WB960 
 c6U9t " 
 
 1905 
 Clymer, Reuben Swinburae 
 
 Thomsonian system of medicinepl. 
 
 DATE 
 
 ISSUED TO 
 
 --CAT. No 23-115 PRINTED IN U. S.
 
 THE 
 
 QTIOMSONIAN SYSTEM 
 OF MEDICINE! 
 
 With complete rules for the treatment of 
 Disease. Also a short Materia Medica 
 
 R:-SWINBURNE LYMER, Ph. D., M. D 
 
 Former Supt. of the Health League Sanitarium, Inc. of New 
 York City. Honorary Fellow of the Thompsonian Physio- 
 Medical College of England, Diplomate in Osteopathy 
 of the English School of Osteopathy, and Member 
 of the Physio-Medical Board of Great Britian 
 and Ireland, etc. 
 
 Published by 
 
 The Philosophical Publishing Co. 
 A.llento\vn, Pa. 
 
 COPYRIGHTED
 
 Preface. 
 
 In compiling this work, I do not wish the reader to 
 think that it is wholly the product of my brain, but 
 rather wish it to be understood that I am acting in 
 the capacity of compiler. I have taken many thoughts 
 from such men as Dr. Thomson, the founder of the 
 system, and from Drs. Comfort, Greer, Lyle and 
 others, and have clothed them in a new dress so as to 
 make one complete and harmonious whole, always 
 standing by such things as I know to be absolute 
 facts, and never allowing anything of a theoretical 
 nature to enter. I have proven all things by my own 
 extensive practice and know that what I give to the 
 reader are facts. 
 
 In many places I give the system just as it was 
 taught by Dr. Thomson, without adding anything to 
 it, as nothing could be added that would add to the 
 value of it and my only excuse is, that I do not wish 
 the work started by Dr. Thomson to pass unnoticed. 
 In nearly every case when I quote another author I 
 give full credit and, therefore, I cannot be accused of 
 stealing. 
 
 Poisons as medicine, is partly from the writings of
 
 4 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 the well-known Prof. Kirk, of Edinburg, Scotland, as 
 great a reformer in his own country as was Dr. 
 Thomson in America, and whom all Europe should 
 honor and follow. Should this be done, we could 
 then say that medicine was fast becoming a science 
 instead of being an Art and simply experiments. The 
 Thomsonian or Physio-Medical system of practice is 
 no longer an Art, but is really a science, as the true 
 Physio-Medicalist does know what effects on the 
 system his medicines will have in nearly every given 
 case. 
 
 Poisons should not be used as medicines and it is 
 absolutely unnecessary to do so. We have non- 
 poisonous and innocent agents that will give better 
 results in the treatment of disease without there being 
 any danger of killing the patients with the medicine 
 that is given. 
 
 The philosophy and principles of the Thomsonian 
 system is that which was taught by Dr. Thomson 
 himself and later formulated by the well-known Dr. 
 Comfort. Every true Herbalist, and Physio-Medi- 
 calist subscribes and holds to this philosophy, as it is 
 the only true philosophy and the only one in which 
 no flaw can be found. It is a philosophy of life and 
 one that it would be well if all men, physicians or 
 laymen, would understand thoroughly. A great 
 deal of life would be saved and much suffering 
 avoided. Although this philosophy was first taught 
 nearly a hundred years ago, no change has been 
 found necessary, it is therefore such a philosophy as
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 5 
 
 no other school of medicine or healing has ever been 
 able to give to the world. This alone proves that the 
 Physio-Medical system is founded on truth and that 
 sooner or later, all schools must subscribe to it. 
 
 Emetics are not employed as universally to-day as 
 they were in former days. The reason for this is not 
 because they will not do all that is claimed for them, 
 but on account of the wrong philosophy that has been 
 taught to the people, by the so-called Regular 
 Schools, for many hundreds of years, and as I have 
 said in the body of the book people seem to think 
 that a medicine that causes them to vomit, is not the 
 right medicine for their case. They forget that in 
 childhood stomach trouble, medicine is very seldom 
 necessary, as the stomach of the child unloads itself 
 through vomiting and the child is as before and does 
 not suffer the slightest bit on account of the vomiting. 
 
 In my practice, I do not use the herb with a tea as 
 the people will not take to it, as the call is for "pills" 
 and nothing but pills. I therefore use the one grain 
 tablet, give them the amount necessary and have them 
 to drink warm water on them. This does exactly 
 the same work as does the tea, and it is, according 
 to the judgment of the people, the right way to give 
 medicine. At the same time, it is very easy for the 
 Physician to give the pills. I never give enough of 
 the Lobelia to cause too much vomiting. Simply 
 enough to cause the stomach to unload itself and 
 then immediately give Capsicum. 
 
 In other cases, I give the injection and add the 
 
 la
 
 6 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Lobelia, this acts in the same way as giving it into 
 the stomach and is just as good. In many cases, 
 vomiting is really not absolutely necessary as it is 
 only desirable to relax the system. I have found that 
 this can be done by giving the Lobelia tablets, but not 
 enough to cause vomiting. I then start with the 
 Capsicum and such other remedies as are indicated 
 in the disease. 
 
 Injections were condemned years ago when Dr. 
 Thomson first taught the use of them. However, 
 to-day we have large Sanitariums where nothing is 
 given but the injections, or "Internal Baths" as they 
 are now called. 
 
 In giving an Emetic, the physician should always 
 be sure and add a small amount of Capsicum as then 
 the relaxation will not be so severe and the patient 
 will have more strength. 
 
 Of the Steam or Vapor Bath nothing need be said 
 as they are too well and favorably known throughout 
 the world. Dr. Thomson and his followers are to be 
 thanked for this, but very little thanks is given to 
 them. They are of the utmost importance in a great 
 many cases and should be given whenever it is found 
 necessary. 
 
 In such cases where the physician finds that his 
 patient should perspire and when the patient will not 
 take a vapor bath, he should give 15 minim, doses of 
 "Pleurisy Root" in hot water every fifteen minutes 
 and he will find that the patient will sweat almost as 
 much as though a vapor bath were given. A few
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 7 
 
 grains of Capsicum should be added to each dose. 
 There is always a way of handling stubborn patients 
 if the physician only knew it and it is only practice 
 that teaches us what to do in each given case. 
 Obstacles must be overcome and the physician must 
 expect to meet them in nearly every case. 
 
 In giving a course of medicine, I no longer make 
 use of the tea for any of the remedies used. I use 
 the tinctures and have them handy at all times. These 
 can be had from any first-class Pharmacy and in this 
 way, they are always ready, and all that is needed is 
 to have warm water and add the medicines and give 
 to the patient. The same instructions should be 
 followed as though the tea were given. All remedies 
 should be mixed and given in the same way. The 
 only difference is that a tincture of each remedy is 
 used instead of the crude drug. In the Materia 
 Medica the dosage is given of the tincture of each 
 remedy used. 
 
 In giving a list of medicines used, I have been very 
 careful to mention only such as I have found to be of 
 the greatest importance by a long term of practice. 
 I have tried, and fairly succeeded, to give credit to 
 the one who did the most in getting the remedy be- 
 fore the people, as I think that this is no more than 
 right. All men should have due credit for work done 
 and as soon as this is done in everything, we will find 
 that the world will be the better for it. 
 
 In no Materia Medica is the dosage given or the 
 remedy described. I have overcome that point, which
 
 8 THB THOMSONIAN 
 
 is really a vital one, and have given the dose of each 
 remedy described. In the old Thomsonian works, we 
 also find only the English name, or the name given to 
 the herb by the people. I have given both that name 
 and the name of said drug as known to the Regular 
 Medical Faculty in order to make it easier to the 
 beginner and save the trouble of hunting through 
 other works in order to find out what such a remedy 
 is really known by. 
 
 In describing some agents, I have found it neces- 
 sary to hunt for hours, through many volumes in 
 order to learn by what name certain remedies are 
 now known. For instance, the herb now known as 
 Feverfew, Chrysanthemum Parthenium, was known 
 and described by Dr. Thomson as Featherfew. In 
 other cases, I have found it necessary to quote from 
 three different authors in order to give the reader a 
 full description of the article, and in such cases, I 
 have given full credit to all from whom I quoted. 
 
 The Physio-Medical Physician is often placed in 
 such a position in which the patient, who may have 
 pain, either forces him to give Morphine to stop the 
 pain for the time being or give up the case. I know 
 that I have been placed in such a position. This is 
 now overcome and the physician can turn to the 
 preparation known as "Sorbilin," stop the pain and 
 know that he has used nothing that can in any way 
 hurt his patient. This advance in medicine is of the 
 greatest importance and every liberal should take 
 advantage of such discoveries.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 9 
 
 With these remarks I will close, and trust that this 
 small work will be of immense value to the Herbalist 
 and Physio-Medical Physician in his practice. In the 
 near future, I shall hope to place a complete Materia 
 Medica before the people, and that in doing so, it 
 may help to bring about a new area in medical science. 
 
 THE AUTHOR. 
 Allentown, Pa., May 18, 1905.
 
 Poisons as Medicines 
 
 It is, no doubt, a great thing always to get to the 
 point in any case at which the disease really has what 
 may be called "the root of it." When we think of 
 getting at such a point we find two very important 
 meanings that the words are capable of bearing. The 
 instance of a celebrated physician who was seated at 
 a patient's bedside with his usual strong walking stick 
 in his hand. There was a brandy bottle on the table. 
 The patient explained that the doctor "never struck 
 at the root of his illness." The doctor lifted his stick 
 and smashed the brandy bottle, remarking that his 
 patient would never have to say that again. It repre- 
 sents a great many things which might be struck at 
 in the same way. For instance, the Teapot, which is 
 itself a really good thing, might be smashed. A 
 strong decoction of tea three or four times a day will 
 bring on disease in the nervous system of a very 
 serious character, and so long as the comforting habit 
 is carried on nothing in the world will cure the 
 sufferer. Then there is Tobacco, which is far more 
 powerful and insidious than either Alcohol or Tea in 
 its action upon the nerves ; if it is continuously used it 
 will produce the most distressing disease, and keep it
 
 12 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 up in spite of everything that can be done even to 
 mitigate the symptoms. When you consider the ex- 
 tremely small quantity of Tobacco which is required 
 to affect the whole system in one who has not got 
 inured to its influence you will see the truth of this 
 statement that it is far more powerful than alcohol 
 and tea, and also more insidious. The forms of dis- 
 ease that are produced by Tobacco, such as Paralysis 
 of the Limbs, along with a terrible irritation of the 
 nerves that are not paralyzed, speak clearly of the 
 power of this narcotic. If one would "strike at the 
 root" of his malady he would break his pipe, if he 
 uses one, or he may abandon all hope of really good 
 health in the world. Then there is Opium. This is 
 used to an incredible extent among the masses of our 
 people, and has a large share in producing the disease 
 and degeneracy that prevail. In the form of Laudanum 
 it is sold by our druggists among the working people 
 to a marvelous extent. And it is the root in many 
 cases of disease. While it is continued it is perfect 
 folly to expect a cure of those diseases which it con- 
 tinually produces. It gives most delicious relief in 
 many cases, and that for a shorter or longer time; 
 but when that time expires the relief is changed into 
 an aggravation of the malady. It becomes one of the 
 most hopeless of tasks to cure one who cannot be got 
 beyond the reach of this most ruinous drug. Now we 
 have other and worse forms of poison used by those 
 whose duty it is to cure disease, but who, in the use 
 they make of these, only protract instead of curing.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 13 
 
 There is Chloral for instance, a most powerful nar- 
 cotic, and one which gives relief from restlessness and 
 pain in some cases in a wonderful way. But like 
 Opium, it too creates forms of disease that are of the 
 most terrible character. If it is being frequently used 
 in any case it is useless to think of cure while that use 
 is continued. 
 
 Even an ordinary reader, who has got the least idea 
 of the relation of substances here employed in the de- 
 velopment of the deadly drug will expect in some 
 measure to find that its passing into ordinary com- 
 merce is a serious matter. We feel constrained to 
 call attention to the real principle on which all such 
 drugs are used. The principle is that of purchasing a 
 brief season of unconsciousness at the expense of 
 such injury to the nervous system as insures future 
 distress, and lays the foundation for lifelong misery. 
 The state which follows the use of a few grains of 
 "Hydrate of Chloral" is not properly sleep, it is un- 
 consciousness that is when the result is what appears 
 to be sleep but it is not the same thing as natural 
 sleep. So it is with Bromide of Potassium. That is 
 given to produce sleep, and it requires only a short 
 time of regular use to produce such lassitude and loss 
 of power over the muscles as constitutes a truly 
 dreadful form of disease. It is utterly hopeless to 
 think of remedy from any other treatment if this use 
 of potassium is carried on. Then there is "Digitalis," 
 so constantly given in irritations of the heart. In 
 "The Elements of Materia Medica," by Drs. Bently
 
 14 THE THOMSON1AN 
 
 and Redwood, a book of authority, we find that the 
 power of the heart is enfeebled by Digitalis, so that a 
 sudden change of posture has often proved fatal. But 
 this poison goes on "soothing" a patient so constantly 
 that though all the time it is taking away life it is 
 looked upon as a blessing. A patient for instance, has 
 been for many months using "Digitalis." Somehow, 
 though always "soothed" and his pulse rendered 
 regular when he gets the drug, he does not recover 
 health. He rather gets worse upon the whole. He is 
 persuaded to abandon it, but all else fails to soothe 
 him so as to carry him over the weaning time. He 
 falls back upon Digitalis, and dies in a few days. 
 Could you make that patient throw away his first dose 
 of this powerful poison and never seek another, you 
 would prolong his days by years, and might cure him 
 of all illness he feels. But if you cannot get the root 
 of his worst malady removed, nothing you can do will 
 save his life. 
 
 "Aconite" is another deadly drug often prescribed 
 in certain cases of disease. If it is used with any- 
 thing like frequency, it will produce death in spite of 
 all the remedial appliances that any human being can 
 use, but even at long intervals it will render nerve 
 cure impossible. No ignorant talk of ten thousand 
 doctors will hinder the deadly action of this powerful 
 poison if it is only given. A very little study of the 
 poison will satisfy any true thinker of this. Begin 
 with the account of "Aconite" as given in any good 
 work on Materia Medica, and you will have a fair
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 15 
 
 start. You will find there that "Aconite" is "A 
 Benumber." It is recommended in PAIN as a fit 
 remedy because it removes the pain by "BENUMB- 
 ING." You must here mark very specially that the 
 "Benumbing" is not that of the pain only, it is that of 
 all sense in the parts benumbed. The drug relieves 
 pain only by destroying so far the sensibility of the 
 nerves affected. It destroys the Motor Capacity as 
 well as the Sensitory. It in fact destroys, so far as it 
 goes, the Vital capacity of that nerve system which 
 supplies the Motor and Sensitory nerves. If the dose 
 is sufficiently strong the heart ceases action alto- 
 gether. The smallest dose just as far has an effect of 
 the same nature according to its smallness that is, 
 it is so far poisonous to the nerves that is again, it 
 so far KILLS the person to whom it is given. 
 
 Let us now follow out somewhat the light which we 
 have acquired on our subject. Here is a patient who 
 is helpless, because the Motor Nerves have been so 
 disabled that he cannot move himself in any way. 
 The nerves of sensation, however, are excessively 
 keen. A pulsating is felt all over the body, prevent- 
 ing sleep, and a dose of "Aconite" is given. The 
 pulsating ceases inasmuch as this Sensitory system 
 is "benumbed." RELIEF is felt, and the doctor is 
 thanked and praised. But what about the Motor 
 Nerves? Has the Aconite had no effect on them? 
 It has had even a greater effect. What of the Nutri- 
 tive Nerves and their supply of life to both Motor and 
 Sensitory? The drug has acted, in the first instance,
 
 16 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 on these, and only through these, on the Sensitory, 
 so as to deprive them so far of life, and compel them 
 to cease giving pain. If then we are laboring to give 
 life and motion of the muscles, by renewing the nerve 
 action in them, what is the effect produced? It is to 
 take away more life in a few seconds than we shall be 
 able to renew in as many days perhaps in as many 
 weeks ! It is in this way that we find the use of drugs 
 like these ruining the nerve system faster than any 
 one can renew it. 
 
 We particularize these drugs because they are so 
 common in the prescription of our medical men, and 
 even among the people without prescription alto- 
 gether. They interpose terrible barriers in the way 
 of our doing the good we might otherwise do, and in 
 the way of many who make good use of common- 
 sense remedies. Further on, we hope to take up 
 other aspects of this subject. In the meantime we 
 would like to make one or two practical remarks on 
 this subject. The first of these is, that we must not 
 expect instant or even speedy results from getting a 
 poisonous drug discontinued. Take "Digitalis," for 
 instance. You have a case in which this has been 
 used three time a day in the twenty-four hours and 
 that for many months. You succeed in getting the 
 patient free from this constant poisoning. But the 
 heart does not all at once recover. It seems as if it 
 would do so. The patient under active treatment, 
 such as increases the vital force, rallies for some days, 
 but a time comes around at which the heart's action
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 17 
 
 seems to demand the poison afresh. It is exactly the 
 same as the case of the person who has fallen a victim 
 of Alcohol. He signs the pledge under some strong 
 moral impulse, and feels free from the demon that has 
 cursed him. But that freedom is only for a brief 
 season. It may be for days even weeks, even for 
 months ; yet, at a certain time the mysterious nervous 
 state that proves so dreadful to him comes on, and 
 even his soul is bartered for Alcohol. So it is with all 
 habits of soothing by means of poison. Now, one 
 who would heal his fellow creatures must be aware of 
 this. We have cured cases in which the patients had 
 to be put under physical restraint when this time 
 came, and the apparent need for this drug was de- 
 veloped. During day and night the piteous cry had 
 to be disregarded in seeming cruelty; but the victim 
 was rescued. In other cases the root of the Upas tree 
 was put back into the soil again, and the life was lost. 
 Even infants at the breast show this terrible power by 
 which the use of poison enchains the spirit of man. 
 Hence, if you would cure, you must succeed, in the 
 first place in getting such roots of disease as we have 
 described effectually removed. There will be not 
 only a difficulty showing itself in the desire of the 
 patient for the drug that is killing him that will not 
 be the greatest difficulty; but the increase of illness, 
 apparently because of stopping the poisoning process, 
 will be greater. What is called "the Weaning Brash" 
 of the sucking is found in nearly all such cases. But 
 this must be bravely met, if you would cure your
 
 18 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 patient. You may mitigate the "Brash" in various 
 ways; but when you have done the best that can be 
 done, patience and intelligent courage will be called 
 for. Even the Tobacco victim, as he lies during the 
 night in agony for want of "the pipe," and his tender- 
 hearted wife begs him to take a smoke, must have 
 courage for a little, and he will laugh at his anguish. 
 So will the man who thought he would die if he did 
 not get his drug. It is well worth while to "hold the 
 fort" till deliverance comes. 
 
 INJECTING MORPHIA under the skin is an- 
 other form of using poison for the relief of pain. 
 All pain is the result of something wrong and affect- 
 ing the nerves of sensation so as to induce us to put 
 that wrong to rights. The injection of Morphia does 
 not in any case, right the wrong. At the very utmost 
 it only silences the nerves which indicates the wrong. 
 This drug, while it does not cure, or put the wrong 
 right, causes such injury to the nerve system as con- 
 stitutes, of itself, a very serious disease. A nerve 
 that has been silenced by means of Opium, when it 
 returns to activity does so in a sadly disordered con- 
 dition. This has the effect of adding to the distress of 
 the sufferer often very seriously. The addition, too, 
 goes on increasing as the futile operation is repeated. 
 It is thus that disease takes a mental form of the most 
 dreadful character. The poor sufferer is made to 
 endure horrors that never arise except through the 
 use of some nerve-destroying agency. But the all 
 important matter here is to know how to act when it
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 19 
 
 is proposed in any case to inject any form of Opium, 
 or any similar poison. The first thing- {p be under- 
 stood clearly: in all such cases ._ is this the medical 
 
 attendant knows no real remedy for the pain, or its 
 cause, when he proposes to relieve in this way. Mark 
 this well. It is of immense importance to understand 
 the ignorance of your adviser in relation to cure in 
 your case. A_pati>nf should remember that it by no 
 means ._follows r hfTr" ig ^ hifi physician knows no 
 remedy, tha* tfrffg-ic t^nf We have seen cases in 
 which such a remedy as this was proposed, in which 
 all pain disappeared within half an hour, and did not 
 return, by nothing further being done than a cold 
 cloth being gently pressed over the root of the nerve, 
 which was giving terrible pain. The medical man did 
 not know that a gentle cooling of a particular spot 
 would cure his patient; he only knew that a little 
 Morphia injected would deaden the sensibility and 
 give . temporary relief. We could not imagine his 
 doing as he proposed to do, if he had known how 
 actually to cure his patients at first. In other cases 
 he would visit day by day until his bill rose to a very 
 heavy sum indeed, while, if he had only known, one 
 visit or two at the utmost would have been amply 
 sufficient. His ignorance was lucrative, perhaps ypu 
 might be disposed to say ; but it is the least that can 
 be said that such ignorance is confessed the instant 
 a medical man proposes to inject Morphia. He con- 
 fesses that he knows nothing that can put the wrong 
 afflicting you right, and that he can only silence the
 
 20 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 poor nerves that are complaining. If he is alive to 
 this truth, and sees that you are alive to it also, it may 
 stimulate his intelligence, and possibly lead him to 
 seek about a little for a real remedy. 
 
 For example, you may be in torture by a pain in 
 some part of your body. Your medical adviser knows 
 the nerve that gives this pain. He proposes the in- 
 jection of Morphia. He is ignorant of anything 
 better than this miserable subterfuge in the way of 
 cure. Suppose that you try a very hot application, 
 say a hot Bran Poultice, to the roots of the nerves 
 affected, if you can guess about where those roots are. 
 The doctors should help you to know this much. 
 The hot poultice is put on, we shall say it fails to 
 relieve. Well, you put on a cold application at the 
 same place. That relieves slightly. The hot one may 
 have done so, or this may have done so. That will 
 turn upon the nature of the wrong which is causing 
 the pain. Observe this, that whichever of the ap- 
 plications relieves should be followed up vigorously. 
 Do not say, "Oh, it gives relief for a little, and then 
 the pain returns." Follow up the little relief, and 
 change from heat to cold, as the pain or relief indi- 
 cates. You can do no possible harm by such process, 
 and in multitudes of cases all will soon be right, and 
 no opiate required at all. But you must not think all 
 remedies at an end when you have tried one or two 
 singly, and relief does not yet come. The large, hot 
 poultices may be put on the roots of the affected 
 nerves, and ice cold cloths placed on the branches at
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 21 
 
 the same time. Then ice cold may be placed on the 
 roots and hot on the branches. The doctor, perhaps, 
 has not thought of such things. He has only con- 
 fessed his ignorance of all remedies; but that is no 
 reason why you should not think of them. It seems 
 tojMM-ather a strong reason whvjou should thinkof 
 something. :vyJin,Qne who surely ought to jmow cpn- 
 fesses that he does not. But remedies are not ex- 
 hausted, by any means, when you have thought of 
 two or three applications of heat and cold. The 
 whole nerve system can be inflyencedJig-the jpibbinyL 
 of the head_and_s|)inal regjoiL^so as to wake up a. 
 strong increase of vital action in the nerve centres 
 there. We have seen a patient who had been for 
 months under medical treatment, and. in agony, ex- 
 cept when deadened L with narcotics, render^ yjdfi* 
 jpendflB pT all such things J?y a Hulejkillful rubbing 
 alone. Perhaps you object that th"ese~' remedSesaHT 
 ' very simple." Well, that would be no great harm ; 
 but if they are so simple you are surely a simpleton if 
 you let your patients be killed with Morphia while 
 such simple remedies are at hand. The whole Thomp- 
 sonian or Physio-Medical system is simple and in this 
 you will find its wonderful virtues. 
 
 2a
 
 22 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 The Philosophy 
 
 AND 
 
 Principles of the Thompsonian System 
 
 1. MATTER, in all its diversity of character, 
 quality, form and combination, may be classed in two 
 great divisions, namely: ORGANIC and INOR- 
 GANIC MATTER. 
 
 2. ORGANIC MATTER includes the two vast 
 kingdoms of Nature ; the ANIMAL and the VEGET- 
 ABLE KINGDOMS. 
 
 3. INORGANIC MATTER includes all bodies not 
 possessed of CONSCIOUS LIFE, or such as are not 
 endowed with a CAPACITY FOR LIFE, that is, 
 CONSCIOUS LIFE. 
 
 4. INORGANIC, BRUTE or DEAD MATTER, 
 is controlled or governed by laws or forces, embrac- 
 ing CHEMISTRY and NATURAL PHILOSOPHY. 
 
 5. ORGANIZED or LIVING BODIES, though 
 influenced to a certain extent by the laws which 
 govern inorganic matter, are sustained in their living 
 state by VITAL LAWS, "which hold supremacy over
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 23 
 
 and control those of physics and chemistry, which 
 they modify and render subservient on many oc- 
 casions to the purpose of vitality." 
 
 6. The principle of life is the same in all animated 
 beings; and the human animal economy is governed 
 by the same general laws as that of the animal 
 economy. 
 
 7. LIFE, or the LIVING STATE, is a series of 
 actions or motions in animal matter, of which 
 organized bodies are alone susceptible. 
 
 8. Without ORGANIZATION there cannot be 
 Life. And again, organized bodies, though possessed 
 of a "CAPACITY for life," require the aid of 
 STIMULANTS to call it into activity. 
 
 9. "Animal life can be supported only by external 
 stimulants." 
 
 10. LIFE is produced by the influence of HEAT 
 or CALORIC upon ORGANIZED bodies. 
 
 11. HEAT, OR CALORIC, IS THE POWER 
 OR AGENT BY WHICH OTHER STIMU- 
 LANTS, AS ATMOSPHERIC AIR, LIGHT, 
 ELECTRICITY, GALVANISM, FOOD, DRINK, 
 AND MEDICINE ARE MADE TO ACT UPON 
 THE SYSTEM. 
 
 12. CALORIC BRINGS INTO PLAY THAT 
 POWER (ASSUMED TO BE AN ELECTRO- 
 GALVANIC INFLUENCE) WHICH IS THE 
 IMMEDIATE AGENT OF THOSE VARIED 
 AND COMPLICATED ACTIONS WHICH 
 FORMS AND FASHIONS THE ORGANS; CON-
 
 24 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 VEYS TO AND APPROPRIATES NOURISH- 
 MENT TO EVERY ORGAN AND TISSUE; 
 "SUSTAINS ANIMAL MATTER IN A STATE 
 OF COMPOSITION ;" SELECTS AND EXPELS 
 EFFETE OR WORN OUT MATTER BY THE 
 PORES OF THE SKIN, THE KIDNEYS, AND 
 OTHER DEPURATORY ORGANS; CARRIES 
 ON ALL THE VARIOUS SECRETIONS; EN- 
 DOWS THE ORGANS WITH SENSATION; 
 AND ENABLES THEM TO REACT AGAINST, 
 OR RESIST THE INFLUENCES THAT TEND 
 TO THEIR DESTRUCTION." 
 
 The two preceding propositions form the corner- 
 stone or basis of the true science of medicine. 
 
 13. In the early period of animal life, until the 
 organs become developed, heat is derived from the 
 mother. As the organs become developed they are 
 endowed with the power of producing or generating 
 heat, and after birth the supply of animal heat is de- 
 pendent upon this function of calorification, or heat 
 generating power. Thus VITAL ACTION, first 
 produced by heat, creates the power, or generates 
 the influence necessary to the continuance of its 
 action. Heat is evolved in every part of the system, 
 and the amount of caloric generated will be in pro- 
 portion as vital action is greater. 
 
 14. As the heat of the system is lessened, in pro- 
 portion will vital action diminish. "If the system be 
 deprived of caloric for a certain length of time, all 
 the preservative, recuperative, and sanative phe-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 25 
 
 nomena cease (this is especially the condition in Con- 
 sumption). It is the same also as respects Oxygen." 
 
 15. The stomach is the seat or "throne of the vital 
 powers;" the main centre or source from which is 
 radiated the nervous power, which, by the aid of heat 
 and oxygen, carries on and governs the important 
 vital functions of circulation, respiration, digestion, 
 nutrition, assimilation, and the various secretions. 
 
 16. The stomach is in almost every instance the 
 seat of disease. When this organ is disordered the 
 power of generating heat and nervous influence is 
 diminished, and consequently the actions and func- 
 tions of other organs become weakened or deranged. 
 In fever, although the heat of the surface is increased 
 above the natural standard, yet the amount generated 
 may be less than is produced in a state of health. The 
 secretions and transpirations from the skin and 
 mucous surface being suspended, the heat is locked 
 up in the system, and this, it would seem, is a wise 
 provision for retaining the heat, in order to sustain 
 the recuperative actions, and thus effect a crisis in 
 disease. Experiments have shown that in the most 
 inflammatory diseases, the blood contains less posi- 
 tive electricity than it does when taken from one in 
 health. As the functions of the stomach and bowels 
 are restored to a healthy condition a natural warmth 
 and action becomes established throughout the 
 system. 
 
 17. The same means that will restore the natural 
 temperature of the system, as pure stimulants (as
 
 26 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Capsicum) and the Vapor Bath, will also increase the 
 Electro-Galvanic or nervous power, which governs 
 the circulation and all the vital functions. 
 
 18. As the natural warmth of the system is re- 
 duced, either from a disordered stomach or from any 
 other cause, the nervous power which maintains an 
 equilibrium in the circulation is enfeebled; hence in 
 disease a loss of the natural balance or equilibrium in 
 the circulation of the blood is a common occurence. 
 
 19. An undue accumulation of blood in a part is 
 attended by a deficiency of it in other parts. Thus in 
 Fever there is an unnatural quantity of blood in the 
 surface and a corresponding deficiency inwardly; 
 determinations of blood to the head are accompanied 
 with a loss of blood in the feet. 
 
 20. The same means that will correct a disordered 
 stomach and "raise the heat" of the system to its 
 natural standard, will tend to restore the natural 
 balance of the circulation of the blood. 
 
 21. As the natural heat and nervous power is re- 
 duced, either from cold, disordered stomach, or from 
 any other cause, the functions of digestion, nutrition, 
 and assimilation become enfeebled or disordered. 
 The same cause also deranges the secreting organs, 
 as the liver and glands of the mucous membranes. In 
 many instances in disease the liver ceases to secrete 
 bile; and the excessive thirst accompanying fever 
 arises from diminished or suspended secretions of the 
 glands of the mucous membranes. 
 
 22. Whatever will cleanse the stomach, restore the
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 27 
 
 natural heat and produce perspiration, will also tend 
 to restore digestion, assimilation, the secretions, and 
 in fine, remove every derangement which occurs in 
 the system. 
 
 23. The lower order of animals, as the hybenating 
 species, will bear the abstraction of heat from their 
 bodies without producing disorganization; they sink 
 into a state of torpor and insensibility during winter, 
 and on the return of warm weather are reawakened 
 into life and activity. 
 
 24. In the higher order of animals and in man, the 
 abstraction of heat cannot be borne below a certain 
 degree, but for a limited period, without producing 
 disorganization and death. Hence, they are endowed 
 with a power to REACT against cold and other 
 deleterious agents ; and by thus establishing a 
 counteracting force or influence, life and organiza- 
 tion is preserved against causes tending to their de- 
 struction. Many of the symptoms which occur in 
 disease, as pain and fever, are caused by the recupera- 
 tive, life-sustaining actions, the organs being driven, 
 as it were, to a new mode of action, with the design 
 of counteracting the influence of offending causes, 
 and regaining their lost vitality. 
 
 25. FEVER does not constitute a disease, but is 
 always an evidence of the existence of an offending 
 cause in the system, and which nature is struggling 
 to remove. 
 
 26. Living beings are ever surrounded by agents 
 or powers which exert an influence in direct an-
 
 28 THB THOMSONIAN 
 
 tagonism to the laws of life tending to subvert or 
 destroy vital action. Thus the living state is held, as 
 it were, in a balance between opposing powers. 
 
 27. The direct effect of cold and other morbific 
 agents upon the system, is to weaken vital action, and 
 to lessen the power of generating heat : hence, disease 
 of every form and variety commences with symptoms 
 which show that the vital powers are weakened ; these 
 are Lassitude, General Debility, Coldness of the Sur- 
 face and Extremities, and Chilliness. Cold and Damp 
 Feet exert an influence in weakening and deranging 
 the natural and healthy order of action in the system, 
 and thus prove a fruitful source of disease. Damp- 
 ness probably operates as a conducting medium by 
 which the caloric, but more especially the electro- 
 galvanic fluid escapes, not only from the lower ex- 
 tremities but also from the stomach and all the viscera 
 of the abdomen, by means of the nerves, which form 
 a connecting chain of conductors or channels through- 
 out the system, for the passage or circulation of this 
 nervous fluid. As the nervous influence escapes from 
 the system, the functions, over which it has control, 
 become enfeebled and deranged. 
 
 28. The first symptoms in disease prove a weakened 
 condition of vital action. As the constitution reacts, 
 a new train of symptoms ensues. The pulse becomes 
 quicker and stronger; the surface becomes hot and 
 dry, and the system is in a state of feverish excite- 
 ment, or in other words, the patient has a fever. The 
 constitution struggles against disease and occasions
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 29 
 
 the fever, and it is by this power of reaction that 
 disease is overcome. 
 
 Intermittent fever, as it is termed, commences with 
 a chill. As the system reacts, fever comes on; and 
 the recuperative efforts which occasion the fever, re- 
 store the heat, bring on perspiration and frequently 
 other critical evacuations more especially from the 
 kidneys, by which the disease is partly or wholly re- 
 moved, until the return of the succeeding chill, when 
 the constitution institutes the same preservative, 
 recuperative train of action. In Eruptive Diseases, 
 as Small-pox, Measles, and Scarlet Fever, there are 
 always in the commencement General Debility, Chilli- 
 ness, and a Disordered Stomach. These are the direct 
 effects of the morbific agent that produces the disease, 
 and but for a counteracting influence, vital actions 
 would be overcome. The constitution establishes a 
 reaction or fever, by which the disease is thrown to 
 the surface, producing an eruption on the skin. 
 
 29. The design of reaction or fever is to restore the 
 lost heat and vitality, and remove all morbific or 
 deleterious agents and their effects from the system, 
 and thus preserve it from disease. 
 
 30. A course of treatment that will cleanse the 
 stomach and bowels and restore their natural action, 
 and remove obstructions from the system, will also 
 remove fevers, by assisting to bring about what the 
 fever is endeavoring to accomplish. When the offend- 
 ing cause is removed there will be nothing to excite 
 fever or reaction.
 
 30 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 There is another and very opposite plan for sub- 
 duing fever, to wit: By reducing the vital force or 
 the recuperative efforts of nature, by purging, with 
 the use of poisonous agents, such as are now used, 
 i. e., Aconite, Belladonna, Strychnine, etc. This, 
 though the fashionable practice, is nevertheless un- 
 natural, unsuccessful, and hazardous to the future 
 health, if not to the life of the patients on whom it is 
 practiced. 
 
 There is hardly a single man or woman, who has 
 only had the grippe, that is not suffering from some 
 weakness. This is absolutely nothing less than the 
 after affects of the fashionable treatment followed at 
 the present time. I have been in practice for more 
 than two years at one place, have treated all kinds of 
 cases during that time, have not lost a SINGLE 
 patient during all that time. I simply follow the 
 natural, common-sense treatment, help the system to 
 throw off all morbid matter, and when the disease 
 leaves the system there is then no other disease lurk- 
 ing there from the medicine that has been given. My 
 reader may ask: "Does the medical profession look 
 with favor on your practice?" Certainly not. The 
 thanks that I have received so far can be summed up 
 in one word "persecutions." 
 
 31. An important indication in the treatment of all 
 acute diseases, attended with high arterial excitement 
 or violent fever, is to overcome the contracted or 
 spasmodic condition of the capillary vessels by re- 
 laxing the system with "Lobelia."
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 31 
 
 32. To effect a relaxation of the system there is 
 probably no agent of equal value with the "Lobelia 
 Inflata." This medicine exerts a surprising influence 
 in equalizing the nervous power, and in relaxing the 
 system, without weakening the vital properties. In 
 many instances, however, fever may be removed by 
 the same means alone that will overcome a chill, i. e., 
 Pure Stimulants and Vapor Baths. Medical men of 
 the old school have not made a proper distinction 
 between pure stimulants that strengthen and promote 
 a healthy action, and those agents which occasion 
 morbid excitement at the expense of the vital powers. 
 Brandy and all alcoholic preparations aggravate 
 fever, and hence it is inferred that all stimulants are 
 improper in such cases. A patient, in a fever that 
 would be injured by Brandy, would in the same con- 
 dition be benefitted by drinking freely of Capsicum 
 Tea or taking one grain Capsicum tablets every 
 thirty minutes. It is as contrary to the theories of 
 the regular practice to use Capsicum in Scarlet Fever 
 as in any other form of fever, it being a disease of a 
 highly inflammatory character, and yet a majority 
 probably of the profession make use of this article in 
 Scarlatina, and many of them depend exclusively 
 upon it. 
 
 33. As a consequence of a reduction and derange- 
 ment of vital action, there are in disease thickened, 
 morbid secretions, by Dr. Thomson termed "Canker," 
 formed on the lining membrane of the stomach and 
 bowels, and which in acute disease, as in Dysentery,
 
 32 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Pleurisy, the various forms of Eruptive disease and 
 all other Febrile affections, tend more or less to 
 putrefaction, and thus prove deleterious to the con- 
 stitution. The stomach becoming coated with 
 thickened tenacious secretion or "canker," is prob- 
 ably a general cause of a disease being protracted. 
 It is an observation of Samuel Thomson, that "where 
 there is a settled fever there is canker seated in the 
 stomach." The tongue is more or less coated with 
 "Canker" or morbid secretions in disease, and its 
 appearance affords a criterion by which to judge of 
 the condition of the stomach. A tendency in this 
 Canker to soften and clean off from the edges of the 
 tongue, is usually one of the first signs indicating a 
 favorable crisis in a disease. 
 
 34. To remove the Canker is of the first im- 
 portance in the cure of disease. This requires in the 
 first place the use of such means as will excite the 
 secretions, and restore the inward or natural heat, 
 by which, as Dr. Thomson expresses it, "The Canker 
 is brought to a point," and as these morbid secre- 
 tions soften they may be removed by the use of what 
 is known as No. 3, or medicine for Canker. The 
 Tannin and Gallic Acid contained in these vegetable 
 preparations, have a strong affinity for the Canker, 
 and by combining with it overcome its tendency to 
 putrefaction, and they also detach it from the mucous 
 membranes, and thus remove obstructions to the 
 secretions, and enable nourishment to be taken up by 
 the Chyliferous Vessels.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 33 
 
 35. In violent local determination of blood to a 
 part or organ, as in Croup, Inflammation of the 
 Brain, Violent Pleurisy, Inflammation of the Kidneys, 
 Apoplexy, etc., one of the most important indications 
 in the treatment is to overcome this undue determina- 
 tion to the diseased part by relaxing the system with 
 "Lobelia," either by the stomach or administered by 
 injection. The same course of treatment is appli- 
 cable in Profuse Hemorrhage, as in Bleeding from 
 the Lungs, Nose, or Uterine Organs. 
 
 36. Finally, Dr. Thomson's system fulfills all the 
 important indications for the cure of disease in 
 general; and, if judiciously applied, will effect a cure 
 in all cases that are curable by means of medicine.
 
 34 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 RULES TO BE FOLLOWED 
 
 IN THE 
 
 Treatment of Diseaae 
 
 1. Be careful to always keep the determining 
 powers to the surface, by keeping the inward heat 
 above the outward, or the fountain above the stream, 
 and all will be safe. 
 
 2. It must be recollected that heat is life, and cold 
 death ; or, in other words, cold is disease ; that fever 
 is a friend and cold the enemy ; it is therefore neces- 
 sary to aid the friend and oppose the enemy in order 
 to restore health. 
 
 3. That the construction and organization of the 
 human frame is in all men essentially the same, being 
 formed of the four elements. Earth and water con- 
 stitute the solids of the body, which is made active by 
 fire and air. Heat, in a peculiar manner, gives life 
 and motion to the whole, and when entirely over- 
 powered from whatever cause by the other elements, 
 death ensues. Heat is possibly, actually speaking, 
 not life itself, but the first manifestation of life. Cold 
 of death.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 35 
 
 4. A perfect state of health arises from a due 
 balance of temperature of the elements, and when it 
 is by any means destroyed, the body is more or less 
 disordered. When this is the case, there is always a 
 diminution of heat, or an increase of the power of 
 cold, which is its opposite. 
 
 5. All disorders are caused by obstructed perspira- 
 tion, which may be produced by a great variety of 
 means ; that medicine, therefore, must be adminis- 
 tered that is best calculated to remove obstructions 
 and promote perspiration. 
 
 6. The food taken into the stomach, and being well 
 digested, nourishes the system and keeps up that heat 
 on which life depends ; but by constantly taking food 
 into the stomach, which is sometimes not suitable for 
 nourishment, it becomes foul, so that the food is not 
 well digested; this causes the body to lose its heat, 
 and disease follows. 
 
 7. Canker is caused by cold, and there is always 
 more or less of it in all cases of disease ; continue to 
 make use of such remedies as are calculated to re- 
 move it as long as there is any appearance of the 
 disorder. 
 
 8. When the disease is removed, make free use of 
 those remedies that are good to restore the digestive 
 powers, such as bitters, not forgetting to keep up the 
 inward heat by giving occasionally some good and 
 natural stimulant such as Capsicum in one grain 
 doses. 
 
 9. Keep always in mind that "an ounce of preven-
 
 36 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 tion is better than a pound of cure ;" and give medicine 
 on the first appearance of disorder, before it becomes 
 seated, for it may be then easily thrown off, and much 
 and dangerous sickness prevented. 
 
 10. In cases of fever increase the internal heat by 
 giving hot medicines, such as Capsicum, so as to 
 overpower the cold, when the natural heat will return 
 inwardly, and the cold will pervade the whole surface 
 of the body, as the heat had done before ; this is what 
 is called the turn of the fever. 
 
 11. If No. i Lobelia should sicken and not 
 puke, there may be two causes for it, i. e., the coldness 
 or acidity of the stomach ; for the first, give Capsicum 
 more freely, and for the latter dissolve a piece of 
 Pearlash in a wine glass of water, and let the patient 
 take it, which will counteract the acidity. If this 
 fails, make use of the steam bath, which will open the 
 pores, extract the cold, and set the medicine in oper- 
 ation. 
 
 By experience, I have found that it is always best 
 to give a few grains of No. 2, which is Capsicum, with 
 the No. i, or Lobelia, as it acts much better and it 
 keeps up the strength of the patient while the Lobelia 
 is relaxing the system and doing its work. 
 
 12. In giving medicine to children, give about one- 
 half, a little more or less according to their age, of the 
 quantity directed for a grown person. Be particular 
 to offer them drink often, especially young children 
 who cannot ask for it. 
 
 Not so long ago, I had a patient, a baby weighing
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 37 
 
 but six pounds, who had Pneumonia in its worst 
 form. I gave it one grain of Capsicum every hour 
 and a grain of Pleurisy root between the doses of 
 Capsicum. The patient recovered from the Pneu- 
 monia although regulars had said that it could not 
 live. 
 
 13. Dysentery is caused by Canker on the bowels, 
 for which make free use of the tea of No. 3, with No. 
 2, and give the same by injection in the first of the 
 disease, and afterwards give the syrup, No. 5, to 
 strengthen the stomach and bowels, and restore the 
 digestive powers. 
 
 14. The piles is Canker below the reach of medicine 
 given in the usual way, and must be cured by using a 
 wash of No. 3, made strong, and by giving injections 
 of the same with No. 2. What is called bearing down 
 pains in women is from the same cause and must be 
 relieved by injections made of witch-hazel or red 
 raspberry leaf tea, steeped strong, with No. 2 strained. 
 If this does not give relief, go through a regular 
 course of medicine. 
 
 SPECIAL NOTE. I, at the present time, do no 
 longer use the teas or infusions, but depend entirely 
 on Tinctures and fluid extracts of the different 
 Physio-Medical or Thomsonian remedies. These can 
 be had from nearly all our wholesale dealers. I use 
 these tinctures, in many cases, in the coated tablet 
 form. When I use the Tinctures or Fluid Extracts, 
 I always give them in hot water and the action is 
 uniform, handy, up-to-date, and they act exactly as 
 
 3a
 
 38 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 would the infusion or tea. In the Materia Medica, I 
 will give the dose of each remedy used so that the 
 modern Thomsonian physician can be as up-to-date 
 as those known as the "regulars" and still follow the 
 only scientific system of medication. These Tinc- 
 tures or Fluid Extracts can be mixed to form Nos. I, 
 2 > 3> 4 5 6, 7, 8, etc., and can always be carried in the 
 medicine case ready for immediate use. 
 
 15. Women in a state of pregnancy ought to be 
 carried through a regular course of the medicine, 
 especially when near the time of delivery. When in 
 travail give raspberry leaf tea, with a teaspoonful of 
 the composition powders, or No. 2, and keep them in 
 a perspiration. After delivery keep up the internal 
 heat by giving the composition powder, or No. 2. 
 This will prevent cold and after pains ; if there should 
 be symptoms of fever, carry them through a regular 
 course of the medicine, which will guard against all 
 alarming complaints peculiar in such cases. 
 
 16. In all cases of a burn, scald, or being frozen, 
 wrap up the parts in cloths wet with cold water, often 
 wetting them with the same to prevent their becom- 
 ing dry, and be careful to give hot medicine, such as 
 Capsicum, or the composition powders, to keep up 
 the inward heat. Pursue this plan for twelve hours, 
 and then, if the skin is off, apply the poultice or salve. 
 If there should be convulsions or fever, a regular 
 course of the medicine must, without fail, be given. 
 
 17. When a scald is over the whole or greater part 
 of the body, apply cotton cloth of several thicknesses to
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 39 
 
 the whole body, wet with the tea of raspberry leaves, 
 thoroughly wetting it with the same to prevent it 
 from becoming dry, and giving the Capsicum in one 
 grain doses every half-hour. When the scald is under 
 the stocking, or any other tight garment, let it remain 
 on, adding more cotton cloths, and wet the whole 
 with cold water as often as the smart of the burn 
 returns. 
 
 18. If the skin is off, or in case of an old burn, to 
 guard against canker, apply a poultice of cracker 
 dust and slippery-elm bark, made with a tea of rasp- 
 berry leaves, washing it with soap suds when the 
 poultice is changed, and then with the same tea. 
 When any part is frozen, the same methods must be 
 taken as for a burn. 
 
 19. For a fresh wound, cut, or bruise, wash im- 
 mediately with cold water, and bind up in cloths wet 
 with the same ; keep a hot water bottle or hot iron at 
 the feet, and take Capsicum to raise a gentle per- 
 spiration; continue this till the inflammation is 
 allayed, and the wound perfectly cleansed, then ap- 
 ply the poultice or salve, till healed. The air must be 
 kept from all wounds or sores, as it will cause pain, 
 and prevent them from healing. 
 
 20. In sudden and deadly attacks, such as spotted 
 or yellow fevers, fits, drowned persons, croup, etc., 
 the heat and activity of the patient are so much di- 
 minished that the common administration will not 
 give relief; the determining power to the surface 
 being so small, through the loss of internal heat, that
 
 40 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 it will not give the medicine operation, as its effects 
 are resisted and counterbalanced by the pressure of 
 the external air. To counteract this pressure, keep 
 the room, by aid of a good fire, about as warm as a 
 summer heat; and more fully to rarify and lighten 
 the air, and aid the operation of the medicine, make 
 a free use of the steam bath, and keep the patient 
 shielded by a blanket; at the same time give oc- 
 casionally Lobelia and Capsicum, being Nos. i and 2. 
 This course should be unremittingly persevered in till 
 the patient is relieved. 
 
 21. If the glands are dry, so that there is no 
 moisture in the mouth, or if the patient is much 
 pressed for breath, give a strong tea of No. 2, or two 
 grains of the Capsicum and repeat every one-half 
 hour until the mouth becomes moist. No. 3 should 
 not be used while the mouth is dry; if any is used, 
 add a large portion of No. 2. 
 
 22. Be careful not to have the outward heat too 
 high, by too many clothes or fire, for if this is the 
 case, it will cause a balance of the outward and in- 
 ward heat, and will prevent the medicine from oper- 
 ating by stopping the circulation, and the patient will 
 be very much distressed. When this happens, throw 
 cold vinegar on the face and stomach, and give more 
 Capsicum, which will let down the outward heat and 
 raise the inward. 
 
 23. If the patient is restless, wet the head and body 
 with cold vinegar, and if there are convulsions or
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 41 
 
 spasms, give the nerve medicine with the Capsicum. 
 Injections must be also used. 
 
 24. Never make use of physic in cases where there 
 is Canker internally, for it will draw the determining 
 powers inward and increase the disease. I have seen 
 so many bad effects from giving physics, that I dis- 
 approve the use of them and within the last two years 
 of my practice I have not used them. A hot water 
 injection is all that is necessary. 
 
 25. Avoid all minerals used as medicine, such as 
 mercury, arsenic, antimony, calomel, preparations of 
 copper or lead, and also morphia and opium. They 
 are all poisons, and deadly enemies to life. 
 
 26. Beware of bleeding and blistering, as they can 
 never do any good, and may be productive of much 
 harm, they are contrary to nature, and strengthen 
 the power of the enemy to health. Remove all causes 
 by natural means and the effects will surely leave of 
 themselves. 
 
 27. Do not make use of Saltpetre in any way what- 
 ever; it is the greatest cold of anything that can be 
 taken into the stomach, and was never intended for 
 any other purpose than to destroy life. It is a very 
 bad practice to put it on meat, for it destroys all the 
 juices, which are the nourishing part, and leaves the 
 flesh hard and difficult to digest. 
 
 28. Keep your patients from meats of all kinds. 
 Pork is a combination of Cancer and Scrofula, was never 
 intended to eat. Meat is not necessary as a food. 
 Put your patients on Sweet Oil, Olive Oil, Nuts and
 
 42 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 fresh Butter and note the wonderful results. Make 
 your patient live natural. 
 
 29. Be careful to instruct them about drinking cold 
 water in very hot weather, as it will tend to let down 
 the inward heat so suddenly as to give full power to 
 the cold. If this should happen, its fatal effects may 
 be prevented by giving the hot medicine, Capsicum, 
 to raise the inward heat above the outward. Be care- 
 ful also not to cool suddenly after being very warm 
 in consequence of uncommon exercise. A doctor 
 should be a teacher. Instruct your patients in the right 
 way of living. 
 
 30. Remember that regularity in diet is very im- 
 portant to preserve health, and that if more food is 
 taken into the stomach than is well digested, it clogs 
 the system and causes disease. Therefore be cautious 
 not to eat too much at a time, and have your food 
 well cooked. This is very important to those who 
 have weakly constitutions. 
 
 31. Ardent Spirit is slow poison; it is taken to stimu- 
 late, but this effect is soon over, and much use of it 
 destroys the tone of the stomach, injures the digestive 
 powers, and causes disease. It is therefore much 
 better, when the feeling requires anything of the kind, 
 to make use of stimulating medicine, such as Nos. 2 
 and 6, for these will answer a far better purpose. 
 
 32. In that very common trouble known as 
 Anaemia, it has been the habit of physicians to pre- 
 scribe all kinds of meats or animal preparations. Let 
 these things severely alone in your practice. Prescribe
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 43 
 
 Nuts of all kinds instead of meats, also butter, eggs, 
 cream, etc., and instead of Cod Liver Oil, which the 
 stomach cannot digest or assimilate, and other animal 
 preparations, give Olive Oil, the French is best, three 
 times a day. It is best to give it in tablespoonful 
 doses before meals. With the odorless and tasteless 
 preparations of this valuable medicine now to be had, 
 anyone can take it and the most delicate stomach can 
 retain it. 
 
 33. Keep your patients from using black pepper, 
 vinegar, etc. Instead of using black pepper, get them 
 to use a slight amount of Cayenne, and instead of vine- 
 gar, get them to use lemon juice. Not the lemon ex- 
 tracts, but the pure juice, pressed out of the lemon as it 
 is needed. Ferments are of no value and do a great 
 deal of harm.
 
 44 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 The Use of Emetics 
 
 IN THE 
 
 Treatment of Disease 
 
 Thomsonian emetics constitute the most effectual 
 remedy employed in the treatment of disease. There 
 is scarcely a form or variety of disease in which the 
 use of emetics will not prove beneficial, and in many 
 instances they are indispensably necessary to the re- 
 covery of the patient. 
 
 Previous to the discovery of the medical properties 
 of Lobelia by Samuel Thomson, poisonous articles 
 were employed almost exclusively as emetics. Even 
 now the medical profession continues to prescribe the 
 same deleterious articles, notwithstanding the evi- 
 dence afforded of the efficiency of Lobelia emetics in 
 cleansing the stomach, and likewise knowing as they 
 do that it possesses no deleterious qualities. 
 
 In some cases of slight or sudden attacks of 
 disease, all that is required by the operation of an 
 emetic is merely to throw off the foul contents of the 
 stomach, which had oppressed and distended its 
 functions. But where disease has become seated, 
 other important objects are obtained by the operation 
 of Thomsonian emetics. They relax the system, and 
 in this way overcome obstructions, equalize the circu-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 45 
 
 lation of the blood and of the nervous influence; in- 
 vigorate the energies of the stomach, and remove 
 morbid secretions from its mucous surface; restore 
 the secretions, and in fact, assist the constitution in 
 resisting disease, and thus aid her efforts in restoring 
 to health. 
 
 Whenever there is a general fever pervading the 
 body, it is evidence of a diseased condition of the 
 stomach; and hence in fever, the use of emetics are 
 particularly indicated. Whether a fever arises from 
 the cause of undigested food in the stomach, worms 
 in the intestines, its energies sunken or its functions 
 prostrated by the poisonous influence of Marsh 
 Effluvia, or from previous exposure to cold, Thom- 
 sonian emetics are indicated. 
 
 In measles, scarlet fever, and small-pox the disease 
 will be rendered more mild in its character, less 
 dangerous, and sometimes of shorter duration by the 
 early administration of a Thomsonian emetic. 
 
 In disease of children, emetics constitute by far the 
 most efficient remedy. Vomiting is nature's method 
 of relieving the stomach of infancy. If a child does 
 not vomit at any time, it can be set down as an absolute 
 sign that the child will not live for any length of time. 
 We can scarcely do wrong in giving emetics to sick 
 children, more especially at an early stage of disease. 
 In cases of sudden attacks of fever, croup, convul- 
 sions, etc., Lobelia should be given freely, either in 
 powder in warm teas, or in simple warm water, the 
 tincture, or the third preparation. The latter is par-
 
 46 THE THOMSON1AN 
 
 ticularly adapted to cases of spasms, and in cases 
 where the heat of the system is very low, and in the 
 advanced stages of disease. No danger need be ap- 
 prehended from vomiting a child too much in croup, 
 nor in any other violent attack of disease ; nor of 
 relaxing the system too much with Lobelia, especially 
 if a few grains of Capsicum be given with the Lobelia. 
 This might well be called an Elixir of Life. 
 
 In protracted chills, where the patient is in a 
 stupor, the third preparation of Lobelia should be 
 freely given, with the application of external warmth 
 and friction to the surface with a view of bringing on 
 a reaction. 
 
 Emetics administered in the early period of scarlet 
 fever will sometimes exert a powerful influence in 
 moderating the violence, and in shortening the dura- 
 tion of the disease. 
 
 In cases of bleeding from the lungs the effect of the 
 operation of emetics is to attract blood from the lungs 
 and diffuse it through the system by which the bleed- 
 ing will be checked. Warm foot baths, or the vapor 
 bath should be employed to aid in restoring the 
 natural equilibrium of the circulation of the blood. 
 
 In bleeding from the stomach, in which case blood 
 will be raised by vomiting, the employment of active 
 emetics are indicated, not only for dislodging accumu- 
 lations of blood in the stomach, which may have 
 oppressed its energies, but to cause a distribution of 
 blood throughout the system, and to strengthen the 
 weakened capillary vessels of the mucous membrane
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 47 
 
 of the stomach. The third preparation of Lobelia 
 given freely, together with the application of the 
 vapor bath, is successful in the treatment of bleeding 
 from the stomach, and it is not known to have ever 
 failed in checking the hemorrhage. 
 
 In uterine hemorrhage the flow of blood may in 
 general be controlled by active emetics, aided by the 
 use of injections of Geranium directly to the parts, or 
 packing with cotton which has been made wet with 
 tincture of Geranium. Nothing is equal to this. 
 
 In severe colds and sore throat, either from inflam- 
 mation or the existence of ulcers, emetics are of great 
 utility. 
 
 Emetics are more effectual than any other remedy 
 in the cure of consumption, bronchitis, and other 
 forms of disease of the chest. I never do without a 
 tablet composed of Lobelia and Capsicum in the 
 treatment of these diseases and always give a tablet 
 containing two grains of Lobelia and eight grains of 
 Capsicum before meals. This acts as a powerful 
 tonic and there is no reaction. 
 
 The most severe paroxysms of asthma may be 
 overcome by a thorough emetic, more especially 
 when the emetic is preceded by the application of a 
 vapor bath, rendering the system more sensitive to 
 the impression of medicine. 
 
 In pleurisy and inflammation of the lungs, emetics 
 may be employed with great advantage, more especi- 
 ally in the early period of the disease. I have never 
 observed the act of vomiting to be attended with
 
 48 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 much pain or difficulty in the most violent cases of 
 pleurisy and inflammation of the lungs. As a patient 
 sickens the system becomes relaxed, which affords an 
 explanation why a patient may vomit with so little 
 pain or difficulty when there is active inflammation in 
 the pleura or lungs. 
 
 In their wide and pervading operation, emetics 
 subdue or have a tendency to subdue vascular action, 
 to remove cutaneous constriction, promote absorp- 
 tion from the lungs, facilitate expectoration, lessen 
 dyspnoea, cough and saguineous discharge, to calm 
 the system by equalizing excitement, and thus re- 
 establishing that just balance in the distribution of 
 the blood, on which the restoration and maintenance 
 of health so materially depends. 
 
 In whooping cough more benefit may be derived 
 from the use of emetics than from any other remedy. 
 In violent cases an emetic should be given daily, or 
 even two or three times a day. In those cases when 
 violent paroxysms of coughing are observed to come 
 on at certain periods, it is a good practice to place 
 the patient under the influence of Lobelia, given even 
 to the amount necessary to cause free vomiting 
 previously to the time at which the paroxysms of 
 coughing usually come on. 
 
 Emetics form an important part of the treatment 
 for rheumatism, lumbago, gout, neuralgia, etc. No 
 remedy under my observation produces so much re- 
 lief in these forms of disease as active emetics; their 
 efficacy will be greatly enhanced by the previous ap-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 49 
 
 plication of a vapor bath. 
 
 Of the various remedies that have been employed 
 in the treatment of dyspepsia, emetics have proved the 
 most successful. Even in cases where there is ex- 
 treme tenderness at the pit of the stomach, an emetic 
 after a vapor bath will afford more relief in general 
 than any other remedy. In the early stage of dys- 
 pepsia, digestion, in most instances, may be restored 
 by one or two active emetics, followed by the free use 
 of Capsicum at meals. 
 
 Sick-headache depending upon a disordered con- 
 dition of the stomach may be speedily relieved by a 
 prompt emetic. Besides the speedy relief which the 
 operation of emetics afford, they sometimes break up 
 the disease altogether, the patient being freed from 
 subsequent attacks. 
 
 Emetics are well adapted to the cure of every 
 variety of colic, or cramp in the stomach. In diar- 
 rhoea, dysentery and cholera morbus, digestion is 
 lost, and the stomach contains more or less foul 
 matter, and its mucous surface is coated with 
 thickened secretions, oppressing its functions, which 
 increase the distress of the latter, and favor the 
 disease. Hence to excite free vomiting is particu- 
 larly indicated in the cure of such disorders. Besides 
 relieving the stomach of foul matters, Thomsonian 
 emetics exert a beneficial influence upon the secre- 
 tions, cause a determination to the surface, restore 
 capillary circulation, and aid the efforts of nature to 
 restore healthy action in the mucous membrane of
 
 50 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 the bowels. 
 
 Epilepsy, or falling sickness, is in many instances 
 occasioned by an oppressed or otherwise disordered 
 state of the stomach, demanding the use of emetics. 
 By exhibiting them just before the accession of the 
 paroxysm, they will often prevent it, and even if they 
 fail in this respect, they render it milder and of shorter 
 duration. Nor is this all which they accomplish. By 
 the strong and direct impression made on the 
 stomach, the commencement in that organ of the 
 wrong association constituting the disease, is broken, 
 and afterwards it yields readily to tonics. 
 
 Nearly the same views may be taken of hysteria. 
 Even admitting that the disease is mostly radiated in 
 the uterus, it does unquestionably often proceed from 
 gastric irritation, and demands to be treated accord- 
 ingly. Whatever may be the immediate cause of the 
 paroxysm, no remedy is so effectual as vomiting. It 
 promptly allays the convulsive agitations of the 
 nervous system, and produces a state of mental com- 
 posure which invites to sleep. 
 
 The better way is to give an emetic during the 
 paroxysm to cut it short and afterwards treat the 
 cause which will usually be found to have its seat in 
 the uterus. It may be an irritated or ulcerated womb, 
 or something else, but it is always caused by the state 
 of the womb and uterus, this affects the nervous 
 system and brings on the paroxysm. Lobelia is of 
 immense value in preventing the tension of the nervous 
 system and the uterus must be, in the meantime, 
 treated for the trouble.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 51 
 
 Apoplexy brought on, as it often is, by a mass of 
 undigested food in the stomach, calls for the free ex- 
 hibition of emetics, of which the third preparation of 
 Lobelia is the most appropriate. Lobelia should also 
 be administered by injection and allowed to be re- 
 tained in the bowels, to assist in exciting vomiting, 
 relax the system, and equalize the nervous influence. 
 Even if the seat of apoplexy is in the brain, and in- 
 curable, as it often proves to be, still the treatment 
 can do no harm. 
 
 Mania is generally associated with, and most fre- 
 quently dependent upon a disordered condition of 
 the stomach. Many cases have been cured by free 
 vomiting with stimulating emetics. 
 
 In long-continued dyspepsia, as in other forms of 
 seated disease, the mucous membrane of the stomach 
 becomes more or less coated with a false membrane ; 
 a general torpor then pervades the system, the 
 nervous energy is prostrated, and the energies of the 
 mind often greatly depressed. In such cases there is 
 no plan of medical treatment which promises equal 
 success with that of the frequent use of the steam 
 bath and stimulating emetics. These means will 
 prove the most effectual in restoring the secretions, 
 and causing the detachment and removal of false 
 membrane lining the stomach. Without effecting 
 this the functions of the stomach cannot be restored. 
 It has been observed on many occasions, that patients 
 who had been long affected with dyspepsia, are very 
 liable to experience severe pain under the operation
 
 S2 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 of an emetic, and often complain of feeling worse 
 about the time the disease is taking a favorable 
 change. 
 
 Affections of the head in general proceed from de- 
 rangement of the stomach, so that not only in sick- 
 headache are emetics indicated, but the most violent 
 neuralgic pains in the head, accompanied with ex- 
 treme tenderness of the scalp, will sometimes be 
 promptly relieved by free vomiting. Even genuine 
 tic-doloreux, the neuralgia of some writers, has been 
 cured, in several instances, by this same practice, and 
 with such facility as to place it decidedly above all 
 other modes of treating this most painful, and hither- 
 to nearly unmanageable affection. 
 
 The operation of emetics in connection with the 
 use of the vapor bath are applicable to cases of 
 dropsy. Besides cleansing the stomach, placing tlje 
 system under the relaxing influence of Lobelia pro- 
 motes the action of the absorbent vessels, and 
 consequently the use of this remedy is particularly 
 well adapted to cases of dropsy. 
 
 Emetics form an important part of the treatment 
 for the cure of jaundice. Many cases of this form of 
 disease were and are cured by the administration of 
 a vapor bath and an emetic, the patient having taken 
 freely of composition and compound Lobelia a few 
 days preceding the bath and emetic. Cases that are 
 deeply seated will require, as do other forms of seated 
 disease, a repetition of courses of medicine, together 
 with the appropriate intermediate treatment.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 53 
 
 Persons laboring under the poisonous effects of 
 mercury will experience benefit from the use of the 
 vapor baths and emetics. 
 
 Torpor of the liver, which attends jaundice and 
 bilious fever, has frequently been removed, and the 
 functions of this important organ restored through 
 the influence of vapor baths, and active emetics. To 
 restore the natural temperature of the blood and 
 impart elecricity to it, by the steam bath ; to relax the 
 system with Lobelia ; together with the influence of 
 straining efforts to vomit constitutes the most 
 effectual means of relieving congestion of the liver, 
 and of restoring its functions. Lobelia administered 
 by injection, and retained, exerts the same beneficial 
 influence upon the system as when taken into the 
 stomach. Many patients will not admit that any- 
 thing be given them to cause vomiting as they labor 
 under the impression that a medicine that causes 
 vomiting or sickening of the stomach is not indicated 
 in their case and the physician will therefore bear in 
 mind, that when he has to deal with this class of 
 people, he can give the Lobelia by injection and that 
 it will help the same, in most cases, as though it had 
 been given per orum. 
 
 Whenever the system experiences a severe shock, 
 as by falling from a height, a violent blow, or by a 
 severe burn or scald, digestion will be suspended, and 
 if the accident should happen soon after, or within an 
 hour or two after the patient has taken a hearty meal, 
 the stomach should be evacuated by an active emetic.
 
 54 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 This may save the patient a great deal of suffering 
 and materially lessen the danger of the injury. 
 
 Thomsonian emetics may be employed with perfect 
 safety during every stage of pregnancy ; and most of 
 the derangements of the system consequent upon that 
 state, such as a feeling of fullness, dizziness, or violent 
 pain in the head; pain and distress in the back and 
 loins ; extreme sickness ; water brash ; and distress at 
 the stomach, may be relieved and frequently entirely 
 removed, for a time at least, by an active Lobelia 
 emetic preceded by the use of an enema, and a vapor 
 bath. Women can be carried through from three to 
 nine Thomsonian courses of medicine during the last 
 two weeks preceding their confinement, invariably 
 deriving benefit, and generally complete relief from 
 distress, by their operation. A full course of medicine 
 administered just before confinement is incomparably the 
 best plan of treatment that has ever been adopted for 
 insuring an easy and safe labor. 
 
 Child-bed fever, convulsions, and other forms of 
 disease which sometimes come on after confinement, 
 doubtless in the great majority of instances may be 
 prevented, or at least the system be placed in a far 
 better condition to resist the influence of the usual 
 exciting cause of disease, by a course of medicine 
 administered in the first stage of pregnancy. 
 
 The condition of the stomach excites a controlling 
 influence over local diseases, such as painful swellings 
 in every part of the body, swelled breast, and swell- 
 ings in the groin, neuralgia, local inflammation, gout,
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 55 
 
 disease of the kidneys, carbuncle, affections of the 
 spine, abscesses, etc. In the early stage painful 
 swellings can be brought to a crisis and dispersed with- 
 out suppuration taking place, by administering vapor 
 baths and emetics, together with a proper use of 
 injections to assist the action of the bowels. 
 
 Just so much as the stomach is disordered will local 
 disease become generally more difficult to cure. I 
 have known indolent ulcers of several years standing 
 to be healed in a few weeks, chiefly by improving the 
 condition of the system generally and more par- 
 ticularly that of the stomach, by Thomsonian courses 
 of medicine, of which the emetic constitutes un- 
 doubtedly the most important part of the treatment. 
 
 Even when the seat of disease is located principally 
 in the brain, emetics may be given with great advant- 
 age in many cases. This is because the brain is really 
 the station of the nervous system and whatever affects 
 the nervous system, even in a small way, will most 
 directly affect the brain. Lobelia has its greatest 
 influence on the nervous system and consequently, 
 its effects on the brain are just as great as on any part 
 of the nervous system. 
 
 If a person be injured on the head or any part of 
 the body, and the accident occurs soon after the 
 patient has taken a hearty meal, a prompt emetic 
 should be given, or the patient be made to vomit 
 freely by some means. If this is neglected the 
 stomach will be oppressed by a mass of undigested 
 food, aggravating the symptoms, and causing the
 
 56 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 patient much suffering. 
 
 When any substance is lodged in the throat, means 
 should at once be taken to cause vomiting. Where 
 this cannot be effected by running a finger into the 
 throat, an emetic of Lobelia should be given. If the 
 patient cannot swallow an emetic, vomiting may be 
 effected by administering one or two teaspoonfuls of 
 Lobelia powder in warm water by injection, and re- 
 tain it in the bowels. Besides producing vomiting 
 this treatment will relax the system and thus tend to 
 overcome the rigidity of the parts in which the foreign 
 substance is lodged, and lessening the difficulty of its 
 being removed. 
 
 Finally, in disease, the stomach is more or less 
 coated with thickened tenacious secretions, for the 
 removal of which there is no remedy so effectual as a 
 Lobelia emetic given in combination with Capsicum 
 and a strong decoction of Bayberry or Sumac. 
 
 The stomach possesses a very low degree of sensi- 
 bility, so that its functions may be greatly depressed 
 or disordered without the patient experiencing any 
 symptoms of disease, except in parts remote from the 
 stomach. One who is subject to a weakness in any part 
 of the spine will experience an increase of the disease 
 by the stomach becoming more disordered than usual. 
 In many instances disease of the spine has been cured 
 by the use of the vapor bath and emetics. 
 
 Eruptions of the skin, such as scald hand, nettle- 
 rash, and tetter, are occasioned in general by de- 
 rangement of the digestive functions and these erup-
 
 SYSTEM OF MBDICINB 57 
 
 tions may frequently be more effectually cured by 
 emetics than by any external applications. 
 
 Only enough Lobelia should be given to cause the 
 patient to vomit and immediately after that, Capsicum 
 should be given in grain doses. It is also well to give 
 a few grains of Capsicum with the Lobelia as this 
 will keep up the strength and heat of the patient. If 
 injection of Lobelia is given, a few grains of Capsicum 
 should also be added to that.
 
 58 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Injections or Clysters. 
 
 (The Internal Bath) 
 
 This manner of administering medicine is of the 
 greatest importance to the sick ; it will frequently give 
 relief when all other applications fail. It is supposed 
 that the use of them is of great antiquity; whether 
 this be true or not, the using them to relieve the sick 
 was certainly a very valuable discovery, and no doubt 
 thousands of lives have been saved by it. The doctors 
 have long been in the practice of directing injections 
 to be given to their patients, but they seem to have 
 no other object in administering them than to cause 
 a movement in the bowels ; therefore it was imma- 
 terial what they were made of. 
 
 According to the plan which I have adopted, there 
 are certain important objects aimed at in the ad- 
 ministration of medicines to remove disease, viz: 
 to raise the internal heat, promote perspiration, re- 
 move the canker, guard against mortification, and 
 restore the digestion. To accomplish these objects, 
 the medicine necessary to remove the complaint must 
 be applied to that part where the disease is seated ; if
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 59 
 
 in the stomach only, by taking the medicine it may be 
 removed; but if in the bowels, the same compound 
 must be administered by injection. Whatever is good 
 to cure disease when taken into the stomach, is like- 
 wise good for the same purpose if given by injection, as 
 the grand object is to warm the bowels and remove 
 the canker. In all cases of dysentery, colic, piles, and 
 other complaints where the bowels are badly affected, 
 injections should never be dispensed with. They are 
 perfectly safe in all cases, and better that they be used 
 ten times when not needed, than once neglected when 
 they are. In many violent cases, particularly where 
 there is danger of mortification, patients may be re- 
 lieved by administering medicine in this way, when 
 there would be no chance in any other. I do, there- 
 fore, most seriously advise that these considerations 
 be always borne in mind, and that this important way 
 of giving relief be never neglected where there is any 
 chance for it to do good. In many complaints 
 peculiar to females, they are of great importance in 
 giving relief when properly attended to; for which 
 purpose it is only necessary to repeat what has been 
 before stated let the remedy be applied with judgment 
 and discretion to that part where the disease is seated. 
 
 The common preparation for an injection or clyster 
 is to take a teacupful of strong tea made of No. 3, 
 strain it off when hot, and add half a teaspoonful of 
 No. 2, and a teaspoonful of No. 6, when cool enough 
 to give, add half a teaspoonful of No. I, and the same 
 quantity of nerve powder. (I now use these in com-
 
 60 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 bination, using the tincture of each and have it always 
 ready.) In this way you are up-to-date and the liquid 
 compound that you put in the water is clear and there 
 is but very little trouble in giving it. Get the tincture 
 of Nos. 3, 2, 6, i and 7, take of each an amount 
 equivalent in strength to that of the amount of 
 powder directed in the foregoing. This would be 
 about : Comp. Tinct. No 3, 2 drachms ; Tinct. No. 2, 
 or Capsicum, 3 grains ; No. 6, 60 grains, or teaspoon- 
 ful; No. I, or Lobelia Tinct., I drachm; No. 7, or 
 Tinct. Valerian, i drachm. Mix. 
 
 This mixture should be mixed with a quart of fairly 
 warm water and injected, retained for a few minutes 
 and then passed off. This may be repeated as often 
 as required till relief is obtained. 
 
 Many other articles may be used to advantage in 
 the injections ; a tea of witch-hazel and red raspberry 
 leaves, either or both together, are very good in many 
 cases. For Canker, tea of either the articles described 
 for this purpose will answer a good purpose and give 
 the best of results. When the Canker is removed, the 
 bowels will be left sore, in which case give injections 
 of witch-hazel or red raspberry leaves tea, with slip- 
 pery-elm bark. When injections are used to move 
 the bowels only, No. i should be left out. It is always 
 safe to add the nerve powder, and if there are nervous 
 symptoms, it should never be omitted.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 61 
 
 Steam or Vapor Baths 
 
 Although the use of the vapor bath as a means of 
 curing disease was employed many centuries back, 
 still the principle upon which it operates in removing 
 disease was not fully explained, nor its utility in aiding 
 the operation of medicine appreciated, before the time 
 of Samuel Thomson. 
 
 The vapor bath constitutes an important part of the 
 Thomsonian system of practice, fulfilling several im- 
 portant indications in the cure of disease. It diffuses 
 warmth through the system, equalizes the circulation, 
 imparts electricity to the blood, and increases the 
 sensibilities of the system to the impression of medi- 
 cine. 
 
 "I had but little knowledge of medicine," says 
 Samuel Thomson, "when through necessity I dis- 
 covered the use of steaming, to add heat or life to the 
 decaying spark; and with it I was enabled by ad- 
 ministering such vegetable medicines as I then had a 
 knowledge of, to effect a cure in cases where the 
 regular practitioners had given them over. 
 
 "In all cases where the heat of the body is so far 
 exhausted as not to be rekindled by using the medi- 
 cine, and being shielded from the surrounding air by
 
 62 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 a blanket, or being in bed, and chills or stupor attend 
 the patient, then applied heat by steaming becomes 
 indispensably necessary ; and heat caused by steam in 
 the manner that I use it, is more natural in producing 
 perspiration than any dry heat that can be applied to 
 the body in any other manner ; for a dry heat will only 
 serve to dry the air and prevent perspiration in many 
 cases of disease, where a steam by water or vinegar 
 would promote perspiration and add a natural warmth 
 to the body, and thereby increase the power of life and 
 motion and aid in removing disease." 
 
 We often hear people say that when they bleed the 
 blood is almost black, and so thick that it will scarcely 
 run, and they believe that the blood is bad. The blood 
 becomes thick and dark in consequence of its slow 
 and torpid circulation for want of heat. Place a 
 patient in the condition just mentioned in a vapor 
 bath at a proper temperature, and in less than twenty 
 minutes the character of this blood will be changed, so that 
 instead of being almcst as thick and dark as molasses, 
 as it was before steaming, it will be of a natural color 
 and consistency, in consequence of the warmth and 
 electricity imparted to it by the steam, which also 
 restores the natural current of its circulation through 
 the lungs. 
 
 There is scarcely a form of disease or a condition 
 of the system in which the vapor bath may not be 
 employed, not only with safety but benefit. One of 
 the most important objects gained by the application of 
 the vapor bath is adding warmth and electricity to the
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 63 
 
 blood. It has been ascertained that in disease even of 
 the most inflammatory character, the blood contains 
 less electricity than it does when in a healthy con- 
 dition, and by applying the vapor bath in the early 
 stage of pleurisy, or rheumatism, the disease in many 
 instances will be removed by it. 
 
 Disease of an inflammatory character generally 
 proceeds from cold, and the buffy coat which appears 
 on the blood drawn fronartDne laboring under an in- 
 flammatory disease, may be attributed to the want of 
 a sufficient amount of heat and electricity in the blood. 
 
 The vapor bath may be employed with immense 
 benefit in disease of the urinary organs, as stranguary, 
 gravel, retention of urine, inflammation of the lungs, 
 etc. 
 
 Slight attacks of jaundice can be cured, in many 
 instances, by a single vapor bath, followed by an 
 emetic. In croup where the disease has continued 
 several hours, the vapor bath is almost indispensible, 
 in order to restore the natural warmth of the blood, 
 and assist the operation of the medicine. 
 
 In asthma when the system is in a cold and torpid 
 condition, medicine will often fail of affording much 
 relief without the previous use of a vapor bath. In 
 this form of disease it has been found that the hot air 
 bath is as effectual as the vapor bath, and it may be 
 administered with much less trouble. 
 
 Ordinary headache is speedily cured by a vapor 
 bath. In dysentery and bowel complaints in general 
 the use of the vapor bath is attended by the most
 
 64 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 signal benefit. 
 
 In eruptive diseases, nettle-rash, small-pox, scarlet 
 fever, varioloid, and measles, the vapor bath may be 
 used with benefit at any stage of the disease. If the 
 eruption be slow to appear, applying a vapor bath will 
 bring it out to the surface ; or if there be a tendency 
 to retrocession or striking in of the eruption the 
 vapor bath should be applied, or at least a moist heat 
 should be applied around the patient, and powerful 
 stimulants given, as the third preparation of Lobelia, 
 and stimulating injections. In every stage of small- 
 pox the vapor bath is grateful to the patient and aids 
 the constitution in working off the disease. In the 
 later period of small-pox, when scabs are forming and 
 the patient much distressed, the steam bath will afford 
 more relief than any other means that can be em- 
 ployed; and when the scales are dry and falling off 
 there can be no better means employed for restoring 
 the natural healthy condition of the skin than steam- 
 ing. Scarlet fever and measles are very liable to be 
 followed by dropsy, running of the ears, swelling of 
 the glands, etc., arising in part from an unhealthy 
 condition of the skin, which may be remedied by 
 steaming the patient two or three times about the 
 termination of the eruptive disease. 
 
 The duration of erysipelas may be shortened and 
 the symptoms mitigated by steaming, and in severe 
 cases it should not be neglected. 
 
 The vapor bath may be employed with especial 
 benefit in all cases of dropsy except when the disease
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 65 
 
 is incurable. 
 
 In violent colds and catarrh where the breathing is 
 greatly oppressed or the skin dry and husky, or cold 
 and clammy, and the patient much distressed, the use 
 of vapor baths becomes highly necessary, not only 
 to relieve the distressing symptoms but to facilitate 
 the operation of medicine. Thousands of patients die 
 annually of consumption that in its early stage is 
 curable under Thomsonian treatment. 
 
 In peritonitis, which is a most fatal form of disease 
 after it has progressed to a certain stage, the vapor 
 bath should be promptly and perseveringly applied, 
 besides giving largely of Lobelia and pure stimulants. 
 
 In inflammation of the lungs, liver, stomach, 
 bowels, or any other of the internal organs the use of 
 the vapor bath will be found to relieve pain, assist 
 the operation of medicine and shorten the course of 
 the disease. 
 
 In "low fevers," as they are termed, where the heat 
 and strength of the patient are far reduced, I have 
 observed marked benefit to result from the applica- 
 tion of steam to the patient. A patient who is too 
 weak to sit up or even raise his head, will bear steam- 
 ing on a couch or mattress in many instances over an 
 hour without being debilitated by it, provided proper 
 attention be paid to bathing the face and surface of 
 the body occasionally with spirits or vinegar and 
 giving stimulants. The most remarkable recoveries 
 from "low malignant fevers," as they are termed, that 
 I have known have been where the vapor bath has
 
 66 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 been administered frequently and the third prepara- 
 tion of Lobelia administered freely, both by injection 
 and to the stomach. In these cases the steam was of 
 course applied to the patient in bed or on a couch. 
 
 The vapor bath forms an important auxiliary in the 
 treatment of rheumatism, gout, lumbago, palsy, hys- 
 teria, chlorosis, neuralgia, consumption, fevers of 
 every variety, scrofula, etc. Finally, the application 
 of warmth to the body by means of steam aids the 
 efforts of nature to overcome disease of every variety 
 that is curable by the aid of medical treatment. 
 
 The steam bath affords a protection to the system 
 against sickness ; and when applied in the early stage 
 of many forms of disease will effectually prevent it 
 from becoming seated, by restoring the lost heat, 
 promoting the secretions, and removing obstructions. 
 
 If the efficacy and safety of the steam bath in mid- 
 wifery was generally known, the practice of giving 
 ergot would become entirely abolished; for no 
 sensible woman would willingly admit to be poisoned 
 herself as well as the child, who had a knowledge of 
 the utility of steaming, and more especially of the 
 course of medicine. By means of the vapor bath and 
 Lobelia the muscles may be more effectually relaxed 
 than by anything else, and at the same time the secre- 
 tions are promoted and nature assisted without the 
 least possible degree of danger to the patient from the 
 treatment. For pain in the back and loins during preg- 
 nancy the steam bath may be used with much benefit. 
 
 As a course of medicine has so frequently been
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 67 
 
 mentioned, it is well to here state what is meant by it 
 and the most proper way to give it. First, give Nos. 2 
 and 3, or composition, adding a teaspoonful of No. 6 ; 
 then steam, and when in bed repeat it, adding No. I, 
 which will cleanse the stomach and assist in keeping 
 up a perspiration ; when this has done operating, give 
 an injection made with the same article. Where there 
 are symptoms of nervous affection, or spasms, put 
 half a teaspoonful of the nerve powder into each dose 
 given, and into the injection. In violent cases, where 
 immediate relief is needed, Nos. I, 2, 3 and 6 may be 
 given together. Injections may be administered at all 
 times, and in all cases of disease, to advantage ; it can 
 never do harm, and in many cases they are indis- 
 pensably necessary, especially where there is canker 
 and inflammation in the bowels, and there is danger of 
 mortification, in which case, add a teaspoonful of No. 
 6. In cases of this kind, the injection should be given 
 first, or at the same time of giving the composition, 
 or No. 3. The latter preferred. 
 
 The use of steaming is good in preventing sickness, 
 as well as curing it. When a person has been exposed 
 to the cold, and is threatened with disease, it may be 
 prevented, and long sickness and expense saved, by a 
 very little trouble, by standing over a steam and 
 following the directions before given till the cold i 
 thoroughly thrown off, and a lively perspiration takes 
 place, then go to bed, taking a hot water bottle along 
 and putting it to the feet. This may be done without 
 the medicine, when it cannot be had ; but it is much
 
 68 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 better to take something to raise the inward heat at 
 the same time. A tea made of Mayweed or Summer- 
 Savory, or Ginger and hot water sweetened, may be 
 given, or anything that is warming. 
 
 When a patient is carried through a course of medi- 
 cine and steamed, who has been long under mercurial 
 treatment, and while under the operation of the 
 steam, when the heat is at the highest, the face will 
 swell, in consequence of the poisonous vapor being 
 condensed by the air, the face being open to it. To 
 relieve this, put them in bed, and take a hot stone, 
 wrapped in several thicknesses of cloth, wet with 
 water, pouring on a little vinegar, and making a lively 
 steam ; put it in the bed and cover the head with the 
 clothes and let them breathe the steam as hot as can 
 be borne, until the sweat covers the swelled parts. 
 This will, in about fifteen or twenty minutes, throw 
 out the poison, and the swelling will abate. This 
 method also is of great service in agues and tooth- 
 ache caused by cold; and many other causes of ob- 
 struction from the same cause, especially young 
 children stuffed on the lungs.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 69 
 
 Directions for Preparing Remedies 
 
 USED IN 
 
 A Course of Medicine According to Dr. Thomson 
 
 No. i. EMETIC HERB. 
 
 1. The powdered leaves and pods. This is the most 
 common form of using it; and from half to a tea- 
 spoonful may be taken in warm water, sweetened ; or 
 the same quantity may be put into either of the other 
 numbers when taken to cleanse the stomach, over- 
 power the cold, and promote a free perspiration. 
 
 2. A tincture made from the green herb in spirit. 
 This is used to counteract the effects of poison (to be 
 either taken internally or applied externally) and for 
 asthma and other complaints of the lungs. For a 
 dose, take a teaspoonful, adding about the same 
 quantity of No. 2 in half a teacupful of warm water, 
 sweetened, and in all cases of nerve affection add half 
 a teaspoonful of nerve powder. For the external 
 effects of poison, take the above dose, and bathe the 
 parts affected with the tincture, repeating it till cured. 
 
 3. The seeds reduced to a fine powder and mixed 
 
 5a
 
 70 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 with Nos. 2 and 6, is for the most violent at- 
 tacks of spasms and other complaints, such as lock- 
 jaw, bite of a mad-dog, fits, drowned persons, and all 
 cases of suspended animation, where the vital spark 
 is nearly extinct. For a dose, give a teaspoonful, and 
 repeat it till relief is obtained ; then follow with a tea 
 of No. 3 for canker. 
 
 For children, the dose must be regulated according 
 to their age. If very young, steep a dose of the pow- 
 der in half a teacupful of warm water, or tea of rasp- 
 berry leaves, and give a teaspoonful at a time of the 
 tea, strained through a fine cloth, and sweetened, re- 
 peating the dose every ten minutes, till it operates, 
 and give pennyroyal, or some other herb tea, for 
 drink. 
 
 No. 2. CAYENNE. CAPSICUM. 
 This is a medicine of great value in the practice, 
 and may be safely used in all cases of disease to raise 
 and retain the internal vital heat of the system, cause 
 a free perspiration, and keep the determining powers 
 to the surface. The only preparation is to have it 
 reduced to a fine powder. For a dose, take from half 
 to a teaspoonful, in hot water, or a tea of No. 3, 
 sweetened; or the same quantity may be mixed with 
 a dose of either the other numbers when taken. The 
 dose should be repeated every ten or fifteen minutes 
 till the desired object is effected, and continued oc- 
 casionally till health is restored. When this number 
 is given, the patient should be kept warm by sitting 
 by the fire, covered with a blanket, or in a warm bed.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 71 
 
 No. 3. FOR CANKER. 
 
 Take bayberry root bark, white pond lily root, and 
 the inner bark of hemlock, equal parts of each 
 pounded and well mixed together ; steep one ounce of 
 the powder in a pint of boiling water, and give for a 
 dose a common wineglassful, sweetened. 
 
 If the above cannot be had, take as a substitute 
 summach bark, leaves or berries, red raspberry or 
 witch-hazel leaves, marsh rosemary, or either of the 
 other articles used for this purpose. 
 
 When the violence of the disease requires a course 
 of medicine, steep one ounce of the above-mentioned 
 powder, No. 3, in a pint of boiling water, strain off a 
 wineglassful while hot, and add a teaspoonful of No. 
 2, and the same quantity of sugar ; when cool enough 
 to take, add a teaspoonful of No. I, and half that 
 quantity of nerve powder. Let this dose be given 
 three times, at intervals of fifteen minutes, and let the 
 same compound be given by injection, and if the case 
 requires it, repeat it. If mortification is apprehended, 
 a teaspoonful of No. 6 may be added to each dose, 
 and to the injection. 
 
 After the patient has recovered sufficiently from 
 the operation of the medicine, which is usually in two 
 or three hours, place him in a steam bath as directed 
 in another part of this work. 
 
 This operation is sufficient for one time, and must 
 be repeated each day, or every other day, as the cir- 
 cumstances of the case may require, till the disorder is 
 removed. Three times will generally be sufficient, and
 
 72 THE THOMSON1AN 
 
 sometimes once or twice will answer the purpose, but 
 in bad chronic cases it may be necessary to continue 
 to carry them through a regular course two or three 
 times a week, for a considerable length of time. 
 
 Great care must be taken to keep up an internal 
 heat, so as to produce perspiration, after they have 
 been through the operation, by giving occasionally 
 No. 2, or the composition powder, for if this is not 
 attended to, the patient will have a relapse, in which 
 case it will be very difficult to raise the heat again, as 
 they will fall as much below a natural heat as they 
 have been raised above it by artificial means. 
 
 During the operation give milk porridge, or gruel, 
 well seasoned, with a little powdered Capsicum in it, 
 and after it is over, the patients may eat any kind of 
 nourishing food that the appetite may crave. 
 
 A teacupful of the tea of No. 3 should be taken 
 night and morning to prevent a relapse of the disease, 
 and during the day drink frequently of a tea made of 
 poplar bark, and if costive, use the bitter root. 
 
 As soon as the disorder is removed, use the bitters, 
 No. 4, to correct the bile and restore the digestion; 
 and half a wineglassful of the syrup, No. 5, may be 
 taken two or three times a day, which will strengthen 
 the stomach and assist in regulating the digestive 
 powers. 
 
 The foregoing directions are calculated for the 
 more violent attacks of disease, and such as have 
 become settled, but those of a less violent nature 
 must be treated according to circumstances. In the
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 73 
 
 first stage of a disease, it may be most generally 
 thrown off by a dose of the No. I Emetic Herb, with 
 No. 2 to raise a free perspiration, followed by a tea of 
 No. 3, to remove the canker, and the bitters or a tea 
 of poplar bark to regulate the digestion. For a sud- 
 den cold, take a dose of the composition powder on 
 going to bed, and put a hot stone, wrapped in wet 
 cloths, at the feet, which will in most cases remove 
 the complaint ; but if these applications do not answer 
 the purpose, the patient should be carried through a 
 regular course as soon as possible. Steaming is safe 
 and will always do good, and the injections must not 
 be neglected, particularly where the bowels are dis- 
 ordered. In consumption, and all old, lingering com- 
 plaints, give the composition powder for two or three 
 days before going through a regular course. 
 No. 4. BITTERS. 
 
 Take the Bitter Herb, or Balmony, Barberry and 
 Poplar Bark, equal parts, pulverized, one ounce of the 
 powder to a pint of hot water, and half a pint of spirit. 
 For a dose, take half a wineglassful. For hot bitters, 
 add a teaspoonful of No. 2. 
 
 This preparation is calculated to correct the bile 
 and create an appetite by restoring the digestive 
 powers ; and may be freely used both as a restorative 
 and to prevent disease. 
 
 No. 5. SYRUP. 
 
 Take Poplar Bark and bark of the root of Bay- 
 berry, one pound each, and boil them in two gallons
 
 74 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 of water; strain off and add seven pounds of good 
 sugar; then scald and skim it, and add half a pound 
 of peach meats, or the same quantity of cherry-stone 
 meats, pounded fine. When cool add a gallon of good 
 brandy, and keep in bottles for use. Take half a 
 wineglassful two or three times a day. 
 
 Any other quantity may be prepared, by observing 
 the same proportion of the different articles. 
 
 This syrup is very good to strengthen the stomach 
 and bowels, and to restore weak patients, and is par- 
 ticularly useful in the dysentery, which leaves the 
 stomach and bowels in a sore state. In a relax or the 
 first stage of the dysentery, by using a tea of No. 3 
 freely and giving this syrup, it will generally cure it, 
 and will also prevent those exposed from taking the 
 disease. 
 
 No. 6. RHEUMATIC DROPS. 
 
 Take one gallon of good fourth-proof brandy, or 
 any kind of high wines, one pound of gum myrrh, 
 pounded fine, one ounce of No. 2, and put them into a 
 stone jug, and boil it a few minutes in a kettle of 
 water, leaving the jug unstopped. When settled, 
 bottle it up for use. It may be prepared without 
 boiling, by letting it stand in the jug five or six days, 
 shaking it well every day, when it will be fit for use. 
 
 These drops are to remove pain and prevent morti- 
 fication, to be taken, or applied externally, or to be 
 put in the injections. One or two teaspoonfuls of 
 these drops may be given alone, or the same quantity 
 may be put into a dose of either of the medicines be-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 75 
 
 fore mentioned, and may be also used to bathe with 
 in all cases of external swellings or pains. It is an 
 excellent remedy for rheumatism, by taking a dose 
 and bathing the parts affected with it. In the head- 
 ache, by taking a swallow, and bathing the head, and 
 snuffing a little up the nose, it will remove the pain. 
 It is good for bruises, sprains, swelled joints, and old 
 sores, as it will allay the inflammation, bring down 
 swellings, ease pain, and produce a tendency to heal ; 
 in iact, there is hardly a complaint in which this usefui 
 medicine cannot be used to advantage. It is the best 
 preservative against mortification of anything that 
 has ever been found. 
 
 For bathing, in rheumatism, itch, or other humors, 
 or in any swelling or external pain, add one quarter 
 part of spirits of turpentine, and for sprains and 
 bruises a little gum camphor may be added. 
 
 No. 7. FOR COMPOSITION POWDER. 
 
 Take two pounds of the bayberry root bark, one 
 pound of the inner bark of hemlock, one pound of 
 ginger, two ounces of Capsicum, two ounces of cloves, 
 all pounded fine, sifted through a fine sieve, and well 
 mixed together. For a dose, take a teaspoonful of 
 this powder, with an equal quantity of sugar, and put 
 to it half a teacupful of boiling water ; to be taken as 
 soon as sufficiently cool, the patient being in bed, or 
 by the fire, covered with a blanket. 
 
 This composition is calculated for the first stages, 
 and in less violent attacks of disease. It is a medicine
 
 76 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 of much value, and may be safely used in all com- 
 plaints of male or female, and for children. It is good 
 for relax, dysentery, pain in the stomach and bowels, 
 and to remove all obstructions caused by cold or loss 
 of inward heat. By taking a dose on going to bed, 
 and putting a hot stone to the feet, wrapped in wet 
 cloths, it will cure a bad cold, and will generally throw 
 off a disease in its first stages, if repeated two or three 
 times. If the symptoms are violent, with much pain, 
 add to each dose a teaspoonful of No. 6, and half a 
 teaspoonful of No. I, and in nervous symptoms add 
 half a teaspoonful of nerve powder, at the same time 
 giving an injection of the same. If these should not 
 answer the purpose, the patient must be carried 
 through a regular course of the medicine, as has been 
 before described. 
 
 No. 8. NERVE POWDER. 
 
 American Valerian, or Ladies' Slipper; sometimes 
 called Umbil, or Male and Female Nervine. 
 
 There are four species of this valuable vegetable, 
 one male and three female. The male is called Yellow 
 Umbil, and grows in swamps and wet land; has a 
 large cluster of fibrous roots matted together, joined 
 to a solid root, which puts forth several stalks that 
 grow about two feet high; it has leaves something 
 resembling the poke leaf. The female kinds are dis- 
 tinguished by the color of the blossoms, which are 
 red, red and white, and white. The red has but two 
 leaves, which grow out of the ground, and lean over
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 77 
 
 to the right and left, between which a single stalk 
 shoots up to the height of from eight to ten inches, 
 bearing on its top a red blossom of a very singular 
 form, that gives it the name of Female Umbil. This 
 kind is found on high ledges and in swamps. The 
 red and white and white Umbil grows only in swamps, 
 and is in larger clusters of roots than the yellow, but 
 in a similar form ; its top is similar to the red, except 
 the color of the blossom. The yellow and red are the 
 best for medicine ; the roots should be dug in the fall 
 when done growing, or in the spring, before the tops 
 put forth. If dug when growing, the roots will nearly 
 all dry up. When the roots are dug, they should be 
 washed clean, carefully dried, and pounded or ground 
 to a fine powder, sifted through a fine sieve, and pre- 
 served from the air for use. 
 
 This powder is the best nervine known. I have 
 made great use of it and have always found it to pro- 
 duce the most beneficial effects in all cases of nervous 
 affections, and in hysterical symptoms; in fact, it 
 would be difficult to get along without it in my prac- 
 tice. It is perfectly harmless, and may be used in all 
 cases of disease with safety, and is much better than 
 opium, which only deadens the feelings, and relieves 
 pain only by destroying sensibility without doing any 
 good. It has been supposed by the doctors of the old 
 school to be of a narcotic nature, but this is a mistake. 
 They have drawn this conclusion, I suppose, from its 
 tendency to promote sleep, but this is altogether 
 owing to its quieting the nerves, and leaving the
 
 78 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 patient at ease when nature requires sleep to recover 
 the natural tone of the system. Half a teaspoonful 
 may be given in hot water, sweetened, and the dose 
 repeated if necessary; or the same quantity may be 
 mixed with a dose of either the other numbers, when 
 given, and put into the injections, and where there 
 are nervous symptoms it should never be dispensed 
 with.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 79 
 
 Thompsonian Materia Medica 
 
 I shall make mention only of the most important 
 articles used in the Thomsonian or Physio Medical 
 practice and give only such as are non-poisonous. 
 The article will be described in the Thomsonian terms 
 but I shall also give the dose of the Tincture so that 
 instead of making an infusion, the physician can buy 
 the Tincture and will then have the remedy in uni- 
 form strength. In order to have a tincture to act as 
 would an infusion, it is only necessary to give it in 
 hot water and as often as the infusion would be given. 
 Such preparations as Thomson's No. 5 are best made 
 directly from the roots and barks. So is also the No. 
 6. The others can be prepared by mixing the tinc- 
 tures of the given roots and barks and are then always 
 ready for use. Capsicum and Lobelia I never use in 
 the infusion of tea. I get the tablets made from the 
 tinctures or fluid extracts. These I have found to 
 give entire satisfaction, when coated, they are easy to 
 take and they have never failed to give me satisfac- 
 tion. They do their work and, in this form, are easy
 
 80 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 to carry. The Physio Medicalist must be up-to-date 
 and he can only be so by using these tried remedies in 
 the most approved form. 
 
 EMETIC HERB. Lobelia Infiata Linnaeus. 
 (According to Thomson.) 
 
 Says Thomson: "In giving a description of this 
 valuable herb, I shall be more particular, because it 
 is the most important article made use of in this system 
 of practice, without which it would be incomplete, and 
 the medical virtues of which, and the administering it 
 in curing disease, I claim it as my own discovery. 
 The first knowledge I eyer had of it was obtained by 
 accident more than forty years ago (1780), and never 
 had any information whatever concerning it, except 
 what I have gained by my own experience. A great 
 deal has been said of late about this plant, both in 
 favor and against its utility as a medicine ; but all that 
 the faculty have said or published concerning it only 
 shows their ignorance on the subject; for there is 
 very little truth in what they have stated concerning 
 its medical properties, except wherein they have 
 admitted it to be a certain cure for the asthma, one of 
 the most distressing complaints that human nature is 
 subject to. It is a truth which cannot be disputed by 
 any one, that all they have known about this article, 
 and the experiments that have been made to ascer- 
 tain its value, originated in my making use of it in my 
 practice." 
 
 In the course of my practice, a number of the 
 doctors discovered that the medicine I make use of
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 81 
 
 produced effects which astonished them, and which 
 they could not account for ; this induced them to con- 
 clude that because it was so powerful in removing 
 disease it must be poison. This, I think, can be very 
 satisfactorily accounted for ; they have no knowledge 
 of anything in all their medical science (?) which is 
 capable of producing a powerful effect upon the 
 human system, except what is poisonous, and there- 
 fore naturally form their opinions agreeably to this 
 erroneous theory. There is a power to produce life, 
 and a power to produce death, which are of course 
 directly opposed to each other; and whatever tends 
 to promote life cannot cause death, let its power be 
 ever so great. In this consists all the difference be- 
 tween my system of practice and that of the learned 
 doctors. In consequence of their thus forming an 
 erroneous opinion of this herb, which they had no 
 knowledge of, they undertook to represent it as a 
 deadly poison; and in order to destroy my practice, 
 they raised a hue and cry about my killing my 
 patients by administering it to them. Some of the 
 faculty even made oath that it was poison, and when 
 taken into the stomach, if it did not cause immediate 
 vomiting, it was certain death. It is unnecessary for 
 me now to point out the falsity of this, for the fact is 
 pretty well known that there is no death in it ; but, on 
 the contrary, there is no vegetable that the earth pro- 
 duces more harmless in its effects on the human 
 system, and more powerful in removing disease and 
 promoting health.
 
 82 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 There is no mention made of this herb by any 
 author, that I have been able to find, previous to my 
 discovering it, excepting by Linnaeus, who has given 
 a correct description of it under the name of Lobelia 
 Inflata; but there is nothing said of its medical 
 properties ; it is therefore reasonable to conclude that 
 they were not known till I discovered it, and proved 
 it to be useful. When the faculty first made the dis- 
 covery that I used the Emetic Herb in my practice, 
 they declared it to be a deadly poison; and while 
 persecuting me by every means in their power, and 
 representing to the world that I killed my patients 
 with it, they were very ready to call it my medicine, 
 and allow it to be my own discovery ; but since their 
 ignorance of it has been exposed, and they find it is 
 going to become an article of great value, an attempt 
 seems to be made to rob me of all the credit for caus- 
 ing its value to be known, and the profits which be- 
 long to me for the discovery. In which some who 
 have been instructed by me are ready to join, for the 
 purpose of promoting their own interest at my ex- 
 pense. 
 
 Dr. Thatcher, in his Dispensatory, has undertaken 
 to give an account of this herb ; but is very erroneous, 
 except in the description of it, which is nearly correct. 
 It appears that all the knowledge he has on the sub- 
 ject as to its virtues, is borrowed from others, and is 
 probably derived from the ridiculous ideas enter- 
 tained of its power by those doctors who knew noth- 
 ing about it, except what they gained by my making
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 83 
 
 use of it, as has been before stated. As to its being 
 dangerous to administer it, and that if it does not 
 puke it frequently destroys the patient, and sometimes 
 in five or six hours; and that even horses and cattle 
 have been supposed to be killed by eating it acci- 
 dently, is as absurd as it is untrue, and only proves 
 their ignorance of the article. He tells a melancholy 
 story about the Lobelia Inflata being administered by 
 the adventurous hand of a noted empiric, who, he 
 says, frequently administered it in a dose of a tea- 
 spoonful of the powdered leaves, and often repeated; 
 which, he says, furnishes alarming examples of its 
 deleterious properties and fatal effects. This, there is 
 no doubt, alludes to me, and took its rise from the 
 false statements circulated about me at the time of 
 my persecution, to prejudice the public against my 
 practice. It is true the dose that I usually prescribe 
 is a teaspoonful of the powder ; but that it ever pro- 
 duced any fatal effects is altogether incorrect, and is 
 well known to be so by all who have any correct 
 knowledge on the subject. 
 
 What is quoted in the Dispensatory, from the Rev. 
 Dr. M. Cutler, concerning this herb, is, in general, 
 correct, particularly as it regards its being a specific 
 for the asthma; though he labored under many mis- 
 taken notions about its effects when taken into the 
 stomach. He says : "If the quantity be a little in- 
 creased, it operates as an emetic, and then as a ca- 
 thartic, its effects being much the same as those of the 
 common emetic and cathartics." In this he is mis-
 
 84 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 taken, for it is entirely different from any other emetic 
 known ; and as to its operating as a cathartic, I never 
 knew it to have such an effect in all my practice. And 
 I certainly ought to know something about it, after 
 having made use of it for about twenty years, and 
 administering it in every form and manner that it can 
 be given, and for every disease that has come within 
 my knowledge. It appears that all the knowledge he 
 and other doctors have got of this herb being useful 
 in curing disease, particularly in the asthma, was ob- 
 tained from me ; for when I was persecuted, I was 
 obliged to expose my discoveries to show the falsity 
 of the indictment. Dr. Cutter was brought forward 
 as a witness at my trial, to prove the virtues of this 
 plant by his evidence that he cured himself of the 
 asthma with it. He says the first information he had 
 of its being good for that complaint was from Dr. 
 Drury, of Marblehead. In the fall of the year 1807, 
 I introduced the use of the Emetic Herb, tinctured in 
 spirit, for the asthma and other complaints of the 
 lungs, and cured several of the consumption. In 
 1808, I cured a woman in Newington of the asthma, 
 who had not laid in her bed for six months. I 
 gathered some of the young plants not bigger than a 
 dollar, bruised them, and tinctured them in spirits, 
 gave her the tincture, and she lay in bed the first 
 night. I showed her what it was, and how to prepare 
 and use it, and by taking this and other things accord- 
 ing to my direction, she has enjoyed a comfortable 
 state of health for twelve years, and has never been
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 85 
 
 obliged to sit up one night since. The same fall I 
 used it in Beverly and Salem, Mass., and there can be 
 no doubt but all the information concerning the value 
 of this article was obtained from my practice. 
 
 After Dr. Cutler had given his testimony of the 
 virtues of this herb, and the doctors having become 
 convinced of its value, they come forward and say it 
 is good medicine in skillful hands. Who, I would ask, 
 is more skillful than he who discovered it, and taught 
 them how to prepare and use it in curing one of the 
 most distressing complaints known? If it is a good 
 medicine, it is mine, and I am entitled to the credit of 
 introducing it into use, and have paid dear for it ; if it 
 is poison, the doctors do not need it, as they have 
 enough of that now. Dr. Thacher undertakes to make 
 it appear that the fatal effects he tells about its pro- 
 ducing, were owing to the quantity given ; and says I 
 administered a teaspoonful of the powder; and when 
 he comes to give directions for using it, says that 
 from ten to twenty grains may be given with safety. 
 It appears strange that different terms should produce 
 such different effects in the operation of medicine. If a 
 teaspoonful is given by an Empiric, its effects are fatal; 
 but if the same quantity is administered by a so-called 
 learned doctor, and called grains, it is a useful medicine. 
 
 This herb is described in Thacher's Dispensatory 
 under the names of Lobelia Inflata, Lobelia Emetica, 
 Emetic Weed, and Indian Tobacco ; and several other 
 names have been given it, some by way of ridicule, 
 and others for the purpose of creating a prejudice
 
 86 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 against it; all of which has so confounded it with 
 other articles that there is a difficulty in ascertaining 
 what they mean to describe. I have been informed 
 that there is a poisonous root grown in the Southern 
 States called Lobelia, which has been used as a medi- 
 cine ; the calling this herb by that name has probably 
 been one reason of its being thought to be poison. 
 Why it has had the name of Indian Tobacco given it, 
 I do not know ; there is a plant that is called by that 
 name, which grows in this country, but it is entirely 
 different from this herb, both in appearance and medi- 
 cal virtues. In the United States Pharmacopaeia, 
 there are directions given for preparing the tincture 
 of Indian Tobacco; whether they mean this herb or 
 the plant that has been always called by that name, 
 does not appear; but it is probable they mean the 
 Emetic Herb, and that all the knowledge they have of 
 it is from Dr. Cutler's description. It is said by 
 Thacher that it was employed by the aborigines and 
 by those who deal in Indian remedies ; and others who 
 are attempting to rob me of the discovery affect to 
 believe the same thing ; but this is founded altogether 
 upon conjecture, for they cannot produce a single 
 instance of its having been employed as a medicine 
 till I made use of it. The fact is, it is a new article, 
 wholly unknown to the medical faculty till I intro- 
 duced it into use, and the best evidence of this is that 
 they are now ignorant of its powers; and all the 
 knowledge they have of it has been obtained from my 
 practice. It would be folly for me to undertake to say
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 87 
 
 but that it may have been used by the natives of this 
 country; but one thing I am certain of, that I never 
 had any knowledge of their using it, nor ever re- 
 ceived any information concerning it from them, or 
 anyone else. 
 
 The Emetic Herb may be found in the first stages 
 of its growth at all times through the summer, from 
 the size of a six-cent piece to that of a dollar, and 
 larger, lying flat on the ground, in a round form, like 
 a cose pressed flat, in order to bear the weight of 
 snow which lies on it during the winter, and is subject 
 to be winter-killed, like wheat. In the spring it looks 
 yellow and pale, like other things suffering from wet 
 and cold; but when the returning sun spreads forth 
 its enlivening rays upon it, it lifts up its leaves and 
 shoots forth a stalk to the height of from twelve to 
 fifteen inches with a number of branches, carrying up 
 its leaves with its growth. In July it puts forth small, 
 pointed, pale blue blossoms, which are followed by 
 small pods about the size of a white bean, containing 
 numerous very small seeds. This pod is an exact re- 
 semblance of the human stomach, having an inlet and 
 outlet higher than the middle, from the inlet it re- 
 ceives nourishment, and by the outlet discharges the 
 seeds. It comes to maturity about the first of Sep- 
 tember, when the leaves and pods turn a little yellow ; 
 this is the best time to gather it. It is what is called 
 by botanists a biennial plant, or of only two years' 
 existence. 
 
 This plant is common in all parfs of this country.
 
 88 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Wherever the land is fertile enough to yield support 
 for its inhabitants it may be found. It is confined to 
 no soil which is fit for cultivation, from the highest 
 mountains to the lowest valleys. In hot and wet 
 seasons it is most plenty on dry and warm lands ; in 
 hot and dry seasons on clayey and heavy lands. When 
 the season is cold, either wet or dry, it rarely makes 
 its appearance ; and if the summer and fall are very 
 dry the seed does not come up, and there will be very 
 little to be found the next season. I have been in 
 search of this herb from Boston to Canada, and was 
 not able to collect more than two pounds; and in 
 some seasons I have not been able to collect any. I 
 mention this to show the uncertainty of its growth, 
 and to put the herbalist on his guard to be careful and 
 lay up a good stock of it when plenty. In the year 
 1807, if I had offered a reward of one thousand dollars 
 for a pound of this herb, I should not have been able 
 to have obtained it. I have seen the time that I would 
 have given two dollars for an ounce of the powder, 
 but there was none to be had ; which necessity taught 
 me to lay up all I could obtain when it was plenty. 
 
 In seasons when this herb is plenty, it may be 
 found growing in highways and pastures ; by the side 
 of old turnpikes, and in stubble land, particularly 
 where it has been laid down in grass the year before ; 
 when grass is scarce it is eaten by cattle, and is hard 
 to be found when full grown. It is a wild plant, and a 
 native of this country; but there is no doubt of its 
 being common to 'other countries. It may be trans-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 89 
 
 planted and cultivated in gardens, and will be much 
 larger and more vigorous than when growing wild. 
 If some stalks are left, it will sow itself, and probably 
 may be produced from the seed; but how long the 
 seeds remain in the ground before they come up, I do 
 not know, never having made any experiments to 
 ascertain the fact. It is certain that it is produced 
 from the seed, and there is no good reason to suppose 
 that it may not be cultivated in gardens from the 
 seeds as well as other vegetables. I think it most 
 probable, however, from the nature of the plant, that 
 it will not come up till the seeds have laid at least one 
 winter in the ground. 
 
 This plant is different in one very important par- 
 ticular from all others that I have a knowledge of, 
 that the same quantity will produce the same effect in 
 all stages of its growth, from its first appearance till 
 it comes to maturity ; but the best time for gathering 
 it, as has before been mentioned, is when the leaves 
 and pods begin to turn yellow, for then the seed is 
 ripe, and you have all there can be of it. It should 
 then be cut and kept clean, and spread in a large 
 chamber or loft to dry, where it is open to the air in 
 the day time, and to be shut from the damp air during 
 the night. When perfectly dry, shake out the seed 
 and sift it through a common meal sieve, and preserve 
 it by itself ; then beat off the leaves and pods from the 
 stalks and preserve them clean. This herb may be 
 prepared for use in three different ways, i. e. : ist. 
 The powdered leaves and pods. 2d. A tincture made
 
 90 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 from the green herb with spirit. 3d. The seeds re- 
 duced to a fine powder and compounded with Nos. 2 
 and 6. 
 
 1. After the leaves and pods are separated from the 
 stalks, pound or grind them in a mortar to fine 
 powder, sift it through a fine sieve, and preserve it 
 from the air. This is the most common preparation, 
 and may be given in many different ways, either by 
 itself or compounded with other articles. For a 
 common dose, take a teaspoonful of this powder with 
 the same quantity of sugar in half a teacupful of warm 
 water, or a tea of No. 3 may be used instead of water ; 
 this dose may be taken all at one time, or at three 
 times at intervals of ten minutes. For a young child, 
 strain off the liquor and give a part, as circumstances 
 shall require. There is but one way in which this 
 herb can be prepared that it will refuse its service, 
 and that is when boiled or scalded ; it is therefore im- 
 portant to bear in mind that there must never be 
 anything put to it warmer than a blood heat. 
 
 2. To prepare the tincture, take the green herb in 
 any stage of its growth ; if the small plants are used, 
 take roots and all ; put them into a mortar and pound 
 them fine, then add the same quantity of good spirits ; 
 when well pounded and worked together, strain it 
 through a fine cloth, and squeeze and press it hard to 
 get out all the juice ; save the liquor in bottles, close 
 stopped, for use. Good vinegar or pepper-sauce may 
 be used instead of the spirits, but is not so good. Pre- 
 pared in this manner, it is an effectual counter-poison,
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 91 
 
 either taken internally or applied externally. It is 
 also an excellent medicine for the asthma, and all 
 complaints of the lungs. This is the only way in 
 which the doctors have made use of the Emetic Herb ; 
 and they acknowledge it to be one of the best 
 remedies in many complaints that have been found, 
 though they know but little about it. For a dose, 
 take from half to a teaspoonful. Its effects will be 
 more certain if about the same quantity of No. 2 is 
 added, and in all cases where there are nervous 
 symptoms, add half a teaspoonful of nerve powder, 
 Umbil, to the dose. 
 
 3. Reduce the seeds to a fine powder in a mortar, 
 and take half an ounce of this powder, or about a 
 large spoonful, with the same quantity of No. 2 made 
 fine, and put them in a gill of No. 6, adding a tea- 
 spoonful of Umbil; to be kept close stopped in a 
 bottle for use; when taken, to be well shaken to- 
 gether. This preparation is for the most violent at- 
 tacks of disease, such as lockjaw, bite of mad dog, 
 drowned persons, fits, spasms, and in all cases of sus- 
 pended animation, where the vital spark is nearly 
 extinct. It will go through the system like electricity, 
 giving heat and life to every part. In cases where the 
 spasms are so violent that they are stiff, and the jaws 
 become set, by pouring some of this liquid into the 
 mouth between the cheek and teeth, as soon as it 
 touches the glands at the roots of the tongue the 
 spasms will relax, and the jaws will become loosened 
 so that the mouth will open; then give a dose of it,
 
 92 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 and as soon as the spasms have abated, repeat it, and 
 afterwards give a tea of No. 3, for canker. This 
 course I never knew to fail of giving relief. It is good 
 in less violent cases, to bring out the measles and 
 smallpox, and if applied to pimples, warts, etc., will 
 remove them. I have cured three dogs with this 
 preparation, who were under the most violent symp- 
 toms of hydrophobia ; one of my agents cured a man 
 with it who had been bitten by a mad dog; and I 
 have not the least doubt of its being a specific for 
 that disease. For a dose, take a teaspoonful. Dr. 
 Thomson. 
 
 Would it not be better to establish institutes to 
 give this treatment to those bitten by mad dogs than 
 to take the deadly Pasteur treatment, which in itself 
 gives the disease and never cures? It would, but so 
 long as the Serum-fad craze lasts no common sense 
 means will be followed. The people are as anxious 
 to swallow any new fads, no matter how deadly, as a 
 bird seizes upon a worm. Lockjaw has been cured 
 time and again by this preparation but the news- 
 papers never say a word about it. On the other hand, 
 if one patient out of a hundred recovers of those on 
 whom the deadly and costly serum is used the news- 
 papers make a great row about it. Such is the sterile 
 and impotent age. Sooner or later, the people will 
 awake to a truer science and many changes, for the 
 better, will then take place. 
 
 Much has been said of the power of the Emetic 
 Herb, and some have expressed fears of it on that
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 93 
 
 account ; but I can assure the public that there is not 
 the least danger in using it; I have given it to 
 children from one day old to persons of eighty years. 
 It is most powerful in removing disease, but innocent 
 in nature. Its operation in different persons is ac- 
 cording to their different tempers, moving with the 
 natural current of the animal spirits. There are two 
 cases where this medicine will not operate, viz : when 
 the patient is dying, and where there is no death ; or 
 in -other words, where there is no disease. There can 
 be no war where there is no enemy. When there is 
 no cold in the body there is nothing to contend 
 against, and when there is no heat in the body there 
 is nothing to kindle; in either case, therefore, this 
 medicine is silent and harmless. It is calculated to 
 remove the cause and no more, as food removes 
 hunger, and drink thirst. It clears all obstructions to 
 the extremities, without regard to names of disease, 
 until it produces an equilibrium in the system, and will 
 be felt in the fingers and toes, producing a prickling 
 feeling like that caused by a knock of the elbow ; this 
 symptom is alarming to those unacquainted with its 
 operation; but is always favorable, being a certain 
 indication of the turn of the disorder, and they gener- 
 ally gain from that time. 
 
 In regard to the quantity to be given as a dose, it is 
 a matter of less consequence than is generally im- 
 agined. The most important thing is to give enough 
 to produce the desired effect. If too little is given, 
 it will worry the patient, and do little good; if more
 
 94 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 is given than what is necessary, the surplus will be 
 thrown off, and is a waste of medicine. I have given 
 directions what I consider as a proper dose in com- 
 mon cases of the different preparations, but still it 
 must be left to the judgment of those who use it how 
 much to give. The most safe way will be to give the 
 smallest prescribed dose first, then repeat it till it 
 produces the wished-for operation. In cases where 
 the stomach is cold and very foul, its operation will be 
 slow and uncertain; in which case give No. 2, which 
 will assist it in doing its work. 
 
 When this medicine is given to patients that are in 
 a decline, or are laboring under a disease of long 
 standing, the symptoms indicating a crisis will not 
 take place till they have been carried through from 
 three to eight courses of medicine; and the lower 
 they have been the more alarming will be the symp- 
 toms. I have seen some who would lie and sob like a 
 child who had been punished, for two hours, not able 
 to speak or to raise their hands to their head ; and the 
 next day be about, and soon get well. In cases where 
 they have taken considerable opium, and this medi- 
 cine is administered, it will, in its operation, produce 
 the same appearances and symptoms that are pro- 
 duced by opium when first given, which, having laid 
 dormant, is roused into action by the enlivening 
 qualities of this medicine, and they will be thrown into 
 a senseless state ; the whole system will be one com- 
 plete mass of confusion, tumbling in every direction ; 
 will take two or three to hold them in bed ; they grow
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 95 
 
 cold as though dying, remaining in this way from two 
 to eight hours, and then awake, like one from sleep 
 after a good night's rest, be entirely calm and sensible, 
 as though nothing had ailed them. It is seldom they 
 ever have more than one of these turns, as it is the 
 last struggle of the disease, and they generally begin 
 to recover from that time. I have been more par- 
 ticular in describing these effects of the medicine, as 
 they are very alarming to those unacquainted with 
 them, in order to show that there is no danger to be 
 apprehended, as it is certain evidence of a favorable 
 turn of the disease. 
 
 The Emetic Herb is of great value in preventing 
 disease as well as curing it. By taking a dose when 
 first attacked by any complaint it will throw it off, and 
 frequently prevent long sickness. It not only acts as 
 an emetic, and throws off the stomach everything 
 that nature does not require for support of the 
 system, but extends its effects to every part of the 
 body. It is searching, enlivening, quickening, and has 
 a great power in removing all obstructions; but it 
 soon exhausts itself, and if not followed by some 
 other medicine to hold the vital heat till nature is able 
 to support itself by digesting the food, it will not be 
 sufficient to remove a disease that has become seated. 
 To effect this important object put me to much 
 trouble, and after trying many experiments to get 
 something that would answer the purpose, I found 
 that what is described under No. 2 was the best and 
 only medicine that would hold the heat in the stomach
 
 % THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 and not evaporate; and by giving the Capsicum to 
 remove the canker, which is the great cause of 
 disease, and then followed with Nos. 4 and 5 to cor- 
 rect the bile, restore the digestion, and strengthen 
 the system. I have had little trouble in effecting a 
 cure. The dose of the standard Fluid Extract or 
 Tincture of Lobelia is from I to 5 minims. Can be 
 repeated every ten minutes until effects. 
 
 CAYENN E. Capsicum. 
 (According to Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This artice being so well known, it will be unneces- 
 sary to be very particular in describing it. It has 
 been a long time used by being ground to powder, 
 and a proportion of salt mixed with it ; this destroys in 
 some degree its stimulating effects and makes it less 
 pungent ; but it is not so good for medicine as in the 
 pure state. It is said to be a native of South America, 
 and is cultivated in many of the West Indies. That 
 which comes to this country is brought from De- 
 merara and Jamaica. It also grows in other parts of 
 the world. There are several species that are de- 
 scribed under the name of Capsicum, all of which are 
 about the same as to their stimulating qualities. The 
 pods only are used ; they are long and pointed, are of 
 a green color till ripe, when they turn of a bright 
 orange-red. When the pods are green they are 
 gathered and preserved in salt and water and brought 
 to this country in bottles, when vinegar is put on 
 them, which is sold under the name of pepper-sauce.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 97 
 
 The ripe pods ground to a powder are what is used 
 for medicine and cooking. 
 
 I shall not undertake to dispute but that cayenne 
 has been used for medical purposes long before I had 
 any knowedge of it, and that it is one of the safest 
 and best articles ever discovered to remove disease, I 
 know to be a fact, from long experience; but it is 
 equally true that the medical faculty never considered 
 it of much value, and the people had no knowledge of 
 it as a medicine till I introduced it, by making use of 
 it in my practice. Mention is made of Cayenne in the 
 Edinburg Dispensatory, as chiefly employed for culi- 
 nary purpose, but that of late it has been employed 
 also in the practice of medicine. The author says that 
 "there can be little doubt that it furnishes one of the 
 purest and strongest stimulants which can be intro- 
 duced into the stomach ; while at the same time it has 
 nothing of the narcotic effects of ardent spirits. It is 
 said to have been used with success in curing some 
 cases of disease that had resisted all other remedies." 
 All this I am satisfied is true, for if given as a medi- 
 cine it always will be found useful; but all the 
 knowledge they had of it seems to have been derived 
 from a few experiments that had been made, without 
 fixing upon any particular manner of preparing or 
 administering it, or in what disease, as is the case 
 with all other articles that are introduced into general 
 practice. In Thachers Dispensatory, the same ac- 
 count is given of Cayenne as in the Edinburgh, and in 
 almost the same words.
 
 98 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 I never had any knowledge of Cayenne being useful 
 as a medicine, or that it had ever been used as such, 
 till I discovered it by accident, as has been the case 
 with most other articles used by me. After I had 
 fixed upon a system for my government in practice, I 
 found much difficulty in getting something that would 
 not only produce a strong heat in the body, but would 
 retain it till the canker could be removed and the 
 digestive powers restored, so that the food, by being 
 properly digested, would maintain the natural heat. 
 I tried a great number of articles that were of a hot 
 nature, but could find nothing that would hold the 
 heat any length of time. I made use of ginger, 
 mustard, horseradish, peppermint, butternut bark, 
 and many other hot medicines, but they were all more 
 or less volatile, and would not have the desired effect. 
 With these, however, and the Emetic Herb, together 
 with the aid of steam, I was enabled to practice with 
 pretty general success. In the fall of the year 1805, I 
 was out in search of Umbil on a mountain in Walpole, 
 N. H. I went into a house at the foot of the moun- 
 tain to inquire for some rattlesnake oil. While in the 
 house I saw a large string of red peppers hanging in 
 the room, which put me in mind of what I had been a 
 long time in search of to retain the internal heat. I 
 knew them to be very hot, but did not know of what 
 nature. I obtained these peppers, carried them home, 
 reduced them to powder, and took some of the 
 powder myself, and found it to answer the purpose 
 better than anything else I had made use of. I put it
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 99 
 
 in spirit with the Emetic Herb, and gave the tincture 
 mixed in a tea of witch-hazel leaves, and found that it 
 would retain the heat in the stomach after puking, 
 and preserve the strength of the patient in proportion. 
 I made use of it in different ways for two years, and 
 always with good success. 
 
 In the fall of 1808, I was in Newburyport, and saw 
 a bottle of pepper-sauce, being the first that I had 
 ever seen. I bought it and carried it home ; got some 
 kind of pepper that was dried, which I put into the 
 bottle ; this made it very hot. On my way home, was 
 taken unwell, and was quite cold. I took a swallow 
 from the bottle, which caused violent pain for a few 
 minutes, when it produced perspiration, and I soon 
 grew easy. I afterwards tried it and found that after 
 it had expelled the cold, it would not cause pain. 
 From these experiments I became convinced that this 
 kind of pepper was much stronger, and would be 
 better for medical use than the common red pepper. 
 Soon after this I was again in Newburyport, and 
 made inquiry, and found some cayenne, but it was 
 prepared with salt for table use, which injured it for 
 medical purposes. I tried it by tasting, and selected 
 that which had the least salt in it. I afterwards made 
 use of this article and found it to answer all the 
 purposes wished, and was the very thing I had long 
 been in search of. The next year I went to Ports- 
 mouth, and made inquiries concerning cayenne, and 
 from those who dealt in the article, I learned that it 
 was brought to this country from Demerara and
 
 100 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Jamaica, prepared only for table use, and that salt was 
 put with it to preserve it and make it more palatable. 
 I became acquainted with a French gentleman who 
 had a brother in Demerara, and made arrangements 
 with him to send to his brother and request him to 
 procure some, and have it prepared without salt. He 
 did so, and sent out a box containing about eighty 
 pounds in a pure state. I sent also by many others 
 that were going to the places where it grows to pro- 
 cure all they could; in consequence of which large 
 quantities were imported into Portsmouth, much 
 more than there was immediate demand for. I was 
 not able to purchase but a small part of what was 
 brought, and it was bought up by others on specula- 
 tion, and sent to Boston. The consequence was that 
 the price was so much reduced that it would not bring 
 first cost, which put a stop to its being imported, and 
 it has been very scarce. 
 
 When I first began to use this article it caused 
 much talk among the people in Portsmouth and the 
 adjoining towns. The doctors tried to frighten them 
 by telling that I made use of cayenne pepper as a 
 medicine, and that it would burn up the stomach and 
 lungs as bad as vitriol. The people generally, how- 
 ever, became convinced by using it that all the doctors 
 said about it was false, and it only proved their ig- 
 norance of its medicinal virtues and their malignity 
 towards me. It soon came into general use, and the 
 knowledge of its being useful in curing disease was 
 spread all through the country. I made use of it in
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 101 
 
 curing the spotted fever, and where it was known, it 
 was the only thing depended on for that disease. I 
 have made use of cayenne in all kinds of disease, and 
 have given it to patients of all ages and under every 
 circumstance that has come under my practice, and 
 can assure the public that it is perfectly harmless, 
 never having known it to produce any bad effects 
 whatever. It is no doubt the most powerful stimulant 
 known; its power is entirely congenial to nature, 
 being powerful only in raising and maintaining that 
 heat on which life depends. It is extremely pungent 
 and when taken sets the mouth as it were on fire ; this 
 lasts, however, but a few minutes, and I consider it 
 essentially a benefit, for its effects on the glands 
 causes the saliva to flow freely and leaves the mouth 
 clean and moist. 
 
 The only preparation necessary is to have it ground 
 or pounded to a fine powder. For a dose, from half 
 to a teaspoonful may be taken in hot water, 
 sweetened, or the same quantity may be mixed with 
 either of the other numbers when taken. It will 
 produce a free perspiration, which should be kept up 
 by repeating the dose until the disease is removed. A 
 spoonful, with an equal quantity of common salt, put 
 into a gill of vinegar, makes a very good sauce to be 
 eaten with meat, and will assist the appetite and 
 strengthen the digestion. One spoonful of this prep- 
 aration may be taken to good advantage, and will 
 remove faint, sinking feelings, which some are subject 
 to, especially in the spring of the year. Pepper-sauce 
 
 :a
 
 102 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 is good for the same purpose. A teaspoonful of 
 cayenne pepper may be taken in a tumbler of cider, 
 and is much better than ardent spirits. There is 
 scarce any preparation of medicine that I make use 
 of in which I do not put some of this article. It will 
 cure the ague in the face, by taking a dose, and tying 
 a small quantity in a fine cloth, and put it between the 
 cheek and the teeth, on the side that is affected, sitting 
 by the fire, covered with a blanket. 
 
 This is the history of this most valuable medicine 
 and is given in Dr. Thomson's own language so as to 
 take nothing from it. This medicine is no longer 
 given in this form but is now given only in the 
 purified tablet form. Dose from one to ten minims. 
 
 CAPSICUM. (GREER.) 
 
 Capsicum is the most pronounced stimulant of the 
 materia medica, and it cannot be equalled for use 
 when powerful and prolonged stimulation is needed, 
 as in congestive chills, heart failure, etc. The whole 
 circulation is affected by the agent, and it can be 
 used externally as well as internally. Liniments for 
 neuralgia, sciatica, paralysis, etc., should contain 
 Capsicum. And in chronic, sluggish conditions a 
 small amount may be added to other kinds of medica- 
 tion. In congested, ulcerated or infectious sore 
 throat it is most excellent, especially combined with 
 myrrh. It is antiseptic in character and a most suit- 
 able gargle in diphtheria. Given internally it will 
 check uterine hemmorrhages. One grain is con- 
 sidered a full dose, except for rare cases, as in con-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 103 
 
 gestive chills. Ten grains to a pint of boiling water 
 will make an ordinary infusion. Capsicum plasters 
 are valuable for pneumonia and other conditions, but 
 should not be allowed to remain over an hour on the 
 parts. 
 
 The best way to give Capsicum is to have the tab- 
 lets and drink down with fairly hot water. In this way 
 the patient does not get the taste of them. In my 
 practice I use the sugar-coated one-grain tablet. 
 
 GINGER. ZINGIBER. 
 
 This universal agent is a most pleasant diffusive 
 stimulant, and is excellent for chilliness, new colds, 
 colic and disturbances of the circulation. It quickly 
 sends the blood to the surface, and its prompt use 
 may avert a spell of pneumonia or other serious 
 malady. It is best given in infusion with No. 3. A 
 pleasant way of preparing it is to mix thoroughly half 
 a teaspoonful of pulverized ginger and a teaspoonful 
 of sugar and pour upon it a cup of boiling water and 
 add a little cream. The tincture of ginger is readily 
 procured and is an excellent form of ginger to keep on 
 hand for emergencies. In Pneumonia and Pleurisy, I 
 use part tincture of Ginger and equal amount of 
 Pleurisy root. This has never failed me in a single 
 case although physicians loose fifty per cent, of their 
 patients as a rule. The external application of the 
 tincture of ginger over the abdomen often gives relief 
 in colic. Syrup of ginger is made by adding six 
 drachms of the tincture to a pint of simple syrup ; it is
 
 104 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 a good basis for many preparations. The Tinct. of 
 Jamaica Zingiber is the preparation used in medicine. 
 
 BAYBERRY. Myrica Cerifera. 
 
 This is a species of the myrtle, from which wax is 
 obtained from the berries, and grows common in 
 many parts of this country. It is a shrub growing 
 from two to four feet high, and is easily known by the 
 berries which it produces annually, containing wax in 
 abundance. These grow on the branches close to 
 them similar to the juniper. The leaves are of a 
 deep green. The bark of the roots is what is used for 
 medicine, and should be collected in the spring, be- 
 fore it puts forth its leaves, or in the fall, after done 
 growing, as then the sap is in the roots ; this should 
 be attended to in gathering all kinds of medicinal 
 roots; but those things that the tops are used should 
 be collected in the summer when nearly full grown, as 
 then the sap is on the top. The roots should be dug 
 and cleaned from the dirt, and pounded with a mallet 
 or club, when the bark is easily separated from the 
 stalk, and may be obtained with little trouble. It 
 should be dried in a chamber or loft, where it is not 
 exposed to the weather; and, when perfectly dry, 
 should be ground or pounded to a fine powder. It is 
 an excellent medicine, either taken by itself or com- 
 pounded with other articles ; and is the best thing for 
 canker of any article to be found. 
 
 In scrofulous diarrhoea and chronic cholera in- 
 fantum and goitre it is one of the best agents.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 105 
 
 Its influence on the uterus is very positive. In pro- 
 lapsus uteri it is splendid, and in parturition it cannot 
 be well excelled. It induces better contractions and 
 when given near the end of the confinement it will 
 anticipate flooding, and should there be excessive 
 lochia it will assist in stopping the excess. Its in- 
 fluence is also good in excessive menstruation or 
 hemorrhages from other parts of the body and in 
 female weakness. 
 
 In hot infusion it gradually arouses the circulation 
 and favors an outward flow of blood. A good free 
 perspiration will follow, which will be more abundant 
 if Zingiber be added. When the stomach is very foul, 
 it will frequently operate as an emetic. 
 
 In connection with lobelia it is used in producing 
 emesis, which will be very valuable in the treatment of 
 the conditions found in mercurial cachexia, scrofula 
 and secondary syphilis. For emetic purposes it 
 should be given with lobelia in hot infusion and is 
 excellent to rid the system of impurities. 
 
 The dose of the Fluid Ext. or Tincture is from one- 
 half to one drachm. 
 
 WHITE POND LILY. THE ROOT. 
 
 Nymphaea Odorata. Castalia Odorata. 
 
 This is well known from the beautiful flower which 
 it bears, opening only to the sun, and closing again at 
 night. It grows in fresh-water ponds, and is common 
 in all parts of this country where I have been. The 
 best time to gather it is in the fall of the year, when
 
 106 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 dry, and the water ponds low, as it may then be 
 obtained with little difficulty. It has large roots, 
 which should be dug, washed clean, split into strips, 
 and dried, as has been directed for the others. When 
 perfectly dry, it should be pounded in a mortar, and 
 preserved for use. This article is a very good medi- 
 cine for canker, and all complaints of the bowels, 
 given in a tea alone, or mixed with other medicine. 
 
 Locally for leucorrhoea it has few superiors, as also 
 for prolapsus uteri, ulceration of the cervix, relaxed 
 vagina. 
 
 It also forms a good wash for sore mouth and for 
 scrofulous sores, and also as a wash for purulent 
 ophthalmia. 
 
 Dose of Tincture is from one-half to one drachm. 
 
 HEMLOCK. Canadensis. INNER BARK. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This is the common hemlock tree, and grows in all 
 parts of New England. The best medicine is to peel 
 the bark from the young tree, and shave the ross from 
 the outside, and preserve only the inner bark; dry it 
 carefully, and pound or grind the rind to a powder. A 
 tea madeby putting boiling water to this bark is a good 
 medicine for canker, and many other complaints. The 
 first of my using hemlock bark as medicine was in 
 1814. Being in want of something for canker, I 
 tried some of it by chewing, and found it to answer, 
 and made use of it to good advantage. Since then, 
 have made constant use of it, and have always found
 
 S YSTEM OF MEDICINE 107 
 
 it a very good medicine, both for canker and other 
 complaints of the bowels and stomach. A tea made 
 of this bark is very good, and may be used freely ; it 
 is good to give the emetic and No. 2 in, and may be 
 used for drink in all cases of sickness, especially when 
 going through a course of medicine and steaming. 
 This, with bayberry bark and the lily root, forms No. 
 3, or what has been commonly called coffee, though 
 many other things may be added, or either of them be 
 used to advantage alone. The boughs, made into a 
 tea, are very good for gravel and other obstructions 
 of the urinary passages, and for rheumatism. 
 
 The dose of the Fluid Ext. or Tincture is from 15 
 to 60 minims. One of the finest preparations made is 
 Pinus Canadensis, made by the Rio Chemical Com- 
 pany of New York City. It is uniform in strength 
 and gives entire satisfaction. 
 
 MARSH ROSEMARY. Statice Caroliniana. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This article is very well known in all parts of this 
 country, and has been made use of for canker and 
 sore mouth. I have made use of it with bayberry 
 bark as No. 3 in my practice for many years with 
 good success ; but after finding that the lily root and 
 hemlock bark were better, have mostly laid it aside. 
 It is so binding in its nature that it is not safe to use 
 in without a large proportion of bayberry bark. 
 
 The root is a positive astringent, useful in acute 
 and chronic diarrhoea and that resulting in typhoid
 
 108 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 fever. It is also valuable in hemorrhages from what- 
 ever locality, and whether internal or superficial. 
 
 It is well to have such a remedy on hand to use in 
 case of necessity as it can be depended upon in those 
 cases where it is of the utmost importance to stop the 
 drain on the system caused by either acute diarrhoea 
 or hemorrhages. 
 
 SUMACH. Rhus Glabra. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This appears to be a new article in medicine, en- 
 tirely unknown to the medical faculty, as no mention 
 is made of it by any author. The first of my knowl- 
 edge that it was good for canker was when at Onion 
 River, in 1807, attending the dysentery. Being in 
 want of something to clear the stomach and bowels in 
 that complaint, found that the bark, leaves or berries 
 answered the purpose extremely well, and have made 
 much use of it ever since. It is well known, and is 
 found in all parts of the country; some of it grows 
 from eight to twelve feet high, and has large spread- 
 ing branches ; the berries grow in large bunches, and 
 when ripe are a deep red color, of a pleasant sour 
 taste ; and are used by the country people to dye with. 
 The leaves and young sprouts are made use of in 
 tanning morocco leather. For medicine, the bark 
 should be peeled when full of sap, the leaves when full 
 grown, and the berries when ripe; they should be 
 carefully dried, and when used as part of No. 3 should 
 be pounded, and may be used altogether, or either
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 109 
 
 separate. A tea made of either or altogether is very 
 good, and may be given with safety in almost all 
 complaints, or put into the injection. It will scour 
 the stomach and bowels, and is good for strangury, 
 as it promotes urine and relieves difficulties in the 
 kidneys by removing obstructions and strengthening 
 those parts. I have been in the habit of late years of 
 making use of this article with bayberry bark and lily 
 root, or hemlock bark, equal parts, for No. 3, and it 
 has, always answered a good purpose. 
 
 The leaves are the least astringent, but are valuable 
 in dysentery and hemorrhages of lungs or uterus. 
 
 The bark is more stimulating, astringing and 
 toning, and is valuable for leucorrhoea, inflammation 
 of the bladder, and for rectal troubles, chronic diar- 
 rhoea and rectal hemorrhages. 
 
 The berries are a pleasant acid astringent. Fill a 
 vessel full of berries, cover with boiling water and 
 steep a half-hour. Then strain and sweeten to suit 
 taste. This is a good beverage to allay irritation of 
 the bladder and in the treatment of diabetes and for 
 the relief of bloody urine. 
 
 WITCH-HAZEL. Hamamelis Virginica. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 I found the use of this article as medicine when I 
 was quite young, and have made much use of it in all 
 my practice. It is too well known in the country to 
 need any description; is a small tree or bush, and 
 grows very common, especially in new lands. A tea
 
 110 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 made of the leaves is an excellent medicine in many 
 complaints, and may be freely used to advantage. It 
 is the best thing for bleeding at the stomach of any 
 article I have ever found, either by giving the tea 
 made of the dry leaves, or chewing them when green ; 
 have cured several with it. This complaint is caused 
 by canker eating off the small blood vessels, and this 
 medicine will remove the canker and stop the bleed- 
 ing. I have made much use of the tea, made strong 
 for injection, and found it in all complaints of the 
 bowels to be very serviceable. An injection made of 
 this tea, with a little of No. 2, is good for the piles, 
 and many complaints common to females ; and in 
 bearing-down pains it will afford immediate relief, if 
 properly administered. These leaves may be used in 
 No. 3 to good advantage, as a substitute for either of 
 the other articles, or alone for the same purpose. 
 
 The leaves and twigs are a pleasant, reliable, mild, 
 soothing, diffusive, stimulating, astringent tonic. It 
 chiefly influences the mucous membrane. 
 
 Locally it is used in gonorrhoea, and in gleet. The 
 distilled, non-alcoholic extract is the best for this 
 purpose. In the treatment of gonorrhoea it gives the 
 best of results and no urethral contractions follow 
 its use. In leucorrhoea it stimulates and tones the 
 uterus and vagina. 
 
 In dysentery and diarrhoea it may be used alone or 
 in conjunction with other remedies as per Dr. Thom- 
 son's instructions. 
 
 It is a very good remedy in hemorrhages, either
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 111 
 
 rectal, cystic or uterine. 
 
 It is valuable in the treatment of catarrh in any part 
 of the system, whether vaginal or nasal. To the nose 
 it can be applied with Nebulizer or anatomizer and to 
 the womb on cotton. 
 
 It is of use in the treatment of prolapsus ani and in 
 rectal hemorrhages. Is of use in sore eyes as a wash 
 as it has no bad effect on the eyes. 
 
 This remedy is indicated in all sores or bleeding 
 surfaces, no matter what their nature may be. By 
 bearing this in mind, the physician can make no mis- 
 take. It is also indicated in all irritations, but this 
 comes properly under the heading of sores. The dose 
 of the Tincture is from 30 to 60 minims. The use of 
 this remedy leaves absolutely no ill effects. 
 
 RED RASPBERRY. Rubus Strigosus. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This is an excellent article, and I believe was never 
 made use of as medicine till discovered by me. When 
 in Eastport, I had no article with me good for can- 
 ker, and I resorted to my old rule of tasting, and 
 found that these leaves were good for that com- 
 plaint ; made into a strong tea, it answered every 
 purpose wished. I gathered a large quantity of the 
 leaves, and dried them, and have been in constant 
 use of it as a medicine ever since, and have found it 
 an excellent article, both for canker and many other 
 complaints, for relax and other bowel complaints of 
 children, it is the best thing that I have found; by
 
 112 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 giving the tea and using it in the injections, it af- 
 fords immediate relief. A tea made of the leaves, 
 sweetened, with milk in it, is very pleasant, and may 
 be used freely. It is the best thing for women in 
 travail of any article I know of. Give a strong tea of 
 it, with a little of No. 2, sweetened, and it will regu- 
 late everything as Nature requires. If the pains are 
 untimely, it will make all quiet ; if timely and linger- 
 ing, give more No. 2 and Umbil in the tea. When 
 the child is born, give it some of the tea with sugar 
 and milk in it; this prevents sore mouth, and the tea 
 is good to wash sore nipples with. A poultice made 
 with this tea and cracker, or slippery-elm bark, is 
 very good for burns or scalds; if the skin is off, by 
 applying this poutlice or washing with the tea, it will 
 harden and stop smarting. It may be used in No. 
 3 as a substitute for other articles, or alone, to good 
 effect. 
 
 The leaves are a mild, pleasant, soothing, diffusive, 
 stimualting, astringent tonic. It allays nausea, sus- 
 tains the nerves, and tones the mucous membranes, 
 It is effective in acute and chronic dysentery and 
 diarrhoea although not as pronounced as some of 
 the other remedies given. It will do good service in 
 urethral irritation and soothe the kidneys and urinary 
 tract and ducts. It will also sustain the uterus and 
 stop hemorrhages. As an injection in leucorrhoea, 
 gonorrhoea, dysentery and diarrhoea it is of much 
 use as an injection. The dose of the Tincture is from 
 20 to 40 minims.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE) 113 
 
 SQUAW WEED. Seiiccio Obovarus. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This is known in the country by the name of 
 frostweed, or meadow scabish ; it is a wild weed, and 
 grows in wet land, by the sides of brooks ; it has a 
 stalk that grows four or five feet high, which is 
 rough and woolly, with a narrow leaf; and bears a 
 blue blossom late in the Fall, which remains till the 
 frost kills it. The root lives through the Winter, and 
 in the Spring puts forth a new stalk; the leaves at 
 the bottom remain green through the Winter. The 
 roots and top are used for medicine. It has a frag- 
 rant taste and smells like lovage. It was the first 
 thing I ever knew used for canker, and was given to 
 me when I had the canker-rash, being considered 
 then the best article known for canker. I have fre- 
 quently used it for that complaint and found it very 
 good. Take the green roots and leaves, bruise them, 
 and pour on hot water; give this tea sweetened. It 
 may be kept by adding a little spirit, and is good for 
 rheumatism and nervous affections. It is perfectly 
 harmless, and may be used freely. It makes a very 
 good bitters, tinctured with hot water and spirit and 
 is good for dizziness and cold hands and feet. Dose 
 of the Tincture from 15 to 30 minims. 
 
 BITTER HERB, OR BALMONY. Chelone Glabra. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This herb grows in wet mowing land, by the side of 
 brooks. It is about the size of mint, the leaves some
 
 114 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 larger ; the stalk is four square. It bears a white blos- 
 som of singular form, resembling a snake's head with 
 mouth open. For this reason it is sometimes known 
 as snake-head or turtle bloom. This herb is a very 
 good one to correct the bile, and create an appetite. 
 A tea made of it may be used alone, or it may be 
 added to the other articles described under No. 4, 
 which are all calculated to restore the digestive 
 powers. 
 
 It is a good remedy in the treatment of dyspepsia 
 and may be used freely for atonic conditions. It in- 
 fluences the liver and is a moderate stimulating cho- 
 lagogue. It is of service in the treatment of chronic 
 jaundice on account of its action on the bile. As a 
 mild hepatic tonic it does well in convalescence from 
 fevers and other diseases where the liver was in- 
 volved. In mal-assimilation it is one of the best 
 agents, and it does good service in ridding the sys- 
 tem of worms stomach worms. In general debility 
 it is of service as a tonic. 
 
 Combined with diuretics its tonic powers are ex- 
 erted on the kidneys; and in dropsy where there is 
 chronic hepatic and gastric torpor the influence of 
 this remedy is good. Dose of the Tincture if from 
 one-half to one drachm. 
 
 POPLAR BARK. Populus Tremuloides. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 There are several species of the poplar tree that 
 grow common in the country. One kind is called
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 115 
 
 the white poplar, and another the stinking poplar. 
 The barks of both these kinds are good for medi- 
 cine ; but the latter is the best, being the most bitter. 
 It has tags hanging on the limbs, which remain on till 
 it leaves out, which is about a week later than the 
 other kind. It has short brittle twigs, which are ex- 
 tremely bitter to the taste. The inner bark given 
 as a tea is one of the best articles to regulate the bile 
 and restore the digestive powers of anything I have 
 ever used. The bark may be taken from the body 
 of the tree, the limbs or the roots, and the outside 
 shaved off. Preserve the inner bark, which should be 
 dried and carefully preserved for use. To make the 
 bitters No. 4, it should be pounded or ground fine, 
 and mixed with the other articles, or it may be used 
 alone for the same purpose. To make a tea, take a 
 handful of the bark, pounded or cut into small strips, 
 and put into a quart mug, and fill it with boiling 
 water. This, if taken freely, will relax the system, 
 will relieve headache, faintness at the stomach, and 
 many other complaints caused by bad digestion. It 
 is good for obstructions of the urine, and weakness 
 in the loins; and those of a consumptive habit will 
 find great relief in using this tea freely. 
 
 In chronic diarrhoea, chronic dysentery, cholera 
 infantum, it is a tonic, not an astringent. 
 
 It is of much use in kidney and bladder trouble. 
 It gradually increases the urine and relieves the ach- 
 ing back. If given with Uva ursi, it will give good 
 results in cystic and renal catarrh and in congestions.
 
 116 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 It is also indicated in uterine, vaginal and anal weak- 
 ness, and can be used as a wash or internally. Is 
 good as a wash in skin diseases and sores caused by 
 gonorrhoea or syphilis. The dose of the Tincture is 
 from 30 to 60 minims. 
 
 BARBERRY. Berberis Vulgaris. 
 
 This is a house-yard shrub bearing bright red ber- 
 ries which are often used for preserving purposes. 
 The bark is the portion that is used medicinally. 
 
 Barberry bark is an intensely bitter stimulant, 
 used chiefly for torpid condition of the liver and flac- 
 cid conditions of the stomach. It is a pronounced 
 tonic and is adapted only to chronic cases. In jaun- 
 dice, accompanied by loss of strength and feeble ap- 
 petite, it is valuable. It is much used in malarial 
 diseases combined with other agents. An infusion of 
 half an ounce to the pint of boiling water is sufficient- 
 ly strong. Half a teacupful before meals will prove 
 of much benefit. It is used as part of the bitters No. 
 4. The dose of the Tincture is from 5 to 10 drops. 
 
 BITTER-ROOT, OR WANDERING MlLK-WEED. 
 
 Apocymtm Androsaemifolium. 
 
 This valuable vegetable grows in meadows and in 
 hedges, and in appearance is something like buck- 
 wheat, having similar white blossoms ; when the stalk 
 is broken it discharges a milky substance ; it has two 
 small pods about the size of the cabbage seed pods, 
 with a silky substance.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 117 
 
 This herb is wandering, that is, the roots run about 
 under ground to a considerable distance and produce 
 many stalks, which grow up from different parts of 
 the root to the height of about two feet. The kind 
 that is commonly known by the name of wandering 
 milk-weed grows only on upland. There is another 
 kind which grows near rivers and on islands where 
 high water flows over it; this differs some from the 
 other in appearance ; the roots run deep in the sand, 
 it has leaves and pods like the first, and both are good 
 for medicine. The bark of the root is used. The 
 roots should be dug and dried, and when perfectly 
 dry may be pounded in a mortar, when the bark is 
 easily separated from the woody part. This root is 
 very bitter, and is one of the greatest correctors of the 
 bile I know of, and is an excellent medicine to remove 
 costiveness, as it will cause the bowels to move in a 
 natural manner. A strong decoction of this root, 
 made by steeping it in hot water, if drank freely, will 
 operate as a cathartic, and sometimes as an emetic, 
 and is most sure to throw off a fever in its first stages. 
 It should be used in all cases of costiveness. 
 
 For jaundice, gall-stones and chronic sluggish con- 
 ditions of the liver, bitter root is unexcelled ; but it 
 should not be employed in irritable conditions of the 
 stomach. Apocynin is a concentrated preparation of 
 bitter root and is the best form to use in chronic cases. 
 
 Dose of the Alkaloidal extract, known as Apocynin 
 is from i to 2 grains twice a day. The dose of the 
 Fluid Extract is ten drops every six hours.
 
 118 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 GOLDEN SEAL. Hydrastis Canadensis. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 This root is the king of tonics to the mucous mem- 
 brane. It is a mild, positive and permanent stimulat- 
 ing tonic. Its influence, though primarily given to the 
 mucous membrane, extends to all parts of the body, 
 wherever it may be required by the necessities of the 
 vital force or influenced thither by its combination 
 with other agents. 
 
 It improves the appetite and assists digestion. In 
 the weak and debilitated stomach, especially if there 
 be nervous disturbances or if the gastric membrane 
 be clogged with congested or catarrhal mucus, and 
 in cases of gastric ulceration, hydrastis given in small 
 and frequent doses will not infrequently give relief 
 both to the gastric membrane and to the nervous 
 system. 
 
 In combination with biborate of soda it makes an 
 excellent wash for children's sore mouth and other 
 forms of sore mouth and sore gums. 
 
 Its especial function with the liver is its tonic relief 
 to the portal system. In fact this same class of in- 
 fluence is felt throughout the entire venous system. 
 It is one of the best agents for the sustaining of the 
 venous circulation. Hence its action upon the right 
 or venous side of the heart. Its influence is also felt 
 by the arterial circulation, but this influence is 
 secondary. 
 
 Hydrastis may be made to specially influence the 
 stomach, bronchi, bowels, urinary aparata or gen-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 119 
 
 italia, as it may be influenced by its combination with 
 agents that especially influence any one of these 
 several departments. With Aralia, Prunus, or Com- 
 frey, it gives tone and vigor to the respiratory organs ; 
 with Juglans it forms a powerful intestinal tonic ; with 
 Eupatorium Purpureum or Capsella its tonic in- 
 fluence is felt upon the kidneys ; and with such agents 
 as Mitchella it promptly influences the organs of 
 generation. 
 
 With gentle astringents it is admirable in the gas- 
 tric and alvine weakness present in Cholera Infantum, 
 and in Diarrhoea generally. It tones the membrane 
 and enables it to cast off its accumulated mucus. 
 
 Locally in female troubles it is unexcelled. Calen- 
 dula or Hamamelis may be added as required. 
 
 In intestinal weakness it may be combined with 
 some preparation whose nature is of iron, such as 
 Prunus Virginiana, and when alteratives are required 
 to be used the influence of hydrastis is frequently a 
 valuable addition. 
 
 It is of great service combined with Hepatics for 
 the relief of the portal circulation and for its tonic 
 influence in both the secreting and excreting func- 
 tions of the liver. 
 
 Locally the influence of hydrastis is a very superior 
 one. In erysipelas, ophthalmia, sore mouth, sore 
 throat, leucorrhoea, vaginal and uterine ulceration, 
 eczema, small-pox, eruptive and syphilitic sores it is 
 excellent. 
 
 With Hamamelis and Glycerine it forms a good
 
 10 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 wash in gonorrhoea, and in infusion of Hydrastis may 
 be used daily for uterine ulceration. The dose of the 
 Tincture of Hydrastis is from 30 to 60 minims. 
 
 PEACH MEATS. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 The meats that are in the peach stones have long 
 been used as medicine, and need but little to be said 
 about them, except that they are of great value to 
 strengthen the stomach and bowels, and restore the 
 digestion; for which purpose I have made much use 
 of them, and always to good advantage. Made into 
 a cordial, with other articles, in the manner as di- 
 rected under No. 5, it forms one of the best remedies 
 I know of to recover the natural tone of the stomach 
 after long sickness. A tea may be made of the leaves 
 and bark of the peach tree and answers almost the 
 same purpose as the peach meats. 
 
 CAUTION. Do not allow the infusion to stand over 
 eight hours, as by fermentation prussic acid will be 
 formed and cause poisoning. It should be made 
 fresh every time it is used. The tincture, syrup or 
 fluid extract can be kept any length of time. 
 
 The dose of the Tincture is from 30 to 60 minims. 
 
 CHERRY STONES. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 The meats of the Wild Cherry stones are very 
 good, and may be used instead of the peach meats, 
 when they cannot be had. Get the stones as clean as
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 121 
 
 possible, and when well dried, pound them in a mor- 
 tar, and separate the meats from the stones, which is 
 done with little trouble ; take the same quantity as is 
 directed of the peach meats, and it will answer equally 
 as well. A tea made of the cherries, pounded with 
 the stones, and steeped in hot water, sweetened with 
 loaf sugar, to which is added a little brandy, is good 
 to restore the digestive powers and create an appetite. 
 Bitter almonds may be used as a substitute for the 
 peach meats or cherry stones, when they cannot be 
 had. See No. 5. 
 
 AMERICAN VALERIAN, OR LADY SLIPPER. 
 
 Cypripedium Pubescens. 
 This is fully described as No. 7. 
 
 SPEARMINT. Mentha Viridis. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This is a well-known herb, and makes a very 
 pleasant tea, which may be freely used in sickness. 
 The most valuable property it possesses is to stop 
 vomiting. If the Emetic Herb or any other cause 
 should produce violent vomiting, by giving a strong 
 tea of this herb it will stop it, and sit pleasantly on the 
 stomach. 
 
 This herb will also induce free discharge of the 
 watery portion of the urine, relieve flatulence and 
 sooth the nervous system. It is very good for rest- 
 less children. The tincture will answer the same 
 purpose as the tea. Dose of Tincture is from 30 to 
 60 drops, in hot water.
 
 122 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 PEPPERMINT. Mentha Piperita. 
 
 This article is very hot in its nature, and may be 
 used to advantage to promote perspiration and over- 
 power the cold. I have frequently used it for that 
 purpose with success, but it is volatile, and will not 
 retain the heat long in the stomach. In colds and 
 slight attacks of disease, to drink freely of a tea made 
 of this herb on going to bed will throw it off. 
 
 The essence of peppermint is a standard article for 
 wind colic and cramps, a few drops in water or on 
 sugar being the best method of employing it. The 
 herb may be made into an infusion which may be 
 freely used as a drink. The oil is usually employed to 
 flavor syrups ; eight drops, first rubbed up thoroughly 
 with sugar, will be sufficient to flavor a quart of 
 syrup. 
 
 PENNYROYAL. Hedeoma Pukgoides. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This herb grows common in all parts of the 
 country, and is too well known to need any descrip- 
 tion. It is an article of great value in medicine, and a 
 tea of it may be freely used in all cases of sickness. 
 It is good for the stomach, being warming and cleans- 
 ing ; if drank freely, will produce perspiration and re- 
 move obstructions. In colds and slight attacks of 
 disease, it will be likely to throw it off and prevent 
 sickness. It is very good for children, and will re- 
 move pain in the bowels and wind. In going through 
 a course of medicine, a tea of this herb may be given
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 123 
 
 for drink, and will cause the medicine to have a 
 pleasant operation. 
 
 PENNYROYAL. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 The herb is an aromatic, stimulating, and relaxing 
 diaphoretic. It is warming to the stomach and sus- 
 taining to the capillary circulation. In hot infusion 
 it is a popular agent for the breaking up of colds, and 
 for the relief of the menstral flow when influenced by 
 congestion. While a diaphoretic, it is no less an anti- 
 spasmodic nervine and will be found valuable in 
 dysmenorrhoea in nervous ladies, and is of good 
 service in hysteria. 
 
 In hot infusion it will be found valuable in eruptive 
 diseases, and may be given freely when the eruption 
 is slow in making its appearance. 
 
 In hot infusion it gives good results in the colic, 
 flatulence, restlessness, peevishness, general nervous- 
 ness and feverishness of children. Locally applied a 
 hot fomentation or the local application of steam 
 from an infusion of this agent is very good to relieve 
 local congestions, whether of the head, lungs, 
 stomach, uterus, bladder or kidneys. 
 
 The Tincture of Pennyroyal can be used for the 
 same purpose as the infusion. It should be given in 
 hot water. Dose is from 30 to 60 drops. 
 
 HOREHOUND. Marrubium Vulgare. 
 This plant grows common in this country, and is 
 made much account of in removing cough. An in-
 
 124 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 fusion made of the leaves, sweetened with honey, is 
 good for the asthma, and all complaints of the lungs. 
 The syrup of this plant will loosen tough phlegm, and 
 remove hoarseness caused by a bad cold. 
 
 Marrubium is very good in the treatment of wet 
 catarrh and in all cases of cold or consumption where 
 there is a great deal of mucus discharged. It is a 
 diffusive, stimulating tonic and is somewhat diaphor- 
 etic. The tincture can be used as well as an infusion 
 but should be given in hot water. The dose of the 
 tincture is from 30 to 60 drops. 
 
 ELECAMPANE. Inula Helenium. 
 
 The root of this plant made into a syrup is good for 
 cough and should be added to cough syrups that are 
 used in chronic coughs. It is better suited in chronic 
 complaints than in the acute coughs. It is of good 
 service in the treatment of all gastric, alvine and 
 pulmonary mucous membranes and is of much use in 
 catarrhal conditions of the bronchi, and catarrhal 
 dyspepsia. Dose of the tincture from 15 to 60 drops. 
 
 MAYWEED. Anthemis Cotula. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 A hot infusion made of the flowers and stems of 
 this herb, to be drank hot on going to bed, is very 
 good for a cold, and in slight attacks of fever if used 
 freely, and a hot stone or water bottle put to the feet, 
 will in most cases throw it off. 
 
 The hot infusion or tincture given in hot infusion
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 125 
 
 is decidedly diaphoretic and an emmenagogue. It is 
 of good service in inflamed extremities ; for pelvic and 
 abdominal peritonitis ; for cystic, pelvic, abdominal 
 or thoraic congestions and for local neuralgia. It is 
 also of use in torpid or congested conditions of the 
 mucous membranes. Dose of the tincture in hot 
 water is from 30 to 60 drops. 
 
 WORMWOOD. Artemisia A bsinthium. 
 (ABSINTHEE.) 
 
 This herb is a very wholesome bitters, and may be 
 taken to advantage in different ways. It is of a hot 
 nature, and is good for the stomach to create an 
 appetite and assist the digestion. If the stomach is 
 in a very bad condition, it is liable to cause vomiting 
 and will then thoroughly clean out the stomach of 
 bile. 
 
 The dose used should be very small. Its intense 
 bitterness prevents its universal use. It is very good 
 in torpid conditions of the mucous membranes but 
 should not be used in cases where the membranes of 
 the stomach and bowels are irritated. Dose of the 
 tincture best taken in hot water is from 15 to 30 
 drops. 
 
 CHAMOMILE. Anthemis Nobilis. 
 Garden Chamomile has maintained a valuable repu- 
 tation for many hundreds of years, and its usefulness 
 is fully recognized. In character it is a soothing 
 nervine, and a mild stomach tonic, to be used where 
 there is weakness and poor appetite. The flowers are
 
 126 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 best used in infusion or the tincture in hot water. 
 The Roman variety is best; after the Roman, the 
 German is second and the common garden variety 
 is as good as either of the others but is not nearly as 
 strong. 
 
 When given warm, Camomile will favor perspira- 
 tion and soften the skin, and in women will promote 
 the menstrual flow. The cold infusion acts as a tonic, 
 and is more suitable for stomach difficulties, and as 
 a drink during convalescence from febrile diseases. 
 The vapor from Camomile boiled in water may be 
 inhaled to advantage in quinsy. 
 
 When applied externally, it will relieve sprains, 
 bruises, and swellings and remove callouses, corns, 
 etc. ; it will also restore shrunken sinews. The dose 
 of the tincture is from one-half to one drachm. 
 
 BITTER-SWEET. Solanum Dulcamara. 
 
 This is often called staff vine and also bitter-sweet. 
 It is a climbing vine, bearing orange-colored, three- 
 cornered berries. The root is long and also orange- 
 colored ; the bark of the root is the medicinal portion 
 of the plant. 
 
 Bitter-Sweet is a relaxant, exerting its influence 
 chiefly upon the glandular system ; proving especi- 
 ally soothing in irritable conditions. It is usually 
 given in syrup form combined with pronounced alter- 
 atives, such as yellow dock or stillingia, and is very 
 beneficial in the treatment of eczema and scrofula. 
 Bitter-sweet ointment is very soothing for irritable
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 127 
 
 skin troubles, piles, burns, scalds, etc. It is prepared 
 by heating for eight hours one pound of bark in one 
 pound of lard. Dose of the tincture is from one-half 
 to one drachm. 
 
 TANSY. Tanacetum Vulgare. 
 
 This is a hot, bitter herb, grows common in high- 
 ways, and is cultivated in gardens. A tea made of 
 this herb is good for hysterics and other female com- 
 plaints ; it will strengthen those that have weak veins 
 and kidneys, and is good for the stranguary, or 
 stoppage of urine. It is also of use for the relief of 
 colds and of the menstrual flow when obstructed by 
 colds. Pregnant women must not use it. The green 
 leaves pounded are good to put on bruises and 
 sprains, and will allay the swelling. Dose of the 
 tincture is from 30 to 60 minims. Best taken in hot 
 water. 
 
 MULLEIN. Verbascum Thapsus. 
 This plant, sometimes spoken of as the American 
 Velvet-leaf, grows abundantly throughout the coun- 
 try, and its leaves can be easily dried and preserved. 
 They will be found most serviceable in many con- 
 ditions. Made into a hot poultice they may be ap- 
 plied wherever absorption is desired, as in dropsy 
 of the joints, deep-seated chronic abscesses and 
 persistent swellings. For sciatica, spinal tenderness 
 and inflammatory rheumatism tincture of Mullein 
 may be used as a liniment along with tincture of 
 Black Cohosh and Lobelia.
 
 128 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 A syrup of Mullein is excellent for irritable coughs. 
 The infusion may be made by pouring a pint of boil- 
 ing water on the dried and well broken leaves, which 
 swell greatly. A poultice of Mullein leaves, Lobelia 
 and Black Cohosh will give great relief in Neuralgia 
 of the face. 
 
 Mullein Oil has a soothing influence over the 
 nervous system, in some cases acting as a soporific. 
 It corrects the acidity of the urine common to many 
 diseases, and has an influence over the urinary ap- 
 paratus, but does not act actively as a diuretic. One 
 drop of the oil in water, four times daily, will per- 
 manently cure most cases of nocturnal incontinence 
 of urine, and those cases also where there is a con- 
 stant dribbling. Inflammation in the testicles, the 
 oil has been applied with admirable results. In all 
 enlarged glands with inflammation, it soothes and 
 promotes resolution without suppuration. It has 
 been used internally in the treatment of phthisis 
 pulmonalis with the very best results and is useful in 
 the treatment of glandular swellings, hepatization or 
 thickening of lung tissue, asthma, hay-fever, coughs, 
 pleuritis and in all forms of dropsy. 
 
 A specific effect is that this remedy quickly cor- 
 rects the diarrhoea which accompanies phthisis pul- 
 monalis. It relieves the severe cough in many cases, 
 and has improved the nutrition and caused the patient 
 to gain in weight. 
 
 In many cases of bronchitis, cystitis, diarrhoea and 
 dysentery, and in hemorrhoids, it gives the best of
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 129 
 
 results. In the treatment of the ear, it is the remedy. 
 In deafness from hypersecretion, in deafness that 
 gradually creeps on without any apparent cause, in 
 earache, and in abscess, it is successful. 
 
 In the treatment of the ear, the physician should be 
 very careful and not make the mistake of using Ver- 
 bascum, the tincture of the Mullein Plant, for Mullein 
 Oil. The oil to be used in these cases is extracted 
 from the freshly gathered Mullein blossoms by sun 
 distillation.* 
 
 The dose of the tincture of Mullein leaves for in- 
 ternal medication is from 60 to 120 minims. 
 
 BURDOCK. Arctium Lappa. (Lappa Major.) 
 
 The leaves of this plant, wilted by the fire and ap- 
 plied to an external injury, will allay the inflammation 
 and ease pain, and they are good pounded and put on 
 a bruise or sprain, as they will immediately give relief. 
 The leaves are good applied to the feet in case of 
 fever, to keep them moist and promote perspiration. 
 
 The root is a soothing demulcent tonic alterative. 
 It slowly and steadily influences the skin, soothes the 
 kidneys and relieves the lymphatics. It is of great 
 importance in all skin diseases and in scrofulous affec- 
 
 *The only genuine Mullein Oil is to be had from 
 the Luyties' Homeopatic Pharmacy Co., St. Louis, 
 Mo., U. S. A. While the reader might think it 
 strange that a Homeopathic concern is recom- 
 mended, it may be well to say that the firm that pro- 
 duces the genuine articles is the one to recommend.
 
 130 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 tions. It is very soothing to the mucous membrane 
 throughout and is hence valuable in irritated con- 
 ditions. Its soothing character is also extended to 
 the serious membrane and is valuable in rheumatism 
 and also in venereal diseases, especially if combin'ed 
 with more stimulating agents. 
 
 The seeds are somewhat more stimulating than the 
 roots, and are oleaginous. The seeds should be 
 ground in order to obtain their properties quickly. 
 In hot infusion it influences the sebaceous glands, and 
 is of superior importance in scarlatina, and other 
 exanthemata, and also in typhoid fever. 
 
 Cold preparations influence the kidneys, increasing 
 the flow of urine and relieving irritation of the urinary 
 tract. 
 
 In skin diseases the seeds are to be preferred to 
 the roots, although the roots will act in the same 
 manner, only that it is not so active. 
 
 The dose of the tincture is from one-half to one 
 drachm. It can be given in hot water and will then 
 act the same as an infusion. 
 
 SKUNK CABBAGE. Symplocarpus Foetidus. 
 
 The vegetable grows common in all parts of New 
 England. It has large leaves something resembling 
 cabbage, from which, and its disagreeable smell, it 
 takes its name ; it may be found in the meadows and 
 wet land. The root only is used for medicine, and 
 should be dug and split into strips carefully dried; 
 when dry it should be pounded or ground to a pow-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 131 
 
 der. This powder may be taken in tea, sweetened, or 
 made into a syrup, or half a teaspoonful may be mixed 
 in honey and taken in the morning ; or at night when 
 going to bed. It is good for asthma, cough, difficulty 
 of breathing, and all disorders of the lungs, is valuable 
 in restlessness of fevers, in chorea, whooping cough 
 and in general irritation of the system. It is a ner- 
 vine of value. Dose of the tincture is from 15 to 30 
 drops. 
 
 WAKE-ROBIN. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This plant grows wild in this country. It has three 
 triangular leaves. From between them it puts forth 
 a naked stalk, on the top of which is a singular stem 
 or pistil, enclosed in a sheath, resembling a flower, 
 which is followed by a bunch of reddish berries. The 
 root is the part used for medicine, and resembles a 
 small turnip. This root is extremely pungent and 
 stimulating, and is often given for colic and pain in 
 the bowels, and to expel wind. I have mostly made 
 use of it for cough and disorders of the lungs, for 
 which I have found it very useful. The root should 
 be dried and reduced to a powder, and may be given 
 mixed with honey, or in a syrup. Dose of the syrup 
 is from one-half to a teaspoonful. 
 
 THOROUGH- WORT, BONESET. Euparorium 
 
 Perfoliatum. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 This herb is well known in the country, and is made
 
 132 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 use of by the people in tea for many complaints. It 
 is of a warming nature, and is good for cough and 
 other complaints of the lungs.* 
 
 Eupatorium Perfoliatum, or Boneset, as known to 
 the country people, has long been a household 
 remedy, sometimes it is known as Thoroughwort. 
 (Dr. Thomson describes it under this name only.) As 
 a tonic it is used either in syrup form or as a cold 
 infusion, and is useful in obstructions of the liver and 
 in promoting the secretion of bile in cases of jaundice 
 and malarial disorders characterized by constipation. 
 
 In warm infusion Boneset is a pronounced relaxant 
 and will soften the skin by inducing perspiration ; and 
 if given too freely will excite vomiting. An infusion 
 is made by steeping an ounce of the herb in a pint of 
 boiling water. It is extremely bitter to the taste, and 
 to children it is often highly objectionable. (Dr. 
 Greer.) 
 
 *The above is all that is found in the work by Dr. 
 Samuel Thomson, the founder of the Physio-Medical 
 system of practice. I call special attention to this 
 fact for the simple reason that it is now one of our 
 best remedies and one the Physio-Medicalist of Herb- 
 alist cannot well do without. Dr. Thomson used it in 
 practically all cases, but late investigation and prac- 
 tical experience has taught us that, while Dr. Thom- 
 son used it extensively, he knew but very little of the 
 use it could be put to and therefore a more extensive 
 description of this herb will be given. This has been 
 done in most cases without calling any special atten- 
 tion to the fact, but it is considered important to call 
 attention to this fact here.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 133 
 
 This herb in bloom is positively relaxing to the 
 mucous membrane throughout, slightly stimulating, 
 toning and antispasmodic. It is best when it first 
 blooms. It is slow in its action but almost certain to 
 relieve the liver. It is a favorite remedy for the pre- 
 vention of fever. In large doses it is gently cathartic 
 and greatly tones the bowels throughout. 
 
 Night sweats yield to this remedy better than any- 
 thing else in cases of phthisis. The relaxing proper- 
 ties are to some extent dissipated by the heat and the 
 stimulancy, anti-spasmodic and tonic properties are 
 left. Night sweats relieved by this remedy hardly 
 ever return again. It is of good use in all fevers and 
 in chronic ague it has absolutely no equal. 
 
 Because of its promoting the secretion of bile by 
 the liver, also its excretion by the gall cyst, it is in- 
 valuable in many liver complaints, especially in 
 general biliousness. 
 
 The tincture may be added to cough syrups when a 
 more free expectoration is desired. In colds, bron- 
 chitis, and pneumonia, especially if the patient be in- 
 clined to biliousness and constipation, a large injec- 
 tion may be given to free the lower bowels. With 
 this, hot infusion is to be given internally until the 
 bowels move freely. Relaxation of the mucous mem- 
 brane generally will follow with good results. After 
 this, smaller doses may be given and the mucous 
 membrane will become toned by it. Boneset is also 
 valuable in the treatment of rheumatism, especially 
 of the gouty and bilious classes. In the first, it 
 
 9a
 
 134 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 cleanses and tones the gastric membrane and in the 
 second, it relieves the liver and gall-cyst. Dose of 
 the tincture is from 20 to 60 minims. 
 
 FEATHERFEW. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) (i) 
 FEVERFEW. Chrysanthem wni Parthenium. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) (2) 
 
 This herb is stimulating and is good for hysteric 
 complaints, and many other disorders common to 
 females. It promotes the passage of urine, and re- 
 moves obstructions in those parts, (i) 
 
 This plant resembles Chamomile very much in ap- 
 pearance. As a remedial agent the flowers, usually 
 given in infusion, will be found serviceable In relieving 
 suppressed or painful menstruation brought about 
 by exposure to cold. (2) 
 
 Feverfew is a diffusive, mildly stimulating and re- 
 laxing and influencing the skin, nervous system, the 
 circulation and the genito-urinary organs. 
 
 In hot infusion it is diaphoretic and is excellent in 
 equalizing the circulation and relieving the head, 
 brain and nerves of pressure and excitement. So in 
 pleuritis it relieves the hyperaemia present and re- 
 duces the inflammatory excitement. In parturition 
 by equalizing the circulation the pains become more 
 regular, the contractions firmer and the rigid os uteri 
 relieved of its tensity. In cases where the menses are 
 suppressed from cold it quickly relieves the hyper-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 135 
 
 a^mia present and the flow assumes its normal con- 
 dition. Its influence upon the circulation tends to- 
 wards the surface and with proper hepatics it assists 
 in relieving the circulation of impurities, especially in 
 uraemia and cholaemia. It is a superior tonic to the 
 stomach, relieving hyperaemic conditions of the 
 mucous membrane, and is serviceable in colic, flatu- 
 lence, eructations and general indigestion. With 
 proper hepatics it assists in the relief of engorged 
 liver, whether it be from congestion or inflammation. 
 In bronchitis and pneumonia it dispels hyperaemia 
 and tones the mucous membrane. In hysteria it re- 
 lieves the nerves as well as the circulation. In 
 puerperal fever it does its work well, but at times 
 needs more stimulation. In combination with Cactus 
 it is excellent for the nervous, unstrung condition 
 resulting from the use of tobacco or liquor. 
 
 In hot fomentation this herb may be applied with 
 good results over the lungs, stomach or abdomen in 
 cases of either congestion or inflammation. (3) 
 
 The dose of the tincture is from one to two drachms. 
 It can be used with hot water to act as an infusion, or 
 can be taken in cold water. 
 
 CLIVERS. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 CLEAVERS. Galium Aparine. 
 
 (Dr. Greer.) 
 
 This is the common trailing plant generally known 
 as goose grass or bed-straw. It grows wild in fields
 
 136 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 near the woods and is very abundant. Medically, the 
 green herb may be used as well as the dried; and if 
 combined with marsh mallows will prove a most 
 soothing agent in the treatment of inflammatory 
 diseases of the kidneys, bladder and urinary passages. 
 Galium is best used in the form of a cold infusion and 
 may be taken frequently. During the latter stages 
 of scarlet fever, when there is a tendency to irritable 
 conditions of the kidneys, Cleavers will prove a very 
 acceptable and beneficial drink. For children, and 
 adults as well, who suffer from scalding urine, it is 
 invaluable. In the inflammatory stage of gonorrhoea 
 it relieves the irritation and soothes the nervous 
 system. 
 
 In hot infusion this is a diaphoretic and may be 
 used to good advantage in fevers where there is a 
 necessity to favor a good, free outward circulation 
 and it relieves the nervous system. The dose of the 
 tincture, taken in hot or cold water, as indicated, is 
 from one-half to one drachm. 
 
 BLACK BIRCH BARK. Betula Lenta. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 A tea made of this bark is useful in curing all com- 
 plaints of the bowels and to remove obstructions. It 
 is also of use in dysentery. This tea, with peach 
 meats or cherry-stone meats, made into a syrup, is 
 an excellent article to restore patients after having 
 been reduced by that disease, and to promote the 
 digestion. It is good for canker and all complaints 
 of the bowels.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 137 
 
 The leaves can also be used as medicine and are 
 more diuretic and are very soothing to the entire 
 urinary apparata in cases of renal and cystic irritation 
 or inflammation. The dose of the tincture is from 
 15 to 45 minims. Can be taken in hot or cold water. 
 In hot water it acts the same as an infusion and is a 
 diaphoretic. 
 
 EVAN ROOT. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 EVAN ROOT. -Geum Rivak. 
 
 (Dr. Comfort.) 
 
 WATER AVENS, AVENS. 'Geum Rivale and 
 Virginarum. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 This plant is peculiar to low marshy ground, and 
 has received a variety of names, such as chocolate 
 root, water avens, throat root, purple avens, etc. 
 
 The root is a pleasant, mild, soothing, tonic astrin- 
 gent. It is not drying, but soothing to the mucous 
 membrane. 
 
 It is useful to mild, acute and chronic cases of 
 diarrhoea and dysentery. In leucorrhoea and gleet 
 it may be used with good effect both locally and con- 
 stitutionally. Locally it is a good wash for some 
 irritated forms of sore mouth. 
 
 This remedy is not the best where there is a ten- 
 dency to constipation. Geum displays its influence 
 to best advantage as a tonic astringent. It is one of
 
 138 THE THOMSON1AN 
 
 the best agents to be used in cases of cholera in- 
 fantum. It improves digestion and assists assimila- 
 tion. Dose of the tincture from 15 to 30 minims. 
 
 SLIPPERY ELM BARK. -Ulmus Fulva. 
 The inner bark of this tree is an article of much 
 value, and may be used to advantage in many dif- 
 ferent ways. There are several species of the elm 
 that grow common in this country, and there are two 
 kinds of the slippery elm. In one the bark is rather 
 hard and tough, and the other is very brittle; the 
 latter is the best for medicinal uses. The bark should 
 be peeled, the outside rind shaved off, dried, and 
 ground or pounded to a fine powder. If used in- 
 ternally, put a teaspoonful of this powder into a 
 teacup with as much sugar, mix them well together, 
 then add a little cold water and stir it until perfectly 
 mixed, and then put hot water to it and stir till it 
 forms a jelly thick enough to be eaten with a spoon. 
 A teacupful may be taken at a time, and is an excel- 
 lent medicine to heal soreness in the throat, stomach 
 and bowels, caused by canker; or more hot water 
 may be put to it and made into a drink and freely 
 taken for the same purpose. I have always made 
 much use of this bark for poultices, and have in all 
 cases found it a most excellent article for that pur- 
 pose. Mixed with pounded cracker and ginger it 
 makes the best poultices I have ever found ; for burns, 
 scalds, felons, old sores, etc., it is the best thing that 
 can be used to allay the inflammation, ease the pain 
 and heal them in a short time.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 139 
 
 With Lobelia, it forms an excellent poultice for 
 abscesses and boils. 
 
 In constipation, dysentery, diarrhoea and cholera 
 infantum, used both internally and per rectal injec- 
 tion, it soothes and relieves the intestinal irritation. 
 It is a nutritious demulcent, soothing to the mucous 
 membrane wherever needed and quieting to the 
 nervous system. In diphtheria, after the throat has 
 been ridded of the decayed membrane, it is quite raw, 
 also during the scaling process in scarlatina and 
 measles and at times in typhoid fever ; slippery elm is 
 then a very important agent. 
 
 BALSAM FIR. Abies Balsamea. 
 
 This balsam is obtained from a tree known in all 
 parts of the country; it is taken from small blisters 
 which form in the bark. It is of a very healing 
 nature, and is good to remove internal soreness. 
 
 In cases where the mucous membrane is irritated 
 it should not be given, but is very good in relaxed and 
 torpid cases, as in cystic and renal congestions, gleet, 
 etc. In bronchial and pulmonary congestions it is a 
 stimulating expectorant. It is an excellent remedy 
 for aged persons suffering from congestion of the 
 kidneys as it then acts as a kidney tonic. In old 
 coughs it is also excellent. Dose : It should be given 
 only when mixed with glycerine and honey. One 
 ounce Balsam Fir, Glycerine and Honey, each four 
 ounces ; flavor to suit, mix thoroughly, and give one 
 teaspoonful four times a day.
 
 140 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 GENTIAN. Gentiana Lutea. 
 
 This root grows wild in this country, and is found 
 plentifully in Vermont. It was formerly collected 
 for exportation, and large quantities of it were sent 
 to China, where it was greatly valued. 
 
 At the present time, the foreign Gentian root seerm 
 to be used most. It is a bitter tonic, and as such it is 
 unexcelled, although for mild cases it should always 
 be combined with less intense agents. Its chief 
 action is upon the liver; with dyspepsia it is most 
 excellent. For ague it may prove effective when 
 other agents fail, taken for several hours before the 
 chill, in hourly doses of one-half teaspoonful of the 
 tincture with a little Capsicum. Gentian will also 
 promote appetite and digestion, stimulate the circu- 
 lation, thoroughly toning the digestive organs, and is 
 especially valuable in languid conditions and in that 
 of general debility. It gives the best results in bilious- 
 ness and jaundice. It is a good vermifuge. In sensi- 
 tive stomachs it should be given in very small doses 
 as it is intensely bitter and in large doses might cause 
 nausea. Dose is from 10 to 30 minims. 
 
 BUTTERNUT. Juglans Cinerea. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This tree grows common in this country, and is 
 well known from the nut which it bears, of an oblong 
 shape and nearly as large as an egg, in which is a 
 meat containing much oil, and very good to eat. The 
 inner bark of this tree is used by the country people
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 141 
 
 to color with. The bark taken from the body of the 
 tree or roots, and boiled down till thick, may be made 
 into pills, and operate as a powerful emetic and 
 cathartic; a syrup may be made by boiling the bark 
 and adding one-third molasses and a little spirit, 
 which is good to give children for worm complaints. 
 The buds and twigs may also be used for the same 
 purpose, and are more mild, (i) 
 
 BUTTERNUT. Juglans Cinerea. 
 
 (Dr. Greer.) 
 
 The inner bark of the white walnut tree has an im- 
 portant place in the Materia Medica. Its principal 
 use is as a physic, and in that respect it is exceedingly 
 valuable on account of its mild action and the tonic 
 impression left upon the structures of the bowels. Its 
 chief influence is exerted upon the lower bowels, and 
 for that reason it cannot be excelled for prolapsus and 
 constipation due to a sluggish condition of the large 
 bowels. It is best administered in the form of syrup 
 made by slowly boiling a pound of the bark in water 
 and evaporating to one pint and adding two pounds 
 of sugar; dose, a teaspoonful. Butternut syrup is a 
 valuable physic for use in protracted febrile diseases. 
 
 (2) 
 
 Juglans Cinerea. 
 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 The inner bark of the root is more active than that 
 of the trunk, but both are used. It yields its proper- 
 ties to boiling water, except its astringency, which
 
 142 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 property is yielded when alcohol is the menstruum 
 used instead of boiling water. 
 
 Juglans is an active stimulating hepatic and cathar- 
 tic. It relieves the portal system, disgorges the liver 
 and cleanses the bowels. For catharsis it usually 
 takes from four to eight hours, according to the dose 
 given. 
 
 Juglans Cinerea tones the entire alvine mucous 
 membrane, but especially that of the lower bowels, 
 influencing peristalcis. The alcoholic fluid extract 
 may be used in diarrhoea and dysentery. It cleanses 
 the surface and leaves the parts toned and astringed. 
 The aqueous extract being free from this astringency 
 may be used to relieve chronic constipation. It is in 
 this sphere one of the most valuable preparations. In 
 relieving the portal circulation it also relieves hemorr- 
 hoids and rectal hemorrhages. 
 
 In dysentery, in small doses, it cleanses the bowels, 
 relieves the portal circulation and tones the mucous 
 membranes. 
 
 To prepare the syrup of Juglans, gather your bark 
 from the fifth to the twentieth of April in the country. 
 It is then strongest. Crush or chop fine. Then boil 
 till quite strong and pour off and cover a second and 
 third time to completely exhaust the strength of the 
 drug. Then boil all together and evaporate to three- 
 fourth or equality of one pint per pound of bark. 
 Then for each twelve ounces add alcohol, two ounces, 
 and sugar, four ounces. 
 
 It is well adapted to the treatment of skin erup-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 143 
 
 tions. It is a tonic to both mucous membrane and 
 dermoid tissue and slightly increases the action of the 
 kidneys. It is one of the most valuable agents in the 
 whole materia medica. It relieves the liver, proves 
 gently cathartic and leaves the bowels soluble and 
 toned. These are qualities that can be accorded to 
 but few agents. By the use of this agent the faeces 
 becomes more or less darkened. (3) 
 
 i VIRGINIA SNAKEROOT. Aristolochia Serpentaria. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This is a well known article, grows wild, and may 
 be found in most parts of the country. It is of a hot 
 nature, and is made much use of in tea for measles 
 and other eruptions to keep the disorder out, for 
 which it is considered very good ; this is owing to its 
 warming qualities, which keep the determining 
 powers to the surface, which effect may be produced 
 by almost any strong- stimulant, but the No. 2 is the 
 best for the purpose. A tea made of this root may be 
 given to advantage in many cases of disease ; it has a 
 tendency to promote perspiration, and is good to re- 
 move pain in the stomach and bowels, and expel wind. 
 
 It is stimulating to the mucous membrane through- 
 out and large and frequent doses may prove irritating, 
 especially if the alvine canal be already more or less 
 irritated. In such cases more soothing agents will be 
 better. But in languid and sluggish conditions it 
 arouses promptly and fully.
 
 144 THE THOM80NIAN 
 
 In eruptive diseases, before the appearance of the 
 full eruption, it is excellent, especially in languid con- 
 ditions ; but where milder agents will do the work, it 
 is best to use them. 
 
 In the treatment of nettle rash or rhus poisoning, 
 give freely and fully for a few hours and then stop. 
 
 Its influence is primarily towards the surface, but 
 soon its influence is felt by the whole arterial system, 
 and the heart's impulse becomes stronger and fuller. 
 By its stimulating action upon the arterial side of the 
 circulation and the whole nervous system is aroused 
 by its influence. Even the uterus feels its influence 
 and its use is valuable for the relief of colds suppress- 
 ing the periods. 
 
 Given during parturition, when the feet are cold and 
 there is a general receding of blood from the surface 
 and where the pains are inefficient, this agent will 
 have an excellent influence. It will also anticipate 
 flooding. 
 
 Cold preparations quite freely influence the kidneys 
 and relieve congestion and renal torpor. 
 
 It is best to use this agent thoroughly and then 
 discontinue its use for some time. 
 
 MUSTARD. Sinapsis, also Sinapsis Alba and Nigra. 
 
 Ordinary mustard has long been employed as a 
 plaster wherever it is desirable to quickly draw the 
 circulation outward or away from the head or other 
 congested portions of the body. For such purposes 
 one part of mustard and four parts of wheat flour
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 145 
 
 made into a paste with warm water will be sufficient. 
 This should be spread over muslin and applied for not 
 longer than an hour, as a blister is liable to follow. 
 Stronger plasters may be prepared for more urgent 
 cases. An infusion of mustard in a bucket of water is 
 excellent for a foot bath when it is desired to call the 
 blood from the brain, lungs, etc. Mustard emetics 
 are quickly effective in cases of poisoning. A tea- 
 spoonful of mustard to a large teacupful of boiling 
 water, drank in one dose, will usually be followed 
 promptly by vomiting, especially if the finger is thrust 
 into the throat. 
 
 Lobelia with some Capsicum is by far preferable to 
 mustard for the purpose and the after effects are not 
 as bad. In using mustard plaster, never blister the 
 skin. To do so is harmful to say the least. 
 
 BALM OF GILEAD. Populus Balsamifera. 
 
 The fragrant brown buds of the balsam poplar tree 
 are by many highly prized as a remedial agent, their 
 medicinal properties being due to their fragrant 
 resinous constituents. 
 
 Balm of Gilead is classed as a stimulating ex- 
 pectorant, and is very useful in old coughs where the 
 lungs are feeble and unable to throw off accumula- 
 tions in the air passages. Half an ounce of them in 
 the ordinary alcoholic tincture is sufficient to add to 
 a pint of cough syrup. An infusion cannot be made, 
 as the resinous substance is not acted upon by water 
 alone. The use of Balm of Gilead would not be ad- 
 visable in irritable conditions of the lungs. 
 
 10
 
 146 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 BLUE AND WHITE VERVINE. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 VERVAIN. Verbena Hastata. 
 (Dr. Greer.) 
 
 BLUE VERVAIN. Verbena Hastata. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 This is a well-known herb, growing very common ; 
 it ranks next to the Emetic Herb for an Emetic, and 
 may be used for that purpose either alone or com- 
 bined with Thoroughwort. It is good to prevent a 
 fever in its first stages. This herb has been used with 
 considerable success in consumption, curing cases 
 which other remedies failed to cure. It may be used 
 in a tea made of the dry herb, or prepared in powder 
 like the Emetic Herb, (i) 
 
 This is the ordinary blue vervain common to all 
 sections. An ounce of the herb makes a strong in- 
 fusion, to be used freely in old cases of ague. It is 
 intensely bitter, and has a strong influence upon the 
 liver and stomach. Made into a syrup with twice its 
 amount of Wahoo and Butternut, it constitutes a 
 valuable preparation for chronic constipation in 
 malarial difficulties. (2) 
 
 This plant is a bitter relaxing and stimulating 
 nervine. In hot infusion it influences a good circula- 
 tion toward the capillaries and soothes the nervous 
 system throughout. The liver, gall ducts and 
 bowels are all influenced by it. It gives favorable 
 results in billiousness, periodic bilious attacks, and is
 
 SYSTEM OP MEDICINE 147 
 
 somewhat anti-periodic. Boiling destroys consider- 
 able of its stimulating quality and leaves it a relaxing 
 nervine. (3) Dose is from 15 to 30 drops. 
 
 PIPSISWAY, OR RHEUMATIC WEED. 
 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 PIPSISSEWA. PRINCE'S PINE. Chimaphila. 
 
 (Dr. Greer.) 
 
 PIPSISSEWA. Chimaphilla Umbeltata. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 This herb grows on mountains, and on pine plains 
 where the Boxberry or Checkerberry is found. It is 
 an evergreen, and grows from three to six inches 
 high, has a number of dark green leaves about half 
 an inch wide and from one to two inches long, with a 
 scolloped edge; bears several brown seeds resembling 
 allspice. The tops and roots are used for medicine. 
 The roots, when chewed, are very pungent, and will 
 be felt for several hours on the tongue as though 
 burnt. A strong tea made of this plant is good for 
 cancer and all scrofulous humors, by drinking the tea 
 and bathing with it the parts affected, (i) 
 
 This is a well known evergreen herb, growing wild 
 in the woods, and frequently spoken of as ground 
 holly. As a remedy for dropsy and kidney troubles 
 it has long enjoyed a good reputation. Its peculiar 
 tonic and alterative properties, combined with a 
 small amount of astringency, render it valuable in 
 weakness of the kidneys and bladder. Combined with
 
 148 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 poke berries and American sarsaparilla, as a syrup, 
 with a little citrate of lithia added, it is most excellent 
 in rheumatism. A small amount of pipsissewa added 
 to the compound syrup of yellow dock will add to the 
 efficiency of that preparation in scrofulous and other 
 blood troubles, where the urinary organs are par- 
 ticularly weak. (2) 
 
 The leaves are a mild stimulating and relaxing 
 alterative, influencing especially the glandular system, 
 the lymphatics and secrements. 
 
 As a good cleansing agent it carries off effete 
 matter and relieves the liver, kidneys and skin. In 
 scrofula it is one of the best agents. Should be used 
 very freely. 
 
 In phthisis and cancer it assists much in the relief 
 of the blood current from impurities and waste 
 material. In dropsy it relieves and tones the kidneys. 
 In gonorrhoea it is soothing to the mucous membrane 
 and cleansing to the blood current. In syphilis it is 
 of no little importance, but in certain stages, may 
 have to be combined with more stimulating agents. 
 It is also useful in vaginal and uterine weakness, and 
 in leucorrhoea; in rheumatism, especially when it 
 arises from some impurities of the blood; in cystic 
 catarrh, spermatorrhoea, typhoid and other fevers ; 
 in urinary obstructions, and coughs and colds. It is 
 valuable not only for its alterative influence but for 
 its diuretic action in cleansing the mucous membrane 
 of accumulated solids or mucous. Combined with 
 uterine tonic it does well in leucorrhoea and gonor-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 149 
 
 rhoea. In depressed and very debilitated cases it is 
 best that more stimulating agents be added. Com- 
 bined with syrup macrotys you have a good remedy 
 for coughs and colds. (3) 
 
 Go LD EN-Ro D. Solidago Canadensis. 
 
 This herb may be found common on pine plains in 
 hedges; it grows about two or three feet high, has 
 long, narrow leaf, very smooth and glossy, and a large 
 cluster of yellow blossoms ; it has a sweet, spicy taste 
 and smell, resembling fennel or ainse. There is an 
 oil obtained from this herb good for medicine, and 
 also prepared in essence is good for pain in the head, 
 to be taken, or the outside bathed with it. 
 
 The leaves and flowers are a stimulating and 
 slightly astringent tonic antiseptic to the mucous 
 membrane. It is a sanative germicide, and is valuable 
 in the presence of putrescence, as in diphtheria, scar- 
 latina, tonsilitis, pharyngitis or laryngitis. It may be 
 boiled down and made into confection or troche with 
 sugar, suitable for sore throat of all kinds for children 
 and adults. 
 
 In catarrh, and especially in lagrippe, Solidago is 
 very valuable. It cures quickly and completely. It 
 may be used alone in hot infusion, or in combination 
 with other suitable agents. 
 
 In typhoid fever it stimulates and cleanses the 
 alvine mucous membrane very successfully. 
 
 In phthisis pulmonalis and bronchial catarrh it is 
 of much value, especially when added to other agents 
 
 10a
 
 150 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 influencing the respiratory organs. Dose of the tinc- 
 ture is from 30 to 60 minims. Can be given in hot or 
 cold water as indicated. 
 
 YELLOW-DOCK. Rumex Crispus. 
 
 The root of this plant is well known as being made 
 into ointment for the itch. The roots should be 
 bruised fine in a mortar and put into a basin; add 
 enough cream to make an ointment, keep it warm for 
 twelve hours, but be careful not to scald it. Rub it 
 on at night when going to bed. Three times using it 
 will generally effect a cure. The foregoing described 
 ointment, together with No. 3 and the No. 6, prepared 
 with the spirits of turpentine, will be sufficient to cure 
 any case of this complaint. 
 
 The dried root of this common weed is a most ex- 
 cellent agent to use in diseases of the blood and 
 glandular system, and is very valuable in scrofula, 
 especially when discharges are free, as in running of 
 the ear or ulcerated eyelids. It may be used as an 
 infusion, but is best when combined with other 
 remedies. It is not only good in scrofula, but in all 
 skin diseases, syphilis, etc. 
 
 The dose of the tincture is from 30 to 60 minims. 
 
 PRICKLY ASH. Xanthoxylum Fraxineum. 
 (Drs. Thomson, Greer and Lyle.) 
 
 This is a shrub or bush that grows in the Western 
 country, and is well known by the people there. It 
 grows from eight to twelve feet high, and bears a
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 151 
 
 berry that grows close to the limbs ; it has leaves like 
 the white ash. The bark and the berries are used for 
 medical purposes. The berries are very pungent, and 
 are a powerful stimulent, as also the bark of the top 
 and roots, though not so strong. It should be 
 pounded to a powder and steeped in hot water, then 
 put into wine or spirit, and it makes a very good hot 
 bitters. Take half a glass two or three times a day ; 
 it is good for fever and ague, for which it is much 
 used, and for lethargy or sleepiness, and for cold feet 
 and hands, and other complaints caused by cold, (i) 
 
 This agent is a decided stimulant, and in power 
 rates about midway between ginger and Capsicum, 
 although used more generally in sub-acute and 
 chronic cases where persistent stimulation is needed. 
 It enters into many standard preparations, and is 
 much valued in rheumatism. The infusion is prepared 
 by using about one-fourth of a teaspoonful of the 
 powder to a large cup of boiling water. The fluid 
 extract may be obtained, and is the best form used to 
 add to syrups. Prickly ash will increase the flow of 
 saliva and moisten the dry tongue found in liver 
 troubles. An irritable stomach will not kindly receive 
 prickly ash, which may even provoke vomiting in 
 sensitive persons. (2) 
 
 The bark is a positive, diffusive stimulant, especially 
 inducing a good, free capillary and arterial circula- 
 tion. It is a valuable addition to alteratives and to 
 diaphoretics. It warms the stomach, arouses the 
 skin, and stimulates the salivary glands, the lym-
 
 152 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 phatics and the serous and mucous membrane. It is 
 a valuable addition in all chronic affections, rheuma- 
 tism, neuralgia and wherever the skin and extremities 
 are cold. 
 
 The seeds or berries are slightly more stimulating 
 than the bark. In cases of a dry tongue and mucous 
 surfaces use this agent and if need be add a little 
 Lobelia. It is one of the best things in the world. It 
 acts slower than Capsicum but its effects are more 
 permanent. Give it in small and frequent doses. 
 Dose of tincture of either bark or berries is from 10 
 to 30 minims. 
 
 BITTER THISTLE. 
 (Dr. Thomson.) 
 
 This herb is a species of the thistle, and is culti- 
 vated in gardens. It is of one year's growth, the seed 
 being sown in the spring, and it comes to maturity in 
 the fall. The stalk has a number of branches, and a 
 great quantity of leaves. The leaf is some larger 
 than the Canada thistle, with prickles like it, and it 
 bears seeds about the size of the barley corn, with a 
 beard on the end, nearly as long as the seed. The 
 leaves are used for medicine, which may be steeped 
 in hot water, and drank like other herb tea, or they 
 may be reduced to powder and taken in molasses or 
 warm water, or in wine or spirits. It is an excellent 
 corrector of the bile, and may be safely used for the 
 purpose. The Cardis Benedictus, or beloved thistle, 
 is cultivated in the same manner, and may be used for 
 the same purpose.
 
 SYSTEM OP MEDICINE 153 
 
 ARCHANGEL. Archangelica Officinalis. 
 
 This herb grows wild in wet land, and may be often 
 found among the grass, and at the edges of plough 
 fields. It grows from four to twelve inches high ; the 
 leaves are rather smaller than mint leaves ; it bears a 
 kind of bur containing seed, which grows round the 
 stalk at each joint. There are two kinds which grow 
 near each other; they look very much alike, but are 
 very different in taste. One is very bitter and the 
 other has no bitter taste, but is very rough and of a 
 balsamic taste. They may be used together in a tea 
 or syrup, and answer two important purposes; the 
 rough removes the canker, and the bitter is a cor- 
 rector of the bile. By adding No. 2, the compound 
 contains the three great principles of the healing art, 
 viz : hot, rough and bitter. 
 
 These remedies are of great value in the menstrual 
 flow and in dysmenorrhoea. It is a uterine anti- 
 spasmodic. Dose of tincture, 15 to 30 minims. 
 
 DEWBERRY. ' Rubus Procumbeus. 
 (Dr. Comfort.) 
 
 The root of the Dewberry, and also that of the 
 blackberry plant, may be used as a substitute for 
 Bayberry, or Sumac, in dysentery and in bowel com- 
 plaints in general. 
 
 Dose, same as the Bayberry. The Dewberry is 
 also known officially as Rubus Canadensis.
 
 154 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 CROW-FOOT. CRANE'S BILL. Geranium Maculatum. 
 (Dr. Comfort.) 
 
 CRANE'S BILL. Geranium Maculatum. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 This plant may be found in many sections of this 
 country. The root possesses actively astringent 
 qualities. A decoction of this root has been used by 
 injection with benefit in long standing venereal dis- 
 ease and fluor albus. The root boiled in milk is a 
 good remedy in bowel complaints of children, more 
 especially when the disease has continued several 
 days, and the patient's tongue not dry, and there be 
 absence of fever, (i) 
 
 The root is a pleasant, positive, tonic astringent. 
 It is only moderately drying, but is persistent and 
 effective. It is one of our most excellent astringent 
 agents. Its chief influence is expended upon the 
 alvine mucous membrane throughout. It is appli- 
 cable in the treatment of sore mouth or gums, mer- 
 curial salivation, spongy gums, catarrhal ophthalmia, 
 leucorrhoea, gleet, dysentery, diarrhoea. 
 
 It is a good local and constitutional styptic for 
 hemorrhages from the nose, lungs, stomach, bowels, 
 or uterus. 
 
 In typhoid fever in case of excessive discharges, 
 whether faecal or sanious, this agent is one of the 
 most valuable. The addition of a little Capsicum will 
 at times be valuable.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE US 
 
 Diluted with water, or combined with Comp. syr. 
 rhei., this agent is one of the most valuable in the 
 treatment of severe cases of cholera infantum. (2) 
 
 Geraniin is the alkoloid of this agent, but is not as 
 much value as the tincture of Geranium. 
 
 Geranium Maculatum is one of the most valuable 
 and yet the least known of American indigenous 
 remedies. There are few remedies which possess a 
 wider range of usefulness, and which are so devoid of 
 harmful properties. In all forms of hemorrhage, 
 whether internal or external, hemoptysis can usually 
 be promptly arrested by drachm doses of the tincture, 
 given hourly until the attack subsides. Relapse may 
 be prevented by continuing the same dose at longer 
 intervals for three or four days. Hematemesis may 
 be effectually controled in the same manner after the 
 whole array of styptics have failed. In hemorrhage 
 from the kidneys and the intestinal canal, better re- 
 sults can be obtained from the administration of 
 smaller doses, twenty drops four times a day, for an 
 extended period. This is the only practical way of 
 using it in chronic cases. Epistaxis may be speedily 
 checked by plugging the nostrils with cotton dipped 
 in a solution composed of one part of the tincture of 
 Geranium and three parts of water, or by syringing 
 the nasal passage with the same solutian. Hemorr- 
 hage resulting from the extraction of a tooth can 
 invariably be promptly arrested by filling the socket 
 with a piece of cotton saturated with the undiluted 
 tincture of Geranium and applying firm pressure for
 
 156 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 a few minutes. Menorrhagia can be most effectually 
 abated by the internal administration of Geranium 
 combined with vaginal injections of the same remedy. 
 
 In hemorrhage of the stomach, half to one drachm 
 doses will often relieve after the physician has given 
 all other remedies at his command. In severe bleed- 
 ing of the nose there is no remedy that will equal it. 
 Use a small syringe and drive the fluid preparation 
 clear or diluted, as the case demands into the nasal 
 cavity, or, if necessary, the tampon saturated with the 
 extract may be used. 
 
 Where there is pain and distress from gastric 
 ulcers, Geranium will relieve, and in many instances 
 cure, the trouble. In cases of pulmonary hemorr- 
 hages it is a remedy, in doses of a drachm ; after its 
 action has been brought out, it may be given in doses 
 of ten to fifteen drops, three or four times a day, to 
 guard against the hemorrhages returning. 
 
 It is a remedy in menorrhagin. Here it is giving 
 good results in combination with Viburnum Opulus. 
 In a solution of five or ten per cent., used as an in- 
 jection, it will cure acute dysentery. In consumption, 
 it will modify the night-sweats and cough, and control 
 the diarrhoea that is often annoying and always 
 weakening to the patient. In postpartum hemorr- 
 hage it is valuable. 
 
 In the treatment of chronic bronchitis, by its action 
 in condensing the relaxed bronchial membrane, we 
 check the cough and profuse expectoration, and 
 thereby strengthen the patient.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 157 
 
 In the bad stomach of hard drinkers we find an 
 admirable place for Geranium. Relaxation of the 
 ulva is relieved by the application of the strong 
 preparation. Chronic gonorrhoea and gleet are 
 cured by the local use of a ten to twenty-five per cent, 
 solution. It is valuable in the treatment of sore 
 mouth, either mercurial or other. Use diluted as a 
 wash. In the treatment of leuchorrhoea, where there 
 is a relaxed and atonic condition, make a tampon of 
 surgical wool, and after saturating with the strong 
 extract, push up against the uterus. In uterine 
 catarrh and relaxed conditions it is a good remedy. 
 In prolapsus of the bowels, wet the protruding parts 
 with the strong non-alcoholic fluid and inject twenty- 
 five per cent, solution into the bowels three or four 
 times a week. The same treatment will cure many 
 cases of recent hemorrhoids. It is very good for 
 nasal polypus by injecting them with the tincture. 
 The polypoid growth will degenerate and drop out 
 after a few days. 
 
 I have taken many uterine cases, such as bleeding 
 from the bladder, bleeding from the uterus, etc., that 
 the very best physicians and surgeons in the country 
 had treated, and cured them after they had failed with 
 their treatment. A young lady came to me who had 
 been bleeding steadily from the uterus for six months. 
 The loss of blood was as great during all that time as 
 it was during the regular monthly period. She was 
 forced to wear bandages at all times and could do no 
 work. She had had three operations before she came
 
 158 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 to me, the surgeons claiming that it was Polypus of 
 the uterus, but with no results. I put her on Ger- 
 anium, four times a day and gave treatments with the 
 same, to the womb every second day. She was cured 
 within a few weeks. I am frank to say that I believe 
 that there is no remedy in the whole Materia Medica 
 that is of equal value to Geranium. 
 
 If Dr. Thomson made use of this remedy, I do not 
 know of it nor am I able to find anything concerning 
 it in any of his works. Dr. Comfort did use it, but it 
 is doubtful that he knew its real value as he says but 
 very little about it. 
 
 PERUVIAN BARK. Cinchona Officinalis. 
 
 (Dr. Comfort.) 
 
 The genuine Peruvian bark is one of the most 
 effective tonics ever employed for the cure of inter- 
 mitting fever or ague. It may be used as a general 
 tonic in all cases where the use of this class of medi- 
 cine is indicated. As a general rule powerful tonics 
 should not be employed in the first stage of disease 
 attended with fever and a dry coated tongue. Under 
 these circumstances bitters, unless combined with a 
 large portion of Capsicum, would repress rather than 
 promote the secretions, and aggravate the disease. 
 When by the free use of Capsicum and other appro- 
 priate remedies the secretions are restored, the tongue 
 cleaning and the skin warm and disposed to perspira- 
 tion, then Peruvian bark or other tonics may be em- 
 ployed with advantage.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 159 
 
 Peruvian bark is rendered more efficient as a tonic 
 by combining it with Virginia snake root, cloves and 
 Capsicum. I frequently mix equal parts of Peruvian 
 bark and spice bitters, and have always found it a 
 good preparation. 
 
 A tea made of equal parts of Peruvian bark and 
 liquorice root is a good remedy for colic in infants, 
 more especially where the spells of colic are observed 
 to come on periodically. 
 
 The title Jesuit's Bark has been applied to the 
 Peruvian bark, from the circumstance of the Jesuits 
 having had the chief control of the sale of the article 
 during its first introduction into use in Europe about 
 the year 1640. It is not known whether they really 
 introduced it into Europe, but if they did, it was about 
 the only good thing they ever did. 
 
 There are three species of Peruvian bark imported 
 to this country, the pale, yellow and red. These are 
 now officially known as Cinchona Officinalis (pale), 
 Cinchona Calisaya (yellow), Cinchona Succurubra (red). 
 At one time the red bark was esteemed the most 
 valuable. This induced druggists to convert other 
 species into red bark by adulterations which so ma- 
 terially lessened the efficacy of the bark that at one 
 period the red bark was little used. Each species of 
 bark above mentioned is efficient as a tonic, provided 
 it be free from adulterations. 
 
 Peruvian bark is most active when taken in sub- 
 stance, mixed with some liquid, as a tea of spice 
 bitters, Virginia snake root, a solution of licquorice,
 
 160 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 or simply with water. The unpleasant taste of the 
 bark will scarcely be perceived when it is taken in a 
 solution of liquorice. 
 
 When the bark cannot be taken in substance its 
 virtues may be extracted by boiling water, and taken 
 in decoction. A small portion of orange peel, 
 liquorice root, or spice, added, will improve the flavor 
 of the tea ; and where there is acidity of the stomach 
 a portion of the sup. carbonate of soda should be 
 added. 
 
 Peruvian bark is often taken in wine, and with the 
 most happy effects in many instances, as in recovery 
 from disease where the strength of the patient has 
 been much exhausted. 
 
 Dose : The quantity of bark taken at a time varies 
 from that of a teaspoonsul to an ounce. Whilst some 
 recommend it in small doses, repeated every hour or 
 two, others direct an ounce to be taken at once. More 
 especially is it recommended to be taken in large 
 doses, in cases of intermitting fever where by a proper 
 course of treatment the system is placed in a con- 
 dition that warrants the free use of tonics. 
 
 When Peruvian bark or quinine is used, all astrin- 
 gents medicine, viz: bayberry, sumac, No. 3, pills, 
 etc., must be laid aside at the time, as the tannin and 
 gallic acid in the astringents form an insoluble com- 
 pound with the active principles of the bark, render- 
 ing it inert. Astringents may be used in the forenoon 
 and barks in the afternoon, or vice versa. 
 
 Three important indications in the treatment of
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 161 
 
 disease are: ist. To restore the natural warmth of 
 the system. 2nd. To cleanse the stomach and bowels 
 of "canker," or morbid secretions ; and 3rd. To re- 
 store digestion. The first requires the use of pure 
 stimulants, and sometimes the application of the 
 vapor bath; the second, the use of astringents and 
 detergents ; and the third, tonics. Hence the general 
 indications for the use of tonics is when the secretions 
 are restored and the stomach and bowels cleansed of 
 "canker." 
 
 The majority of the Herbalists and Physio-Medical 
 physicians condemn Quinia or Peruvian bark as bad 
 results follow the use of it in so many cases, and I 
 have yet to learn of a single case in which it was given 
 by the "regulars" where it did not cause a fearful 
 headache and ruin the liver. The reason for this is 
 not in the remedy, but in the way that it was made use 
 of. By following the foregoing very plain instruc- 
 tions for its use, the physician can make no mistake 
 and he will be sure to get the good results from its 
 use that he is looking for. The dose of Quinine is 
 from one to ten grains. 
 
 Quinine is the active principle of Peruvian bark, 
 and may be used as a substitute for the bark. Quinine 
 has sometimes been discovered to be adulterated with 
 starch, stearin, sulphate of lime and sugar. There 
 are means, however, of detecting adulterations of 
 quinine, for a knowledge of which the reader is re- 
 ferred to the U. S. Dispensatory. 
 
 Quinine is usually taken in the form of pills. Eight 
 
 11
 
 162 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 quinine pills of the usual size are supposed to be 
 equivalent to an ounce of Peruvian bark. A pill to 
 contain a grain of quinine (equal to a drachm of bark) 
 must be considered larger than pills are generally 
 made. 
 
 Quinine is rendered more active by the addition of 
 Capsicum, and in using quinine all the rules should be 
 followed that are laid down in the use of Peruvian 
 bark. 
 
 As a cure for intermittent fever, when the condition 
 of the system is favorable for the exhibition of tonics, 
 there is probably no remedy of equal value with 
 quinine. This medicine, however, is so easily taken 
 that it may be used too indiscriminately. It may be 
 continued until large quantities have been taken, the 
 system at the same time not being in a condition to 
 be benefited by its use. It is for this very reason that 
 so many bad results follow its use. Almost daily 
 patients come to me and warn me not to give them 
 quinine as they could not stand it. They tell me it 
 ruins their liver, gives them headache, etc., and this 
 shows the improper use that is made of this remedy. 
 
 AMERICAN CENTAURY. 'Sabbatia Angularis. 
 (Dr. Comfort.) 
 
 CENTUARY. Chironia Angularis. 
 
 Of the Centuary we have the above species, which 
 is not inferior to the European. It is a beautiful 
 annual plant, growing abundantly in the Middle and 
 Southern States, and every part of it is medicinal,
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 163 
 
 though the flowers possess the most efficacy. It is a 
 pure bitter, with some little aromatic flavor, neither 
 unpleasant to the taste nor offensive to the stomach ; 
 and is resorted to by every description of prac- 
 titioners, regular and irregular, in our intermittent 
 and remittent fevers. Like some other articles, it has 
 an advantage over the Peruvian bark, of being sus- 
 septible of employment in every stage of these 
 diseases. The usual mode of prescribing it is by 
 strong infusion, which is directed to be taken without 
 much limitation. 
 
 MYRRH. 'Balsamodendron Myrrha* 
 This is one of the most valuable remedies in the 
 whole materia medica. It is usually spoken of as gum 
 myrrh, although it contains little gum, chiefly resin. 
 In whatever form it is used myrrh will be found to be 
 a powerful antiseptic ; having thousands of years ago 
 been used for preservative purposes, and also as a 
 medicine. It is usually administered as a tincture in 
 water or syrup, although the powder may be given to 
 great advantage. Two grains of the powdered myrrh 
 may be considered an av.erage dose, best given com- 
 bined with other agents. It will be found advant- 
 ageous to rub the myrrh thoroughly with sugar be- 
 fore making an infusion. A small teaspoonful each of 
 myrrh and golden-seal to a pint of boiling water and 
 a little ginger added will be found useful to weak 
 stomachs where the food is prone to ferment. Dose, a 
 teaspoonful every two hours. For deficient menstru- 
 ation it has long been employed.
 
 164 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Outwardly applied, it is invaluable for foul ulcers, 
 bed-sores and all forms of gangrene ; best mixed with 
 powdered charcoal and sprinkled over poultices of 
 brewer's yeast, or the simple powdered myrrh with a 
 little golden-seal may be sprinkled into indolent sores. 
 Myrrh and golden-seal, with a little borax, may be 
 blown into the throat of persons suffering from diph- 
 theria; it will destroy the putrescence of the mem- 
 brane and prevent blood poisoning. Powdered myrrh 
 is a superior tooth-powder, especially where the gums 
 are tender and bleeding. Tincture of myrrh may be 
 diluted with glycerine and water for external use, or 
 with simple water (a few drops to a glassful) for in- 
 ternal use. 
 
 Compound Tincture of Myrrh, commonly known as 
 No. 6, is a powerful stimulant and antiseptic. It is a 
 tincture of myrrh, two ounces, and capsicum, half an 
 ounce, in a quart of alcohol. It is unequaled as an 
 antiseptic for foul ulcers and is superior, when diluted, 
 to every other antiseptic in operative surgery. In- 
 ternally, a few drops in a glass of water will prove a 
 powerful stimulant in shock/collapse, prostration and 
 profound congestion. I prefer the Dr. Thomson No. 
 6 to the above compound, especially for internal use. 
 The alcoholic compound is best for external use. 
 
 There is great difference in the quality of myrrh. 
 That which comes from Turkey is of a brighter color, 
 and more free from impurities than the East India 
 myrrh. When of good quality it is reddish-yellow, 
 and translucent; of a strong peculiar and somewhat
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 165 
 
 fragrant odor, and a bitter aromatic taste. It is 
 brittle and pulverizable, presenting, when broken, a 
 shining surface, which in the larger masses is very 
 irregular. 
 
 Myrrh is actively tonic, somewhat stimulant, and 
 possesses in a high degree antiseptic properties. It 
 constitutes the most essential ingredient in Dr. Thom- 
 son's No. 6, or rheumatic drops one of the most 
 valuable preparations, as a general family medicine, 
 ever introduced into use. 
 
 Myrrh has been employed with much benefit in 
 chronic diarrhoea, and diseases of the lungs or chest, 
 attended with a free expectoration and general de- 
 bility. Its use is also well adapted to female com- 
 plaints, when unattended by fever. 
 
 The efficacy of Thomson's No. 6, and third prepara- 
 tion of Lobelia, in preventing mortification in disease 
 of a malignant or putrid tendency, may be partly at 
 least attributed to the myrrh contained in these 
 preparations. 
 
 Applied to fresh wounds, the tincture of myrrh ex- 
 cites healing action and lessons the liability to the 
 occurrence of unhealthy inflammation. It is also a 
 useful application in old sores, ulcerated sore mouth 
 and ulcerated sore throat, running from the ears, 
 aphthous sore mouth, spongy gums, sore nipples, etc. 
 The tincture of myrrh is also employed to promote 
 the exfoliation of bones. In sinuous ulcers, and cavi- 
 ties that continue to discharge matter in consequence 
 of a debilitated state of the vessels of the part, tincture 
 
 11*
 
 166 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 of myrrh injected into the cavity, repeated daily, will 
 seldom fail of establishing the inflammatory action 
 necessary to the production of granulations and a 
 union of the sides of the cavity. Where the parts are 
 too sensitive to admit the tincture to be used undi- 
 luted, it may be combined with water or bayberry tea. 
 In cases of scrofulous ulcers, white swellings, hip 
 disease, and wherever there is a free discharge of 
 matter from a part, and the system is in a relaxed 
 condition, the internal use of myrrh will prove especi- 
 ally beneficial. 
 
 After a vapor bath, and the patient is rubbed dry, 
 washing the surface with tincture of myrrh affords a 
 means of protection against cold, and strengthens and 
 improves the condition of the skin. This practice is 
 especially useful in cases where the skin is relaxed, 
 and the patient feeble, as in chronic bronchitis, con- 
 sumption, chronic pleurisy, asthma, dropsy, chronic 
 rheumatism, chronic diarhoea, marasmus, and in 
 every other form of disease attended by general de- 
 bility. 
 
 In order to make the tincture from the myrrh so 
 that you will know that it is pure, take three ounces 
 of the powdered myrrh, put them in a quart of alcohol, 
 or fourth proof brandy, and put this into a stone jug 
 and boil half an hour in a kettle of water, or let it 
 macerate several days in a warm place. 
 
 The preparation of the No. 6 has already been ex- 
 plained. It is an excellent tonic and particularly use- 
 ful, taken immediately after meals, to remove or
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 167 
 
 prevent flatulency, and relieve oppression of the 
 stomach. Ordinary colic may be speedily cured by 
 taking freely of the No. 6. It is an effectual cure for 
 ordinary colds, provided the patient avoids exposure, 
 and improper articles of diet. Sickness at the 
 stomach, and even severe spells of sick headache will 
 be relieved and frequently cured by a free use of No. 
 6, together with warm applications to the feet to favor 
 perspiration. It also constitutes a valuable remedy 
 for bowel complaints in general. Taken after meals, 
 it will prove a preventive against the summer com- 
 plaint. 
 
 In deeply seated colds attended by a free expectora- 
 tion of a thick yellowish secretion, the use of No. 6 
 will be found beneficial. Truly there is scarcely an 
 ailment in which this preparation may not be used 
 with benefit, except when the secretions are sus- 
 pended, as in violent fever attended by a dry tongue. 
 In the latter stages of disease, the No. 6 may be em- 
 ployed as a restorative, and when there is a tendency 
 to putrefaction, its use is almost indispensable to the 
 recovery of the patient. 
 
 As an external application No. 6 has been found 
 useful in rheumatism, neuralgia, nightsweats, dropsy, 
 consumption, and in all cases when the skin is in a 
 relaxed condition. It may also be employed to great 
 advantage in sprains, bruises, fresh cuts, indolent 
 ulcers, gangrene, and as a preventive to mortification 
 both internally and externally.
 
 168 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 CACTUS. Cereus Grandifiorus. 
 NIGHT-BLOOMING CEREUS. 
 (Cactus Grandiflorus.) (Cactus Mexicanus) 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 The flowers and stems applied locally are non- 
 irritants. Internally it accelerates the pulse, increases 
 its fulness, elevates arterial tension and is truly a 
 stimulating cardiac tonic. It is also stimulating to 
 the spinal nerves and motor centers. It is toning to 
 the heart in simple dilation and muscular atony from 
 deficient innervation and nutrition without organic 
 lesions. It is sustaining in valvular disease with 
 dilatation. In cardiac and general muscular relaxation 
 with impaired nerve energy cactus is toning and 
 strengthening to both heart and nerves. The irritable 
 alcoholic and tobacco heart is sustained by its use and 
 perhaps mainly by its stimulating the spinal motor 
 centers and by its continuous stimulation of the 
 heart's muscular action and thereby increasing its 
 nutrition and development. Chewing tobacco may 
 not produce organic disease of the heart, but it affects 
 the gastric membrane and nerves; and in smoking, 
 carbonic oxide, ammonia and nicotine are inhaled. 
 The ammonia acts on the blood and makes it alkaline 
 and more fluid and hence impairs its nutritive proper- 
 ties. Tobacco leaves the stomach dyspepsied and de- 
 bilitated. The heart becomes weak, irregular and 
 intermitting. Palpitation, pain, faintness and vertigo 
 follow. Tissue is degraded, vision is more or less
 
 169 
 
 impaired, the hands become tremulous and there is a 
 dragging feeling or pain in the region of the heart 
 about the size of a silver dollar. 
 
 Cereus may be used continuously without exciting 
 any gastric irritation. Small doses of two to five 
 drops repeated every fifteen to thirty minutes as long 
 as needed will usually give the best results, yet a tea- 
 spoonful may be given if required without any incon- 
 venience or adverse symptoms. Its action is favor- 
 able. It regulates the pulse, promotes diastole and 
 diminishes peripheral resistance. In organic cardiac 
 diseases, excluding arythenia, when prompt action is 
 desired and when other cardiac remedies fail, Cereus 
 is a most effective agent. 
 
 It is equally useful in functional troubles, regardless 
 of cause, particularly of nervous origin. 
 
 It may be taken before, during or after meals, but 
 its influence is best on an empty stomach. 
 
 Cereus is quite efficient in mitral and aortic in- 
 sufficiency, in mitral stenosis and exophthalmic 
 goitre, rheumatism, chorea and mild anaemia, (i) 
 
 Cactina is the active proximate principle of Cereus 
 Grandiflora Mexicana. As a heart tonic, Cactina has 
 proven to be of immense value in the treatment of 
 those diseases in which the action of the heart and the 
 circulation are of vital importance. It has no cumu- 
 lative action and is agreeable to the stomach in all 
 conditions. It is indicated in abnormal heart action, 
 such as tachycardia, palpitation, irregularity, feeble- 
 ness ; for the cardiac weakness and nervousness
 
 170 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 caused by the excessive use of tobacco, tea, coffee or 
 alcohol; to support the heart in the treatment of 
 febrile and chronic diseases, and to sustain foetal 
 circulation during gestation. It is frequently em- 
 ployed advantageously to prevent cardiac depression 
 when administering anti-pyretics, anodynes and hyp- 
 notics. 
 
 Cactina, or any of the preparations of Cereus, is 
 best given with Capsicum as the two together form 
 the best treatment in any heart trouble that is possible 
 to get. The genuine Cactina pellet is made by the 
 Sultan Drug Co., St. Louis, Mo., U. S. A. 
 GUARANA. Paulinia Sorbtiis. 
 (Dr. Lyle.) 
 
 This is a woody climber, bearing a fruit about the 
 size of a large grape and is nearly filled with one or 
 more nuts about the size of hazel nuts. In the Ama- 
 zon valley it grows wild, but in the Madeira district 
 it is cultivated and presents somewhat the appearance 
 of a vineyard. They ripen in December and open. 
 The nuts are then gathered, roasted, shelled, ground 
 and enough water added to allow it kneaded into 
 doughy rolls about a foot long in which state it 
 conies into market. (1) 
 
 Guaranin is the alkaloid. A stimulating tonic ner- 
 vine for sick headache, where the stomach is not 
 much involved. 
 
 Sorbilin is a preparation of the alkaloid guaranin 
 chemically combined in certain proportions with 
 pure bicarbonate of soda. This preparation is sold
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 171 
 
 by the Yale Chemical Co., 26 West 22nd Street, New 
 York City, U. S. A. 
 
 "This is an admirable preparation, an innocent re- 
 liever of pain. In facial, intestinal and cranial neu- 
 ralgia it is a superior relief. Also in gastralgia, en- 
 teralgia and ovarian and uterine pains. It assists 
 much in sciatica, rheumatism and insomnia. It sus- 
 tains the heart and in angina gives quick relief. It 
 soothes and tones the sympathetic and sensory 
 nerves, and in sick-headache if the stomach is not 
 too much at fault there is nothing better. In such 
 cases it may be combined with a drop or so of Lo- 
 belia." 
 
 The Physio-Medicalist need not have any fear to 
 use this preparation as it is both Physio-Medical and 
 non-poisonous. There are many points in favor of 
 this remedy and it is the best remedy that can be 
 given in all cases of pain. It is claimed that : 
 
 1. Sorbilin gives complete relief in a remarkably 
 short time. 
 
 2. It does not depress the heart below normal, even 
 when used as an anti-pyretic. It is especially de- 
 sirable in heart lesions. 
 
 3. It leaves no undesirable after effects, so much to 
 be dreaded in the use of opiates or cocaine. 
 
 4. It has a wide range of application. 
 
 5. It is particularly applicable to the following: 
 Hemicrani, Myalgia, Neuralgia (facial, intercostal 
 and acute), Gastralgia, Hysteralgia, Sciatica, Acute
 
 172 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Rheumatism, Sphilitic, Bone-pains, LaGrippe, Py- 
 rexia, and Neurosis, due to irregularities of menstrua- 
 tion, Typhoid and other fevers. 
 
 6. The consequent sensation of exhilaration is not 
 more than would naturally come from the sudden re- 
 lease from pain. 
 
 7. It is an appropriate, and even more certain, yet 
 harmless, remedy to substitute for Morphia or the 
 Coal-tar analgesics, in every case where these drugs 
 seemed to be indicated. 
 
 8. A valuable agent in retarding putrefaction in 
 Typhoid Fever, and especially desirable. 
 
 9. In cases accompanied by pain, where a particular 
 treatment is wanted, it may be readily combined in 
 connection with such treatment. 
 
 THERAPEUSIS. 
 
 Sorbilin is a chemical compound, having as its base 
 the active principles of Paullinia Sorbilis. 
 
 Physical Properties. It occurs as a very fine, white, 
 odorless, crystalline powder, either as such or in 
 tabules. 
 
 Solubility, It is soluble in cold or hot water, or any 
 alcoholic tincture, and is miscible in all syrup mix- 
 tures of neutral reaction, with Ammonia Muriate or 
 Spirits Mindereri. 
 
 Therapeutic Applications. Its most important 
 property is, that it is not a cardiac depressant. It may 
 be used without fear of dangerous cyanosis or the 
 formation of a habit, yet no drug is more certain in 
 its effects. It is consequently a safe anti-pyretic or
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 173 
 
 analgesic in cases complicated with heart failure. It 
 possesses no particular soporific further than its 
 arterial sedative effects. 
 
 I have used this remedy in many cases, and more 
 especially in my practice of treating all the different 
 kinds of female cases and it has given me the best of 
 satisfaction. In Dysmenorrhoea it is especially valu- 
 able as the suffering in some of these cases is intense 
 and water applications do not seem to relieve them 
 in many cases. 
 
 For the Neuralgic pain in Diabetes I have also 
 found it of value and it is especially valuable to stop 
 the pain in cases of cancer of the womb, ovaries, or 
 other internal parts. 
 
 PLEURISY ROOT. Asclepsis Tuberosa. 
 
 This is frequently known as butterfly weed, or 
 white root, and is that species of milk-weed of a 
 shrubbery growth bearing orange-colored flowers. It 
 is a valuable medicinal agent, best administered as an 
 infusion of half an ounce to a pint of hot water ; dose, 
 one-fourth of a teacupful. It is the most effective of 
 safe sweating agents, and in feverishness may be used 
 abundantly until a free perspiration is secured. In 
 high fevers, where quick action is desired, the ordi- 
 nary dose may be given every half hour or even 
 oftener, or if there is great restlessness, lady slipper 
 may be added. In feverishness from recent colds, a 
 little ginger should be combined with it. For colic in
 
 174 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 children pleurisy root and wild yam make an effective 
 tea with a little ginger. For peritonitis, pleurisy root, 
 combined with a small portion of lobelia, will be found 
 invaluable. 
 
 I would hardly know how to get along in my prac- 
 tice without this most valuable remedy and I have 
 never lost a single case of pleurisy or pneumonia with 
 the use of this remedy in combination with Boneset 
 In this class of fevers it is my opinion that there is 
 nothing to equal it in any way. Dose of the tincture 
 is from 15 to 30 drops. It should always be given in 
 hot water. 
 
 OLIVE OIL. Oleum Olivae- 
 
 Olive Oil is such a wonderful thing for those who 
 are looking for health. No home should be without 
 it. Nearly everyone can be benefited by taking two 
 or three teaspoonfuls a day. 
 
 The Physio-Medical practitioner cannot practice 
 successfully without this because he needs it every 
 day for such patients as will not eat food that con- 
 tains the necessary oil or fat and certainly the 
 majority of his patients are such as are weak, con- 
 sumptive, no strength, run-down physically, etc., and 
 each one of these needs a fat or oil. Cod Liver Oil is 
 no good ; it is not assimilated. Products from animals arc 
 not to be recommended. Olive Oil is the only true medi- 
 cine and builder. It is natural, and is the only oil or 
 fat, outside of that which is contained in nuts and 
 cream, that is of any value. When I say that animal
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 175 
 
 products are not to be recommended, I do not mean 
 to infer that such products as eggs, milk, cream, 
 butter, etc., are of no value, for they are and I have 
 found that butter and cream are only second to the 
 pure olive oil. What I condemn are such products as 
 bottled beaf tea, ox blood, etc. These are of no value 
 and are very often very bad for the system. 
 
 For uterine troubles a douche of warm water and 
 olive oil is very beneficial, one or two tablespoonfuls 
 to a quart of water. 
 
 If you have an earache, drop a few drops of warm 
 olive oil in the ear use a dropper and massage the 
 parts right well for a few minutes. If you are troubled 
 with catarrh and the nose gets sore, drop some warm 
 olive oil in the nostrils. 
 
 If the skin is not as soft and as lovely as it should 
 or could be, rub some olive oil into it after each bath 
 and massage the parts thoroughly. 
 
 If the bowels are sore, or if an enema is required, 
 take a quart of warm water and add a tablespoonful 
 of olive oil and it will move the bowels easily and is 
 healing.. In preparing vegetables as a salad, always 
 add a little olive oil. Such vegetables as lettuce, to- 
 matoes, onions, cucumbers, celery, cabbage, as- 
 paragus, cooked vegetables, such as beans, peas, 
 beets, carrots, etc., should be prepared with some 
 olive oil and instead of using vinegar, use lemon juice. 
 Vinegar is not healthy, while the juice of lemons is 
 one of the healthiest things that can be used and 
 the flavor is by far superior to that of vinegar. The
 
 176 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 physician should not only give medicine to his patients 
 but instruct them how to live as well. Vinegar and 
 black pepper are two things that I try and get my 
 patients away from as is also the poison, hogs' lard. 
 
 The body must have a certain amount of oil 
 each day and there is nothing better than to get the 
 patients to use olive oil, butter, cream and nuts. Few 
 people take the necessary amount of fats, and if they 
 do, it is usually in the form of lard, something that is 
 really a poison and is identical with scrofula. If the 
 necessary amount of fat is not taken, the body be- 
 comes stiff and ages much too fast. Stay young by 
 following nature's course. 
 
 The oil is best taken, and will give the best service, 
 just before the meal and some take it during the meal. 
 In many diseases it acts as a medicine, especially in 
 rheumatism, diabetes, intestinal and lung troubles 
 and many others. 
 
 Appendicitis is purely an inflammation of the 
 bowels. If this oil were taken regularly and the 
 bowels kept in a good condition, there would be no 
 need to fear this trouble. 
 
 Pregnant women should take at least a table- 
 spoonful of the oil each day, as it will give them 
 strength and help to bring forth a healthy child, es- 
 pecially is that necessary if the coming mother follows 
 natural laws and does not eat meat. By doing this, 
 she brings forth a healthy child and also prevents a 
 painful delivery. Meat and constipation are the two 
 main causes of painful labor.
 
 SYSTEM OF MBDICINE 177 
 
 With many people it is a hard matter to take any 
 kind of oil. Such should take a tablespoonful of the 
 oil and the juice of an orange and they will find it very 
 easy to take it. There is an olive oil prepared by a 
 French firm and imported that is not only tasteless 
 but odorless as well. I use this in my practice. 
 
 In stiff joints, there is nothing in the world that will 
 do as much good as the internal use of olive oil and 
 daily rubs with same. It will work wonders in most 
 cases. 
 
 It has been successfully used in the treatment of 
 gall stones and there are many cases on record that 
 it has cured of this painful trouble. 
 
 It is a superior agent to be used in all forms of 
 poisoning from acids, and comes near to being an 
 antidote to all forms of poisoning. 
 
 Olive oil is one of the most important things in the 
 treatment of nearly all diseases. In fact, we know 
 that food is necessary in all cases. Olive oil is a food 
 and one of the best and it is therefore indicated in all 
 cases in which it is necessary to build up the system 
 with the food that is the easiest to digest and which 
 yields the greatest amount of nutrition. 
 Allentown, Pa., 1905.
 
 ANNOUNCEMENT 
 
 The 
 Greatest 
 Discovery 
 of the Age.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 181 
 
 THE PHYSIO-MEDICAL 
 
 OR 
 
 XttomQonian SyBtem 
 
 After much experience, a thorough investigation 
 and examination of all the principle systems of 
 medical practice, Prof. Curtis, a graduate of litera- 
 ture, and of a regular allopathic medical college, an 
 able lecturer, and founder of the first Physio-Medical 
 College in the world, said : 
 
 There is a true science and practice called the 
 ''Physio-Medical," the character of which is indicated 
 by its title. Its leaders are not men, but the im- 
 mutable laws of Nature. 
 
 It is not the gift or invention of any man nor com- 
 pany, nor succession of men. It is the eternal truth 
 and good, science and art of God and His inestimable 
 and unequalled gift to all who will thankfully receive 
 and apply it properly. 
 
 Different individuals in all ages and countries have 
 discovered and promulgated more or less of its 
 principles, and means and modes of practice, for 
 which we should render to each due honor and grati- 
 tude. And since, among them all, I know of one who 
 has given us so much that is true and good, connected 
 with so little that is false and bad, as Dr. Samuel 
 
 12a
 
 182 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 Thomson, so I know of no one who is entitled to 
 higher honor or deeper and more lasting gratitude 
 from all the sons and daughters of affliction than he, 
 of Alsted, New Hampshire, who presented to the 
 world his chief medical discoveries and inventions in 
 the ninth year of the last century. 
 
 Other men may more clearly develop these God- 
 given principles, remove from them errors and crudi- 
 ties that still hang about them, discover and devise 
 better ways and means of putting them in force. But, 
 I repeat, the doctrines themselves, the general de- 
 ductions from them, and the character of the means 
 and processes of medication which constitute the 
 Physio-Medical science and practice, are the im- 
 mutable truths and art devised by the unchangeable 
 God for the benefit of the unchangeable constitution 
 of man, and can never "progress" nor be supplanted 
 while man shall inhabit this earth, and disease con- 
 tinue to vex him. 
 
 This science and practice is the system of principles 
 properly called physiological, or those that govern 
 the formation and reservation of the organized body. 
 
 (1) Its doctrines are that the human body is formed 
 and controlled, preserved and defended, and, when 
 injured, restored by the action of an invisible agent 
 called the vital force; that, when all its parts are in 
 such condition that this force can act freely and fully 
 through them this body is said to be in health. 
 
 (2) The inability of any organ to perform its 
 healthy function denotes disease. 
 
 Hence, anything which may in any way interrupt 
 this full, free and universal action through the body 
 may be a cause of disease. 
 
 (3) When, by ignorance, inadvertency, or unavoid- 
 able exposure, the conditions called disease have oc- 
 curred it teaches the duty of aiding the vital force in
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 183 
 
 its exciting, irritating and inflammatory efforts to re- 
 move the obstacles to healthy action, by means and 
 processes that do not further damage it, but tend 
 directly to restore it, and to heal the breach, if any. 
 
 (4) It uses those articles and those only, which, in 
 their nature, harmonize with the organic tissue and 
 the vital force ; and, in the measure and mode of ap- 
 plication required in any given case directly aid that 
 force in restoring its equilibrium ; by judiciously re- 
 moving or helping it to remove all the obstacles to its 
 free and universal action. 
 
 (5) It regards as poison anything and everything 
 that is certainly known, in authorized medicinal doses 
 or degrees, to have directly destroyed human life, or 
 is, in its nature, calculated to deprive the organs of 
 the power to respond to the action of the vital force 
 in the production of irritation and fever, as antimony, 
 arsenic, mercury, belladonna, cantharides, cicuta, 
 digitalis, opium, etc., etc., and rejects them in toto 
 from its remedial means. 
 
 (6) It adopts as remedial means and measures only 
 those whose inherent tendency, like that of food, ex- 
 ercise, warmth, electricity and the influence of 
 pleasant company, harmonizes with the organic and 
 conservative force of the system, and, like food and 
 water, may and should be given or applied in the 
 quantities and modes required, till the objects of their 
 use are fully accomplished ; till perfect health returns. 
 
 REMOVE OBSTACLES AND AID NATURE. 
 There are three ways to aid man in the accomplish- 
 ment of his objects or wishes. The first is to remove 
 the obstacles to his efforts, the second is to supply 
 him with means best adapted to enable him to effect 
 his purposes, and the third is to inspire him to exert 
 all his own power and means in the right direction. 
 So of every part, organ and tissue, of the man.
 
 184 THE THOMSON1AN 
 
 In all cases of disease, there are, in the diseased 
 parts, obstacles to the free and universal action of the 
 nerves and circulating vessels, which the vital force is 
 endeavoring to remove. The whole science of Physi- 
 ology consists in the knowledge of the character and 
 uses of the organs and powers of the system ; that of 
 Pathology so far as it is a science, in the knowledge of 
 its conditions and wants ; and the whole art of practice 
 of medicine lies in the knowledge of the modes and 
 the means of supplying these wants. In some cases 
 nature wants only one, in others two of the aids above 
 indicated ; in others all. In some cases, all can be 
 applied by one means ; in others more are required. 
 
 SOME REMEDIES AND THEIR RELIABILITY. 
 
 The Physio-Medical school commends the use of 
 heat and moisture, bland diffusive stimulants, inno- 
 cent astringents, of the character that may be taken 
 in perfect health, in all the ways and to the extent 
 ever required in disease, without seriously deranging 
 the physiological state. Thousands of means and 
 many processes are of this character, and may be 
 used almost indifferently; but some of the best have 
 been selected, as those that may be relied upon, since 
 with them alone disease is treated and cured with as 
 much directness and certainty as philosophical and 
 chemical experiments are performed. 
 
 Indeed, it can be easily proved that the best phil- 
 osophers and chemists fail more frequently in the 
 performance of their projected experiments, than do 
 the well instructed and faithful Physio-Medical prac- 
 titioners in the cure of disease. 
 
 The conditions of their experiments being right, 
 and the operators intelligent and skillful, both classes 
 of operations are sure to produce the expected re- 
 sults. But sometimes the instruments or agents of
 
 SYSTEM OP MEDICINE 185 
 
 both are defective, and then the results in neither 
 case can succeed. The chemist can do nothing if his 
 instruments are imperfect or his agents impure. So 
 the doctor can not cure a far gone case of consump- 
 tion with any medicine, nor any disease with spoiled 
 medicines. 
 
 AN ASTONISHING FACT. 
 
 It is wonderful, a most astounding fact, that such a 
 man as Samuel Thomson should have prescribed a 
 hundred different remedies for disease (many of which 
 had never before been used), and yet among them all 
 is not a single deadly poison, nor even a dangerous 
 article. 
 
 The only reason that can be given by reformers, 
 called Eclectics, Homeopathists, Chromo-Thermalists, 
 and some Physopathists, have never been able to 
 separate poisons from medicines, while Dr. Thomson 
 succeeded so completely, is that they adhere to the 
 "fever disease" doctrine, and he rejected it. 
 
 I most conscientiously declare that, no matter what 
 my disorder, I would rather be treated in strict ac- 
 cordance with the directions contained in Dr. Thom- 
 son's little "twenty-dollar" "Guide to Health," though 
 some of them are quite objectionable, than by a 
 council of one of the best practitioners from all the 
 sects of medicine, who reject the great Thomsonian 
 doctrine, and follow what is written in their books. 
 
 I do not deny that to him that is able to separate 
 the true and good from the false and mischievous, the 
 Eclectic, Homeopathic, Chromo-Thermal, and the 
 Psychopathic books contain much valuable matter 
 that is not in Thomson's work ; but they also contain 
 enough that is pernicious, to more than counter- 
 balance all that value, to him who can not make the 
 proper separations, but must take the doctrines and 
 the treatment as he finds them.
 
 186 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 AN OBJECTION ANSWERED. 
 
 The simplicity of the Physio-Medical practice has 
 been considered an objection to its universal applica- 
 tion and efficiency. It is rather a recommendation. 
 
 ist. The beauty and excellence of all science con- 
 sists in its ability to reduce confusion to order, to 
 extract philosophy from mystery, and to bring all the 
 operations of art within the comprehension of the 
 ordinary mind. 
 
 2d. The human body is supported and health sus- 
 tained by the beautiful operation of the digestion, 
 circulation and disposition of, a few organized sub- 
 stances, composed chiefly of carbon, oxygen, hydro- 
 gen, nitrogen, prosphorus, sulphur and lime. All the 
 motions of all the organs are produced by the simple 
 contraction and relaxation of their constituent fibers. 
 
 3d. Disease is a condition that prevents this full, 
 free and regular action. Of course, all that is neces- 
 sary to cure any case of it, is to remove obstacles to 
 this action, and excite the organs to their proper 
 motions. Whatever will invariably, promptly, power- 
 fully and permanently relax, contract and stimulate, 
 will remove all obstructions to vital action, and cure 
 all forms of disease. As stimulation is nothing more 
 than rapidly alternating relaxation and contraction, it 
 follows that the two motions in different ways and 
 degrees of rapidity, sometimes relaxing, sometimes 
 contracting, with greater or less velocity, are all that 
 is needed. 
 
 Now, if it can be proven that any one article will, 
 by different modes of application, produce all these 
 effects, it will follow that this article will cure all forms 
 of disease.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 187 
 
 NEW MODES WELCOMED, BUT GUESS WORK AND 
 FIRING AT RANDOM SHOULD CEASE. 
 
 We may discover new means of carrying them out, 
 and new modes of application, but the principles are 
 the laws of man's nature and they cannot progress. 
 Let these be adopted and consistently obeyed, and 
 no longer is there any trouble about the "secondary" 
 action of the remedies for disease; no longer is the 
 physician compelled to guess at the circumstances in 
 which his remedies may be converted into poisons, 
 nor poisons into breast-milk ; no longer to lift his club 
 and strike, nor raise his gun and fire at random, thus 
 multiplying diseases and increasing their mortality. 
 No longer must he grope without a clue, like Homer's 
 Cyclops around his cave. But emancipated from the 
 tyranny of the schools of physic, and guided by the 
 Physio-Medical principles, he sees at a glance, the 
 character and conditions of disease; knows for a 
 certainty the means and processes by which it may be 
 routed, and goes to work in a scientific manner, with 
 the same fixedness of principle and certainty of suc- 
 cess that he would bring to bear upon the practice of 
 any other art, derived from the principles of its ap- 
 propriate science. He cannot, indeed, expect to 
 prolong human life forever, nor to reconstruct the 
 organs of the body that may have been fatally 
 marred ; nor restore the functions of organs that are 
 totally deprived of the power to perform them ; but he 
 can learn how to restore that which is capable of 
 restoration, and he is blameworthy if he does any- 
 thing to hasten dissolution, or entail upon his patient 
 any chronic malady. 
 
 SOME VITAL POINTS TO REMEMBER. 
 Remember it is impossible to perform a surgical 
 operation of any magnitude without producing
 
 188 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 several injurious effects, each one of which argues 
 against operations as a means of cure. 
 
 1. The amount of vitality destroyed by the fear and 
 dread of passing through an operation with the opera- 
 tion combined often puts cases beyond hope that 
 could easily have been cured if the right treatment 
 had been given. 
 
 2. To cut into the deep tissues of the body makes 
 a severe wound in addition to the present existing 
 trouble. The amount of vitality required to heal such 
 a wound draws heavily on the vital force of the 
 patient already overtaxed. 
 
 3. The anaesthetic usually administered under such 
 circumstances still further reduces the vital force of 
 the patient. 
 
 4. The pain and sickness caused by the operation 
 has a similar effect. 
 
 Any one of these detrimental influences are often 
 sufficient to cause the death of a very weak patient. 
 So, if all together are allowed to have their full effect 
 and the result proves fatal, it should not be thought 
 strange. 
 
 CONSIDER FOR A MOMENT THE CONTRAST. 
 
 If, instead of fear, you substitute hope; if, instead 
 of pain, you give ease and comfort ; if, instead of be- 
 numbing and deadening the sensatory nerves with a 
 poison, you stimulate and strengthen with a real 
 medicine, the life of a patient is often saved when 
 otherwise that life would be lost. It is an appalling 
 fact that actual murder is often committed by per- 
 forming needless surgical operations, and giving 
 poisons as medicine. 
 
 Young people desiring to study medicine, should 
 seriously consider these essential features of this im-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 189 
 
 portant question, before deciding what school of 
 
 medicine to enter, or what system of practice to adopt. 
 
 FAILURE OF THE OLD SUCCESS OF THE NEW. 
 
 Why must we resort to new modes if we would be 
 successful? Why have the old modes failed? Simply 
 because the means employed were not adapted to ac- 
 complish the end desired. 
 
 For instance, in talking about a certain case, you 
 will sometimes hear a physician say: "I have tried 
 everything, but nothing seems to do any good." Now 
 the real remedy or remedies suitable in the case he 
 may be ignorant of, consequently, has not tried every- 
 thing. The number of things tried, even if millions, 
 amount to nothing, and may have done harm, if their 
 tendency was not in line with the object sought. A 
 physician should be able to judge of this. Here lies 
 the test of his skill. Right remedies have a tendency 
 to produce the result desired, but in a million wrong 
 things there is nothing to cure. 
 
 One of these authorities, from whom we have 
 quoted, says, "All Medicines Are Poisonous." Now 
 real medicines are not poisonous at all. Poisonous 
 drugs with which these authorities tried to cure were 
 not medicines in the true sense of the term. The very 
 nature of poison is to kill living matter. Medicine is 
 a substance which tends to heal or to increase the life 
 principle. 
 
 Poisonous drugs irritate and provoke the vital 
 centers to increased action, and in spite of the poison, 
 if a person possesses a good degree of vitality a cure 
 may be effected. But poison never adds any per- 
 manent energy to these vital centers, and in cases 
 where the force in the vital centers is very low, its 
 effect is to exhaust it entirely and thus cause the 
 death of the patient. 
 
 Real medicine is a substance that will increase the
 
 190 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 energy in the vital centers without injury. Taking 
 this view of the matter, which is the opinion of the 
 foremost authorities at the present time, and is sub- 
 stantiated by the past experience of eminent men in 
 the medical profession, it can be clearly seen why the 
 old school doctors have been so unsuccessful, and why 
 those who have practiced allopathic system have been 
 disappointed continually in producing the results 
 which they sought. 
 
 It can readily be seen, therefore, if we are to gain 
 our object, we must take the right course to do so, 
 using the means and measures necessary. There are 
 hundreds of non-poisonous remedies now in use 
 which are being substituted for poisonous drugs with 
 great benefit to all concerned. Many good external 
 remedies are also available without running the least 
 risk of poisoning the patient. 
 
 Every one, whether layman or physician, who holds 
 in his hands the life of a human being should seriously 
 consider what an awful thing it is to give a drug the 
 tendency of which is to kill, while trying to cure. To 
 say the very least, it is an exceedingly contradictory, 
 and unreasonable act. 
 
 Another confession made by some of these eminent 
 men is their ignorance of the real nature of physio- 
 logical disorders called disease, and the uncertainty 
 of the action of their remedies; hence, their con- 
 clusion, "medicine is not a science." It is not to be 
 wondered at, that they came to this conclusion, when 
 we take even a cursory glance at the unscientific 
 remedies and methods which they employed in their 
 efforts to cure. There has been a great deal of false 
 reasoning in regard to medicine. For instance, a 
 physician or patient complains that a certain cure or 
 remedy has lost its effect. Now, if we will reasonably 
 consider for only a moment, we can easily see that the
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 191 
 
 nature of a remedy in itself never changes. 
 
 This is a truth of the greatest importance and 
 should never be forgotten. On this point, Prof. Kirk 
 says: 
 
 CIRCUMSTANCES CHANGE BUT ESSENTIAL NATURES 
 NEVER. 
 
 A remedy is always the same in nature, and will 
 have the same effect whenever it is used in the same 
 circumstances. It is not wise, merely to say that the 
 remedy has lost its effect and throw it aside as useless. 
 True skill in such a case looks to the circumstances. 
 The remedy has done all it could reasonably be ex- 
 pected to do; but the circumstances have changed, 
 and another effect is now required. 
 
 When we take the common sense view of the mat- 
 ter we are left free to discover the real remedy. We 
 have seen the benefit of this many times over when 
 the actual remedy was found, applied, and the patient 
 cured. This remedy has often proved in many cases 
 exceedingly simple. For instance, we have put a 
 finger on the root of a nerve supplying the muscles 
 to the part in which the pain was felt and that pain 
 has instantly ceased. We have continued the treat- 
 ment for perhaps half an hour or so and the pain has 
 not yet returned. We were told that all our remedies 
 had failed. Every one of those remedies had had its 
 true effect and had never lost that, only it was another 
 remedy that was wanted. That remedy was simply 
 pressure gently applied to a troubled nerve. What 
 was wanted was only a little knowledge of the won- 
 drous system of the living frame of man. We re- 
 member a case of violent suffering in which the bed 
 of the sufferer was shaken with the sore agony. We 
 only placed a finger on one of the affected nerves and
 
 192 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 all shaking and pain were gone and did not return. 
 This was just one of these cases in which wise men 
 and still more wise women tell you that all your 
 remedies have lost their effect. They have lost noth- 
 ing of the kind. Only a very gentle pressure on the 
 right place, and that is no very costly remedy, and all 
 is plain sailing. It is a most precious gift that is given 
 to all who accept it, that of knowing how to pass from 
 a remedy when it is not the right one, and so be open 
 to find the true one. Let us understand the real 
 nature of all things with which we have to deal, and 
 let us work on that understanding. God himself will 
 teach us when we follow in the light He gives us. 
 
 Direct Medication in all Diseases now a Fact 
 
 THE MAGNETIC OXYGEN-OZONE PRODUCER. 
 
 After much research and experimenting we have 
 produced the greatest apparatus for the healing and 
 curing of the sick extant, Why do we say the 
 greatest? ist. Because we are able to give to the 
 sick and ailing : Pure, mild, natural magnetism, which 
 is Life itself. We could not live two minutes without 
 magnetism, which in reality is Vitality or Life. 2nd. 
 Because we are able to decompose water and ex- 
 tract its eight-ninths parts oxygen and by our newly 
 discovered force drive or send it into your circulation 
 which builds up any weakness by increasing red blood 
 corpuscles by the thousands, and 3rd. Because we can 
 give you Ozone, that component part of Oxygen 
 which is only obtained when Oxygen is set free from 
 the water. Ozone cannot be manufactured or in any 
 way be produced by chemistry, so beware of charla- 
 tans who put up a fluid called Ozone or by any other 
 name. Ozone is the only true Germ destroyer in ex-
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 193 
 
 istence. The Imperial Board of Health of Berlin, 
 which is composed of the greatest living Scientists, 
 reports that when Cholera Microbe germs were put 
 in an atmosphere of Ozone they lived only three (3) 
 minutes. Typhoid Germs lived but five (5) minutes. 
 Bacteria, causing Diphtheria, lived but three (3) 
 minutes and Consumptive Germs but five (5) minutes. 
 By our force we can decompose water into pure, ab- 
 solute atmospheric Ozone and send it directly to the 
 diseased part. 
 
 By this same force, we can transfuse any medicine 
 into any part of the body. Experiments already made 
 prove that in the case of Cancer and Tumors it works 
 absolute cures. How much better is it in treating 
 any organ of the body, to place medicine on an elec- 
 trode and transfuse it into an organ in its pure state 
 than to keep on swallowing bottle after bottle of 
 drugs and medicines and which does no good ? Medi- 
 cine swallowed into the stomach no more affects the 
 organ it is intended for than it does your feet. Why ? 
 Because by the time medicine is mixed with the Gas- 
 tric juice in the stomach, bile from the liver and pan- 
 creatic juice from pancreas and then the intestinal 
 juices, in which place medicine is taken into blood, it 
 is no more like it was when it entered the mouth than 
 day is like night. This is Logic and admitted by our 
 best Scientists. 
 
 We can, at one and the same time, give the patient 
 the three principals of Life, viz: Magnetism, Ozone 
 and Electricity. No other invention in the world 
 does this. Remember, the Magnetism is of the re- 
 fined and pure kind. Identical with Human Magne- 
 tism. 
 
 Under date of August i, 1906, the Allentown Daily 
 City Item had the following Editorial :
 
 194 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 WONDERFUL APPLIANCE. 
 
 FOR RELIEF AND CURE OF AFFLICTED AT CLYMER 
 MEDICAL INSTITUTE. 
 
 "The Doctor Clymer Medical Institute, at 205 
 "North Sixth Street, has been equipped with the finest 
 "electro-medical machine ever made, pronounced by 
 "all who have seen it as the greatest discovery of the 
 "age. It is called the magnetic oxygen-ozone pro- 
 ducer, invented and perfected by Drs. Clymer and 
 "Woodhouse. It is a large cabinet, 10 to 12 feet long, 
 "divided into three parts. By means of this appliance 
 "they are able to give to the sick and ailing pure, 
 "mild, natural magnetism, which is life itself. They 
 "are able to decompose water and extract its eight- 
 "ninths parts oxygen and by the newly-discovered 
 "force drive or send it into circulation, which builds 
 "up any weakness by increasing red blood corpuscles 
 "by the thousands. They can give ozone, that com- 
 ponent part of oxygen which is only obtained when 
 "oxygen is set free from the water. Ozone is the only 
 "true germ destroyer in existence. The Imperial Board 
 "of Health of Berlin, which is composed of the greatest 
 "living scientists, reports that when cholera microbe 
 "germs were put in an atmosphere of ozone they lived 
 "only three minutes, typhoid germs but five minutes. 
 "Bacteria, causing diphtherca, lived but three minutes 
 "and consumptive germs but five minutes. 
 
 "By this same force they can transfuse any medicine 
 "into any part of the body. Experiments already 
 "made prove that in the case of cancer and tumors it 
 "works absolute cures. It is much better in treating 
 "any organ of the body, to place medicine on an elec- 
 trode and transfuse it into an organ in its pure state 
 "than to keep on swallowing bottle after bottle of 
 "drugs and medicines.
 
 SYSTEM OF MEDICINE 195 
 
 "In a nutshell, they have invented and constructed 
 "three expensive apparatuses, viz: the magnetic 
 "oxygen-ozone producer, the galvanic-electric ap- 
 paratus, and the pure, natural, refined magnetic ap- 
 paratus and by an ingenious switchboard can com- 
 "bine the three currents into one and the patient re- 
 "ceives magnetism, oxygen and ozone at one and the 
 "same time, which are the three positive principles of 
 "life. 
 
 "By this treatment a great many people have been 
 "immeasurably relieved who suffer from cancer, 
 "tumors, nervous, chronic and the so-called incurable 
 ''diseases. A number of rheumatic patients have also 
 "been cured. 
 
 "Mr. Holliday, the inspector at the public building, 
 "whose rheumatism has been practically cured by this 
 "treatment, is helping Dr. Clymer to secure a patent 
 "on the appliance." 
 
 All Tincture and Fluid Extracts can be used with 
 this invention for the direct treatment of all diseases, 
 but we only recommend the pure Physio-Medical 
 medicines. 
 
 The Physio-Medical physician can treat his patients 
 either via the stomach or directly, so long as he uses 
 simple, non-poisonous remedies. In our institution 
 we use the new invention for direct treatment. The 
 Static, Galvanic, Faradic Interrupted, Sinisuoidal and 
 High-Frequency Currents in Electricity; X-Ray, Dr. 
 Minen Ultra Violet Ray Apparatus; Vibrating Mas- 
 sage Apparatus; Large Body Diasolenic (High Fre- 
 quency) Apparatus ; Electro-Vapor Electro-Hot Air 
 and Electric Light Bath Cabinets ; also Betz Famous 
 Dry Hot Air Apparatus in Combination. In a word, 
 we have the most thorough, although not the largest, 
 equipped institution in the world.
 
 196 THE THOMSONIAN 
 
 We are prepared to teach these systems to honest 
 men throughout the country. Only a few can be 
 taught at a time. For further information regarding 
 instructions or treatment, terms, etc., address, 
 
 THE THOMSONIAN INSTITUTE, 
 
 205 North Sixth Street, 
 
 Allentown, Pa. 
 
 Physicians who have lost faith in Stomach Medica- 
 tion can also communicate with us and we will be 
 pleased to give them any information in our power. 
 
 It is our intention to make a smaller apparatus so 
 that every physician can afford to use this system in 
 his office to treat all such cases as will not respond to 
 the regular treatment.
 
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 MTERUBRARY LOJ 
 
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 A 000 522 3854 
 
 WB960 
 
 1905 
 Clymer, Reuben Svinburfy0 
 
 Thcmsonian system of medicine 
 
 MEDICAL SCIENCES LIBRARY 
 
 UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, IRVINE 
 
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 3 1970 01662 2893