WARNING: All medicines, drugs, plants, chemicals or medicial precedures below are for historical reference only. Many of these treatments are now known to be harmful and possibly fatal. Do not consume any plant, chemical, drug or otherwise without first consulting a licensed physician that practices medine in the appropriate field.
Felter's Materia Medica on Lobelia
CYPRIPEDIUMCYAL10
The rhizome and rootlets of Cypripedium pubescens, Swartz; and of Cypripedium parviflorum, Salisbury. (Nat. Ord. Orchidaceae.) Rich woods of the United States. Dose, 5 to 60 grains. Common Names: (1) Ladies Slipper, Yellow Ladies Slipper, American Valerian, Yellow Mocassin Flower, Nerve Root; (2) Small-flowered Ladies Slipper. Principal Constituents.A volatile oil, tannin and gallic acids, a volatile acid, resins, and inorganic salts. Preparation.Specific Medicine Cypripedium. Dose, 5 to 60 drops. Specific Indications.Insomnia, nervous irritability, neuralgia and delirium, all from atony; restlessness and muscular twitching, typhomania and tremors in low forms of fever; wakefulness from mental unrest; menstrual irregularities, with despondency; tendency to dementia at the climacteric; mental depression from sexual abuse. Action and Therapy.All of the species of Cypripedium resemble valerian in their effects. They are excellent nerve stimulants for weak women and nervous children. They improve a feeble circulation and increase the innervating power of weakened nerve centers. Though comparatively feeble agents, they are nevertheless important medicines, being of that type of drugs which silently do great good without marked physiological disturbance. Cypripedium is an ideal tranquilizer for states of nervous excitability or irritability depending upon atony. It dispels gloom, induces a calm and cheerful state of mind, and by thus inducing mental tranquillity favors restful sleep. When nervous irritability is caused reflexly by pelvic disorders it is especially a useful drug. If due to organic disease it is less effectual than in merely functional disorders. We value cypripedium highly for the hypochondria of the menopause. We have been able to accomplish more with it than any drug except pulsatilla in worry, with fear of disaster or insanity, in women passing through this phase of life. It is useful in melancholia and sleeplessness due to menstrual irregularities, after prolonged and severe pain, and in those the result of nocturnal losses. It relieves the nervous unrest attending gleet, and the sexual erethism of debility. In the typhomania and tremors of low fevers it is a safe and often effectual drug, but like all others in these conditions it frequently fails to give relief. It acts well after long sieges of exhausting diseases to give nerve tone and allay the nervous manifestations of general debility. An excellent soothing syrup for irritable children, especially during dentition, was proposed by Scudder: Rx. Specific Medicine Cypripedium and Compound Tincture of Lavender, each 3 fluidrachms; Specific Medicine Lobelia, 1 fluidrachm; Simple Syrup, enough to make 3 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: Dose, 5 to 20 drops. If nausea occurs lessen the amount of, or omit the lobelia.1
The rhizome and rootlets of Cypripedium pubescens, Swartz; and of Cypripedium parviflorum, Salisbury. (Nat. Ord. Orchidaceae.) Rich woods of the United States. Dose, 5 to 60 grains. Common Names: (1) Ladies Slipper, Yellow Ladies Slipper, American Valerian, Yellow Mocassin Flower, Nerve Root; (2) Small-flowered Ladies Slipper. Principal Constituents.A volatile oil, tannin and gallic acids, a volatile acid, resins, and inorganic salts. Preparation.Specific Medicine Cypripedium. Dose, 5 to 60 drops. Specific Indications.Insomnia, nervous irritability, neuralgia and delirium, all from atony; restlessness and muscular twitching, typhomania and tremors in low forms of fever; wakefulness from mental unrest; menstrual irregularities, with despondency; tendency to dementia at the climacteric; mental depression from sexual abuse. Action and Therapy.All of the species of Cypripedium resemble valerian in their effects. They are excellent nerve stimulants for weak women and nervous children. They improve a feeble circulation and increase the innervating power of weakened nerve centers. Though comparatively feeble agents, they are nevertheless important medicines, being of that type of drugs which silently do great good without marked physiological disturbance. Cypripedium is an ideal tranquilizer for states of nervous excitability or irritability depending upon atony. It dispels gloom, induces a calm and cheerful state of mind, and by thus inducing mental tranquillity favors restful sleep. When nervous irritability is caused reflexly by pelvic disorders it is especially a useful drug. If due to organic disease it is less effectual than in merely functional disorders. We value cypripedium highly for the hypochondria of the menopause. We have been able to accomplish more with it than any drug except pulsatilla in worry, with fear of disaster or insanity, in women passing through this phase of life. It is useful in melancholia and sleeplessness due to menstrual irregularities, after prolonged and severe pain, and in those the result of nocturnal losses. It relieves the nervous unrest attending gleet, and the sexual erethism of debility. In the typhomania and tremors of low fevers it is a safe and often effectual drug, but like all others in these conditions it frequently fails to give relief. It acts well after long sieges of exhausting diseases to give nerve tone and allay the nervous manifestations of general debility. An excellent soothing syrup for irritable children, especially during dentition, was proposed by Scudder: Rx. Specific Medicine Cypripedium and Compound Tincture of Lavender, each 3 fluidrachms; Specific Medicine Lobelia, 1 fluidrachm; Simple Syrup, enough to make 3 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: Dose, 5 to 20 drops. If nausea occurs lessen the amount of, or omit the lobelia.1
GELSEMIUM
The dried rhizome and roots of Gelsemium sempervirens (Linné,) Aiton (Nat. Ord. Loganiaceae). Dose, 1/10 to 1 grain. Common Names: Yellow Jasmine, Yellow Jessamine, Carolina Jasmin. Principal Constituents.Two bitter alkaloidscrystallizable gelsemine, the paralyzing agent, and amorphous gelseminine, a very toxic and tetanizing principle, and a volatile oil. There is also present gelseminic acid (beta-methyl-aesculetin). Preparation.Specific Medicine Gelsemium. Dose, 1/10 to 10 drops. Usual method of administration: Rx Specific Medicine Gelsemium, 10 drops to 1 fluidrachm; Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every 1 to 3 hours. Specific Indications.Hyperemia; bright eyes, contracted pupils, great heat, and nervous unrest; mental irritability; insomnia, with nervous excitation; pain over the whole head; tremulousness, with great nervous excitement and high temperature; irritation of urinary tract; dysuria, with scant secretion of urine; arterial throbbing, with exalted sensibility; pinched, contracted tissues; convulsions, with hyperaemia; thin, dry, unyielding os uteri, with dry and hot vaginal walls. Action.Gelsemium acts chiefly upon the spinal cord, first impressing the sensory tract, even to the extent of producing complete anesthesia; later, its dominant action occurs, that of expending its force on the motor neurons, causing paralysis of motion. Sometimes this sequence is reversed. Upon the higher brain it has but slight effect, but upon the motor filaments of the nerves of the head, particularly the third and sixth cranial pairs, its action is profound. This is well shown by the resultant palpebral ptosis and relaxation of the jaw. Respiration is first stimulated, then depressed. Moderate doses do not appreciably disturb the circulation. Toxic doses, however, depress both the pulse rate and the blood pressure. In man convulsions do not occur. Both gelsemium and gelsemine, when dropped into the eye, cause violent dilation of the pupil, with accompanying paralysis of accommodation. The mydriasis is not so lasting as that from atropine. Gelsemium is quickly absorbed and spends its force in about three hours. The alkaloid gelsemine, correspondingly more active, is eliminated unchanged by way of the kidneys. Death from gelsemium is due to asphyxia. Gelsemium does not affect all human beings alike, some' being but slightly influenced by it while others are profoundly impressed. The smallest active doses (ranging from 5 to 15 minims of the specific medicine or fluidextract, according to susceptibility) occasion a languid sense of ease and slight lowering of the force and frequency of the pulse. Larger doses induce a desire to lie down, and cause vertigo, disturbed sight, and sometimes orbital pain. Continued small doses may, after several hours, provoke vomiting; otherwise it has little or no effect upon the stomach or bowels. Toxicology.Toxic doses produce extreme muscular relaxation and prostration, double vision (sometimes blindness), widely dilated and immovable pupils, internal squint, and the eyelids droop and are raised with difficulty, or complete paralytic palpebral ptosis occurs. Often the patient sinks in his tracks, or if he stands he staggers. Sensibility is greatly impaired, the jaws drop and speech fails. Breathing becomes slow, labored, and shallow; the pulse rapid, weak, and thready; the skin is wet with cold sweat, and the body-heat markedly depressed. Drowsiness may be felt, but consciousness is usually retained until just before death, evidence that the higher cerebral centers are but slightly involved. Death takes place from centric respiratory paralysis, and almost simultaneous arrest of the action of the heart. The cardinal symptoms of poisoning by Gelsemium, therefore, are ptosis, diplopia, dropping of the lower jaw, and absolute muscular prostration. In poisoning by gelsemium or its alkaloids, the emetic or stomach pump should be used if the patient is not too weak. Tannic acid (or strong infusion of store tea) should be administered, external heat applied, and artificial respiration attempted as soon as breathing shows signs of failure. Stimulation of the respiratory function should be enforced by the hypodermatic use of atropine, and that of the heart by ammonia, ether, alcohol and digitalis, the first three in the order named, to sustain the organ until the digitalis, which should be given at once, can act. It has been asserted that morphine completely antidotes the poisonous effects of gelsemium. As gelsemium poisoning is quite rare the antidotal treatment is none too well established and is, therefore, based mostly on general principles. Therapy.Gelsemium is primarily the remedy for acute hyperemia of the brain and spinal centers. All through the woof and warp of its therapy runs the thread of nervous excitation and unrest; and often fever, spasm, and pain. In proper doses it relaxes high nervous and muscular tension. By diminishing the velocity of the blood current to the head and spinal tract it prevents spasmodic action. It is, therefore, a remedy for hyperaemia; never a remedy for congestion. It is the specific agent for relief in the nervously excited and highly feverish state, for the child with hot head and tremulous and jerky muscles, for great restlessness with elevation of temperature; for the touchy and grouchy but feverish individual who magnifies his ailments; and for those who dread even the simple ordeals and trials of life. The most direct indication for its employment is exaltation of nervous function. It is contraindicated by a weak heart and feeble circulation. As an antispasmodic it stands unrivaled save by lobelia and bromide of potassium, with both of which it acts kindly and harmoniously. The flushed face, bright eye, contracted pupil, increased heat of head, great restlessness and excitation are the classic indications for it as first formulated by Scudder, and these stand among the truest of speci1
The dried rhizome and roots of Gelsemium sempervirens (Linné,) Aiton (Nat. Ord. Loganiaceae). Dose, 1/10 to 1 grain. Common Names: Yellow Jasmine, Yellow Jessamine, Carolina Jasmin. Principal Constituents.Two bitter alkaloidscrystallizable gelsemine, the paralyzing agent, and amorphous gelseminine, a very toxic and tetanizing principle, and a volatile oil. There is also present gelseminic acid (beta-methyl-aesculetin). Preparation.Specific Medicine Gelsemium. Dose, 1/10 to 10 drops. Usual method of administration: Rx Specific Medicine Gelsemium, 10 drops to 1 fluidrachm; Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every 1 to 3 hours. Specific Indications.Hyperemia; bright eyes, contracted pupils, great heat, and nervous unrest; mental irritability; insomnia, with nervous excitation; pain over the whole head; tremulousness, with great nervous excitement and high temperature; irritation of urinary tract; dysuria, with scant secretion of urine; arterial throbbing, with exalted sensibility; pinched, contracted tissues; convulsions, with hyperaemia; thin, dry, unyielding os uteri, with dry and hot vaginal walls. Action.Gelsemium acts chiefly upon the spinal cord, first impressing the sensory tract, even to the extent of producing complete anesthesia; later, its dominant action occurs, that of expending its force on the motor neurons, causing paralysis of motion. Sometimes this sequence is reversed. Upon the higher brain it has but slight effect, but upon the motor filaments of the nerves of the head, particularly the third and sixth cranial pairs, its action is profound. This is well shown by the resultant palpebral ptosis and relaxation of the jaw. Respiration is first stimulated, then depressed. Moderate doses do not appreciably disturb the circulation. Toxic doses, however, depress both the pulse rate and the blood pressure. In man convulsions do not occur. Both gelsemium and gelsemine, when dropped into the eye, cause violent dilation of the pupil, with accompanying paralysis of accommodation. The mydriasis is not so lasting as that from atropine. Gelsemium is quickly absorbed and spends its force in about three hours. The alkaloid gelsemine, correspondingly more active, is eliminated unchanged by way of the kidneys. Death from gelsemium is due to asphyxia. Gelsemium does not affect all human beings alike, some' being but slightly influenced by it while others are profoundly impressed. The smallest active doses (ranging from 5 to 15 minims of the specific medicine or fluidextract, according to susceptibility) occasion a languid sense of ease and slight lowering of the force and frequency of the pulse. Larger doses induce a desire to lie down, and cause vertigo, disturbed sight, and sometimes orbital pain. Continued small doses may, after several hours, provoke vomiting; otherwise it has little or no effect upon the stomach or bowels. Toxicology.Toxic doses produce extreme muscular relaxation and prostration, double vision (sometimes blindness), widely dilated and immovable pupils, internal squint, and the eyelids droop and are raised with difficulty, or complete paralytic palpebral ptosis occurs. Often the patient sinks in his tracks, or if he stands he staggers. Sensibility is greatly impaired, the jaws drop and speech fails. Breathing becomes slow, labored, and shallow; the pulse rapid, weak, and thready; the skin is wet with cold sweat, and the body-heat markedly depressed. Drowsiness may be felt, but consciousness is usually retained until just before death, evidence that the higher cerebral centers are but slightly involved. Death takes place from centric respiratory paralysis, and almost simultaneous arrest of the action of the heart. The cardinal symptoms of poisoning by Gelsemium, therefore, are ptosis, diplopia, dropping of the lower jaw, and absolute muscular prostration. In poisoning by gelsemium or its alkaloids, the emetic or stomach pump should be used if the patient is not too weak. Tannic acid (or strong infusion of store tea) should be administered, external heat applied, and artificial respiration attempted as soon as breathing shows signs of failure. Stimulation of the respiratory function should be enforced by the hypodermatic use of atropine, and that of the heart by ammonia, ether, alcohol and digitalis, the first three in the order named, to sustain the organ until the digitalis, which should be given at once, can act. It has been asserted that morphine completely antidotes the poisonous effects of gelsemium. As gelsemium poisoning is quite rare the antidotal treatment is none too well established and is, therefore, based mostly on general principles. Therapy.Gelsemium is primarily the remedy for acute hyperemia of the brain and spinal centers. All through the woof and warp of its therapy runs the thread of nervous excitation and unrest; and often fever, spasm, and pain. In proper doses it relaxes high nervous and muscular tension. By diminishing the velocity of the blood current to the head and spinal tract it prevents spasmodic action. It is, therefore, a remedy for hyperaemia; never a remedy for congestion. It is the specific agent for relief in the nervously excited and highly feverish state, for the child with hot head and tremulous and jerky muscles, for great restlessness with elevation of temperature; for the touchy and grouchy but feverish individual who magnifies his ailments; and for those who dread even the simple ordeals and trials of life. The most direct indication for its employment is exaltation of nervous function. It is contraindicated by a weak heart and feeble circulation. As an antispasmodic it stands unrivaled save by lobelia and bromide of potassium, with both of which it acts kindly and harmoniously. The flushed face, bright eye, contracted pupil, increased heat of head, great restlessness and excitation are the classic indications for it as first formulated by Scudder, and these stand among the truest of speci1
GLYCERINUM
Glycerin, Glycerol. A liquid composed most largely of a trihydric alcohol (C3H5(OH)3) obtained by the processes of hydrolysis and distillation of fats, both animal and vegetable, or of fixed oils. Description.A thick, syrupy, colorless liquid having a sweet and warming taste and a faint but agreeable odor. It has a great avidity for moisture, becoming appreciably thinner upon long exposure to the atmosphere. It mixes with water or alcohol; and is insoluble in ether, chloroform, and fixed and essential oils. Dose, 1/2 to 2 fluidrachms. Preparation.Suppositoria Glycerini, Suppositories of Glycerin. Action.Glycerin is a powerful hygroscopic. So great is its avidity for water that it will readily abstract moisture from the tissues to which it is applied. It is also slightly irritant to the skin and mucous surfaces, and considerably so to abraded surfaces. The discomfort quickly subsides, however, and it then acts as an antiseptic and protective emollient to the skin. It is a demulcent to mucous tissues. Applied to the rectum it provokes evacuation, both by its irritating and dehydrating effects. Glycerin kills parasites, both cutaneous and intestinal, and allays itching, probably by its protective, antiseptic, and hygroscopic powers. Glycerin is rapidly absorbed by the intestines and is mostly oxidized in the body. By some it is thought to be, in some measure at least, a food, and indirectly a conservator of fats through its effects of increasing the non-nitrogenous reserve of the body. It is also believed to increase energy. Upon the glycogenic function its effects are still in doubt, many contending that it reduces the sugar when in excess in the body. Glycerin is laxative and in very large amounts acts not unlike alcohol, producing a similar intoxication and like gastric effects. It is also said to favor the elimination of uric acid. Therapy.External. The bland and practically unirritating character of pure glycerin, in the presence of a little water, its permanence when exposed to the air (except absorption of moisture), and the completeness with which it shields the parts make it the most largely used external application in a great variety of local disorders. Its protective unctuousness without being greasy, its splendid and extensive solvent powers, its ability to hold in close contact to the tissues powders and other medicines that would dry and fall off if applied with alcohol or water, its antiseptic and emollient properties, and its antipruritic qualities, make it an indispensable vehicle. It is freely miscible with water and most ointment bases, and dissolves or holds in suspension the most commonly used external medicines. It should never be applied full strength, however, except where its dehydrating effects chiefly are desired. Through its great greed for water it readily removes moisture from the tissues, leaving them hardened and more likely to crack. A little water should be added to it for local use, or the parts may be moistened and left wet before its application. Only pure glycerin should be used. Equal parts of glycerin and water, or preferably rose water, form an elegant and emollient cosmetic lotion for chapped hands, lips, and face cracked or sore nipples, excoriated and chafed surfaces, and swollen hemorrhoids. A few grains of borax sometimes add to its efficiency. Compound tincture of benzoin and glycerin is also a pleasant application. For those exposed to winds and storms, and who have their hands much in water, the following is splendidly effective: Rx Glycerin, 2 fluidounces; Carbolic Acid, 10 grains; Tincture of Arnica Flowers, 1/2 fluidounce; Rose Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: Apply after thoroughly washing and rinsing the hands, and while they are still wet. Sometimes lobelia may be used in place of the arnica. Glycerin, added to poultices, renders them soothing and keeps them moist. It forms a good application to boils, carbuncles, small abscesses, and to local edemas, as of the prepuce. Here it may be used pure for its antiseptic and dehydrating effects. Mixed with alcohol (1 part), glycerin (3 parts), it makes a useful and drawing application for boils, and an antiseptic stimulant for foul ulcerations. A mixture of glycerin and water in proportions to suit the case may be used as a toilet wash for the mouth in fevers, to keep the tongue and lips soft and pliable, and to remove sordes and other viscous secretions. It also reduces the thirst occasioned by the dryness of the mouth. Glycerin may be used as a vehicle for lime water for application to small burns, erythema, and slight excoriations; for menthol for the relief of itching in urticaria, chronic eczema, and other pruritic conditions; for boric acid in the mild forms of facial dermatitis; for lactic acid in freckles, sunburn, and other pigmentations; for bismuth, borax, salicylic acid, phenol, boric acid, or sodium or potassium bicarbonate when their long-continued local effects are desired, especially in ulcerations and various skin diseases. A small portion of liquor potassae (1/2 per cent) may be added to it for use upon rough skin and in chronic eczema. Among the skin disorders in which it is especially useful as a vehicle may be mentioned impetigo, lichen, porrigo, psoriasis, pityriasis, herpes, and tinea versicolor (with mercuric chloride) and other parasitic affections. Glycerin (diluted) is one of the best agents to soften hardened and impacted cerumen prior to removing it by gently syringing with warm water. Any irritation caused by the hardened mass or the means of removal may be overcome by the following: Rx Colorless Hydrastis (Lloyd's), 1 fluidrachm; Glycerin, 20 drops; Distillate of Hamamelis, enough to make 1/2 fluidounce. Mix. Sig.: Apply warm to the parts by means of cotton. Glycerin is sometimes useful in otorrhea. A 5 per cent solution of phenol in glycerin upon cotton may be used for insertion into the aural canal after rupture of the membrana tympani wh1
Glycerin, Glycerol. A liquid composed most largely of a trihydric alcohol (C3H5(OH)3) obtained by the processes of hydrolysis and distillation of fats, both animal and vegetable, or of fixed oils. Description.A thick, syrupy, colorless liquid having a sweet and warming taste and a faint but agreeable odor. It has a great avidity for moisture, becoming appreciably thinner upon long exposure to the atmosphere. It mixes with water or alcohol; and is insoluble in ether, chloroform, and fixed and essential oils. Dose, 1/2 to 2 fluidrachms. Preparation.Suppositoria Glycerini, Suppositories of Glycerin. Action.Glycerin is a powerful hygroscopic. So great is its avidity for water that it will readily abstract moisture from the tissues to which it is applied. It is also slightly irritant to the skin and mucous surfaces, and considerably so to abraded surfaces. The discomfort quickly subsides, however, and it then acts as an antiseptic and protective emollient to the skin. It is a demulcent to mucous tissues. Applied to the rectum it provokes evacuation, both by its irritating and dehydrating effects. Glycerin kills parasites, both cutaneous and intestinal, and allays itching, probably by its protective, antiseptic, and hygroscopic powers. Glycerin is rapidly absorbed by the intestines and is mostly oxidized in the body. By some it is thought to be, in some measure at least, a food, and indirectly a conservator of fats through its effects of increasing the non-nitrogenous reserve of the body. It is also believed to increase energy. Upon the glycogenic function its effects are still in doubt, many contending that it reduces the sugar when in excess in the body. Glycerin is laxative and in very large amounts acts not unlike alcohol, producing a similar intoxication and like gastric effects. It is also said to favor the elimination of uric acid. Therapy.External. The bland and practically unirritating character of pure glycerin, in the presence of a little water, its permanence when exposed to the air (except absorption of moisture), and the completeness with which it shields the parts make it the most largely used external application in a great variety of local disorders. Its protective unctuousness without being greasy, its splendid and extensive solvent powers, its ability to hold in close contact to the tissues powders and other medicines that would dry and fall off if applied with alcohol or water, its antiseptic and emollient properties, and its antipruritic qualities, make it an indispensable vehicle. It is freely miscible with water and most ointment bases, and dissolves or holds in suspension the most commonly used external medicines. It should never be applied full strength, however, except where its dehydrating effects chiefly are desired. Through its great greed for water it readily removes moisture from the tissues, leaving them hardened and more likely to crack. A little water should be added to it for local use, or the parts may be moistened and left wet before its application. Only pure glycerin should be used. Equal parts of glycerin and water, or preferably rose water, form an elegant and emollient cosmetic lotion for chapped hands, lips, and face cracked or sore nipples, excoriated and chafed surfaces, and swollen hemorrhoids. A few grains of borax sometimes add to its efficiency. Compound tincture of benzoin and glycerin is also a pleasant application. For those exposed to winds and storms, and who have their hands much in water, the following is splendidly effective: Rx Glycerin, 2 fluidounces; Carbolic Acid, 10 grains; Tincture of Arnica Flowers, 1/2 fluidounce; Rose Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: Apply after thoroughly washing and rinsing the hands, and while they are still wet. Sometimes lobelia may be used in place of the arnica. Glycerin, added to poultices, renders them soothing and keeps them moist. It forms a good application to boils, carbuncles, small abscesses, and to local edemas, as of the prepuce. Here it may be used pure for its antiseptic and dehydrating effects. Mixed with alcohol (1 part), glycerin (3 parts), it makes a useful and drawing application for boils, and an antiseptic stimulant for foul ulcerations. A mixture of glycerin and water in proportions to suit the case may be used as a toilet wash for the mouth in fevers, to keep the tongue and lips soft and pliable, and to remove sordes and other viscous secretions. It also reduces the thirst occasioned by the dryness of the mouth. Glycerin may be used as a vehicle for lime water for application to small burns, erythema, and slight excoriations; for menthol for the relief of itching in urticaria, chronic eczema, and other pruritic conditions; for boric acid in the mild forms of facial dermatitis; for lactic acid in freckles, sunburn, and other pigmentations; for bismuth, borax, salicylic acid, phenol, boric acid, or sodium or potassium bicarbonate when their long-continued local effects are desired, especially in ulcerations and various skin diseases. A small portion of liquor potassae (1/2 per cent) may be added to it for use upon rough skin and in chronic eczema. Among the skin disorders in which it is especially useful as a vehicle may be mentioned impetigo, lichen, porrigo, psoriasis, pityriasis, herpes, and tinea versicolor (with mercuric chloride) and other parasitic affections. Glycerin (diluted) is one of the best agents to soften hardened and impacted cerumen prior to removing it by gently syringing with warm water. Any irritation caused by the hardened mass or the means of removal may be overcome by the following: Rx Colorless Hydrastis (Lloyd's), 1 fluidrachm; Glycerin, 20 drops; Distillate of Hamamelis, enough to make 1/2 fluidounce. Mix. Sig.: Apply warm to the parts by means of cotton. Glycerin is sometimes useful in otorrhea. A 5 per cent solution of phenol in glycerin upon cotton may be used for insertion into the aural canal after rupture of the membrana tympani wh1
GRINDELIA
The dried leaves and flowering tops of one or several species of Grindeliaas Grindelia camporum, Greene; or Grindelia squarrosa (Pursh), Dunal. (1) Marshes of California; (2) Western plains. Dose, 5 to 40 grains. Common Name: Grindelia. Principal Constituents.A saponin-like resin (grindelin), volatile oil, and an alkaloid grindeline. Preparation.Specific Medicine Grindelia. Dose, 5 to 40 drops. Specific Indications.Asthmatic breathing with sense of soreness and rawness; harsh, dry cough; dyspnea with cyanosed countenance. Locally, rhus poisoning; old indolent ulcers. Grindelia squarrosa: malarial cachexia with splenic congestion. Action.The grindelias have a bitter, acrid taste, leaving an unpleasant, persistent, acrid sensation in the mouth and cause an increased flow of saliva. The kidneys are excited by them and diuresis is increased, while upon the bronchial membranes they produce a primary increase of secretion followed by a lessened expectoration and diminution of the rate of breathing. They are eliminated by the bronchi and the kidneys. Marked relaxation of the bronchi is produced by grindelia. Therapy.External. Grindelia promotes reparation in damaged conditions of the epithelium. It is especially valuable in chronic skin diseases with feeble circulation and tendency to ulceration. For indolent ulcers a lotion of the specific medicine (2 fluidrachms to Water, 16 fluidounces) may be applied freely upon compresses. It stimulates growth and heals the ulcers. Grindelia similarly applied is one of the best of applications in rhus dermatitis. Applied to chronic eczema of the vesicular type it has been credited with many cures. Webster asserts it is of value in malignant ulceration, as epitheliomata of the mucosa and the skin. This is claiming much and awaits confirmation from the experience of others. The leaves of grindelia, smoked alone or mixed with stramonium, lobelia, or potassium nitrate, have been used successfully to relieve the paroxyms of spasmodic asthma. Internal. Grindelia is a remedy for asthmatic breathing, with pectoral soreness and a sense of rawness. The accompanying cough is dry and harsh and the breathing labored, causing in plethoric individuals a dusky coloration of the face. In some cases it promptly stops the paroxysms of asthma, and in others apparently has no effect. It is useful in subacute and chronic bronchitis, especially in old persons, and in bronchorrhea and emphysema. Grindelia squarrosa is credited with antimalarial properties and to relieve splenic congestion and hypertrophy of malarial origin. The indications are dull pain with fullness over the spleen, sallow skin, debility and indigestion, with gastric distress. The bitter taste of grindelia is best disguised by chloroform.1
The dried leaves and flowering tops of one or several species of Grindeliaas Grindelia camporum, Greene; or Grindelia squarrosa (Pursh), Dunal. (1) Marshes of California; (2) Western plains. Dose, 5 to 40 grains. Common Name: Grindelia. Principal Constituents.A saponin-like resin (grindelin), volatile oil, and an alkaloid grindeline. Preparation.Specific Medicine Grindelia. Dose, 5 to 40 drops. Specific Indications.Asthmatic breathing with sense of soreness and rawness; harsh, dry cough; dyspnea with cyanosed countenance. Locally, rhus poisoning; old indolent ulcers. Grindelia squarrosa: malarial cachexia with splenic congestion. Action.The grindelias have a bitter, acrid taste, leaving an unpleasant, persistent, acrid sensation in the mouth and cause an increased flow of saliva. The kidneys are excited by them and diuresis is increased, while upon the bronchial membranes they produce a primary increase of secretion followed by a lessened expectoration and diminution of the rate of breathing. They are eliminated by the bronchi and the kidneys. Marked relaxation of the bronchi is produced by grindelia. Therapy.External. Grindelia promotes reparation in damaged conditions of the epithelium. It is especially valuable in chronic skin diseases with feeble circulation and tendency to ulceration. For indolent ulcers a lotion of the specific medicine (2 fluidrachms to Water, 16 fluidounces) may be applied freely upon compresses. It stimulates growth and heals the ulcers. Grindelia similarly applied is one of the best of applications in rhus dermatitis. Applied to chronic eczema of the vesicular type it has been credited with many cures. Webster asserts it is of value in malignant ulceration, as epitheliomata of the mucosa and the skin. This is claiming much and awaits confirmation from the experience of others. The leaves of grindelia, smoked alone or mixed with stramonium, lobelia, or potassium nitrate, have been used successfully to relieve the paroxyms of spasmodic asthma. Internal. Grindelia is a remedy for asthmatic breathing, with pectoral soreness and a sense of rawness. The accompanying cough is dry and harsh and the breathing labored, causing in plethoric individuals a dusky coloration of the face. In some cases it promptly stops the paroxysms of asthma, and in others apparently has no effect. It is useful in subacute and chronic bronchitis, especially in old persons, and in bronchorrhea and emphysema. Grindelia squarrosa is credited with antimalarial properties and to relieve splenic congestion and hypertrophy of malarial origin. The indications are dull pain with fullness over the spleen, sallow skin, debility and indigestion, with gastric distress. The bitter taste of grindelia is best disguised by chloroform.1
LOBELIALOBEL
The leaves, tops, and seeds of Lobelia inflata, Linné (Nat. Ord. Lobeliaceae). Abundant in the United States. Dose, 1 to 60 grains. Common Names.Lobelia, Indian Tobacco, Wild Tobacco, Puke Weed, Emetic Weed, Emetic Herb, Vomit Weed, etc. Principal Constituents.The unstable liquid alkaloid lobeline, combined with lobelic acid; fixed and volatile oil, and an unimportant nonbasic substance, inflatin. The so-called lobelacrin of Enders is probably lobeline lobeliate. Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Lobelia. Dose, 1/10 to 60 drops. (Usual form of administration: Rx Specific Medicine Lobelia, 5-30 drops; Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every 1 to 3 hours.) 2. Subculoyd Lobelia. Dose, 1 to 30 drops. Designed chiefly for hypodermatic use. 3. Pulvis Lobelia Compositus, Compound Powder of Lobelia (Emetic Powder). Contains Lobelia (6), bloodroot (3), skunk cabbage (3), ipecac (4), capsicum (1). Dose, as an emetic, 2 drachms in broken doses of 1/4 to 1/2 drachm, in warm water, every 15 minutes. Used chiefly locally. 4. Tinctura Lobelia Composita, Compound Tincture of Lobelia, (Acetous Emetic Tincture, Expectorant Tincture). Dose, 1/2 to 3 fluidrachms. 5. Libradol. For external use. Specific Indications.Fullness of tissue, with full veins and full arterial flow; full labored and doughy pulse, the blood current moving with difficulty; short, labored breathing; sense of suffocation; dyspnea with praecordial oppression; pain in chest of a heavy, sore, or oppressive character; pulmonary apoplexy (full dose); mucous accumulations in the bronchi; dry croupal cough, with scant or oversecretion; asthmatic seizures; short, lancinating pain radiating from heart to left shoulder and arm; spasmodic muscular contraction; muscular rigidity; infantile convulsions from irritation of the bowels, or from respiratory obstruction; hysterical convulsions; rigid os uteri with thick doughy and unyielding rim; perineal and vaginal rigidity during labor; angina pectoris (full doses). Action.Lobelia apparently acts upon the central nervous system, the myoneural junction of the muscles of volition, and the sympathetic nerve ganglia, and by some is classed with the nicotine group in pharmacological effects. It is a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant, producing emesis. Should it fail to vomit, which is rare, purgation may result. In large doses a state of near-collapse is induced. Small doses act upon the cardiac inhibitory apparatus, slowing the heart action, but this is followed by a more or less accelerated pulse. During the depressive stage bloodpressure is lowered, but subsequently becomes increased. Small doses stimulate, and large doses paralyze the respiratory centers and the vagal terminals and ganglia in the bronchi and lungs, death, when it occurs (in animals), resulting from respiratory paralysis (asphyxia). Lobelia is most largely eliminated by the kidney, though some is thought to be excreted by the skin. If lobelia be chewed it causes an acrid, prickling, and persistently pungent sensation in the throat and fauces, accompanied by slight nausea and a feeling of warmth and distention along the esophageal tract and in the stomach. The sensation is not very unlike that produced by tobacco. The salivary glands and those of the mouth are impressed, pouring out saliva and mucus in abundance. A sense of epigastric depression succeeds, followed by profound nausea, and if the amount chewed be large enough, severe and thorough emesis results. The gastric mucus is secreted in great abundance and ejected with the contents of the stomach. The emetic action of lobelia is extremely depressing, and is usually accompanied by profuse perspiration. Oppressive prostration, relaxation of the muscular system, and a languid pulse accompany the emetic stage. The depression, however, is of short duration, and is immediately followed by a sense of extreme satisfaction and repose. Under its action the mental powers are unusually acute, and the muscles are powerfully relaxed. The circulation is enfeebled by large and strengthened by small doses, and the bronchial secretions are augmented. Lobelia, in the ordinary sense of the term, is not a lethal poison. Undoubtedly its injudicious use has and might produce death, but the same is true of many other drugs that are not ordinarily considered as poisons. That the alkaloid lobeline will kill animals has been fully demonstrated. A drop of the alkaloidal solution placed upon the tongue of a strong, healthy man instantly vomited him. To this property of its alkaloid is undoubtedly due the failure of lobelia to act upon man as a lethal agent. Its emetic action is so prompt and decided that the contained alkaloid does not, under ordinary circumstances, produce fatal results. Given in cases in extremis, the resulting exhaustion from repeated emesis would very likely hasten death, but death would be more likely due to the act of vomiting exhausting the patient than to any poisonous effect of the lobelia. Therapy.External. Infusion of lobelia, or the alcoholic preparations diluted and constantly applied by means of compresses, are among the most efficient applications in rhus poisoning. A lotion or a poultice (with flaxseed or elm) often relieves insect bites and stings, articular pain, the pain of bruises and sprains, and sometimes causes relaxation in strangulated hernia, and relieves the discomfort of erysipelatous inflammation. Powdered lobelia sprinkled upon a larded cloth and applied warm, or the compound emetic powder similarly used, is an invaluable local application to the chest in acute thoracic diseases, and gives marked relief from pleural and muscular pains and alleviates the sense of suffocation and fullness accompanied by a feeling of soreness within the chest. Libradol is a more cleanly application and owing to the presence of glycerin is more or less dehydrating, thus making it a preferable application in swellings, bunions, and inflammatory aff1
The leaves, tops, and seeds of Lobelia inflata, Linné (Nat. Ord. Lobeliaceae). Abundant in the United States. Dose, 1 to 60 grains. Common Names.Lobelia, Indian Tobacco, Wild Tobacco, Puke Weed, Emetic Weed, Emetic Herb, Vomit Weed, etc. Principal Constituents.The unstable liquid alkaloid lobeline, combined with lobelic acid; fixed and volatile oil, and an unimportant nonbasic substance, inflatin. The so-called lobelacrin of Enders is probably lobeline lobeliate. Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Lobelia. Dose, 1/10 to 60 drops. (Usual form of administration: Rx Specific Medicine Lobelia, 5-30 drops; Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every 1 to 3 hours.) 2. Subculoyd Lobelia. Dose, 1 to 30 drops. Designed chiefly for hypodermatic use. 3. Pulvis Lobelia Compositus, Compound Powder of Lobelia (Emetic Powder). Contains Lobelia (6), bloodroot (3), skunk cabbage (3), ipecac (4), capsicum (1). Dose, as an emetic, 2 drachms in broken doses of 1/4 to 1/2 drachm, in warm water, every 15 minutes. Used chiefly locally. 4. Tinctura Lobelia Composita, Compound Tincture of Lobelia, (Acetous Emetic Tincture, Expectorant Tincture). Dose, 1/2 to 3 fluidrachms. 5. Libradol. For external use. Specific Indications.Fullness of tissue, with full veins and full arterial flow; full labored and doughy pulse, the blood current moving with difficulty; short, labored breathing; sense of suffocation; dyspnea with praecordial oppression; pain in chest of a heavy, sore, or oppressive character; pulmonary apoplexy (full dose); mucous accumulations in the bronchi; dry croupal cough, with scant or oversecretion; asthmatic seizures; short, lancinating pain radiating from heart to left shoulder and arm; spasmodic muscular contraction; muscular rigidity; infantile convulsions from irritation of the bowels, or from respiratory obstruction; hysterical convulsions; rigid os uteri with thick doughy and unyielding rim; perineal and vaginal rigidity during labor; angina pectoris (full doses). Action.Lobelia apparently acts upon the central nervous system, the myoneural junction of the muscles of volition, and the sympathetic nerve ganglia, and by some is classed with the nicotine group in pharmacological effects. It is a powerful gastro-intestinal irritant, producing emesis. Should it fail to vomit, which is rare, purgation may result. In large doses a state of near-collapse is induced. Small doses act upon the cardiac inhibitory apparatus, slowing the heart action, but this is followed by a more or less accelerated pulse. During the depressive stage bloodpressure is lowered, but subsequently becomes increased. Small doses stimulate, and large doses paralyze the respiratory centers and the vagal terminals and ganglia in the bronchi and lungs, death, when it occurs (in animals), resulting from respiratory paralysis (asphyxia). Lobelia is most largely eliminated by the kidney, though some is thought to be excreted by the skin. If lobelia be chewed it causes an acrid, prickling, and persistently pungent sensation in the throat and fauces, accompanied by slight nausea and a feeling of warmth and distention along the esophageal tract and in the stomach. The sensation is not very unlike that produced by tobacco. The salivary glands and those of the mouth are impressed, pouring out saliva and mucus in abundance. A sense of epigastric depression succeeds, followed by profound nausea, and if the amount chewed be large enough, severe and thorough emesis results. The gastric mucus is secreted in great abundance and ejected with the contents of the stomach. The emetic action of lobelia is extremely depressing, and is usually accompanied by profuse perspiration. Oppressive prostration, relaxation of the muscular system, and a languid pulse accompany the emetic stage. The depression, however, is of short duration, and is immediately followed by a sense of extreme satisfaction and repose. Under its action the mental powers are unusually acute, and the muscles are powerfully relaxed. The circulation is enfeebled by large and strengthened by small doses, and the bronchial secretions are augmented. Lobelia, in the ordinary sense of the term, is not a lethal poison. Undoubtedly its injudicious use has and might produce death, but the same is true of many other drugs that are not ordinarily considered as poisons. That the alkaloid lobeline will kill animals has been fully demonstrated. A drop of the alkaloidal solution placed upon the tongue of a strong, healthy man instantly vomited him. To this property of its alkaloid is undoubtedly due the failure of lobelia to act upon man as a lethal agent. Its emetic action is so prompt and decided that the contained alkaloid does not, under ordinary circumstances, produce fatal results. Given in cases in extremis, the resulting exhaustion from repeated emesis would very likely hasten death, but death would be more likely due to the act of vomiting exhausting the patient than to any poisonous effect of the lobelia. Therapy.External. Infusion of lobelia, or the alcoholic preparations diluted and constantly applied by means of compresses, are among the most efficient applications in rhus poisoning. A lotion or a poultice (with flaxseed or elm) often relieves insect bites and stings, articular pain, the pain of bruises and sprains, and sometimes causes relaxation in strangulated hernia, and relieves the discomfort of erysipelatous inflammation. Powdered lobelia sprinkled upon a larded cloth and applied warm, or the compound emetic powder similarly used, is an invaluable local application to the chest in acute thoracic diseases, and gives marked relief from pleural and muscular pains and alleviates the sense of suffocation and fullness accompanied by a feeling of soreness within the chest. Libradol is a more cleanly application and owing to the presence of glycerin is more or less dehydrating, thus making it a preferable application in swellings, bunions, and inflammatory aff1
SANGUINARIAALFI8
The rhizome and roots of Sanguinaria canadensis, Linné (Nat. Ord. Papaveraceae), gathered in autumn after the leaves and scape have died to the ground. Found in woods and clearings and along old fences in North America from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico and from the Atlantic to the western boundary of the States bordering the west bank of the Mississippi. It is one of our most beautiful vernal flowers and is rapidly becoming scarce on account of the ravages of despoilers of our native flora. Dose, 1 to 5 grains (expectorant); 15 to 20 grains (emetic; not used). Common Names: Bloodroot, Red Puccoon, Puccoon, Indian Paint, Tetterwort, etc. Principal Constituents.Chelerythrine (forming yellow salts with acids), sanguinarina (forming red salts with acids), gamma-homochelidilonine and protopine, all of which are alkaloids; alcohol soluble resin and sanguinarinic acid. Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Sanguinaria. Dose, 1 to 10 drops, well diluted. Usual form of Administration: Rx Specific Medicine Sanguinaria, 5-10 drops; Water, 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every two or three hours. 2. Tinctura Sanguinaria Acetata Composita, Compound Acetated Tincture of Bloodroot (Acetous Emetic Tincture). An acetated tincture of Sanguinaria, Lobelia and Dracontium. Dose, 20 to 60 drops (expectorant); 1 to 4 fluidrachms (emetic). Specific Indications.-Burning and itching mucous membranes, especially of fauces, pharynx, Eustachian tubes, and ears; less frequently of larynx, trachea, and bronchi, occasionally of stomach and rectum, and rarely of vagina and urethra; mucous membrane looks red and irritable; nervousness, redness of nose, with acrid discharge, burning, and constriction in fauces or pharynx, with irritative cough and difficult respiration (Scudder). Feeble circulation, with coldness of extremities (Locke). Action.The physiological action of sanguinaria is pronounced. The powder, when inhaled, is exceedingly irritating to the Schneiderian membrane, provoking violent sneezing, and free and somewhat prolonged secretion of mucus. To the taste, bloodroot is harsh, bitter, acrid, and persistent, and, when swallowed, leaves an acridity and sense of constriction in the fauces and pharynx, and induces a feeling of warmth in the stomach. In small doses, it stimulates the digestive organs, and increases the action of the heart and arteries, acting as a stimulant and tonic; in larger doses it acts as a sedative to the heart, reducing the pulse, causing nausea, and, consequently, diaphoresis, increased expectoration, and gentle diuresis, at the same time stimulating the liver to increased action. If the dose be large, it provokes nausea, with violent emesis, vertigo, disordered vision, and great prostration. It also increases the broncho-pulmonary, cutaneous, and menstrual secretions. It is a systemic emetic, very depressing, causing increased salivary and hepatic secretions, and hypercatharsis may result. When an emetic dose has been taken, the heart's action is at first accelerated, and then depressed. Poisonous doses produce violent gastralgia of a burning and racking character, which extends throughout the gastro-intestinal canal. The muscles relax, the skin becomes cold and clammy, the pupils dilate, there is great thirst and anxiety, and the heart's action becomes slower and irregular. Spinal reflexes are reduced and paralysis of the spinal nerve centers follows. Lethal doses produce death by paralysis of medullary, respiratory, and cardiac centers, death being sometimes preceded by convulsions. Therapy.External. Sanguinaria is sternutatory, but is no longer used, as formerly, in snuff to excite secretion or to reduce polypi and other nasal growths and turgescence; to alleviate headache, neuralgia, or chronic nasal catarrh. A cataplasm of slippery elm and blood root is a favorite domestic remedy for frozen feet and chilblains; and an acetated decoction has received professional endorsement for some forms of eczema, ringworm, and warts. An ointment has also been successfully used in tinea. Internal. Sanguinaria fulfills a variety of uses according to the size of the dose administered. Minute doses relieve irritation, whereas large doses provoke such an effect. Though decidedly emetic it should never be used alone as such, but in combination, as in the acetous emetic tincture, it may, in rare cases, be used as a systemic evacuant where it is thought necessary to thoroughly cleanse the stomach, and to excite to activity sluggish hepatic and general glandular function. Such a course is one of the oft-neglected means once employed in prefebrile states, and was effectual sometimes in preventing the onset of continued and intermittent fevers. An occasional emetic of this type also acts well in chronic stomach disorders, with arrest of function and gaseous eructation, and succeeds in emptying the stomach of a great quantity of ropy mucus, thus preparing the way for the kindly reception of other needed remedies. Sanguinaria has a gentle but reliable cholagogue action, and may be used in hepatic torpor, congestion of the liver, and subacute and chronic hepatitis. In hepatic debility, where the bile is deficient or vitiated and the general circulation feeble, with cold extremities and in sick headache, catarrhal jaundice, and duodenal catarrh depending upon a like condition, small doses of sanguinaria are efficient. Nor should it be overlooked for gastric catarrh and atonic dyspepsia associated with hepatic torpor and circulatory enfeeblement. Drop doses of the specific medicine (well diluted), every two or three hours, best meet these functional derangements. The alterative properties of sanguinaria are not to be underestimated. Bloodroot is useful in amenorrhea in anemic and chlorotic patients who suffer with chills and headache, and in dysmenorrhea in debilitated subjects. When due to vicarious menstruation, hemorrhage from the lungs is said to have been controlled by it. It may be used als1
The rhizome and roots of Sanguinaria canadensis, Linné (Nat. Ord. Papaveraceae), gathered in autumn after the leaves and scape have died to the ground. Found in woods and clearings and along old fences in North America from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico and from the Atlantic to the western boundary of the States bordering the west bank of the Mississippi. It is one of our most beautiful vernal flowers and is rapidly becoming scarce on account of the ravages of despoilers of our native flora. Dose, 1 to 5 grains (expectorant); 15 to 20 grains (emetic; not used). Common Names: Bloodroot, Red Puccoon, Puccoon, Indian Paint, Tetterwort, etc. Principal Constituents.Chelerythrine (forming yellow salts with acids), sanguinarina (forming red salts with acids), gamma-homochelidilonine and protopine, all of which are alkaloids; alcohol soluble resin and sanguinarinic acid. Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Sanguinaria. Dose, 1 to 10 drops, well diluted. Usual form of Administration: Rx Specific Medicine Sanguinaria, 5-10 drops; Water, 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every two or three hours. 2. Tinctura Sanguinaria Acetata Composita, Compound Acetated Tincture of Bloodroot (Acetous Emetic Tincture). An acetated tincture of Sanguinaria, Lobelia and Dracontium. Dose, 20 to 60 drops (expectorant); 1 to 4 fluidrachms (emetic). Specific Indications.-Burning and itching mucous membranes, especially of fauces, pharynx, Eustachian tubes, and ears; less frequently of larynx, trachea, and bronchi, occasionally of stomach and rectum, and rarely of vagina and urethra; mucous membrane looks red and irritable; nervousness, redness of nose, with acrid discharge, burning, and constriction in fauces or pharynx, with irritative cough and difficult respiration (Scudder). Feeble circulation, with coldness of extremities (Locke). Action.The physiological action of sanguinaria is pronounced. The powder, when inhaled, is exceedingly irritating to the Schneiderian membrane, provoking violent sneezing, and free and somewhat prolonged secretion of mucus. To the taste, bloodroot is harsh, bitter, acrid, and persistent, and, when swallowed, leaves an acridity and sense of constriction in the fauces and pharynx, and induces a feeling of warmth in the stomach. In small doses, it stimulates the digestive organs, and increases the action of the heart and arteries, acting as a stimulant and tonic; in larger doses it acts as a sedative to the heart, reducing the pulse, causing nausea, and, consequently, diaphoresis, increased expectoration, and gentle diuresis, at the same time stimulating the liver to increased action. If the dose be large, it provokes nausea, with violent emesis, vertigo, disordered vision, and great prostration. It also increases the broncho-pulmonary, cutaneous, and menstrual secretions. It is a systemic emetic, very depressing, causing increased salivary and hepatic secretions, and hypercatharsis may result. When an emetic dose has been taken, the heart's action is at first accelerated, and then depressed. Poisonous doses produce violent gastralgia of a burning and racking character, which extends throughout the gastro-intestinal canal. The muscles relax, the skin becomes cold and clammy, the pupils dilate, there is great thirst and anxiety, and the heart's action becomes slower and irregular. Spinal reflexes are reduced and paralysis of the spinal nerve centers follows. Lethal doses produce death by paralysis of medullary, respiratory, and cardiac centers, death being sometimes preceded by convulsions. Therapy.External. Sanguinaria is sternutatory, but is no longer used, as formerly, in snuff to excite secretion or to reduce polypi and other nasal growths and turgescence; to alleviate headache, neuralgia, or chronic nasal catarrh. A cataplasm of slippery elm and blood root is a favorite domestic remedy for frozen feet and chilblains; and an acetated decoction has received professional endorsement for some forms of eczema, ringworm, and warts. An ointment has also been successfully used in tinea. Internal. Sanguinaria fulfills a variety of uses according to the size of the dose administered. Minute doses relieve irritation, whereas large doses provoke such an effect. Though decidedly emetic it should never be used alone as such, but in combination, as in the acetous emetic tincture, it may, in rare cases, be used as a systemic evacuant where it is thought necessary to thoroughly cleanse the stomach, and to excite to activity sluggish hepatic and general glandular function. Such a course is one of the oft-neglected means once employed in prefebrile states, and was effectual sometimes in preventing the onset of continued and intermittent fevers. An occasional emetic of this type also acts well in chronic stomach disorders, with arrest of function and gaseous eructation, and succeeds in emptying the stomach of a great quantity of ropy mucus, thus preparing the way for the kindly reception of other needed remedies. Sanguinaria has a gentle but reliable cholagogue action, and may be used in hepatic torpor, congestion of the liver, and subacute and chronic hepatitis. In hepatic debility, where the bile is deficient or vitiated and the general circulation feeble, with cold extremities and in sick headache, catarrhal jaundice, and duodenal catarrh depending upon a like condition, small doses of sanguinaria are efficient. Nor should it be overlooked for gastric catarrh and atonic dyspepsia associated with hepatic torpor and circulatory enfeeblement. Drop doses of the specific medicine (well diluted), every two or three hours, best meet these functional derangements. The alterative properties of sanguinaria are not to be underestimated. Bloodroot is useful in amenorrhea in anemic and chlorotic patients who suffer with chills and headache, and in dysmenorrhea in debilitated subjects. When due to vicarious menstruation, hemorrhage from the lungs is said to have been controlled by it. It may be used als1
STILLINGIA
The dried root of Stillingia sylvatica, Linné (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceae). Southern United States growing in sandy soils. Dose, 5 to 60 grains. Common Names: Queen's Root, Queen's Delight, Silver Leaf, Yaw Root. Principal Constituents.Tannin, sylvacrol, an acrid resin-volatile oil; doubtfully an alkaloid, stillingine. Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Stillingia. Dose, 1 to 30 drops. 2. Linimentum Stillingia, Compositus, Compound Stillingia Liniment (Stillingia Liniment). (Contains Oil of Stillingia, 1 fluidounce; Oils of Lobelia and Cajuput, each, 1/2 fluidounce; Alcohol and Glycerin, each, 2 fluidounces.) Dose, 1 to 5 drops. Specific Indications.Feeble tissues, with tardy removal of brokendown material, and slow reconstruction of tissues; mucosa red, glistening and tumid, with scanty secretion; skin lesions, with irritation and ichorous discharge; periosteal pain and nodes; syphilitic and strumous cachexia; laryngeal irritation with paroxysmal hoarse croupal cough; post-faucial irritation with cough; irritative winter cough. Action and Therapy.Stillingia is an important alterative when a good preparation can be procured. Much of the failure to achieve results with it has come from the use of medicines prepared from old and worthless material. Large doses of an active preparation will cause increased cardiac activity, excessive bronchial secretion, vomiting and bilious purging, with a peculiar gastro-intestinal burning sensation, and more or less resultant prostration. For a long time it has been praised as a remedy for syphilis, and discordant views are expressed by clinicians as to its value as such. We do not believe it antisyphilitic, but it is one of the best alteratives that can be exhibited in syphilitic and strumous cachexias, greatly aiding other and more powerful agents, as the iodide of potassium. In all phases of secondary syphiliscutaneous syphilides, mucous patches, ulcers, and periosteal pain and nodular and glandular enlargementsit renders good auxiliary service through its depurative action. It must not be misunderstood, however, that any claim to a cure of syphilis by stillingia can be justified by past experience. Nevertheless, it is one of the best of remedies to modify the disease and assist other agents to cure. The best indication for it is the red, shining or glistening mucous membranes with scanty secretion, and the presence of retained debris of tissue waste with tardy repair of structure. While sometimes used early in syphilis, during the primary stage, we can see no reason for its use before broken-down products begin to appear as it is not per se an antisyphilitic; and experience has shown the drug to be of the greatest value in the secondary stage of the disorder. Stillingia is valuable, though less so than Stillingia Liniment (see below) in laryngeal irritation and cough, and other irritative states of the bronchi and faucial arch, with repressed secretion. Thus it may be used in chronic laryngitis, chronic bronchitis, the chronic coughs of the strumous individual, where glandular swelling and scanty elimination are evident. It is one of the most effectual drugs we have ever used for the irritable winter cough of the middle-aged and old. Stillingia may be used in chronic periosteal rheumatism, so-called, of unproved origin, but probably syphilitic; and in skin diseases having a remote syphilitic history. Hare advises its use in chronic constipation to increase intestinal secretion, and for hemorrhoids depending upon hepatic engorgement and intestinal atony. Likewise for pasty-looking, white, putty-faced children, who are anemic or strumous, and who never have any appetite, or are subject to middle-ear trouble and general debility; the remedy to be used for some time. Compound Stillingia Liniment. This compound produces both stimulation and relaxation. Locally applied to the throat and chest and given internally on sugar or in syrup this is one of the most perfect remedies for spasmodic and catarrhal croup of young children. A cloth wet with cold water applied around the neck and covered with a dry binder enhances the value of the treatment. Many cases of acute cold and sore throat are speedily arrested by the same treatment. We would be at a loss to treat croup and croupal coughs without this admirable heritage from the Eclectic pioneer physicians. Sometimes spasmodic asthma is promptly checked by it. Pushed too far stillingia liniment causes nausea and vomiting, but it is never necessary to carry it to such a stage. A few drops upon sugar, or in glycerin or syrup, promptly relieve dry, rasping, laryngeal cough, and in chronic bronchial cough with either scant or profuse expectoration it gives splendid results. Stillingia liniment is sometimes used like other embrocations for lame, rheumatic, inflamed, and otherwise painful parts; and with very gentle massage it gives relief to the soreness of the chestwalls from difficult breathing experienced by consumptives, as well as the pains in the limbs so frequently a torture to this class of sufferers.1
The dried root of Stillingia sylvatica, Linné (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceae). Southern United States growing in sandy soils. Dose, 5 to 60 grains. Common Names: Queen's Root, Queen's Delight, Silver Leaf, Yaw Root. Principal Constituents.Tannin, sylvacrol, an acrid resin-volatile oil; doubtfully an alkaloid, stillingine. Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Stillingia. Dose, 1 to 30 drops. 2. Linimentum Stillingia, Compositus, Compound Stillingia Liniment (Stillingia Liniment). (Contains Oil of Stillingia, 1 fluidounce; Oils of Lobelia and Cajuput, each, 1/2 fluidounce; Alcohol and Glycerin, each, 2 fluidounces.) Dose, 1 to 5 drops. Specific Indications.Feeble tissues, with tardy removal of brokendown material, and slow reconstruction of tissues; mucosa red, glistening and tumid, with scanty secretion; skin lesions, with irritation and ichorous discharge; periosteal pain and nodes; syphilitic and strumous cachexia; laryngeal irritation with paroxysmal hoarse croupal cough; post-faucial irritation with cough; irritative winter cough. Action and Therapy.Stillingia is an important alterative when a good preparation can be procured. Much of the failure to achieve results with it has come from the use of medicines prepared from old and worthless material. Large doses of an active preparation will cause increased cardiac activity, excessive bronchial secretion, vomiting and bilious purging, with a peculiar gastro-intestinal burning sensation, and more or less resultant prostration. For a long time it has been praised as a remedy for syphilis, and discordant views are expressed by clinicians as to its value as such. We do not believe it antisyphilitic, but it is one of the best alteratives that can be exhibited in syphilitic and strumous cachexias, greatly aiding other and more powerful agents, as the iodide of potassium. In all phases of secondary syphiliscutaneous syphilides, mucous patches, ulcers, and periosteal pain and nodular and glandular enlargementsit renders good auxiliary service through its depurative action. It must not be misunderstood, however, that any claim to a cure of syphilis by stillingia can be justified by past experience. Nevertheless, it is one of the best of remedies to modify the disease and assist other agents to cure. The best indication for it is the red, shining or glistening mucous membranes with scanty secretion, and the presence of retained debris of tissue waste with tardy repair of structure. While sometimes used early in syphilis, during the primary stage, we can see no reason for its use before broken-down products begin to appear as it is not per se an antisyphilitic; and experience has shown the drug to be of the greatest value in the secondary stage of the disorder. Stillingia is valuable, though less so than Stillingia Liniment (see below) in laryngeal irritation and cough, and other irritative states of the bronchi and faucial arch, with repressed secretion. Thus it may be used in chronic laryngitis, chronic bronchitis, the chronic coughs of the strumous individual, where glandular swelling and scanty elimination are evident. It is one of the most effectual drugs we have ever used for the irritable winter cough of the middle-aged and old. Stillingia may be used in chronic periosteal rheumatism, so-called, of unproved origin, but probably syphilitic; and in skin diseases having a remote syphilitic history. Hare advises its use in chronic constipation to increase intestinal secretion, and for hemorrhoids depending upon hepatic engorgement and intestinal atony. Likewise for pasty-looking, white, putty-faced children, who are anemic or strumous, and who never have any appetite, or are subject to middle-ear trouble and general debility; the remedy to be used for some time. Compound Stillingia Liniment. This compound produces both stimulation and relaxation. Locally applied to the throat and chest and given internally on sugar or in syrup this is one of the most perfect remedies for spasmodic and catarrhal croup of young children. A cloth wet with cold water applied around the neck and covered with a dry binder enhances the value of the treatment. Many cases of acute cold and sore throat are speedily arrested by the same treatment. We would be at a loss to treat croup and croupal coughs without this admirable heritage from the Eclectic pioneer physicians. Sometimes spasmodic asthma is promptly checked by it. Pushed too far stillingia liniment causes nausea and vomiting, but it is never necessary to carry it to such a stage. A few drops upon sugar, or in glycerin or syrup, promptly relieve dry, rasping, laryngeal cough, and in chronic bronchial cough with either scant or profuse expectoration it gives splendid results. Stillingia liniment is sometimes used like other embrocations for lame, rheumatic, inflamed, and otherwise painful parts; and with very gentle massage it gives relief to the soreness of the chestwalls from difficult breathing experienced by consumptives, as well as the pains in the limbs so frequently a torture to this class of sufferers.1
STRAMONIUM (Datura spp.)
The dried leaves of Datura Stramonium, Linné, or of Datura Tatula, Linné (Nat. Ord. Solanaceae). A common weed everywhere in the United States, especially the latter. Dose, 1 to 2 grains. Common Names: Jamestown Weed, Jimson Weed, Thornapple. h Principal Constituents.The chief datura alkaloids are hyoscyamine, and some atropine, and hyoscine. Daturine is probably a mixture of the first two. (See also Hyoscyamus and Belladonna.) Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Stramonium. Dose, 1/30 to 5 drops. 2. Unguentum Stramonii, Ointment of Stramonium. Best preparation is that carefully prepared by simmering fresh stramonium leaves with petrolatum, on a water bath, so that burning cannot take place. The official ointment is prepared from extract of stramonium. Specific Indications.Cerebral irritation; furious raging and destructive delirium; face deeply congested, red, and bloated; loquaciousness; restlessness and fearfulness; superficial and localized pain; spasms with pain; convulsive cough; purely spasmodic asthma; the opium habit. Action and Toxicology.The action of stramonium is closely similar to that of belladonna. If anything, it has a more profound effect upon the sympathetic system and upon the vagus. If the dose be large enough it will disturb the rhythm of the heart action and induce delirium, exerting these effects more readily and more powerfully than does belladonna. Stramonium is probably the most violent deliriant of the solanaceae. Its alkaloid daturine is closely akin to, if not identical with, hyoscyamine. American manufacturers are now utilizing stramonium for the preparation of atropine from daturine, and during the year 1917 of the great World War this source practically prevented an atropine famine in the American drug markets. Therapy.External. Fomentations of stramonium leaves, or the bruised fresh leaves may be applied to inflamed and painful parts to reduce swelling and relieve pain. In this manner it is often useful in mammitis, orchitis, swollen joints, and painful external hemorrhoids. An ointment of stramonium, carefully prepared without burning it, is an excellent application for painful and engorged piles, or as the ointment basis for other agents to be used for the same purpose. It is also soothing in cutaneous hypertrophy around the anus with intolerable itching and sometimes semipurulent secretion. It is rendered more effective by incorporating with it 5 to 10 per cent of salicylic acid. Stramonium leaves, alone, or with tobacco, lobelia, grindelia, and nitrate of potassium are universally employed as an asthma powder. It is used by igniting the powder and inhaling the vapors, or by smoking it in a pipe or in the form of cigarettes. It is among the most prompt of measures for the temporary relief of the paroxysms of purely spasmodic asthma. Internal. The specific indications for stramonium are those indicating impaired innervation. The face is red and bloated and of a deeper congestive appearance than that for belladonna; there is continual talking and the patient is uneasy, cannot rest well in any position, and is possessed of an ungrounded fear. There may or may not be furious, enraged, or destructive delirium. Localized and superficial pain, or spasm with pain, is experienced. It is also indicated by convulsive cough, and purely spasmodic asthmatic attacks. When the dyspnea is dependent upon respiratory or cardiac lesions it is less useful. In all stramonium cases there is cerebral irritationcausing most often violent excitability or less frequently depressive irritability. The dose, therefore, should be governed accordingly; medium doses for the former, minute doses for the latter. In no instances are the full physiologic doses necessary except in the cure of the opium habit, when the drug may be pushed to the full limit of endurance. It remains to be seen whether permanent damage may be done to the intellectual faculties from such dosage, as is the case with atropine. In medicinal doses stramonium is an anodyne antispasmodic, without causing constipation or lessening of the excretion of urine, and will prove serviceable in many instances where opium cannot be given. Unlike hyoscyamus it does not readily produce sleep, but if sleep results from its administration, it is generally due to the fact that the stramonium alleviates the pain, or allays the nervous irritability upon which the insomnia depends. It is quite remarkable that a plant so closely allied to belladonna chemically should be so different in some of its therapeutical effects, and particularly in regard to alleviating pain. Thus for deep-seated pain, as of neuralgia, it is far less effective than belladonna, but for superficial neuralgia, and especially when locally applied, it is more effective than the former. It illustrates well the fallacy of claiming certain effects from a medicine because of the known physiological action of the drugthe therapeutical effects often being widely at variance. Bartholow well expressed the situation and unconsciously forecast collodial therapy when he observed: Identity of chemical constitution does not always mean identity in physiological action and in therapeutic power. Differences in molecular arrangement, not appreciable by chemical analysis, may influence to a great extent mode of action. Stramonium is useful for the relief of pain, but less so in general than belladonna. When pain is due to irritability, as in enteralgia, gastritis, and enteritis, neuralgic dysmenorrhea, spasmodic intestinal pain, tic douloureux, sciatica, and the pains of chronic rheumatism, it is useful but does not compare with either belladonna or hyoscyamus, either of which are incapable of subduing severe pain. Stramonium serves well, however, in headache, with dizziness and hyperacidity of the stomach, and in gastric headache when associated with nervous erethism and unsteadiness. Like hyoscyamus, stramonium meets two classes of nervous and mental disordersthe ment1
The dried leaves of Datura Stramonium, Linné, or of Datura Tatula, Linné (Nat. Ord. Solanaceae). A common weed everywhere in the United States, especially the latter. Dose, 1 to 2 grains. Common Names: Jamestown Weed, Jimson Weed, Thornapple. h Principal Constituents.The chief datura alkaloids are hyoscyamine, and some atropine, and hyoscine. Daturine is probably a mixture of the first two. (See also Hyoscyamus and Belladonna.) Preparations.1. Specific Medicine Stramonium. Dose, 1/30 to 5 drops. 2. Unguentum Stramonii, Ointment of Stramonium. Best preparation is that carefully prepared by simmering fresh stramonium leaves with petrolatum, on a water bath, so that burning cannot take place. The official ointment is prepared from extract of stramonium. Specific Indications.Cerebral irritation; furious raging and destructive delirium; face deeply congested, red, and bloated; loquaciousness; restlessness and fearfulness; superficial and localized pain; spasms with pain; convulsive cough; purely spasmodic asthma; the opium habit. Action and Toxicology.The action of stramonium is closely similar to that of belladonna. If anything, it has a more profound effect upon the sympathetic system and upon the vagus. If the dose be large enough it will disturb the rhythm of the heart action and induce delirium, exerting these effects more readily and more powerfully than does belladonna. Stramonium is probably the most violent deliriant of the solanaceae. Its alkaloid daturine is closely akin to, if not identical with, hyoscyamine. American manufacturers are now utilizing stramonium for the preparation of atropine from daturine, and during the year 1917 of the great World War this source practically prevented an atropine famine in the American drug markets. Therapy.External. Fomentations of stramonium leaves, or the bruised fresh leaves may be applied to inflamed and painful parts to reduce swelling and relieve pain. In this manner it is often useful in mammitis, orchitis, swollen joints, and painful external hemorrhoids. An ointment of stramonium, carefully prepared without burning it, is an excellent application for painful and engorged piles, or as the ointment basis for other agents to be used for the same purpose. It is also soothing in cutaneous hypertrophy around the anus with intolerable itching and sometimes semipurulent secretion. It is rendered more effective by incorporating with it 5 to 10 per cent of salicylic acid. Stramonium leaves, alone, or with tobacco, lobelia, grindelia, and nitrate of potassium are universally employed as an asthma powder. It is used by igniting the powder and inhaling the vapors, or by smoking it in a pipe or in the form of cigarettes. It is among the most prompt of measures for the temporary relief of the paroxysms of purely spasmodic asthma. Internal. The specific indications for stramonium are those indicating impaired innervation. The face is red and bloated and of a deeper congestive appearance than that for belladonna; there is continual talking and the patient is uneasy, cannot rest well in any position, and is possessed of an ungrounded fear. There may or may not be furious, enraged, or destructive delirium. Localized and superficial pain, or spasm with pain, is experienced. It is also indicated by convulsive cough, and purely spasmodic asthmatic attacks. When the dyspnea is dependent upon respiratory or cardiac lesions it is less useful. In all stramonium cases there is cerebral irritationcausing most often violent excitability or less frequently depressive irritability. The dose, therefore, should be governed accordingly; medium doses for the former, minute doses for the latter. In no instances are the full physiologic doses necessary except in the cure of the opium habit, when the drug may be pushed to the full limit of endurance. It remains to be seen whether permanent damage may be done to the intellectual faculties from such dosage, as is the case with atropine. In medicinal doses stramonium is an anodyne antispasmodic, without causing constipation or lessening of the excretion of urine, and will prove serviceable in many instances where opium cannot be given. Unlike hyoscyamus it does not readily produce sleep, but if sleep results from its administration, it is generally due to the fact that the stramonium alleviates the pain, or allays the nervous irritability upon which the insomnia depends. It is quite remarkable that a plant so closely allied to belladonna chemically should be so different in some of its therapeutical effects, and particularly in regard to alleviating pain. Thus for deep-seated pain, as of neuralgia, it is far less effective than belladonna, but for superficial neuralgia, and especially when locally applied, it is more effective than the former. It illustrates well the fallacy of claiming certain effects from a medicine because of the known physiological action of the drugthe therapeutical effects often being widely at variance. Bartholow well expressed the situation and unconsciously forecast collodial therapy when he observed: Identity of chemical constitution does not always mean identity in physiological action and in therapeutic power. Differences in molecular arrangement, not appreciable by chemical analysis, may influence to a great extent mode of action. Stramonium is useful for the relief of pain, but less so in general than belladonna. When pain is due to irritability, as in enteralgia, gastritis, and enteritis, neuralgic dysmenorrhea, spasmodic intestinal pain, tic douloureux, sciatica, and the pains of chronic rheumatism, it is useful but does not compare with either belladonna or hyoscyamus, either of which are incapable of subduing severe pain. Stramonium serves well, however, in headache, with dizziness and hyperacidity of the stomach, and in gastric headache when associated with nervous erethism and unsteadiness. Like hyoscyamus, stramonium meets two classes of nervous and mental disordersthe ment1
References
1) Felter, Harvey Wickes, 1922, The Eclectic Materia Medica, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Cincinnati, Ohio.