SECT. VI.
Of Scalding
Scalding is another accident of much consequence, which ought to be remedied by times, in order to prevent the many evil consequences of inflammation it is liable to produce.
I must first of all refer the reader to what I have said on the skin, Lect. I. Sect. VII. for farther than this we will not suppose a scalding proceeds, unless it is very dreadful indeed.
The nature of scalding then, is this: the hot water coming upon the body, separates immediately the scarf skin from the real skin, thereby opens the lymphatic vessels, so that they discharge their lymph under the cuticula, and thence arise blisters. But withal, the heat of the water irritating the nerves, they are excited to contract and constrict the delicate vessels, and hinder the circulation; thence ensues the fiery colour and inflammation, and create acrimonious tendencies. Thence we learn, that a relaxation of the solids is to be relaxed, and the humours to be rectified.
The moment a man has scalded himself, immediately apply Turner’s Cerate (K), spread upon a rag, to the part. What is equally as efficacious, and sometimes better, is the Linament of Soap (B). If notwithstanding this, blisters arise, open them not, but let them remain with the application on them, whereby a cure will soon be facilitated; but if they break open on their own accord, or that the scarf skin was scalded off, then apply on the sore, Turner’s Cerate (K), intermixed with a little Calomel (N), and levigated Precipitate (O), which will prove very beneficial.
No. III
Take Turner’s Cerate (K) one Ounce, Calomel, and fine Precipitate (O) of each ten grains, and mix it.
This spread upon a little lint will prove a fine healer. If the Diachylon Plaister (20) can be applied, it will also prove so powerful an antiphlogistic, that any other will be unnecessary.