Class I. Div. I. Ord. V. Chalybeata.
It has been shown, in the article on Chalybeates, that the action of Iron is of a distinctly Restorative nature.
There is in the blood a red colouring matter, called Hæmatosin. It is found by chemical analysis that Iron is an essential part of this substance. The existence of the right amount of Hæmatosin in the blood is of vital importance. It is contained in the red globules of the blood. When it is diminished in quantity, the number of these red globules is lessened in the same proportion. This produces a paleness of all the tissues, an inactivity of the muscular fibre, an impairment of all the animal functions, and a general languor and debility of the whole frame. This is Anæmia.
In all cases in which Iron is used there is a deficiency of this red colouring matter; and in all instances of Anæmia Iron is appropriate as a remedy. The blood has been analyzed before its use, and found to contain a smaller quantity of Hæmatosin and fewer red globules than in health. After its employment the blood has been analyzed again, and it is found that the amount of Hæmatosin and of red globules is increased.
Iron, then, is given in Anæmia. It is also given in cases of Scrofula, Cancer, Chorea, Hysteria, and other disorders, when these are attended with Anæmia. When this last condition is wanting, it seldom proves efficacious.
Iron, when given in moderate doses, remains in the system, and enters into the composition of the blood. It is then a Restorative Hæmatic.
Some of the salts of Iron are also Astringent. Thus the Sulphate and Sesquichloride may, by their topical action on the stomach, be of service in cases of atonic Dyspepsia.
In Anæmia produced by special causes, as by scrofulous or nervous disorder, we may often do most good by striking at the root of the evil,—employing a Catalytic medicine which shall be able to do this. In simple Anæmia, Iron is of more use than any other medicine. It should be combined with exercise, air, light, and good living. In other disorders a combination of drugs is frequently of use. In chronic Ague, and in many cases of debility, Iron and Bark may be given together. Iron and Aloetic purges may be prescribed in Chlorosis and Amenorrhœa. A mild purgative should be occasionally given in all cases in which Iron is used. The Ammonio-citrate of Iron,—the compound Iron mixture, which contains the Carbonate,—and the Tincture of the Sesquichloride,—are perhaps the best of the officinal Chalybeate preparations. The first of these is the mildest, and the last the most irritant of the three. (Vide pp. 145, 263.)
ANTIMONY.