[573]. See note under the article Opium.
[574]. With regard to the use of Strychnia in paralysis, experiments sufficiently numerous have now been made to enable us to judge of its true value and efficacy. Like all other remedies it is by no means infallible. In some cases it does no good, while in others it causes effects which no other remedy is capable of producing. Every thing depends upon the nature of the case. Whenever paralysis is the result of some organic derangement of the brain, such as tumors pressing upon the substance of that organ, diseased alterations in its structure, or extravasations of fluid which cannot be absorbed, then this remedy will be of no avail. On the other hand, where the paralysis depends upon simple diminished nervous excitement, it may and has been completely cured by the use of this article. In paraplegia it has generally been found more successful than in hemiplegia. The first effects of the remedy in all cases are convulsive twitchings of the paralyzed parts, and no benefit is derived from its use until this effect is produced and continued for some time. If plethora should be present, this is to be corrected by venesection, purgatives, and other appropriate treatment. It is a great advantage attending the use of this powerful agent that it does not at all impair the tone of the stomach; on the contrary, it has a tendency to increase the appetite and promote digestion. In having recourse to the Strychnia, the best way is to commence with small doses, increasing them gradually according to the effect produced—one-eighth of a grain twice a day is sufficient to begin with. This may be cautiously increased to 1/6, 1/4, or even ½ a grain twice a day. Should any unpleasant symptoms occur, of course its use should be discontinued; and when the symptoms subside, it may again be resumed. By observing these general precautions there is no danger in using this otherwise potent agent. The best form of giving it is in that of pill, made up with conserve of roses.
From experiments made with Brucia, it is found to exert an influence analogous to that of the Strychnia, only less energetic—one-fourth of a grain of the latter equals in effect about six grains of the former. It occasions violent tetanic attacks, and acts upon the nerves without affecting the brain or the intellectual functions. From the inferior energy of the Brucia, it may be used in cases where the Strychnia would not be proper. The dose to begin with is gr. j. twice a day, increased to three or four times a day. Unless it does some good in five or six weeks its use should be discontinued.—Ed.
[575]. Huiles Antiques. The basis of the best of these oils, is the oil of Ben, from the nuts of the Guilangia Moringa, or oil of hazel, which is a very good substitute, since it is inodorous, colourless, and may be kept for a considerable period without becoming rancid: it is therefore well adapted to receive and retain the odour of those vegetables that yield but a small proportion of essential oil.
[576]. Oil of Bricks. So called because this empyreumatic oil was sometimes obtained by steeping hot brick in oil, and submitting it to distillation.
[577]. Roche’s Embrocation for the Hooping Cough. Olive oil mixed with about half its quantity of the oils of cloves and amber.
Struve’s Lotion for the Hooping Cough. This once famous nostrum consisted of ʒj of Tartarized Antimony, dissolved in f℥ij of water, to which was added f℥j of Tincture of Cantharides.
[578]. The editors have also unaccountably retained the Oleum de Lumbricis!
[579]. If the plates of the press be heated, the fixed oil from the bitter almond will be odorous.
[580]. Essence or Bitter Almonds. The preparation sold under this name, for the purposes of perfumery, &c. consists of one part of this essential oil, and seven parts of Rectified spirit.