Bath, Sea. (Factitious). Syn. Bal′neum mari′num facti′′tium, L. Artificial sea-water, or rather a substitute for sea-water, for this purpose, is commonly prepared by adding about 3% of common salt to ordinary water.[117] The following are, however, more serviceable imitations:—
[117] Or (say) for small quantities—
11⁄4 oz. to the quart; 5 oz. to the gallon.
2 lbs. to every 7 gallons.
1. As above, with the addition of 1 dr. of iodide of potassium to every 3 or 4 galls. of water.
2. (Cutan. Hosp.). Common salt, 8 lbs.; sulphate of magnesia, 2 lbs.; chloride of calcium, 1 lb.; water, 50 to 60 galls.
3. Salt, a handful; water, a pailful; flour of mustard, 1 oz. For a foot-bath.
Bath, Show′er. Syn. Implu′′vium, Bal′neum pen′sile, &c., L.; Douche, Fr. Similar in its effects to the cold bath or plunge-bath; but without many of its advantages. It is less alarming to nervous persons, and less liable to produce cramp, than immersion in cold water; whilst the reaction or glow follows more speedily and certainly. It is considered the best and safest mode of cold bathing, and is often highly serviceable in nervous affections. A good plan is to allow the water to remain in the bedroom all night, by which any undue degree of coldness is removed. Tepid water may be commenced with; and at first, in extreme cases, the patient may stand in hot or warm water at the time of taking the bath. The reaction following its use is greatly promoted by friction of the surface with dry rough towels.
Bath, Soap. Syn. Bal′neum sapo′nis, L. White soap, 2 to 3 lbs.; water, 3 quarts; dissolve by heat, and add it to a warm bath. Detergent, lubricating, and discutient; in itch and other skin diseases, &c.