323.Sal Ammoniac.Hydrochlorate of Ammonia, Chloride of Ammonium.
323.
Hydrochlorate of Ammonia, Chloride of Ammonium.
Nousádar (Hind.), Nouságar (Duk.), Noshágar (Beng.), Charám, Navá-charám (Tam.), Navá-charám, Nava-ságaram (Tel.), Nava-sáram (Mal.), Navá-ságára (Can.), Nav-sága (Guz.),Navá-cháram (Cing.), Zavasa (Burm.), Namu-charum (Malay), Nãushádar (Punj.), Nausadan (Kash.).
324. Sal Ammoniac, procurable in most Indian bazaars, is generally very impure; occurring in thick translucent cakes or masses of a dirty white or brownish colour, inodorous, of a bitter, acrid taste. To fit it for medical use, it should be dissolved in boiling water, strained through calico, and the clear solution exposed in an open vessel to crystallise. The crystals and white residuum should be collected and kept in bottles for use. Thus prepared, it proves valuable in many affections. Its nauseous taste, which is a great objection to its use, is completely covered by the addition of a small quantity of liquorice.
325.Milk Abscessesoccurring after confinements and in nursing mothers may often be arrested, if at an early stage, before matter forms, the breast be kept constantly wet by means of rags saturated with a lotion composed of one drachm of Sal Ammoniac, one ounce ofArrack, and a pint of Rose Water. It also proves useful in removing any hardness which may remain after the abscess has burst, and is sometimes successful in arrestingAbscesses in other parts of the body, when applied at an early stage before matter has formed.
326.In Tic Douloureux and Rheumatic Faceache, Sal Ammoniac occasionally proves very useful. Two drachms in six ounces of water should be taken in divided doses (1½ ounce for a dose), every four hours,till relief is obtained: if the pain does not yield after the four doses, no benefit can be expected from persevering with it.Other forms of Neuralgia, asSciaticaandLumbago, have also been found to yield to it, when administered early in the attack.
327.In Chronic Rheumatism, especially when the muscles are mainly affected, Sal Ammoniac, in doses of 15 to 24 grains, with infusion of Country Sarsaparilla (163), proves highly serviceable; but it is even more effectual in relieving thoseMuscular pains of the Chestand other parts of the trunk so often met with in the overworked and underfed portion of the working classes in large cities. In these cases it requires to be persevered in for some time.
328.Hysterical, Nervous, and Bilious Headachesare often greatly benefited, or disappear altogether, under the use of this salt in doses of 10 to 20 grains twice or thrice daily, dissolved in Camphor Julep. The earlier in the attack it is given, the greater are the chances of its proving effectual.
329.In Chronic Coughs, especially in those of old age, a mixture of a drachm of Sal Ammoniac, two ounces of syrup of country Liquorice (6), and four ounces of Water, in doses of one ounce five or six times a day, occasionally proves serviceable. In doses of from 1 to 5 grains, according to the age of the child, conjoined with a few grains of powdered Cinnamon, it has been found useful inHooping Cough; it is inferior in efficacy to Alum, but may be commenced with safety and advantage at a much earlier period in the attack.
330.In Hæmorrhage from the Lungs, Stomach, and other Internal Organs, it is worthy of a trial if other more effectual agents are not at hand. In these cases, two drachms should be dissolved in a pint ofconjeewater, and a wineglassful given every second or third hour, according to the severity of the case. The patient should be kept quiet, cool, and in the recumbent posture.
331.In Jaundice, especially when it comes on suddenly, after a great mental shock, or after exposure, a few doses of Sal Ammoniac (20 grains every four hours) have often a marked effect.In Hepatitis and Abscess of the Liver, Dr. W. Stewart, after considerable experience in its use, regards this salt almost as a specific, and he pronounces it very serviceable inall cases of Liver Disease, whether depending on organic change or on functional derangement. The proper period for its exhibition is after the abatement of acute symptoms, and when diaphoresis (sweating) has been freely established, and it should then be administered in doses of 20 grains night and morning. The evidence he adduces in support of his views is very strong. He also speaks highly of its efficacy inChronic Dysentery, and advises its continued use for some time after the disappearance of acute symptoms. (Madras Journal of Med. Science, 1870, and Feb., March, and Dec. 1872.)In Dropsy, especially in that connected with disease of the liver, or in that following fevers, it may be administered with advantage in the same doses, conjoined with Infusion of Moringa (237), or Decoction of Asteracantha (39).
332.For Bruises,Strains,Rheumatic Swellings,Enlarged Glands,Indolent Buboes,Swollen Joints,Boils,&c., andlocal Inflammations of the Skingenerally, a solution of this salt inhotwater (2 drachms to a pint), kept to the parts for a few hours, proves useful, not only relieving the pain but reducing the swelling. It is also thought to be more effectual than anything else in removing the discoloration consequent on bruises and sprains. This has been noticed especially with reference to blows on the eye (Black Eye). It is an important ingredient in the Cold Lotion described in Sect. 265.
333.Sandal-wood Oil.The oil obtained by the distillation of Sandal Wood, Santalum album,Linn.
333.
The oil obtained by the distillation of Sandal Wood, Santalum album,Linn.
Sandal-ká-aitr (Hind.), Sandal vel Chandan-ká-tél (Duk.,Punj.), Safed-chandnúk-til (Kash.), Sandal-ká-tel (Beng.), Shandanam-talium (Tam.), Miniak Chandana (Malay).
334. Sandal-Wood Oil is sold commonly in the bazaars, being a favourite native perfume. It has been successfully employed in the treatment ofGonorrhœa. Dr. Aitchison strongly recommends commencing with five-drop doses, each dose to be made up separately, and the oil mixed in the fluid it is to accompany with the aid of a drop or two of Liquor Potassæ. It is an excellent remedy, he adds, but must be used withgreat care, as it is apt to produce baneful effects on the kidneys if given in too large doses. It is of great importance to use only good or pure oil; henceit should be procured, if possible, direct from the manufacturer. Much that is sold in the bazaars is adulterated or of inferior quality. It seems well worthy of trial in cases of obstinateGleet. It is best given in a little Omum water or Infusion of Ginger.
335.Senna.The leaves of Cassia lanceolata,Forsk., and other species. Indian or Tinnevelly Senna.
335.
The leaves of Cassia lanceolata,Forsk., and other species. Indian or Tinnevelly Senna.
Saná, Hindí-saná-ká-pát (Hind.), Nát-kí-saná (Duk.), Són-pát, Shín-pát (Beng.), Sanna-mákhí (Punj.), Berg-i-sanna (Kash.), Nilá-virai, Níla-vakái (Tam.), Néla-tangédu (Tel.), Níla-váká (Mal.), Nelá-varíke (Can.), Sana-kola, Nil-ávari (Cing.), Puve-kain-yoe (Burm.), Sunna Maki (Malay).
336. The imported Senna met with in the bazaars is usually of very inferior quality, consisting of broken pieces of old leaves, pieces of stem, and other rubbish. That grown in India, especially in Tinnevelly, is preferable to that imported from Arabia, which is calledSana-Makhí, orMecca Senna. The leaves should be unbroken, clean, brittle, pale green, or yellow, with a heavyish smell. It is a good safe aperient, and may be given as follows: Take of Senna leaves, one ounce; of bruised Ginger and Cloves, each half a drachm; Boiling Water, ten ounces. Let it stand for one hour, and strain. This is a good aperient in all cases ofConstipation, in doses of one and a half to two ounces; half this quantity, or less, is required for children,according to age. A simple infusion of Senna leaves, of the above strength, if taken hot, with the addition of milk and sugar, can hardly be distinguished from ordinary tea. In this manner it is easily administered to children, and will be borne by the most delicate stomachs. As a general rule. Castor Oil is preferable as an aperient for infants.
337.Sesamum,Jinjili, orTil Oil.The expressed oil of the seeds of Sesamum Indicum,Linn.
337.
The expressed oil of the seeds of Sesamum Indicum,Linn.
Til-ká-tél, Míthá-tel (Hind.,Punj.), Mittá-tél (Duk.), Nal-enney (Tam.), Manchi-núne (Tel.), Nall-enná (Mal.), Valle-yanne (Can.), Chokhóta-téla (Mah.), Mítho-tél (Guz.), Talla-tel (Cing.), Tíl (Kash.), Nahu-sí (Burm.), Miniak-bijan (Malay).
338. Til or Jingili Oil, met with in all bazaars throughout India, is quite equal, when properly prepared, to Olive Oil for medicinal and pharmaceutical purposes. It is advisable always to keep a small stock of it on hand for cases of emergency, such as burns, &c., when Lime Liniment (229) may be required. As a dressing forUlcers, Suppurating Wounds, "oil dressing" has been successfully applied in Bombay; it consists of the continuous application of a pledget of common country cloth or rag saturated with pure Sesamum Oil to the affected part. It is thought to be superior to any other simple dressing particularly during the hot season.In LeprosyDr. Hilson has conclusively shown that great and manifest benefit, though it may be temporary, results from diligent frictions of the body with this oil (see Sect. 161).
338a. The leaves, which abound in mucilage, have attained some repute in bowel affections, and Mr. B. Evers (Indian Med. Gazette, March 1875) made trials with them in sixteen cases ofDysentery. Recovery followed in each case, but they were all of a mild type, and though the remedy acted as a demulcent, it did not appear to exercise any specific influence on the disease; besides, as opium had to be conjoined with it to control the tenesmus, the benefit may have been due as much, if not more, to the opiate as to the mucilage. It is evidently a remedy of very secondary value, and inferior to Ispaghúl Seeds (304). The seeds have powerfully emmenagogue properties assigned to them, and it is believed by the natives and Anglo-Indians that, if taken in large quantities, they are capable of producing abortion. InAmenorrhœathe employment of a warm hip bath containing a handful of the bruised seeds has been reported on good authority to be an efficient mode of treatment. It seems worthy of further trial. In three cases ofDysmenorrhœa(Painful Menstruation) Mr. B. Evers (op. cit.) administered with benefit the powdered seeds in ten-grain doses three or four times daily. At the same time he employed the hip bath containing the bruised seeds as mentioned above.
339.Sulphur.
339.
Gandak, Gandhak (Hind.,Duk.,Mah.,Guz.,Punj.), Gandrok (Beng.), Gandakam, Gandhakam (Tam.,Tel.,Mal.,Cing.), Gandhaká (Can.), Kán (Burm.), Blerang (Malay), Ganduk (Kash.).
340. Several kinds of Sulphur are met with in the bazaars, but as their composition is unknown and some of them are reputed to contain a large proportion of arsenic, they are unsuited for internal administration; the better and purer kinds, however, may be safely employed as external applications.
341. As a remedy forItch,Sulphur Ointmentholds a high place. One part of finely powdered or sublimed sulphur to six of kokum butter or any bland oil is sufficiently strong for ordinary cases. After cleansing the parts with soap and hot water, the ointment should be thoroughly well rubbed in for fifteen or twenty minutes, till the pustules are all broken. Its use should be confined to the hands and wrists and other parts affected; no good is obtained from applying it extensively over the whole surface of the body, as is often done. It is best rubbed in at night before going to bed, allowing it to remain on the whole night, and then washing it off in the morning with soap and hot water. This process may be repeated every night till a cure is effected, which will be the case after three or four applications, provided the ointment is properly rubbed in. The patient should not resume the clothes he wore previously until they have been subjected to the process ofboiling, atemperature of 212° F. being necessary for the destruction of the acarus, on the presence of which the disease depends. Simply washing the clothes in hot water will not destroy the germ of infection.
342. Some other forms ofChronic Skin Disease in Nativesimprove under the use of Sulphur Ointment, described in the last section; or, better still, of "Balsam of Sulphur" so called, which is simply a solution of sulphur in warm Olive or Sesamum Oil.
343.In Chronic Rheumatisma liniment, composed of two ounces of powdered or Sublimed Sulphur, and a pint of Ním Oil, well rubbed in twice daily, has been used with great benefit in many cases. Relief sometimes follows the practice of dusting the affected part with Flour of Sulphur at bedtime, enveloping it in flannel, and covering the whole with plantain-leaf to prevent the escape of the fumes.
344.In Pilesfew medicines afford more relief to the distressing local symptoms than a mixture of equal parts of Sublimed Sulphur and Cream of Tartar; of this a teaspoonful should be taken in milk once or twice daily, so as to keep the bowels gently open. Should this quantity, however, operate too powerfully on the bowels, the dose should be diminished. The ingredients for this powder should be procured from a regular chemist. The same treatment appears to act beneficially inChronic Dysentery. It is likewise well adapted forHabitual Constipation, especially when occurring in persons subject to piles. It is well to bear in mind that in all cases where Sulphur is administered internally, it communicatesto the stools a peculiarly disagreeable odour of sulphuretted hydrogen.
345.Tamarinds.The Fruit of Tamarindus Indicus,Linn.
345.
The Fruit of Tamarindus Indicus,Linn.
Anblí (Hind.), Amlí, Amlí-ká-bót (Duk.), Imlí (Punj.), Tamar-i-hind (Kash.), Téntúul, Tintúrí, Ámlí (Beng.), Puliyam-pazham (Tam.,Mal.), Chinta-pandu (Tel.), Chinch (Mah.), Hunashí-hannu (Can.), Ámblí (Guz.), Siyambula (Cing.), Magi (Burm.), Assam-java (Malay).
346. The pulp of the fruit, of a reddish-brown colour and acid saccharine taste, is laxative and refrigerant, and made into sherbet with water or milk (in the proportion of one ounce of the pulp to one pint of fluid) forms an agreeable and useful drink inFebrile and Inflammatory Affections. The only objection to it in some cases is (in others this is an advantage) that it is apt to act on the bowels as a laxative. In the absence of limes or lemons, Tamarind pulp may be given with great advantage inScurvy, both as a preventive and as a curative, but it requires to be discontinued if it cause griping and diarrhœa; otherwise it is a valuable antiscorbutic, and as such may be taken on board ship, or form a portion of daily rations in jails, &c.
347.Telini Fly, Mylabris Cichorii.(Fabr.).
347.
(Fabr.).
Télní, Télní-makkhí (Hind.), Zírangí, Bad-bó-kí-zírangí (Duk.), Pinsttarin-í (Tam.), Ígelu (Tel.).
348. This insect is of common occurrence throughoutIndia; it has the following characters: About an inch in length and the third of an inch broad; the elytra, or wing-cases, of an obscure yellow, with three large somewhat zigzag transverse black bands; the first band is interrupted and sometimes reduced to three or four spots. There are met with in various parts of India other allied species, which differ more or less from the above description, but they all partake of the same irritant and vesicant properties, the active principle being the same with that of the officinal Cantharides, viz., Cantharidine. It is apparently a complete substitute for the European article as a vesicant, provided that due care is taken in its preparation, &c. The best season for collecting the insects is just previous to the setting in of the monsoon, in the early morning or evening; they should be killed by the steam of boiling vinegar, thoroughly dried in the sun, and preserved in well stoppered bottles.
349. Its principal use is as a blistering agent, and for this purpose it is used in the form of plaster, prepared as follows: Take Telini Fly, finely powdered; White or Black Dammar, Bees-wax, and Suet (mutton or goat), of each two ounces; liquefy the three latter with a gentle heat, then remove from the fire and sprinkle in the Telini; mix the whole thoroughly, and continue to stir the mixture while it is allowed to cool.
In consequence of the difficulty of preparing this, and the uncertainty of its strength, I would advise that every establishment should be provided with asupply of officinal Blistering Liquid of the British Pharmacopœia; this only requires to be applied for two or three minutes with a camel's-hair brush, allowed to dry on, and then covered with a warm rice poultice; in the course of a few hours the blister will be found to have risen. The Liquid prepared in India from the Telini Fly is quite equal in power to the European article prepared with Cantharides or Spanish Fly.
350.Remarks on the Use of Blisters.—Blisters are of great value in many cases, but unless used with care and discrimination they may domore harm than good. Thus, a blister applied at the outset or during the acute stage of inflammation will increase the mischief, whereas in the advanced stages its action may prove in the highest degree beneficial. During pregnancy a blister to the chest has been known to induce premature labour, retention of urine, &c., and applied to a person suffering from scurvy it is apt to induce troublesome ulceration. To prevent gangrene, which has occasionally resulted from a blister, especially in children, it is advisable not to allow it to remain on more than ten minutes, then to remove it and apply a warm rice poultice. In infants a thin piece of muslin should be placed between the skin and the plaster. If strangury follow its use, the patient should drink plentifully of decoction of Abelmoschus (2), RiceConjee(322), or other demulcents, avoiding those of an oleaginous nature. After the fluid has been let out, which is easily done by snipping the raised cuticle in two orthree places with a pair of sharp-pointed scissors, the blistered surface should be dressed with plantain-leaf, as directed in paragraph 307a.
351.Tinospora cordifolia,Miers.,Gulancha.
351.
Gulanchá, Gul-bél (Hind.), Gul-bél (Duk.), Gul-lanchá (Beng.), Giló, Gúlanch (Punj.), Bekh-gilló (Kash.), Shindi-kodi (Tam.), Tippa-tíge, Gadúchi (Tel.), Amruta, Chitr-amruta (Mal.), Amruta-balli (Can.), Gula-vélí (Mah.), Gul-vél (Guz.), Rasa-kinda (Cing.), Sinza-manné, Singomoné (Burm.), Piturali, Akar-Sarimtooro (Malay).
351b. This twining shrub is common in most parts of India. The root and stems, which are the parts employed in medicine, should be collected in the hot season when the bitter principle is most abundant and concentrated. As met with in the bazaars it consists of dried transverse segments of a woody stem, varying in diameter from one quarter of an inch to two inches, and from half an inch to two inches in length; they have a shrunken appearance, and are covered with a smooth shrivelled bark, some of the pieces being marked on their surface with warty prominences; inodorous, of a very bitter taste.
352. Gulancha is a very useful tonic, and is best given in Infusion; one ounce of the bruised stem to half a pint of cold water macerated for three hours and strained; of this the dose is from one and a half to three ounces thrice daily; it is rendered more agreeable by the addition of Cinnamon, Cloves, orother aromatics. It has been used with benefit in mild forms ofIntermittent Fevers, and inConstitutional Debility,and Loss of Appetite after these and other Fevers. It has also been found useful in some forms ofDyspepsia, and inChronic Rheumatism.
353. An extract (Sat-giló,Hind.,Punj.; Gul-bél-kásat,Duk.; Sath-gilló'i,Kash., Shíndal-sharuk-arai,Tam.; Palo,Beng.; Tippa-satu,Tel.) prepared by the native doctors, is held in high repute amongst them inIntermittents, &c.It is a white floury substance, with a strongly bitter taste. It is, however, often adulterated with, or consists altogether of, gluten of Wheat; its bitterness, therefore, is a good test of its quality. In doses of one to three drachms, it is highly esteemed as a tonic inDebility after Fevers, inSpleen Affections, &c. Dr. Burton Brown speaks of it as an efficient remedy inDiseases of the Bladder, especially in Chronic Inflammation of that organ.
354.Toddy.A saccharine juice obtained by the excision of the spadix, or young flowering branch of the Palmyra, Cocoanut, and other Palms.
354.
A saccharine juice obtained by the excision of the spadix, or young flowering branch of the Palmyra, Cocoanut, and other Palms.
Séndí, Tári (Hind.,Duk.), Kallu (Tam.), Kallu (Tel.), Henda (Can.), Rá (Cing.), Tu-ak (Malay).
There are many kinds ofToddyin India, and they are named according to the plants from which they are produced. The names given above are generic.
355. Amongst its other usesToddyis valuable as the basis of a very useful stimulant application, theToddyPoultice, which is to the Indian what theYeast Poultice is to the European surgeon. It is prepared by adding freshly drawnToddyto Rice Flour till it has the consistence of a soft poultice and subjecting the mixture in an open vessel to heat over a gentle fire, stirring constantly till fermentation commences, or it "begins to rise," as it is commonly expressed. This, spread on a cloth and applied to the parts, acts as a valuable stimulant application toGangrenous or Sloughing Ulcerations,Carbuncles,Indolent Ulcers,&c.It hastens the separation of the slough and establishes subsequent healthy action.
356.Toddyleft exposed to the air rapidly undergoes vinous fermentation, and becomes converted intoArrack, one of the most intoxicating drinks of the country. ThisArrack, subjected to distillation until it has a specific gravity of 0·920, may be employed as Proof Spirit in the preparation of tinctures and other pharmaceutical purposes, and in the formation of cold evaporating lotions (380).
357.Turmeric.The dried root-stock of Curcuma longa,Linn.
357.
The dried root-stock of Curcuma longa,Linn.
Halad, Haldí (Hind.,Duk.,Punj.), Holodí (Beng.), Lidar, Gandar-i-lidar, (Kash.), Manjal (Tam.), Pasupu (Tel.), Mannal, Marin-nala (Mal.), Arishiná (Can.), Halede (Mah.), Halad (Guz.), Kahá (Cing.), Sanó, Tanún (Burm.), Kooneit (Malay).
358. Turmeric has been employed in the following affections with excellent effects:
359.In Catarrh, or severe "Cold in the head,"the fumes of burning Turmeric inhaled through the nostrils act as a local stimulant or irritant, causing a considerable discharge of mucus from the nasal cavity; this is generally followed by a marked degree of relief to the congestion or fulness often so troublesome in these cases.
360.In Catarrhal and Purulent Ophthalmia, especially in that termed "Country Sore-Eye," a Decoction of Turmeric (one ounce of the bruised root to 20 ounces of water) proves a very effectual lotion for relieving the burning and moderating the urgency of the symptoms. A piece of soft rag soaked in it should be kept constantly over the affected eye.
361.Oil of Turpentine.The oil obtained by distillation from Pinus palustris.Lamb., and other species of Pinus.
361.
The oil obtained by distillation from Pinus palustris.Lamb., and other species of Pinus.
Gandhá-barójé-ká-tél (Hind.,Punj.) Gandhá-férózé-ká-tél, Káfúr-ká-tailam (Duk.), Kapúrér-tail (Beng.), Karppúrat-tailam (Tam.), Karppúra-tailam (Tel.,Mal.), Karapúrada-tailá (Can.), Kápúrácha-tela (Mah.), Karpúrnu-tél (Guz.), Kapuru-tel (Cing.), Piyo-sí (Burm.), Nimiak Kapor Baroos (Malay), Yárí-kanglun-ki-til (Kash.).
362. Oil of Turpentine is procurable in most large bazaars, but not generally sufficiently pure for internal administration. It answers, however, perfectly well for external or local application, and is most valuablein the preparation ofTurpentine StupesorEpithems, which are made in one of the following ways: 1. By steeping a flannel in hot water, as hot as can be borne by the hand, wringing it out dry and sprinkling the surface freely with Oil of Turpentine. 2. By steeping a piece of lint or rag of the required size in Oil of Turpentine, placing it over the affected surface, and immediately applying over it flannel heated before a fire, as hot as can be borne. In either way it acts admirably as a counter-irritant, and in most cases is superior to mustard poultices. It is applicable to all cases ofInternal Inflammations,Spasmodic Affections of the Bowels,advanced stages of Dysentery and Diarrhœa,Obstinate Vomiting,Flatulence, and Flatulent Colic,Chronic Bronchitis attended with Cough and Difficulty of Breathing,Asthma,&c.
363. In some cases, greater benefit is derived from applying these Stupes to a distant point rather than near to the affected part; thus, inApoplexy,Insensibility,Convulsions,Delirium, whether arising in the course of fever or otherwise, they produce the best effects when applied to the feet and to the calves of the legs.In Cholera, when applied successively to the abdomen, over the region of the heart, along the spine and to the extremities, they often seem materially to aid other measures in stimulating the system and raising the vital powers. Turpentine friction and turpentine enemas may also be resorted to as aids to other treatment.
363b.In "Pecnash," or Maggots in the Nose, common amongst the natives of Bengal and other parts ofIndia, "the best treatment is to inject every opening in the skin of those affected with this disease with pure Oil of Turpentine, which is found to kill the maggots, and then to extract any maggots that are visible by means of a pair of forceps. Chloroform is even more efficacious, but is more expensive." (Dr. T. E. B. Brown,Indian Med. Gaz., Sept. 1879, p. 263.)
364.Turpentine Enemas(one ounce of the Oil to 15 ounces ofConjee) are valuable agents in many cases, as inApoplexy,Insensibility,Convulsions, especially in those after Childbirth,Hysterical Fits,Spasmodic Affections of the Bowels,Flatulence,Flatulent Colic, &c. They, together with turpentine stupes, have sometimes excellent effects in stimulating the system and rousing the vital powers inDelirium and Exhaustion attendant on Fever.
365.For the removal of Thread Worms from the Rectum and Lower Bowel, a Turpentine Enema often proves effectual. In the treatment ofTape WormOil of Turpentine is a remedy of established value; it is best given internally in a dose of three drachms with an equal quantity of Castor Oil; the latter is considered to prevent the unpleasant head symptoms which are apt to arise when the Turpentine is given alone. It is best given two or three hours after a meal; if taken on an empty stomach it is apt to produce vomiting. The patient should remain quiet after taking it, and broths and mucilaginous drinks should be taken to aid its operation. The Oil of Turpentine for this purpose should be obtained from a regular chemist or other reliable source.
366.Turpentine Linimentis a valuable application inChronic Rheumatism,Lumbago,Sciatica,and other forms of Neuralgia,in Chronic Enlargement of the Joints,Bruises,Sprains,Muscular Pains,&c.It is formed by dissolving one ounce of Camphor in 16 ounces of Oil of Turpentine, and then adding two ounces of Soft Soap, rubbing them together until they are thoroughly mixed.Chronic Coughs, especially of the aged, are much benefited by this liniment well rubbed into the chest at night.
367.Turpentine Ointmentis prepared by melting together at a gentle heat one ounce of Oil of Turpentine, 60 grains of White or Black Dammar (372), half an ounce of Yellow Wax, and half an ounce of Kokum Butter. The ingredients, when melted together, should be removed from the fire, and the mixture constantly stirred whilst cooling. It constitutes a good stimulant application toIndolent and ill-conditioned Ulcerations,&c.Diluted with equal parts ofghee, it forms a highly useful dressing forCarbuncles, aiding the separation of sloughs, and stimulating to healthy action. It should be changed twice or thrice daily. Its action is aided by generous diet, &c., as mentioned in Index, Art.Carbuncle. SomeChronic Skin Diseasesimprove under the use of the undiluted ointment, but in those of theHairy Scalp of Parasitic origin, the pure oil, locally applied, according to Erlach (Practitioner, Oct. 1871), more surely and more rapidly than any other remedy.
367b.Tylophora, or Country Ipecacuanha.Tylophora asthmatica,W. et A.
367b.
Tylophora asthmatica,W. et A.
Antá-múl, Janglí-pikván (Hind.), Pit-kárí (Duk.), Anto-mul (Beng.), Nach-churuppán, Náy-pálai, Péyp-pálai (Tam.), Verri-pála, Kukka-pála (Tel.), Valli-pála (Mal.), Bin-nuga (Cing.).
368. This plant is common in sandy localities in Bengal and other parts of India. Its roots and leaves possess valuable emetic properties; the former, as met with in the bazaars, occurs in the form of thick, contorted pieces of a pale colour, and a bitterish, somewhat nauseous taste. As an emetic, and especially as a remedy in dysentery, it has long been in repute, but it has been superseded by the dried leaves, the operation of which has been found more uniform and certain; in fact, they are justly regarded as one of the best indigenous substitutes for Ipecacuanha. The dose of the powdered dried leaves as an emetic for an adult is from 40 to 50 grains; in smaller doses, four to eight grains, its action is that of an expectorant and diaphoretic.
369.In Dysentery and Diarrhœa, even in the earliest stages, and whilst fever is present, it may be given in doses of 10 to 15 grains three or four times daily, conjoined with mucilage, and opium if required; or it may be commenced in one large dose in the same way as Ipecacuanha (seeIndex). If the dysentery be connected with intermittent fever, or be of malarious origin, it should be combined with quinine.
370.In Chronic Bronchitis,Coughs,Colds,and theearly stage of Hooping Cough, it has been administered with manifest benefit as an expectorant and diaphoretic, in doses of five grains thrice daily or oftener, either alone or combined with Syrup or Country Liquorice (6).
371.Vateria Indica, Resin of.Linn., Piney, or White Dammar.
371.
Linn., Piney, or White Dammar.
Suféd-dámar (Hind.,Duk.), Kúndro (Beng.), Sundras (Punj.), Sindrus (Kash.), Vellai-kúndrikum (Tam.), Dúpa-dámaru, Tella-dámaru (Tel.), Vella-kúnturukkam (Mal.), Hal, Hal-dumlua (Cing.), Guttah rukam putch (Malay).
In the absence of White Dammar, Black Dammar, the resin of Canarium strictum,Roxb., may be substituted. Its native names are Kalá-damar (Hind.,Duk.,Beng.), Karuppu-damar (Tam.), Nalla-rojan (Tel.), Kálo-damar (Guz.).
372. The specimens of White or Piney Dammar are met with in the bazaars in irregular masses, which differ in colour, fragrance, and density, some being of a light greenish colour, dense and uniform in substance, whilst others are yellow, amber-coloured, and vesicular, or full of small bladders; these differences apparently arise from the mode of collection and the age of the trees producing them. This resin burns with a clear, steady light, giving off a pleasant smell, but very little smoke; under the influence of gentle heat it combines with wax and oil, and forms a good substitute for officinal Resin in various ointmentsand plasters. The following is an eligible form for common use. Take of White Dammar, five ounces; Kokum Butter, eight ounces; Wax, two ounces. Melt with a gentle heat, stirring briskly as it cools. This spread on rag or lint forms a good stimulant dressing forCarbuncles and other Ulcerations.
373. From thefruitof Vateria Indica,Linn., common on the western coast of the Peninsula, is obtained a solid fatty oil named Piney Tallow or Vegetable Tallow of Canara, which has obtained considerable repute as a local application inChronic Rheumatism, and some other painful affections. Like Kokum Butter, it may be used as a substitute for animal fats in the preparation of ointments, &c. It is deserving of more attention than has hitherto been paid to it.
373a.Vernonia Seeds.The seeds of Vernonia anthelmintica,Willd.
373a.
The seeds of Vernonia anthelmintica,Willd.
Sómráj, Bukchí (Hind.), Sómráj (Beng.), Káttu-shíragam (Tam.), Adavi-jila-kara, Visha-kanta-kálu (Tel.), Káttu-jírakam (Mal.), Kádu-jirage (Can.), Ránácha-jíré (Mah.), Kadvo-jíri (Guz.), Sanni-náegam, Sanni-násang (Cing.), Justan hutan (Malay).
373b. The plant which yields these seeds is common in waste places near villages throughout India, and the dried seeds are met with in almost every bazaar; they are about the eighth of an inch in length,of a dark brown colour, covered with whitish scattered hairs, cylindrical, tapering towards the base, marked with about ten paler longitudinal ridges, and crowned with a circle of short brown scales; taste, nauseous and bitter. These seeds enjoy a high repute amongst the natives as a vermifuge in cases ofLumbrici or Round Worms, which, under their use, are stated to be expelled in a lifeless state, thus showing that they exercise a specific influence on the worm. The ordinary dose of the bruised seed, administered in electuary with honey, is about two drachms, given in two equal doses at the interval of a few hours, and followed by an aperient. In this character they seem well worthy of further trials. In Travancore, the bruised seeds, ground up into a paste with lime-juice, are largely employed as a means of destroyingLiceinfesting the body. The reports received of their efficacy for this purpose justify farther trials with them.
374.Vinegar.
374.
Sirká (Hind.,Duk.,Beng.,Punj.,Kash.), Kádi (Tam.), Kádi-nóllu (Tel.), Káti (Mal.), Hulirasa (Can.), Kádi, Vená-kiri (Cing.), Pón-ye (Burm.), Chuka (Malay).
375. Many kinds ofVinegarare met with in India, but as they are of very varying strength and degree of purity the imported English Distilled or White Wine Vinegar should be preferred, when procurable, as it generally may be in large bazaars, for medicalpurposes. In its absence the best native kinds, especially that prepared from theToddyof the Palmyra tree, should be used. At Peshaur and on our North-West frontier a very superior vinegar is manufactured from the juice of the grape; hence "Peshaur Vinegar" is well known throughout the Punjab and Kashmir, and even at Bombay and Kurrachee (Dr. Aitchison).
376.In Smallpox,Measles,Scarlet Fever,and other Febrile Affections, a mixture of one part of Vinegar and three of Water forms a soothing and refreshing application, with which the whole surface may be sponged twice or thrice daily, the temperature being regulated as described in Sect. 385. Sprinkled about the sick room, in these and other cases, undiluted vinegar acts in a degree as a deodorant, and is generally very agreeable to the patient.
377.In Relaxed, Ulcerated, and other forms of Sore Throat, especially in that of Scarlet Fever, in Hoarseness, &c., benefit is often derived from the inhalation of the vapour of hot Vinegar.
378.In Phthisis, sponging the chest with diluted Vinegar is said to be very effectual in allaying theprofuse perspirations. A good mixture for this purpose is composed of one part of Vinegar, one of Eau de Cologne, and two of Water; it is a measure attended with salutary effects, and is generally of great comfort to the patient.As a preventive of Phthisisthe practice has been strongly recommended of washing the chest every morning with Vinegar and Water, beginning with it tepid, and reducing thetemperature gradually, until it can be used quite cold. The same measure persevered in has been found useful by persons subject to repeated attacks ofCoughs and Asthmas; it often seems to diminish the liability to a return of these attacks, and to act as a preventive.
379.In Abortion and other forms of Uterine Hæmorrhage, the continued application of cold Vinegar and Water to the pubes is not only agreeable to the patient, but tends considerably to arrest the discharge of blood. In the absence of better agents, Vinegar diluted and sweetened to taste may also be advantageously given internally.Bleeding from the Nosesometimes yields to a piece of rag saturated with Vinegar introduced into the nostril.
380.To Bruises, Sprains, Contusions, and local Inflammations, diluted Vinegar is a popular and useful application. An excellent "EVAPORATING LOTION" in these cases is formed of equal parts of Vinegar,Arrack, and Water. This forms also a good application to the head in theHeadache and Delirium of Fever. The pains ofVenomous Bites or Stings, e.g.,of Scorpions, Centipedes, Wasps, Mosquitoes, &c., is often greatly relieved by the constant application of a piece of rag moistened with Vinegar.
381.To Milk or Mammary Abscesseswarm Vinegar, perseveringly employed for twenty-four hours, is stated on good authority to be one of the best applications which can be used for relieving the congestion; it is particularly useful when the breasts are greatly and painfully distended with milk, and theearlier in the case it is employed, the greater are its chances of success.
382.Particles of Lime(Chunam)in the Eyeare effectually dissolved and the pain eased by bathing the eye with diluted Vinegar, not strong enough to cause smarting; it requires to be introduced between the eyelids.
383.Water.
383.
Pání (Hind.,Duk.,Beng.,Guz.,Mah.,Punj.) Áb, Sag (Kash.), Tanni, Jalam, Nír (Tam.), Jalam, Níllu (Tel.), Vellam (Mal.), Vaturu (Cing.), Yé (Burm.), Ahyer (Malay).
384. Water for medicinal purposes,e.g., making infusions, decoctions, &c., should be the purest which can be procured. At certain seasons, however, especially during the monsoon, the best water is apt to be so muddy as to be unfit either for medicinal or drinking use. Under these circumstances, recourse may be had to the native practice of rubbing the inside of a vessel orchattiewith Clearing Nut, the Seeds of Strychnos Potatorum,Linn., Nir-malí (Hind.,Beng.,Mah., andGuz.), Chil-bínj (Duk.), Tétrán-kottai (Tam.andMalyal.), Tétrán-parala (Tel.), Ingini-atta (Cing.), Kamou-yeki (Burm.), bruised or sliced, previous to the water being poured into it. This simple measure is said to render the muddiest water clear and wholesome. Where water has been collected from swampy or malarious localities, a better plan is to subject it (with the addition of a piece of freshlyprepared charcoal) toboiling, and subsequent straining or filtering. The uses of water in medicine are multifarious and important.
385.As a drink in Fever and Inflammations, cold water may be taken without restriction, and it may be rendered more refrigerant and agreeable by the addition of some mucilaginous agents, as rice, &c., and some vegetable acid, as tamarind pulp or lime-juice. ForIrritability of Stomach and Vomiting in Fever, water drunk as hot as it can be borne will often prove very effectual; "But," observes Dr. Aitchison, "the remedy should not consist of merely a mouthful or so of hot water; but of two or three tumblers full. One would suppose that drinking this amount of water on an irritable stomach would rather produce vomiting: this is not the case. The patient may bring up a little of the water; but usually he simply turns round, and falls asleep as if a narcotic had been given him."In Smallpox, Measles, Scarlatina, and other Fevers, the practice of freely sponging the surface once or twice daily with water is extremely grateful and refreshing to the patient, and may be used with perfect safety unless the heat be high above the natural standard, when tepid water should be substituted. As a general rule, the temperature of the water should be regulated by the patient's feelings; it should be cold, tepid, or quite warm, as is most agreeable. A mixture of Vinegar and Water (one part of the former to three of the latter) is even more refreshing than plain water.
386.In Sunstroke, the first thing to be done after removing the patient into the shade and taking off the head-gear and upper clothing, is to practiseCOLD AFFUSION. For this purpose he should be held in a sitting posture, whilst the water, the colder the better, is poured down in a pretty full stream, at a height of two or three feet over the head, spine, and chest. After its application for a minute or two, the patient will probably heave a deep sigh or inspiration, when the affusion should be discontinued and the patient removed to a dry spot, thoroughly dried with a warm cloth or towel, and diligent friction maintained till full consciousness is restored. Mustard poultices (247), Turpentine stupes (362) to the feet and calves are also advisable if insensibility be long continued. One or two points demand attention. 1. The water should not descend all at once, but rather in a small continuous stream, and it should be directed not so much on the top of the head as on the back part and upper portion of the spine. 2. It should at once be discontinued when the patient begins to revive. 3. It is not adapted for the aged and debilitated, or when the skin is cold and clammy; in these cases affusion should be restricted to dashing cold water on the face and chest, together with persevering frictions of the extremities; and when the patient is able to swallow, administering mild stimulants,e.g., ammonia, weak brandy and water, &c. The above treatment is adapted forApoplexy and Profound Insensibility, such as occurs in Poisoning by Opium, Bish (Aconite), or the fumes of Datura. In ordinary casesofFainting, Convulsions in Adults arising from no evident cause, and Hysterical Convulsions in Women, simply dashing cold water with some little degree of violence on the face and bosom, is generally all that is required.
387.In the Convulsions of Infancy and Childhoodthe little patient should be put into a hot bath, with as little delay as possible, the head at the same time being slightly elevated, and enveloped in cloths kept wet with cold water, the colder the better. Under the simultaneous use of the hot bath and the cold lotion to the head, aided by the administration of a dose of Castor Oil, the convulsions will often speedily subside. The bath should be as hot as can be borne, about 98° F., and the child should remain in it for ten or fifteen minutes, but the cold to the head may be continued for some hours. Should the convulsions return, the bath may be repeated, followed by small Mustard poultices (247) applied to the feet. A hot bath is also very useful in allayingColic in Children.
388.To check violent Hæmorrhage or Flooding after Labours, nothing is much more effectual than dashingcoldwater in a pretty full stream, and with some little degree of force, over the abdominal surface, especially the lower portion. At the same time, a piece of soft rag, made into a pyramidical form, thoroughly saturated with cold water, or vinegar and water (in equal parts), should be introduced into the vagina. After the flooding has been subdued, the external application of cold water, or vinegar and water, should be kept on for some time.N.B.—During a confinement in India, it should be an invariable rule, to meet such an emergency as the above, to have ready at hand two or threechattiesofcoldwater, for a patient may die from loss of blood if the water has to be fetched from a distant source.
389.In Cholera, the free use of cold water as a drink appears materially to aid other treatment, of whatsoever kind that may be; it should be as cold as procurable, iced if possible, and taken in large and repeated draughts; although the first four or five draughts may be rejected, its use should still be persevered in; the stomach will eventually retain it, and when this is effected, a beneficial change in the state of the patient generally takes place. Whatever other treatment is adopted, cold water (iced if possible) in copious draughts is a valuable auxiliary, perfectly safe, agreeable to the patient, and likely to be productive of the best effects.
390.Many forms of Sore Throat, and Coughs attended with Difficulty of Breathing and Scanty Expectoration, are much benefited by repeated inhalations of hot water, and their efficiency is increased by the addition of mucilaginous agents, as Abelmoschus (1).In Croup, relays of sponges filled with water, as hot as the little patient can bear, should be applied immediately beneath the chin, along the whole course of the throat. They should be persevered in for half an hour, and then discontinued if they fail to produce benefit. In severe cases, Turpentine stupes (362) prove more serviceable.
392.In many painful affections of the Kidneys,Bladder, and Uterus,in the passage of Gall Stones, and inRetention of the Urine from Spasmodic Stricture consequent on a debauch or exposure, the hot hip-bath proves highly serviceable and soothing.
393.Hot-water Fomentationsare very serviceable in many cases,e.g.,Local Inflammations,Incipient Abscesses,Boils,Sprains,Lumbago,Colic and Spasmodic Affections of the Bowels,Congestion of the Liver,Asthma,&c.To obtain their full effect, a few points require to be attended to. 1. The water should be as hot as can be borne. 2. Two or more thickly folded cloths (if flannel so much the better) of a size rather larger than the surface they are to cover, should be in readiness. 3. One of these having been removed from the water, should be thoroughly rung, so that it should hold no superfluous moisture, and should be immediately applied to the surface. 4. A second cloth having been got ready in the same way, the first, after the lapse of two or three minutes, should be removed, and the second applied. This process should be continued for half an hour if necessary, care being taken that the water be kept at the original temperature by means of fresh relays, and that there should be no longer interval than possible between the removal of one and the application of the succeeding fomentation. Subsequently, care should be taken to protect the fomented part from exposure to cold draughts of air. Some forms ofsevere Headache, especially those occurring in Fevers, are far more benefited by hot-water fomentations, or stupes thus applied, than from cold lotions commonly employed for the purpose. According toDr. Aitchison, nothing relieves theHeadache or great fulness of the Head in Feversso effectually as the continuous application of extremely hot-water stupes to the nape of the neck.The Irritative Bilious Diarrhœa of these Fevers, he adds, is more frequently improved and arrested by large warm-water enemas, administered at least morning and evening, than by any other remedy he knows of.
394.In the treatment of Wounds, Ulcers, and Inflamed surfaces, "WATER DRESSING" possesses many advantages, especially in tropical regions, over poultices and ointments. The process is exceedingly simple, consisting only of a piece of lint of thick texture, and of a size sufficient completely to cover the wound, soaked in tepid water. This is placed on the affected part, and the whole enveloped in an ample piece of oiled silk, so as effectually to prevent evaporation. Young plantain leaf answers the purpose as well as oiled silk. Cold water may be substituted for tepid, should it be more agreeable to the feelings of the patient.
395.Sloughing and Gangrenous Ulcerations, and Carbuncles ("Rajah Boils") after suppuration, are more effectually treated by what is termed "IRRIGATION," which consists in keeping up a continuous stream of water, tepid or cold, as the patient may prefer, for half an hour twice daily. A common kettle, or one of the natives' drinking-vessels provided with a spout, answers well for the purpose, and it should be held so that the fall of water should be about a foot, or rather more, but the height should be regulated in ameasure by the patient's feelings. If pain is caused, the height should be diminished. With each irrigation, more or less of the slough comes away, and in a few days the ulcer will, in most instances, assume a healthy appearance, when it may be treated as an ordinary ulcer—with cold water dressing, Turpentine, or Wax Ointment, &c. In the intervals between the irrigation,ToddyPoultices (355) should be applied.
396. Another way in which Water may be utilised is in the formation of aVAPOUR BATH, which is often a most serviceable resource inChronic Rheumatism,Obstinate Skin Disease,Dropsical Affections,the early stages of Diabetes,and in all cases where the skin is dry, rough, and not much above the natural standard. It is inadvisable in fever cases.Incipient Colds and Catarrhsfollowing exposure to wet, &c., may often be speedily arrested by a vapour bath, taken immediately before going to bed at night.
397. The Vapour Bath apparatus, which should be kept ready in all large establishments in India, consists of a bamboo frame of a conical shape, covered with wax cloth or some other impervious material; it should be large enough to enclose the whole body (when the patient is in a sitting posture), and an aperture with a loose frill attached, so as to tie round the patient's throat, should be left at the apex. Under this the patient, divested of his clothing, should sit with the head and face projecting through the opening at the top, and achattie, or open vessel, of boiling water having been introduced, sweating soon commences and should be kept up for a quarter of anhour or more. Then the patient should be thoroughly dried with warm, rough towels and go to bed, or be carefully wrapped up in blankets so as to be effectually protected from draughts of cold air.
397b.The wet sheethas been highly spoken of in the treatment ofDelirium Tremens; it is applied as follows: Strip the patient naked and roll him in a wet sheet till he looks like a mummy, and then roll a blanket round this again. In many cases the delirious excitement will subside as soon as a hot vapour surrounds the patient, and he will fall into a quiet sleep. It should be used with caution in the case of an old debilitated drunkard.