459. Sage Tea.—Wood sage, which grows naturally, is the finest kind; with a little alum it makes an excellent gargle for a sore throat. It may be made as tea, but is better if boiled.
460. Senna Tea.—Macerate for an hour, in a covered vessel, one ounce and a half of senna, a drachm of ginger, sliced, and a pint of boiling water; the dose is from one-half to a wine-glassful. Or, mix two drachms of senna, with a little Bohea tea, in a quarter of a pint of boiling water, and add, when poured off clear, a little sugar and milk.
461. Chamomile Tea.—Take of chamomile flowers one ounce, boiling water, one quart; simmer for ten minutes, and strain.
Chamomile tea is well known as an emetic, when taken in a tepid state. In some parts of England, a strong infusion of chamomile is frequently taken at bed-time, as hot as it can be swallowed, when it produces perspiration, and next morning acts as a purgative. It is also there considered as one of the best remedies for indigestion, colic, pains and obstructions of the bowels, especially when arising from cold. A cup of coffee taken hot on an empty stomach, will frequently be as efficacious as the chamomile, in either of the above cases.
A small cupful of the tea, cold, taken in the morning, fasting, is often serviceable for indigestion. Chamomiles are also employed in fomentations, their greatest use being to retain the heat of the application.
462. Linseed Tea.—Pour two quarts of boiling water upon one ounce of linseed, and two drachms of liquorice-root, sliced; let it stand six hours.