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HARVARD
MEDICAL LIBRARV

IN THE
Franci s A. Countway

Library of Medicine

BOSTON

Digitized by the Internet Archive


in

2010 with funding from

Open Knowledge Commons and Harvard Medical School

http://www.archive.org/details/practicalguidetoOOadam

PRACTICAL GUIDE
TO

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT
DESIGNED AND ARRANGED FOR THE USE OF FAMILIES, PRESCRIBERS
OF LIMITED EXPERIENCE AND STUDENTS OF HOMEOPATHY.

BY

MYRON

H.

ADAMS, M.

D.,

CONSULTING PHYSICIAN TO THE ROCHESTER HOMEOPATHIC HOSPITAL,


MEMBER OF THE NEW YORK STATE HOMEOPATHIC
MEDICAL SOCIETY, ETC.

PHILADELPHIA:

BOERICKE & TAFEL


1913

COPYRIGHTED
BY

BOERICKE & TAFEL.


1913

DAILY RECORD PRESS


ROCHESTER,

N. Y.

TO

MY MOTHER
WHOSE KINDLY SYMPATHY, WISE COUNSEL,
AND INSPIRING EXAMPLE

HAS BEEN A CONSTANT BENEDICTION FROM THE FIRST,


THIS BOOK

IS

LOVINGLY DEDICATED

BY THE AUTHOR.

PREFACE
The ordinary preface
of that which

may

consists of a skillful blending

be considered largely explanatory,

personal,

and apologetic, and as such

gleam of

light

upon what

is

to follow

should cast a

it
;

such at least

is

the purpose of the author.

There are two reasons which have been most persuasive with

me

in preparing this book.

viction that there

demand made by
students,

and

is,

The

first

at the present time,

was a con-

an increasing

laymen, prospective medical

intelligent

and physicians of different schools, for a

definite statement

or

the principles and claims of

To meet

this reasonable

to set forth in Part

I.,

full

rather, a re-statement, of all

Homeopathy.
demand,

have endeavored

following the exact order of dis-

covery and development,

all

of these principles, together

with definite instructions for their practical application;


believing, as I do, that in their free dissemination, correct

interpretation,

and

practical testing, rests the only fair

and rational way of reaching a conclusion as


truth

or

falsity.

Special

emphasis

has

to

their

been placed,

throughout, upon the guiding principle for the selection


of

the

remedy, namely, "Similia similibus curantur,"

rather than

upon the "small dose" which no longer forms

the "storm center" of discussion or opposition, but

rather

becoming recognized as an

scientific

integral

part of

is

and curative prescription.

The second

reason, which has

prompted me

to its final

PREFACE

viii

completion,

medical
I

that, after nearly half a

is

have

practice, I

century of active

during the closing years

felt that

make some

could do no greater service than to

manent record of the

results

per-

and conclusions which have,

with me, long since become demonstrated

If

realities.

word to say or a duty to permaking public some of the knowledge and observation of a lifetime, then, herein has mine been accomplished; the real value of which the future must
practical experience has a

form

in

determine.

Thus

have endeavored

bution of experience, with


tion,

to

its

make my humble

attendant study and reflec-

towards the construction of what

believe to be

a sound and permanent system of therapeutics


it

does upon

resting as

the foundation of all natural sciences, the

truth of which,

proof.

contri-

modern

research,

is

furnishing ample

Essentially this conviction has held

fastly to the task of completing this

me

stead-

book which has been

accomplished by an hour here and an hour there,

deemed from the

activities

medical practice.

the

If

their intended mission

re-

and exactions of an every-day


following pages

accomplish

by proving a trustworthy guide

to the prescriber

and a blessing

there remain any

to be healed, then

to the sick, so long as

my

object will have

been attained.

To some

of

my

life-long

valuable suggestions, and to


Kennicott, for
I

am

much

my

painstaking

medical

colleagues,

efficient secretary.

work on

the manuscript,

profoundly grateful.

Myron H. Adams.
Rochester,

New

York, January

7,

for

Miss

1913.

"All that

mankind has done, thought,

gained or been;

it is

lying as in magic

preservation in the pages of Books."

Carlyle.

CONTENTS
PART

I.

CHAPTER

I.

Page.

CHARACTER OF THIS BOOK AND

HOW

TO USB

CHAPTER

IT.

n.

THE PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY.


The Law

of

Materia

Remedy
Summary

Single

How Discovered Homeopathic


How Formed History of the

Cure and
Medica,

History

of Small Doses

General

CHAPTER

HI.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF HOMEOPATHY.


Selection of the

Remedy

Verbal

vs.

Written Exam-

inations

11

CHAPTER

IV.

THE PREPARATION, ADMINISTRATION AND


CARE OF MEDICINES.
Directions as to Dose, its Administration, Repetition,
etc.
Different Forms or Preparations of Medi-


CONTENTS
cines

Dose

or

Potencies of Remedies

Prepara-

and Dose Dose and its Repetition


Change the Remedy in Acute Cases
Chronic Cases, tlie Dose and its Repetition Care
of Homeopathic Medicines

tion of Medicine

When

to

Page.

PART

18

II.

DISEASES AND THEIR TREATMENT.

CHAPTER

I.

AIDS AND ACCESSORIES TO DIAGNOSIS

AND TREATMENT.
General Consideration of Diagnosis and its Importance The Clinical Thermometer, Its Use and
Misuse Blood Pressure and Diagnosis Specialists and Diagnosis
The Trained Nurse General
General
Consideration
of
Principles
Diet
of
Palliative,
External, and Local Treatment of
Disease
Bacteria and Their Relation to Disease
General Consideration of Fever General Consideration of Contagious and Infectious Diseases ....

24

SPECIFIC CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS


DISEASES.

MeaslesRubellaMumpsWhoop

Croup Acute
(Quinsy) Acute

Adenoids Erysipelas
Small PoxVaccination Chicken Pox Typhoid
Fever Malarial Fever Remittent FeverYellow
Fever Cholera

Scarlet

Fever

Tuberculosis
Influenza (La Grippe)
ing Cough
Diphtheria
DiphtherCerebro-Spinal Meningitis
Tonsilitis

itic

Follicular

Tonsilitis

Asiatica

47


CONTENTS

xiii

Page.

DISEASES OP RESPIRATORY AND


CIRCULATORY SYSTEMS.

Chronic Nasal CatarrhHay FeverAcute


Croup Aphonia Bronchitis
Pneumonia Pleurisy Asthma Diseases
Heart

Coryza

Laryngitis

of

106

DISEASES OP THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.

Dentition Tongue
NauseaVomiting Dys
pepsiaAcute
Stomach
Cancer
Ulcer
Stomach
Constipation Ca Constipation Infants and Children
Bowels
Obstruction
Acute and
Diarrhea Cholera
Chronic
fantum Cholera
Morbus Dysentery HemDiseases Worms Tapeorrhoids
LiverAcute
Worms Pin Worms Diseases
and Chronic Congestion
Liver Inflammation
the Liver Jaundice Medical Treatment
Diseases
the Liver Diseases
the

Lips

Mouth
Gums
Cancrum Oris

Thrush

Gastritis

of

Colic

of

thartics

of

Appendicitis,

of

Peritonitis

In-

Parasitic

of

of

of

of

of

of

Gall-Bladder and Gall Ducts

130

DISEASES OP THE GENITO-URINARY


ORGANS.

General Consideration
Acute Bright's Disease
Chronic Bright's Disease (Chronic Nephritis)
Urinary Analysis
Uraemia
Cystitis
Chronic
Cystitis
Diabetes Mellitus
198

DISORDERS OP MENSTRUATION AND


PREGNANCY.

Amenorrhea

Dysmenorrhea
Menorrhea
Metrorrhagia
Climacteric Period
Diagnosis of Pregnancy Disorders
of
Pregnancy Hygiene
of
Pregnancy Care of Infants Infant Feeding
Infants' Growth and Sleep
211


CONTENTS

xiv

Page.

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.

Headache Inflammation of the


Brain
Insanity
Apoplexy
Convulsions
Epilepsy
Paralysis
Hysteria
Tetanus
Chorea
Neuralgia
Toothache
Locomotor
Ataxia
Sciatica
Vertigo
228

Sleep and Insomnia

DISEASES OF THE SKIN.

Hints to Diagnosis and Prescribing Eczema Herpes


Ring Worm
Urticaria
Herpes Zoster
Scabies
Pruritus
Psoriasis
272

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES.
Diathesis Rachitis Inflammatory Rheumatism
Chronic Rheumatism Gout Morbid Growths
(Tumors) Abscess Carbuncle Boil Stye ....

285

HEALTH TOPICS AND UNCLASSIFIED


DISEASES.

Drinking Water Its Use in Health and Disease


Natural vs. Artificial Waters Coffee and Tea,
Chronic
Their
and
Abuse Acute and
Use
Alcoholism The Cigarette, Its Record and Prevention
Burns
and
Scalds
Hiccough Hemorrhages
Epistaxis
Anaemia
Dropsy
Abdominal Hernia Goitre
303

PART

III.

MATERIA MEDICA.
LIST OF REMEDIES.
Name.

Aconite napellus
Allium cepa

Abbreviation.

Aeon.
Cepa.

331
370

CONTENTS
Name.

XV

Anti.

Apis mellifica
Arnica montana

Apis.

Arn.

Arsenicum album

Ars.

Baptisia
Baryta carbonica

Baryt.

Belladonna
Bryonia alb
Cactus grandiflorus
Calcarea carbonica
Calcarea phospborica
Calendula officinalis
Cantbaris

Carbo vegetabilis
Caulopbyllum
Causticum
Cbamomilla
Cbina
Cimicifuga
Cina
Cocculus indicus
Coffea cruda
Colocyntb
Croton tiglium

Bry.
Cact.
Calc.

Calend.
Canth.
Carbo. veg.
Cau.
Caust.

Cham.
China
Cimicif.

Cina.
Cocc.
Coff.

Coly.
Crot. tig.

Dros.
Dulc.

Eupato. per.

Euph.
Gels.

Glonoine

Glon.
virginica

Helonias
Hepar sulphur
Hydrastis canadensis
Ignatia

c.

Calc. pho.

Drosera

Hamamelis

c.

Bell.

Dig.

perfoliatuitn

c.

Bap.

Digitalis

Dulcamara
Eupatorium
Euphrasia
Gelsemium

Page.

Abbreviation.

Antimonium crudum

amara

Ham.
Helo.

Hepar. sul.
Hydrast.
Ign.

Ipecacuanha

Ipec.

Kali bichromicum
Kali carbonicum
Lachesis

Kali bi.
Kai. carb.
Lach.

336
338
339
341
345
346
348
352
356
358
361
362
363
365
367
368
371
373
375
376
378
378
380
381
381
382
383
385
384
387
389
390
391
392
395
396
399
401
401
402

CONTENTS

xvi

Name.

Abbreviation,

Lilium tigrinum

Lill. tig.

Lycopodium

Lyco.
Merc.
Merc. bin.
Nat. m.

Mercurius
Mercurius bin-iodide
Natrum muriaticum
Nux vomica
Phosphorus

Podophyllum

Nux.

V.

Phos.
Podo.

Pulsatilla

Puis.

Radium bromide
Rhus toxicodendron

Radium

Rumex

Rumex

crispus

Sepia

Rhus.

b.

tox.
c.

Sepia.

Silicea

Sili.

Spongia tosta
Sulphur
Tartar emetic

Spong.
Tart. em.

Veratrum album

Verat.

Sul.

Page.

405
407
410
412
413
414
419
422
424
428
430
434
435
436
438
439
444
445

PART
CHAPTER

I.

I.

HOW TO

CHARACTER OF THIS BOOK AND


USE
As

the

title of this

IT.

book would imply,

it

has been

designed and arranged as a practical hand-book for

ready reference.
It

has been the chief aim of the author to

in this treatise

embody

such essentials of homeopathic treat-

ment as are now firmly established, gleaned from the


most authentic sources; together with the results of

many

experience in hospital and private


which afforded unlimited opportunities to
corroborate clinical facts and indications for remedies,
years

practice

such as are herein set forth, thus bearing


of

my

full

approval

personal observation; also to so present these

principles

as

to

meet

the

having a limited knowledge

requirements
of,

of

those

or experience with,

homeopathic methods of treatment.

compact form, such a guide


and such material that any who desire to test the
efficacy of homeopathic remedies or to make constant
Briefly to furnish, in

use

of

the

same,

may

find

herein

information to accomplish their object.

the

necessary

CHARACTER OF THIS BOOK

As

those

for

step

first

not

thoroughly

with the principles of homeopathy,


careful reading of

Chapter
is

I.,

as

it is

Part

of

all

familiar

advise a most

beginning with this

I,

fundamental to

all

that follows.

It

but the work of an hour and should be read and

re-read until

all is

familiar to the prescriber.

While primarily intended as a guide to homeopathic


it has seemed necessary in order to make
the book most useful, to include at least a summary

treatment,

the

of

features

essential

prognosis

each

of

history,

disease.

encourage accuracy and simplicity


tion,

diagnosis

aim

constant
in

and
to

each prescrip-

which are the essence of true homeopathy, has

excluded

all

that

is

speculative and wholly empirical

The same

in

the use of remedies.

in

the history and description of disease, and only

clinical facts well

As

practical,

is

essentially true

authenticated are herein stated.

working hand-book, brevity has

again compelled the omission of a long


occasionally

dies

found useful,

preferred to elaborate

use

more

the

fully

list

of reme-

author

having

those in constant

those "long tested and found true."

Wherever possible, all technical words and phrases


have been avoided and their meaning expressed in
plain language or such as would ordinarily be used
by physician and
This book
Part

I.

is

patient.

divided into three parts.

Principles

tical application.

of

Homeopathy and

their prac-

HOW

TO USE THIS BOOK

History

Part

or description of diseases, and

II.-

their treatment.

Part

III.

(Materia Medica)

General outline of each

remedy together with special indications, or "guiding


symptoms," grouped under different heads, to
facilitate the work of selecting the remedy.
In Part III no claim
ever,

justified

that

is

made

to originality.

How-

under the most crucial testing, the author

is

Medica

in

feels

expressing unqualified confidence in

herein set forth.

all

The Homeopathic Materia

the product of the combined labors of a

is

host of physicians and provers extending back more

than a century, and will forever stand an imperishable

monument

to their diligence

HI

In Part

and learning.

(Materia Medica)

many

well

of the

known, verified characteristics of each remedy are


more fully given, and when in doubt as to the proper
remedy as directed under treatment in Part II, the
prescriber should
will often

certain.

make

make

HI, which
remedy easy and

free use of Part

the selection of the

This course will develop both familiarity

with the remedies and

skill in

prescribing, and reward

More definite inremedy will be


which should be made familiar.

prompt

the prescriber by a

cure.

structions as to the selection of the

found elsewhere,
I

of

have given what

prominence

much

realm,

may

appear to some, undue

to all preventable contagious

My

tious diseases.
is

all

that

is

justification for this

true

concerning

is

and

infec-

that there

and comparatively new in


which dense ignorance

this
still

CHARACTER OF THIS BOOK

and that

prevails,

it

is

precisely along this line of

medical and sanitary science that instruction

needed and most helpful.


tion

is

most

Furthermore, the preven-

and the cure of diseases are clearly related, and


still holds good that "he who prevents

the old saying


disease

Of

even greater than he

is

course,

ciples of

it is

cures."

assumed from the outset

Homeopathy

lowed out

who

in each prescription^ otherwise

will follow.

that the prin-

will be recognised in full

and

fol-

disappointment

This involves some serious attention and

study to attain the very best results, for no prescriber

Homeopathic remedies, however well versed in


therapeutics, can dispense with the use of works of
A reasonable care and study of different
reference.
of

remedies, especially their "characteristic" indications,


will

soon develop a surprising familiarity with the

same, and their use will disclose results


cures that will
this

amply reward the

in the

way

prescriber.

of

That

unambitious effort to prepare a manual to make

useful

the

practical

experience

prove an enduring aid to


the sick and alleviate
desire of the writer.

all

human

of

those

life-time

who

suffering,

may

seek to cure
is

the sincere

CHAPTER

II.

THE PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY


OR

WHAT
A
ago

HOMEOPATHY?

IS

glance at the medical history of one hundred years


will

show

that

all

medical practice was, to say the

extremely crude and chaotic.

least,

was during

this

Approximately

Homeopathy took

time that

its

it

place as

a distinct school of medicine, proclaiming openly a law


of cure.

This law as expressed by different authors

different phraseology, cannot well be misinterpreted.

more

comprehensive expression of

lucid or

made than

has ever been


the

in

following

Curantur."

It

Latin

the one by

sentence

this principle

Samuel Hahnemann
"Sirnilia

Similibus

has become a classic and been adopted by

Homeopathists the world over.

modes of expressing

the

same

Other and more familiar


principle have been used,

for instance "like cures like."

as

in

No

Such

definitions of

Homeopathy without further elaboration, would


to the mind of the inquirer any adequate

convey

fail to

idea of

Homeopathic system of therapeutics as a zvhole.


Therefore it has seemed necessary to enter upon some
the

details in connection therewith, dealing

with the same in

the order of discovery and development.

THE LxlW OF CURE HOW DISCOVERED.


As

a preliminary this one pivotal principle

rightly understood,

for to

it

all

that follows

must be
is

vitally

PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

related.

Plainly stated,

peutics based

upon

Homeopathy

is

a system of thera-

the natural laiv or principle that any

drug capable of producing symptoms or abnormalities

when given

to a

toms occur

in

As an
history

person

in health will,

when

similar

symp-

connection with disease, act curatively.

and as the

illustration of this

of Homeopathy,

it

initial step in

was discovered

that

the

when

drugs hitherto considered as specifics for certain diseases

were administered
determine

to

individuals in perfect health

something of

their

symptoms and conditions

action)

(to

produced

they

similar to those of the disease

which they had previously been given

cure.

This,

although unexpected and apparently irrational,

finally

to

led to extended experiments with different drugs

different

individuals

health)

(in

results that the conclusion

Hahnemann
some

that back of

lazv of cure,

drugs on the

such

and upon

uniform

was forced upon the mind of

all this

some

with

uniformity there must be

scientific

guide for the use of

sick.

HOMEOPATHIC MATERIA MEDICA


Thus originated

HOW FORMED.

the idea of a law of cure which has

been the permanent foundation for the building up of

our Homeopathic Materia Medica of to-day.


of the truth of this law, the pioneers of

Convinced

Homeopathy

organized classes and began the systematic proving of

drugs on the healthy, making careful record of the same,


and so well was their task performed that it has never

been

excelled.

We

of

to-day,

everlasting obligations to them.

must

remain

under

WHAT

HOMEOPATHY

18

HISTORY OF THE SINGLE REMEDY.


Obviously, in the proving of drugs on the healthy
scientific

accuracy required that but one should be admin-

istered at a time

and

itself,

was

a great

is

it

remedy

the use of the single

This, of

here,

safe to say, originated

in prescribing for the sick.

improvement on the prevailing

methods.

HISTORY OF "SMALL DOSES."


After years of experience and observation,

it

was

dis-

covered that in prescribing Homeopathic ally for the sick

and using the prevailing large doses of the drug the


results

were not uniformly good, and

condition of the patient was

in

some cases the

made worse. This

finally led

to the gradual reduction of the dose, with increasingly

good

results in the percentage of cures, with

no aggrava-

tion of the existing disease.

By

this outline in the

extending over

many

that the question of

came

was the

sum and

all,

taken in

to

be solved and that

it

through prolonged observation extend-

ing over several years.


for

substance of Homeopathy,

problem

last

to a solution

will readily be discovered

it

doses (so often ignorantly or

siiiall

falsely charged as the


itself,)

order of development, of a history

years,

think

it

may

be said here, once

that in the matter of dose, as in every other step


all

the history of

Homeopathy,

it

zvas preceded by

many years
tenets of Homeo-

the most rigid experiments, extending over

of painstaking observation.
pathy, as related above and

Thus
all

the

so well correlated to each

other, have stood the test of a century

and are becoming

PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

more recognized than ever before

as

fundamental and

unchangeable.

Assuming
pathy, what

the truth of
is

that

all

is

lute stability in therapeautics

is

Homeo-

claimed for

Abso-

Everything!

to be gained thereby?

gained for

all

time,

and

over and against a constant procession of changing

this as

views as to drugs and disease which

in

time invariably

leads to negativism or a general denial of the value of

medications of any

sort.

Materia Medica

is

gained, based

on the healthy, good for

remedy

single

in

all

upon drug provings

time to come

proving and prescribing

and that the

is

the scientific

procedure towards any real permanent progress. Further-

more, that the


principle

the

dose depends upon the

size of the curative

upon which

minimum dose

it is

given,

and that the best dose

is

that will cure; also that the curative

dose need not be so large as to injure the patient.

SUx>IMARY.
I.

The

first

and central

fact,

namely, the discovery of

a law of cure, the result of administering drugs to persons


in perfect health.
II.

Extensive

proving

of

drugs

on

followed by their administration to the

III.

Scientific accuracy,

demands the use

IV.

healthy,

according

law of cure, or practical Homeopathy.

to the

ing,

the

sick,

That

w^hen

both

in

proving and prescrib-

of the single drug or remedy.

prescribed

homeopathically,

crude

drugs or large doses often aggravate the disease or

fail

WHAT

whereas small doses give better results; a fact

to cure,

which

HOMEOPATHY

IS

finally led to the process of diluting

of drugs from the

first

on

and potentizing

and higher

to the 6th, 30th

potencies.

In this endeavor to give a clear answer to the question

"What
of

its

is

Homeopathy?"

have stated the knoivn facts

history past and present, studiously avoiding the

use of argument as foreign to the purpose in view.

No

attempt has been

Hahnemann with

all

made

connect the

to

name of

the various stages in the development

of Homeopathy, or give the experiments or processes of

reasoning by which he reached his conclusions, for that

would have extended

beyond reasonable

this article far

safe to say that medical history has

made

limits.

It is

sure

honor to him as the discoverer and promulgator

all

of Homeopathy.

A
may

few

facts of medical history relating to

Homeopathy

properly be mentioned here, as follows

true that even prior to the time of

the principles of

by medical

while

it

Hahnemann some

is

of

Homeopathy were openly recognized

men eminent

in their day,

(those relating to

law of cure and single remedy) but were soon forgotten


or

more probably submerged by the medical prejudice

which hitherto retarded the progress of any genuine


medical reform.

up the
in

first

It

gleam of

remained for Hahnemann


light as

it

came

person and for a lifetime every

to him,

to follow

and

known phase

to face

of ostra-

cism and persecution, even to banishment from his

field

of professional activities and from his native country,


rather than surrender his convictions.

Fortunately for

10

PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

him and for humanity, he hved

to a ripe old age

and was

permitted to see the principles to which he had devoted


his life, all well introduced

and maintained

civilized nation of the globe.

loyalty to his convictions

and

To
his

in nearly

every

his great learning, his

moral courage, we owe

our existence as a school of medicine.

CHAPTER

III.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION OF THE


PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY.
SELECTION OF THE REIVIEDY.
This

surely the

is

difficult principle

practice.

of

most important, as

Homeopathy

to

is

it

the

most

master and put

This brief outline of procedure

in

intended for

is

those having but a limited experience, and should prove


helpful as a guide in starting right.

plan followed by
the

Hahnemann and by

most successful prescribers.

some have

It

It is essentially the

a large majority of

must be admitted

that

a mental aptitude for successful prescribing

and make rules of their oivn; and again, there are times
of haste and emergency when experienced prescribers
succeed without any

The following

rule.

outline

if

consistently followed will soon

become a fixed habit of procedure, enabling the prescriber


even from the

The

patient

start, to attain the best results.

should be

requested to give

history, beginning with the first

or

illness,

and proceed

to state

features or

symptoms

correct

symptoms of any attack


somewhat in detail and

particularly in the order of development,


that have occurred

date of the present interview.

any

essential

down

to

the

Only such interruptions


11

APPLICATION OF PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

12

made

should be
in

seem necessary

as

an orderly narration of the case

this,

in

Following

hand.

the patient should be questioned and examined with

making a diagnosis of the

a view of

the selection of the

may

This

omitted.

remedy or
or

may

will often suggest a

more

sidered

fully

conducted up to

The

begin here.

If,

not,

Apart from

should never be

it

not furnish material aid in

number of remedies
on.

later

this point, the

tively easy.

disease.

remedy for the case

the selection of the one


it

to guide the patient

the case

If

may

next step

final act of selecting the

however,

to be con-

properly

is

be compara

remedy should

after listening to the patient's narration

of the case, one or more remedies should have been


suggested,

it

should be followed up and the patient ques-

tioned closely, to see

further indications or

if

symptoms

confirm the suggestion beyond a reasonable doubt.

If

not, and other remedies have been suggested, they should

be considered in the same way.

//,

through the inability

of the patient to give an intelligent history of the case or

when such
zvhich
scriber
the

history

is brief,

furnishing no special features

wotdd naturally suggest a remedy, then


must proceed

cause and

first

to

the pre-

question closely so as to discover

appearance of the

gradually unfold any facts or

time of seeking the prescriber;

illness,

symptoms down

all to

and so
to

the

be done with a view

of selecting a remedy.

When

this

is

well done, the cases are rare that do not

furnish some good indications for remedies.


for the inexperienced to
relative value.

many symptoms

As
in

know

that

all

It is

well

symptoms have a

many

diseases exhibit

common, but each

disease exhibits

for instance,

SELECTION OF THE REMEDY

13

The same

individual peculiarities or characteristics.


essentially true with medicines.

symptoms common

to

Many

each other, while

is

drugs produce
equality true

it is

each drug exhibits individual peculiarities which in prescribing are very appropriately termed ''characteristics"

or "key-notes," and the better these agree with the symp-

toms of the

Thus

to

patient, the

more

certain the cure.

designate and give proper emphasis to the so-

and black

called "key-notes" they are printed in italics,


ters for

Part
in

still

III,

and also under "Treatment."

common

bility,

let-

greater emphasis, both in the Materia Medica,

Symptoms

printed

type are close up to the "key-notes" in relia-

requiring only added experience and observation

to place

many

of them in the class of "characteristics,"

thus ulitmately forming the ideal Materia Medica.

Again the

fact that circumstances often prevent the

careful reading of

all

the indications for the

consideration, as well as the fact that

remedy under

some symptoms

of the remedy are m.ore important than others has led to


the use of italics and black type to facilitate the choice of
the remedy.

These "characteristics" may refer

to all the

circum-

stances and conditions of aggravation and amelioration,

such as time,

rest,

motion, heat, cold,

light, etc., etc.

Again, in selecting the remedy, the mental symptoms

and temperament of the individual often furnish a guide


to the

remedy.

The

first

cause of an attack will often

suggest the remedy, as for instance certain errors of diet,


different kinds of exposure to

all

sorts of weather,

and emotional disturbances from various

mental

causes,

etc.

APPLICATION OF PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

14

The most

successful prescribers have utiHzed

of these

all

aids in deciding the choice of the remedy.

may seem

Occasionally two or more remedies

equally

well indicated, and here comes a real perplexity for even

the best prescribers.

careful review of the symptoms,

including conditions of aggravation and amelioration will


generally clear up such perplexity.

All

real experience in this painstaking study

price of success

is

who have had


know that the

a strict compliance zvith the law of

This means a diligent and discriminating use of

cure.

the homeopathic Materia

Medica and the treatment of

the patient as a whole rather than treating the

name

of a

disease.

Alternating of two
equally well indicated

demned by

others.

It

remedies when they both seem


is
is

advocated by some and connot a good rule for either

the patient or prescriber, as


loose

Of

it

tends to superficial and

methods of prescribing.
course, in

all

prescribing

it

is

assumed that the

avoidable causes of illness will receive due attention and


if

possible by advice, be corrected, that injuries

and

local

disease requiring local treatment will be treated accordingly,

and that disease and conditions generally regarded

as surgical will receive the attention of a surgeon.

The following quotation from "The Hand-Book

of

Materia Medica" by Timothy F. Allen, M. D., LL. D.,


a most eminent authority, expresses
the

same or

a very similar

method

more concisely

of procedure for

the selection of the remedy, and as he states "it can be

followed by the trained or untrained prescriber."

SELECTION OF THE REMEDY


"The

duty of the prescriber

first

15

to note carefully

is

and completely the various complaints of his patient


and add thereto his own observations concerning his
that is to say the prescriber must get all
symptoms, subjective and objective. This duty
is
frequently quite apart from that performed in
making a diagnosis of the disease and often requires

condition,

of his

different

of

line

though

it is

making

not wise to attempt

Summarizing

his

This

investigation.

indeed be performed without

plan

duty
a

may

diagnosis,

it."

"After

follows.

carefully

observing the history of the case, the character of the


pains or sensations and location of the

with the conditions of

same together
aggravation and amelioration,

a group of remedies will usually be suggested from

which, by the aid of the Materia Medica, one


be selected which best covers the case.
the

diagnosis of the

should be and

is

would

consider

be

to

disease

may

Again,

if

has been made as

it

reasonably certain, then the


carefully

the

first

step

indications

for

remedies partially described under said disease, for


thus, as

selected

often the case, the right remedy may be


without referring to the Materia Medica.

is

However,

in all

consulted,

for

cases of doubt the latter should be

thus

only

can

Homeopathy

be

successfully practiced."

Dr. Clark, of London, another eminent authority,


says in his introduction to his book, "The Prescriber,"

under the head of "Rules for Practice"

"The beginner

in

homeopathic practice should,

in

16

APPLICATION OF PRINCIPLES OF HOMEOPATHY

the

first

instance,

some dozen

make

himself absolute master of

most widely useful remedies, with


all their characteristics and peculiarities; of the conditions under which their symptoms appear and cease,
and of their special times of occurrence, if they
of the

have any.

"An

accurate knowledge of the symptomatology of

these drugs will enable the practitioner to deal successfully with the majority of the

But
him

it

will also

cases he meets.

do more than this for him;

it

will give

on which to build up a knowledge of

a solid basis

the rest of the materia medica."

The

last

sentence

in

the

above

quotation

is

especially important and cannot be over-emphasized.

The number of remedies to begin with may be even


They will increase rapidly and
more limited.
normally without any confusion

if

the prescriber

is

diligent in study.

Again

in the

same book under the head

concernings

principles

unanimity among

"The

of

"Case

Dr. Clark states in few words the essential

Taking."

all

which

there

is

practical

homeopathists.

making a good prescription


The homeopathist takes his case
with much more care than do others. The directions
given by Hahnemann himself in the Organon should
is

first

step towards

a well-taken case.

be carefully studied, and the

The

spirit of

patient should be allowed to

is

own

story,

what he feels, and the particular sympmost anxious to be rid of. The practitioner

stating just

toms he

them followed.

tell his

SELECTION OF THE REMEDY

17

should then ascertain the condition under which the symp-

toms occur, times of day

at

which they are worst, and any

concomitant symptoms that


it is

may accompany

them.

If

then not quite obvious what remedy he ought to pre-

he will be prepared to consult his books of refer-

scribe,

ence,

knowing

what symptom he wishes

clearly

VERBAL

VS.

to find."

WRITTEN EXAMINATIONS.

In an acute mild case a verbal examination of the


patient

may

be sufficient but in chronic cases with

considerable history, a suitable record of at least the

main feautres

of the case should be written

future reference and

prescribed

made

with

if

the

potency

a matter of record.

by the

first

examination

used

the

for

should

be

also

few remedies suggested

may

well be put

parenthesis, for further consideration.

how good

down

need be for study. The remedy

It

down

in

matters not

memory, or how great the experience

of the prescriber, the record will be of interest

value even in after years.

In

my own

and

have
found it of great service and have continued from the
first until now to make such a record.
practice

CHAPTER

IV.

THE PREPARATION,
ADMINISTRATION AND CARE OF
HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES.
FOR

DIRECTIONS

FORMS OF MEDICINE, DOSE AND


Assuming
selected,
its

it

that

is

the proper

ITS REPITITION.

remedy has already been

believed that the following directions for

use are sufficiently definite and comprehensive to form

a proper guide for

its

administration, enabling the pre-

scriber to deal intelligently with


sickness.

These general

any ordinary case of

rules are based

upon and con-

firmed by a vast amount of experience extending back for

more than a

century, and in

ence to the same

curing the sick.

is

my

opinion a careful adher-

the surest guaranty of success in

They

are placed here in a group, with

such explanations as will

make them

whole book, thus avoiding much useless


is

applicable for the


repetition.

really nothing intricate or difficult of

There

comprehension

about the practice of Homeopathy, except the selection


of the curative or indicated remedy, which will be considered in another place.
or indifference about

However, a lack of

some of

the following details

prevent a cure, or even hazard a


is

important
18

in

familiarity

human

life;

may

hence

obtaining the best possible results.

all


DIFFERENT FORMS OF MEDICINE

"When
is

19

one has to do with an art the end of which

the saving of

human

thoroughly master of

Hfe,

it is

make
Hahnemann.

any neglect

a crime."

to

oneself

DIFFERENT FORMS OR PREPARATIONS OF MEDICINE.


Medicine accurately prepared for homeopathic use
put up in different forms, viz

First, liquids

in the

of tincture, dilutions or potentized remedies.


in

form of medicated

pellets,

tablets

and

is

form

Second,

triturations.

They should be obtained thus prepared from a reliable


homeopathic pharmacy or homeopathic physician. Nothing is more important than this, that the remedy should be
accurately prepared and every way reliable, else all effort
is

vain.

ally

To

obtain

all

prepared by a

able

potentized remedies as origin-

first class

been the custom of a


potencies

my

homeopathic pharmacy has

life time.

have never used.

Self-made, or drug-store

To

eliminate every avoid-

source of failure on the part of those

testing or using

homeopathic remedies,

who

are

must urge the

plan adopted by myself.

The two forms


ones

liquid (dilutions)

The

in general use.

particular

and

medicine to be used in each individual case


if

pellets, are the

form of homeopathic
is

quite largely,

not wholly, a matter of convenience, in other words,

if

the medicated pellets will cure a case, the liquid or medi-

cated solution will do the same, and vice versa.


essential thing,

emphasized above

the most difficult

is

all

others,

The one

and certainly

the selection of the right

remedy

according to the principle of Homeopathy, so concisely


stated by

Hahnemann, "Similia Similibus Curantur."

POTENCIES OF REMEDIES

20

DOSE OR POTENCIES OF
Although
little

REJVIEDIES.

we hear comparatively
own
Some
permanently settled.
days

in these latter

about our small doses, the question even in our

school

far

is

from being

prefer the use of crude drugs, or the lower potencies,

while others use the higher potencies exclusively.

very large middle class make use of both the lower and
higher potencies, endeavoring in so doing to suit the
potencies to the susceptibility or individual temperament

This

of each patient, as well as the nature of the disease.

method of

when

differentiation,

can be accomplished,

it

represents the true ideal, and obviously includes the use

To become

of both the lozver and higher potencies.

thoroughly established in this latter method, requires time

and close observation

in

my own

case

it

required several

years of experience and careful observation at the bed-

my

practice handicapped

side, for I

began

prejudice

and training received

To

medicine.

illustrate

it

is

in

by some of the

another

safe to say that

school of

when

well

indicated any one of the third, sixth, thirtieth or two-

hundredth potency
as to

which one

remains

much

will cure a given case of disease, but

will cure the quickest

experience will help to decide.

a rare opportunity, for

way

it is

it

is

worth

seems that here

doubtful whether there

is

is

any

the question of the most suitable potencies can

approach a solution.
have been

best, there still

If experience

anything, and has anything to say,

other

and

honest difference of opinion, time and

my main

to say that the

often cured

The

sixth

reliance,

and

thirtieth potencies

however, truth compels

me

two-hundredth and one-thousandth have

when

the lower failed.

It is

generally con-

PREPARATION, DOSE AND REPETITION

21

sidered best for those of limited, or no experience, to

begin with the lower potencies, the sixth to thirtieth.

"The highest
nent

of

the

health,

and most harmless

reliable

and perma-

ideal of cure is rapid, gentle,

restoration

the

in

won by

ivay,

most

shortest,

com-

easily

prehensible principles." //a/jw^maww.

PREPARATION OF 3IEDICINE AND DOSE.


the liquid is used, the patient may be directed

If

10 to

ifi

drops

in

to be taken as directed in the following

and

Its Repetition."

If

may

same quantity of water and used


pellets

made

mix

paragraph "Dose

medicated pellets are to be used

preparing a solution, lo to 15

in

to

a half tumbler of ivater, a teaspoonful

as

for homeopathic use are

be mixed in the
above.

Pills

or

composed of pure

cane sugar, absorb the tincture or dilution readily and

(medium) of

are soluble in water.

Size 35

one generally used.

For convenience, the medicated

pellet

the

pills is

taken dry on the tongue seems to have the pref-

erence in chronic cases, and a single dose of 4 to 6

given thus

may

well precede the

first

dose of a watery

solution.

In acute cases where frequent doses

required,

it

is

well

to

prepare

pills

solution

as

may

be

before

described.

DOSE AND

ITS REPETITION.

In acute cases attended by any violent or urgent symptoms, characterized by pain, exhaustion or high fever,
the

remedy should be given

15 to every 50 minutes.

often, ranging

from every

In cases less urgent, with no

severe pain, give once an hour or even tivo hours.

In

all

WHEN

23
cases

TO CHANGE THE

(either acute or chronic),

REMEDY

as soon as there are

improvement, lengthen the interval

clear indications of

or stop the medicine altogether so long as the improve-

ment continues, and repeat


ceases.

This

but

not even new.

it is

is

important ;

the dose
it

Make

ing and have no fear.

If

when improvement

may sound

sure the patient

improv-

is

following a few doses of

evident improvement, the patient begins

medicine there

is

to perspire, or

become more quiet with

comfort,

revolutionary,

less

pain and dis-

generally safe to conclude that the

it is

remedy

has been well chosen and other good results are to follow.

As

a rule,

is

it

seldom wise to waken a patient from

normal, quiet sleep to administer a dose of medicine,

WHEN TO CHANGE THE REMEDY.


In acute, urgent cases, with pain and violent symp-

toms which are not changed for the better after 3 to 6


doses given often, another remedy should be chosen. In
milder acute cases where the remedy

is

given every one

or two hours, more time must be allowed before changing


the remedy, even
sary, a

In

all

more

6,

12 or

suitable

24.

hours; after which

if

neces-

remedy should be sought and given.

cases, acute or chronic, the

remedy should not be

changed too often, should be given a fair

trial,

the appearance and continuation of favorable

and with

symptoms

do not interrupt the same by giving a different remedy.

CHRONIC CASES.
If the disease has passed

from the acute

to a semi-

chronic form, or has existed for months or years with no


serious complication or urgent symptoms,

the

remedy

CARE OF MEDICINE
should not be given too often
doses per day, and
after

improvement

much
is

23

not more than two or three

less

frequently or discontinued,

evident.

In chronic cases the cura-

tive process

is

generally slow, and the medicated pellet

answers well

in

such cases.

It

should be given preferably

before meals or on retiring at night.

CARE OP

]\IEDICINE.

Homeopathic medicine should be carefully protected


against any and

all

forms of contamination, should be

labeled, well corked, kept in cases, closed box, or drawer.

If medicated pills are used, they should, to ensure reliability,

be re-medicated once or twice a year.

Caution

^Unless expressly prescribed,

it is

well while

taking homeopathic medicine and for some time thereafter, to avoid the use either internally
all

other drugs, strong acids and coffee.

or externally of

PART
DISEASES

11.

AND THEIR TREATMENT.


CHAPTER

I.

AIDS AND ACCESSORIES TO DIAGNOSIS

AND TREATMENT.
GENERAL CONSIDERATION OF DIAGNOSIS
AND ITS EVIPORTANCE.
The

appalling results that sometimes follow from

errors in diagnosis cannot be realized

by the inex-

perienced; that this department of the practice of

medicine

was

in earlier times

quite as

as that concerning therapeutics,

The

scientific aid

weak and

chaotic

saying a good deal.

is

of the present time, available for every

case and emergency in diagnosis,

was

practically

unknown

to physicians of earlier times.

The unaided
that

fill

many

of the strange vagaries

the pages of the earlier

and diagnosis.
the

supplemented by crude obser-

five senses

vation only, will explain

microscope,

To-day
the

all

is

works on pathology

different, with the aid of

X-Ray, the

clinical

and a score of minor inventions there


blunders in diagnosis.

is

thermometer,

no excuse for

Occasionally obscure cases

furnish good ground for difference in opinions.

24

may

DIAGNOSIS AND ITS IMPORTANCE

As

25

read the early history of homeopathy,

was

to discover that there

Doubtless

much

it

is

of this was due to the uncompromising

upon the prevailing method and

attack by the homeopaths

error of treating disease by

name

rather than the patient

come

as a whole, so that out of apparent neglect has

a permanent compensation

An

to the principle of treatment.

early and accurate diagnosis of every case

greatest

easy

a tendency to neglect diagnosis.

is

of the

importance to the individual, the family, the

community and the

state.

This

is

especially true in all

contagious and infectious diseases, for upon this depends


all

proper and successful quarantine regulation.

individual as a unit,

it

To

the

means much, even apart from

medical treatment, for no patient can be properly safe-

guarded against many errors of

diet,

unless the nature of the disease

well understood and

defined by

some

is

definite diagnosis.

exposure,

etc.,

Again, the suspense

of the patient and friends often works havoc through


fear of
exist.

some serious impending

nosis should be
in

disease,

which does not

There are many minor reasons why a

made

right diag-

early and any neglect thereof might

some cases be considered

criminal.

An

early diag-

nosis often leads to the early treatment of diseases, easily

controlled in the

first stages,

and increasingly

difficult in

the latter.

Another reason

is

that while the principle of regard-

ing and treating the patient as a whole


correct, nevertheless

named

when

in the diagnosis,

prescriber in the

way

the disease

is

is

fundamentally

early and rightly

some advantages accrue

to the

of hints of a group of remedies

generally indicated in certain diseases.

careful con-

THE CLINICAL THERMOMETER

26

sideratlon of each

remedy

in a small list is

much

easier

and far more successful as a rule than a wide glance

at

the whole Materia Medica.

much

Obviously
earlier

gained by a diagnosis, and the

is

made, the better for

all

concerned.

time, the condition of the patient as

symptoms given and


should

them

"the totality;" for with or without

all,

a full diagnosis, this

is

the best and practically the only

to prescribe successfully for a patient.

tunately the result


ease

is

the

those discoverable to the prescriher,

be utilized in selecting the one remedy which

all

best includes

way

In the mean-

made known by

is

And

for-

often such that the impending dis-

"nipped in the bud," regardless of any diagnosis.

Let the emphasis on the importance of diagnosis be


placed where

First

As

should be.

it

a general preventive measure, as in con-

tagious diseases.

Second:

Its

importance

in the

proper management of

the individual patient.

Third
and

Relief from unnecessary suspense to patient

friends.

Fourth

Such suggestion or aid

as

may come

to the

prescriber by reason of a smaller group of remedies to

be considered, from which to select the right one.

THE

CLINICAIi

This instrument
surgeon.

To

ITS USE AND AIISUSE.

THERM03IETER
is

indispensable to the physician and

the student

and layman possessing a reason-

THE CLINICAL THERMOMETER


able

27

amount of knowledge and dicrimination

is

it

like-

wise a most valuable aid, for in every case of any importance

its

hours

in

much towards

use will contribute

Also

diagnosis and prognosis.

advance of

in

symptoms

visible

a correct

treatment where some


the

thermometer

often reveals impending changes either for the better or

worse, requiring continuation of the remedy or a change

of the same, as the case

may

be.

The normal temperature,

or "blood heat," in perfect health


Slight variations

from

this

is

placed at 98 3-5.

standard owing to advanced

age or pecularities of temperament are not rare.


rise in

temperature in health

exercise or after a meal.

cause a rise of from

With

may

slight

follow after some active

The presence of

fever will

to 6 or 8 degrees above the normal.

the subsidence of the fever the temperature falls

In the early stage of the eruptive fevers

proportionately.

of children, also in acute inflammatory diseases of the


lungs with both children and adidts, the temperature

is

persistently high.

moderate increase of temperature,

gradual from day

to

day (but persistent)

typhoid fever or incipient tuberculosis.

temperature especially
favorable, particularly

and

irregular.

to

if
if

may

indicate

A sudden

drop in

may

not be

below normal

the pulse continues rapid,

weak

gradual decrease in temperature with

favorable symptoms in general to correspond,

may

safely

be considered as an approaching convalescence.

Notwithstanding the essential information furnished by


the thermometer

when properly

interpreted in

to each individual case, there are

tions to

its

use by those

or are bewildered by

who

its

still

its

relation

some serious objec-

greatly exaggerate

its

value

every unfavorable fluctution.

^^^'Sf

28

TO DIAGNOSIS

This often leads to premature and radical changes

in

treatment, as well as discouragement of the patient and

As

demoralization in general.

most

a matter of fact, in

cases of illness and zvithin certain limitations, there

is

daily fluctation of temperature with a usual tendency to

reach

its

maximum
As

morning.

in the evening

a result of

much

and minimum

in the

bedside observation,

it

has

been found most unwise, as a rule, to allow the patient to

have access

to

the daily record of temperature or to

announce the same every time

it

is

taken, except

it

is

accompanied with a proper explanation.

persistent rise in temperature extending over days

and weeks should never be disregarded.

It is

an index

pointing to some organic disease or impending illness

which can only be determined by a careful examination


of

the facts

all

ever

it

may

and conditions.

The temperature, whatno aid

in

However,

if

be, will of itself furnish little or

selecting the proper

homeopathic remedy.

following the administration of the remedy the temperature becomes improved or normal,
that the

it is

a safe conclusion

remedy has been well chosen.

children the temperature

is

suddenly than in adults.

In diseases of

inclined to rise

and

fall

terized by a peculiar temperature, the facts will be


fully elaborated

means

to

under the head of such disease.

an end, the thermometer with

eliminated,

more

In such diseases as are charac-

all

must ever occupy a large place

more

As

the misuses
as an aid in

That these words of caution and


instruction may lead to an intelligent and discriminating
dealing with the sick.

use of the instrument

devoting so

much

is

the object of the

space to the subject.

author

in

BLOOD PRESSURE

29

BLOOD PRESSURE AND DIAGNOSIS.


The determination of the blood pressure by the use of
the sphygmomanometer occupies an important place in
the diagnosis and treatment of diseases.

by blood pressure

is

Briefly related,

meant the estimation of the pressure

exerted upon the blood by cardiac or heart energy and

The pressure

the elasticity of the arterial walls.

from

no

to 130 millimeters in healthy

children the pressure


there

is

The blood

health varies within broad limits and

is

so that the

tion,

influence

interpretation of

into consideration

and

In

pressure in

influenced by such

factors as exercise, position, anger, excitement

must take

varies

adults.

lower, while in those over 40

a physiological increase.

is

young

and diges-

the blood pressure

any possible factor, known to

result.

In disease the estimation of the blood pressure affords


the

most assistance

in

some complications of

and surgery, while

it

information regarding the outcome and treat-

affords

ment

chronic diseases of the kidney,


obstretrics

in diseases like

Typhoid and Pneumonia.

It is

well

for those individuals over 40 to have their blood pressure

determined

at intervals

and

in the event of a gradually

increasing pressure to have a physician order such a

regimen as
ease.

as

may

prevent or retard the development of dis-

Blood pressure observations are now required

part

of

life-insurance

examinations,

extensive

ob-

servation having proved their value in determining the existence of disease

The

where other methods

failed.

great value of the principles involved in blood

pressure in establishing early the presence of threatening

AIDS TO DIAGNOSIS

30

Much

disease has already been demonstrated.


is

importance

attached to diseases of the heart and blood pressure and

their relation one to the other.

alone

is

not to be depended upon in making a diagnosis

certainly

it

While blood pressure

fills

a large place as a

"danger signal"

first

pointing to the necessity of a further investigation.

SPECIALISTS AND DIAGNOSIS.

The
is

contribution of specialist to accuracy of diagnosis

The

not fully appreciated.

ments

multiplication of depart-

medicine with their respective specialists has

in

many so-called incurable diseases and


new lines of procedure, both in medical
cases. The rapid increase of specialists in

rendered curable

has led to entirely

and operative
all

departments of medicine during the past twenty-five

years has been phenomenal and can scarcely be accounted


for except as a part and parcel of this progressive age,

and as a normal response


ciple that runs

through

to that strong underlying prin-

all

the realms of

human

activity,

namely "demand and supply."

The change has come

to stay for

in the interests of suffering

retroactive could

it

is

so manifestly

humanity that no custom or

turn us back to the time

when

the

"family physician" or the general practitioner was practically the

will for

patient
in

hand

and

whole thing.

However

the practical problem

obvious reasons continue to be thrust upon the

and the family physician as


is

one for the

this fact

something of

Assuming

has led

my own

to

whether the case

specialist or the general practitioner

me

to devote a little space in giving

experience and views

in this matter.

for the purpose of illustration only, that the

THE TRAINED NURSE

31

one of suspected appendicitis which as a general

case

is

rule

may

assume

Who

be both medical and surgical.

all

procedure?

Are not

should

and the plan of

responsibility for a diagnosis

the chances for eliminating error

and for the recovery of the patient far better when the
services of a competent specialist

combined?

and the physician are

Answering both questions

amount of observation

no small

in all cases of

common

suspected diseases or injuries which by


are classed as surgical,

after

would say that

consent

matters not whether of the

it

nose and throat, the eye and ear or the wider


surgery, the specialist in such line of

work

is

field

of

an almost

indispensible factor and should be associated with the

family physician in obtaining the best possible results


this is particularly

more or

less

important

where there

in all cases

is

uncertainty about a diagnosis.

THE TRAINED NURSE.


Considering the aids that are available

ment

to the physician himself

order

The

in the treat-

of the sick, the trained nurse stands only second

may

and

in

some

special cases the

be reversed, giving the nurse

first

place.

evolution of the trained nurse, like that of the

has come about rapidly within recent years


and has come as a response to a genuine demand. I

specialist,

recall the fifteen years of

cap and

gown

my

early practice before the

of the trained

nurse were visible.

think the custom of leaving the selection of the nurse


to the physician in attendance is most important and
for the following reasons

very sick patient

is

An

unsuitable nurse for a

next to none at

all

this as a rule

32

AIDS TO DIAGNOSIS

need not occur,

if

the physician has

some personal

acquaintance or knowledge of the nurse.

For instance,

young children or infants


care for them when sick.

a nurse having no interest in

should never be asked to

The most

successful nurse for children

natural fondness for them, one

with them and interpret their

is

one with a

who can sympathize


language. The selec-

tion of a nurse for a discouraged, despondent pessimistic

should never be

patient

left

sents

Perhaps the

chance.

to

who

repre-

tempermentally the opposite condition.

The

greatest need of such a patient

so-called

is

a nurse

nervous patient needs a nurse with an

genious mind and steady strong nerves, not


given to noticing

trifles

in-

much

or discussing details, opti-

mistic and able to create healthy diversion for the


invalid.

The foregoing
of

are given as typical illustrations only

what should be the

rule in all cases.

in the large class of trained

Fortunately

nurses nearly every tem-

perament and personality is represented, so that in


most cases the adjustment of the patient and nurse
can be reasonably well accomplished.

The recovery

of the patient and the success of the nurse

is

herein

involved.
It

has been

my

privilege during the past

twenty

years to be affiliated with the teaching force for a


large class of trained nurses and to observe something of

their

work

in after years.

of the failures that

am

persuaded that most

have known have come from an

unwillingness or inability to adjust themselves to the

THE TRACED NURSE


case in hand

this,

must be confessed,

it

one

task, for the sick

is

requires

life

more

patience,

more

No

diligence

unselfish devotion than the trained nurse,

Her

her whole duty.


possible.

It

is

no

easy-

not always reasonable, in fact

mentally and physically abnormal.

is

33

life

position

in

and more

who

does

should be made as easy as

should be an easy and reverent thing

for us to sa}^, "

God

"

bless her

SU30IARY.

The foregoing general

influencing

considerations,

diagnosis and treatment of obscure diseases have

al-

ready become quite indispensable, but the details concerning the same are inadmissable here.

Other aids
and accessories should be mentioned as of equal im-

The

portance.

culture test for diphtheria; the tuber-

and treatment of incipient


tuberculosis; the importance of proper climate for
culin

for

test

diagnosis

the invalid (already considered briefly in connection

with tuberculosis, hay fever and asthma) the widening field of the X-Ray, both in medicine and surgery,
all

are

now

available for those

who

seek relief through

medical and surgical treatment.

Much

that

has

been

written

in

this

chapter

may

be considered as a sort of practical review or "reminder," more especially for the non-professional reader.

GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF
Under

DIET.

the head of special diseases, special directions

may

be found as in gastritis,

tion,

only general principles

etc.
zvill

To

avoid useless repeti-

be considered here.

AID 8 TO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

34

The selection of nourishment for an invahd is of much


more importance than is usually attached to it, and it
should not be
to decide.

left to

The

the patient, or over-indulgent ones

dietary for the sick should

on general

principles be so chosen as to greatly reduce the labor or

process of digestion.

In most cases of

illness, especially

those of a febrile character, the digestive process

is

greatly

more or

impaired, the gastric secretions scanty, and

less

deteriorated.

Under such

conditions any error or excess in feeding,

either as to frequency or amount,

harm

especially

true

in

where for a

fever,

some

from one

much

This

given.

In such cases, there

from

a liberal use of water, either

all

days

warm

in

may be still
much thirst, and

food

generally

is

is

much

to three

food should be allowed, and

cases total abstinence

better.

it is

attended with

acute diseases,
brief period of

only the lightest liquid

sure to do

is

and retard the results for which

or cold,

is

both per-

missible and beneficial.

much

Broths prepared with

chicken, clam and oysters are

With some one or more


jected or unpalatable.
to the patient, or

Milk

in

especially

its

is

care

all

from

The

choice can generally be left

modifications

in alternation.
is

indispensable,

with young children and infants.

nourishment

may

lamb,

preferred while others are re-

two kinds may be given


various

beef,

available for the sick.

be prepared from

rice,

Delicate

barley and oat

meal, and can generally be mixed with broth or milk,

more

especially in cases during convalescence.

The

ivhite

of an egg well beaten or pure unfermented grape juice

GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF DIET


(diluted) often ansvv^ers in the case of

35

young children or

even adults where other nourishment disagrees or

is

may

be

As

rejected.

most acute

a general rule in

cases,

it

considered safe to change from a liquid to a semi-solid

when

food,

the pulse and temperature approach close to

when the thirst and dry tongue and mouth


a more natural condition^ followed by a

normal, and
give

way

to

Only small

moderate sense of hunger.


be given at

first,

quantities should

gradually increasing in the absence of

any unfavorable symptoms.


In the case of chronic diseases, especially

when they

have become incurable, the plan of rigorous dieting

is

often useless and cruel, annoying the patient to the point


of making

life

miserable.

Not only

cases the "dieting of the disease"


patient's general condition

of diet

may have

and the

disease.

is

this,

at the

but in some

expense of the

and the reversal of the order

a beneficial effect

on both the patient

GENERAL CONSIDERATION OF PALLIATIVE, EXTERNAL, AND LOCAL TREATMENT OF DISEASE.


Recognizing the

related to each other


topics

that

fact

and

foregoing are

often

to avoid the multiplication of

have grouped them under one head for a general

consideration only.

The temptation

out regard to consequences


the temptation
thetic friends

quences,

the

it

is

is

to relieve pain with-

often very strong and

when

strengthened by the appeals of sympa-

having

become

little

to

or no knowledge of the conse-

some

irresistible

the

result

of

which has caused many so-called "mysterious," "unex-


AIDS TO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

36

pected" and "sudden deaths" to say nothing of the per-

making a correct diagnosis or

plexities in

curative

remedy for the patient who

and drugged

is

selecting the

already doped

to obtain "quick relief."

"The highest ideal of cure is rapid, gentle, and permanent restoration of the health, in the shortest, most
reliable

and most harmless way, won by

compre-

easily

Hahnemann.

hensible principles."

Fortunately there no longer remains any doubt about


the fact that ordinarily a well chosen

bring quick relief

viewing

my own

remedy

will not only

but a safe and permanent


observation,

Re-

cure.

can say that the use of

anything outside of the well selected homeopathic remedy


is

Complications and

very rarely a necessity.

are less frequent

upon the proper

when

internal

the

main dependence

fatalities

placed

is

remedy rather than upon heroic


;

dosing or questionable local applications.

The abuse

of

the

hyperdermic syringe because

"speedy results" easily obtainable has


lead not a

few

into

making permanent
our remedies which

methods of
and

cures,
if

in these later

into a superficial study of

carefully selected

would

That our deep acting constitutional remedies

come

in

a great

relief

by a

cure.

local diseases, or diseases


tions,

days

palliation rather than to

majority of cases accomplish the desired

prompt and permanent

of

will cure

having chiefly local manifesta-

admits of no doubt; furthermore, they will overcertain constitutional predispositions

individuals and families

is

menace

to

which

in

some

good health and

PALLIATION AND LOCAL TREATMENT


often a source of complication

The use

disease.

37

when attacked by

acute

of the higher potencies best accompHsh

these resuUs.

Of

course any proper means of palliation that are safe

and sane may be used


internal remedies

But

ficial.

in all

connection with the proper

in

they are permissable and often bene-

doubtful cases

always well to be on

it is

the safe side, exercising the most discriminating judgment


in the use of external applications

use of

and always avoid the

harmful, dangerous experiments, simply to

all

gain "speedy relief."

The treatment

of any form of skin eruptions (either

acute or chronic) by external applications

much

is

prevalent than in former times, showing as

less

believe a

better understanding of the nature of such diseases as well


as a

knowledge of the

risk of such treatment,

which often

proves to be a suppression rather than a cure, resulting


chronic internal disease which

is

far

more

in

to

difficult

eradicate than the original disease.

Rest assured
selection

of

obtained

will

it

the

will

pay

curative

not

only

to take time to

remedy,
be

for

make
the

astonishingly

a careful

relief

prompt,

thus

but

permanent.

As
upon

is

well understood, Homeopathists as a rule depend

the internal administration of medicine rather than

their local
all

and external application, and especially so

whose use externally has been


by

in

non-surgical cases; however, there are three remedies

clinical

experience

that

so thoroughly sanctioned

their

frequent

use

locally

A7D/S

38

seems amply

TO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT


justified.

refer to Arnica, Calendula and

Hamamelis, each having a well defined sphere of action


which

under the head of each drug.

fully described

is

Occasionally

it

not easy to determine as between the

is

for

indications

Arnica and Hamamelis,

respects they are quite similar in action

for

some

in

and either may

be beneficial in their application in a given case.

BACTERIA AND THEIR RELATION TO DISEASE.


and source of many

Definite knowledge as to the cause

of the most fatal diseases has, within the past twenty-five


years, revolutionized

This

ment.

Of

origin.

is

all

methods of prevention and

notably true of

all

these there are many,

treat-

diseases of bacterial
all

of which will be

treated under the head of contagious and infectious dis-

To Robert Koch, whose

eases.

death has been recently

announced, we owe much; for he was the foremost bacteriologist of his time.

His persistent work rescued the

bacterial theory

from a mere hypothesis and placed

upon a

and working

scientific

The

far-reaching

effect

humanity cannot yet be

it

basis.

of

great

this

fully realized.

service

to

Not content with

the discovery of the cause of tuberculosis and kindred


diseases

he pushed on,

pioneerlike,

until

by patient

research he was able to announce to the medical world


the great principle

of inoculation,

or the use

of

the

antitoxines in the cure of these diseases.

Up

to recent times,

it

would have seemed far-fetched,

if

not absurd, to devote a chapter to the consideration of


bacteria and their relation to or cause of disease.

How-

BACTERIA AND THEIR RELATION TO DISEASE

39

demonstrated facts have come upon us with the

ever,

suddenness and emphasis of an avalanche, compelling

most serious attention

if

in earnest

we would

seek out

the true cause of disease and death which hitherto, largely-

through ignorance, have fallen from generation to generation

a fatal blight

like

through

upon the human

How,

race.

the centuries of medidal research, have such

all

important facts remained undiscovered and millions of


lives

Perhaps the most obvious reason

been sacrificed?

owing

that bacteria,

is

to their infinitesimal size, being

discoverable only by the most powerful microscope, have

been overlooked or ignored, thus giving

rise to the

expres-

"Bacteria are man's

sion of the present day scientist.


invisible foe."

While

this

bacteria,"

species

true of the so-called "disease-producing

is

is

it

also true that there

is

a vast variety of

which are not only harmless, but may be con-

sidered in the great

economy of nature

Some kind

friend.

everywhere

of bacteria

nature.

in

may

Wherever

as

man's

invisible

be found almost

there

is

decay or

degeneration of tissue they are often abundant.


soil

beneath our feet or the dust that

flies

In the

through the

air,

the water of the stagnant pool or the river that tumbles

on

its

way

to the sea, they are there.

food, fruits, vegetables and milk,

In the uncooked

enormous numbers are

taken into the system and by the action of the digestive

organs are rendered harmless and possibly made to serve


a

function

in

building up the animal

economy.

The

complete function of non-disease-producing bacteria


yet to be learned
accident.

their role

is

however humble cannot be an

In the early study of bacteria, owing to their

AIDS TO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

40

and rapid reproduction,

activities

men

for scientific

them among the former, but

sider

evidence

The one fundamental

plants.

class.

fact

"disease-

that

is

retaining the

for months, in fact indefinitely,

and then when implanted

kind,

inclined to con-

the present time

at

may remain dormant,

baccilli"

power of reproduction
in health

task

difficult

conclusive that they are to be classed as

is

producing

was a

Many were

classed as animals or plants.

its

it

whether they should be

to determine

in the throat

or lungs of one

may produce a disease of a specific form, after


which may be any of the contagious or infectious

This

is

the

method and essence of the spread of


and infectious diseases. In one case

so-called contagions
it

may

be diphtheria, in another tuberculosis,

matters not whether


the water

we

producing

it

bacillus

we

be carried by the air

drink or the food

comes

we

eat

when

contact

in

moisture and organic matter of the

etc.

It

breathe,

the disease-

with

human

the

heat,

system, the

necessary conditions for self-multiplication are complete

and

ideal,

and the rapidity of

mysteries of bacterial

life.

this process

As

is

one of the

a result of their rapid

growth and decay, poisonous chemical compounds are

formed which cause


possible outline,

are

disease.

Such,

in

some of the most

the

briefest

essential

concerning bacteria and their relation to disease.

facts

Believ-

ing that a definite knowledge of the causation and prevention of disease together with the dissemination of such

knowledge

is

one of the greatest boons that the physician

can confer upon the physical part of humanity, and


that such knozvledge is

now

available is

writing this brief outline which I trust

my

reason for

may prove an

FEVER

41

inspiration to others to pursue the subject zvhich has been


fully elaborated in the latest standard text books.

FEVER.
In using the term Fever as applied to an abnormal
state of the

system

it

is

intended to designate a condition

where there are present increased heat of the body,


increased frequency of the pulse; elevation of temperature ; heat
thirst.

and dryness of the skin and month,

In the beginning of

generally the

first

impending

signal of

acute and chronic diseases, fever


best

evidence

Fever thus early

relapse.
is

remedies

administered

are

adopted, the disease


it

in

only symptomatic of what

may

will be in milder

evidence
is

illness.

often the

is

aggravation,

acute

of

zvith

much

acute diseases, fever

all

or

In subfirst

and

threatened

may

is

be,

and often

to follow; yet if suitable

early,

and

be prevented or

a
if it

proper

diet

does follow,

form and of shorter duration.

To

aid the prescriber in dealing zvith the first appearance of

any

illness is

my

explanation for adding here some few

remedies so often useful in the early or febrile stage of


disease.

Fever, with

its

many

causes and classifications,

the last analysis, symptomatic of

is,

in

some deeper, under-

lying cause, which will be considered mainly under the

head of special fevers.

Only

a fezv of the

suggested here.

head of

specific

See Index.

most frequently useful remedies are

Others
fevers.

appear elsewhere, under the

will

From

special indications for each

a consideration of the

remedy,

it

will be discernible

FEVER

42

that they each represent a different type of fever,

may, and naturally does, precede the more


disease.

With

fully

which

developed

moderate amount of discrimination

there need be no confusion, as

for instance, between

Aconite and Arsenicum, Aconite and Gelsemium, or any


of the other remedies.

doubt as to the remedy or

If in

remedies, turn to the Materia Medica, Part

III.,

and

study the same more carefully.

The
made,

"suitable
is

remedy"

to

which frequent reference

is

the one which corresponds closely to the totality

of the symptoms and pathological conditions of the case


in hand.

Successful prescribing in the early stage or any stage


of disease depends largely upon a close adherence to this

method,

which

in

estimates in any
nosis, or the

Aconite

nowise

way

with

interfers

or

under

the importance of an early diag-

subsequent use of the indicated remedies.

Very often indicated

be preceded by a

chill,

in the first stage.

from exposure and

cold,

May
zuith

sudden checking of perspiration, folloived hy high fever,


fidl, rapid pidse, hot dry skin, great thirst, extreme restlessness,

and

inability to sleep.

impending organic
or croup.

After taking cold, with

disease, especially

pneumonia, pleurisy

After a very few doses of Aconite a free per-

spiration generally follows, patient becomes

accompanied by general
after

which,

if

relief of

improvement

selected according to indications

Corresponds

Arsenicum
Aconite, and

is

more

symptoms,

other

remedies,

follow.

to fever of

marked by extreme

quiet,

violent

ceases,

may

more

lower type than

prostration, especially

FEVER
in

and

gastric

derangement accompanied by

intestinal

nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

The

thirst

is

Constant craving for water but

peculiar.

very

43

satisfied

with

Restlessness of body, changing

time.

at

little

marked and

about from place to place.

Belladonna
and

full

Somewhat

pulse

less

similar

marked brain symptoms.


aversion to noise and

much

Aconite.

Thirst

Throbbing headache, great


Skin very hot, face very

light.

fiiished, pupils dilated;

sore throat of severe type.

Aconite

to

marked than Aconite, with more

impending

scarlet fever or

Follows well after Aconite,

if

fails to relieve.

Bryonia

Following

exposure and

chill.

Fever, with

and aching of limbs


Some thirst, but not marked.

severe, sharp pains through chest

and muscles of body.


Great aversion
vates

all

to

moving or being moved, which aggraThis

pains.

is

Impending

Arsenicum.

the opposite of Aconite


pleurisy,

important.

and

Follows

well after use of Aconite.

Chamomilla

Fever of children more

cheek red and hot, the other pale.


voith desire to be carried about.

gastric

and

One

Restless at night, with

intestinal disturbance.

Gelsemium

The

fever of Gelsemium

by heat of the surface and

Often after colds

and soreness of
Fever with

thirst

zvith debility,

is

less

marked

than that of Aconite.

headache and lameness

eyeballs.

slight thirst, especially with prostration, the

characteristic of

involvment.

especially.

Irritable in extreme,

Gelsemium.

Fever with brain and spinal

C0NTAGI0V8 AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

44

The

fever developing during the progress of organic

from other causes,

diseases and
injuries,

etc.,

be

zuill

treated

as local inflammation,

under each head.

fully

See Index.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

as

and

dose

to

selection

diet,

of

the

remedy,

under

Index

General

see

repetition,

GENERAL CONSIDERATION OF CONTAGIOUS


AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES.
These include
one person
tact

all

such as

to another, either

may

the former only by direct contact with the sick, the

by intermediate objects, hereinafter described.

latter

from agreement

yet medical authorities are far


the

be transmitted from

by direct or indirect con-

thus

diseases

transmittable

As

as to

however, the number

has increased rapidly during recent years.


It

has been fully determined that some diseases are

both contagious and infectious;


theria

and

scarlet

as,

for example, diph-

fever, while others like

mumps and

whooping-cough, are contagious only, direct contact being


necessary.

Infectious diseases

may

be transmitted in

many ways

besides direct contact, as through food, water, clothing,

dust and books.


tuberculosis

may

Examples of which,

the contact or contagious idea


as the full

limit of danger that

paid to infection

edge

in these

scarlet fever

be considered most typical.

from remote

matters

is

and

Formerly

was so generally accepted


little

or no attention was

sources.

Definite knowl-

of the greatest importance, as

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES


some of the most

fatal

45

and wide-spread epidemics have

been traced to the importation of infection from distant


locaHties

by the various media herein described.

It

is

safe to say that through the revelations of the micro-

scope and various scientific aids,

is

it

possible

present time to declare preventable quite a large

at

of the most prevalent and fatal diseases, a partial


of which will follow.

The

step in this

first

the

number

work of

list

pre-

vention was to obtain positive evidence of the character

and source of the infection and, secondly, the ways and


means of its communication to the healthy individual.

brief

summary

of these facts

may

more

serve a far

when put in practice than a knowledge


maxim "Prevention is better
holds true. The following diseases have

important purpose

of treatment; for the old

than cure,"

still

been declared both contagious and infectious.


Cholera,

diphtheria,

dysentery,

influenza,

leprosy,

pneumonia, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, and


small-pox.

Many

other diseases

may

be said to be conta-

gions only requiring contact zvith the sick, which

is

really

by far the most certain and prevalent way of communicating disease to the healthy individual.

Certain infectious diseases


indirect

contact;

as

wash-linen, carpets,
oysters, milk,

may

through
etc.

handkerchiefs,

Also, in drinking water,

raw

and various foods we have a very common

source of infection, especially

and typhoid.

be communicated by

clothing,

Infection

bacteria, as in the dried

from

in

cases of scarlet fever

dust,

sputum of

carrying dormant

tuberculosis,

is

con-

sidered a factor well-defined in the spread of infectious

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

46

Last, but not least in im-

(See tuberculosis.)

diseases.

portance,

is

common

the

house-fly, always troublesome

and now condemned as a ''dangerous creature," because


of its ability to carry about in its tiny anatomy the germs
of disease; such as cholera, dysentery, diphtheria, tuberculosis

and typhoid.

when the scientists first made their


many of the heretofore unknown

Strange to say that


declarations

as

to

sources of infection, and the character of the same, they

were met with redicule and


Things

past.

mighty

humanity

to

those days are

naked eye have become a

invisible to the

reality

Now

denial.

The

large.

at

revelations

of the microscope and the laboratory have come late but

with a potent message which gradually will change the


physical destiny of the

race.

In recent times the most notable change in the

classifi-

the great reduction in the

number

cation of diseases

of

human

so-called

is

"local

diseases,"

and a corresponding

crease in those diseases

now known

tutional or infectious.

This has resulted

in-

to be either consti-

successful treatment and has disposed of

in

far

many

more

fallacies

of diagnosis.

Safe and saner methods of management have been

adopted and measures of

relief

have been directed

wards the patient and the disease


to

some
If,

as a

to-

whole rather than

local manifestation of the same.

added

to a

knowledge of the ways and means of

infections, reasonable forethought


cised, all in

sympathy with proper

and caution are exerlegal regulations, the

generation to come will be spared the awful visitations of

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

47

diseases which have heretofore swept milHons to untimely

graves.

Already the mortality tables show a great reduc-

tion in the death rate of

some of the diseases mentioned,

due almost entirely

prevention, rather than to any

to

newly discovered method or treatment.


It

would not be presumptuous

to say that in the not

far distant future contagious and infectious diseases will

become rare and exceptional.


definite

During these

days

later

knowledge and information have multiplied ten-

fold, so that there

is

little

excuse for ignorance.

Those

who expose themselves or others to disease must do so


with a new sense of personal responsibility. Provisions
are now being made as never before, for the dissemination of

knowledge along these

National Boards
is

so that

lines,

both by State and

"They zvho run may read."

It

true that the laws and regulations governing quaran-

tine

and sanitary regulations often operate as a burden

and

sacrifice

individual

the

to

nevertheless, wisely

patient,

framed for the

but they are,

benefit of the masses,

and should be cheerfully obeyed

in

SPECIFIC CONTAGIOUS

AND INFECTIOUS

both letter and

spirit.

DISEASES.

SCARLET FEVER.
HISTORY, CAUSE AND GENERAL FEATURES.
That

scarlet fever

is

highly contagious and that

it

may

be communicated from one person to another by a third

person or by contaminated objects, such as books, clothing, etc., are well

known

facts.

That the contagion of

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

48

scarlet fever retains

when

cially

so well

danger

known,
lies

its

vitality for

inany months, espe-

closed up in books and clothing, though not

in

is

equally true and important.

Another

before

complete

exposure

to

case

desquamation, or "peeling," which extends over a period


of from six to eight weeks after the fever has disappeared.

"Prevention

is

and ignorance

better than cure,"

or carelessness concerning the foregoing facts seems inexcusable.


fifteen

Formerly, few children reached the age of

without having scarlet fever; but with our present

knowledge of how

its

may

spread

be prevented by rigid

enforcement of quarantine laws, there

is

no reason

why

the disease should not be "wiped off the map," or at

rendered a matter of rare occurrence.

least

S1jMPT03IAT0L0GY.
Following exposure, the period of incubation

and somewhat variable, ranging from four

The
more

attack

is

more abrupt, and

severe than in measles.

the

Following

is

short

to seven days.

symptoms are
slight chills, a

high fever, sore throat, and z'oiniting occur; also a high

temperature

-cvhich

continues during the ernption.

With

such a combination of symptoms, the patient should be

immediately isolated from

all

other children, and steps

taken to prevent the spread of the disease through direct


or indirect contamination.

During the

to thirty-six hours, or prior to the

first

twenty-four

appearance of the

eruption, the condition resembles diphtheria, and a diagnosis on the spot, at this stage,

is

However, the management of the


will

not always possible.


case,

be the same, as both are contagious.

for the time,

SCARLET FEVER
The

of the eruption should

first

on the neck and

chest, within

hours, after which

make

twenty-four to thirty-six

The

name

body

is

gave

hot and dry.

will cause the redness

re-appears

it

In measles

it

will be

ful

than

Pressure with the finger

or blush to disappear; and

from the periphery

this is directly opposite,

The

center to periphery.
all

rise to

Often the entire surface of the

scarlet fever.

scarlet,

flushed

peculiar

scarlet red color of the eruption, doubtless

the

appearance

its

gradually extends over the whole

it

from above downwards.

body,

49

when

to the center.

re-apppearing from

sore throat

is

more pain-

often

other symptoms, but usually improves with

the development of the rash.

The tongue has

a peculiar

appearance called "strawberry tongue," caused by the


red papillae projecting through the white coating.

most

plications

of the neck and acute Bright's disease.


of the

first

About

week, beginning where the rash

first

and extending over the body, the skin peels


which time,

it

Com-

likely to arise are swelling of the glands

may

the end

appeared

off ;

during

be four to six weeks, the disease

may

be transmitted to another, either through direct contact


or by something worn by the patient.

While waiting the


one

is

dies should be used.

stage

must be

and water
all

arrival of

a physician, or where

not readily obtainable, one of the following reme-

in

Of

restricted.

course the diet during the febrile

Light broth,

moderation.

The

warm

milk diluted,

sick-room, especially in

cases of contagious disease, should be as well-venti-

lated as

is

possible without exposing the patient to cold

and drafts which might cause suppression of

rash.

Aconite, with the inexperienced or superficial prescriber,


5

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

50
is

too often given in every case of fever

remedies,
neglected.

with

This

Belladonna, in
addition,

in

fever

whereas other

notably true in cases of scarlet fever.

is

many

cases not only covers the fever but

most of the accompanying symptoms, as

herein after described.

has been found

Hence

Bell., for

to be by far the best, or

indicated in scarlet fever.


is

and well-defined symptoms are

The

a century past,

most frequently

safe guide in prescribing

symptoms,

the condition of the patient, the totality of

and not a name, whether fever or otherwse.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.
Aconite

may

be the true remedy in some cases.

in addition to the chill

with

and

fever, the patient

wide-awake,

restlessness,

death, predicting the same, (Bell,

anxious

look,

drowsy and

is

If,

tossing
fear

of

indifferent)

skin dry and hot, great thirst, pulse full and rapid, a few

doses of Aconite

may

be followed by free perspiration

and mitigation of severe symptoms


other remedy

may

after

which some

be indicated to carry the case along

safely.

Hahnemann's familiarity with the proving of Bell.,


him to recommend it, both as a preventive and a cure
for the most prevalent form of scarlet fever. A century

led

of experience by the medical world has verified his prediction.


Bell.,

However, accurate prescribing requires that

should be selected, the same as any other remedy,

for the different forms of the disease, which can only

be met by careful differentiation.

Belladonna

Throbbing

headache,

drowsiness

desire to sleep but cannot; starting suddenly

from

or

sleep;

SCARLET FEVER

51

eyes injected, inflamed, dread of light and noise; pupils

Face

dilated.

fiery red;

very dry and sore

is

of a

constant desire to

Skin feverish and very hot

sivallow.

fine,

smooth

Throat

throbbing of carotids.

nevertheless

The

to touch.

rash

variety, causing the skin to be very

red, like a fresh sunburn.

Bryonia

suddenly disappears,

If the rash delays, or

with paleness of face, dry parched

lips,

drinking

large

quantities

hastily

with great

with

specially in chest, with great aversion to

sharp

thirst,

pains,

any motion pain


;

on moving, or deep breathing.

Gelsemium Considerable
weak and rather

patient very

but

fever
dull

and

no

thirst;

Pulse fast

quiet.

Languor and drowsiness with pain

but not strong.

at

base of brain, zvith draiving of head backwards.

Lachesis

and

livid

touch.

In

the

more malignant

especially left side,

is

Rhus Tox

Many

throat sore

very sensitive to

Eruption slow to appear and dark,

Everything worse after

Bell.,

which

cases,

livid color.

sleep.

of the

symptoms

are similar to

but in addition there appears to be swelling of

face and about the eyes.

Tongue

is

parched, dry and

brown, with redness of tip. Patient may be exceedingly


restless, drowsy and feverish, rheumatic pains backache,
;

pain in eyeballs.
vesicular,

which

rash of Bell.

The
is

rash

may

be coarse, rough, almost

the opposite of the smooth, fine, red

There may be diarrhea and prostration,

with typhoid symptoms, with delirum, and dreams of hard

work and great

An

Sulphur

fatigue.

occasional dose

may

be given,

if

the

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

52

indicated remedies fail to act, or

if

the patient

is

of a

scrofulous habit.

MEASLES.
This

is

one of the most


contagious

common and
diseases;

perhaps the least


mortality,

the

yet

dreaded

of

especially

from complications and sequelae, should afford

sufficient

warning as

to the

Few

and treatment.

importance of the best care

cases

terminate

should

Those would generally be children of


constitutions.

frail,

probable that the disease

It is

fatally.

scrofulous
is

conveyed

by close contact and not often by intermediate objects as


third persons.

ten days.

One

The period

of incubation

attack affords life

is

usually about

immunity from another.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The

first

stage

is

not unlike an ordinary attack of

coryza, with the well-known

symptoms such
;

as sneezing,

watery discharge from the nose and eyes, headache,


chilliness

and fever accompanied by dry, frequent cough.

Generally about the third or fourth day a

appears;

and

sore.

first in

throat and roof of

The following day

fine,

red rash

mouth which is dry


makes its appear-

the rash

ance on surface, usually on face and neck

after

which

it

gradually extends over the entire body, the eruption being

completed in from three to four days.

At

fourth day the rash begins to disappear,


of beginning.

The

the end of the

first at

the place

fever, which has been high during

now disappears quite suddenly.


The cough, which has been frequent, may continue for
the period of eruption,

a time.

In some cases

it

is

very persistent and,

if

MEASLES
may

neglected,

53

be followed by organic disease of the

Earache and abscesses, especially

lungs.

subjects,

may

duced by taking
unless care

in scrofulous

develop during or after measles, superincold.

Weak

eyes

may

follow measles

taken to exclude the bright light and bathe

is

the eyes with tepid water sufficiently to clear

During the

secretion on lids.

first

and second

away any
stages, or

until the rash has disappeared, the temperature of the

room should be kept about


early
the

ivill

70.

The proper remedy given

hasten the eruption, mitigate the severity of

symptoms and prevent

complications.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.
Aconite

and dry,

High

fever preceded by chilliness, skin hot

ivith great thirst,

no sleep and never

very restless and anxious mood,

quiet, pulse full

and rapid, dry, teasing

Aeon, should be given frequently

cough.
so after
selected

improvement begins.
is

at first, less

This remedy when well

often sufficient to take the case well through

the disease, but should be discontinued

when any

of the

following remedies are better indicated.

Apis

This

is

occasionally indicated

when

patient

is

inclined to stupor, face swollen, puffing about the eyes,

eruption slow in appearance, dark in color, urine scanty


or suppressed entirely.

Arsenicum
marked
and

In the more

severe, malignant cases with

prostration, vomiting

and diarrhea, very

thirsty, drinking only a szvallow hut

restless

very often, child

afraid to be left alone.

Belladonna

Early

stage,

throbbing

headache

with

drowsiness, starting suddenly from sleep, head hot, skin

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

54

very hot and dry, face scarlet red, throat feels very dry

and

Great aversion

sore, with constant desire to swallow.

to light

and

Bryonia

noise.

Eruption slow

prematurely with pain


cutting pains.

in

to appear, or

disappears

if it

head and chest, especially sharp,

move

Patient dreads to

or to be

moved;

vertigo on arising, face becomes pale, dry cough with

sharp, pleuritic pains.

Ipecac

For the cough during or following measles

very often a magic remedy, especially


sional nausea.

Pulsatilla

with no

The cough may be dry or

Fever

thirst.

there

if

is

is

occa-

loose.

not marked, but constantly chilly

Child timid and tearful, desires fresh

aversion to hot room, tardy eruption.

air,

Frequently called

for,

and unless other remedies are well indicated Puis.

may

be given.

RUBELLA.
(German Measles).
Rubella

is

epidemically,

a disease of children, that usually occurs

and

one

gives

attack

immunity

from

another.

At

the outset of the disease, with fever, sore throat and

rash of the measles order, a differential diagnosis between


measles, scarlet fever, and rubella

The

violence of the

symptoms

is

is

quite impossible.

much

less

than scarlet

fever, and the coryza symptoms and cough of measles are

not marked.

duration

the

The

invasion of the disease

same,

lasting

from three

is

short and

to

five

its

days.

MUMPS
Nothing

definite

known

is

55

as to its cause. It

is

contagious,

and does not give immunity from attacks of measles.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
Slight fever with drowsiness,
a

rash,

fine

first

on the

which

face,

is

soon followed by

afterwards

sparsely over the body, remaining out only

spreading

two or three

days.

Headache and sore throat are early symptoms.

Every

child

with such symptoms should be separated

from other children and treated


or measles

as a case of scarlet fever

at least until the nature of the disease is fully

determined.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
The

remedies,

Aco.,

Bell.,

Bry.,

and

Ipec.

Puis.,

especially indicated in measles, will be useful in rubella.

MUMPS.
(Parotitis).

Mumps
chiefly

is

the

attacked.

an acute, infectious disease which involves


Sometimes only one is
parotid glands.

After an exposure, a period of two or three

weeks may elapse before the disease

is

manifest.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.

slight

irritability

fever, lassitude, loss of appetite

and such general symptoms as

and

may

sleep,

precede

other diseases, but nothing characteristic until about the

second day, when one or both parotid glands begin


swell

and become

sore and even painful, especially

to

when

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

56

Opening the mouth or moving the jaw.

Thenceforth, for

some days the fever and swelling increase


presents

face

patient's

After a period of
generally subside.
well

known

taste of

which

test

some strong

One attack,
person immune

jaw.
a

diagnosis

is

not

if

days

seven

to

five

As an
may be

will generally

most ludicrous

until

the

appearance.

symptoms

all

aid to an early diagnosis the


tried of giving the patient a

acid substance (a lemon or pickle)

aggravate the pain in the gland and


both parotids are involved, renders
In a case of mumps, the

to another.

difficult as

the parotid gland

involved as in a case of diphtheria or

seldom

is

To

tonsilitis.

avoid

possible mistakes the throat should always he examined.

In

mumps,

like

the throat

is

not noticeably involved.

most other contagious

diseases,

and the most treatment can do

is

must run a
to guide

speedily to a successful termination.

it

Mumps,
set course

safely

and

This can be best

accomplished by proper care and by giving the indicated

remedies

at the

earliest

symptoms of the

opportunity or as soon as the

disease appear.

sequelae following the disease


are heeded and

all local

if

There should be no
the above suggestions

applications avoided.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.
Ordinarily only a few remedies are required except in
cases of neglect, with metastasis or other complications.

Aconite

In early stage or

marked, with

Belladonna
gland

is

at

any stage when fever

thirst, pain, restlessness

and

is

irritability.

A valuable remedy when the swelling of

hot with throbbing in head, very restless or

be drowsy, aggravation from jar, light and noise.

may

WHOOPING COUGH
Mercurius

Much

57

saliva accumulates in

mouth and

throat, tongue loaded with thick, whitish coating^ breath


offensive,

gums and mouth much involved


much worse at night.

as in saliva-

tion, patient

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, Its


preparation,
dose
and
repetition,
General
Index
under
see
"Directions."]

WHOOPING COUGH.
(Pertussis).

HISTORY, SYMPTOMS AND DURATION.


whooping cough

Pertussis or

is

an acute contagious

disease, largely confined to children, although adults are

not exempt from a

first

tion generally occurs

proximity, and
party.

is

seldom

The duration

weeks and may for


three stages.

or even a second attack.

Infec-

from the breath or sputum through


if

ever conveyed by a third

of the disease

is

from

six to ten

practical purposes, be divided into

First the preliminary,

which continues for

week or more with symptoms not unlike a cold, the


cough being rather more frequent and worse at night.
Second, in which the paroxysm is often ushered in with
a

whoop

or spasmodic

vomiting and retching

cough with choking, possibly

at the close of

each paroxysm of

cough, with extreme redness of face zvhich suddenly disappears.

Third,

This stage

when

the

may

last for three

whooping gradually

or four weeks.
disappears

troublesome at night.
convalescence follows,

weeks.

or

much less
The vomiting ceases and the slow
which may require two to four

changes to an ordinary loose cough which

is

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

58

probable that the period of infection begins with

It is

and
tion

is

most active

may

in the first stage, but a possible infec-

occur at any time during the progress of the

Some epidemics have been

disease.

attended by quite a

when

large mortality, but such

is

proper remedies are used

in the first stage of the disease,

not generally the case

whereby the severity and duration may be considerably


modified.

Infants and frail children should be carefully safe-

guarded from any exposure

to

the

course which are not easy to remedy.

much

during pleasant weather, remain


air of the seashore

cases.

seems beneficial

for the

infection,

reason that complications often arise during

its

tedious

Patient should,

The

out of doors.

to the

more

In an ambition to give the patient fresh

serious

air,

there

should be no prolonged exposure to damp, cold weather


or to extremes of any sort.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.

Fever, dry cough,


Belladonna Often useful

Aconite

restlessness at night.

in first stage,

at night, ii P.

cough zvorse

M.

redness of face,

Cough dry and constant with great


moaning and starting in sleep, heat

about head with drowsiness, redness of eyes with dilated


pupils,

may

Drosera
vomiting,

be nausea and vomiting.

Violent

cough after midnight, retching and

paroxysms frequent and w,uch

getting breath.

Similar

to Ipec.

difficulty

in

and may be given when

Ipec. fails to relieve.

Ipecac

With

the cough which

is

frequent, there

is

INFLUENZA {LA GRIPPE)


much nausea and
becoming

livid.

symptoms are

59

occasional vomiting and gagging, face

Ipec. follows well after Bell,

less violent

and the cough

when

the

slightly loose.

In the middle and

last stages when the


in the larynx
much
rattling
phlegm
cough
of
and chest, face may be livid with some cold perspiration
on forehead, patient worn and weak from long continuance of disease. Following remedies may be called for.

Tartar Emetic
is

loose with

See Mat. Med. Part


Carb. and

III. Ars., Bry., Cup.,

Hep. Sul, Kali

Rumex.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its


General
Index
under
repetition,
see
preparation,
dose
and
"Directions."]

INFLUENZA.
(La Grippe).
HISTORY.

disease which corresponded closely to la grippe, has

prevailed epidemically as far back as there


history.

Under

of "bone-break-fever,"
areas,

if

it

is

any medical

names, but particularly that

different

has swept rapidly over vast

not encircling the globe, from east to west.

There have been intervals of 20 or 30 years when it has


not appeared to any extent and again for as many years,
;

with the approach of cold weather,

it

has recurred in

varying degrees of severity.


Prior to the winter of 1889
for a long interval.

most general and


this

it

seems to have been absent

During that winter occurred the

fatal

epidemic which has ever visited

generation; and each succeeding year the disease

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

60

has appeared, though in a milder form and not so prevalent or fatal.

Nevertheless,

and

feeble,

it

has been a serious menace to the aged

and has

strong, with a legacy of

who were formerly

not a few

left

some organic disease or general

feebleness.

Notwithstanding the disease has seemed to prevail


epidemics, extending over wide areas,

well

is

it

in

known

that the cause lies in the existence of a true influenza


bacillus

(Pfieffer's bacillus).

La Grippe must

therefore be classed

diseases, within all practical limits

contact
stricted.

among

at least,

infectious

immediate

between the healthy and sick should be

The

re-

aged, feeble ones, and any suffering from

bronchial, lung, heart or kidney affections, should be carefully protected

from

the disease.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY AND COMPLICATIONS.

There are few preliminar}^ symptoms.


ache generally worse
followed by

with more or

forehead and about the eyes,

high fever, distressing pain in back,

chill,

less

in

severe head-

aching and lameness in

all

the muscles

of body; with prostration and often profuse perspiration.

I*fnost cases there

is

helps to differentiate

nausea, sometimes vomiting, which

from common

cold.

With

the ex-

haustion, the patient often becomes mentally depressed

and morose; which often continues for weeks after the


acute

symptoms have

all

disappeared.

In the course of the disease there

monary, or gastric complications

may

be cerebral, pul-

any of which should be

INFLUENZA (LA GRIPPE)


anticipated and promptly treated as such.
is

61

proper care

If

exercised from the beginning, and proper remedies

given, the complications will be

few and the severity and

duration of the disease greatly modified.


of la grippe, the patient should cease

remain

in a

warm room.

In every case

work

and

at once,

In the severer forms, the patient

should be put to bed immediately and kept there until


fully recovered.

vast

amount of observation

onstrated the importance of such a course.

confound the disease with a common


of which

is

"has

dem-

Let no one

cold, the neglect

Any

not always without a severe penalty.

one familiar with the symptomatology of the following

who

remedies, or

will turn to the chapter

Medica and read the same

carefully, will

culty in selecting the right remedy.

Eupato Perf. and Rhus


and

on Materia

have

Ars.,

little diffi-

Bry.,

Gels.,

Tox, or possibly Aeon., Bap.

Bell.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.
Aconite

Following a

chill

high fever, skin dry and

hot with thirst, mental agitation, and bodily restlessness,


(see Ars.

and Rhus Tox) dry cough.

Arsenicum

Chill or chilliness,

with fever which

attended by great weakness from the

nausea and vomiting.

The

a swallow and often.

Restless, going

Belladonna
sudden

is

start,

starts

much

often with

great but takes only

from one place

Anxious; much dread of being

another.

gastric disturbance

very

thirst

is

left

to

alone;

and diarrhea.

Cerebral
from

form.

sleep.

flushed and hot.

Much

drowsiness, with

Throbbing headache.

Dread of

light, noise

Face
or

jar.

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

62

Bryonia

Aching

in

muscles, pain in limbs, but lying

very quiet and dreading

from chair or

pillow.

to be

Nausea on

moved.

Sharp pains

in chest,

rising

worse from

deep breath or any movement.

Eupatorium Perfoliatum
tomatology

is

Indispensable.

a counterpart of

La

Grippe.

symp-

Its

The

chill is

followed by pain in head and eyeballs, which are sore to


the touch.

Tongue coated

vomiting after drinking.


pain in back and hips.
pain.

Some

(See

A}'s.)

Bruised, aching

The body and

extremities full of

hoarseness and cough.

The bone-pains, pain


and vomiting are

Gelsemium

in eyeballs

Vomiting of

and back,

ivith

bile.

nausea

characteristic.

Creeping

cannot get warm.


body.

Thirst for cold water,

white.

Some

chills

and general lassitude;

prostration, with aching

Eyeballs lame and lids feel heavy.

with pain at base of brain.

Not

all

Some

over
fever

the thirst and restless-

ness of Aco., or Ars.

Rhus Tox

With intense backache relieved by lying on

something hard.

Tossing, zvith restlessness, especially of

Tongue very dry with red tip. Drowsy, typhoid


dreaming of hard work and full of fatigue.
Better from moving about. Cannot keep still.

legs.

condition,

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its


preparation,
and
repetition,
General
dose
see
Index
under
"Directions."]

TUBERCULOSIS.
If the

whole human race could have a correct knowl-

edge of the cause of tuberculosis and

all

other infectious

TUBERCULOSIS
diseases,

63

and would use that knowledge

to avoid the un-

necessary spreading of the same, medical statistics would


be revolutionized in a generation.

The average duration


of

tality tables

and

life

of

life,

the death rate, the mor-

would need

insurance,

astonish the most optimistic.

many

already been most favorably affected.

now aroused and ready

diseases have

Public sentiment

to co-operate with legislation

so that, henceforth, progress should be rapid.


tion, rather

in dealing

to

Already a good beginning

has been made, and the statistics of

is

to be rewritten

would be so transformed for the better as

all

Preven-

than medication, will be the main dependence

with tuberculosis.

mands some

matter so

vital to all de-

elaboration in every treatise pretending to

deal with medical subjects.

(See contagious and infec-

tious diseases, page 44.)

HISTORY AND INFECTION.


who

In these days, those

informed concerning

human
In

read the newspapers and

must be somewhat

or medical text-books,

magazines,

this,

the truly "white plague" of the

race.

its

universality, including every

known

race

great fatality far exceeding any other malady


sistent progress

and mystery; having,

baffled diagnosticians, physicians

origin

and dissemination surely


;

it

and

may

in its

in its per-

until recent days,


scientists as to its

well be termed the

"perpetual white plague"' which has caused more deaths

than any other agency,

combined.

Were

it

it

may

be more than

many

others

not for the revelations of the micro-

scope in the hands of

scientific

men,

this horrible sacrifice

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

64

human

of

would have gone on through the unre-

lives

devastations

strained

of

the

tubercle

bacillus,

to

the

generations yet unborn.


It

seems incredible, nevertheless


as

late

1880,

officer in

Germany,

up

up

to as

health

discovered the cause of tuber-

first

to arrest the progress of the disease.

to the present,

tuberculosis

it

reason as to

it

In

Here and there

disease.

to be contagious, but with

how

fact, well

has been taught and believed that

was a hereditary

one had declared


tific

true, that

nothing of practical value had ever been

culosis, little or

done

it is

when Richard Koch, an obscure

or when.

As

no scien-

a result of this failure

diagnose correctly concerning the disease, ignorance

to

and chaos have prevailed

to the present time.

But these

are rapidly being displaced by a knowledge of the cause of


the disease and

its

mode

of transmission.

PREVENTION.
In this treatise, intended to be practical rather than
technical, there

is

space only for a few facts which per-

tain to prevention,

so closely

allied to

not

be omitted

here.

consistently

details or speculative

cure that they can-

Those who desire

arguments, are referred to the ex-

haustive treatise which has been written on the subject.

Every individual should become familiar with the


following facts.

First:

That

in every case of tuberculosis,

the respiratory or abdominal organs, the bones

or lymphatic glands, there


cle-bacillus.

This

is

is

whether of

and

joints,

always to be found the tuber-

a minute, colorless, rod-like parasite,

TUBERCULOSIS

65

discoverable only by the aid of a powerful microscope.


It is

easy to understand how, because of

size, its

marvelous powers of

and indifference

able vitality

its

infinitesimal

self multiplication,

to

environment,

it

remark-

may

live

and pass unrecognized by our senses from one person


another, doing in due time

Second:

That

this

its

to

appalling work.

can be transmitted in

bacillus

various ways to a person in health and produce or repro-

duce tuberculosis

Third

in

such person.

That there are various conditions which favor

such transmissions and numerous media by which they


are accomplished.

Fourth

That there are conditions and precautions

which prevent such transmissions.

Fifth
bility

That there are varying degrees of

as well as

immunity

to

suscepti-

the implantation of the

tubercle baccillus in the non- tuberculous

subject,

each

influenced by climate, occupation and environment.

Sixth

The human sputum, moist

or dry,

is

the chief

source of the transmission of the bacillus, hence the

danger not only of any direct contact with sputum but

from the dust of infected rooms or sleeping

cars, drink-

ing-cups, articles of food, etc.

Seventh

For the truly

incipient

case there

reasonable chance of recovery, especially


early to

remedies.

if

is

transferred

a suitable climate, aided by proper diet and

The

serious problem

cases, for so long as they are

is

with the advanced

unprovided for and allowed

the freedom of the family, the factory, or the neighbor-

66

CONTAaiOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

hood,

there will

always be an increasing number of

This

incipient cases.

the most obvious fact of

is

the accepted theory of infection

enlightened public sentiment


all

who

else

eventually provide for

they are especially designed for those

all,

are constitutionally

weak and

having any pre-disposition,

defective

heriditary

The following guiding

tuberculosis.

While these words of warning are

these things.

applicable to

may

all

Time and an

false.

is

or those

acquired to

or

principles are fast

becoming axiomatic, and should be familiar

to

all.

SOME THINGS TO BE AVOIDED.


Using the common drinking-cup
sick or in public places

The

sick

The

in the

home

of the

railway car, station or school.

one generally craves water and has used the cup.


sweeping, as in sleeping-car, hospital,

dust of

theatre, public hall or sick room.

Close proximity to the breath or cough of the invalid.

Sleeping with invalids or in beds or rooms used by

them.
Direct contact in kissing on the lips (perhaps the most
prevalent and risky of

all

exposures.)

Living or sleeping in damp, dark, badly ventilated


rooms, where sunlight seldom enters.
destroy disease producing
ill-ventilated

bacilli

and odors such as crowded

polishing,

while damp, dark, and

rooms form culture beds

Occupations inseparable from


fibres

working

and book binderies.

in

Sunlight tends to

to

air

produce them.
laden

with dust,

factories, stone cutting,

plaster of paris, printing offices

CLIMATE AND TREATMENT

67

Neglecting colds with persistent coughing, with suppressed functions of the body.

Prolonged mental or physical exertion, especially night


work.

SUGGESTIONS, CLIMATE AND TREATMENT,


Elect such occupation and residence as

weakened

irritating to

a place to toil
best sustain

In

seems

least

possible, such

and sunshine may

to live that pure air

life.

cases

all

and

Seek when

lungs.

where there

is

a suspicion of risk to self or

others, take a safe, sensible course, instead of yielding to

the

sentimental

formalities

and customs known

to

be

There are ways of meeting and

fraught with danger.

treating our invalid friends, that do no violence to the

courtesies

of

life

nor

sacrifice

anything

of

genuine

sentiment.

In the majority of the truly incipient cases, proper


climate, diet

and remedies

will result in cure.

In the advanced case where the local lesion has become

marked by destruction of
by emaciation and
up, there
palliate

is little

tissue,

debility,

and the general condition

temperature and pulse well

more than to
a time. Change of

that can be accomplished,

symptoms and prolong

life

for

climate to distant parts for such an one

mistake.

To

observations,

the

made

incipient,
in

it

offers

is

generally a sad

much.

Personal

southern California, Florida and

Adirondacks, have compelled and confirmed such conclusion.

Advice and competent instruction should be taken

early and

when

a change

is

made, the case should ob-

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

68

viously be under the watch-care of a physician in the


climate.

open

The emphasis put upon

air life has not

new

the value of out-door or

been too great; neither has the value

of plain, nourishing diet which has displaced the former

By

fahacy of stimulants.

aid of the Materia Medica, the

following remedies should be carefully considered.

Ars.; Bry.; Bap.; Hepar SuL; Kali Carb.; Lycop.;


Puis.; Phos.;

SuL;

especially Bap.; Ars.;

and Phos.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its


Index
under
General
see
repetition,
and
preparation,
dose
"Directions."]

CEREBRO-SPINAL MENINGITIS.
(Spotted Fever).

HISTORY AND MORTALITY.

An

acute, infectious disease, involving chiefly the

brane of the brain and spinal cord.

It

mem-

has prevailed, in

epidemics, in nearly every country of the globe with a

mortality uniformly great

attacking generally the young

In recent times the communicability of

or middle aged.

the disease has been a matter of discussion.

That

it

may

be communicated from one to another admits of no


doubt not, after the manner of scarlet fever or measles,
;

through the atmosphere, but through contact with the


secretions of the month, nose or eyes.

Here,

organism

as
is

to cultivate,

planted

it is

upon

individual.

other

in

found.

infectious

diseases,

Although of low

vitality

capable of destructive zvork

the

mucus

membrane

of

the

micro-

and

difficult

when
the

trans-

healthy

CEREBROSPINAL MENINGITIS

69

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The onset of the majority of cases is sudden, with no
The patient is in apparent health when

premonition.

Severe headache, fever and

attacked with the disease.

prostration are followed by nausea and vomiting.


the severer forms, convulsions soon

and

traction

rigidity of

retraction of the

head, the latter being characteristic.

the severity of the

to the

symptoms

The degree

is

less

abrupt and

marked; yet the symp-

less

Stupor or complete coma

essentially the same.

developes early.

In

with con-

neck muscles and the forcible

There are cases where the invasion


toms are

follow,

of fever does not conform

severity of the disease; neither does the pulse,

(which, at times early in the disease


to the temperature,

which

is

often 104.

is

slow), conform

The worst type


The

of the malady often proves fatal within a few days.

ordinary form runs an average course of two to four


weeks.

The

mortality, except in mild cases

is

very great

Frequent sequelae of cases that pass through the acute


stage are

deafness, paralysis, loss of

memory and

general

impairment of the nervous system.

Some confusion may


sis

arise as to a differential diagno-

between cerebro-spinal and tubercular meningitis, or

acute disease of the brain.

history of the attack differs

markedly, and the development of the cases gives


to

symptoms and conditions

rise

that should not be mistaken.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
After

forty

epidemics,

years

cannot

meeting

any that put

all

practice,

recall

variety

of

systems of

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

70

therapeutics to such a crucial test as an epidemic of


so-called "Spotted Fever."
It

was

Western

New

York,

occurred early in

my

fact

in

resulting in a mortality
It

and 1872, that it swept over


over the United States,

in the years 1871

my

which has seldom been equalled.


practice,

when

the instructions of

teachers in Materia Medica, (Constantine Hering and

Carrol

Dunham), were

fresh in mind.

put their instructions to a

many

features in

test.

common

ivere

determined to

few cases presenting


considered,

carefully

symptoms and conditions noted down. Taking the


it was easily discerned that

the

cases to the Materia Medica,

there were four remedies contending for pre-eminence;


viz.,

(given in order of preference)

cases

won

Gelsemium, Bella-

Gelsemium 3X

donna, Bryonia and Rhus Tox.

Other remedies were called for

in case of

or where the type of the disease required

The

in

most

out without a single fatal case.

complication

it.

early administration of the indicated

remedy pre-

vented the usual spasms, relieved the intense suffering,

and prevented except

in rare

instances, the distressing

sequelae; deafness and paralysis,

Gelsemium

Chill

or

chilliness

followed by fever and prostration.


lethargy set in as once.
nectedly.

thirst.

the

in base of brain,

with dim, blurred vision.

with heaviness or drooping of


without

along

spine,

Trembling and mental

Inability to think, except discon-

Headache, mostly

to the eyes,

etc.

Numbness

lids.

Pain

extending
in eyeballs

Fever, generally

of tongue with difficult articu-

CEREBROSPINAL MENINGITIS

Great weakness of extremeties, with staggering

lation.

and vertigo on

Belladonna

slightest exertion.

The onset

is

sudden and the symptoms

of the brain are nearly the opposite of Gels.

even to violence,

biting

Instead of quiet there

which

may

later

and sudden
glassy

and striking the attendants.


mental and physical agitation,

is

Head

startings.
at

The

times scarlet.

noice, light or jar about the

excitement, even spasms.

eyes have a wild,

The

women, when

room

Bell,

slightest

unbearable, causing

may

be more useful in

and young,

children

of

moans

hot and feet often cold.

appearance, with pupils dilated.

case

Excitement

be followed by stupor broken by

Face flushed and

the

71

sensitive,

plethoric

pulse and heat run high, with congestion

and threatened convulsions.

Has

Bryonia

less prostration

little

of the brain excitement of Bell.

rium

it is

than Gels, and but


If there

is

any

deli-

of milder type, with muttering about business of

the day or

clammoring

go home. Very

to

irritable.

Severe

pain in the head, often confined to base of brain and neck,

with violent, sharp pains through parts


slightest

effort

rising up.

broiun.

pains in

to

move.

Lips, tongue

worse for the

when

and mouth dry and coated dark

Fever of low, typhoid type.


all

Vertigo and faintness

Lame, rheumatic

parts of the body, with painful stiffness of the

neck.

Rhus Tox
between

The brain and general

Bell,

and Bry.

There

is

symptoms stand

the delirium and rest-

lessness that resemble Bell, yet quite different, resembling

the typhoid state of Bry.

The

face

is

flushed,

and of a

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

72

dusky hue, instead of the


ache

scarlet red face of Bell.

is

back, with constant tossing about.

The tongue

brown and cracked, with redness

tip.

stupor, the

dreams are

filled

of

to

zvalk about,

is

and
dry,

In the sleep or

with hard zuork and fatiguing

journey with no rest of mind or body.

Has

Head-

severe with distressing pain along the spine

Cannot keep

which gives some

still.

Attacks

relief.

caused by getting wet and cold.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
repetition,
General
Index
under
and
see
preparation,
dose
"Directions."]

DIPHTHERIA.
HISTORY, SOURCE, SYIMPTOMS AND TREATMENT.
Diphtheria

is

a disease both contagious

Usually the uninfected person

is

brought

and infectious.

in direct contact

with the one having diphtheria or harboring diphtheria


bacilli.

Less frequently the disease

is

transmitted by

infected food, milk, water, etc.

In most cases the patient will complain of a sore throat


for a day or two, after which local and general conditions

develope which render a diagnosis comparatively easy.

Sometimes the attack

Such cases are

start.

type,

is

violent

and sudden from the

as a rule of the

more malignant

and the yellowish-gray membrane makes

ance early.

The presence

of

this

peculiar

leaves no doubt to the experienced eye.


sistent

symptoms of

its

appear-

membrane

The most

per-

true diphtheria are swelling in the

glands of the neck, great prostration ivith tendency to


sleep,

an offensive breath, coated tongue and increase of

DIPHTHERIA
The

saliva.

pulse

may

temperature

Such conditions

is

73

generally rapid and weak, while the

be high or in some cases sub-normal.

call for

prompt

The

action.

great value

of diphtheria anti-toxine has been demonstrated beyond

doubt and the early administration of the same by

all

hypodermic injection

hand

is

fast

becoming the

rule with all

The dose should depend upon

physicians.

varying from 2000 to 4000 units.

the case in

Much

larger

doses are given and repeated in the more malignant cases.

Homeopathic remedies have always been of unquestioned value in diphtheria and should be selected with the
greatest care
that,

and given as heretofore.

It is

safe to say

excepting the most malignant cases, homeopathic

treatment has proved of the greatest value, and reduced


the percentage of mortality to a comparatively low figure.

The importance

of separating a case of diphtheria, or any

case of "sore throat"

from other members of the family,

and the duty of observing quarantine regulations has


been duly elaborated elsewhere.
cal

The usual

bacteriologi-

examination should always be made to establish a

positive diagnosis.

DIPHTHERITIC CROUP.
Not unfrequently
into the larynx,

character.

the diphtheritic

membrane extends

producing a complication of most serious

It is

usually manifested by a croupy cough

followed by increasing dyspnea.

Again, some cases of

diphtheria begin in the larynx, so that the progress of the


disease

is

This has led to a wise regulation of

reversed.

isolating cases of croup until the

the disease

which

is

full

development of

generally but a few hours.

Should

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

74

a case prove to be one of diphtheritic croup, the treatment

with anti-toxine

is

especially indicated.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
The remedies

may

throat

of

treatment of

from the

for the different forms of acute disease

be grouped together,

The

all.

fact that the

true

whole

ditions are to be treated,

To

illustrate,

for

homeopath

is

medical

the

most fortunate

symptoms and con-

patient,

and not the name of the disease.


may be indicated and curative

Belladonna

and the same with

in diphtheria, tonsilitis, pharyngitis,

any other remedy, without being

specific, for any.

when

Therefore, in the earliest stage of the disease,

remedies are always most

may

efficient,

remedy

the suitable

be selected and given with perfect confidence that

whatever follows, whether diphtheria,

In

modified.

reasons no

efifort

or phar-

and duration of the disease

yngitis, the severity

greatly

tonsilitis,

the

will be

meantime and for obvious

should be neglected to establish a positive

diagnosis at the earliest moment.

Aconite
if

In the beginning or after a

the fever

lessness,

water.

is

chill

and

fever,

accompanied by a dry, hot skin; great

full,

rapid pidse

with great

thirst

rest-

for cold

Throat inflamed, with burning and dryness but

no membranes.

Chiefly the sore throat

from colds and

after exposure to cold, dry winds.

Apis

When

throat

becomes much swollen and

edematous, giving the surface of the throat and palate


the

appearance

of

swallowing, which

is

blister,

very

with stinging pains on

difficult.

Suffocating breath-

DIPHTHERIA

75

Marked

ing.

Puffing about the eyes and face.

tion,

with great restlessness, generally worse

Often absence of

prostra-

M.

five P.

with scanty urine.

thirst,

In some of the most malignant cases of diphtheria and


croup. Apis has proved curative;

diphtheritic

also

in

scarlet fever with the characteristic throat, prostration

and drowsiness.

Arum

Triphyllum

from colds

In the pharyngitis and laryngitis


Symptoms

especially.

of coryza with dis-

charge from the nose burning and rawness.

worse from speaking.

Lips,

Hoarseness

mouth and throat

sore,

with

burning.

Belladonna

Chiefly

suitable in beginning.

Great

dryness in throat with constant inclination to swallow,

which

is

Swelling and redness of throat,

very painful.

with sensation of choking.

sudden flushing of

from
neck

sleep
;

face,

skin hot and dry.

Great aversion to

Pupils dilated.

Head

light, noise,

hot,

feet

and

cold.

Lachesis

Much

weight of clothes.
bleeds

swelling of glands, worse on

Cannot bear

side of neck.

red;

drowsiness zuith sudden starting

severe throbbing headache with throbbing in

or the least jar.

hands

General symptoms such as

Some

dark,

membranous

into the nose, with nosebleed.

reaches some of the


Generalities

left

even

Throat looks dark or purple instead of

easily.

which may extend

slightest touch of parts,

more malignant

deposit

Lachesis

cases.

such as always worse after sleep, and

great aversion to any clothing about neck or chest, sense

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

76

Useful

of suffocation after every nap.

in the

most malig-

nant diphtheria.

Lycopodium

In

theria beginning

tonsilitis

on

and some forms

of diph-

Contracted feeling in

right side.

throat; cannot szvallozu; fluids escape through nose; feel-

ing as

if

a ball rose in throat; nose often stopped up, zvith

fan-like motion of wings of nose

Mercurius

If

all

worse four P. M.

with the sore throat there

is

marked

involvement of the glands, especially the salivary,


profuse secretion of saliva, Mercurius

remedy;
coated;

especially
all

if

inclined to

salivation there

Phytolacca

is

tongue

is

is

zvith

generally the

and thickly

swollen

be worse at night.

With

the

the usual offensive breath.

Throat

very sore, dry and dark-colored,

with razvness and pain on swallowing shooting through


ears.

Tonsils swollen.

excess of

saliva

worse on right

Tongue

heavily furred and

but less than Mercurius.


side.

some

Generally

Backache and headache; severe

colds in cold, zvinter zveather.

For further consideration

of the above remedies and others, see index under qiiinsy,

croup and scarlet fever ; or refer to Section on Materia

Medica.
medicine

Occasionally

may

between

gargles

be resorted

to.

doses

of

the

However, the main de-

pendence must be upon the carefidly selected homeopathic remedy.

may

Alcohol diluted, or strong

salt solution

be of service in soothing the pain in the throat,

Dioxygen or Hydrastis Canadensis

tincture diluted

may

be more efficacious in some cases.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
preparation,
dose
and
repetition,
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

ACUTE T0N8ILITIS

77

ACUTE TONSILITIS.
(Quinsy).

Although

this disease is not contagious

it

is

liable to

be mistaken for true diphtheria, especially in the early


stage, hence until a positive diagnosis

should be strictly separated from


the

diagnosis can

however

it

may

now

be

require

made

is

others.

all

the patient

Fortunately

made with much

from twenty-four

certainty,

to forty-eight

hours time.
In this form of acute disease of the tonsil the deeper

may follow other


in the throat or it may begin and
tonsil.
However this may be, it

tissues of the part are all involved.

forms of inflammation
remain confined

to the

It

generally terminates in suppuration or the formation of

an abscess which

immediate

in

due time ruptures, giving almost

relief.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The
the

early

symptoms of

throat are

all

inflammatory disease about

The

often quite similar.

painful,

dry

throat; the constant desire to swallow, notwithstanding


the acute pain

yet in "Quinsy" the pain and swelling are

nearly alzvays confined to one side.

rounding tissues become

The

which renders the diagnosis easy.


often

throat

is

jaw.

The tongue

profuse

more

floiv

difficult
is

tonsil

and sur-

szvollen, filling the affected side,

Inspection of the

on account of the

stiffness of the

swollen and heavily coated, with

of saliva and fetid breath.

distressing than dangerous.

Its

The

disease

is

duration depends

upon the depth and progress of the suppuration, which

is

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

78

from uniform, and may require from four

far

days, during which time the patient

may

The mouth and

impossible to sleep or eat.

find

to eight

quite

it

throat should

be frequently cleared, by the free use of

warm

water,

of the offensive secretions which are otherwise apt to be

swallowed.

The following

remedies, used as indicated,

are applicable to this and other forms of sore throat.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

Sore

from exposure

throat

cold zvinds,

to

checking perspiration, followed by fever and

Dry-

thirst.

ness, burning and stinging pains in throat.

Apis

Throat

and palate look


Throat

sharp, stinging pains.

like

feels

a blister, with

full,

with painful

efforst to swallow.

Belladonna

Throat

inclination to swallow,
side.

feels

which

very dry, with constant


is

Worse on

painfid.

right

May

Feverish, with throbbing in head and neck.

be associated with scarlet fever or measles.

Baryta Carb
cold,

Enlargement

of tonsils

with every

with tendency to suppurate or ulcerate.

Some-

times useful after acute symptoms are past, though tonsils

remain enlarged.

After Aeon.

Hepar Sulphur

The

is less,

but

throat worse, with inclination to cough and perspire.

In

Quinsy which

inclines to

an abscess.

feels as

though there was a

Saliva

abundant,

breath

fish

fever

Tonsils swollen,

bone pricking in parts.

offensive.

Hepar

hastens

suppuration.

Mercurius

Throat

and tongue seem swollen and

ACUTE T0NSILITI8

79

Tongue heavily coated and difficult


Worse at night;

covered with saliva.

Glands of neck swollen.

to protrude.

perspiration profuse.

Lachesis

on

left side

Throat

and

and from the

Patient seems

tonsils look dark red

worse

slightest touch about the neck.

weak and drowsy, always worse

Lycopodium Pain begins on


Symptoms not so violent

slight.

after sleep.

right side.

Swelling

as Lach. or Bell., but

persistent.

Phytolacca

Dryness

with burning in throat.

Swal-

lowing very painful, on account of the raivness and


scalded feeling, which

is

worse from hot

fluids.

Choking

sensation with every swallow.

Sulphur

In cases inclined to recur often, or become

Dryness, with sensation in throat as from a

chronic.

splinter or

hair.

Ulcers or canker about tongue and

See additional remedies under diphtheria and

throat.

scarlet fever.
[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
preparation,
dose
and
repetition,
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

ACUTE FOLLICULAR TONSILITIS.


(Sore Throat).

CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES.
This
It is

is

one of the most frequent forms of "sore throat."

an inflammation of the mucous membrane covering

the tonsils,
theria.

which

in

its

several forms simulates diph-

In some cases the small, yellowish spots that dot

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

80

the surface of the tonsils spread or extend over the entire

resembhng a true diphtheritic membrane.

surface,

marked

ever, the

zvanting,

constitutional

How-

symptoms are generally

and the usual bacteriological examination, which

should always be made, establishes the diagnosis with

much

certainty.

The

disease

measles.

The

may

be associated with scarlet fever or

attack begins with creepy, chilly sensa-

tions rather than a real chill

and more or

less

this is

followed by fever

aching through the body.

The

throat

soon becomes dry and sore, with frequent and painful


swallowing.

The

and

which they soon become dotted with small,

red, after

tonsils

yellowish-zuhite spots.
severe,

appear considerably swollen

Pain on swallowing grows quite

and often extends

to the ear.

In some cases the

lymphatic glands of the neck become sivollen and tender.

The tongue has a slimy, thick coating and the breath is


The fever generally continues for two or three
days when it gradually subsides and the local conditions
of the throat rapidly improve, making a complete conoffensive.
;

valescence within a few days.

Whether contagious or not


It

is

still

an open question.

often simulates a mild form of diphtheria requiring

the culture test to decide

seldom

is

a diagnosis

more

important.

In the early stages, at least until a positive diagnosis

made, such cases should be isolated


other

members of

the family.

at

Young

is

once from the


children should

be put in bed and kept there during the febrile stage.

See remedies under Acute Tonsil it is and Diphtheria.

CHRONIC ENLARGEMENTS OF TONSILS

81

CHRONIC ENLARGEMENT OF THE TONSILS.


who

In scrofulous children or those

are constantly

taking cold, or after an attack of scarlet fever, the tonsils

may become permanently

enlarged

resulting in closing

the natural passage of air through the nose,

"mouth breathing" and


voice

all its

which causes

also affected, having a "nasal twang."

is

The

attendant symptoms.

Enlarged

are often associated with adenoid growths and

tonsils

which when

catarrh,

outward of

continued produce defects in

loitg

the bones of the mouth,

and

in

deformity or pressing

the incisor teeth.

That a good percentage of the cases can be cured by


homeopathic remedies has been proven by ample experience and

When

it is

equally true that

some require an operation.

the medical treatment fails to reach the case within

a reasonable time, a throat specialist should be consulted.

See treatment after Adenoids.

ADENOIDS.
The

location of adenoids

extending

down on

is

in the post-nasal region,

the walls of the

pharynx occasionally

back of the soft palate and above the

visible

the normal condition this region

is

tonsils.

In

well supplied with

small miico-lymphoid glands, of such size and distribution


that they in

no way interfere with free nasal breathing.

When from some


become

exciting cause or predisposition these

diseased, enlargement follows

which may

entire space, rendering nasal breathing impossible.

the

narily

months and
.

enlargement

is

so

gradual,

jfill

the

Ordi-

extending over

years, that neither patient or parents are

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

83

The

impressed with the real situation.


not malignant;
to the

disease itself

is

importance compared

very serious complications that result from their

presence.

naked

in fact of trifling

is

generally the after effects, visible to the

It is

on the part of parents

eye, that arouse interest

which leads

though belated, treatment.

to proper,

SYMPTOjMATOLOGY.
The nose and

throat in a normal condition, are none too

for the admission of air to the lungs, and the

large

slightest

interference

breathing

is

is

well

not

Mouth

tolerated.

only one of nature's emergencies and

if

com-

pelled for any length of time, will result in impaired


health, facial disfigurement,

and a lack of mental

when

different degrees

The

a patient

undeveloped

pinched,

developed upper

the

teeth,

protrusion or
the short, un-

with didlness of hearing, one or

lip,

The growing

be present.

child,

deformed

in

facial outline

all

embarrassed by the

prolonged, unnatural mouth-breathing, has become


ally

in

presented for treatment

is

nostrils,

prominence of the upper incisor

may

alert-

These three general conditions are noticeable

ness.

liter-

and mental growth has

weak lungs preparing the


easy development of tuberculosis must be classed

been retarded

way for
among the

ill

the danger of

consequences of

neglect

Chronic enlargement of the tonsils

is

of

treatment.

often found asso-

ciated with adenoids, whether as cause or effect

easy to determine.

Both diseases

in

common.

not

result in partial closure

of the nose and in mouth breathing and have

toms

is

many symp-

constant tendency to take cold from

which recovery seems slow or

is

followed by catarrhal

ADENOIDS
from which the patient does not

troubles
is

83
fully recover,

another outgrowth of adenoids.

MEDICAL AND SURGICAL TREATMENT.

Many

cases have

earher

the

come under my observation where


medicines

stages

have cured, but

majority they failed or gave only partial


cases where the hearing

is

relief.

In chronic

impaired, no time should be

The

through an operation.

lost in obtaining relief

in

the

in

cases

that respond to treatment are those of an acute character

with clear indications for some constitutional remedy.


If

marked improvement can be discerned within two or


months treatment an operation shoidd he deferred,

three

but

if

not

competent

it

will

prove a loss of time to continue.

specialist

should take the case.

The

accomplished by local treatment.

Little has

cases

seem

been

to call

for internal medication or an operation.

Remedies that have been suggested

ment of the

tonsils

Baryta

Carb

effective in

my

may

This

cases.

in chronic enlarge-

be considered in this connection.

remedy has been the

most

Mental condition didl and defec-

tive,

glands of neck and throat szvollen, stoppage of nose

and

didl

of

Child

hearing.

pale

shows faidty

and

nutrition.

Calcarea Phosphorica
with

many competient

where there
scrofulus

is

This

remedy

prescribers.

It

faulty bone development,

subjects

who

give

sition to glandular enlargement.

tional defects curatively

disease like magic.

and

in

evidence
It

a favorite

is

reaches those cases

of

in

backward,
predispo-

meets these constitu-

such cases heals the local

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

84

Carbonica

Calcarea

Phos.

head

tendency to

Somewhat
gj'ozu fat,

to

A distention over the

at night.

similar

Calc.

to

perspire about the

stomach or abdomen.

Child very hackivard about walking, and the teething

Takes cold

process delayed.
of cold

easily,

Such patients need

air.

cannot endure draft

Calc. carb. with or with-

out an operation.

Hepar Sulphur
Calc. or before

if

This

remedy may be

the child

open sores which are

is

useful after

inclined to eruptions

sloiv to heal, or if there

and

a loose,

is

rattling cough.

Sulphur

May be given

Unhealthy looking

treatment.
to a

for a

bath or to cold water.

few days to

skin,

start the

with great aversion

Outward appearance

indicates

a tainted, scrofulous system.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
preparation,
dose
and
I'epetition,
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

ERYSIPELAS.
HISTORY AND SOURCES OF INFECTION.
Erysipelas

is

an acute, infectious disease, frequently

transmitted by a third party whose hands or instruments

have been
the

in contact

wound

with erysipelas and afterwards with

or abrasions of another; or by direct contact

of an abraded surface with the erysipelas patient.

Hence

the great risk in caring for the disease especially


the skin

foe

to

is

not

in

perfect condition.

Erycipelas

surgical and obstetrical zvork.

infection in

its

f idlest limit

is

when

a great

The danger

of

has not as yet been definitely

ERYSIPELAS
hence safety must

established,

85

lie

in

the

direction of

extreme caution.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
Erysipelas

often ushered in without

is

monitory symptoms.

may

chills

sense of chilliness or creeping

and usually continue through the

precede,

First appearance

during the height of disease.

first

pre-

Fever with a very high temperature, prevails

disease.

on the

marked

about the eyes, nose or ears.

face,

looks flushed, and the patient describes

stiff, like

is

The
it

often

skin at

as feeling

Itching and burning are often intense.

leather.

Swelling follows, and about the eyes especially, the ap-

pearance
rapidly

is

like

The tendency

a blister.

from one part

is

to

spread

to another attended with a burn-

ing sensation which gave to the disease the appropriate

name

of "St. Anthony's fire."

out complications, the disease

In an ordinary case, withis

generally controlled by

one of the three following remedies.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Apis

When there

is

swelling, like blisters, about the

eyes, with stinging pricking pains

Belladonna
skin,

there

If,

through the parts.

addition to the smooth, hot, red

in

an intense, throbbing headache, eyes

is

in-

jected, pupils dilated, sleepy but cannot sleep, constantly

moaning and dread of

starting in sleep, with

jar, noise or light. Bell, will

Rhus Tox
indicated and

This
its

effect

is

the least

both palliate and cure.

the

remedy most frequently

on the healthy presents a wonder-

fully similar picture to erysipelas.

The

redness, swelling,

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

86
itching

and burning are

all

marked; the general surface

of parts presents an uneven, blistered appearance instead

The brain symptoms


Rhus has the swelling albout

of the smooth, red surface of Bell.

marked than

are less

Bell.

the eyes similar to Apis, with the addition of intense


restlessness,

cannot

with creeping

lie still; all

tongue

with

dry,

remedies

may

backache, cannot sleep,

chills,

The mouth and

very characteristic.
redness

of

tip

of

be indicated especially

Other

tongue.

when any compli-

from no small experience

cation arises, but judging

can

say that a careful differentiation of these three remedies

used in time will prevent complications and accomplish


a speedy cure.

Wounds

infected with erysipelas

may and

often do require such remedies as Lach, or Ars.


disease involves the brain Canth. or Bry.

may

If the

be as well

indicated as Bell, or Apis.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
General
Index
under
repetition,
see
and
preparation,
dose
"Directions."]

SMALL POX.
(Variola).

HISTORY AND CHARACTERISTICS.


Variola, or small pox,

The

disease.
chills,

is

is

followed by high

backache.
first,

invasion

an acute and highly contagious

marked by severe and repeated


fever

vomiting and intense

The eruption appears on

the third day.

At

small red spots, or pimple like eruptions appear on

face and gradually spreading over the body; three days


later this eruption

changes and the small, red spot takes

VACCINATION
the

form of a

vesicle containing clear limpid fluid, or pus.

After a few days


crust,

87

and a yellow brown

this disappears

or scab, forms which later peels off leaving in

some places a permanent small pox

scar,

which

is

a source

of permanent disfigurement.

The

may

disease

and high fever;


small

confounded with measles or

be

However, neither have the severe backache

chicken pox.

in fact the intensity of the

pox are

which points especially


is

easily transmitted

symptoms of

except the troublesome cough

lacking,

measles

to

only.

Small pox

through the third person, books,

papers or clothing and one attack prevents another.

With

the arguments against compulsory vaccination

all

there seems as yet no other preventive


of "the masses"

it

so in the interests

must be continued. (See vaccination.)

VACCINATION.
Since the accidental discovery that inoculation with
vaccine or

cow pox was

a preventive of small pox, small

factions have arisen here


tion.

It

is

very

difficult

do so with even a
small pox, as

it

to

there,

opposing

understand

all

vaccina-

how any

could

knowledge of the history of

slight

has prevailed throughout the entire world.

In pre-vaccination times

scourge of humanity.

become rare

and

it

was considered

It has, as

the greatest

the result of vaccination,

in all civilized countries.

Historians, (notably

Macaulay,) give a most lurid picture of the ravages of


the disease in early times.
The most rational explanation of anti-vaccination probably

is

that

it

grew out of the

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

88

results of using

and

"humanised virus,"

tnily an abomination,

also the shiftless, criminal zvay

All

the process of vaccination.

surface of the

arm

is

it

was employed

different,

now.

in

If the

properly prepared by scrubbing

is

thoroughly with soap and water, rubbing afterwards with

and the virus called "glycerinated," and hermeticsealed be used, there need be no fear of any ill con-

alcohol,
ally

sequences except the unavoidable sore arm, the inevitable


price of protection.

When

the ivory points are used, the operation

and almost

By

painless.

is

simple

firm though gentle scratching

of the skin with the ivory point, the outer skin

soon

is

removed, leaving a red but not quite bleeding surface.

The

may now

virus

be rubbed well into the part and

allowed sufficient time to dry.


protection
is

is

No

other application or

necessary unless the sleeve or underwear

not fresh and clean,

when

On

used to cover the arm.

a sterilized bandage

slight flush or redness at the point of inoculation


its

appearance.

On

may

be

the third or fourth day a

makes

the fifth or sixth day a small blister

developes, with extended redness about the parts.

On

the eleventh or twelfth day the redness begins to fade

away and

the blister

scab which
day.

Some

may

is

gradually transformed into a dry

fall off

on the eightheenth

slight constitutional

to twentieth

symptoms develop from

the fifth to tenth day, such as slight chilliness

and fever

with loss of appetite and general indisposition,

which pass away on the tenth

all

of

to twelfth day.

Experience shows that not a few persons re-acquire a


susceptibility to small pox,

inoculation.

To

some years

after a successful

determine this in such case, and epecially

CHICKEN POX
during

re-vaccination

epidemic,

threatened

89

seems

necessary.

few doses of Aeon, may be used when

febrile

symp-

toms are prominent.

CHICKEN POX.
(Varicella).

Chicken pox

contagious in a milder degree than

is

small pox, and of

all

eruptive diseases

in fact there is little or

until the small pimples

mouth and

throat,

and vesieles appear,

on the scalp and

Some

fever and lassitude precede or

ease.

Where

the eruption

a pustule forming with

the mildest

is

no premonition of any sickness

its

is

later

first

in the

over the body.

accompany the

general, with

now and

dis-

then

crust or scab, the disease might

be confounded with true small pox, but here again the

symptoms of small pox {backache, vomiting and high


fever) are absent.

Rest
cient.

in

bed and a

If

remedies are required see Aeon, and Gels.

light diet for a

few days seem

suffi-

TYPHOID FEVER.
SOURCE OF INFECTION
Typhoid fever

is

an infectious disease, the causative

agent being minute micro-organisms that find ready trans-

mission through various media.


ing-ivater

is

by far the most

Their presence

common

in drink-

source of infection.

Milk, raw oysters and articles of food infected have contributed

largely

to

the propagation

of

typhoid.

The

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

90

Statement that "Food, fingers and

spreading the disease

flies"

have been busy

no exaggeration.

is

With definite knowledge of the cause of the disease and


mode of propagation, modern methods have done
much to prevent its spread. The time is coming when a
the

case of typhoid fever will be rare and the source of the

same

will

pox.

In the meantime, the exercise of individual caution

is

be as carefully sought out as a case of small

important.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
In most cases typhoid fever

is

very gradual in

its

For several days or even weeks preceding

development.

the fever the patient complains of headache, languor, loss

of appetite, nights restless, and full of dreams.


there

is

nosebleed, severe backache, and diarrhea.

peated slight

chills

or

day, until

reaches a

it

to 105, with a

pulse

is

sleep

slow the

generally

is

higher each

week.

weak and

The

Later on,

it

irregular.

becomes delirious with inclination

to

frequently interrupted by loud talk, groans

The tongue
mouth and teeth,

and excitement.
like the lips,

little

in the evening, of 103

first

in severe cases

patient often

which

going a

maximum

drop of one degree during the night.

becomes rapid and

The

to rise,

Re-

and heat alternating.

chilliness

The temperature begins

Often

is

generally coated and,

often covered with a dry,

brown substance.
Diarrhea, or constipation; the former in the more
severe cases
distended.

abdomen

sensitive to pressure,

generally

TYPHOID FEYEB

91

Complications with pneumonia often occur.

hemorrhage may occur

The duration

Intestinal

in the later stage of the disease.

of the disease

much

not uniform,

is

depending upon the severity of the attack and the consti-

From two to four weeks covers


much more time is often

tution of the patient.

the duration of the fever, but as

required to complete convalescence.

more robust of

the

adult

life,

It

usually attacks

occasionally children, but

seldom the aged.

MEDICAL, TREATMENT.
There are
in
all

my

six leading types of fever remedies which,

experience, have generally been adequate to meet

some

cases except those attended with

Some one

tion or emergency.

found indicated

every case.

The

mental condition

typhoid, especially the early stage.

wandering conversation
ness

typifies

of

case

Ideas confused; wild

indifference

and mental obtuse-

tosses about in bed trying to get himself together,

thinking he
bed.

Ars., Bap., Bry.,

Rhus Tox.

Gels., Lack.,

Baptisia

in nearly

rare complica-

of the following will be

is

broken

in pieces

or that another self

Mild delirium, with drowsiness

headache, brain and eyeballs feel sore.


the body, with sense of languor

and

is

in

in daytime.

Dull

Soreness

over

fatigue.

all

Face dull

and flushed.

Bryonia

Like

early stages.

Bap. more often

of

all

in

the

Violent headache and general lame, sore

Eye balls
symptoms from motion.

feeling in the extremeties.


tion

indicated

sore,

with aggrava-

Desire to remain

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

92
quiet

and

Dryness of

sleep.

Dreams

quantities of water.

lips

with thirst for large

of,

or talking about the

Delirium and desires

daily zvork or business.

to

go home.

Faintncss on rising, nosebleed.

Arsenicum

In

the middle, later, or any stage with

the following symptoms.


thirst

Great prostration, restlessness,

There may

for small quantity of water very often.

Diarrhea with

be vomiting, especially after drinking.

symptoms of

Troubled with constant fear of

collapse.

death or of being

Face may be

left alone.

Mouth and tongue

pale, or flushed.

dry, with burning thirst.

stomach, with aversion to

all

Burning

in

food.

Rhus

may be indicated at any stage of


The mind becomes confused and clouded,
so that mental operations are difficult. The tired, zveary,
languid feeling as in Baptisia, is marked. More or less
Rhus Tox

the disease.

aching

There

in all parts, especially the


is

back and the eyeballs.

the constant restlessness, similar to

but the prostration and

thirst, are

Arsenicum

not so marked.

Tongue

very dry, often brown and cracked, with a peculiar, triangular, red

tip.

Sleep full of dreams of

work and

fatigue,

with constant tossing about.

Lachesis

Is

adapted to a low type of fever, with

delirium, constantly talking in a rambling, disconnected

manner.
ness.

There

considerable prostration and restless-

is

The tongue

is

zvith great difficidty.

and very
sleep,

offensive.

dry, red or dark,

The

may

is

protruded

be black, bloody

Patient always seems worse after

throwing clothes

loose about the neck.

stools

and

aside

and tearing everything

MALARIAL FEVER
Gelsemium
forms of

Useful

93

and milder

in the earlier stages

Headache, drozvsiness and

fever.

lassitude.

Great heaviness of eyelids and lame, sore eyeballs.

Fever ivithout

clined to chilliness.

thirst.

Pain

In-

in base

of brain with drawing of head backzvard.

Arnica
is

If

May be indicated

where there

in early stage

great soreness and lameness ivith tendency to stupor.

awake, complains of nothing but the "hard bed."

Tongue dry and


stool.

Apis

red.

Involuntary discharge of urine and

Feet cold and head hot.

There may be stupor,

with sudden starting and

Fever but no

screams, especially with children.

Urine very scanty.

Face

Tongue dry and

breathing

bloated,

difficult to

with

oppressed,

thirst.

protrude.

muttering

delirium.
[For

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

tlie

remedy,

Index

under

MALARIAL FEVER.
HISTORY AND SOURCE OF INFECTION.
Malarial fever

is

a disease of comparatively rare occur-

rence, except in localities

where conditions are favorable

for the production of a specific micro-organism.

marshy land poorly drained, and newly


exposed

to heat

The

disease

hot or tropical climates, or in


is

rivers, wells

soil

and moisture prove culture beds for such

micro-organisms.

virgin soil

stirred

Low,

being cultivated

and water supply.

is

especially prevalent in

new

sections

where the

and with the pollution of

Hence

the prevalence of

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

94

the disease epidemically in certain localities which are

termed "malarial regions."

Up

to recent times, the foregoing

was considered an

adequate explanation of the origin of malarial fever.


the light of our present knowledge,

it

In

must be admitted

that those theories were to say the least, very incomplete.


Sufficient proof
all

now

is

at

hand

to

show

that

many

not

if

cases of the disease are directly due to the bite of a

certain

species

of

mosquito primed with the malarial

What

which simply means practical inoculation.

parasite,

has been previously said as to the supposed origin or


cause of malaria

is

equally true as applied to the origin

or breeding place of mosquitoes, and herein


able explanation of the perpetual fallacy.

quito

is

lies

the prob-

That the mos-

a go-betiueen amongst the sick and the well, the

active agent in inoculation,

is

The

the latest conclusion.

most elaborate experiments have been made

to

demon-

Assuming

its

correct-

strate the truth of this statement.

ness, precaution

becomes the most rational procedure.

If

a residence must be maintained in a malarial region,

adequate protection by means of screens must be had,


especially at night.

The near-by

cess-pool,

cistern,

or

any stagnant pools should be obliterated, or sprinkled


over with kerosene or coal

mosquito

life.

oil,

which seems destructive of

Patients suffering with malarial

fever,

should be separated from the well by means of screens.

The mosquito, having drawn blood from

the patient,

primed, ready for the distribution of infection.


"prevention" under yellow fever.)

is

(See

MALARIAL FEVER

95

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The

symptoms are headache, great

earliest

loss of appetite with a pale,

lassitude,

anemic appearance.

If,

with

such symptoms, a marked periodic disturbance occurs,


either every

may

day or every second day, a malarial infection

be suspected or affirmed.

order of development
constituting a typical

Following in the usual

is the chill, fever, and perspiration;


paroxysm which unless interrupted

by treatment, recurs after an interval of 24

When

feasible,

the individual suffering

to

48 hours.

from malarial

The

infection should change to a non-malarial region.

long-continued effects of malaria often produce profound

anemia and organic

diseases, or

become confounded with

other types of fever, and incipient tuberculosis.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
During the

interval, as

during the paroxysm,

all

con-

and symptoms of the patient should be carefully

ditions

noted, and

whenever a remedy can be found that covers

the totality of the symptoms, a cure

may

This

hence physicians of

all

is

not always an easy problem

schools are often liable to fall back

remedy. Quinine.
pathically,

doses

it

will

will in

upon the

classic

This remedy when indicated homeo-

cure in very small doses and in large

most cases arrest the paroxysm of

and fever, but does not

The

be anticipated.

in all cases

do more than

chill

palliate.

therapeutics of malarial fever have always been

a bone of contention, doubtless due to the causative factor

of the disease. Here experience should render an account.

Approximately two-thirds of the cases treated by the


writer,

have been cured by the 6th, 30th and 200th

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

96

Another one-third, without

potency.

definite

guiding

symptoms, was treated with cmde medicines of the usual


Again, where Quinine has failed, the potentized
dose.
remedy, selected according to symptoms has often cured
promptly.
reliance.

The following remedies have been my chief


They are mentioned in the order of importance.

Each one should be

carefully reviewed in Part III of the

Materia Medica.

Arsenicum,
China, Ipecac,

Eupatorium

Gelscmiuni,

Nux

importance

Considerable

wholesome food

Perfoliatum,

Vomica.
placed upon nourishing,

is

to sustain the strength,

and cleanliness

of the surface of the body by frequent bathing.

Also,

during or even after convalescence, the patient should


avoid fatigue of any sort, hot sun and night
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

selection

diet,

see

repetition,

air.

of

General

remedy,

the

Index

under

REMITTENT FEVER.
Remittent fever, sometimes termed bilious fever, or
gastric fever,

is

chiefly prevalent with children.

It

characterized by a high fever which continues for

is

some

hours, after which an uncertain interval of from six to

twenty-four hours occurs before

no

its

distinct chill precedes the fever.

stomach becomes involved


resemble

gastritis.

in

return.

As

a rule,

In some cases, the

such prominence

as

to

In other cases, the liver seems to be

the chief center of disturbance, giving rise to nausea,

vomiting

bile,

and

later.

Jaundice.

Occasionally,

from

REMITTENT FEVER

97

week assumes

neglect of treatment, the case, in the second

a typhoid

with continuous fever.

state,

Remittent fever

has some features of malarial infection, and has been thus

The duration

classified.

days,

and the prognosis

of the disease

is

favorable.

be kept quiet and in bed.

The

from 7

is

The

to 14

patient should

diet restricted to light,

liquid food.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

When

there

is

restlessness, zvith constant thirst

mind

filled

dry,

hot

and no

skin,

appetite.

great

The

with fear and aggitation,

Arsenicum

Gastric

and vomiting,

symptoms prominent.

especially after drinking water,

craved above everything

else,

Nausea
which

is

but takes only a swallow at

The Arsenicum patient is usually very weak from


and the mind filled with alarm and anxiety.

a time.

the outset,

Fear of death and of being

Chammomilla
irritable

Adapted

to

who

children

Perspire freely, but no

The

fever

is

and offensive breath.


ing the nose, with

relief.

attended by gastric disturbance


Child constantly rubbing or pick-

symptoms of worms.

Child very irritable, cannot bear to be touched.


Anti.

are

One cheek

without cause and worse at night.

red, the other pale.

Cina

left alone.

(See

C, Cham.)

Gelsemium
droivsy, with

Fever
much

back of the head.


8

ivithout thirst.

Child

weak and

headache, especially about eyes or

Eyelids heavy or closed.

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

98

Ipecac

Constant

nausea or vomiting green

fluid,

with pain about the stomach.


[For
its

directions

special

as

and

dose

preparation,

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

of

General

see

the

remedy,

Index

under

"Directions."']

YELLOW FEVER.
In this country, only certain locahties along the southeast coast

and the Gulf of Mexico have been subject


It is essentially a

this disease.

West

often prevailing in the

to

disease of ivarm climates,


Indies,

West Africa and

along the boarders of the Mediterranean.

It is

an acute,

infectious but non-contagious disease.

SYMPTOMS AND COURSE.


The beginning

is

often abrupt.

lowed by backache and headache.

may

high fever, which

distinct chill fol-

This

is

followed by

continue without remission for

The usual symptoms of intense thirst


predominate. Nausea and vomiting often

two or three days.


and hot skin

occur on the second or third day; the bowels as a

The

constipated.
fiery,

rule,

face has a peculiar flush, the eyes look

and delirium

is

often present.

After the active

febrile

symptoms, the face and skin often take on a

yellozv,

jaundiced appearance which doubtless gives

to the

point

name
make

of the disease.

cases beginning at this

recovery, while others pass into

be called a second stage.


patient

Some

rise

what might

Instead of gaining strength the

becomes exhausted, the pulse rapid and weak, the

tongue dry and brown.


It is at this

stage that the so-called "black vomit"

may

YELLOW FEVER
occur, which hke other hemorrhages

of the body,

mind becomes
ate

due

is

dull

on the fourth

ally

from

different parts

The

form of blood poisoning.

to a

and

99

apathetic.

to seventh day,

The

fatal cases termin-

and the end

is

gener-

preceded by hiccough, cold sweats, .involuntary

dis-

charges and convulsions.

The prognosis except

in the mildest case is

who

able, especially of those

pass into the stage where

"black vomit" occurs, which of

Under modern favorable

unfavor-

itself

is

fatal

sign.

conditions, the mortality rate

should be greatly reduced from earlier figures of 20 to


25 per cent.

PREVENTION AND TREATMENT.


It

now seems

generally admitted that the chief source

of transmission of yellow fever from the sick to the


healthy,

is

mosquito.
in several

through the medium of a certain variety of

Acting upon

this conclusion, the disease

epidemics been easily controlled.

of Havana, where

it

has

In the city

had prevailed for a century,

it

was

soon exterminated by destroying the culture beds of mosquitoes by pouring a small quantity of oil (Petroleum)
into all such places as could not be perfectly drained,

as stagnant pools, etc.

The next

step

was

to protect all

yellow fever patients from the visitation of the mosquito.

This was accomplished by providing

dows with mosquito

all

doors and win-

screens, besides which, patients in or

outside of the hospitals were surrounded with fine mosquito netting.

protected and
regulated.

Receptacles containing water should be


all

local sanitary conditions be carefully

CONTAGIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

100

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite
chill,

In

hot

fever,

prominent.

the milder cases where following the


skin,

and

thirst

are

all

attack

from

the

retain

water on

restlessness

First stage of the disease.

Arsenicum Exhaustion marks the


Nausea and vomiting, cannot
start.
stomach though craving
swallow.

can

Restless,

constantly yet taking only a

it

sit

or

lie

in

one place but a

moment, eyes and face sunken and pinched, symptoms


of collapse.

Ars. would seem to be indicated in

many

In

brain

cases.

Belladonna

some cases where there

involvement, with rage and excitement.

is

Face flushed,

pupils dilated, sleepy but cannot sleep, constant startings

from the

least noise or jar.

Carbo. Veg.

For

the development of the second

stage; cold, livid face and extremeties, circulation at a low


ebb, pulse weak,

wants

clammy

face cold and

Gelsemium

After

air

and constant fanning, yet sur-

in collapse.

Aeon,

if

fever

continues

with

pain in base of brain, drawing the head backwards, inclined to convulsions.

Lachesis
the

Has

proven a useful remedy

more malignant

cases.

in

some

of

Hemorrhages of dark-colored

blood, great prostration, cannot endure any clothing about

neck

or

abdomen.

Tongue

dry

and

trembling

on

protrusion.

Rhus Tox

Typhoid

like,

the patient

is

drowsy, yet

tossing about, complaining of backache and pain in limbs

CHOLERA ASIATIC
Mouth and tongue

and head.

dry,

101

dehrium and dreams

of hard zvork and fatigue.

Verat. Alb.

After vomiting and purging the patient

becomes exhausted,
is

cold,

ivith cold szveat

Further indications for the fore-

Pulse rapid and weak.

may

going remedies

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

be found under the treatment of

Also see Materia Medica.

cholera morbus.
[For

dose

and

as

to

see

General

tbe

Index

remedy,
under

ASIATICA.

True Cholera Asiatica seldom


is

of

selection

diet,

repetition,

CHOLERA
This

on the forehead, face

sunken and resembles a Carbo Veg. condition.

prevails in the

U.

particularly true of the northern portion.

ever, as late as 1831 to 1854,

it

extended

its

S.

A.

How-

ravages over

most of the northern cities, resulting in a mortality that


was appalHng. Fortunately there is much unanimity as
to the cause of the disease

knowledge how

and

still

more fortunate

is

the

to prevent the spread of the infection.

SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT.


The
less

disease begins with a diarrhea, in

and watery.

water" and

is

with yellow.

"rice

accompanied by profound prostration.

a few hours vomiting occurs,

stomach and

most cases pain-

The discharge soon resembles

later of

first

In

of the contents of the

watery substances

slightly tinged

The weakness of the patient increases


weak and husky. The dis-

rapidly and the voice becomes

charges become involuntary, the secretion of urine often


ceases.

Insatiable thirst

sets

in,

with great pain and

PONTAOIOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

102

anguish in the chest and

cramps

in the

Before

this,

legs.

the appearance of the patient has greatly

The

changed.

stomach, attended by

pit of the

stomach, bowels, and calves of the

lips,

face and extremities assume a bluish

sunken and the nose pinched. Cold per-

color, the eyes are

on the

spiration stands in drops

body become

icy cold,

face, the surface of the

and the pulse so weak that

scarcely be counted. Often there

is

it

can

dimness of vision, with

roaring in the ears and extreme vertigo. In severe cases


this

may

more.

take place in a few hours and the patient be no

may

In milder ones the period of collapse

occur for 24 to 48 hours.

The

tion, the pulse

surface,

show

improves, coldness gives

and

vomiting

the

not

non-fatal cases, or those

that respond to treatment, will soon

of

all

signs of reac-

way

to

warmth

become

purging

less

frequent.

SOURCES OF INFECTION AND PROPHYLAXIS.


The

disease

eases has
is

is

highly infectious, and like

specific

comma

bacillus.

some time

in fact

the

for

its

a ivater-horne disease.

such dis-

all

micro-organism, which in cholera

This retains
it

may

On

vitality in

its

water

be considered as practically

this

account

it

often escapes

quarantine through running streams having their sources


in cholera infected districts,

thus indirectly contaminat-

ing water tanks, milk supply,


established,

that the principal

etc.

It

source

through food and water, chiefly the

seems a fact well


of

infection

latter,

is

hence the

greatest precaution should be exercised in this directionsfirst to

guard

in

every possible

hence caution of

all

articles

way

against the infection,

taken

into

the

mouth.

CHOLERA ASIATIC
whether

fruit,

103

The common

food or drink.

house-fly,

for instance, has facihties for distributing the germs of

In time of danger no one

disease and should be shut out.

can guarantee that articles of food and drink are free

from the presence of cholera

bacilli,

therefore the rule

should be to eat no uncooked food and drink no water

This simple precaution

that has not been boiled.

all

is

comprehensive and always available for those who would


Cold foods, meats and sweets that have

shun danger.

been for some time exposed after cooking, possess

ments of

ele-

Such

risk unless very thoroughly protected.

sane precaution and care should be taken in a cheerful

way, and anything whether

in conversation or otherwise,

and

that creates a constant state of dejection

terror,

depressing the system and increasing susceptibility to disease,

Personal cleanliness and

should be avoided.

sanitary regulations in
portance, especially. in

all

surroundings are of

warm

strict

much

im-

climates.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.

No

matter

how mild

the attack, the patient should be

placed in bed and isolated from the healthy, except the


nurse,

who by

disposing of

taking care in cleansing the hands after

all

and vomited matter,

soiled linen, stool

need have no great fear for personal safety.

All stools

and vomited matter should be subjected

to the action

a ten per cent solution of carbolic acid.

Plenty of fresh

air is beneficial to patient

lightest liquid
ties

food

of tepid water

is

and attendant,

admissible at

may

be allowed.

the use of either food or water,

it

alike.

first.

If

of

Only the

Small quanti-

vomiting follows

should be temporarily

CONTAaiOUS AND INFECTIOUS DISEASES

104

Nutritious broths, the white of one egg,

discontinued.

may

diluted brandy or whisky

following remedies

is

be used.

If

one of the

and given

selected with care

Only a

most sanguine.

the results will fully satisfy the

early,

few of the principal and well tested remedies

will

be

mentioned here.

Veratrum,

Arsenicum,

Camphor,

Carbo.

Ipecac,

Veg., China.

Arsenicum

when with

May

for cold water which


patient

is

be

indicated

the diarrhea there


is

satisfied

is

even

stage

first

a persistent thirst

The

by one mouthful.

exceedingly restless, tossing about, cannot stay

in bed, full of fear, fear of death

for

the

in

moment.

Burning,

and of being

left

alone

cramps and pain

in

stomach and bowels, much relieved by hot applications.


Great exhaustion from the very

first.

With the nausea, vomiting and profuse,

Veratrum

watery stool there


pale, cold,

is

cold sweat on the forehead, face

pinched expression,

ing and weakness after stool.


legs.

lips

and face

Cramps

Thirst for large quantity of cold

bluish. Faint-

abdomen and
water. The cold
in

perspiration, cold surface, the "rice-water" stool,


in calves of legs, point strongly to Verat.

to

which

is

cramps
similar

Camphor.

Camphor

Icy coldness of the face and surface of the

body, exhaustion, pidse


lapse.

weak

ivith all

symptoms of

Stool watery or dark and often involuntary.

col-

drawn and livid; presenting a


Camphor produces in health such

vacant, staring look, lips

deathly appearance.
a picture.
fatal

In Cholera

forms of the

it

has proven curative in the most

disease.

CHOLERA ASIATIC
China and Carbo. Veg.
are

more apt

Less

105

frequently used and

and

to be called for in the latter stages

in

on for some days, not having been


more common remedies. The stools of

cases that have run

controlled by the

Carbo Veg.

The

face

may

is

be dark, watery, putrid and involuntary.

pale and

with stringy

filled

livid,

gas about stomach and

Hiccough, must be fanned; must have

bowels.

surface of face and body cold.


ing, stool

mouth

the breath cold, the

Much

saliva.

air,

yet

Stupor, with less vomit-

The

and cramps than Verat. or Arsen.

patient

seems gradually worse and exhausted by the continuance


of the disease.

China

Conditions

on the surface

the patient very zveak,

quent

or

stool,

Veg.; though

similar to Carbo

The

less alarming.
it

may

profuse,

loss of fluids leaves

be from hemorrhage, fre-

long-continued

perspiration.

Distention and fermentation in the abdomen.

may
may

The yellowish

away suddenly with

zuater, painless stool,

more

violent

pour-

force, aggravated after eating or

drinking are sure indications for Croton Tig.


the

stool

There

be ringing in the ears and dimness of sight.

Croton Tig
ing

The

be painless, profuse, watery and involutary.

Many

symptoms of other remedies are

of

absent.

preventive remedy recommended by no less an au-

thority than Prof. C. Herring,

and one that has proved

successful in several cholera epidemics,

is

"Dust a pinch

of pulverized sulphur in each shoe or stocking, repeating


the

same two or three times per week."


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

Its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY AND

CIRCULATORY SYSTEMS.
CORYZA.
(Acute Rhinitis.)
Coryza
brane

is

an acute inflammation of the mucous

Hning

the nose

synonymous with acute

and

turbinate

rhinitis.

mem-

surfaces and

is

The inflammation may,

and often does, extend by a continuous membrane from


the nose to the throat, larynx and bronchi, giving rise to
diseases elsewhere considered.

form of coryza pre-

cedes the eruption in measles, and the earliest


of influenza are often like those of coryza.
the

most frequent complaints

symptoms

It is

one of

calling for medicine,

and

remedy given early may prevent a succession of


ailments which are far more serious than the coryza.
The most common form of the disease is that which folthe right

lows exposure resulting

in "taking cold."

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
Beginning with frequent sneezing which

is

followed

we have two
Soon the nasal passages become red and inflamed, with more or less tickling, burn-

by a free, watery discharge

from the

nose,

signals easily recognized.

ing and irritation frequently extending through to the

106

CORYZA

107

lachrymal duct and resulting in

lachrymation

profuse

Gradually, after two or three

with redness of the eyes.

mucus which

days, the discharge^ changes to a waterly

Frontal head-

often excoriates the adjacent surfaces.

ache sets in early and often continues for some days unless

Acute

relieved by remedies.

rhinitis

uninterfered

with often blends into sub-acute catarrh, and


foundation

known

laid

is

for chronic catarrh with

concomitants.

This

finally the
all

its

well

especially the case with

is

from adenoids and enlarged tonsils,


combination often met in every-day practice.

children suffering

making

This gives

rise to "Snuffles"

"mouth-breathing"

at

and throat with more or


cal

and mental

indicated

mucus

secretions

less dull frontal

lassitude.

homeopathic treatment.

or stoppage of the nose, with

night,

in

nose

headache, physi-

Such cases usually respond

The

to

early administration of the

remedy for coryza

end a "sea of

will often

troubles."

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Allium Cepa With the coryza there

is

cough and

hoarseness, constant sneezing zvith profuse zvatery, acrid

discharge from nose; bland but profuse lachrymation,

smarting and burning in eyes.

warm

Coryza seems worse

in

room.

Arsenicum

When there

is,

with the coryza a burn-

ing heat in nose with watery discharge;

weak and

patient

feels

inclined to be thirsty, with general indications

for Ars. as in influenza.

Belladonna

When

there

is

slight

discharge,

the

nose seeming obstructed; parts feel dry even into the

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

108

throat, with

dry and

head throbbing, eyes sensitive to

light,

throat

sore.

Chamomilla

In children, considerable heat


very

one cheek, red, the other pale,

pleased or quiet zvhen being carried.

Dulcamara

Sudden

changes

in

fretful

Worse

in head,

and only

at night.

weather from hot

to cold.

Gelsemium

When

with the cold there

lassitude, chilliness, with dull

the eyelids

is

a general

headache and droivsiness

seem heavy and eyeballs lame and sore with

some sneezing and discharge from nose and


Euphrasia

Profuse,

to excoriate

the lids

glutinated,

with

zvatery, acrid tears

and

eyes.

which

incline

face, eyes inflamed, red, lids ag-

discharges,

photophobia

lamplight, profuse, bland fluent discharge

worse from

from

with sneezing, worse at night and lying down.

the nose

The

dis-

charge from the eyes in Allium cepa being bland while


in

Euph.

it is

acrid and poisonous; the reverse being true

of the discharge from the nose.

Hoarseness with tickling

cough.

Eupatorium Per.

In

addition to the coryza symp-

toms sneezing and headache, there may be "aching

in the

bones," backache, chilliness and nausea, assuming more


violent

symtoms of

Mercurius

Eyes

influenza.

and nose symptoms similar

to Ars.,

only less severe and always worse at night, throat sore

with

much

saliva, considerable

lameness in muscles and

aching in bones, profuse perspiration.

Rhus Tox

Colds

following getting wet or

from

CHRONIC NASAL CATARRH

109

going in ivater with aching and lameness over the body,


especially hack
[For

special

preparation,

its

and

eyeballs.

directions

and

dose

as

to

see

remedy,

the

of

selection

diet,

repetition,

Index

General

under

"Dii'ections."]

CHRONIC NASAL CATARRH.


The prevalence

of this affliction in

multifarious

its

forms from the mildest to the most repulsive

Numerous

ceeded by any other ailment.

operative; coryza, neglected cold,

and adenoids,

stacles,

In the face of

etc.

not exare

unfavorable climate,

damp, poorly ventilated rooms, occupation,


tonsils

is

causes

disease

all

of

these ob-

medical treatment has been far from successful.

In addition to the above, there are not a few cases sup-

posed to be catarrhal, which are due to growths and de-

The general

formities in the nasal passage.


is

not usually prepared to diagnose

so

it

has come to pass and

specialist

and

is

all

practitioner

of these cases

think fortunately, that the

called in to help clear

up the more obscure

difficult cases.

Some

some by

cases can be cured by medicine,

local

treatment, while others being due to causes practically

mechanical,

must be

require

dealt with

operative

on

its

merits,

and thus managed the

treatment of so-called nasal catarrh


reasonably

successful.

The

Every case

measures.

first

may

step

be considered

to

the

accom-

plishment of this would seem to be a correct diagnosis.


In uncomplicated cases and those growing out of colds

much can

be accomplished by giving the indicated remedy,

usually in an ordinary case of catarrh there

is

a free dis-

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

110

charge of yellowish-white, mucous, even purulent matter,


generally worse in the morning.
ceases and the nose

and head.

At times

the discharge

stopped up, with heat in the nose

is

form of

more

so-called dry catarrh gives

discomfort than any other and leads to obstruction


nose, with "mouth-breathing"

when long

The

continued.

which

is

in the

most detrimental

following

remedies, men-

tioned in the order of importance, should be carefully


studied in the section on Mat.

Nnx,

Pills.,

Med, Part

II.

Hydrastis, Calc. carb.. Sang., Sulph.

In seeking out the indications for each remedy in Part


III,

not only the "nose symptoms" but also the head,

throat and general indications should be carefully read.

See remedies under "Coryza."


[For

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

dose

its

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

tbe

of

General

Index

remedy,
under

HAY FEVER
Concerning the cause of

Hay Fever many

divergent

views have been expressed, and the same holds true as

Some have maintained with some show


was caused by bacteria, in fact this conclusion was for some time quite generally accepted. More

to

its

treatment.

of reason that

it

recent experiments point to plant-pollen as the source.


is

at the season

when

It

the pollen matures that hay fever

The plants which mostly supply this pollen are


commonly known as "ragweed" and "golden rod." The
former is by far the more prolific. Other plants and

prevails.

vegetation

may

in a lesser degree furnish the pollen.

The

pollen theory seems to have displaced that of bacteria.

HAY FEVER
and

at the present time the

is

111

most plausible one

and the one now generally accepted.

made with

theory some experiments were

and

finally a

which

remedy was

prepared

this

pollen toxin,
Pollentine,

called

hands of some careful observers has proved

in the

to be of value, curing

some and

relieving the majority of

Individual predisposition to hay fever has also

cases.

been a matter of much speculation.


it

to offer

Based upon

due

to be

However

ment.

that

may

be,

it

Not a few

believe

or neurotic tempera-

to a highly nervou-s

is

a certain fact that

some individuals show an extreme susceptibility to the


whenever it comes in contact with the
mucous membrane. The annual attacks make their appearance with much precision, and any slight variation in
pollen toxin,

dates

is

The

due

to the condition of vegetation.

early

symptoms resemble

slight tickling in the nose

which

is

the nose

an

ordinary

coryza.

and eyes followed by sneezing,

soon followed by profuse watery discharge from

and

eyes.

The

eyes become very red, the lids

swollen, attended with itching.

The mucous membrane

of the nose becomes inflamed and swollen, causing obstruction, so that breathing

is

often carried on through

the mouth, resulting in a dryness preventing sleep.

Gen-

symptoms may be headache, depression, ill-humor


and exhaustion. Asthmatic symptoms develop in some
eral

cases,

which are very

distressing.

prevails during an attack.

More or

All of these

less

fever

symptoms may

be greatly aggravated at any time by exposure to night


air,

by railway journey, or by lingering

vegetation

is

over abundant.

substantial support

from these

The

in a locality

where

theory

finds

pollen

facts,

as also from the

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

112

fact that patients often find relief in

an ocean voyage, or

by going to the mountains where there

amount of

and Adirondacks,

Not much can be

their advocates.

homeopathic medicine.
rasia

may

is

by

EuphOther

quite possible.

Gels.

careful compari-

son of these remedies by referring to each

Materia Medica,

will

in

Part

III.

often reward the prescriber and

Well-to-do

afford at least partial relief to the patient.

who

found

said of real cures

be indicated by some special or general

symptoms, especially Ars., and

patients

Green

have

all

by the use of

Palliation

and also by Allium cepa,

remedies

minimum

The White Mountains,

vegetation.

Mountains, Catskill

the

is

are not inclined to spend their time at sea,

should try to find some location where perfect immunity


obtainable and return to

it

Some

annually.

one place^ and others find there no

are

exempt

The annual

relief.

taxation of the system by this exhausting disease


trifling matter,

wise to do

so,

and

all

who can make

is

in

is

no

their escape are

rather than pay the penalty of "enduring

what can be avoided."


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

General

remedy,

tbe

Index

under

ACUTE CATARRHAL LARYNGITIS.


The larynx
tract, the

epiglottis,

is

the upper portion of the respiratory

entrance to which

and

in

During the very

is

opened and closed by the

which are located the


act of

speaking,

and

vocal

chords.

breathing, the

functions of these parts are called into action.

This, with

the inhalation of the multiform substances in the air and

LARYNGITIS
the

extremes of temperature,

with the

contact

close

makes this portion of


most intricate, as well

the

113

human anatomy one


most exposed and

as the

of the

liable to

disease.

Acute

laryngitis

is

by far the most frequent disease of

The majority

the larynx.

of

common

or invade the larynx in their course

colds either attack

downward from

the

nose and throat to the bronchial tubes and lungs, often


giving rise to a mild form of laryngitis.

The

chief causes

of acute laryngitis are exposure to cold, excessive and

improper use of the voice in public speaking and singing,


and tobacco smoking. The latter in some cases produces
a form of laryngitis with hoarseness and cough which
first acute,

is

then sub-acute, and finally chronic.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The symtoms

are not

numerous or very marked.

hoarseness and dry, semi-croupy cough which


in the early stage of the disease, is later,

remedies, followed by

Even

some

is

The

present

under proper

secretion and expectoration.

knowledge of the parts involved should convince any one of the importance of avoiding exposure
slight

and use of the organs during an attack, which ordinarily,


under treatment, is of short duration.
In the case of children this disease simulates croup in

many

respects,

ease.

The remedies

and

is

often confounded with that dis-

for each are also similar

and should

be referred to before making a prescription.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.
Aconite
9

After exposure

to

dry cold wind, followed by

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

514

hoarseness, dry cough and soreness in larynx.


thirst

may

be present, cough

Belladonna

With

comes dry and

may

Fever and

be croupy.

dry cough the throat be-

the

sore, with constant inclination to szvallow.

Throbbing headache and throbbing

in the carotids; face

flushed with cough.

Arum Loss

of voice

from over use

in

singing or

Voice hoarse and changeable with soreness in

speaking.

larynx, worse after exposure to cold zvinds.

Causticum
rawness

Hoarseness and

in throat.

loss of voice.

Cough, with

slight

Scraping

mucus very

diffi-

cult to expectorate.

Hepar Sulphur

Some zvheedng and

rattling in larynx

with cough, somewhat croupy, zvorse from least cold

Sharp pain

in throat or

larynx

like a fish bone.

air.

Later

stage of disease, with inclination to perspire zvith every

coughing

fumes

Sense of suffocation or as of dust or

spell.

in larynx.

Kali Bichrom
expectoration,

if

Croupy
any,

is

cough worse ^ A. M. The


Voice hoarse

stringy and tough.

with some rattling of mucus.

Lachesis
slightest

Always

worse after sleep and from the

touch about the neck, cannot tolerate any cloth-

ing about neck, cough dry and face almost

Nux Vom The

livid.

mental and physical conditions are

Bad effects
Overworked or debauched.
from tobacco smoking and intemperance. Cough dry and
important.

spasmodic.

Worse

Phosphorus

after any mental effort.

Much hoarseness,

zvith

dry cough which

CROUP
is

much worse from

or from cold

use of voice in speaking or laughing,

air.

Rumex Much

coughing with tickling and

Worse on

larynx.

115

lyifig

down

irritation in

or from inhalation of cold

air.

Spongia

from

ing

Dry, harking, croupy cough.

sleep, ivith sense of

suffocation and dyspnea.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

and

aose

The
as

to

Sudden

start-

stoppage in larynx with

attack

decidedly croupy.

selection

diet,

see

repetition,

is

of

General

remedy,

the

Index

under

CROUP.
Croup, although

it

frequently attacks some children

through predisposition, seldom

if

ever occurs without

previous exposure to cold; either indoors, perhaps while


the child sleeps, or by sudden out door exposure to cold,

damp atmosphere.
Generally

without

symptoms,

previous

the

child

awakens with a peculiar dry, ''harking," choking cough


which if once heard will never be mistaken for any other

Marked dyspnea accompanies

cough.

in severe cases,

is

the cough, which

nearly constant.

Such may be considered

as simple, uncomplicated cases

of croup, which usually yields promptly to proper treat-

ment, the mortality being very small.

far

out of or
tion of

more dangerous form


is

is

that

which developes

complicated with diphtheria, with the forma-

memhrane

in the larynx.

This presents an alarm-

ing condition requiring the most

prompt and

efficient

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

116

treatment to prevent a rapid and fatal termination.

symptoms,

ing to the similarity of the

croupy cough,

Owthe

not always possible even for the ex-

is

it

especially

perienced physician, to determine the exact nature of the

Therefore no layman should attempt to man-

disease.

age a case of croup that


to remedies.

cian arrives,

There

when

Again

he given.

to yield very

fails

an interval of time before a physi-

is

remedy may and should

the indicated

where there

throat, and a physician

remedies given early

promptly

is

is

an absence of any sore

not easily obtainable, the proper

may

be used for a few hours with

reasonable hope of success.

Should the cough and

diffi-

cult breathing continue into the forenoon, there should

be no further delay in seeking medical


In

mild,

the

spasmodic,

croup, the recovery

is

aid.

non-membranous

form of

prompt, although the child should

be kept for some days indoors and in a zvarm room both

day and night.


In the

more malignant, membranous, diphtheritic form,


is more prolonged
the features of this disbe more fully treated under diphtheria.

the recovery

ease will

IVIEDICAIi

A very

TREATMENT.

few homeopathic remedies which have been used

for a century, have been sufficient to cure promptly near-

The symptoms are few and


few remedies named seem to cover

ly all cases of simple croup.

well defined, and the

wonderfully well the great majority of cases.

Aconite

The

Often

child has been

the

first

exposed

and only remedy required.


to cold

or has taken cold at

LOSS OF VOICE

Wakens suddenly with

night.

117

dry, barking cough,

by sudden attack

cult breathing, very restless, frightened

and fears death

imminent, very nervous and mentally

is

Feverish, full pulse, skin dry and hot.

excited.

diffi-

Thirst

for cold water.

Belladonna

When

and very nearly

sudden starting from

Hepar Sulphur
cough with

Spongia
less fever,

After Aeon, has

looseness,

phlegm, some dysnea, and a ten-

cough

restlessness
is

which

uncommon

is

similar to Aeon., but

is

in alteration, a

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

is

practice

Aeon.

way

is

to try

and find and

See Materia Medica, the follow-

directions

dose

to give the

method not without much

Kali Bi; Ipec ; Lach; Tar.

much

barking, dry

Hep. Sid.

the reverse of

with some physicians,

but the better and ideal

ing remedies

The

and anxiety.

almost constant, with the absence of any

use the single remedy.

[For

subdued the more

profusely with the coughing. Hep. Sul.

The

and Spongia

its

atid hot.

and complete the cure.

rasping cough

success

Skin very dry

sleep.

rattling of

to perspire

will relieve,

not

dry, face flushed

is

with drowsiness, jumping and

symptoms, and where there remains a croupy

violent

dency

the cough

scarlet,

and

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

Em.

see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

APHONIA.
(Loss of Voice, Hoarseness.)
Loss of the voice may be transient or permanent. From
colds, laryngitis,

and from excessive use of the

voice.

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

118

Permanent hoarseness comes from

lesions in the larynx,

may

be ulcerative, paraly-

involving the vocal cords.


tic

or syphilitic in

It

common form

character, also a

its

is

of

There

hoarseness that precedes or attends tuberculosis.

another form of hoarseness which has been designated

"clergyman' hoarseness" or ''clergyman's sore thoat/' one


that

is

common

In these cases not

to all public speakers.

only the larynx and vocal cords are involved, but the
entire throat

becomes

irritated

and after any prolonged

effort at public speaking, the hoarseness

may

is

prominent.

It

be caused or aggravated by an improper use of the

muscles of the throat, resulting

Nervous and

hoarseness which
pears

when

in overstraining the parts.

hysterical subjects are often worried about

simply functional and often disap-

is

mind

the

is

interested in something else.

MANAGEMENT AND TREATMENT.


By

the public speaker or singer

able asset, too

much

whose voice

is

caution cannot be exercised about

using the voice during an attack of hoarseness.


acute, as

from

cold,

it

will pass

in public

If

away much sooner

vocal cords are allowed to rest for a brief time.

from overstrain

a vahi-

it

if

is

the

In cases

speaking or singing which

in-

much longer rest of


Some cases may be cured

cline to return after every effort, a

the vocal organs

is

by instruction as
speaking.
rest or

necessary.

proper use of the voice

to the

Such cases

medical treatment.

and treated on

its

merits.

much

in public

from
Each case must be managed

will not receive

benefit

If the general condition of the

patient indicates tubercular disease, the larynx should be

carefully

examined by a

specialist.

LOSS OF VOICE

119

Obstruction of the nose from any cause, will change

and embarrass the action of the vocal cords and should

The

be corrected, either by remedies or an operation.

may

remedies outlined under laryngitis and colds

be re-

ferred to here.

Aconite
sult

Acute

of exposure to cold zvind.

Arum

Triph

This

with hoarseness the

Some

re-

fever and thirst.

remedy has been most useful

and hoarseness from public speaking.

in the sore throat

laryngitis,

sense of rawness in the

mouth and

throat extending to

and larynx, with symptoms of coryza.

the nose

Belladonna

In

addition to hoarseness the whole

throat feels dry and sore, with inclination to swallow,

which

is

quite painful.

After cold with throbbing head-

ache.

Also

usefulness in hoarseness of public

speakers and singers.

Dryness, with loss of voice, cough

Causticum
with scanty,

difficult expectortation.

Pain and soreness

streaks through the larynx with every cough.

With

Hepar Sulphur
mucus in

siderable

the hoarseness there

the larynx with cough which

times loose and sometimes croupy.

on the

slightest

exposure

to

cold

towards morning and after croup

is

con-

is

some-

Dyspnea and

coug'h

air,

generally worse

with

free perspira-

tion.

Phosphorus

Perhaps

often as Phos.

The

no one remedy

voice

is

is

given so

husky with sense of dry-

ness in throat and soreness in larynx, worse in morning.

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

120

Dry cough worse on using


or from cold air.
[For
Its

special

preparation,

as

directions

and

dose

the voice, laughing or talking,

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

remedy,

the

of

General

Index

under

'"Directions."]

BRONCHITIS.
While

less

exposed

and

to cold

irritation

and of a more

passive function than the larynx, the bronchial tubes are


subject to

much

same diseases; hence the grouping

the

of remedies under one head.

In cold climates, subject to

great variation from cold to

warm, from dry

bronchitis

is

one of the most prevalent diseases

in mild, equable climates

children,
adults,

is

whereas

Young

far less frequent.

even infants, are quite as often attacked as

and the mortality

less early

it

to moist,
;

treatment

is

is

quite large in those cases, un-

properly administered.

SYIMPTOMATOLOGY.
Generally after some exposure to cold, there occurs a
slight

chill

followed

by moderate

dry

fever,

cough,

breathing somewhat embarrassed, but not so rapid as in

pneumonia.

The same

is

true of the pulse.

Children,

and very ambitious patients are often allowed to go out


and pursue the usual

duties, but in so doing,

very serious complication, often develops.


in bronchitis

tion

is

very favorable.

pneumonia, a

The prognosis

few days of precau-

and the use of the indicated remedy, generally suf-

fices for a cure.

BRONCHITIS

131

MEDICAL TRExlTMENT.
Aconite

In

laryngitis or bronchitis often indicated

in the first stage, but

very seldom

Especially

in the latter.

indicated after checking perspiration by exposure to cold.

There

some

is

Thirst, but

fever, dry, hot skin, with great restlessness.

Cough

no appetite.

breathing short.

dry

is

and frequent,

Should perspiration and quiet follow

soon after giving Aeon, continue the remedy


intervals,

making no change

so long as

at longer

improvement con-

tinues.

Occasionally

Belladonna

where

indicated

the

throat also becomes inflamed, with dryness and constant


inclination to swallow,

constant

Some

cough,

the

which
face

is

With

the dry,

intensely

flushed.

painful.

becomes

dry skin,

fever, with very hot,

and

throbbing

headache.

Bryonia

Frequently

fants and children:

Aeon.

much

Instead of being restless,

ing or being moved, as

ness and cough.


febrile

indicated, especially with in-

Patient

Bry.

it

is

is

less

feverish

than

very averse to mov-

seems to aggravate pains, soreoften called for after the acute,

Aeon, stage of disease and especially

if

there are

sharp pains about the chest.

Chamomilla

May
ance.

Especially for infants or young children.

be complicated with stomach and intestinal distrub-

Child

is

exceedingly irritable and can only be

quieted by being carried about;

cheek very red, the other pale

somewhat

feverish, one

zvorse at night.

Hepar Sulphur For the middle and latter stages,


when cough becomes loose, with rattling of phlegm. Con-

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

]23

paroxysm of cough.

siderable sweat, especially after each

Very

sensitive to cold air.

Ipecac

Very often indicated when the disease follows

measles.

Cough

is

no fever, often nausea with or

loose,

after coughing.

Much

Phosphorus

Cough

hoarseness.

often dry

is

Worse

and constant, aggravated by talking or laughing.

from cold

air,

and

and zveight on the

may

in the

chest.

morning.

More

Sense of tightness

beneficial in adults

who

be suffering from sub-acute attack with debility and

and sense of weakness or ''goneness"


Tartar Emetic
stages, especially

An

when

invaluable
the larnyx

abdomen.

in the

remedy

the latter

in

and bronchi seem

with rattling phlegm not easily expectorated.

filled

Cough has

become very troublesome and exhausting with cold sweat


on the face, threatened suffocation.
lieved

and cured a midtitude of such

Tart.

Em. has

re-

cases.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its


repetition,
preparation,
and
see
General
dose
Index
under
"Directions."]

Pneumonia

is

PNEUMONIA.

a disease that should from the

first

under the most vigilant care and scrutiny.

physical examination of the chest should he

made

No

attempt will be

made

ology of pneumonia.

be

thorough
daily.

to present here in full the path-

Only a few of the more conspicu-

ous features of the disease will be stated, but these should


enable those in charge to waste no time in trifling with

"remedies for a cold," but see that the patient


in

bed and proper remedies used.

is

placed

PNEUMONIA
Pneumonia

is

one

of

123

most,

the

is

too well

known

to

the

months

mortality

It is largely

at least

it

very

sel-

some exposure to cold, or to


breath or sputum of one suffering from the disease.

dom,

Its

need mention here.

disease of winter and spring

most,

not the

if

prevalent disease of our northern climate.

if

ever, occurs without

severe

chill,

after exposure

it

may

and

be prolonged, follows very soon

this is

immediately followed by high

and high temperature, often delirium.


Respiration becomes increasingly rapid and labored, with

fever, rapid pulse

desire to have the head

and chest elevated.

follows, with expectoration of

phlegm and somewhat


Such, in brief,

monia.

is

later,

clear,

Dry cough

frothy,

tenacious

bloody, "rust-colored" sputa.

an outline of a typical case of pneu-

Special cases

may vary

but not sufficiently to

throw serious doubt on the diagnosis.

PNEUMONIA OF INFANTS AND CHILDREN.


In pneumonia of infants and young children the fore-

going stages of the disease are less marked and


ally

it

gener-

runs a more rapid course either to convalescence or a

fatal termination.

In the absence of any acute pain and

with the tendency in most cases to sleep, this disease in


children

is

often unrecognised in the early stages, hence

the importance of an early examination


nosis can be

made only by

tion of the chest.

a correct diag-

a thorough physical examina-

It is well to

know

that

pneumonia

is

not only caused by exposure and cold but that in recent


years

it

has been classed

among

the contagious diseases;

not as virulent as smallpox or scarlet fever, nevertheless


there

is

abundant evidence

to

may
medium

prove that pneumonia

be transmitted from one to another through the

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

124

of the breath and sputum which contain the pneumococ-

endowed with

cus a minute micro-organism


rapidity of self-multipHcation

which

power and

unbelievable, ex-

is

Fortu-

cept to the bacteriologist behind the microscope.


nately, with reasonable caution there need be

danger of infection

By burning

in

little

or no

caring for a case of pneumonia.

the clothes on zvhich

sputum

is collected,

and

by keeping out of range during paroxysms of coughing

when fragments

of phlegm often

fly

from the mouth, by

avoiding kissing the sick or drinking from the same cup,


these and minor precautions will reduce

minimum.

well ventilated

room

is

all

risk to the

another source of

safety to attendants as well as of benefit to the patient.

personal

word

in reference to the

monia may be excusable

treatment of pneu-

After an observation ex-

here.

tending over forty years, including hospital and general


practice,

With

one should be able


justification

this

to

speak with some authority.

can affirm positively the vast

superiority of homeopathic treatment of pneumonia.

It

has been demonstrated by thousands of physicians and

many thousands

In

of patients.

of uncomplicated pneumonia,

fact,

if

nearly every case

placed

under

homeopathic treatment from the beginning,

strictly

will recover.

]MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

Very

early in attack,

perhaps before the

physician can reach the patient, Aconite

break the violence of the disease.


following indications
thirst, full,

ness,

call for

may do much

Some, or

all

to

of the

Aco., the burning fever with

rapid pulse, high temperature, great restless-

cough and rapid breathing.

PNEUMONIA

Bryonia

If

Aeon,

fails to

125

give relief within a few

hours and should there follow pleuritic pains after each

The

breath or motion, give Bry.

patient

is

averse to

being moved in the slightest, owing to aggravation of

symptoms, which

Phosphorus
is

is

all

the opposite of Aeon.

Constant

dry cough, or

if

loose, sputa

often bloody, breathing rapid, weight and tightness over

bronchia, circumscribed redness in one or both cheeks.

More

useful in adults, slender, jrall individuals in the

second stages of the disease.


Sul.

In

tory, a

cases where improvement

few doses may be given

is

not satisfac-

to be followed

by the

but

much

indicated remedy.

Tartar Emetic

Useful

in

all

stages

oftener indicated in later stages of pneumonia, with the


excessive secretion of

mucus

in lungs

rattling, zvheezing, expectoration

causing constant

and breathing

difficult,

patient exhausted, face bathed in cold perspiration.

much

larger

list

of the

able, especially for children.


Bell.,

common

remedies

is

See Mat. Med., Part

availIII.

Cham., Ipec, Lyco., Rhus.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedj% its


preparation,
dose
and
repetition,
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

PLEURISY.
Pleurisy often occurs as a complication with pneu-

monia; again,
as in

it

often follows injuries to the chest walls,

fracture of the ribs.

disease by

itself.

Frequently

The causes of such

it

occurs as a

attacks are gener-

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

126

ally similar to those

exposure to cold.

which induce pneumonia, especially

The

constitutional

and profound, but the

less violent

symptoms are much

local pains in the chest

An

or pleura are more severe and characteristic.


of pleurisy

is

often

made known by

attack

acute, lancinating

pains in the side of the chest, rendering breathing very


difficult

The
is

a chill

and some fever accompanying the

mortality in properly treated pleurisy

subject to

somewhat frequent complications,

serus effusion into the pleural cavity.

As

attack.

slight, yet

is

it

especially

this

can only

be determined by a careful physical examination of the


chest,

well to have the patient under careful observa-

it is

In the meantime the indi-

tion until fully convalescent.

cated remedies should be given.

IMEDICAL TREATMENT.

Aconite After a chill from exposure to cold ivind, or


from checking perspiration, patient becomes feverish with
hot, dry skin, thirst
full

and

and great

fast, the respiration

and hacking, with

little

restlessness.

Arnica

is

few doses

and a general mitiga-

more alarming symptoms.

After

blozvs or injuries to the chest,

pains with great soreness in the chest

Bryonia

pulse

often rapid, the cough dry

or no expectoration.

will often cause free perspiration

tion of the

The

Breathing rapid

and

superficial,

of sharp pain which follows a deep breath.


the restlessness of Aeon., there

because of the aggravation of

is

all

sharp

zvalls.

on account
Instead of

a desire not to he

symptoms.

moved

Better from

lying on the painful side, nausea and vertigo on rising up

ASTHMA

Lips and mouth dry, with

or attempting any motion.

some

127

thirst but not so great as that of

Aeon.

Bryonia

often indicated and the rehef often follows after the


dose.

No

one remedy presents such a picture of pleurisy

as Bry., and none has eured so

Rhus Tox

Symptoms

many

quite

cases.

reverse of Bry.

the

with some resemblance to Aeon., Rhus,


ful

when

the pleurisy

is

especially use-

is

caused by getting zvet or by

Patient very restless, with aching in limbs and

sprains.

back.

first

The fever has subsided or may be mingled with

creeping

chills.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remed.v, its


preparation,
dose
and
repetition,
General
see
Index
under
"Directions."]

ASTHMA.
Asthma

is

rather a functional disturbance of the lungs,

than an organic disease.


violence

from a

It

slight

occurs in various degrees of

embarrassment of breathing

the most distressing dyspnea, which renders

to

nearly im-

it

possible for a patient to inhale sufficient air to support


life.

The

characteristic feature of

asthma are

its

sudden-

ness of attack and equally sudden disappearance.


ability to lie

with the head low.

Worse

in

damp

In-

zveather,

south zvinds, and at night.

Owing

to the fact that

it

may

be mistaken for some

organic disease of lungs or heart,


differentiate carefully.

it

is

necessary to

In asthma, the pulse and tempera-

ture generally remain quite normal; whereas in organic

DISEASES OF RESPIRATORY ORGANS

138

disease of heart or lungs, the reverse

there

is

no

chill

and

ery from asthma


at

is

little, if

any

fever.

is

Usually

true.

Permanent recov-

very rare. Paroxysms occur and recur

very indefinite intervals, depending largely upon the

Rarely does the disease (un-

causes above mentioned.

complicated)

result in

well selected,

may

See indication

give

Remedies,

a fatal termination.

some temporary

relief.

Materia Medica, under Arsenicum,

in

Ipecacuanha, Stramonium, Veratrum Album.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
preparation,
repetition,
General
Index
under
dose
and
see
"Directions."]

DISEASES OF THE HEART.


In a work of this character

would be

it

practically

impossible to enter upon the technical details of

all

of

the diseases of the heart and unless presented thus, I

know

of no other

way

to

make

it

of any great value,

either to the trained or untrained minds.

Again medical

treatment, the chief object of this book,

is

supreme importance

The most

eases of other organs of the body.

management
importance

Only a

not of such

in diseases of the heart, as in dis-

especially preventative

judicious

measures are of

first

in afifections of this organ.

brief

summary

more prominent symptoms

of the

of impending or existing heart disease will be considered


here,

and that largely

to direct the attention

more

intelli-

gently to the importance of having a thorough physical

examination made, after which


exercise, physical

all

instructions regarding

and mental excitement,

diet, etc.,

should

DISEASES OF THE HEART


be scrupulously followed, for
there

any disease

is

in

it is

which

139

quite doubtful whether

this

more important.

is

Difference of opinion about the more obscure abnormalities

of the heart

way

a general

is

very common.

well to realize in

It is

that the action of the heart

may

be dis-

turbed by a multitude of causes outside of, and remote

from the organ

itself

often secondarily and from causes

Thus

which the physician can determine and remedy.

many

are unnecessarily burdened with the thought of

being

some

from

sufferers

incurable

heart

Simply a disturbance of the heart action


full proof of any organic disease.

may have primary

Again,

it

disease.

far

is

from

true

is

we

symptoms not unlike


However, in primary lesion or organic disease of the heart the symptoms
are much more persistent. For instance, a persistant and
heart lesion with

those from sympathetic disturbances.

increasing difftculty of breathing on any rapid exertion,


especially ascending a

may

disease

follow

hill

the head elevated, or there


the ankles.
is

Such

an attack of rheumatism.

patients are often obliged to

toms

Organic

or flight of stairs.

lie

may

on the right side with


be some swelling about

combination of some or

all

of these symp-

too significant to be safely overlooked.

Persons suffering from organic or even functional disturbance of the heart should avoid extremes of

all

kinds,

especially in eating, over-exertion or excitement of mind.

Frequent
climbing

fatalities
stairs,

citement have

moderation

swimming,
claimed

in all things

minimum amount
10

occur from such causes as in running,


etc.

many

Sudden
victims.

fright

Safety

serene state of

of vexation and worry.

and exlies

mind and

in

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

130

For indications for some of the remedies that might


be useful in an emergency, see Part III. under head of
Aeon., Apis., Ars., Bry., Cactus.,

Rhus and

Verat.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, it3


under
Index
General
see
repetition,
and
dose
preparation,
"Directions."]

DISEASES OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM.


Some

of the affections or abnormaHties of these parts

are symptomatic only, while others have a local origin.

The following

familiar facts

may

aid in diagnosis

and

prescribing.

LIPS.
Bluish

often noticeable in faulty circulation,

lips are

heart disease, asthma, etc.

Dry, parched

lips zvith dark,

blackish crusts covering the teeth as well, are often a fore-

runner of typhoid fever, or fever of low type.

Fever

blisters

on the

lips are

often present in pneu-

monia, severe colds and intermittent fever.


Persistent sore on lower

lip,

may be a form of cancer,


those who smoke tobacco.

to heal,

of

spreading and refusing


particularly in the case

MOUTH.
Mouth hygiene

plays an important part in preventing

various infectious diseases as well as the maintenance of


bodily health.

The

establish these facts

dental profession has done

much

which are no longer matters of

to

dis-

GUMS
pute.

The following

131

facts are important as concerning

children especially.

The mouth
closed, except

in

normal condition should generally remain

when

mouth, especially

at

night,

stoppage in the nose, and

is

by enlargement of the

tonsils,

due

generally

when

to

some

persistent, resulting in

"mouth breathing," should be remedied.


deformity

The open

eating or using the voice.

It

may

be caused

adenoid growths, or some

in the nasal passages.

spasmodically closed

mouth may be due to general spasms or to "lock-jaw,"


(tetanus) a form of spasm generally caused by some
injury about the feet or hands.

GUMS.

The gums, although

capable of

resisting

nearly

all

forms of harsh treatment, are seldom found without some


defect or abrasion, which doubtless

trance for
eases.

is

the point of en-

of the contagious and infectious dis-

In the case of children with teeth often decayed

below the
a

many

line of the

raw or bleeding

gum

attachment, there

surface.

is

The same may

the adult, and in addition thereto

is

necessarily

be true with

the almost universal

tendency to the accumulation of tartar on the surface


of the teeth, to which the normal

gum

refuses to unite,

hence another raw and bleeding surface,

itself

proving

a foul, suppurating sore, a culture bed for every

form of

which should be remedied.

bacterial life,

The appearance

of the

gums may be

greatly changed by

the use of drugs or the presence of disease.

of

Mercury

will cause to

and bleeding.

gums

to

become

Large doses
soft,

spongy

This, with profuse secretion of saliva,

is

DISEASES OF DIOESTIVE SYSTEM

132

called "Salivation,"

and was

due

Ulcerations about the

to.

generally from the same cause,


the

teeth

rule, are

on the teeth as above

to disease, or accumulations

referred

of

one time considered both

at

Bleeding gums, as a

legitimate and necessary.

so that

become abnormal, a

gums
when

are likewise
the condition

sequences

of

train

follows.

An

abscess or so-called

"gum

boil,"

to disease of the root of the tooth.

generally due

is

This

may

spontaneously, or

may remain

until the tooth

either treated or extracted.

is

heal up

an open sore or sinus,

DENTITION.
There are

really

two periods of Dentition.

One

ex-

month into the second


commonly called "milk teeth"

tends normally from the seventh

which time the

year, during

appear.

During the sixth year they begin

to disappear,

and the second period of dentition begins, continuing

from

eight to ten years.

During

nent teeth" take their places,


teeth" which

may

this period the

excepting the

"perma-

"wisdom

be deferred ten or twenty years longer.

Normally, the two central incisors should make their


appearance between the sixth and eighth months, and the

two upper

incisors a

lateral incisors

month or two

later.

The upper,

come next and by the end of a year, the


A month or two later, the lower

upper, anterior molars.


incisors

and soon

after, the

lower molars.

or "eye teeth" do not appear with

of "milk teeth."

canine,

month and by the end of


lower molars, making a complete set

usually by the i6th to the i8th


the second year, the

much

The

uniformity, but

THE TONGUE

133

THE TONGUE.
The varying appearance of the tongue in sickness will
often, when rightly interpreted, aid in diagnosis and in
the selection of the remedy. The following clinical facts
have long been established by practical observation. At
the outset it may be well to bear in mind that the tongue
is

seldom seen without some

the back portion.

This

is

slight coating, especially

on

particularly true in the case of

those suffering from loss of sleep, slight indigestion, or


habitual tobacco-smoking.

dry tongue and mouth at

night only, indicates obstruction in the nose which

be from enlarged tonsils or adenoids.

gradually changes to moist, especially


febrile

tongue

disease,
is

is

most favorable

after

ing

and

The same
is

When yellowWhen coat-

lips,

brown and dry with


typhoid or low fever

also in septic conditions.

similar coating

may

on

be threatening.

In quinsy, the tongue

heavily coated and difficult to protrude

lesser

some-

indicates, gastro-hepatic catarrh.

dark, or

is

teeth

it

The

Often coated

like.

or furred in constipation and indigestion.


ish-white

an acute

indication.

red in scarlet fever and acute gastritis

times whitish and red or "strawberry"

may

dry tongue that

often in a

degree the same in diphtheria and severe sore

The tongue that is dry, protruded tremblingly


and with much difficulty, may indicate disease of the
throat.

brain, or

some low form of

tongue

protruded to one

is

fever, typhoid, etc.

side,

it

may

thick white coating often indicates

indigestion and, in children,

worms.

If the

indicate paralysis.

some form of

If the

dry tongue

gradually becomes moist, or the coated tongue clears


slowly beginning at the tip and edges leaving the natural

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

134:

appearance

which of course has been


continued dry and coated,
ally increased, as

The

a recovery has begun.

visible,

restricted

may

diet,

while the tongue

as a general rule be gradu-

with this change the appetite will prob-

ably increase.

Where

the appearance of the tongue

may

following hints

Medica, Part

is

marked, the

point to some remedy in the Materia

which upon careful reading may be

III.

found well indicated by many other symptoms.

The "strawberry tongue" white


Arum., Hyos.; red

tip,

dotted

red,

Bell.,

Rhus.; red, shining, protruded

trembling, Lack.; red tip and edges. Bap. and Sul.; bluish

tongue, Ars., Dig.; white, thick coated, Anti. C, Bry.,


Cina.; dark or

swollen and

brown

much

gastric disorders,

bad

taste in

coating, Bap., Bry.; tongue soft,

saliva,

Merc, Hep.; clean tongue with


Nux.; thick coating and

Cina, Ipec.,

morning, Puis.

The foregoing "observations" on


given as an aid

to

the tongue are simply

diagnosis and treatment.

THRUSH.
This
life.

is

an affection confined to the

It is

first

weeks of infant

nut preceded or accompanied by any marked

constitutional disturbance.

be slightly inflamed,

The mouth and tongue may

followed by isolated patches

of

whitish points which spread and coalesce until in some


cases the surfaces are nearly covered with a milky white
coating.

forms.

In some instances
In

all

it

mav

last

it

disappears and a

from one

to

new crop

two weeks.

In

CAXCRUM ORIS
the

more severe

and diarrhea.

may

cases there

135

be some fever, vomiting

Seldom dangerous except

in the case of

feeble infants.

The remedy must

be chosen according to existing symp-

Hepar

Aeon., Cham., Merc,

toms.

SiiL,

and Sid. may be

called for.

CANCRUM
(Canker
Canker of the mouth
constitutional

of the
is

Mouth.)

some

generally due either to

some

or

defect,

ORIS.

organic

derangement,

especially such as affects the digestive tract.

However,

some

seem pre-

individuals apparently in perfect health

disposed to frequent visitations of this annoying trouble.

The

so-called "canker"

marily; after which

it

is

essentially a tiny

ulcer,

spreads and deepens, giving

appearance of an "open sore."

It

it

pri-

the

matters not whether

it

begins on the gums, tongue, or cheeks, the progress and

treatment are the same.

Xo

age

is

exempt.

as prevalent with children as adults.

The

It is quite

affected parts

are quite painful, attended with an increased flow of


saliva,

as a

and offensive breath.

whole should

first

The

condition of the patient

receive attention, thus looking

towards prevention.
N^iix

may

Vom., Hepar Sul. and Merc, also Hydrastis, which

be used internally and locally, by directly touching

the canker with a drop of the tincture.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
preparation,
repetition,
dose
and
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

136

NAUSEA AND VOMITING.


Vomiting, although a symptom,

word here. The stomach


an organ, can bear witness to more abuse than any-

occurrence that
as

of such frequent

is

other.

It is

it

deserves a

assumed

ready at

to be

night, to receive all sorts of

hours of the day or

all

improper food and drink,

in quantities that are appalling.

It is

the receptacle for

the most nauseating drugs administered solely for the


benefit

and cure of other organs of the body.

The stomach

is

supposed to receive and dispose of

contents after a physiological ideal,

all

any knowledge or discomfort of the possessor.


as a negative function of the stomach

is

how

Vomiting

often an

gent protest against outrageous treatment.


object lesson of nature of

It is

intelli-

often an

she cares for herself by

promptly rejecting or ejecting poison, tainted or


gestible food,

all

of this without

and a multitude of things harmful

indi-

to the

whole system.
In diseases of the stomach, such as cancer, ulcer, acute
indigestion, nausea

and vomiting may become persistent

and the predominant symptoms, even when the stomach


is

quite empty.

Also

reflex nausea

and vomiting occurs

and kidney

in the

diseases, also

associate
ditions.

it

pregnancy, brain

To

itself,

causes, such

rightly interpret nausea

it

becomes necessary

to

with other concomitant symptoms and con-

may mean little or nothing, and again it may


way to a correct diagnosis. It is somehint to cease feeding too much or too often especiIt

help to point the

times a

in

from mechanical

as obstruction of the bowels.

and vomiting or nausea

beginning of acute diseases.

NAUSEA AND VOMITING


ally

137

However much
much to admire in

during or after any acute disease.

there

is

to

condemn

there certainly

is

the methods and action of the stomach both in

heaUh and

disease.

CLINICAL NOTE.
Without a knowledge of the cause back of nausea and
vomiting together with concomitant symptoms disappoint-

ment would be

liable to follow a prescription.

ing on a single

symptom

seldom

is

if

Prescrib-

ever necessary.

Very many drugs produce nausea and vomiting but like


most disease there are accompanying symptoms which
make the selection of the right remedy well nigh a
certainty.

See Aeon., Ars., Ipec, Podo. and Verot.


[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
repetition,
preparation,
dose
and
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

DYSPEPSIA.
Although most medical writers on diagnosis have
to give
it

"Dyspepsia" a special place in the

seems quite necessary to do so

whose aim
for

is

purposes

especially of the

more chronic

forms of chronic

gastritis,

causes,

of

may

failed

of diseases,

in a treatise like this,

to be practical, rather than technical.

practical

all

list

treatment,

Again,

indigestion,

type, as well as the milder

be grouped together.

symptoms and pathology are very

The

similar, often

identical.

Briefly,

we may

assert the causes of the above ailments

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

138
to be

one or several of the following combined too much,


;

or unsuitable food

haste in eating and

imperfect mastication

much

too

exercise; excessive mental

twin destroyer,

its

or

fatigue

too

work or emotional

little

disturb-

ances; the improper use of drugs, coffee, and alcoholic

The continued operation of one or more of

beverages.

these causes results

in,

of the stomach which,


dies,

may

again,

if

result in

if

first,

a functional derangement

not removed by diet and reme-

an organic and chronic disease

or,

not remedied, the intestinal tract becomes in-

volved with a legion of minor disturbances.

The

liver

seldom escapes torpor and derangement when dyspepsia


has been present for any length of time.

SY3IPTOMATOLOGY.
The

individual in perfect health should not be con-

scious of the normal process of digestion or of having a

stomach.

The

patient with dyspepsia feels very sure of

generally on account of acute pain

"bad feelings" which vary according

powers of different people.


ness, fullness, burning
ally

worse from one

The bowels

to the descriptive

Sensations of iveight, heavi-

to three hours after meals.

Gas

are foul and clammy, with a


is

belched from the stomach.

are usually costive,

character or undigested.

with stool defective in

Gas accumulates

and bowels, often resulting

in distention,

in the

and suspicion of "heart disease."

plexion

dull

and sallow.

stomach

with consequent

palpitation
is

not

and weakness, are common, gener-

The mouth and tongue


sour, or bitter taste.

it,

but because of sundry

The mental

The com-

condition

is

"

DYSPEPSIA

139

touched, from a mild case of "the blues," to a full-fledged

hypochondria.

With

marked mental

the

headache and vertigo.

disturbance, there

is

often

Fortunately, these conditions can

be removed, provided the patient, knowing the cause,


will avoid the

same and co-operate with the one who

is

selecting the indicated remedies.

CAUSE AND PREVENTION.


In noting the

more frequent causes of dyspepsia,

plain to be seen that

some are avoidable, and

it

is

that others

can be corrected by the patient; for instance, the neglect


in

which

the proper mastication of food,

most common cause of

indigestion.

causes, not mentioned, but they

is

easily the

There are minor

must be sought out before

a perfect cure can be accomplished.

Questions of the

quantity and quality of food cannot be elaborated here.

However,
and

As

must be

it

at late

said that over-eating

hours of night,

to quality of food,

applicable to

all

cases.

it

is

fatigued,

opposed to good digestion.

must be

As

when

said there

a general rule

it

is

no rule

is

well to

foods which produce either pain, discomfort or

avoid

all

much

belching of gas.

This

is

the

more important from

the well-observed fact that dyspeptics are prone to indulge


in unsuitable

food, and unwilHng to discontinue habits

which have made them dyspeptics.

Reasonable fasting,

or two light meals a day, preceded by drinking a free

allowance of

warm

water, will contribute towards a cure.

Homeopathic remedies, properly

selected

act v/ithout interference, will cure cases

and allowed

to

which have not

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

140

passed from the functional stage to some serious organic


disease.

MEDICAL TREATMENT,

Pain

Arsenicum

and

burning

Nausea and vomiting soon after


least

eating^ or drinking the

De-

Loss of strength and weight.

cold water.

from

rangement

stomach.

the

in

ice-cream,

eating

meat

tainted

or

The thirst and prostration with burning


stomach are marked indications for Arsenicum.

alcoholic drink.
in the

Bryonia

After

a time.

little at

eating solid food

Stomach very

Tongue coated

from motion.

Calcarea Carb

Craving

it

is

belched up a

sensitive to touchy

yelloiuish white.

for

chalk, coal,

indigestible things, especially with children.

over the

pit

of the stomach.

tion about the

ness to cold

head and face


air.

Carbo Vegetabilis

Low

Worse from

Chamomilla
distention

of

Distention

Perspira-

with great sensitive-

feet

and hands.

who have been

vitality,

ill

and

face pale, blue, hag-

Eructations of gas and food which

after dissipation.

and

with constant

in the vertex.

at night,

Persons

not fully recovered.

rancid.

spirits

salt,

Persons "fat and flabby" inclined to

poor circulation, with cold

gard.

Low

Pressure

fear of losing reason.

worse

sour and

is

tainted meats or too rich food;

Distention of stomach and abdomen.

Useful

in

young

children.

Pain and

stomach and abdomen, with the mental

symptoms of great
endure the pain.

irritability

and impatience.

Cannot

DYSPEPSIA
Ignatia

Useful

in a

form

of

141

"Nervous dyspepsia"

often caused by grief and disappointment.

sense of

weakness or "all-goneness" over the region of

great

stomach, with constant inclination to take a deep breath.


Patient

is

Ipecac

often changeable, tearful and

The

turbance

frequent nausea with every slight disfor Ipecac,

a call

is

The tongue

confectionary, etc.

Lycopodium

silent.

Much

after sweets,

especially

clean, saliva increased.

with

flatulency

sense

of

amount of food, constant


stomach and bowels; chronic

fullness after eating a small

sense of fermentation in the

derangement of stomach and

liver,

with red sand in the

urine.

Nux Vomica In

cases that have been dosed with

crude drugs, patent medicines and cathartics,

Nux

should

be given to begin the treatment, unless some other treat-

ment

very clearly indicated.

is

Nux

where alcoholic drink or strong

The mental symptoms

digestion.

duplicate those of
unfitted for
night,

with

Nux.

any duty.
all

the

is

Irritable,

in

such cases often

morose and mentally

Drozvsy by day and ivakeftd

symptoms worse

Headache, vertigo and nervousness,


mental

effort.

meals.

Constipation or Diarrhea.

all

Discomfort and pain

Useful

often the remedy

coffee has impaired the

the

in

at

morning.

aggravated by any
in

stomach, after

cases caused by, or

made worse

by eating fat food, especially pork or pastry.

Regurgita-

Pulsatilla

food and gas.

tion of

Tongue

in

Usually no thirst or appetite.

mouth

in the

Patient craves open air instead of the

warm

coated, with extremely bad taste in

morning.

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

342

room, yet inclined to be

towards evenings.

Most symptoms worse

chilly.

Puis, seems to do best for persons of

a mild, yielding disposition, inclined to be gloomy and


fearful.
[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, Its
General
Index
under
repetition,
see
preparation,
and
dose
"Directions."]

ACUTE GASTRITIS.
CAUSES.
This

is

an acute inflammation of the mucus membrane

of the stomach.

The causes of acute

gastritis are

mainly

those associated with errors in diet, irritating or tainted


food, alcoholic drinks, unripe fruit, too free use of ice-

water,

etc.

SYMPT03IAT0L0GY.
The

severity of the

cause of the attack.

symptoms often depends upon

from use of alcohol are the most


resulting

the

Those from eating tainted meat or


violent

whereas those

from over-eating and the milder

causes,

are

often slower in appearance and milder in character.

Usually within a few hours, or at most a day or two,


after the causative agent has been in operation, there
didl pain

and sense of pressure

by nausea and vomiting.

in the

The substance

ejected

the stomach will often explain the cause of such


It

may

is

stomach, followed

an

from

attack.

be undigested food which has remained for

many

hours in the stomach, together with sour, offensive mucus.

This gives temporary and partial


chill

relief

from

pain.

often precedes or follows the vomiting, which

A
is

ACUTE GASTRITIS
followed by fever and great

143

There

thirst.

coated, with increase of saliva

made

Careful inquiry should be


attack, for this

will

may

as to the cause of the

enter into the selection of the right

Again, the duration and severity of the attack

depend upon the nature of the cause.

where vomiting ensues

more

is

fails to

like acute indigestion.

fully developed cases

severe,

In mild cases,

once the case often

at

develop inflammation, and

The

and

There may be diarrhea, or constipation.

foul breath.

remedy.

consider-

and perspiration.

able prostration, with pale, cold face

The tongue becomes

is

may

continue for

several weeks.

TREATMENT.
If there

is

a history of recent indiscretion in eating,

with distress and nausea,

it

is

well to imitate nature by

using such means as will best get rid of the stomach's


contents.

simple and harmless

way

is

to administer

a large quantity of tepid water after which, press the


finger well

down

in the throat.

followed by vomiting.

It

offending substance makes

This will generally be

need not be repeated,


its

appearance.

If

it

if

the

does not,

and the pain continues, the process may be repeated once


more, using as

much water

as can be swallowed.

Nature's method of rejecting the offending cause

is

followed by another indication to be regarded as of

The desire for food is taken azvay,


and experience has taught that for a period of 24. to 48
hours, little or no food shotdd be taken into the stomach.
The digestive process should have absolute rest. After

greatest importance.

144

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

this, light

broths and gruels

small quantities,

when

may

be given, and water in

The early administration


much towards the relief of

desired.

of the right remedy will do

pain and checking the course of the disease.

MEDIOAIi TREATMENT.
Aconite
thirst,

If,

following

chill

and

fever, there

is

great

nausea and vomiting; the skin hot and dry, the

pulse full and fast.

When the nausea and vomiting are

Arsenicum
stomach with

ice

cream,

ice

water, tainted meats

Nausea and vomiting

or rancid food.
restless,

in

thirst for water, but takes only a swalloiv.

After alcoholic drinks,

very

fol-

Burning

lowed by great prostration and diarrhea.

cannot remain quiet

after taking water,

patient thinks death

is

near, with great fear of being left alone.

Carbo Vegetabilis
and

gas.

Burning

in

Belching

of sour, rancid food


stomach with bloating of the abdo-

men, craves acids and aversion

Bryonia

Very

sensitive to

to

meat.

any pressure about the

stomach or abdomen, cannot move or be moved without


pain, sitting

up causes fainting or nausea.

Attack caused

by drinking

ice

water after being heated,

in hot weather.

Ipecac
colic

After

eating sweets, and unripe

fruit,

with

pain and nausea, severe clawing pain about the

stomach with vomiting.

Nux Vomica Attacks

following dissipation, over

eating and heavy drinking.

Severe pain extending from

the stomach to the back.

Patient extremely irritable and

CANCER OF STOMACH
sensitive to all impressions

145

and opposition. (See Anti,

c.

Cham. Colyc.)
Pulsatilla

After

errors in diet, especially fat, rich

Tongue coated and bad

food.

inclined to chilliness,
able, craves the

taste in

and vertigo.

open

mouth, no

thirst,

Heat of room unbear-

air.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its


preparation,
dose
and
repetition,
see
General
Index
under
"Directions."]

CANCER OF THE STOMACH.


This disease seldom occurs before the age of forty.
its

It

duration

much depends upon

seldom proves

fatal within

one year, but nearly always

so before the end of the second.

may

In

the vitality of the patient.

The

early

be easily mistaken for indigestion.

As

symptoms
the disease

progresses, pain, generally of a burning, stinging character follows, also

nausea and vomiting of food and mucus.

In the later stages the dark "Coffee-Grounds," composed


of blood and

mucus

are vomited.

The

face becomes

pale, sallozv and cachectic with increasing zveakness and

emaciation, and the patient succumbs to a process of


sloiv starvation,

digest

any food.

owing
It is

to the inability of the

later stage of the disease to discover a firm,,


in the region of the

or

stomach to

generally possible, in the middle or

stomach.

round tumor

In cancer of the intestines

the general appearance of the patient

liver,

is much the same as cancer of the


symptoms vary according to the organ

course of the disease

stomach.

The

involved.

11

local

and the

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

146

DIET AND TREATMENT.

When

the question of the diagnosis

is

well decided, the

Very

case becomes one for palliation or for the surgeon.

have demonstrated by practical results

recently, surgeons

that

if

taken in time,

many

cases of cancer of the stomach

This

can be saved by an operation.

we
less

consider that formerly

and

all

is

a clear gain

when

cases were practically hope-

In considering the comfort of the patient

fatal.

the question of

diet

important.

is

pre-digested food, mainly

in liquid

Easily digested or

form, should be the

Experience will soon teach that there can be no

rule.

Some may

rule for all cases.

beef tea,

etc.,

The

cornstarch and gruels.

ment

digest or tolerate milk,

while others will do better on arrowroot,

as causes the least pain

rule

is

to give such nourish-

and vomiting.

pathic remedies which have given most relief

The homeofrom

ing are Arsen., Bry., Ipec, Lycop., Phos. and

Mat. Med., Part

II.

suffer-

Nux.

See

for guiding symptoms.

[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its


preparation,
and repetition.
General
dose
see
Index
under
"Directions."]

ULCER OF THE STOMACH.


This disease

is

apt to occur before middle

life, in this

Hot food, szveet or salty,


bloody mucus in small quanti-

respect the opposite of cancer.

causes pain.
ties

may

Vomiting of

be rather frequent, which differentiates

chronic gastritis.

There

as in cancer, neither

is

is

it

from

emaciation but not so rapid

the appearance so aenemic.

In

the beginning these cases should be considered medical.

Some

will

respond to remedies, provided the "rest cure"

is

COLIC
adopted, that

is,

147

three weeks in bed and

nourishment

all

by nutrient enema.
If medical treatment
to give

good

and conservative measures

results, the case

Delay

of a surgeon.

fail

should be placed in the hands

in this particular

may

result in sud-

den perforation, hemorr'hage and death.


See remedies for dyspepsia and cancer of the stomach.
[For special directions as to diet, selection of the remedy, its
preparation,
General
Index
under
dose
and
repetition,
see
"Directions."]

COLIC.
CAUSE AND VARIETIES.
The

no

different varieties of so-called colic constitute

small part of the average medical practice and by no

means the most

desirable.

most inopportune time,


hour and

is

The

call

at night, or

often comes at the

during a busy

of the "hurry up" kind.

office

Generally one

is

confronted, not with a disease but rather a condition

where nature

is

struggling to overcome

some mechanical

interference with her normal operations.

It

may

be a

stomach distended with indigestible food and gas which

must be ejected

to get relief

from the

pains.

The

ac-

cumulation and fixation of gas in the intestines gives


rise to a

form of suffering

mechanical

called flatulent colic, often

in its origin, as in obstruction.

of a gall stone in the bile duct

may

The presence

prevent the normal

flow of bile and obstruction results, thus giving rise to


gall stone

or "bilious colic."

The same

is

essentially the case

when a

"gravel" or

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

148

foreign body

passing from the kidney to the bladder,

is

resulting in an obstruction in the ureter, giving rise to the

term renal

Many

colic.

cases of uterine colic are doubt-

These several

due to some phase of obstruction.

less

forms of

will

colic

Brief description

is

be treated more

made here

fully

elsewhere.

for the purpose of giving

a better understanding of the term colic, so often and


so vaguely used.
is

In the presence of intense suffering

sometimes confessedly

variety of colic

is

often so great and so

many

reflex

to all kinds of colic, together

that the seat of nearly


cavity, that

all

to

difficult

being dealt with.

it

what

determine

The agony of pain is


symptoms are common

with the anatomical fact

attacks

is

an off-hand diagnosis

within the abdominal


is

perplexingly

diffi-

and can only be made certain by associating with the

cult
colic

pains,

those unique

and characteristic

symptoms which are present

in different

kinds of

colic.

(See Index.)

The following remedies should be selected according


symptoms of each case. The remedies are named

to the
in the

order of importance.

Nux Vom., Puis., Ipec,


Nux Vom., Colo., Puis.;
Gail-Stone Colic, Bell., China., Nux Vom., Bry.; Renal
Colic, Lyco.; Infantile Colic, Cham., Nux Vom., Colo.
For Colic from

indigestion,

Colo.; Flatulent Colic, Lyco.,

[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

CONSTIPATION

149

CONSTIPATION.
HISTORY, CAUSE AND PREA ENTION.
Delay or infrequency

in the

evacuation of the bowels,

with a tendency to abnormal scantiness, dryness and hardness of stool are the conditions which characterize and

Such conditions

are comprised in the term constipation.

may

exist with or without

other words, they

time

may

cause

any pre-existing

disease.

In

may be the result of disease or in due


However this may be, there is no

it.

more frequent source of


that the physician

is

called

bodily discomfort, and none

upon

vast variety of causes need

so often to cure.

The

only be mentioned here.

Heredity, faulty and negligent habits, sedentary habits,


faulty

and abuse of

diet

digestion,

improper use of

coffee and cathartics, disease or abnormalities especially

about the sphincter

ani, all,

with other minor causes, con-

tribute to the procession that

is

moving

to

and from the

physician's office, seeking aid not only for constipation

but for the

many

fect elimination

evil effects

growing out of

by way of the bowels.

It

this

imper-

must be ob-

vious that no treatment can be successful that does not


take into consideration the patient as a whole, which

must include
as

it is,

and

in

in

Medication, important

history, habits, etc.

many

cases plays but a minor part in the cure,

some instances may be omitted

altogether.

The

indiscriminate use of cathartics in chronic constipation

has done a vast amount of harm, resulting in the necessity of

taking larger doses and creating a sort of drug

habit in the end.

use of a cathartic
reasons

why one

This has no reference to the proper


in

acute cases

when

there are special

should be administered.

By

referring

DISEASES OF DiaESTIVE SYSTEM

150

under the head of "Cathartics" and "Enema"

to the index

lence,

is

to

when and how they

Retarded action of the bowels

should be used.
cases

found as

will be

an explanation

in

most

apt to be followed by headache, dizziness, flatu-

abdominal discomfort and mental sluggishness,

with

many

ture

represents

other minor symptoms.


mild,

Doubtless this pic-

though typical case of auto-

'I

intoxication.

The whole

truth compels the statement that not a

people go throug'h

life

from

few

childhood to old age, suffer-

from a mild form of constipation.


Such constitute a small minority. After acute diseases of
the bowels, such as diarrhea and dysentery, the bowels

ing

little

or no

may remain

ill

effects

inactive for several days with no

effects

ill

and no occasion for interference. After sea-sickness the


same is true. It is not an unusual thing for people at
sea to pass
tion for a

an entire week or more without inclina-

movement.

of constipation

is

Doubtless the most frequent cause

the neglect of timely attendance

upon

the calls of nature until at last the call

grows feebler and

make

Gradually and un-

finally ceases to

itself

known.

consciously that subconsciousness of our being

a blow which

may

be the

first

step

most orderly way and any violation of her laws


be followed by
is

ill

consequences.

no exception.

who

in the

sure to

function of the
is

seek relief from constipation.

fundamental
Definitely,

should be stated thus.

it

The

is

Perfect regularity of habit

to those

the

dealt

towards an incurable

Nature when not interfered with, works

disease.

bowels

is

Every day,

at

about

same hour, usually after breakfast, the patient should

seek the closet and whether with or without an inclination

CONSTIPATION

151

made

for movement, a sufficient time and effort should be


until, as is generally
It

may

take time, even weeks and months to cultivate


,

the '"call" hnt for


to

many,

importance.

every one

this is the quickest

Observing

recovery.

first

who

with more or

Besides,

less

worry and

prompt

in

is

it

remedy

is

of

available for

comply with nature's demands.

much

habits obliged to be

the open air with freedom


result

and only way

p'hysicians agree that this

willing to

is

For those of sedentary

ally

does the rest.

the case, nature's call

care, a

change

from mental

to exercise in

effort will gener-

and great

relief

indoors,

benefit

to

the

general condition.
It

is

easy to be discovered that in constipation, the

remedy often

with the individual rather than

lies

in a

medicine.

Regular
life

change of

habits,

and exercise,

all

diet,

with medicine, for they are


applied.

Improper

proper food, outdoor

should be considered

diet

may

all

remedial

little

to a

connection

when properly

lead to constipation.

tory of such cases will determine that.

accustomed themselves

in

Some

his-

people have

condensed diet which leaves

waste as meat, milk and eggs, in which case a change


;

should be

made

to

coarse food, fruit and vegetables,

graham, corn bread and oatmeal, also to apples, oranges

and

fruits in season.

Stewed

fruits, prunes,

apples are both remedial and wholesome.

no question as

to the value of

peaches and

There can be

using plenty of pure drink-

ing water, especially in the morning before eating.

some, the use of strong coffee and tea


o'bstacle to the

be discontinued.

cure of constipation.

may prove

For

a serious

Their use should

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

153

CATHARTICS.
The
is

is

habitual use of the "cathartic pill" for constipation

altogether too

common which

the result of improper

in the

majority of cases

indolent habits, in fact

diet,

As

disregard of the fundamentals of good health.

may

it

the final outcome,

results in a fixed habit,

able

if it

Fortunately

failure.

a short

be considered a success, but

cut to "feeling better"

many

is

a lament-

of these cases can be

cured by diligently observing the suggestions under the

head of constipation.

Of

where the timely use of a

course, conditions arise

prompt acting

cathartic

is

very necessary but

this

seldom

leads to any fixed habit.

The use

of

enema seldom

In not a few conditions

and

is

it

is

desired.

to be injected into the bowels,

and allowed

to cool to a little

generally safe to use

habit.

preferable to a cathartic

less objectionable, especially in the case

or where very prompt action


is

any fixed

results in
is

it

of children,

Whenever water

should

be boiled

first

below blood

heat.

It is

that can be comfortably retained.

all

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.

One of the

Bryonia
patient

is

irritable

first

remedies thought

The

of.

often troubled with headache, vertigo on rising,

and despondent, not unlike

dry, hard, like so

useful after

oil,

Chelidonum

many

Stool

of Bry. Often

or in those inclined to be rheumatic.

Torpid

shoulder-blade.

Nux Vom.

balls, characteristic

Stool

high-colored urine.

liver
like

with pain under right

Bry.

Abdomen

distended,

CATHARTICS

153

General condition similar to Cheli.

Gas-

Hydrastistric

disturbance,

Fainting

with weak, gone

some

with

spells

feeling

stomach.

in

After

fever.

purgative

medicines.

Lycopodium

With the constipation there

a tend-

is

ency to fermentation throughout stomach and bowels,


with distention of abdomen and sense of fullness after
Patient

eating a fezv mouthfuls.


irritable

and

often "run down,"

is

Urging and painful contraction of

restless.

sphincter ani, for hours after stool.

Nux Vomica Similar

to Bry.

remedy after much dosing ivith


irritable and disinclined

drowsy,
those

who have

dissipation

stant urging for stool with

soreness about the anus.

who

or alcoholic drink,
sleep after 3 A.

Sulphur A
if

others

cated.

fail,

Often the

little

mental work, or for

to

and

Useful for

worse

who
in

Piles,

morning and cannot

deepi-acting

or

when no

remedy which may be given


other remedy

clearly indi-

is

few "Key-Note' 'symptoms, such as

faint,

M. burning

feet at night, or cold feet with rush of blood

may

and

use strong coffee

M.

feeling every day at ten or eleven A.

the head,

Con-

loss of sleep.

or no result.

Patients

feel

Patient

cathartics, etc.

already done too much.

from

cases resulting

and Hyd.

gone

in the

towards

guide the prescriber in the selection of

Sulphur.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

154

CONSTIPATION OF INFANTS AND YOUNG


CHILDREN.
Although most that has been written in the previous
chapter on constipation

some

is

appHcable here,

still

special features particularly in infants,

for additional information and emphasis.


is

common

of very

seldom results

The use of

in

call

Constipation

occurrence in young infants.

anything serious,

It

usually temporary.

is

the indicated remedy, together with an

and other minor


in a

there are

which

enema

charge of a competent nurse will

aids, in

short time overcome the trouble; after which

tinkering with

all

Normally the

baby should cease.

the

young infant should have from two to four movements


After six months it may decrease to two, and at
daily.
the end of the

enough.
larity,

year, one daily

first

In bottle-fed babies there

owing

chiefly

to

lack

is

may

be considered

generally less regu-

of perfect uniformity of

nourishment.

With older
constipation

children up to and during the school age,

is

prevalent and in some cases a cause of

permanently impaired health.

No

one except the observ-

ing physician has opportunity to learn

consequences.

The

parent, thoughtful

its

prevalence and

enough about the

external appearance of the child, also the care and general


welfare, seldom

knows or seeks

of certain bodily functions.


well and excusable

but

when

to

know

the condition

In most cases this

may

defective or increasingly poor health, such ignorance


inexcusable.

As

fair to say that,

far as the children are concerned

owing

be

the child gives evidence of

to lack of instruction or

it

is
is

any sort

CONSTIPATION OF INFANTS

155

may be considered
common cause of consti-

of appreciation of consequences, they


irresponsible.

By

pation in children

far the most

bad training, or rather none at

is

of regular habits of obeying

in reference to the necessity

the "call of nature."

all,

What

true and important in child

is

said of adults
It

life.

is

equally

requires patience

and perseverance on the part of those responsible for


overcome the ignorance and

the health of the child to

indolence of some children, but the result will pay well


for the effort.

As

a matter of fact,

such haste that their food

many

children eat

not masticated at

all.

This leads to constipation, indigestion and kindred

ills

in

and should be corrected

is

but the question

"Who

is

is

Whenever errors of diet


The free use of "meats
exist, they should be reformed.
and sweets" will often destroy the desire for more proper
for such a task?"

sufficient

food, as well as lead to constipation.

Children will soon

learn to eat the coarser articles of food

them when
tables,

all

they are hungry

the

if

same of

placed before

fruit

and vege-

of which tend to regulate the bowels.

The

abominable practice of creating an appetite for strong


coffee cannot be too strongly

condemned.

The

free use

of water, pure milk, cocoa and the best cereal coffee

is

far

preferable.

TREATMENT.
Again

it

must be

said that a perfect cure

and restoration

must come both through management of the individual


and medical treatment. Through the former many can
be cured, but through the latter unaided but few can be

permanently relieved.

The remedies named

in the

chap-

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

156
ter

on constipation are applicable here and should be

The

selected with the greatest care.

general condition of

the patient, as well as the fact of constipation,

When

reckoned with in sleeting a remedy.


relieved or very

much improved,

must be

the patient is

the medicine can he dis-

continud ivithout fear of relapse, or of the necessity of


continuing on indefinitely as in the case where cathartics
are used.
[For

directions

special

and

dose

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

as

to

diet,

selection
see

repetition,

the

of

General

Index

remedy,

under

OBSTRUCTION OF THE BOWELS.


Few

maladies present greater obscurity of diagnosis

Few

or more uncertainty of treatment.


greater suffering, and none more

character of the suffering

is

are attended with

difficult to relieve.

somewhat

like the

The
cause,

similar to the average case of colic. (See Chap, on Colic.)

Persistent constipation precedes the

toms, although this


the

is

of the

violent

not an invariable rule.

abdomen with vomiting,

stomach and

more

abdomen

follows.

morbid growths.

Pain

in

of the contents of the

first

later the contents of the bowels.

rarely present,

symp-

Distention

Local evidence of obstruction

is

except in cases of fecal impaction or


All ordinary efforts to obtain a pas-

sage of fecal matter or even gas

may prove

futile.

The

appearance of the patient becomes alarming; the face

symptoms of collapse; the vomiting grows more persistent and characteristic of obstruc-

cold and pinched, with

tion and, without relief, the

end

is

near.

OBSTRUCTION OF THE BOWELS

157

TREATMENT.
It

must be obvious

case that

is

that medicines can do

little in

any

due to mechanical obstruction.

When

the

made

diagnosis of intestinal obstruction has been well


out,

no cathartic medicines are to be given.

seem

This

may

irrational, but observation teaches that purgatives

The

are positively harmful.

enemata, repeated

Sweet

injections of

The

effective.

Oil,

water

need be by

if

are both harmless and often

insertion into the bowel of a rubber tube

through which

(resembling a bougie or stomach-tube)

warm

warm

free use of

necessary, followed

if

water or

oil

may

be delivered high up in the colon,

has relieved cases that have come under

Too much time

my

observation.

often given to these expedients, or

is

trusting to medicine, so that a surgical operation promises

but

When

little.

This

should an operation be performed?

the great problem,

is

enter into a final decision.

and

the circumstances

all

Approximately not more than

24 to 36 hours should be consumed

and during

for relief,

must

this

in ineffectual efforts

a competent surgeon

time,

should be in consultation with the physician, for the


case

is

really

more

surgical than medical.

Looking backward,

growing out of neglect

young and
bedside
to

me

first

was

were,

day of

it

so he

some sad and

brilliant physician in a

my

realize

it

suffering,

my

all,

my

it

is

too

His
late.

judgment was

colleague in attendance

and afterwards neglected me.

was

fatal cases

notably one, a

country town, to whose

called in his dying hour.

"I

a surgeon, but

of

recall

in this particular;

am

first

words

During the
to

send for

made

dying."

light

And

Considering the limited time available for

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

158

way

treatment and the acknowledged obscurities in the


of an early and accurate diagnosis,
that every case with the foregoing

greatest promptness

it

must be apparent

symptoms demands the

and the best of

will only

right

selection

supplement but not interfere with other

made

efforts being

possi-

it is

most careful

to give the patient the benefit of a

Such remedies as

for relief.

Nux., Lyco. and Verat.

on

immense

of the action of a well indicated remedy,

bilities

which

Admitting

council.

the uncertainties of a diagnosis and the

may

be thought

Bell.,

See chap,

of.

Colic.
[For

as

directions

special

dose

preparation,
"Directions."]

Its

and

to

selection

diet,

the

of

General

see

repetition,

Index

remedy,
under

APPENDICITIS.
HISTORY, PREVALENCE AND MANAGEMENT.

No

medical topic has proved so fascinating to the

and none

daily press during recent years as appendicitis,

has been

so

diligently

exploited.

frequency and

Its

mortality furnish sufficient explanation for


is

The end

this.

not yet, for the greatest diversity of opinion prevails

as to

what

is

the chief cause of

should be done

when

its

prevalence, and

the disease occurs.

agitation of the public

No

mind by the press has

what

doubt

this

resulted in

some useful information, as well as a great deal of conLooking backwards thirty or forty
fusion of thought.
years to cases that came under

my

observation,

it is

easy

comprehend that many which were diagnosed as "inflammation of the bowels," etc. were really appendicitis.
to

During

this

time most authors describe conditions in the

abdominal organs which closely resemble,

in all particu-


APPENDICITIS
lars,

a genuine case of appendicitis.

159
Considering the

real nature of the disease,

it

is

anything new, or that

it

has not always existed as

it

is

now.

wholly improbable that

Medical authorities simply failed to recognize the

true condition, and were content to call

of the bowels,"

etc, so that, until

it

"inflammation

recent times, the

word

appendicitis does not appear in any medical text-book.

Much

has been published both as to the disease and

its

treatment, which was visionary and positively dangerous

and misleading.
into print with

It is

"cure-all"

Over and against

operation whatever.

who urge

generally the extremists

some sensational

who

this stand those

to operate every case, regardless of the condi-

Either

tion of the patient or the history of the attack.

course

is

rush

and oppose any

contrary to the judgment of the majority of the

most capable and trustworthy physicians and surgeons.

Seldom

in the practice of

medicine has any problem

been more forcibly presented than


dicitis.

decision.

in these cases of

appen-

Three urgent questions often demand immediate


First

Is

it

Second

a case of appendicitis?

Should an operation be performed?

Third

If

so

When?
Much, very much, depends upon the circumstances in
every case, and there is no other safe and sane ground for
deciding for or against an operation.

physician with

plenty of experience, and a competent surgeon should


be associated in these cases, and their combined judgment

should decide the right course of procedure.


sensus of opinion

and surgeons

is

among

The con-

the most trustworthy physicians

that to refuse to operate any case, or to

postpone an operation unduly,

is to sacrifice

human

life;

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

160

and

to operate

justified

moment is not
Somewhere in every

every case at the earliest

by every-day experience.

case, there

must be a "Golden Mean."

HISTORY AND SYMPTOMS.


The

history and

symptoms of an ordinary case of

acute appendicitis are brief, indeed.


is

At

usually the earliest symptom.

eral

but within a few hours,

localized in the right side

men.

The pain

if

Pain

not at

abdomen

in the

first, it

may

first,

it

be gen-

becomes

and lower portion of the abdo-

often sharp and excruciating, with

is

now

and then intervals of ease between the paroxyms. Nausea


and vomiting often accompany the severe pain. Soon, if
not at

first felt,

sensitiveness

appendix.
trifling

to

there developes a marked, circumscribed

over the region of the

firm pressure

Under such

conditions, there should be no

The

with ''home remedies."

best medical

and

surgical aid should deal with such an emergency.

Another type of appendicitis, which

may

degree of suffering, and which


intervals of weeks,

months or

termed chronic appendicitis,


danger.

is

differs

mainly

in

occur and recur at

years,

and

is

sometimes

one which has elements of

In these milder cases, by the aid of medicines

and applications, sometimes even without

few recover from an attack only


;

an indefinite

interval,

overcome as before.

to find

by another.

it

either, not a

followed, after

This, too,

In such cases operation

is

may

be

very often

deferred, sometimes wisely, sometimes otherwise; judg-

ing from the divergent results, as demonstrated by fatal


cases in the final analysis, and the cases of final recovery

without an operation.

APPENDICITIS

161

In this milder form, the chief danger

from the

is

continued existence of mild inflammation, later suppuration

and

finally perforation of the

appendix.

Also, in the

meantime, the patient's condition gives evidence of some


systemic contamination, due to the toxic material passing

from
is

the local disease into the general system.

generally loss of flesh and weight

the face

is

There

pale,

even

anemic, with loss of appetite and general indisposition.


It is

demand the same


more sudden and violent

needless to say that such cases

prompt attention as those of

the

character.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Opiates and cathartics, formerly used by some prac-

now

are

tioners,

simply

(opiates),

generally

mask

the

The former,

discarded.

danger;

the

latter

often

aggravate pain and are considered a disadvantage where

an operation

is

to follow.

The use

of external applica-

tions of heat, the hot water bag, often ameliorates the


pain.

In mild cases and in the early stage. Aconite, Bella-

donna and Bryonia seem


Aconite

vomiting,

Chill,

fear

to afford m.uch relief.

fever and thirst, with nausea and

and restlessness; pulse

full

and

rapid.

Skin dry and hot.

Belladonna

Gripping,

clutching pain

cannot bear

jar or noise; face fiery red; head throbbing with pain

and

excitement.

Bryonia

The

pains are sharp over the appendix;

cannot move or he moved.


12

Nausea on

rising; begs to be

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

IQ2
left quiet.

Bryonia has proven a valuable remedy

many

in

cases.
[For

special

as

directions

and

dose

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

to

of

selection

diet,

repetition,

General

see

remedy,

the

Index

under

PERITONITIS.
(Inflammation of the Peritoneum.)
This disease

is

often due to the extension of an inflam-

peritoneum which

in that portion of the

mation existing

covers some organ in the abdominal cavity


spleen, kidneys or uterus.

liver,

appendicitis.

and

It

may

injuries.

will usually clear

It

may

for instance,

develope with

also occur primarily

history of the case from

from
its

colds,

inception

up the diagnosis.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The pain
local,

or

is

of the most acute character and

diffused

over the whole

abdomen.

may

aggravated by the least pressure or motion, which


opposite of

colic.

The

with the legs flexed.

be

Greatly
is

the

patient lies quietly on the back

Vomiting and constipation are

generally present, which might lead to a suspicion of


obstruction.

Distention of the

a later symptom.

abdomen may occur

slight chill is

as

followed by fever,

the rising temperature generally accompanied by rapid

The prognosis depends much


but rather weak pulse.
upon the severity of the primal causes as wounds, appendicitis, and post operative.
;

PERITONITIS

163

DIET AND MEDICAL TREATMENT.


The

patient will need no instructions about quiet

for this

rest,

is,

above

all,

what he

acute febrile stage the rule

is

the

same

as in all such

conditions, not to tax digestion with anything


light, liquid

nourishment and that

api^lications

often mitigate the severe pain.

well-selected will, except in cases of


cation, generally relieve

much

and

During the

desires.

more than
Hot

in moderation.

Remedies
some serious compli-

of the pain and result in

perfect recovery.

Aconite

Hot,

dry skin with great

quick, hard but small.

not

move

the body.

May

death.

Arsenicum

Later

anxiety and fear of

great

developments

thirst,

Belladonna

such

as

great

and vomiting with symptoms of

must have head

restless,

anxious look, cannot he

ache.

Pulse

thirst.

feet restless yet can-

follow from exposure to cold.

prostration, nausea
lapse,

Hands and
Mind full of

col-

elevated,

left alone.

Burning hot skin

Cannot endure jar or

noise.

and throbbing head-

May

be used after

Aconite.

Bryonia

Some

fever, but less than

with Aeon, or

Bell.

Cannot move or he moved on account of sharp

pain.

Tongue

white,

mouth

May be used

Cantharis

dry.
in case involving

inflamma-

tion of the bladder with constant inclination to void the


urine.

Lachesis

Septic

of abdomen.

Peritonitis with great tenderness

Cannot bear the weight of the

sheet.

All

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

IQ4:

symptoms seem much worse

Disposition to throw

of heat.

and

Flushes

after a short nap.

from neck

clothing

all

chest.

Nux Vomica After debauch or alcoholics involving


the liver and stomach. When patient has been drugged
Irritable in extreme, can-

with narcotics and purgatives.

endure

not

noise

or

frequent desire for stool or


[For

preparation,
"Directions."]
Its

dose

to

as

directions

special

and

to

with

Constipation

excitement.

void the urine.


see

the

of

selection

diet,

repetition,

remedy,

under

Index

General

DIARRHEA.
CAUSE AND COMPLICATIONS.
Simple diarrhea,

if

in its

beginning and ending

complicated with other diseases,


in

fact

nature's

in

is

average healthy individual

the

method of removing the

gression in diet, and requires no


little

quiet

and a

is

one of the minor

result of

is

often

some

trans-

it

more treatment than a

restricted diet.

when

Occasionally, what seems an ordinary diarrhea,

not properly managed


tery.

Diarrhea

unills

may

may

develop into a case of dysen-

be the precursor of typhoid fever or

symptomatic of a catarrhal inflammation of the bowels.


Diet and drinking-water, especially the
a troublesome diarrhea.
life,

to

During the

diarrheal diseases are very

latter,

first

diarrhea, but sufficient to


into each case before

cause

year of infant

common and may

improper milk, summer heat, cutting

foregoing are only a few of the

may

be due

teeth, etc.

The

more common forms of

show the

necessity of inquiring

any rational advice or treatment

DIARRHEA
can be suggested.

165

In spite of the best of care or on the

slightest irregularity,

some individuals are

diarrhea that

becomes semi-chronic.

to

it

management and

require good

so predisposed

Such cases

well-selected remedies to

accomplish a permanent cure.

Cholera morbus in a mild form

may

diarrhea, but in the former the attack


is

be confused with

more sudden and

is

attended with vomiting and great prostration, with

watery stood.

In

cases of looseness of the bowels,

all

the character of the stool should be ascertained, both for

The

purposes of diagnosis and selection of remedy.

gradual change in increase of mucus and bloody stool

which

indicates dysentery,

calls for rigid rides

and

suit-

able remedies.

DIET AND MEDICAL TREATMENT.


In the matter of absolute quiet and rest in a severe
attack there can be

more severe forms


for

little

In the

the patient should be placed in bed

day or two

at

remedies the disease


time a light diet

difference of opinion.

is

Ordinarily,

least.

There

in order.

is

with proper

of short duration, during which


is

no occasion for

supporting the patient by diet as in a lingering

The moderate use of water

permissible.

is

illness.

too early

return to normal diet before fully convalescent, causes


a complete

relapse.

When

under control the patient

the bowel trouble

may

soft-boiled eggs, boiled rice

is

well

begin with lamb broth,

and milk

toast,

all

to

be

taken in moderation.

Aconite

After

dry, cold

cold nights, resulting chill

wind or

in

summer with
may be

fever and diarrhea,

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

166

nausea and vomiting.

Arsenicum

Skin hot and dry with much

Diarrhea

Prostration after stool, which

Worse

sive, carrion-hke.

The

dark, watery and offen-

is

after eating, or drinking water.

and great

restlessness

thirst.

nausea and vomiting.

with

thirst

for zvater taking only

Worse from

a sivalloiv, are true characteristics of Ars.

eating ice-cream, cold food, tainted meat or fruits, resulting in


ing.

sudden attacks which resemble ptomain poison-

Burning sensations

Baptisia

The

in parts involved.

bowel trouble

generally

is

accom-

panied by a low type of fever, with soreness and bruised

Tongue dry

feeling in muscles, especially in the back.

and brown except edges which are


dition

is

The mental conmarked tendency to

red.

dull even to mild stupor with

typhoid.

Bryonia

when

Not

indicated

one of the oft-used remedies, but

it

cures quickly.

Generally worse from

hot weather and the use of ice-cold zvater.

morning and on attempting


lie

down and keep

on

rising, zuith faintness.

to

move

perfectly quiet.
Patient,

the day's business or wants to get

Calcarea Carb

Children

and generally backward.


night.

Face

in

Obliged to

Vertigo and headache


if

delirious, talks

home

about

again.

are slow in teething

Sweating about the head

pale, craving for chalk, salt

Child longs for eggs.


digested.

who

about.

Worse

at

and sweet things.

Stool clay-colored, watery or un-

The condition of

the patient

is

a better guide

in selecting calcarea than the character of the stool.

China

After

acute disease, or long-continued at-

tack of diarrhea where the patient seems weak, inclined

DIARRHEA
to

profuse

Worse

167

and

emaciation

perspiration,

after eating, at night

and after

exhaustion.

loss of blood or

vital fluids.

Cina

Stool

ing from worms.


to

Children suffer-

whitish, mucous-like.

Exceedingly

be touched or looked

at.

irritable, ivill

not consent

Urine often white or turbid.

Constantly picking or rubbing the nose.

Tossing and

crying out in sleep.

Colocynth

Intense

griping, cutting colic pains in

the intestines, especially after eating fruit, errors in diet,

extreme vexation and grief have very often been quickly

by Colo.

relieved

Stools

yellow,

bilious

Patient only finds relief by pressure on the

and bloody.

abdomen by

bending double.

Chamomilla

Ailments

of children, with

diarrhea.

Stool green and watery with colic pains zvorse at night.

Redness of cheeks or of one

only.

Child very irritable

and peevish, crying much, only quieted by being carried


Often

about.

palliative

during the teething process.

The

mental symptoms of Cham, are of chief importance and

when

symptoms the choice

present with other

Dulcamara

which

diarrhea
zveather

The
is

from hot

first

remedy

to be

caused by sudden
to cold,

is

certain.

thought of for
changes in

the

or hot days and cold nights.

For colds with diarrhea or dysentery, with slimy mucus


in

bloody

stool,

Dulc.

is

growing out of working

indispensable.

Also for troubles

damp

places, with rheu-

in cold,

matic tendency {Rhus Tox.) with heat of surface and


prostration.

Gelsemium

Diarrhea

which precedes or follows

DI8EA8E8 OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

168

some mental or emotional ordeal

as the fear of personal

danger or injury, the dread of appearing

bad news,
(Ign.)

of

in public, fright,

depressing emotions from any source.

in fact

Muscular weakness and trembling, with languor

mind and body.

Ipecac Stool

Ipecac mucous, dark, pitch-like,

of

often "green as grass," frothy or fermented.


sistent nausea, with or without

make

will
colic

a quick and brilliant cure.

with the nausea

green fruits,

If per-

present, Ipec.

is

There may be some

after indigestible food, veal, siveets,

etc.

Mercurius
but

vomiting

remed}^ often indicated in dysentery,

less frequently in diarrhea.

Increase of saliva, even

profuse salivation, with swelling of the tongue, which

is

Tongue coated
taking impressions
yellowish or whitish coating, gums szvollen
of teeth.

soft, flabby,

with thick,

and inclined

to bleed, breath offensive.

greenish,

mucus or

tenesmus

which

Stools watery,

bloody-mucus, much urging


continues

on

after

each

or violent

movement.

Sticky offensive perspiration zvorse at night and on exertion.

All

symptoms worse

Nux Vomica Patients


tion,

at night.

{Cham.)

inclined to dosing, dissipa-

intemperance in eating, with general violation of

the laws of health.

Loss of sleep from night work or

"Spreeing," resulting in irritability and mental depression.

In

Jaundice

and

diarrhea and constipation.

low

fevers

with

alternating

Stool often small, thin, or

bloody mucus, with frequent inclination for movement,


after

which the pain and tenesmus

Merc.) bad

ceases.

effects of alcoholic spirits

and

(Opposite of
coffee.

DIARRHEA
Phosphorus
morning

In

chronic cases always worse in the

and

watery

(Sul.)

169

Relief

involuntary.

of

stomach by taking cold things, water or ice-cream but


rejected as soon as

becomes warm.

it

Often useful

is

in the

"bowel complaints" of the consumptive or tubercular


Emaciated, feverish and thirsty for ice-cold

subject.

water, sense of
acts best

on

Phos.

slim, lean, flat-chested subjects.

Podophyllum
fantum with

In

rolling of the

painless diarrhea or cholera in-

watery yellowish, meal-like

thin,

stool,

Podo.

In severe cases with brain symptoms,

the remedy.

is

goneness" In the abdomen.

''all

head from side

With

to side.

children

during dentition, frequent gagging or retching, without


vomiting.

Stool often profuse, with the odor of carrion

and generally worse


Pulsatilla
fat

food,

morning.

in the

Derangement
and

ice-cream

of digestion
(Ipec.)

fruit

diarrhea, worse at night or towards night.

green and changeable.


but no

thirst.

Chilliness

Often useful

is

followed

Stool mucus,

girls

with Puis,

temperament, with aggravation from getting feet

from hot room.

Rhus Tox

Always craving fresh

May be indicated

on, taking typhoid

form with

by

marked, some heat

young

in

from eating

ivet

and

air.

in cases that

fever-flushed

have run
face,

dry,

cracked, red tongue, intense restlessness, backache, headache, drowsiness, full of

dreams of tiresome work, hurry-

ing to and fro.

The diarrhea

hausting, the stool

may be

watery mucus.
to the

remedy

comitants.

The

is

troublesome and ex-

scanty or profuse, often bloody,

condition of the patient will guide

that will cure the diarrhea

and

its

con-

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

170

Sulphur In chronic

generally painless but

cases,

urgent, zvorse in morning, driving one out of bed, Sul.

Cases of the so-called chronic

will cure.

yield at once to a

few doses of

"Army

diarrhea"

Patient often speaks

Sul.

of a weak, faint, hungry feeling that occurs regularly

about ten or eleven A. M.


especially children.

Sul. patient averse to bath,

This remedy has a wide range of

application, especially in scrofulous subjects.

It

when other remedies fail to act or where no


symptoms call for other remedies.

given

Veratrum Alb

The

symptoms

may

be

definite

remedy are

of this

clean cut, and greatly resemble those of cholera infantum,

or cholera morbus.

In either case, or in diarrhea

when

the stools are profuse and zvatery with great weakness,


cold perspiration on the forehead, cold, pinched expression on tthe face, Verat. will relieve nausea

with severe colic pains during


faintness after

and

and exhaustion

stool,

in the extremeties.

to

Skin cold

blue, ivith indications of total collapse.


[For

its

Cramps

it.

and vomiting

special

i^reparation,

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

of

selection

General

see

the

Index

remedy,

under

"Directions."]

CHOLERA INFANTUM.
Of

all

the diseases popularly

known

as

"summer com-

plaint" or "bowel complaint" whether of adults or infants,

none that has come under


serious

to

deal

with as

my
real

observation has seemed so


cholera

suddenness of attack, occurring as


the heat of

summer when

it

infantum.

The

usually does during

the vitality of the infant

is

often greatly impaired, together with the rapid course of

CHOLERA INFANTUM
the disease, which
all

may prove

171

fatal within

contribute to an explanation of

its

24

to

48 hours,

large mortality.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
At

the very

diagnosis

is

the

first,

complaints" have

symptoms of

much

in

all

common,

so-called "bowel

so

that

an early

not always possible, but this fact does not in

any way interfere with the success of the prescriber who


is

seeking the homeopathic remedy.

may

Cholera infantum

begin with, or seem to develop out of, an attack of

diarrhea or indigestion, but frequently the case


in

is

ushered

with severe vomiting, copious, zuatery stool and rapid

The temperature may rise rapidl)^, or remain nearly normal. The stomach soon refuses to retain
anything, rejecting its contents with force.
The stool

prostration.

which was

at first yellowish or

becomes almost odorless and

green and watery, soon

like water,

with force like water from a syringe.

and

As

is

passed

the disease

advances, the appearance of the patient changes rapidly,


resem.bling that of a severe case of colera morbus.

face becomes pale or

livid,

expressionless, cold perspiration


lapse multiply.
selected remedy,

The

and symptoms of

patient, unless relieved

must soon succumb.

little

by a welldisease,

patient gradually passes into a state of stupor

from which
is

col-

If life continues

on for a few days with no amelioration of the


the

The

skin cold, eyes sunken and

it is

not easily aroused. This latter condition

accompanied by rolling of the head from side

with low, plaintive

cries, the

to side

eyes open and motionless,

the hands clenched, and finally general spasms and death.

The

case which began with cholera infantum, has involved

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

172

the brain, and the patient has passed into a hydrocephaloid state.

CAUSE, PREVENTION

The

AND TREATMENT.

avoidable causes which lead up to the prevalence

In

of this disease should be well understood.

ance on the part of those


less

than a crime.

Of

who

fact, ignor-

care for infants

is

nothing

course some of the contributing

causes are beyond our control

for instance the long,

hot days and nights of July and August, together with


the fact that during such time, unless facilities are well-

nigh perfect, there

is

great difficulty in the proper keep-

ing of milk and food.

Again, the process of teething

which must be endured,

is

tacks of bowel
six months,

trouble.

often such as to provoke at-

This period

which corresponds

is

during the second

when most

to the age

in-

fants are attacked with the disease.

now to the avoidable causes, mention of the


most common will be made first, namely, defective food
To better appreciate the importance of this
supply.
Shifting

should be understood that the direct cause of

feature,

it

cholera

infantum

is

gastro-intestinal

the presence of a micro-organism

infection

system chiefly through food and water.

ments apply

due

to

introduced into the

These

state-

Breast-fed infants,

to bottle-fed infants.

nursing healthy mothers, are quite exempt from cholera

infantum and kindred

ills.

A wide observation

over a period of forty years leads

me

to

make

extending
the above

statement, in the interest of the generations to come.

an infant
ideal

way

must be fed from

bottle or

cup there

of minimidng the danger.

is

Although

If

but one
this

is

CHOLERA INFANTUM

173

not always practicable with people of scanty time and

means,

it is

of such vital importance and the principle so

well established that

Thorough

it

seems inexcusable to disregard

sterilisation of bottles, cups, milk, water,

fact all that enters into the food,

fundamental.

is

it.

in

This

takes time and care, and of course must be repeated daily.

Pasteurizing of milk on a large scale, and afterwards


delivering to consumers, after the commercial fashion,

has doubtless accomplished some good, but

has not

it

proven a perfect success and can not be relied upon to

The

eliminate infection.

utensils

into the preparation of the

home, after which

in the

The many

water.

it

cautions

well to

here.

to relapse,

much can

one from the heat of the

lake-side or the mountains.

permanent

under-

it

to

fails

may

be

entire change in the milk, or suspend the

altogether, substituting other

the hot days and nights


little

or cold

If after all pre-

forms of nutriment,

such as lamb broth, the white of an egg,

the

ice

details are simple, quite well

and the use of medicines, the case

make an

it

entering

food should be Pasteurised

respond or has a constant tendency

use of

articles

must be kept on

and need not be detailed

stood,

and

relief that

etc.

During

be done by removing

city to the country, the

The prompt

reaction and

comes from such a change

is

often

Through these improved


hygienic and preventive measures, the enormous infant

most remarkable

to witness.

mortality in the great cities has been revolutionized.

Ten

years ago, during the months of July and August, cholera

infantum was one of the most prevalent diseases.


such cases are rare.

To-day

In this vast life-saving service, the

credit belongs rather to prevention than medication.

Yet

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

174
it

must be understood that despite

and

at

efforts to prevent

all

any time during the whole year, genuine cases of

cholera infantum will occur, requiring the most prompt

Owing

and painstaking prescribing.


of

symptoms and conditions

remedies have been called

one best indicated

to

most

in

much uniformity
few

cases, only a

from which number the

for,

change the case for the

will speedily

better.

The following

named

remedies,

should be considered.

portance,

have been fully given

in the order of

Indications

in the chapter

for

on diarrhea,

im-

each

also see

Verat, Alb., Ars., Podoph.,

Section III. A'lateria Medica.

Ipec, Sul.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

tlie

Index

remedy,

under

CHOLERA MORBUS.
This very alarming name seems to have become
tached to a disease which
attack

appears suddenly,

is

very seldom

fatal.

at-

The

without premonition, and

is

generally of very short duration.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
Nausea and vomiting,
yellowish

fluid.

This

fuse, watery stool.


in stomach,

is

first

Some

pain and occasionally cramps

bowels and limbs.

instead, coldness of surface

face,

of food and later of watery,

soon followed by frequent, pro-

Little or

no fever, but

and cold perspiration on the

with indications of great weakness, approaching

collapse.

It

seems

to prevail in

warm weather

as a rule.

CHOLERA MORBUS
The

175

direct causes often are indigestible articles of food

as unripe fruit, tainted meats, etc.

In the early stage, the disease resembles in some respects a case of ptomaine poisoning, or a mild case of

true cholera
tion

is

but the difference in causation and termina-

Ptomaine poisoning,

vast.

is

due to the presence

of a specific micro-organism of the most virulent type.

The same
tious.

is

true of cholera, which

Neither

is

is

also highly infec-

true of cholera morbus.

CARE AND MEDICAL TREATMENT.


The

warm

patient should at once be placed in bed,

applications can be best

to the cold surface.

As

employed

the proper homeopathic

usually brings very prompt relief, there

where

to restore heat

remedy
no

as a rule

is

need of the use of stimulus, or of forcing down nourishment, which

is

generally rejected.

Great thirst

present, but water should be given sparingly, at

Veratrum, Arsenicum, Ipecac and Carbo


remedies often indicated.

may

is

often

first.

Veg.,

are

China, Croton Tig. and Podo.

be called for.

Veratrum

Oftener used than any other remedy, for

the reason that

its

proving affords a very complete pic-

ture of cholera morbus.

purging and the watery


szveat

The nausea and


stool, the cold

vomiting, the

surface and cold

on the face, the pain and cramps find quick

relief

from a few doses of Verat.

Arsenicum

Has the

nausea and vomiting, but

attended by constant thirst for cold ivater.

marked

prostration, but the surfaces

It

it

is

has the

and perspiration are

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

176

not, like Verat, cold

and clammy.

very restless and

of fear

cream and
thought

full

If the attack

left alone.

salads, Ars.

is

is

The Ars.

patient

is

fear of death and of being

caused by tainted meat, or

among

the

ice-

remedies to be

first

of.

Ipecac

Where

the

nausea

very

is

constant,

with

some vomiting and clutching pain about the stomach


and navel. May have been caused by eating green fruit,
candy and

siveets.

Carbo Veg.

If

during collapse there

the absence

is

of the profuse cold perspiration of Verat., the patient

gasping and craving for cold

Carbo Veg.
other

the face cool, often livid,

than Verat. or any

known remedy.

[For
Its

air,

will reach the case better

directions

special

preparation,

and

dose

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

of

General

see

the

Index

remedy,

under

"Directions."]

DYSENTERY.
(An
Recently,

have classed

Infectious Disease.)

some of the most trustworthy


this

among

fact should lead to caution in the


cases.

Again,

it

authorities

the infectious diseases, which

management of such

must be admitted by

practical experience, that during the

all

who have had

autumn season there

are constantly occurring sporadic cases due to climatic


conditions and also not a few attacks clearly traceable to
errors in diet, abuse of drugs, and constitutional predisposition.

DYSENTERY

177

SYMPT03IAT0L0GY.
Dysentery often begins

more or

less colic,

an ordinary diarrhea with

like

mucus

small traces of

in the stool,

abdominal pains which increase with more frequent stool

As

and increasing tenesmus.


the stool

clear blood very small

with constant

quantity but very frequent,

in

for stool,

inclination

with painful tenesmus and

more or

a rule, by the second day

becomes mucous and bloody, gradually becoming


attended

is

General symptoms of

colic.

and prostration.

less fever, thirst

cases typhoid

which

In protracted

symptoms may develop.

DIET AND MEDICAL TREATMENT.


Perhaps few,

if

any, diseases require

The

quiet than dysentery.

more

absolute

patient should be placed in

bed at once and in a ivarm room.

The amount

of nourish-

ment should be very

broth,

lamb,

clam and

limited

chicken being preferable to milk.


is

permissible.

The

Water

following

in small quantity

remedies

most

are

frequently indicated.

Aconite

Chill,

fever, pulse full, quick.

After sud-

den check of perspiration, fever, thirst, dry, hot skin,


great restlessness and anxiety, stools frequent and bloody.
Aeon, often useful

in

very

first stage,

when

may

arrest

each

stool

it

the further progress of the disease.

Arsenic

Exhaustion,

especially

after

with anguish and restlessness, craving for water but


takes only a szvallow, vomiting after drinking, worse

from

eating ice-cream or rancid, spoiled food as salads or meat,

pulse

weak with threatening

night.

13

collapse.

Worse

after mid-

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

178

Belladonna

when

May be indicated, especially with children

the brain becomes involved.

Bryonia

In

hot weather after drinking excessively

of cold water which

be moved or

rise

is

Cannot

craved in large quantities.

without aggravation,

faint, vertigo

on

rising.

Colycinth

When

with the Dysentery there

is

in-

tense colic, griping in bowels causing patient to scream

with pain, pressing abdomen and doubling up in agony,

May

aggravated by eating or drinking.


eating unripe

Dulcamara

After

sudden changes from zvarm

in

damp, cold

to

After working or

cold zveather or after taking cold.

going

be caused by

fruit.

places.

Ipecac Occasionally

useful

when

there

is

continual

nausea or vomiting, with stools that are greenish, mucus

and blood, worse from eating unripe

Mercurius

Frecjuently

mucous, very

frequent

weather.

Stool

indicated.

with

straining, even after stool.

fruit.

agonising

Worse

bloody,

tenesmus and

at night in cool,

damp

Perspiration sour and offensive, worse on least

motion and

at night,

tongue coated,

much

saliva with

offensive breath.

Nux Vomica Thin,

bloody

mucus

stool

with

constant urging and tenesmus which ceases after stool

(being the reverse of Merc.)

After prolonged drugging,

debauchery and abuse of alcoholic drinks.


backache, patient irritable and averse to
light,

Considerable
all

worse two or three A. M. The cause of

noise and

disease,

and

DYSENTERY

179

condition of patient must govern in selecting the remedy.

Also see remedies under head of Diarrhea.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

as

directions

and

dose

to

selection

diet,

remedy,

the

of

General

see

repetition,

under

Index

HEMORRHOIDS.
(Piles.)

They

are divided into the external and internal, ac-

cording to their location

and again,

into dry

and bleeding

piles.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
At

first,

a sense of fulness and pressure in the rectum.

Later soreness and pain,


after stool

at

much aggravated during

which time small, round,

discoverable about the anus.

livid

Occasionally there

rupture of the pile tumor, resulting in what


"bleeding piles."

Sometimes the

or

tumors are

is

is

termed

internal piles are forced

out during stool and, unless promptly pressed back,

There can be

they become exceedingly painful.


difficulty in

may

making

arise, in the

way

of ulceration, fissures,

render an accurate diagnosis most


cations

grow out of neglected

little

However, complications

a diagnosis.

difficult.

cases.

etc.,

which

Such compli-

Early attention

cannot be too strongly urged.

CAUSATION.
Persistent constipation often precedes piles, and

be considered the chief predisposing cause.

must

Also heredi-

tary tendencies, long sitting or standing, misuse of purgatives, over-lifting

and, temporarily, pregnancy.

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

180

TREATMENT.
The use of

This should be both local and general.

Calendula cerate and other simple applications will afford

some

relief to the local suffering.

They should not only

be applied on the external parts, but as well as possible

on the internal surfaces.

may

Hamamelis, (cerate or tincture)

be very useful as a local application, and the same

remedy may be taken


kept regular

if

internally.

The bowels should be

need be by the use of

and proper remedies.

warm

water enema,

Cathartics should be avoided.

acute cases, rest and proper treatment

may

In

cure promptly.

Chronic cases, require time and not a few are incurable,


except by a radical surgical operation.
to allowing the disease to prey
until,

worn out with

This

is

preferable

upon the nervous system

suffering, the patient gives

way

to

despair.

Whatever contributes

to

good digestion and normal

regularity of the bowels, will hasten the cure.

If

an un-

fortunate occupation has had to do with causing the


at least a

piles,

temporary change should be made.

In addition to the internal remedies described under


"constipation," see Puis,. Bell., and China.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

tbe

Index

remedy,
under

PARASITIC DISEASES

181

PARASITIC DISEASES.

WORMS.
There are many species of worms that inhabit the
gastro-intestinal tract,

toms

in

common.

all

Two

producing more or

of these outnumber

For

of

worms where

the diagnosis

is

symp-

others by

some

respects

instance, in

any case

a large majority, and their treatment in


will serve as a guide to others.

less

all

clear

and

positive, there

are three things to be considered and accomplished

cure

to be radical

is

worms

present

and habits as

make

and permanent.

if

the

First, to expel the

second, to adopt such changes in diet


will

prevent re-accumulation

a careful selection of a homeopathic

third,

to

remedy

to

correct any abnormalities or predisposition of the digestive tract

which may have contributed

to their presence.

TAPEWORM.
SY3IPTOMS AND TREATAIENT.
The presence
than

is

of tapeworms

generally supposed.

evidence of their presence


of the
in

flat,

length.

is

doubtless more prevalent


Not infrequently the first

is

the appearance in the stools

more
The symptoms which may have preceeded

whitish, tape-like segments of an inch or

this evidence

have generally been attributed to flatulent

indigestion, vagaries of appetite,

ableness about hours of eating,

and general unreason-

etc.

The

flat

segments,

often several hundred in number, are connected with the

head by smaller, narrower


parasite

may

may

The whole length of the


The symptoms
misinterpreted.
Some are

links.

be from ten to forty feet.

be numerous but easily

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

132
as follows,

and

found

if

Voracious,

acteristic.

combination are quite char-

in

at night, yet losing flesh,

meals or even

between

appetite

unreasonable

and a sense of

uneasiness or even motion about the abdomen, resembling


the effects of gas, both of which

seem suddenly better

There may be faintness, nervousness,

soon after eating.

even spasms, also itching of the nose and anus.

The

introduction of the parasite into the system

chiefly to the eating of

beef and pork.


kills the parasite.

is

due

uncooked meat, especially fresh

Thorough cooking or thorough salting


This applies not only to tapeworm but

Among

to other parasites, especially trichina.

and most effectual

the safest

means of expelling the tapeworm

the very painful use of

pumpkin

is

seeds, as follows

After a day and night of fasting eat a pint of the shucked


seeds, to be followed within a hour or two by a large dose
of castor
will

oil.

decoction of the seeds,

if

more

palatable,

answer the same purpose.

PINWORMS.
Sometimes

called

threadworm or "seatworm"

the most common and the most annoying of


parasites.

pearance

It
it

is

all

most prevalent with children.

is

by far

intestinal

In ap-

resembles a piece of the finest white thread

one-fifth of an inch in length.

They may often be

dis-

covered about the anus, their presence being announced

by a persistent itching which the child or adult finds most


The
tantalizing, often worse in the evening or at night.

embryo deposited about the anus may contaminate the


finger nails and bed-clothing, so that the parasitic germs

PIN-WORMS

183

are easily transmitted to a companion or bed-fellow.

may become

the whole family, children or adults

Thus

victims

of the parasite.

TREATMENT.
The

daily use of

warm

salt

water injections appears to

be a prompt relief and doubtless destroys the eggs about


the anus

The younger worms often

and rectum.

reach

the small intestine, so that an active saline cathartic re-

peated several days in succession will help to accomplish


the expulsion and destruction of the worms.

Santonin

given in the lower triturations, followed by an occasional

found useful

laxative, has been

in

many

cases.

The

diet

should consist of plain, nourishing food avoiding candy

and

all siveets.

Aconite

For

cially at night

the restless, feverish condition espe-

attended with thirst and itching about the

may

anus, Aeon, will give temporary relief and

more

prevent

serious developments.

Cina

A most useful

by great

irritability

is

characterized

(similar to Anti. c.)

and constant

rubbing and picking


sickly,

remedy which
the

at

Child

nose.

looks

pale,

with dark rings under the eyes, wakens from

sleep in fright

and terror

restless

and feverish

in sleep,

with grating of teeth.

Chamomilla
Always worse

Mental
at

night,

symptoms
wants

to

room, one cheek red and the other

Sulphur

Pale,

sickly

inclined to eruptions.

similar

to

Cina.

be carried about the


pale.

appearance, skin unhealthy,

Child complains of faintness be-

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

184
fore noon,

may

Very averse

be morning diarrhea.

to

any kind of a bath, even screams with dread or fright

when water
[For

applied to surface of body.

is

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

remedy,

under

Index

DISEASES OF THE LIVER.


GENERAL, CONSIDERATION.
In the majority of cases where abnormahties of the
liver

become evident

The

liver.

it

is

due to causes outside of the

diseases of stomach and bowels, the mechani-

cal interference luith the fioiv of bile

through the

ducts are the most prevalent of these.

bile

Also, general

malarial infection, the prolonged use of Quinine, or of


alchoholic liquors, are frequent exciting causes.

Not infrequently

diseases of the liver occur primarily,

followed by an involvment of other organs.


all

In nearly

affections of the liver there soon follows a failure to

secrete the
ditions

normal quantity of

which are

bile,

essentially the

giving rise to con-

same

in different dis-

eases of that organ; such as jaundice, light or "clay-

colored" stool, dark yellow, saffron-colored urine, with


great inclination to sleep.

upon
liver

all
is

To

differentiate

and enlarge

more obscure disorders of


work of a complete text-book. Only

the rare and


the

more prevalent forms

the
the

of liver affections, with their treat-

ment, will be mentioned here.

Again,

it

handicapped

can be affirmed that the Homeopath


in

treatment by want of a name.

is

not

The

DISEASES OF THE LIVER


totality of the

form

185

symptoms, both subjective and objective,

a safe guide to the selection of the curative remedy.

ACUTE CONGESTION OF THE LIVER.


This

the

is

most common

and

liver ailment

is

often

the result of excesses in diet or exposure to cold, especially in hot

At

malaria.

weather, or a hot climate with


first,

symptoms

the

and pressure, sometimes pain

are

more or

sense of weight

in region of the liver, the

pain extending under the right shoulder-blade.

nausea and vomiting


colored, urine dark.

The

may

less

occur.

Stool

Later

often

light-

Headache, vertigo and drowsiness.

eyes take on a yellowish-green appearance.

Later the

surface of the body assumes the same jaundiced look,


the latter continuing for

some time

after

all

other symp-

toms disappear.

CHRONIC CONGESTION OF THE LIVER.


CAUSE AND COMPLICATIONS.
It

often happens that badly

congestion

fail to clear

and recur from time


gestion.

managed

cases of acute

up, or that mild cases are neglected


to time,

resulting in chronic con-

Again, persistent errors in

diet,

tion, also a residence in a malarial region,

and

may

dissipa-

gradually

develope a chronic congestion of the liver with essentially


the

same symptoms, although

in acute congestion.

less

pronounced than those

The mild jaundiced appearance,

the

sense of discomfort in the right side and under right


shoulder-blade, the persistent high-colored urine, depres-

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

186
of

sioii

Spirits,

vertigo,

poor digestion,

generally

are

present.

INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER.


(Hepatitis.)

This affection of the


is

most common

Many

any.

liver, like

of the

symptoms

In addition there

gestion.

congestion and abscess,

is

may

but

in tropical climates,

are the

same

occur

in

as in con-

marked tenderness on

pres-

sure or any movement.

Slight chills with a persistent

fever, high temperature,

thirst,

When

tinguishable

may

from abscess of the

follow the former

early.

vomiting and diarrhea.

such symptoms are present they are scarcely dis-

if

liver, in fact the latter

proper remedies are not used

In the event of an abscess forming, the

continue,

the

fever

the

increase,

pulse

chills will

becomes more

rapid, with copious perspiration, exhaustion, emaciation.

The temperature fluctuates daily


symptoms of suppuration follow.

of the liver

may
light

fact

all

The

the usual

Acute inflammation

follow an injury, but the

are essentially the same.

throw some

in

symptoms

history of the case will

on the diagnosis and treatment.

JAUNDICE.
(Icterus.)

As already stated, many of


may induce jaundice, although
absent.

tom; yet

In daily practice
it

it

is

the affections of the liver


in

some

it

may

be entirely

generally seen as a symp-

has prevailed as an epidemic, especially in

JAUNDICE
army during

In the U. S.

tropical climates.

War,

187

cases in a single year.

When

uncomplicated, jaundice

has few preliminary symptoms, and

The whites

the Civil

were over ten thousand

in malarial districts, there

is

very seldom

fatal.

of the eyes become tinged with yellow, and

later the face, neck,

trunk and limbs become sallow.

The

urine dark porter-color (due to the elimination of bile by

kidneys)

the

stains

linen

tion of jaundice in different cases

may

The

Jaundice

removal of the
the liver; or

the bile

is

is

essentially the

is

traceable in each case to the non-

biliary coloring

if

matter from the blood by

removed, re-absorption takes place and

The
common, usually of short
results.
The liver is often

thrown upon the skin and other organs.

jaundice of young infants


duration, with no serious

is

the seat of incurable diseases in the case of those

the jaundice

may

not be so marked.

enlargement,

or

fatty

who

are

In such cases

given to persistent use of alcoholic drink.

atrophy,

light

causa-

be very dissimilar,

but the resulting pathological condition

same.

are

stools

yellozv,

clay-color^ persistent itching of the skin etc.

There may be either

liver

abdominal and

general dropsy follow in succession.

TREATMENT OF DISEASES OF

LIVER.

DIET AND MANAGEMENT.


In the

diet,

medical treatment and general manage-

ment of acute diseases of the


applicable to

all

cases.

If in

liver,

there

patient should be placed in bed at once


until the

temperature

is

is

any case there

normal.

much
is

that

is

fever, the

and remain there

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

188
In

all

non-febrile cases the patient should be kept quiet

and avoid the outlay of physical strength, although


not be necessary to remain in bed or even indoors

may
much

it
;

depending upon the strength of the patient and the severity

of the symptoms.

be

light,

Without exception, the

generally in the liquid or semi-solid form.


coffee
tity

diet

should

consisting of articles of food easily digested;

and stimulus

The

to be avoided.

All rich food,

quality

and quan-

of food cannot safely be increased until the urine

assumes a lighter color and the normal appetite returns.


(See index "use of drinking water").
of the bowels

is

desirable.

The

be grouped under one head.

must be treated

daily

movement

may

properly

Each case or each

as a whole.

therapeutics

remedy must be

patient
selected

which best covers the cause of the disease and the condition of the patient.

There are no

specifics for diseases of

In addition to the following remedies those for

the liver.

indigestion and kindred

ills

might be considered.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite In

After the

flammation.
is

the early stages of congestion or inchill

or without a

a high fever with rapid, full pulse,

much

chill,

there

if

thirst,

some-

times vomiting, skin hot and dry, patient very restless.

Pain and tenderness over the region of the liver;

may

have been caused by cold and exposure or fright and


anger.

few doses of Aconite

will

result in a

perspiration, quiet the patient, relieve the pain

perfect recovery.

free

and hasten

Aconite relieves the jaundice of new-

born infants.

Arnica

Often

the

remedy when the trouble has

JAUNDICE
been caused by an injury,
intensely lame

Arsenicum

and

189

The

fall or bloivs.

sore.

Chiefly

indicated

The

and prostrated by

slight effort.
at a time.

little

with

connection

in

from the

cases of malarial fever or in those suffering


effects of alcoholic drink.

yet drinks but

parts are

patient seems very weak,

The
Very

very great

thirst is

restless

and

fear of death, and even of being left alone.

full

of

Burning

pain in right side greatly relieved by application of heat.


All

symptoms worse

Belladonna

after midnight.

Occasionaly indicated,

associated with severe pain

and go suddenly.

Patient

from

is

gall-stones.

when

Pains come

flushed with heat and redness

Cannot

about the face and head.

especially

tolerate the least jar or

noise.

Bryonia

Sharp,

stitching pains in the liver,

worse from pressure or motion.

on painful

Pain

side.

Calcarea Carb

move

In

Patient inclined to

lie

in limbs, obstinate constipation.

Thick white coating on tongue.


attempt to rise and

much

about.

Vertigo and faintness on


Dislikes to be moved.

chronic cases with enlargement

and torpor of

liver.

abdomen with

constipation, stool of whitish clay-color.

Cold,

damp

feet,

Distention over the stomach and

with poor circulation and constant

ness on exposure to cold air or to drafts.


be the remedy with persons inclined to

chilli-

More, apt to

grow

"fat

and

flabby."

China

In

somewhat prolonged

debility or after loss of

animal

cases with

much

fluids, night-sweats, etc.

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

190

Affections of the liver in malarial regions.

Great languor, and out of humor.

and Eupator.)

Gels,

(See Ars.,

Muddled condition of the mind, with severe headache


worse at night. Tongue coated yellowish, no appetite,
great aversion to meat, sour eructations with distention

and oppression about stomach and

Useful after

liver.

frequent attacks of gall-stones, said by some to prevent

formation of the same.

Chelidonum

More or

less pain in liver

with a con-

stant pain beneath the right shoulder-blade, a reliable indication.

Also the clay-colored

Has been

curative in both acute and chronic cases.

Chamomilla

In

stool, the

children after errors in diet, after

taking cold, bad effects from anger


in

an angry,

irritable

fever

without

thirst,

much

Gastric

infants.

prostration

is

some

and headache.

disturbance

is

marked, with a

in catarrhal

inflammation.

remedy of
Bitter taste

with raw, smarting sensation in mouth and throat.


elderly people with cough, catarrhal

Lachesis

In the more

and

(See Materia Medica.)

sense of "all-gone" feeling in stomach.

importance

be

night.

in ''bilious fevers," intermittent,

fevers in malarial regions.

first

may

at

In the early stages when there

remedy of value

Hydrastis

or the patient

mood, generally worse

Often the remedy for jaundice of

Gelsemium

jaundiced skin.

In

and bronchial trouble.

chronic cases occurring dur-

ing the climacteric period, with hot flushes and inability


to

endure anything tight about the

ful nights, or

if

able to sleep

all

ivaist or chest.

Wake-

symptoms seem much

JAUNDICE
worse aftenvards.

Cannot

191

tolerate the weight of cloth-

ing or having anything about the chest and neck.

Lycopodium

Especially

indicated in chronic cases

Gas

with incessant annoyances from flatulence.


ling in

stomach and abdomen

like

is

rumb-

an yeast-pot, or

belched up as soon as patient eats even but

little,

it

is

which

gives rise to a sense of fullness or distention as after a


large meal.

Abdomen

pain running

/ro77^ right to left

Mercurius
indicated.

also distended with gas, with

is

(See Mat. Med.)

A remedy much abused but occasionally

Soreness in the liver with some pain, profuse

sweats especially

at night,

which afford no

heavily coated and flabby or swollen

of the teeth.

Tongue

relief.

taking

imprints

Breath very offensive with increased

floiv

of saliva.

Nux Vomica This remedy may

be used to bsgin

homeopathic treatment after excessive use of drugs and


especially

purgatives.

Also after over indulgence

in

highly seasoned, rich food, or in those given to the use of


alcoholic drinks
coffee,

and

dissipation.

and persons of sedentary

morning with
endure the

slightest contradiction.

diarrhea,

with

Headache

habits.

Nothing goes

irritability.

nausea and vomiting after eating.


sional

Excessive use of strong

constant

right,

in

cannot

Pressure in stomach,
Constipation or occainclination

Patient generally worse in the morning.

to

stool.

Often worse

at

M. Cannot rest or sleep. Particularly useful for


men who, from over work, or dissipation have become

J A.

very nervous and

Podophyllum

irritable.

Often

indicated and used

when

the

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

192

symptoms resemble those of Merc.


generally

In addition there

much more nausea and an

is

gag

inclination to

without vomit'mg, with weak, gone feeling in abdomen.


Jaundice of infants, with watery, painless
liver

Torpid

stool.

without fever, stools light color, yellow, pasty.

low trituration 3X often used with excellent


Pulsatilla

May

be useful

results.

in case of indigestion of

long standing which has resulted in derangement of the

The stomach symptoms predominate.

liver.

{See chap,

on indigestion.)

Sulphur

In

chronic cases where the indications are

not clear for any one remedy, or where remedies well-

chosen haA^e failed to give residts a few doses of Sulphur,

and

later
[For

proceed with the treatment


special

preparation,
"Directions."]
Its

directions

and

dose

as

to

diet,

repetition,

in the usual

selection
see

of

General

way.

the

Index

remedy.

under

DISEASES OF THE GALL-BLADDER AND

GALL-DUCTS.
Under
colic

this

head most medical authors include

and gall-stone

colic.

was treated medically


modern surgery, with
claims

for

only,
its

biliary

Formerly gall-stone disease


but in these latter years

improved methods, has made

recognition and demonstrated that surgical

operations on the gall-bladder are comparatively safe and


successful.

This triumph of modern surgery has made

relief possible in

flesh

is

heir.

one of the most painful diseases to which

It is

a sound principle in practice, confirmed

by a majority of the most capable physicians and sur-

DISEASES OF GALL-BLADDER
geons, that

193

cases, for a reasonable time at least, should

all

be considered as subjects for medical treatment, unless

urgent indications arise for early operative measures.

The co-operation of

a surgeon with the physician in these

cases often becomes quite as necessary as in appendicitis.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The presence of

gall-stone or other insoluble forma-

tions in the gall-bladder

is first

made known by some or

An

of the following symptoms.

all

a sharp, boring character

is

curved

right

portion

of the stomach.
to the navel

palpitation

of

and dyspnea.

follow.

seem

As

chest, causing

Pressure over the gall-bladder

a rule the pulse

persistent

and temperature do not

The

symptoms, except

pulse

The presence of

rapid.

pit

back and

exhaustion and symptoms of collapse

the later developments.

bile

and

rib

Nausea and vomiting are

to participate in the violent

and very

region of the

to the

and sometimes through the

in severe cases

may

lower

The pain may extend

cannot be endured.

and

the

excruciating pain of

in the

felt

is

in

occasionally small

a foreign

body

in the

duct (causing these violent symptoms) and obstruct-

ing the normal fiozv of bile will of course soon result in

jaundice and high-colored urine.

The

duration, severity

and recurrence of similar attacks depends mainly upon


the

number and

size of the gall-stones,

which vary from

that of a millet seed to that of a hen's egg.


tion of these various biliary concretions

The forma-

undoubtedly

re-

quires months and years, during which time their presence


is

not often recognized.

plain that

14

th*^.

Modern

research has

made

it

presence of these foreign bodies in the

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

194

gall-bladder often results in the bacterial infection of the

which often interfers with the normal


resulting in so-called "bilious attacks," and

entire biliary tract,

flow of bile

In these latter cases (semi-chronic)

"stomach troubles."

the paroxysms of pain are not marked, sometimes entirely


absent, yet the unmistakable
tion

and flow of

symptoms of defective

bile are present.

secre-

In such cases a line of

treatment directed towards the regulation of the action of


the liver and the normal flow of bile,
as in those characterized

is

fully as important

by great pain and more violent

symptoms.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
For those who have suffered from an attack of
stone colic, or

who

gall-

give evidence of infection of the

biliary tract, a course of treatment should be directed

against a recurrence.
its

The formation of normal

bile

and

transmission through the ducts can be greatly pro-

moted by proper management, which includes not only


For those who are
diet.

medicines but exercise and


suffering

from overwork, worry and indoor

life,

nothing

can be suggested as of greater importance than plenty


of exercise in the open
cases, horse

Walking,

air.

back riding.

golf,

and

in

some

Those who have indulged

in

"high living," especially in the excessive use of fatty


foods and sweets, should change to moderation or abstinance. All alcoholic beverages should be discontinued.

normal action of the bowels

is

most

desirable.

The

Hygenic

management and diet should be the main dependence.


The free use of pure drinking water (see index "use of
drinking water")

is

always

in order.

If possible, put aside

DISEASES OF GALL-BLADDER

195

worry and everything depressing, for the penalty


paid by the

often

is

liver.

Perhaps no one remedy has received so much commendation as olive

oil.

purpose (and

all

For many years

have used for

an olive

domestic purposes)

this

ob-

oil

macy, 145 Grand Street,

& Tafel Homeopathic PharNew York City. The purity and

consistancy of the

a matter of no small importance.

tained from the Boericke

oil is

Various theories have been advanced concerning

My own observation

of action.

enters the duct and as an

oil

has convinced

oil facilitates

the result of observation

made

that the

the passage of

This conclusion

the gall-stones into the intestinal tract.


is

oil

where

had reached the point of obstruction but was un-

more

able to do
gical

and

for a case which had

finally fatal.

who have

Olive

oil is

no

enthusiastically claimed so

become purely surspecific,

much

paved the way for some one to make the


waiting results until the
estimation

it

is

of a patient

life

pathic remedy, but

it

may

for

it

in

In

is lost.

my

connection with the homeo-

much

In acute cases with

be given in doses ranging from two to six

ounces, of the pure olive

Smaller doses are to be

oil.

given and repeated in mild or threatening attacks


a preventive of frequently recurring attacks

used

have

blunder of

should not be depended on to the

exclusion of other means.


it

fatal

and those

one of our most valuable aids and can be

used without prejudice,

pain,

com-

in fatal cases of

plete obstruction or impaction of stone in the duct

the

mode

its

me

in doses of

one tablespoonful per day.

can occur from the use of the

oil

even

or as

may be
No harm

it

in the larger doses,

except a slight indigestion which will disappear

when

DISEASES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

196
the

oil

Of

discontinued.

is

that in cases

course

must be obvious

it

where the mechanical feature so predominand renal

ates as in the passage of gall-stone

calculi, the

usual prompt, definite action of the well-selected homeopathic

How-

remedy cannot always be depended upon.

ever, there

not lacking an abundant

is

many

to prove that in

clinical

experience

remedy does

cases the indicated

in

some way overcome mechanical defects and hasten reThe patient as a whole must be considered, just
lief.
as

in

the ordinary

way

The remedy

of prescribing.

should be given often until relief follows, and


cases a change of remedies should be

made

in severe

after an in-

an hour or more.

terval of

Aconite

After

much

suffering.

the patient be-

If

extreme

comes feverish with hot skin, great

thirst,

lessness with great fear of death.

Mental and physical

Very

agony.

sensitive

to

rest-

with nausea and

pressure,

vomiting.

Belladonna
gall-bladder

Often

indicated.

and stomach

are

The

pains about the

clawing

and clutching

They come and go suddenly and are


aggravated by the least jar in the room. The

in character.

suddenly flushed, with throbbing

in

greatly

face

is

neck and head; the

pupils dilated, great aversion to any light or noise.

The pains are generally sharp and piercmuch worse from motion. Patient cannot he

Bryonia
ing,

all

moved without screaming,

prefers to

lie

on painful

side,

cannot endure the least pressure or touch about parts


volved.

Sudden change

and faintness on

rising.

in

color of

in-

face with vertigo

DISEASES OF THE GALL-BLADDER


China

By

some physicians regarded

19 7

as

most

valuable remedy in the frequently recurring mild cases,

with evidence of interference in the normal secretion and


flow of

bile,

the jaundiced skin,

and periodicity of recur-

rence.

Colocynth

Twisting,

cramping pains relieved by

pressure, patient unable to

and knees drawn up.

sit

or stand erect

bent over

Pain intense^ driving to madness.

Constant nausea with cramps and clutching

Ipecac

pain about naval.

Lycopodium

Of

importance

cases, with bloating, fermentation

and

liver.

in

the

more chronic

and pain about stomach

Constant sense of fullness, cannot drink or eat

on account of same.

Nux Vom After much


in case of those

who

dosing with crude drugs or

are given to excesses in diet or to

use of alcoholic drink.

Patient irritable, cannot tolerate

the least interference.

Podophyllum
stool, urine

Torpid

liver,

jaundice, clay-colored

high colored, nausea and gaging but cannot

vomit.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

tlie

Index

remedy,

under

DISEASES OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS.


GENERAL CONSIDERATION.
safe to say that there

It is
still

prevailing as to

This

kidney.

when

is

all

is

a great deal of uncertainty

the processes that go

The one predominant

diseased.

Many

been made by

in the

function of the

elimination of toxic material from the system


derstood.

on

true of the kidney in health as well as

is

well un-

diverse and dogmatic assertions have

specialists,

which have led

confusion

to

rather than definiteness of diagnosis and treatment. There

has been no lack of endeavor to obtain better results.

anatomical location of the kidney

is

The

not favorable to a

physical examination either during health or disease

so

much that is known has been gained from urinalysis


and post mortem examinations. Most of the organs of
that

the

body are so located that during

their

life

normal

functions and p ''hological changes can be ascertained

much

with

much

exactness.

This

it

seems

to

me

will explain

of the difference between our definite knowledge of

diseases of the kidney and those of other less important

organs.

ACUTE BRIGHT'S DISEASE.


(Acute Nephritis.)
This

The

is

by far the most prevalent disease of the kidneys.

disease

in females.

198

is

considerably

Abuse of

more common

spirituous liquors

in

males than

and exposure

to

ACUTE BRIGHTS DIEASE


cold and

dampness may be considered the chief exciting

The one

causes with men.


izes this disease

condition that most character-

albuminuria.

is

During pregnancy, albuminuria


rence.

199

It is in this

form

that

is

of frequent occur-

generally attacks

it

women.

Infectious diseases especially scarlet fever and diphtheria

are sometimes attended or followed by acute nephritis, or

This has been pre-eminently true with

Bright's disease.
scarlet

Occasionally

fever.

whooping cough and mumps.

is

it

seen

tardy convalescence should be resorted

measles,

after

Urinalysis in
to,

all

cases of

much

for

de-

pends upon the care and treatment of a case complicated


with albuminuria.

Bright's disease in the acute

makes rapid progress and

is

its

and need-

early stages, resulting in dangerous exposure


less

form

often unrecognized in

aggravation.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
In the most acute form there

some

is

chilliness followed

by

The urine
becomes scanty and dark in color, sometimes bloody. The
usual tests with heat and nitric acid will show considerable albumen. The face and limbs become pale, puffy, and
pit

fever, headache, backache

and nausea.

Dropsy may become

on pressure.

Without

general.

proper care and remedies such cases are generally

fatal.

With

Some

care and remedies most cases will recover.

will pass along,

making a

and take on

partial recovery,

form of "chronic Bright's disease," which


slower in progress and more difficult to cure.
the

[For

spoclal

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

is

simply

the

remedy,

Index

under

DISEASES OF OENITO-VRINARY ORGANS

200

URINARY ANALYSIS.
The

should

urine

intervals in health

cian

reasonable

at

of urine to be sent to the physi-

important and should be the entire 24 hours

is

and

quantity

should

lowing manner.
the

begin,

examined

and frequently during the course of

The sample

disease.

be

At

bladder

thrown away then


;

be

collected

the hour at which

should be emptied
all

the

in
it

is

and

fol-

desired to
this

urine

the urine passed in the succeed-

ing 24 hours saved and the bladder emptied at the ex-

The

piration of this time.

for

total

the

24

hours

should be measured after which a four ounce bottle of

mixed urine should then be suitably labeled and


The total amount for the 24
sent for examination.
hours should be marked on the label also. The early

this

and

definite diagnosis of Bright's, diabetes,

diseases

As

is

made by examination

and kindred

of the urine.

a result of a thorough urinary analysis the diet

can often be changed to great advantage, also the kind

and amount

of

water that the patient should drink can

thus be determined,

all

of

which

of equal import-

is

ance to the medical treatment.

CHRONIC NEPHRITIS.
The

chronic form of this disease

may approach and

continue for months and years without detection.

symptoms are
tention,

and

it

so slight

may

and obscure as

to attract

The
no

at-

not be preceded by any acute illness.

Gradually the pale face or swelling about the ankle


arouses suspicion and leads to urinalysis which estab-

CHRONIC NEPHRITIS

201

Later developments, unless checked

lishes the diagnosis.

by treatment, are essentially the same as

The hygenic management

form.

the acute

in

of these cases

is

of

In the case of children after

the utmost importance.

infectious diseases they should not be exposed to cold

too soon after recovery, and with any signs of kidney


crouble they should not go in the cold at

ance and excesses of

all

Intemper-

all.

kinds must be discontinued.

Great fatigue, nervous excitement, and exposure to cold


(See index

chilling the surface are all to be avoided.

"indications for use of drinking water.")

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

If after

exposure to cold,

follow, with dry, hot skin,

of Aeon,

Apis

may

chill

restlessness, a

and fever
few doses

be given as a temporary remedy.

Several

promptly.

and

cases occur to rne

No remedy

acute Bright's disease.

where Apis cured

presents so complete a picture of

The

pale, puffy face with swelling

about the eyes resembling a blister; general dropsy with


scanty,

bloody,

and inclined

albuminous urine.

to stupor.

Difficult

breathing

Burning pain with frequent ur-

ination.

Arsenicum

Some

similariity to Apis.

The

face

is

pale and waxy-looking, but less swelling about the eyes.

The Apis patient may be very weak but less so than Arsen.
Very restless and anxious, cannot be left alone. Thirst,
nausea and vomiting follow drinking.

must have head


quent urination.

Cannot

lie

dozvn,

Urine scanty and dark with freExhaustion after the slightest effort

high.

DISEASES OF OENITO-URINARY ORGANS

203

Belladonna

In

some cases where the brain symp-

toms predominate, throbbing

The head and

in the

head and carotids,

Constant drozvsiness but cannot sleep.

with flushed face.

face very hot, with cold feet

and hands.

After scarlet fever.

Bryonis

come
tion

After

when

measles

the chest organs be-

Premature disappearance of the erup-

involved.

with cough and painful breathing.

move

moved on account of

or be

pain,

Child cannot
faintness

and

vertigo.

Calcarea Carb

In

the milder, slower cases

with

Calcarea constitution, inclined to grow "fat and flabby,"

with tendency to curvature of the bones, large head with


faulty development of teeth and bones.

Distention of

the abdomen, perspiration profuse, especially about the

head

at night.

Cantharis

Where there

is

frequent severe, burning

pain on urination Canth. should be considered.

bloody urine with mucus and albumen.

symptoms resemble

Bell.

Also

The mental

Mania with rage and

excita-

bility.

Gelsemium

Cerebro-spinal

system

may

be

in-

volved, with drawing the head backward, considerable

fever but no thirst.

Eyes partly

Patient weak, drozvsy and

listless.

closed, with great heaviness of lids.

Kali Carb.

Especially

after

whooping-cough

the

face, especially about the upper eyelid, looks puffy or


blister-like.

Pain

in region of kidneys.

Cough and other

symptoms worse j ^. M.

Lycopodium

Gastric

derangement, with gas and

URAEMIA
abdomen.

distention of

worse 4

like

in

Back before

sediment

urinating,

Patient

in urine.

M.

8 P.

to

Pain

Red, sand

ceases after.

203

After or during- severe case of diphtheria

Lachesis

The general symptoms should be conThe kidney and bladder symptoms may be abIn some cases the urine is dark, blackish and al-

or scarlet fever.
sidered.
sent.

buminous.

Patient always worse after sleep.

Rhus Tox

May follow strains, over-lifting, getting

wet, with pain and general lameness in


pecially the back.
fever, dry

Tossing about, intensely

The

mouth and tongue.

pecially about eyes

muscles es-

all

face

with

restless,

is

swollen, es-

and nose, urine scanty and high

col-

Dropsical condition following scarlet fever, espec-

ored.

ially after

[For

exposure

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

to

damp room

directions

dose

and

as

to

from

selection

diet,

repetition,

or

see

getting zvet.

of

General

the

remedy,

Index

under

URAEMIA.
HISTORY AND SYMPTOMS.
Uraemia often forms

the last chapter in the fatal end

ing of most cases of diseases of the kidneys.


the

In health

normal kidney excretes from the blood a certain

toxic element or elements formerly thought to be urea,

hence the name uraemia.

It

has been definitely ascer-

tained that the poisonous element

of the disease continues.

is

not urea, yet the

When, from any

name

cause, the se-

creting function of the kidney ceases, this toxic element

is

retained in the blood, giving rise to the so-called Uraemia.

Much

patient research has been

expended

in the effort to

DISEASES OF GENIT -URINARY ORGANS

204

determine the nature of

mentioned.

poison but as yet the problem

this

The symptoms develop

remains unsolved.

Headache, ringing

vision, vomiting, convulsions, stupor

and death.

in the order

dimness of

in the ears,

ending

deep coma

in

During the early symptoms, the urine may

become very scanty or

entirely suppressed.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
In cases developing out of some acute disease or where
the function of one or both kidneys remains in action,

treatment

dence

may

be resorted to with a good degree of confi-

whereas those of a chronic character or growing

out of chronic disease of the kidneys are well nigh hopeless.

be flushed repeatedly with

warm

Liquids should be given freely

when

The bowels should

water injections.

Water, (See index "drinking

the stomach can tolerate.

water,") milk or lemonade,


edies

seem

Apis

Apis

is

among

piercing screams.

the

Face bloated, with

Mouth and tongue dry

with startings

restlessness

Urine scanty or

first.

drowsy condition with occassional

Dull,

Arsenicum

Few rem-

be helpful.

cover the ordinary case.

to

suppressed.

eyes.

may

all

but no

pufifness about the


thirst.

The stupor

in sleep is characteristic.

Stupor

not

marked.

and tossing from place

nausea.

Face swollen but

ous, full

of fear.

pale,

Instead,

to place.

great

Thirst zvith

sometimes pinched, anxi-

Urine scanty, albuminous, with burn-

ing in the kidneys and bladder.

Belladonna
measles.

The

After
urine

is

acute
scanty.

disease,

scarlet

fever

or

Feet cold, head and face

CYSTITIS

Drowsy but

hot.

of noise or

Dread

constantly starting up in sleep.

Pupils dilated.

light.

Head

drawn back, with stupor and

Prostration.

After injury or disease of the

Gelsemium
spasms.

205

brain and spinal cord.

Painless,

Opium

heavy sleep with loud breathing,

total loss of consciousness, eyes half -closed, pupils

much

contracted.
[For
its

special

preparation,

directions

and

dose

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

General

remedy,

the

Index

under

"Directions."']

CYSTITIS.
(Inflammation of the Bladder.)

CAUSE AND SYMPTOMS.


Acute

Cystitis

is

characterized by a few definite symp-

toms which taken as a whole ought

The

or confusion as to a diagnosis.

any doubt

to prevent

frequent, almost con-

stant desire to pass water which causes intense burning

pain

is

always present.

The

region of the bladder

is

very

sensitive to pressure, with sensation of heat, pressure

pain

all

The

worse from exercise.

sociated with, or by

some good

disease

now

is

as-

authorities claimed to be

caused by the presence of septic micro-organisms, the


sults of their action

and

on the mucous membrane

re-

constitut-

ing cystitis.

There are several factors which favor infection of the


bladder, as for instance the presence of stone, partial or

complete retention of urine, or anything that

weaken or injure the mucous

may

irritate,

surfaces, as the unskillful

DISEASES OF GENITO-VRINARY ORGANS

206

use of an infected catheter,

etc.

In fact, the same causes

and conditions that bring about bacterial infection

else-

where, will lead to infection of the bladder.

CHRONIC CYSTITIS.
The causes
moved,

that bring about acute cystitis,

will in

due time establish chronic

if

not re-

cystitis.

The

symptoms of the latter are less severe but far more persistent. The character of the urine becomes turbid and soon
throws down a thick, wdiitish sediment composed largely
of

mucus and

pus, with traces of albumen.

The microscope

reveals

bacteria

is

The chronic form


some

subject to acute exacerbations due to

itating cause.

middle age and


of

abundance, also

in

blood and bladder epithelium and pus.

all

The

disease

is

far

special

more frequent

ir-

after

is

one of the most persistently prevalent

in old age,

hence the prognosis of complete and

ultimate recovery

is

whether the patient

is

unfavorable.

Much depends upon

so situated that the extremes of ex-

posure and fatigue can be avoided, also intemperance and

extremes of

all

description.

MEDICAIi TREATIVIENT.
In the acute form the patient should be placed in bed;
in the

chronic form, moderate exercise

zualking

often proving less

irritating

is

permissible,

than riding.

In

chronic septic cases with characteristic urine the patient

should drink freely of water..

(See index "drinking

water.")

Aconite

In

acute cases where after exposure to

CYSTITIS

207

cold chill and fever follow, with thirst and restlessness.

Urine scanty and high-colored.

Apis Urine very

scanty with dark,

smoky

look.

Constant urging, with burning, stinging pain during and

few drops.

after passing a

Arsenicum
tress,

Burning pain, frequent urging and

causing exhaustion and cold sweat.

tended from retention.

Bladder

Thirst, restlessness

disdis-

and anxiety.

Urine scanty, turbid, mixed with blood, pus and mucus.

Belladonna

After

Aeon.,

patient

if

feverish, skin hot, throbbing pain, all

from

noise, light or jar.

continues

symptoms worse

Bladder very sensitive to the

slightest touch.

Cantharis

The

Oftener

used than any other remedy.

intense burning, scalding pain that follows the pass-

ing of a few drops of urine

the constant urging, with

spasmodic pains about the parts

the fever and thirst,

and yet the sight of water increases the pain.

Urine often

bloody and scant.

or

Dulcamara After exposure to cold, damp weather,


when smyptoms are always worse when the weather

changes from

Hydrastis
pus

warm

In

to cold.

chronic cases with

in the urine, especially in old

much mucus and

people with cough and

catarrhal affections.

Lycopodium

Much

relief after

voiding the urine,

especially in cases inclined to gravel; uric acid in the urine


is

abundant.

Inclined to flatulence and distention of the

stomach and abdomen.

DISEASES OF GEN IT -URINARY ORGANS

308

Nux Vomica Painful,

ineffectual

urging for stool and to urinate.

Nervous and

ment.

and

Bad

dissipate.

irritable,

constant

with those inclined to dose

from

effects

but

Cannot endure exciteand the use

loss of sleep

of strong coffee.
[For

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

and

dose

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

Genei'al

the

Index

remedy,
under

DIABETES MELLITUS.
In recent years this disease has generally been classed

with constitutional diseases rather than disease of the


Diabetes

kidney.

men

as

is

a disease twice as prevalent

among women.

hood and middle

age.

It

among

occurs principally during child-

Occasionaly

it

seems to be heredi-

tary.

CAUSATION AND SYIVIPTOMS.

Among

the exciting causes mention

may

be

made

of

intemperance, excessive use of sweets or saccharine food,

The beginning of
insidious and the symptoms so few that
it is ever recognzied until somewhat ad-

exposure to cold, violent emotion,


the disease
it is

is

doubtful

vanced.

The

appetite,

and

so
if

slight loss of flesh,


thirst,

may

thought of diabetes.
all

these

precede

with loss of, or excessive

many

However,

symptoms become

etc.

ailments without a

at a later period,

when

greatly increased, together

with excessive flow of urine, dry, parched mouth and


throat, the suspicion of diabetes

Of

tainty.

make

it

becomes a practical

course, analysis of the urine

absolute.

The presence

is

cer-

required to

of sugar in the urine

DIABETES
when

209

detected, even varying quantities

extending

but

over a considerable time, will establish the diagnosis.

There are three characteristic features about every


case of diabetes which seldom

if

ously with any other disease, viz


in the urine,

the

ever occur simultane-

The presence

excessive secretion of urine,

of sugar

the dry

The complications

throat with intense thirst at night.

growing out of chronic diabetes are of the gravest


I

sort.

can readily recall some distressing cases of gangrene.

The prognosis
ones

in acute cases or a relapse in chronic

often fatal in a few weeks or months

is

ment, they

may

whereas

Such cases

continue twenty-five years.

now under my

are

milder chronic form and under the best of manage-

in the

observation.

DIET AND TREATMENT.

prescribed diet with

objections.

and

flesh, all

It

all its

limitations

not without

is

often results in loss of appetite, strength

good adjuncts

ever, in diabetes

to a

some general

normal condition.

How-

principles are important.

From "time out of mind" gluten bread and foods with the
minimum amount of starch or sugar have been prescribed
for

all

diabetics.

Eggs,

fish,

and some meat are allowable.

Pure drinking water should be taken


and beer should be avoided.
check for
as

The

disease

Spirits,

may

years, provided the patient

is

wine

be held in
so situated

avoid great physical fatigue and exposure, and

to

what

many

freely.

is

quite as important, persistent

worry of any

whether about the disease or business cares.


in the

open
15

sort

Exercise

air to a reasonable extent is far preferable

DISEASES OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS

310

The

to the office or store.

seldom

disease

is

said to occur very

in the country.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.

No

been found or ever

specific for diabetes has ever

will be

This

alike.

two cases are

for the very good reason that no

is

practically true of every disease.

The

diversity of conditions requires a diversity of remedies.

The

therapeutics of

As

disease.

all

schools seem to be barren in this

a homeopathist,

my

confession

is

that I can-

not recall a genuine case that remained cured.


siderable

way

such a

many

number have been managed and

that average health has been maintained for

years.

If the disease

alcoholic drink

was caused by the use of

and related excesses, the

were made known

nosis

con-

instructed in

to the

facts

and prog-

thus gaining

patients,

their co-operation in treatment.

Nux

Vomica,

aided by

tions,

diet, starts

first

low and

later in the higher attenua-

an entire change of habits

a case on a

new

lease of

life.

as often indicated in cases of this kind.

mental condition called for Nux, or


that

had been dosed with

all

would have the preference.


thirst,

if

and a proper

Arsen.

is

was one

the case

sorts of nostrums,
If,

quite

If the patient's

added

Nux.

to the diabetic

the patient gave evidence of decided weakness,

with involvment of the stomach and bowels, Ars. could


fairly claim the preference.
illustration.

So much

in

way

the

of

Other remedies, for instance, Pho. and Dulc.

might be properly compared, both

in

and symptoms of the

Putting the

diabetes out of

mind

disease.

regard to the cause

name of

as a disease of the kidney,

(which

AMENORRHEA
some good

command
to expect

would be the

authorities have done)

in the search for a

first

patient as a whole

step

must

and every case of diabetes has a right

attention,

some

The

remedy.

211

benefit if not a speedy

and permanent

cure.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

as

directions

and

dose

to

diet,

selection

of

General

see

repetition,

remedy,

tbe

Index

under

DISORDERS OF MENSTRUATION.

AMENORRHEA.
Menstruation, the "monthly period,"

women between

tion of

marked deviation from

the ages of

this

is

15

a normal func-

and

normal function

by one of the following names

is

Any

45.

expressed

amenorrhea, dysmen-

orrhea, menorrhea, metrorrhagia.

Amenorrhea, or absent menstruation, may be due


to

non-appearance or

the

first

suppression.

menstrual period occurs,

ranging from 12 to
girl is in

to

good

18.

for medication, but

if

far

at

either

which

from uniform,

during this time the young

If

health, there

is

The age

no occasion for worry or

is

there

is

a tendency to anaemia,

cough, lack of development and general nervousness, the


case should be under treatment.
are delayed by

Occasionally, the menses

some congenital defect which does not

materially affect the health and

The second form

is

without a remedy.

of amenorrhea in which the menses

have appeared and subsequently failed to reappear at


the proper time.

medical treatment.
its

effect

Such a case may require care and

The cause

of the suppression and

upon the patient should be considered.

If the

DISEASES OF GENITO-VRINARY ORGANS

213

suppression
it

may

is

sudden, from a cold, fright or excitement,

develop immediately some acute form of disease,

and should be remedied

management and the


in

most

soon as possible.

as

right

remedy

will

Proper

accomplish

this,

cases.

Another form of amenorrhea, more common and not


so easily cured,

and

the gradually decreasing

is

ceasing menses, which often precedes or

so associated

is

with some deep-seated disease as to render


determine whether the suppression

to

may

difficult

it

the cause or

is

Sometimes the one and

result of the existing disease.

sometimes the other

finally

Such cases are

be the case.

often the victims of neglect until the system becomes

making an

deteriorated, especially the lungs,

culture-bed for the tubercular bacillus.

attractive

This form often

occurs from too close confinement indoors, as with schoolgirls,


if

or those of the store and factory.

neglected,

variety of
largely

may
ers

may

The

develop into the chronic

acute form,

state.

great

symptoms follows such suppression, depending

upon the predisposition of the

patient.

In one

it

be hysteria, in another incipient tuberculosis, in oth-

profound anaemia.

partial

amenorrhea may

with some without serious menace to health, yet

always thus and,

if

As an outgrowth

possible,

it

the nose, lungs or elsewhere.

may happen without


sarily of

for,

may

occur,

it

not

may

some

be from

This vicarious hemorrhage

organic disease, and

serious import, yet

promptly treated

it is

should be corrected.

of delayed or suppressed menses

forms of vicarious hemorrhage

exist

all

is

not neces-

such cases should be

when morbid symptoms and

con-

AMENORRHEA
ditions appear

is

it

213

never right or safe to stand too long

on the ground of the conservative physiologist, willing


to trust all to the

power of unaided nature.

Homeopathic remedies have won many an easy victory


in

amenorrhea.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Remedies selected with care and discontinued zvhen
their ivork

Aconite
exposed
tion.

is

done

In

is

the ride.

full-blooded

plethoric,

to chill, cold zv-ind, fright, or

Tendency of blood

young women,

checked perspira-

to the head, with fever, thirst

and nervousness.

Arsenicum

In cases of long standing, anaemic and

debilitated, least exertion fatigues

and causes rapid

Inclined to nausea and thirst.

piration.

yet inclined to chilliness.

Belladonna

Puffiness of face and ankles.

For acute

suppression, with

res-

Burning pains,

symptoms following sudden

some excitement,

flushed

face

and

throbbing headache, pain across the abdomen, cannot en-

dure jar or noise, very excitable and even delirious.

Bryonia
there
to

is

After suppression, especially

in

slow cases

a frequent nosebleed, patient irritable

and averse

motion.

Vertigo on rising up or moving about.

Calcarea Carb

Inclined to "fat and flabbiness,"

Calc. constitution, cold,

damp

feet,

head, bloating about the stomach.

much headache

in

young

girls.

the

with heat about the

Chronic cases with

214

DISEASES OF GENITO-VRINARY ORGANS

Chamomilla Irritable and impatient about everyWorse after checked perspiration or fits o anger.
One cheek red and the other pale. Symptoms worse at

thing.

night.

Colocynth

with suppression there

If

is

severe colic

the patient bending double with agony.

Dulcamara Suppression from sudden change


damp weather.

to

cold,

Ignatia

Hysteria

develops with laughing and cry-

ing, constantly sighing.

Suppression from

grief

and

trouble, cannot sleep.

Lachesis

In

middle aged, or

The hot

the climateric.

approaching

flashes are distressing, heat

top of the head, aggravation of


sleep.

women

all

symptoms

on

after a short

Considerable nervousness and disposition to talk

constantly.

Natrum Mur

Melancholy

intense headache.

Pulsatilla

Often

ting the feet wet.


trifles,

at

time of menses, with

Worse every day


indicated.

at ii

A. M.

Suppression from get-

Patient becomes nervous, weeping at

inclined to be chilly, yet craves the

open

air.

Di-

gestion deranged, with coated tongue and bad taste in

mouth every morning.

Sepia In

delicate, feeble constitutions

look about the face and nose.

with sallow

Feeling of weakness in the

abdomen.

May

be useful after Puis.

Sulphur

few doses may be given when other

DY8MEN0RRHEA-MEN0RRHEA
remedies

fail to act, especially in

215

scrofulous subjects or

those subject to eruption, or from suppressing the same.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

as

directions

and

dose

to

diet,

selection
see

repetition,

of

General

remedy,

the

under

Index

DYSMENORRHEA.
Painful menstruation in some degree at

least,

seems to

be the rule up to child-bearing, which generally results


in

permanent

Such cases are doubtless due

relief.

mechanical or obstructive

by dilation of the cervix


This
tion

is

cd.nsQ's,

to

which are often relieved

uteri.

accomplished by a simple and harmless opera-

which should be performed zvhen remedies

relieve the pain.

fail to

functional form of dysmenorrhea

more common and one which remedies alone can


In the early or congestive stage

of

is

cure.

menstruation, the

The sympathetic nerves involving

ovaries suffer most.

the uterus and abdominal organs feel the shock of this

Whatever the cause of dysmen-

congestion and suffering.


orrhea, the subject of
the feet for a day or

it

should avoid being too

tv^^o

much on

before the monthly period.

See

remedies under amenorrhea.

MENORRHEA.
Excessive menstruation

may

be of two kinds

its

oc-

currence too often, or too great amount at the right time.

This affection

is

most common

may become anaemic

in

in the

anaemic, or they

consequence of

it.

Absolute

quiet and rest at the time of the periods has a beneficial


effect.

DISEASES OF GENlTO-URINARY ORGANS

216

METRORRHAGIA.
This term

is

used to signify a uterine hemorrhage not


This

connected with the menses.


or

it

may

causes are many.

may be
same, it may

shock,

the

may

be somewhat active

The

be shght, passive and long continued.

it

It

may

occur from sudden fright or

a precursor of a miscarriage or follow

occur before, during or after confine-

ment, or from disease, especially cancerous, during and


after the change of

Regardless of the cause of the

life.

hemorrhage the patient should be placed


utmost quiet maintained.

come under

my

in

care and observation,

few have

respond to the Homeopathic remedy, and

none that proved

bed and the

Recalling the cases that have

failed to

remember

fatal.

MEDICAL TREAT3IENT.

Aconite

to be

With the pain and hemorrhage there

mental and physical agitation, pulse

or small and fast,

when

predicting death
fright^

to chill

mind

filled

there

full

is

and

apt
fast

with fear and apprehension,


is

no danger.

Exposure

to

which has checked perspiration causing

fever and thirst.

Vertigo and faintness on rising up.

Particularly suitable for full blooded, robust habit.

Arnica

much

In cases that occur after

fall

or injury, with

soreness and lameness about the body.

the head and cold extremeties.

Heat of

Shock, with nausea and

vomiting.

Arsenicum

General

exhaustion on slightest

appearance of anaemia with


effort.

In cases during or after

the climateric, with burning pain in the parts involved.

METRORRHAGIA
Worse

after niidnight, cannot rest or

with several pillozvs

Belladonna

down except

and bearing down pain

is

Pain comes suddenly and disappears

Flow of

same way.

lie

head.

to raise the

Pressure

severe and constant.


in the

217

bright red blood, with

much

vascular excitement, throbbing of head and carotids, hot,


flushed face.

Bryonia
Aching

in the limbs

is

dark

color

in

and back,

all

and not profuse.

worse from the

Patient asks to be quiet.

motion.

on

Blood

least

Vertigo and naiisea

rising.

Carbo. Veg.

In

end seems near.


for

air,

livid,

when

the

patient begging

pidse very iveak.

Chamomilla

Violent

pains labor-like extending to

Flowing profuse, with after pains.

the limbs.

very

cases of long standing

Surface cold and

irritable

Patient

and impatient with the pains and with

at-

tendants.

China
less

Already much bood

and near

collapse.

lost,

Ringing

patient looks blood-

in the ears

and dimness

of vision, colic and distention of the abdomen.

After

labor or miscarriage China has held and cured the most

desperate cases.

Colocynth
to

draw

some

The

dysmenorrhea causes the patient

the lower limbs up to the abdomen,

relief.

which affords

Pains severe and worse from eating or

drinking.

Ignatia

Dysmenorrhea

jects full of
ter.

Bad

in

nervous, hysterical sub-

weeping and sobbing alternating with laugh-

effects

from grief and disappointment.

DISEASE 8 OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS

318

Ipecac

Often indicated and very potent when, with

constant nausea and cutting pain about the umbiHcus, the


patient
tive

is

ac-

hemorrahage after confinement or miscarriage.

Nux Vom Pain

the

in

abdomen, with constant


Patient intemperate and

urging for stool and to urinate.


high

and

An

flowing profusely a bright red blood.

liver, inclined to

dose and dissipate.

Very

Phosphorus

Tall,

slim,

women

frail

inclined

bleed profusely from every cut or injury.

Pulsatilla

Painful

causing cramps.

is

Complaint

The

with definite symptoms and temperament.

hemorrhage

to

Deep-acting remedy

of weak, gone feeling in abdomen.

position to

sensitive

over everything.

irritable

predis-

characteristic.

and sometimes delayed menses

Patient tosses about in agony.

Young

yet averse to hot room.

girls

Chilly,

of mild, yielding,

tearful temperament, or those passing through the critical age.

Veratrum Alb

For

dysmenorrhea associated with

a watery diarrhea, cramps and cold szveat on the forehead,


Verat.

toms

is

is

well nigh specific.

not

[For special directions


preparation,
dose and
"Directions."]
its

Such a combination of symp-

uncommon.
as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

CLIMACTERIC PERIOD

219

CLIMACTERIC PERIOD.
(Change

The
tion

climacteric period

and character.

It

of Life.)

extremely indefinite in dura-

is

intended to include not only

is

symptoms and con-

the cessation of menses, but also such


ditions as develop before, during

and after the

The average age may be considered

cessation.

as about 45, but in

this respect great variation also prevails.

It

may

take

place before 40, or continue until after 50, depending

somewhat upon

the age

If at the age of

40 the menses occur with irregularity as

to time

and duration,

when

fair to

is

it

the menses

first

appeared.

assume that

it

the

is

beginning of the end of menstruation.

With many women


of irregularity

may

in

good

be about

all

health, such a condition

that

is

discoverable, while

with others the general health and local symptoms

may

be such as to require the best of care and the most accurate prescribing.

one of the

persistent,

excessive flowing

local conditions to be treated,

is

and remedies

described under the head of menorrhea or metrorrhagia

During

this period, the uterus

to various diseases,

some even malignant,

should be considered here.

becomes prone

and' special care should be taken to discover the same at


the earliest period, while treatment

The general

health in

many

may

be successful.

cases becomes considerably

impaired, owing to the shock of this "change of life."

In some, the symptoms are


sation of the

menses and

it

more marked
is

after the ces-

at this point that

are most frequently called for.

Much

remedies

depends upon the

DISEASES OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS

220

temperament of the

individual.

down upon the mind like a


come extremely sensitive, even
tles

may extend

once well past, a

is

new form of
"a new lease

hysterical,

while others

over a period of a few months,

The

or four or five years.

change

Others be-

Such are the varied experi-

are "generally miserable."

ences which

In some, melancholy setblack cloud.

bright side

is

woman may

that

settle

when the
down to a

and with good reason look forward

life,

of life."

If

during

this

to

change and read-

justment the mental and physical resources can be spared

from special
imum.

strain, all risks zvill he

reduced

to the

min-

SYMPT03IS AND TREATMENT.


has been said, the symptoms vary with the indi-

As

vidual temperaments, yet there are a few which are com-

mon
ly,

to

all.

Tlie flushes of heat

coming and going quick-

are perhaps the most troublesome of

all.

Sometimes

perspiration breaks out suddenly, with a rush of blood to


the head

and

face.

In those of a nervous type the mental equilibrium


in danger.

The anxious

and conversation
It is
is

full

gaze, the tearful eye, the

is

mind

of forebodings, are often met with.

not always easy to convince such that the condition

only temporary and that remedies will do

much

to re-

lieve.

The remedies which


in the

are often called for are

order of importance.

named

Lachesis, Pids., Ign. and Sid-

phur.

After noting the symptoms and conditions carefully,

DIAGNOSIS OF PREGNANCY

321

turn to the Materia Medica, Part III. and select the

remedy.

Others

will be indicated

ments, and reference

is

according to special develop-

made

to

remedies described under

the head of amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea


Bell.,

and metrorrhgia.

Calc. Carh., China, Ipec, Lyco. and Rhus, are rem-

edies to be thought of.


[For

special

directions

and

dose

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

as

to

selection

diet,

see

repetition,

of

General

tlie

Index

remedy,
undei

THE DIAGNOSIS OF PREGNANCY.


The

sign of pregnancy

first

of the menses and this sign


it

afifords the earliest

to determine the

struation

may

is

and most

usually the supression

is

of great practical value, as


reliable

day of confinement.

datum upon which

Of

course men-

be interrupted by other causes than preg-

nancy, (see index, amenorrhoea) but the suppression of


the menses in perfectly healthy

previously regular

is

women who have

been

a strongly presumptive sign of preg-

nancy.

Among
pregnancy

the early and


is

more

characteristic

the persistant nausea

symptoms of

(occuring usually in

the morning) which has been termed "morning sickness."

This nausea

is

always worse from the odors of the

kit-

The stomach of the


pregnant women is proverbially capricious and fanciful
and the mental symptoms or disposition may be even more
strikingly so.
Minor signs or symptoms are numerous
but the above are especially characteristic and common.
chen, especially of cooking food.

DISEASES OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS

323

DISORDERS OF PREGNANCY.
Fortunately most of the disorders of pregnancy are

comparatively

and

trivial

The nausea and

self-limited.

vomiting seldom continues after the third or

month.

fourth

Occasionally there occurs a persistent and un-

which continues through the entire

controllable vomiting

period of gestation; Such cases are rare, due doubtless


to

mechanical and reflex causes, not easily overcome by

remedies or
is

Constipation during the early months

diet.

common, which

with

piles, all

in the later

months

is

often associated

of which as a rule disappear after confine-

ment.

Toothache during pregnancy

is

sometimes persistent;

even without any structural defect of the teeth; more


frequently

it

is

from decay or

should be remedied
use of temporary

fillings.

orders of pregnancy
later

is

One
the

which

a defective tooth

in the easiest, quickest

way by

the

of the most serious dis-

development ( towards the

months) of acute Bright's

disease.

full descrip-

tion of this disease has been given elsewhere.

It

should

be said here that an analysis of the urine should be

made

every month during the period of gestation and whenever


there occurs swelling of the face, hands and feet, the

urine should be examined often, for the fluctuation in the

amount of albumen
very marked.

in this

form of Bright's disease

is

Bright's disease as a rule strongly predis-

poses to abortion or premature labor.

HYGIENE OF PREGNANCY

333

THE HYGIENE OF PREGNANCY.


This

may

and drink,

properly include the following topics

clothing, bathing, air, exercise, rest,

food

and the

mental condition.

After an observation, extending over a period of forty


years and including
able to discover

methods of

diet.

kinds of cases,

all

any virtue

in the

have not been

extreme or exclusive

rational hygiene

is

always in order

and anything that involves a radical change of habits


seldom necessary and occasionally does harm.
I

some advantage from a moderate

think,

There
diet

is
is,

which

should include plenty of vegetables, fruit and water, with


a light allowance of meat.

months the appetite


indulged to the

Women

full

During a portion of the nine

abnormally increased and when

is

extent the results are not good.

of active habits, with plenty of physical exercise

seem

in the

open

air

those

who

are inclined to be indolent or of sedentary

to

go through

stages better than

all

Working women not used to high living, but quite


used to work and daily activity, who have no occasion
life.

for the use of tight corsets but dress comfortably, are the

ones

and

who seem

to pass

through the period of gestation

specially the time of confinement with the least in-

convenience and suffering.


I

think

it

is

demands some
pel

many

beyond dispute that the mental condition


attention,

and yet

if I

could

would

dis-

of the popular illusions which needlessly harass

the pregnant

woman, but only general

stated here.

Anything that seriously disturbes or dim-

inishes

the

mental

principles can be

and moral equilibrium should be

224

DISEASES OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS

avoided.

It

would seem that the natural

keep one from appearing

in

public places wdiere deformities of


to

meet the

eye.

instinct

and

all

kinds are most apt

There are ways and places of amusement

which are harmless, and with a natural tendency


pondency, there should be introduced into daily
influences as will cheer

speculation, there

is

life

such

much

that

is

but the purest

enough evidence

to

show

is

mental and moral status of the pregnant

upon

to des-

and promote a happy disposition

throughout; while there

an influence

would

places of excitement

that the

woman

exerts

the foetus in utero.

For the medical treatment of the various disorders


cident to

in-

pregnancy see Index under Nausea and Vomit-

ing, Constipation,

Toothache, Bright's Disease,

etc.

CARE OF INFANTS.
Volumes have been written on
the diseases of children.

To

the care of infants, and

the latter, due consideration

has already been given under different divisions.


index).

The

(See

care of infants, (first year of life) although

of very great importance, cannot be treated at length

here; nevertheless, the experience of a

life

time should

contribute something of practical value in the interest of


the helpless, defenseless new-comer,

whose limited voca-

bulary consists chiefly of a "cry" for help and the best


interpreter of that language

The

is

the best friend of the baby.

mortality of infants, although considerably less

than in former years,


true in the

crowded

is still

too great.

localities, in cities

This

is

especially

where poverty,

ig-

INFANT FEEDING
norance and

sorts of uncleanness are

all

new born

found, so that the

infant

by surroundings and dangers with

My

225

is

at

most apt

to be

once handicapped

resultant fatalities.

its

observation extending over a considerable time, and

including both the city and the country districts,


infant mortality

is

sentials the infant of

cared for.

Of

one or two years of age

air,

all es-

properly

course, this not only includes proper nour-

ishment, the most important of

pure

is

that

is

very small in families where in

but sleep, clothing,

all,

bathing, cleanliness, etc.

INFANT FEEDING.

No

argument

is

needed as to the wisdom of every

mother nursing her infant when

practicable.

to say that the infant nursing a

normal mother

from

to be protected

artificial feeding,

of

itself

a legion of dangers that

and so has a better chance

It is
is

safe

sure

come from

to live,

which

should be a compelling motive to the true mother.

All other methods of feeding are properly called sub-

and

stitutes
is

available

artificial.

The

first

and best substitute that

cow's milk, providing

is

fresh and pure

but this in cities

is

it

however much has been done, and more

make

it

The

easier

can be obtained

confessedly

difficult,

will be done, to

and safer for infants using cow's milk.

question of diluting the milk depends upon dif-

ferent factors, as for instance, the richness of the milk,


the age of the infant, etc.

with very young infants,


freely

on the

start

vided the milk

is

In using cows milk, especially


it

is

the safest plan to dilute

and by degrees diminish the same prowell digested, thus guarding against

the baby's "cry for food," which


16

is

sure to

come

if

the

DISEASES OF GENITO-URINARY ORGANS

326

supply of nourishment

when added

both in quality and

Pure sugar of milk

Whenever

mother's milk,

is

the quality of the

both should be stere-

in doubt,

thus reducing risks to the minimum.

As
ful,

insufficient.

taste.

milk or water supply


lized,

is

in a small quantity simulates

to other substitutes,

as

which are sometimes very useshould be mentioned

well as always available,

condensed milk, and malted milk, especially for those

who

are traveling, changing about, or far


also they

may

to agree.

In a case where

jected, the white of

all

from the base

when cows milk

be used

of supplies

food disagrees, or

fails

is

re-

an agg well beaten up will temporarily

meet the demands of the case without taxing the digestion.

In connection with feeding the question of weight,


increase and

its

decrease at different ages, furnishes a pre-

sumptive guide as to whether proper nourishment


being supplied.

Of

in suf-

ficient

quantity

ations

must not be taken too seriously for the reason that

other causes

is

may

course, slight vari-

be operative, such as teething, impure-

The following chart as constructed


by Dr. Holt furnishes a good approximation as to the

in-door-air, etc., etc.

proper ratio between age, height and weight.

AGE

HEIGHT

Birth

2o inches

WEIGHT
7^

lbs.

15 pounds

months

24 inches

year

29

"

"

32

"

"

35

"

31

"

"

38

"

35

"

21
.

26

INFANT SLEEP
"
5

40

"

40

43

"

45

"

44
48

47
60

"

"

"

7
8

"
"

237

'

53
100

"

'

INFANT SLEEP.
No

function of infant

life is

essential than perfect sleep.

more

more

interesting or

Beginnning with eighteen

hours out of the twenty-four, and decreasing gradually


each succeeding month

is

the normal infant

training by the mother or nurse

amount of

may

greatly

life.

Early

modify the

If regular hours of sleep are encour-

sleep.

aged, nature will soon do the rest, greatly to the benefit

of

all

After an infant

concerned.

is

6 months old,

it

is

unnecessary to feed between the hours of 10 P. M. and


6 A. M., at least an interval of six to eight hours

may

elapse at a single time for continuous sleep, with possible

exceptions from

No

illness, etc.

doubt the newborn finds the greatest comfort and

protection in the soft woolen garment, and with the begin-

ning of out-door
sizing

should be well supplied.

life, it

some of these fundamentals, now

derstood,

is

all

the space will permit.

Empha-

fairly well un-

Not only should

the nursery be well ventilated and sunny, but the child

should have a daily airing.

proper clothing for

all

Of

course,

it is

assumed that

kinds of weather will be provided,

and due protection from draughts will be regarded, the


neglect of which has in these days of open air enthusiasm, caused the

illness

and death

of

many

an infant.

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

238

Another matter of importance

is

the child to regular habits of stool.

the early training of

This in the majority

of cases can be accomplished by perserverance and regularity as to time.

The

occasional use of an

warm

water, either in health or sickness

able.

Of

course the daily bath

in case of illness.

and that

is

is

enema of

not objection-

never neglected, except

Only the purest soap should be used,


Following the bath nourishment

in moderation.

and sleep should follow.

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM.


(Brain and Spinal Cord.)

The nervous system with

a function that has to do with

every organ and tissue of the body presents


cate subject for even

a-

most

the specialist to explain or

intri-

compre-

hend, and to consider the same except in the most prac-

way would seem quite out of place and unprofitable


those who are supposed to make practical use of this

tical

for

book.

For

instance,

any speculation as

tutes "brain or nerve force" or


their function, interesting as

speculative.

The same

is

it is,

how

to

what

consti-

the nerves perform

has thus far been largely

quite true of the "sympathetic

nerves," and "nerve reflexes," or disturbances in the sys-

tem from

Of

course nothing less than an exhaustive treatise by a

specialist
ful

reflex action.

can satisfy the physician

differentiation of

all

who

is

making

a care-

the diseases of the brain

and

SLEEP AND INSOMNIA

329

'

seem somewhat chaotic

spinal cord, but such might

to the

Only the
more common diseases with the early symptoms and conaverage laymen or even the busy practitioner.

ditions quite

common

and spinal diseases

to all acute brain

and the remedies hereinafter

will be briefly considered,

described will be in proportion to their frequent use and


definite indications

The

and not according

early use of the indicated

name

to

remedy

of disease.

very important.

is

Acute brain and spinal diseases often follow an acute


tack of some other disease.

Especially

with eruptive fevers and other diseases

Many

dren.

result

is

at-

this the case

common

to chil-

from prolonged and intense application

of the brain to study and business, or to causes which interfere greatly with the required

Preliminary to the attack there

amount of
is

sleep.

generally a persistent

wakefulness, pain in the head and back with more or less


fever and later by delirum, sometimes of a very violent
type,

which

still

ultimately coma.

later

may

be followed by drowsiness and

In the early history of such cases, the

much

proper homeopathic remedies will not only give


relief,

but

may

prevent the farther development of a very

serious disease.

SLEEP AND INSOMNIA.


ITS

RELATION TO HEALTH AND DISEASE.

Sleep as a normal function of

one of the unexplained mysteries.

all

animate creation

That

is

is

should come

unbidden with the regularity of the setting sun but deepens the obscurity; that

it

disappears

when

its

normal

DISEASES OF NEYOUS SYSTEM

230

function has been accomplished

That the child or the adult

down

in

equally inscrutiable.

is

in perfect health,

should

settle

an unconscious state and remain thus for 8 hours

out of the twenty-four

then arousing to

full

one of the marvels of Creation

is

consciousness and activity for the

sixteen remaining hours

is

none the

less so.

contradictory explanations are on record

The most

but the primal

fact or facts cannot be explained.

Likewise, the nature

of brain action and nerve force

practically

unknown.

many

others, as

is

Let us accept these facts as we must so

wise provisions of a Beneficent Intelligence. "The


of God."

This

much we

knozv, that sleep

is

gift

nature's great

conservator of health, and in sickness sleep comes to us


as

"nature's sweet restorer;"

therefore the following

premises must stand undisputed.

with normal sleep

will, in

Whatever

some degree

interferes

at least, interfere

with perfect health ; and whatever promotes normal sleep


will

prove a potent influence

This brings us naturally

in regaining health

when

lost.

to a consideration of the topic.

Sleep and insomnia.

These two opposite conditions are yet so correlated


that the lesson of this chapter can be best presented by

considering the two toe:ether.

SLEEP.
Sleep, to be absolutely

normal or

ideal,

should come to

the individual with reasonable regularity as to time and

continue with slight

if

any interruptions, for a reasonable

period say from seven to nine hours, depending somewhat

upon the individual

case.

It

should be free from vivid

SLEEP AND INSOMNIA

231

dreams, at least such as agitate the mind and weary the


body.

should, with returning consciousness, give a

It

sense of rest and vigor both to mind and body, a condition


delightful to experience but impossible to describe.

luxury of perfect sleep

is

How

a minority of adults.

The

confined largely to children and

promote sleep or

to

to over-

come wakefulness can best be ascertained by a careful


consideration of the more common causes of insomnia.

INSOMNIA.
This term

is

used by

many

degrees of sleeplessness, but

is

ness,

it

forms and

all

should apply more speci-

those extreme cases where persistent loss of

fically to

sleep

to include all
it

the rule.

In dealing with any case of sleepless-

would be most

irrational to give medicine or ad-

vice until after a careful hearing of the case

and a deter-

It is

well to understand that in-

somnia generally exists as a

result rather than a cause,

mination of the cause.

in other

words

is

symptomatic.

from too much, too

little,

It

might be indigestion

or improper food, in which case

both remedies and advice should aim to remove the cause,

Another form

after which the insomnia will disappear.

of sleeplessness, quite different in causation and


difficult to

overcome

longed mental strain.

is

that

which proceeds from pro-

For such a case medicine

ford som.e relief but the essential thing

change as

will afford the

more

most quiet and

is,

will af-

such an entire

rest to the brain

such for instance, as passive or active exercise in the

open

air,

and cessation from the usual brain work.

ing the above as typical,

many

details

Us-

can be omitted.

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

232

Taking the

case, or determining the cause

Many

difficult part.

known can
tion

cases of insomnia

the

is

when

most

the cause

is

be cured without medicine, by proper regula-

and conforming

To summarize,

to the laws of nature.

may

it

be said that wakefulness whether

acute and temporary or chronic and persistent,

is

often a

known

penalty that comes directly or indirectly from a

transgression of the laws of health including errors both

negative and positive.

The abhorrent
notics

is

My own

and hyp-

practice of resorting to opiates

very often the

first

step to

more

serious trouble.

practice for a lifetime has been opposed to

The Homeopathic remedy, with proper advice


complish a cure

in the great

not strew the pathway of


fiends''

or wrecked

many

wakeful night.

majority of cases, and will


the prescriber

with "drug

lives.

While the value of


yet there are

it.

will ac-

Not

sleep cannot well be over estimated,

conditions worse than an occasional


a

few people are plunged

into

wake-

fulness by the use of coffee and tea, especially the former.

For such,
use.

For

know

all

of no remedy but to abstain from their

those inclined to insomnia the evening hour

should be spent in reasonable quietness, or at most

some mild form of


reading, dwelling
jects

is

diversion.

in

Excitement, prolonged

upon business or upon annoying sub-

a very poor preparation for sleep.

The body may

recline at will, but the brain already aroused to action,

goes on and on with an increasing

momentum.

If natural

sleep follows soon after the administration of a

pathic remedy, even a single dose,

it

is

homeo-

most favorable

SLEEP AND INSOMNIA

233

sign and as a rule the sleep should not be interrupted by


a repetition of the dose.

Aconite

Tossing

about with heat or feverish

Skin hot and

ness, such as often precedes acute diseases.

dry, with

some

Arsenicum
and after

thirst.

The

wakefulness worse after midnight

and gastric derange-

dissipation, with nausea

ment, exhaustion, fear of death or of being

Cannot remain quiet

Belladonna

Constant drowsiness with sudden startHead

hot and throbbing,

with great aggravation from noise and


ful in children,

Chamomilla

when Aeon

Teething

to be taken

hot and red.

left alone.

changing about.

in bed,

ing up, cannot get to sleep.

want

rest-

up and

Very

Often use-

Skin hot and flushed.

fails.

worse

children,

at

night,

Cheeks one or both

carried.

irritable

light.

and hard

Gastric

to please.

and bowel disturbance.


Coffea

Mind

over active, quick

May

clination to sleep.

from mental

strain, or

Hyoscyamus

zvith

follow excitement

hears

no

in-

of joy, or

during dentition.

Drowsy, or sleepless with tossing and

throwing aside of
Ignatia

think,

to

Nervous excitement

every slightest noise.

all

control, semi-delirious.

Especially

indicated

where

grief

and de-

pressing emotions predominate, or after great exertion of


the

mind

hysterical

similar to

mood

Lachesis

Nux;

in case

of

Particularly

sighing and lueeping or semi-

women
at

or young

the

girls.

climacteric

period

with frequent hot flushes and heat about top of the head.

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

234

little

sleep

gravation of

is

all

often followed by wakefulness and ag-

symptoms.

Nux Vom. Mental


sional

men, or after night zvatching,

much

sipation with

and profes-

strain of business

loss of sleep,

dis-

and over sensitive nerves.

irritability

After use of drugs, liquor, strong coffee and tobacco.


Pulsatilla
at

Mild,

women,

timid

always

worse,

time of menses, with constant chilliness, also from in-

digestion, craving for cool air.

Rhus Toyi Extremely

with backache and

restless,

general soreness, after taking cold from getting wet, with

rheumatic symptoms, aching

worse

der,

Sleep

full

at night

and

in eyeballs

and from

in left should-

from

rest, better

exercise.

of tiresome dreams, of walking, and climbing,

Early symptoms of typhoid, scarlet or other fevers

etc.

characterized by wakefulness and restlessness.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection

see

of

General

remedy,

the

Index

under

HEADACHE.

vast variety of causes result in a great

so-called "headaches."'

cause

is

the

first

An

step, the

quickest and only cure.

intelligent

number of

search after the

avoidance of that often the

For

instance,

headache from

eye strain or defective vision can not as a rule be cured

by medicine, but a very prompt

relief

may

of properly selected glasses.

From

the

headache

is

usually worse

follow the use

above

after using the eyes,

cause,
is

often

confined to the base of the brain, with dull aching through

HEADACHE
and about the

eyeballs, vision blurred

general health

may

from

suffer

235

and

indistinct.

reflex disturbance

The

which

cannot be helped until proper glasses are used.

The most common and most

difficult to

cure

is

the so-

called "sick headache;" often hereditary, semi-periodic,

worse from mental excitement and worry, often preceded


by abnormal hunger and accompanied by nausea and vomiting,

prostration and drowsiness.

severity of the attacks


as

much

may

The frequency and

often be lessened by avoiding

as possible the causes above mentioned.

form of headache

less

severe but

more constant often

comes from the excessive use of strong coffee and tea.


Something depends upon the natural temperament of the
individual, the occupation

and

habits.

The

indigestion,

nervousness and headache caused by coffee will often dis-

appear when coffee


of time, that

is

is

discontinued for a reasonable length

for three or four weeks.

An

experiment

more days duration will prove nothing. In fact,


temporarily the symptoms of headache will get worse.

of one or

Headache from overtaxing the brain with

either study

or business, especially where attended by wakefulness,

should not only be treated with remedies but needs an

in-

and quiet, the duration of which depends


upon the nature of the case. Indigestion causes headaches
which are generally amenable to treatment and diet.
terval of rest

and frequent form of headache may


come from ovarian and uterine disturbances, also from
Lastly, a persistent

the climacteric period.

Such headaches are often char-

acterized by being confined to top of the head or base of


brain, usually

much worse before

or during menstruation.

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

336

In some cases medicine


lief, for,

ache

is

as in the

may

fail to

bring the desired re-

most of the foregoing forms, the head-

secondary and sympathetic, a reflex from derange-

ments existing elsewhere


be considered in

The headache
quite general,

making

in the system, all of

which must

the prescription.

of school children and brain workers

and may be due

is

to defective eyesight or to

an overtaxed brain.

In either case, unless the indicated

remedies bring

within a reasonable time a specialist

relief

should be consulted.

most common symptom of an

impending acute disease especially with children

is

head-

from these more specific cases there are many


of the nameless sort which can often be cured by giving
a remedy which is well indicated by all symptoms and conache. Aside

ditions of the patient.

This

is

axiomatic

in all cases

of

correct homeopathic treatment.

TREATMENT.
Aconite

If

with the headache there

and great restlessness as

in

is

fever, thirst

impending eruptive fevers,

measles and scarlet fever.

Bryonia
ache.
ing.

Vertigo

on rising with a bursting head-

Sharp pains worse on slightest motion or stoopIrritable, constant talking of business in sleep.

Belladonna
cold feet,

Throbbing

sleepy

and

but cannot

heat

sleep,

in

head

with

constant moaning,

face flushed and pupils dilated, headache greatly aggra-

vated by the least noise, light or

Gelsemium

Headache

jar.

from cold and congestion

about the eyes and forehead, eyeballs feel sore and


heavy, pain in base of brain, dull, languid weakness.

lids

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN


Lachesis

Heat

and

on

pressure

237

head

vertex,

worse after sleeping, heat flushes over body

always

and head, worse climacteric period.

Nux Vom. Headache


of sleep, too

and

that follows dissipation, loss

much study and mental

irritability,

exertion with vertigo

exacting, impatient, generally worse in

the morning, bad effects

from drugs,

coffee

and

liquor,

with general derangement of digestion and persistent


constipation.

Puis

In

derangement

of

stomach from

food, with vertigo and pain in the head.

layed or painful menstruation with

averse to hot rooms, craving fresh

rich,

Useful

fat

in de-

much chilliness yet


More useful in

air.

women

of mild temperament, inclined to shed tears over

trifles.

The

opposite of

For other remedies


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

see Calc. carh., Chino, Glon., Iris.

directions

and

dose

Nux Vom.

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN.


HISTORY, CAUSE AND SYjMPTOMS.

My own

observation would compel

me

to say that this

disease seldom occurs except as secondary to others, yet


in a

primary form

it

dift'erent acute diseases of the

are

many

in

The early symptoms of


brain may vary, yet there

does occur.

common.

The

intense, throbbing headache,

the sleepless, restless nights with excitement

the extreme sensibility to light or noise,

all

and delirium,
point to brain

DISEASES OF NEYOUS SYSTEM

238

involvement in some form.

In addition, there

a flushed face, heat about the head, and cold

After a variable time of one

to three

toms gradually change, so that the

is

apt to be

feet.

days these sympinstead of

patient,

being sensitive to impressions and restless in body, be-

comes

and

indifferent

unconscious,

later

breathing similating apoplexy.


sion of

heavy

with

Pressure from an

effu-

serum may continue for some days, accompanied

by very slow pidse, irregiUarity of breathing and finally,


If proper remedies are used in the early
convulsions.
stage of the disease the later stages

Many

specific causes

may

be eliminated.

might be mentioned which lead to

this condition of the brain, but only the

more common

will be stated here.

Excitement of the brain from persistent mental

strain,

zuorry and overzvork, from alcoholic drink and loss of


sleep,

from

any of the acute

persistent high fever during

febrile diseases,

may

be sufficient to develop a condition

may become more


Whatever may be the

of the brain which

serious than the

original ailment.

cause or whether

the inflammation of the brain

management

is all

is

primary or secondary, the

important and in each case

is

essentially

the same.

3IEDICAL TREATIVIENT.

The
and

patient should be separated

the head.

all

excitement

Absolute quiet and mental and physical rest

in the early stage are indispensable.

cool

from

noise, in fact everything that aggravates the pain in

and the

feet kept

warm.

The head should be

INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN


Aconite

If

given early and as indicated will often

quiet the disturbance in a wonderful way.


is

239

If the fever

attended with rapid, full pulse, pain in the head as

The

though hot water was passing through the brain.

body and extremities on the move with excitement,


mental agitation and great

Arnica

After

bloivs

fear, predicting death.

and concussion, with clear hisUseful even in

tory of injury or violence.

later stages

with tendency to stupor and involuntary discharges.

Belladonna

may

bite

Sensibility

and

irritability

extreme;

and strike with excitement and delirium.

flushed, head

Drowsy

hot, feet cold.

constantly starting up in fright.

Bell,

Face

but cannot
a

is

sleep,

remedy often

indicated in acute diseases of the brain.

Bryonia

When

there

home, or about the day.

is

compelled to

getting

Patient complains of piercing

pains in the head, worse on motion, with


rising,

about

delirium

lie still.

May

much

vertigo on

occur in complications

with measles or in early stage of typhoid.

Gelsemium
of

brain,

Violent

pain in head, especially base

with tendency to draw the head backward.

Muscular weakness, the eyelids droop.


nounced but the amount of
than Aeon.

thirst

Fever

is

and excitement

pro-

is less

Cerebro spinal meningitis.

Glonoine Pains and throbbing


sensation of heat.

blance to a Bell. case.

Bad

effects

never been able to confirm this

Hyoscyamus

in

the head with

Face pale or flushed.

from

Some resemHave

sun-stroke.

last indication.

During the second or

last stage,

when

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

340

the stupor, convulsions and delirium have set


is

Patient

in.

violent, refusing all clothing, striking the attendants.

Nux Vomica Slowly

developing and less violent

Often caused by overtaxation of brain

than ordinary.

zvorkers, with loss of sleep, extreme irritability, cannot

endure anything.

When

abuse of stimulants and dissipation.

symptoms

the a'bove

may

Similar conditions

in

any

case,

indicated by

will afford sleep, quiet

it

and prevent the development of a

the sensibilities

from

arise

typical

case of inflammation of the brain.

Opium

The

indications for

Opium come
good

late a stage of the disease that the

remedy are seldom discoverable.

cannot recall a single

Opium.

case where recovery followed the use of


fault

may have been

[For
its

special

The

in the prescriber.

directions

dose

prepai-ation,

in at so

effects of this

and

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

General

tbe

Index

remedy,

under

"Directions."]

APOPLEXY.
There are two

varieties of apoplexy,

and the hemorrhagic.

which are of

congestive

importance to either diagnosis or

The two forms have many symptoms

treatment.

common, but
difference

slight

the

Other divisions have been made

is

in the first stage

most

and

significafnt.

In hemorrhagic apoplexy there


of an attack.

Its

in

in their sequelae the

is

no clear premonition

suddenness doubtless gave origin to

the term "stroke," for literally such

it

appears to be, as

the patient usually falls suddenly and helplessly to the

APOPLEXY

241

Generally owing to the degeneration of the walls

floor.

of an artery in the brain,

it

has ruptured, and this

is

followed by an active hemorrhage, the formation of a

and compression of the brain, with the following


symptoms as a result. Unconsciousness for an indefinite
clot

period follows, varying from a few hours to days and

During

weeks.

this

period the breathing

and

irregidar, often interrupted for a

The

pulse

is sloiv,

Consciousness
paralysis, of

The mental

minute or more.

or

may

some form
power

when

not return, but

permenently im-

In the congestive form of apoplexy, there

respiration

pearance of the face, are

all

is

often a

which the face becomes

and temporal

throbbing and pain in the head.

The

does,

to articulate properly.

brief premonitory period during

flushed, the carotid

it

taken place.

local or general, has

faculties are temporarily or

ing follow.

heavy

often full, and the face dark or flushed.

may

paired, also the

loud,

is

arteries enlarged, with

Stupor and heavy breath-

and

also

pulse,

same

essentially the

the

ap-

as in the

hemorrhagic form, likewise the embarrassment of speech

and
is

inability to swallow.

quite different.

returns

much

The prognosis

sooner, and

it

is

their

power, except

another, with a possi-

of the second or third becoming hemorrhagic.

the hemorrhagic form, consciousness

owing

two forms

not followed by paralysis.

The mental faculties soon regain


memory. One attack predisposes to
bility

in the

In the congestive form, consciousness

to the time required for

of the blood clot in the brain.

always present and

is

cases, the brain lesion

manent paralysis takes


17

is

slow

in its return,

even a partial absorption


Paralysis in

slow to disappear.
is

In

some form

is

In not a few

such that a mild form of per-

place.

DISEASES OF THE NERTOVS SYSTEM

243

As
is

to a recurring attack of
to be said that

little

is

calling the cases that have

any form of apoplexy, there

definite or

worth while.

come under

my

Re-

observation,

can only say that the main issue has seemed to depend
largely

upon the conduct of the

patient.

Those who have

been so situated as to avoid mental strain and worry, and

which should include

willing to adopt a plan of living

temperance

in all things especially in eating

and drinking,

have put a long interval between attacks, or escaped them


altogether.

Not infrequently one


patient
is

who

is

is

called in haste to confront a

unconscious.

desired and

is

diagnosis "on the spot"

desirable, but unfortunately

always easy or possible.

The

it

is

not

diseases and conditions that

simulate apoplexy are quite numerous.

Narcotic poison-

sun stroke, concussion of the


brain, fainting, hysteria, and others might be named.

ing, alcoholic intoxication,

Before reaching a conclusion as

to diagnosis, the sur-

roundings and circumstances should be quickly noted,


should be learned,

facts

when

practicable,

from some

is done no
member of the family, and
mode of procedure, no heroic treatment should be
resorted to. If the case is apoplexy, the greatest harm can
come from moving and undressing the patient. The same

until this

reliable

active

is

true of using any narcotic or stimulus, in a case of apo-

plexy.

MANAGEMENT AND

No

attempt at moving the

no violent efforts to rouse

to consciousness should

Absolute rest
patient,

^fEDICAL TREATMENT.

is

the rule.

be allowed, for some hours.

The head should be some-

APOPLEXY

243

what

elevated, with everything free or loose about the

neck.

Forcible efforts and haste cannot accomplish any

good and often do much harm.


always be kept

warm by

The

extremeties should

external applications of heat.

After selecting the remedy that seems best indicated,

it

can be placed on the tongue, either in the form of pellets


or the same dissolved in a small quantity of water, but

make no

efforts to force frequent swallowing.

Aconite

With
and

full pulse

much

agitation

restlessness.

Aeon,

the

circulation,

will quiet

and after a

of

few doses should be discontinued.


Belladonna
ing,

Recalling several

cases of Bell, poison-

each resembling in a marked degree congestive apo-

plexy,

viz.,

coma,

it is

lar cases

Arnica

the throbbing cartotids, the flushed face, and

a greater satisfaction

still,

have been benefited by

Bell.

good remedy

absorption of the blood

clot.

after

to recall that simi-

Aeon.

promotes

It

Useful in cases that seem

to follow after concussion of the brain, or

where there

is

a history of an injury.

Opium

It

would seem Opium might reach some of

these cases, but I cannot recall that such has been true
in

my

hands.

other remedies

Some

physicians affirm as

much

admitting as true that apoplexy furnishes

a very poor chance for the action of remedies.


is

as this of

a chance that

the best success,

is

Still

there

well worth utilizing, and he will have

who most

faithfully

and correctly

selects

the indicated remedy.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

tile

Index

remedy,

under

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

244

INSANITY.
NATURE OF AND DIFFERENT FORMS.
As

a general definition of insanity,

it

may

be said to

be a derangement of the intellectual and emotional faculties


is

This

with loss of control of the will over the same.

not an

all

numerous

are far too

The forms

inclusive definition.

to specify, yet for

of insanity

convenience and

as a general classification, the following seems the best

and

the one generally adopted.

is

Mania, monomania, melancholia, dementia,

idiocy,

These separate terms are used

imbecility.

as nearly as possible, the mental

As

of an insane patient.

to

and physical condition

the definition of each

is

not un-

familiar, nothing further need be said, except that in

cases a patient

may

of insanity,

some

be included in two groups as for in-

stancce, both a victim of melancholia

Far more valuable

and

express

the

is

and monomania.

knowledge of the premonition

which includes the preventive and most cur-

able stage.

EARLY
It is

SYj^IPTOMS

AND THEIR IMPORTANCE.

true that the early

symptoms

iform, yet there are some well

For

ant guiding symptoms.

are by no

known and

means un-

quite import-

instance, if after

some

try-

ing ordeal, the loss of property, the death of friends,

domestic troubles, financial embarrassment or a physical

break down, a patient

from

his best friends,

terest in
crisis

is

unable to sleep, turns away

becomes dejected and

former enterprises,

may

he near.

it

If some, or

is

loses all in-

evident that a mental

most of these symptoms

INSANITY
are present, the time has
the patient to prevent

come

is

to act in the interest

what may prove

The

veloped case of insanity.

conduct and habits

245

not

of

to be a well de-

reversal of accustomed

difficult to discover.

If at this

juncture the sufferer can be induced to change environ-

ment by taking

way
new

a brief journey, or in the

friends

a catastrophe than

The

any nnedicine or argument.

latter often rather

same

the

is

aggravates than ameliorates and

true of persistent opposition to every harm-

unusual act of the patient.

less

Neither should patients

be reminded or

made

dition except

becomes quite necessary.

it

conscious of their abnormal con-

a hereditary predisposition to insanity


lished to admit of
it

all

most agreeable

from former surroundings substituting


and new thoughts, it will do more to prevent

be separated

any rational doubt.

is

That there

is

too well estab-

Where

this exists

simply emphasizes the importance of prompt action in


threatening cases.

If

efforts fail to prevent

all

an

outbreak of insanity, the safe and sane place for the


sufferer

others

is

as a rule an asylum

may be prevented and


may contribute most

experts

where danger

proper
to

facilities

to self

and

and trained

an early recovery.

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT AND RESULTS.


That some mental disorders can be cured by a well
Homeopathic remedy admits of no doubt in

lected

own

mind.

I recall

se-

my

most vividly some cases which were

declared incurable, that responded promptly to homeopathic

remedies and were permanently cured.

familiarity with the mental

symptoms

in

Slight

our drug prov-

ings ought to convince that they are capable of curing

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

^46

they

ivhat

healthy.
see

produce

such a marked degree in the

in

The law of

similars

not confined to what

is

we

and touch physically.

In selecting a remedy the mental symptoms, the cause

and concomitant symptoms must


sideration.

For

be taken into con-

all

instance, in a case associated with, or

groiving out of "the change of life," Lachesis and Puis,

would be

some of

first

the

thought

of.

The former remedy has cured

most violent and apparently hopeless

cases,

know of no remedy that presents so many symptoms


common to such a case. Other remedies, such as Bry.,
Calc, Ign. and Sul. may be called for.
and

some saddening ex-

If a case can be traced to grief or

perience, Ign., Hyos., Puis,

may

be

first

thought of and

studied in Part III.

When
with

prolonged mental strain in business, attended

loss

of

developing irritability and

with

sleep

and

nervousness, Nux., Bry., Ign.,

others

should be

looked up with care.

The foregoing are suggestions only. Each case with


its marked mental symptoms must be considered upon
in cases of insanity I know of no
its individual merits
;

good reason for departing from


It

low

has been the


it

long endeavor of the writer to fol-

as closely in mental as in

result has been


to suffer

[For

many

than death
special

preparation,
"Directions."]

Its

life

any other

disease,

and the

more

terrible

cures of an affliction

itself.

directions

dose

this rule.

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

CONyULSIONS

247

CONVULSIONS.
CLASSIFICATION AND CAUSES.
Convulsions, although nearly always symptomatic, are

often of such frequency and character that some special


consideration seems in order,

Again, the violence of

convulsions, regardless of the cause,

a patient and

involve danger to

management.

As

have principally
ical

classified

may

in

require

some cases

some

special

for practical purposes,

infantile, epileptic, puerperal

we

and hyster-

convlusions.

The causes of infantile convulsions are numerous, the


more common being connected with the alimentary tract
as for instance, slow

accumulations

and painful

in the

teething, indigestion with

stomach and bowels of undigested

food, stomach and intestinal zuorms, and excitement of


the brain, as by fright.
disposition,

convulsions

Where there is a hereditary premay precede or accompany an

attack of any of the acute diseases of children.

As

a rule, the first

symptom

noticeable

is

twitching

of the muscles of the face causing marked distortion of


the features, followed by rigidity of the body and limbs.

The head
ness

is

is

drawn backward. During the fit, consciousfew minutes, after which a quiet sleep

lost for a

with convalescence follows.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.

Now
sion
turn.
if

is

the time to seek out the cause of the convul-

and resort

need

to such treatment as will prevent a re-

In addition to giving the indicated remedy use,


be, the lance

on the gums.

If the history of the

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

248

case calls for

use an emetic and

it,

in

some way empty

the stomach, or as a safe and sane procedure use free

and repeated flushing of the boivels with tepid water.


If

spasms follow an injury about the head or elsewhere,

apply the tincture of Arnica to the seat of injury and give


a few drops in water internaIl3^
victory

is

made

Knowing

the

cause,

easy.

Puerperal convulsions are generally associated with the

albuminuria of pregnancy, and usually occur during or


after delivery.

The

functions of the kidneys are interfered with, either

by mechanical or other causes, which results in the excretion of a considerable

Frequent

tests for

amount of albumen

in the urine.

albumen should be made during the

middle and later months of pregnancy. The convulsions


of epilepsy have been treated at length under the head of
"epilepsy,"
hysteria.

and the same

is

true of the convulsions of

See Index.
]\IEDICAJ. TREATIVIENT.

Avoid everything

The stomach

that excites the

mind or emotions.

plays an important part in causation, and

should not be taxed with any nourishment for some

hours after a spasm and then only the simplest liquid


food should be given.

Aconite

High

fever,

rapid,

full

pulse,

agitation

and restlessness may be the beginning of acute

Spasms from

fright.

Belladonna
muscles.

disease.

Sudden

Head

starlings

and

hot, grinding of the

twitching

teeth,

of
with inch-

CONVULSIONS
nation to strike and

249

Pupils dilated and face flushed,

bite.

skin very hot.

Cina

Convulsions

from

intestinal

worms.

Spas-

modic twitching about the mtiscles of face and limbs,


child exceedingly irritable and constantly rubbing or
picking the nose.

Chamomilla

mood,

in fretful

One

Useful

ward

the child

is

has to be carried to quiet, zvorse at night.

Cham,

or both cheeks very red.

case and

when

in teething

will quiet

such a

by hastening the teething

off convlusions

process.

and Calc. phos.

Calc. carb.
in children

ment.

backivard

Ma}^

in teething

The head may be

and

accomplish

in all

and inclined

large

much

bone developto

excessive

perspiration, face plump, but pale and flabby.

Ignatia

If the

spasms are brought on by

after grief and trouble, especially

and young

temperament,

girls of a highly sensitive

clined to zveep

and laugh

dency to hysteria on

at the

fright or

in the case of zvonien

same moment, with

No

slight provocation.

in-

ten-

fever and the

pulse normal.

Nux Vom Spasms

of single muscles here

and

which are renewed by any touch or movement.

there,

After

heavy dosing or from excessive stimulation.


Subjects

and

loss

who

of

are suffering from too

sleep,

irritable

much

brain zvork

and worse from the

least

noise or agitation.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

iis

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

of the remedy,
Genei'al
Index under

selection
see

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

250

EPILEPSY.
DIAGNOSIS,

SYMPTOMS AND PROGNOSIS.

With a sudden convulsive

seizure followed immediately

by loss of consciousness, the patient


tering the peculiar ''epileptic cry/'

the floor, ut-

falls to

moan

or scream which

Foaming at the
common. The vio-

once heard will always be recognized.

mouth and grinding of


lent

by

the teeth are

spasms continue for

five to eight

and stupor.

a helpless condition

minutes, followed

Such

is

a typical case

of epilepsy.

After an interval which

is

very indefinite, ranging from

a few hours to months or even years, another attack


occurs.

large percentage of cases can give a history

of some nervous trouble in their ancestry.

Hereditary

predisposition plays an important part, yet a direct and


exciting cause

examination.

may

he discovered by a thorough physical

This

and young zvomen.

especially

is

true

with

history of each case

sable for a proper beginning,

and

is

children
indispen-

this will often direct the

examination into a proper channel.


It is rarely the

case that a patient dies during a con-

Although

vulsion.

life

the life of the epileptic


ually in

yet such

may
is

most cases the mental


is

not always the case.

and other noted men were

continue indefinitely,

generally shortened.
faculties

yet

Grad-

become impaired,

Caesar, Napoleon, Byron

epileptics.

Naturaly the marriage or intermarriage of epileptics


has greatly increased their number.

York

The

State of

New

recognizing these facts has provided most gener-

ously for their care by establishing a home, "The Craig

EPILEPSY
Colony"

Sonyea, N. Y. where the best of care and

at

treatment
provision

furnished the

is
is

made

little

ones

curable

and suitable

for the incurable.

MANAGEMENT AND
Very

251

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.

can be done during the paroxysm, more than

from

to protect the patient

self injury.

Pillows

may

be

placed beneath the head, to prevent blows from spasms.

may

Also a cork or piece of wood

teeth to prevent biting of the tongue,

be put between the

which often happens.

The only cases that can be considered curable are those


due to some reflex irritation which is removable. When
this

done

is

fixed,

early, before the "epileptic habit" has

permanent recovery may be anticipated.

involve

some minor

Emotional

become

This

may

surgical treatment or operation.

excitem^'ent

often

an

precipitates

attack.

Loss of sleep and intemperate eating or drinking with


lack of exercise in the open air, are

When

epileptic.

practicable,

all

all

unfavorable for the

these principles should

be impressed upon the patient, so that self-management

may

take the place of "orders."

The medical
pathology,

due

to

still

treatment of this disease, like

its

some known

out of the same

local cause

may

cause and

Those cases

remains, quite rudimentary.

with symptoms growing

be prescribed for with some degree

of confidence, except in such

as

are

mechanical and

surgical.

See the remedies described under convulsions, and

in-

flamation of the brain.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

252

PARALYSIS.
There are numerous

from

varieties of

lesions of the brain

disease,

of one side,

and spinal cord,

also

For

from acute

instance, hemiplegia or a paral3'sis

generally due to apoplexy and

is

resulting

which have been considered under

several of

different heads.

paralysis,

is

treated

under apoplexy, diphtheria paralysis under diphtheria, of

which

it

is

lower extremities,
jury.

Paraplegia or paralysis of both

a sequela.
is

generally due to spinal disease or in-

Lead, mercurial, and syphilitic paralysis are some-

what rare and are generally found

in the

wards of a

hospital.

Facial paralysis
lesion,

and nearly

observation have

is

all

occur without any central brain


cases that have

made

come under my

Paralysis agitans, a

recovery.

involuntary shaking of the hands, arms and

constant,

head,

may

due

to

a breaking

down

of the cerebrospinal

system and generally occurs in the aged and infirm individual.

some degree is apt to folchronic


more
cases,
due to obscure, long conlow in the
tinued brain lesions. There are other forms of paralysis
Paralysis of the insane in

which

like

most of those already mentioned, are sympto-

matic of some
cause

is

lesion of the brain or spinal cord.

pressure on the parts,

it

may

be of blood

serum, engorged vessels, or a foreign body.

The
clot,

The manage-

ment and thereapeutics of each case must stand by -itMost of them will be considered elsewhere, and any
self.
elaboration here would be mainly a repetition.

HYSTERIA

353

HYSTERIA.
CAUSE AND CHARACTERISTICS.
The mental and

physical features of a case of hys-

Opposite conditions in the

teria are not easy to describe.

same

and during the same hour are rather common

patient

and distinguishing features of the disease. Laughing is


Various phases of mental exfollowed by weeping.

may be followed by stupor and convulsions.


The patient may exhibit abnormal strength of body, only
citement

to lapse into

feigned exhaustion and "nervous prostra-

Instability

tion.''

It is

from

far

and a lack of

more common

13 to 20.

Is often

ball in the throat.

will

power predominate.

women,

in

especially in girls

preceded by the sensation of a

If convlusions ensue,

it

differs

from

epilepsy in there being less complete loss of consciousness.

Respiration

what

may

be very slow, or rapid.

Pulse some-

irregular, but an entire absence of temperature or

fever.

The

chief predisposing cause of hysteria

lepsy, heredity.

is,

In a large porportion of cases

as in epiit

will be

found that the parents suffered from some form of


mental or nervous trouble.

The

exciting causes are

more numerous.

Fright^

emo-

tional excitement, reflex trouble at the age of puberty,

grief and sorrow, especially

The

pated.
light

on a diagnosis, which

entiate.

see a

when sudden

or not antici-

history of a case will often throw

The inexperienced

is

much

not always easy to differphysician or layman must

few cases and have a good "fright" before being

able to interpret the uniqueness of a genuine case of hys-

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

354

Fortunately the cases

teria.

exceeding

ment often

my
I

first

hair

(a

It

is

heroic

to

saw with

my

spot.

The

had the pleasure of seeing the

young bride) leave the

hotel in

generally the case that skilful

discretion will do far

treat-

I recall

preceptor, else

would have turned white on the

following morning,
patient,

recover, except those of

the result of an error in diagnosis.

case which luckily I

my

fear

all

who may succomb

frailty,

more

good

health.

management and

for the patient than drugs.

In some cases nothing will be more harmful than the


manifestation

may

reason

Censure and appeals to

sympathy.

of

aggravate as well.

to foretell just

what the

will be in a given case

It is

therefore

it

presence of the patient, to avoid


see to

it

that those

who

confessedly

effect of advice
is

well, while in the

much

discussion and

are so inclined are excluded

the presence or companionship of the patient.


lies

the exciting cause for which

measure be responsible

comes

to the patient as

pels our

With

difficult

and sympathy

the

from

Herein

some one must

in

predisposing cause often

an unfortunate legacy which com-

sympathy and best

efforts.

a disease so varied in character, especially the

mental symptoms, the remedial agents are necessarily

numerous.

Only those more frequently

called for will

be mentioned here.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.
Aconite

For full-blooded,

The mind seems

full

on the crowded

streets.

day of death.

Bad

plethoric

young women.

of fear and anxiety.

effect

Afraid

to

go

Fears death and predicts the

from fright; prickling

feeling

HYSTERIA
in the

255

nerves of tongue, arms and hands, very restless

and anxious.

Arsenicum
ried,

Apparent

Cannot be

rhea.

breathing hur-

alone and fears death

left

near, yet

cannot remain in bed.

to another,

Belladonna

More

symptoms, with

violent

Face

striking

red,

eyes flushed, pupils

jumping and starting from

spells of drowsiness.

biting attendants.

dilated,

is

Constantly changing about from one place

no danger.

and

exhaustion,

face pale and anxious, nausea, vomiting or diar-

Throbbing headache

Desires water but cannot drink.

and throbbing

in the carotids.

Calcaret carb

Young

girls

inclined to

grow

"fat

and flabby," yet very nervous with fear of losing their


reason. Feet cold and inclined to feel damp. Menses too

Much

early and too profuse.

Chamomilla

For

headache.

the impatient, nervous and

table one, fretting at trifles,

worse

irri-

One cheek

at night.

red, the other pale.

Gelsemium

Much headache about the base of brain,

about the eyes, with drooping

some

fever,

no

thirst.

Bad

Inclined to debility,

lids.

effects

from

fear,

danger and

fright.

Hyoscyamus

Many

scious obscenity, strikes

Ignatia
grief

illusions,

and

spasms.

Uncon-

resists attendants.

very useful remedy when caused by

and sorrow, which becomes a brooding, melancholic

sadness.

Cheerfulness

for

brief

weeping and a constant inclination

time

to sigh,

followed by

with sensation

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

256

of all-goneness, which eating or drinking does not relieve..

Lachesis

Sensation

cannot endure

Suffocation,

Hot

and ailments

flashes

worse after

ball

the

in

anything about

throat.

the

neck.

Always

at climacteric period.

sleep.

Nux Vom. After

loss of sleep or excess of strong

cannot endure noise, conversation or

Irritable,

coffee.

lump or

of

Over study or brain work. Cannot sleep


A. M. Always worse in th^ morning. Worse

opposition.

after 3

from taking
Pulsatilla

Young

suppressed menses,
Puis,

is

and other drugs.

narcotics, cathartics
girls

with

delayed

scanty,

or

from getting feet wet.

especially

best suited to the mild, yielding, timid, tearful

and feel much


Indisgestion, with vertigo and

temperaments that crave the open


ivorse in zvarm

room.

air

headache.

Sulphur
and

Flushes of heat,

with heat on top of head

Sensation of faintness or hunger at

soles of feet.

10 A. M., which comes with great regularity.

Dread of

Eruptions about the face, or from sup-

water or bath.

pression of eruptions.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

directions

dose

and

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

TETANUS.
This disease

wounds

is

caused chiefly by punctured or lacerated

especially those about the

sole of the foot.

palm of the hand or the

Other causes may induce an

attack.

CHOREA
The symptom

first

noticed

is

257
a stiffness or spasm of

the muscles of the jaw, which later involves the face,

neck and extremities,


It

and

finally a general tonic

spasm.

has been generally agreed that a peculiar irritation of

the ends of the sensitive nerves transmitted to the spinal

cprd produces the spasms.


In these later days the bacillus, that deadly germ, has

come forward, laying claim

to the causation of tetanus.

The symptoms may appear

few minutes after an


or they may be postponed for some weeks. They

injiiry,

in a

closely resemble those of a case of strychnia poisoning;

or

it

may

be mistaken for a case of hydrophobia.

In spite of

all

treatment the fatality

great.

is

The

patient should be placed in a quiet, dark room.

Niix Vomica and Hypericum are the remedies of chief


importance.

The treatment by
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

antitoxine promises much.

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection

of

General

see

tbe

Index

remedy,
under

CHOREA.
(St. Vitus'

Dance.)

disease characterized by incessant

tzuitching

movement and

of muscles which have ceased to be under

the control of the will, and

which disappears during

sleep.

The hands cannot


speech

may
18

be

be regulated to

difficult,

work or

write, the

and the muscles of the face

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

358

manner

twitch in such a
sion.

It is a

as to destroy all facial expres-

disease of childhood ranging

and more prevalent with young

There

puberty.

is

girls

from 8

to i6,

about the age of

generally a history of nervous dis-

orders in the ancestry, which only requires some exciting

Excitement, fright and

cause to develop the chorea.

emotional disturbances, often produce the


toms.

At

first

with inability

first

to

sit

or stand

The

still.

muscles of the face and hands

is

twitching of

soon noticeable, vary-

ing with excitement and surroundings, often worse


attention

is

symp-

the patient becomes unusually restless,

when

If the patient can be

called to the disease.

managed and kept from mental excitement and physical


fatigue, the outcome is favorable. The disease may continue

from a few weeks

to six

Pleasant

and

simple

The

months or more.

diet should be simple, yet nourishing

and

easily digested.

are beneficial.

All

sources of irritation and worry should be avoided.

The

child should be taken

diversions

from

IVBEDICAIi

Ignatia

This has

school.

TREATMENT.

been a favorite remedy

The mental symptoms

w^ith

me.

are changeable, the muscles on

the jerk with the slightest excitement or motion.

Sigh-

ing and crying followed by laughter.

Nux vom When the muscular twitching is very


marked on touch or motion with the mental symptoms
of

Nti.v, irritable

in the

morning,

Pulsatilla

and impatient about

Nux

Wheji

trifles

and worse

should be helpful.

the disease occurs in young

girls,

NEURALGIA
zuitli

259

who

scanty^ or suppressed menses,

yet averse to
[For

hot room, weeping


as

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

its

and

dose

to

and

are chilly

at trifles.
selection

diet,

of

General

see

repetition,

remedy,

the

Index

under

the

word

NEURALGIA.
Nerve-pain
neuralgia,

the

is

signification

literal

and wherever there

is

of

a nerve fibre

any

in

organ or tissue of the body, there pain may occur.


matters not whether in the face or the

feet,

It

is

a live

due

to lo-

it

nerve giving a signal of trouble.

The

names given

different

cation rather than to


acter,

whether called

any

to neuralgia are

essential

sciatica

or

difference in char-

tic

All

douloureux.

parts of the body are not equally susceptible to pain,

owing

to the difference in the supply of sentient nerves.

The

causes of neuralgia are predisposing and exciting.

Hereditary influences constitute the chief predisposing


cause.

Impaired nerves of any form on the part of

parents, begets the

same

in the offspring,

nerves predispose to neuralgia.

and impaired

Anything which impairs

the general health or exhausts the nervous system, pre-

pares the

way

for neuralgia, requiring only

exciting cause to develop a

the neuralgia

is

paroxysm of

pain.

direct

When

confined to one particular region

often due to some

local

different parts

more

it

'

some

is

cause.

If

it

is

the pains shift to

apt to be due to the general

condition of the patient.

The

exciting causes are sometimes very obscure

for instance a tiny decay in a

wisdom

as

tooth, or prolonged

DI8EA8E8 OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

360

eye strain.

Rectal disorders insignificant in appearance,

are yet provocative of the most persistent and painful


neuralgia, not always curable with medicine, but some-

times requiring local or surgical treatment.

Although

it

is

not a function of the dental nerve to

drive people to the dentist's chair, yet

how many have

preserved not only their teeth but their health, by giving

heed to the warning of an exposed nerve.


suffering

from neuralgia often recurring,

is

patient,

a proper sub-

for careful investigation, not only because of the

ject

suft'ering

erally

with

all its

ill

eft'ects,

some abnormality

but because there

that is even

more

is

gen-

serious,

and

often one easily remedied.

SY^n'TOMATOLOGY.
The pain of

neuralgia

acute and piercing, shooting

is

along the course of a nerve, intermittent or a paroxysm,

As

sometimes periodically.

a rule, there

is little

change

discernible on the surface over the seat of pain, except


in

The

some complication.

sensitive to slight touch

As

lieved by firm pressure.


suffering, the pulse

parts are sometimes very

and again the pain may be

re-

a rule, regardless of the

and temperature remain normal, which

greatly aids in a differential diagnosis and in the selection

of proper remedies.
treatment,
sential,

all

Before attempting a diagnosis or

facts in the order of

development are

es-

and when obtained, the balance of the task may be

comparatively easy.

The

prognosis, except in cases con-

nected with some serious organic lesion,

is

The

In

general

management

is

important.

favorable.

cases

of

broken health, everything that promotes recuperation,

NEURALGIA

change of cHmate, removal

as generous diet, fresh air,

from a malarial

261

region, will assist in curing the neuralgia.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

Aconite

If the neuralgia
in the cold
relieve.

is

one of the most useful remedies.

associated with a cold, or after riding

is

wind, suppressing a perspiration. Aeon, will

The pain may be

and so severe

tingling, or

burning

as to drive the patient to despair.

Patient

very restless and

sharp,

with

filled

all

kinds of fear, even the

fear of death.

Arsenicum

favorite

remedy with

medicine, especially where the patient

The

or suffering from malaria.

all

schools of

pale, anaemic,

is

pains are often periodic,

burning and tearing, often relieved by heat or very hot


Patient

applications.

is

and exercise or pain pro-

zveak,

duces complete exhaustion.

Belladonna

Pains

about the teeth, face and head,

throbbing and tearing, worse in

Worse from

noise, light or jar.

account of the pain.


bing, feet cold.

Bryonia

evenmg

Irritable

night.

on

Pains come and disappear suddenly.

The

May

at

spiteful

Face flushed, head hot and throb-

sharp, piercing pain, always worse

from any motion or on deep inspiration


of Bry.

or

and

is

characteristic

be in a rheumatic, or one suffering from

some acute disease

in or

tions ease the pain.

The

about the chest.


pains

may

Cold applica-

be in face, chest, or

abdomen.
Cactus

Acute pain about the heart and

a feeling of constriction like a

left side

band about the

chest.

with

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

262

China

Somewhat similar to Ars.

Patient has been

exhausted from loss of blood or other debilitating causes.


Pains return periodically and are sometimes relieved by
yet very sensitive

firm pressure,

on the surface, and

cannot endure slightest touch.

Colo
with

Violent pain

relief

in

abdomen, cannot straighten up,

from firm pressure,

Citncifuga

Pains about the small

joints, fingers

which may be rheumatic, shifting often,

toes,

from uterine or ovarian

gia,

sciatic neuralgia.

Gelsemium

Severe

and

in neural-

irritations.

pain in base of brain and neck,

extending to the face and especially to the eyeballs, with

Ipecac

marked

In

the stomach

and

zveakness.

some forms

Some

severe
thirst.

of neuralgia

and pain about

and abdomen, where the pain

tearing, with constant

Lycopodium
abdomen,

From

fever but no

draw the head backivards.

inclination to

colds with

When

the pain

with

associated

is

clutching

nausea or vomiting.
is

excessive

chiefly

about the

flatulence;

about the kidneys, simulating a passage of renal

Nux vomica Gastralgia

pain

calculi.

with patients inclined to be

intemperate, with excessive indulgence in highly seasoned

food and coffee, or inclined to dosing, and cathartics.

The mental

condition

is

often a guide in deciding for

Nux.
Pulsatilla

Often

preceding or during menses,

with
tal

much

chilliness,

young

useful in children or

when

the pain

is

girls

attended

nervousness and iveeping ; the men-

symptoms are important.

Bad

effects

from getting

TOOTHACHE
the feet

The

damp.

363

pains of Puis, shift often from one

place to another.

Rhus tox

Neuralgia

or rheumatism from getting

damp

wet or working

in

back or hips,

worse when trying

all

from continued
Spigelia
also

Pain

places.

in left

move

to

shouder

hut better

exercise, great restlessness.

Neuralgia

over the

left

eye

excruciating,

is

through the eyeballs and about the heart, prevent-

ing motion or deep breathing.

Similar to Catus in an-

gina pectoris.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

and

dose

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

TOOTHACHE.
(Odontalgia.)

Seldom
frequently

which

is
it

Toothache due

to

More

pure neuralgia.

proceeds from disease or decay of the tooth

results in ihe

exposure of the nerve.

If

it

were

not for the nerve to announce by pain the destructive

process going on in the tooth few would possess the necessary teeth for mastication.

Ulceration from disease of the root

is

often preceded

by decay and neglect of the crown, hence the great importance of caring for the teeth so as to prevent decay
and, (if in spite of care decay takes place,) having
cavities filled before

children with their

causing

little

pain.

parently sound teeth

it

reaches the nerve.

first teeth,

Not a few
fail to

all

In the case of

a soft fdling can be used


cases of toothache in ap-

be relieved by the dentist, and

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

264

homeopathic remedies selected with care often demonstrated their efficacy by giving very

prompt

relief.

TREATIVIENT.
Aconite

Pain

sharp or throbbing, worse

severe,

Feverish and

after or caused by exposure to cold wind.

Useful

restless.

Arnica

Belladonna

Often

and Cham.

especially with

women

Pain acute or throbbing, causing excite-

children.

much

filling.

useful,

Severe, throbbing headache

ment, crying and striking.

with

Bell,

Pain, soreness and bleeding after extraction.

Soreness and throbbing after

and

See

in children.

aversion to noise or jar about the room. Face

flushed and hot.

Chamomilla
exceedingly

With

Coffea
is

becomes

child

Pain unbearable,

like that of

Aeon, and

Generally worse at night.

Coffea.

Pain

the

nothing will pacify except being

irritable

carried about.

pain

the

Pain

sticking

so

severe

and jerking

patient
like,

becomes

which

is

frantic.

momentarily

relieved by holding cold zvater in the mouth.

China

Toothache

by sickness or

comes
in

loss

or neuralgia of those zueakened


of

blood, nursing mothers.

periodically, with pressure

the parts.

Pain

and great sensitiveness

Neuralgia extends to temples.

Surface

very sensitive.
Ignatia

Sensitive,

hysterical subjects, sleepless

sighing or laughing and crying with pain.

mental strain or protracted

grief.

Worse

and
after

TOOTHACHE
Pulsatilla

265

Seems especially useful

in the case of in-

(Op-

dividuals of mild, timid disposition, given to tears.


posite of
air

Cham, and Nux.)

and worse

in

Pains always better in open

zvarm room, also toivards evening, with

inclination to chilliness with pain.

Mercurius

Pain worse at night.

Gums

szvollen

and

bleeding, tongue coated, breath offensive, with inclination


to

profuse perspiration.

Arsenicum

Very useful
come

Pains

heat.

worse

when

periodically

pains are relieved by

and prostrate.

Often

A. M.

Bryonia

Patient

irritable, like

worse from any exertion.

Cham.

Pains sharp,

Teeth feel too long.

Head-

ache and vertigo.

Rhus Tox
in zvater.

Worse

Aching

all

after getting zvet

from zuorking

over, with intense pain and rest-

lessness of body.

In toothache, neuralgia or any case of severe pain, the

remedy may be repeated


Sometimes the

first

as often as every 15 minutes.

dose relieves, in which case defer the

second until the pain recurs.


partially relieved,

it

is

Even

if

the pain

is

only

often better to defer the second

dose as long as the improvement continues.


In case of severe pain

or emergency

which

is

not

changed for the better by three or four doses, another

remedy should be

selected.

tendency to sleep or to slight perspiration and quiet

may

be regarded as favorable, and in such a case the

remedy should not be changed but given


tervals, or discontinued.

at longer in-

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

266

may
may

be

plugged with absorbent cotton which has been dipped

in

The use

of local remedies for temporary relief

suggested here.

little

will

If

cavity can be located,

and again another

be

Sometimes one

alcohol, chloroform, or cresote.

relieve

it

Cresote should be used

cautiously, so as to avoid contact with the cheek or tongue.


[For special directions
preparation,
dose and
"Directions."]

as

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

its

the

of

General

see

Index

remedy,
under

LOCOMOTOR ATAXIA.
This

is

somewhat obscure
occurs during middle life and is far

a disease of the spinal cord,

as to causation.

It

more prevalent with males than


sive

disease,

and yet

period of from one


It is

its

females.

to thirty years,

which

is

a progi^es-

averaging about eight.

seldom recognized during the

first stage,

It is

may extend over

duration

first

chiefly characterized

year or in the

by acute pains

in

the lower extremities, which are generally regarded as

neuralgic or rheumatic, but

condition of the spine.

about the feet and


sibility.

As

legs,

are

Morbid

really

caused by the

sensibility of the skin

or sometimes entire loss of sen-

the disease progresses the step becomes un-

steady, often jerky.

If the patient closes his eyes or at-

tempts to walk in the dark he

is

liable to fall dov/n.

Derangement of the vision may occur early

in the di-

The pupils become contracted and do not respond


to light.
The arms are sometimes involved, when the
cervical portion of the cord is afifected.
The disease
once well established is classed among the incurable.
The fact that it is not often recognized in the
sease.

early stage (most favorable for treatment)

may

account

SCIATICA
for that.

recall

267

no case of recovery where the disease

had advanced

to the stage characterized

''jerky" step;

3'et I

have known of

by the unsteady,

many

cases that have

continued on for ten and twelve years.


doubtful whether therapeutics can accomplish as

It is

much

by proper exercise, or
especially

The

The

good hygienic managem.ent.

as

sufferer can be prolonged

life

of the

and made more comfortable

rest as the case

by a wholesome, nutritious

may

and

require,

diet.

occasional paroxysms of excruciating pain that

attack the extremeties


suffer the

had better be endured than

derangement of the general health which

to
fol-

lows from prolonged use of narcotic drugs.


See remedies under the head of paralysis, neuralgia and

rheumatism.

SCIATICA.
This

is

form of neuralgia confined

to

the sciatic

nerve, and really calls for no special consideration.

some other errors


rheumatism,"

it

was

in the early

dignified

b}^

name

Like

"sciatic

medical text books, which was

passed on by the practitioner to the layman, so that even


at the present time the error

Owing
nerve,

to the size, location


it

is

not generally recognized.

and function of the

sciatic

often becomes the seat of the most excruciating

pain and disability.

The

pains are essentially the same as

those described under "neuralgia" and the causes, conditions of aggravation

and amelioration are

similar.

It

occasionally develops in the acute form, with most excruciating pain in hip and limb, rendering the patient

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

268

The more common form

fairly helpless.

is

slower in

appearance, milder in symptoms, not producing total dis-

extending over a considerable length of time.

ability but

In either form the pain

is

prolonged exercise and

changes

in the

usually worse

generally

from motion or

very

sensitive

damp

cold at night.

weather, especially the

to

TREATIMENT.

The

history of a case of Sciatica will often reveal the

fact that there has been a sprain, fall, bruise or injury

of some

Such

demands absolute

a condition

Especially

parts.

form of inflammation or mild

sort, resulting in a

neuritis.

is

this

The
more acute symp-

true of an acute case.

patient should remain in bed until the

toms are subdued, and

rest of the

moderate motion can be had

until

without causing pain. Ultimate recovery will occur


sooner than

when

plication of

dry heat, as

afford

more

relief

the patient

and

in

is

allowed freedom.

much
Ap-

other forms of neuralgia,

objectionable than any other.

is less

In addition to the remedies described under neuralgia,

Rhus Tox and Colocynth, two


dies,

of the most useful reme-

should be considered here.

Rhus Tax
sciatica

Rhus,

is

is

If

there

is

a history of a sprain, or

if

caused by getting zvet or zvorking in water,

Pain severe, with restlessness and

the remedy.

constant inclination to

move

the limb, zvhich gives pain.

In the milder cases walking and motion relieve for a


time, but the pain
in

damp
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

Its

is

acute on beginning to move.

Worse

zveather.
directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

VERTIGO

269

VIRTIGO.
(Dizziness.)
Virtigo

which

is

is

This symptom,

not a disease but a symptom.

so often associated with

some consideration.

It

many

diseases, calls for

often seen in opposite con-

is

ditions, as for instance, in the full-blooded, or the

subject.

It is felt

blood in the brain.

when
It

may

be

is

occur

too

little

in the

and plethoric

invalid or in the robust


Its

there

frail,

enumerate them

all.

It is a loss

of equilibrium of the body, accompanied


dizziness, with a loss of the
line, or, in

power

to

much

emaciated

individual.

underlying causes are so numerous that

difficult to

anemic

or too

walk

it

would

of the sense

by

extreme

in a straight

excessive cases, even to stand up, and also by

nausea and vomiting.

It is a

even terrifying to those

symptom

sufifering

covery of the reason back of

it

from

so annoying
it

and

that the dis-

becomes one of great

importance.
Virtigo
there

and

is

sometimes one among other indications that

some serious disorder of the brain or spinal cord,


is also often one of the symptoms of heart-disease.

is

it

In these cases, of course, the organic disease


nized,
ticular

and there

is

no doubt as to the reason for

symptom among

the

many

others.

In

is

recog-

this par-

many

in-

stances, however, people will complain of recurring at-

tacks of vertigo

who seem

otherwise quite well, and

it

is

only by careful questioning and examination that the


physician will be able to determine what
patient's trouble.

is

the root of his

DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM

270
It

may

be gastric in

its

origin,

coming on suddenly after

a full meal, and accompanied with headache and some-

Gastric and bilious vertigos are

times dimness of vision.

relieved by any treatment that enables the system to do


its

work

properl}^

and carry

off the poisons that are pro-

ducing autotoxication.
Vertigo

often one of the

is

symptoms complained of

by the nervous or the anemic patient.

If there are

found

at the

same time the usual accompaniments of the nervous

state,

such as a history of overstrain, a lack of nerve

may

force, a constant feeling of fatigue, the vertigo

safely considered part of


cially if

it is

When

the

be

general condition, espe-

rather mild in type but occurring often.

accompanies

vertigo

cerebral, that

to say, a direct

is

anemia

it

is

probably

consequence of a poor

supply of blood to the brain.

When

vertigo

is

due

severe, but persistent,


shut,

to eye-strain

it is

growing better

if

and disappearing for a time when they are

As soon

Any

immediately cease.

abnormality in the heart action interfering with

the circulation

is

a frequent cause of vertigo.

manifest on any strenuous exertion,

Derangement of

height.

reflexes
all

rested.

as the eyes have been properly fitted with glasses

this type of vertigo will

in

usually not very


the eyes are kept

may

digestion,

or

This

is

ascending

and a host of other

cause a troublesome dizziness which cannot

cases be cured until the cause

is

known.

Very

many remedies have this symptom of vertigo associated


with many others. In some diseases quite curable vertigo
may be the most troublesome of all. For instance, if

VERTIGO
the vertigo
Ipec, Puis,
If

371

were from indigestion, such remedies as Bry.,


and Nitx would be thought

of.

associated with brain disease, Aeon., Bell., Bry.,

Cale. earh.
If

from the

Determine,

heart, Aeon., Ars., Bry., Dig., Cactus.


if

possible, the cause of the vertigo,

study the remedies for any disease ivith which

it

and

seems

associated.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

DISEASES OF THE SKIN.


GENERAL SYMPTOMS CONNECTED WITH THE SKIN,
WHICH MAY FURNISH HINTS TO DIAGNOSIS
AND PRESCRIBING.
The normal
surface,

skin

is

smooth, presenting a shghtly oily


color, heat or

and free from the extremes of

coldness.

During the presence of fever the skin become hot, dry


and flushed. In acute diseases if the skin becomes moist,
especially after giving a remedy,

it

is

most favorable

sign.

In sub-acute or chronic diseases


cold, with a perspiration that

the situation
is

weak and

may

is

when

cold,

the skin

clamy and profuse,

be full of danger, especially

irregular.

The

becomes

if

the pulse

color of the skin in disease

often aids in diagnosis and in the selection of a remedy.

Thus, the face

is

red and flushed, especially in scarlet

fever and in acute diseases of the brain and lungs.

anaemia, fainting and collapse


near the center are flushed

longed suppuration.

liver,

indicate

and jaundice.

some form of

form of dyspepsia.
272

pale.

The cheeks

livid, also in collapse.

greenish color of the skin


of the

is

fever and during pro-

In asthma and heart disease the skin

often becomes blue and

may

it

in hectic

In

is

Yellow-

a sign of disease or torpor

sallow, pale,

anaemic skin

cancer, chlorosis, or the worst

There are

varieties of eruptions

on

DISEASES OF THE SKIN


the face which are characteristic of

273

some

diseases,

which have not been mentioned under eruptive

The

frequent, annoying eruption

boys and
les,

girls

and

diseases.

on the face of young

approaching puberty, in the form of pimp-

black pores, or even pustules

the persistent scabby,

unhealable sore that appears about the nose or lips and,


untreated, terminates in epithelioma, a

form of cancer;

the "copper-colored" spots that like ear marks, dot the

from secondary

face of the subject suffering

may

It is quite as

true that the appearance of the face furn-

ishes evidence of disease, as

sion

syphilis; all

serve as pointers to both a diagnosis and a remedy.

is

is

it

that the facial expres-

The funcimportant, and when

often a fair index of the individual

many and

tions of the skin are

kept in a normal condition

and protection from

it

is

all

a conservator of health

disease.

The nomenclature of skin diseases is well nigh past


Not a few authorities give different and
bewildering names to the same ailment. The number of
understanding.

real diseases of the skin

somewhat prevalent

is

will

not large, and only such as are

Many

be mentioned here.

the so-called "skin diseases" are really nothing

symptomatic of some

internal, constitutional taint

must be treated with proper

of

more than
which

internal remedies before the

skin disease will disappear.

Herein

lies

the fallacy and danger of external treat-

ment, the result of which


transferring the disease
vital part,

often serious because of

(by no means a cure), where

become the
19

is

from the skin

seat

to
it

some more

may

in

time

of an organic and incurable disease.

DISEASES OF THE SKIN

374

Doubtless abnormalities of the skin would almost disappear,

every individual possessed a healthy, normal

if

may perhaps even

This

constitution.

include the skin

diseases of parasitic origin, which indeed are few.


local treatment

and

The marvelous

its

(See

dangers).

protection from disease, by the delicate

normal skin when

fully intact,

is

one of the wisest pro-

That the normal skin

\isions of Creative Intelligence.

can be safely exposed to almost every form of corruption

and

nature,

disease, with

is

no protection except that given by

equally marvellous.

This much

said to emphasize the vast importance of

is

caring for the skin and guarding against the appalling

come from

results that often

ever

slight,

may

injuries to

it,

which, how-

permit septic and toxic material to enter

the system, with alarming results.

In prescribing for diseases of the skin,

found necessary

will often

it

be

to seek for indications that lie deeper

than the skin, as for instance, the habits of the individual,


diet, constipation,

hereditary taint,

etc.

It

is

the

same

principle that has so often been emphasized in this treatise,

that the individual as a whole

must be taken under

consideration whenever the prescriber aims at a rapid

and permanent cure.

ECZEMA.
This

is

by far the most frequent and important of

diseases of

when

the skin.

the skin

is

It

delicate

all

occurs oftenest in childhood

and

susceptible.

tagious, often chronic in form.

It

It is

non-con-

begins with redness or

ECZEMA

275

inflammation of the skin, either in small patches or dif-

Very soon small ves-

fused over the cheeks or hands.


icles

or blisters appear, attended by intolerable itching

and burning.

This

soon followed by the formation of

is

gummy

yellowish or dry,

crusts or pustules.

In the case of children and even of adults in the more


severe cases the itching
sufficient to

is

so great that no restraint

and scabs that produces a most

a mingling of blood, pus

way

In this

repulsive visage.

different parts of the body.

the disease

The

attaches to this.
in children, the

hands

concerned

is

face

its

affirm that

it

The

unknown

Some deny

is

prognosis, so far

quantity.

The

ques-

being argued by the

still

that

to be classed

is

value or importance

favorable, but the exact duration

is

cause or causes

best authorities.

little

most frequently attacked

in adults.

of the disease remains an


tion of

is

implanted in

is

sometimes divided ac-

It is

cording to the parts affected, but

as life

is

prevent scratching of the parts, which causes

it

is

among

hereditary, others
parasitic diseases,

though no micro-organism has yet been discovered.

Some

practical

facts

are established, and only such

should find a place in this treatise.


soap, or even too

The free use of poor

much soaping and scrubbing of the


The hands

sensitive skin of babies, will cause an attack.

of

washerwomen

that the

disease most

Over feeding of
etc., is

are a good illustration, for

frequently occurs

it

is

found

among them.

too rich food, especially the fats, cream,

another cause.

Eczema may follow from


stitutional

tendency

is

vaccination.

acquired

through

Where

a con-

heredity

or

DISEASES OF THE SKIN

276
Otherwise,

needs only some slight exciting cause to

it

produce the disease.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
the use of internal remedies

The response from

not

is

always as prompt as the patient desires, and the physician,


too,

may

feel the

same way.

This rather adds to the time

required to cure and leads to frequent change of remedies

When

and general confusion.


selected,

it

is

best

before

change to a higher potency.

ment

concerned

is

it

remedy has been well

discontinuing the

same

So far as the external

to

treat-

should be confined to non-medicinal

substances or such soothing articles as powdered starch,

or talcum powder.

The

use of soap and water will in-

variably aggravate and, especially in the case of infants,

should be managed with great caution or omitted for a


time.

The

following remedies have proven most valuable.

Ars., Apis, Graph, Hep., SuL,

Arsenicum

Rhus

Tox., Sul.

Dry, scaly surface with slight secretion

but intense burning and itching of the parts; apt to be

worse

at night

Apis
and

and better from warmth.

Small,

watery patches with much stinging

itching, face especially.

About eyes may be swollen

or puffy.
Calc.

carb.

In

scrofulous,

fat,

light-haired

chil-

dren inclined to glandular swellings and disease of the


bones.

The

and head.

eruption

is

dry,

and thick scabs on the face

HERPES
Graphites

277

Surfaces exude a tenacious, sticky secreabout the ears and face often indicated.

tion, especially

Hepar sulphur

In cases inclined to become chronic

The discharge is often pus


Worse from being touched or from cold

or recur after nearly cured.

and offensive.

All injuries incline to suppuration.

air.

Rhus tox

Surface

red, blistered in places,

covered

with scaly, yellowish-looking substance. Itching and restlessness prevents sleep.

few doses of

Sulphur

may

Sul.

be given on the

start

or during the course of treatment, especially

there

is

if

evidence of Scrofula or any tendency to become

[For

Hepar

Similar to

chronic.

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

and

dose

Its

as

sul.
to

diet,

repetition,

selection of the remedy,


see
General Index under

HERPES.
VARIETIES AND SYMPTOMS.
Herpes

is

cutaneous affection characterized by a

group or number of small


size of a

hemp

blisters or vesicles

seed or very small pea.

about the

After a period

of five to eight days they dry, leaving an irritated surface

covered more or

less

There are several


books, but seemingly
of any

varieties of Herpes, at least in the

more on account of

essential difference.

about the mouth or


is

with crusts and sometimes pus.

a most

common

When

location than

the disease

is

located

lips, it is

called herpes facialis.

location,

and

it

This

often follows or ac-

companies severe colds and especially pneumonia.

DISEASES OF THE SKIN

278

HERPES ZOSTER.
(Shingles.)

This

most painful form of herpes.

the

is

the body near the waist line and

The

sides.

may

make

small, pearl-like blisters

ance along the

line of a spinal nerve,

attacks

It

involve one or both


their appear-

giving the semblance

The eruption may be preceded by


Its eruption lasts from one
cases
ulceration follows, also
In some

of a belt of pearls.

fever and lassitude.

chills,

week

to ten days.

a .most painful neuralgia involving the seat of eruption.

The

parts

become exceedingly

while sharp pains follow up

sensitive

to

touch,

the

the spinal nerves.

Another form of Herpes occurs

in different parts

of

the body, always taking a circular form resembling and

confounded with "Ring-worm," which

often

is

quite

a dift"erent disease; the latter being of a parasitic origin,

hence contagious., whereas herpes

neither.

is

While

all

forms of herpes are made most manifest by a disease of


the skin,

it is

likewise certain that in

lated to, or caused

some way

it

is

re-

by some abnormal condition of the

nerves distributed over the parts involved.

MEDICAIi TREATMENT.

The

disease as a rule

is

self-limited

and void of danger.

few remedies have been found useful.

little

blisters should be

avoided

if

Rupture of the

possible, for

when

this

happens the parts are slow to heal and often cause the

most painful neuralgia


the parts by

means of a

cotton, will serve a

to

follow.

silk

Some

protection of

handkerchief, or absorbent

good purpose.

RING-WORM
The remedies

may

that

279

be of use are chiefly, Aeon,

Rhus Tox. and

Apis, Canth., China, Crot., Tig.,

Spigelia.

In the early stage where the fever and restlessness require, Aeon., or Ars.

burn and

If the blisters

Tig. will afford

may subdue

some

the force of the disease.

sting, Apis.,

Canth. and Crot.

relief.

mouth, Nat. M., Ars., Hep., Sid.

If about the

For the painful neuralgia, Spig. and China


Should any

be indicated.

of

application

ternal

relief be afforded

some dusting powder,

starch, talcum, or rice flour,

they

may

will often

by the exlike

corn

be used freely

without harm.
[For

directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

and

dose

Its

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

RING-WORM.
This disease
circular

form

neck and head.

known and

is

occui"ring

often recognized by

most frequently on the

its

face,

resembles the disease sycosis or "bar-

It

ber's itch," both in superficial appearance

and causation,

for both are very contagious and often spread by careless

and uncleanly barbers,

common
The
less

also the use in the family of a

towel.

skin becomes

with a

fine,

somewhat red and covered more or


sealy formation which in some

dry,

cases, especially about the beard,

There

ment

is

more or

as a whole,

less itching
is

becomes a thiek

and burning.

not very satisfactory.

erust.

The treatThe Sulphur

DISEASES OF THE SKIN

280

ointments cure some cases, giving at the same time Sul-

phur

Homeopathic

in

doses, internally.

Sepia has cured some cases, and

may

follow the use

of Sul.

As Ring-Worm
ease of the skin,

an application

is

a highly contagious, parasitic dis-

has often been found necessary to use

it

to destroy the parasite.

This

may

be done

by scrubbing the parts, twice a day, with green soap and


hot water, after which, paint the part with a weak solution of Iodine.

URTICARIA.
(Nettie-Rash.)

The name

of this disease

veys a good idea of

its

is

most fortunate, as

con-

it

appearance, symptoms and path-

ology.

The

peculiar elevation of a wheel-shaped eruption so

resembles that caused by contact with the

common

that the difference cannot be easily determined.

nettle

Further-

more, the burning, itching, stinging pain bears a


resemblance.

There

is

like

also a resemblance to a bee sting,

or the bite of some poisonous insect, as a spider or


flea, etc.

The

elevated,

wheel-like blotch or eruption, usually

appears suddenly and


body.

It

trace of

The
easily

may

spread over the limbs and

often disappears in the same way, leaving no

its

presence.

disease

made.

is

Its

quite

common, and its diagnosis will be


is from a few hours to a few

duration

PRURITUS

281

Among

days, and the prognosis always favorable.


direct, or exciting causes

certain kinds of food,

may

which

in

the

be mentioned the eating of

connection with individual

Such

idiosyncrasies will produce an attack.

articles as

sea food, pungent spices, and strawberries, are those most

Mental excitement,

apt to do so.

may

and anger

fright, grief

cause an attack.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
The use

of internal remedies only, should constitute

the treatment.

Apis

Often

The

sufficient.

stinging, burning pains

predominate.

The

Arsenicum
restless, full

eruption burns like

Patient

fire.

of fear and apprehension, cannot rest any-

where, generally worse after midnight.

Hepar sulphur

Useful

in

frequently returning or

chronic form.

Urtica urens

and burning.

Symptoms

similar to Apis, stinging

This remedy approaches a

the absence of indications for others

it

specific,

may

and

in

be given.

PRURITUS.
(Itching of the Skin.)

This

is

a troublesome

symptom or

condition which

often occurs zvithoiit any visible eruption.


general over the
shifts

It

may

whole body, but more frequently

from one part

to another.

In a final analysis,

be
it
it

DISEASES OF THE SKIN

282

may

be due to irritation of the terminal branches of the

cutaneous nerves.

The troublesome

itching

may

be associated with jaun-

and disease of the kidneys, especially

dice,

Pruritus ani
rence.

In adults

it is

diabetes.

symptom of frequent occur-

a troublesome

is

often due to fissures, tiny ulcers, or

internal piles.

In the case of children and not unfrequently in adults,


it

is

due

which

to intestinal

worms,

at times pierces the

especially the thread

worm

membrane and

skin about the

may

be found that

anus.

In nearly

all

cases of pruritus,

it

other conditions are present which will lead to a right


diagnosis,

and render the treatment more rational and

successful.

PSORIASIS.
This disease has been a perpetual study, both as to
origin and cure.

It

very often prevails

its

in the case of

individuals above the average in general health and with

no evidence of any organic disease.

The weight
is

of evidence

hereditary in its nature

is

with those

who

and ancient

claim that

in its origin.

it

It

seldom developes before puberty, and often continues


through middle and old age.

Its first

appearance

is

in

small patches of dry, scaly, silvery flakes which accumulate in

some

thickness, unless

removed by the

the clothing or by the scratching

of the disease.

It is

which

is

friction of

no small feature

often more in evidence about the

SCABIES

283

exterior side of the extremities, especially the elbow and

knee.

The

obstinacy with which this disease has resisted

treatment

all

recall a

is

without a parallel.

In looking backward,

goodly number of cases that came under

observation,

passing

as

another, but none that

from one physician

along

remember

my

left

my
to

hands better

than they came.

Let us hope that the strides being

made by

the anti-

toxins and autotoxins will reach psoriasis.

SCABIES.
(Itch.)

"So naturalists observe a flea


Has smaller fleas that on him prey;
And these have smaller still to bite 'em;
And so proceed ad infinitum."

Swift

in 17th Century.

SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT.


This disease, cominonly called 'Ttch,"
animal parasite which burrows

and outer portion of the


and deposits
vesicles

during the

where

is

caused by an

through the thinner


it

finds a habitation

eggs. This in a short time causes pimples,

and pustules

itching that

By

its

skin,

itself

may

to appear, all attended with intense

continue day and night often worse

latter.

the process of scratching, the finger nails

charged with the disease or parasite which

is

become
speedily

transferred to different parts of the body or to a second


party.

The

disease seems to flourish best in the midst

DISEASES OF THE SKIN

284
of dirt and

where there

filth

is

httle disposition or

oppor-

tunity for giving proper care to the surface of the body.

During the

war

late

in this

country and for some years

up through camp

thereafter, a disease sprang

unsanitary

conditions,

"army-itch,"

called

life

and

which was

doubtless true scabies.

In dealing with this disease two things confront us.


First, the destruction of the parasite

secondly, the use

of such remedies as will best remove or repair the injuries caused

by

it.

The use of sulphur and mercurial ointments seems to


The patient should
and when the
in
the
evening
bath
warm
water
take a
accomplish the former very promptly.

surface becomes dry and warm, the ointment should be


applied over the whole body and allowed to remain for

24 hours, after which repeat the bath and ointment as

The

before.

third

application

should be sufficient to

destroy the parasite.

The use

of the homeopathic

remedy should begin with

the above treatment and continue for sometime after.

Unless special indications


treatment
to be

may

call

for other remedies, the

begin with the use of Sulphur internally,

followed by Hepar Sul. or other remedies best

indicated.

Of

course, a person suffering

from

itch

should be sup-

plied with separate towels, handkerchiefs, bed,


[For

special

preparation,
its
"Directions."]

directions

dose

and

etc.

to diet, selection of tbe remedy,


General Index under
repetition,
see

as

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES.
DIATHESIS.
(Constitutional Pre-Disposition.)
the reason why cure of many diseases is
the physician of Hellas because they are
ignorant of the whole which ought to be studied also; for
the part can never be well unless the whole is well."
Socrates, 400 B. C.

"And this
unknown to

is

There

so

is

much

that

true and of practical value

is

in the following quotation that I insert the

comment

it

would be very

more

subject in a

familiar

difficult to

way

same without

present so large a

The

or in fewer words.

origin or basfs for the individual Diathesis rests largely

upon the

principles of heridity

marriage for generations,

upon marriage and

representing

different

inter-

types

with the resultant pre-dispositions so that not a few suffer

from a

real

tyranny

in their physical

organism, over which

they have no control and for which they are not responsible.

Homeopathic remedies

in

the

higher potencies,

including the "tissue remedies" often meet and overcome

some of the worst forms of

constitutional diseases

and

even the predisposition to the same.

means 'a constitutional


Certain individuals, or often certain entire
families, may be confidently expected to react physically
in one way, while other individuals or groups of individuals
This is why doctors are interwill react in another way.
By finding
ested in the family history of their patients.
"The word

diathesis in medicine

pre-disposition.'

285

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

386

out what sort of material people's tissues are made of, the
doctors are able to judge what sort of physical strain the
patients will prove most susceptible to.

"Some people are physically 'all wool and a yard wide';


others should be marked 'handle with care
this end up.'
It is when the stress of life comes that these differences in
the texture of people, so to speak, become most apparent,
and it is the common, simple, every-day ailments to which
all are subject that try people out, and grade them according to their physical class.

"One schoolboy
that

accident,

and

toe poulticed.

He can

afford

Nature

sible.

grumble a minute, and


meet with the same
must stay at home for a week and have his
The first boy has inherited sound tissues.
risks that the second boy must avoid if poshas insured him for a higher sum.

the end of

is

will stub his toe,

it.

The next boy

will

"The

so-called strumous diathesis, or tuberculous tendalways bad soil for all ailments, even though tuberIts subjects will
culosis may never actually develop in it.
show a susceptibility to various ailments, such as pleurisy,
repeated attacks of influenza, or bronchial weakness they
are constantly reminded that a foe waits at the gates of

ency.

Is

life.

would be hard to enumerate the many ills that are


traced to the gouty diathesis.
Among them may be
mentioned tonsillitis, asthma, and many forms of skin
trouble, such as outbreaks of herpes, or eczema.
Many
people who are of the gouty or arthritic type will suffer
from repeated attacks of tonsillitis, or herpes, or hay-fever
while young, and become the victims of genuine gout in
"It

now

middle

life.

"Another constitutional pre-disposition is the neurotic or


nervous type, in which, as its name implies, the nervous
system is at fault, and will be selected as the point of attack.
These are, in fact, the three great types into which all imperfect physical material may be
the arthritic and the neurotic.
different

types

may

be found

divided ^the strumous,


In many persons two
blended and exercising a

RACHITIS

387

modifying influence upon each other

may

an

influence which

be either favorable or unfavorable."

RACHITIS.
(Rickits.)

This

is

birth, but

becomes manifest, sometimes

a disease that

more

year and the

at

especially during the last half of the first

first

more

half of the second, resulting in

or less permanent deformity.

It is

characterized by tardy

development of bone and


especially about the head, trunk and limbs.
dentition, defective

weakness, unhealthy appearance,

much

cartilage,

General

perspiration, dis-

tention of the abdomen, etc.

The

children of tuberculor, scrofulous and syphilitic

parents have a predisposition to Rickitis, which

is

flamed into activity by unsanitary surroundings.

diease.

be done to

PYes'h air, sunshine,

cleanliness,

proper nourishment, are

all

On

indispensible.

of the faulty development of bone the child


learning to walk or

sit

With

much can

proper care and medication, very

overcome the

often

upright.

This

may

is

account

slow in

be nature's

remedy of preventing greater deformity of spine and

legs.

DIET.
If the

mother

scanty or faulty,

is

not in good health or

it is

if

well to change to cow's milk.

children, as soon as permissable, should have

some cream,
poor

her milk

eggs, fruits

city children if they

and meat.

is

Older

good milk,

Fortunate are the

can be taken to the country

or to the city park, or upon the roofs to get the sun and
air.

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

288

TREATMENT.
Medication for these cases has accompHshed much.

few remedies seem

to furnish clear indications,

properly selected will change

and

if

for the better the awful

stampd upon the helpless, blameless little


Whatever remedy is given, it is well to
begin with the lower potency and go to the higher, if the
When the improvement, however slight,
lower fails.
destiny that

is

new-comer.

seems assured, stop the remedy for a time, and repeat

when improvement
chiefly called

for me,

for,

The remedy which has been


and one that has cured many cases
ceases.

Calcarea Phosphorica, used in the 3rd and 6th

is

and 200th potency.

Next

importance and very often indicated

in

Carbonica.

and

is

it

doubtful

if

this class will

Any remedy

well indicated

should be given temporarily, and


tional or otherwise,

remedies, constitu-

Olive or cod liver

oil

are often

the stomach will tolerate.

Calcarea carbonica
flabby

all

should be prescribed according to

homeopathic principles.

when

Calcarea

remedies outside of

do much permanent good.

useful

is

Both are deep acting constitutional remedies

Best

suited to the

fair, fat

and

inclined to profuse perspiration about the head

while sleeping.

Large head and abdomen with open

fontanells and sutures, slow, delayed dentition, slow to

walk or stand, swelling and tenderness over stomach with


diarrhea, very sensitive to

cold air,

constantly taking

cold.

Calcarea
tanells

phosphorica

Cranial

bones

thin,

fon-

and sutures remain open or stationary, teething

ACUTE RHEUMATISM

289

delayed, neck iveak, unable to support the head

thin or

emaciated, slow in walking or unable to stand, sunken


flabby

abdomen with tendency

to diarrhoea, child

is

weak,

apathetic or peevish.

Hepar

sul

especially

if

May be useful

there

The

spiration.

if

fail

and

much

per-

the Calcareas

a cough with tendency to

is

body covered with pimples,

face or

in-

clined to suppuration.

Silicea
to

In

thin, poorly

nourished subject, inclined

sweat ; the face pale and pinched teeth and bones slow
;

to develop

inclined to constipation.

When

Sulphur

well selected remedies

Sul. serves to rouse the system

other remedies.
efifort

to

The

fail

to cure,

and prepare the way for

child dreads zvater, cries with every

bathe; inclined to morning diarrhoea and to

eruption on the face.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]

directions

dose

its

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

renaedy,

Index

under

ACUTE RHEUMATISM.
(Inflammatory Rheumatism.)

The word rheumatism


such a broad, even vague
little

in its general sense

way by

or riothing to the scientific mind.

rheumatism.)

used in

definite signi-

corresponding to the nature of the disease.

acute form

is

The

frequently termed rheumatic fever, acute

rheumatism, or inflammatory rheumatism.


20

mean

(See chronic

Further investigation and more extensive

knowledge may give us a new name with a


fication

is

the masses as to

Few

acute

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

290

diseases run a

more

variable course and

few have more

dangerous complications, the chief of which

is

rheuma-

In former times

tism of the heart, or endocarditis.

when

external applications were in vogue, quite a large per-

centage of those

who

survived the disease were victims of

"chronic heart disease" which in due time developed other


complications both distressing and irremediable.

Such

should be very rare with internal homeopathic

results

treatment and proper care.

Rheumatism

children as well as of adults.

matism

exists in

some

families,

is

a disease of

predisposition to rheu-

and one attack rather

in-

creases the liability to another.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The nature
itself at

of the disease does not always manifest

once. It

indefinite

is

often preceded by two or three days of

symptoms such

as often precede other acute dis-

eases; general lassitude, sore throat, headache and lameless in general, after

which there

is

acute pain about the

joints with redness over the seat of pain,

all

of which

greatly aggravated by the slightest touch or motion.

profuse and

offensive perspiration

with scanty, high-colored urine.

is

is

always present,

Frequently there will be

a history of rash exposure, as sleeping or working in

damp room, checking


ing.

lems of

its

insufficient cloth-

Each

do much

is

individual case presents prob-

own. Homeopathic remedies carefully selected


to relieve pain

and cut short the duration of

Even without any complications


uncertain. The more violent and acute

the disease.
tion

and

Occupation and climatic conditions are operative in

causing rheumatism.

will

perspiration,

from two

to four weeks.

the durastage lasts

RHEUMATISM
Following

291

this there is apt to be a considerable period

of disability owing to weakness and sensitiveness of the

muscles and joints, during which time undue exercise or

exposure

produce a relapse quite as severe as

is liable to

See remedies after rheumatism.

the original attack.

RHEUMATISM.
(Chronic.)
In the older medical works, chronic rheumatism like
the acute form,

was accorded a large place; but with ad-

vancing knowledge

many

of the affections called "chronic

rheumatism" have been found


not in any

way

to be

due

diagnosis, prevention

and treatment, the

change cannot be over-estimated.

to specific causes

For purposes of

related to rheumatism.

by

real gain

Eerrors in

this

diet, faulty

nutrition and failure of the excretory organs to eliminate

toxic material
cation, all

from the system, resulting

in auto-intoxi-

give rise to a legion of pains and aches

have no right

to a place

which

under the general term "chronic

rheumatism."

Such conditions usually prevail

beyond middle

life.

Again, there

may

in

persons

be other influences

operating on the individual constitution such as occupation,

climate and environment, so that each case

be considered on

its

merits.

With

the selected

must

remedy

should go instructions as to causes and conditions to be

avoided by the patient, else disappointment will follow

any medical treatment.

Obviously, the selection of reme-

dies for so-called chronic


difficulties.

The following

and chronic forms of the

rheumatism presents unusual


are adapted to both the acute
disease.

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

392

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

After

exposure to cold winds, or from

checking perspiration, a severe


lows.

chill

and high fever

fol-

Thirst and restlessness, pulse strong, full and rapid.

remedy should be given


and the patient kept in bed safe from

If free perspiration follows, the


at longer intervals
all

chilling

and

Belladonna

all

exposure.

Symptoms similar to Aeon, with throb-

bing pain in head and neck, sore throat, very hot skin with

May

cold feet.

Bryonia

be drowsy and delirious with pain.

Often

follows Aeon, which has reduced

Pain of Bry.

the fever and restlessness.

is

always greatly aggravated by any motion.

moved without

tense pain, joints red and painful, vertigo

and faintness on
Cactus

sharp and

Cannot he

rising

When

from

the

pillow.

involves

disease

the

heart,

with acute pain and cramping, clutching about heart and


chest, sense of suffocation

face.

and palpitation, cold sweat on

(See Verat.)

Gelsemium

In some cases with fever but no

thirst.

Lassitude and prostration, pain in neck and base of brain

with pain and soreness of eyeballs,

Mercurius

Later

which gives no

lids

heavy.

stages with profuse perspiration

relief,

pains

all

heavily coated and swollen, with

worse

much

at night,

saliva

tongue

and offen-

sive breath.

Pulsatilla

Pains

not so severe but shifting about,

RHEUMATISM
with constant

chilliness, not

derangement with bad

much

mouth,

taste in

One of the

first to

no

fever,

evening, constant craving for fresh

Rhus tox

293
thirst, gastric

worse towards

all

air.

be thought of

acute or chronic rheumatism, especially

in either

there

if

a his-

is

The

tory of getting zvet followed by neglect and chilling.

and muscles

joints

feel

lame and sore with constant, ach-

ing pains which drive the patient about.


in

still

Cannot keep

bed or room and worse from damp weather, strain

Worse on beginning

of heavy lifting, and bathing.

move, better by continued motion.

Lameness

in

to

muscles

of back, better from pressure or lying on something hard.

The

great restlessness of limbs very characteristic.

Radium bromide
remedy but

it

proving and
is

to

This

is

new

comparatively

has already furnished both in

clinical results, the best of

its

careful

evidence that

it

become a most useful remedy for rheumatism and

gout.

The

clean-cut homeopathic indications are very

Thus

similar to Rhus.

far,

clinical verifications

stamp

the provings as up-to-date and most trustworthy.

The following remedies may

Am.,

also be considered:

Cimicif., Cham.,

Didc, Nux., Lach., Lyco. and Sul.

Mat. Med. Part

III.

The

See diet under Gout.

See

free use of pure drinking

water preferably the Underwood or Poland Spring water


to

facilitate the elimination of toxic material

system (chiefly through the kidneys)


in

from the

important both

Rheumatism and Gout.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
Its

is

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

t'ao

Index

remedy,

under

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

294

GOUT.
Gout, in
is

many

respects,

is

also divided into the acute

acute or chronic, the disease


in

living or

rheumatism and

similar to

and chronic forms. Whether


is

generally due to excesses

intemperate and indolent habits which in

time so burden the elminating powers of the system that


toxic substances accumulate, especially about the smaller
joints,

of

the

resulting in

the

well-known "aches and pains"


Occasionally

goaty subject.

there

is

an out-

break of fever, when local and inflammatory conditions

This

ensue.

is

termed acute gout.

Such

cases,

like

acute rheumatism, should be placed in bed at once and


treated accordingly.

See remedies and their indications

under the head of acute rheumatism.

Chronic gout

may

be said to be acute gout minus the inflammatory

and

febrile

symptoms, the cause and other symptoms

being essentially the same.

In this form of gout, mod-

erate exercise in the open

air is indispensable except in

cases where the strength and pain are prohibitory.

The

patient should drink freely of water (see

tism) and partake of a


lists

to

light, restricted diet.

rheuma-

Many

diet

have been made out, not a few diametrically opposed

one another, owing doubtless to honest but theoreti-

cal conceptions in

However,

few

vogue as

to the nature of the disease.

rational conclusions are fairly well es-

tablished.

In the place of so-called "butcher meats" the lighter

and more harmless animal foods should be substituted,


such as

fish,

game and

chicken,

also

sea

food, eggs,

GOUT
milk,

Liquor of

and vegetables.

fruit

295
all

kinds and

Everything that

strong tea and coffee should not be used.

promotes perfect regularity of the bowels and the free


action of the kidneys
in regard to

is

important and the same

is

true

keeping the skin clear and normal by fre-

quent baths, thus promoting a freer elimination of toxic


products from the system.

Gout and rheumatism are often so blended


the diagnostician, but fortunately the

not treat the

"name" of

either.

as to baffle

homeopath does

The remedies

described

under the head of rheumatism, may be referred

at length

to here as the ones chiefly indicated in either disease.

MORBID GROWTHS.
A

summary

brief

growths

is

apply to

all

any of

its

all

of the main facts concerning morbid

that will be attempted here,

this will

cavities.

general division, all-inclusive, must separate

mors

two

into

classes,

of a growth

local condition

and

its

is

determined both by the

on the general system.

effects

tumor shows a marked tendency

and
pain,

to
it

extend
is

diagnosis
tionately,

destructively,

probably malignant.
is

made

if

especially

all tu-

malignant and non-malignant.

The malignity
the

and

growths or tumors about the body or within

with

If

to increase in size

or

without

severe

confirmation of this

the general health suffers proporif

there

is

marked decrease

in

strength and iveight with loss of appetite, and anemia.

The

location of the

growth and the

local

symptoms

will

contribute something towards an accurate diagnosis, also

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

296

including hereditary

ihe full history of a given case,


tendencies.

Non-malignant growths may be characterized by con-

The growth

ditions quite the opposite of the foregoing.


is

slow and for long periods

may remain

no tendency to destruction of issue; the

stationary with
local

symptoms

are not marked; the general condition of the patient

good and without

continues

fairly

strength.

The importance

loss

of weighing

in
all

weight or
these facts,

and minor ones related thereto cannot be over-estimated.

Many

a malignant growth that

was curative by an

early

operation has been allowed to reach a stage quite incurable.

This

is

especially true of cancer

and the more

malignant grozvths.
Contrariwise in these days,

when

cess of surgery has

become

malignant growths

may have been

In justification of this
ally the

the safety and suc-

so well-established, the non-

needlessly operated.

must be admitted that occasion-

it

benign growth takes on malignancy.

depends upon

all

Very much

the facts in each individual case; the

age of the patient, the location of the growth and the


general health of the patient.

The

curative value of constitutional remedies in

these cases

is

no new revelation

however, to prolong

this

the life of the patient

is

to the true

treatment unduly and jeopardise


a greater responsibility than any

honest and competent physician

The

specialist or

some of

Homeopath

is

willing to

assume.

surgeon should be conferred with and

the responsibility shared.

Notwithstanding the value of medical treatment

in

ABSCESS
these cases,

it

297

obviously impossible to enter upon the

is

and remedies, without unduly

oetails of particular cases

enlarging the scope of this treatis.


it

It

may

be said that

not only safe, but often the best that can be done,

is

to give the indicated

remedy and

loms and conditions both

this includes all

and general.

local

symp-

This

may

tumors and occasionally

result in checking the groivth of

removing them altogether.


Unfortunately, the tendency

is,

in all superficial pre-

undue consideration

scribing, to give

toms and neglect the general ones.

tumor or whatever

mality,

festation of

some

may

it

be,

to the local

is

often the mani-

constitutional defect wdiich

remedied before the

symp-

This local abnor-

must be

local manifestation of disease will

disappear.

When

good

are

results

obtained

from the proper

medicine, they are generally quite permanent and farreaching.

This,

think,

is

especially true of glandular

tumors and diseases of the lymphatic glands.

Any one of the


may be called for.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

deeper acting constitutional remedies

directions

and

dose

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

ABSCESS.

An

abscess

is

collection of pus

organ of the body, and

is

in

usually due to

inflammatory, septic or morbid process.


after

some acute disease or

injuiy,

any tissue or

some preceeding
It

may

follow

causing a serious

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

298

complication and protracted convalescence.

As

a remote

cause the scrofulous or tubercular subject should not be


overlooked.

SYMPTOMATOLOGY.
The
by

early or inflammatory stage

highly congested condition of

always attended

is

This

and redness.

local swelling, pain

due to the

is

the parts involved.

all

The

pulse and temperature continue persistently high until


the information of pus is ivell advanced, after

temperature

is

which the

apt to fluctuate during each 24 hours.

The

general condition also changes.

Chilliness follows

heat,

and vice versa.

often profuse and

Perspiration

Special

exhausting.

is

symptoms develope according

to

the part or organ involved in the formation of the ab-

The

scess.

lungs, appendix

liver,

organs most frequently attacked.


volve the glandular system,

may

and ovaries are the


Minor cases often in-

tonsils,

etc.

An

abscess

develop in any part of the system, from an injury

or the presence of

some foreign body.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
The

location

of

the

more

serious

form of abscess

renders local applications quite impossible.


cation of heat, the

hot

phlogistine seems to afford

poultice

some

relief,

gestion and promotes suppuration.

layman

way

it

The use

appli-

reduces some con-

In the language of the

"brings things to a head" and prepares the

for the use of the lance.

an abscess

The

of flaxseed or anti-

is

The premature opening of

not considered good practice.

of the indicated remedy during the early,

ABSCESS

299

inflammatory period will mitigate pain and

in

every

way

facilitate the recovery of the patient.

Aconite

When the fever symptoms are prominent;

pulse full and rapid, patient very restless, pain distressing and unbearable, Aeon, will reduce the suffering and

hasten the convalescence.

Arnica
or

In the early stage with a history of a blow


Cannot be

Great soreness of the parts.

injury.

touched or moved on account of the keen sense of soreParts look dark or mottled as though blood capil-

ness.
laries

had been ruptured.

Bryonia

Pains

sharp and piercing, greatly aggra-

Often useful

vated by any motion.

than

Aeon

in

threatening ab-

Fever

scess in chest, or in appendicitis.

marked

less

or Bell.

Belladonna

Skin very hot, pain throbbing, least jar


Much headache and
may be called for

causes great complaint.


ness, yet cannot sleep.

Bell,

drowsiif

Aeon,

fails to releive.

Hepar sulphur
evident, swelling

heat and fever

The formation

and

local

may have changed

pus has become

of

symptoms

persistent, yet the

to occasional chills

and

face looks dark or livid, cannot endure slightest touch,

and unless indications are unmistakable

for

another,

should be given the preference.

Lachesis

In rare cases resembling carbuncle.

Sur-

face looks dark or livid, cannot endure slightest touch.


All pains seem worse after shoi't sleep.
[For

special

preparation,
"Directions. ]
Its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection

see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

300

CARBUNCLE.
This appears principally on the neck, along the spine
or buttocks.

It

begins with soreness, pain and swel-

which becomes hard, red and painfid

ling

pain increases and a burning sensation

After

hue.

from

Later, the surface changes

stant.

The

to touch.
is

almost con-

a red to a purplish

appear in the swell-

5 to 7 days, small holes

nig from which a small quantity of yellowish matter


protrudes.

The

seem

be from one to two

After two or three days, the open-

mches in diameter.
nigs

may

swelling and hardness

and the skin and

to increase

superficial tissues

break down, followed by a discharge of pus and slough-

mg

tissues

which

on the neck may


tion

the climax of the disease.

is

result in brain complications.

Carbuncle

The

loca-

and extreme suffering often prolonged, may produce

prostration and in

some severe cases

fatal results.

aiEDICAL TREATMENT.

As

to the earlier treatment of carbuncle there

siderable difference of opinion.


incision of the affected parts or,

right angles.

second

or

Others abhor the use of the knife until the


last

stage,

when

suppuration

has

my method

a fatal case.

It

pain, but so far as


tess

Hot

of procedure and

may

involve

my

more

taken

The
cannot now

recall

time, possibly

more

place and the acute inflammation has passed.

has been

con-

is

Some advocate a free


two incisions made at

latter

observation goes the danger

applications afford

the Antiphlogistine paste as

some

warm

relief

is

and the use of

as can be borne will re-

duce the inflammation and hasten the suppuration.

It

BOIL

may become

301

make

necessary to

a free incision for the

evacuation of pus and sloughing tissues, after which the

should be frequently cleansed with peroxide of

parts

hydrogen and a dry dressing of some antiseptic powder.

No

small part of the treatment

indicated remedy.

the selection of the

is

The remedy should be changed

as the

condition of the parts changes and the condition of the


patient

requires.

There are three remedies of great

value in Carbuncle, Ars.,

Arsenicum

Prostration,

and shifting

yet restless

Thirst great yet takes hut a sip each time. Burn-

about.

mg

Lack.

Bell.,

pain, yet

much

Nausea

relieved by hot applications.

and vomiting, especially after taking water.

Belladonna

Throbbing

in

or noise.

Head

Lachesis

neck

and

head

with

Face flushed, dread of jar

drowsiness_ yet cannot sleep.

hot and feet cold.

Bluish

Cannot en-

look about swelling.

Hot flashes,
See Hepar and

dure touch or have anything about the neck.


prostration,

dry mouth and tongue.

.Sili.)

[For

special

preparation,
'Directions."]

Its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

BOIL.
The

exact cause of boils

is

not known, but

it is

generally

conceded that they are due to a depraved state of the


blood.

Large

boils usually occur singly

considerable depth, discharging a large

and may have

amount of pus

practically an abscess.
''Blind boils" occurring in groups, recurring often, but

CONSTITUTIONAL DISEASES

303
discharging

little

some who are

or no pus, are a source of torture to

just recovering

from some acute

Every possible attention should be paid


regulations.

Doubtless

it

Thorough and frequent


bowels,

when

if

of

case

to

hygienic

self-infection.

movement of

the

need be by an occasional saline cathartic, and


free

possible a

moderate and simple

same

amount of open

air

exercise,

diet should be the rule.

The treatment both


tially the

is

bathing, daily

illness.

locally

and

as under abscess

internally,

is

substan-

and carbuncle.

Aconite, Bell, and similar remedies in the early stage,

and

Ars.,

later on,

Hepar and Lachesis


especially when there

will

often be indicated

a delay in maturing.

is

See special symptoms.


[For
its

special

preparation,

directions

dose

as

and

to

selection

diet,

see

repetition,

of

General

the

remedy,

under

Index

"Directions."]

STYE.
This

is

a small abscess which forms usually on the

upper eyelid and


licle,

is

due to inflammation of the hair

resulting in local suppuration.

quite a
lashes.

common

Two

occurrence and

is

With some

fol-

this

is

due to defective eye-

remedies have been found most useful in

preventing a frequent recurrence.


Puis, in occasional doses, to be followed by
if

necessary.

Premature

retard recovery.

and slow

efforts to evacuate the

In case the pus

is

some simple

sac, after

antiseptic

may

Sul.

pus often

just beneath the skin

to "brake," a needle or fine pointed knife

be used to open the pus


tions of

Hepar

may

which a few applicabe made.

HEALTH TOPICS AND UNCLASSIFIED


DISEASES.

DRINKING WATER.
ITS

USE IN HEALTH AND IN THE TREATMENT


OF DISEASE.

The importance

of pure drinking water and

use in health and in sickness


recognized.

It is

far

proper

from being properly

not an unusual thing to find individuals

either in health or sickness


as to the quality

is

its

who

are most discriminating

and quantity of food taken, who are

almost indifferent as to either the quality or quantity of

water they drink.

This,

am

sure,

of omission which often leads to

is

new

a very serious sin

disorders and per-

petuates those already existing.

Elsewhere and under the head of "Sources of Infectious Diseases" a considerable space has already been de-

voted to the dangers that arise from the use of infected


or polluted drinking water, hence further consideration of
this vital

matter can be referred

to,

(see

index)

and

need not be repeated here.

Another

distinct

phase of

this

subject

is

the use in

proper quantities of pure drinking water as a conservator


of health; to promote the normal function of

all

the or-

gans of the body and especially those whose functions


is

to eliminate

it

from the system waste and toxic material


303

HEALTH TOPICS

304

and

and bowels.

especially the kidneys, liver

Approxi-

mately three pints of water should be taken during each


twenty-four hours unless there

some

is

special reason to

the contrary.

Again

where there

in cases

disease or otherwise)

insufficient to

marked

of the kidneys,

common

the free use of

is

drinking water

inaction

(from

liver or bowels,
is

often entirely

accomplish the desired results and

it

be-

comes necessary to resort to some natural spring water


having a specific
liver,

and

upon the kidneys and

Several such waters have gained a standing for

bile.

good

effect especially

promptly increasing the secretion and flow of urine

results

and should be used as an important aid

successful treatment.

factory results the

am

to

using with the most satis-

"Underwood Natural Spring Water,"

obtained direct from the springs at Portland, Me.

shows a

fine analysis

was awarded

and

or

more

tilled

1.

many

and gold medal

It

others
at

the

In the above and similar cases,

table water for travelers, I

know

of none safer

refreshing.

NATURAL
The

competition with

the grande prix,

Paris Exposition, 191

and as a

in

question

water

VS.

is

and

often asked whether boiled or dis-

answer the same purpose as a well

will

lected spring water.

answer no

ARTIFICIAL WATERS.

My own

experience compels

me

se-

to

think there are ample reasons for such

a conclusion.

While

it

is

true that in the process of boiling, the

DRINKING WATER
water

rendered

is

sterile

from disease producing

and

305

safe, so far as being free

bacteria, the objectional elements

so far as mineral and vegetable matter are concerned, re-

main

the

in

water,

changed form.

although

it

may

be in somewhat

Clinical experience teaches that there

is

generally a prompt therapeutic action from a well selected

spring water which

not the case with water that has

is

been subjected to the boiling point.

seems

to deprive

made manifest
rendered

flat

soon

of

tire

in a

and
its

its

Boiling of water

virtues

chemical analysis

which are not

furthermore,

insipid to the taste, so that

many

it

is

persons

use.

Practically the

produce what

of some of

it

same

may

however well and

is

true of the various attemps to

be called

artificial

mineral waters, for

scientifically prepared,

they are minus

the virtue which characterizes the natural waters they are

intended to imitate.

It

any one who has given

would seem well nigh obvious


this

that the great desideratum

is

to

matter any serious thought,


to use if possible a

pure nat-

ural water, one that. can be used without subjecting

it

to

heat or any other treatment, a water free from disease

producing germs and one containing


matter.

little

or no vegetable

cannot omit to repeat here a word of caution as

to the risks that occur

from the use of water taken from

wells (adjacent to the barnyard and out-buildings)


in

which

time of a rain storm naturally serve as a cesspool,

receiving the surface drainage. Also the danger of drink-

ing from open, running streams, especially in populated


districts, for

not infrequently they are seriously pointed,

and conveying
21

disease, produces bacteria.

HEALTH TOPICS

306

<

"T

COFFEE AND TEA.


THEIR USE AND ABUSE.
The following
erly chief of the

article

by Dr. Harvey

W.

Wiley, form-

Bureau of Chemestry of the U.

partment of Agriculture, which appeared

and Coffee Trade Journal,

is, I

of a most important subject.

in

S.

the

De-

Tea

think a fair representation


I

quote the same because

of the recognized authority of Dr. Wiley

"There are a great many persons who are keenly suscepthe influence of some of the soluable substances
contained in tea and coffee. Most active of these substances
by far is the alkaloid caffein. It has a peculiar effect in
general and in many cases has special effects.
tible to

"Many parents
children,

and

think there

is

forbid the use of tea and coffee to their


I do not
is a wise precaution.
any danger of interfering with the health or

think this

nutrition of the child by abstinence from drinks of this


kind; on the other hand, it appears to me there is danger of

permitting the child to form a habit, because coffee and


tea drinking are to a certain extent habits, and I think
In
caffein is recognized as one of the habit-forming drugs.
regard to children, at least, therefore, the word 'prohibition'
is perhaps a better one to use than 'temperance.'
"Coffee and tea have become such universal beverages in
the last three hundred years as to present a problem which
must be faced in some way. The problem is not so acute
as in the case of alcoholic beverages, which are not natural
products. I use the word 'natural' in the sense that alcoholic beverages are not presented for consumption without
having been specially prepared by the agency of man. This
is also true of coffee and tea, as an extract is made, but in
the extract the products are not changed but only placed
in a form suitable for drinking, whereas in the preparation
of an alcoholic beverage the natural constituents of the
product are entirely altered, the sugar being converted
more or less completely into two other products wholly dis-

COFFEE AND TEA

307

similar in character, namely, carbon dioxid and alcohol.


The soluble products of a cup of coffee or tea are those
which are contained in the original substances, and it is
not likely that they are changed in any marked manner by
the process of leaching."

grown person, Dr. Wiley admits, has a right to


own food, 'but he advises caution in the use
tea and coffee. The moment a man feels that he is

choose his
of

becoming a slave
giving up tea or

to either he should call a halt.

If

coffee produces malaise, headache,

incapacity for work, and a general disturbance of the


health, the victim

We

may know

that he has gone too

far.

read further

"It is quite impossible to prescribe


coffee eacli individual should drink.

how much

This

is

tea and
a matter which

and should be left, entirely to his own choice. The


use of beverages of this kind is not inhibited by the food
and drugs laws, even should they prove to be harmful,
because that act applies only to added substance in so far
as injurious and deleterious bodies are concerned.
is left,

"From a commercial point of view it is highly important


that tea and coffee should be so used as to work no injury.
If, on the other hand, they are abused so as to threaten the
health of a community, there is no valid reason why the
community should not prohibit their introduction and sale,
since the exercise of a police

power

is

wholly within

its

jurisdiction.

"Those who are interested commercially in the sale of


and tea should be the most earnest and enthusiastic
to control any possible damages which may result from
their activities. It would be desirable, therefore, that trade
coffee

journals devoted to the interests of these great articles of

commerce should from time to time publish articles by competent hygenists and physicians looking to the safer and
saner use of these beverages."

HEALTH TOPICS

308

The primary
in health

is

action of coffee

a person

Part III (Materia Medica) un-

Not

a few have experienced or veri-

der Coffee Cruda.


fied this

when taken by

set forth in

many

proving

ondary or cumulative

times over.

Often there are

effects that follow

sec-

from the constant

and intemperate use of coffee which are attributed

to

disease, such as indigestion, constipation, headache, sleep-

lessness

and nervousness.

The

individual temperament,

and occupation both modify the effects of coffee.


engaged

some

in

Those

from such

active out-door life suffer less

derangements than those of a nervous temperament who


are obliged to lead a sedentary indoor-life.

and tea by young children

coffee

is

The use of

from every stand-

point positively wrong, and with what Dr. Wiley states in

reference to the same, also in reference to their intemperate use

No

by adults,

fully concur.

little difficulty is

to convince those

who

experienced in every day practice


are suffering

of what they eat or drink, to

and

this

and

coffee.

Wiley

ill

effects

the necessary change,

particularly true with intemperate uses of tea

is

This

intimates,

this will also


is

make

from the

is
is

doubtless true because caffein as Dr.

one of the habit- forming drugs and

account for the fact that

when

the caffein

no longer taken into the system the individual

many symptoms

experience

already referred to

the system has fully recovered

from the habit

may

until

this

may

some cases require weeks of abstinence from the use


of both tea and coffee.

in

The ever
substitute

recuring question of what can be used as a

must require an answer suited

to the individual

ACUTE AND CHRONIC ALCOHOLISM


For children the

case.

For

water.

best substitute

invalids or those

warm"
cocoa, warm

who

is

399

pure drinking

think they must have

"something

with their morning meal,

to use

milk, or

some of the

it

well

is

cereal prepara-

tions,

changing often on successive mornings until the one

most

beneficial can be selected for

"Alketthrepta"

made

chiefly

is

from

a very delicate

more permanent

use.

and nutritious drink,

a high quality of cocoa bean.

has

It

long been a favorite beverage for children and adults.


It is suitable

for invalids as well, and for those seeking

a substitute for tea

and

coffee,

may

be obtained from

all

homeopathic pharmacies.

ACUTE AND CHRONIC ALCOHOLISM.


The term

acute

is

used to designate a condition of

thorough intoxication, but not one that has been continued long enough or often enough to fix upon the individual

some organic disease or a general disease of

When

the tissues of the body.

taken place,

when

this latter condition

the whole system seems saturated or

permeated with alcohol which nature finds great


in

throwing

line of

all

has

off, this is

difficulty

The

termed chronic alcoholism.

demarkation between the acute and chronic

flexible or indefinite one,

owing

is

to the varying resistence

of different individual constitutions to being overcome by


the toxic influence.

The

liver,

the order mentioned are the

kidneys and stomach, in

first to

become

diseased.

The

brain and nervous system are always involved, the will

power, the mental and moral faculties weakened,

all

go

HEALTH TOPICS

310

down

But

before the furious passion for drink.

can

little

be done during an ordinary case of acute alcoholic in-

The

toxication.

condition of the individual

is

not unlike

one suffering from an over-dose of narcotics and the


"sleep off" stage cannot be cut short.

seems to shorten

air

from exposure
be done.
it is

to cold

Plenty of fresh

This, with protection

this period.

and personal injury,

that can

is all

Later on, or as the digestive organs will tolerate,

well to provide a fairly substantial meal which often

decreases the immediate craving for more liquor.

The chronic
for physicians,

cases have furnished a vexing problem


specialists

and reformers time out of

mind, yet the solution seems about as far away as ever.

The deadly

diseases which follow in the train of those

of alcoholic and drug addiction, should shock into silence


their advocates.

The mental and moral wreckage and

degradation need no words of emphasis, for the com-

monest observer sees and admits

it

all.

There

is

a hope-

ful outlook for a case that has not gone on until the de-

velopment of some organic disease, provided the mental

and moral co-operation of the patient can be depended

upon
case

to carry out the plan of a physician.


it

is

not only safe but wise to discontinue

of liquor at once.
in

In nearly every
all

kinds

The mind and body should be engaged

some wholesome (but not too irksome) occupation,

preferably out of doors.

free allowance of the

substantial food (such as will dispel

all'

most

sense of hunger)

should be taken with regularity. If practicable, the patient


should be separated from

all

tempting influences, the sight

or odor of liquor and the companionship of those


it.

Association rather with those

who

who

use

are in sympathy

ACUTE AND CHRONIC ALCOHOLISM


with
is

all

311

individual effort to overcome the craving appetite,

also a feature not to be overlooked.

These suggestions are such as appeal

from

my

to

reason and

observation have been the most potent in con-

and they have been made from

trolling the "drink habit,"

the standpoint of a practising physician rather than of a

reformer or moralist.

mind those
which a

tion

to re-

little

most

some vexation, trouble or worry

discretion

and patience might often avoid.

cheerful the surroundings, including occupa-

and companionship, the more certain the permanent

recovery.

few remedies have been of great service

overcoming the tendency


ic

would seem unnecessary

is

apt to cause a relapse

The more

It

interested in a patient that the one thing

to,

in

or beginning of some organ-

disease, also in restoring the

normal functions of the

body, shattered nerves, inability to sleep,

etc.

MEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

and

After exposure, where there

inability to sleep, skin hot

Arsenicum

Weakness

fever, thirst

and dry, mental excite-

ment and fear of death, Aeon, will often


and prevent a general catastrophe.

restless

is

quiet the storm

after slightest exertion, yet

and changing about, cannot remain

in bed.

Nau-

sea or vomiting especially after taking water, which

is

craved but taken only in small quantity, burning pain

in

stomach and bowels, with great restlessness and anxiety.


Ars. has proven a most valuable remedy in cases where
the stomach and kidneys were involved.

Nux vom Both

clinical

observation and the proving

HEALTH TOPIC

312
of Nii.v place

it

among all other remedies to combat


By referring to the Materia Medica
that the mental symptoms and ner-

first

the effects of liquor.


it

will

be discovered

vous system furnish indications not a few, that are com-

mon

to all cases of acute

remedies
[For

may

and chronic alcoholism.

be indicated.
directions

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
Its

and

dose

See

Other

Bell., Ign., Ipec.

to diet, selection of tbe remedy,


General Index under
repetition,
see

as

THE CIGARETTE,

RECORD AND

ITS

PREVENTION.
The

which have been made

principles of prevention

somewhat conspicuous throughout


need anywhere,

if in

ernest

we

book have almost

this

compelled their application here, for I

know

seek to conserve the health

and welfare of the boys and young men.


not in the

way

here, but as

Early

in

This

is

said,

of an apology for introducing the subject

an explanation of a physician's standpoint

preventable measures and in

all

of no greater

my

all

in

diseases.

medical practice, more than forty years

ago and up to the present time,

have

in dealing

with

all

physical and mental derangements laid particular stress

upon the importance of preventive measures


upon medical treatment;

in

other

words,

as well as

preventing

wreckages as well as caring for the wrecks. In applying


the principles of prevention it is right and consistent only

when

it

includes

all

luxuries,

habits,

and

indulgences

which are by common consent frought in some degree


with danger to the health and welfare of the individual.

As

a result of applying this principle early in

my

medical

THE CIGARETTE AND ITS RECORD


practice, I soon

so-called

found that

"tobacco

heart

;"

had here and there a case of


"tobacco

or

usually yielded promptly to bread

and

rettes,

pills

throat"

which

and a discontinu-

This was prior to the use of ciga-

ance of the tobacco.

when

to the time

to see school boys

313

it

was

practically impossible

and children on the

either pipe or cigarette, so that I

streets

smoking

have been able to ob-

serve without interruption or prejudice the rapid evolution of a habit or indulgence


ful

and capable judges

is

which

alarming

to

very

many

thought-

in its prevalence

and

rapid increase, and one that will well nigh parallel the
habit of China or the worst forms of drug addic-

opium

any other country.

tion in this or

At

word of warning is coming from


and notably from the educators or those

the present time a

many

sources,

representing our high schools and colleges, those

have a rare opportunity of observing from school


tics,

and from students under

their care

and

who

statis-

instruction,

as to the fearful consequences of the cigarette habit.

Of
I

and conclusions

have no reason to doubt for they correspond closely

with
I

the absolute truth of their reports

my own

observations.

The following

quotation

is

think a fair statement of facts and statistics, and lament-

able as they appear, they are quite susceptible of proof,

and even the

last

word has not

yet been said

"According to Professor M. V. O'Shea, of the Univesity of Wisconsin, over 90 per cent, of the boys
fail

in

the

smoking

grammar and high

cigarettes,

most serious

who

schools are addicted to

and he denounces the cigarette as the

evil the

educational system has to contend

HEALTH TOPICS

314
with.

One may

well credit this opinion, for there

be some explanation of the

many

failures,

manufacture of cigarettes

that the increase in the

must

and the

fact
is

by

billions, annually.

"Commenting on

this

an educational authority observes

that unruly boys are always addicted to the cigarette habit.

Smoking robs pupils of their docility. Records kept of


work of students who were not addicted to the smoking habit when they entered the high school but who acquired it later, show that not only did these pupils become
harder to manage, but the quality of their school work
also declined greatly. What a hold the smoking evil has
the

gained on public school boys

is

indicated by the state-

ments made by a number of high school principals who

from 50

declare that

are

now

to

80 per

using cigarettes.

It is

cent, of high school pupils

an interesting fact that the

strongest sentiment against smoking has arisen in com-

munities in which the raising of tobacco


industry.

own communities
Wisconsin

is

the principal

Tobacco men do not want young boys


to

various

smoke, and

in a

organizations

number of

in their

places in

have taken a stand

against smoking by school children.

"No one

is

likely to dispute the proposition that the

does not take to smoking because he likes tobacco.


usually because he thinks the 'accomplishment'
as a

man.

boy
It is

marks him

His companions who have formed the habit

make

sport of him because he does not smoke. They dare


him to, and no boy likes to turn down a 'dare.' The
smoking habit among boys presents a problem for the
future, but

it

never will be solved unless the parent comes

to the aid of those

who

are trying to correct

it."

THE CIGARETTE AND ITS RECORD


The foregoing

will be

it

one phase of the habit and


status of the student

315

observed emphasizes chiefly

its

results,

and user of

namely, the mental

cigarettes.

It

the

is

statement, and the estimate of an educator, and of school


principals, having the custody of thousands of students,

comments of

together with the

Any

Rochester Herald.
plete that did not

done

is

tal

emphasize the corresponding harm that


system as

to the physical

and moral injury

There

is

well, in fact the injury

system preceeds and gives

to the physical

men-

rise to the

set forth so plainly in the quotation.

another sequence that has received

who have

tention by those

own

the editor of our

statement would be very incom-

to

as in Juvenile Courts, etc.

the testimony of such

much

at-

do with juvenile delinquents,


I

think with rare exceptions

would be that the confirmed users

of cigarettes furnishes a great majority of those with

whom

they have to deal for violation of law and criminal

offenses.

Stated in the true order of development,

would read as follows:


physical system
tion follows

First, the injury is

done

it

to the

second, the mental and moral deteriora-

third, the

tendency to vicious conduct, even

many

man

can

number," an untimely, often an unnatural ending of

life

criminal acts and finally the

cases that "no

itself.
I

am aware

that the portrayal of such a trial of mental

and physical wreckage may seem


tion, I

am

also

aware

that very

to

some an exaggera-

many, even parents, have

never given the subject any due consideration; in either


case, the remedial or restraining influence
is

practically void.

upon the

child

BURNS AND SCALDS

316

The above

facts

fraction of

what

formation.

The

is

and

statistics constitute

now

available for those

only a small

who

seek in-

risks have been plainly pointed out

by

those outside the family circle, those having only the general welfare, of all in

Ignorance on the part of

mind.

parents seems inexcusable in these days, for


rental influence that
this

influence

we must

it

when
we will

look for the remedy

properly and wisely exercised

is

to pa-

is
;

have as a result stronger boys and men, better scholarship in schools and colleges, better homes, better citizens

and a lower mortality, especially from diseases of the


brain and nervous system.

BURNS AND SCALDS.


Any

injury to the skin or flesh caused by the action

of heated bodies

steam or hot

fluid

is

called

injury caused by

Both may vary

a scald.

greatly in degree and in danger.


ficial,

Any

called a burn.

is

When

the burn

extending over only a slight area, there

danger of any
duration.

body, the danger

and the suffering

results

ill

If the

is

is

super-

is

little

of short

burn involves a large surface of the


is

great.

When

it

exceeds two thirds

of the cutaneous surfaces, even though superficial, the


case

is

The
in

apt to be fatal.
inhalation of steam or hot vapor

most

whch

is

Such

instances.

often very severe,

Meanwhile there

is

may

likewise fatal

shock

linger for several days.

often suppression of the function of

dift'erent organs, especially the kidneys

suffering of

is

cases, if they survive the

some cases

that I have

and lungs.

The

known, exceeds

all

HICCOUGH

317

Stupor, delirium and utter exhaustion ends

description.

the agony.

As a rule, it is well to leave the small blisters intact.


The entrance of air often increases the pain and leads
to possible infection.
it

puncture of the

If a

made,

blister is

should be done with a small needle.

great variety of external applications have been used

and discarded.

There

but one urgent indication to he

is

met, and that

is

from exposure

to the air.

important.

Protect the burnt surface

This can be done most beneficially by dipping linen


cloths in sweet oil

and applying several

(or olive oil)

layers over the burned surface.

Eucalyptus

oil is

gaining

many advocates and without

doubt possesses curative merits not yet realized.


used

in the

same way

any other

as

The suppuration and sloughing

It

can be

oil.

that often follows

from

deep burns must be treated as any open sore, by the use

Remedies

of antiseptic dressing.
that rise

from shock, fever and

to

pain,

meet the symptoms

may

be found in the

following: Aeon., Ars., Apis, Bell., Canth., China, Rhus.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

as

directions

dose

and

to

selection

diet,

repetition,

see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

HICCOUGH.
This
the

is

most

hiccough

which

is

symptom or

trivial to the
is

due

to a

condition that

may

most serious causes.

occur from

The

act of

spasmodic action of the diaphragm

nearly always traceable to reflex action from

ir-

HEMORRHAGES

318

ritation or disease of adjacent organs.

If

occurs and

it

seems persistent during the progress of some exhausting


disease,

it

must be regarded

come from nervousness,

Such attacks

as serious.

as

temporary excite-

indigestion, or

ment, are of no serious import, easily "frightened away,"

Looking backward,

or at least self-limited.

some

serious form, that continued for

weeks

and applications.

When

cases of the

more

and months

resisting all remedies

pain and

I recall

soreness follow,

some

may

relief

be obtained

by placing a firm bandage about the waist.

The remedies

will

depend upon the general symptoms

present.
Bell.,

[For

Hyos., Ign.,
special

preparation,
"Directions."]
Its

Nux and
as

directions

and

dose

to

Puis,
diet,

may

selection
see

repetition,

be useful.
of

General

the

Index

remedy,
under

HEMORRHAGES.
Hemorrhage from any

part of the body should be

interpreted with the greatest care, for

or

little

as the case

cation of a

may

hemorrhage

The

be.

will often

ment and treatment where any

The symptoms and

is

it

may mean much

history, cause

and

lo-

determine the manage-

required.

history of a case preceeding, and

during a hemorrhage will also greatly aid in the diagnosis.


is

If associated

dark

in color,

with nausea or vomiting and the blood


it

is

likely

from the stomach.

If pre-

ceding or during the time of history of a cough, the

blood being mixed with mucus and air bubbles,


bly

from the

lungs.

it is

proba-

In the absence of any of the fore-

HEMORRHAGES

319

going symptoms, and the hemorrhage


the mouth,

mouth

it

is

and from

cavity.

Hemorrhage from

the bowels

may

be connected with

Bloody urine may

dysentery, typhoid fever, etc.

piles,

is slight,

presumably from the gums, throat or

follow after scarlet fever, calculus, or injury to the bladder, prostrate gland, or urethra.

may

Uterine hemorrhage other than the normal period,

be from polypus, ulceration, threatened miscarriage, placental, or cancer.

The

latter

may

be suspected

if

the

hemorrhage occurs some time after the climateric period.

Hemorrhage of
where.

the brain has been considered else-

Internal hemorrhages occuring

(See apoplexy.)

after an injury or an operation are not easily interpreted,

much depending upon

the

symptoms for a

diagnosis.

Generally the pulse weakens, the surface becomes pale

and

bloodless, sight groivs dim, with ringing in the ears.

painless,

drowsy condition

relieved, unconsciousness

Thus,
orrhage

in a general

may

way

and

follows,

later unless

and death.
the location or source of

be interpreted.

be stated that hemorrhages

In this connection

may

occur

in

hem-

should

it

any part of

the body without serious local disease.


It

may

to violent

be due to degeneration of the arterial walls or

and irregular action of the

heart, or both.

An

occasional hemorrhage occurs from varicose veins in the

lower extremities or in the capilaries of the eye.


cause and character of the hemorrhage
ite to

a proper

management of any

is

case.

the

first

The

requis-

HEMORRHAGES

320

There need be no undue alarm over a


it

slight one, unless

found associated with some organic

is

disease.

It is

always safe to require rest and quiet for some days and

The

severe cases for weeks.

value of medicine in some

cases cannot be over estimated, while in others


tively slight.

it is

rela-

always safe to give a remedy when-

It is

ever indicated, for the result in

many

yond expectation or explanation,

my

in

cases

at least

is

often be-

such has been

experience.

GENERAL TREATMENT.
"When the hemorrhage
time to stop

itself,

slight,

it

may

be allowed
It

is

hemorrhage proves immediately

rarely the case that any


fatal,

is

the patient being kept quiet.

except from injury or following pregnancy and

Looking backward,

confinement.

cannot recall a single

The patient should be kept very quiet and as


much of the mental excitement quieted as is possible.
The administrated remedy will help in this, and other
ways as well. The presence of more than the physician
case.

and attendants

is

politely excused.

very undesirable and they should be

The

use of stimulants, not indicated,

except in an extreme case; remedies should be selected

with the same care and after the same indications as in


other cases.
]\iedioaij

Aconite

If

the pulse

treatment.

is full

and strong with excite-

ment of mind and fear of not recovering.


from the throat or lung
heart disease.

in acute disease

Hemorrhage

or from organic

HEMORRHAGES
Arsenicum

Weak,

321

anaemic

exhausted,

condition

with pain, burning and cutting about the stomach and


Thirst for small quantity of water with nausea

bowels.

and vomiting.

Arnica

In ulcer or cancer of stomach.

Hemorrhage after injury,

Feet and hands cold, head hot.

cussion.

Belladonna

Also

in typhoid.

Nosebleed, with throbbing and fullness

about the head and face which


anything

sitive to

blows or con-

fall,

is

flushed.

Patient sen-

Inclined to stupor

like noise or light.

with sudden starting.

Bryonia

Useful

rather passive, or

when

if it

the bleeding of the nose

is

occurs in threatened typhoid. Also

for vicarious hemorrhage with suppression of menses.

China

The

loss of blood has

reduced the patient

greatly, sight dim, with roaring in the ears, face pal,e

and

bloodless.

Uterine hemorrhages or any kind

Alay be

indicate.

warm

when

perspiration,

the

with

symptoms
sinking,

fainting attacks.

Hamamelis
especially in

Ipecac

Has been used

in the

form of tincture,

venous hemorrhage.

Symptoms somewhat similar to China, with

nausea perhaps vomiting and cutting pain about the


stomach.

Ipec.

in

uterine hemorrhages after labor or

miscarriage, especially

if

the blood

is

bright red with

persistent nausea.

Phosphorus
ently.

Every

cut or

wound

bleeds persist-

Nosebleed or other hemorrhages which recur


22

E PI 8 TAXI 8

323

often and no visible cause for the same, with

much

diffi-

culty to control, even slight ones.

Pulsatilla

Hemorrhages

at

constantly chilly and weeping.


in

change of

life,

patient

Hemorrhages vicarious

young women with suppressed menses from getting

the feet wet.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
Its

as

directions

dose

and

to

selection

diet,

see

repetition,

remedy,

the

of

Index

General

under

EPISTAXIS.
(Nose Bleed.)
Seldom does nose bleed
reaches a point where
too, a little

from the nose

diluted with water that

A
in

result

fatally,

still

naturally excites alarm

it

it

is

it

so often distributed about or

makes an alarming

exhibition.

slight or occasional nose-bleed in the case of a

good health should be allowed

pecially if

it

often

and then,

person

to take its course, es-

occurs in a fuUblooded person.

When

the

bleeding occurs in the progress of a disease, as in ty-

phoid fever, or when


pressed menstruation

it

is

in

the result of deferred or sup-

young

should receive prompt attention.


bleeding

is

women

especially,

In cases where

it

the

profuse and persistent, the blood being bright

red (arterial blood), a physician should be in constant


attendance.

The

patient should

sit

up, leaning the head

forward, grasping the nose with the thumb and finger and

compressing firmly both nostrils for some minutes


least,

at

at the same time breathing through the mouth.

Avoid excitement and stimulus.

ANAEMIA

333

3IEDICAL TREATMENT.
Aconite

and

Where

there

is

much excitement

of

mind

pulse, cannot keep quiet, fear of death.

Belladonna

With

congestion, flushed face, throb-

bing in head and neck, blood bright red.

Bryonia

young

Useful

girls

occurs in case of

with delayed or suppressed menses.

also be bleading

China

when nosebleed

When

from throat and


patient has

May

lungs.

become exhausted with

loss of blood, ringing in ears, faint, etc.

Bright red blood with constant nausea.


Pulsatilla Same as Bry. especially from getting the

Ipecac

feet

wet

in the case of

and yet wants fresh

young women, constant

chilliness

air.

ANAEMIA.
Anaemia

is

a term used to indicate poverty of the

blood or a marked deficiency of the red corpuscles.


a condition gives rise

Such

to pallor of the face and hands

and a bloodless appearance of the ears and lips. General


debility, heart murmurs, with weak and irregular pulse
are generally present.

anaemia are
illness,

The more frequent causes of

loss of blood, insufficiency of food,

From

the nature of the causes

cases develop rapidly and

others

Most

prolonged

malaria and septicaemia.

may

may

it

is

obvious that some

be called acute, while

be slow of development and termed chronic.

cases are symptomatic, and no rational diagnosis.

DROPSY

324

treatment or advice can be given until the true source of


the

amaemia

ficult

is

This, as a rule

ascertained.

Inasmuch

problem.

as

its

treatment

is
is

not a dif-

considered

under special heads, such as hemorrhoids, menor-

in part

rhagia, septicamia

and chronic

any further

appendicitis,

elaboration here would be a repetition.


Chlorosis, separated by

some authors from anaemia,

quite generally regarded as a variety of anaemia

occurs in girls or young

women

which

age of puberty,

at the

by a perverted appetite; craving

often

characterized

chalk,

charcoal, slate pencils,

children, this

is

same morbid

In young, anaemic

etc.

appetite seems to prevail and

often leads to the selection of constitutional remedies

which cure the


sist

The

patient.

anaemia should con-

diet in

of plain, nutritious food in such quantities as the

patient can digest.

While the open

air is helpful, there

should be no excessive, forced, or fatiguing exercise.


severe cases the patient
until the strength

proved.

does

better

when kept

and heart action are somewhat im-

The remedies

indicated for special cases have

In a case where the cause

been considered elsewhere.

cannot be determined and the anaemia

such remedies as Ars., Apis., Calc,

China and Pids,

In

quiet

may

conspicuous,

is

carh., Carho.,

Veg.,

be considered.

[For special directions


preparation, dose and
"Directions."]
Its

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

the

Index

remedy,

under

DROPSY.
The term Dropsy

is

not used to designate a disease

but rather an accumulation of water in the tissues, or

ABNORMAL HERNIA
cavities of the body.

results

In nearly

325

cases this condition

all

from some pre-existing disease of which

it is

only

symptomatic.
Disease of any of the organs of the body, especially
the heart, liver and kidneys are apt in the later stage

Anything that

to develop a dropsical condition.

inter-

feres with the venous circulation or the free excretion

of fluids from the body will result in dropsy.


Dropsical conditions

may

develop slowly, extending

over months and years as in chronic diseases of the


or

it

may

develop rapidly as in post-scarlatinal


In such cases

or acute Bright's disease.

prompt attention and a correct

it

liver,

dropsy

should receive

interpretation.

Remedies should be carefully considered and the one


selected

which not only covers the dropsical condition,

but the whole patent as revealed by the totality of symp-

toms and pathological conditions.


[For

special

preparation,
"Directions."]
its

directions

dose

and

as

to

diet,

repetition,

selection
see

of

General

tlie

Index

remedy,

under

ABDOMINAL HERNIA.
This
than

is

sion of

is

an

affliction or

unsoundness more prevalent

generally supposed.

It is

caused by the protru-

some of the viscera contained

in the

abdomen,

usually the bowel, through the natural or accidental openings in the abdominal walls.

some sudden,

It

is

usually traceable to

violent effort, such as lifting, falling, cough-

ing, etc.

Some

sense of discomfort soon follows, and examina-

GOITRE

326

tion of the lower portion of the


ling,

abdomen

bunch, or enlargement which

is

reveals a swel-

confined to one side

and which becomes more prominent on standing or


coughing, and partially disappears on lying down.

If

the intestine has passed through the hernial opening and

becomes constricted, pain and soreness soon follow,

to-

symptoms of intestinal obstruction,


and zvithout prompt relief, is fatal. There should be
no delay or trifling with hernia or what appears to be one.
gether ivith

all

the

In some cases the protruding bowel

may

be easily

pressed back or reduced in the following manner. Elevate


the hips, lozver the head,

and make gentle but firm manThis, however,

ipulation of the hernial tumor.

work of

is

the

a physician or surgeon, and should not be at-

tempted by the inexperienced, except in an emergency.


Congenital hernia, or such as occurs during the

few days

after birth,

is

first

not unf requent and especially the

umbilical variety.

Hernia

is

a mechanical or surgical, rather than medical

matter.

Here again modern surgery has come

relief of

human

This course

for the radical cure of hernia.

mended

in

to the

suffering by devising a safe operation

most cases

is

recom-

as preferable to the perplexity

annoyance of wearing a

truss,

which

is

and

not a guaranty

of safety or cure.

GOITRE.
Any
Often

enlargement of the thyroid gland


it

is

is

called Goitre.

so slight as not to be noticeable; in others

it

GOITRE
becomes enormous.
and

327

In some localties whole

villages are afflicted with

it

as in the

Switzerland and some islands of the

families

mountains of
Excessive

sea.

mineral matter in the drinking-water, intermarriage in


small,

stationary communities, and other reasons have

Where

been suggested as a cause of goitre.

ment

is

well to avoid

all

it

is

treatment.

In case the enlargement

is

such as to displace or com-

press the larynx, suitable treatment


call

the enlarge-

and of no physical inconvenience,

slight

is

necessary.

one case of a young, healthy mother, attacked

lowing a slight cold.

ment of the gland,

seemed

It

re-

fol-

to cause acute enlarge-

so rapid that before surgical aid could

be obtained, she strangled, suffocated and died.

Other cases

recall,

of great enlargement with no

inconvenience to the breathing or the general health.

TREATMENT.
must be confessed

It

that in this disease, only a small

percentage are cured by medicine.


Iodine, Spongia and Sulphur are the remedies that

have been most helpful.

Of

mic

X-Ray treatment has


common and exopthal-

late the

accomplished some cures both of


goitre.

The removal
now a common
cases

where

it

of the gland by a surgical operation


occurrence, and

recall

became necessary, with

is

some desperate

results that

were

excellent.

An

entire

change of residence from a goitre

has been found

beneficial.

locality,

PART

III.

HOMEOPATHIC MATERIA MEDICA

AND HOW TO USE

IT.

INTRODUCTION.
This introduction to the Materia Medica should be
studied in connection with the chapter on "Selecting
the

Remedy."

See pages 11 to

17.

Although the arrangement is simple and essentially


the same as in other works on Homeopathic Materia
Medica, yet, a few explanations for the inexperienced

may

be helpful.

The grouping

of

symptoms under

different heads or

regions of the body both for study and prescribing


seems well nigh a practical necessity, for in most prescriptions it is found necessary to compare the symptoms under the region of the body with those of the
drug thought to be indicated. This plan of designating certain portions or regions of the body

was the

one adopted by Hahnemann and the early provers of


remedies and nothing better has been discovered to
take

its

place.

If

the character of the

symptoms and

conditions of aggravation and amelioration are similar,

328

MATERIA MEDieA

339

then the problem of selecting the remedy


the

way

In the

is

well on

of solution.
first place,

the general or clinical observa-

tions under the headline of "Action

and Uses" are

mainly suggestive and not wholly the result of provings,

such as will be found under the head of "Guiding

Symptoms ;" however, they

are basef^

upon much

ex-

perience and careful observation and although not in-

tended to take the place of "Guiding Symptoms," they


should serve as a guide and helpful introduction to a
better acquaintance and deeper study of the remedy,

and should be taken


no

for their real value

no more and

less.

As has been

stated in another place, under the head

of "Selection of the
of equal value,

the remedy,

it

Remedy," symptoms are not

all

and in the practical work of selecting


becomes necessary to make somewhat

more conspicuous those symptoms which seem to be


most important in deciding the choice of the remedy.
To accomplish this, two kinds of type have been used
so that the prescriber,

in haste,

if

can see at a glance

more important so-called "key-note" or "Characteristic" symptoms as shown in the black faced type,

the

or

italics.

The most serious objection to this differentiation of


symptoms is that too much stress will be placed upon
the "key-notes" while those in
lected,

toms

which might lead

in

common

type

common

to a failure.

are

and with further observation

well

night

type are neg-

Many sympcharacteristic

will be so regarded; all

MATERIA ME DIGA

330

symptoms recorded

Part III are authentic and must

in

The

not be overlooked in chosing a remedy.


prescription

is

the use of the one

ideal

remedy whose symp-

toms, characteristic and otherwise, duplicate or cover

symptoms

the totality of the


of

This,

yet

course,

an ideal not always attainable

is

approximation

the

closer

the

The

quicker the cure.

of the patient.

use of a remedy based upon the


a single

symptom

practice

full

whenever

of

the

only,

name

and

better

opposite of this practice

is

the

of the disease, or

characteristic

or otherwise,

disappointment and to be avoided

possible.

Considerable emphasis has been placed upon the

time and conditions of "aggravation and amelioriation" often a help and decisive in deciding the remedy.

symptoms,

Definite

such

as

may

appear

proper heads, must always be considered

under

making

in

quite sure the selection of the right remedy.

This general outline of each remedy


chiefly to fix in

memory

when confronted by
disease, a

is

intended

a "mental picture," so that

a patient suffering from

gested for further consideration.

This can easily be

done by referring to the Materia Medica, Part


the aid of which, with a
will be found.
ful study.

prescribers,

pathic

some

remedy, or group of remedies will be sug-

The

Such
and

practice,

all diseases.

little

practice, the true

III, by
remedy

reward the careof the most successful

results will well

is

the

it

is

method

quite axiomatic in

applying

to

all

all

remedies

homeoand

all

ACONITE NAPELLUS

331

Quoting from a very high authority, Dr. James B.


Boston, who, in his introduction to that most

Bell of

book on "The Therapeutics of Diarrhoea,"


who subscribe to the law of similars agree

excellent

says

"All

that the problem in each case

is

to find a

remedy

whose symptoms are most closely similar to the case


"The demand for exactness, minuteness
hand."
and delicacy of observation in all branches of science
was never greater. The same is true of Homeopathic
in

Therapeutics."

To

so present the foregoing, easily comprehensible

principles concerning the use of the Material

and the selection

of the

remedy

as to

make

Medica
it

quite

impossible for the trained or untrained prescriber to

any misconception as

into

fall

to their right applica-

my one ambimy object, then

tion in dealing with the sick, has been


tion.

If in this I

all else I

am

have accomplished

sure will be correspondingly successful.

ACONITE NAPELLUS.
(Wolfsbane, Monkshood.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OP ACTION AND


This

is

remedy often found indicated

USES.
in the first

stage of acute diseases.

The

general condition of a patient requiring Acon-

may

ite,

be compared to the condition of the outside

world during a cyclone.


in

motion.

The mind

Everything

is filled

is

agitation and

with constant fear and

ACONITE NAPELLU8

332

anxiety; the pulse rushing on rapidly,

full

and strong;

the head, body and extremities are tossing to and fro,

with no rest or quiet, while sleep

banished by the

is

Such a condition often indicates some

general tumult.

impending disease although not yet determinable.


is

at this time that

better

all

It

Aconite will often change for the

the serious conditions that are liable to

follow.

GUIDING SYi\IPTOMS.
Mind.

Mind
often

The mental symptoms of Aeon, are marked.

active, full of anxiety

the

predicts

Easily vexed,

easily

day.

and

Fear of death,

fear.

variable

Fretful,

Bad

frightened.

effects

mood.

from

Wakefulness with fever and tossing about

fright.

from place to
Head.

place.

Vertigo

with nausea.

Surface of head hot,

with sense of great internal heat.

Neuralgia about

temples, with sensitiveness of surface.

Headache with

high fever, thirst and restlessness.


Eyes.

Eyes inflamed, especially from any irritation

of foreign

body and

after its removal.

balls look red; feeling of dryness

and

Eyelids and
irritation

from

cold, or cold north winds.

Ears.

Acute

Threatened

when

earache,

gathering,

after

with

fever

measles,

or

and
after

thirst.

colds

general conditions, such as high fever, dry skin,

great restlessness and anxiety, call for Aconite.

Nose.

Coryza,

wind with

chill

with fever after exposure to cold


or chilliness and fever alternatino-.

ACONITE NAPELLUS

333

Nosebleed, with mental excitement and

Acute

fear.

rhinitis.

Face

Expression of

Flushed with

agony, anxiety, or fright.

fear,

but pale on rising.

fever,

with prickling pain after riding

other

the

flushed

(Cham.)

pale.

with fever,

is

Neuralgia,

Face

wind.

One cheek may be

hot and dry, no perspiration.

and

in cold

Aeon.

is

red

Face although

not so scarlet red as

Bell.

Noticeable especially in scarlet fever and whooping

cough, where Bell, often has the preference.

Mouth and Tongue Mouth very dry, with


Tongue dry. Feels swollen, with

thirst. (Bell.)
ling,

difficult

Bitter taste.

articulation.

great
prick-

Toothache

with severe colds and after exposure to cold north


winds.

Great thirst

is

one of the characteristics of

Aeon.

Throat

In

throat and

early

mouth

stage

are dry, with thirst and fever

rarely after acute stage


.

first

when

inflammation,

of

past.

is

The

but

sore throat in

stage of measles, with high fever, dry skin and

restlessness.

Stomach and Abdomen


marked.
iting,

Thirst

for cold

water

Sensitiveness of stomach to pressure.

especially of children

responds.

Peritonitis

when

general state cor-

and general inflammation with

agony, pain, restlessness, thirst

dry, hot skin.

in hepatic region with great restlessness.

flammation of the
after chili

is

Vom-

liver.

Pain

Acute

in-

First stage of dysentery,

and fever and great

thirst,

with pain, ten-

ACONITE NAPELLUS

334

derness and frequent, bloody stool.

with

Restless,

Diseases of the bowels from

anxiety, fear and pain.

hot days and cold nights (Dulc.)

Urinary and Sexual Organs


conditions, with fever,

may

Urine dark and hot, as

cold.

from cold or
fright,

with

injury.

chill,

Acute

inflammatory

be retention of urine, from

Acute

in fever.

orchitis,

Menstruation suppressed from

excitement and fever.

Acute attack

of inflammation in ovaries, with pain, restlessness

and

fever.

Organs

Respiratory

remedy

Aconite

in the acute stage of

larynx, as in croup

frequently

is

the

inflammatory disease of

or bronchial tubes and lungs, as

pneumonia or pleuro-pneumonia. In croup, loud


Child grasps
breathing especially on expiration.
throat, with cough, great thirst and restlessness,
Aconite will abate the symptoms, and may arrest the
impending disease. The cough is usually dry and frein

quent, with anxious, quick breathing, expectoration of

and

bright red blood, great agitation

about from side to


its

use

Avill

side.

If

Aconite

is

fear,

tossing

the true remedy,

soon be followed by perspiration and gen-

eral relief.

Heart

Stitches

and pain about heart with anxiety,

palpitation and dyspnea. (Cactus.)

and

rapid, or

weak and

rapid.

Pulse

may

be full

Better lying on back,

with head raised. (Ars.) Affections of the heart, with


pain in left shoulder. (Rhus). In all acute inflammatory conditions and anticipating eruptive fevers the
Aconite pulse

is

characteristically full

and

rapid.

ACONITE NAPELLU8

335

Extremities In acute inflammatory rheumatism, or

symptoms correspond,
The pains are acute, and parts
The surface is hot and dry, the

where the general

sciatica,

Aconite

is

important.

sensitive to touch.

patient exceedingly restless, and the

mind

full of fear

Aconite produces prickling, tingling

and anguish.

pains in extremities.

Sleep

A.

typical Aconite case

the opposite of

is

sleep

and quietness.

with

dreams, tossing about and starting up

fright.

Sleep

Dreams

(Bell.)

transient, filled

fitful,

is

with

vivid of events of the day,

with extreme restlessness. (Rhus.)

Fever

chill

precedes

generally

fever

the

of

Aconite, especially after exposure to cold, or after

and fever
rapid pulse, mental agita-

checking perspiration. Frequently the

The

alternate.

tion

thirst, full,

and restlessness, with

chill

hot, dry skin,

have

all

been

to

cold

elaborated under respective heads.


Conditions.

draughts

Bad

from

effects

exposure

from dry cold weather,

perspiration

from

fright,

anger and

Worse, evening and night when


lying on affected side in hot room.
;

and

suppressed

fear.

rising

from bed

Aconite when indicated

the very beginning of

in

an acute disease will often cut


conditions

for

it

short, or so

easily be chosen to complete the cure.

cases good results will follow

hours, and in

change

the better that other remedies

its

may

In most acute

use within one or two

some cases very much sooner.

ANTIMONIVM CBVDUM

336

Compare Bell Bry (disease of


Bry Phos. (disease of chest) Spong.
Coff. Ars.
Clinical.

brain and fever)


(in

croup) Cham.

Rhus.

Aconite,

in the

hand

of the inexperienced, has

too often been given in every case of "fever"; whereas it


should be used when, in addition to fever, some of the well-

In Typhoid and
defined symptoms of Aeon, are present.
Malarial fevers, or all fevers of lower type, as septic fevers,
the well defined symptoms point not to Aeon, but to remedies in the class of Ars., Bap. and Rhus Tox.

The mental syinptoms are important. If the mental state


"quiet," and free from fear and agitation, it is doubtful
whether Aeon, is indicated.
No remedy is so useful in acute diseases of the respiratory

is

organs as Aeon.

In the early stage of croup, laryngitis,


it is easy to discover
how clearly it is indicated by reference to "Guiding Symptoms." In acute diseases of the brain, dysentery and inflammatory rheumatism it is often the first remedy to be
thought of. In the diseases of children especially measles
and scarlet fever, it is quite indispensable. It matters not
as to the name or stage of the disease, if only the symptoms
bronchitis,

pneumonia and pleurisy

it should be given.
A
within a few hours lower the temperature,
decrease the pulse, produce a free perspiration and quiet
the mental excitement and restless body all so characterThe violence of the disease will be changed
istic of Aeon.
for the better and other remedies may be chosen to complete the cure, as the case may be.

of the patient clearly call for Aeon,

few doses

will,

ANTIMONIUM CRUDUM.
Not often used, but when it is indicated by some
very marked characteristics no other remedy can cure
so quickly. Conditions and symptoms of this remedy

ANTIMONIUM CRUDUM
are

most apt

for

whom

symptoms

to be

found

in the diseases of children,

often proves indispensable.

it

are unique,

in prescribing Anti.
is

337

c.

The mental

and should have pre-eminence

The

peevish, sulky disposition

carried to extreme so that the patient can not bear

to be

touched or even looked

at.

Vexed without any

cause; will not even reply or speak to attendants.

The white-coated tongue is very sure guide if the


mental symptoms correspond, and such conditions as

may

develop with gastric and internal derangement

from eating candies and sweets,


vomiting of ingesta.
white

tongue

will

with

The absence
distinguish

nausea

and the

of thirst

-Anti.

c.

and

from

Ars.

Catarrhal inflammation of stomach and bowels, with


distention.

Cough, and dyspnea with

loss of voice, in

whooping

Following coryza, with rawness


and crusts about the nose and lips. Colds after bathing. The keynote is generally found in the disposition.

cough and asthma.

Conditions

Worse, after eating

sun; from being touched or spoken


Better, from rest,

Compare
23

Cham.,

open

air,

cold bath

heat of

to.

and warmth.

Cina., Nux., Puis., Ipec, Sul.

^PIS MELLIFIGA

338

APIS MELLIFICA.
(Poison of the Honey-Bee.)

useful

remedy

in

erysipelas, acute bladder

and

kidney affections, scarlet fever, with dropsical appearance, as in acute Bright's Disease.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Mind.

Excitement, with much fear of being unable


Confusion, cannot

to get breath.

fix

thoughts.

Maybe

stupor and constant rolling of head, with shrieks and


pain.

Mind pre-occupied

Vertigo

Eyes.
eyes;

lets

things

fall

from hands.

sharp pains in head in meningitis.

Stinging,

burning and

lacrymation and dread of

itching

about

Lids

light.

the

swollen,

the upper appears like a sack of water as in erysipelas.

Inflammation with exudation.


Face.

Swollen,

and waxy, or

red,

may

edematous; or

be pale

Stinging, pricking pains, here and

livid.

there.

Mouth and Throat


edematous,

with
fever,

difficult

but

Sore

blister-like.

no

throat when parts appear


Tongue dry and tremulous,

breathing or swallowing.
thirst,

with

dry,

tongue.

much

swelling

(Rhus., Lach.) Suffocated feeling, with

about

face, throat

Often high

tremulous

and neck.

Urinary Organ Urine very scanty, or suppressed,


with frequent urging, and burning during urination.
(See Canth.)

In post scarlatinal, dropsy and Bright's

ARNICA MONTANA

339

Disease, with swelling of face and limbs, Apis

is

often

the remedy.

Respiratory Organs.

In

dropsy of chest, throat or

larnyx with suffocation, cannot endure anything about


throat or chest.

and heart,
Skin

in

Oppression about chest

(See Lach.)

dropsy cannot

Prickling,

lie

down. (Ars.)

stinging pains, with swelling, red

and white blotches.

Urticaria.

(Dulc)

Fever without

parts sensitive to touch.

Erysipelas,
thirst. (Gels.)

Fever with dull stupor, or screaming with delirium.


Conditions

Worse,

during or after sleep; (Lach.)

from closed hot room; from getting wet (Rhus.)


Better, open

air,

uncovering neck and chest (Lach.)

walking or changing position (Ars. Rhus.)

Compare

Ars., Lach., Puis.


ARNICA MONTANA.
(Leopard's Bane.)

The value
is

of

Arnica tincture for external purposes

well known.

nally,

it

is

Whenever

indicated or used exter-

well to give a few doses internally, either

of the potentized, or a

glass of water; giving

which

few drops of the tincture


it

in

teaspoonful doses.

seems most
bruises and contusions, as from blows,

juries

for

Arnica

useful
falls,

etc.

in a

Inare,
It

removes the soreness and pain, preventing suppura-

ARNICA MONTANA

340

According

tion.

other remedy

to

my

some

experience, and unless

is

well indicated, a few doses of Arnica

6th following immediately after childbirth has been

found of great value, promoting a more prompt and

normal convalescense

doubtless due to

its

being indi-

cated in cases of shock, strain and injury.

used internally,

is

indicated in

some forms

Arnica
of

Rheu-

matism where the sore, lame feeling is intense cannot bear to have any one come near; patient dull and
inclined to stupor, complains of bed being hard, wants
to be let alone. Fever of low typhoid type.
;

Arnica potentized and taken internally mitigates


the pain of strains and bruises and helps to remove
the

ill

effects

from physical over-doing.

juries about the chest with acute pain

more useful than Aeon, or Bry.


value

is

the desire to

the head low which

Conditions.

is

lie

(or relief

After

Arnica

is

in-

often

characteristic of

from lying) with

the opposite or Ars.

Worse, from shock or concussion with

or without serious injury; from being touched or ap-

proached

in cases of

rheumatism or

injury.

Better, from lying with the head low; Arnica has

been found useful after child

birth, especially

if

at-

tended with any injury, also after surgical operations,


attended with shock and exhaustion.
spine or nerves

Compare.

Hypericum

Aeon,,

is

In injuries of

preferred.

Bry., Hyper., Rhus.

ARSENICUM ALBUM

341

ARSENICUM ALBUM.
GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.
Those who have seen a case of Arsenic poisoning
have a mental picture corresponding to the
of some of the most serious maladies and
;

Arsenicum often comes

that

save

not

When

life.

call for

in to halt

last stage
it

is

here

the disease and

definite indications in

such cases do

Arsenicum, there are three other remedies

(Carb. Veg., Tart. Em., and Verat. A.) that generally

come forward

to

divide

honors.

the

The

definite

sphere of each will be defined in Part III, Materia

where there is
very marked prostration in low fevers, gastric and intestinal complications, and where there is vomiting and
diarrhea, or where the fever or pain is periodic. The
mental symptoms are clear cut and very definite, so
Often indicated

Medica.

in

diseases

that

its

and the

The

selection can be

made with much

certainty

results with Ars. are usually very prompt.

peculiar thirst

is

a valuable "key-note," also the

characteristic "burning pains."

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Mind.

worse

Extreme

anxiety,

at night, especially

one A. M.

to place, cannot rest anywhere.

finding fault.

and

fear

restlessness;

Goes from place

Fretful and vexed,

Fear of death and great dread of being

left alone.

Head and Eyes.


elsewhere, which

Neuralgia

is

worse

about head, face or

and relieved by
Burning and smarting

at night

heat. Exhaustion with the pain.

ARSENICUM ALBUM

342

with swelling and edema of

in eyes,

(Rhus., Apis.)

lids

Hot, excoriating tears; coryza. (Euph.)


Nose.

Coryza,

burning

open

in the nose,

burning discharge

watery,

with frequent sneezing worse

in

(See Euph.)

air.

Face.

with

Swollen,

puffiness,

and

waxy, deathly,

pale,

cachectic look as in cancer or anemia

expression of agony.

Cold sweat and

sunken, with

livid

appearance

as in last stage of acute, exhausting disease. (Verat.)

Neuralgia of

by

face,

with the burning pain

relieved

all

heat.

Tongue and Mouth. Tongue and mouth dry and


burning.
Tongue dry and brown, red at tip (See
Rhus., Lach.)
Ulcers in mouth raw and burning.
Swelling and dryness with thirst for water, but takes

only a swallow, often.

and face

and eruptions on

Blisters

lips

after cold or fever. (See Caus., Rhus.)

Stomach.

Loathing

The

Water.

and craving for cold

of food

smallest quantity causes vomiting, yet

constant

urging

Burning

distress

for
in

one swallow,
throat,

which

stomach

satisfies.

and

bowels.

Slightest food or drink causes distress and vomiting;

great anguish and fear of death.

Gastralgia, gastritis,

ulceration and cancer, with the persistent thirst and

burning pain somewhat relieved by very hot applications.

Arsenicum

palliates;

and prolongs

life,

even

in

incurable cases.
Stool.

Watery,

dark and

prostration and burning pain.

ofifensive,

Worse

with extreme
after eating or

ARSENICUM ALBUM
The

watery stool (Verat.)

tion with

343

Cold sweat and exliaus-

drinking, and after midnight.

thirst

and

rest-

lessness are very characteristic.

Urine.

May

be involuntary, or retained requiring

Bladder seems paralyzed.

a catheter.

hot and scanty.

Urine burning

Inflammation of the kidneys and

bladder with burning pains better from external heat.


Patient

weak and worn out with

of being left alone,

Walks

anywhere.

worse

pain,

Cannot

rest

about, cannot remain in bed.

Respiratory Organs and Heart.

from any source, when there

Difficult breathing

exhaustion and pros-

is

In asthma with sense of suffocation, cannot

tration.
lie

and with dread

after midnight.

down without having head

well elevated.

Breath-

ing and cough worse after midnight, with burning and

Cough

anguish about throat and chest.


dry,

spasmodic and suffocating.

with

much

exhausted.

Irritable

generally rapid,

weak and

Unsteadiness

Weak

to

from place to
Skin.

heart

with

pulse

irregular.

move them

the

in

walking.

in

ness of lower extremities.

Has

becomes
tobacco.
Angina

from

heart

Exhaustion

Extremities.

night.

generally

palpitation on walking fast also

Pectoris with exhaustion.

marked.

is

Respiration rapid,

extremities

Great restless-

Uneasiness

in

feet,

at

constantly, or walk about

place. (Rhus.)

White

pale, pasty-looking,

Eruptions on surface

ulcers

with

Eczema, dry and rough or with

even edematous.

much

blisters

burning.

and redness

ARSENICUM ALBUM

344

much burning and

with

disease of the

about the mouth,


Sleep.

itching, a useful

Burning,

skin.

like cold sores.

Restless sleep

ing in sleep. (Bell.)

remedy

smarting

in

eruptions

(Rhus.)

worse after midnight. Start-

Must have head

raised

by two or

three pillows, to get any rest or sleep.

Fevers.
ity,

In malarial

fevers with a

marked

periodic-

nausea and vomiting and thirst for single swal-

low of water.

In typhoid or low fevers, the extreme

exhaustion, restlessness and mental anxiety, Ars. will


reach.

The more desperate

the

symptoms and

condi-

tions, the greater the probability that Ars. will control.

Conditions.

Worse,

after midnight, 1 A.

M.

from

cold drink or ice cream; from alcoholism; from tainted

food;

decayed animal matter; ptomaine poisoning;

from rapid walking; from damp places.


Better, from hot application,

(Neuralgia)

warmth

from lying with the head well elevated,


(Asthma, heart disease) from changing about room,

in general

cannot remain long

in

bed or

chair,

and afraid to be

left alone.

Compare.

Apis.,

Ipec, China., Carbo. Veg., Rhus.,

Canth.

Clinical.
By giving prominence to, or prescribing for,
a single symptom the prescriber might easily fall into an
error and confuse Ars. with Aeon, or Rhus. For instance
each has marked restlessness, but a little searching for all
the symptoms of the patient and a comparison of the
remedies, will reveal a difference, even opposite conditions
This careful differentiation, well done,
in the remedies.

BAPTISIA
is

345

the basic principle in successful prescribing.

It

requires

a bit of study and discrimination.


Ars. is adapted to those diseases characterized by profound prostration, even exhaustion and collapse; such as
often attend diseases of the stomach and bowels; vomiting,
diarrhea, cholera morbus, etc. In asthma and heart disease,
it should be considered by referring to "Guiding Symptoms."
In typhoid and malarial fevers it is frequently called for.
Neuralgia, gastritis and skin diseases with the marked character of aggravation and amelioration which runs through
the remedy), Ars. may be given with absolute centainty
of relief.

BAPTISIA.
(Wild Indigo.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The symptoms
low type.

of Baptisia correspond to fevers of

Typhoid, and septic conditions with loss of

strength even to prostration.


all

USES.

muscles as

in

ness over right

La Grippe
abdomen.

Tired, lame, aching in


(Gels.,

Eupa).

Tender-

Baptisia has been found

helpful in cases of incipient

tuberculosis,

with

the

weakness, fever and tired feeling, so characteristic of


that disease.

choice of the

In the above or similar conditions the

remedy

is

often between Ars., Bry., Bapt.

or Rhus.

GUIDING SYaiPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Confused

and disconnected

in

conversation; unable to think;

(Lyco.) tries to get

himself together; thinks he

scattered

is

about the

BARYTA CARB.

346

room
weak

or bed, as in threatened typhoid.

Soreness of brain, with pain

feeling in limbs.

and pressure about the nose and

Eyeballs

Eyes and Face.

Vertigo, with

eyes.

feel

lame and sore as

Face flushed and dark as

colds. (Gels., Rhus.)

in

in

low

fever.

Mouth, Tongue and Throat.

brown

throat and
tonsils,

Tongue

yellowish or

Gums

coating, with redness of the edge.

mouth

bad breath

diphtheria

Stomach and Bowels.

Abdomen

very offensive. Diarrhea


the mental

symptoms

typhoid.

No appetite

sore and distended.


in

in colds

food disagrees.

Stool dark, watery and

low fevers and sepsis with

of typhoid.

Neck, Back and Extremities.

and weak, as

sore,

and swelling of

dry, with soreness

Muscles

lame, sore

and influenza. (Rhus,, Eupat.,

Dulc.)
Sleep,

worse

Much

3 or 3

Compare.

delirium.

Sleepless

and

restless;

A. M., with frightful dreams.

Rhus.,

Gels.,

Eupat.

BARYTA CARB.
(Carbonate of Baryta.)

GENERAL, OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.


In

diseases

of

children,

Baryta carb.

portant place, similar to Calc. carb.,

Sili.,

fills

an

im-

Merc, and

BARYTA GARB.

347

Faulty nutrition and tardy physical develop-

Sul.

Defective or slow development

ment. (Calc, pho.)

mind;

of

weakness

mental

approaching

idiocy.

Diseases of glanular system with tendency to enlarge-

ment, especially the glands of neck.

Sub-acute and

chronic enlargement of tonsils in children of a scrof-

ulous habit.

Distention of

largement of glands.

abdomen
has

Child

(Calc.) with en-

cold,

Offensive foot sweats.

(Calc. carb.)

Sili.)

clamy

feet.

The men-

and physical condition of the child corresponds to


that of the progeny of the degenerate, often seen in
tal

The stunted growth, with enlargement

the "slums."

abdomen,

of the

of the

mesenteric glands and the

glands of the throat and neck, are frequent concomi-

No remedy

tants.

Baryta carb.
tors.

can do as

Calc.

for such cases as

Sul.

are close competi-

and

careful differentiation of the

decide the remedy.

No remedy

by

and none more often given with good

re-

sults

cases

of

than Baryta carb.

chronic
It

enlargement of the tonsils

may

require from one to three

months, possibly longer to get


of potency

necessary.

symptoms must

so well indicated

provings
in

carb.

much

from the lower

full results.

to

the

higher

change
is

often

BELLADONNA

348

BELLADONNA.
(Deadly Nightshade.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The

action of Belladonna on the nervous system,

especially the brain and special senses,

found

USES.

is

very pro-

producing- active congestion, delirium and per-

On

version of sight and hearing.

the throat and skin

marked by redness, heat and dryness,


its
corresponding to some cases of scarlet fever, and other
eruptive fevers. A useful remedy in acute brain affecsome
tions or in fevers with brain complications
similarity to Aeon., but a study of the two remedies
will reveal differences which must not be overlooked
Many of the symptoms of
in correct prescribing.
action

is

Belladonna are

definite, clean cut

and unmistakable.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Delirium,

excitement and rage.

Strikes and bites attendants. (Canth.)

hideous objects and

tries to escape.

ness or falls to sleep which


start

ness.
to

is

Sees frightful,

Loses conscious-

interrupted by sudden

and screams. Constant moaning, with drowsiBlood rushes


All senses more acute. (Cofifea.)

head with pain and throbbing; flushed face and

Sometimes pains are cutting and


stabbing and much worse by walking, jar, noise or
Headache from hot sun.
light.
Seeks dark room.
and
go suddenly.
Pains often come
(Glon.)

throbbing in neck.

Eyes.

Vision obscured, with pupils dilated.

erance of

all

light.

Sparks

and

flashes

Intol-

before the

BELLADONNA
Eyes

eyes.

349

dry with burning

feel

tion with redness of conjunctive.

Inflamma-

in lids.

Eyes

staring, glassy,

animated.

Ears and Nose.

Tearing,

throbbing pain

Shooting

with sensitiveness to noise.

in

ear,

and

in right ear

Acute catarrhal colds with dryness in


nose and throat, headache, dry cough, heat, and redSense of hearing and smell acute.
ness of nose.
right cheek.

Light and noise unbearable.

sense of dryness in

the nose and upper part of throat

very character-

is

istic.

Face.

and

Very

scarlet

red, hot

and swollen as

in erysipelas

Spasms and twitching

fever.

in

face.

Cutting, tearing pain in right side, with toothache

worse

Swelling .and redness of upper

in evening.

The

with dryness of mouth and throat.

sense of ex-

treme heat of face and head, or of the skin


is a marked indication, especially so
throat symptoms correspond, which

in

scarlet

made

here,

Mouth,

between

Tongue

and

condition

So dry cannot

Merc.)

often the case

differentiation

must be

and Aconite.
Throat.

Dryness

is

the

both of mouth and throat.

and swallowing even water

The

throat feels too narrow or con-

Pain shoots to ear on swallowing. (Gels.

Tongue

berry tongue."

mering.

articulate

is

in general,

the brain and

yet a constant desire to swallow, although

very painful.
stricted.

careful
Bell,

characteristic

is difficult,

fever.

if

lip,

red, red

Speech

and white.
difficult,

Swollen, "strawinterrupted,

stam-

Useful in early stages of sore throat with the

BELLADONNA

350

and

swelling

redness,

Grinding of teeth

Stomach

dryness

Some

Abdomen.

and

without

exudation.

with children. (Cina.)

in sleep,

thirst

cold

for

Nausea, with shoot-

water, but difficult to swallow.

cutting pains in stomach and abdomen.

ing,

with tenderness.

ralgia

even bedclothes.
tended

Transverse colon

(Lach.)

colic,

tenesmus

and

when

straining;

jar,

dis-

the characteristic indica-

In dysentery

tions are present.

is

In peritonitis, appendiictis

like a pad. (Calc.)

and gall-stone

Neu-

Cannot bear touch or

and diarrhea with


and

green

Involuntary

urina-

bloody

stool

mucus.
Urinary and Sexual Organs.
tion, especially

with children in sleep.

Retention of

urine with burning and straining in parts.

Female.
ing

down

Prolapsus
in pelvis

walking or riding.

of uterus with constant bear-

with heat and pain worse from

Dysmenorrhea.

jar,

Inflammation of

ovaries with heat and pain, with general indications


for Bell.

especially those about the head.

Respiratory Organs.

Hoarseness

with cold affect-

ing the larynx, with feeling of dryness and suffocation

and dry constant cough, worse at night, 10 or 11 P. M.


and always dry. Valuable in whooping-cough and
croup,

when with every coughing

for air, face flushed

iness
is

and sudden

generally

full

and

spell the child

hot, tossing about with

starting.

The

febrile pulse of Bell.,

and frequent, not unlike Aeon.

post febrile pulse of Bell.,

is

but with force and quickness.

gasps

drows-

less full,

more

The

irregular,

BELLADONNA
Neck, Back and Extremities.
ing pains in glands of neck.

351

Swelling

Stiff

Lumbago, with pain

(Cimicif. Dulc.)

Rhus.)

Pain and paralytic feeling

larly in

lower extremities.

sciatic

nerve

est touch.

The

(Dulc.

in hips.

arms and

in

Symptoms

simi-

of neuritis

the

painful and very sensitive to the slight-

is

The

feet are often cold,

febrile condition the head,

Skin,

and shoot-

neck as from cold.

Redness

flushed face

even when

body and skin are

of skin, especially face

is

characteristic.

The

in

acute

hot.

and cheek.

rash

is

usually

smooth and evenly red. Erysipelas, of the smooth, red


surface, skin hot and dry, with swelling and throbbing
pain.

Sleep.
fearful

Sleep

at night

is

interrupted by starts and

dreams tossing about, sleepy but cannot sleep;


;

grinding of teeth, hot head and cold


ing of muscles;

moaning

may

peculiar drowsiness

as

if

in

feet,

with twitch-

pain or trouble.

The

occur by day or night, and

often precedes impending illness.

Fever.

Aeon.,

The fever of

if

the other

Bell, will not

symptoms

are

be confused with

all

the case and

is

In

considered.

scarlet fever, Bell, often covers well the

symptoms

of

generally indicated instead of Aconite,

while the opposite

is

true in measles.

After exposure

to scarlet fever or in time of a serious epidemic.

should be used as a prophylatic; for

always prevent the disease,

it

will

if

it

Bell,

does not

render

it

less

virulent.

Conditions.

Better, from

standing, or sitting erect.

BRYONIA ALB.

352

Worse, from noise, light, touch; jar; from lying


down; 3 P. M. and after midnight, right side.
Clinical.

Bell,

like

Cham, and Cina seems

especially-

useful for children.


The mental symptoms are different;
the same is true of Aeon, and Bell.
If with fever the
patient is drowsy or sleeping much, with sudden starts,
Bell will control the fever better than Aeon.

one of the

remedies

to be thought of in
acute diseases of brain, see
"Guiding Symptoms."
In sore throat which is dry and
highly inflamed with slight exudation, such as follows
severe colds. In scarlet fever Bell, easily stands first both
as a curative and preventive remedy.
The character of
the eruption and the appearance of the skin is very characteristic and an important guide for Bell.
In acute diseases
of children the choice is often between Bell, and Aeon.
The mental symptoms are very different. In Bell, senses are
all very acute and yet with a tendency to drowsiness.
It
is chiefly useful in acute diseases and the trained observer
will discover many of the more important symptoms by
the appearance and action of the patient; the remedy is
prompt in action and should be given less frequently or discontinued when the patient is improved. In semi-chronic
and constitutional diseases Calcara Carb. will often have the
preference over Bell. Both are very similar in action and
both are indispensable in the treatment of children.

Bell,

is

first

violent throbbing headache,

BRYONIA ALB.
(Wild Hops.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The sphere
less

of action of

Bryonia

is

well defined but

extended than other leading remedies.

indicated

it

is

very prompt

USES.

When

in the relief of pain.

well
It is

often called for in colds, resembling la grippe; also in

BRYONIA ALB.
the early stage of typhoid fever.
after Aconite or

It often

Bryonia

Rhus.

353
follows well

acts chiefly

on the

serous and synovial membranes.

In pleurisy, inflammatory rheumatism and in peri-

remedy to be considered. Inflammation of the serous membranes always gives rise to


the sharp, piercing pains for which Bry. is so homeopathic.
The aggravation from moving the joints or
tonitis

it is

the

first

when

taking a deep breath

pleurisy

is

present, gives a

clear illustration of the tissues involved,


larity of a

and the simi-

Bryonia proving.

GUIDING SY]\IPTOMS.
Mind.

111

humor about

trifles,

about the business of the day.


ideas disappear, (typhoid)

Vague

home.

ing the eyes.

(Bap.)

in

moving, or opening and mov-

Bursting headache worse from motion

stooping, or rising up

vertigo on rising.

or end in the base of brain, or neck.


scarlet fever.

of mind,

up and go

pains in the head, worse from jar or

Headache

mis-step.

and dreams

desires to get

ideas as to whereabouts.

Sharp

Head.

talks

Weakness

Pains begin

Meningitis and

Brain symptoms after sudden suppres-

sion of rash.

Eyes, Nose and Ears.

Sharp

motion.

Coryza, better

in

pains

open

Eyeballs sore and painful on


extending to

air.

Nosebleed from delayed or

suppressed menses especially


ache and

irritability.

24

back of head.

in

young

girls

with head-

BRYONIA ALB.

354
Face.

Flushed and

hot, or pale

and sallow.

Sharp

pains in nerves of face, worse on motion; swelling of

upper

with dryness,

lip

comes pale on

dry and cracked.

lips

Face be-

with vertigo and nausea.

rising,

Mouth, Tongue and Throat. Dry and parched as in


Toothache. Teeth feel too long, and sensitive.
Better from lying on painful side, and from cold water.

fever.

Tongue coated
large

Thirst for

white. (Anti. c, Eupat.).

quantities

water

cold

of

long

at

intervals.

(Eupat.)

Stomach.

In

fever

with

nausea

after

drinking

Stomach very

drink, (Pho., Eupat.).

warm

stitching pains

worse on motion and pressure desires to


down and not be moved. Acute inflammation of

about

liver.

liver,

(Aeon.) Better

Abdomen and
deep

when

Stool.

with the sharp pain


or

tongue,

any

sensitive to touch.

Pain and heaviness about stomach

lie

white

gastric

(Anti. c, Ipec.)

in

breathing;

lying on the painful side.

Peritonitis

abdomen

or

appendicitis

worse from motion


characterized by fever, white
all

tongue, nausea on moving or sitting up.

Diarrhea

hot weather, from over-heating and cold drinks.


stipation

stool small, dry, hard; in bilious dyspepsia,

constipation, with irritable


ache.

in

Con-

mood, vertigo and head-

(Nux.)

Sexual Organs.

Menses

delayed

or

with bleeding from nose, throat or lungs.


tion of the ovaries with sharp pain

suppressed,

Inflamma-

on every motion.
Inflammation of breast with milk fever, great soreness

and cutting

pains. (Colo.)

BRYONIA ALB.
Respiratory

Organs.

355

Laryngitis

and

bronchitis

with dry cough, worse at night and on coming into a

warm

room.

In pleurisy, or pleuro-pheumonia, Bry.

follows well after Aeon,

the pains are cutting and

if

sharp, preventing deep breath, or motion.

In the absence of indications for Aeon., Bry. should be given at

once for the above symptoms.


has to

up, or

sit

lie

Dyspnea, dry cough,

on the painful

Bry. patient

side.

inclined to perspire, whereas Aeon, has hot, dry skin

and

restless.

is

Rheumatism

heart

of

with sharp

pains. (Arnica.)

Pain

in

region of the heart with piercing pains

through the chest with

difficult

moved without causing

breathing; cannot be

aggravation.

(Aeon., Cact.,

Spig.)

Neck, Back and Extremities. Sharp pains in neck


(Gels.)
and base of the brain.
General muscular
lameness in back and limbs as after cold, (Rhus.,
Cimicif.)

redness

all

increased by exercise.

in joints,

Pain and swelling

pain.

Pain, swelling and

cannot move the parts on account of


in

ankles and

(Rhus.,

feet.

Ars.)
Skin.

Rash

similar

to

measles,

itching and

Jaundiced skin with chronic affection of liver.

may

be hot and red

rising,

in diseases of children.

with vertigo.

Bad

effects

hot.

Face

Pale on

from non-appear-

ances or of sudden disappearance of eruption, especially measles.

Fevers.

Typhoid

in early

stage with bursting head-

ache, vertigo, white or dry tongue

and general aching

CACTUS GRAND.

356
pains in

parts of body,

all

In scarlet fever or measles

about.

(Bap.)

rash

much delayed

is

worse from moving

all

when

or suddenly disappears.

the

In the

pneumonia with characteristic symptoms.


(See Respiratory Organs). Rheumatic fever with or

fever

of

without perspiration.

Modalities.
Worse from motion or exertion,
warmth, warm room, from rising up, nausea and
Better lying on painful side, from rest and
fainting.
quiet,

open

air,

cold things.

Compare Kali

Carb.,

Eupato., Rhus., Gels.


Clinical.

Bryonia

is

a remedy of the

first class in

acute

has been a favorite remedy with some for


constipation and in some respects is similar to Nux.
The
character of the pains (sharp) and the sure aggravation
from motion are very characteristic, and often help to make
its selection easy. It should not become a routine remedy for
any one disease, except when clearly indicated.

appendicitis.

It

Under the head


found a

list of

of "Outline of Action

and Uses"

will be

diseases and conditions which are very char-

acteristic of Bry; in addition,

often called for in acute


It is an easy remedy
to master or for the inexperienced to make use of, for the
relief and results are often so prompt as to inspire deeper
study of this and all other remedies.
gastritis,

and diseases of the

it is

liver.

CACTUS GRANDIFLORUS.
(Night Blooming Cereus.)

GENERAIi OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.

The known
definite

indications for Cactus are limited but

and important

in

diseases of the heart.

In

CACTUS GRAND.
hemorrhages due

to heart disease

357

Cactus

is

indicated.

sense of constriction in different parts of the body

is

characteristic, especially

about the chest and heart.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Irritable, sad; fear of death.

Con-

gestive headaches, with sense of weight on vertex,


(Calc.) with heart

symptoms.

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS.
Hemorrhages from

different organs

from the nose,

Urine bloody, with occasional

stomach and bowels.


retention.

Sense of constriction, with constant desire

to urinate.

Chest and Heart.

Breathing

very

difficult,

with

sense of weight and tightness; sense of suffocation,

with weak, irregular pulse, face pale and covered with


cold perspiration (Verat.).

Cough with bloody expec-

toration, with great irregularity

in heart action. (Aco.,

Angina

Pectoris, with constriction about the


though a cord or iron band was drawn
about the chest; worse from motion, with sense of

Pho.)

lower

ribs, as

suffocation.

Acute, piercing pain about the heart.

(Bry., Spig., Aeon.)

Rhus.)

Pain shoots

Pulse variable.

pare Aco., Ars. and Spig.

down

Inability to

left

lie

arm. (Aco.,

down.

Com-

CALCAREA CARBONICA

358

CALCAREA CARBONICA.
(Carbonate of Lime.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


This

remedy

a constitutional

is

ond only

to sulphur.

USES.

of great value, sec-

In diseases of children with im-

paired nutrition, tardy development of bone and teeth,


flabby tissues, with

inclination

The person with such

a characteristic con-

stitution often furnishes plenty of Calc.


this

perspiration

Scrofulous and rachitic type, in children

perament.
or adults.

free

to

Fat and flabby leucophelgmatic tem-

about the head.

remedy cures and

symptoms and

also remedies the constitutional

defects.

Poor

circulation, cold,

clammy sweat on

feet

and

head, inclined to take cold easily, and very sensitive to


the least cold air or draught.

compare

In diseases of children

Calc. phos.

GLIDING SYIMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Mind

of child

seems to develop

too slow, with general backwardness.

Averse to work

Fear of becoming insane, or of some impending evil, with melancholia and despondency at

or exertion.

climacteric.

Rush

of blood to head with heat, (Bell.)

Sense of weight on top of head.

Fullness of head,

worse from exertion, with vertigo.

Perspiration about

head during

sleep, especially in

The pillow wet with


in the

young, feeble children.

perspiration after every nap, or

morning.

Eyes and Ears.

Scrofulous swelling and

inflamma-

CALCAREA CARBONIC A
symptoms

tion with general

359

Discharge from

of Calc.

eyes and ears of muco-purulent matter, with troubles

from working

in water.

(Rhus., Caus., Dulc.)

sensitive to cold about the ears

Very

and neck.

Nose and Face. Catarrh with sense of obstruction


in nose, and sometimes thick, mucous discharge.
Scrofulous subjects inclined to be fat and perspire
Face

about head.

is

generally pale and colorless, with

deep-seated eyes, swollen upper

lip.

(Bell.)

Veins of

and temples prominent and very dark.

face

Mouth and Throat.

Offensive

breath, bleeding of

and delayed, with Calc. conToothache, worse from cold air or anystitutions.
thing cold or hot. Swelling of glands in neck (Baryta,

gums.

Teething

difficult

carb.) after scarlet fever, scrofulous constitution.

Stomach, Bowels and Abdomen.

Ravenous hunger,

with children, morbid appetite and craving; longing


for eggs, for indigestible things; chalk, pencil, coal,

Distention of stomach in children

etc.

who

are pale

and emaciated, with much perspiration about the head.


Enlargement and tenderness of liver; cannot endure
tight clothing; jaundice, clay-colored stool.

Swelling

and inguinal glands. In diarrhea, especchildren, the person and general symptoms

of mesenteric
ially of

must guide, rather than the character


stool

is

of stool.

Often useful

in

chronic bowel trouble.

Urinary and Sexual Organs.

Irritable

bladder.

odor; chachectic children,

In

ammoniapoorly nourished and

children, the urine often has a sour, fetid or


cal

The

generally undigested and of sour or fetid odor.

CALCAREA CARBONICA

360

Valuable for women whose menstruation


always excessive, profuse and too early, with gen-

backward.
is

eral

weakness and great sensitiveness to cold or cold


There is generally poor circulation, with

draughts.
cold feet.

May

be useful for young girls

who

suffer

from delay of menses and have headache, palpitation,

cough and hemorrhage. Such persons are generally


anemic, sometimes "fair, fat alid flabby" in constitution.

Larynx and Chest.

Inclined to painless hoarseness,

and cough worse at night.


Bloody or sweetish expectoration. Breathing short

with tickling

in

and oppressed
ascent has to

throat,

on going up stairs or up the slightest


down. General sensitiveness of chest

sit

Pulse generally weak and

to percussion.

palpitation and anxiety,

which

is

fast.

Some

much worse on mak-

ing any ascent.

Neck, Back, and Extremities.


enlargement, especially
or spinal curvature.

who

in

General

glandular

neck; with disease of bones,

Great weariness

in all the limbs.

backward about walking.


Swelling of the knee joint, sciatica and other troubles,
from working in the water. Feet always feel cold and
damp.
In children

Sleep.

are slow or

Weariness

during the day but cannot sleep

at night on account of many thoughts. Wakens from


troubled, frightful dreams with sudden start. (Bell.)

Insomnia quite
Fever.

In

characteristic,

with fear of insanity.

hectic, or post scarlatinal complications,

CALCAREA PHOSPHORICA
with heat

in head,

361

with profuse perspiration^ worse on

slightest exertion.

Modalities.

All

symptoms worse from cold

air or

cold draughts, from going up stairs or any ascent;

Compare

perspiration worse on exertion and at night.


Bell.,

Cham., Lye,

Clinical.

In

Sili.,

Cham., Hep.,

diseases of children

v.^ith

Sul.,

Lach.

tardy or defective

development of the teeth and bones of the head Calc Garb,


and Calc. Pho. are indispensable. A few doses when indicated by the constitutional and guiding symptoms will
revolutionize the nutritive processes, and build up a more
normal and vigorous body.

The temperament,

constitution,

and physical appearance

of the child or individual should be taken into consideration

when

Calc. is being considered.

CALCAREA PHOSPHORICA.
(Phosphate of Lime.)

GENERAL, OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.

Somewhat

similar to Calcarea carb.

of children, especially so.

As

and organs affected are

chiefly

glandular system.
tions, "the fair, fat

by, shrunken

and

in diseases

in the latter, the tissues

the bones and the

It is useful in

and flabby."

the

same

constitu-

Or they may be

flab-

and emaciated, as the result of faulty

nutrition or an inherited scrofulous cachexia.

(See

Baryta, carb.)

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

The mental

condition

shows unrest, changeable-

CALENDULA OFFICINALIS

362

discontent.

ness,

Cham.)

(Anti. c,
girls,

who

developed

are frail

bones

Easily depressed, and irritable.


Headache of children and schooland anemic. Non-united and unof

head,

fontanels

remain open.

Children with large head and small, weak neck.

Slow-

ness of teething and derangements during dentition.


Eating soon gives rise to pain in the stomach and ab-

domen.
arrhea.

The abdomen sunken and flabby with diDerangement of menses in schoolgirls, who

are debilitated, with headache, irritability and vacilla-

Hoarseness, with suffocation and involuntary

tion.

sighing.

(Ign.)

Useful

in a

form of rheumatism

al-

ways worse in cold weather (Dulc.) and disappearing


in summer.
Useful in non-union of fractured bone.
The faulty constitution, and the general characteristics
must be the chief guide in the use of this remedy. See
Calc. carb., Baryta, carb.,

Sili.,

Sul.

CALENDULA OFFICINALIS.
(Marigold.)

GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS.
This remedy has been used chiefly

and

in surgical cases

especially in lacerated wounds, torn jagged look-

wounds accompanied with pain and not reby ordinary means. It promotes healthy granulations and seems to prevent excessive suppuration.
ing flesh

lieved

It

was much used by surgeons of the Homeopathic


any definite knowledge of antiseptics.

school, prior to

CANTHARI8

363

For wounds or injuries caused by children


pecially

useful.

It

doubtless

possesses

it

es-

is

antiseptic

and promotes rapid healing by first intention.


indicated where pain seems excessive, or where

virtues
It is

suppuration has already taken place.

In the foregoing

cases and in superficial burns

scalds

and

it

often

soothes the pain, removes inflammation and establishes a

fresh

normal circulation.

wounds

In

all

surgical cases

and

the tincture should be used and applied

directly to the

wound.

It

may

be well to begin the

treatment by diluting the tincture one half to twothirds with tepid water.

It is

much used and

greatly

preferred in the form of a calendula cerate in superficial

sores and inflammation as in varicose ulcers, in-

flamed hemorrhoids, fissures, abrasions of skin,

etc.

Hitherto the use of this remarkable remedy has been


largely confined to local and external treatment.

good proving and clinical experience with the use internally would be very desirable. Like Arnica I think
it might be profitably used internally in all cases where
it is indicated and used externally.

CANTHARIS.
(Spanish Fly.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


No drug

USES.

produces a more marked and violent effect on

the urinary organs than Canth.


tro-intestinal

The

brain, skin, gas-

and sexual organs are also included

in

CANTHARIS

3(34
its

In acute inflammation of the

sphere of action.

bladder and kidneys, Canth. has accomplished mar-

Sometimes useful

velous relief and cures.


las

and dysentery.

in erysipe-

(Bell., Ars., Apis.)

GUIDING SY:MPT0MS.
Mind.

Similar to Bell.

There

is

Worse touching

striking and biting of attendants.

drinking water.

Head

(Bell.)

as of boiling water. (Aeon.)

delirium with rage,

hot,

burning

or

in brain

Neuralgia with burning

pains. (Ars.)

Face.

Erysipelas

about face and eyes, with hot

Acute inflammation

feeling.

of eyes, with burning.

(Euph.)

Mouth and Throat.


ulcers

Inflamed,

ing of liquids very

in

blisters

Abdomen

Much burning and nausea,

distended, with cutting, burning pain

Acute pain and sensitiveness

intestine.

in

toms often aggravated by drinking

Bowels and

Stool.

Canth.

like the

frequently indicated in

Much

Uurinary and Sexual Organs.


urging to urinate

much

Stool of white, tough mucus,

scrapings of intestines.

lent cutting,

coffee.

Stools of blood and mucus, with

burning and tenesmus.

abdo-

Symp-

men, especially over the region of the bladder.

dysentery.

and

Swallow-

difficult. (Bell.)

Stomach and Abdomen.


(Ars.)

with

with burning scalding pain. (Ars.)

thirst.

Constant,

painful

passing only a few drops with vio-

burning pain, the patient exhausted and

CARBO VEGETABILI8
Distress in neck of bladder

with suffering.

faint

365

most constant, with retention

al-

and ceaseless
urging. The urine may be bloody or bloody mucus,
and loaded with sediment or scanty and albuminous.
of urine

The

(Apis., Ars., Merc.)

stant urging

is

character of pain and con-

more important

in selecting the

edy than the quality of the urine.


nabis.,

(Apis., Ars.,

remCan-

Lye, Nux.)

Back and Kidneys.

Pain

in

region of kidneys, ten-

der on pressure, with frequent urination.

Pain

back and down the ureter,

bladder.

extending

Symptoms resembling passage


Skin.

Erysipelas,

and burning

Compare

to

in

of calculi.

vesicular on face, with itching


Effects

pain.

of

and

burns

blisters.

Apis., Ars., Rhus.

CARBO VEGETABILIS.
(Vegatable Charcoal.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

remedy

in

its

USES.

action corresponding to the last

stage of various diseases which threaten a fatal ter-

mination,with symptoms of faintness and general collapse.

It

may

follow

after

severe

typhoid fever, pneumonia, or cholera.


to a

low type, with feeble

hemorrhage
It

in

corresponds

pulse, cold, livid surfaces

yet a constant craving for cold air and to be fanned.

To

be thought of

Puis, or Lycop.

in

indigestion in connection with

CARBO VEGETABILIS

366

GUIDING SY]\IPTOMS.
Eyes, Nose, Face.

Face

derly people.

floating spots before the

Nosebleed

(Pho., Lye.)

eyes.

Black,

ver)^ frequently, in el-

may become

pale, or livid.

Vari-

cose veins about nose, or elsewhere.

Mouth, Stomach and Bowels.


(Merc.)

easily.

low

Sensitive

Tongue

decay rapidly.

spongy, bleed

when chewing;

the teeth

white, or dark, dry coating in

Indigestion with

states.

Gums

much

flatulence, belch-

ing of sour, rancid matter after eating fat food. (Puis.)

Empty

eructations, sense of fullness soon after eating.

(L3^co.)

Burning

men, worse

in P.

stomach.

much

rhea,

flatulence

ness in rectum.
gestible food,

Loss of

Bry.)

of

abdo-

Exhaustion with watery diar-

and burning, itching and raw-

Derangements from use

of fat, indi-

which are not cured by Puis.

Respiratory
ness.

Distention

M., with colic pains, cold hands and

with exhaustion.

feet,

feet

in

Asthma

and hands

Organs and Heart, Marked hoarsevoice, worse in evening. (Pho., Ars.,


in elderly

cold.

people; have to be fanned;

In the last stage of pneumonia

with exhaustion, cold, livid appearance and sunken features; scanty fetid, dark

sputum (condition

similar to

much less rattling of phlegm


and less perspiration.) The constant desire for air
and for fanning is characteristic. The pulse of Carbo.
veg. is weak and fast.
The pulmonic circulation is
Tart. Em., only there

is

stagnant, with great oppression and anxious feeling in


regfion of heart.

CAULOPHYLLVM
Extremities,

hands and

Fever,

Skin,

367

Coldness,

Skin pale, cold, and

feet.

leaden and blue.

blueness

of

low states

in

with

Fevers of lowest type,

dry,

dark-coated tongue (Bap.) hemorrhages and profound


exhaustion.
Modalities.

Worse

from

fat

food

as butter,

fat

meat, milk and coffee.


Better from fanning and from plenty of

Compare.

China.,

Ars., Tart.

air.

Em.

CAULOPHYLLUM.
(Blue Cohosh.)

OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.


This remedy has been serviceable

dysmenorrhea,

in

uterine cramps, inefficient labor pains, and a great variety of suffering centering about the uterus

hysteria during, or before the menses

suffering from displacements. (Lilium.)


false pains that

with similar pain.

Caul,

is

adapted to rheumatism about the small

tendency to

shift.

(Puis.)

of the muscles about the

Rheumatism

Cimicif.,

in the

for days, or

Also

in

mis-

particularly
joints,

with

or stiffening

neck and back, from cold and

exposure.

Compare.

such as

Useful

sometimes precede labor

that are severe in the early stage of labor.

carriage

uterine pain and

Cham., Puis., Lilium,

CAUSTICUM

368

CAUSTICUM.
AND

O^UTLINE OF ACTION

USES.

in chronic rheumatic and -paralytic


affec
and catarrhal troubles growing out of neglected

Useful
tions

(See nose,

colds.

e3^es,

larynx and bronchi.)

tain nervous states corresponding to

Rhus.

In cer-

Ign.,

Nux.

Skin often a dirty white, or sallow with warty excres-

May

cences. (Thuya.)

by Baryta

be useful

in children

not cured

Calc, and Calc. Pho.

carb.,

GUIDING SYj^IPTOMS.
Mind.

Morose,

melancholy, peevish,
(Nat. Mur.)

fore menstruation.

and

worse

inattention;

from

worse be-

all

Absent-mindedness
(Ign.)

grief,

worry,

night-watching and disease. (Nux.)


Eyes, Nose, Face,

Eyes, dryness, with sensation of

and lachrymation.
Closure
and much heaviness of upper lids as from weakness.
Nose; dryness, with stoppage, or in
(Gels., Rhus.)

sand,

with

photophobia

second stage of coryza, with hoarseness and cough.

Warts about

the nose and face, which

is

sallow and

unhealthy in appearance.

Mouth, Throat, Bowels.

Toothache from

extending to nose and eyes.

Gums

swollen and bleed.

chords.

Painful

Teeth

feel

cold, pain

elongated.

Sore throat, involving vocal

hemorrhoids, burning, itching,

all

worse from walking.


Urinary Organs.

Weakness

about bladder.

Invol-

untary urination, with children at night, also from

CAUSTICUM
coughing.

(Phos.,

Puis.)

369

Retention of urine with

pain about the rectum.

Larynx and Bronchia. Cough with inability


to expectorate. It comes up but has to be swallowed.
Cough with pain in hip. Persistent hoarseness, worse
morning and evening, cannot speak aloud. (Pho., Kali.
Bi.)
After colds, and after speaking or singing, rattling of mucus which cannot be raised. (Tart, em.)
Rawness, burning and weakness in larynx. Cough,
Voice,

better

from swallow of cold water.

Tightness over

chest, inclined to take deep breath. (Pho.)

Limbs

in General.

Gouty,

rheumatic pains.

Weak-

ness and trembling in limbs with feeble, backward


children.

Also suited to advanced age.

Generalities.

peculiar, persistent restlessness at

night, with heat of surface, cannot remain

still.

(Rhus.

Symptoms worse after getting wet. (Rhus.)


Symptoms worse in clear, fine weather and better in

Ars.)

damp, wet weather,,

directly the opposite of Rhus,

and

Dulc.
Similar Remedies.
Ign., Nux.,

25

Rhus.

Arum

ars.,

Baryta

carb.. Gels.,

CEPA

370

CEPA.
(The

Common Red

Onion.)

GENERAL ACTION.
Acute

Acute catarrhal inflammation of the


Attacks of coryza with

rhinitis.

nose, throat, larynx and eyes.

the usual

symptoms

sneezing, profuse watery dis-

charge from nose and eyes.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head,


(Ars.)

Confused,

with heat and aching

anxiety

indefinable

forehead, worse in

in

evening and indoors.


Eyes.

Profuse

with

lacrymation

in

open

air.

Redness of

eyes,

burning

warm room.

smarting, worse in evening and in

and

Better

with sensitiveness to

light.

Nose.

Violent

sneezing, with great flow of clear,

watery discharge. Frequent sneezing, as in acute


Coryza. Worse in warm room and in evening. Acrid,
burning, watery discharge from nose, causing rawness
of

nose

and

lips,

Euphra. and Ars.)

headache

with

Use

Larynx. Hoarseness,
worse inspiring cold
or coryza.

air.

in

forehead.

(See

early.

with

constant

Tickling

in larnyx,

coughing,

with cold

Constricted feeling in throat and larynx.

Clinical.
A careful and early selection between Cepa,
Euphrasia, Ars. and Gels will often result in prompt relief

from common cold and coryza.

CHAMOMILLA

371

CHAMOMILLA.
(German Chamomile.)

OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.

The predominant note

in this

remedy

is

found

in

the mental, or emotional sphere, not only of children,

In a mild, yielding agreeable tem-

but also of adults.

like Puis., it would be difficult to think of


Cham, as the remedy. The impatience and exactions
In rheumatic and
of Cham, are most characteristic.

perament,

neuralgic affections
labor

it

is

Cham,

is

in

in

painful

also during

menstruation.

oftener thought of and perhaps oftener used,

than any other remedy; espe-

in diseases of children,

cially

often indicated

and thereafter, and

and

teething

bowel

with

affections

the

marked mental symptoms, which resemble Anto c,


Calc, Cina, and Caust. yet on referring to such reme;

dies in Part III. (Materia

be apparent, and

Medica) the difference will

in correct prescribing, these differ-

ences must be duly considered.

No

one having made

proper use of mental, or subjective symptoms in prescribing has ever failed to be convinced of their value,
or to be rewarded by accomplishing cures.

It

must

be understood that Cham, has produced on the healthy


person,
to.

the

all

of the mental abnormalities above referred

Therefore when such symptoms occur

more

in the sick,

closely they resemble, or correspond to each

other the more prompt and certain the cure.


similibus curantur."

"Similia

CHAMOMILLA

372

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Mind.
be

Impatient,
intolerant

civil;

spoken

of

being

or

interrupted,

even

Cannot endure pain; be-

(Anti. c, Cina.)

to.

Cannot

exacting, unreasonable.

comes snappish, with moaning and whining at trifles.


Very often useful with children during teething,
diarrhea, and colic, when the little patient can only be
quieted by being carried about.
Eyes, Ears, Nose and Face.

Inflammation

with swelling and mucus discharge.

of eyes,

Earache.

Stitch-

ing pain in ear, after colds, driving patient frantic.

Coryza

mild form, with stoppage of nose.

One

Face, Teeth and Mouth.


the other pale.

seems

Very

intolerable. (Coff.)

Tongue coated

children.

cheek red and hot;

Tearing, digging pain in teeth.

Pain

useful with teething

yellow, or dirty white.

Abdomen and Bowels. Children's colic; much gas


and distention. (Colo.) Red cheek, perspiration and
irritability.

Child

(Colo.)

must be

Symptoms

often worse at night.

about

carried

Frequent watery, green, mucous


Chest.

Child

may have

to

quiet.

stool,

with

Diarrhea.
colic.

a nightly cough, with the

mental symptoms to correspond.


Sexual

Organs.

Very

painful

sometimes the result of anger and


the pains

are unbearable

mental distraction.
profuse

Cham.

Useful

hemorrhages,

menstrual
fretting.

colic;

In labor,

and long-continued, with


in

with

severe after-pains.

In

symptoms

of

mental

CHINA
and

Extremities

Burning

Neuralgic pains

pains

limbs

all

Sleep

worse

at night.

often interrupted by pain

Sleepy, but cannot sleep. (Bell.)

heat.

and

has to put them out of bed.

in feet;

in

Sleep and Fever.

and

Rheumatic

drive patient from bed with great rest-

fever at night
lessness.

Nerves,

373

Chilliness

followed by heat and thirst, sweat about the head and


face.

Aggravation.

From anger, conversation.

during night.

ing, or

From

coffee

At even-

and narcotics, and

heat.

Amelioration.

From

being

carried.

Better

in

warm, wet weather.


Compare.

A useful
any

in

Aeon.,

remedy

case,

if

Bell., Cina., Coffea., Ign.,

for children

the mental

also Cina., Bell,

Nux.

and may be thought of

symptoms correspond.

See

and Nux.

CHINA.
(Peruvian Bark.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


Often

useful

in

USES.

hemorrhages that have become

serious; the sight getting dim, ringing in the ears, and

the pulse almost gone, with general

for

symptoms

of col-

For cases of long continued hemorrhage, or


the loss of any vital fluids from the system, re-

lapse.

CHINA

374

suiting in weakness and anemia, China has proved a

There

most valuable remedy.

is

a rule, does not relieve.

if

some period-

In neuralgia (often associated

with the above conditions), China


pecially

often

with free perspiration which, as

icity (as in malaria),

is

indispensable, es-

the parts are exceedingly sensitive to the

slightest touch, yet

much

relieved

by firm pressure.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Averse to mental

mood.

tion.

General

apathetic and indifferent

effort as in states of

exhus-

form of headache and neuralgia combined with

great sensitiveness of the scalp; cannot endure the


slight touch of

Throbbing

combing, yet strong pressure

head and carotids,

of the

relieves.

(Bell.) after loss

of blood.

Eyes, Ears and Nose.

Flickering,

Neuralgia

loss of blood.

about

Ringing and roaring

touch.

Nosebleed.

Mouth.
gether.

Toothache,
Much

salivia,

bear

in ears, in exhaustion.

better from pressing teeth tobitter taste,

Sour

Loss

belchings

which

Fullness after eating moderately.

pressure

over

distended,

fermentation

much dryness

in

for water.

Stomach, Abdomen, Stool.


flatulence.

men

after

cannot

Sallow, pale face, with sunken features.

mouth with craving

to

dim sight

eyes;

the

with

within.

stomach

of appetite,

no

give

(Lye.)

and

Tenderness

(Lye.)

Abdo-

liver.

much rumbling and

pain and jaundiced face.

Gall-stone

much
relief.

sense of

colic

with

Stool undigested, yellow,

CEMICIFUGA
watery, very offensive

375

become greatly reduced


anemic from

in

and strength, and

flesh

loss of blood or vital fluids.

Sexual Organs.

Very useful

in

case of profuse

some time

struation which has continued for

hemorrhages during and

after confinement

men-

also in

when

the

dimness of vision

loss of blood has caused exhaustion,

and ringing

much
who have

generally painless, with

Useful in infants and children

exhaustion.

in ears.

The

pulse is generally weak, irregular, with


not easy to count.
In fevers with marked
periodicity and the same in neuralgia, China may be indiClinical.-

little

force,

cated. Ars.)

In neuralgia and other pains,


pressure, whereas slight touch

much
is

comes from firm


The affecof any kind pro-

relief

unbearable.

tions growing out of loss of vital fluids


longed and exhausting disease are strong indications for
China. The many minor symptoms will generally be found

under different heads.


Em., Lyco., Pho.

Compare

Carb.

Veg.,

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

Ars.,

Tart.

CIMICIFUGA.
(Black Snake Root.)

remedy whose known sphere

paratively limited, yet


gia,

its

of action

is

com-

usefulness in case of neural-

rheumatism, and the disturbances dependent upon

ovarian and uterine troubles result


lection.

in its

frequent se-

CINA

376

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Mental and physical agitation, not

Depression and malancholia marked,

unlike Rhus.

pecially in diseases of

women.

Inclined to delirium and excitement,

sighing. (Ign.)

The pain

as in delirium tremens or puerperal mania.


in the

head

is

es-

Grieved, dejected and

generally in the occiput and neck, or ex-

tending up to vertex. (Gels.)


vision, pain in eyeballs.

Sexual Organs.

Vertigo with impaired

(Gels.,

Rhus.)

In painful menstruation, or irregu-

and suppression; with the marked mental


symptoms, Cimicif. is indicated. The patient may be
hysterical and "wild" with pain (Cham., Coff.) especially in labor, dysmenorrhea and ovarian neuralgia.
larities

Neck,

Back,

seem lame and

Extremities.
painful,

The

may

it

muscles of neck

be after a cold with

rheumatic tendency, with similar feeling

back and sacral region, as

and twitching

in fingers

lumbago.

in

and

toes.

night, with troubled dreams,

they should be compared

Compare

in

is

The

muscles of

in

Pain, soreness
restlessness at

similar to Rhus.,

and

rheumatism.

Caul., Lilium, Puis., Colo,, Ign.

CINA.

(Worm

Seed.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


Useful

and

in diseases of children suffering

intestinal irritation, especially

USES.

from gastric

from worms.

The

CINA

377

mental symptoms often furnish the best guide for

this

remedy.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Mind.

Child

uncontrollable and with no

is irritable,

provocation cries and strikes at attendants, rejecting

everything offered

wakens with

(Anti. c,

and anger.

fright

Eyes, Nose, Face.

Cham.) After nap child

Sees

bright colors, with twitch-

ing of the muscles of the eyes, even cross eyed.


is

pale and sickly, especially about the eyes.

red and hot without

much

being white or blue

fever,

The picking and rubbing

about mouth.

Face

Cheeks

of the nose

is

very characteristic of Cina.

Mouth and

Organs.

Digestive

grinding of teeth

in sleep

craves

Breath

many

offensive;

different things

hungry after eating, with empty or gnawing sensation in stomach; sufferings caused by worms;

to eat; often

craves sweets;

abdomen

bloated.

The

urine turns

whitish on standing.

Respiratory Organs.

Short

breath, choking, gag-

spasm as
from worms.

ging, cough increasing almost to a

ing cough or with irritation

Limbs

Spasms

in

whoop-

and
there, even to complete convulsions. All seem worse
during sleep, with grinding of teeth and great restlessness. Child wants to be rocked or kept in motion.
Chill and fever coming on about same time daily without thirst.

in

General.

(Ign., Gels.)

of muscles here

COCCULUSCOFFEA CRVDA

378

COCCULUS.
(Indian Cockle.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

Has a wide action upon the nervous system, giving


rise to spinal, facial and other forms of paralysis. The
weak, numb, trembling hands, the unsteady tottering
gait, with vertigo as a most constant symptom, all
indicate involvement of the nerve centers.

In a fair

percentage of cases Cocculus has given marked


lief

to patients or travellers

who

re-

are tormented with

vertigo whenever riding in a carriage or train, and

even

in sea sickness

it

vention and palliation.

has

won

a reputation for pre-

The constant

nausea, great

aversion to food, with vertigo on rising or moving

about are

all

characteristic of Cocculus, as they are of

sea sickness.

The mental symptoms

are

marked and

resemble Ignatia and Nux.

COFFEA CRUDA.
(Unroasted Coffee.)

OUTLINE OP ACTION AND USES.


Primary action
All the senses

is

increased activity of the mind.

become more

acute, with exhiliration

and vivacity with inability to sleep. The secondary


action is in the main the reverse of the above, and the

two may become blended in the same person, who


makes constant use of Coffee. Some temperaments
are far more susceptible to the drug action of Coffee

COFFEA CRUDA

379

Occupation or physical exertion greatly

than others.

modify the action of Coffee on the healthy subject.


The pronounced sphere of action is upon the brain and
sensory nerves and the minor symptoms and condi;

tions are generally (but not always) the result of sucn


action.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Gaiety and

irritability

may

alter-

Excitement of emotions, thinking and talking

nate.

Unusual activity of body and


Headache and neuralgia the result of persistent
Coffee.
The senses all become very acute.

with unusual ease.


mind.
use of

The

least noise, light,

touch or motion

able, (Bell.) often aggravating.

very notice-

men-

from hearing joyful news; from abuse of

tal activity,

narcotic

is

Sleepless from

drugs

Generally very nervous, with

etc.

trembling of the hands; palpitation of the heart;

in-

tolerance of pain, and general manifestation of perverted


Colo.,

and abused

Compare Aeon., Cham.,

nerves.

Nux.

Crude Coffee used as a beverage is a most effectual


many drugs, and its use when taking
homeopathic medicine may interfere with the action of
a well chosen remedy, hence it should be avoided.
antidote to

Conditions.
tions (joy)

Better,

Worse,

from sudden excessive emo-

wine-drinking.

from lying down

from cold water, which

lieves the toothache.

Compare Aeon., Cham.,

Ing., Nux., Gels.

re-

COLOCYNTH

380

COLOCYNTH.
GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

The most prominent effects are those on the abdomen the agonizing, cutting pains in the abdomen,
;

Firm pressure
The above
of pain gives some relief.
accompany the various forms of colic

causing the sufferer to bend double.

upon the

seat

characteristics

and bowel complaints that

call for Colo.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

The

patient

is

usually morose, and offended at every-

thing said or done. (Cham., Nux.)

Often useful

in

neuralgia about the head, eyes and face.

Stomach and Abdomen.

Cramps and Pinching, cut-

ting pain in stomach, after eating fruit, with flatulence

and colic. The violent colic in abdomen may be accompanied by great distention, or much rumbling of
gas without distention.

Most symptoms aggravated

by eating and drinking. Pain in the ovaries, compelling patient to draw up double, with agony.
In bowel complaints with the colic pains, from eating green

fruit,

from anger and vexation.

with bloody mucous stools and

domen.

Useful

in pains

much

Dystentery,

pain in the ab-

from passing calculus with

frequent urination and Colic.

(See Lyco. and Canth.)

Violent form of Sciatica, with shooting pains and great


sensibility to parts.

Compare

Bry., Cham., Puis,

Nux.

CROTON TIGLIUM

381

CROTON TIGLIUM.
(Croton-Oil Seed.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

powerful drastic purge with some peculiar feat-

symptoms which have led to its


successful use in some of the worst forms of bowel
complaint. In diarrhea, cholera morbus or even cholera this remedy may be depended upon when the following symptoms are prominent. With the vomiting
ures and concomitant

and purging there

is

extreme weakness (not unlike

Ars.) palor and coldness (not unlike Verat.)

The

least

food or drink causes a sudden, forcible expulsion of a


profuse, yellow watery stool, often painless, with faint-

ness

to

complete

rapid, with pale,

Emaciation

exhaustion.

shrunken features.

Croton

is

very

tig.

need

not be confounded with Ars., Carbo. veg., Ipec, or


Verat., for while they

common

may have some

indications in

they also have others quite different.

Compare Podo.,

Ars., Verat.

DIGITALIS.
(Fox Glove.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The
lar

indications here given are based

USES.

upon the reguits use on

proving of Digitalis and confirmed by

patients, suffering
ease.

from different forms of heart

Used homeopathically

in

the

6th

or

dis-

30th

382

DIGITALISDR08ERA

capable of producing permanently good

potency,

it

results.

Larger doses of the tincture

is

(termed the physiological dose)

5 to 15

drops

may sometimes

be

used for temporary or palliative purposes. This partakes somewhat of an experiment and requires careful

watching.

GUIDING SY^IPTOMS.
Heart action weak, slow and
as

if

stoo4

it

still,

Sensation

irregular.

with oppression of breathing and

anxiety.

The

pulse of Digitalis

weak, irregular and

is

mittent, worse from exertion or

from any

May

not talk, or breath deeply.

inter-

effort,

can-

be useful in ad-

vanced pneumonia, chronic heart disease and dropsy.

DROSERA.
(Sundew.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The

USES.

action of Drosera centres about the respiratory

organs, producing a persistent, spasmodic cough which

resembles whooping cough, and for which

been used with success.


be present.

The cough

is

Cough worse

and on lying down compelled to

each side with the hands.


2

A.

M.

(Kali.

carb.)

has long

spasmodic and choking,

often ending in nausea and vomiting.


at night

it

The guiding symptoms must

Paroxysm
with

of

choking,

and hold
cough worse

rise

vomiting and

DULCAMARA
nosebleed. Drosera has afforded
laryngitis

and

be useful

in

in

the cough

383

much

relief in

chronic

May

tuberculosis.

of

cough, hoarseness and

throat of

sore

clergymen or those who over tax the vocal cords.

DULCAMARA.
(Bitter-Sweet.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.


Upon the muscular tissues, respiratory organs,
nary organs, bowels and skin, Dulc. finds
sphere of action.

Often useful

in

its

uri-

chief

rheumatism, and

bronchial trouble of the aged, in diarrhea and dysentery, in cystitis, nettle rash

above diseases

may

and

urticaria.

All of the

be caused or greatly aggravated

by sudden changes in weather, from dry and warm to


damp and cold, or warm days and cold nights. When
by working in damp, cold place, or sitting long in a

damp ground Dulc. is the first


be thought of. Symptoms sometimes de-

cold place or on the

remedy

to

velop which are often regarded by the patient as a

"common
of

cold,"

which

in reality are

often premonitory

some more serious illness. In just such cases, if


symptoms also confirm, Dulc. will work speedy

special
relief

and

cure.

GUIDING SYIMPTOMS.
Colds with free discharge, or stoppage of nose, with
neuralgia about face and eyes.
gland, and

much

saliva,

with sores

Swelling of parotid
in the

mouth, Diar-

EUPHRASIA

384

rhea or dysentery resulting from exposure to

and cold

air,

damp

with bloody, watery stool, and prostra-

and bronchitis of
old people; worse in winter and aggravated by damp
cold weather. Pain and muscular sorness of neck and
tion.

Whooping-cough

of children

Rheumatic lameness on changes in weather.


(Rhus.) Urticaria and eruptions that itch and burn,
over the whole body; worse in cold weather. (Apis.)
back.

Conditions.

Worse,

cold weather; cold

cold nights and

air,

warm

from sudden changes, hot

to

or cold wet weather; (Rhus.)

days; worse

in

evening and at

rest.

Better, from

moving about

Compare: Rhus., Eupat.


In diseases of
is

Autumn

in

warm

per., Ars.,

air.

Aeon., Gels.

colds, dysentery, etc., Dulc.

often indicated and the choice

is

often between

Rhus, and Eupat. per.

EUPHRASIA.
(Eyebright.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

Euphrasia should be compared with Cepa in coryza


and colds involving eyes, nose and larynx. In Cepa,
the discharge from eyes is usually non-irritating, while
the watery discharge from the nose causes rawness
and excoriation about the nose and lips. In Euphrasia,
the acrid, watery discharge from the eyes as in coryza

EUPHRAI8IAEUPAT0RIUM PER.

385

causes rawness and irritation, while the discharge from


the nose

is

bland.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Head. Heat in the forehead, with bruised feeling as


from beginning of cold, with catarrhal developments.

Eyes. Profuse

lacrimation,

about eyes and cheek.

that

Burning

in

rawness

causes

eyes and

lids,

with

some swelling; redness of the eyes, with inclination


Catarrhal inflammation
to close them against light.
following cold.

Nose. Frequent sneezing, coryza, with bland,


watery discharge from nose. Irritation and sneezing
the day through acute colds and catarrh. A cough,
;

with hoarseness and irritation in larynx,

pany the coryza,

similar, but not so

may accom-

marked

as in Cepa.

See Cepa., Ars., Merc, Gels.

Euphrasia to be useful in colds and coryza


Clinical.
should be given early, not later than the second day; after
which the symptoms generally change. If given early according to the above indications it will often arrest a cold
with promptness.

EUPATORIUM PERFOLIATUM.
(Bone-set.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The

so-called "bone-pain"

the muscular system, which


26

indicates
is

its

USES.
action on

very marked, causing

EUPATORIUM PER.

386

aching and pain

marked
In

toms.)
in

produces

the gastric and

many symptoms

Useful in influenza or

similar to Ipec.

the

Upon

over."

"all

Eupato.

organs,

hepatic

(See Guiding

symptoms.

special

common

with

la grippe,

Symp-

colds of rheumatic character, and

malarial fever.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Headache with soreness

bones of head and

in

face,

Eyeballs lame and sore, (Rhus.,

with darting pains.

Bap., Gels.) as in coryza, or influenza.

Mouth, Throat, Stomach. Tongue generally coated


white, (Bry., Anti. c.) Nausea with or without vomit-

Vomiting

ing.

which

is

severe

of bile,

craved.

(Ars.)

headache,

drinking

after

The "aching
with

associated

cold water,

all

over,"

nausea,

as

and

in

la

grippe, are sure indications for Eupatorium.

Chest.
in chest

Hoarseness

Neck, Back, Extremities.

Aching

neck; bruised, sore, aching pain


ing and soreness in

Fever.
fore

Malarial

all

soreness

former epidemics

if

bruised, (Bry.)

chill,

with thirst be-

the limbs as

fever.

Hard

Compare
of

la

and soreness in
(Rhus.) Ach-

in back.

and during same followed by

slight perspiration.
in

much

with cough and

with pain on coughing, or taking deep breath.

fever, often

with but

Bry., Rhus., Ars., Bap.

grippe,

Eupato. per.

has

easily been the first remedy.

Clinical.
No remedy has been more successful in combating the epidemics of la grippe than eupatorium. There

GELSEMIUM

387

a record of its having been given empirically for more


than a century.
is

GELSEMIUM.
(Yellow Jessamine.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


Although one

of our

among

place

its

be thought of

has taken

it

those most used in daily practice.

may

muscles, vertigo and dull headache which

companied with
thirst of Aconite.

chilliness or fever but

action

its

cord and

its

be ac-

without the

Certain forms of coryza which cause

soreness of the eyeballs and heaviness of the

marily

is

lids.

first

Gels,

is

Pri-

centered upon the brain and spinal

successful use in

some

of the

most

epidemics of cerebro-spinal meningitis has placed


the

To

and such diseases as are charweakness, bruised sensation in the

in colds,

by

acterized

newer remedies,

USES.

rank of homeopathic remedies.

The

fatal
it

in

fever of

generally without thirst.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.


bility to think;

Inclined

to be listless,

with ina-

mental and physical languor, mild de-

lirium in low types of fever.

Pain

in the

head and

draw the head


Headache in forehead from cold, with
eyeballs and heaviness of the lids.
Bad

neck, with soreness and inclination to

backward.
soreness in
effects

from

Ign., Coif.)

fright, fear or exciting

Pain and pressure

news, (see Aeon.,

in the

base of the brain

0EL8EMIUM

388

extending over head and eyes, with vertigo and dimness of vision.

Eyes, Nose and Face.


ler lids

Drooping,

heaviness of up-

Dim

with aching about the eyeballs.


Colds

vision with vertigo.

changes

in

or double

the head from slight

in

the weather, with sneezing and watery,

acrid discharge from the nose (Cepa., Euph).

Catar-

rhal colds extending to the eye and ear with the gen-

symptoms to correspond with Gels. The face


somewhat flushed and heavy, with inclination to sleep,
eral

slow to respond and desires to be

Tongue

and

Throat.

Tongue

white with feeling of numbness,

Spasmodic sensations

let alone.

throat

in

coated

yellowish

difficult to articulate.

much

and

distress

about swallowing, with pain extending to the

Stomach and Abdomen.

Often a sensation of weak-

ness or emptiness like Ign.


of the bowels, caused

ear.

by

troublesome looseness

fright or fear (either

from

personal violence or "stage fright") will often be cured

by

Gels.

Urinary and Sexual Organs.

Partial

loss of

power

of the bladder with intermittent flow of urine. Profuse,

clear urine

much nervousness and excitement

with

Sometimes useful
from fright and
ment, with spasms and convulsions.
fear.

Back and Extremities.


neck and back. Lame,
feeling in muscles.

Aching

in

in confine-

muscles of the

backache with bruised


The arms and legs feel weak and
dull

unsteady, worse from any exertion.

(Ars.).

GLONOINE
Sleep.

Wakeful
or fear.

ially fright

389

from nervous excitement, especMild delirium and wakefulness of

children with considerable fever, but no thirst.

Fever.

In

malarial and remittent fevers, Gels, has

proven one of our best remedies.

In addition to fever

some of the foregoing conditions are often present,


making the selection easy. The type that calls for
Gels, must not be confused with Aconite or even Arsenicum, which in some respects closely resembles
Before deciding, or if in doubt, each remedy
Gels.
should be carefully considered, beginning with the'
first

symptom under "mind and

clearest possible

Conditions.

head,"

making the

comparison of each.

Worse,

from damp weather; from bad

news, fright or fear; from tobacco smoking.

Compare

Ign.

Ign., Bap., Rhus., Cimicif., Aeon., Ars.

Perhaps no one remedy is given so often for


Clinical.
"colds in the head" as Gels. A glance at the provings will
explain why this is so. There may be chilliness and some
fever suggesting Aeon., but if there is the decided languor,
headache and abscence of thirst Gels, is the remedy.

GLONOINE.
(Nitro-Glycerine.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

The chief action of Glon. centres about the brain


many symptoms of acute congestion similar to
Bell. The pains in the head are accompanied by sense

with

HAMAMELIS

390

and throbbing, all worse from sun heat or


lying down. Surging of blood to the head with throbbing pain and flushed face. Glon. to be thought of in
threatening attacks of apoplexy, also from the bad ef-

of fullness

fects of sun-stroke.

HAMAMELIS VIRGINICA.
(Witch Hazel.)
There are three remedies each having quite a
tinct sphere of its

own

dis-

that are often used both exter-

and should find a place in every


well ordered medicine case. Namely, Arnica, Calendula and Hamamelis. These remedies are generally
obtained in the form of tincture and diluted as the case
nally and internally

may

be at the time they are used.

be used by

Internally they

may

adding 5 to 10 drops to a glass of water,

stirring well

and to be taken one teaspoonful every

two to four hours.


Hamamelis may be used in venus hemorrhages from
any organ or orifice of the body the nose, lungs,
bowels, uterus, or bladder. No remedy has a more
beneficial effect upon vericose veins, vericose ulcers
and hemorrhoids than Hamamelis. In such cases it
should be used both internally and externally. It may
;

be diluted with

warm

water or used

After injuries especially blows and

and

ligaments

bruised feeling.

attended

with

Hamamelis

is

much
in

full

strength.

strains of muscles

soreness

and

close competition

with Arnica and often has the preference, they

may

HEL0NIA8
The hemorrhages

be used in alternation.

Hamamelis
in color

391
calling for

are usually passive the blood being dark

with slow but persistent discharge such as

often occurs from the nose, lungs, and from hemorrhoids.

have never been able to discover that the use

remedy (full strength) externally or internally


has had any bad effects, in fact, it is one of the most

of this

harmless of our useful remedies.

HELONIAS.
(Blazing Star.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

There are two remedies, Helonias and Lilium

which have demonstrated


great value

in

diseases

in

of

tig.,

every day practice their


the

female organs.

In

uterine displacements following confinement or from

other causes,

when

together with the tired aching in

the back and limbs there

is

mental depression, even

melancholia, with heat and pressure on top of the


head, Helonias 3x trituration has given permanent re-

many such

lief to

cases.

charasteristic of the Helonias patient

when kept
etc.",

busy, with the

mind engaged

is

^"better

entertaining,

followed by depression, languor and prostration.

The mental symptoms

are peculiar but important and

very often associated with some malposition of the


uterus.

My

experience

with this remedy has been most

HEPAB SULPHUR

392

gratifying and in most cases by the use of the lower

and 6x which have been discontinued


marked improvement has taken place and re-

triturations 3x
after

peated later

in case of relapse.

HEPAR SULPHUR.
(Calcium Sulphide.)

GENERATE OUTLINE OF ACTION AND USES.

A
skin

"tissue drug" of

wide

action.

Its effect

on the

and glandular system, also upon the mucous

membrane
tract, is

of the respiratory organs

marked.

Useful

and the

intestinal

in diseases peculiar to scrofu-

lous children, inclined to swelling of glands and to

excessive perspiration.

Unhealthy

skin, every injury

followed by suppuration and slow to heal. In croup


and cough from laryngeal involvement, with free perFor swellings, and tendency to suppuraspiration.
tion,
air

with great sensitiveness to touch, (Lach.) to cold

and

to all impressions.

(Nux vom.)

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

may

or one

driven

in.

may

be dull and sluggish,

be hasty of speech and irritable in disposi-

Sharp pain

tion.

Mind

in

one side of brain, as

if

a nail

were

(Ign.)

Eyes, Ears, Nose and Face.^Very often useful in

inflammation of the eyes, with swelling and accumulation of

All

mucus.

Smarting and itching about the eye.


light.
Ulcers and chronic

symptoms worse from

HE PAR SULPHUR
inflammation.

from

ears,

Abuse

or

of

measles and scarlet


calling for Hepar.

Mercury.

threatened

with

fever,

with

lip.

Discharge of pus
suppuration
general

after

symptoms

Ulceration and chronic catarrh of

nose, sensitive to air and touch.

healthy, eruptions

393

on forehead.

Red

cheeks, skin un-

Swelling of the upper

(Bell.)

Mouth and Throat.

The

gums and mucous

sur-

and bleed easily. Small ulcers on


the inside of cheek and about the tongue. Ulceration
about the gums, with great sensitiveness of teeth to
cold and to pressing teeth together. After abuse of
faces are sensitive

Mercury, with offensive breath.

In tonsilitis,

when

suppuration seems evident, with sharp, sticking pains

from throat to the ear


breath.

considerable saliva, with fetid

(Merc.)

Stomach, Abdomen, Bowels.

Craving

vinegar and

sour things, with great aversion to anything

domen

distended.

Ab-

fat.

(Lyco., Puis., Carbo. veg.)

Sharp

pains about right side of abdomen, threatening abscess of liver.

(Bry.)

guinal region.

Some

Swelling of the glands

in

in-

cutting pain about the abdomen.

Inaction or loss of power in rectum to expel even soft


stool, yet

constant urging.

(Nux vom.)

Stool fetid,

yellow, or clay-colored. (Podo., calc.)

Urinary and Sexual Organs.


bloody, milky, with

thick,

Bladder weak.

heavy, white

Urine

sediment.

Swelling and pain with threatened abscess about the


male or female sexual organs often worse after abuse
;

of Mercury, with the sore

mouth and

fetid breath.

HEPAR SULPHUR

394

Respiratory Organs.
croup,

when

In the second, or that stage of

there seems

much phlegm

in throat, free

with the coughing; anxious, wheezing

perspiration

morning and from the


Hepar sul. is seldom
slightest exposure to cold air.
indicated when there is fever and dry skin. (See Aeon.)
With cough from colds, the voice is weak, speaking
aloud with difficulty. (Phos., Cans.) Breathing embarrassed by walking (see Ars.) and cold air, which
causes cough and wheezing breathing. Asthma worse
in dry weather, better in damp. (Cans.)
breathing,

worse

towards

Ulcers

and absesses, which are


very sensitive to cold air or contact, surrounded by
Unhealthy skin, inclined to
small pimples. (Lach.)
crack and suppurate after slight injury. Chilliness and
heat associated with some local suppuration, as in tonSkin and Fever.

silitis,

abscesses, etc.

Conditions.

Worse,

from

cold

air;

uncovering;

from use of Mercury.


Better; from warmth, wrapping up warmly; (Ars.)
in

damp weather

(Caust.).

Compare: Aeon., Spong.,


Clinical.

Hepar

Sul., Sili.

tendency to suppurate
troublesome after even
Use first the 6th and later the

will correct the

or tardiness of healing so often


slight, superficial injuries.

20th potency.

HYDRASTIS

395

HYDRASTIS.
(Golden Seal.)
This remedy has been for
lar

many

years a most popu-

one with Eclectic physicians and

in later

years in-

creasingly so with Homeopaths.

on the mucous membranes, especially about


the mouth, throat and stomach causing a thick, yelIt acts

lowish catarrhal secretion.

"catarrhal" drug of the

first class.

In torpid liver, jaundiced skin with weak, "tired"

exhaustion, Hyd.

is

often curative, also in chronic in-

flammation of the bladder, and uterine catarrh.


catarrhal or inflamed conditions of the throat,

it

In

ma\^

be used both locally and internally by placing a few

drops of the tincture

in

water and using as a gargle

The lower

or with a syringe.

preparations and tinc-

ture generally used.

Experience with Hydrastis


vinces

me

that

will yet

it

of every
It may
Nux and

that

it
fill

in

recent years con-

has been a neglected remedy, and


a larger place

all its

own

in the list

day remedies.
be classed with such remedies as Bap., Merc,

Podo.

I GNATI

396

IGNATIA.
(St. Ignatius

Bean.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OP ACTION AND


The nervous system
natia, also the

profoundly affected by Ig-

is

ties are so influenced as to

ful in

The mental

emotional element.

states, contradictory

and

USES.

facul-

produce the most opposite


Ignatia

vacillating.

is

use-

hysteria especially with persons of a sensitive,

nervous temperament, whose symptoms are apt to

Bad

call

and disappointments, with brooding, sighing and weeping. Exremedy.

for this

effects

from

grief,

tremely impatient with the least pain or contradiction.

(Cham.,

Nux Vom.)
GUIDING SYiVIPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Changeable

mood weeping and


;

sadness, changing to jesting and laughter.

Sharp pain

in a small spot, as though a nail were being driven into

the brain.

Ears

Eyes,

and

Face.

Spasms

of

eyelids

and

twitching of the muscles of the face, with neuralgic


pains.

Zigzag flickerings before the eyes.

red, the other pale.

One cheek

(Cham., Pho.) Roaring or itching

in the ears.

Mouth and

Throat.

Sour

taste

and eructations.

and throat, worse


when not swallowing and better when swallowing
Stitching,

solid food.

sharp pains

in

tonsils

Desires sour things (Hep.

sul.)

but averse

and tobacco; the latter aggravating most other symptoms. Constriction in throat.
to spirituous liquors

IGNATIA
Stomach.

Very

397

characteristic

is

the sensation of

weakness, goneness and emptiness in the pit of the


stomach, as after long fasting, with constant sighing.

Hiccough, worse after eating, or smoking tobacco. Indigestion, regurgitating of food, with aversion to ordi-

nary food, but craving indigestible


carb.) Indigestion preceded

by

grief,

(Calc,

articles.

disappointment,

worry and emotional disturbances.

Abdomen and

Bowels.

lence, yet sensation of

Some

Some

distention and flatu-

"goneness"

in

upper abdomen.

cutting pain and rumbling about the abdomen,

with much complaint and exaggeration

in hysterical

Itching and stitching pain in rectum, with

subjects.

constriction and soreness as in fissure or internal piles.

(Lyco.,

Lach.)

(Nux)

stool.

Ineffectual but constant urging for.

Alternate

and

constipation

diarrhea

(Nux.)

Urinary and Sexual Organs.

Urine

excessive and

light-colored in hysterical or excitable subjects.

continence,

or

retention

of

urine.

In-

Suppression

of

menses from excitement and grief. In morning sickness, painful labor and dysmenorrhea, with mental and
emotional symptoms of

Ign.

Nausea, yet

contradictions in general, as thirst during a

ing yet

chill.

Sigh-

full of laughter.

Respiratory

weak

hungry

Organs.

Dry,

voice and hoarseness.

nervous

cough,

Irritation in lyrnx

with

and

constant cough which can be suppressed for the time.

Lungs not

involved, yet constantly taking deep breath.

IG^^ATIA

398

The cough and

chest

symptoms

aggravated by

all

tobacco smoke.
Extremities.

Jerking

of limbs

Tingling

falling to sleep.

and numbness

(Cham.,

Cina.)

(Aeon.)

Hysterical spasms.

worse

on

Pain

in

in

limbs.

sciatic

nerve,

from rising and moving about.


Generally worse on approach of cold

at night, better

(Rhus, tox.)

weather. (Dulc.)

Sleep is fight. Hears every noise. (Cofifea.,


Sleep.
Cham.) Child wakens with screaming as after frightChewing motion of
ful dreams. (Apis., Bell., Cina.)
mouth in sleep. (Bry.) Troublesome dreams after
grief

and disappointment.

Fever.
chill

In

intermittent

fever,

but not during the fever.

Surface very sentitive to cold

(Gels.)

thirst.

with thirst during

External heat but no


air,

also

to slight touch while firm pressure relieves. (China.)

For

Similars.^

Nux,

Puis.,

similars see Aeon.,

Lyco.

Coffea.,

Cham.,

The mental and emotional

dis-

turbances of Ign. are pre-dominant and in time lead

which Ign. may be the only remedy.


Ign. patient needs wise and kind suggestions

to disease for

The

quite as

much

coffee,

Better,

Worse, from grief, mental emotions


from odor of tobacco smoke.

Conditions.

from

as sympathy.

from warmth

ing; swallowing.

hard pressure (China.) walk-

IPECACUNAHA

399

IPECACUANHA.
GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND
Action

somewhat

is

USES.

The

limited, but well defined.

respiratory organs, and the stomach and bowels, are

Useful in attacks where persistent

chiefly afirected.

In whooping cough, or any spasmodic cough, as in asthma where there is nausea and
Also in any hemorrhage
difficult, wheezy breathing.

nausea

is

present.

where the blood

bright red, with the characteristic

is

nausea.

GUIDING SY:\1PT0MS.
Irritable

and

difficult

to please.

Face

dark rings about the eyes. (Cina., Ars.)

cough and sneezing.

(Aeon., Bell.)

Mouth, Throat and Stomach.

Tongue

times yellow or white, with bitter taste.

No

(Merc.)

Coryza, with

Frequent attacks of nosebleed,

the blood being bright red.

increased.

with

pale,

clean,

some-

Saliva

much

appetite, except for dainties

and sweet things, with bad effects from eating the


same.
Also from rich food, unripe fruit, and icecream attended with nausea and vomiting of bile,
;

blood or mucus.

Cutting, clutching pain about the

stomach and navel.


Stool.

In

cholera infantum with green, watery or

bloody mucus, or fermented, light yellow


colic

and nausea.

Sexual Organs.

stool,

with

(See Cham., Bell.)

Menses

too early and too profuse,

with pain and clutching about the abdomen, with

IPECACUANHA

400
Useful

nausea.

hemorrhages,

uterine

in

bright red, with nausea and pain.

profuse,

Persistent nausea

of pregnancy.

The

cough and breathing are


spasmodic and suffocating as in asthma and whooping
cough worse from motion, better from fresh air, with
much rattling of phlegm. (Tartar emetic) whooping
Respiratory Organs.

cough with nosebleed.

Child becomes livid with the

cough, with convulsions even

rigid.

Ipecac often use-

Hem-

long continued cough following measles.

ful in

orrhages from throat and lungs.

Infantile

pneumonia,

with rapid breathing, face blue, or pale, with vomiting.


(Tartar emetic.)

In

Fever, Skin, Sleep.-

malarial fever with

marked

periodicity with nausea during chill and fever. (Eupato.)

Skin

lax, face often

blue and pale, in lung and

The sleep is disturbed by sudden


moaning in sleep with eyes half

bowel

affections.

starts,

(Bell., Igna.)

Nausea

open. (Apis., Bell.)

as will be observed

ferring to gastric and sexual organs

is

by

re-

the predominat-

ing "key-note," also the same in whooping cough for

which

it is

second only to

Conditions.

sweets

Bell.

Worse, from unripe

from veal

from

fruit

lying down,

rich food

from

motion.

Compare

Ars., Aeon., Bry.,

Cham., Tart.

and

slight

KALI BICHROMIGUM

401

KALI BICHROMICUM.
GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

remedy

useful

in catarrh

USES.

and ulceration

of the

nose with obstructions, thick greenish or tough stringydischarges, loss of smell and a fetid odor from the

Laryngitis, hoarse croupy cough with tough,

nose.

tenacious

stringy
"strings"

is

mucus which

drawn out

is

very characteristic of Kali

in

Bi.

In the later stage of croup, with cough, perspiration

and

exhaustion,

phlegm

similar

to

Hepar,

but

with

the cough often dry and croupy as in

branous or diphtheritic croup

less

mem-

above guiding

with

symptoms.

KALI CARBONICUM.

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

remedy

respiratory

organs.

It

of value

may

in

disease of the

be considered in connection with Bry.,

Hepar, Calc. and Nux.

The

pains of Ka'li carbonicum

are like Bry., sharp, especially about the chest.

The extreme
Calc.

sensitiveness to cold

is

like

Hepar, and

and the time of aggravation, especially the

like Nux.
The cough of Kali is often sufand in paroxysms, like the whooping cough,
for which in the latter stage it has often been curative.
The puffing bag-like upper lids, the cough, sharp
pains, worse at 3 or 4 A. M., worse from cold or cold

cough

is

focative

27


LACHE8I8

402

draught are the chief characteristic of Kali carbonicum.


In neglected colds, whooping cough, chronic pleurisy

and weak heart

this

remedy proves most

useful.

LACHESIS.
(The Venom

of the Trigonocephalous.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

Profound and destructive action on the blood, which


becomes dark or black as in malignant diphtheria, or
intestinal hemorrhage in typhoid. The surfaces of all
parts affected, as in carbuncle, diphtheria and threatened gangrene are extremely sensitive to the slightest
touch and often livid

in

appearance.

(Hepar

sul.)

upon the sexual organs of women,


growing out of the climateric,
attended with mental derangement, and insomnia,
make it our most valuable remedy. Lachesis has
proven, beyond question, its curative powers in the
most malignant cases of diphtheria, infected wounds,
and gangrene.

The

curative action

especially for diseases

GUIDING SiaiPTOMS.
Mind.

Sad

awaking.

and distressed

in

mind, especially on

Occasionally cheerful, very talkative, but

soon lapses into depression, and dwells upon fancied


or real grief and sorrow. Restless and shifting about
from place to place. Vacillating in conversation, with

LACHESIS

403

Mental symptoms generally

suspicion and jealousy.

worse after sleep, even short nap in day-time. Great


Talks rapidly, but not correctly
mental activity.
about any subject.
Head.
to

Heat and pressure on vertex.

head and face

Headache worse

Rush

in

of blood

(Calc, carb.)

at climacteric period.

morning or after sleep, extending


Headache from heat of sun.

to the root of the nose.

(Glon.)

Eyes, Ears, and Nose.

Pain

the eyes. (Phos.)

very

Face

sensitive

tight about the neck.


to face

in

the

to

livid or bloated,

touch.

slightest

all

Nosebleed.

Hot

flashes,

with rush of blood

and head.

beginning on

left

The

internally.

neck.

the ear with sore throat,

with great aversion to anything

Throat and Tongue.

touch.

Dim, black flickerings before

side,

Often

useful in sore throat

with swelling externally and

surface

is

extremely

Cannot endure the bands

sensitive to

of clothing about the

Tonsils dark purple color, with

much

pain on

swallowing, especially liquids, which escape through


the nose.

All worse after sleeping, or from the slight-

est touch

about the throat, sense of suffocation and

general aggravation follows.

There may be dryness,

or increased saliva with offensive, fetid breath.

The

tongue dry, cracked, and on attempts to protrude,

it

trembles and catches in the teeth.

Stomach,

Abdomen and

clothing.

Useful

in

Very sensitive over


Cannot endure weight of
inflammations resulting from in-

the stomach and abdomen.

Stool.

LACHESI8

404

To

temperance.

be thought of in cases of chronic ap-

and ovarian inflammation, especially during

pendicitis

Painful piles with bleeding.

the climacteric period.

Stool very dark, like blackened blood, and very offensive, as in typhoid or diphtheria.

Female.

"Change

Often

The

and

during

indicated

of Life."

the

after

flashes of heat, palpitation,

suffocating fainting spells, with headache and pres-

sure on top of head, are

The menses,

all

reliable characteristics.

they have not ceased, are generally

if

Mental distrubances; even

too late and too scanty.

well-developed insanity.

Respiratory

croup

Organs and Heart.

In

diphtheritic

suffocation and choking after short sleep, with

gasping for more

air

must take deep breath

and anxious feeling about the

heart.

pain

Constricted feel-

ing about heart, with livid countenance. (Cactus.)


Sleep.

There may be wakefulness

growing out

of climacteric

nervous cases,

in

or sleepiness but unable

to sleep except in naps, in acute cases

yet in either,

the characteristic of "aggravation after sleep"


ly reliable,

whether

the mental

in

is

symptoms

equalof the

semi-insane, or the local suffering of diphtheria.

Fever,

The

hot

They

without, than with fever.


face

and

head,

sometimes

Fevers of low type


Skin.

may

Carbuncles

Lachesis

of

flashes

are

oftener

often culminate in the

with

hot

perspiration.

require Lachesis.

and

boils,

surface, very sensitive to touch.

with

bluish

purple

Dissecting wounds.


LILIUM TIGRINUM
Erysipelas, or

wounds

405

become dark or

that

livid,

with

malignant tendency.

The

Characteristics.

dry, red tongue, the livid sur-

faces painful to the slightest touch, the

marked aggra-

vation after sleep, the sore throat beginning on the


left side,

the hot flashes and heat on vertex, are "key-

notes" of great value, and they are often present in

some
with

most malignant cases which Lachesis,

of the
its

unique symptomatology, has cured.

Lachesis has few similar or complementary remedies.

Conditions.

Aggravation,

after sleep

after

nap

in

day time; from touch, pressure, weight of clothing


sore throat on left side.

over abdomen

Amelioration, from
ing

all

warm

applications, from loosen-

clothing about neck.

Compare

Hepar, Lyco.,

Bell., Ars., Calc. carb.

LILIUM TIGRINUM.
(Tiger Lily.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OP ACTION AND


Has

marked

gans, producing

influence

tionable

value

upon the female sexual

many symptoms,

upon the mind and head.


in

USES.

It

or-

(probably reflex),

has been found of unques-

displacements of the uterus and

ovaries, especially in

younger women.

If

local

and

LILIUM TIGRINUM

^06

mental symptoms correspond, a cure of a good percentage of these troublesome cases, if not of too long
standing,

may

be anticipated.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

The prover

is

low-spirited, with

constant apprehension of some


Restless and hurried in
to being left alone,

much weeping and

illness

or

manner with much

many symptoms

disaster.

aversion

like hysteria.

Ir-

ritable and aggravated by any kindness, unreasonable


about herself and hopeless, with great depression.
Some headache in vertex and over the eyes, with dim,
confused vision and heat about the eyes and lids.

Abdomen and

Back.

Weak,

dragging

down

sensa-

stomach and abdomen, a lame, sore feeling in the back and sacrum, palpitation and pain about
the heart, all worse from standing, all characteristic

tion over the

of

Lilium and very often can be referred to some ab-

normal condition of the sexual organs.


Urinary and

Sexual

Organs.

Frequent

urination

with feeling of weight about the bladder and rectum.


Sensation of great pressure and dragging down, as

if

would be expelled unless


restrained by pressure of the hand upward. Pain and
congestion of the uterus and ovaries with scanty flow
of menses (except when walking about). Some sharp
pains with aching, burning feeling in the ovaries which
Only a few of all
is worse from exercise or pressure.
our well proven remedies can simulate and none can
duplicate Lilium. Among those remedies having some

the contents of the pelvis

LYCOPODIUM
similarity of action, especially

407

upon the sexual organs,

mention should be made of Apis.,

Bell., Bry.,

Helon.

and Sepia.

LYCOPODIUM.
(Club Moss.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


The

USES.

Lycopodium upon the stomach and


upon the kidneys and liver, is very

action of

bowels,

also

marked.

Indigestion of the flatulent type, involving

both stomach and bowels.

The mucous membrane

the lungs, digestive and other organs,

is

The nervous system and mind

affected.

of

profoundly
often dis-

turbed by the above conditions, correspond to the

proving of Lycopodium
with

tion

renal

worse from four

also the lithic acid constitu-

to eight P.

cent substance has,


to

calculi.

Symptoms are generally


M. This seemingly inno-

when properly

potentized, proven

be a most valuable remedy.

Mind. Confused

thoughts, with dil^culty in speak-

ing or writing the right words.


self,

Loss of confidence

with aversion to work, or taking up any

in

new

weak, slow to comprehend. A great


overworked brains, with the peculiar in-

Memory

work.

remedy

for

digestion of Lyco. (See stomach and intestinal symp-

toms.)
tion.

Melancholy and

irritable

with chronic indiges-

(Nux., Ign.)

Head, Face, Eyes and Nose.

Confused, heavy

feel-

LYCOPODIUM

408
ing in the head.

ward, and after


circles

Throbbing on leaning the head backcoughing.


Face sallow, with blue

around the eyes.

with pain

Eyelids inflamed, ulcerated,

worse

in the eye,

at night

and from

artificial

Obstruction of the nose, with dry catarrh, worse

light.

Fan-like motion of the wings of

towards morning.
the nose

is

a key-note of value especially in disease of

throat and lungs.

Throat and Mouth.


sour taste.

Tongue

Blisters

coated, with bitter or

Dryness of mouth,

on tongue.

Toothache relieved by warm drink.


Sore throat, generally beginning on right side, passing
without
to the

thirst.

Swelling of sub-maxillary glands.

left.

Con-

throat preventing swallowing, so

stricted feeling in

that fluids escape through the nose as in tonsilitis and

diphtheria; worse four P.

warm

M.

Better from swallowing

fluids.

Stomach,

After

eating very

little,

there comes a

sense of fullness which prevents eating more.

same

The

most reliable
"key-note."
Distention of stomach and abdomen.
Chronic dyspepsia, with acid, burning risings. (Carbo.
veg.)
The stomach and abdomen seem full of gas,
with sense of fermentation. (China and Carbo. veg.)

No

after drinking.

appetite, no thirst

Abdomen.

much
ally

"Feels so

constant sense of satiety.

Flatulent

distention,

full."

intestinal

indigestion

with

rumbling and fermentation; gener-

worse after eating, and

in the

evening.

In chronic

diseases of liver, and gall-stone colic, L3^copodium has

proven useful, when the general symptoms and ap-

LYCOPODIUM
pearance of patient called for

409

it.

Pain through the

region of the liver and stomach, with bitter, watery


Palliative in cancer of

substance rising in the throat.

when

the stomach

Urinary Organs.
urinating.

the

symptoms correspond.

Pain

kidneys, relieved by

in the

Red sediment, resembling red

sand, the

Uric acid diathesis, with renal

urine being scanty.

Colic from the passage of calculi.

Chronic inflamma-

tion of the kidneys and bladder, with stomach and in-

The urine may be bloody and


The severe pain from passage

derangements.

testinal

passed with straining.

of calculi has often been relieved

Respiratory Organs.

some remaining
ing,

Lyco.

is

by a dose

of Lyco.

In sub-acute pneumonia, with

hepatization, cough and rapid breath-

often useful.

Chronic bronchial catarrh,

especially with old people with cough, profuse expec-

toration and sense of constriction of chest.

In disease

of respiratory organs, attended with fan-like

motion of

the wings of the nose, Lyco.


Extremities.

Swelling of

and soreness of
Skin.
tions.

Not

clear

Eczema and

Sleep.

and

joints

from

often the remedy.

is

feet

and normal.

Stiffness

Sallow, with erup-

hives.

Troublesome dreams.

tired feeling in

and limbs.

lithic acid deposits.

morning.

Wakening with start


The aggravation from

4 to 8 P. M. and the persistent sense of fullness after


eating or drinking but

out

in

little,

are features that crop

most cases that require Lyco.

Conditions.

Worse, 4 to

8 P.

M.; right side;

warm

MERCURIVS

410

applications; after eating

little,

gives sense of over-

eating.

warm

Better, from

Compare

food and drink; after midnight.

Lach., Carbo. Veg., Puis., Nux, Salac.

carb.

Clinical.
In any form of indigestion where the symptoms are marked (see stomacli and abdomen) Lyco will
quickly cure even though of long standing.

In chronic diseases of the kidneys where the so-called


"red sand" sediment is found, or frequent attacks of
passing calculi occurs, it not only relieves the pain but
remedies the condition of the system which causes their
formation.

MERCURIUS.
(Quicksilver.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND


No remedy

USES.

produces a more profound effect upon

the glandular system and bones than Mercurius.

The

salivary glands are stimulated to great activity and in


sufficient doses

attendant
teeth.

complete salivation follows with

all its

symptoms about the mouth, tongue and

Perspiration

night, quite offensive

is

often

profuse

and affords no

especially

relief.

at

Mercurius

has proven one of our most useful remedies in dysentery, coryza,

quinsy and sore throat.

The symptoms

calling for Mercurius are quite definite

and there need

be no confusion with other remedies.

In rheumatism

and

syphilis,

Mercurius should be considered.

MERGVRW8
GUIDING
Mind.

411

SYj^IPTOIMS.

morose, slow of speech, with fear

Irritable,

of losing reason.

Eyes and Ears.


secretion of

Eyes and ears inflamed, with much

mucus and an excoriating

symptoms worse

discharge.

Eye

Offensive discharge from

at night.

the ear with pain extending from throat to ear, with

swelling of the glands and salivation,

connection

with

mumps,

may

throat

sore

or

occur

in

chronic

catarrah with aggravation at night.

Nose.

Coryza

much

with

sneezing,

watery

dis-

charge from the nose which becomes sore and raw.

Discharge

may become

acrid thick

mucus and

ca-

tarrhal.

Mouth and Tongue. Gums become swollen, soft


and bleed from slightest touch with saliva greatly inTongue nearly covered with a

creased.

breath.

much

thick, whitish

and a fetid, offensive


Tongue often swollen and flabby, showing

yellow coating, with

saliva

the imprints of teeth in the side.

tongue and mouth.

Ulcerated about the

Dental periostitis with pain and

soreness.

Throat.
tonsils.

Swelling

the

of

glands,

enlargement of

Various forms of sore throat with the above

symptoms, especially the

saliva, offensive breath

and

characteristic appearance of the tongue are present.

Stomach and Bowels.

Some distention and sense of

soreness over the region of the

jaundiced appearance.

liver,

with yellow,

Acute or chronic catarrhal

in-

MERCURIU8 BIN-IODIDE

412

flammation of the bowels with frequent mucous

stool.

Dystenterj^ with almost constant straining or tenes-

mus which

Passages are

continues after each stool.

Most symptoms worse at


night and during damp, cold weather (Dulc.) The skin

often bloody, slimy mucus.

is

inclined to be yellow with

is

quite offensive

instead of

much

perspiration which

Patient worse

and worse at night.


better from perspiring.

The symptoms

of Merc, are clean cut

and unmis-

takable.

Conditions.

Worse,

at night;

(Rhus., Dulc.) perspiring; cold

Compare

wet damp weather;

damp

nights; (Dulc.)

Podo., Hepar, Phos., Dulc, Rhus.

In dysentery Merc, has always been one of the


be considered. The symptoms are definitely stated
The same may be said of Merc, in the difin the above.
ferent forms of sore throat, mumps and quinsey.
Clinical.

first to

MERCURIUS BIN-IODIDE.
(Bin-Iodide of Mercury.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OF ACTION AND

USES.

Before the time of Diphtheria Antitoxine this remedy


in the

form

used by

of the 3rd decimal trituration

many Homeopathists,

especially

forms of diphtheria and sore throat, which

was much
in

certain

in the

main

were characterized by symptoms calling for MercurThat it was curative in many cases, I can perius.
sonally testify and it has not yet been cast aside after

NAT RUM MURIATICUM


the fashion of

some "popular remedies"

413
for its use

was

doubtless based upon the law of similars and will

always be found useful.

Always used

form of a trituration and familknown as the "pink powder."

iarly

in the

NATRUM MURL^TICUM.
(Common

Salt,

Triturated for Use.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OP ACTION AND

USES.

is very marked upon the blood and


shown by faulty nutrition, emaciation and
anemia. The mental symptoms are marked and resemble those of Ig-n. and Nux. Very irritable, sad,

General action

skin as

is

weeping,

all

worse from being consoled.

Headache,

chronic or periodical, especially of young school girls

attended with

iritability,

even though living well.

backache and loss of


Eyes,

weak and

flesh,

give out on

reading or writing, the letters or objects become confused.

In coryza, worse

watery discharge,

thirst

lips.

the evening with sneezing,

loss of smell,

of cold with catarrhal

nose and

in

Nat.

and

taste

headache and
is

well

later stages

blisters

nigh

about the

specific.

Much

with aversion to bread and tobacco smoking.

The urine is increased and often involuntary


when coughing (Phos.) or walking followed by burn(Ign.)

ing cutting pain (Canth.) useful in intermittent fever,


especially after abuse of quinine.
larly at 10 to 11 A.

Chill occurs regu-

M. with severe head and backache,

NUX VOMICA

414

fever blisters about the lips and nose.

the forehead and temples.

be considered as
tia

Fine rash about

Natrum Muriaticum should

in the class

with

Nux

vomica, Igna-

and Cantharis.

All

who have

prescribed Natrum, well potenIt covers


and often
occur. A useful remedy for nervous, discouraged, "broken
down" school girls with much headache, etc.
Clinical.

Ized have not been disappointed with the results.


a wide field; the mental symptoms are marked

NUX VOMICA.
(From Seeds

of Strychnos.)

GENERAL OUTLINE OP ACTION AND USES.


Nux vomica is a remedy of very wide application,
a drug that

the body.

seems to

affect every

This doubtless

is

due

organ and tissue of

in part to its

profound

upon the whole nervous system. Hence its


frequent use, which probably exceeds that of any
other homeopathic remedy. It is an important clinical
fact, long established by our ablest observers, that
Nux vomica is very often the best remedy to begin
action

the treatment where, previously, the patient has been

dosed with cathartics, drugs and nostrums of


also including the
coffee.

ill

Nux vomica

effects

all sorts,

from liquor and strong

corresponds to the nervo-san-

guine, irritable temperament; hard to please and easily


displeased. (See guiding symptoms.)

orders growing out

Valuable

in dis-

of sedentary habits, in-door

life,

mental work, strain and worry, dissipation, especially

NUX VOMICA

415

intemperance, with loss of sleep and the usual accom-

panying irregularities of such a


other remedy

jects of dissipation

give

Nux vomica

tinue

continues

after

Unless some

and drugging it is always well to


few doses, at least, or to con-

for a

long as improvement

at longer intervals, so

it,

life.

clearly indicated, especially in sub-

is

which the indicated remedy should be

sought for and administered

in the

usual way.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Mind.

Great sensitiveness

easily disturbed,

ritable over the slightest offence

and

ir-

impatient and unrea-

work indrowsy during the day, with sensitiveness


to noise and light prefers to be left alone hypochondriacal mood. Bad effects of mental overwork.
sonable in conversation

averse to mental

clined to be

Head.

Headache,

generally worse in morning on

awakening, with vertigo and fullness of head, especially after loss of sleep
coffee.

and abuse of strong drink and

Confusion, w^ith feeling of intoxication, worse

morning or

Headache aggravated by
any opposition. Headache from over
study and night work; with pressure, vertigo and
in

after dinner.

noise, light, or

drowsiness during the day.

Nose, Eyes, Face.

Worse

Useful

in

in

morning.

some forms

of

dry

The nose is stuffed up, especially at night.


Colds with some watery discharge by day, but stopped

catarrah.

up

at night.

Colds of infants, with stoppage of nose.

Colds, or catarrah, with dull aching over one or both


eyes, generally

worse

in

the morning.

Eyes inflamed

NUX VOMICA

416

from nightly debauch, with twitching of muscles. Face


Eruptions on forehead and
sallow, pale, distressed.

Twitching of muscles of the face and limbs.

face.

Face looks sallow from biliousness and dissipation.

Mouth. Small cankers and blisters on tongue, gums


and cheeks. Sour, bad taste in morning. Dryness of
tongue and mouth, especially after dissipation.
Stomach.-

Worse

ysms.

the back.
ly

Cutting,

griping pain,

often

parox-

in

towards

after eating, the pain extending

Indigestion caused by high living; especial-

from highly seasoned food, coffee and

be vomiting of sour undigested food.

stomach, as

if

May

liquor.

Pain

region of

in

sore and raw.

Abdomen, Rectum,

Stool.

Some

distention, tender-

ness and pain over region of liver and abdomen.

por of liver with constipation,


habits,
tics.

Tor-

persons of sedentary

incline to dosing, especially with cathar-

Constipation usually characterizes a

patient
is

who

in

but in acute

Nux vom.

dysentery, there

afifections, as in

often a condition equally characteristic

stool very

frequent, sometimes constant urging, but ineffectual, or

only a small stool,

it

may

be of bloody mucus.

ness of bowels after cathartic medicines,


pation

and diarrhea

alternately.

chronic constipation, hemorrhoids

etc.

LooseConsti-

Growing out

may

of

develop with

soreness and pain in the rectum, with bleeding, itching

and frequent desire

for stool.

Especially

useful

in

patients of sedentary or dissipated habits, nervo-san-

guine temperaments, irritable and hypochondriacal.

NUX VOMICA
Organs.

Urinary

Frequent

417

urging

passing only a small quantity each time


bility of bladder,

May

with bloody urine.

urinate,

to

marked

irrita-

be passage

back or to the

of calculi with pain extending to the


genitals.

Respiratory Organs.

organs

respiratory

is

should be thought of
ly

The

action

in cases that

dosed with crude drugs, or

and exposure, which results

Nux may

dition.

the

yet

it

have been previous-

those

quired diseases of the lungs through a


tion

Nux on

of

comparatively limited

in a

who have
life

ac-

of dissipa-

complicated con-

be indicated in asthma which

is al-

M. or with morning aggravation,


with usual agonized breathing and great irritability
on slightest provocation.
A constant, dry cough,
worse in the morning and from any mental effort, is
often relieved by Nux vom.

ways worse

at 3 A.

Neck, Back, Extremities.


neck or wry neck from

Back
Legs
some.

feels
feel

Lameness

cold.

in

muscles of

Lumbago, worse

weak, lame and tired; worse

in

at night.

morning.

unsteady and weary; walking seems

Inclination to

sit

or

lie

down,

after

irk-

moderate

Twitching of muscles amounting to spasm


and not confined to extremities, but discernable in any
exercise.

part of body, as in tetanus or chorea.


Sleep.

Uncontrollable

drowsiness during the day

and evening; but wakeful after midnight, especially


after 2 or 3 A. M. with feeling in morning of unrest
and fatigue so great as not to be easily overcome. The
;

mental and physical derangement for which


28

Nux

is

^UX YOMIGA

418
often curative

is

generally followed by wakefulness as

Nux

a result; hence the selection of

for sleeplessness

must always be based upon the condition and history


The same principle is axio-

of the patient as a whole.

matic in

genuine homeopathic prescribing.

all

Nux vom.

comprehensiveness of

many other
However like

some

results, in

The
simi-

larity to

remedies, in some particulars at

least.

all

defined sphere of action


prescriber will

all its

with

known and

to the well
this

fail

other remedies

Nux

own,
if

and the guessing

due regard

is

not paid

authenticated indications of

very useful remedy.

Conditions.

Aggravation;

after

prolonged

ging stimulants, dissipation, loss of sleep;


in

has a well

it

morning generally

habits

cofifee,

drug-

A. M. and

mental exertion and sedentary

tobacco and high living, over-eating.

Better^ in evening; at rest.

Compare

Bry., Lyco., Cham., Coff., Ign.

Indigestion

in its many forms and causes, gasand dysentery often find a remedy in
Nux.
Headache from catarrh or dissipation especially
where the mental symptoms correspond. As has often been
observed, Pulsatilla is generally a "woman's remedy," so
Nux. for obvious reasons may be called the "man's remedy."
Clinical.

tritis,

constipation,

Look well
sidered.

to the

cause of illness

when Nux.

is

being con-

PHOSPHORUS

419

PHOSPHORUS.
GENERAL ACTION AND
Phosphorus,

like several of

USES.

our most useful drugs,

on the entire mucous


and alimentary tract is
such as to cause acute inflammation and finally deIt disorganizes
structive processes and hemorrhage.
the blood and produces fatty degeneration of the heart
and liver. Phosphorus is useful for exhaustion, emaciation and persistent bleeding from small, trifling
wounds. Often in cough and hoarseness, in the secIncipient
ond stage of pneumonia and bronchitis.
tuberculosis, with frequent persistent hemorrhages
from the throat and lungs. Weak, fatty heart, chronic
diarrhea and conditions where emaciation and weakness are conspicuous. Phos. acts most favorably on
persons who are of slight build, tall and slender, such
as are predisposed to lung and tubercular diseases.
is

Its action

a virulent poison.

membrane

of the respiratory

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Mental

and physical weakness

with disinclination to exertion.

Some forms

conversation.

the brain, with mental

Tired feeling
ing.

in

dry and

strain.

of

depression and melancholy.

brain with vertigo worse in the morn-

Bleat, pain

mental

Apathy and dread

of insanity or softening of

and pressure

in the

head, following

Falling out of the hair, which seems

lifeless.

Eyes and Face. Often useful in disease of the eye,


cataract and disease of the optic nerve. Black, float-

PHOSPHORUS

420

Sight dim at night with

ing spots before the eyes.

green halo about the candle

pale, ashy,

Circumscribed redness

with puffiness about the eyes.


in

Face

light.

Swelling and disease of the

one or both cheeks.

lower jaw-bone.

Nose and Ear.

Hearing

Swelling of the

difficult.

nose with

much dryness and

bleeding.

Disease of the bones

obstruction, frequent

the

of

nose

with

catarrhal discharge.

Mouth.

Gums

and

Dryness

diseased and bleed easily.

mouth and

of tongue,

throat with burning sensation

thirst for cold water.

Stomach.

Regurgitation

of

by

food

mouthful s

without nausea. (Bry.) Thirst for cold water which

is

becomes warm. (Ars.) Gastritis,


Sense of weakness and
the region of stomach and abdomen. Often

vomited as soon as

it

with pain and burning (Ars.)

goneness

in

palliates suffering in ulcer of the stomach.

Abdomen and
and goneness

in

Stool.

Constant

sense of weakness

abdomen, especially

persons

in feeble

with chronic diarrhea and disease of the bowels.

May

be some distention and coldness with pain from

flatu-

lence.
less,

Chronic diarrhea.

worse

in the

goneness"

in cases of

May

be undigested, bloody

After stool, exhaustion and sense

or greenish mucus.
of "all

Stools watery, copius, pain-

morning.
in

abdomen.

May

greatly palliate

advanced chronic disease when the above

characteristic

symptoms

are present.

Urinary and Sexual Organs.

Urine bloody

menses

PHOSPHORUS

421

too profuse or too prolonged; especially in feeble, ane-

mic

women

and

full of

at climacteric period,

who

are despondent

mental and physical weakness.

Respiratory Organs.

Hoarseness

or loss of voice

with dry cough either from cold or from prolonged


loud talking, generally worse evenings and from talk-

The larynx

raw and sensitive


to cold air, (Hepar, Rumex.) which increases the
cough and hoarseness.
Tightness and oppression
across the chest with suffocated feeling and cough
which is much worse from lying on left side. Bronchitis or pneumonia with rapid breathing, bloody
ing or laughing.

feels

sputa, oppression and weakness.

Heart action often

irregular with a weak, frequent, small pulse.

Phos-

phorus often useful after Aconite or Bryonia, and when


hepatization

has

taken

place.

Guiding symptoms

must be regarded, whether about the


tongue or elsewhere,
scribing,

name

all

having value

regardless of the organs

in

chest,

face,

accurate pre-

involved, or the

of the disease..

Back and Extremities.


along the spine.

Sensitiveness

and burning

Numbness and weakness

of the ex-

tremities with pain as in neuritis, disease of the bones

and ulcers that bleed on the slightest touch or

irrita-

tion.

Skin,

Fever and Sleep. Skin often

Small, livid purple spots beneath skin.


injury persists in bleeding.

pale,

The

waxy.

slightest

Fever of low or hectic

character as in tuberculosis, or chronic disease of the

lungs and bronchi. Fever

may

be marked as in typhoid

PODOPHYLLUM

422

pneumonia,

with

one

or

both

cheeks

bright

tongue and mouth dry, craving cold water.


tion with exhaustion

and diarrhea.

red,

Perspira-

Inclined to sleep-

iness during the day, with wakefulness at night, es-

pecially before midnight.

Aggravation. From lying on left side, getting wet.


Worse morning and evening, from using too much
salt,

from use of

Amelioration.

food or water.

voice, cold air.

From

lying on right side, from cold

Phos. has always been

much used

in

diseases of the respiratory organs, not as a routine

remedy, but because of the

definite

which are so often present in


Phos.
chitis and pneumonia.

guiding symptoms

colds, laryngitis, bronin

some respects

re-

sembles Ars., yet the mental symptoms, time of aggravation,

Compare

etc.,

are quite opposite.

Ars., Cepa., Lyco., Sepia., Sul.

Phosphorus is one of the oldest but not one of


Clinical.^
the most frequently used remedies, however it has a 'well
defined sphere of action not filled by any other remedy.
The clinical features of Phos. are sufficiently set forth under
the head of Outline of Action and Uses.

PODOPHYLLUM.
(May-Apple.)

GENERAL ACTION AND

USES.

The stomach and bowels are markedly disturbed by


Podophyllum. In palpable doses it resembles the Mer-

PODOPHYLLUM
curials in its action

Few

on the

remedies are more

and salivary glands.

liver

painless cholera

in

efficient

morbus and cholera infantum.

423

(See Verat.)

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Vertigo and headache

in

morning.

Rolling of the

head from
diarrhea and threatening brain involvement.

side to side in the case of children,

much

vv^ith

Tongue

and odor.
(Merc.) Difficult teething with grinding of teeth and
rolling of head, especially in infants and young chilcoated white, with

saliva, foul taste

dren with diarrhea or cholera infantum.

Stomach and Bowels. Nausea and vomiting mucus,


fluid, and bile.
Acute indigestion with

green watery

constant gagging but cannot vomit.

marked

inaction

of

the

liver,

In jaundice with

light

summer-complaint

is

generally

clay-colored,

The

chalky stool and high-colored urine.

watery,

stool

copius

in

and

painless; sometimes light color or yellowish, generally

Worse

very offensive, even like carrion.

in the

ing or at night, and during hot weather.


there

is

morn-

After stool

often exhaustion, even fainting, with constant

sense of goneness and emptiness over the region of


the stomach.

The gagging

or

empty

retching, the

painless, watery, offensive stool, with rolling of the

head, form a combination of

symptoms

often seen dur-

ing the period of teething, attended with more or less


serious bowel complaints.
in

such cases and prompt

istration.

Podo.

is

relief will

surely indicated

follow

its

admin-

In some cases of torpid liver and jaundice,

the lower triturations, 1st to 3rd decimal, seem to

PULSATILLA

434

have been most efficient. In all others cases the


30th. or 200th. have proven far preferable.

Compare: Merc, China,

Ars.,

6th.,

and Ipecac.

PULSATILLA.
(Wind Flower.)

GENERAL ACTION AND


Pulsatilla

is

USES.

pre-eminently a woman's remedy and

especially for gentle, mild, yielding dispositions, the

Nux and Cham.

opposite of

Instead of becoming

ir-

and impatient over trifles, the patient is given


and sadness, (Ignatia.) Puis, has a most extensive action on the mucous membrane, especially of

ritable

to tears

the nose,
slight,

toms"
in

mouth and stomach.

with
will

little

show how

it

may

symptoms are
The "guiding symp-

Its fever

or no thirst.

be frequently most useful

menstrual derangement, especially of young women.

For indigestion,
tion

this

and needs only

care, to

demonstrate

remedy has
to be
its

a large sphere of ac-

selected with reasonable

great every-day value.

In

some cases if neuralgia and rheumatism characterized


by constant shifting of pain from one part to another,
The Pulsatilla patient longs
it often proves curative.
which ameliorates, whereas the hot, inPersistent chilliall symptoms.
Often useful in
ness, chilliness with the pains.
measles, after Aconite. After eating fat pork or rich

for fresh air

door

air

aggravates

food, with

symptoms

of acute indigestion following.

PULSATILLA

425

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Timid,

and irresolute.
Easily discouraged, full of care, craving sympathy and
weeping over trifles. Mental and emotional disturbances growing out of some derangement of the
menses, especially

tearful

young women or those passing

in

through the climacteric period.

Vertigo with pain

forehead and side of head, worse

when

warm

in

The symptoms

room.

of

lying

in

down and

"Mind and Head"

better in the open air, and worse towards evenHeadache and vertigo caused by indigestion,
with bursting, throbbing pain worse from stooping.
are

all

ing.

Confusion of head after night-watching, dissipation or


emotional excitement.
Ears, Eyes and Nose.

Pain,

throbbing and press-

ure in the ear with threatening abscess from cold in

head and throat.

Discharge of pus from the ear with

symptoms apt

to be worse at night or
Eyes inflamed, with bland discharge
measles and catarrhal colds. Dimness of vision

deafness.

All

towards night.
after

on

rising,

and

with dizziness.

Styes, with swelling of lids

In colds and catarrh of the nose

free lacrymation.

bland, non-irritating discharge. Puis,

remedies.

Stoppage

is

o nose at times,

one of our best

and

later a free

discharge of yellow or greenish mucus, with loss of


smell and

some soreness

of the nose.

All worse in

hot room and generally worse towards evening.

Mouth and Tongue.


water

and

Toothache

relieved by cold
by anything warm, worse
and Coffea.) Greasy, foul, bad

aggravated

towards night.

(Bell,

PULSATILLA

426
taste in

gestion.

mouth in the morning, as from deranged diTongue coated with thick, yellowish-white,

slimy mucus, worse


fat,

morning and

in the

and pastry.

rich food

Thirst

after eating

rare in a Puis,

is

patient.

Stomach.

Very frequently used

in disorders of

the

Craving acid and refreshing things, with

stomach.

aversion to fat food which has been eaten too freely,

causing indigestion.

Some

pain and discomfort an

hour after eating, particularly rich pastry, or

ice-

cream with distention and flatulence. With the acute


derangements there is seldom any thirst, as in the case
of Ars., neither the nausea and vomiting in such a per;

sistent degree.

Some

nausea, with disagreeable

ris-

ings of food and drink.

Abdomen, Stool and Urine. Distention and rumblabdomen with intestinal indigestion from fat

ing in

food, ice-cream and fruit.

down

in

abdomen

in

Cramping, cutting pain low


menstruation.

painful

Stools

watery, worse at night or very changeable, no two


alike.

After fruit and rich food.

piles that

itching about the parts.

any cause,

External or internal

become very painful and


is

The

with

sore,

much

nightly diarrhea, from

characteristic of this remedy.

Pulsatilla

has often cured that troublesome weakness of children, involuntary micturition at night in bed, also the

same when coughing. (Phos.)


fuse and voided frequently, with

Urine

is

usually pro-

some tenderness over

the bladder but no pain.

Sexual

Organs.

Very

sure

remedy

when

the

PULSATILLA

437

menses have been suppressed or interrupted by getting the feet damp or wet; also from other causes
when the patient complains of pain and cramps in
abdomen, with constant chilliness and weeping. (See
Cimicif.)
The pains of labor characterized by the
above symptoms are often palliated and the deliveryhastened by a few doses of this remedy.
Respiratory and Heart.
at night,

hoarseness.

Cough
sit

up

when

Cough towards evening or

worse on lying down.

Cough with evening

Expectoration of greenish yellow mucus.

loose during day and tight at night.


to quiet the cough.

lying on

left side.

indigestion after

and

Feeble circulation

to

Heart action disturbed from

rich food with

fat,

Has

Palpitation and suffocation

much

flatulence.

constant chilliness with

all

complaints; yet patient must have doors open to get


fresh, cool air.

Back and Extremities.


back

feel

of the

lame, as

if

Muscles

women

disturbance.

and

sprained, especially through small

back extending to the hips.

ache of

of the neck

Useful

in the

back-

suffering from uterine and menstrual

Swelling and pain in knee joints.

Pain

in joints of feet, especially the heel.

Skin and Sleep. Itching over the whole body,


worse on getting warm in bed. (Sul.) Eruption resembling measles. Sleepy in afternoon and evening
but wakeful at night, restless and tossing about.

Dreams
Fever.

such as

full of fright

Puis,
may

is

arise

and excitement.

not often useful

in

fever,

from indigestion or catarrhal

except
colds.

RADIUM BROMIDE

428

often chill or chilliness with most of the

There

is

ments

for

is

slight

ail-

which Puis, is indicated but, as a rule, there


Very seldom any
if any fever, after the chill.

thirst after the chill or

The

during the fever.

ever-

changing symptoms, the shifting pains from one part

remedy
guiding symp-

to another are general characteristics of this

which, combined with the more definite

The causes of aggramarked and different from


any other remedy, and successful prescribing must
toms, affords curative results.

vation and amelioration are

take both into consideration.


Conditions.

Aggravation,

towards evening;

in

warm

from

rich

fat

foods

closed room.

Amelioration, In open air; in morning; lying on


painful side (Bry.) Cold applications.

Clinical.
With the exception of Aeon, and Nux. no
remedy is so often prescribed as Puis., and for the derangements of the stomach none is so often given as Puis. The
guiding symptoms are definite. Very often indicated in the
disorders of the female sexual organs. See Guiding Symptoms. Catarrh and the after effects of common cold often
makes a quick finish under the use of Puis. The mental
symptoms and temperament should never be overlooked.

RADIUM BROMIDE.
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS.
The
form
of

history,

properties

and provings of Radium

a subject of absorbing interest.

New York

Dr. Dieffenbach

City, a high authority, gives a

summary

RADIUM BROMIDE
some

of

429

radium comand also their

of the physical properties of the

pounds showing

radio-activity

their

property of rendering other substances radio-active.

He

states as follows

"They give

off light; their rays penetrating

off

heat

they give

opaque bodies; they

Radium compounds

give off a gas or emanation.

also

have the property of rendering other substances radioactive if brought in contact with them. This is a very
important property which has opened up a
in

new world

physics and chemistry."

Although a comparatively new homeopathic remedy


promises to be a most useful one for a class of diseases most difficult to cure. In rheumatism and kindred diseases, gout and lumbago, also some of the
worse forms of skin diseases and cancer it has already
it

accomplished

The

many

cures.

clean-cut homeopathic indications for

are very similar to Rhus. tox.

Radium

Verification of the

most excellent proving are in order. My experience


with the 12/x and lower potencies has resulted in the
production of many of the radium symptoms recorded
in

Hereafter

the provings.

more frequent use

The foregoing

of the 30th

shall

my

to

make

and higher potencies.

furnishes only hints of this unique

and as yet undeveloped remedy.


to

incline

original plan

and statement

Adhering

strictly

in preface I

have

included only such remedies and their indications as

have been thorougly tested

from present indications

in actual practice.

will

Radium

soon attain such a place.

RHUS TOXICODENDRON

430

RHUS TOXICODENDRON.
(Poison Ivy.)

GENERAL ACTION AND


The
is

and most noticeable

first

upon the skin and

effect of

superficial

about the face and hands

USES.

Rhus

tox.,

especially

tissues,

producing an inflamed,

scarlet appearance not unlike scarlet fever or erysip-

On

elas.
it

the deeper tissues, muscles and ligaments

developes a condition

rheumatism, for which


in la

it

closely
is

resembling acute

often most useful.

Also

grippe and severe colds with the characteristic

lameness and pains.

(See "Guiding Symptoms.")

In

typhoid fever, Hahnemann, one hundred years ago,

was

first

led

to

use Rhus tox. and Bryonia, with

curative results at that time

unknown.

has stood

It

the test of a century, and the indications which led

him

to give

tion.

it

will

always remain our guide to

Clinical facts of importance

show

that

its

selec-

Rhus

is

of great value for ailments following severe strain of

muscles and ligaments; also for bad effects from working in water or from getting wet.

Erysipelas and ec-

zema, especially of the vesicular variety, have found


their cure in

Rhus

tox.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head. Low, mild delirium about hard


work and long journey. Dull of comprehension and
slow to reply, as

when

rising

in early stage of typhoid.

Vertigo

and beginning to move. (Bry.)

headache, pain in back of head and neck.

Dull

Meningitis

RHU8 TOXICODENDRON

431

eruptive fevers, especially scarlet, with redness of

in

the

surface,

great

restlessness

and mild

delirium.

Erysipelas of the scalp and face.

Eyes.

Eyelids

and burning as

swollen,

and mucous discharge.

with

itching

Inflammation, redness

Diseases of the eye in rheu-

matic subjects, especially

from getting wet.

iritis.

All

symptoms worse

Eyeballs lame and sore.

Ears, Nose, Face.

bloody pus.

blister-like,

in erysipelas.

Pain

with discharge of

in ears

Tip of nose red and puffy.

Nosebleed.

Coryza with sneezing and cough after getting wet.


Face fiery red as in scarlet fever or erysipelas. (Bell.)
Intense itching and burning of face, which may be
dotted with fine blister, eczema-like eruptions.

Swell-

ing of face, swelling of parotid and sub-maxillary

glands and about the ear.

Mouth and Tongue. Fever blisters about the


mouth and chin. Stiffness of the jaw, teeth feel too
long, and sore. Tongue red, dry and cracked or coated
except at
istic.

tip,

Mouth

and low

which

is

red,

the latter very character-

apt to be dry with thirst in erysipelas

fevers.

Throat.

Sore

of scarlet fever

Generally

throat after getting wet, or in cases

when

swelling

general

of

the

symptoms correspond.

glands

and

drowsiness, restlessness and delirium.

with

face,

(Bell.,

Apis.)

threatening typhoid.

Stomach and

Much

Abdomen.

Nausea

and

vomiting.

thirst for cold drinks, craving beer, oysters

and

RHUS TOXICODENDRON

433
milk.

Soreness

typhoid.

Some

in

abdomen

as

if

beaten, in threatened

distention and pain in abdomen, es-

impending

pecially the right side as in appendicitis, or

typhoid.
Stool,

there

is

In

acute disease where

apt to be diarrhea. (Ars.)

Rhus
Bry.

is

indicated

May

Stools bloody, watery or bloody mucus.


in

is

the opposite.

back and hips with great restlessness, and

be pain

fever.

Respiratory Organs and Heart. In typhoid pneumonia with a dry, teasing cough. Pneumonia after
getting wet or working in water, with rheumatic pains
and great restlessness. Hoarseness and cough worse
in damp weather, which aggravates nearly all the
symptoms of Rhus tox. la grippe with cough, aching
in back and limbs,
spitting of blood.
Heart symptoms from violent overexertion, or in rheumatism with
aching in left shoulder and arm, worse at night, cannot be quiet or sleep; all worse in damp weather and
after getting wet. Pulse fast, symptoms better on taking exercise. Frequently worse after having been long
quiet or on first beginning to move, but better after

continued exercise.

Neck, Back
neck.

and

Limbs.

Backache which

is

Stiffness

of

muscles of

better from lying on some-

thing hard or from firm pressure.

Acute affections

the spine from getting wet or lying on

of

damp ground,

rheumatism from the same cause. Sciand numbness of limbs worse in


damp weather and at night. Bad effects from strain
by lifting. In the Rhus tox. patient the restlessness
and

for acute

atica with acute pain

RHUS TOXICODENDRON
of the extremities

Extreme
not

Cannot remain
and physical.

marked.

quiet.

restlessness both mental

or

lie

is

433

sit

on one position because

desire to shift about, tossing in

which gives momentary

Can-

of an irresistible

bed or walking about,

which the same


Muscular
pains in back and limbs from working in water. Pain
and stiffness on beginning to move, but better from
relief; after

Swelling of ankles.

restlessness returns.

Worse

continued exercise.

in

damp weather

a reliable

characteristic of Rhus.

Skin.

When

of the skin
ially

and

if it

there

is

intense itching and burning

on any portion of the face or body, espec-

presents

fine,

fiery redness;

las large blisters

watery vesicles with roughness

Rhus

may

is

well indicated.

In erysipe-

form, especially about eyes and

In eczema with yellow, watery discharge, which

nose.

and scalp.
The skin symptoms are generally worse from heat
and from application of water or exposure to cold air.
later

forms dry scabs covering the

face, ears

(Sul.)

Sleep and Fever.

Often useful

in sleeplessness

vivid dreams of fatigue and hard work.

with

Restless, can-

not keep the limbs quiet, constant tossing about, with

more or

less fever.

Streaks of chilliness alternated

with heat, run through the whole system.


Conditions.

damp

Aggravation,

after

getting

wet;

in

rainy weather; at night during rest and on be-

ginning to move.
Amelioration,

weather,

warm

29

when moving about; from dry warm


applications, changing position.

RVMEX CRISPUS

434

Compare

Aeon., Ars.,

Bell., Bap., Bry., Gels., Apis.,

Arn., Lach.

Clinical.
The clinical features of this valuable remedy
There is
are sufficiently set forth in the general outline.
no disease for which Rhus, may not be indicated and curative if only the sharp, well defined indications are present.
Making mention of certain diseases for which remedies are
most used is by no means intended as any limitation on
their use but rather as suggestive and as a time saver and

aid to the less experienced prescriber.

RUMEX

CRISPUS.

(Yellow Dock.)
proving' and use of Rtimex is somewhat limited.
most frequent and successful use has been for a

The
Its

"troublesome cough," usually laryngal or bronchial


origin

and

far

in

more prevalent during the cold months

of the year.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

The cough is
warm room and

worse from cold open


at night.

Cough

air,

ceases after covering

the head with the bed clothes. (Hepar.)


erally dry, often

evening and after lying down.

other

from cold

remedies,

Cough gen-

spasmodic and usually worse

the

and upper bronchial

air or touch.

conditions

in the

Constant disagreeable

tickling sensation in pit of throat

region, worse

better from

of

Here, as with

aggravation and

amelioration are important and often furnish a "key-

note" to the remedy having

all

the other indications.

SEPIA

435

SEPIA.
While the provings
doubtful whether

have been
ings and
in

it

of Sepia are very complete,

has been used as often as

at least the

its

author pleads guilty.

use in practice demonstrate

its

it

it is

should

All prov-

great value

disorders of the female sexual organs, especially

some forms

of displacement.

of the mind, back,


lar to

Lili tig.

Many

abdomen and

symptoms

and Helon, both newer remedies, yet

The mental symp-

well tested and not found wanting.

toms

of the

pelvis are quite simi-

of each are characteristic.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Apathy,

forebodings

depression,

The complexion,

and

irritability.

especially about the eyes and cheeks,

brownish yellow, sometimes called "liver


which w^th tenderness and distention over the

often

is

spots",

stomach and

liver

has led to the use of Sepia in chronic

diseases of these organs, and with


Sul.)

Sepia, like Igna., Sul., Phos.

a feeling of great weakness,

gone" feeling over the

good

results. (Lyco.

and Podo. produces

emptiness, or an "all

pit of the

stomach such as often

occurs in disorders of the uterus and nervous system.


In displacements and disorders of the uterus, with

backache, bearing

down

or pressure in the pelvis as

though everything would issue downward, especially


on walking or standing, Sepia together with Lili-tig.
and Helon should be considered, also Bell. Painful
menstruation, leucorrhea and irritation of the bladder
are

generally

present.

Sepia

is

pre-eminently

81 LICE A

436

woman's remedy and in chonic cases,


will result in a permanent cure.

if

well selected,

SILICEA.

GENERAL ACTION AND


Upon

the

USES.

mind and nervous system,

quite similar to

Nux and

Ign.

Upon

action

its

is

the bones, skin,

and glandular system, similar to Hepar Sul., Calc,


carb. and Phos. Where there is profuse perspiration
and prostration, especially

in

connection with suppura-

tive processes as in tuberculosis, abscesses, felon, etc.,

Silicea

may

be preferred to Hepar.

and conditions of the

Minor symptoms

should

facilitate

the

sensitive to noise or

any

patient

choice.

GUIDING SY3IPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Very

annoyance, becomes peevish and


to think, with brani-fag

irritable.

and great sense of weariness.

Severe headache, often better from


or binding head

tightly.

Difficult

warm

application

Pain often begins

in

base of

brain and extends over the head to the eyes.

Face, Etc.

Chronic

dency to suppuration

catarrhal conditions, with ten-

in or

about the eyes or

ears.

In

quinsy and diseases of the teeth and gums, especially


dental abscess, Silicea has rendered valuable service.

Abdomen and

Bowels.

Distention with chonic con-

stipation and diseases of the liver.

Swelling of the

in-

SILICEA
guinal glands.
little

Rectum

feels

437
paralyzed,

pov/er to expel stool, which

with contracted sphincter.

Piles

is

with very

often associated

and even

fistula are

indications for Silicea.

Respiratory

Organs.

Useful

in

second stage

of

pneumonia and tuberculosis,


when the expectoration becomes thick, yellow and
purulent with loose cough generally worse at night
and on lying down. The general symptoms of the
patient, perspiration, emaciation, and prostration must
laryngitis,

bronchitis,

be considered here.

Extremities and Skin.

Defective

finger nails with

tendency to inflame and supurate on each margin.


Pain

in tip of finger

threatening suppuration.

Pain

and weakness in hip and knee. Chronic and profuse


sweating of the feet with carrion-like odor and worse
every evening.

Ulcers and injuries of the skin heal

slowly and inclined to suppurate. (Hepar.) Abscess

and felon may

call for Silicea.

and Fever, Much inclined to chilliness, cold


hands and feet, general lack of the normal heat of the
Chill

body.

Inclined to chilliness at night preventing sleep.

Fever of hectic character from impending or advanced


suppuration, followed by persistent perspiration worse
at night.

May

be useful after impure vaccination.

SPONGIA T08TA

438

SPONGIA TOSTA.
(Roasted Sponge.)

GENERALITIES.
Clinical experience with

has been handed

The

Spongia

down from

indications for

its

in cases of

croup

generation to generation.

use from the

first

were

reliable,

and essentially the same symptoms form our guide today. The same is equally true of all our well proven
remedies which have been in use from the days of
Hahnemann, who of all provers was the most capable
and

In acute diseases of the larynx, espec-

diligent.

ially croup,

remedies
croup.

Spongia holds an important place.

may

In the

precede or follow

its

or the febrile stage, Aeon,

first

better indicated than Spongia, and later on

in differentiation the

may

be

Hepar may

claim the preference over either Aeon, or

The more accuracy

Other

use in a case of

Spongia.

quicker the

cure.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

The cough

or croup that calls for Spongia

void of phlegm,

is

is

usually

dry and barking, often suffocative,


(Aeon, worse on expiration).

worse on inspiration.

larynx with great hoarseness.

Sense of constriction

in

Breathing rapid and

difficult as

though a plug were

fast in the larynx preventing passage of the breath.

symptoms, (cough and suft'ocation), may


There is very seldom
any sore throat in a Spongia case.

The

first

rouse the patient from sleep.

Clinical.

The

in cases of

croup

practice of alternating Aeon,


lias

and Spongia

long been a custom with some and

SULPHUR

439

condemned by others. If the indications are clear for either


remedy it is well to give it alone, although I have found
prompt results following either plan.

SULPHUR.
GENERAL ACTION AND
Sulphur
of in

is

one of the

first

USES.

remedies to be thought

cases of chronic disease. In acute diseases Sul-

all

phur may be called for, especially in scrofulous subjects or where the well-chosen remedy fails to give
In the case of suppression of an

the usual results.

eruption by external treatment or otherwise, resulting


in acute

aggravation of chronic diseases,

As

often re-

by returning the eruption

stores the patient


surface.

it

to the

a deep-acting, constitutional remedy,

has no equal, and

in the

it

treatment of both acute and

is indispensable.
Its very wide
becomes most obvious when one
studies the following "guiding symptoms."

chronic diseases

range

of

it

action

The more visible effects of Sulphur are manifested


by its action on the skin, glandular system and mucous
membranes. Sulphur reaches out to help those of
weak, faulty, defective constitutions as well as those

who have been the victims of maltreatment. It matters not how long the disease has existed; if only Sulphur

is

selected according to the guiding

symptoms,

lowed; for as a

it

Of course due time must be algeneral rule the more chronic the dis-

will cure the patient.

ease the greater the time rec|uired for a real cure.

SULPHUR

440

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.
Mind.

The

disposition of the

Sulphur patient

is

generally irritable and depressed, seldom happy or

agreeable; impatient and easily vexed; low spirits,

taking pleasure

in

nothing; religious melancholia.

In-

clined to be selfish and indolent.

Head.

Heat of the head and coldness of

feet. (Bell.)

Fullness and heaviness of the head with some vertigo.

Heat on top

head with pressure and sensitiveEruptions and dryness about


ness of parts (Lach.)
Acute brain
the scalp with falling out of the hair.
diseases from the sudden disappearance of an eruption. (Bry.)

parts.

of the

Symptoms

on putting them
Eyes.

and

often aggravated by washing

Infants or children

Redness of the

tears.

who always become

furious

in the bath.
lids

with discharge of mucus

Styes and ulceration of the

itching and burning.

(Puis.)

lids

much

with

Chronic catarrhal

in-

flammation of the eyes with general indications for


Sulphur.
also

Symptoms worse from bathing

from bright

light

and

at night.

the eyes,

Vision dim, with

dark spots floating before the eyes. (Phos.)

few

doses of Sulphur will very often start improvement,

which has ceased under a well-chosen remedy,


which other remedies act as usual.

Ear and Nose.


effects

after

Discharge of pus from ear or bad


from sudden suppression of the same. Roar-

ing in the ears with rush of blood to head worse at


night.

Hardness

of hearing with dryness of the ears.

Itching and dryness about the nose, with stuffed feel-

SULPHUR
ing,

which

worse indoors.

is

441
Offensive odors from

nose. (Puis.)

Mouth and Throat.

Face,

forehead, mixed with

Swelling about the

(Hep.)
lip.

fine,

(Hep.)

Eruptions

on face and

black pores of the skin.


face, especially the

lower

Swelling of the glands about face and

neck, with pale, sick look as from long illness.

Lips

and often swollen. The child is voracious, crowding everything into the mouth.
Tongue
coated whitish, with red tip and borders. (Rhus.)
are very red

Stomach.

At

11,

A. M., patient has faint all-gone

which is not a sense of hunger.


At times, ravenous hunger but after eating a small
feeling in stomach,

quantity a sense of fullness

prevents eating

more.

Nausea, fullness and heaviness about the

(Lyco.)

stomach.

Abdomen.

Distention

with

much rumbling

fermentation, in the abdomen. (Lyco.)


tion

and chronic disease of the

cated.

liver, Sul. is

Soreness over the abdomen, with

lence, occasionally diarrhea

Stool or Rectum.

like

In constipaoften indi-

much

flatu-

and hemorrhoids.

A form of chronic diarrhea, pain-

generally worse in the morning driving the pa-

less,

sometimes called the "army diarrhea,"


hase very often been quickly and permanently cured
by Sul. Stool watery, bloody, mucous and offensive.

tient out of bed,

Distressing itching and redness about anus, especially


In some cases of chronic constipation
symptoms point to Sulphur, a permanent

with children.

when
cure

general

may

be anticipated.

SULPHUR

442

Urinary and Sexual Organs.

Chronic

weakness of

bladder, with involuntary urination at night.

Disease

of kidney with frequent, painful, burning urination.

Violent itching and burning of the surface, worse after


bathing.

Suppression of menses

in feeble

women, with

congestion of the brain followed by depression and


irritability.

Respiratory Organs and Heart.

Respiration

em-

windows open. (Puis.) Second stage of pneumonia when indicated remedies are
slow to act, or the case comes to a stand-still. The
head is hot; hands and feet cool. The dry cough is
barrassed; wants

constant.
tion

all

the

few doses of Sul.

and reduce hepatization

will

after

promote perspirawhich other reme-

may be more beneficial. The cough may be dry,


there may be much rattling of mucus. Pressure and

dies

or

May

oppression over the chest. (Pho.)

be useful in

incipient tuberculosis following after neglected pleurisy or

pneumonia. Sharp pain

in

region of heart, worse

at night with craving for fresh air.

tion not normal, head hot, feet

Extremities.

Burning

in

them out
Rheumatic pain

and hands

the

night, has to put

of bed.

muscles.

in

symptoms

of Sulphur are

better from open

walks and
Skin.

air.

sits in a

Sulphur

of eruptions,

all

(Puis.)

feet

Circula-

cold.

and

hands at

Violent cramps in

limbs and back.

Most

worse from standing and

Sulphur patient often stands,

stooping position.

produces and cures a great variety


of

which are generally worse from

bathing, and attended with itching and burning which

SULPHUR
are worse

when

warm

ting

in

443

the air strikes the parts or

bed

at night.

when

get-

Eruptions, pimples and

black pores on the face and forehead of young

girls.

(See Hepar.)
Sleep and Fever.

The

(Cina., Bell.)

starts.

sleep

is

broken by frequent

Vivid dreams; blood rushes to

more

the head after wakening, and no


fever

is

ease or local cause, and

remedy.

may

sleep.

The

generally that which arises from organic disis

The underlying

be found to

call for

not a marked feature of this

when sought

causes,

Sulphur.

out,

In chronic diseases

where the history of the case is not clear or sufficient,


and where no other remedy is plainly indicated, it is
well to give Sul.
it

If

it

remedies.

If

make a complete cure,


way for the use of other

fails to

will not fail to prepare the

improvement follows the use

of Sul.

it

should not be interfered with by giving another remedy, neither should

ment

it

be repeated too often.

in chronic cases is generally slow,

Improve-

but the ob-

serving, experienced prescriber soon learns to be satisfied

may

with that, and will hesitate to take any action that


interfere with the same.

Conditions.

Aggravation, when

standing, at rest

]0 A. M.; washing, bathing, (child)

warmth

of bed;

suppressed eruptions.

Compare

Puis., Calc, carb., Hepar.,

Clinical.

my way

of using this unique remedy.

Lach.

single dose of the higher potencies of Sul.

It should be given
oftener in the beginning of chronic cases, and as a finisher
in acute ones.
is

TARTAR EMETIC

444

TARTAR EMETIC.
(Antimonium Tartaricum.)

GENERAL ACTION AND


The use

of this

USES.

remedy has been confined

largely to

diseases of the respiratory organs and generally to

the later stages where conditions often

This remedy

ing.

Verat.

alb.,

become alarm-

Carbo. veg., Arsen., China and

like

has often come in at the last hour and

rescued the patient from a most precarious condition.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

The Tartar emetic

patient,

whether expectorating

or not seems to be distressed with a constant rattling


of

phlegm

occur

in the throat

in the

and bronchi, such as

is

apt to

second stage of bronchitis or pneumonia.

my

In the more severe cases there

be choking and

suffocation with pale, cold face, even livid, with cold


perspiration, a

weak and rapid pulse with general

haustion approaching collapse.

young

Important

ex-

in diseases

whooping cough or asthma, where


the mental symptoms often resemble those of Anti. c.
Other symptoms of minor importance are produced by
Tart. em. Drowsiness, exhaustion and free perspiration; tongue coated, pasty, thick white or dry, red and
of

children, in

dark brown, as in typhoid pneumonia.


drink, acids

and

fruit.

with shortness of breathy obliged to


of

Tart.

em.

(like

Thirst for cold

Cough and gasping

Ars.,

Carbo.

sit

The

up.

veg.)

alternately

is

action

generally

prompt.
For every emergency, homeopathy
seems furnished with "emergency remedies," provided
very

they are rightly selected.

TERATRUM ALBUM

445

VERATRUM ALBUM.
(White Hellebore.)

GENEKAL ACTION AND


Veratrum produces such

USES.

sudden and profound

prostration as to closely resemble the collapse which


often occurs in cholera and cholera morbus.

action

is

The

heart

very feeble, the skin becomes cold and bathed

in cold perspiration, especially on forehead and face.


Vomiting and purging with colic and at times cramps
Veratrum has established its curative
in muscles.

virtues in

many

epidemics of cholera, cholera infantum

and cholera morbus. To be thought of in ptomain


poisoning, malignant whooping cough, painful cramps,

dysmenorrhea with diarrhea.

See guiding symptoms

for specific indications.

GUIDING SYMPTOMS.

Mind and Head.

Excitement,

with desire to escape.


ference.

raging and delirium

Malancholia with sullen

indif-

Pain seems to drive to madness, (Cham.)

In some forms of acute


and puerperal mania, Verat. has proven a
valuable remedy.
Some vertigo and pressure about
the brain, with sensation of ice on the vertex.

with cold sweat on forehead.


insanity,

Face.

Pale,

sunken, anxious,

with cold sweat, especially on

(Ars.)

the

bluish cold,

forehead.

The

pinched features and cold sweat are often present

in

sudden attacks of vomiting and purging. (See Ars.,


Camphor and Carbo veg.) The face symptoms of
Verat. presents a fair picture of cholera in
forms.

its

various

YE RAT RUM ALBUM

446

Mouth and Stomach.

Tongue pale and cold

Dryness of mouth, craving

lapse.

Aeon., Ars.)

in col-

for water.

(See

Occasionally great hunger and

thirst,

craving juicy things. Vomiting of food and water soon


after

swallowing the same, with continued nausea and

gagging, (Ars.) profuse, watery mucus and blood with


distention of the abdomen, cold sweat and utter ex-

Nausea and vomiting increased by

haustion. (Ars.)

motion or by drinking.

Abdomen and
pain in

Stool.

Severe,

sharp, cutting, colic

abdomen (Colocnth) with

derness.

distention and ten-

Griping and cutting pain soon after eating

with coldness

in

abdomen.

Stool often thin like rice-

water, as in cholera, always profuse and frequent, with

exhaustion and cold sweat.

worse after eating


at night.

fruit

Stool painful with cramps,

and drinking cold water, and

Exhaustion and involuntary

stool.

exhaustion to faintness after stool, which

is

Great

generally

copious.

Severe

cramps

and

copious,

watery stool before or during menses.

May

be vomit-

Sexual

Organs.

ing and cold perspiration.

Respiratory Organs.

Some severe forms of whoop-

ing-cough accompanied by vomiting and diarrhea, with


sense of exhaustion after such paroxysm with choking

and blue

face,

cold sweat on forehead, constriction

about the larynx with suffocated feeling before and


In bronchitis of old people, with much
after cough.

phlegm on chest and cold sweat. (Tart em. and Carbo.

VERATRUM ALBUM
veg.)
lar,

The

pulse weak, almost

rapid and irregu-

any exertion. (Ars.)

especially after

Fever and

lost,

4,4,'^

Chills.

Much

predominates,

chilliness

creeping from the head to the toes, with


cold and distorted.

spiration.

Face

the back.

Hands and

is

feet cold.

ternates with chilliness


both.

The

chills

tliirst

during

Coldness of the skin with cold per-

the chilis. (Ign.)

with

Chilliness in

Heat follows or

much

al-

through

thirst

and fever of Verat. are usually such

accompany

violent attacks of stomach


and bowel trouble and, while they are to be regarded
in selecting the remedy, they are of minor importance
compared to the few characteristics or key note sympas precede or

toms which run


edy.

through the provings of

all

The unmistakable exhaustion and

this

rem-

collapse, the

cold perspiration, the vomiting, purging, are safer and

more

reliable indications for the use of

action of Verat.

is

always prompt.

Veratrum. The

When

well indi-

cated a single dose will often so change the condition


for the better that a repetition of the dose

becomes

unnecessary.
Similar remedies

Ars., Carbo. veg..

Camphor, and

Tart. em.

Conditions.
or eating

Aggravation,

(vomiting).

from motion,

drinking

After fruit and indigestible

food (cholera morbus).

Amelioration, walking about and from warmth.

Compare
Tart. em.

Ars.,

Ipec, China, Carbo. veg., Colo.,

INDEX
B
Bacteria, disease producing,

Abdominal Hernia, 325.


Abscess, 297, 132.
331, 42,

Aconite,

38 to 40, 64-65.
53,

116,

121, 124, 177, 188.

Adenoids, 81.
Aggravation, 13.
Alcoliolism, acute and
chronic, 309.

Baptisia, 345, 91.

Baryta carb, 346, 78, 83.


Belladonna,348, 43, 50, 71,
85.

75,

Bladder, diseases of, 205.


Brain, inflammation, 237.

Alkethrepta, 309.

Blood pressure,

Allen, T. F., M. D., on select-

Boils, 3 01.

ing the remedy, 14.


Allium cepa, 370, 107.

Bowels, obstruction of, 15 6.


diseases of, 149 to 180.

Alternation of remedies, 14,

29.

Bright's disease, 198, 49.


Bronchitis, 120.

117.

infants,

Amelioration, 13.

Amenorrhea, 211.
Anaemia, 323.
Antidotes

(See

"Caution")

Bryonia

alb, 352, 43, 71, 91,

121, 126, 152.

Burns and

23.

Antimonium, crude, 336.


Antl-toxine,

123.

Broths, 34.

scalds, 316.

73.

Aphonia, 117.
Apis mellifica, 338, 85.
Apoplexy, 240.

Cactus grand., 356.


Calcarea carb., 358, 84, 288,

Appendicitis, acute, 158.


chronic, 160.

Calcarea phos., 361, 83, 288.


Calendula, 362, 390.

Arnica montana, 339, 390.


Arsenicum album, 341, 9 2,

Camphor, 104.
Cancer of stomach, 145.

97, 104, 140, 144, 166.

Arum

tri.,

75.

Asthma, 127, 111.


80

189.

(see

tumors,

295.)

Capker of mouth, 135.


Caiitharis, 363.

INDEX

450

Carbo veg., 365, 105, 140.


Carbuncle, 300.
Catarrh, nasal, 109.

Convulsions, 247.
Coryza, 106.

Cathartics, 162.

Croton tig., 381, 105.


Croup, 115.

Caulophyllum, 367.
Causticum, 368.

Cow pox

virus, 87.

diphtheritic, 73.

Cepa, 107, 370.


Cerebro-spinal meningitis,

Cystitis, acute, 205.

chronic, 206.

68.

Chamomilla, 371, 167.

Change
Change

of life, 219.
of remedy, 22.

Chelidonium, 190.
Chicken pox, 89.

Dentition, 132.

Diabetes, 208.

Diagnosis,

China, 373, 105, 189.


Chlorosis, 324.
Cholera Asiatica, 101.

its

early, its importance,

Diarrhea, 164.

and diarrhea, 165.

Diathesis, 285.

and

specialists,

30.

Diet, general principles,

33.

in cancer, 146.

Chronic cases, 22.


Cigarette, its record

25.

aids to diagnosis, 24 to 33.

infantum, 170.
morbus, 174.
Chorea, 257.

importance,

24.

and

prevention, 312.

Cimicifuga, 375.
Cina, 376, 97.
Climacteric period, 219.

Climate, 67, 112.


Clinical thermometer, 26.

Cocculus, 378.
Coffee and tea, their use and
abuse, 306.
Coffea cruda, 378.
Colic, 147.

Colocynthis, 380.

in constipation, 151.

165.

in diarrhea,

in dysentery, 177.
in fever, 41, 49.
in diabetes, 209.

nausea and vomiting,

in

136.
in peritonitis, 163.

disease

in

of

liver,

187,

188.

when

to change, 35.

Digitalis, 881.

Diphtheria, 72.
Diphtheritic croup, 73.

Constipation, 149.
of infants, 154.

Contagious and infectious


diseases, 44-47.
prevention, 64-66.

Directions
general, 18 to 23.
for

selection

11.

of

remedy,

INDEX
Directions
dose and

its

preparation,

20, 21.

dose and its repetition, 21.


dose in acute cases, 21.
dose in chronic cases, 22.
wtien to change remedy,
22.

when

to discontinue

edy,

liow

to

rem-

22.

obtain

remedies,

451

Eczema, 274.
Eggs as diet,
Epidemics, 69.
Epilepsy, 250.
Epistaxis, 3 22.
Erysipelas, 84.

Eupatorium

perf., 385, 62.


Euphrasia, 384, 108.
Examination of patient, 11

19.

care of homeopathic remedies, 23.

Diseases of the respiratory


organs, 106.
heart, 12 8.
digestive system, 13 0.

to 17.

verbal and written, 17.


External treatment, 35.

F
of,

41.

gall bladder,

malarial,

192.

scarlet, 47.

sources of, 90.


typhoid, 89.
yellow, 98.

skin, 272.

constitutional, 285.
unclassified,

9 3.

remittent, 9 6.

genito-urinary organs,
198.
nervous system, 228.

and disease,

Plies

303.

90, 103.

Follicular tonsilitis, 70.

Dizziness, 269.

small,

general features

Fever,

liver, 184.

Dose,

34.

Enema, 152.

history

of,

7,

20.

preparation and repetition, 21.

Gall bladder, diseases of,


192.
Gall stone, 192.

Drink habit, 309-361.


Drinking water,

3 03.

Dropsy, 324.
Drosera, 382, 58.

Dulcamara, 383, 108, 167.

Gastritis, acute, 14

Gelsemium, 387,
93, 108.

German

measles, 54.
Glonoine, 389.
Goitre,

Dysentery, 17 6.

2.

43, 62, 70,

3 26.

exophalmic,

Dysmenorrhea, 215.

Grape

Dyspepsia, 13 7.

Gums, 131.

3 26.

juice, 34.

INDEX

452

Ipecacuanha,

Hahneman, Samuel,

5, 9, 5 0.

Hamamelis, 390.

Hay

(varieties),

Heart, disease

symptoms
Helonias,

of,

of,

234.

128.

129.

3 91.

Jaundice, 186.

392,

sul.,

78,

114,

Kali bi., 401.


Kali carb., 401.
"Key notes," 13.
Kidney, diseases of, 198.
Koch, Richard, 64.

117.
Heredity, 285.
Hernia, 325.
congenital, 326.
Herpes, 277.
zoster, 278.
Hiccough, 317.
Hoarseness, 117.

Homeopathy,

principles

of

4 to 8.

practical

5i

Itch, 283.

Hemorrhages, 318, 320.


Hemorrhoids, 179.

Hepar

54,

medical treatment, 245.

fever, 110.

Headache

399,

168, 321.
Insanity, 244.

application

of,

11.

Lachesis, 402, 75, 92, 220.

La Grippe,

Law

of cure,

Lillium

test of, 7 0.

Hyperdermic syringe,

3 6.

Hydrastis, 393, 190.


Hysteria, 253.

59.

Laryngitis, acute, 112.


tig,

5.

405.

Lips, 130.

Liquid preparations, 21.


Liquor, abuse of, 309.
Liver, diseases of, 185.

congestion, acute, 185.


congestion, chronic, 185.
Ignatia, 396, 258.
Indigestion, 137.
Infant, care of, 224.

inflammation, 186.

Lock jaw, 256.


Locomotor ataxia, 266.

feeding, 225.

Loss of voice, 117.

sleep, 227.

Lycopodium, 407, 191, 202.

weight and height, 226.

Infection, 84.

Influenza, 59.
Injections, rectal,

Insomnia, 231.
Iodine, 327.

152, 157.

Malarial fever, 9 3.
Materia medica, 328.
how formed, 6.

INDEX
Materia Medica

how

to study, 11, 17, 328.

Measles, 52.
complications, 53.
Medicines,
forms of and
preparations, 18, 19.
care of, 23.

453

Opiates, 161.
Oysters, 89.

treatment,

Palliative

Menorrhea, 215.

Paralysis,

Mental symptoms, 13.

Parasitic

diseases,

Parotitis,

55.

Mercurius, 410, 57, 76, 78,

252.
181.

Pasteurising of milk, 173.

178.

Mercurius biniodide, 412.


Metrorrhagia, 216.
Milk, as diet, 34.
teeth, 132.
89.

infected,

Mosquitoes and infection,


94.

Peritonitis, 162.

Pertussis, 57.

Phosphorus, 419, 125, 169,


321.
Phytolacca, 76.
Piles, 179.
Pills, size of, 21.

Mouth, 130.

Mumps,

risks

of, 35.

Pin worms, 182.

55.

Pleurisy,

125.

Pneumonia, 122.

N
Natrum muriaticum, 413.
Nausea, 136.
Nephritis, chronic, 200.
Nettle rash, 280.

Neuralgia, 259.
Nose bleed, 322.
Nurse, trained, 31.
Nux vomica, 414, 141, 144,
153, 178. 191.

of infants, 123.

Podophyllum, 422, 167. 191.


Potencies, history of,
choice of, 7, 20.

Pregnancy,

9.

and

diagnosis

disorders, 221, 222.

hygiene

223.

of,

diet during, 223.

Preparation

of

medicines,

21.

Prescribing, errors

8.

in.

157.

Prevention of diseases,
94, 99, 102.

Obstruction of bowels, 156.


Occupation, effecting health,
66, 67.
Oil, sweet,

Provings of drugs,

6.

Pruritis, 281.

Psoriasis, 282.

157.

olive, 195.

Ptomaine

(see

gastritis)

Pulsatilla, 424. 54, 141.

64,

INDEX

454

Spongia, 438, 117.

Spotted Fever, 68.

Quarantine, 47.
Quinine, 95, 184.
Quinsy, 77.

Sputum,

Stye, 302.

287.

Sudden death, causes

Radium bromide,
Remedy,

428, 29 3.

of, 35,

36.

selection of, 11.

alternation,

Sulphur, 439, 105, 153, 170.

14.

Remittent fever,

9 6.

Rheumatism, acute, 289.

tox.,

Surgeon, 30, 31, 157.

Symptoms, value

of,

6,

10,

12, 13, 137.

chronic, 291.
Ring -v^orm, 279.

Rhus

136.

of,

Vitus' dance, 257,

St.

R
Rachitis,

65, 124.

Stomach, diseases

430, 51, 62, 71,


92, 293.

73, 85,

Rubella, 54.

Taking the

Rumex

Tape worm, 181.

crispus, 434.

case, 16.

Tartar emetic, 444, 59, 122,


125.

Teething, 132.

Salivation, 132.

Scabies, 283.

Temperature

Scalds and burns, 316.


Scarlet fever, 47.
and Bright's disease, 49.
Sciatica, 267.
Selection of remedy, 11, 12,

Tetanus, 256.
26.

Tonsilitis, acute, 77.

436.

follicular, 79.

enlargement,

chronic

5.

Single remedy, 7.
Skin eruptions, 37.
in health and disease, 272,
Sleep and insomnia, 229.

Small pox, 8 6.
Sore throat, 74, 79.
30.

clinical,

hints for remedies, 134.

Similia similibus curantur.

Specialists

Thermometer,

Thrush, 134.
Tobacco, use of, 312, 316.
Tongue, coating ,etc., 133.
coatings and diet, 75, 134.

13, 14, 15.

Sepia, 435.
Silicea,

in diseases, 28.

and

diagnosis,

81,

83.

Toothache,

263.
Tuberculosis, incipient, 65.
history and infection, 63.
and occupation, 66, 67.

Tumors

(morbid

295.

Typhoid fever,

89.

growths)

INDEX

455

Voice, loss

of,

117.

Vomiting, 136.

Ulcer of stomach, 146.


Uraemia, 203.
Urinary analysis, 200.
Urticaria, 280.

W
Wakefulness, 231

Water (drinking), 303.


natural

vs. artificial,

Whooping cough,

mortality of, 58.


Wiley, H. W., 306.

Vaccination, 87.
Varicilla, 89.

Variola, 86.
Ventilation of sick room, 49.

Veratrum

alb.,

304.

57.

447,

104, 170, 175.


Vertigo, 269.

Worms,

181.

Written examinations, 17.

101,

Yellow

fever, 98.

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