178.In Dropsy attended with Anæmia(174)and Debility, two grains of the Sulphate of Iron in a quart of water sweetened to taste, and taken in divided doses as an ordinary drink during the day, is a useful adjunct to other treatment.
179.In Bleeding Piles, especially when the patient is much debilitated by the discharge, daily enemas of the Sulphate, of the strength of 3 grains to 1 ounce of water, often prove of great service. The same treatment is well adapted forProlapsus(Descent)of the Rectum.
180.Obstinate Hooping Cough, which resists Alum (28) and other remedies, sometimes yields to Sulphate of Iron in small and continued doses.
181.In Chronic DiarrhœaandDysentery of Childhoodin weak anæmic children the following mixture has been used with great advantage; Sulphate of Iron, 4 grains; Laudanum, 6 drops; Omum water, 10 drachms. Of this the dose is two teaspoonfuls every six hours for a child of one year of age, and so on in proportion.
182.JatamansiorIndian Spikenard.The root of Nardostachys Jatamansi,D.C.
182.
The root of Nardostachys Jatamansi,D.C.
Jatámásí, Bal-chír (Hind.,Punj.), Jhatá-mansí (Duk.), Játámámsí (Beng.), Bhút-jatt, Kúkil-i-pót (Kash.), Jatámáshi (Tam.,Tel.), Jetá-mánchi (Mal.), Jetá-mávashí (Can.,Mah.), Jatamánsi, Jaramánsi (Cing.).
183. These roots, met with in most bazaars, occur in the form of short pieces of an underground stem,about the thickness of a goose quill, covered towards its tapering extremity, or almost entirely, with coarse, dark, hairlike fibres; odour, peculiar and fragrant; taste, aromatic and bitterish. In selecting specimens for medical use, care should be taken that they are fresh and of good quality; much of the drug sold in the bazaars being old, worm-eaten, and worthless.
184. Jatamansi is held in high repute by the natives as an antispasmodic, and trials made with it by Europeans tend to show that in this character it is a good substitute for the officinal Valerian; hence it is worthy of trial inHysterical Affections, especially inPalpitation of the Heart,Chorea,Flatulence,&c.It may be given in infusion (2 drachms of the bruised root to half a pint of boiling water, macerated for an hour and strained), in doses of a wineglassful twice or thrice daily. A Tincture was ordered in the Bengal Pharmacopœia (5 ounces of bruised Jatamansi, Proof Spirit, 2 pints), of which the dose is from 1 to 2 drachms. In all cases it may be advantageously combined with camphor, ammonia, and other remedies of the same class.
185.Kala-dana.The seeds of Pharbitis Nil,Choisy.
185.
The seeds of Pharbitis Nil,Choisy.
Kálá-dánah (Hind.,Punj.), Kali-zirki-ká-bínj (Duk.), Kálá-dáná, Nil-kolomi (Beng.), Hub-úl-níl (Punj.,Kash.), Kodi-kakkatán-virai, Jiriki-virai (Tam.), Jiriki-vittulu, Kolli-vittulu (Tel.).
186. Kala-dana seeds are black, angular, a quarter of an inch or more in length, weighing on an averageabout half a grain each, having the form of the segment of an orange; of a sweet and subsequently rather acrid taste, and heavy smell.
187. The powdered seeds, in doses of from 30 to 50 grains, act as a safe and effectual purgative, forming an excellent substitute for Jalap, though not quite so active in its operation. When the ingredients are available, the following powder is preferable to the powdered seeds by themselves: Powdered Kala-dana seeds, 7 drachms; Rock Salt, or Cream of Tartar, 7 drachms; powdered Ginger, 1 drachm. Rub them well together in a mortar, and pass the powder through a fine sieve. Of this, the dose, as a purgative for an adult native, is from 60 to 90 grains. Somewhat smaller doses suffice for Europeans.
188.KamalaorKamela.The powder from the capsules of Mallotus Phillippiensis,Müller.
188.
The powder from the capsules of Mallotus Phillippiensis,Müller.
Kaméla, Kamúd (Hind.), Kaméla (Beng.), Kamélá-mávu, Kápila-podi (Tam.), Kápila-podi (Tel.), Kaméla (Guz.), Hampirilla-gedivella-buvá (Cing.), Rúlyá, Kamíla (Punj.), Káim-bil (Kash.).
189. Kamala, much employed by the natives as a dye, is met with in most bazaars in the form of a beautiful purplish-red powder; it should be free from sand or earthy impurities. In medicine, it has attained considerable repute as a remedy forTænia or Tape worm. It has little or no effect on other forms of intestinal worms. The dose for an adult is from 2 to 3 drachms in honey, or a little aromatic water;no other medicine being necessary before or after. In the above doses it acts freely on the bowels, causing, in many instances, considerable nausea and griping, though not generally more than is caused by other remedies of the same class; the worm is generally expelled in a lifeless state in the third or fourth stool. Should the first trial not prove successful, it may be repeated after the interval of a week; but should this be a failure also, it will be useless to continue its use farther; then other remedies may be tried.
190.KariyatorCreyat.The dried stalks and root of Andrographis paniculata,Nees.
190.
The dried stalks and root of Andrographis paniculata,Nees.
Charàyetah, Mahá-títá, Kiryat (Hind.), Charàyeta, Kalaf-náth (Duk.), Cherota, Mahá-tita (Beng.), Shirat-kúch-chi, Nila-vémbu (Tam.), Néla-vému (Tel.), Nila véppa, Kiriyáttu (Mal.), Nela-bevinágidá (Can.), Chiráyita (Mah.), Kiryáta, Kiryáto (Guz.), Binko-hamba, Hín-binko-hamba (Cing.), Charita (Malay).
191. The stem, which is usually sold in the bazaars with the root attached, occurs in pieces of about a foot or more in length, quadrangular, of a lightish-brown colour, and persistent bitter taste. From the similarity between their native names and sensible qualities, this article is often confounded with Chiretta (96). Kariyát is a valuable bitter tonic, and may advantageously be employed in cases ofGeneral Debility, inConvalescence after Fevers, and inthe advancedstages of Dysentery. It is best given as follows: Take of Kariyát, bruised, ½ ounce, Acorus, or Sweet Flag Root, and Dill Seeds bruised, of each 60 grains; Boiling Water, ½ pint; infuse in a covered vessel for an hour, and strain. Dose, from 1½ to 2 ounces twice or thrice daily.
192. The following preparation has been highly spoken of: Take of Kariyát, cut small, 6 ounces; Myrrh and Aloes, in coarse powder, of each 1 ounce; Brandy, 2 pints. Macerate for seven days in a closed vessel, occasionally shaking it, strain, press, filter, and add sufficient Brandy to make 2 pints. Of this the dose is from one to four teaspoonfuls in a little water taken on an empty stomach. It acts as a gentle aperient, and is said to prove very useful in many forms ofDyspepsia, especially when attended with torpidity of the bowels.
193.In the Bowel Complaints of Childrena decoction of the fresh leaves of the Kariyát plant has been well spoken of. It is prepared by boiling 2½ ounces of the fresh leaves in 1½ pints of water down to 6 ounces; of this the dose is one ounce every two or three hours. It may be used in conjunction with other remedies as required.
194.Kokum Butter.The concrete oil of the seeds of Garcinia purpurea,Roxb.
194.
The concrete oil of the seeds of Garcinia purpurea,Roxb.
Kokam-ká-tél (Hind.).
195. This oil is obtained by first exposing the seeds to the action of the sun, when sufficiently drybruising them, and then subjecting them to boiling; the oil collects on the surface, and on cooling, concretes into a solid cake. When purified it is rather brittle, of a pale yellowish colour, bland and mild to the taste, melting in the mouth, and leaving an impression of cold on the tongue. It melts at 98° F. From its bland, unirritating properties, as well as from its consistence, it seems admirably adapted for replacing animal fats in the preparation of ointments, &c. Were it largely produced, which it unfortunately is not, it might be extensively utilised in tropical pharmacy.
196.Lawsonia alba,Linn., orHenna Shrub.
196.
Mhíndí (Hind.), Mhéndí or Méndí (Duk.,Punj.), Méhedi (Beng.), Móhnz (Kash.), Marutónri, Aivanam (Tam.), Góranta (Tel.), Mayilánchi, Marutónni (Mal.), Górante (Can.), Méndhi (Mah.), Méndi (Guz.), Maritondi (Cing.), Dánbin (Burm.), Hinie (Malay).
197. The leaves of this common Indian shrub, in almost universal use throughout the East for staining the nails, &c., are well worthy of a trial in the treatment of that troublesome and painful affection of the natives calledBurning of the Feet. For this purpose the fresh leaves should be beaten into a paste with vinegar or lime juice, and applied as a poultice to the soles of the feet. Another plan, which is sometimes more effectual, is to use strong friction with the bruised leaves over the parts. Like all other remedies,however, they not unfrequently fail to afford more than temporary relief; still, from occasionally succeeding, they merit a fair trial.
198.Leeches.
198.
Jók (Hind.), Jónk (Duk.,Beng.,Punj.), Drik (Kash.), Attái (Tam.), Attalu, Jela-galu (Tel.), Attá (Mal.), Jígani (Can.), Jala (Guz.), Kudallu, Púdal (Cing.), Míyon, Minyon (Burm.), Lintah (Malay).
199. Leeches are procurable, especially during the monsoon, in most parts of India, in the neighbourhood of tanks and swamps. As they are a valuable resource in many diseases, when properly applied in proper cases, a few preliminary remarks may be acceptable.
200. Leeches vary considerably in size; and their blood-extracting capacity is, as a general rule, in proportion to their size. It has been found that small Leeches will abstract two and a half times, small middle-sized four times, large middle-sized five and a half times, and large ones nearly six times their own weight of blood. Hence, to abstract a certain quantity of blood, a very much larger number of small Leeches is required than of large ones. The middle-sized Leech, from 1½ to 2 inches in length when at rest, is in all cases preferable. The very small leeches so commonly supplied in India are objectionable on account of the number of bites, the length of time required in their application, and the indefinite small oozing of blood which follows theirapplication, and the difficulty in arresting the flow by pressure. On the other hand, the very large Leech is objectionable, from the large gaping wound left by its bite, which often results in an ugly scar; this applies with peculiar force to childhood and infancy.
201. Where only one or two Leeches have to be applied, they may be taken in the hand and held to the spot where it is desired they should bite, but this is a long and tedious process; when several are to be applied, they should be put in a wineglass and thus held to the surface till they have all taken.
202. In order to make Leeches bite readily, thoroughly cleanse the skin with soap and water, and then dry it; this is particularly necessary if a liniment has been previously employed. If they will not bite, one or more of the following plans may be tried: 1. Remove them from the water and keep them for ten minutes in a dry, warm cloth. 2. Smear the skin with cream or sugared milk. 3. Apply a small mustard poultice over the spot. After carefully cleansing with hot water, apply the Leeches. Not only will they bite more readily, but the flow of blood will be far greater than it otherwise would be. 4. Make a small puncture or scratch on the skin, and smear the blood over the surface; this often succeeds when everything else fails. It should also be remembered that the fumes of sulphur, vinegar, or tobacco in a room, will often prevent Leeches from biting at all.
203. To make Leeches bite on particular spots, take a piece of blotting-paper and make in it as manysmall holes as there are Leeches, the holes corresponding with the spots on which it is desired to apply the Leeches; they are then to be covered over with a wineglass or tumbler; the Leeches, finding themselves on a rough surface, creep about till they come to the holes in the paper, when they instantly bite the exposed points of the skin; the blotting-paper is easily removed by being moistened.
204. When Leeches will not drop off naturally, which they generally do in about fifteen minutes or less, or if you wish to remove them, sprinkle them with a little salt or vinegar, or touch them with a piece of onion; the last is an old Bengali practice.
205. To promote the bleeding from Leech-bites, use hot fomentations; to arrest it apply burnt rag, and make firm pressure with the finger over the bite. A piece of tobacco leaf, or spider's web, or the nap off a hat, sometimes succeeds better than burnt rag. If these fail try powdered alum (25) or sulphate of copper (116). See alsoHæmorrhagein Index.
206. If Leeches get into the rectum or nostrils, or any of the other passages, they may be dislodged by using an injection of, or by simply touching them with, vinegar or a solution of salt.
207. Leeches should not be applied immediately over a large prominent vein, nor to the eyelids, nor to the bosom of a woman, especially during pregnancy, nor to the loose skin of the penis or scrotum, as the bites in these situations are apt to be followed by infiltration or inflammation.
208. Additional care is necessary in applyingLeeches to young children, as they bleed so much more freely than adults; they should, when practicable, be placed where a bone is near the surface, so that in case of excessive bleeding pressure may be made against it. Morning is the best time for their application; if put on in the evening, the bites may burst out bleeding whilstthe attendants are asleep, and thechild die from hæmorrhage; such cases are on record. As a general rule, one Leech is sufficient for each year of a child's age up to six; after that age up to adolescence, the latter number continues to be enough in ordinary cases.
209.In Fevers attended with much Headache, Leeches are very useful, but they should only be applied in the early stages of the disease; when the patient is young and vigorous, four or six Leeches to each temple may be applied, but they sometimes give most relief if put at the nape of the neck, close to the point where the head joins to the spine.In severe Pain in the Chest or Abdomen occurring during Fevers, eight or ten Leeches applied immediately over the seat of pain often afford manifest relief.
210.In severe Headache, or fulness of Head depending upon the stoppage of a discharge of blood from Piles, Leeches close to the anus frequently afford great relief, but great care is necessary to prevent them creeping up into the rectum. When theHeadache depends upon the sudden stoppage of the Menstrual Discharge, the leeches should be applied to the inner part of the thighs.
211.In Acute Dysentery, a few Leeches (six to nine)to the verge of the anus are often most serviceable in relieving the pain and straining at stool, and otherwise prove beneficial. The same measure is also of great service inCongestion of the Liver, or they may be placed over the region of the liver, but a fewer number afford a greater amount of relief when applied to the verge of the anus.
212.In all local Inflammations of the Skin,Incipient Abscesses,Boils, andin Bruises,Sprains, andBlows, where there is much pain and heat of the part, six or eight Leeches, followed by hot fomentations, tend to relieve the pain and cause the subsidence of inflammatory action.
213.Obstinate Vomitingmay occasionally be checked by a few Leeches to the pit of the stomach after ordinary means have failed.
214.Lemon-grass Oil.The oil obtained by distillation from several species of Andropogon.
214.
The oil obtained by distillation from several species of Andropogon.
Akyá-ghas-ká-aitr (Hind.), Hazár-masáleh-ká aatar (Duk.), Agya-ghans-tail (Beng.), Vásh-anap-pullu-yenney, Karpúra-pullu-yenney (Tam.), Nimma-gaddi-núnay (Tel.), Vásanap-pulla-enna (Mal.), Purvali-hullú-yanne (Can.), Lilli-chaya-tél (Guz.), Pengrimá-tel (Cing.), Sabalen-si (Burm.), Miniak Sárie (Malay), Iz-khar (Punj.), Babber-i-Khát (Kash.).
215. Specimens of Lemon-grass Oil met with in India differ somewhat in appearance, but they all partake more or less of the same medical properties,being powerful stimulants whether taken internally or applied externally. The true Lemon-grass Oil is of a pale sherry colour, transparent, with an extremely pungent taste and a peculiar fragrant lemon-like odour.
216.In Flatulent Colic and other Spasmodic affections of the Bowels, a dose of from 3 to 6 drops on sugar or in emulsion often affords great and speedy relief. Thus given it proves effectual in allayingObstinate Vomiting. Even inthat of Cholerait has been found successful when other remedies have failed, and in these cases it proves additionally serviceable by acting as a stimulant to the system generally; it is well worthy of a more extended trial in the treatment of this disease. The dose (5 or 6 drops) may be repeated every hour or oftener in severe cases.
217.In Chronic Rheumatism,Lumbago,Neuralgic Pains,Sprains,and other painful muscular affections, an embrocation of equal parts of this oil and any bland oil, well rubbed in twice daily, has been found useful in many instances. In old chronic cases it is necessary to use the undiluted oil in order to obtain relief.
218.Lime.Calcareous earth, the oxide of calcium.
218.
Calcareous earth, the oxide of calcium.
Chúnah, Chúna (Hind.), Chunnah (Duk.), Chún, Chúná (Beng.,Punj.,Kash.), Shunnámbu (Tam.), Sunnam (Tel.), Núra (Mal.), Sunnú (Can.), Chunná (Mah.), Chúno (Guz.), Hunu (Cing.), Thónphiya (Burm.), Kapor (Malay).
219. Lime in a medical point of view is of great importance as the basis ofLime Water(in India it is essentially necessary to see that nurses and sick attendants understand the difference between Lime Water and Lime Juice; accidents have been known to occur from their ignorance), a mild and useful antacid; it is prepared by adding two ounces of slaked lime to one gallon of water, in a stoppered bottle, shaking well for two or three minutes, and then allowing it to stand till the lime is deposited at the bottom. In cases of emergency, as burns, &c., half an hour is sufficient for this purpose; otherwise it should be allowed to stand for twelve hours at least before being used. It isonly the clear water which holds a portion of Lime in solution, which is employed in medicine. It is advisable always to keep a supply ready prepared, as it is useful in many ways, and it will remain good for a long time, if kept in well-stoppered bottles, so that the air cannot have access to it. The dose for adults is from 1 to 3 ounces twice or thrice daily; it is best administered in milk.
220. Another form, called theSaccharated Solution of Lime, thought to be better adapted for internal use in the diseases of childhood and infancy, is prepared by carefully mixing together in a mortar one ounce of Slaked Lime and two ounces of powdered White Sugar, and adding this to a pint of Water, as described above. It should be kept in a well-stoppered bottle. The dose ofthe clear wateris from 15 to 20 drops or minims in milk twice or thrice daily.
221.In Acidity of the Stomach, in Heartburn, andin those forms of Indigestion arising from or connected with acidity of the stomach, Lime Water in doses of 1½ to 2 ounces, is often speedily and permanently effectual. It is particularly useful in indigestion when the urine is scanty and high coloured, and when vomiting and acid eructations are prominent symptoms. It is best given in milk.
222.In Diarrhœa arising from AcidityLime Water frequently proves useful; it is best given in a solution of gum arabic or other mucilage, and in obstinate cases ten drops of Laudanum with each dose increases its efficacy; it may also be advantageously combined with Omum water (317).In Chronic Dysenterythe same treatment sometimes proves useful. Enemas of Lime Water diluted with an equal part of tepid milk or mucilage have also been used with benefit. It is especially adapted for theDiarrhœa and Vomiting of Infants and young children which result from artificial feeding; in these cases a sixth or a fourth part of Lime Water may be added to each pint of milk. The Saccharated Solution of Lime (220) has also been found of great service in this class of cases.
223.Obstinate Vomitingsometimes yields to a few doses of Lime Water in milk, when other more powerful remedies have failed. It is worthy of a trial in theVomiting attendant on the advanced stages of Fever; it has been thought to arrest even the black vomit of yellow fever. It is also a remedy of much value inPyrosis or Waterbrash.
224.To relieve the distressing Irritation of the Genital Organs(Pruritus Pudendi) bathing the parts wellwith tepid Lime Water three or four times a day sometimes affords much relief.Leucorrhœa and other Vaginal Dischargeshave in some instances been mitigated and even cured by the use of vaginal injections of a mixture of 1 part of Lime Water and 2 or 3 of Water.
225.In Scrofula, Lime Water in doses of ½ ounce in Milk, three or four times a day, proves beneficial in some cases; it is thought to be especially adapted for those cases in which abscesses and ulcers are continually forming. To be of service, it requires to be persevered in for some time.Scrofulous and other Ulcers attended by much dischargehave been found to improve under the use of Lime Water as a local application. ForSyphilitic Ulcers or Chancres, one of the best applications is a mixture of Lime Water ½ pint, and Calomel 30 grains; this—commonly known asBlack Wash—should be kept constantly applied to the part by means of a piece of lint or rag moistened with it. Many forms ofSkin Disease, attended with much secretion and with great irritation or burning, are benefited by Lime Water either pure or conjoined with oil (229).To sore or cracked Nipplesit proves very serviceable. Diluted with an equal part of water or milk it forms a useful injection inDischarges from the Nose and Earsoccurring in scrofulous and other children.
226.In Consumption, Lime Water and milk has been strongly recommended as an ordinary beverage. The same diet-drink has been advised inDiabetes; but little dependence is to be placed upon it as acure; it may produce temporary benefit.
227.In Thread Worm, enemas of 3 or 4 ounces of Lime Water, repeated two or three times, have sometimes been found sufficient to effect a cure.
228.In Poisoning by any of the Mineral Acids, Lime Water given plentifully in milk is an antidote of no mean value, though inferior to some of the other alkalies. It may also be given inPoisoning by Arsenic.
229.To Burns and Scaldsfew applications are superior toLime Liniment, composed of equal parts of Lime Water and a bland oil. Olive Oil is generally ordered for this purpose, but Linseed Oil answers just as well, and where this is not at hand Sesamum Oil (338) forms a perfect substitute. When thoroughly shaken together, so as to form a uniform mixture, it should be applied freely over the whole of the burnt surface, and the parts kept covered with rags constantly wetted with it, for some days if necessary. This Liniment on cotton-wool, applied to the pustules, is said to be effectual in preventingPitting in Smallpox.
230.The Lime.—The fresh fruit of Citrus Bergamia,Risso.
230.
—The fresh fruit of Citrus Bergamia,Risso.
Límú, Níbú Nínbú (Hind.,Duk.), Nébu (Beng.), Niúmb (Kash.), Elumich-cham-pazham (Tam.), Nimma-pandu (Tel.), Cheru-náranná, Jonakam-náranná (Mal.), Nimbo-hannu (Can.), Límbu (Mah.), Límbu, Nímbu (Guz.,Punj.), Dehi (Cing.), Sámyá-si, Tambiya-sí (Burm.), Limowe Nipis (Malay).
231. The fresh juice of the Lime is a valuable resource to the Indian practitioner. InScurvyit deservedly ranks highest in our list of remedies, and should be taken to the extent of not less than three ounces twice daily: the addition of sugar increases its efficacy. Should the patient be very debilitated, it may be advantageously combined with tonics, as Infusion of Chiretta (98), or Decoction of Ním Bark (260). Diluted with half its quantity of water it forms an excellent gargle forScorbutic and other Ulcerations of the Mouth, and Sponginess of the Gums. When scurvy appears in a jail or other place where numbers of people are congregated together, the daily use of Lime Juice should be strictly enforced amongst the healthy, as it is one of our best preservatives against an attack of the disease. For other remarks, see Art.Scurvy, in Index.
232.In Smallpox, Measles, Scarlatina, and other forms of Fever, where there is a hot, dry skin, and much thirst, a very useful refrigerant drink, "Lemonade," may be made by pouring a pint of Boiling Water on five or six peeled Limes cut in thin transverse slices. When cool, strain, sweeten to taste, and let the patient drink as plentifully as he likes. In the same class of cases, when the mouth is dry and clammy, sucking a fresh Lime cut in slices is often both agreeable and useful, though when at hand a slice of Pineapple is said to answer the purpose even more effectually. The stringy portion should not be swallowed.In Diabetes, weak lemonade is preferable to plain water for allaying the great thirst; like otherfluids, in this disease, it is better taken during the intervals between, than at meals.
233.In cases of Hæmmorrhage from the Lungs, Stomach, Bowels, Uterus, Kidneys, or other internal organs, especially when attended with feverish symptoms, the drink described in the last section, or made somewhat stronger, may be taken with advantage in considerable quantities. The patient should at the same time remain quiet in the recumbent position, and kept as cool as possible.
234.In Poisoning by Croton Oil Seeds,Castor Oil Seeds,the Physic Nut,and the fresh root of the Bitter Cassava,Mandioc,or Tapioca plant, almost immediate relief to the purging, vomiting, and other urgent symptoms will be obtained by drinking Lime Juice, 4 or 5 ounces at a time, diluted with an equal quantity ofconjeeor plain water. It is an antidote which should always be first tried, because it is generally at hand, and seldom fails to afford more or less relief. A full dose of Castor Oil should be subsequently given.
235.For relieving the irritation, &c., of Mosquito bites, the local application of Lime Juice often proves more effectual than anything else. Applied to the surface at nights before going to bed, it is thought also to afford protection from the attacks of mosquitoes.
236.Moringa, or Horseradish Tree.Moringa pterygosperma,Gærtn.
236.
Moringa pterygosperma,Gærtn.
Shájnah, Ségvá (Hind.), Mungé-ká-jhár (Duk.), Sojná (Beng.), Sohánjná (Punj.), Morúnga,Murungai (Tam.), Munaga (Tel.), Murinna (Mal.), Nugge-gidá (Can.), Munagácha-jháda (Mah.), Murungá (Cing.), Dándalon-bin (Burm.), Kaylor, Ramoongie (Malay).
237. The fresh root of this tree closely resembles in taste, smell, and general appearance, the common Horseradish of Europe, hence its ordinary name amongst Anglo-Indians. There is good reason for supposing that it possesses similar medical properties as a stimulant and diuretic, and in these characters it is worthy of trial inDropsical Affections attended with Debility: it may be given as follows. Take fresh Moringa Root and Mustard Seed, of each, well bruised, one ounce. Boiling Water, one pint; infuse for two hours in a covered vessel and strain. Of this the dose is about one ounce and a half (a wineglassful) thrice daily. It may also be used as a vehicle for nitre and other more active remedies.
238.In Hoarseness and Relaxed Sore Throat, a decoction of Moringa root (or the above infusion) has been found serviceable as a gargle.
239. In the preparation of mustard poultices when it is desired to make them act more speedily or energetically, the addition of the expressed juice of the fresh root, or the scraped root, answers these purposes effectually.
240.Mudar.Calotropis procera and C. gigantea,R. Brown.
240.
Calotropis procera and C. gigantea,R. Brown.
Ák, Ákond, Madár (Hind.,Punj.), Ák, Akrá, (Duk.), Ák, Ákondo (Beng.), Ak-a-múl (Kash.),Erukku or Erukkam (Tam.), Jillédu-chettu, Mándáramu (Tel.), Erukka (Mal.), Yakkeda-gidá (Can.), Ákda-cha-jháda (Mah.), Ákda-nu-jháda (Guz.), Vára, Vára-gaha (Cing.), Mayo-bin (Burm.), Ramegu (Malay).
241. One or other of the above species of Calotropis is found everywhere in India, and although some doubt exists as to which of them is the Mudar which some years since attained high repute in the treatment of leprosy, they both possess the same medical properties and may be used indiscriminately. The only part employed in medicine is the root-bark; and it is necessary carefully to attend to the subjoined directions for collecting and preparing it for medical use, a disregard of them having been, in some instances, the apparent cause of the failure of the remedy. The roots should be collected in the months of April and May, from sandy soils, and all particles of sand and dirt having been carefully removed by washing, they should be dried in the open air, without exposure to the sun, until the milky juice contained in them becomes so far dried that it ceases to flow on incisions being made. The bark is then to be carefully removed, dried, reduced to powder, and preserved in well corked bottles. In small doses, from 2 to 5 grains, long continued, its action is that of an alterative tonic; in larger ones, from 30 to 60 grains, for adults, it acts freely as an emetic, and in this character it is regarded by some as one of the best Indian substitutes for Ipecacuanha.
242.In Leprosy,Constitutional Syphilis,Obstinate Ulcerations,and in Chronic Rheumatism;also in Skin Diseases arising from the abuse of Mercury, powdered Mudar (ante) has been found highly useful in some instances, whilst in others it has altogether failed. The commencing dose is 3 grains, gradually increased to 10 grains or more, thrice daily.
243.In the Dysentery of Nativesit has been highly spoken of. In the severer class of cases in adults, a large dose, from 20 to 60 grains, may be given at once, in the same manner as Ipecacuanha (see Art.Dysenteryin Index). In ordinary cases, smaller doses are preferable. For children the dose is 1 or 2 grains for every year of age, three or four times a day. Its effects are said to be very similar to those of Ipecacuanha, like which, it may be given variously combined, as circumstances may require.
244.Mustard.The seeds of Sinapis juncea,Linn.and other species of Sinapis.
244.
The seeds of Sinapis juncea,Linn.and other species of Sinapis.
Rái Ráyán (Hind.,Duk.), Rái (Beng.,Punj.), Ásúr (Kash.), Kadugú (Tam.), Áválu (Tel.), Katuka (Mal.), Sásave (Can.), Moharé (Mah.), Ráyi (Guz.), Abbé (Cing.), Munniyén-zi (Burm.), Biji Sa-sarvi (Malay).
245. English Mustard imported in bottles is procurable in most of the large bazaars, or is met with as an article of domestic economy in the household of almost every European. If not at hand, however, the common country Mustard seed may be substituted,especially in the formation of poultices. For this purpose, however, they require to be thoroughly ground down into the required consistence with a little water. If previously deprived of their fixed oil by expression, their activity is increased. By long keeping they lose much of their pungency; hence fresh seeds should, when practicable, be employed.
246. With English Mustard at hand you can never be in want of a safe and efficient emetic. A full teaspoonful (piled up) in a tumblerful of warm water, generally produces free vomiting; if it does not, in five or ten minutes it may be repeated, and should this not produce the desired effect, a third dose may be given after a similar interval. Should this fail, then some other emetic may be tried. It is especially indicated inDrunkenness,Narcotic and other Poisoning,and in all cases where the stomach is overloaded with hard, indigestible food or intoxicating drinks, when it is desirable simply to unload the stomach without producing any depressing effect on the system. It is very doubtful whether country Mustard may be safely used as an internal medicine.
247.Mustard Poulticesare usually made with the flour of Mustard mixed to the consistence of a poultice with water or vinegar, spread on a piece of stout brown paper or rag, and applied to the skin. A few points require notice:a.Cold water should be used in their preparation; it is a mistake to suppose that hot water or vinegar is better suited for this purpose,b.If it be desired to make the poultice act more speedily or strongly, this may be done byadding a small portion of bruised Capsicum or the scraped fresh root of the Moringa tree (239).c.For persons of delicate skins, as women and children, it is advisable to place a piece of thin muslin between the poultice and the skin; for the sake of cleanliness also this is desirable.d.As a general rule it should be removed when it produces redness of the skin, whether it causes much pain or not.e.Some skins are very susceptible to its action; in these cases the poultice should be at once removed if it causes great pain.f.If allowed to remain in contact with the skin for twenty or thirty minutes it is apt to act as a blister, which is very undesirable, asthe ulcers which result are difficult to heal.g.In cases of fever and acute disease, the morning or early part of the day is preferable to the evening for applying a Mustard poultice.
248.In Apoplexy,Convulsions,Delirium,and violent Headaches occurring during Fevers or Smallpox, Mustard poultices to the feet and calves of the legs are often very useful in relieving the affection of the head. Where the patient is able to sit up for the purpose, a Mustard foot bath [an ordinary foot bath, to which is added a handful of Mustard] is even more effectual. The water should be as hot as can be well borne, and the higher the fluid reaches up the leg, the better. InDelirium Tremensit should be used every night before bedtime.
249.In some Head Affections, e.g.,the early stages of Insanity, and Delirium Tremens, where there is determination of blood to the head,with sleeplessness,restlessness and anxiety, a plan which has been found effectual in some cases has been to envelop the whole of the legs and lower part of the abdomen in cloths steeped in a mixture of Mustard and hot water, a cold wet towel being at the same time applied round the head. It has a very calming effect, and is occasionally productive of sleep. The Mustard foot bath, described in the last section, is also worthy of a trial, repeated every night before the usual bedtime.
250.In DropsyMustard occasionally proves useful. It is best administered in the form of Whey, made by boiling half an ounce of the bruised seed in a pint of milk, and straining. This quantity may be given daily in divided doses.
251.In Cholera,Colic,and Spasms of the Bowels, when unattended by inflammation, a Mustard poultice placed over the abdomen in many cases affords considerable relief.Vomiting, especially that accompanying Fevers, and Pregnancymay often be allayed by a Mustard poultice applied to the pit of the stomach.In Cholera, when the patient is very low, the poultice may be placed over the heart, or the left side of the chest.
252.In Coughs, attended with much difficulty of breathing, Mustard poultices to the chest often afford relief. They may also be advantageously applied on the back between the shoulder-blades. They may be used for children as well as adults.Hooping Coughis occasionally much relieved by Mustard poultices along the spine.
258.Toothache,Faceache,and Neuralgic Pains ofthe Head and Face, are frequently relieved by the application of a Mustard poultice over the seat of pain.
254.Myrobalans, Chebulic.The dried fruit of Terminalia Chebula,Retz.
254.
The dried fruit of Terminalia Chebula,Retz.
Har, Harrá, Pilé-har (Hind.), Haldá, Harlá, Pílá-halrá (Duk.), Hárítakí, Hórá (Beng.), Zard halélá (Punj.,Kash.), Kadú-káy (Tam.), Karakkáya (Tel.), Katukká (Mal.), Alale-káyi (Can.), Hiradá (Mah.), Harlé, Pílo-harlé (Guz.), Aralu (Cing.), Buah Kaduka (Malay).
255. Chebulic Myrobalans, met with in all the bazaars of India, are of an ovoid shape, about an inch in length, sometimes tapering towards the lower extremity, round or obscurely five- or six-sided, more or less furrowed longitudinally, smooth, of a yellowish brown colour, and astringent taste.
256. Myrobalans is a safe and effective aperient, and given to natives in the following form, has been found to act very satisfactorily: Take of Myrobalans bruised 6, Cinnamon or Cloves bruised 1 drachm, Water or Milk 4 ounces; boil for ten minutes, strain, and set aside till cold. This quantity taken at a draught generally produces on an adult native three or four copious stools without griping, vomiting, or other ill effects. Youths from twelve to fourteen years require only half the above quantity, or even less. For infants and young children Castor Oil or Senna is preferable as an aperient. It is well adapted for ordinary casesofConstipation occurring in Nativesand in other states where aperients are required.
257.Chronic Ulcerations, Ulcerated Wounds, and many Skin Diseases attended with profuse discharge, often manifestly improve under the use of an ointment composed of equal parts of dried Myrobalans and Catechu, both finely powdered, and sufficient ghee or some bland oil to make them into a thick paste: this, spread on a rag, should be applied to the part, and renewed twice daily.
257a. Mr. W. Martindale, chemist, of New Cavendish Street, London, has forwarded to me a preparation of another kind of Myrobalans,Emblic Myrobalans, the fresh fruit ofPhyllanthus Emblica(Linn.), a common Indian tree, preserved in sugar. The pulp, which has an agreeable taste, is stated by Mr. M. to possess purgative properties in doses of one or two of the preserved fruit. Commenting on this preparation it is stated in theBritish Medical Journal(July 29, 1882, p. 173): "We have tried it carefully in several cases of habitual constipation, and have no doubt it is a valuable addition to our list of laxatives.... It may be eaten at dinner or dessert, and it would be absurd to regard it as a medicine. It is most valuable for children." It should be added that it is only in the fresh state that it possesses aperient properties; in the dried state, as they are commonly met with in Indian bazaars, they are astringent, containing a large proportion of gallic acid. Their ordinary vernacular names are Ánvulá, Ánvurah (Hind.), Ámlá Ánlá (Beng.), Nelli-kay, Tóppi (Tam.), Ámala-kamu(Tel.), Nelli-káyi (Can.,Mal.), Avalá (Mah.), Nelli, Nellika (Cing.), Zíphiyu-sí (Burm.).
258.Ním Tree or Margosa.Azadirachta Indica,Iuss.
258.
Azadirachta Indica,Iuss.
Nínb, Nímb (Hind.), Ním, (Duk.,Beng.,Punj.), Vémbu, Véppam, Véppa-marum (Tam.), Véppa-chettu, Ním-bamu (Tel.), Véppa, Aviya-véppa (Mal.), Bévina-mará (Can.), Límbacha, jháda (Mah.), Límbdanu-jháda (Guz.), Kohum-ba, Nímba-gahá (Cing.), Tamá-bin, Kamákha (Burm.), Dawoon Nambu, Baypay (Malay).
258b. The Ním Tree, according to Dr. Pulney Andy (Madras Jour. of Med. Sci., vol. xi. (1867), p. 105), is held in veneration by the Hindús as being dedicated to the goddess Mariathá, the deity which is supposed by them to preside over all epidemics: or rather the epidemics themselves are thought to be visitations of this goddess, in honour of whom the leaves are in common use amongst Hindús, particularly inSmallpoxepidemics. The leaves are spread on the bed of the patient, fans made of them are used for fanning him, besides which a bunch of them is fixed above the door as a sign of the presence of the goddess in the house. Dr. Pulney Andy was thus led to make trials of the fresh tender young leaves as an internal remedy in fourteen cases, and of these thirteen recovered; but how far the recoveries were due to the remedy is very problematical. He prescribed about five grains made into a pill, with liquorice powder, and a few drops ofwater, thrice daily. In the absence of fresh leaves he suggests the use of dried ones in infusion or decoction (3j to Water Oj) in doses, for an adult, of one ounce twice or thrice daily. The efficacy of this remedy is open to grave doubts.
259. Ním bark varies much in appearance, according to the size and age of the tree producing it. The bark from the trunk of a tree above three or four years of age is covered with a thick scaly epidermis, and varies in thickness from a quarter to half an inch. That from the smaller branches is smooth, of a dullish purple colour, marked by longitudinal lines of ash-coloured epidermis from one-eighth to one-twelfth of an inch apart. The inner layer of the bark, of a whitish colour in the fresh state, is powerfully bitter, far more so than the outer dark-coloured layer, which, however, possesses a greater amount of astringency. According to the analysis of Mr. Broughton it contains a bitter neutral resin, in which apparently the activity of the remedy resides.
260. Ním bark is a valuable astringent tonic, and when dried and reduced to powder, may be given in doses of one drachm three or four times a day. A better form, however, is a decoction prepared by boiling two ounces of the bruised inner layer of the bark in a pint and a half of water for a quarter of an hour, and straining whilst hot; of this, when cold, the dose is from 2 to 3 ounces. It, as well as the Powdered Bark, is a remedy of considerable value inAgue or Intermittent Fever; and in these cases it should be given every second hour previous to the time at whichthe attack is expected to return. It is chiefly adapted for mild, uncomplicated cases, especially in natives.For Convalescence after Fevers,General Debility, andLoss of Appetite, the Decoction, in somewhat smaller doses than those mentioned above, proves of great service, and its efficacy is increased and its taste improved by the addition of a few bruised Cloves or a little Cinnamon. As the decoction readily spoils in hot weather, it should be prepared fresh for use when required.
261.To Indolent and Ill-conditioned Ulcers, especially those of long standing, a poultice of Ním leaves acts beneficially as a stimulant. It is easily prepared by bruising a sufficient quantity of the fresh leaves with a little tepid water, and applying it, spread on a rag, to the ulcerated surface; should it cause pain and irritation, as it sometimes does, an equal weight of rice flour may be added.