 9 P. M., have been feeling quite well all day, but since 6 p. n., the great burning distress in the stomach has been constant; severe neuralgic pain in the left groin all the evening. May 10th.-Slept well; this morning have the great burning in my stomach; slight distress in the bowels, with a deep yellow diarrhceic stool; hands and feet are quite stiff; dull back-ache; the hemorrhoidal tumors are free fiom pain and are getting smaller. The backache lasted one week after taking the remedy. Characteristic Peculiarities.-The rheumatic symptoms are worse at night and early in the morning; first hour the pains are very much aggravated by motion, after that, motion relieves them; AESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. 439 Chest.-Sh'arp pulsating pain in the top of the sternum; sharp stitches all through the chest and cervical portion of the back; drawing pain between the shoulders. Back.-Constant dull pain in the lumbar region; dull aching pain in the lumbar-sacral region very much aggravated by bending the spine; dull pain in the small of the back; bending the spine produces sharp cutting pains in all of the lumbar vertebra; back is quite stiff, especially in the morning. Arms.-Frequent drawing pains in the elbows, wrists, hands and fingers; severe, cutting pains in the elbows, wrists and fingers; constant dull pains in the wrists, hands and fingers, with frequent sharp pains in the fingers; fingers are very stiff, can hardly close them, they are so painful. Lower Extremities. —Dull drawing pains in the knees and ankles; very sharp pain in the bottom of the feet and toes; constant dull pains in the ankles, feet and toes, with sharp pain in the toes; the toes are very stiff, especially in the morning. 1ESCULUS HIPPOCASTANUM. PROVING BY C. H. LEE, M. D. (Received too late for insertion with the other:Provings of same Medicine.) Prover healthy; temperament nervous-sanguine. December 26, 1863. Took- one drop of the third attenuation. December 27. - Felt drowsy; tongue coated white. December 28. Very dull and stupid; disposition to sleep all the time; felt weak; very severe lancinating headache at the base of the brain as if too full; white coating on the tongue; borborygmus and fiatus which was fcetid; abdomen swollen and tympanitic; took two drachms. December 29. Same symptoms as yesterday, with sore throat, which was inflamed; throat felt hot; worse on left side; left tonsil very much swollen and painful on deglutition; stools, of a light brown color and very soft-frequent, but not to extent of a diarrhoea; no appetite; no more of the drug taken. December 30. Same symptoms as above, but worse; about 4 o'clock, r. M., severe chill which lasted three hours; heat of the fire relieved me; from 7 to 12 at night, very high fever; pulse about 130; no thirst during the chill or fever, but rather an increase of saliva; head aches all over as if it would burst; photophobia; profuse hot perspiration with the fever; dyspncea with rapid breathing; lungs feel heavy and as if they were engorged; 440 NEW HOM(EOPATIHIC PROVINGS. heart's action very rapid and heavy-would jar me while lying down, and could feel the pulsation all over the body; my stomach felt as if it would tall down into the intestines; urine scanty and of a mahogany color, and as it passed through the urethra it burned like hot water; a sore spot on the right parietal bone, which upon pressure, felt as if a knife was piercing through; took no medicine to-day. December 31. Fever gone; pulse about ninety; neck very stiff and swollen; both tonsils swollen and of a fierv red color; difficult deglutition; head not aching so much, but is worse on stooping or getting up from a chair; breathing more natural; spitting of blood on getting up in the morning; no cough; stools hard and dark brown; urine not so high colored, with a brown sediment; took none of the drug. January 1, 1864. I have severe shooting pains in the left temple; eyes of a pinkish hue; dull pain in the region of the spleen; stools hard; no other symptoms. January 2. Stools soft; urine yellow, with a thick, white mucus sediment; took four drops of the tincture. January 3 and 4. Appearance c.f hmumorrhoids like gr ound nuts, of a purple color; very painful, and with sensation of burning(the prover never had hmmorroids before). January 6. Felt a dryness in the soft palate; a fulness in the head; stools natural; urine dark, some little sediment; took eight drops. January 8. Throat dry as if it was scraped, and swollen; borborygmus; flatus feetid; took one drachm. January 10. Dryness of the back part of throat; severe headache as if the head would split; desire to pass water often, but little at a time. January 11. Symptoms same as above; a dry, burning sensation of the fauces and palate; a quantity of thick, yellow phlegm in the mouth; tongue coated yellow; bowels loose; stools brown; urine scanty, and dark brown, no sediment; pulse hard and frequent; dull, aching pain in elbow joint of left arm; took no more of the drug. January 12. Symptoms begin to diminish. January 14. No symptoms. CLINICAL INDEX. ABORTTS — ARDOR URIN: — Aletris far. 35, 36. Asclbpias syr. 63. Asclepias s. 63. Helonias d 241. Sanguin. can. 380. ASTHMAErigeron canad. 153. Trillium p. 407. Baptisia. 80. Eupatorium. perfol. 164. Cimicifuga, 118. Veratrum vir. 424. Arum triphyllum, 58. Gossipium, 217. ASTHENOPIA-.AFTER PAINS — Gelseminum, 193. Pod. pelt. 348. Cautophyllum, 88i 89. ASCARIDESCimuicifuga,. ll7. Apocynum androsemifolium, 39. ALBUMINURIA- ASCITESEupator. purp. 166. Chimaphila, 99. Apocynum cannabinun, 46. AMAUROSIS- - Gelseminum, 194. Cimicifuga, 110. BRAIN, AFFECTIONS OFVeratrum v. 421. Cypripedium, 145. Gelseminum, 191. AMENORRIIEiA- BILIARY DERANGEMENTSAletris farin. 35. Helonias dioieo, 41. Leptandria, 290, 289. Senecio, 392. Sang. 378. Gelsem.(206. BILIOUS FEVERCimicifuga, 114. Xanthoxylum, 434. Podophyllum, 333. Gossipium, 217. BILIOUS COLICANEMIA- Dioscorea, 147. Helonias, 244. Hydrastis can. 255. BRONCHIAL ABFFECTIONSANGINA — Eupator. perfol. 164.:Eriger. can. 155. Arum triphyl. 57. Sanguinaria, 375. BRONCTHITISRHydrastis, 254.' Sanguinaria, 381. Gelsemitum, 211. ANOREXIA- Eupatorium perf. 164. Eupatorium perfoliatum, 163. BRONCHOCELEANURY- Phytolacca, 300. Apocynum cannabinum, 48. ANOSMIAGelseminum,:195. CATARRHAPPETITE, EXCESSIVE- Arum tr. 58. Apocynum cannab. 45. Collinsonia canadensis, 126. Hydrastis, 253,- 261. Phytolacca, 313. APTH.-E- Gelseminum, 195. Rumex crisp, 361. Euphorbia cor. 171. Eupat. arome. 157. Cimicifuga, ll. Baptisiatinctoria, 76. Caulophyllum, 87. Cormus for. 135. Sanguin. 373, 380. Eupatorium, 164. Hydrastis, 255. Sticta pulmonaria, 401. Trillium, 407. APHONIA- Aselepias, 68. Gelseminum, 198, 211. Rumex e. 365. CANCERSIBaptisia, 80. Phytolacca, 313. Hydrastis, 248, 249. APOPLEXY- CAMP DIARRHGCEAGelseminum, 192. Sanguiinaria, 373. Leptaudria, 294, CLINICAL INDEX. 443 Helonias, 240. Eupatorium per., 166. EYES, NEURALGIA OFLept., 298. Gelseminum, 196. bUODENTITISIris, 278. FEVERSDYSENTERY- Bilious Apocynum andro., 38. lBaptisia, 79. Apocynum andro., 38. Baptisia, 74. Collins., 127. Cornus cir., 132, 137. Lept., 287. Gels., 187. Catarrhal — Euphorbia cor., 170. Erigeron, 152. Gelseminum, 201. Iris, 273. 281 Apocynum andro., 43. Baptisia, 74, amarmelis, 257. L~eptan., 292, 297. Asclepias, 68. Gelseminum, 211. Hamnamelis 257. tl~eptan.,RgfZ~ 297. HecticPhyt., 319. Pod., 346. Trillium,404. Snguinaria can. Sanguinaria can., 370. Veratrum v, 423. Irritative — DYSMENORRH(EA-ve~~DYSME:I~ORR~Ea- ~ Gelseminum, 182. Asclepias, 63. Bapt., 79, Cimi., 114. itlerminent-1 IntermittentCauloph. thal., 88, 90. Coil., 129, 132. Leptandria, 286. Gelsemnum, 181. 6elseminum, 205. Hamamelis v., 232 Eupat. per, 159. Veratrum v, 416. XIel., 241. Sen., 392. Sang. c., 378. Cornus c., 33. Cornus f., 140. Xanthoxylum, 434. RheumaticDYSPEPSIA- Cimicifuga, 105. Baptisia, 74. Phytolacca decan., 318. Asciepias, 69. Remittent — HEydras. 252, 254. Helonias dio.j 240. Gelseminum, 181. Veratrum v., 416. Caulophyllum, 87. Leptandria, 288. Cornus c., 133. Podo. pelt., 333. Phytolacca, 318. Podoph. pelt., 339. ScarletRumex, 359. Sanguinaria, 376. Gelseminum, 187. DYSPEPTIC PHTHISIS- TyphoidCimicifuga, 121. Baptisia, 72, 73. Veratrum v., 418. DYSURIA- Dioscorea v., 273. Leptandria, 286. Erigeron can., 152. Chimaphila, 99. YellowDYSPNCEA- Apoci andro, 38. Cimicifuga, 105. Eupatorium perf., 164. Silph., 395. Gelseminum, 186. Veratrum v., 417. FISTULA LACHRYMALISEOCHYMOS:BES ON EYE-BALLS — ECCHYMOSES ON EYE-BALLS- Phytolacca decandra, 312. Erigeron can., 150. ECZEMA- - IEuphorbia c., 172. GALL STONES, EXPULSION OFENURESIS — Podophyllum peltatum, 342. Podo. pelt., 39. Eupat. purp., 166. GASTRODNIAGelseminum, 202. Gelseminum, 206. ENT E RO-COLITIS- Nuphar lutea, 305. Leptandria, 288. Gelsem., 199, 205. jENTERITIS- Dioscorea, 149. Phyt., 319. Iris, 281. Euphor., 172. GASTRIC DERANGEMENTGels., 200. Lept,, 291. Sang., 378. Aletris farinosa, 35. Leptandria, 288, Gels. 7.200. Lept,, 291, Sang., 378. Rumex, 359. Trill. 404, Sang., 375. Veratrum viride, 423. Gelseminum 178. Veratrum v;, 412. ]tEP1STAXIS — EPiSTAXIS- GASTRITISHa3mamelis vir., 235. Erigeren, 50-. Euphorbia, 172. Iris versicoe1or, 278. Trillium, 404. Podo. pelt., 339. Sang., 376, 377. Trilliumrn,404. RERYSIP]LAS — CERYSIPE:LAS- GINGIVITISEuphorb, 172. Gels., 196, i88. Sanguinaria, 375. ERYTHIEMA- GLEETGelseminum, 195, 196, 215. Hydrastis can., 259. Collinsonia, 131. EUSTA~CHIIAN TUBHE, Hamamelis vir., 234. Erigero,-156. Obstructions of- Siiphium, 396. Eupat. pur., 166. Phytolacca, 312. GONORRH('EA — EXCORIATIONS — Caulophylum, 93. Hydrastis can., 289. Hydrastis, 251, 258. Hamamelis v., 233, Iris vens. 282. CLINICAL IND:EX. 445 MEASLES- (EDEMA OF THE GLOTTISGelseminum, 188. Veratrum v. 419. Arum triphyllum, 58. iSTELiEN-A- ORCHITISHamamelis virginica, 225. llamamelis, 234. Veratrum vir. 434. MENORRHAGIA- OVARIAN DISEASEAletris far. 35. Apocynum andros. 40. Phytolacca, 321. Podophyl. pelt. 349. Baptisia, 79. Apocynum cannab. 53. IHamamelis, 231. Cimicifuga r. 118. Erigeron canadens. 155. Senecio, 393. OZ.ENATrilli~um 403, 405, 4016. Phytolacca d. 313. Baptisia tinct. 76. METRORRIHAGIA — Sanguinaria, 374. IHIydrastis c. 253. Trillium, 406P. PALPITATION OF HEARTMENSES, PREMATURE — anguinaria, 370. Aletris farinosa, 35. PARALYSISM~ENINGIITIS- Gelseminum, 178, 213. Aletris farinosa, 35. Cimicifuga, 11 Gelemnum, 178, 213. Of Lowcer Extremities — Veratrum'viride, 421. f Lowe EtremitiesMERCURIAL PTYALIMride, 421sculus,18. Cuulophyllum, 92. Of Sphincters of BladderArum triphyllum, 58. Phytolacca, 313. Oelseminurs, 203. Gelseminum, 203. ~Cadt~wi~- ~PARALYTIC DYSPHAGIAIris versicolor, 277. Gelseminum, 197. MUSC[ULAR DEBILITY- Podophyllum peltatum, 351. Phytolacca decandra, 309. ML~YALGIA — -PARTUR1ENT EFFECTSPodophyl. pelt. 351. G~elsem. 180,213 Caulophyllum, 88. Gossipium, 219. Hamamelis, 235. Sanguinaria, 383. PERIOSTITISMYALGIC HEADACHES- Phytolacca decandra, 326. Sanguinaria, 373. PERITONITISGelseminum, 200. NECK, STIFF- PERIODI(CAL HEMICRANIAPhytolacca, 325. Eupatorium perfoliatum, 162. NEPHRITIS- PERICARDITISErigeron can. 153. Veratrum vir. 424. Veratrum viride, 428. NERVOUS SICK HIEADACHE- PETECIIIAGelsemninum, 191. Cimicifuga, 103. Hamamelis virginica, 235. NEURALGIA- PHTHISIS P.Phytolacca, 327. Cimicifuga, 109, 122. Cimicifuga, 122. Sanguinar. 371, 381. Cypripedium, 145. Gelseminum, 177. PHLEGMASIA ALBA DOLENSNEURALGIA, FACIAL — Hamamelis 236. Cimicifuga, 120. Gelseminum, 195, 196. PLEURODYNIA — NEURALGIC HEMICRANIA- Cimicifuga, 122. Apocynum androsem. 39. Iris, 274. PNEUMONIA — NIGHTMARE- Sanguinaria, 381. Eupator. perf. 164. Iris versicolor, 272, Gelseminum, 212. Asclepias tub. 68. NIPPLES, SORE- Veratrum viride, 426. Hydrastis, 251. POLYPINODES- Sanguinaria, 371: Phytolacca, 326. PROLAPSUS AN IAletris 36. Podophyllum pelt. 346. OPTHALMIA- PROLAPSUS UTERI — Apocynurn can. 45. Phytolacea d. 311. Helonias, 242. Podophyllum pelt. 348. Baptisia, 75. Podophyllum pelt. 337. Collinsonia, 130. Cimicifuga, 114, 118. Hydrastis can. 252. Xanthoxyl, 434. PROSOPALGIAODONTALGIA — Phytolacca decandra, 313. Phytolacca, 313. Rumex crispus, 359. PSORIASISGelseminum, 197. Apocynum can. 43. Nuphar lut, 303, (ESOPHAGITIS- PSOrAIris versicolor, 278. G(elseminum. 197. Phytolacca decandra, 310. CLINICAL INDEX. 447 Syphilitic- VARICOSESPhytolacca, 313. Imamamelis, 222, 235. UJLCERATION OF MOUTH - VARICOCELEBaptisia tinct. 76. Sanguinaria, 375. Collinsonia, 131 Hydrastis, 255. VARIOLAStomag arach- 376. Cimicifuga, 106. Gelseminum, 108. Of Intestines- I Sarracenia, 385. Veratrum viride, 419. Eupatorium p. 166. Hydrastist 259. VERTIGOOf Bladder —.AFsculus, 18. Euphorbia coroll. 171. Eupatorium purp. 166. HIydrastis, 259 VESICAL CATARRH — Of Legs- Eupatorium purpureum, 166. Hydrastis, 261. Phytolacca, 326. TenesmusOf Bucecal cavity- Chimaphila, 100. Phytolacca, 313. Bapt. 77. Hyd. 255. VICARIOUS MENSTRUATIONOf Os Uteri- Collinsonia, 130. Hamamelis, 232. Baptisia tinctoria, 80. Helonias, 242. VOMITINGPhytolacca, 321. SEupatorium perf. 163. Iris vers. 277. URINARY DIFFICULTIES — Snguinaria 376. Collinsonia, 129. Cimicifuga, 114. f PrgnanyUTERINE HEMORRtHAGE- Euporbia 171 Euphorbia, 171. I:amamelis v. 233. Apocynum c. 53. Erigeron canaden. 153. -'Senecio, 395. Trillium, 404. UTERINE CONGESTION- WARTSTVeratrum viride 4-24. Phytolacca, 326. Sanguinaria c. 371. Veratrum viride 424. UTERINE CANCER- WHITLOWPhytolacca, 321. Phytolacca, 326. UTERINE SCIRROUS- WORMSPhytolacca, 321. Euphorbia, 172. Gelseminum, 201.