Transcriber's Note:

Apparent typographical errors have been corrected. Variations in the use of hyphens and of accents have been retained.

The symbol for "minim" (an obselete measure of capacity) is used once. It may not display properly in all applications.

Part II comprises a synopsis or index of diseases and their treatment. Their names have been bolded, on the same lines as the list of medecines and medical plants in Part I.

REMARKS ON THE USES
OF SOME OF THE
BAZAAR MEDICINES
AND
COMMON MEDICAL PLANTS OF INDIA

WITH A FULL INDEX OF DISEASES, INDICATING THEIR
TREATMENT BY THESE AND OTHER AGENTS
PROCURABLE THROUGHOUT INDIA

TO WHICH ARE ADDED

DIRECTIONS FOR TREATMENT IN CASES OF
DROWNING, SNAKE-BITES, &c.

BY
EDWARD JOHN WARING, C.I.E., M.D.
FELLOW OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS OF LONDON
SURGEON-MAJOR (RETIRED) HER MAJESTY'S INDIAN ARMY
EDITOR OF THE PHARMACOPŒIA OF INDIA, ETC.

FIFTH EDITION

LONDON
J. & A. CHURCHILL
7 GREAT MARLBOROUGH STREET
1897

PREFACE TO THE FIFTH EDITION.

Owing to the favour in which this work is still being held by the public in India, as proved by the entire sale of the Fourth Edition, I have taken upon myself to issue this, the Fifth Edition, with the generous assistance of my late father's friend, J. E. T. Aitchison, M.D., C.I.E., to whom I owe a great debt of gratitude for the time and trouble and valuable special knowledge he has so liberally bestowed on the work.

The only important changes that occur in this Edition are the introduction of a couple of diagrams of a clinical thermometer, with a few notes to guide the non-professional in its use; some alterations in the text, where subjects that had been issued in the Fourth Edition as notes to the text are now incorporated in the text itself; and lastly, Dr. Aitchison has more fully entered upon his treatment of small-pox with carbolised oil.

C. WARING.

PREFACE TO THE FOURTH EDITION.

That this little work should have reached a Fourth Edition may be taken as pretty clear indication that it has met a recognised want amongst our Indian fellow-subjects, for whose instruction and guidance it was originally issued. To render it worthy of continued favour, and to make it additionally useful, has been my anxious endeavour.

Of any merit which this edition may be found to possess over the preceding one, a very large portion is due to Dr. J. E. T. Aitchison, C.I.E., Surgeon-Major in H.M. Indian (Bengal) Medical Service, who, with a liberality that demands my warmest thanks, placed at my disposal an elaborate MS. commentary on the Third Edition, embodying his own professional experience in India (extending over many years), and supplying the vernacular names of the various drugs in the Punjábí, Kashmírí, and Leh languages. Of this document it need hardly be said I have availed myself largely, my only regret being that I could not insert it in extenso, but to have done this would greatly have exceeded the prescribed limits of the work. As it is, Dr. Aitchison has laid me under a vast obligation, which I am only too happy to have this opportunity of acknowledging.

Five new articles have been added to the List of Drugs: two at the suggestion of Dr. Aitchison; namely, (1) Sugar, and (2) Kerosene Oil, which latter, owing to its extensive use for lighting purposes during the past few years, is now obtainable in nearly every bazaar in the country; the other three being the (3) Cinchona Febrifuge (Quinetum), (4) Petroleum, and (5) Rock Salt. The various ways in which these articles may be utilised in the treatment of disease will be found under their respective headings in the "Addenda," p. 171, et seq.

In addition to these there have been introduced notices of Indian Hemp (Gunjah) smoking in the treatment of Tetanus, of the antiscorbutic properties of Ámchur (dried Mangoes), the lactifuge powers of Sambac flowers (Jasminum Sambac), the emmenagogue virtues of Til or Jinjili Seeds (Sesamum Indicum), and other points unnoticed in previous editions. The therapeutic applications of Water are enlarged upon; as also are those of Carbolic Acid, especially in the treatment of Leprosy. The Sick Dietary has likewise been extended. Amongst the new matter has been introduced a section (pp. 268-272) detailing the "Precautions to be taken by persons residing in snake-infested localities."

By these and other additions (occupying upwards of thirty pages of new matter), and by the revision and modification of other passages, it is confidently hoped that the practical value of the work will be found to be materially increased. Indeed, it has been my earnest endeavour throughout to render this little volume as useful as possible, and if through its instrumentality suffering humanity be in any degree benefited my highest aspiration will be attained.

E. J. WARING.

PREFACE TO THE SECOND EDITION.

Fourteen years have elapsed since this work, in an elementary form, was first issued for the use of the District Vaccinators of Travancore, whose sphere of action was far removed from regular medical aid. It was originally published in English and Tamil on opposite pages; subsequently it was reprinted in Tamil alone by the London Missionary Society's Press at Nagercoil, for the use of the catechists and others connected with that Mission. In 1868, a Malyalim translation, by Dresser Ramswammy Rajoo, was issued by the Travancore Government. From reports received from various quarters, there is reason to believe that the work has enjoyed a wide circulation amongst the people of Travancore and Tinnevelly, and that it has exercised a considerable influence on the practice of the native doctors of those districts.

Were I wise, I ought, perhaps, to rest satisfied with these results, which far exceed what were originally contemplated; but recent observation has convinced me that there are other classes scattered through our great Indian possessions to whom a work of the kind would prove most acceptable, by pointing out to them the agents—either purchasable in the bazaars at an almost nominal price, or procurable at the cost of collection, from the road-sides, waste places, or gardens in the immediate neighbourhood of almost every out-station—by means of which, with the exercise of ordinary intelligence, they may often be enabled to relieve the sufferings of those amongst whom their lot has been cast.

And at the head of these classes stand the Missionaries, whose stations, for the most part, are too far removed from the busy haunts of men to allow of their calling in regular medical aid in cases of sickness, and who are consequently thrown, at such times, very much on their own resources. Many of the missionaries have under their charge large establishments of catechists, pupils, &c.; and it cannot be otherwise than highly desirable that they should be put in possession of any information regarding the available means of relieving the sufferings, and treating the diseases, of those placed under their care. This is not the place to enter into a disquisition on missionary work, but I cannot refrain from expressing my firm conviction that the more the principle of Medical Missions—making Religion and Medicine go hand in hand—is carried out, the greater, humanly speaking, will be the success of missionary efforts. How many a door for the admission of Gospel truth, which would otherwise be shut, would be opened, and that readily, to one who, with "the glad tidings of great joy" in the one hand, would bring in the other the means of relieving physical suffering and curing bodily disease! The highest distinction that I would claim for this little work is, that it may constitute, as far as India is concerned, a Missionaries' Medical Vade Mecum.

Next on the rôle comes a large army of European and Anglo-Indian officials, whether within the magic circle of "the Service" or beyond its pale, who are attached to the Public Works, Forests, Railway, Telegraph, or other Departments, or employed in Tea, Coffee, or Cotton plantations, in commercial pursuits, &c., many of them married men, with families and a large number of dependants, the majority at distant "up-country stations," miles away from medical aid; how important for persons under such circumstances to possess a knowledge of the means lying (literally so in many instances) at their very feet, by which pain and suffering may be alleviated, and, perhaps, a valuable life saved.

Lastly, but by no means least, either in point of numbers or importance, comes the daily increasing array of educated Natives, who, as a class, readily avail themselves of every scrap of knowledge drawn from trustworthy European sources, which tends to throw light on the products and resources of their native land. Whilst, on the one hand, I am perfectly prepared to admit that much of the knowledge I possess of the properties and uses of Indian drugs has been derived from Native sources, I think I may, on the other hand, without presumption, claim the credit of repaying the debt with interest, furnishing in return a considerable amount of information on the uses of even the same drugs, of which the Natives themselves had previously no idea. It is to this class that I venture to think this little work will prove most useful and acceptable.

In addition to the above, I venture to hope that to even duly qualified Medical Officers, especially at up-country stations, a work like the present may prove serviceable on emergencies, e.g., a failure of the supply of European drugs, &c., by showing them what resources they have at command in the bazaars or in their immediate neighbourhood, by means of which many a gap may be stopped till more efficient remedies are available.

In undertaking a Second Edition of this work, I have been further influenced by a desire to render its scope and contents more complete. With more extended knowledge on my part, drawn partly from subsequent personal experience in the use of Indian drugs, and partly from the Reports received from Medical Officers during the preparation of the Pharmacopœia of India, I realised how imperfect the original work was; and feeling myself in a position to add much information which would tend to increase its usefulness, I determined upon issuing another edition. The whole work has accordingly been rewritten and greatly enlarged.

It was evidently quite out of the question, in a small work like the present, to include the host of medicines included under the general headings of "Bazaar Medicines" and "Common Medical Plants of India," but from them I have made a selection of about 80, comprising—1 Antacid, 8 Astringents, 3 Antispasmodics, 2 Antiscorbutics, 6 Antiperiodics, 5 Demulcents and Emollients, 4 Diaphoretics or Sudorifics, 4 Diuretics, 3 Expectorants, 2 Emmenagogues, 4 Emetics, 6 Purgatives, 3 Narcotics or Sedatives, 5 Refrigerants, 9 Stomachics or Carminatives, 7 Bitter Tonics, 5 Alterative Tonics or Alteratives, 2 Metallic Tonics, 7 Local and 4 General Stimulants, 2 Vesicants, or Blistering Agents, 6 Vermifuges, and 17 Miscellaneous Articles, not included in the above classes.

In making this selection I have been guided by the following principles:—1. By the safety of the drug; hence Arsenic, Aconite Root (Bish), Nux Vomica, Indian Hemp, and some other powerful medicines have been omitted, as it was felt to be inadvisable, in a work like the present, to introduce agents which, in the hands of unprofessional persons, might do more harm than good if employed in unsuitable cases. Where, however, a powerful drug, e.g., Opium, has been admitted, minute directions as to its employment have been given. 2. By the acknowledged utility or efficacy of the drug as proved by European experience. 3. By the drug possessing a generally well-known, recognised native name. 4. By its wide distribution and easy procurability in all parts, and in all the bazaars of India generally. It is hoped that by the addition of the native names and descriptions of the drugs (which were omitted in the First Edition), even a new-comer will have little difficulty in obtaining and recognising any particular article he may require.

With this native "Apparatus Medicaminum" very much may be accomplished under ordinary circumstances, in the way of relieving suffering and curing disease; but it must be admitted that there are certain articles included under the class "European Medicines" for which the Indian bazaars supply no adequate substitutes. I have therefore (in Appendix E) added a list of nine drugs which it appears desirable should be kept in store. They are—1. Sulphate of Quinine; 2. Ipecacuanha; 3. Smyrna or Turkey Opium; 4. Calomel; 5. Acetate of Lead; 6. Santonin; 7. Liquor Ammoniæ; 8. Blistering Fluid; and 9. Carbolic Acid.[1] No attempt has been made in the body of the work to enter into a description of the properties and uses of these drugs generally (with the exception of Opium), but in the Synopsis or Index of Diseases (Part II.) it has been pointed out how these valuable agents may be utilised in the most efficient manner. It is believed that, by adopting this course, the practical utility of the work will be greatly enhanced.

Attention is particularly directed to the Synopsis or Index of Diseases in Part II.; it is not pretended that the modes of treatment therein detailed are the best which could be adopted; the object has rather been to show how much good may be effected by the simple means at command at almost every "upcountry station" throughout India; and those who follow the directions may feel assured, that with the exercise of ordinary prudence, if they fail to do good they will at any rate do no harm.

London, 1874.

[1] To these Bromide of Potassium and Biniodide of Mercury have since been added.

INTRODUCTION.

This work, it is presumed, will fall into the hands of many who are wholly ignorant of, or very partially acquainted with, matters pharmaceutical; hence some few introductory remarks are indispensable to enable such persons to understand fully, and follow out correctly, the directions given.

1. Weights and Measures.—In Appendix C, a small set of Apothecaries' scales and weights is included, but in the absence of the former it is well to remember that a small set of scales, such as is used by native jewellers, can be procured for a few annas in every bazaar; care, however, is necessary to see that the balance is strictly correct and even.

Weights.—The Apothecary weights supplied from England have the following marks or signs impressed upon them:

The small circular indentations on the grain weights indicate the number of grains each weight represents.

In the absence of these, the following hints may be useful:

A new rupee of the present currency weighs 180 grains or three drachms.

A half rupee of the present currency weighs 90 grains or a drachm and a half.

A quarter rupee of the present currency weighs 45 grains or three quarters of a drachm.

To obtain smaller weights beat a new quarter rupee into a long, thin, narrow plate, and divide it carefully into three equal parts. You have thus three 15 grain weights. One of these divided again into three equal parts, furnishes three 5 grain weights. One of these subdivided into five equal parts furnishes five 1 grain weights. Care should be taken to see that the parts are of equal weight, and each part should be marked with a figure to denote its weight. A native jeweller, at a very small cost, will readily carry out the above subdivision.

With these, you may obtain any small weights you require; thus, if you require nine grains, you use a 5 grain weight and four single grain weights. If you want a drachm weight (60 grains), you use a quarter rupee (45 grains) and a 15 grain weight, which makes exactly the 60 grains or one drachm. To get a scruple (20 grains) weight, you use one of the 15 grain and one of the 5 grain weights = 20 grains or one scruple.

Two rupees and a half rupee together weigh 450 grains or slightly over one ounce, which weight they may be taken to represent, in the absence of regular weights in making up any of the prescriptions given in the following pages.

Measures of Capacity.—For these, the English Graduated Measures, glasses included, in Appendix C, should be employed. The marks on them signify as follows:

In default of a graduated measure glass, it may be useful to know that a small cup of silver or other metal, exactly the circumference of a quarter rupee and 3¾ inches deep, will hold exactly one ounce, and twenty of these full of liquid make one pint. Each ounce contains eight fluid-drachms, so with the aid of this ounce measure you can calculate the quantity required pretty accurately. The measure should be made of silver, as some medicines, especially the acids, act on the other metals.

Any native jeweller would manufacture one of these measures in a short time, and at a very small cost.

In the following pages other domestic measures, as they may be termed, are mentioned; they represent approximately the following quantities:

"A drop" may be taken generally to represent a minim, though in many instances they differ considerably in capacity.

It must be borne in mind that these measurements apply solely to fluids—never to solids. A tablespoonful of some solids, as powders, would weigh two or three ounces, whilst of others it might only be as many drachms.

Preparations.—A few hints on these may be useful to the uninitiated. Infusions.—In preparing these, the following points require attention: a, the solid ingredients should be cut into small pieces or slices, or bruised in a mortar, so that the water shall readily penetrate into the substance; b, the water should be boiling; c, the vessel or chattie containing the ingredients on which the boiling water has been poured, should be covered over to prevent evaporation, and set aside till the liquid is cold, when it should be strained through a muslin or thin rag. In hot climates infusions soon spoil, hence they should be freshly prepared every other day at the furthest. Decoctions.—These differ from Infusions so far that the ingredients are subject to the process of boiling. The requisite quantity of water having been heated to boiling-point, the solid ingredients, prepared as for infusions, are to be introduced, and the whole boiled in a covered vessel for the specified period. The liquid whilst hot should be strained and set aside in a covered vessel till cold. Like infusions, they rapidly become spoiled in hot climates. Tinctures.—These are formed by macerating the solid ingredients, prepared as directed for Infusions, in a bottle with the specified quantity of spirit, for seven days or more, occasionally shaking the same to ensure the spirit acting thoroughly on the ingredients. At the end of the specified period it should be strained, and the clear liquid set aside in a cool place in well-stoppered bottles, for use. Great care is necessary to prevent evaporation; hence if a glass-stoppered bottle is used, softened wax should be carefully placed round the stopper, which should be further secured by a cap of thin leather or wax-cloth tied tightly over it. It is thought by many that evaporation of spirit takes place less rapidly in a closely fitting corked bottle than in one provided with a glass stopper. Very serviceable corks, especially for temporary use, may be made out of Sola, the material used for hats, &c. In either case layers of wax and the leather are advisable. Under the most favourable circumstances evaporation to a greater or lesser extent will take place in hot climates; hence by long keeping, the tincture acquires increased strength, and in regulating the dose of the more active tinctures, as of Opium or Datura, the fact ought to be borne in mind, or serious consequences may ensue. Powders.—When an article is ordered to be taken in the form of powder, it should be pulverised as finely as possible. There is little difficulty in this when a large quantity of the article is required to be kept in store, as is generally advisable, as the natives, by the aid of the simple machinery which they employ in making "Curry powder," will reduce the hardest woody ingredients to the requisite state of fineness. When only a few grains or a small quantity is required, it may be obtained by means of a nutmeg-grater (included in List in Appendix C), and subsequently triturating the rough powder thus obtained in a mortar till it is reduced to the state of a fine powder. In the preparation of a Compound Powder, i.e., a powder containing two or more ingredients, it is of the greatest importance that they should be uniformly and thoroughly incorporated, else it is evident that a small portion of it, such as is usually prescribed as a dose, may contain an excess of one ingredient—it may be an active or dangerous one, and operate powerfully—whilst the next dose may be comparatively inert. Powders, when prepared in large quantities, should be kept in well-stoppered or corked bottles; if left in open vessels exposed to the action of the air, they soon become deteriorated. Pills.—For the reasons just stated, it is necessary, when two or more ingredients enter into the composition of a pill mass, to be careful that they are thoroughly incorporated. When powders, &c., enter into their composition, a little honey or jaggery is the best thing to give them cohesion and consistence. They should be moderately hard; if too soft, they are apt to lose the globular form which they ought to possess, and become a shapeless mass. When several pills are made, a little Arrowroot or Rice Flour should be added to the box which contains them, to keep them from adhering to one another. No pill should ordinarily exceed 5 grains in weight, otherwise there will be a difficulty in swallowing it; two 3 grain pills are more easily taken than one of 6 grains. Pills, when prepared in any quantity, should, like powders, be kept in well-stoppered or corked bottles.

Ointments.—Animal fats, e.g., Lard, which is so generally used in English pharmacy, are apt to become rancid and irritating in hot climates; hence they should be discarded in tropical practice. In India there is another cogent reason for abandoning them, viz., the religious prejudices of the natives, especially of the Mussulman, to whom hog's fat is an abomination. The only allowable animal fat in India is freshly prepared Ghee, or clarified butter; but this in the hotter part of India is of too thin consistence for ordinary ointments. Fortunately India supplies at least two vegetable substitutes, Kokum Butter and Piney Tallow (the expressed Oil of Vateria Indica). In addition to these, I have introduced a third article, Ceromel (a mixture of wax and honey). With these three agents it is believed that animal fats may be altogether dispensed with in Indian pharmacy.

Native Names.—These have been mainly derived from Mr. Moodeen Sheriff's valuable Catalogue, which forms the Supplement to the Pharmacopœia of India. Some have been drawn from Ainslie's Materia Indica, a work of sterling merit. For the Malay names I am indebted to the Hon. Major F. M‘Nair, C.M.G., Surveyor-General, Straits Settlements, and for the Punjábí and Kashmirí names to Dr. J. E. T. Aitchison, formerly British Commissioner, Ladakh.

It is only necessary, in this place, to indicate the pronunciation of the vowels met with in this work.

• a (short) as in about, or the final a in Calcutta.
• á (long) as in all, call.
• e (short) as in elbow, or the first e in never.
• é (long) as a in able or ai in fair.
• i (short) as i in ink, bid.
• í (long) as ee in feed and free.
• o (short) as in from.
• ó (long) as in opium, home.
• u (short) as in full, or as in wolf.
• ú (long) as in fool, too.

Explanation of the Abbreviations employed in the lists of the native names of the drugs:

• Hind. Hindústaní.
• Duk. Dukhní.
• Beng. Bengálí.
• Punj. Punjábí.
• Kash. Kashmirí.
• Tam. Tamil.
• Tel. Telugu.
• Mal. Malyalim.
• Can. Canarese.
• Mah. Máhrattí.
• Guz. Guzrattí.
• Cing. Cingalese.
• Burm. Burmese.
• Malay Malay.

REMARKS ON THE USES
OF SOME OF THE
BAZAAR MEDICINES OF INDIA.

PART I.
ALPHABETICAL LIST OF THE BAZAAR MEDICINES AND
INDIAN MEDICAL PLANTS INCLUDED IN THIS WORK.

1.

Abelmoschus, or Edible Hibiscus. Okra.

The fresh unripe capsules or fruit of Abelmoschus (Hibiscus) esculentus, Linn.

Bhindí, Rám-turáí (Hind.), Bhéndí (Duk., Punj.), Dhéras or Dhénras, Rám-Toráí (Beng.), Vendaik-káy (Tam.), Benda-káya (Tel.), Ventak-káya (Mal.), Bendé-káyi (Can.), Bhéndá (Mah.), Bhíndu (Guz.), Banda-ká (Cing.). Youn-padi-sí (Burm.), Kachang-lindir (Malay).

2. This well-known vegetable, cultivated throughout India, abounds in a copious, bland, viscid mucilage, which possesses valuable emollient and demulcent properties, rendering the practitioner in India independent of mallow and other European articles of that class. The dried fruit may be employed where it is not procurable in a fresh state. It is best given in decoction, prepared by boiling three ounces of the fresh capsules, cut transversely, in a pint and a half of water for twenty minutes, straining and sweetening to taste. This, taken as an ordinary drink, proves alike agreeable and serviceable in Fevers, Catarrhal attacks, Irritable states of the Bladder and Kidneys, in Gonorrhœa, and in all cases attended with scalding pain, and difficulty in passing Urine. Under its use the urine is said to become much increased in quantity. In Dysentery, especially in the chronic form of the disease, the bland, viscid mucilage is often most beneficial. It is a good plan to give it in soup.

3. In Hoarseness, and in dry and irritable states of the Throat, giving rise, as is often the case, to a troublesome Cough, as in Consumption, &c., the free inhalation of the vapour of the hot decoction (ante) has in many instances been found serviceable.

4. The fresh capsules bruised are stated to form an efficient emollient poultice.

5.

Abrus, or Country Liquorice Root.

The root of Abrus precatorius, Linn.

Mulatthí-hindi, Gunj-ka-jar (Hind., Duk.), Jaishtomodhu-bengala, Kunch-ka-jar (Beng.), Múlathí (Punj.), Shangir (Kash.), Gundumani-vér (Tam.), Guru-venda-véru (Tel.), Kunnikuru-véra (Mal.), Gul-ganji-béru (Can.), Olindamúl (Cing.), Yu-e-si-anú (Burm.), Akar-sagamerah (Malay).

6. This root, obtained from a twining shrub common throughout India, whose bright scarlet seeds with a black spot at one end are universally known, possesses many of the sensible properties and medical qualities of the true liquorice-root (which is also to be met with in some of the large bazaars), hence its common name. Country Liquorice. Properly prepared, and according to directions in Indian Pharmacopœia, it yields an extract similar to officinal liquorice, but less sweet and more bitter. According to Moodeen Sheriff (Suppl. to Ind. Ph. p. 18), an extract prepared from the dried leaves of Abrus precatorius is much superior both in taste and as a medicine to that prepared from the root. He gives the following directions for its preparation: Pour boiling distilled water on the dried leaves till they are sufficiently covered; keep the vessel on a slow fire for six hours; then strain the liquor while hot through flannel and evaporate on a water bath to a proper consistence. The extract prepared from the juice of the fresh leaves, he adds, is also sweet, but very inferior to the latter for medicinal purposes. The following syrup has been found useful in the Coughs of Childhood. Take of fresh Abrus roots, the larger sized the better, well bruised, two ounces; and Abelmoschus capsules sliced, one ounce; boil in a pint of water for half an hour, and strain; to the liquor add eight ounces of sugar-candy or honey, and boil down to the consistence of a syrup. From a tea to a table-spoonful may be freely given several times a day when the cough is troublesome, whether fever is present or not. It forms also a good adjunct to other more active cough mixtures. The great objection to this, in common with all syrups in India, is the readiness with which it undergoes fermentation; hence only small quantities should be prepared when cases occur requiring its use.

7.

Acacia, or Babúl Bark.

The bark of Acacia Arabica, Willd.

Babúl-ka-chál, Kíkar-ka-chál (Hind.), Kali-kíkar-kí chilká (Duk.), Babúl-sál (Beng.), Sák (Punj., Kash.), Karu-vélam-pattai (Tam.), Kulit-pokoh-bunga (Malay).

8. Babúl bark occurs in large thick pieces, coarsely fibrous, of a deep mahogany colour, and astringent, bitterish taste. It is an excellent astringent, and though less powerful than some others of the same class, it possesses the advantage of being obtainable, either in the fresh or dried state, throughout India, the tree yielding it being common everywhere in dry, sandy localities.

9. The best form for medical purposes is a decoction prepared by boiling one ounce and a half of the bruised bark in a pint of water for ten minutes, and straining. Of this the dose is from one and a half to two ounces twice daily, or oftener in Chronic Diarrhœa, &c.; it is, however, chiefly employed as an external or local application—as an injection in Leucorrhœa and other Vaginal Discharges; as an enema in Piles and Prolapsus (descent) of the Anus, and as a gargle in Sore Throat, and in Sponginess and Ulceration of the Gums. In all these cases, however, it is generally used conjoined with alum and other agents.

10.

Acorus, or Sweet Flag Root.

The root stock or Acorus Calamus, Linn.

Bach or Vach (Hind., Duk.), Bach, Saféd Bach (Beng.), Warch (Punj.), Vá'í (Kash.), Vashambú (Tam.), Vasa, Vadaja (Tel.), Vash-anpa (Mal.), Bajé (Can.), Vékhanda (Mah.), Vaj, Vach (Guz.), Lene or Linhe (Burm.), Jaringowe (Malay).

11. This is one of the commonest of bazaar medicines, and generally procurable everywhere, of good quality, at a very small cost. It occurs in pieces of various lengths, about the thickness of the thumb, rather flattened, spongy, provided with numerous sheath-like, ringed appendages; odour peculiar and aromatic; taste, bitterish, warm and somewhat acrid. Till very recently it was included in the British Pharmacopœia. It well deserves a place in every Indian domestic medicine chest.

12. It is a tonic and stomachic of no small value, and is best given in the form of infusion: one ounce of the bruised root to half a pint of boiling water, in doses of a wine-glassful twice or thrice daily. Combined with Chiretta, it has been reported to cure Intermittent Fevers in natives, but though its power in this respect is doubtful, except, perhaps, in cases of the mildest description, yet in Convalescence after this and other forms of Fever, a mixture of equal parts of the infusion of Acorus and Chiretta (98) is as good a formula as can be employed. The same combination proves also most serviceable in Dyspepsia, especially when attended with much flatulence, in Loss of Appetite and Constitutional Debility.

13. In the Dysentery of Natives, and in that especially of Native Children, Dr. Evers (Indian Medical Gazette, Feb. 1, 1875) speaks very highly of Acorus given in decoction as follows: Take of the bruised root-stock two ounces, Coriander seed one drachm, Black Pepper half a drachm, Water one pint; boil down to about twelve ounces (or for about a quarter of an hour), and set aside to cool. The dose for an adult is a wine-glassful three times daily; for a child from one to three tea-spoonfuls, sweetened with sugar, two or three times a day. Astringents or Quinine (the latter when the disease is apparently of malarious origin) may be added if necessary. Dr. Evers found this decoction not only useful in Dysentery and Diarrhœa, but also in the Bronchitic Affections of Children. He considers it worthy of a more extended trial.

14. This root, especially when freshly collected, and retaining its full aroma, is reported, on good authority, to drive away fleas and other insects, a fact well to bear in mind in a sick room, as well as elsewhere.

15.

Aloes.

The inspissated juice of Aloe Socotrina, Linn., and other species of Aloes.

Musabbar, Ilvá, Yalvá (Hind.), Musanbar (Duk.), Móshabbar (Beng.), Elwá (Punj.), Mússbar, Sibar (Kash.), Kariya-pólam, Irakta-pólam (Tam.), Múshámbaram (Tel.), Chenna-náyakam (Mal.), Musam-bara-bóla (Mah.), Yéliyo (Guz.), Kalu-bólam, Kari-bolam (Cing.), Mo (Burm.), Jadam (Malay).

16. Aloes, as met with in the bazaars, are generally imported, and of a very inferior description, but they may be rendered fit for medical use by the following process: Take of bazaar Aloes, in small fragments, one pound; boiling water, one gallon; stir them well together until they are thoroughly mixed, and set aside for twelve hours; then pour off the clear liquor, strain the remainder, mix the liquors, and place in open vessels in the sun, or over a gentle fire, till it is evaporated to dryness. Aloes of very good quality may also be prepared from two indigenous species of Aloe, A. Indica, Royle, and A. litoralis, König; the former inhabiting dry sandy plains in the Northwestern Provinces, and the latter similar localities on the sea-coasts of the Madras peninsula. The viscid juice with which the thick leaves abound should be collected and evaporated to dryness by exposure in open pans in the sun or over a gentle fire.

17. The principal use of Aloes is as a purgative, in doses of from three to six grains. If administered alone, it is apt to cause griping, nausea, &c.; hence, it is generally given in combination with aromatics, &c. It is ill adapted for children, for persons subject to Piles, or for Pregnant Females.

18. Few medicines are more generally useful for women when suffering from an Irregular or Suspended state of the Menstrual Discharge; but it should not be given during pregnancy, nor whilst the menstrual discharge is present. In these cases, especially when the patient is pale, thin, and weak, it is best given as follows: Take purified Aloes and Sulphate of Iron, of each, finely powdered, 24 grains; Cinnamon in powder, 60 grains; Honey, sufficient to make a mass; be careful that all the ingredients are well mixed; and divide into 24 pills, of which two are to be taken twice daily.

19. The following is another very good combination: Take Aloes and Asafœtida, of each 20 grains; beat into a mass with honey, and divide into 12 pills, of which one may be taken twice daily. These pills often prove of great service to women subject to Hysterical fits, and Flatulent distension of the Abdomen, especially when at the same time there is Constipation of the Bowels. In Headaches arising from the sudden stoppage either of menstrual discharge or of long-standing bleeding from piles, these pills often prove useful. Aloes should not ordinarily be given to persons subject to piles, as they are apt to aggravate the disease.

20. In cases of Habitual Constipation of the Bowels great benefit has been found from the persevering use of the following pills: Take of purified Aloes, 18 grains; Sulphate of Iron, 30 grains; beat into a mass with a little honey, and divide into 24 pills. Of these, one may be taken three times a day, immediately after the principal meals, till they begin to act upon the bowels gently and then the number may be reduced to two daily. At the end of a week or two another pill may be omitted, and within a month a single pill once or twice a week will suffice. If at any time they should act powerfully on the bowels as a purgative, they should be discontinued for a time.

21.

Alum.

Phitkarí (Hind.), Phitkarí (Beng.), Fatkarí (Punj.), Fatkar, Phatkar (Kash.), Pati-káram (Tam., Tel.), Chinik-káram (Mal.), Pati-kárá (Can.), Patikár, Turatí (Mah.), Sina-karam (Cing.), Keo-khin (Burm.), Twas (Malay).

22. Alum of good quality is generally procurable in all bazaars. It should be in colourless, transparent, crystalline masses, or pieces of various sizes, with an acid, sweetish, astringent taste. When mixed with impurities, as it often is, it may be rendered fit for medicinal purposes by dissolving it in boiling water, straining the solution, and evaporating it so as to obtain crystals, which should be preserved for use. Alum, whether applied externally or given internally, is a valuable astringent. Dose, from 10 to 20 grains for adults.

23. In that form of Ophthalmia commonly known in India by the name of Country Sore Eyes, especially when it attacks children, a solution of Alum is often of great service. For children the strength of three grains to an ounce of water is sufficient; but for adults, a solution of double this strength may be used: the eyes should be freely washed with it four or five times a day, or a cloth wet with it may be kept constantly applied. If the eyelids are much swollen, especially in the morning, they should be well bathed with warm milk, the eyelids should then be carefully separated, and the Alum lotion dropped in. There is a native plan of treatment of these cases which proves in many instances effectual, but it has the disadvantage of being very painful for a short time. It is as follows: Place some finely powdered alum on a heated plate of iron, and whilst it is in a state of fusion add a small portion of lemon or lime-juice, until it forms a black, soft mass. This, whilst hot, is applied entirely round the orbit, care being taken that none of it gets beneath the eyelids, as it causes under such circumstances intense agony. One or two applications, each being allowed to remain on for twelve hours, suffice ordinarily to effect a cure.

24. After severe Blows on the Eye, when the pain and heat have subsided, and much discoloration and swelling remain, an Alum poultice is an effectual application. It is made by rubbing up 30 grains of powdered alum with the white of an egg till it forms a coagulum. This placed between two pieces of thin rag or muslin, should be kept applied to the eye for some hours.

25. In Hæmorrhage from the Lungs, Stomach, Kidneys, Uterus, and other Internal Organs, Alum, in doses of 10 to 12 grains, thrice daily, with or without opium, may often be given with advantage. It is, however, inadmissible if much fever is present, and should at once be discontinued if after the first few doses the symptoms are at all aggravated. The following, called Alum Whey, is a good form of administration: Boil for ten minutes two drachms of powdered Alum in a pint of milk, and strain; of this, the dose is one and a half to two ounces thrice daily. This may also be given with the view of checking Excessive Menstrual Discharges (Menorrhagia) and Bleeding from Piles. In this last case, clothes saturated with a solution of Alum in decoction of Galls (145) or Babúl bark (9), in the proportion of two drachms to eight ounces, should be kept constantly applied externally. This application also proves useful in Prolapsus (descent) of the Anus, especially in children. In Profuse Bleeding from the Nose injections of a solution of Alum (20 grains to one ounce of water) into the nostril is sometimes effectual; care, however, is required in its use. Powdered Alum, or a very strong saturated solution, applied locally on a compress, occasionally suffices to arrest Bleeding from Leech-bites, Cuts, &c.

26. In the Chronic Diarrhœa of Natives, the following mixture has been found useful: Take of Alum ten grains, infusion of Acorus root (12), one and a half ounce, Laudanum, five drops; repeat three or four times daily. In the Diarrhœa which precedes Cholera, and in the early stages of Cholera, the following powders are worthy of a trial. Take Alum, Catechu, and Cinnamon, of each, powdered, ten grains, mix with honey, and give at a dose. It may be repeated every one or two hours, according to circumstances. It proves useful also in controlling the Diarrhœa of Phthisis.

27. As a palliative in Diabetes, "Alum Whey," prepared as directed in paragraph 25, may be tried; under its use the quantity of urine voided is, in some instances, diminished. In Albuminuria, also, it has been useful in some instances in reducing the proportion of albumen in the urine.

28. In Hooping Cough, when the first or acute stage has passed, no remedy is more generally efficacious than Alum, in doses of three or four grains, every four or six hours for a child from two to three years old. It may be given in the form of powder or in solution (Alum 25 grains, Omum Water three ounces) in doses of a dessert-spoonful every four or six hours for a child from two to four years old.

29. For Relaxed or Ulcerated Sore Throat, for Ulceration and Sponginess of the Gums, in Salivation, and in Fissures of the Tongue in Consumption, a very useful gargle or mouth wash is made by dissolving two drachms of Alum in a pint of the decoction of Galls (145) or Babúl Bark (9), and sweetening with honey. For the small white Ulcers (Aphthæ, or Thrush) in the mouths of infants and young children, a better application is 20 grains of finely powdered Alum, incorporated with one ounce of honey. This may be applied twice daily, with the tip of the finger. In the severer Ulcerative forms of the disease (Ulcerative Stomatitis) Alum in fine powder, or in strong solution, proves a more effectual application.

30. There is a disease often confounded with Gonorrhœa, where the discharge does not come, as it does in true gonorrhœa, from the urethra, but from a sore or excoriated surface between the prepuce and the head of the penis. For this there is no better application than a solution of Alum, 20 grains in one ounce of water. It may be used twice or thrice daily. The strictest cleanliness should be enforced at the same time. In Gleet, a solution of Alum (three grains), in water (one ounce), used as an injection twice daily, is often productive of benefit. In Leucorrhœa and other Vaginal Discharges, injections of Alum in decoction of Galls or Babúl bark, as advised in the last paragraph, often prove very useful.

31. In old Chronic spreading and gangrenous Ulcers so common amongst natives, the following forms an excellent application: Finely powdered Alum, four drachms; finely powdered Catechu, one drachm; Opium, half a drachm; Ceromel (167), or Kokum butter, or Ghee, one ounce. First, rub down the opium with the ceromel till thoroughly mixed, and then incorporate the other ingredients. A portion of this, spread on soft rag, should be applied to the ulcer night and morning. If it occasion much pain, the proportion of ceromel should be increased. For Bed-Sores or where these are likely to occur, Dr. Aitchison describes as an excellent remedy—a mixture of 30 grains of burnt alum and the white of an egg. It should be well painted over the part.

32. For Enlargement of the Joints, especially that of the Knee, and for other Swellings resulting from Blows, Bruises, or Sprains, the following lotion has been found useful; Alum, four drachms, Vinegar and Arrack, of each a pint; dissolve, and keep cloths wet with this lotion constantly to the affected part. In Scorpion Bites, Alum moistened with water and locally applied often affords instantaneous relief (Dr. Saunders).

33.

Asafœtida.

Hing (Hind., Duk., Beng., Pung., Mah., Guz.), Yang (Kash.), Káyam, Perun-gáyam (Tam.), Inguva (Tel.), Perun-gáyam, Káyam (Mal.), Perun-káyam (Cing.), Shinkhu or Shingu (Burm.), Hingu (Malay).

34. Asafœtida of good quality may be obtained in most bazaars. The moister and most strongly smelling kinds should be chosen for medical purposes. It may be given in the form of pill, in doses of from five to ten grains; or in that of mixture, prepared by rubbing down in a mortar five drachms of Asafœtida in a pint of hot water, and straining and setting aside to cool. Of this solution, which is thick and milky, the dose is from one to two table-spoonfuls. Its nauseous taste is a great objection to its use.

35. In Hysterical Fits and in Fainting, Nervous Palpitations, and other affections connected with Hysteria, Asafœtida proves most useful. When the symptoms are urgent, as in fits, &c., it is best given in the liquid form (ante), but where the object is rather to combat the tendency to this state, and to make an impression on the system, the solid form should be preferred. For this purpose it may be advantageously combined with Aloes, as advised in Sect. 19.

36. In Flatulence, Flatulent Colic, and Spasmodic Affections of the Bowels, especially when connected with hysteria, it is best given in the form of enema (30 grains in four ounces of water); but if this is not practicable, it may be given by mouth in the liquid form advised above. A teaspoonful of the mixture, with a little Omum water, is often very effectual in relieving the Flatulent Colic of Children. It may also be tried in the Convulsions of pale, weakly children. An Asafœtida enema is an effectual means of removing Thread worms from the rectum and lower bowel.

37. In the obstinate Coughs of Childhood, remaining after attacks of inflammation, and also the advanced stages of Hooping Cough, the mixture has also occasionally been found of great service in doses of a teaspoonful four or five times daily. It has also been recommended in the Chronic Bronchitis and Asthma of Adults; its disagreeable smell and taste is a great bar to its use, but this may, in a great measure, be obviated by giving it in the form of pill.

38.

Asteracantha (Barleria) longifolia.

Nees.

Talmakháné, Gokshura (Hind.), Kolsí (Duk.), Kánta-koliká (Beng.), Tálmakhánáh (Punj., Kash.), Nir-mulli (Tam.), Niru-gobbi (Tel.), Vayal-chulli (Mal.), Kolava-like (Can.), Tál-makháná (Mah.), Ikkiri (Cing.), Súpadán (Burm.).

39. The whole of this plant, common in moist sites throughout India, but especially the root, which in the dried state is sold in the bazaars, enjoys a high repute amongst the natives as a diuretic in Dropsical cases, which European experience has, in a great measure, tended to confirm. It may be given in the form of decoction, prepared by boiling one ounce of the root in a pint of water for ten minutes, straining, and taking the whole in divided doses during the day. The following is advised by Baboo Kanny Lall Dey: Take of freshly dried Asteracantha leaves, two ounces; Distilled Vinegar, 16 ounces; macerate for three days; press and strain. Of this, the dose is from one to three tablespoonfuls in water thrice daily.

40.

Atis, or Atees.

The root of Aconitum heterophyllum, Wallich.

Atís (Hind.), Atviká (Duk.), Atis, Batis, Patis (Punj.), Mohand-i-guj-saféd, Hong-i-saféd (Kash.), Ati-vadayam (Tam.), Ati-vasa (Tel.).

41. Atís, as met with in the bazaars, occurs in the form of small tuberous roots, tapering towards a point, from one to one and a half inches or more in length, and from three-eighths to a quarter of an inch in thickness; grey externally, slightly wrinkled longitudinally, and marked here and there with rootlet scars, easily friable; internally white, farinaceous, inodorous, and of a pure bitter taste, devoid of acidity or astringency. This last character serves to distinguish it from all other roots sold under the same name. Every root should be broken across, and all which are not pure white, with a short, starchy fracture and pure bitter taste, should be discarded. Further, if on placing a small piece on the tongue it cause a feeling of tingling or peculiar sensibility, followed by even the smallest degree of numbness or altered sensibility, it should on no account be used. Mr. Boughton discovered in it an alkaloid to which he gave the name of Atisine.

42. The chief use of Atís is in the treatment of Intermittent Fever and other periodical fevers, and in these it often proves most valuable. It should be given in doses of half a drachm (30 grains), mixed with a little water, every four or six hours during the intermissions, commencing its use during or towards the close of the sweating stage. For children the dose may be reduced one-half, or three-fourths, according to age. For combating the Debility after Fevers and other diseases, Atís is an excellent tonic, in doses of five to ten grains thrice daily.

43.

Bael Fruit.

The fruit of Ægle Marmelos, Corr.

Bél, Si-phal (Hind., Beng., Punj.), Bél-phal (Duk.), Vilva or Bilva-pazham (Tam.), Bilva-pandu, Márédu-pandu (Tel.), Kúvalap-pazham (Mal.) Bilapatri-hannu (Can.) Bél-phal (Guz.), Bélá-chaphala, Bela (Mah.) Bélli, Bélli-ka (Cing.), Ushi-si, Ushi-ti (Burm.), Buah Bail (Malay), Bil-kath (the entire fruit), Shífal-gúj, the pulp and seeds with the rind removed (Kash.).

44. The half-ripe fruit is best suited for medical use, and that freshly gathered is preferable to that which has been kept a long time, as is generally the case with the bazaar article. In bazaar specimens, the Wood-apple (fruit of Feronia Elephantum) is often substituted for Bael. Though they bear a close resemblance externally, they can easily be distinguished by opening them. In the true Bael there are, in the centre of the pulp, a number of cells, from five to eighteen, each containing one or more seeds and glutinous mucus, whilst in the Wood-apple there are no cells, and the seeds are embedded in the pulp. European experience has confirmed the native opinion that it is a remedy of much value in cases of obstinate Diarrhœa and Dysentery when unattended by fever, and the patient is weak and dyspeptic. It proves especially serviceable when any signs of Scurvy are present. It is best given as follows: Take of the soft gummy fluid from the interior of the fruit two ounces, mix this with three or four ounces of water, sweeten to taste, and, if procurable, add a lump of ice. This draught should be repeated twice or thrice daily. In the obstinate Diarrhœa and Dysentery of Children it may safely be given in doses of from one quarter to one half the above quantity, according to age. The Fluid Extract of the dried Bael is regarded by many as superior to any other preparations of this fruit. The dose is from half a drachm to a drachm, twice or thrice daily for an adult. Dietetic Bael is also a valuable preparation. Dr. Aitchison suggests that a supply of Dietetic Bael (prepared by Messrs. Bathgate & Co., of Calcutta) should be kept in store. "It consists," he remarks, "of the pulp of dried Bael fruit carefully pulverised and mixed with a certain proportion of arrowroot. It is an excellent preparation to be used in those cases when Bael is prescribed, and where the fresh fruit cannot be got of good quality, e.g., the Bael fruit grown in the Punjaub is not to be compared with that of the more moist and tropical regions. Besides using this in actual disease it makes a good substitute in a patient's diet owing to its pleasant aromatic flavour."

45. In Irregularity of the Bowels, presenting alternations of Diarrhœa and Constipation, one draught, as described in the last section, taken in the early morning, often exercises a most beneficial effect in regulating the bowels. Where much debility exists, and the stomach is weak and irritable, it is apt to disagree, occasioning eructations, &c., in which case it may be tried in smaller doses, or be given at bedtime in place of early morning.

46.

Betel or Betle Leaves.

The fresh leaves of Chavica (Piper) Betle, Retz.

Pán (Hind., Duk., Beng., Punj., and Guz.), Vettilai (Tam.), Tamala-páku, Nága-valli (Tel.), Vetrila (Mal.), Viledele (Can.), Videchapána (Mah.), Balát (Cing.), Kún-yoe (Burm.), Seereh (Malay).

47. These leaves are in almost universal use amongst the natives of India as a masticatory, in conjunction with lime and areca-nut; and can now be purchased, almost fresh, in any of the larger bazaars of the Punjaub, as they are forwarded by rail and post. There are two ways in which they may be usefully employed medicinally:

48. In Coughs, especially those of Infancy and Childhood, where there is difficulty of breathing, the application of betel leaves, warmed, smeared with oil, and applied in layers over the chest, often affords speedy and marked relief. It is a native practice, the utility of which has been confirmed by European experience. It can do no harm, may do much good, and is therefore worthy of a trial in all cases. The same application has been recommended in Congestion and other affections of the Liver.

49. For the purpose of Arresting the Secretion of Milk, when from any cause this may be desirable, betel leaves, warmed by the fire, and placed in layers over the breast, are stated to be very effectual. Thus employed they are also said to be useful in reducing Glandular Swellings.

50.

Bonduc Nut.

The fruit of Cæsalpinia (Guilandina) Bonducella, Linn.

Kat-kalijá, Kat-karanj (Hind.), Gajgá (Duk.), Nátá, Nátú-koranjá (Beng.), Kanjúá (Punj.), Kazhar-shik-káy (Tam.), Gech-chak-káyá (Tel.), Kalan-chik-kuru (Mal.), Gajaga-káyi (Can.), Gajaga (Mah.), Gájgá (Guz.) Kumbura-atta (Cing.), Kalén-zi (Burm.), Buah gorah (Malay).

51. These nuts, common in all the bazaars of India, are roundish or ovoid in shape, about half an inch, or more, in diameter, smooth, hard, of a grey or leaden colour externally, and contain a white starchy kernel of a pure, bitter taste. Their efficacy appears to reside in a bitter oil. Mr. Broughton failed to detect in them any special crystalline principle.

52. In Intermittent Fevers, especially in those of the natives, this remedy has been found very useful. It is adapted only for mild, uncomplicated cases, and is best given in the following form: Take of Bonduc seeds, deprived of their shells and powdered, one ounce; Black Pepper, powdered, one ounce; mix thoroughly, and keep in a well-stoppered bottle. Of this the dose is from 15 to 30 grains three times a day for adults. In smaller doses it is a good tonic in Debility after Fevers and other diseases. The bark of the root of the Bonduc shrub in 10 grain doses is reported to be even more effectual in the above cases than the seeds themselves.

53.

Borax.

Biborate of Soda.

Sohágá, Tinkál (Hind.), Sohágá (Beng., Duk., Punj.), Vávut, Váwuth (Kash.), Venkáram (Tam.), Elegáram (Tel.), Ponkáram, Vellakaram (Mal.), Biligára (Can.), Vengáram, Puskara (Cing.), Lakhiya, Let-khya (Burm.), Pijar (Malay).

54. Borax of good quality is met with in most bazaars; if good it should be in transparent, colourless, crystalline masses or pieces of various sizes, inodorous, with a cool, saltish taste. After having been exposed to the air for some time, as that found in the bazaars has generally been, it becomes covered with a whitish powder or efflorescence, which being removed shows the transparent crystal beneath. If brown or dirty, or otherwise impure, it may be rendered fit for medical use by dissolving one pound of it with one drachm of quicklime in three pints of water, straining through cloth and evaporating by exposure to the sun in an open vessel or over a gentle fire. Dose from 20 to 40 grains for an adult.

55. In Aphthæ or Thrush (small white spots and ulcerations in the mouths of infants and young children) a mixture of powdered Borax (1 drachm) and Honey (1 ounce) is one of the best applications which can be used; it should be applied by means of the finger to the spot twice or thrice daily. In Fissures or Cracks in the Tongue in adults, which occur in the advanced stages of Consumption, Fever, &c., an application, twice the strength of the above, proves highly serviceable. In Mercurial Salivation, a solution of Borax (half an ounce), in water (eight ounces) forms an excellent gargle.

56. To Sore Nipples a solution of Borax, one drachm to one ounce of water, should be applied before and after suckling the infant, or it may be employed in the form of ointment (a drachm of Borax to an ounce of Ghee). These applications are also serviceable when applied to inflamed and painful Piles.

57. As a means of allaying the distressing Irritation of the Genital Organs, both of males and females, the latter especially, a solution of Borax (half an ounce) in eight ounces of water or Camphor julep (67) sometimes affords more relief than anything else. Cloths saturated with it should be kept to the parts, and in the case of women it should also be used in the form of vaginal injection. It also proves very useful in allaying the Irritation of Nettlerash, Prickly Heat, and other Skin Diseases.

58. In prolonged and tedious Labours dependent apparently on want of action or power in the uterus to expel the fœtus, and in Abortion under the same circumstances, 30 grains of Borax with 10 grains of powdered Cinnamon in a little warm conjee, may be given every one or two hours to the extent of three or four doses. This may also be given in Convulsions attendant on Labours. In doses of 10 grains, with 10 grains of Cinnamon, thrice daily, it also occasionally proves useful in Suspension or Irregularity of the Menstrual Discharge and in some Chronic Uterine Affections.

59. To Ulcerated Buboes, and Sloughing Ulcers, a solution of Borax (two drachms in a pint of water or Camphor julep) often proves very useful by cleansing the surface and hastening the healing process. It should be applied on rags well over the whole sore, and renewed frequently by night and day. For dressing Delhi Sores, and stimulating them to healthy action, a favourite application is composed of Borax, Sulphur, and Catechu, of each, finely powdered, one drachm, and Ghee one ounce. This may be advantageously used in other forms of Ulceration.

60. For Ringworm, a solution of Borax (one drachm) in distilled vinegar (two ounces) is stated to be an effectual application.

61.

Butea Gum. Bengal Kino.

The inspissated juice obtained from the stems of Butea frondosa, Roxb. Pterocarpus Marsupium, D.C., which yields the officinal Kino, inhabits the forests of Ceylon and the Indian Peninsula as far north as Behar; but almost all, if not the whole, of the Kino met with in bazaars is the produce of Butea frondosa or B. superba; but this is a matter of little moment, as it appears to be equally effectual as an astringent.

Palás-kí-gond (Hind., Duk.), Pálásh-gun (Beng.), Dhák-kí-gond (Punj.,), Kamar-kash (Kash.), Muruk-kan-pishin, Palásha-pishin (Tam.), Palásha-banka, Móduga-banka (Tel.) Plách-cha-pasha (Mal.), Muttaga-góndu (Can.), Phalása-cha-gónda (Mah.), Khákar-nu-gún (Guz.), Káliya-melliyam (Cing.), Páv-si (Burm.).

62. Butea Gum occurs in the form of irregular shining fragments, seldom as large as a pea, more or less mixed with adherent pieces of greyish bark, of an intense ruby colour and astringent taste. Its astringency is due to the presence of tannic and gallic acids. It is an excellent astringent, similar to Catechu, but, being milder in operation, it is better adapted for children and delicate females. The dose of the powdered gum is 10 to 30 grains, with a few grains of powdered Cinnamon. It may be used with advantage in Chronic Diarrhœa, Pyrosis (Water-brash), and in those forms of Dyspepsia attended with increased secretion. In these cases the addition of a small portion of opium increases its efficacy.

63.

Butea Seeds.

The seeds of Butea frondosa, Roxb.

Palás-ké-bínj (Hind.), Palás-Páprá (Duk., Beng.), Dhák-papri, Palás-páprí (Punj.), Khálás-pápúr (Kash.), Porasum-virai, Murukkam-virai (Tam.), Palásha-vittulu, Moduga-vittulu (Tel.), Pláshu, Murukka-vitta (Mal.), Muttaga-bíjá (Can.), Phalásá-cha-bí (Mah.), Palás-páparo (Guz.), Kaliya-atta (Cing.), Páv-si (Burm.).

64. Butea seeds are thin, flat, oval or kidney-shaped, of a mahogany brown colour, 1¼ to 1¾ inches in length, almost devoid of taste and smell. European experience has confirmed the high opinion held by the Mohammedan doctors as to their power in expelling Lumbrici, or Round Worm, so common amongst the natives of India. The seeds should be first soaked in water, and the testa, or shell, carefully removed; the kernel should then be dried and reduced to powder. Of this the dose is 20 grains thrice daily for three successive days, followed on the fourth day by a dose of Castor Oil. Under the use of this remedy, thus administered in the practice of Dr. Oswald, 125 lumbrici in one instance, and between 70 and 80 in another, were expelled. It has the disadvantage of occasionally purging when its vermifuge properties are not apparent; in some instances also it has been found to excite vomiting and to irritate the kidneys; and though these ill effects do not ordinarily follow, yet they indicate caution in its employment.

65. For destroying Maggots in Unhealthy Ulcers, so commonly met with amongst the natives, Raghupatie Mohun Rao (Indian Medical Gazette, Dec. 2, 1879, p. 346) directs the powder of these seeds to be sprinkled over the surface to kill them.

66.

Camphor.

Káfúr (Hind., Punj.), Káphúr (Beng.), Karruppúram or Karppúram (Tam.), Karpúram (Tel., Mal.), Karpúra (Can.), Kapúra (Mah.), Kapúr, Karpúr (Guz.), Kapuru (Cing.), Payo, Piyo (Burm.), Kapor baroos (Malay).

Several varieties of Camphor are met with in the bazaars. That best suited for medicinal use should be in masses or lumps, white, translucent, of a crystalline structure, of a powerful penetrating odour, and pungent taste. Much of the camphor sold in the bazaars is worthless. Dose, from two to five grains or more for an adult.

67. Camphor Water, or Julep, as it is commonly called, may always be advantageously kept ready prepared for domestic use; it is made by adding two drachms of Camphor to a quart bottle of water, and setting aside for a few days. Of this the dose for an adult is about a wine-glassful. It is a good vehicle for other medicines.

68. Camphor Liniment is formed by dissolving one ounce of Camphor in four ounces of Cocoa-nut, Sesamum, or other bland oil. It is an excellent application in Chronic Rheumatism, Lumbago, Enlargement of the Joints, Glandular Swellings, Bruises, Sprains, Muscular Pain, especially that of the loins, to which women are subject during Pregnancy and the Menstrual periods, and other cases attended with local pain. It should be well rubbed in night and morning for 10 or 15 minutes; friction in these cases playing an important part.

69. In Chronic Rheumatism, in addition to its use externally, as advised in the last paragraph, it may be given internally in a dose of five grains with one grain of Opium at bedtime; it affords relief by causing copious perspiration, which should be promoted by a draught of infusion of Ginger (154) and by additional bedclothes. An excellent vapour bath for these cases may be made by substituting half an ounce of Camphor placed on a heated plate for the chattie of hot water described in Section 397. Thus employed, it causes speedy and copious perspiration. Care, however, is necessary to prevent the patient inhaling the vapour, which is of comparatively little consequence when simple water is being employed.

70. In Asthma, Camphor in four-grain doses, with an equal quantity of Asafœtida, in the form of pill, repeated every second or third hour during a paroxysm, affords in some instances great relief. Turpentine stupes (362) to the chest should be used at the same time. Many cases of Difficulty of Breathing are relieved by the same means. These pills also sometimes relieve violent Palpitation of the Heart. In the Coughs of Childhood, Camphor Liniment (68), previously warmed, well rubbed in over the chest at nights, often exercises a beneficial effect. For young children, the strength of the liniment should be reduced one half or more by the addition of some bland oil.

71. In Rheumatic and Nervous Headaches, a very useful application is one ounce of Camphor dissolved in a pint of Vinegar, and then diluted with one or two parts of water. Cloths saturated with it should be kept constantly to the part.

72. In Spermatorrhœa, and in all involuntary Seminal discharges, few medicines are more generally useful than Camphor in doses of four grains with half a grain of Opium, taken each night at bedtime. In Gonorrhœa, to relieve that painful symptom, Chordee, the same prescription is generally very effectual; but it may be necessary to increase the quantity of Opium to one grain, and it is advisable to apply the Camphor Liniment (68) along the under surface of the penis as far back as the anus. To relieve that distressing Irritation of the Generative Organs which some women suffer from so severely, it will be found that five or six grains of Camphor taken in the form of pill twice or three times daily, according to the severity of the symptoms, will sometimes afford great relief. In each of these cases it is important to keep the bowels freely open.

73. In Painful Affections of the Uterus Camphor in six or eight grain doses often affords much relief. The Liniment (68) should at the same time be well rubbed into the loins. In the Convulsions attendant on Childbirth, the following pills may be tried: Camphor and Calomel, of each five grains. Beat into a mass with a little honey, and divide into two pills; to be followed an hour subsequently by a full dose of castor oil or other purgative.

74. In the advanced stages of Fever, Small Pox, and Measles, when the patient is low, weak, and exhausted, and when there are at the same time delirium, muttering, and sleeplessness, three grains of Camphor with an equal quantity of Asafœtida, may be given even every third hour; Turpentine stupes (362) or Mustard poultices (247) being applied at the same time to the feet or over the region of the heart. It should be discontinued if it causes headache or increased heat of the scalp. Its use requires much discrimination and caution.

75. To Prevent Bed Sores, it is advisable to make a strong solution of Camphor in arrack or brandy, and with this night and morning to bathe, for a few minutes, the parts which from continued pressure are likely to become affected. Gangrenous or Sloughing Ulcerations often sensibly improve, and heal under the local application of powdered Camphor.

76.

Capsicum.

The ripe dried fruit of Capsicum fastigiatum, Blume.

Lál-mirch, Gách-mirch (Hind.), Mirchí, Lál-mirchí (Duk.), Lal-morich, Lanká-morich (Beng.), Lal-mirch (Punj.), Mirch-wángun (Kash.), Mulagáy, Milagáy (Tam.), Mirapa-káya (Tel.), Kappal-melaka (Mal.), Ménashiná-káyi (Can.), Mir-singá (Mah.), Lál-mirich, Marchu (Guz.), Miris (Cing.), Náyu-si (Burm.), Chalie, Loda-cheena (Malay).

77. A powerful stimulant; the bruised fruit applied locally in the form of poultice acts energetically as a rubefacient, and, added to Mustard poultices, greatly increases their activity. In the absence of mustard, Capsicum poultices may be substituted, but, being more energetic in operation, require more care; if left on too long they will cause blisters.

78. In Scarlatina, the following mixture has attained much repute in the West Indies. Take two table-spoonfuls of bruised Capsicum and two teaspoonfuls of Salt; beat them into a paste, and add half a pint of boiling Water; when cold, strain, and add half a pint of Vinegar. Dose for an adult, one table-spoonful every four hours; to be diminished for children according to age, or the severity of the attack. The same formula forms an excellent gargle in the Sore Throat which accompanies this disease, as well as in ordinary Relaxed Sore Throat, Hoarseness, &c.

79. Capsicum is a very useful adjunct to Aloes and other remedies for Dyspepsia, Loss of Appetite, &c. In Diarrhœa, arising from the use of putrid food, especially fish, Capsicum in five-grain doses in the form of pill has been found most useful.

80.

Cassia alata.

Linn., Ringworm Shrub.

Dádmurdan, Dád-ká-pát (Hind.), Dádmurdan, Dádmari (Beng.), Dát-ká-pattá, Viláyatí-agtí (Duk.), Shimai-agatti, Vandu-kolli (Tam.), Shíma-avishi-chettu (Tel.), Shima-akatti (Mal.), Shíme-agase (Can.), Attóra (Cing.), Timbó-mezali, Mezali-gi (Burm.).

81. This handsome shrub, with its large conspicuous spike of yellow flowers, is common in gardens and waste places throughout India. Its leaves have attained a well-earned repute as a local remedy in Skin Diseases, especially in Ringworm; hence one of its common English names of Ringworm Bush or Shrub. The ordinary form of application is a sort of ointment made by bruising the fresh leaves with Sesamum, Cocoa-nut, or other bland oil; but a far better preparation is made by bruising the fresh leaves, with lemon or lime juice, into a thick paste. Whichever preparation is employed, it should be thoroughly well rubbed in over the affected part twice daily till a cure is effected. The more recent the case the greater will be the prospect of a speedy cure. Long-standing chronic cases often resist its influence.

82.

Castor Oil.

—The expressed oil of the seeds of Ricinus communis, Linn.

Arandí-ká-tél (Hind., Punj.), Yarandí-ká-tél (Duk.), Bhérandá-tail (Beng.), A'manak-kenney (Tam.), A'mudam (Tel.), Kottenná (Mal.), Haralenne (Can.), Eran-déla (Mah.), Dívás, Yerandi-nu-tél (Guz.), Endaru-tel (Cing.), Kesú-si (Burm.), Miniak jarak (Malay).

83. Castor Oil, of various degrees of purity, is met with in most bazaars. The dark brown viscid oil (obtained by boiling, and subsequent expression of the seeds) should be avoided, on account of its acridity. The best kind is clear, of a pale straw colour, and with a slightly nauseous taste. The "cold-drawn expressed oil" should always be used when procurable, as it generally is in most large bazaars. It is an excellent purgative when the object is simply to clear out the bowels. It is especially adapted for children and for women after confinements. The ordinary dose for a child is about a teaspoonful but it may be gradually raised according to the age of the patient, to two table-spoonfuls (one ounce), which is the full dose for an adult. It is best given floating on milk, strong coffee, or Omum water. In Painful Affections of the Rectum Castor Oil in small doses is often of great service, softening the fæces and lubricating the passages without weakening the patient. (Mr. Curling.) The same remark applies to Piles, or when it is desirable to prevent the patient straining at stool, but, as a general rule, it is inferior to Sulphur, q. v.

84. For Sore Nipples nothing, according to Dr. Conant Foster (Practitioner, April 1872), is so beneficial as Castor Oil. The nipple should be smeared freely with it each time the child is removed from the breast. Rags or lint are unnecessary and injurious.

85. The leaves of the Castor Oil plant deserve notice as a means of increasing the secretion of Milk. For this purpose a decoction is made by boiling a large handful of the plant in six or eight pints of water. With this the breasts are bathed for a quarter of an hour, and then the boiled leaves, in the form of a poultice, spread over them. In a few hours the effects of the application are manifest. A simpler mode of application, said to be equally effectual, consists in applying layers of the fresh leaves, simply warmed before a fire, over the breasts.

86.

Catechu.

An extract from the heart-wood of Acacia, Catechu, Willd.

Kát, Kath (Hind., Punj.), Kát (Beng.), Kathah (Duk.), Khairah, Kuth (Kash.), Káshu, Kátta-kámbu (Tam.), Kánchu (Tel.), Kátta (Mal.), Káchu (Can.), Kath-tho (Guz.), Kaipu (Cing.), Sházi (Burm.), Gambir or Kachu (Malay).

87. Several varieties of Catechu are met with in the bazaars. That best adapted for medical use occurs in the form of masses consisting of layers, occasionally enveloped in rough leaves of a blackish-brown colour, easily fractured, of a very astringent taste.

88. In Diarrhœa unattended by Fever Catechu is of much value; ten or fifteen grains in powder, with an equal quantity of powdered Cinnamon, may be given in honey or jaggery three or four times a day if necessary; or it may be given in infusion prepared by macerating three drachms of bruised Catechu, and one drachm of bruised Cinnamon in half a pint of boiling water for two hours, and straining. Dose from one and a half to two ounces thrice daily. From five to ten drops of Laudanum to each dose add to its efficacy, or one grain of Opium may be given at bedtime. These doses are suited only for adults; for the Diarrhœa of Children, three or four grains of finely powdered Catechu, with an equal quantity of powdered Cinnamon, generally answer well.

89. In Mercurial Salivation, in Ulceration and Sponginess of the Gums, a small piece of Catechu allowed slowly to dissolve in the mouth is often of great service. The same measure is often useful in Relaxed Sore Throat, Hoarseness, Loss of Voice, &c. In Toothache, where there is a decayed tooth, with a piece of loose flesh growing within, great relief sometimes results from inserting into the hollow a small piece of Catechu, and retaining it there till it is dissolved.

90. Chronic Ulcerations, attended by much or Fœtid Discharge, often speedily improve under the use of an ointment composed of a drachm of finely powdered Catechu and an ounce of Ceromel (167). In obstinate cases the addition of sixteen grains of finely powdered Sulphate of Copper to the above greatly increases its efficacy. Another mode of treating these old ulcers is bathing them twice or thrice daily with an infusion of Catechu (six drachms to a pint of water), and dressing in the intervals with Ceromel. The above infusion proves effectual in some instances as a preventive of Sore Nipples, for which purpose the breasts should be bathed with it daily, for some six weeks prior to the confinement, and thus the tissues become so hardened that when the infant begins to suck any ill-effects are obviated.

90 bis.

Charcoal Wood, Charcoal.

Lakrí ka-kóyelah (Hind.), Lákri-ká-kólsá (Duk.), Kásh-tha-kóyalá (Beng.), Aduppu-kari (Tam.), Katta-boggu (Tel.), Atuppa-kari, Muttí-kari (Mal.), Kattige-iddallu (Can.), Láka-dácha-kólasé (Mah.), Lákdu-kóelo (Guz.), Thén-misu-e (Burm.), Anguru (Cing.), Ahrang (Malay), Kóiláh (Punj.), Tsuíng (Kash.).

91. Charcoal is an article of great importance in a sanatory and medical as well as in an economical point of view. It possesses no mean power as a deodoriser, and in close sick rooms the smell of the air is deprived of much of its unpleasantness by hanging about the apartment thin muslin bags loosely filled with roughly powdered charcoal. The charcoal requires to be renewed occasionally. For purifying water an effectual plan is to boil it with a good-sized piece of freshly prepared charcoal; it also forms an excellent filter, placed in alternate layers with river sand, as is in use by the natives of Southern India. Charcoal, especially that of the Areca or Betel nut, forms an excellent tooth-powder; but it is essential that it should be very finely powdered, or it may scratch the enamel of the teeth. Lastly, it is of great value in forming the Charcoal poultice, which is made by adding finely powdered charcoal to a common Rice poultice (322 c.) in the proportion of one part of the former to three of the latter. A little of the Charcoal should also be sprinkled over the surface of the poultice previous to applying it. This is a valuable application to Ulcers and Wounds attended by a fœtid discharge; it proves useful in correcting the bad odour and stimulating to healthy action.

92.

Chaulmugra.

(The seeds of Gynocardia odorata, R. Brown). In Southern India, where Chaulmúgra is rarely obtainable, the oil of the seeds of a tree of the same family, Hydnocarpus inebrians, Vahl. (Néradi-muttu, Tam., Niradi-vittulu, Tel.), seems well worthy of a trial. This oil has a great repute amongst the natives of Malabar as a remedy in leprosy.

Chaulmúgra or Chál-mogré-ké, bínj (Hind.).

93. Chaulmúgra seeds are about an inch in length, of an ovoid form, rendered more or less irregular by mutual compression. The shell, greyish brown, smooth and fragile, contains a large kernel, which by expression yields a fixed oil which has a peculiar and slightly unpleasant smell and taste. The oil procured from the bazaars is usually impure, and hence objectionable for internal administration.

94. In Leprosy Chaulmúgra has been used with excellent effect; it has also been advantageously administered in Scrofula, Skin Diseases, and Chronic Rheumatism. The dose of the seeds coarsely powdered is about six grains, thrice daily, in the form of pill, gradually increased to three or four times that amount, or until it causes nausea, when the dose should be diminished, or the use of the remedy suspended for a time. This is the best form of administration. The dose of the oil is from five to six drops, gradually increased as in the case of the seeds. During the use of this remedy it is advisable to avoid all salt meats, acids, spices, and sweetmeats; on the other hand, its operation is aided by butter, ghee, and oily articles of diet. It might, perhaps, be advantageously combined with a course of fish-liver oil.

95. An ointment, prepared by beating the seeds, deprived of their shells, into a paste of the requisite consistence, with a little ghee, or simple ointment, has been found of great service as a local application in some obstinate Skin Diseases.

96.

Chiretta.

The dried plant Ophelia Chirata, D.C.

Charáyatah (Hind., Duk.), Shirat-kuch-chi, Nilavémbu (Tam.), Nelá-vému (Tel.), Cherota (Beng.), Chiraita, Kiraita (Punj.), Chiraiet (Kash.), Chiráyitá (Mah.), Chírayata (Guz.), Bincohamba (Cing.), Sekhági (Burm.), Chrita (Malay).

97. Stems about three feet long, of the thickness of a goose-quill, round, smooth, pale-brown, branched, branches opposite; flowers small, numerous, panicled; the whole plant intensely bitter. These characters belong to the officinal Chiretta, but there are met with, in almost every part of India, numerous varieties which differ more or less from it in many respects, except in bitterness, which pervades them all. They also partake, for the most part, in the same medicinal properties.

98. Chiretta is a good bitter tonic, and renders the practitioner in India independent of imported articles of the same class. It is best given as follows: take Chiretta, bruised one ounce, Hot Water a pint; infuse for six hours or more and strain. Dose from two to three ounces three times daily. A drachm of bruised Cloves, or Cinnamon, or Cardamom seeds, increases its efficacy and improves its flavour. It may be given in all cases of Debility, especially after Fevers, in Indigestion, Loss of Appetite, &c. It may also be given in mild cases of Ague or Intermittent Fever; but this is spoken of in Art. Galls, q. v.

99. A good form of employing Chiretta as a tonic is to add two ounces of the bruised stems to a bottle of Sherry and let it stand for a week. Of this a wineglassful should be taken once or twice daily, one hour before meals, in Indigestion, Loss of Appetite, and other cases mentioned in the last section.

100.

Cinnamon.

The dried bark of Cinnamomum Zeylanicum, Nees.

Dár-chīnī (Hind., Punj.), Dál-chíní (Duk., Beng., Kash., Guz.), Lavanga-pattai, Karuvá-pattai, (Tam.), Lavanga patta (Mal., Tel.), Dála-chini (Can., Mah.), Kurundo (Cing.), Timbo-tik-yobo (Burm.), Kulit-manis (Malay).

101. The above names belong only to the true Cinnamon, which is procurable in most bazaars; it requires to be distinguished from the country Cinnamon, the bark of Cinnamomum iners (Jangli-dal-chiní, Hind., Kattu-karuvá-pattai, Tam.), which is very inferior. The former occurs in small closely rolled quills, containing several smaller quills within them of a light yellowish-brown colour, fragrant odour, and warm, sweet, aromatic taste; the latter is a much larger and thicker bark, generally curved, but seldom completely quilled, the taste less sweet, with some degree of astringency, and the smell less fragrant.

102. Cinnamon is a pleasant aromatic stimulant and carminative, closely allied in medical properties and uses to Cloves (105), for which it may be substituted when the latter are not available. It is an agreeable adjunct to many other medicines.

103.

Cloves.

The dried unexpanded flower-buds of Caryophyllus aromaticus, Linn.

Lóng (Hind., Beng.), Lavang (Duk.), Kirámbu, Ilavangap-pú (Tam.), Lavango-pú, Lavangálu (Tel.), Karámpu (Mal.), Lavanga (Can., Mah.), Lavang (Guz.), Krábu-nati (Cing.), Láúng (Punj.), Raung (Kash.), Leniah-poén, Lenang-poén (Burm.), Bunga Chingkeh (Malay).

104. The Cloves met with in the bazaars are often old and worthless. Those suited for medical use should have a strong, fragrant odour, a bitter, spicy, pungent taste, and should emit a trace of oil when indented with the nail.

105. Cloves are a good useful stimulant and carminative, stronger than Cinnamon, which, however, may be advantageously substituted when the former are either of inferior quality or not procurable. A pleasant and serviceable mixture is made by infusing three drachms of bruised Cloves in a pint of boiling water, and straining when cold. Of this the dose is from one or two ounces in Indigestion, Flatulence, Colic and Spasmodic Affections of the Bowels. It sometimes succeeds in checking Vomiting, especially that attendant on Pregnancy. A mixture of equal parts of the infusions of Cloves and Chiretta (98) has often excellent effect in Debility, Loss of Appetite, and in Convalescence after Fevers.

106.

Cocculus Indicus.

The fruits of Anamirta Cocculus, W. et A.

Kákmárí-ke-bínj (Hind., Duk.), Káká-mári (Beng.), Kákkáy-kolli-varai, Pén-kottai (Tam.), Káka-mári, Káki-champa (Tel.), Karanta-kattin-káya, Pollak-káya (Mal.), Kaka-mári-bíjá (Can.), Tit-taval (Cing.).

107. The dried fruit, sold in most bazaars, is rather larger than a full-sized pea, somewhat kidney-shaped, blackish-brown, wrinkled, containing a yellowish, oily, bitter, kidney-shaped kernel enclosed in a two-valved shell. It is powerfully poisonous and is never administered internally; its sole use, and in this respect it is very effectual, is as an insecticide, i.e., as an agent, for destroying pediculi, or lice, which infest the body. For this purpose 80 grains of the seeds, divested of shell, should be beaten up into a paste in a mortar, and then thoroughly incorporated with an ounce of kokum butter, or ghee. In applying this ointment, care should be taken to avoid all abraded or ulcerated surfaces, on account of the danger of absorption of the poisonous principle of the seeds.

108.

Sulphate of Copper. Blue Stone.

Nílá-tútá (Hind., Punj.), Mór-tuttá, Mhor-tuttah (Duk.), Tutiyá (Beng.), Nila-toth (Kash.), Mayil-tuttam, Turichu, Tuttam-turichi (Tam.), Mayilu-tuttam (Tel.), Turisha, Mayil-tutta (Mal.) Mail-tutyá (Can.), Mórtúta (Guz.), Palmánikam (Cing.), Douthá (Burm.), Toorsi (Malay).

109. Sulphate of Copper, of fair quality, is procurable in most bazaars; it should be in crystalline masses, of various sizes, of a dark-blue colour, without any light green or whitish powder adherent on the surface; if these exist they should be thoroughly removed previous to the salt being employed medicinally. Or it may be further purified by dissolving in boiling water, filtering, and setting the solution aside to crystallise. In doses of from a quarter grain to two grains it acts as an astringent and tonic; in larger doses (5 to 10 grains) it is a powerful emetic.

110. In Chronic Diarrhœa and Dysentery the following pills are often productive of great benefit. Take finely powdered Sulphate of Copper and Opium, of each 6 grains; thoroughly mix them with a small portion of honey, and divide into twelve pills, of which one should be taken thrice daily. These pills have been found very useful in controlling Diarrhœa in the advanced stages of Consumption (Phthisis). In the Chronic Diarrhœa and Dysentery of Children, a better form is 2 grains of the Sulphate dissolved in 12 drachms of Omum water; of this the dose is a teaspoonful thrice daily. In all these cases, should benefit not be manifest in a few days, the remedy should be discontinued.

111. In Diphtheria the Sulphate of Copper has been highly spoken of. Of a solution of 5 grains in one ounce of water, a teaspoonful may be given to young children, and repeated every half-hour till it produces vomiting. The same treatment has also been advised in cases of Croup. After the occurrence of free vomiting its use should be discontinued.

112. In Ulcerations of the Mouth, whether occurring in children or adults, 3 to 5 grains of finely powdered Sulphate, incorporated with half an ounce of honey, is a very useful application. It may be easily applied to the ulcers by the finger.

113. In the Ophthalmia of Children attended with copious discharge, a solution of one grain in one ounce of water, applied several times in the day, will often be found serviceable. In obstinate cases the strength may be doubled, but it should never be so strong as to cause pain.

114. Obstinate Indolent Ulcers will often yield, when other measures have failed, to the persevering application of solutions of the Sulphate, of graduated strengths, from 2 grains to 10 grains in the ounce of water. At the commencement the weakest solution is applied morning and evening, water dressing (394) being applied in the intervals. When the first solution ceases to occasion a feeling of heat in the ulcerated surface, the strength should be gradually increased by single grains till the 10-grain solution is borne, by which time the ulcer is generally almost healed. When the edges of the ulcer are hard and unyielding, they may be touched every second or third day with the Sulphate in substance; and it may also be thus used to check Exuberant Granulations.

115. In Ringworm and Scalled head the following ointment has been found useful: Sulphate of Copper in powder, 20 grains; powdered Galls, 1 drachm; Ceromel, 1 ounce. Mix them thoroughly, and rub well into the diseased spot. In Prickly Heat, a lotion of the Sulphate of Copper (10 grains to one ounce of water, or Rose water) often affords more relief than any other application.

116. Excessive Bleeding from Leechbites may often be speedily arrested by the application of a little powdered Sulphate of Copper. In Bleeding from the Nose, a solution of 4 grains of the Sulphate in one ounce of water introduced into the nostril, is sometimes effectual when Alum fails.

117. In Poisoning by Opium, Datura, Nux Vomica, Cocculus Indicus, Bish (Aconite), Arsenic, &c., where the poison has been swallowed, an emetic should at once be given to evacuate the contents of the stomach. For this purpose, Sulphate of Copper may be advantageously employed—5 grains in a pint of tepid water, taken at a draught. If this does not operate in half an hour it may be repeated; and a third dose, even, may be given if necessary, but this quantity should not be exceeded; as, unless it is vomited up, it remains in the stomach, and in large quantities is itself capable of acting as a poison. Its operation should be promoted by copious draughts of warm water. Its use as an emetic should be limited to cases of poisoning when it is of the greatest importance to empty the stomach as rapidly as possible. In other cases it is not a safe or manageable emetic. White of egg is the best remedy if the Sulphate causes any unpleasant effects.

118.

Croton Seeds.

The seeds of Croton Tiglium, Linn.

Jépál, Jamál-gótá (Hind.), Jamál-guttah (Duk.), Jépál, Jamál-gotá (Beng., Punj.), Nérválam kottai (Tam.), Népála-vittulu (Tel.), Nirválam (Mal.) Jápálada-bíjá (Can.), Népálácha-bi (Mah.), Jamlá-gota (Guz.), Jápála, Jaipála (Cing.), Kanakho-si, Sa-díva, Ta-díva (Burm.), Buah doomkian (Malay).

119. The Croton seeds met with in Indian bazaars are often spoilt by long keeping, &c.; they should, when practicable, be collected fresh when required for use. They are about the size of a grain of coffee, oval, rounded, of an imperfectly quadrangular form, with a thin brittle light-coloured shell, containing a yellowish albuminous kernel, enclosing a large leafy embryo; inodorous; taste at first mild, subsequently acrid and pungent. In their natural state they are violently purgative, and even in small quantity poisonous.

120. The following Croton pill is said to be an effectual purgative: take any quantity of the seeds, deprived of their outer shell, boil them three times in milk, and after boiling, carefully remove the outer skin and the little leaf-like body (embryo) which will be found between the two halves of the kernel; if the latter be allowed to remain, it will cause violent griping and vomiting. To 30 grains of the seeds thus prepared add 60 grains of finely powdered Catechu, and with the aid of a little honey or gum beat them into an even mass. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, and divide into pills, each weighing two grains. One of these is a sufficient dose for an adult, and should be given only when a strong purgative is required, as in Apoplexy, Convulsions, Insanity, Ardent Fevers, &c. Should it cause much griping, vomiting, or too violent purging, a good large draught of lime juice is the best remedy; and it may be safely repeated in half an hour if the vomiting, &c., continue.

121. The oil expressed from these seeds, Croton Oil, is a powerful purgative, in doses of one drop, or even less, made into a pill with bread-crumb. It is applicable for all the cases mentioned in the last section; and where one drop does not operate the dose may be increased to two or even three drops. In Apoplexy, Fits, &c., where the patient is unable to swallow, it is sufficient to place the oil at the base of the tongue. Its use, as a general rule, should be confined to adults.

122. A useful stimulant liniment is made by mixing half an ounce of Croton Oil with three and a half ounces of Sesamum, Cocoa-nut, or other bland oil. It causes a vesicular eruption, and proves serviceable in Chronic Rheumatism, Paralysis, Diseases of the Joints, Phthisis, and Chronic Bronchitis.

123.

Cubebs.

The dried unripe fruit of Cubeba officinalis, Miquel.

Kabáb-chíní (Hind., Duk., Punj.), Liút-marz (Kash.), Vál-milagu (Tam.), Tóka-miriyálu, Chalava-miriyálu (Tel.), Vál-mulaka (Mal.), Bála-menasu (Can.), Kabábachini, Himsí-míre (Mah.), Kabáb-chíní, Tadamirí (Guz.), Vál-molagu, Vát molavú (Cing.), Lada-bereker (Malay).

124. Cubebs of very fair quality is often obtainable in the bazaars. [In Southern India and elsewhere Sítal-Chíní is the name in use for Cubebs, and Kabáb-chíní for Allspice (fruit of Eugenia Pimenta), whereas in Calcutta the reverse holds good, the former (Sítal-Chíní) is applied to Allspice, and the latter (Kabáb-chíní) to Cubebs. In the Madras bazaars the name Kabáb-chíní is also often applied to the buds of Mesua ferrea: this is incorrect, the proper name of the latter being Nágésar (Moodeen Sheriff). According to Dr. Aitchison the fruit of Zanthoxylum alatum, Roxb. (Zanthoxylon hostile, Wall) is often sold as Cubebs (Kabáb-chíní) in the Punjaub bazaars.] It is usually about the size of black pepper, globular, wrinkled, blackish, supported on a short stalk, has an acrid camphoraceous taste, and a peculiar aromatic odour. Within the shell is a hard, spherical, whitish, oily kernel.

125. The chief use of Cubebs is as a remedy in Gonorrhœa, but it is only admissible in the more advanced stages, when the acute symptoms have subsided; in the earlier stages it may do harm. The following is a good form: Take of powdered Cubebs, two ounces; powdered Alum, half an ounce. Mix thoroughly, and divide into nine equal parts, one to be taken thrice daily in water. These powders may also be used with benefit in Gleet, Leucorrhœa, and other Vaginal Discharges of Women.

126. The Coughs of Old Age, attended with much expectoration, are sometimes greatly benefited by Cubebs in doses of eight or ten grains thrice daily.

127.

Datura.

The dried leaves and stems of Datura alba, Linn., and Datura fastuosa, Linn.

Dhatúrá (Hind., Duk., Beng., Punj., Guz.), Umattai (Tam.), Dáthir (Kash.), Ummetta, Duttúramu (Tel.), Ummatta (Mal.), Ummatte (Can.), Attana (Cing.), Padáyin (Burm.), Kachubung (Malay). These are the native generic names of the Datura plant, the different species being distinguished by affixes denoting the colour of the flowers, white, purple, &c.

128. The white and purple varieties of Datura are common on waste places throughout India; they possess the same medicinal properties, and although the purple variety is generally regarded as the more powerful, there is no evidence of its being so. Although a valuable medicine, much caution is necessary in its employment; as in over-doses it acts as a powerful narcotic poison. A very useful preparation is a tincture made by macerating two and a half ounces of bruised Datura seeds in one pint of proof spirit (356) for seven days in a closed vessel, occasionally shaking; it should then be pressed, and filtered, and measured, and sufficient proof spirit added to make one pint. This tincture generally produces all the sedative and narcotic effects which could be expected from opium, besides effecting a great saving, opium being very expensive, whilst this tincture can be prepared at a comparatively small cost. The dose requires to be regulated in each individual case; it is better, therefore, to commence with small doses of ten or twelve drops in a little water, and increase them to twenty or thirty drops, according to circumstances. As a general rule, twenty drops will be found to be equal in effect to one grain of opium. One of the effects of Datura is to produce dilatation of the pupil; the eye should therefore be occasionally examined whilst this remedy is being administered, and should the pupil be found very large and dilated, it may be regarded as a sign that the medicine has been carried as far as it can be with safety, whether it has produced its other intended effects or not.

128β. In Datura we have an excellent, if not perfect, indigenous substitute for Belladonna [Atropa Belladonna, Linn., is an indigenous shrub, in the Western Temperate Himalaya, alt. six to eleven thousand feet; from Kashmir to Simla (Flora British India), and the Kuram Valley, Aitchison]—in the treatment of Cataract and other Diseases of the Eye. Its mydriatic (pupil-dilating) powers have been examined by Sub-Assistant Surgeon Tarra Prosonno Roy (Indian Med. Gaz., Sept. 1870). He first applied a portion of a watery extract of the leaves of D. alba around the eyes; the pupils became widely dilated, and continued so for two days. He next tried an alcoholic extract of the seeds of the same species prepared by macerating half an ounce of the seeds in four ounces of country spirit, evaporating the tincture to dryness on a water bath, and dissolving the residue in one ounce of water. Experiments made with this solution prove beyond a doubt its power of causing dilatation of the pupil when locally applied; the strength of this watery solution being, at a rough estimate about equal in power to a four-grain (to the ounce) solution of Atropine.

129. In Asthma, the dried leaves and stem cut small and smoked, like tobacco, in a pipe, afford in many cases great relief. In some the benefit is immediate and striking, in others it has little effect, and in a few it acts injuriously; its value in any case can only be ascertained by personal experiment, but it is worth a trial in all cases. When the leaves fail, the dried seeds, which are thought to be more powerful, may be tried. The earlier in the attack it is employed the greater are the chances of success; it has little effect when the attack has lasted for some hours. For a person subject to asthma, a good plan is to adopt the habit of smoking a pipe of it the last thing at night, whether an attack is threatening or not; at any rate, he should keep a pipe of it already filled, with the means of lighting it, by his bedside, so that, immediately on an attack commencing, he may use it. From ten to twenty grains of the dried plant is sufficient to commence with; it may subsequently be increased to thirty grains, but in all cases it should be immediately discontinued if it produces giddiness, a feeling of sickness, or any other unpleasant symptom. Serious, and even fatal, consequences have followed its incautious use, hence too much care cannot be exercised in its employment. In Chronic Coughs, where the cough comes on in violent paroxysms, and is hard and dry, with scanty expectoration, smoking Datura (ante) proves beneficial.

130. For Rheumatic Swellings of the Joints, Lumbago, Painful Tumours, Nodes, &c., Datura, locally applied, often proves most serviceable in relieving pain. There are four modes, in either of which it may be advantageously employed: 1. Poultice, made by bruising the fresh leaves into a pulp, and mixing them, with the aid of a little water, with an equal weight of rice flour, to the consistence of a poultice. 2. Epithem; which consists of steeping a few entire leaves in arrack or other spirit, and placing them, whilst wet, over the seat of pain, and securing them in that position by a bandage. 3. Fomentation; made by infusing the leaves in boiling water, in the proportion of one ounce to each pint of fluid, and applying as directed in paragraph 393. 4. Liniment; prepared by macerating, for seven days, one ounce of the bruised seeds in a pint of Sesamum or other bland oil, and straining. In addition to the above-named affections, these preparations, applied to the loins, are useful in relieving the pain attendant on painful or difficult Menstruation, and in some painful affections of the Uterus; in the latter, they may more advantageously be placed over the lower part of the abdomen. They also prove beneficial in relieving Neuralgic pains, especially of the Face; for this the liniment is best adapted, well rubbed in over the seat of pain, and along the space immediately in front of the ear, or rather, in the narrow space between the ear and the jaw.

131. In Tetanus or Lock-jaw, consequent on a wound, Datura is worthy of a trial in the absence of more effective agents. Poultices of the leaves, renewed three or four times a day, should be kept constantly to the wound, which should be further cleansed if covered with thick discharge or slough, by the process of irrigation of tepid water (395). The Tincture of Datura, in doses of 20 to 30 drops in water, may also be given internally three or four times daily. The dose must be regulated by the effect produced, but it may be continued, unless the spasms previously yield, till it produces full dilatation of the pupil with some degree of giddiness, drowsiness, or confusion of ideas, beyond which it is not safe to carry the medicine. If the spasms abate, i.e., if they recur at more distant intervals, and are less severe and prolonged when they do occur, the medicine, in smaller doses at longer intervals, may be continued till the spasms cease altogether; but if, under the use of the remedy, after it has produced its specific effects on the system, the spasms show no sign of abatement, no good, but perhaps harm, will result from continuing it. In addition to the above means, Datura liniment (130) should be well rubbed in along the spine several times daily. The patient should be confined to a darkened room and protected from cold draughts of air; the bowels should be opened, if necessary by turpentine enemas (364). The strength should be supported by strong beef-tea, or mutton-broth (413), by eggs, beaten up with milk, and by brandy-mixture (420) or other stimulants; if these cannot be swallowed they should be given in enemas, for which purpose not more than four ounces should be used at a time; larger quantities will not be retained. The treatment detailed in this paragraph is advocated from the success which has in some cases of Tetanus attended the use of Belladonna—a drug to which Datura bears a very close resemblance in its effects on the system: employed as above directed, it may be need with perfect safety, provided that the case is carefully watched, and the medicine diminished or discontinued on the full development of its physiological effects.

132. In cases of Guinea Worm, a Datura poultice (130) is said to be the most useful in relieving the pain, and hastening the expulsion of the worm.