DIURETICS.
Diuretics are medicines which, by their action on the kidneys, increase the flow of urine.
Marsh-mallow (Althea Officinalis) is used in irritable conditions of the urinary organs. The infusion may be drunk freely.
Gravel-plant (Epigea Repens), is also known as Water-pink, Trailing-arbutus, or Gravel-root. Dose—Of decoction of the plant, one to three ounces; of fluid extract, one-fourth to one-half teaspoonful.
Stone-root (Collinsonia Canadensis), is also known as Knot-root, Horse-balm, Rich-weed, or Ox-balm. This is a mild diuretic, slow in action, yet effective in allaying irritation of the bladder. The root is the part used. _Dose_--If infusion, one to two ounces; of fluid extract, five to ten drops; of the concentrated principle, Collinsonin, one-half to one grain.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) slows the action of the heart, lowers the temperature, and acts indirectly as a diuretic. It is especially valuable in the treatment of scarlet fever and in dropsy. Dose—Of infusion, one-half drachm to one-half ounce; of the fluid extract or strong tincture, from two to ten drops. It should be used with caution. A poultice made of the leaves and placed over the kidneys is an effectual method of employing the drug.
Queen of the Meadow (Eupatorium Purpureum), is also known as Gravel-weed, Gravel-root, or Trumpet-weed. This is a most valuable diuretic. Dose—Of the infusion, one to three ounces; of fluid extract, one-fourth to one-half teaspoonful; of the concentrated principle, Eupatorin (Purpu), one-half to two grains.