Chapter 187

grains, and sugar a scruple, made into five powders. _Dose_, half of one of these for a child from birth to one year, and a whole one from that age to three years.

658. Flour of Brimstone

is a mild aperient in doses of about a quarter of an ounce; it is best taken in milk. Flour of brimstone, which is also called sublimed sulphur, is generally put up in ounce packets at 7d.; its wholesale price is 4d. per pound.

[A SPARK MAY RAISE AN AWFUL BLAZE.]

659. Medicines.

Preparations of them.--The following directions are of the utmost value in connection with the DOMESTIC PHARMACOPOEIA, DISEASES, PRESCRIPTIONS, and POISONS.

_They will be found most important to emigrants, attendants upon the sick, and persons who reside out of the reach of medical aid, sailors, &c., &c. They contain instructions not only for the compounding of medicines, but most useful hints and cautions upon the application of leeches, blisters, poultices, &c._

660. Articles Required for Mixing Medicines.

_Three glass measures_, one to measure ounces, another to measure drachms, and a measure for minims, drops, or small doses.

A _pestle and mortar_, both of glass and Wedgwood-ware.

A glass funnel.

Glass stirring rods.

A _spatula_, or flexible knife, for spreading ointments, making pills, &c.

_A set of scales and weights_.

_A small slab of marble_, or porcelain, for making pills upon, mixing ointments, &c.

661. Medicine Weights and Measures.--_Weights_.

When you open your box containing the scales and weights, you will observe that there are several square pieces of brass, of different sizes and thicknesses, and stamped with a variety of characters. These are the weights, which may now be explained.

662. Troy Weight.

Medicines are made up by troy weight, although drugs are bought by avoirdupois weight. There are twelve ounces to the pound troy, which is marked lb.; the ounce, which contains eight drachms, is marked [*ounce]i. [looks like a z on top of a 3]; the drachm, containing three scruples, is marked [*drachm]i. [looks like a 3]; and the scruple of twenty grains is marked [*scruple]i. [looks like a backwards C with a horizontal cross-bar]. The grain weights are marked by little circles, thus:

------- |o o| Five | o | Grains |o o| -------

Each of the grain weights, in addition to the circles denoting their several weights, bears also the stamp of a crown. Care must be taken not to mistake this for one of the numerals. Besides these weights there are others marked [*scruple]ss, which means half a scruple; [*drachm]ss, meaning half a drachm; and [*ounce]ss, meaning half an ounce. When there are ounces, drachms, or scruples, the number of them is shown by Roman figures, thus:--i. ii. iii. iv. v., &c., and prescriptions are written in this style.

663. Measures.--Liquid

Liquid medicines are always measured by the following table:

60 minims......... \ / 1 fluid drachm. 8 fluid drachms | are | 1 fluid ounce. 20 fluid ounces... | contained | 1 pint. 8 pints.......... / in \ 1 gallon.

And the signs which distinguish each are as follows:--c. means a gallon; o a pint; _fl_ [*ounce], a fluid ounce; _fl_ [*drachm], a fluid drachm; and m, a minim, or drop. Formerly drops used to be ordered, but as the size of a drop must necessarily vary, minims are always directed to be employed now for any particular medicine, although for such medicines as oil of cloves, essence of ginger, &c., drops are frequently ordered.

664. Specific Measuring Vessels.

In order that Medicines may be measured Accurately, there are graduated glass vessels for measuring ounces, drachms, and minims.

665. Approximate Measures.

When proper measures are not at hand, it is necessary to adopt some other method of determining the quantities required, and therefore the following table has been drawn up for that purpose:

A tumbler ....... \ / 10 ounces. A teacup ........ | | 6 " A wineglass .... | usually | 2 " A tablespoon..... |- contains -| 4 drachms. A dessertspoon... | about | 2 " A teaspoon....... / \ 1 "

These quantities refer to ordinary sized spoons and vessels. Some cups hold half as much more, and some tablespoons contain six drachms. A medicine glass, which is graduated so as to show the number of spoonfuls it contains, should be kept in every family.

[TO-DAY, MAN LIVES IN PLEASURE, WEALTH AND PRIDE.]

666. Process of Making Medicines.

To Powder Substances.--Place the substance in the mortar, and strike it _gently_ with direct perpendicular blows of the pestle, until it separates into several pieces, then remove all but a small portion, which bruise gently at first, and rub the pestle round and round the mortar, observing that the circles described by the pestle should gradually decrease in diameter, and then increase again, because by this means every part of the powder is subjected to the process of pulverization. In powdering substances, making emulsions, and whenever using a mortar, the pestle should always travel _from the right to the left_.

667. Preparation and Assistance.

Some substances require to be prepared in a particular manner before they can be powdered, or to be assisted by adding some other body. For example, camphor powders more easily when a few drops of spirits of wine are added to it; mace, nutmegs, and such oily aromatic substances are better for the addition of a little white sugar; resins and gum-resins should be powdered in a cold place, and if they are intended to be dissolved, a little fine well-washed white sand mixed with them assists the process of powdering. Tough roots, like gentian and calumba, should be cut into thin slices; and fibrous roots, like ginger, cut slanting, otherwise the powder will be full of small fibres. Vegetable matter, such as peppermint, loosestrife, senna, &c., requires to be dried before it is powdered.

668. Care of the Mortar.

Be careful not to pound too hard in glass, porcelain, or Wedgwood-ware mortar; they are intended only for substances that pulverize easily, and for the purpose of mixing or incorporating medicines. Never use acids in a marble mortar, and be sure that you do not powder galls or any other astringent substances in any but a brass mortar.

669. Sifting.

Sifting is frequently required for powdered substances, and this is usually done by employing a fine sieve, or tying the powder up in a piece of muslin, and striking it against the left hand over a piece of paper.

670. Filtering.

Filtering is frequently required for the purpose of obtaining clear fluids, such as infusions, eye-washes, and other medicines; and it is, therefore, highly important to know how to perform this simple operation. First of all take a square piece of white blotting paper, and double it over so as to form an angular cup. Open out this filter paper very carefully, and having placed it in a funnel, moisten it with a little water. Then place the funnel in the neck of the bottle, and pour the liquid gently down the side of the paper, otherwise the fluid is apt to burst the paper.

671. Maceration.

Maceration is another process that is frequently required to be performed in making up medicines, and consists simply in immersing the medicines in _cold water_ or spirits for a certain time.

672. Digestion.

Digestion resembles maceration, except that the process is assisted by a gentle heat. The ingredients are placed in a flask, such as salad oil is sold in, which should be fitted with a plug of tow or wood, and have a piece of wire twisted round the neck. The flask is held by means of the wire over the flame of a spirit lamp, or else placed in some sand warmed in an old iron saucepan over the fire, care being taken not to place more of the flask below the sand than the portion occupied by the ingredients.

673. Infusion.

Infusion is one of the most frequent operations required in making up medicines, its object being to extract the aromatic and volatile principles of substances, that would be lost by decoction, or digestion; and to extract the soluble from the insoluble parts of bodies. Infusions may be made with cold water, in which case they are weaker, but more pleasant. The general method employed consists in slicing, bruising, or rasping the ingredients first, then placing them in a common jug (which should be as globular as possible), and pouring boiling water over them. Cover the jug with a cloth folded six or eight times, but if there be a lid to the jug so much the better. When the infusion has stood the time directed, hold a piece of _very coarse_ linen over the spout, and pour the liquid through it into another jug.

[TO-MORROW, POOR--OR LIFE ITSELF DENIED.]

674. Decoction.

Decoction, or boiling, is employed to extract the mucilaginous or gummy parts of substances, their bitter, astringent, or other qualities, and is nothing more than boiling the ingredients in a saucepan with the lid slightly raised. Be sure never to use an iron saucepan for astringent decoctions, such as oak-bark, galls, &c., as they will turn the saucepan black, and spoil the decoction. The enamelled saucepans are very useful for decoctions, but an excellent plan is to put the ingredients into a jar and boil the jar, thus preparing it by a water bath, as it is technically termed; or by using a common pipkin, which answers still better. No decoction should be allowed to boil for more than ten minutes.

675. Extracts.

Extracts are made by evaporating the liquors obtained by infusion or decoction, but these can be bought much cheaper and better of chemists and druggists, and so can tinctures, confections, cerates and plasters, and syrups: but as every one is not always in the neighbourhood of druggists, we shall give recipes for those most generally useful, and the method of making them.

676. Precautions to be observed in Giving Medicines.

677. Sex.

Medicines for females should not be so strong as those for males, therefore it is advisable to reduce the doses about one-third.

678. Temperament.

Persons of a phlegmatic temperament bear stimulants and purgatives better than those of a sanguine temperament, therefore the latter require smaller doses.

679. Habits.

Purgatives never act so well upon persons accustomed to take them as upon those who are not, therefore it is better to change the form of purgative from pill to potion, powder to draught, or aromatic to saline. Purgatives should never be given when there is an irritable state of the bowels.

680. Use of Alcohol.

Stimulants and narcotics never act so quickly upon persons accustomed to use spirits freely as upon those who live abstemiously.

681. Climate.

The action of medicines is modified by climate and seasons. In summer, certain medicines act more powerfully than in winter, and the same person cannot bear the dose in July that he could in December.

682. General Health.

Persons whose general health is good bear stronger doses than the debilitated and those who have suffered for a long time.

683. Idiosyncrasy.

By this is meant a peculiar temperament or disposition not common to people generally. For example, some persons cannot take calomel in the smallest dose without being salivated, or rhubarb without having convulsions; others cannot take squills, opium, senna, &c.; and this peculiarity is called the patient's idiosyncrasy, therefore it is wrong to _insist_ upon their taking these medicines.

684. Forms best suited for Administration.

Fluids act quicker than solids, and powders sooner than pills.

685. Best Method of Preventing the Nauseous Taste of Medicines.

Castor oil may be taken in milk, coffee, or spirit, such as brandy; but the best method of covering the nauseous flavour is to put a tablespoonful of strained orange juice in a wineglass, pour the castor oil into the centre of the juice, and then squeeze a few drops of lemon juice upon the top of the oil. The wineglass should first be dipped, rim downwards, into water, so that the interior may be wetted. Cod liver oil may be taken, like castor oil, in orange juice. Peppermint water neutralizes, to a great extent, the nauseous taste of Epsom salts; a strong solution of extract of liquorice, that of aloes; milk, that of cinchona bark; and cloves that of senna.

[TO-DAY, LAYS PLANS FOR MANY YEARS TO COME.]

686. An Excellent Way to Prevent the Taste of Medicines

is to have the medicine in a glass, as usual, and a tumbler of water by the side of it; take the medicine, and retain it in the mouth, which should be kept closed, and if drinking the water be then commenced, the taste of the medicine is washed away. Even the bitterness of quinine and aloes may be prevented by this means. If the nostrils are firmly compressed by the thumb and finger of the left hand, while taking a nauseous draught, and so retained till the mouth has been washed out with water, the disagreeable taste of the medicine will be almost imperceptible.

687. Giving Medicines to Persons.

Medicines should be given in such a manner that the effect of the first dose shall not have ceased when the next dose is given, therefore the intervals between the doses should be regulated accordingly.

688. Doses of Medicine for Different Ages.

It must be plain to every one that children do not require such powerful medicine as adults or old people, and therefore it is desirable to have some fixed method of determining or regulating the administration of doses of medicine. Now let it be supposed that the dose for a full-grown person is one drachm, then the following proportions will be suitable for the various ages given; keeping in view other circumstances, such as sex, temperament, habits, climate, state of _general health_, and idiosyncrasy.

Age. Proportion. Proportionate Dose.

7 weeks one-fifteenth or grains 4 7 months one-twelfth or grains 5 Under 2 years one-eighth or grains 7-1/2 " 3 " one-sixth or grains 10 " 4 " one-fourth or grains 15 " 7 " one-third or scruple 1 " 14 " one-half or drachm 1/2 " 20 " two-fifths or scruples 2 Above21 " the full dose or drachm 1 " 65 " The inverse gradation

689. Drugs, with their Properties and Doses.

The various drugs have been arranged according to their properties, and the doses of each have been given. Many, however, have been necessarily omitted from each class, because they cannot be employed except by a medical man. The _doses_ are meant for adults.

690. Classes of Drugs.

Medicines have been divided into four grand classes

1. General stimulants; 2. Local stimulants; 3. Chemical remedies; 4. Mechanical remedies.

691. General Stimulants.

General stimulants are subdivided into two classes, diffusible and permanent stimulants: the first comprising narcotics and antispasmodics, and the second tonics and astringents.

692. Narcotics.

Narcotics are medicines which stupefy and diminish the activity of the nervous system. Given in small doses, they generally act as stimulants, but an increased dose produces a sedative effect. Under this head are included alcohol, camphor, ether, the hop, and opium.

693. Alcohol.

Alcohol, or rectified spirit, is a very powerful stimulant, and is never used as a remedy without being diluted to the degree called proof spirit; and even then it is seldom used internally. It is _used externally_ in restraining bleeding, when there is not any vessel of importance wounded. It is also used as a lotion to burns, and is applied by dipping a piece of lint into the spirit, and laying it over the part. Freely diluted (one part to eighteen) with water, it forms a useful eye-wash in the last stage of ophthalmia.

_Used internally_, it acts as a very useful stimulant when diluted and taken moderately, increasing the general excitement, and giving energy to the muscular fibres; hence it becomes very useful in certain cases of debility, especially in habits disposed to create acidity; and in the low stage of typhus fevers.

_Dose_.--It is impossible to fix anything like a dose for this remedy, as much will depend upon the individual; but diluted with water and sweetened with sugar, from half an ounce to two ounces may be given three or four times a day. In cases of extreme debility, however, much will depend upon the disease.

_Caution_.--Remember that alcohol is an irritant _poison_, and that daily indulgence in its use originates dyspepsia, or indigestion, and many other serious complaints. Of all kinds of spirits the best as a tonic and stomachic is _brandy_.

[TO-MORROW, SINKS INTO THE SILENT TOMB.]

694. Camphor.

Camphor is not a very steady stimulant, as its effect is transitory; but in large doses it acts as a narcotic, abating pain and inducing sleep. In moderate doses it operates as a diaphoretic, diuretic, antispasmodic, increasing the heat of the body, allaying irritation and spasm.

It is _used externally_ as a liniment when dissolved in oil, alcohol, or acetic acid, being employed to allay rheumatic pains; and it is also useful as an embrocation in sprains, bruises, chilblains, and, when combined with opium, it has been advantageously employed in flatulent colic, and severe diarrhoea, being rubbed over the bowels.

_When reduced to a fine powder_, by the addition of a little spirit of wine and friction, it is very useful as a local stimulant to indolent ulcers, especially when they discharge a foul kind of matter; a pinch is taken between the finger and thumb, and sprinkled into the ulcer, which is then dressed as usual.

_When dissolved in oil of turpentine_, a few drops placed in a hollow tooth and covered with jeweller's wool, or scraped lint, give almost instant relief to toothache. _Used internally_, it is apt to excite nausea, and even vomiting, especially when given in the solid form.

_As a stimulant_ it is of great service in all low fevers, malignant measles, malignant sore throat, and confluent small-pox; and when combined with opium and bark, it is extremely useful in checking the progress of malignant ulcers, and gangrene.

_As a narcotic_ it is very useful, because it allays pain and irritation, without increasing the pulse very much.

_When powdered and sprinkled_ upon the surface of a blister, it prevents the cantharides acting in a peculiar and painful manner upon the bladder.

_Combined with senna_, it increases its purgative properties; and it is also used to correct the nausea produced by squills, and the irritating effects of drastic purgatives and mezereon.

_Dose_, from four grains to half a scruple, repeated at short intervals when used in small doses, and long intervals when employed in large doses.

_Doses of the various preparations_.--Camphor mixture, from half an ounce to three ounces; compound tincture of camphor (_paregoric elixir_), from fifteen minims to two drachms.

_Caution_.--When given in an overdose it acts as a poison, producing vomiting, giddiness, delirium, convulsions, and sometimes death. Opium is the best antidote for camphor, whether in excess or taken as a poison. _Mode of exhibition_.--It may be rubbed up with almond emulsion, or mucilage, or the yolk of eggs, and by this means suspended in water, or combined with chloroform as a mixture, in which form it is a valuable stimulant in cholera and other diseases. (_See_ Mixtures, 556-564).

695. Ether.

Ether is a diffusible stimulant, narcotic and antispasmodic.

696. Sulphuric Ether

Sulphuric Ether is used _externally_ both as a stimulant and a refrigerant. In the former case its evaporation is prevented by covering a rag moistened with it with oiled silk, in order to relieve headache; and in the latter case it is allowed to evaporate, and thus produce coldness: hence it is applied over scalded surfaces by means of rags dipped in it.

_As a local application_, it has been found to afford almost instant relief in earache, when combined with almond oil, and dropped into the ear.

It is used _internally_ as a stimulant and narcotic in low fevers and cases of great exhaustion.

_Dose_, from fifteen minims to half a drachm, repeated at short intervals, as its effects soon pass off. Give in a little camphor julep, or water.

697. Nitric Ether

Nitric Ether is a refrigerant, diuretic, and antispasmodic, well known as "_sweet spirit of nitre_."

_Used externally_, its evaporation relieves headache, and it is sometimes applied to burns. It is used _internally_ to relieve nausea, flatulence, and thirst in fevers; also as a diuretic.

_Dose_, from ten minims to one drachm. The smaller dose taken in a little warm water or gruel is useful as a sudorific in cases of cold and chill, to induce and promote the proper action of the skin which has been checked. If a larger dose be taken, it acts as a diuretic and not as a sudorific, and so fails to produce the desired effect.

[TO-DAY, HIS FOOD IS DRESSED IN DAINTY FORMS.]

698. Compound Spirit of Sulphuric Ether

Compound Spirit of Sulphuric Ether is a very useful stimulant, narcotic, and antispasmodic.

_Used internally_ in cases of great exhaustion, attended with irritability.

_Dose_, from half a drachm to two drachms, in camphor julep. When combined with laudanum, it prevents the nauseating effects of the opium, and acts more beneficially as a narcotic.

699. The Hop

The Hop is a narcotic, tonic, and diuretic; it reduces the frequency of the pulse, and does not affect the head, like most anodynes.

_Used externally_, it acts as an anodyne and discutient, and is useful as a fomentation for painful tumours, rheumatic pains in the joints, and severe contusions. A pillow stuffed with hops acts as a narcotic. When the powder is mixed with lard, it acts as an anodyne dressing in painful ulcers.

_Dose_, of the _extract_, from five grains to one scruple; of the _tincture_, from half a drachm to two drachms; of the _powder_, from three! grains to one scruple; of the _infusion_, half an ounce to one and a half ounce.

700. Opium

Opium is a stimulant, narcotic, and anodyne.

_Used externally_ it acts almost as well as when taken into the stomach, and without affecting the head or causing nausea. Applied to irritable ulcers in the form of tincture, it promotes their cure, and allays pain. Cloths dipped in a strong solution, and applied over painful bruises, tumours, or inflamed joints, allay pain. A small piece of solid opium stuffed into a hollow tooth relieves toothache. A weak solution of opium forms a valuable collyrium in ophthalmia. Two drops of the wine of opium dropped into the eye acts as an excellent stimulant in bloodshot eye; or after long-continued inflammation, it is useful in strengthening the eye. Applied as a liniment, in combination with ammonia and oil, or with camphorated spirit, it relieves muscular pain. When combined with oil of turpentine, it is useful as a liniment in spasmodic colic.

_Used internally_, it acts as a very powerful stimulant: then as a sedative, and finally as an anodyne and narcotic, allaying pain in the most extraordinary manner, by acting directly upon the nervous system. In acute rheumatism it is a most excellent medicine when combined with calomel and tartrate of antimony; but its exhibition requires the judicious care of a medical man.

_Doses of the various preparations._--. _Confection of opium_, from five grains to half a drachm; _extract of opium_, from one to five grains (this is a valuable form, as it does not produce so much after derangement of the nervous system as solid opium); _pills of soap and opium_, from five to ten grains; _compound ipecacuanha powder_ ("Dover's Powder"), from ten to fifteen grains; _compound kino powder_, from five to fifteen grains; _wine of opium_, from ten minims to one drachm. _Caution._--Opium is a powerful _poison_ when taken in too large a quantity (_See_ POISONS, _pars._ 1340-1367), and thus should be used with extreme caution. It is on this account that we have omitted some of its preparations. The best antidote for opium is camphor.

701. Antispasmodics.

Antispasmodics are medicines which possess the power of overcoming the spasms of the muscles, or allaying any severe pain which is not attended by inflammation. The class includes a great many, but the most safe and serviceable are ammonia, assafoetida, galbanum, valerian, bark, ether, camphor, opium, and chloroform; with the minerals, oxide of zinc and calomel.

702. Ammonia.

Ammonia, or Sal Volatile, is an antispasmodic antacid, stimulant and diaphoretic.

_Used externally_, combined with oil, it forms a cheap and useful liniment, but it should be dissolved in _proof_ spirit before the oil is added. One part of this salt, and three parts of extract of belladonna, mixed and spread upon leather, makes an excellent plaster for relieving rheumatic pains. As a local stimulant it is well known, as regards its effects in hysterics, faintness, and lassitude, when applied to the nose, as common smelling salts.

It is used _internally_ as an adjunct to infusion of gentian in dyspepsia or indigestion, and in moderate doses in gout.

_Dose_, from five to fifteen grains. _Caution_.--Overdoses act as a narcotic and irritant poison.

[TO-MORROW, IS HIMSELF A FEAST FOR WORMS.]

703. Bicarbonate of Ammonia

Bicarbonate of Ammonia is used internally the same as _sal volatile_.

_Dose_, from six to twelve grains. It is frequently combined with Epsom salts.

704. Solution of Sesoquicarbonate of Ammonia,

Solution of Sesoquicarbonate of Ammonia, used the same as _sal volatile_.

_Dose_, from half a drachm to one drachm, combined with some milky fluid, like almond emulsion.

705. Asafoetida

Asafoetida is an antispasmodic, expectorant, excitant, and anthelmintic.

_Used internally_, it is extremely useful in dyspepsia, flatulent colic, hysteria, and nervous diseases; and where there are no inflammatory symptoms, it is an excellent remedy in hooping cough and asthma.

_Used locally_ as an enema, it is useful in flatulent colic, and convulsions that come on through teething.

_Doses of various preparations_.--_Solid gum_, from five to ten grains as pills; _mixture_, from half an ounce to one ounce; _tincture_, from fifteen minims to one drachm; _ammoniated tincture_, from twenty minims to one drachm.

_Caution_.--Never give this drug when inflammation exists.

706. Galbanum

Galbanum is stimulant, antispasmodic, expectorant, and deobstruent.

_Used externally_, it assists in dispelling tumours when spread upon indolent leather as a plaster, and is useful in weakness of the legs from rickets, being applied as a plaster to the loins.

_Employed internally_, it is useful in chronic or old-standing rheumatism and hysteria.

_Doses of preparations_.--Of the _gum_, from ten to fifteen grains as pills; _tincture_, from fifteen minims to one drachm. It may be made into an emulsion with mucilage and water.

707. Valerian

Valerian is a powerful antispasmodic, tonic, and excitant, acting chiefly on the nervous centres.

_Used internally_, it is employed in hysteria, nervous languors, and spasmodic complaints generally. It is useful in low fevers.

_Doses of various preparations_.--_Powder_, from ten grains to half a drachm, three or four times a day; _tincture_, from two to four drachms; _ammoniated tincture_, from one to two drachms; _infusion_, from two to three ounces, or more.

708. Peruvian Bark

Bark, or, as it is commonly called, Peruvian bark, is an antispasmodic, tonic, astringent, and stomachic.

_Used externally_, it is an excellent detergent for foul ulcers, and those that heal slowly.

_Used internally_, it is particularly valuable in intermittent fever or ague, malignant measles, dysentery, diarrhoea, intermittent rheumatism, St. Vitus's dance, indigestion, nervous affections, malignant sore throat, and erysipelas; its use being indicated in all cases of debility.

_Doses of its preparations_.--_Powder_, from five grains to two drachms, mixed in wine, water, milk, syrup, or solution of liquorice; _infusion_, from one to three ounces; _decoction_, from one to three ounces; _tincture_ and _compound tincture_, each from one to three drachms.

_Caution_.--If it causes oppression at the stomach, combine it with an aromatic; if it causes vomiting, give it in wine or soda water; if it purges, give opium; and if it constipates give rhubarb.

709. Sulphuric Ether

Sulphuric Ether is given internally as an antispasmodic in difficult breathing and spasmodic asthma; also in hysteria, cramp of the stomach, hiccough, locked jaw, and cholera. It is useful in checking sea-sickness.

_Dose_, from twenty minims to one drachm.

_Caution_.--An overdose produces apoplectic symptoms.

[TO-DAY HE'S CLAD IN GAUDY, RICH ARRAY]

710. Camphor (2)

Camphor is given internally as an antispasmodic in hysteria, cramp in the stomach, flatulent colic, and St. Vitus's dance.

_Dose_, from two to twenty grains.

711. Opium (2)

Opium is employed internally in spasmodic affections, such as cholera, spasmodic asthma, hooping cough, flatulent colic, and St. Vitus's dance.

_Dose_, from one-sixth of a grain to two grains of the solid opium, according to the disease.

712. Oxide of Zinc

Oxide of Zinc is an antispasmodic, astringent, and tonic.

_Used externally_, as an ointment, it forms an excellent astringent in affections of the eyelids, arising from relaxation; or as a powder, it is an excellent detergent for unhealthy ulcers.

_Used internally_, it has proved efficacious in St. Vitus's dance, and some other spasmodic affections.

_Dose_, from one to six grains twice a day.

713. Calomel

Calomel is an antispasmodic, alterative deobstruent, purgative, and errhine.

_Used internally_, combined with opium, it acts as an antispasmodic in locked jaw, cholera, and many other spasmodic affections. As an alterative and deobstruent, it has been found useful in leprosy and itch, when combined with antimonials and guaiacum, and in enlargement of the liver and glandular affections. It acts beneficially in dropsies, by producing watery motions. In typhus it is of great benefit when combined with antimonials; and it may be given as a purgative in almost any disease, provided there is not any inflammation of the bowels, irritability of the system, or great debility.

_Dose_, as a deobstruent and alterative, from one to five grains, daily; as a cathartic, from five to fifteen grains; to produce ptyalism, or salivation, from one to two grains, in a pill, with a quarter of a grain of opium, night and morning.

_Caution_.--When taking calomel, exposure to cold or dampness should be guarded against, as such an imprudence would bring out an eruption of the skin, attended with fever. When this does occur, leave off the calomel, and give bark, wine, and purgatives; take a warm bath twice a day, and powder the surface of the body with powdered starch.

714. Tonics.

Tonics are given to improve the tone of the system, and restore the natural energies and general strength of the body. They consist of bark, quassia, gentian, camomile, wormwood, and angostura bark.

715. Quassia

Quassia is a simple tonic, and can be used with safety by any one, as it does not increase the animal heat, or quicken the circulation.

_Used internally_, in the form of infusion, it has been found of great benefit in indigestion and nervous irritability, and is useful after bilious fevers and diarrhoea.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from one and a half to two ounces, three times a day.

716. Gentian

Gentian is an excellent tonic and stomachic; but when given in large doses, it acts as an aperient.

It is _used internally_ in all cases of general debility, and when combined with bark is used in intermittent fevers. It has also been employed in indigestion, and it is sometimes used, combined with sal volatile, in that disease; but, at other times alone, in the form of infusion. After diarrhoea, it proves a useful tonic. Its infusion is sometimes applied _externally_ to foul ulcers.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, one and a half to two ounces; of the _tincture_, one to four drachms; of the _extract_, from ten to thirty grains.

717. Camomile.

The flowers of the camomile are tonic, slightly anodyne, antispasmodic, and emetic.

They are _used externally_ as fomentations, in colic, faceache, and tumours, and to unhealthy ulcers.

They are _used internally_ in the form of infusion, with carbonate of soda, ginger, and other stomachic remedies, in dyspepsia, flatulent colic, debility following dysentery and gout. Warm infusion of the flowers acts as an emetic; and the powdered flowers are sometimes combined with opium or kino, and given in intermittent fevers.

_Dose_, of the _powdered_ flowers, from ten grains to one drachm, twice or thrice a day; of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces, as a tonic, three times a day: and from six ounces to one pint as an emetic; of the _extract_, from five to twenty grains.

[TO-MORROW, SHROUDED FOR A BED OF CLAY.]

718. Wormwood

Wormwood is a tonic and anthelmintic.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient and antiseptic.

It is used _internally_ in long-standing cases of dyspepsia, in the form of infusion, with or without aromatics. It has also been used in intermittents.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces, three times a day; of the _powder_, from one to two scruples.

719. Angostura Bark

Angostura Bark, or Cusparia, is a tonic and stimulant. It expels flatulence, increases the appetite, and produces a grateful warmth in the stomach.

It is _used internally_ in intermittent fevers, dyspepsia, hysteria, and all cases of debility, where a stimulating tonic is desirable, particularly after bilious diarrhoea.

_Dose_, of the _powder_, from ten to fifteen grains, combined with cinnamon powder, magnesia, or rhubarb; of the _extract_, from three to ten grains; of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces.

_Caution_.--This drug should never be given in inflammatory diseases or hectic fever.

720. Astringents.

Astringents are medicines given for the purpose of diminishing excessive discharges, and to act indirectly as tonics. This class includes catechu, kino, oak bark, log wood, rose leaves, chalk, and white vitriol.

721. Catechu

Catechu is a most valuable astringent.

It is _used externally_, when powdered, to promote the contraction of flabby ulcers. As a local astringent it is useful in relaxed uvula, a small piece being dissolved in the mouth; small, spotty ulcerations of the mouth and throat, and bleeding gums, and for these two affections it is used in the form of infusion to wash the parts.

It is _given internally_ in diarrhoea, dysentery, and hemorrhage from the bowels.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from one to three ounces; of the _tincture_, from one to four drachms; of the _powder_, from ten to thirty grains.

_Caution_.--It must not be given with soda or any alkali; nor metallic salts, albumen, or gelatine, as its property is destroyed by this combination.

722. Kino

Kino is a powerful astringent.

It is _used externally_ to ulcers, to give tone to them when flabby, and discharging foul and thin matter.

It is _used internally_ in the same diseases as catechu.

_Dose_, of the powder, from ten to fifteen grains; of the _tincture_, from one to two drachms; of the _compound powder_, from ten to twenty grains; of the _infusion_, from a half to one and a half ounce.

_Caution_.--Kino is used in combination with calomel, when salivation is intended, to prevent, by its astringency, the action of the calomel on the bowels, and thereby insure its affecting the constitution.-- (See CATECHU [para. 721]).

723. Oak Bark

Oak Bark is an astringent and tonic.

It is _used externally_ in the form of decoction, to restrain bleeding from lacerated surfaces. As a local astringent, it is used in the form of decoction, as a gargle in sore throat and relaxed uvula.

It is _used internally_ in the same diseases as catechu, and when combined with aromatics and bitters, in intermittent fevers.

_Dose_ of the _powder_, from fifteen to thirty grains; of the _decoction_, from two to eight drachms.

724. Logwood

Logwood is not a very satisfactory astringent.

It is _used internally_ in diarrhoea, the last stage of dysentery, and a lax state of the intestines.

_Dose_, of the _extract_, from ten grains to one drachm; of the _decoction_ from one to three ounces, three or four times a day.

725. Rose Leaves

Rose Leaves are stringent and tonic.

They are _used internally_ in spitting of blood, hemorrhage from the stomach, intestines, &c., as a gargle for sore throat, and for the night sweats of consumption. The infusion is frequently used as a tonic with diluted sulphuric acid (oil of vitriol), after low fevers, or in combination with Epsom salts and sulphuric acid in certain states of the bowels.

_Dose_ of _infusion_, from two to four ounces.

[TO-DAY, ENJOYS HIS HALLS, BUILT TO HIS MIND.]

726. Chalk

Chalk, when prepared by washing, becomes an astringent as well as antacid.

It is _used internally_ in diarrhoea, in the form of mixture, and _externally_ as an application to burns, scalds, and excoriations.

_Dose_ of the _mixture_, from one to two ounces.

727. White Vitriol

White Vitriol, or Sulphate of Zinc, is an astringent, tonic, and emetic.

It is _used externally_ as a collyrium for ophthalmia (See DOMESTIC PHARMACOPEIA, _par. 475 et seq._), and as a detergent for scrofulous ulcers, in the proportion of three grains of the salt to one ounce of water.

It is _used internally_ in indigestion, and many other diseases; _but it should not be given unless ordered by a medical man, as it is a poison._

728. Local Stimulants.

Local stimulants comprise emetics, cathartics, diuretics, diaphoretics, expectorants, sialogogues, errhines, and epispastics.

729. Emetics.

Emetics are medicines given for the purpose of causing vomiting, as in cases of poisoning. They consist of ipecacuanha, camomile, antimony, copper, zinc, and several others.

730. Ipecacuanha

Ipecacuanha is an emetic, diaphoretic, and expectorant.

It is _used internally_ to excite vomiting, in doses of from ten to twenty grains of the powder, or one to one and a half ounce of the infusion, every half hour until vomiting takes place. To make it act well and easily, the patient should drink half pints of warm water after each dose of the infusion. As a diaphoretic, it should be given in doses of three grains, mixed with some soft substance, such as crumbs of bread, and repeated every four hours.

_Dose_ of the _wine,_ from twenty minims to one drachm as a diaphoretic, and from one drachm to one and a half ounces as an emetic.

_Caution._--Do not give more than the doses named above, because, although a safe emetic, yet it is an acrid narcotic poison.

731. Mustard

Mustard is too well known to require describing. It is an emetic, diuretic, stimulant, and rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ as a poultice. Mustard poultices are made of the powder, bread crumbs, and water; or of one part of mustard to two of flour; or, especially for children, of linseed meal, mixed with a little of the powder, or having some of the powder slightly sprinkled on the surface. Sometimes a little vinegar is added under the idea that it increases the strength of the poultice, but this is not necessary. In all cases where a stimulant is required, such as sore throats, rheumatic pains in the joints, cholera, cramps in the extremities, diarrhoea, and many other diseases. When applied it should not he left on too long, as it is apt to cause ulceration of the part. From ten to thirty minutes is quite long enough.

When _used internally_ as an emetic, a large teaspoonful mixed with a tumbler of warm water generally operates quickly and safely, frequently when other emetics have failed. In dropsy it is sometimes given in the form of whey, which is made by boiling half an ounce of the bruised seeds in a pint of milk, and straining off the curd.

From three to four ounces of this is to be taken for a dose three times a day.

732. Cathartics.

Cathartics are divided into laxatives and purgatives. Manna, tamarinds, castor oil, sulphur, and magnesia are _laxatives;_ senna, rhubarb, jalap, colocynth, buckthorn, aloes, cream of tartar, scammony, calomel, Epsom salts, Glauber's salts, sulphate of potash, and Venice turpentine are _purgatives._

733. Manna

Manna is a very gentle laxative, and therefore used for children and delicate persons.

_Dose for children,_ from one to two drachms; and for _adults,_ from one to two ounces, combined with rhubarb and cinnamon water.

734. Tamarinds

Tamarinds are generally laxative and refrigerant. As it is agreeable, this medicine will generally be eaten by children when they will not take other medicines.

_Dose,_ from half to one ounce. As a refrigerant beverage in fevers it is extremely grateful.

[TO-MORROW, IN A COFFIN IS CONFINED.]

735. Castor Oil

Castor Oil is a most valuable medicine, as it generally operates quickly and mildly.

It is _used externally,_ combined with citron ointment, as a topical application in common leprosy.

It is _used internally_ as an ordinary purgative for infants, as a laxative for adults, and in diarrhoea and dysentery. In colic it is very useful and safe; and also after delivery.

_Dose_ for _infants,_ from forty drops to two drachms; for _adults,_ from half an ounce to one and a half ounces.

736. Sulphur.

Sublimed sulphur is laxative and diaphoretic.

It is _used externally_ in skin diseases, especially itch, both in the form of ointment and as a vapour bath.

It is _used internally_ in hemorrhoids, combined with magnesia, as a laxative for children, and as a diaphoretic in rheumatism.

_Dose,_ from one scruple to two drachms, mixed in milk or with treacle. When combined with an equal proportion of cream of tartar, it acts as a purgative.

737. Magnesia.

_Calcined magnesia_ possesses the same properties as the carbonate.

_Dose,_ from ten to thirty grains, in milk or water.

_Carbonate of magnesia_ is an antacid and laxative, and is very useful for children when teething, and for heartburn in adults.

_Dose,_ from a half to two drachms, in water or milk.

_Fluid Magnesia_ is a useful preparation by whose use is avoided the grittiness that is inseparable from magnesia when taken in the form of powder.

738. Senna

Senna is a purgative, but is apt to gripe when given alone; therefore it is combined with some aromatic, such as cloves or ginger, and the infusion should be made with _cold_ instead of hot water. It usually acts in about four hours, but its action should be assisted by drinking warm fluids.

_Dose,_ of the _confection,_ commonly called _"lenitive electuary,"_ from one to three or four drachma at bedtime; of the _infusion,_ from one to two ounces; of the _tincture,_ irom one to two drachms; of the _syrup_ (used for children), from one drachm to one ounce.

_Caution._--Do not give senna, in any form except confection, in hemorrhoids, and never in irritability of the intestines.

739. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a purgative, astringent and stomachic.

It is _used externally_ in the form of powder to ulcers, to promote a healthy action.

It is given _internally_ in diarrhoea, dyspepsia, and a debilitated state of the bowels. Combined with a mild preparation of calomel, it forms an excellent purgative for children.

_Dose,_ of the _infusion,_ from one to two ounces; of the _powder,_ from one scruple to half a drachm as a purgative, and from six to ten grains as a stomachic; of the _tincture_ and _compound tincture,_ from one to four drachms; of the _compound pill,_ from ten to twenty grains.

740. Jalap

Jalap is a powerful cathartic and hydrogogue, and is therefore apt to gripe.

_Dose,_ of the _powder,_ from ten to thirty grains, combined with a drop or two of aromatic oil; of the _compound powder,_ from fifteen to forty grains; of the _tincture,_ from one to three drachms; of the _extract,_ from ten to twenty grains. The watery extract is better than the alcoholic.

741. Colocynth

Colocynth is a powerful drastic cathartic, and should never be given alone, unless ordered by a medical man, as its action is too violent for some constitutions.

_Dose,_ of the _extract,_ from five to fifteen grains; of the _compound extract,_ from five to fifteen grains; of the _compound colocynth pill,_ the best of all its preparations, from ten to twenty grains.

742. Buckthorn

Buckthorn is a brisk purgative for children in the form of syrup.

_Dose_ of the _syrup,_ from one to six drachms.

743. Aloes

Aloes is a purgative and cathartic in large, and tonic in smaller doses.

_Dose,_ of _powder,_ from two to ten grains, combined with soap, bitter extracts, or other purgative medicines, and given in the form of pills; of the _compound pill,_ from five to twenty grains; of the _pill of aloes_ and _myrrh_ from five to twenty grains; of the _tincture_, from four drachms to one ounce; of the _compound tincture_, from one to four drachms; of the _extract_, from six to ten grains; of the _compound decoction_, from four drachms to two ounces.

[TO-DAY, HE FLOATS ON HONOUR'S LOFTY WAVE.]

744. Cream of Tartar

Cream of Tartar is a purgative and refrigerant.

It is _used internally_ in dropsy, especially of the belly, in doses of from one scruple to one drachm. As a refrigerant drink it is dissolved in hot water, and sweetened with sugar, and is used in febrile diseases, care being taken not to allow it to rest too much upon the bowels.

_Dose_, as a _purgative_, from two to four drachms, as a _hydrogogue_, from four to six drachms, mixed with honey or treacle.

_Caution._--Its use should be followed by tonics, especially gentian and angostura.

745. Scammony

Scammony is a drastic purgative, generally acting quickly and powerfully; sometimes producing nausea, and even vomiting, and being very apt to gripe.

It is _used internally_, to produce watery evacuations in dropsy, to remove intestinal worms, and correct the slimy motions of children.

_Dose_, of the _powder_, from five to sixteen grains, given in liquorice water, treacle, or honey; of the _confection_, from twenty to thirty grains.

_Caution._--Do not give it in an irritable or inflamed state of the bowels.

746. Epsom Salts

Epsom Salts is a purgative and diuretic. This medicine generally operates quickly, and therefore is extremely useful in acute diseases. It is found to be beneficial in dyspepsia when combined with infusion of gentian and a little ginger. It forms an excellent enema with olive oil.

_Dose_, from a half to two ounces, dissolved in warm tea or water. Infusion of roses partially covers its taste and assists its action.

_Note_, that with regard to Epsom salts, the _larger in reason_ is the amount of water in which they are taken, the _smaller_ the dose of salts required: thus, half an ounce properly dissolved may be made a strong dose. The action and efficacy of Epsom salts may be greatly increased by adding one grain of tartar emetic to a dose of salts.

747. Glauber's Salt

Glauber's Salt is a very good purgative.

_Dose_, from a half to two ounces, dissolved in warm water.

748. Sulphate of Potash

Sulphate of Potash is a cathartic and deobstruent. It is _used internally_, combined with aloes or rhubarb, in obstructions of the bowels, and is an excellent saline purgative in dyspepsia and jaundice.

_Dose_, from ten grains to one drachm.

749. Venice Turpentine

Venice Turpentine is cathartic, diuretic, stimulant, and anthelmintic.

It is _used externally_ as a rubefacient, and is given _internally_ in flatulent colic, in tapeworm, rheumatism, and other diseases.

_Dose_, as a _diuretic_, from ten grains to one drachm; as a _cathartic_, from ten to twelve drachms; as an _anthelmintic_, from one to two ounces every eight hours, till the worm be ejected.

750. Diuretics.

Diuretics are medicines which promote an increased secretion of urine. They consist of nitre, acetate of potassa, squills, juniper, oil of turpentine, and others, vegetable and mineral.

751. Nitre

Nitre is a diuretic and refrigerant.

It is _used externally_ as a detergent when dissolved in water, and as a lotion to inflamed and painful rheumatic joints.

It is given _internally_ in doses of from ten grains to half a drachm, or even one drachm; in spitting blood it is given in one drachm doses with great benefit. It is beneficial in sore throat, a few grains being allowed to dissolve in the mouth.

752. Acetate of Potassa

Acetate of Potassa is diuretic and cathartic.

It is given _internally_ as a diuretic, in combination with infusion of quassia; in dropsy, in doses of from one scruple to one drachm, every three or four hours.

_Dose_, as a _cathartic_, from two to three drachms.

753. Squills

Squills is diuretic and expectorant when given in small doses; and emetic and purgative when given in large doses.

It is _used internally_ in dropsy, in combination with calomel and opium; in asthma, with ammoniacum; in catarrh, in the form of oxymel.

_Dose_, of the _dried bulb powdered_, from one to two grains every six hours; of the _compound pill_, from ten to fifteen grains; of the _tincture_, from ten minims to half a drachm; of the _oxymel_, from a half to two drachms; of the _vinegar_, from twenty minims to two drachms.

[TO-MORROW, LEAVES HIS TITLE FOR A GRAVE.]

754. Juniper

Juniper is diuretic and stomachic.

It is given _internally_ in dropsy.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, from two to three ounces every four hours, of the _oil_, from one to five minims.

755. Oil of Turpentine

Oil of Turpentine is a diuretic, anthelmintic, and rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ in flatulent colic, sprinkled over flannels dipped in hot water and wrung out dry.

It is _used internally_ in the same diseases as Venice turpentine.

_Dose_, from five minims to two drachms.

756. Diaphoretics.

Diaphoretics are medicines given to increase the secretion from the skin by sweating. They comprise acetate of ammonia, calomel, antimony, opium, camphor, sarsaparilla.

757. Solution of Acetate of Ammonia

Solution of Acetate of Ammonia is a most useful diaphoretic.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient, as a lotion to inflamed milk-breasts, as an eye-wash, and a lotion in scald head.

It is given _internally_ to promote perspiration in febrile diseases, which it does most effectually, especially when combined with camphor mixture. This is the article so frequently met with in prescriptions, and called spirits of mindercrus.

_Dose_, from a half to one and a half ounces every three or four hours.

758. Antimony.--_Tartar emetic_

_Tartar emetic_ is diaphoretic, emetic, expectorant, alterative, and rubefacient.

It is _used externally_ as an irritant in white swellings and deep-seated inflammations, in the form of an ointment.

It is given _internally_ in pleurisy, bilious fevers, and many other diseases, but its exhibition requires the skill of a medical man, to watch its effects.

_Dose_, from one-sixth of a grain to four grains.

_Caution_.--It is a _poison_, and therefore requires great care in its administration.

759. Antimonial Powder

Antimonial Powder is a diaphoretic, emetic, and alterative.

It is given _internally_, in febrile diseases, to produce determination to the skin, and is useful in rheumatism, when combined with opium or calomel.

_Dose_, from three to ten grains every four hours, taking plenty of warm fluids between each dose.

760. Sarsiparilla

Sarsiparilla is diaphoretic, alterative, diuretic, and tonic.

It is given _internally_ in cutaneous diseases, old-standing rheumatism, scrofula, and debility.

_Dose_, of the _decoction_, from four to eight ounces; of the _compound decoction_, from four to eight ounces; of the _extract_, from five grains to one drachm.

761. Expectorants.

Expectorants are medicines given to promote the secretion from the windpipe, &c. They consist of antimony, ipecacuanha, squills, ammoniacum, and tolu.

762. Ammoniacum

Ammoniacum is an expectorant, antispasmodic, diuretic, and deobstruent.

It is _used externally_ as a discutient, and is given _internally_, with great benefit in asthma, hysteria, and chronic catarrh.

_Dose_, from ten to twenty grains.

763. Tolu

Tolu is an excellent expectorant, when there are no inflammatory symptoms.

It is given _internally_ in asthma and chronic catarrh.

_Dose_, of the _balsam_, from five to thirty grains, combined with mucilage and suspended in water; of the _tincture_, from a half to one drachm; of the _syrup_, from a half to four drachms.

764. Sialogogues.

These are given to increase the flow of saliva or spittle. They consist of ginger and calomel, pellitory of Spain, tobacco, the acids, and some others.

765. Ginger

Ginger ia a sialogogue, carminative, and stimulant.

It is _used internally_ in flatulent colic, dyspepsia, and to prevent the griping of medicines. When chewed, it acts as a sialogogue, and is therefore useful in relaxed uvula.

_Dose_, from ten to twenty grains of the _powder_; of the _tincture_, from ten minims to one drachm.

[TO-DAY, HIS BEAUTEOUS VISAGE WE EXTOL.]

766. Epispastics and Rubefacients.

These are remedies which are applied to blister and cause redness of the surface. They consist of cantharides, ammonia, Burgundy pitch, and mustard.

767. Cantharides, or Spanish flies

Cantharides, or Spanish flies, when used internally, are diuretic and stimulant; and epispastic and rubefacient when applied externally.

_Mode of application._--A portion of the blistering plaster is spread with the thumb upon brown paper, linen, or leather, to the size required; its surface then _slightly_ moistened with olive oil and sprinkled with camphor, and the plaster applied by a _light_ bandage: or it is spread on adhesive plaster, and attached to the skin by the adhesive margin of the plaster.

_Caution._--If a blister is to be applied to the head, shave it at least ten hours before it is put on; it is better to place a thin piece of gauze, wetted with vinegar, between the skin and the blister. If a distressing feeling be experienced about the bladder, give warm and copious draughts of linseed tea, milk, or decoction of quince seeds, and apply warm fomentations of milk and water to the blistered surface. The _period required_ for a _blister_ to remain on varies from eight to ten hours for adults, and from twenty minutes to two hours for children: as soon as it is removed, if the blister is not raised, apply a "spongio-piline" poultice, and it will then rise properly. When it is required to act as a rubefacient, the blister should remain on from one to three hours for adults, and from fifteen to forty minutes for children.

_To dress a blister._--Cut the bag of cuticle containing the scrum at the lowest part, by snipping it with the scissors, so as to form an opening like this--V; and then apply a piece of calico, spread with spermaceti or some other dressing. Such is the ordinary method; but a much better and more expeditious plan, and one that prevents all pain and inconvenience in the healing, is, after cutting the blister as directed above, to immediately cover it with a warm bread and water poultice for about an hour and a half, and on the removal of the poultice to dust the raw surface with violet powder; apply a handkerchief to retain the powder, and lastly dust the part every two hours. It will be healed in twelve hours.

_Caution._--Never attempt to take cantharides internally, except under the advice of a medical man, as it is a poison, and requires extreme caution in its use.

768. Burgundy Pitch

Burgundy Pitch is warmed and spread upon linen or leather, and applied over the chest in cases of catarrh, difficult breathing, and hooping cough; over the loins in debility or lumbago; and over any part that it is desirable to excite a mild degree of inflammation in.

769. Chemical Remedies.

These comprise refrigerants, antacids, antalkalies, and escharotics.

770. Refrigerants.

These are medicines given for the purpose of suppressing an unnatural heat of the body. They are Seville oranges, lemons, tamarinds, nitre, and cream of tartar.

771. Seville Oranges

Seville Oranges and sweet oranges are formed into a refrigerant beverage, which is extremely grateful in febrile diseases.

The _rind_ is an agreeable mild tonic, carminative, and stomachic.

_Dose_, of the _tincture_, from one to four drachms; of the _infusion_, from one to two ounces.

[TO-MORROW, LOATHSOME IN THE SIGHT OF ALL.]

772. Lemons

Lemons are used to form a refrigerant beverage, which is given to quench thirst in febrile and inflammatory diseases,

Lemon _juice_ given with carbonate of potash (half an ounce of the juice to twenty grains of the salt), and taken while effervescing, allays vomiting; a tablespoonful, taken occasionally, allays hysterical palpitations of the heart, it is useful in scurvy caused by eating too much salt food, but requires to be taken with sugar.

The _rind_ forms a nice mild tonic and stomachic in certain forms of dyspepsia.

_Dose_ of the _infusion_ (made the same as orange peel), from one to two ounces.

773. Antacids.

These are given to correct acidity in the system. They are soda, ammonia, chalk, and magnesia.

774. Soda, Carbonate of, and Sesquicarbonate of Soda

Soda, Carbonate of, and Sesquicarbonate of Soda, are antacids and deobstruents.

They are _used internally_ in acidity of the stomach and dyspepsia.

_Dose_ of both preparations, from 10 grains to half a drachm.

775. Antalkalies.

These are given to neutralize an alkaline state of the system. They are citric acid, lemon juice, and tartaric acid.

776. Citric Acid

Citric Acid is used to check profuse sweating, and as a substitute for lemon juice when it cannot be procured.

_Dose_, from ten to thirty grains.

777. Tartaric Acid

Tartaric Acid, when largely diluted, forms an excellent refrigerant beverage and antalkali. It enters into the composition of extemporaneous soda and Seidlitz waters.

_Dose_, from ten to thirty grains.

778. Escharotics.

These are remedies used to destroy the vitality of a part. They comprise lunar caustic, bluestone, and solution of chloride of zinc.

779. Bluestone, or Sulphate of Copper

Bluestone, or Sulphate of Copper, is used in a solution of from four to fifteen grains to the ounce of water, and applied to foul and indolent ulcers, by means of rag dipped in it. It is rubbed in substance on fungous growths, warts, &c., to destroy them.

_Caution_.--It is a poison.

780. Lunar Caustic; or Nitrate of Silver

Lunar Caustic; or Nitrate of Silver, is an excellent remedy in erysipelas when applied in solution (one drachm of the salt to one ounce of water), which should be brushed all over the inflamed part, and for an inch beyond it. This blackens the skin, but it soon peels off. To destroy warts, proud flesh, and unhealthy edges of ulcers, &c., it is invaluable; and as an application to bed sores, pencilled over with a solution of the same strength, and in the same manner as for erysipelas.

_Caution_.--It is a poison.

781. Solution of Chloride of Zinc,

Solution of Chloride of Zinc, more commonly known as Sir William Burnett's "Disinfecting Fluid," is a valuable escharotic in destroying the parts of poisoned wounds, such as the bite of a mad dog. It is also very useful in restoring the hair after the scalp has been attacked with ringworm; but its use requires extreme caution, as it is a powerful escharotic. In itch, diluted (one part to thirty-two) with water, it appears to answer very well.

_Caution_.--It is a most powerful poison.

782. Mechanical Remedies.

These comprise anthelmintics, demulcents, diluents, and emollients.

783. Anthelmintics.

These are medicines given for the purpose of expelling or destroying worms. They are cowhage, scammony, male fern root, calomel, gamboge, tin, and turpentine.

784. Cowhage

Cowhage is used to expel the round worm, which it does by wounding it with the fine prickles.

_Dose_ of the confection, for a child three or four years old, a teaspoonful early, for three mornings, followed by a dose of castor oil. (_See par_ 491.)

The mechanical anthelmintics are strictly confined to those agents which kill the worm in the body by piercing its cuticle with the sharp darts or spiculae of the cowhage hairs, or the fine metallic points of powdered tin (_pulvis stanni_). When these drops are employed, they should be given in honey or treacle for ten or fifteen days, and an aperient powder every fourth morning, to expel the killed worms.

[TO-DAY, HE HAS DELUSIVE DREAMS OF HEAVEN.]

785. Male Fern Root

Male Fern Root is a powerful anthelmintic, and an astringent. It is used to kill tapeworm.

_Dose_, three drachms of the powdered root mixed in a teacupful of water, to be taken in the morning while in bed, and followed by a brisk purgative two hours afterwards; or from a tablespoonful to a wineglassful, according to age, to be taken early in the morning. (_See par 569_).

786. Gamboge

Gamboge is a powerful drastic and anthelmintic.

It is _used internally_ in dropsy, and for the expulsion of tapeworm; but its use requires caution, as it is an irritant poison.

_Dose_, from two to six grains, in the form of pills, combined with colocynth, soap, rhubarb, or bread-crumbs.

787. Demulcents.

These are used to diminish irritation, and soften parts by protecting them with a viscid matter. They are tragacanth, linseed, marsh-mallow, mallow, liquorice, arrowroot, isinglass, suet, wax, and almonds.

788. Tragacanth

Tragacanth is used to allay tickling cough, and lubricate abraded parts. It is usually given in the form of mucilage.

_Dose_, from ten grains to one drachm, or more.

789. Linseed

Linseed is emollient and demulcent.

It is _used externally_, in the form of powder or "meal," as a poultice; and the oil, combined with lime water, is applied to burns and scalds.

It is used _internally_ as an infusion in diarrhoea, dysentery, and irritation of the intestines after certain poisons, and in catarrh. The best form of linseed meal is that which is obtained from seed from which the oil has not been extracted.

_Dose_, of the _infusion_, as much as the patient pleases.

790. Marsh-Mallow

Marsh-Mallow is _used internally_ in the same diseases as linseed.

The leaves are _used externally_ as a fomentation, and the boiled roots are bruised and applied as an emollient poultice.

_Dose_, the same as for linseed.

791. Mallow

Mallow is _used externally_ as a fomentation and poultice in inflammation, and the infusion is _used internally_ in dysentery, diseases of the kidneys, and the same diseases as marsh-mallow and linseed. It is also used as an enema.

_Dose_, same as for linseed and marsh-mallow.

792. Liquorice

Liquorice is an agreeable demulcent, and is given in the form of decoction in catarrh, and some forms of dyspepsia, and the extract is used in catarrh.

_Dose_, of the _extract_, from ten grains to one drachm; of the _decoction_, from two to four ounces.

793. Arrowroot etc.

Arrowroot, islinglass, almonds, suet, and wax, are too well known to require descriptions. (_See par 487_, for "Almond Confection" for preparations.)

794. Diluents.

These are chiefly watery compounds, such as weak tea, water, thin broth, gruel, weak infusions of balm, hore-hound, pennyroyal, ground ivy, mint, and sage.

795. Emollients.

These consist of unctuous remedies, such as cerates and ointments, and any materials that combine heat with moisture,--poultices of bread, bran, linseed meal, carrots, and turnips. (_See par 809_.)

796. Domestic Surgery.

This will comprise such hints and advice as will enable any one to act on an emergency, or in ordinary trivial accidents requiring simple treatment: and also to distinguish between serious and simple accidents, and the best means to adopt in all cases that are likely to fall under a person's notice.

These hints will be of the utmost value to heads of families, to emigrants, and to persons who are frequently called upon to attend the sick. We strongly recommend the Parent, Emigrant, and Nurse, _to read over these directions occasionally_,--to regard it as a duty to do so at least three or four times a year, so as to be prepared for emergencies whenever they may arise. When accidents occur, people are too excited to acquire immediately a knowledge of what they should do; and many lives have been lost for want of this knowledge.

Study, therefore, at moderate intervals, the _Domestic Surgery_, _Treatment of Poisons_, _Rules for the Prevention of Accidents_, _How to Escape from Fires_, _the Domestic Pharmacopoeia_, _&c._, which will he found in various pages of _Enquire Within_.

And let it be impressed upon your mind that THE INDEX will enable you to refer to _anything_ you may require IN A MOMENT. Don't trouble to hunt through the pages; but when you wish to ENQUIRE WITHIN, remember that the INDEX is the knocker, by which the door of knowledge may be opened.

[TO-MORROW, CRIES TOO LATE TO BE FORGIVEN.]

797. Dressings.

These are substances usually applied to parts for the purpose of soothing, promoting their reunion when divided, protecting them from external injuries, absorbing discharges, protecting the surrounding parts, insuring cleanliness, and as a means of applying various medicines.

798. Certain Instruments

Certain Instruments are required for the application of dressings in domestic surgery, viz.--scissors, a pair of tweezers or simple forceps, a knife, needles and thread, a razor, a lancet, a piece of lunar caustic in a quill, and a sponge.

799. Materials for dressings.

These consist of lint, scraped linen, carded cotton, tow, ointment spread on calico, adhesive plaster, compresses, pads, bandages, poultices, old rags of linen or calico, and water.

800. Rules.

The following rules should be attended to in applying dressings:

i. Always prepare the new dressing before removing the old one.