DIURETICS.
Diuretics are medicines which, by their action on the kidneys, increase the flow of urine.
Marsh-mallow (Althea Officinalis) is used in irritable conditions of the urinary organs. The infusion may be drunk freely.
Gravel-plant (Epigea Repens), is also known as Water-pink, Trailing-arbutus, or Gravel-root. Dose—Of decoction of the plant, one to three ounces; of fluid extract, one-fourth to one-half teaspoonful.
Stone-root (Collinsonia Canadensis), is also known as Knot-root, Horse-balm, Rich-weed, or Ox-balm. This is a mild diuretic, slow in action, yet effective in allaying irritation of the bladder. The root is the part used. _Dose_--If infusion, one to two ounces; of fluid extract, five to ten drops; of the concentrated principle, Collinsonin, one-half to one grain.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) slows the action of the heart, lowers the temperature, and acts indirectly as a diuretic. It is especially valuable in the treatment of scarlet fever and in dropsy. Dose—Of infusion, one-half drachm to one-half ounce; of the fluid extract or strong tincture, from two to ten drops. It should be used with caution. A poultice made of the leaves and placed over the kidneys is an effectual method of employing the drug.
Queen of the Meadow (Eupatorium Purpureum), is also known as Gravel-weed, Gravel-root, or Trumpet-weed. This is a most valuable diuretic. Dose—Of the infusion, one to three ounces; of fluid extract, one-fourth to one-half teaspoonful; of the concentrated principle, Eupatorin (Purpu), one-half to two grains.
Buchu (Barosma Crenata). The leaves are used. This agent has been extensively employed, generally in compounds. Dose—Of infusion, (steeped for two hours or more) one to two ounces; of fluid extract, the same; of the concentrated principle, Barosmin, one to three grains.
Pipsissewa (Chimaphila Umbellata), or Prince's Pine. This is a tonic to the kidneys, as well as a diuretic and alterative, and is a mild, but very efficient remedy. Dose—Of decoction, one ounce from four to six times a day; of fluid extract, one-fourth to one-half teaspoonful; of the concentrated principle, Chimaphilin, one to two grains.
Water-melon Seeds (Cucurbita Citrullus). Dose—Of infusion, the patient may drink freely until the desired effect is secured.
Pumpkin Seeds (Cucurbita Pepo). They are mild, unirritating, yet effective diuretics. An infusion of these may be drunk freely.
Sweet Spirit of Nitre (Spiritus Ætheris Nitros), is diuretic and anodyne. Dose—One-fourth to one-half teaspoonful, diluted in water, every two or three hours.
Saltpetre (Potassæ Nitras). Dose—Powdered, five to ten grains.
Acetate Of Potash (Potassæ Acetas). Dose—Ten to fifteen grains, largely diluted in water. It is more frequently used for this purpose than the nitrate. It is a most valuable diuretic.