CHAPTER XI.

TOBACCO.

Opposite views as to its general effects upon individuals--The physiological effects upon the mucous membranes, the heart, and the nervous system--Nicotin--Its elimination from the system by the lungs, skin, and kidneys--Its effects those of a narcotic and not of a stimulant--Its effects upon the brains of children and young persons--The use of tobacco by children should be forbidden by law--Its general effects upon society, socially and politically, as presented by M. Fievee--It is not directly responsible in any large degree for producing insanity--Creates a diathesis which causes a diminution of intellectual and moral power 173