AMERICAN HELEBORE.
Medical Properties and Use.
This has been tried by many physicians and has proved a valuable remedy in chronic rheumatism and gout. It is certainly a powerful emetic when given in large doses, and the effect continues a long time. In over doses it effects the functions of the brain and nervous system, in a powerful manner producing giddiness, prostration of strength, &c. It has arrested the paroxysm of gout and given relief in some unyielding cases of chronic rheumatism. It requires to be given with great caution and under vigilant restrictions. The mode of administration is in the form of a tincture. A saturated tincture is made in wine and 3 parts of this is mixed with 1 of the wine of opium; of this mixture from 15 to 20 drops. In some cases however, 1 drachm of the mixture will be required to give relief, which quantity generally vomits and always gives relief. The proper method of preparing this tincture is to macerate 8 ounces of the sliced root in 2½ pints of spanish white wine, let it stand for 15 days and filter. Before given, it must be mixed with one-fourth its quantity of the wine of opium; from 15 to 60 drops is a dose. In some cases less than the nauseating point will cure the disease, if not it must be carried to that point.
EMETIC FOR POISON.
If poison should be administered or swallowed accidentally, take two tablespoonsful of ground mustard, mixed with warm water, which will operate as an instantaneous emetic.
INDIAN TURNIP.
Medical Properties and use.
The Indian turnip, when partially dried and grated and mixed with honey, is good for the coughs of old persons, when there is no fever. It also enters into many of the cough syrups.