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*^
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
UPON THE
HUMAN SYSTEM.
AN ESSAY UPON THE CAUSE^ NATURE AND
TREATMENT OF ALCOHOLISM.
\
BY
VV^M. CANNIFF, M.D.,
M. R. C. S., E N G.
AUTHOR OF "PRINCIPLES OF SURGERY," AND "SETTLEMENT
OF UPPER CANADA."
^
TORONTO :
ADAM, STEVENSON & CO,
1872.
|«9<-
Bell & Co., Printers, City Steam Press, Toronto.
C \0
PREFACE.
t^ORTiONS of the contents of the following pages were con-
tained in a lecture delivered before the Young Men's Christian
Association, Toronto.
p, 1^^zt
1
CONTENTS.
PAGE
Alcohol as a Medicine ^
Stimulating Digestion— for a time only 6
Tolerance '
Preventing " wear and tear " of the Tissues 7
Not required with x^lenty of nutritious Food, but becomes a
Poison 8
A Violation of Nature's Laws— Degeneration the Result 9 \
Physiological Difference between Water and Alcohol 9 j
Effects of Exercise upon any part of the P>ody ; also of '
Irritation.., H
In spite of the Violation of Nature's Laws— A AVaste of
Strength H
Effects of Alcoholism upon Offsi)ring 12
Effects upon the Brain , 13
The term Tolerance 1 "^
Benefits of Stimulants limited 14
A Medicine in Disease 15 |
As a Heat Generator lo
The Evils of Drunkenness of a Primary and Secondary Nature. 16
Adulterations 1^
Inebriation 1^
Secondary Effects ^7 j
Notall alikeafiected 17 ;
Ulterior and Indirect Results of Alcoholism 17 | j
A State of Disease 18
Effects of Chronic Alcoholism not confined to individuals 18
Treatment of the Disease — Prevention 18
Statement of the Malady 19
Discontinue Alcoholic Beverages 19
Suppress Liquor Trafiic— Prohibitory Law 19
Instrumentalities at "Work 19
Appeal to Christians 20
Total Abstainers should be consistent 20
1
n
IV • CONTENTS.
PAGE
Elect Temperance Men to Office 20
Habits of Society 21
Treatmentof Inebriates— Two Classes 21
Those who wish to be cured 21
Inebriate Asylums 22
The Basis of Inebriate Asylums 22
An Asylum for Ontario 22
Treatment of the Vicious Inebriates — not by confinement in
Jail 22
Reformatories 23
Legislation Necessarv 23
Habitual Drunkards' Bill 23
A Patriotic Duty 24
The Future of Our Country 24
Conclusion 24
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL UPON THE
HUMAN SYSTEM.
IN the remarks I shall make upon the subject of alcohol
and its eflects upon the human system, the article in
its unadulterated state will be referred to.
AS A MEDICINE
Alcohol may be regarded in a two-fold light; first as a
medicine, secondly, as a supposed article of nourishment,
or a sustainer of the system. It is not my intention to
speak of it as a medicine, in the ordinary acceptation of
the term, except to remark that it is a necessary agent in
the treatment of many diseases ; and that it is required
to form many medicinal preparations. But it should, I
submit, always be regarded simply as a medicine, no more
to be used, unless definitely prescribed, than Opium, or
Calomel, or Arsenic. Whether a substitute could not
sometimes be employed for alcohol where it is now used
in medicinal preparations, and whether alcoholic drinks
are not sometimes unnecessarily recommended, are ques-
ions upon which the medical profession are divided in
their opinions.
There are various drugs the active principle of which
is abstracted by means of alcohol ; but in many cases fluid
extracts other than alcoholic might be obtained. There
is, I fear, reason to believe that physicians oftentimes un-
necessarily order, or recommend wine, beer, brandy, or
champagne. Among some it is fashionable, and too fre-
quently, as a matter of course, one or other of these is
mentioned by the doctor. Sometimes he prescribes a •
stimulant because his patient asks him if he would not be ,
better of something of the kind. I will now consider the
question, * to what exteno can alcohol bo called an article
of food r
6
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
It is an unfortunate fact that all physiological chemists
do not agree, as to whether alcohol, when taken into the
system, undergoes any change, whereby its constituent
elements are enabled to enter into the nutrition and sus-
tain the body. In other words whether it is altogether a
poison or not. It will not advance the cause of total
abstinence to ignore facts, nor should its advocates shut
their eyes to the teachings of science. I believe that the
cause of total abstinence is often injured, and its advance-
ment retarded by injudicious advocates who are ignorant
of scientific facts; just as Christian religion has suffered
from the unwillingness of well-meaning Christians to re-
cognise scientific truths.
STIMULATING DIGEST f ON.
Until it is fuUy established that ahjohol is absolutely a
poison and. incapable of sustaining life, either in the way
of nutrition or by preventing doca\ ,jf tissue, it were much
better to rest the cause of total abstinence upon other
ground the stability of which cannot be questioned. I can,
I think, put it down as a fact that alcohol is not an ali-
mentary substance, that is it does not enter into the forma
tion of tissue. Mainly, if not altogether, it is eliminated
from the system in the same form as it enters. It cannot
be converted into blood or t" "ue — it supplies to either no
element for nutritious purposes. But this does not cover
the whole question. May not alcohol when taken into the
stomach stimulate the powers of digestion, and of assimila-
tion of aliment, so that food received into the stomach will
be more quickly and thoroughly made to undergo those
changes which take place in nutrition ? I am bound to
say it may in certain cases, and in certain quantities, just
as other drugs produce the same effect. The crude elements
taken into the stomach, which are destitute of life, have to
be converted in+o living blood. This process constitutes
digestion, assimilation and development. JS'ow alcohol
may stimulate to more vigorous action ; and if vigor be
wanting it may prove beneficial. If, on the contrary, the
organs engaged are sufficiently active, alcohol will cause too
vigorous action, and will create disease by forming crude
elements in the blood.
Upon the humax system.
TOLERANCE.
Then, as a medicine or a drug, it should be administered
with the same precaution and reserve as are observed with
other drugs. A medicine continuously used for a length
of time will cease to produce the original effect, but it
may lead at the same time to tlio most destructive result?*
— a tolerance is acquired. l>y tolerance is understood a
condition of the system in which it becomes so accustomed
to the presence of poison that no special effort continues
to be made by nature to remove it, and which seemingly
does not interfere with the functions of life.
PREVENTING " WEAR AND TEAR."
There is another way, however, in which it is thought
possible that alcohol may prove serviceable. There is
dally taking place in the human system what is called
molecular decay, or the death of minute cells which in a
variety of forms compose the structure of the body. It is
this constant death — this *' wear and tear" — which causes
the demand for daily food. E;ich of these cells, which
together compose the body, has an independent life, which
may be of longer or sliorter duration. The longer lived
they are, the less food will be required to maintain the
body ; while, if their longevity be brief, more abundant
food will be necessary.
It cannot be doubted that longevity of the cells may be
increased or diminished by different circumstances. For
instance, tlie greater the labor performed by the person,
the more rapid the decay — there is more wear and tear.
Again, a healthful condition of the nervous system and a
tranquil state of the mind will promote longevity in tha
tissues of the body. And it must be admitted that cer-
tain agents, when taken into the system, seem to have the
power to increase the vitality and the length of cell life.
The minute cells are stimulated to a longer existence.
Something the same as life in the dying body may be pro-
longed by means of stimulation. In this way it is possibl'?
that alcohol may sustain the vital properties of the tissues,
rendering a less quantity of food requisite to support life.
But supposing this theory to be true, it must not
be forgotten that it is only when the quantity of
ft
• THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
alcohol does not exceed a certain limit tliat it can be sub-
servient in the way stated. If taken in excess, instead ot
acting as a conservator of cell life, it becomes a poison and
produces most serious results of immediate importance as
well as more remote magnitude.
In this connection, another fact must be prominently
presented, namely : that plenty of nutritious food will,
in a healthy individual, rinider alcohol entirely useless.
Although without positive inlbrnuition, I have little liesi-
tation in saying that in tlie case of the expedition of the
troops to Fort Garry last year, when no spirituous liquors
formed part of the supplies, there was a larger proportion
of food used than would have been had spirits formed
part of the rations ; and it is the experience of medical
men that after an habitual use of alcohol there will, upon
its discontinuance, be a demand for a larger amount of
food, for which there will be a sharp appetite, at
least for a time. There is another fact c»f great impor-
tance, which is this : Although wear and tear of tissue
may be rapid, and a large quantity of food be
necessary to make up for this, yet it is a normal pro-
cess ; whereas the use of any agent which makes food less
necessary, by preventing rapid decay of tissue, cannot be
regardecl otherwise than as establishing an abnormal action.
And it may be laid down as an incontrovertible princi
pie, that conformity to natural huvs will conduce to health
and long life, while any departure therefrom will entail
punishment sooner or later, unless perchance the evil is
averted, which is possible, just as it is possible by medi-
cal treatment to avert the effects of other violations of
sanitary laws or indiscretions.
I repeat, then, that alcohol, in order to afford the
probable chance of sustaining the tissues, must be taken
in limited qua ities ; that even then it is an unnatural
process, and entirely unnecessary with abundant food ;
that if continued for a time it ceases to have the same
effects, and may lead to disease. In any case, when the
amount exceeds a certain limit, it constitutes a poison, and
in no case, can it be recognised as a pabulum of the
tissues. But in conceding that the theory is possiby
true, that when introduced into the system in limited
UPON THE HUMAN SYSTEM.
quantities it may preserve the living tissues, so that the
molecular death and degeneration, constantly taking place
as a physiological action, will not be so rapid, and thereby
rendering a less amount of food absolutely necessary to
sustain the body ; wo must not lose sight of certain
facts which bear with great weiglit upon the question. It
can scarcely be thought possible that any one would seize
the admission o': this probable fact as a justification for
indulgence in alcoholic stimulants ; as I have clearly
pointed out the unquestionable fact that a proper allow-
ance of suitable food will at all times meet the wants
of the system, and that a physiological condition
must bo regarded as healthful ; while a departure there-
from, as in sustaining tissue by stimulants, cannot be
looked upon otherwise than abnormal, and consequently
unhealthy. Let us now examine the point more closely.
A VIOLATION OF NATURE'S LAWS AND DEGENERATION.
The laws of nature in connection with animal life may
not be violated with impunity. It is natural that each cell
in the body should, after having served its purpose, cease
t'^ exist ; leaving offspring to take its place. Now,
although cell life mfiy be prolonged by unnatural means,
it will be attended with degeneration. The offspring will
be less vigorous, andpossessed of less vitality. There will,
in fact, be degeneration of the body in various organs ; and
if such palpable effects follow a free use, can we reasonably
suppose that even a limited use produces no devitalizing
effect 1
By degeneration is understood a change from which
living organisms assume a degraded state ; a lower position
in the scale of existence. It is the reverse of develop-
ment and growth. Degeneracy is often exhibited in the
offspring of parents who have violated some law of nature.
In the same way degeneration takes place in the new-born
cells of the physical system.
PHYSIOLOGICAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WATER AND
ALCOHOL.
I have assumed the portion in the foregoing remarks,
that alcohol under cert in circumstances sustains the
tissues of the body ; but with this important effect, tjiat
10
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
it tends to degeneration and decrease in the efficiency of
the body — an effect far more striking when alcohol has for
some time been taken to excess. But there are other
effects almost always produced, at least at the first, when
alcohol is received into the body. It is not an aliment,
and is not decomposed to any appreciable extent. Accord-
ing to experiment, almost as much alcohol is excreted from
the body as enters it, always allowing for a certain
quantity that may remain suspended for a time in the
tissues. Well, the same may be said of water ; it is not
an aliment — and is not decomposed — it passes from the
body as it enters it. What is the difference in the two
physiologically ? The difference is most important. Water
is a natural constituent of the body. It constitutes the
natural vehicle by which aliment is conveyed into the
body, it is necessarily present when those mysterious
changes take place which constitute nutrition in the
various tissues, and. it is the vehicle again by which worn
out, effete material is carried out of the body through the
several excretory organs. Without water life would be
impossible, although it may undergo no change, nor ever
form a part of any organism. Alcohol, on the contrary,
is never found as a natural element of the body. But
more than this, it acts, when taken, as a foreign body, not
as an inert substance, which may flow in and out,
producing only transient effects, but as a noxious foreign
substance ; which the body takes prompt and decided steps
to remove. Among the wise provisions of Nature, is one
by which every substance offensive to the body is expelled.
The excretory organs are generally employed for this pur-
pose, — as the kidneys, the lungs, and, in a less degree, the
skin. Now, when alcohol is taken, what is the first result,
apart from the stimulation 1 Why, almost immediately
the excretory organs set to work to carry off the poison,
and up to a certain point they ivill do this work efficiently.
No matter how small the quantity, the organs of eliaiina-
tion will promptly set to work to expel it, and even where
the amount is great they will faithfully labor to carry out of
the system the obnoxiou? material. In the effort to dis-
i.harge this extraordinary work imposed \\\}on them they
often become incapacitated by disease.
H 1
n
I
T -
UPON THK HUMAN SYSTEM, 11
EFFECTS OF EXERCISE OF ANY PART OP THB BODY ALSO
OF IRRITATION.
It is a law prevailinj^f throuf];hout animatod Nature that
' exercise of a part or organ will tend to increase its growth.
Increase the exercise and the growth will continue, and
increase. But there is a limit to this. So long as the ex-
ercise is attended by growth, it is called a " physiological
stimulus," hut if the exercise amounts to an initation,
then it becomes a ^^pathological irritant ;" and growth is
no longer possible ; nutrition is arrested and disease
follows. Such is found to be the case in connection
with alcoholism. For a time the excretory organs will
endeavour to carry away the alcohol, just the same as
they would another poison which had found its way into
the blood, doing double duty, and more, until at last the
irritation of the poison in the organs causes inflammation ;
or, tired out by long continued labor, thoy cease the use-
less work, and become the seat of chronic disease, consist-
ing of disorganization and degeneration, which will impair
the general body, and result finally in premature death.
Thus it is seen that alcohol is not only incapable of
sustaining the system as a food ; but that it is a poison
none the less deadly because its effects are not always
immediately manifested. Here are two distinct effects
from the use of alcohol ; one due to the actual presence
upon tissue exposed to the contact of the poison, the other
due to the increased and unnatural work imposed upon
certain organs.
* IN SPITE OF THE VIOLATION OP NATURE'S LAWS— A WASTE
OF STRENGTH.
The conclusion at which I have arrived, that alcohol, in
however small a quantity taken, is not only useless as an
article of nutrition, but poisonous in its effects upon the
system — that it exhausts the powers of life by imposing
unnatural duties, and that its presence in the body causes
disease, may be questioned on the ground that many per*
son^ among many nations^ daily or frequently consume it
without being incapacitated for the duties of life, and who
attain to a good old age. I reply : The statement requires
proof; while it ia siubmitted that a certain number of per*
n
J
12
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
sons may, although in the constant use of the poison, con-
tinue to enjoy seemingly good health, and live to a good
old age, in spite of the violation of Nature's laws. Per-
haps the individual has a strong, elastic constitution ; in
whom the vital powers are robust ; who, in the plenitude
of his power, casts off unaffected that which would, in
one less vigorous, crush the vitality. In some nomadic
tribes of Indians, all the adults are strong, vigorous, and
long-lived. At first thought, it might be supposed that a
race thus vigorous must have strong healthy children, or
that their mode of life was such as to foster the young.
But no; the matured Indians are mostly rugged because
their mode of life is such that none but the most vigorous
children can survive it. The mortality among their child-
ren is very great, destroying the weaklings j hence those
who grow up are generally healthy. So a man, in con-
sequence of great strength, ma}- with impunity violate a
law of nature, especially if in other respects he adheres to
hygienic rules. But is such a person guiltless*? Apart
from the evil effects example may have upon those less
strong, who can measure the amount of force and energy
thus wasted, which might have been employed for some
noble purpose. Still more ; although the violator himself
may not suffer for his sins, the penalty has in many cases
to be paid by his children. They may suffer not only in
want of vital force and strength, but they may bear about
with them the seeds of an unnatural appetite, which only
require certain circumstances to germinate and grow. The
parent was strong enough to resist the worst effects of his
sin; but the offspring is weak in all except appetite, and in
time he is overcome. The parent lived to be old — he was
a moderate drinker ; the child died early, a drunkard,
although he consumed less alcohol than the parent.
EFFECTS UPON THE OFFSPRING.
It must not be forgotten in this connection that both
sexes are equally liable to inherit from the parent the
seeds of a depraved appetite. We have sad instances in
which lovely and accomplished females have become slaves
of this overpowering desire for strong drink. Not unlikely
the transmission of this malady may, as in othei forms of
disease, not be immediately to the children, but instead to
V
BH
f
Mi
}
'J I*'
UPON THE HUMAN SYSTEM.
13
the grand-children. These remarks apply more particu-
larjy to the children of what are called moderate drinkers.
The effects upon the offspring of drunkards are manifested
not only in this depraved appetite, but in physical and
mental degeneration.
EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL UFON TrE BRAIN.
In the remarks I have thus far made, reference has only
been indirectly made to the effects of alcohol upon the
nervous system. My object has been to examine the
question, whether alcohol can be regarded as food m any
sense. In doing so I have found that instead of being a
food it is a poison to the tissues, and that cases which
appear to be exceptional are only seemingly so. If we
undertake to consider the effects of alcohol upon the ner-
vous system, we find ourselves entering a large field. The
questions which will be raised are many of them purely
medical, and might not be quite suitable for the general
public. I place alcohol alongside opium as a medicine,
only that opium is the more valuable of the two, and less
injurious to the system. They are both, under certain
circumstances, stimulants, and under other circumstances
^ sedative and narcotic. The study of the properties of
opium and its effects upon the human system, although
necessary and interesting for the medical man, may not be
useful generally. Likewise it niiglit be said of alcohol ;
but unfortunately the prevailing use of this drug as a
beverage makes a consideration of its effects and proper-
ties desirable.
Alcohol is a stimrdant of the brain. The time re-
quired for it to be absorbed from tlie stomach, pass into
the blood, and find its way to the brain is very brief.
The degree of stimulation is not always the same, even in
the same person. Taken upon an empty stomach, it at
once enters the circulation, and acts quickly and decidedly
upon the nervous system. But if there be food in the
stomach it cannot so rapidly enter, and when it does so it
is in a more diluted form, and is less liable to produce
effects. The man who sits at his evening dinner, eating
heartily, can quaff glass after glass it may be without
intoxication ; whereas a clear drink of spirits, without
I
;
u
THE EFFECT.S OF AlJ'OflOL
l)artaking uf food, becomes essentially fire-water to the
brain. It is an old saying, that " what is one man's meat
is another man's poison." I do not say that alcohol can
by any means become man's meat ; but I do say that some
men are so constituted that they can imbibe seemingly to
an unlimited extent without becoming intoxicated. The
tolerance of a poison is a physiological anomaly, and indi-
cates a disordered, notHo'say," depraved, organization.
THE TERM TOLERANCE
must not be misunderstood, nor its significance falsely
comprehended j it implies sufferance, and the tissues of
the body do suffer, mere or less, although the individual
may for the time being escape distress ; but on the con-
trary even feel exhilaration. Now anything which affects
the welfare of the living tissues will impair their vitality.
There is a waste of strength ; the vital powers are taxed ;
the energies are exhausted. This cannot take place with-
out detracting from the sum of the whole individual
power, a sacrifice for which man is accountable to the
Giver of life, who^requires ;thnt the powers of life shall
be rightly expended.
BENEFITS OP^'STIMULATION LIMITED.
In consequence of the enlivening and f^exhilarating
effects^of alcohol upon the brain and mind, and also the
body, it not unfrequeiitly is employed to arouse the
flagging organs, laboring under fatigue, or depressing cir-
cumstances, so as to enable the (individual to perform an
increased amount of physical or mental labor.
By a limited use of alcohol the individual may be, un-
doubtedly, sustained when undergoing unusual toil of
body or mind. But it is contrary to nature, there is a
violation of her laws, and sooner or later retribution will
follow the transgression. The physiological strength
is stimulated to perform that which (^by nature is
impossible. When fatigue of , body / or i mind over-
takes the I individual there is but one healthy and proper
course to take which is in accordance with natural laws ;
and that is to abstain from^abor until rest brings a physi-
ological restoration of strength.
UPON THE HCMAX SYSTEM.
15
AS A MEDICINE IN DISEASE.
There are certain low conditions of the system when
alcohol fails to canse intoxication easily, the drug tones
up the nerves to the natural standard. Here is a state of
disease, however, which none but a physician can discover,
and who alone should prescribe. Even in such cases it is
often a question whether time, rest and other medicines
would not more effectually and safely accomplish the same
end. In cases of prostration, as from low fevers, where
there is a contest between a deadly poison in the system
and the molecular cells of the body, alcohol is often useful
as a stimulant ; but we fear that cases are too common
where it is given, not merely unnecessarily, but to such
an extent that it adds to the burthen Kature is laboring
under. She has to contend with both poisons, the fever
and alcohol. She is called upon to eliminate both, — a
double work under which she may sink.
We have said that alcohol stimulates the brain ; but
this term is not perhaps altogether appro] )riate. Where
taken as a medicine to support the flagging powers, the
%term is correct enough, but in health, when taken as
a beverage, and it causes intoxication, it is not really
a stimulant, — that is say, it does not increase the
natural powers of the human brain and nervous system
generally ; although it does up to a certain limit stimu-
late the heart and muscular system. The ell'ect on the
brain is rather to weaken its power. There may be ex-
hilaration and flashing thought for a time; but correct
judgment and well-balanced thought are more or less im-
paired. As intoxication proceeds to inebriety, all sem-
blance of stimulation disappears, and narcotism super-
venes. This is a condition — which we presume no one
will deny — of hostility to all the functions of the body.
AS A HEAT GENERATOR.
But there remains one other question to be referred to-
Does not alcohol supply to the system elements for the
generation of animal heat, so that in cold climates, espec-
ially in the absence of heat-forming food, or perhaps pro-
tection from the cold, it is beneficial. Without entering
into the subject minutely the statement may be made,
y
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16
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
that proper supply of food renders the use of alcohol
unnecessary, even supposing it to supply heat-forming
elements. Jiat actual experience satisfactorily answers the
question. Dr. Shaw, m his Arctic experience, found total
abstinence preferable to stimulation.
9 Ui. EVILS RESULTING FROM INTOXICATION OR DaUNKENNESS
ARE OF A PRIMARY AND SECONDARY NATURE,
also of a more remote character. A certain quantity of
alcohol introduced into the system deranges it mentally
and physically. The amount necessary to establish de-
rangement will, as we have seen, vary, depending upon the
condition and circumstances of the individual at the time.
At all events, enough of alcohol is imbibed whereby
exhilaration of the mind passes into incapacity to exercise
the mental faculties ; exalted muscular power merges into
paralysis. For a time after intoxication commenced,
nature struggles to maintain her power ; but sooner or
later king alcohol dethrones reason ; weakens or destroys
the moral nature for the time being; reduces the strong
intellectual man to a driveling idiot ; the muscular giant
under his power becomes helpless as an infant, or, on the
contrary, a wild lunatic — a raving maniac ; or he may be
prostrated senseless and powerless at his feet. He is dead
drunk. In waging this warfare against mankind alcohol
has called to his aid many agents ; and his weapons of
war are of various kinds, some of old and some of modern
manufacture. Alcoholic beverasjes are offered in an infin-
ite number of forms, in order to please the varied tastes of
mankind.
ADULTERATIONS.
But the most destructive means employed are those
forms of adulteration by which intoxicating drinks" only
increase the thirst, and stupify the senses. How sad it is
thus to see man, created in the image of his Maker,
debased to a condition even lower than the beasts of the
field.
DRUNKENNESS.
It is impossible to draw the line between intoxication,
during which the person retains to some extent his con-
sciousness, and that condition when he loses self-control
UPON THE HUMAN SYSTEM.
17
of body ar»d mind ; it is also impossible to draw tho line
of demarkiJ.tion between the effects of alcohol upon one
who is regarded as a moderate drinker, and one who drinks
to excess.
THE SEOOXOARY EFFECTS
of intoxication and drunkenness are by ]io means of a
pleasant nature. They vary from a slight headache and
general indisposition to a state in which the debauchee is
completely incapacitated for either mental or physical
elfort ; until nature has had time to rally from the effects
of this deadly poison. It is the usual custom of a con-
firmed toper, after his orgies, to seek artificial relief from
his distress by again partaking of alcohol to stimulate the
system to renewed action, instead of waiting for nature to
do th ework. It is unnecessary to say that this is an addi-
tional tax upon the powers of the individual. Both in
this case, and where stimulants are taken to enal^le the
person to continue labor when nature calls for rest, there
is a burning of the candle at both ends.
NOT ALL SIMILARLY AFFECTED.
The effects of alcohol, immediate and secondary, vary
exceedingly : no two will be afiected exactly alike in man-
ner or degree, much will depend upon the constitution,
the temperament, whether a tolerance has been acquired,
and to what extent the person continues to take food.
Not a few enjoy the reputation of being correct in their
habits with respect to alcoholic beverages, who, neverthe-
less, consume a great deal more than others whose con-
stitution cannot tolerate it, and whom they often at the
same time loudly condemn.
ULTERIOR AND INDIRECT RESULTS OF ALCOHOL,
I will now proceed to speak of some of the more ul-
terior, or indirect results of the protracted use of alcoholic
stimulants. A profound, and to some extent, a mysterious
effect is produced upon the nervous system ; while various
organs and tissues of the body become the seat of disease.
This condition has received the cognomen of Chronic
Alcoholism. One of the characteristics of this state is a
want of power of the patient to resist the desire to par-
take of alcohol. It matters little to him in what foim he
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18
THK EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
k
gets it, so long as it is alcohol ; and he will endure any
taste, however noxious, so long as the morbid desire is
gratified. This overpowering appetite is always present
Avith some, with others it is of a paroxysmal nature, and
occurs at intervals of a few days, or weeks, or months,
and occasionally of years. This abnormal state of the
nervous system is now rightly regarded as a disease in-
volving the brain. As the liver, the kidneys, and other
structures of the body become changed from a physiolo-
gical to a pathological condition, so in like manner does
the brain; at least it is functionally deranged. Under
these circumstances, gradually acquired, the individual
loses self-control, and will rush to the use of alcohol ; and
will devise all kinds of means to obtain it, to satisfy the
morbid craving, just as the lunatic is sometimes impelled
to commit certain acts which in his sane moments he will
shrink from with terror. It is impossible to tell precisely
where this state of disease begins ; when an individual
no longer voluntarily seeks the inebriating cup ; but is
carried headlong by a power he is impotent to resist. It
is, however, a well established fact that many inebriates
would gladly abstain, but who, at certain periods, are
overtaken with a paroxysm during which they are utterly
regardless of everything — of sacred promises, of solemn
pledges, of their own character, of the welfare of their
families, of the requirements of decency, and who will
deliberately, often covertly, sometimes without intermission
use the cup, and with perfect abandon give themselves to
drunkenness.
EFFECTS NOT CONFINED TO PERSONS.
Of all the maladies that affect the human race no one
can be accounted more sad, more destructive to happiness
and comfort than alcoliolism. Its effects are not confined
to those diseased. Wherever it comes or goes it carries,
like a flood, misery, wretchedness, and woe, to all in any
way connected with the inebriate, especially to the wife
and children.
THE TREATMENT OF ALCOHOLISM PREVENTION.
The question naturally presents itself to the philan-
thropic christian, *' can nothing be done to c^ire this dis-
UPON THE HUMAN SYSTEM.
19
ease, or to control itT Before, however, speakirg of the
treatment of this disease it will not bo out of place to con-
sider the question of prevention. Kecognizingtlie nature
of this affection of the brain and mind, it iO([uires no
argument to set forth the desirability of prev( nting so
dreadful a malady. The importance of the subject can-
not be exaggerated. The disease is a potent one ; it is
often incurable ; it involves body and soul in its destruc-
tive development. The life is impaired — nay, it is
wasted. Believing the Bi])le to be the Word ot God, it
is known that no drunkard can inherit the kingiom of
Heaven. The disease is wide-spread — millions have suc-
cumbed to it, and thousands are now under its terrible
influence, with but little or no hope of cure. The seeds
of the disease now lie latent in the system of many of the
rising generation, requiring only certain favorable circum-
stances to become developed with far more virulence
than any Asiatic cholera possesses. It w'll be inherited
by generations yet unborn. Surely there is no danger of
magnifying the importance of the question — ' Can any-
thing be done to prevent the diseased"
DISCONTINUE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES.
To prevent it, the use of alcoholic beverages must be
discontinued ; the customs of society must be reformed ;
the liquor traffic must be suppressed ; the manufacture of
spirits properly and sternly controlled ; there must be
Prohibition by legislative enactment. To accomplish all
this requires time, earnest workers, persistent advocates of
the necessity of total abstinence, and consistent adherents
to the cause.
INSTRUMENTALITIES AT WORK.
To secure the end desired Temperance and Total Absti-
nence Societies have been engaged for many years. It is
a warfare — a contest of great magnitude ; and forces of
various kinds have been called into the field and furnished
with diversified weapons. But so far the struggle has
been an unequal one ; nothing daunted, however, the
valiant army of Temperance men have been, and are
fighting on — now with varying success, then with sub-
stantial gain. Everywhere they are obtaining recruits for
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20
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
)
-4.
the ranks. All honour to tlie Temporanco Army. They
deserve and I believe will, by the blessing of God, achieve
brilliant success in their eilbrts to benefit the human race.
TREATMENT OP INEI3RIATES.
But the full consummation of this happy event is in the
future, and before it comes to pass the sad effects of drunk-
enness and moderate drinking will continue to bo developed
in depravity and destruction in its widest sense. Inebria-
tion as a dis?ase will demand the most earnest attention
and consideration of the philanthropist.
APPEAL TO CnmSTIANS.
Before proceeding to speak of the treatment of alcohol-
ism or habitual inebriation, I desire to appeal tj the young
men of this Association, and as a member, the remarks I
make are addressed to myself as well as to you. I would
urge you young men as Christians, to regard this matter
from a religious stand-point. If anyone who takes the
name of Jesus is in doubt about the matter, it becomes him
to deeply and prayerfully consider the question. It is a
groat responsibility to stand in the way of the Temperance
movement. Be fully convinced, therefore, in your own
minds — minds which have been enlightened by the pure
Spirit of the Master, and sanctified by the grace of God.
Remember that he who doubteth is damned, while he
wdio convcrteth the sinner from the error of his ways shall
save a soul from death and hide a multitude of sins. The
Total Abstin<mce work will more likely succeed when it is
engaged in as a religious duty, and superintended by men
with clean hands.
TEETOTALLERS CONSISTENT.
All teetotallers should be consistent. It is a great hin-
drance to success when Temperance advocates are found
wanting in any one of the essentials of a good man — a
Christian.. Then, you should all be workers. Your efforts
must be directed to overcome the evil at the beginning —
to strike at its foundation. Lay the axe at the root of this
upas tree.
ELECT TEMPERANCE MEN TO OFFICE.
Legislation is inquired, and Total Abstainers must see
to it that consistent temperance men, and pledged tem-
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UPON THE UUMAN SYSTEM.
21
it hin-
I found
jan — a
lefforts
ling—
)f this
ist see
tem-
perance reformers are sent to our Le;^islativo Halls,
municipal action is re(iuii('(l to limit Iho num))er of li([U()r-
licenses; then select nuni whose principles are uncpiestion-
able on the subject of Temperance, for ^Municipal olUcers.
IIADIT.S OK SOCIKTV.
The habits of society are yet of such a clmracter that
wine-ilrinking forms a part of fashionable entertainments,
whereby the taste for stimulants is often formed. Is it
not the duty of (Christians to discountenance such customs,
;•.. d be willin^i; to forego the pleasures and the status which
in some cases can only in such society be obtained 1
TREATMENT OF IXEliKIATE.S — TWO CLASSES.
1 come now to speak of the treatuicnt of individual
cases of alcoholism.
Inebriates may be divided into two classes : firstly,
those who desire to be cured of the unnatural appetite ;
and secondly, those who are destitute of any feeling of
regret — who are wedded to their idols, and who persist-
ently and often viciously live a life of drunkenness.
In some respects the same treatment is suitable for both ;
in other respects each class requires treatment quite ddler-
ent from that demanded by the other. If inebriation is
looked upon as a disease then the subject of the disease
ought not to bo classed with those who are guilty of crimes
and violations of the law. When the individual, commits
an act deserving of punishment, while under the influence
of alcohol, he connot be held guiltless, yet his guilt is not so
great. If a person from the effects of disease of the brain,
although ho may have brought that disease on himself,
commits an act which he would not, if free of disease,
think of committing, certainly he is not accountable, in
the same way and in the same degree, as if he did it in
the full possession of his healthy mind. In most cases a
drunkard is to be pitied rather than punished. Indeed,
punishment generally has the effect of intensifying the
disease.
THOSE WUO WISH TO BE CURED.
Let us now consider the first class, that is, those who
would like to be free from the irresistible desire to use
alcohol.
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22
THE EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL
I
The experience of medical iKen is ti.at a large number
of inebriates have a frequent or occasional desire to reform,
and will be willing to endure any course of treatment
whereby the thirst for alcoholic beverages will be removed.
For the benefit of this class Inebriate Asylums should be
established. Abundant evidence of the usefulness of these
institutions, based upon the principles I have enumer-
ated, is afforded by the Eeports and Statistics from several
Inebriate Asylums in the United States, now of some years
standing. No one can read the Eeports which have
appeared, and examine the statistics furnished, without
being fully convinced of the salutary effects of the course
of treatment pursued in these Asylums, voluntarily entered
by inebriates ; and without being satisfied of the sound-
ness of the principles upon which these institutions are
based. Some of the letters written by those who had been
restored to health, mentally, physically and morally, are
touching in the extreme ; and put to shame the thought-
less who feel no sympathy and have no charity for the
immoderate drinker, and the drunkard ; but who are ever
ready to spurn him. Let it not be forgotten that a kind
word, or even look given unostentatiously, in due season,
might turn many a one from the brink of ruin.
ONE FOR ONTARIO.
It is eai'nestly to be hoped that another session of our
local Parliament will not pass without some provision
being made for this class of persons which it is to be
feared is on the increase.
A few years ago I was instrumental in having petitions
presented to the Government asking for legislation in this
direction. Now that other unfortunate classes of society,
as the deaf, dumb and blind, have been provided for, it
may not be unreasonable to hope that the inebriate will be
likewise attended to by a Government whose Treasury is
not by any means empty.*
TREATMENT OF SECOND CLASS.
There is the second class, the vicious drunkards, who
never, or rarely feel a desire to reform, whose depraved
* Since the meeting of Parliament numerous petitions have been presented ,
asking the Government to establish Inebriate Asyhims, one numerously signed
by the medical men of Toronto.
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jrON THE HUMAN SYSTEM.
23
natures constantly impel them to the indulgence of their
sensual tastes. But it may be remarked, with some who
are seemingly thus abandoned, there remains a dormant
feeling of self-respect ; there comes an occasional regret at
the deep degradation into which they have fallen. Per-
haps this spark of lingering humanity might be kindled
into life. Will Christian charity allow ns to decide that
even the lowest might not, by the blessing of God, be
restored to a state of health 1 But as a class they require
special treatment. The jail is not a proper place for them,
ill which are confined the wors;t of criminals. A lunatic
may be thus incarcerated withont injuiy to himself, as he
is ignorant of the character of his associates ; but an
inebriate, when he comes to consciousness and finds him-
self among the worst offenders,, experiences feelings often-
times of extreme shame nntil repeated associations so
debase him that he no longer cares. If inebriation is a
disease the subject of it should not be 2^u7iished. The
customary three dollars or thirty days, inflicted at the
Police Court, is nnjust, or if just it is inadequate. Still
the habitual drunkard requires confinement. The import-
ant point is that he should understand he is not confined
to punish him, and he ought not to be confined with those
who are suffering punishment. Let him know that he is de-
tained and deprived of his liberty because he has manifested
symptoms of disease ; a form of insanity which makes it
necessary for his own w^elfare that he should undergo a
jertain course of medical treatment.
To meet the requirements of this class of cases legisla-
tion is necessary. An Act for Habitual Drunkards ; and
then institutions specially established or in connection
with Lunatic Asylums, would be required. It would be
manifestly injudicious to confine these wilful drunkards
in an Inebriate Asylum, the inmates of which voluntarily
seek the treatment and protection it affords.
This question is receiving some attention in Great
Britain. During the last session of the Imperial Parlia-
ment a Bill was introduced, entitled The Habitual Drunk-
anVs Bill. This Bill describes an habitual drunkard as
** one who, by reason of frequent, excessive, or constant
use of intoxicati^^g drinks, is incapable of self control, anc>
■riiiil^H&L
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24
EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL UPON THE HUMAN SYSTEM.
of proper attention to and care of his affairs and family,
or who is dangerous to himself or others."*
Let us as individuals, and as an association, endeavour
to obtain Inebriate Asylums for those who will voluntarily
become inmates ; and Houses of Detention for the habit-
ual drunkard ; and let us in our demeanor to these two
classes manifest that charity which becometh christians.
THE DUTY TO OUR COUNTRY.
J. have appealed to you as christian young men to con-
sider your duty with tcgard to the evils of intemperance.
I would press the matter upon you on the ground of
patriotism. Wo each and all owe a duty to the State as
well as to our individual families, to the community in
wliich we live, and to the Church. I would appeal to
you as Canadians by adoption as well as by birth. In our
New Dominion we have a vast, magnificent, and goodly
heritage. Do we wish well to its future 1 Do we desire
to see laid foundation stones of a new nai.. lality, wdiich
shall be immoveable and imperishable 1 Do we desire to
see erected a superstructure wdiich neither time nor tempest
will have power to disturb ? Do we wish to have that
edifice beautiful in design, in proportion, in symmetry,
and chaste in ornament 1 Do vre hope to have the struc-
ture within so arranged that the comfort, the happiness, the
prosperity of all will attain to the highest possible point of
excellence 1 If so, then never forget that the principles of
Temperance must prevail among all classes, high and low,
among those in power and those Avho place in power.
In conclusion, gentlemen, I beg to invite anyone present
not a pledged total abstainer to come and enrol his name
on the book kept by this association for the purpose. I
am not a very old total abstainer myself; but let me urge one
and all to come with me that we may together assist in the
great struggle against the greatest curse to the human race.
Remember that total abstinence is the only position of
safety against inebriation.
* While this is in the press Mr. Bcthuno has introduced a Bill into the local
Legislature entitled '* To Interdict Habitual Drunkards,"
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