Skip to main content

Full text of "The medical advance - a monthly magazine of homoeopathic medicine 26.1891"

See other formats 


Google 


Uber dieses Buch 

Dies ist ein digitales Exemplar eines Buches, das seit Generationen in den Regalen der Bibliotheken aufbewahrt wurde, bevor es von Google im 
Rahmen eines Projekts, mit dem die Bucher dieser Welt online verfligbar gemacht werden sollen, sorgfaltig gescannt wurde. 

Das Buch hat das Urheberrecht uberdauert und kann nun offentlich zuganglich gemacht werden. Ein offentlich zugangliches Buch ist ein Buch, 
das niemals Urheberrechten unterlag oder bei dem die Schutzfrist des Urheberrechts abgelaufen ist. Ob ein Buch offentlich zuganglich ist, kann 
von Land zu Land unterschiedlich sein. Offentlich zugangliche Bucher sind unser Tor zur Vergangenheit und stellen ein geschichtliches, kulturelles 
und wissenschaftliches Vermogen dar, das haufig nur schwierig zu entdecken ist. 

Gebrauchsspuren, Anmerkungen und andere Randbemerkungen, die im Originalband enthalten sind, finden sich auch in dieser Datei - eine Erin- 
nerung an die lange Reise, die das Buch vom Verleger zu einer Bibliothek und weiter zu Ihnen hinter sich gebracht hat. 


Nutzungsrichtlinien 

Google ist stolz, mit Bibliotheken in partnerschaftlicher Zusammenarbeit offentlich zugangliches Material zu digitalisieren und einer breiten Masse 
zuganglich zu machen. Offentlich zugangliche Bucher gehoren der Offentlichkeit, und wir sind nur ihre Hiiter. Nichtsdestotrotz ist diese 
Arbeit kostspielig. Um diese Ressource weiterhin zur Verfugung stellen zu konnen, haben wir Schritte unternommen, um den Missbrauch durch 
kommerzielle Parteien zu verhindern. Dazu gehoren technische Einschrankungen fur automatisierte Abfragen. 

Wir bitten Sie um Einhaltung folgender Richtlinien: 


+ Nutzung der Dateien zu nichtkommerziellen Zwecken Wir haben Google Buchsuche flir Endanwender konzipiert und mochten, dass Sie diese 
Dateien nur fur personliche, nichtkommerzielle Zwecke verwenden. 

+ Keine automatisierten Abfragen Senden Sie keine automatisierten Abfragen irgendwelcher Art an das Google-System. Wenn Sie Recherchen 
liber maschinelle Ubersetzung, optische Zeichenerkennung oder andere Bereiche durchfiihren, in denen der Zugang zu Text in groBen Mengen 
niitzlich ist, wenden Sie sich bitte an uns. Wir fordern die Nutzung des offentlich zuganglichen Materials fur diese Zwecke und konnen Ihnen 
unter Umstanden helfen. 

+ Beibehaltung von Google-Markenelementen Das "Wasserzeichen" von Google, das Sie in jeder Datei finden, ist wichtig zur Information liber 
dieses Projekt und hilft den Anwendern weiteres Material liber Google Buchsuche zu finden. Bitte entfemen Sie das Wasserzeichen nicht. 

+ Bewegen Sie sich innerhalb der Legalitdt Unabhangig von Ihrem Verwendungszweck miissen Sie sich Ihrer Verantwortung bewusst sein, 
sicherzustellen, dass Ihre Nutzung legal ist. Gehen Sie nicht davon aus, dass ein Buch, das nach unserem Dafiirhalten flir Nutzer in den USA 
offentlich zuganglich ist, auch flir Nutzer in anderen Landem offentlich zuganglich ist. Ob ein Buch noch dem Urheberrecht unterliegt, ist 
von Land zu Land verschieden. Wir konnen keine Beratung leisten, ob eine bestimmte Nutzung eines bestimmten Buches gesetzlich zulassig 
ist. Gehen Sie nicht davon aus, dass das Erscheinen eines Buchs in Google Buchsuche bedeutet, dass es in jeder Form und iiberall auf der 
Welt verwendet werden kann. Eine Urheberrechtsverletzung kann schwerwiegende Folgen haben. 


Uber Google Buchsuche 


Das Ziel von Google besteht darin, die weltweiten Informationen zu organisieren und allgemein nutzbar und zuganglich zu machen. Google 
Buchsuche hilft Lesern dabei, die Biicher dieser We lt zu entdecken, und unterstiitzt Au toren und Verleger dabei, neue Zielgruppen zu erreichen. 
Den gesamten Buchtext konnen Sie im Internet unter http : //books . google . com durchsuchen. 



This is a reproduction of a library book that was digitized 
by Google as part of an ongoing effort to preserve the 
information in books and make it universally accessible. 

Google" books 

https://books.google.com 
















eral Library 

OP 

TY or MICHIGAN 



















General Library 

OP 

UNIVERSITY Or MICHIGAN 







H U 0,6' 

in r 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


Digitized by 


Google 



THE 'fwTt' 

MEDICAL ADVANCE. 

A MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF 

HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE 


HENRY C. ALLEN, M D. ( 

EDITOR 

J. B. S. KING, M. D., 

ASSOCIATE EDITOR. 


YOLTJME XXY1. 

JANUARY TO JUNE), 1801. 

0 

JOHN BICE MINER, 
CHICAGO. 


Digitized by LjOOQle 



_ ! i i _ . . . 

DONOHUE A HENNEBERRY, PRINTERS, 

CHICAGO- fj " K 




Digitized by 


Google 



INDEX. 


A bdomen, aoo, 369. 

Abdominal 8urgeiy, 16. 

Acetate of Morphia in Electrical Sensitiveness, 152. 
Aconite, 114, 188. 

Albuminuria, 45. 

Allegheny County Society, 846. 

Allan, Arthur G., 191, 278, 473. 

Allen, H. C., 87. 

Allen, John V., 27. 

Aloes, 38, 144. 

Alumina, 108, 406. 

Amaurotis, due to Changes at the Visual Center, 401 
American Institute of Homoeopathy, 187, 891, 
Ammonium Carb., 109, 112, 114. 

Ammonium Mur., 86, 111. 

Anagallis Arvensis, 858. 

Apis, 131,414. 

A Remarkable Case, 851. 

Argentum Nitricum, 104. 

Arnica, 45. 

Arsenicum, 109, 118, 458. 

Asthma, 129. 

Astigmatism, 128. 

B ack, 88. 

Bamber, O. S., 74. 

Baptisia, 110, 136. , 

Baylies, B. L. B., 55. 

Beckwith, E., 242. 

Belladonna, 86,107, 127,188, 425. 

Belladonna : Amaurosis, 402. 

Belladonna in Colic, 139. 

Belladonna in Hemorrhage, 141. 

Belladonna in Torisilitis, 207. 

Beneficial Aggravations, 115. 

Bentley, W. R., 408. 

Berridge, E. W., 91. 

Biegler, J. A., 182. 

Black Jaundice Cured by Nux., 149. 

Boger, C. M., 486. 

Borax, 111. 

Boston Hahnemann 8ociety, 177. 

Boston Homoeopathic Hospital, 287. 

Bovista OfBcinalis, 175. 

Breathing, 308, 874. 

Bronchitis, 180. 

Bryonia, 108, 199. 

Bryonia and Nux., 278. 

Burnett, J. C., 419. 

CALCAREA, 55, 118. 

\J Calcarea Fluorica, 6, 488. 

Calcarea Phos.. Ill, 132. 

Carbolic Add in Intermittent Fever, 249. 

Carleton, E., 50. 



iv 


Index . 


Carr, Allen B., 218. 

Case from practice, 38, 85, 207. 

Cases illustrating Homoeopathy of Hahne mann , 214. 

Cash, Nathan, 94. 

Caulophyllum, 141. 

Central N. Y. Homoeopathic Med. Society, 146 833. 

Chakravarti, H. D., 222. 

Chamomilla in Colic, 140. 

Champlin, H. W., 444. 

Chapman, S. E., 65, 292, 413. 

Chelidonium, 109. 

Chill, Fever, Sweat, 34, 305, 877. 

China, 437. 

Chionanthus, 135. 

Chorea, 257. 

Chronic Cough, 86. 

Chronic Headache, Sepia, 364. 

Cimicifuga, 102, 112. 

Cina, 87. 

Cinchona in Spasm of Glottis, 50. 

Clark, G. E., 413. 

Clinical Case, 22, 53, 141,144. 

Clinical Notes, 102, 105, 140. 

Clinics, 118. 

Coccus Cacti in Whooping Cough, 94. 

Cohen, S. W., 285. 

Colchicum, 109. 

Colocynth, 109, 138. 

Comment and Criticism, 61, 222, 315, 885, 467. 

Comments on Erysipelas cure, 123. 

Comments on Phbs. cure, 93. 

Confirmations of the Mat. Med. compiled from Vols. XX and XXI of 
The Medical Advance, 295. 

Conium, 107, 87. 

Consumption, 273. 

Consumption cured by Tuberculinum, 186. 

Consumption, the cure of, by its own Vims, 419. 

Corrallium Kubrum, 106. 

Cough and Lungs, 33, 308, 874. 

Cramps in Limbs, 359. 

Crocus in Metrorrhagia, 148. 

Crotalus, 109. 

Culex musca, 6. 

Cuprum sulph., 109. 

Cyclamen, 110. 

D avis, f. l., ioo. 

Deafness hereditary, 428. 

Diphtheria, 58. 

Dolor, 187. 

Drawing pain, 859. 

Durand, O. S., 220, 288. 

I j'ARS, 29, 298, 367. 

J Eating and Drinking, 800, 869. 

Eczema, 51, 201. 

Editorial, 76, 154, 287, 809, 391, 461. 

Editor’s Table, 79, 160, 240, 818, 397, 479. 

Electricity, Use and Abuse of, 150. 

Epilepsy, 9, 14. 

Epithelioma, 212. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Erysipelas, 120. 

Experience with Dluretin, 290. 
Eyes, 28, 297. 


Index. 


v 


F ace, 299 ,368. 

Female Sexual Organs, 802, 872. 
Fever, 18t. 

Fielding, C. H., 226. 

Fincke, B., 66, 260, 825. 

Fitz, W. H. A., 861. 

Fluoric Acid, 70. 

Force in Drugs we Employ, 408. 

Fowler, S. M., 464. 

Freedom in Medical Matters, 268. 
Fracture of Lower Third of Femur, 182. 
Fucus in Obesity, 226. 

/GAMBOGE, 98. 

U General Symptoms of Pain, 33. 
Ghosh, R. K., 224. 

Gilbert, C. B., 201, 459. 

Gladwin, F.,305. 

Glonoiue, 305, 487. 

Gonorroeha instead of Psorinum, 459. 
Graphites, 51, 201, 852. 

Guernsey’s Bunninghausen, 889. 
Gundlach, J. G.,53. 


If AHNEM ANN, 459. 

II Hahnemannian Cure, 91. 

Hahoemann’s Method, 75. 

Hale, E. W., 290. 

Hale, G. P., 433. 

Hamamelis, 141. 

Hatfield, W. 8., 473. 

Haynes, J. R., 98. 

Head, 366. 

Headache, 358. 

Heart, 83. 

Heart Coldness and Trembling, 87. 

Heath, Alfred, 175. 272, 380. 

Hepar, 113. 

Hepar Sulph. in Jaundice, 150. 

Higher Midical Education, 461. 

High Potencies, 88, 254. 

High Temperature, 421. 

Hogs as Disease Producers, 438. 

Holmes, H. P., 178, 360, 419. 

Homoeopath—What he Is and What is to Become of Him, 809. 
Homeopathic Graduates for 1891, 460. 

Homeopathic Practice by Allopathic Physicians, 444. 
Homeopathy, 459. 

Homeopathy Dying Out, 446. 

Houston, H. C., 438. 

Hydroceplialoid : A Case and Its Lessons, 413. 

Hyoscyamus, 434. 

Hyoscyamus in Nervous Prostration, 145. 

Hypochondria, 300. 

Hysteroid Epilepsy, 133. 


Digitized by tjOOQle 



eral Library 

Of* 

TY or MICHIGAN 










H t* 10,4' 

m r 




Digitized by 


Google 





Index . 


vi 


I NDIA, Letter from, 220, 288. 

Indiana Institute of Homeopathy, 407. 
Inner Head, 28, 297. 

Instruments of Precision and Curing, 297, 815. 
Intermittent: Sepia, 86. 

Ipecac, 110, 141. 

Irvin, J. F., 458. 

Isopathy in Physio-Chemical School, 56. 
JOHNSTONE, R. B., 362. 

K ALI Bichro., 24. 

Kali Carbonicum, 87. 

Kalmia, 305. 

Kent, J. T., 161, 221, 434. 

Kimball, S. A., 66. 

King, J. B. S., 222, 329. 

Koch’s Discovery, 179, 182. 

Koch’s Isopathy, 76. 

Koch’s Lymph, 391. 

Kraft, Frank, 439. 

T ACHESI8, 208, 427. 

* Lachesis in Snake Bite, 260. 

Lapis Albus, 41, 43. 

Ledum: Verifications, 362. 

Left-sided pain, 360. 

Leonard, Wm. E., 287. 

Leonard, W. H., 102. 

Limbs in general, 304. 

Lippe, Ad., 75. 

Lowe, J. N., 105. 

Lower limbs, 304, 375. 

Lungs, 303, 375. 

Lycopodium, 53, 68, 118, 129, 224, 292. 

M AGNETIS polus Articus, 108. 

Mahony, Edward, 107. 

Male Sexual Organs, 302, 371. 

Materia Medica: A Study, 154, 169. 

Materia Medica, How shall we study? 410. 
McKenzie, P. L., 291. 

McLaren, D. C-, 115. 

McNeil, A , 117, 

Medley, Jennie, 425. 

Melancholy, 85. 

Meningitis, 127. 

Mental Delusions, 449. 

Mental State, 361. 

Merc. Cyan., 100. 

Mercury in Iritis, 192. 

Miller, Z. T., 346. 

Mind, 27, 295, 365. 

Morbid Growths, 88. 

Morphia, 111. 

Morphia antidotes Electrical Paralysis, 152. 
Morrow, H. C., 217. 

Motion, 360. 

Mouth, 299, 861. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Index. 


vii 


\f AJA, 108. 

li Naja in Asthma, 465. 

Nash, E. B., 118. 

Nasty Remedies. 346. 

NatrumMur., 45, 87, 436. 

Natrum Phos. in Spermatorhoea, 221. 

Nausea and Vomiting, 80, 300, 369. 

Neck, Back, 303, 375. 

Nerves, 305, 377. 

Neuralgia, 358. 

Neurasthenia, 135. 

New Publications: 

Alden’s Manifold Cyclopedia, 478. 

A Mystery of New Orleans, 898. 

Annals British Homoeopathic Society, 897. 

Annual of the Universal Medical Sciences, 477. 

Cholera and its Treatment on Homoeopathic Principles, 475. 
Concordance and Repertory, 394. 

Compend of Gynecology, 896. 

Cyclopedia of Diseases of Children, t58. 

Cyclopedia of Drug Pathogenesy, 895. 

Darwinism and Politics, 159. 

Diseases of the Eye, 475. 

Dust and its Dangers, 476. 

Electricity In Gynecology, 478. 

Five Years’ Experience in the new cure of Consumption by its own 
Virus, 156. 

Heredity, Health and Personal Beauty, 395. 

International Clinics, 477. 

International Medical Annual, 395. 

Manual of Clinical Diagnosis, 476. 

Medical Education, Medical Colleges, and the Regulation of the 
Practice of Medicine in the United States in Canada, 476. 
Modern Treatment of Headaches, 157. 

Orificial Surgery, 895. 

Practical Manual of Gynecology, 158. 

Secret Nostrums and Systems of Medicine, 384. 

Sexual Neurasthenia, 890. 

Significance of a Reconstructed Materia Medica, 157. 

Six Centuries of Work and Wages, 475. 

Text-book of Hygiene, 158. 

Text-book of Materia Medica, 898. 

Text-book of Materia Medica for Nurses, 157. 

The Daughter; Her Health, Education and Wedlock, 477. 

The Physician’s Leisure Library, 478. 

Transactions of Homoeopathic Medical Society of New York, 395. 
University of Pennsylvania—Catalogue and Announcements, 157. 
Wood’s Surgical and Medical Monographs, 157, 393. 

Niccolum. 112. 

Nipples, 217. 

Nitric acid in Amaurosis, 406. 

Noe, A. T., 201. 

Norman, A. J., 208, 211. 

Nose. 29, 298, 361, 368. 

NuxVom., 112, 131,161. 


O BSERVATIONS on the Climate of the Pacific Coast, 242. 
Opthalmia, 129. 

Organon and Materia Medica Society of Philadelphia, 276, 353, 424. 
Oxalic Acid, 112. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



▼Ill 


Index. 


P ASSAFLORA Sucarnata, 106. 

Patch, F. W., 295, 865. 

Pathology as it relates to Therapeutics, 489. 

Payne, F. W., 401. 

Pease, G. M., 121. 

Peculiar Symptoms of Remedies, 27. 

Phosphoric Acid, 112, 188. 

Phosphorus, 5, 91,112. 

Picric Acid, 356. 

Plumbum, 40, 108. 

Podophyllum in Diarrhoea, 444. 

Poisoning, 132. 

Poisoning by Quinine, 888. 

Pompili, G., 144. 

Popularity of Homoeopathy, 808. 

Post Diphtheritic Dropsy, 458. 

Potencies, How to lessen the labor of making. 474. 

Potencies, My experience with, 190. 

Potency, Dr. Terry and the, 291. 

Pregnancy, 302, 376. 

Pressing Pains, 359. 

PrestonV Mahlon, 124. 

Principiis Obsta, 325, 467. 

Prunus, 108. 

Prurigo, 136. 

Psorinum 128. 

Pulsatilla, 101, 107, 118, 120. 

Pyrogen, 36, 37, 301. 

Q uinine, 313 . 

Quinine in pernicious Intermittent Fever, 811, 285. 

Quinine in the South, 61. 

Quintessence of Bigotry, 155. 

RANUNCULUS Seel., 110. 

IV Reger. C. Albert, 357. 

Relation of Albuminuria to Puerperal Eclamspia, 222. 

Relationships, 361. 

Relative Value of the Principle Tests for Sugar in the Urine, 329. 
Remarkable Temperature, 465. 

Remarks, 121. 

Renal Colic, 181. 

Repertory, 217. 

Repertory, The Use of the, 416, 

Repetition of the Dose, 191, 417. 

Reply to Dr. Dudgeon, 66. 

Rest, 360. 

Rhees, M. J., 214. 

Rheumatic Fever, 87. 

Rheumatism, 22, 54, 129. 

Rheumatism. Inflammatory, 130. 

Rhus, 132,144, 426. 

Rhus Rad., 109. 

Rhus Tox, 23. 

Right-sided Pain, 860. 

Riley, C. T., 851. 

Rochester Hahnemannian Society, 202. 

Rushmore, Edward, 86. 

S ANICULA. 97, 129, 133, 134. 

Sarcoma of Great Size Cured in an Infant without Surgical or Local 
Treatment, 82. 


Digitized by tjOOQle 



Index . 


IX 


Sarsaparilla, 7. 

Sawyer, E. W., 88, 407. 

Schmitt, J. G., 202. 

Secous, R. F., 474. 

Scrofulous Adenoma, 55. 

Sensations, 378. 

Sensorium, 27 
Sepia, 38, 86. 

Sepia in Sterility, 272. 

Sexual Organs. 32. 

Sherbino, G. W., 63, 127. 

Schultze, Ephraim, 195. 

Silicea, 14, 114, 143, 206. 

Skin, 305, 361, 378. 

Skinner, Thos., 82. 

Sleep, 305, 377. 

Southern Homeopaths, The Stigma that Rests Upon, 454. 
Spasm of Glottis, 50. 

Spigelia, 112. 

Staphisagria, 105, 106. 

Stitches, 358. 

Stomach, 31, 300, 369. 

Stools, 31, 301, 358, 369. 

Stow, T. D., 136. 

Stramonium, 111, 115. 

Stramonium, A Partial Proving, 287. 

Stramonium in Chorea, 257. 

Strychnine, Paralyzing Action of, 384. 

Stupidity Curable, 199. 

Sulphur, 85, 107, 136. 

Sulphuric Acid, 111. 

Suppressed Eruption vs. Suppressed Foot Sweat, 205. 

Sutfin, J. H., 140. 

Sycosis Hahnemanii, 117. 

Symphytum, 113. 

Symptoms, a few Confirmed, 98. 

Symptoms, Proper Manner of Taking, 415. 

Symptoms. Relative Value of, in Selecting the Remedy, 230. 
Syphilis, Case of, 124. 

T ALCOTT, Selden H., 268. 

Talleyrand. 453. 

Tearing Pain, 359. 

Teeth, 299. 

Tela Aranea, 102. 

Temperature and Weather, 305. 

Terebintliina, 74. 

Thomson, J. W., 26. 

Throat. 299, 368. 

Thuja in Epithelioma, 212. 

Thurston, Rufus L., 230. 

Tongue, 368. 

Tracheotomy, 200. 

Treatment of Phthisis, 385. 

Tubercular Meningitis Cured, 380. 

Typhoid, 212. 

I | LCERS, 361. 

U Upper Limbs, 375. 

Urine, 32. 301, 861. 

Uterus, Bearing Down, 86. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



X 


Index , 


V ENEREAL Case, 209. 

Verifications, 127, 365. 

Vicarious Brain Work, 238. 

Violent Pain, 359. 

Vipera Acontica Carinata, 103. 

Voices of the Leal, 227. 

W ASP Sting, 131. 

Was the Knife Necessary ? 473. 
Wells, L.B., 169. 

Wesselhoeft, Wm.P., 8. 

Whiting, L., 38. 

Whooping Cough, 94. 

Wilson, Harold, 386. 

Woods, J. U., 51. 

SINGLING, W. A., 254. 


^flNC in Typhoid, 212. 


Digitized by 


Google 



th:e 


Medical Advance. 

A HOMEOPATHIC MAGAZINE. 


Vo l. XXVI. January, 1891. No. 1. 


CONFIRMATIONS. 

Asarum Europ .—In the preface to this remedy, Hahne¬ 
mann in his powerful manner discusses the absurdity of 
grouping remedies according to their coarser or toxic symp¬ 
toms, such as colic, vomiting produced by massive doses of a 
drug. Based upon these coarser symptoms, the allopathic 
school regards the action of Asarum as identical with that 
of Ipecac. ‘‘No!” says Hahnemann, “such profanation of 
Asarum and Ipecac is intolerable, in the light of true experi¬ 
ment. ” He further asks: “Do these substances, with Arse¬ 
nic, Sulph. of Zinc, Acetate of Copper, Veratrum, etc., 
exist merely to be used as emetics?” 

“What else such a remedy as Asarum can produce,” he 
adds, “may be seen, by studying the provings. And every 
thoughtful physician must recognize its wide sphere of 
action.” 

I hope by detailing the following case, to corroborate two 
of its very important symptoms. 

Mrs. J. H. S., a light, graceful blonde, aged thirty-seven, 
mother of one child. 

Two years ago, an artificial abortion in the third month of 
pregnancy. Has not seen a well day since. 

Has been treated by a self styled “homoeopathic” physi¬ 
cian, locally, for eighteen months, “ for uterine disease,” and 
steadily growing worse. 

Has a burning, pushing out sensation back of eyeballs, 
accompanied by a steady dull pain all through the head. 
This is much aggravated by any use of the eyes. 

When the pain in the head and eyes is relieved has a dis- 


Digitized by LjOOQle 





2 


Confirmations. 


January 


tressing internal soreness in lower abdomen, with great sen¬ 
sitiveness to jar, but not to touch or pressure. Has never 
had any bearing down sensations, and only a slight watery 
leucorrhoea, staining the clothing yellow. 

Has a raw, sore sensation in right ovary, aggravated by 
drawing legs up. Has slept from childhood with left leg 
drawn up, which she is unable to do now. 

For the last month, has suffered less severely from the 
symptoms in lower abdomen, but has greatly increased dis¬ 
tress in head and back of eyeballs. 

She lost very little blood during the abortion, but two 
months later had a very severe flooding. 

She sleeps well at night, and feels constantly sleepy during * 
the day, when first waking head and eye symptoms are aggra¬ 
vated. 

Great depression of spirits, fears insanity. Is morose, 
irritable, petulant, which is entirely foreign to her when 
well. 

Desires fresh air, and the colder the weather the better she 
feels. Appetite, digestion and stools normal. Menstruates 
every twenty-five days, without amelioration or aggravation 
of symptoms. Examination by speculum, neither os nor 
cervix show the least sign of disease. Probe enters freely 
two and a half inches. The uterus is freely movable and not 
enlarged. 

Was told by her former physician that she had “ serious ” 
uterine disease. 

My first choice was Lachesis based mainly upon the mental 
symptoms, the aggravation after sleep, and the forcing out 
sensations in eyeballs. Of this remedy she received a single 
dose in the cm. potency. 

Two weeks later she reports: Menses again appeared in 
twenty-five days. Head and eye symptom markedly relieved 
till appearance of menses (yesterday). Fever blisters on 
lips. Nausea on awakening in morning. Less sensitiveness 
to jar in lower abdomen (till the appearance of menses). 
Right arm goes to sleep frequently. 

Gave Sac. lac. 

Two weeks later reports : Mentally better, less fear of in¬ 
sanity. Abdomen has been entirely free from'pain, and sen¬ 
sitiveness to jar. Eye and head symptoms have been much 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. P. Wessellmft . 


8 


worse, to which is added a constant nausea during the day. 
Gave Lachesis cm. one dose. 

A fortnight later reports : 

Mental improvement continues, also less nausea. Cata¬ 
menia appeared on the 27th day. Complains more of the 
pressing out sensation in the eyes, and the constant dull 
headache ; while talking with me she frequently presses 
against her eyeballs, as if she would press them back into 
her head. 

On closer questioning, I discovered that the sensation 
was not only an outward pressure, but as if the eyeballs were 
pressed asunder and outwards , greatly aggravated by reading. 

I now restudied the case, and after a long search found 
the remedy. The repertories gave me little help, not even 
the excellent “ Berridge's Eye Repertory." In this I found 
on page 69 : “ Eyeballs pressing laterally outward." Bap- 
tisea. Phosphoric acid, and on page 179, under the rubric 
“Aggravation from reading" I found “Pressing," but not 
“ Pressing outwards or asunder." 

Neither Baptisea nor Phosphor, acid suited the case in other 
respects. 

As the “Relief from cold" was one of the “marked and 
peculiar" symptoms, I looked through all the remedies 
which had this peculiarity, and in this way discovered the fol¬ 
lowing symptoms. No. 48, of Asarum : “When using the 
eyes for reading, there occurs in each of them a feeling as if 
forced asunder." 

Then the old , well known symptom of Asarum came 
to my mind, and I asked my patient if she was not relieved 
by washing her face and eyes in warm water? “No," she 
exclaimed, “ nothing but the coldest water, splashed upon 
my face and eyes, gives me any relief, and that relief con¬ 
tinues only a short time." 

Now Asarum has the following symptoms : “ On wash¬ 

ing the face with cold water, the vertigo, headache, burning 
on tongue, contraction of cervical muscles and weakness of 
knees went off; but after drying the face, they returned." 

These two symptoms, coupled with the constant nausea 
and drowsiness during the day (Symptom 238) gave me 
great confidence that I had found the appropriate remedy. 

She received three doses in the cm. potency, about a fort- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



4 


Confirmations . 


January 


night apart. She is now entirely free from her eye and head 
symptoms, and has no return of abdominal pains, which 
formerly alternated with those of the head. 

In this case Lachesis did much. It relieved entirely the 
soul symptoms, but it remained for Asarum, which was 
wholly specific for the “individual and peculiar symptoms,” 
to finish the cure. 

This case was under treatment and entirely cured in four 
months, after a “homoeopathic” (?) fraud had tampered 
with it by local applications and inappropriate internal rem¬ 
edies, for eighteen months, with constantly increasing misery 
to his patient. 

I would advise you to insert into your repertories the fol¬ 
lowing symptoms: “ Pressing* asunder and outwards of the 
eyeballs aggravated by reading,” and under score, the fol¬ 
lowing symptoms : “ Relief by washing the face with cold 
water.” “ Drowsiness during day.” “ Constant nausea.” 

Asarum is a great, and probably much-neglected remedy. 
Its ameliorations in damp, cold weather (like causticum) 
have been its chief indications, and by me, used mainly in 
rheumatic affections, relieved under these atmospheric con¬ 
ditions. 

Arnica .—Child six years old ; whooping cough, two weeks 
standing, during which time one dose of Bry., and later, one 
dose of K. carb. had been given. The following symp¬ 
toms developed : Frequent severe coughing spells, especi¬ 
ally severe after eating and during night. Tears flow 
from eyes during the paroxysm, weeps as if her heart would 
break after the attack . Arnica cm., one dose in water given 
every four hours for twenty-four hours. On the 11th of 
July,received the following note from the mother: “Laura's 
last remedy acted like a charm from first to last. She 
seems quite well, eats, sleeps, and plays as usual. Gives a 
little cough perhaps twice in the twenty-four hours. Has no 
spells of coughing. It is a marvel how this medicine has 
helped her. From the first night she slept eight hours, 
and night was her worst time. I consider her quite well, 
and that there is no chance of her giving it to any one. 
Your more determinedly homoeopathic friend and follower 
than ever , C. H. S.” 

Arnica has : “Crying before the paroxysms,” also “Cry¬ 
ing in children excites cough.” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. P. Wesselhceft. 


5 


From the above observation, I have added to the prov¬ 
ings : “ Weeping as if her heart would break after the par¬ 
oxysm.” “ Profuse lacrymatxon during the paroxysm.” 

No one can deny (except a homoeopathic microscopist) that 
this cure was due to the action of a homoeopathic simillimum, 
because no case of severe whooping cough, in the second 
week of its existence, recovers spontaneously in three days. 

Arnica. —Double pneumonia. Blonde married woman, 
aet 41, left lung solidly hepatized. Bight lung, crepitant 
r&les to middle of scapala. No vesicular respiration audible 
anteriorly. Respirations from 56 to 62 a minute. 

Stitches in right lower chest anteriorly, running into 
right hypochondrium, worse from the slightest motion (even 
the moving of a finger or a toe, or the slightest jar). 
Relieved by external pressure over the lower rib region of right 
side (the attendant was obliged to bear nearly her whole 
weight upon this portion of the chest). There was no 
cough present during the entire course of disease. Resolu¬ 
tion followed by absorption rapidly, and no expectoration. 

Similar symptoms in the proving, occurring on left side, 
have been observed. 

Therefore, “Aggravation from motion,” “ Relief from pres¬ 
sure,” are confirmed. Arnica, probably, acts equally well, if 
otherwise indicated, on right or left side. 

Phosphorus: Married woman, aged 34, large stout brunette. 
Troubled with following symptoms, for several years: After 
eating, pressure in pit of stomach. Food, if regurgitated 
soon after eating is sweet; if it occurs later, is accompanied 
by a rancid fluid. The expulsion of food relieves the pres¬ 
sure in stomach. 

Desires only cold food and drink. Hot or warm food 
burns in stomach. Cold food distresses her much less. 
Very regularly, every two weeks, has an attack of cramp in 
stomach, accompanied by distressing dyspnoea. The cramp 
extends into back. It lasts 20 to 30 minutes, during which 
time she is in great agony, finally relieved by eructation. 

During the attacks of cramp she passes great quantity of 
colorless urine. 

Every slight cold produces aphonia. 

She received a dose of Phosph. cm -, February 28, 1885. 
Had no return of cramp till August, 1886, and no regurgi- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



6 


Confirmations . 


Januaey 


tafciou or pressure in stomachy was able again to take warm 
food. On August 15, 1886, she received a dose of Phosph. 
dm. No return of cramp or gastric symptoms to this day. 

This confirms symptoms: “ Desire for cold food and 
drink ” (which is digested better than warm). 

Cramps in the stomach, extending to back. This symptom 
is not found in Hahnemann’s proving. In “Herings’ Guid¬ 
ing Symptoms,” however, the symptom stands, and is hereby 
confirmed. 

“ Cramp in stomach accompanied by dyspnoea .” This 
symptom is found in Hahnemann’s proving, but it is not 
recorded in the “ Guiding Symptoms.” 

“Food is regurgitated soon after eating” has been con¬ 
firmed innumerable times before. 

“ Urine profuse, pale, watery ” is also confirmed. 

Apium graveolens. A blonde, rather delicate, aged 30. 
For two weeks has a queer “ fullness ” in whole head, with 
constant , painless throbbing. Tired ache in sacrum, relieved 
by standing and pressure; attributes sensations in head to 
over study. The painless throbbing and fullness were 
promptly relieved by a dose of the cm. The backache was 
not improved. 

Gulex musca. Short, thickset, light brunette man, aged 
40. Bright red swelling on upper maxillary bone, over first 
right bicuspid. Slight redness of cheek. Threatening 
abscess with paroxysmal throbbing, dull pain. Relieved by 
warm applications. Came on after exposure to wet weather. 
Merc. sol. and Rhus did no good. 

He then told me that whenever he blew his nose he had ver¬ 
tigo, with a sense of occlusion in both ears. A dose of the 
cm. potency dissolved in water, and taken every three hours 
during the day, relieved all pain, and in 48 hours all the 
swelling. 

Calcarea fiuorica . Two cases of syphilitic periosteal 
swelling; one, occurring on the right radius; the other on 
the left ulna, both situated near the centre of the bone. One, 
the size of a bean; the other, more than three times as large. 
One of them very sensitive to touch, thfe other without sensi¬ 
tiveness. One occurred in a brunette man, aged 30, the 
other in a light blonde woman, aged 37. The latter, also, 
had a similar enlargement on right frontal protuberance. In 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. P . Wesselhceft. 


7 


both cases the swellings disappeared gradually, during a 
month, after a dose of the cm. potency. 

Silicea does not affect bone enlargements of a syphilitic 
origin, I think. 

Fluoric acid .—Syphilitic mucous patches on soft palate and 
avula. Throat sensitive to cold air . Hair of head , eyebrows, 
beard, had fallen / Complete recovery after a dose of the cm. 
dm., and cmm., potency about 6 weeks apart. 

“ Throat sensitive to cold,” “ Falling out of hair,” are con¬ 
firmed symptoms. 

Sarsaparilla .—A. B. C., aged 38; short, delicately built, 
light brunette man. 

In 1883, had “ inflammation of colon.” Since then has 
suffered almost continually from indigestion. 

Constant pressure under lower end of sternum .—Pressing 
up into cardiac region. 

Can not bear pressure of clothing over epigastrium. 

Stomach is swollen after eating and scrobiculum protrudes 
like a saucer. 

While eating , frequent bitter eructations . 

When stomach symptoms are relieved, has for the past 
year attacks of dull aching in the lumbar region, with fre¬ 
quent and scanty urination . 

Calcarea and Lycopodium, given a month apart, gave him 
no relief. 

Sarsaparilla cm., one dose, relieved the symptoms of the 
stomach entirely in a short time, and since January last he 
has had no return of the lumbar pain or frequency of urina¬ 
tion. 

I was led to this remedy, mainly upon the symptom: 
“ Bitter eructations while eating.” 

Besides this symptom, the following ones are confirmed: 

“Pressing pain directly under the ensiform cartilage, 
increased by pressure.” 

“ Frequent desire to urinate with scanty urine.” 

These three symptoms may be underscored as verified and 
confirmed. The keynote to the remedy was: “ Bitter eructa¬ 
tions while eating.” 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Kent: I wish we could find what time of day the 
symptoms of the face and eyes were aggravated. I have come 


Dii zed by VjOOQle 



8 


Confirmations . 


January 


across a verification of that symptom. I had a patient who 
could never let lager alone; he was, in fact, a dipsomaniac, 
and had taken a number of remedies and made a great many 
failures to overcome his appetite. After a spree he would 
get up in the morning with pains in his face and eyes, which 
were relieved only by splashing his face with ice cold water. 
At last, I found this under Asarum, and I found also the terri¬ 
ble craving for stimulants it has. It cured him of his appetite 
completely. Since then I have found it indicated several 
times in old alcoholics. 

Dr. H. C. Allen: Was the menstrual function regular 
and profusein the Lachesis case? 

Dr. Wesselhceft: It occurred on the twenty-fifth day. 

Dr. Allen: That might exclude Lachesis from your pre¬ 
scription. 

Dr. Wesselhceft : I do not agree with Dr. Allen. I 
claim that if we have a strong preponderance of Lachesis 
symptoms, we should give Lachesis, whether the flow is early 
or late. 

Dr. H. C. Allen: My experience is that the menstrua¬ 
tion of Lachesis occurs with clock like regularity. But I 
confess that we must be guided by the totality, however 
prominent a single symptom may be. 

Dr. Thomson: The case of pernicious, progressive 
anaemia, that I referred to this morning, was one of the most 
irregular cases of menstruation in my experience, and Lache¬ 
sis was the most helpful of her remedies. 

Dr. Fincke: Lachesis always brought on copious men¬ 
struation in some of my sensitive women provers, so I have 
had to stop giving it to them. 

Dr. Kent: I have verified that symptom of Oulex in con¬ 
nection with erysipelas of the face. I cured erysipelas of both 
sides of the face, eyes and lids, and one ear, with sensation of 
stiffness in the nose that inclined one to blow the nose—the 
blowing being attended with’vertigo. 

Wm. P. Wesselhceft. 

Boston, Mass. 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



1891 


8. A . Kimball . 


9 


A CASE OF EPILEPSY. 

April 9,1889.—Miss G-, a seamstress, 44 years of age, of 

medium size, dark hair, came to my office with the following 
history: She has been having epileptiform attacks for the 
last eight years, almost every month. 

The first attack came on after seeing an old lady fatally 
injured by falling down an elevator well at a house where she 
was working. This was in February and the first convulsion 
occurred the following August, she having been in a very 
excitable, nervous condition since the accident. Her father 
was a drunkard, her mother and eldest sister died of phthisis. 

Her present condition is as follows, some information being 
obtained from friends: The attacks usually come before or 
during the menses; they are apt to be induced from any over 
excitement or in an overheated room; she can not bear heat; 
the blood rushes to her head. Two or three days before an 
attack her head feels badly, as if all the blood were in the 
vertex; it burns and feels hot. There is almost always an 
aura, a sizzling in the fore part of the head; sometimes, how¬ 
ever, there will be no warning at all, as is shown by several 
scars on her forehead where she has struck herself in falling, 
and at the time of this visit her left eye and temple are black 
and blue from falling on the stove. During the attack the 
convulsive movements are mostly in the lower limbs; she bites 
her tongue, making it bleed and very sore, but does not froth 
much at the mouth. She often passes urine during the fit 
and sometimes has an involuntary stool. 

After the fit she has a long, heavy sleep, and when she 
awakes her abdomen is very sore. 

She began to menstruate when eleven or thirteen years old, 
and has always been regular but scanty, the flow lasting but 
three days. 

Before menses her head feels badly. During menses the 
flow relieves her head. She sometimes has a pain in lower 
back. 

Last summer she did not menstruate for three months, and 
her head felt badly all the time. Since then she has. been 
regular but scanty. 

Her appetite is good and bowels regular. Face flushed. 
Tongue trembles on putting it out. 

She can not bear anything tight about neck, must have 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



January 


10 A Case of Epilepsy . 

everything loose. Her legs go to sleep occasionally, usually 
the left. 

Memory impaired. Can not remember dates or numbers, 
and she has a rather dull, stupid expression. 

Is discouraged and depressed. 

Her last menses came March 26; two days before she had 
a convulsion without any warning and fell against the corner 
of the stove, striking the left eye and temple and causing the 
black and blue mark before mentioned. This shows that she 
fell toward the left side. 

She has been taking bromides off and on for four years 
without any effect, and has lately been to a homoeopathic dis¬ 
pensary without relief. 

The symptoms point to but one remedy, the heat and 
burning of the vertex, the regular but scanty menstruation, 
the relief by the flow of all head symptoms before menstruat¬ 
ing, the inability to bear anything tight about the neck, the 
trembling of the tongue on putting it out; all these, with the 
general left-sided tendency of the symptoms, point unmistak¬ 
ably to Lachesis, and she received one dose dry of Lachesis 
cm. 

May 30.—Menses came on May 21, not as much discharge 
as usual. No convulsion before, no congestion to head 
before. Tongue does not tremble as much on putting it 
out. 

Face still flushed and she can not bear anything tight about 
neck. Thinks she remembers better, is much more cheerful 
and feels very well. Sac. lac. 

June 25.—Last menses came all right, no trouble, no con¬ 
vulsion. Is away for the summer at Williamstown, Mass. 
Sac. lac. 

July 22.—Has been quite well; last menses all right; no 
convulsions. Writes that she can not remember of being so 
free from trouble with her head as she is now. Sac. lac. 

August 21.—Writes that she has the same story to tell; 
menses all right, no return of the convulsions. Sac. lac. 

Sept. 17—Writes that everything has been all right this 
month. Sac. lac. 

Oct. 21.—Returned last week from Williamstown, where 
she has been for the summer. She looks very well, and says 
she has not been as well for years. Menses have been regu- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. A . Kimball . 


11 


lar; no headache. Once or twice this summer she has had a 
slight vertigo, and once a little pain in the back of the head. 
She appears very calm, not at all nervous. Good color, 
appetite good; legs do not go to sleep. Sac. lac. 

January 16, 1890.—Has had no convulsions. In Decem¬ 
ber she had an attack of congestion to the head with vertigo 
and nausea. She has had “ la grippe,” with pains and aching 
all over. She was very weak after it, but has taken no medi¬ 
cine, and now feels very well. Sac. lac. 

February 4.—She had a convulsion, January 24, two days 
before menstruation. She was sewing in a cold room and 
her feet were very cold, she became unconscious without 
warning, and on “ coming to” found herself on the floor. 
She does not know how long she was in that condition; but 
it was probably a mild convulsion as there was no biting of 
the tongue, no involuntary stool or urine and no sleepiness 
after the fit, but she finished her day's work and went home 
as usual. Menses came two days after, January 26, without 
pain. 

Her head had been feeling badly before the convulsion, but 
feels all right now. 

This was the first convulsion since March 24, 1889, an 
interval of ten months. The reaction of the vital force in a 
direction toward health which was set in motion by the dose 
of Lachesis given April 9,1889, had evidently lost its forward 
impetus and was beginning to be overcome or go backwards, 
under the influence of the increasing abnormal condition. 
This retrograde action began the preceding month in 
December, as was shown by the attack of vertigo and nausea, 
and was increasing in force as shown by the convulsion of 
January 24. No doubt “la grippe” was to some extent 
responsible for this, as it interfered very seriously with the 
treatment of chronic patients. It now seemed necessary 
in order to give another impulse to the reactive power of the 
vital force that either a new remedy should be selected or the 
last one repeated. 

A careful review of the case disclosed the same general 
condition as at the first examination, although much modi¬ 
fied, and many symptoms entirely gone. There being no 
indications for a new remedy, she received another dose of 
Lachesis cm. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



12 


A Case of Epilepsy . 


January 


March 4. Menses came February 25. 

No convulsion, but for a week before menstruation she 
had a sharp pain in the back of the head extending to 
between the shoulders, and considerable pain in the teeth of 
the right lower jaw. There was no pain after the flow began, 
which lasted four or five days and was about normal in quan¬ 
tity; this was an increase in the length of time and amount 
over her usual condition. Sac. lac. 

April 1.—Menses came March 24. No pain or convulsion 

before. The flow lasted four days; feels very well. Sac lac. 

June 11. Menses, April 22. Head felt badly two days 
before, with vertigo and rush of blood to the head, but no 
convulsion, and she was entirely relieved as soon as the flow 
began. The next period camt May 22d. No trouble with 
head before menses; no convulsion, no pain during. She 
is now in excellent health and about to go away for the sum¬ 
mer. Sac. lac. 

There can not be much doubt that this is a true epilepsy, 
the only disease of a convulsive nature that would require 
differentiation is liystero-epilepsy. In this latter affection the 
patients rarely injure themselves in falling, the attacks seem to 
have no effect upon their mental or physical condition, the 
tongue is not bitten, and the convulsions are marked by 
periods and phases. I can not find that such attacks are 
attended by involuntary stool or urine. 

All of these symptoms were present in a marked degree in 
my patient, with complete loss of consciousness and deep 
heavy sleep after the fit, but I do not know whether there 
was a rise of temperature during the convulsion, which is 
regarded by some authors as a strong diagnostic point for 
true epilepsy in doubtful cases. 

This case is not given as an instance of a cure of an 
epilepsy—two or three years immunity from convulsions 
would be necessary to insure that—but the decreasing of the 
number of convulsions from one every month to one in four¬ 
teen months promises well for a complete cure. 

It also seemed worthy of note as well illustrating the effect 
of the action of a properly selected remedy upon the vital 
force when compared to the oscillations of a pendulum. We 
have the long swing toward health of eight months from 
April to December, 1889, the backward swing of two months 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. A. Kimball . 


13 


to the convulsion of January 24, 1890, then the forward 
swing of two months to April, then the slight backward 
swing of one month, as shown in April by the vertigo and 
rush of blood to the head, then the onward swing toward 
health to a state of rest which is now continuing, and which, 
it is hoped, will be lasting. 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Carleton : I have never listened to a paper with 
more pleasure and I trust with more profit than that one. 
It covers a great deal of ground and shows deep thought. 

Dr. Kent : He did not repeat. He let the remedy 
alone and let the patient get well, and that is always a good 
lesson. 

Dr. Kimball : BOnninghausen once said that when in 
epilepsy the memory was impaired, he had always found the 
case very difficult to cure. Has anybody here verified that ? 

Dr. Kent : What Bttnninghausen said I think was this : 
If the mind was impaired in the direction of true imbecil¬ 
ity, the case was a very grave one. But the memory may be 
impaired, and very generally is in epilepsy, but that does not 
necessarily make a grave case. Weakness of the mind look¬ 
ing towards imbecility does, however, make the case a grave 
one. 

Dr. Butler : I have a case of epilepsy on which I would 
like some help. A girl, of twenty-four years, who had suf¬ 
fered from epilepsy since she was five years old. She came 
into my hands about a year ago. For a long time she had 
been under old school treatment and her organism had been 
under the influence of bromides for years. A so called 
homoeopathic physician, my immediate predecessor, had given 
her morphine for pains here and there, and she became an 
habitual morphine eater. She was taking about three grains 
a day and had to be given a dose before she could be per¬ 
suaded to let me see her. 

I found the girl about twelve years old, mentally. That 
was her last dose of morphine, and it was a hard fight to get 
her out of the habit. She made things lively for the 
neighbors. As her remedy, I was led by a careful compari¬ 
son of symptoms to select opium, of which she received one 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



14 


A Case of Epilepsy. 


January 


dose and has never received another. When she got out 
from under the influence of the bromides and morphine she 
commenced having convulsions every other day, and some¬ 
times every day. She had a very peculiar aura; it was an 
impulse to run. She would suddenly run into another room 
and fall into a convulsion. Gradually during thirteen 
months she has got into this condition : She has convulsions 
about once a week, without biting her tongue, as she for¬ 
merly did. For the last three months all her symptoms are 
lighter, but not less frequent. General health improved 
most wonderfully. She has become a rather plump girl; 
jolly, good-natured, never cross; and she has not grown a 
particle, mentally, but still remains as to her mind about 
twelve years old. She has still the same aura, but lighter. 

Dr. Campbell: I would suggest Belladonna. 

Dr. Kimball: I think Sepia has that symptom. 

Dr. Sawyer: I have treated a number of cases of epilepsy 
successfully and I have never cured one without producing 
an eruption. An old eruption reproduced and the cure 
becomes simple and easy. Dr. Kimball's case is a magnifi¬ 
cent one. 

Dr. Kent: Some two years ago an epileptic patient came 
to me with an eruption over the palms of the hands. The 
case bothered me for some time. The convulsions came both 
day and night, most violent in the night; they were very pro¬ 
longed. I carefully selected Silica as his remedy. They 
gradually became less frequent and less violent until a condition 
that might be called petit-mal ensued; this improved finally 
into a vertigo. At the present time he occasionally has a 
feeling come over him, as if he would become unconscious; it 
amounts to an absentmindedness. It may last two or three 
seconds and then pass away. It has been ten or twelve 
months since the last convulsion. His mental condition is 
also greatly improved. He has had a continuous succession 
of boils ever since. His age is about forty-six or seven, and 
he has had epilepsy thirty years. He had two doses of Silica. 

Dr. Custis: I have been particularly interested in epilepsy 
and particularly unsuccessful in treating it. I never have 
cured a case, although I have thought several times that I 
had. 

One man, with inherited epilepsy, came to me, whose case 


.Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. A. Kimball. 


15 


I studied very carefully. I soon found that sweet things 
aggravated his trouble; in fact, if I could keep him from 
touching anything sweet he would have no attacks. But he 
had an uncontrollable craving for sweet things; it was as 
strong as some men have for liquor. He would actually steal 
preserves and sweetmeats from his own wife. For two years we 
managed to control his appetite, but the first time he ate of 
sweetmeats, which was in Paris, he had a severe attack and 
died. 

One reason of my poor success is, I think, that all my 
patients had been saturated with the bromides. I have two 
children to whom epilepsy has clung from birth up to the 
present time; one is sixteen and the other twenty-five. 
Neither has ever taken any bromides, but both Dr. Hering 
and Dr. Lippe failed on these cases. I have found the avoid¬ 
ance of sugar a help in epilepsy. 

Dr. Reed: I have only had one case of epilepsy—a Swede 
girl; The trouble started at her fourteenth year from a 
fright while playing with her sisters. She touched a goose egg 
with a stick; it exploded with a loud noise and threw her into 
a tit. She would have two or three attacks in the night and 
terrible ones the next day. One dose of Calcarea cm. was 
what I gave her. Six months of freedom from them fol¬ 
lowed; they tfien came back and I have never been able to 
control them since. 

Dr. Kent: It is perfectly proper to ask why we fail to 
cure epilepsy ;—sometimes because the symptoms of the dis¬ 
ease are masked by the previous drugging, and sometimes it 
is difficult to find symptoms peculiar to the patient, because 
there are so many symptoms peculiar to epilepsy which would 
be worthless on which to prescribe. There is nothing pecu¬ 
liar and distinctive about epilepsy to prescribe for; but there 
is in every patient, if we can find them, peculiar symptoms 
not distinctive of epilepsy, which are important as guide 
posts to the simillimum. Violent screaming, sinking in the 
pit of the stomach, an aura in the knees or in some particu¬ 
lar part of the body, or an awful fear; these are peculiar and 
worthy of study, because they are peculiar to the patient and 
not peculiar to epilepsy. On the other hand, the biting of 
the tongue, tho fall, the frothing at the mouth, the rigidity 
of the muscles, are common to all cases of epilepsy, and are 
poor things to prescribe on. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1C 


Abdominal Surgery. 


January 


Dr. Sawyer: I do not believe there ever was an epileptic 
who did not have either sycosis, psora or syphilis. Too much 
eating, too much work, and so forth may be the exciting 
cause, but there must be a predisposing cause at the bottom. 

Dr. Kimball: The symptoms for Lachesis were very evi¬ 
dent in my patient. Dr. Lippe quotes Bttnninghausen as 
saying that cases with night attacks followed by headache 
are almost helpless; but, says Lippe, he did not have at that 
time the proving of Bufo sahytiensis, which is often indicated 
in such cases. S. A. Kimball. 

Boston, Mass. 


ABDOMINAL SURGERY. 

A DISCUSSION BEFORE THE I. H. A. 

Dr. J. B. Bell: The day before yesterday it became 
my duty to assist a young colleague. Dr. Emerson, in a 
laparotomy. I did not see the patient until she was on the 
table. The operation was the removal of the uterine append¬ 
ages, for the relief of annoying and dangerous reflex symp¬ 
toms, and was very beautifully and skillfully performed. It 
is sometimes called Tait's or Battey’s operation, and consists 
in the complete removal of the ovaries and other appendages 
of the uterus, without the excuse of large turners and abnor¬ 
mal growths, for the purpose of giving relief to numerous 
symptoms of ill health depending, or supposed to depend, 
upon the diseased conditions of these organs. It is an open 
question whether the operation is ever justifiable or not. Sur. 
gery is the opprobrium of medicine. There should be no 
surgery except that small amount rendered necessary by acci¬ 
dents. There should be no tumors, no cancers, to remove; 
but we have not yet reached our ideal in surgery or medicine 
or obstetrics, and we can not accomplish all we desire. 

Poor people can not wait for a careful, scientific study of 
their case and a perfect cure, which would come in time; 
they have to take what they can get, and we have to give 
them such prompt, if imperfect, relief, as we can, especially 
in hospital practice. 

Of course, as Homoeopaths, we do m not want and do not 
need Battey’s operation, but do we as surgeons? The case in 
question was a young girl who suffered so greatly from men¬ 
struation as to be incapacitated from the ordinary duties of life. 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



1891 


Abdominal Surgery . 


17 


Our young friend, the doctor, believed that the removal of 
something from the pelvis might help her. The specimen I 
here show you is the ovary and its tube. I do not believe she 
will be cured by the operation, and the question is whether 
it is proper and advisable to do this. 

The ovary, as you see, is cystically degenerated, and in 
course of time would probably have become a large tumor. 
The operation is more frequently required in salpingitis and 
pyo-salpingitis; their most frequent cause being gonorrhoeal 
infection. 

Nceggerath was the first to point out the danger of gon¬ 
orrhoea being transmitted from a man to his wife, long after 
the man was supposed to be well, and giving rise to deep 
seated and serious affections, thus confirming our doctrine 
that the malady is not at all due to the gonococcus, but to an 
internal miasm or virus. These views have been generally 
accepted by the old school, but they do not seem to have 
received much help thereby, as regards treatment. The 
question is whether, in cases of deep seated pelvic trouble, 
from the above or any other cause, with numerous reflex 
symptoms, where treatment has been carried on for some 
time unsuccessfully, we are justified in removing the ovaries 
and appendages. 

The removal of the uterine appendages for the cure of 
fibroids is also a question on which there is much difference of 
opinion in the old school. The object of the operation is to 
bring about an early menopause. It is often unsuccessful, 
and the case sometimes progresses very rapidly to a fatal 
issue. 

Even when successful, so far as producing a cessation of the 
catamenia goes, it often brings on a state of ill health with 
an. increase of the distressing symptoms peculiar to the 
climacteric period. The woman is then harder to cure than 
before the operation. 

Hence, the old school has called a halt, more or less, at 
least the trend of the discussion is that way. Our remedies 
are usually able' to tide over the patient until the natural 
arrival of the menopause. Besides the cystic ovary, there is 
here a small cyst of the broad ligament. Surgically, I approve 
of this ovary having been removed, but homoeopathically I 
can not. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



18 


Abdominal Surgery: 


January 


Dr. Winn: The patient spoken of by Dr. Bell underwent 
the operation for a severe retroflexion. 

It was questioned at the time whether the ovary was not 
prolapsed behind the uterus. I was present at the examina¬ 
tion just before the operation. I have been reading Tait the 
last few days, and find that he advises in these cases two 
modes of treatment. When the patient is wealthy and sur¬ 
rounded by the comforts of life, he advises conservative, 
hygienic treatment, especially complete rest during the men¬ 
strual flow; but when the patient is poor and dependent upon 
her daily labors for a livelihood, he advises early surgical 
interference as the most satisfactory. 

Dr. Bell: In the operation for the relief of pelvic pain 
caused by adhesions, the object is very apparent, but as a rule 
the adhesions re-form and the relief is only temporary. 

Dr. Winn: Tait speaks very strongly against the use of 
the pessary. He says it is a useless practice, and generally 
makes the case worse. He also directs that the uterus should 
not be straightened, but let alone in its mal-position. 

Dr. Adams: In a case of a woman suffering with a large 
fibroid and excessive haemorrhages relief was obtained under 
the use of Lil. tig. cm. The monthly sickness did not 
stop but became normal in character and duration. 

Dr. Hawley: It seems to me the surgeons give up the 
question. They say practically, that these conditions are 
curable by homoeopathic treatment, only give them time 
enough. But the poor girl can not wait so long; she has no 
place to stay; therefore we will remove the ovaries. 

Now, it would not cost any of us much in dollars and cents 
to treat that poor girl for a year or two or three, and I, for 
one, would do it, and I could find friends enough who would 
pay her lodgings. It is the doctor's first duty to cure the 
sick, not to cut them to pieces. Besides, when the opera¬ 
tion is performed, the opportunity of curing has probably 
been lost. 

I have had within a month a young woman under my 
charge, married and a mother, who had been for three years 
in the care of the gynecologists with the idea, which they had 
put in her head, that she had an ovarian tumor. I do not 
know whether she had a tumor or not; if so, the ovary was 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Abdominal Surgery. 


19 


not larger than a walnut; but I do know that she is now, 
under a little homoeopathic treatment, free from pain and 
so. happy she does not know what to do with herself. 

Dr. Fincke : I cured within a year and a half a large 
heavy tumor in the left ovarian region of one year's standing 
with Lachesis, 90m, one dose each month; no traces of it 
now. 

Dr. Thomson: Four years ago I was called to see a case 
of uterine fibroid in a lady about the menopause. She had 
been under many physicians, both allopathic and homoeo¬ 
pathic. I also had the diagnosis of one who had been a 
Professor of Bellevue College. It was a case of progressive, 
pernicious anaemia ; there seemed to be very few blood cor¬ 
puscles in her system. She looked horribly ; like a corpse. 

After an examination by the surgeon, he stated she might 
live a month or six weeks, and that an operation, on account 
of the poverty of the blood, would be impossible. 

I have been treating her four years, and she is better than 
she has been for ten years ; goes about the house and does a 
good deal of her work. Her lips are red and the tumor, 
which was growing rapidly, has ceased to grow. When a 
tumor is ten, fifty or a hundred pounds I believe an opera¬ 
tion is sometimes necessary to relieve the patient of the great 
mechanical weight, but in many cases operating only 
shortens the patients life. The true thought is, that when 
these cases are taken in time, the homoeopathic remedy is the 
one thing needful. 

Dr. Baylies : I had a case of fibroid tumor of the 
uterus that was diagnosticated by Dr. J. C. Miner of New 
York, in conjunction with myself. I treated the case and 
was successful in the course of two years. The remedy was 
Belladonna 90 m. 

Dr. Stow : I have had three cases like Dr. Bell's in 
which the consulting physician advised ovariotomy. The 
first operated upon had both ovaries removed in a degener¬ 
ated condition. She had a very slow convalescence, and I 
can not see that she is much better than she was before. The 
second also had both ovaries removed, and has now fully as 
much trouble as before. The third had only one ovary 
removed at first and in a year the second one ; but she still 


Digitized by rjOOQle 



20 


Abdominal Surgery. 


January 


menstruates and has had severe flowing spells since. She is 
to-day a worse sufferer than before the first operation. This 
being my experience, I have felt considerable disappointment 
in the operation. I have two other cases in which the con¬ 
sulting physician has advised ovariotomy, but I prefer treat¬ 
ment with homoeopathic remedies for a time at least, and see 
if the results will not be as favorable; certainly they can not 
be worse. 

Dr. Hawley: Dr. Bell has expressed the idea that the 
woman could have been cured under proper homoeopathic 
treatment. I should like to ask him if the operation has not 
acted as a bar to the proper cure of the case. Can she ever 
be cured homoeopathically since the surgical interference? 
Dr. H. C. Allen: No. 

Dr. J. B. Bell: I do not believe that I would have operated 
in this case, but I do not say that I would never do it in an 
appropriate case; I do not think that an appropriate case 
would ever come from good homoeopathic hands. I do not 
know whether such an operation prevents the homoeopathic 
cure or not. 

Dr. H. C. Allen: The most frequent cause of this trouble 
is the gonorrhoeal poison, as has been shown in many able 
articles written on the gonorrhoeal infection and its effects 
upon the ovaries and tubes. The old school, while they have 
given us admirable descriptions of these troubles, are impo¬ 
tent to cure; they drop the matter at the description of it. 
If they only knew the power that lies in Thuja and Medor- 
rhinum, how much better they would get along. 

I agree with Dr. Bell that in our own number we do not 
see these cases. Six month’s treatment before the operation 
would have done away with the necessity of the operation. 
Seven or eight years ago the wife of a homoeopathic physi¬ 
cian, now in Iowa, was taken ill. Her case was diagnosed by 
Dr. Orme as uterine fibroid. This diagnosis was confirmed by 
many physicians, both old and new school. She was sent to 
an institution where she could have electrical treatment, and 
returned no better. Dr. Orme said that nothing but removal 
of the uterus and ovaries would cure her. 

Her husband wrote to me to get my opinion as to who was 
the best ovariotomist. Dr. Porter, whom I recommended, 
confirmed the previous diagnosis, and said the tumor was as 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Abdominal Surgery . 


21 


large as a cocoanut. She had severe haemorrhages. She 
decided that when she died she would take her uterus and 
ovaries with her. Under the action of two remedies in six 
months, she was pregnant, and at the seventh month of 
pregnancy was delivered of a two and one-half pounds boy. In 
two years she was delivered of a healthy child, weighing eight 
pounds, and there could be found no trace of a tumor of any 
kind. 

The remedies indicated and used successively were Psori- 
num 42 m. and Conium 70 m. 

Dr. Hawley: About a month ago I had a call from a lady, 
whose physician had found, three years ago this spring, a 
tumor in the region of the left ovary. By his advice she 
went from Nebraska to New York and saw Dr. Thomas, who, 
after an examination, confirmed the diagnosis of a tumor, 
but advised her to wait until the following autumn before 
submitting to an operation. During this interval a sister of 
her's, who was a patient of mine, advised her to consult me. I 
prescribed for her by letter, and there was very soon a reduc¬ 
tion in the growth, and a few months later pregnancy 
announced itself. The physician attending her proposed to 
produce an abortion, because he thought she could not be 
delivered at full time with that tumor there. She went 
safely through the labor, however, and the tumor was dis¬ 
covered to be no bigger than a hen's egg. It had been much 
larger. When she called, as I have said, she was as well as she 
ever was in her life. I can not remember for certain what her 
remedy was, but I think it was Psorinum 42 m. (F.) 

Dr. Deyer: A lady who had been injured in the right 
ovary was told by Dr. Franklin that nothing under the sun 
would relieve her but an operation. I prescribed Conium 
and she was cured by it. 

Dr. Finckb : I should like to call on the surgeons to 
give us their idea of the physiological use of the ovaries and 
tubes. 

Dr. Stow: I suppose the nearest we can get to this 
esoteric question, is this: the uterus, as well as the ovaries, is 
concerned in menstruation.. At the time of the escape of 
the ovum from its follicle the uterus is engorged with blood, 
and from its lining membrane exudes blood, which escapes 
with the ovum. Now, there becomes established, from con- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



22 


A Clinical Case . 


January 


stant repetition of this, a neuropsycologic habit of becoming 
congested at certain times of so strong a nature that this 
turgescence continues to recur even when the ovaries have 
been removed. It is a peculiar attendent upon the normal 
function of the uterus, continuing even after the extirpation 
of the very organs upon which that function (primarily?) 
depends. There is a rapidly growing tendency on the part 
of both old and new school surgeons to operate when there is 
no necessity for operating. Ovariotomy has actually been 
performed many times for the relief of headache! A surgeon 
in Syracuse has performed it five or six times for the relief 
of monthly occipital pains. He claimed there was no other 
permanent cure of the trouble. In three of them the head¬ 
ache continued, and one was slightly lessened. Such cases 
as have been cited here are very impressive and we need 
more such to counteract the growing tendency to extend the 
field of surgery where it does not belong. 

The idea ought to be impressed upon the women of this 
country that pure homoeopathy will cure, where surgery will 
fail! 


A CLINICAL CASE. 

April 2, 1890. Called to see Mr. F. A., aged seventy-six. 

I was informed that he had been nearly ten weeks under 
the care of a prominent homoeopathic physician for rheumatic- 
gout, asthma and irregularity of the action of the heart. 

The treatment had comprised the use of strong drugs, 
mixed and in alternation; feet and legs had been painted with 
iodine, and various other scientific procedures had been 
adopted showing that everything for the patient's good had 
been done; yet the patient was constantly getting worse. 
Sometimes there would be temporary relief from the suffering 
in the feet and legs; then the asthma, the breathing and the 
heart's action would be worse; and when the asthma and the 
heart received special attention, the feet and legs, especially 
the great toes and r. knee, would be so much worse as to 
cause indescribable torture. Between these diverse proced- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J . W. Thomson . 


23 


ures the patient was in a most unenviable plight. Trying to 
avoid Scylla he fell into Chary bdis; avoiding Charybdis was 
nearly wrecked on Scylla. Pulse including the cessations 
about 82. Twelve beats and would then stop during the time 
of one pulsation, then twelve jerky beats again, and so on. 
Tongue a thick, dirty brown coat, cracked, when protruded, 
trembles; it has a rough and stiff feeling after he has lain in 
bed all night; does not get much rest; after has been up awhile 
in the morning, it limbers up. 

Anorexia: Coughs and chokes when eating. 

Urine of a dark, rich brown color; asmall quantity of whitish 
sediment. 

The cough is < lying; raises a profuse quantity of thick 
yellow and white mucus; dryness and tickling in the throat 
which is very irritating. Patient says that he “ could rest lying 
if it was not for that cough.” When is able to move at all, 
feels < when going about a little. A great deal of wheezing 
and mucus rales in 1. lung. 

Intense pains in toes of both feet, in the feet, ankles, legs 
and r. knee. Great toes are swollen to more than double their 
normal size; mottled, pale red and purple; sometimes one toe 
feels worse and sometimes the other. 

The r. knee is even swollen to greater proportions than the 
great toes, is puffy, shining, causing almost as much agony as 
the toes. 

The great toes, feet and ankles have been in this condition 
for about ten weeks; but the trouble was not so noticeable in 
the r. knee until after the treatment. Has had this trouble 
of the lower extremities, however, off and on for about six 
years. Rhus cm. in water, 2 hours, six doses. 

April 3d.—Pulse about 102. Intermits irregularly. 

R. knee feels much worse; has suffered dreadfully; but 
the toes, feet and ankles feel better. 

Cough has changed its character ; is now short and dry ; 
has not raised this a. m., which is very unusual. 

“I must do something for that r. knee, because he can't 
stand it.” Sac. lac. 

April 4th.—Pulse is very difficult to count; intermits irregu¬ 
larly ; a double beat, then stops; then three or four, and 
ceases the time of one beat. It is about 90. 

Tongue is partly clean and looks much better. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



24 


A Clinical Case . 


January 


It is quite an effort to cough; expectorated a great deal of 
mucus during the night; some yellow, but mostly white. 

R. knee feels much better. 

Stood for a short time on r. foot this a. M., which has 
not done for ten weeks. 

The r&les can scarcely be heard in 1. lung, and the 
wheezing is decidedly relieved. Sac. lac. 

April 5th.—Pulse 75. The intermissions are less marked. 

Feels > in some respects, especially the gouty and rheu¬ 
matic symptoms. The cough is, however, much worse. 

The expectoration comes up in strings of yellow and white 
mucus, and also like the white of an egg, beaten into froth. 

Wheezing all over chest. I was told that he had taken 
cold from an open window yesterday. 

Acute pain in 1. elbow, can not bend or lift it. Kali bi. 
200th, one dose. 

April 6th.—Can not count the pulse. One pulsation, then 
stops ; then two or three and stops ; then will be four or five 
beats and ceases again for the time of one beat. I have fre¬ 
quently noticed irregular and intermittent pulsations, but 
this is diverse from any in my experience. 

Tongue coated white. 

Not satisfied with one tumbler of water; will take two at 
once. Bry. 

Coughs and coughs and coughs ; expectoration bright yel¬ 
low, white and thick. 

There is much less wheezing. 

Urine is clear and looks normal. Sac. lac. 

April 7th.—Pulse from 85 to 90. Intermits so irregularly 
that it is impossible to count it accurately. 

Tongue has a thick, yellowish-white coat. 

Less expectoration; cough is dryer, tighter. 

A very sore spot under r. patella, and soreness on inner 
aspect of r. ankle. Restless at night. 

Always > when walks about a little, although very stiff at 
first. 

Rhus cm. in water, 2 hourly, four doses. 

April 9th.—Pulse about 87, including the intermissions 
which are less marked. 

Feet feel bound up tightly, as though there was no elas¬ 
ticity in them. 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


J, W. Thomson . 


25 


Coughed and raised much less, all other conditions 
relieved. Sac. lac. 

April 12th.—Pulse 80; does not intermit. The improve¬ 
ment is wonderful. 

There is a sensation as of something screwing in 1. heel, 
almost constantly, for the past two days. Sac. lac. 

April 13th.—Pulse 80. Screwing sensation in 1. heel only 
at night now; it goes away after has been up a short time. 

Very little cough or expectoration; the cough is loose. 
Sac. lac. 

April 15th.—Pulse 82. Still that screwing sensation in 1. 
heel at night. Ball of r, great toe and the toe itself is very 
sore; but for that could walk very well. Led. 200, one dose. 

April 17th.—Pulse regular, 78. Feels very much im¬ 
proved. The soreness and screwing sensations have departed. 
Dryness of the mouth in the A. m. on rising. Sac. lac. 

April 20th.—Pulse 78. Dull ache in the ball and joint of 
r. great toe. Walked about a little too much yesterday. 
Sac. lac. 

April 23d.—Pulse 92. Stiffness in both knees; 1. worse; 
>if goes round a bit, seems to get “limbered up.” Rhus 
200, one dose. 

April 26th.—Pulse 78. Feels very much >. The stiff¬ 
ness is confined to the 1. knee, and that is not as bad as it 
has been. It is < when resting and at night. Sac. lac. 

April 28th.—Pulse 93. Wheezing low down in centre of 
chest; •< at night and when lying. Can hear it quite plainly 
when lying in bed at night. Raises white mucus. When 
asleep the breathing can be heard in the next room. Hepar 
200, in water, 4 doses, every two hours. 

April 30th.—Pulse intermits, 90. Short, dry, hacking 
cough; sometimes raises white and sometimes thick yellow 
mucus. Only raises in the night; the feeling is that it comes 
from very low down in the chest; there is a good deal of 
rattling therewith. 

Feels >and that he is improving. Sac. lac. 

May 2d.—Pulse 78. Very thirsty. Hacking cough,< 
lying on r. side. 

Acute pain in r. great toe; can not bear it touched, and to 
bend it gives much pain. Has been moving about for the 
past fortnight and going up and down stairs until yesterday; 
now must keep quiet. Bry. cm., one dose. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



26 


A Clinical Case. 


January 


May 4th.—Pulse full, 90. 

Took cold from sitting in a draught at an open window 
yesterday. Had a very restless night; thought that morning 
would never come; came near sending for me in the night. 
Aeon, cm., 1 dose. 

May 6th.—Pulse about 84; intermits. 

Soreness and acute pain in r. knee, < on the slightest 
movement. Coughed all night. Bry. cm., in water, every 2 
hours, 4 doses. 

May 7th.—Pulse 90. 

Feels >; r. knee is > ; but it hurts to cough. Raises a thick 
yellow mucus; the cough is a short, dry hack. Sac. lac. 

May 8th.—Pulse 94. 

Pricking sensation posterior to and below sternum. 
Coughed nearly all night; it would ease it to sit up for a 
short time and have it out, but the same trouble would soon 
return, requiring the same operation to be repeated; it is so 
tiresome. Raises a thick, dirty-looking, yellow mucus. Con. 
200 in water, every 2 hours, 6 doses. 

May 9th.—Pulse 84, intermits once in about 7 beats. 

Coughs mostly lying, very little during the day. It is 
much looser than it was yesterday, < after midnight. 

Thought strongly of Hepar, but as there was decided 
improvement, more strongly of a placebo. Sac. lac. 

Saw the patient again on the 13th and 16th inst. The 
pulse was even and regular. Had improved so rapidly that I 
discharged him. He said that he was better than he had 
been for many years. 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Bell: I should like to know why Dr. Thomson takes 
so much account of the pulse in that case? 

Dr. Thomson: Simply on account of its very peculiar 
character. 

Dr. H. C. Allen: Did you not aggravate your pulse symp¬ 
toms with Kali bich. ? It never follows Rhus well. 

Dr. Thomson: No; the remedy was indicated. At my 
next visit the patient was decidedly better. 

Dr. Farley: The trouble began in the feet and ascended 
to the knee. I noticed that after the administration of the 
Rhus the improvement began also in the feet and went up. 

New York. J* W. THOMSON. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


John V. Allen . 


27 


PECULIAR SYMPTOMS OF A FEW REMEDIES. 
Mind. Bashful: China. 

Calmness: Opium. 

Cautiousness: Graph. 

Cowardice: Baryta carb. 

Hunts for pins: Silicea. 

Repeats all questions before answering them: Zinc. 
Irresistable desire to talk in rhymes or repeat verses: 
Ant. c. Agar. 

Loss of location when walking in the streets that he 
has traveled for years: Glonoine. 

Imagines that she is three persons and that she can 
not keep them covered: Baptisia. 

Sensation as if he would creep into his own body, 
he crouches together as much as he can: Cimex. 
Extremely scrupulous about the least thing: Thuya. 
Cuts up clothing: Varatrum. 

Destroys clothing: Sulph. Tarent. 

Creeps about in bed: Stramonium. 

Desire to set fire to things: Hepar. 

Time seems to pass very rapidly: Theridion. 

slowly: Arg. nit. Nux v. 
Pretending blindness: Veratrum. 

deafness: Veratrum. 

Fear of cholera: Lachesis. 

being devoured: Stramonium, 
going in a crowd: Aconite. 

Forgetful of the word when speaking: Arnica, 
time and place: Mercury, 
what he has said: Muriatic ac. 
dates: Fluoric, ac. 
words: Baryta c. Lyc. Pod. 
names: Guaj. Sulph. 

Sensorium. 

Vertigo, as if one would fall forward, from looking 
up: Puls. Sil. 

vertigo, as if one would fall forward, from looking 
down: Kalm. Spig. 

vertigo, < lying down and closing eyes: Apis. 
Thuja. Ther. 

vertigo, < lying down and opening eyes: Lac. v. d. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



28 


Peculiar Symptoms of a Few Remedies. January 


vertigo when talking: Bor. Paris, 
in sanshine: Agar, 
when writing: Sep. 
alternating with colic: Ver. 

> supporting the head: Sabad. 

< after sleep: Car bo v. 
when going to sleep: Tell. 

< after wine: Bov. Nat. c. Zinc, 
feeling as if being swung to and fro: Ign. 
feeling of lightness or buoyancy; as if he was 

raised from the ground and could fly away: 
Cani. Val. 

Inner Head. 

pain in vertex as if hair were pulled: Alum. Mag. 
c. Mag. m. 

headache > sneezing: Lil. 

< sneezing: Kali c. Culex. 

pain in occiput from right to left, as if a piece of 
wood: Psor. 

> smoking > open air: Aran, 
headache < from tea: Thuja. Selen. 

> by tea: Carb. ac. Glon. 

> nose bleed: Bufo. Mgn. s. Mel. tab. 

> coffea: Can. i. Glon. Col. 

<change of temperature: Kan. b. Ver. 

> eructations: Lach. Polyp. 

> emissions of flotus: iEth. Cic. 

< bathing: Ant. c. 

> bathing: Lact. ac. 

sick headache every other day at 11 a. m. : Ced. 
sick headache every day at 11 a. m.: Nat. m. 
headache at night; has to sit up and hold head 
with both hands to prevent it from falling to 
piecos; Carboa. 

Eyes. 

wheels, and colored rings before the eyes. Nitrum. 
Stront. 

blindness momentarily, when blowing the nose: 
Caust. 

feeling as if eyes were compressed in a vise: Rat, 
flashes of light shoot up from the eyes the n break 
and fall down in a shower 


Digitized by 


Google 



189 L 


John V. Allen . 


29 


feeling as if eyes were being forced out, when throat 
is pressed: Lach. 

sensation of coldness in eyes: Con. 

as if cold air blew in the eyes: Croc, 
hot air blew in the eyes: Dios. 
blood oozes from eyes while blowing the nose and 
shaking the head: Nit. ac. 

Ears. 

stitches first in left then in right ear: Aloe, 
stitches first in right then in left ear: Sulph. 
pains extending to ears from other parts: Mang. 
roaring in ears, relieved by music: Ign. 
sensation as if the ear stood wide open: Aur. 
like a worm in the ear: Rhod. 
like water in left ear: Graph. 
like water passing out of ear; Calc. Spig. 
Sulph. 

pain in the ear, > blowing nose: Mang. 

from throat to ears on swallowing: Gels, 
from throat to left ear on swallowing: Kali. b. 
from throat to right ear on swallowing: Brom. 
Sol. n. 

Nose. 

epistaxis during pregnancy: Sep. 

with heat of face: Graph, 
with pale face: Carbo v. 
squirming in nostril as if a small worm: Nat. m. 

Face. 

One cheek pale and hot, the other red and cold: 
Mosch. 

In children :— 

aged expression: Abrot. Mth. Hydr. ac. 
anxious expression: iEth. Bell. Cup. 
bewildered expression: Plumb. Stram. Zinc. 

Teeth . 

pressing teeth together sends shocks through head, 
ears, nose and eyes: Amm. c. 
painful reverberation of sounds in the teeth: 
Ther. 

wandering, shifting pain in all the teeth: Mang. 
Puls. Tilia. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



30 


Peculiar Symptoms, of a Few Remedies. January 


toothache, > from smoking tobacco: Aran. Bor. 
Nat. s. 

> vinegar: Puls. Tong. 

> warm things: Nux m. Kali i. 

> hot drinks: Lyc. 

< smoking tobacco: Spig. Sab. Thu. 

< salt food: Carbo v. 

< sweet things: Sep. 

< eating bread: Carbo a. 

< after fruits: Nat. s. 

< noise: Calc. 

Tongue. 

tongue feels as if scalded : Col. Ver. v. 

in talking or chewing they bite the tongue: Ign. 

Caust. Petr. 


cheek: Petr. Ign. 

coldness of the tongue: Cist. Carbo v. Laur. Yer. 

tip: Cup. 

Sensation of hair on the tongue: Kali b. Nat. m. Sil. 
hairy sensation of the interior of the mouth: Ther. 
greasy feeling of tongue: Iris 

mouth and palate: 01. an. 


Throat. 


can swallow liquids only*. Bapt. 

but has aversion to them: Sil. 


food passes into the choanae: Petr. Sil. 
coldness, sense of, in throat: Cist. Carbo v. Kali chi. 
Ver. 

pain in the throat after eating: Amb. Ars. Laur. 

> eating: Cist. 

on empty swallowing: Lach. 
Merc. 

> empty swallowing: Cist. Ign. 

Nausea and Vomiting. 

eructations like rotten eggs: Am. Ant. t. Graph. 
Psor. 

taste of rotten eggs, especially in a. m. : Am. 

only in A. m., after rising 
Graph. 

at night: Ant. t. 

eructations, with hot saliva in the m^uth, and 
tasting like garlic: Mosch.. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


John V. Allen. 


31 


nausea and vomiting when closing the eyes: Ther. 
nausea after eating or drinking, except from lem¬ 
onade, nausea referred mostly to the throat: Cyc. 
the sight of food makes her sick: Mosch. 

smell of food makes her sick: Ars. Colch. Sep. 
excessive flatulence, belching gives no relief: Chin. 

relief: Carbov. 

nausea in morning, disappearing after a swallow 
of water: Lob. i. 

amelioration after the first mouthful of food: Cur. 
Stomach, etc. 

pain in stomach from drinking: Arn. Iris. 

> from drinking: Phos. 

colic, which bends one double, >► by eating: Bov. 

< by eating: Col. 
comes on or is by bending double, > ris¬ 
ing and walking about: Dios, 
hiccough after eating: Bry. 

too much: Nux v. 
cold drinks: Nux v. 

craves nothing but sour things: Aur. Chin. Phos. 
ac. 

gastric symptoms <4 A. M. * Ptel. 

Stool, Anus, etc. 

stitch up rectum from hemorrhoidal tumor: JSsc. 
from anus to sacrum: Aloe. 

abdomen: Aloe, 
rectum: Ign. 
urethra: Coc. Thu. 
left groin: Kreos. Croc. 

feeling in the rectum as if boiling lead were pass¬ 
ing through: Thu. 

sensation as if a rough body were traversing the 
rectum during stool: Plumb, 
discharge of wind from the bladder: Sars. 
diarrhoea from eating potatoes: Alum. Sep. 

chocolate: Lith. c. Bor. 
cabbage: Bry. Petr 
melons: Zing. , 

onions: Thu. 
oysters: Brom. Sulph. ac. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



32 


Peculiar Syynptoms of a Few Remedies. January 


drinking cider: Calc. p. 

impure water: Zing, 
swallowing saliva: Colch. 
when riding: Coc. Nux m. Petr, 
from looking at shining objects: Stram. 
during thunder storm; Nat. c. Ehod. 
when thinking of the pain: Ox. ac. 
watery stools, running right through the diaper: 
Beng. ac. Pod. 

diarrhoea before menses; Bov. Sil. Ver. 

during menses: Bov. Amm. m. Yer. 
after menses: Graph. 

Urine. 

wets the bed after eating sugar or sweets: Bell, 
sensation of a ball in bladder; Lach. 

worm in bladder: Bell. 

can only pass water when pressing upon musles of ab¬ 
domen: Mag. m. 
straining at stool: Alum, 
flow of urine intermits: Clem. Con. 

Sexual Organs (female). 

uterus feels as if open; Lach. 
burning, shooting, stitching pains in the neck of 
uterus: Sep. 

sharp cutting pains referred to neck of womb: 
Helon. 

sensation of a consciousness of a womb, sore, an¬ 
noying: Murex. 

a painful stiffness in the uterine region: Sep. 
emissions of wind from the vagina: Brom. Lac. c. 
Lyc. Nux m. Nux v. Sang, 
foul wind from the vagina: Brom. 
dysmenorrhcea, always followed by hemorrhoids: 
Coo, 

milk in breasts instead of menses: Merc, 
menses flow only in day time: Caust. Coff. Cycl. 
Ham. Puls. 

night time: Bor. Bov. Coff. 
Cycl. Nat. m. 

morning: Bov. Carbo. a. Sep. 
leucorrhoea flows only at night: Caust. 
daytime only: Alum. 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


John V . Allen . 


33 


profuse after urination: Amm. m. 

Canth. Sep. Nice, 
ceasing after urination: Nat. c. 
cholera-like symptoms during menses: Amm. c. 
after pains felt only in the shin bones! Oarbo v. 

Cough and Lungs. 

cough < after sweet things: Zinc, 
lachrymation; tears stream down the face when¬ 
ever he coughs: Nat. m. 
get8 sleepy after every coughing spell: Ign. 
detached lumps of mucus fly out on coughing: Chel. 
cough loose after eating , dry after drinking: Nux 
m. 

sternum cracks on bending backward: Amm. c. 
asthma < sitting up, > lying down or keeping 
arms spread wide apart: Psor. 

Heart. 

sensation of constriction in or about the heart: Arn. 

Bufo. Cac. Iod. Lil. Nux m. 
as from an iron hand grasping the 
heart: Cac. 

sensation as if something alive running in the heart: 
Cyc. 

sensation of dropping of cold water over the heart: 
Cann. s. 

pain in region of heart > passing water: Lith. c. 

feeling as though the heart ceased beating for a while, 
and then at once a hard thump is felt: Aur. 

fear that unless constantly on the move the heart will 
cease beating: Gels. 

fears that heart would cease beating if she moves: Dig. 

Back—Limbs (upper and lower). 

pain in the back > belching: Sep. 
throbbing in sacrum; must have pillow stuffed in 
small of back in order to sit in chair: Bell, 
cramp like, slow contractions of right thumb and 
index finger; the tips approach each other, and 
can only be extended by force: Cyc. 

General Symptoms of Pain, etc. 

All the pains seem to occupy on a small spot half an 
inch to an inch in length: Ox. ac. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



34 


Peculiar Symptoms of a Few Remedies. January 


symptoms usually diagonal, right arm and left leg: 
Agar. Ox. ac. 

flesh feels as if beaten off the bones: Thu. 
scraped off: Rhus. 

emaciation of affected parts: Led. Graph, 
general swelling of the body: Medusa, 
easily sprained from lifting small weights, also pro¬ 
ducing great fatigue; joints weak: Carbo a. 
parts on which he lies feel sore and braised: Arn. 
Bapt. 

weakness of all joints: Bov. 

pains in all the bones, as if every part would fall 
asunder; feels as if broken from head to foot: Ther. 
rheumatic pains extend upward: Eup. p. Led.Nuxv. 

downward: Kalm. Phyt. 

pains extend from other parts to the back and are 
attended with shuddering: Sep. 
affects left shoulder and right hip joints: Led. 
spasms, when the muscles of the back, face and jaws 
are principally affected, and the body assumes a 
bluish tint: Hydr. ac. 

haemorrhages of black blood from all the outlets of 
the body: Sul. ac. 

haemorrhages from every orifice, even pores of skin: 
Grot. h. 

spasms, with fingers spread apart and stretched out: 

Glon. 

with convulsive laughing: Alum. Apis, 
sensation of sometimes being very small and then 
again very large: Sulph. 

entire body feels numb; numb, dead feeling in the 
legs; they feel enlarged: Ced. 
burning in all parts of the body, as if sparks of fire 
were falling on them: Sec. 
skin dry and brittle, not emitting a drop of blood 
when cut: Sec. 

Chill—Fever—S we at. 

when chills are suppressed urticaria appeared over 
the body: Elat. 

urticaria appears during different stages of the par¬ 
oxysms: Apis. Hep. Ign. Rhus. 

x 

Digitized by $IeV 



1891 


John F. Allen . 


35 


can not drink anything but hot drinksduring foyer: 

Case. Ced. Eup. p. • 

sweat smells like onions: Lyc. 

sickly, attracts the flies very much: Calad. Sum. 
sweat of single parts; sweat on the side not lain 
upon: Benz. 

all over the body except face: Sec. Rhus, 
only on the face: Sil. 

immediately after chill without intervening 
heat: Caust. Lyc. 

causes a shriveling of the fingers and toes, like 
a washerwoman's: Conch. Ant. c. Merc. Yer. 
cold and bloody, especially at night: Cur. 

Aggravated and Ameliorated. 


< cold, dry, clear, fine weather) . n , 

> cold, damp, wet weather. f asa1, oaust * 
painlessness with most complaints: Strain, 
symptoms better after sleep: Crot. Phos. Sil. 
Amelioration of all the symptoms when riding in 
carriage: Nux m. Nit. ac. 
aggravation of all the symptoms when riding in car¬ 
riage: Coc. Petr. 

sensitive to cold air; must be wrapped up to the 
face even in hot weather: Hep. Psor. 
can not bear to be uncovered : Nux v. 

covered : Camph. Sec. 

cough when any part of the body is uncovered: Hep. 
Rhus. 


pains > while thinking of them : Camph. 
can not bear to be washed in cold water: Ant. c. 

at all: Psor. Sulph. 

aggravation from sunset to sunrise. Syph. 
aggravation from sunrise to sunset. Med. 

John Y. Allen. 

Philadelphia. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



86 


Pyrogen . 


January 


PYROGEN. 

In August, JL888, N. B., a child of four years spent a few 
weeks at his grandmother’s in Detroit, in whose residence the 
sewer pipes and plumbing were being repaired. September 
3d, a few days after his return, he was attacked at 2 a. u. I 
was called at 6 a. m. and found the following : 

Vomiting and purging; stools profuse and watery. 

Cold- extremities, cold ears and nose ; forehead bathed in 
cold perspiration. 

Tongue heavily coated, yellowish gray fur ; edges and tip 
very red. 

Great prostration. 

No pain or cramps. 

Veratrum, 1 m., in water, a teaspoonful after every attack 
of vomiting, which would average about ten minutes. 

Saw him again at 8 a. m. Could not take the medicine in 
water the vomiting. 

Vomiting and purging no better, though the stool was not 
so profuse. The coldness and prostration were marked and 
the pale face was bathed in cold sweat. 

Great restlessness, mental and physical. 

Pulse 140, feeble and wiry; temp. 09. 

Great thirst for small quantities, but the smallest quantity 
was instantly rejected by the stomach. 

Arsenicum, cm., three powders, one every half hour, 
then Sac. lac. until I saw him. 

12:30. No improvement. 

Pulse 160, weak and thready. 

Nausea and vomiting persistent, and the stool though not 
so profuse as in early morning was now horribly offensive — 
a carrion-like odor. 

Face pale and sunken, and bathed in cold perspiration. 

The tongue was dark red, and devoid of the heavy coating 
of the early morning. 

Intense thirst, but water < both vomiting and purging. 
No pain. 

Carbo V. 1 m. every 15 minutes for four doses, then 
placebo. 

4 p. m. No improvement. Patient evidently sinking, 
impossible to count the pulse. . 

The symptoms being unchanged, except for the worse,. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


H. C. Allen. 


37 


especially the odor of the stool, I gave him Baptisia 200, 
in solution of alcohol and water, every half hour, but at 8 P. m. 
there was still no re-action from the evidently downward 
course. 

Thinking perhaps that sewer gas poison may have been a 
factor in the cause and the clean, fiery red tongue, persistent 
vomiting and purging and the horribly offensive odor of the 
stool with entire absence of pain, called my attention to the 
report of a case in the Homoeopathic World, by Dr. Bur¬ 
nett, cured with Pyrogen. Pyrogen cm., two doses, dry on 
the tongue, and placebo gave prompt and permanent relief. 

April 24, 1890. Elsie B., age 14, could not go to school. 
Had complained for a week of feeling tired, but in every 
other respect was well, she said. Her father on application 
of thermometer found the temperature 102, pulse 108, and 
was alarmed. I found her tongue abnormally red, with a 
very thin white fur at base, but no symptoms. As she had 
had a slight epistaxis in the morning and the genus epidemi- 
cu8 at the time being Bryonia, I gave her a dose of the 1 m. 
and left Sac. lac. There was no further nasal hemorrhage 
and a conspicuous absence of symptoms ; yet pulse and tem¬ 
perature continued to rise each day reaching 120 and 104£ 
respectively, while the tongue was dark red and very dry, but 
without thirst. She took Sac. lac. for a few days, waiting 
for symptoms on which to hang a prescription. As they 
declined to appear and suspecting sewer gas as a cause, 
Pyrogen, one dose, was given and she rapidly recovered. An 
examination revealed a defective pipe in the basement. 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Guernsey: Is a fiery, or dark red tongue, an indica¬ 
tion of Pyrogen? 

Dr. H. C. Allen: Both; first fiery, and then dark red and 
intensely dry, like a scarlatina tongue. 

Dr. Campbell: Do you always associate such a tongue 
with sewer gas? 

Dr. H. C. Allen: Not necessarily; but sewer gas is one 
of the things they are stirred up about in Chicago. The pre¬ 
vious case called my attention to it. 

Dr. Thomson: Was the tongue denuded of its epithelium? 


/ 


Dii . zed by 


Google 



38 


Cases from Note Book . 


January 


Dr. H. C. Allen: No; it was clean, smooth, dry; first 
fiery red, then dark red, glossy, shiny and easily moistened. 

Dr. . W ESSELHCEFr: When there was a great deal of talk 
about sewer ga3 in our city, I had an old privy vault oblit¬ 
erated and filled up. I said to one of the workmen: “ Poor 
fellow, you must be awfully sick, working all the time in 
sewer gas.” “ What are you talking about,” said he, “ I am 
never sick. I never knew a healthier set of fellows than 
sewer-workers are.” 

Dr. H. C. Allen: That bears out the investigations of 
science. It is the sewer gas that you can not smell that is 
dangerous. The offensive kind takes care of itself. 

U. C. Allen. 

Chicago. 


CASES FROM NOTE BOOK. 

Case I. Mrs.-, age 40, short in stature, very obese, 

has rheumatic fever, and from remembrance of previous 
attacks of long duration she was not of an amiable disposi¬ 
tion. The following is my method of analysis of cases, using 
Bonninghausen for guide and numbers instead of abbrevia¬ 
tions: 

1. —Irritable—2, 45, 53, 69, 88, 169, 199, 254. 

2. —Sensitive to touch—30, 45, 53, 69, 89, 139, 150, 154, 
177, 245. 

3. —Pain < from motion—30, 45, 53, 69, 89, 139, 150, 154, 
177, 245. 

4. —Pain throbbing—2, 30, 45, 69, 88, 154, 224, 244. 

5. —Sweat, sour odor—2, 30, 45, 53, 69, 139, 143, 150, 
154, 170, 177. 

6. —Sweat < on upper body—69, 72, 78, 112, 154, 244. 

7. —Thirst for small quantities of drink—2, 31, 69. 

We find that remedy 69 has all the symptoms and one dose 
of the same in 50 m.(F.) potency was all that was given her, its 
effects being instantaneous and improvement constant. She 
was discharged in one week. 

Case II. Sepia .—Mrs.-, age sixty-nine, for sixty years 

past has been subject to severe paroxysms of hemicrania, the 
attacks coming on at irregular intervals, but always con¬ 
tinuing nine days to the hour. 

The pain being “as if from a severe blow with the palm of 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


L . Whiting . 


39 


the hand, upon the left parietal portion of the head, which 
then grasped the hair and pulled it out by the roots ; this 
pain being repeated at intervals of thirty seconds for the 
whole period of nine days and nights. 

Gave her three powders of Sepia 55 m. (F.) potency; one to 
be taken at the time (£ p. m.) and if she noticed any effects 
from it, either for better or for worse, not to take second 
one; but that if she should not notice any effect, to take a 
second one the next morning, and the third one at bed-time 
the next night. 

Called on her again on the morning of the third day, 
when she reported, that within fifteen minutes after having 
taken the first powder, the pain had ceased entirely, that 
she passed a very pleasant evening, slept all night, and ate 
her breakfast next morning with no recurrence of pain. 

A family council was now held, and it was agreed that the 
effect of the one powder was wonderful, as nothing that she 
had ever taken during the sixty years had ever had any 
effect, and all agreed that as one powder had so much effect, 
she should take the others and thus make a permanent cure 
of her headache. 

Upon this reasoning, she took the conditioned morning 
powder and almost immediately the shocks commenced in 
the right side of the head; this was a new experience to her, 
for till now, she had never had the pain in the right parietal 
region, it had from the first always affected the left side only. 

At five in the afternoon she took the third powder and the 
pain changed from the right parietal to the occiput. 

But during the night, the shocks of pain resumed their 
former location, in the left side of the head, when it con¬ 
tinued its nine days' term, minus the fifteen hours’ remission 
given by the first powder. 

Three years later ; I am informed that she has since died 
from cancer of the stomach, having had several attacks of 
the hemicrania, which were instantly relieved by one dose of 
the Sepia. 

Case III. Aloe, —Mrs. , age forty. Morning diar¬ 
rhoea for many years past, comes on every morning after aris¬ 
ing and continuing till 10 A. m. Stools yellowish, thin, 
fecal, accompanied by much flatus, and an immediate irre¬ 
pressible desire for stool; cannot delay one minute. Aloe 30 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


40 


Cases from Note Book . 


Januaby 


was prescribed for the case, a powder dry on tongue night 
and morning. Having taken only four doses of the Aloe, 
the stool became of normal consistency, and the case became 
one of scabies over the entire body. Upon enquiry it was 
ascertained that she had itch when about ten years of age, 
and that it was treated by inunotion # of sulphur and lard, and 
she was of opinion that the diarrhoea had been her constant 
companion since .about that time, a period of thirty years. 
She received no further medicine and in three days time the 
power of the drug that had produced the scabies had also 
effected a cure of the same, with no return of diarrhoea. 

Case IV. Plumbum .—Mrs.-, age thirty, has been 

under heroic treatment for two years for “ Consumption of 
Bowels ” and not expected to recover. From her apparent 
condition one would not think her capable of living four 
weeks. The case has the following symptoms for study: 

Stools painless, frequent, night and day, fecal, frothy, < 
from movement. 

After stool, great debility. 

Sense of weakness in abdomen. 

Foul taste in morning. 

Bad odor of breath in morning, disgust for cold water. 

Cold ankles. 

Menses too profuse; of bad odor; can not bear heat from 
the stove. 

After a careful analysis, and finding all of the symptoms 
under Plumbum it was given in 200th potency for four days 
without apparent effect. Feeling confident that it was a 
Plumbum case, the thought came to me that possibly it was 
pathogenetic. Further investigation was accordingly made 
with ill success for a time ; they had no lead pump; the water 
for family use was all dipped from a spring near the house; she 
had never used hair-wash, or cosmetics. But on examination of 
a peck basket of empty bottles .and pill-boxes, the contents of 
which she had taken into her stomach, we found a large num¬ 
ber of pill-boxes all bearing the same number. Taking one 
of the boxes to the druggist whose name was on the cover, it 
was found that each pill should have contained one-eighth 
grain Plumbi ac., the same quantity each of Opii and of Capsi¬ 
cum, and for the second time we felt certain that we had the 
solution of the case in our hands. On again referring to our 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


L . Whiting. 


41 


analysis we found that we had twelve of the fourteen symp¬ 
toms also under Secale. This drug (in the 30th to the 200th 
potency) was accordingly selected as the antidote to this case 
of lead-poisoning, and with complete success, for in four weeks 
time instead of being “ under the sod,” she was well-advanced 
to convalescence. And three years later she gave birth to a 
fine, healthy boy, who is now ten years of age and apparently 
as likely to attain his expectancy of life as any of his class. 

L. Whiting. 

Danvers, Mass. 


LAPIS ALBUS. 

An accidental fragmentary proving of Lapis Albus, giving 
two cases in verification. 

July 5, 1875, Mrs.-, age 40, light complexion, rather 

8tout, no children, has a very large bronchocele; aversion to 
all animal food; craves sweets; has craved and drank much 
ice water in all seasons of the year, since a child; feet and legs 
cold to knees. Can get no further symptoms. 

Gave her Lapis Albus 6x, trit. 2 gr. powders, to be taken 
four per day for one month, after which she reported by let¬ 
ter that she was having much pain in tumor and that it was 
rapidly diminishing in size. 

She now had placebo until Sept. 22d, when she came to 
office. 

The tumor had diminished in size fully one half, and the 
patient, who on July 4th had no ailments other than the 
bronchocele, stated that since taking the powders she has 
had no pain with her menstrual periods and that they had 
also cured her dyspepsia. 

On further inquiry it was learned that she had from her 
first menstruation always suffered from severe dysmenorrhcea 
and had also been subject to attacks of sick headache, and that 
she had not been affected with either since taking the powders. 

She also says that for some time past she has had no pain 

in tumor and thinks that it has not decreased in size since 
* 

the pain ceased. 

At this date, September 26th, I gave her the Lapis 6x again 
to take, a powder at bedtime. 

January 28th she writes that the powders have caused pain 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


42 


Lapis Albas. 


January 


in the tumor and that she is also very much troubled with 
itching of the external genitals. 

I now sent her Lapis 30th which caused so much aggra¬ 
vation of the pruritus that she would not take it, and until 
July 11th she would not take medicine. 

The pruritus had now got better and she was persuaded to 
take more medicine and obliterate the remains of the tumor; 
she now had Lapis 200th, which in a few days caused so much 
pruritus that she would not take it or anything else, since 
which I have no further knowledge of case. 

With hints gained through this instructive Lapis aggrava¬ 
tion, I have given much comfort with Lapis 200 to many pa¬ 
tients afflicted with pruritus pudendi, and also verified its 
usefulness in dysmenorrhcea. 

In painful menstruation it is indicated in those cases in 
which severe pain precedes the flux. 

The woman is taken suddenly with but little premonition 
with pain so severe that she swoons and falls insensible 
wherever she may be, without sufficient warning to enable 
her to reach comfortable quarters. 

Case I.—Miss , age 19, for whom I had prescribed oc¬ 
casionally with but little benefit except palliative, since her 
first menstruation. 

At this time the paroxysms of pain had become so very 
much more severe that she would fall unconscious wherever 
she happened to be, the swoon, at times, lasting half an hour, 
after which she would be brought home and suffer pain fora 
few hours when it would gradually subside, and menstrua¬ 
tion once established would continue without pain. 

Having had ill-success in treating this case, and accident¬ 
ally being reminded of the bronchocele case, I resolved to 
give Lapis a trial, somewhat empirically. 

To this purpose I gave her a vial of globules of 200th 
potency, with instructions to take a dose at bedtime for the 
two weeks following the cessation of menses. 

The next period came on normally, without pain, and has 
continued normal for the past four years. 

Case II.—Miss-, age thirty-four, menses normal 

until at age of twenty, when she had measles, since which she 
has suffered severe pain at commencement of menstruation; 
so much so as to cause syncope. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


L. Whiting. 


43 


Oftentimes the first premonition of menstruation would be 
pain so severe as to cause her to fall insensible wherever she 
might be at the time. 

This severe pain would continue less for a day, or until the 
flow was fully established. 

As she had been under the treatment of a number of our 
leading physicians, without benefit, we advised a trial of 
Lapis 200, of which a dose was taken at bedtime, for a few 
days, after the menstrual flow had fully ceased. 

This treatment was continued for about six months, with 
less frequent dosage, as she improved from month to month. 
Since which, for about two years, she has had no recurrence 
of menstrual pain. 

• ' 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Wesselh(eft: I' want to confirm Dr. Whiting’s 
statement in regard to Aloe. I have come to regard it as 
an antipsoric, a much deeper acting remedy than we usually 
suppose it to be. Dr. Whiting’s case is a valuable one, 
* because it cured the patient. Dr. Whiting is a deep thinker, 
works out his cases with great care, and he can be relied on 
every time. 

Dr. H. C. Allen: I think his case of Sepia is a beautiful 
illustration of the folly of repeating as long as the patient is 
doing well. 

Dr. Wesselh(eft: Lapis albus is the remedy empiric¬ 
ally recommended for cancer by Dr. Grauvogl. It is the 
stone which is thought to be the active remedy of the Gastein 
waters. I suppose the Gastein water simply holds this stone 
in solution. Dr. Allen is right. Dr. Whiting knows how to 
wait, and when he repeats he has a good reason for it. 

Dr. Baylies: In the case of dysmenorrhcea, was the medi¬ 
cine used empirically or according to the similar symptoms? 

Dr. Wesselhceft: If he gave the Lapis for dysmenorrhcea, 
it must have been empirically, because it is an unproved 
remedy. 

Dr. Sawyer: I have used several pounds of Lapis albus 
in my time, a great deal of it in cancerous cases, lupus and 
such diseases, and a peculiar circumstance about the medicine 
is, .that I never got any response from any potency except 
the third decimal. I tried the sixth and the twelfth, and 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



44 


Lapis Albus. 


January 


found them absolutely useless in the cases that I tried them 
on. In the third, it improves the nutrition, color and 
general appearance of the patient in all cancerous cases. 
This I know from experience, but I do not think, and I have 
not found, that it will cure cancer. 

Dr. Wesselhceft : When Dr. Grauvogl first announced 
his Lapis albus, I was treating an epithelioma in an old man 
—now he is about ninety—he was then about seventy. It 
was in the lip, going nearly across the entire lower lip, at 
least two-thirds of it exhibiting a rough, crusty appearance, 
and when this crust came off it left a raw surface with 
large irregular granulations. No pain and no other involve¬ 
ment of tissue. He was to be operated on, but first came 
down to Boston to be treated by me. I could get no con¬ 
stitutional symptoms out of him. If I remember aright, 
the epithelioma was not at all painful, save a very slight 
burning. I had tried Arsenic high and highest without 
effect. I was reading Grauvogl at the time, and had Lapis 
in the twelfth decimal. I gave him a solution of the tritu¬ 
ration, a dose morning and evening for a week, then omit¬ 
ted a week. After three months the epithelioma healed 
entirely. The doctor who was to cut it out said before he 
came to me : “If that quack in Boston cures you, I will go 
down and sit at his feet and learn how to do it." He never 
came, and I was very glad of it, because I could not have 
given a single good reason why I used Lapis albus. 

It was in the fall of the year I discharged him as well. 
About Christmas he was taken ill with a peculiar pneumonia 
that I had great difficulty in treating. It was very rapid in 
its progress, solidifying one lung entirely. The fifth day he 
suddenly collapsed. I found him breathing quickly, tongue 
cold, nose cold, cold all over, with all the symptoms of im¬ 
pending paralysis \>f the lungs. The respiration shallow, 
rapid and irregular. I gave Laurocerasus. Reaction came 
slowly, but he made a good and complete recovery, and is 
now alive at ninety. He has ever since, severe winter 
coughs. 

Dr. Gregory : Treated a young man for a tumor on the 
lower lip. Immediate removal was advised by what was 
considered good authority. Gave him Lapis albus, thirtieth, 
without any Arsenic about it, and the tumor, with the excep- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


L. Whiting . 


45 


tion of a slight depression, disappeared at the end of six 
months. After two years the tumor re-developed in the 
depression that marked the site of the former one. It had 
burning, stinging pains, that would make him jump off his 
feet. It grew to the size of the former tumor. More Lapis, 
thirtieth, was given, and the trouble disappeared within a 
year, and up to date, now ten years, has not recurred. It 
was given, a dose every night for a week, then stopped three 
or four weeks and then repeated. 

L. Whiting. 

Danvers, Mass. 


ALBUMINURIA: NATRUM MUR. 

November 1, 1889.—E. L., a lad of 16 years, came to my 
office with his mother, from whom I obtained the following 
history: He had been treated by an allopathic physician of 
this city for three months. The mother was finally informed 
that ‘‘her son was incurable,” “that he could do nothing more 
for him, as he was far advanced and in the last stages of Bright's 
Disease. That he was liable to drop dead any moment." A 
specimen of his urine was produced, which I proceeded at 
once to test. I found an acid reaction with a specific gravity 
1.008. I filled a test tube half full and heated to a boiling 
point. A brownish-white deposit of half the amount of 
fluid in the tube was observed. I then took another portion 
and applied the Nitric acid test with a like result on standing. 
I now confirmed the previous expressed opinion that he was 
in a precarious condition, as such cases are always fraught 
with greatdanger. 

His face had a bloated appearance; eyelids were swollen 
and dropsical swelling of the extremities. Rapid breathing, 
hoarse cough day and night. Every other morning about 8 
a. m., yawning, stretching, great thirst; chill at 9, lasting till 
noon, beginning in the toes and fingers, extending to back; 

. violent headache; blue lips and nails; great thirst for large 
quantities of water ; and often nausea and vomiting; sleepi¬ 
ness ; almost constant coughing ; tearing pains in the extrem¬ 
ities, desiring to be heavily covered. This was followed with 
burning heat; increased thirst; “an intolerable hammering 
headache;" a desire to uncover; cross and irritable when 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



46 


Albuminuria: Natrum Mur . 


January 


spoken to ; great restlessness. Fever blisters covered, his lips 
like pearls and had existed for several days ; tastelessness of 
all food. This was followed with a profuse sweat, with thirst; 
gradually all the bone pains were relieved, save the headache; 
this latter gave him great distress every time he was obliged 
to cough. 

During the apyrexia, which was not very distinct, there was 
great languor with excessive debility; a livid, sallow com¬ 
plexion; who could desire a more typical case? I most sin¬ 
cerely commiserate any homoeopath who fails to comprehend 
the pathogenesy of one of our most valuable and indispensa¬ 
ble polychrests. The patient is asking in unmistakable tones 
for sodium chloride, although he has been a daily consumer of 
this article. While this was a typical Natrum mur. case, it 
was a very pronounced case of Morbus Brightii. I did not 
stop to inquire whether it was one of acute or chronic par¬ 
enchymatous nephritis. Whether there were any epithelial 
hyaline, or blood casts, and should the disquamative stage 
have obtained, there was only one indication for me to con¬ 
sider and that was the picture presented. This boy had been 
living over in Illinois in the Mississippi river bottoms; 
“ going in swimming,” lying on the ground, following in the 
track of freshly turned sod when the sun was hot, generating 
miasm. He had been treated scientifically (?) as his mother 
thought, by one who makes it a specialty to treat all such 
class of diseases. It was presumed he knew all about 
such diseases as his office was constantly thronged 
with sick people. Now after having been cycloned by 
this wiseacre for two months, in his vain endeavors to 
diminish the intensity of the renal inflammation, by the use 
of hydragogue cathartics, saline laxatives so useful by the 
way of depletion, fomentations over kidneys with hot flannels, 
or spongio-piline; diuretics, for the dropsical diathesis, rigid 
abstemiousness of all albuminous articles of diet, elaterium, 
gamboge, bitartrate of potassa, etc., ad nauseam ; after all 
this vain endeavor to promote resolution by the eliminative 
process, the organism of this patient was still racked with 
disease, strange to say. So he issues the edict that all had 
been done that could possibly be done, and that he must 
yield to the inevitable. Thus I found this case after having 
passed through the terrible ordeal that all patients must 
undergo from the hands of the self-styled scientists. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


W. L. Reed . 


47 


The general cachexy of this organism calls for a remedy 
the pathogenesy of which is a simility upon the healthy organ¬ 
ism. So we gave him Natrum muriaticum, and see what 
followed: 

On the 1st day of November, 1889, being the well day, I 
gave him three powders, Natrum mur. 200, to be taken six 
hours apart. Paroxysm next day as usual, but there was a 
diminuation of 25 percent, of albumen. Sac. lac. was given 
in interim; but on the 4th, chill and fever again. Three more 
powders^ six hours apart, after paroxysm. There was a 
gradual decrease in amount of albumen in urine. Chill and 
fever still persisted till the 10th. Realizing we had not found 
the simillimum, we gave him one dose of Natrum mur. cm. 
(Fincke) with happy results. 

On 12th had a very light chill and light fever, with a 
greatly diminished deposit of albumen. Cough, rest, sleep, 
appetite greatly improved. There was a steady improvement 
in his condition up to the 24th, when another slight chill 
and fever, with increased deposit of albumen, appeared. One 
more dose of cm. No more chills. 

On December 7th there was an indication of another par¬ 
oxysm, by slight increase of albumen, restlessness and cough. 
One more dose of Natrum mur. cm. everted the paroxysm. 
This was the last dose of medicine given. Urine remained 
all this time at a specific gravity, ranging from 1.010 to 1.012. 
It gradually grew more dense and in one month's time it was 
normal 1.018. Was kept on Sac. lac. for two months. No 
tonics were permitted. This case I have taken great pride 
in, and had greater satisfaction from than any case I ever 
treated, owing to the gravity it presented. What wonderful 
results from the dynamic power of the drug. I do not think 
the 200th potency could ever have cured him, as it needed a 
remedy more potent or powerful. The more grave the case, 
the more potent your remedy. In his daily food he had 
taken Chloride of Sodium, and still the dread disease invaded 
his system. Not until the salt had been far removed from 
materialism, or become dynamic, did it prove efficacious. If 
this be true of Natrum chloride, is it not possible it may be 
the same with Cinchona and its varied alkaloids, or any other 
remedy? I for one am not willing to jeopardize the life of any 
of my patients by the administration of materialistic agents 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



48 


Albuminuria: Natrum Mur . 


January 


when we have something more potent and reliable. If we 
would cure tuto cito etjucunde , give the remedy as far removed 
from materialism as possible, taking care never to repeat, 
after improvement, till you are satisfied the last dose has 
ceased to act in the organism. 

Our State Medical Association met in our city last April. 
During the proceedings an article was read upon Albumi¬ 
nuria, in which the pathological conditions obtaining in such 
cases was dwelt upon, also the alimentation requisite to the 
successful treatment, but very little information was given as 
to the pathogenesy of those remedies which are so essentially 
requisite to the successful treatment of such cases. I gave a 
very brief account of this detailed case of Natrum mur., lay¬ 
ing stress upon the fact that the 200th potency was not homoeo¬ 
pathic to the casp, but as soon as he received the simillimum, 
which was the cm. potency, a speedy recovery was obtained 
without any regard to the alimentation or the pathological 
condition. After I had finished my remarks, I was beset 
upon by one of the assassins of the law, who proclaimed “ that 
such nonsense was not worthy of notice, and that it was a 
shame that such doctrine should be instilled into the minds 
of the young members of the Association. That the deposit 
in this case was nothing but mucus and that there was noth¬ 
ing seriously the matter in this case.” My reply was not that 
of Sunday-school parlance, nor perhaps as decorous as that 
which is requisite in the drawing-room. In fact, it angered 
.all those in sympathy with his utterances. I commiserate 
such abject poverty and utter ignorance of the law as this 
member evinced. He hails from Kansas City and is nothing 
hut an antiquated reminiscence of barbarism. Draw your 
own conclusion after what he said. He avers that in his 
experience in an epidemic of Cerebro Spinal Meningitis in 
the year 1862, he being an avowed homoeopath, resorted to 
actual cautery, and depended upon external applications in 
the treatment of these cases. In spite of this treatment a 
majority of them died. In treating eclampsia, I always go 
higher and higher, as I grow older, until I now give from a 
grain to a grain and a half of Morphine at a dose. I am sorry 
to state that these treasonable utterances were applauded by 
a majority of those present. Instead of a rebuke being given 
by the President, I saw a genial smile steal over his counte¬ 
nance, indicating approval. 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



1891 


W. L. Reed . 


49 




This same society, by a concensus of opinion, has elected 
as its president for the ensuing year, one who has the temer¬ 
ity to proclaim on all occasions, Lex non scripta . In . his 
address of welcome to the society he stated “ they were here 
to sustain this principle or doctrine.” Oh, depths of deprav¬ 
ity in medical science! Such unanimity of such sentiments 
is treasonable. I look upon such transactions as unvarnished 
villainy. It is this we are here for, to stand for our God 
given principles, and fight this effort at this sinister efface- 
ment of the true principles of Homoeopathy. The stolid 
indifference, or apathy, of some of our members in defending 
our noble cause, is enough to make the statue at Leipsic 
leap from its pedestal, and hasten the resurrection of the 
sainted dead of our beloved science. I have as much respect 
for a John A. Merrill, a Jesse James, or a midnight assassin 
as such men who ruthlessly stabbed the sacred principles of 
Homoeopathy. Per Contra to this treasonable sentiment we 
proclaim this motto which should be inherent in, and 
sacredly cherished by, every true homoeopath. Lex scripta 
et certissima. As shame and disgrace fell upon the ancient 
Greek participants in the torchlight races if they failed to 
transmit their torches unextinguished to their successors, so 
may it ever be to those who would deign to trail the sacred 
banner of Homoeopathy in the quagmire of Empiricism. “ As 
we have received from the successors of Hahnemann the 
blazing torch which he, the Prometheus of our system 
lighted at the Altar of Eternal Truth,” so we as Hahne- 
mannians have a sacred duty to perform, to fling to the 
breeze our banner bearing that glorious apothegm Similia 
Similibus Curantur. “Our honor depends on the care with 
which we cherish it, and the state in which, in turn, we 
transmit it to those who shall follow us.” 

It is epigrammatic. It is salient. It is a verity. 

“War, war is still the cry, war even to the knife. 

War my noble father thus we fling it, 

And fair-eyed peace, farewell.” 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. H. C. Allen : One suggestion I would like to make, 
and that is, that we drop the name mongrels and mongrelism, 
for the reason that we can catch more flies with sugar than 
we can with vinegar. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



50 


Spasm of the Glottis. 


January 


Dr. Thomson : We are not here to catch flies, nor to 
hold a candle to the devil. We have a mission ; to proclaim 
the truth regardless of results. 

Dr. H. C. Allen : Yes, but they retaliate. I do not 
like to be called a Hahnemaniac, and if I were on their side 
of the boat I would not like to be called a mongrel. Empir¬ 
ics and Empiricism meet the case fully as well. 

W. L. Reed. 

St. Louis. 


SPASM OF THE GLOTTIS—VERIFICATION OF CIN¬ 
CHONA. 

Patient was a middle aged gentleman, light complexion, of 
sanguine temperament, active, having rather feeble diges¬ 
tion. Attacks came on suddenly, commonly about 3 A. M. 
Suffocation would seem imminent. At length, with one tre¬ 
mendous effort, while sitting bent forward, a little air would 
be forced into the lungs in spite of the epiglottis, with a noise 
that could be heard at quite a distance. After expiring the 
air thus obtained, the next effort at inspiration would be a 
triflle more successful, and so on until restoration occurred. 

These attacks were fatiguing and depressing, and a cure 
was greatly to be desired. After patient examination, the 
following symptoms were obtained :—unhappy, idea that he 
was pursued by enemies in business, no desire to live; scalp 
sensitive to touch; humming, throbbing in ears; saliva 
found upon pillow in morning; longing for whisky, Rhine 
wine, coffee; great thirst for cold water; gastric symptoms 
after milk or tea; stomach sore to touch ; pale urine, often 
voided ; flesh sore to touch, pain increasing gradually ; could 
not bear the slightest draught of air; inclined to sweat at 
night, during sleep. 

The remedy given was Cinchona, 200th, in water, a tea¬ 
spoonful every 2 hours until improvement should be noticed. 
The first solution was effectual. 

Edmund Carleton. 

New York. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. U. Woods . 


51 


ECZEMA: GRAPHITES. 

Case I.—Mr. C., about fifty years of age. For nine weeks 
had been under “ scientific ” treatment for eczema covering 
the whole body. He had used five different kinds of oint¬ 
ments, of which Arsenicum and Iodine were component parts, 
and remarked that he felt as nasty as a hog. Was advised to 
buy a cake of Marseilles soap, take a bath and be sure he was 
clean. The eruption was scaly, dry and itched almost beyond 
endurance, especially after undressing. 

April 3, 1889, he was given two powders of Graphites 1 m. 
No improvement appearing at the end of one week, he 
received one powder of Sulphur mm. 

April 18, 1889, reported that very little itching existed and 
the eruption was nearly gone. It was soon entirely gone and 
there has been no appearance of it to the present date. 

Did the Sulphur arouse the system to action, or was there a 
mistake made in the first prescription ? 

Case II. —Miss H., eighteen years of age, brunette. 
Occupation, tailoress. 

Has always enjoyed good health. 






52 


Eczema: Graphites . 


January 


scabs, white on the head and brown on the face and hands, 
exuding a sticky, gluey substance, very offensive. No itching 



or burning whatever. Scales constantly falling off, so much 
so that after being in the office for medicine it was necessary 
to sweep them up. Great mental depression. This condition 
had existed about three months. 

One powder of Graphites 1 m. was given. Improvement 
followed and on July 5th, the dose was repeated. From July 
12th, for the space of two weeks, all improvement ceased. 

July 26th she received one dose of Graphites, cm. Prog¬ 
ress now continued up to January 7, 1890, when she pre¬ 
sented the following symptoms: 

The chin, throat and neck were covered with patches 
resembling ring-worm. 

Loss of appetite. 

Cold feet and hands. 

No fever. Calcarea 1 m., two powders were given. At 
the end of one week no improvement appearing, one powder 
of Graphites cm. was given. In six days the skin was free 
from all eruption and has remained so to the present time. 

Case III.—Mrs. L-, a widow, age about sixty-five. 

October, 1889, presented herself for treatment. The end 
of the nose was covered with a dark, dry crust from beneath 
which a watery substance was discharged. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. U. Woods . 


53 


This condition had existed for seven years, and for two 
years previous to date she had been under treatment for can¬ 
cer of the nose. She received one powder of Graphites cm., 
and in about six weeks the dose was repeated. Nothing has 
been given since, and to-day her nose presents a perfectly 
ceanl and smooth appearance. J. U. Woods. 

Holyoke, Mass. 


CLINICAL CASES. 

DIPHTHERIA: LYCOPODIUM M.: TWO CASES OP CUBE AND 
AGGRAVATION. 

Case I.—December 28, 1889. Miss J. G-, age twenty- 

two,presented the following symptoms. Cough almost suffoca¬ 
tive when moving about, with great weakness; sinking, faint 
feeling, great oppression of the chest; sense of pressure more 
on the right infra-mammary region. Large mucous crepitus 
heard in both infra-scapular regions; rude and sibilant mur¬ 
murs in superior and anterior chest. Dullness on percussion, 
posteriorly, especially over the left lung; decubitus on the 
back. The degree of prostration, the dullness on percussion 
and large crepitus with absence of pneumonic signs, excited 
a strong suspicion of bronchial diphtheria; then examining 
her throat of which she made no complaint, I saw a large 
white curd-like mass on the right tonsil without visible 
imflammation. Sepia 40 m. 

December 30.—No better. After lying long in one posi¬ 
tion last night, felt so heavy that she could hardly get out of 
that position, “sunk in the bed.” 

Weakness from the least exertion. 

Left elbow and side lain on feel sore; feet in the fore part 
of the night itched about the ankles and felt hot; when 
put in a cool part of the bed, felt cold; on putting them back 
again, hot. 

A dreadfully offensive hot air, like coal gas of bad taste, 
rose in her throat when coughing without raising, or if not 
coughing for some time. She was never so affected before. 

Breath offensive both to herself and others. 

Marked vibration ot the alae nasi, especially when cough¬ 
ing or moving; can’t lie on the right side; the right side feels 
heavy; she feels some rattling near the throat when lying on 
the right side. Lycopodium 45 m. every three hours. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



54 


Clinical Cases. 


January 


3l8t.—Felt easy and quiet up to 11 o’clock last night, 
after that when not feeling so kept quiet. 

Vibration of the alae nasi continues. No peculiar sensa¬ 
tion in epigastric zone or scapulae. 

• The hot air which rises, is like gas (Sulph. Lycop. Am.), 
not like steam or vapor (Mercurius). 

Soreness when lying long in one position; likes her drink 
warm (Lyc.). 

On the left cheek a red spot at 11 a. m. ; fluttering in left 
side of chest when standing. Continue Lycopodium 45 m. 

January 1st.—The patient had a very restless night; has 
now great prostration, tendency to fainting when rising in 
bed, can only lie on the left side. 

Intermitting pulse; while lying in bed suppression of pulse 
for several (8 or 10) consecutive beats. 

Medicinal action seems suspended if not pernicious. Omit¬ 
ted medicine; her condition causing much anxiety, I repre¬ 
sented the case to Dr. P. P. Wells, who approved the selec¬ 
tion but recommended a single dose high . At 3 p. M. I gave 
Lycopodium M. (millionth) a few pellets; one dose dry. 
Sac. lac. 

2d.—Better; she had slept last night two or three hours, 
one and one-half hour at a time, the best night during her 
illness. After this daily improvement; respiration rapidly 
clearing. 

5th.—Well, except slight laryngral cough. Lycopodium 
M., one dose dry. 

10th.—Remarkably well, and had been so since my last visit, 
except the second day after this dose of Lycopodium, when 
the constriction and fulness characteristic of Lycopodium 
appeared, disappearing the next day. No cough. She evi¬ 
dently received one dose too much and showed Lycopodium 
aggravation. 

SUBACUTE RHEUMATISM OF THE KNEE : LYCOPODIUM M. 

(MILLIONTH) AND AGGRAVATION. 

Case II.—A lady, age about thirty-five, of fair complexion, 
brown hair, fleshy, complains of rheumatic pain and stiffness 
in the right knee, < when beginning to move, > from con¬ 
tinued motion; <when ascending. 

Sensation as of a band around the thigh just above the knee. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


B. UB. Baylies. 


55 


Flatulence, sensation as of a belt around the hypochondria 
worse in the afternoon. Lycopodium M. (millionth), a few 
pellets dry. In two or three days, pain and other symptoms 
were nearly gone. On the fifth day a trace of the knee 
trouble continuing. She took Lycopodium M. a dose dry. 
In a day or two, recurred the symptoms characteristic of this 
medicine in the epigastric zone, passing off after the second 
day. These two cases seem to present an aggravation and 
confirmation of Lycopodium by the very high potency. The 
healing action of the medicine was evident in the Diphtheria 
case within three hours: the aggravation did not in either 
case occur till the lapse of twenty-four to forty-eight hours. 

SCROFULOUS adenoma: calcarea. 

Case III.—Mrs. D., a pale, cachectic looking woman, age 
about thirty-eight, had upon the right side of the neck a large 
tumor of the lymphatic glands filling the space from the mas¬ 
toid process and jaw to near the acromion. It was exceedingly 
hard and nodular, having numerous sinuses, discharging fetid 
serouspus. She was decidedly strumous; had been treated by 
allopathic physicians with Iodine locally, and probably inter¬ 
nally; was slender and emaciated, troubled with hackingcough, 
and excessive perspiration, especially of the head and extremi¬ 
ties ; had suffered slight pulmonary hemorrhage, and was of 
nervous temperament. The tumor disappeared gradually in 
the course of about a year and a half, and the general health 
improved under occasional doses of Calcarea, 15m. (Fincke). 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Carleton : A most remarkable aggravation coming 
after the patient was well. # 

Dr. Thomson: Did not the Lycopodium lm.stir up the 
lower potency that *had been given before, go within and 
above it, so to speak, driving the lower potence #nd the dis¬ 
orderly conditions to the externals of the orgniasm? There 
is no remedy I am so afraid to repeat as Lycopodium. 

Dr. Batlies : The patient had had dyspeptic symptoms, 
but not during this attack. B. L’B. Baylies. 

Brooklyn, N. Y. 


Digitized by ^rOOQL<£ 



56 Isopathy in the Physico-Chemical School . January 


ISOPATHY IN THE PHYSICO-CHEMICAL SCHOOL 

NITRODUCED BY DR. ROBERT KOCH IN BERLIN * ’ 

1. The alleged discovery of Dr. Koch grows out of his 
bacteriological researches and is simply a revival of Jenner’s 
vaccination method for prevention of small pox, enlarged to 
inoculation of an unknown mixture of morbid organic origin 
and cyanide of gold, into the skin of persons affected with 
internal and external tuberculosis and lupus, with the inten¬ 
tion to apply it also in other contagious aqd infectious dis¬ 
eases. 

2. This mode of treatment encroaches upon Pasteur’s 
claims for inoculation and use of disease products, more or 
less weakened by letting it go through men and animals for 
prophylaxis and cure. 

3. The idea of administering the products of disease, for 
that same disease, and the substance of one organ of an 
animal to the same organ diseased, in man, comes from olden 
times and was driven to absurdity in the middle ages. 

4. This idea was introduced into Homoeopathy about 
1833 by Hering, tlross and Lux simultaneously, who, inde¬ 
pendent of each other, realized it as having great healing 
power of contagions in diseases which they are able to pro¬ 
duce. Stapf hailed this new mode of healing called Isopathy 
as an important enrichment of the homoeopathic .healing art 
in 1834. 

5. But subsequently Homoeopathy rejected this Isopathy 
as a misnomer and a spurious application of homoeopathic 
principles, accepting at the same time the new remedies 
under the name of Nosodes which was given to them by 
Hering, only, under the condition that they are duly 
potentiated and proved upon the healthy according to the 
homoeopathic rules, and administered in the same manner as 
all other remedies derived from the various kingdoms of 
nature, f # 

Hering obtained and proved the poison of the rabid dog 
homceopathically as early as 1833. Trinks, in 1840 invited to 
isopathic experiments with that poison by inoculation into 
healthy dogs for the sake of learning the effects, and by using 

♦Read before the Horn. Union of New York, December 18,1890. 

t See High Potencies and Homoeopathies. Tafel 1866, p. 83. Journal of 
Homoeopathies, Yol. I, p. 164, and Vol. 11, p. 77. 




Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


B. Fincke. 


57 


a modified poison as a preventive and remedy for true rabies, 
similar to vaccination. This invitation was actually carried 
out by Pasteur, who cultured the poison of the rabid dog and 
other morbid products by inoculating it from one animal to 
another repeatedly for the cure and prevention of rabies, 
chicken cholera, anthrax, etc. 

6. True Homoeopathies rejects this mode of treatment by 
inoculation in contagious and other diseases as a prevention 
and cure, and repudiates the experiments of Pasteur, Koch 
and their confreres instituted for the administration to the 
healthy and sick. 

7. The procedure of Dr. Koch fails to satisfy the demands 
of science, in as much as it keeps a secret of mixture which, 
without sufficient experience, at once is injected under the 
skin of sick persons in more or less advanced states of disease. 

8. The only proving, if it may be so called, upon the 
healthy with this secret mixture was obtained by injecting 
0.25 cubic centimeter into the upper arm t)f Koch himself; 
and gave the following symptoms: After three to four hours, 
drawing in the limbs, weakness, inclination to cough, trouble 
in respiration increasing rapidly; in the 5th hour, severe 
chill for nearly an hour, with nausea, vomiting, increase of 
temperature to 103, 2°; after 12 hours, sinking of temperature 
till next day when it became normal again ^heaviness in the 
limbs and weakness for several days; pain and redness of the 
place of injection. From to-day's paper it appears that 
Koch is pale and excited, and shows dangerous traces of 
nervosity. Whether this is an after-action of the injection 
or the effect of the continuous working with his lymph, or 
the consequence of disappointment at failures, remains to 
be seen. 

9. These symptoms do not justify the inoculation in 
every diagnosed case of tuberculosis and lupus, because they 
are not characteristic of these diseases to warrant the indis¬ 
criminate administration of this mixture. 

10. Koch treats disease by name instead of patients 
afflicted with them; every case according to experience is a 
different one, and ought to be treated according to symptoms 
simility with potentiated medicine. 

11. Koch says that the mixture does not act from the 
stomach, and therefore, it must be injected under the skin 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



58 Isopathy in the Physico-Chemical School. January 

to give a reliable reaction, hence he proves himself uncon¬ 
scious of the sensitivity of the organism which is mediated 
by the nervous system and enables the properly selected 
homoeopathic potency when applied to tongue and nose and 
even to the skin by contact, to exert its curativeness in the 
sick. 

12. Koch uses comparatively small doses in the allo¬ 
pathic sense and calls them attenuations or dilutions. He 
evidently here encroaches upon homoeopathic ground intro¬ 
ducing the spurious application of homoeopathic principles 
spoken of before, but he fails to reach the simplicity, purity, 
specificity and curative power of homoeopathic potencies. 

13. Though the mixture, as Koch says, by itself, therefore 
without particular precautions does not spoil, it is only fit 
for use if more or less diluted. But by distilled water it is 
easily decomposed and liable to bacterian vegetations, ren¬ 
dering the preparation useless. Hence the dilutions must be 
sterilized by heat and preserved under cottonwood or mixed 
with .5 per cent, phenol solution. But time and further 
dilution lessen the efficaciousness. This, to say the least, 
can promise to be only an uncertain remedy. 

14. A mixture which is liable to be contaminated by 
bacteria is injected into the circulation for the purpose of 
destroying the tuberculous tissue, and withdrawing with it 
the nutriment to the bacilli residing in it. The danger is 
obvious that bacteria and bacilli are introduced and possibly 
favored when existing in the organism, where there were 
none or only a few before. 

15. A weak dilution of the mixture is to destroy the 
tubercular tissue without killing the bacilli. What becomes 
of the decayed tissue? And the starving bacilli? That the 
mixture is taken up by the circulation and carried to the spot 
where it is needed to produce the decay of the pabulum for 
the bacilli is unintelligible, because no physiological or patho¬ 
logical reason is given and the life-force is not acknowledged 
by the physico-chemical school. Koch appeals to surgery in 
combination with his injection for the removal of the necrosed 
tissue, and the dead bacilli by suitable operations if not 
expelled by the sputa, and he does not exclude other curative 
methods. 

16. Koch cautions against inoculation in cases which are 


Digitized by VjOOQle . 



1891 


B . Fincke. 


59 


too far gone, and recommends it as early as the diagnosis of 
tuberculosis is assured. In his mind, it can only be estab¬ 
lished by the presence of bacilli in the spnta. In dubious 
cases injections are to be tried to prove whether bacilli are 
present. The general and local reaction following upon the 
injection is to furnish the proof. No reaction takes place in 
the healthy or those sick otherwise after 0.01 cub. centim. 
But Koch has no idea of the varying sensitivity of persons in 
health, because he applies his mixture to a disease. He him¬ 
self may not be sensitive to less than 0.25 cub. centim., which 
he injected into his upper arm with the result mentioned 
above, but another person may already be sensitive to an 
injection of 0.01 cub. c., which is to be the suitable dose for 
tuberculosis, and yet present the phenomena necessary for 
the pathological diagnosis of tuberculosis without being 
affected by this disease at all. Therefore the injection is no 
test for bacilli in such a case. Besides, Dr. Wieger, who has 
a private hospital for consumptives, contends that the begin¬ 
ning of common phthisis has nothing to do with Koch’s 
bacilli. They breed only when the existing disease of faulty 
nutrition has prepared the lungs for their reception. 

Therefore, Koch’s advice opens the door to all possible 
kinds of errors and abuses. 

17. Koch classes lupus with tuberculosis, for he calls the 
nature of the mixture specific for both. But if specific for 
lupus, it can not be specific for tuberculosis. The expecta¬ 
tion to make it serviceable also for diphtheria and typhoid 
fever shows a reprehensible generalization. 

18. If the dilution of his mixture is so powerful as to 
destroy the tissues in which the bacilli are imbedded, why 
does he mix with it the cyanide of gold? Because it has been 
found that people constantly using it in their work have an 
immunity from tuberculosis. True to his allopathic bias 
Koch mixes it as an adjuvant to his tincture, whatever it may 
be, probably to make the favorable effect safer. But by this 
mingling gf two things he throws doubt upon its efficacious¬ 
ness, and nobody knows what action is owing to the one or to 
the other. 

19. The practice of applying the newly discovered remedy 
sans gene on the poor people, in and out of the hospitals, who 
go thereto be cured, and on those patients paying well for the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



60 Ixopathy in the Physico-Chemical School. January 

injections, without sufficient experience in the matter, as 
Koch 'himself admits, is simply outrageous and ought to be 
denounced and forbidden, and heavily fined, instead of 
rewarding it with fabulous sums of money by the civil author¬ 
ities, as apt to produce more sickness than there is already 
among the poor consumptives, and even to cause premature 
death, as in the fatal cases already reported by the papers. 
Death caused by these injections is no better than murder in 
the third degree, because, though not premeditated, it ensues 
by culpable action. 

20. Koch intends to adopt his mode of inoculation, also, 
in contagious and infectious diseases, such as diphtheria and 
typhoid fever, and in this way he spreads the danger of pois¬ 
oning the people by the million. It is too much to expect 
that the allopathic physician in its multitude will proceed 
with that caution which is observed by the initiator of the 
measure, and from this spring necessarily abuses which are 
under no control, such as we are justi6ed to expect when 
judging from the manner in which vaccination has been per¬ 
formed, the stimulant method has been applied and venesec¬ 
tion practised—all of which has been very satisfactory to the 
physicians at the time, but had been or ought to be aban¬ 
doned on account of its deleteriousness. 

21. Koch, no doubt, has heard something from afar about 
Homoeopathy. For he talks about attenuation, dilution and 
individualization, but to no reasonable purpose. Let him 
try his lymph, whatever it may be, and the cyanide of gold, 
each separately, in doses not dangerous to life and health 
upon the healthy subject without breaking the skin, and then 
he may have contributed something of importance and prac¬ 
tical use in medical science. 

22. As it is, a cyclone of foolishness passes over the world, 
and history records many instances, similar to this inocula¬ 
tion craze. For fools rush in where angels fear to tread. 

23. We, Homceopathicians, can afford to wait for the 
results, which at present are only guesswork, devoid of the 
rule of induction, which demands pure experiments, careful 
observation and correct experience (Organon, § 278), all of 
which can not be had in a few months and in the concourse 
of an infatuated multitude. 

24. It is remarkable that at a time when vaccination is 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


B. Fincke. 


61 


rejected by perhaps half of the civilized world, if not more, 
as injurious in the highest degree to the human race, inocula¬ 
tion of morbid matter is praised by the physico-chemical 
school as the ne plus ultra of the healing art. 

25. Whilst America is introducing the homoeopathic high 
potencies with marvellous heating effect, Europe falls back 
upon an abandoned medical practice in new form, and hails 
it as the greatest discovery in medicine of all times. 

B. Fincke. 

Brooklyn, N. Y. 


Comment anb Criftctemw 


Ask yourself if there be any element of right and wrong in a question. If 
90 take your part with the perfect and abstract right, and trust in God to see 
that it shall prove expedient—W endell Phillips. 


QUININE IN THE SOUTH. 

Editor Advance: I have been here since 1883, and have 
never seen a case demanding that remedy in massive doses. 
I suppose that we do not have as milch intermittent fever 
here as in some other parts of the country, but since the cot¬ 
ton commenced- to be raised chills and fever have been on 
the increase; before that there were no cases of chills in this 
part of the country, unless patients brought it with them. 
This is a fact. 

There has been one case of congestive or pernicious fever 
to my knowledge. It was a blacksmith, who took the chill 
in town. He commenced to jtake Quinine himself. He was 
removed to the country, ten miles, when an allopath was 
called, who gave him massive doses of Quinine. This kept 
the second chill off till the third day, when he took the sec¬ 
ond one and went into a state of coma from which he never 
rallied. He died in the second paroxysm. Now, why did 
not Quinine cure this blacksmith? Perhaps it was because 
he was an allopath? It might have cured a homeopath. It 
would seem that crude Quinine acts better on a pseudo-homeo¬ 
path than on the allopath. 


Digitized by V. DOQle 



62 


Quinine in the South. 


January 


A man professing to be a homeopathist has no use for mas¬ 
sive doses of Quinine or any other drug; when he has prop¬ 
erly studied the case and has found the remedy that covers/ 
the totality, it will cure that* case if anything in this world 
will; he need not go outside of the only true law of cure, or 
try to make up for a lack of care in the selection of the cura¬ 
tive remedy by giving crude or massive doses of medicines. 
If we have a law of cure, a universal, natural law, close adher¬ 
ence to it is the best thing for the patient or the doctor. 

When a physician wants to use the tools of the allopaths in 
large doses he will feel at liberty to so use one or all of their 
remedies when he gets bewildered or in a tight place; then I 
say it looks strange that we should have a legislative com¬ 
mittee to keep the allopaths from passing laws so that the 
homeopaths can’t use Quinine. Sabe. If I believe in their 
treatment in some cases of congestive chills, for instance, 
why not take their Materia Medica instead of Hering’s Guid¬ 
ing Symptoms? It is easier, you know, to knock the patient 
down all at once, paralyze him, so that he will not recover for 
some time; this gives you time to attend to other business. 

I saw a doctor in Dallas who gave me a card. On that 
card was his name and under that name was “ HOMEO¬ 
PATHIC OR ECLECTIC.” I said to the doctor that I 
admired his honesty, because he carried his principles on his 
card. If they preferred one kind of treatment he would give 
it to them, he did not care; as for himself, “they paid their 
money and they could take their choice.” 

If any brother be weak in the faith let him go where some 
strong brother can teach him—one who can cure iutermit- 
tents with the dynamized remedy, not once, but always—for 
it is nonsense to say that there are some cases that will die if 
you do not give Quinine. Thej^ will die far quicker with it 
than without it. It is a powerful drug and is to-day devas¬ 
tating thousands of constitutions by giving them some 
chronic difficulty, a Quinine cachexia, that no mortal man 
can obliterate or antidote. 

I have, in every instance, found that where the remedy 
did not act, there was something wrong somewhere ; either 
I had not found the remedy or I had not found the true 
simillimum in potency. I have never found it in a lower 
potency, but always in a higher one. It may be in the 3d or 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Comment and Criticism . 


63 


200th, the cm. or mm. ; it is somewhere under the law of 
dynamization, and no one can tell beforehand where that 
8imillimmn is until he has tested it on a sick organism. 
Each case that we have to treat must be treated with the 
dynamized remedy, and the only way to come to a knowledge 
of what is the proper strength will depend on each individual, 
their peculiarities or idiosyncrasies. When this is found, 
there you will find the simillimum. The law of similia and 
the law of dynamization, like Hahnemann’s vital force, go 
hand in hand. You destroy one and you annihilate both. 

We must not “ go back” on our law or its corollary, the 
best friends we have, for a mess of pottage. We must be as 
true to the law as we are to ourselves. If we are asked to 
give a hypodermic of morphine in the absence of their own 
physician, it is not our duty to abandon our principles on the 
plea that “if we do not give it some one else will.” Every 
such desertion of principle not only injures the man who does 
it, but it casts discredit on the entire school to which he pro¬ 
fesses to belong. 

G. W. Sherbino. 

Abilene, Tex. 


LYCOPODIUM lx AGAIN. 

Editor Advance. I have somewhat to say to Dr. Chas. 
B. Gilbert. The unexpected is what usually happens. I 
certainly did not expect that any homoeopath would ever 
assert that “ Lycopodium lx contained all the potence of 
the drug, and that no mechanical process under the sun can 
put any more into it than resides there inherently.” He 
would expect aggravation from the administration of Lyc. 
lx! The Doctor is mistaken. I contend that thGprejaration 
under consideration has no sick making qualities, and I 
defy proof to the contrary. I would like very much to see 
a complete proving of Lycopodium lx. If the characteristics 
of that noble remedy can be educed from any such proving, 
then I will take a back seat, and Uriah Heep might well 
come to me for lessons in humility thenceforth. When Dr. 
Gilbert compares Lycopodium lx with a strong current of 
electricity, Veratrum alb. or Bryonia tincture or any other 
drug or thing possessed of lethal or sick making properties, 
he makes & woeful exhibition of a knowledge of the art or a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


64 


Lycopodium lx Again . 


January 


spirit of unfairness. Let all students of Homoeopathy who 
have not yet found solid ground, understand that such argu¬ 
ment is specious and misleading to the last degree. That 
trituration and succession do develop potence , dynamis, or 
whatever one may choose to call it, is one of the most demon¬ 
strable of all God's laws. Consider Nat rum mur., Calcarea, 
Carbo veg., Carbo an.. Lac can., Silicea, etc. Will Dr. 
Gilbert undertake to say that potentization (as we use that 
term) does not develop dynamis in thesei remedies? If he 
does, then “ may God have mercy on his soul! " But if not, 
then he should acknowledge to the school that he was too 
hasty—he wrote without due consideration. 

The following experience will demonstrate the point I 

wish to score: Was called to see Georgie W-, aged ten. 

Four weeks previously was attacked with pneumonia of left 
lung. The case had been improperly treated, resolution of 
the lung tissue had not occurred, an abscess had formed 
in the apex, and Georgie was fast going the way of all the 
earth. He was greatly emaciated. 

Appetite poor; the least morsel of food caused gaseous 
distension and sense of fullness of the stomach. 

Always worse from 4 to 8 o'clock p. m. 

Raising large quantities of homogeneous, purulent sputa. 

Urinates with considerable pain and difficulty; red sand in 
urine. 

It was, indeed, a typical Lycopodium case. I gave that 
remedy 6x. I might as well have poured it down a rat hole. 
There was not the slightest response, though I gave it every 
three hours for three days. What would Dr. Gilbert have 
done at this juncture? Would he have gone lower? I 
unhesitatingly raise my ipse dixit and declare that he might 
have given Dr. McNutt's “ mother tincture,''' and “ given it 
strong," and have got nil for his pains. I did no such fool¬ 
ish thing, but ran the 6x up to the 15x, administered it, 
when presto! the change for the better was instantaneous! 
The stomach at once began to tolerate food, and a glorious 
recovery was the result. 

I will say here, parenthetically, that my reason for running 
the 6x up to the 15x was because this occurred away up in 
the Sierras in a little mining town ; the 6x was the only prep¬ 
aration I had. I would have used the 30x or higher, had it 
been obtainable. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Comment and Criticism . 


65 


If the 6x contained all the “potence” of the remedy, let 
Dr. Gilbert explain why I could get no response from it. 
Potentizing to the 15x brought out the power of the remedy 
grandly, and this potence was developed or generated, if you 
please, by attenuation alone. 

Gross skepticism is the curse of the medical, as well as of 
the religious world. Agnosticism is the correct thing now, 
and that which does not come within the range of our senses 
must go to the wall. No matter what the evidence to the 
contrary may be, you must believe that “high attenuation 
makes low potency.” Out upon such rot! It is contrary to 
the experience of the best medical men the world has ever 
seen. 

§ 128. The most recent experiments have taught that crude medic, 
inal substances, if taken by an experimenter for the purpose of ascer¬ 
taining their peculiar effects, will not disclose the same wealth of latent 
powers as when they are taken in a highly attenuated state, potentiated 
by means of trituration and succussion. Through this simple process 
the powers hidden and dormant, as it were, in the crude drug, are 
developed and called into activity in an incredible degree. In this way 
the medicinal powers, even of substances hitherto considered as inert, 
arc most effectually developed by administering to the experimenter 
daily from four to six of the finest pellets of the thirtieth potentiated 
attenuation of one of these substances.* * *— Bahnemann’8 Organon . 

“ In the first publication of the proving of natrum muriaticum (1880) 
Hahnemann tells us that the greater part at least of this proving was 
made with the thirtieth dilution, and he adds that 4 it is only in such 
highly petentized form that this and all other drugs display the whole 
of their power to alter the condition of the organism.* This was Hahne¬ 
mann’s conclusion after thirty years of active experience in drug prov¬ 
ing. **—Science of Therapeutics, p. 145 — Carroll Dunham. 

Further comment is unnecessary. Hahnemann plainly 
teaches that drugs are potentiated by attentuation. 

I do not propose to “out Hahnemann, the great Hahne¬ 
mann,” as the doctor seems to apprehend, nor would I place 
the slightest restriction upon perfect liberty of thought and 
action as to dose and its repetition, compatible with that 
which is revealed; but when palpable error presents its brazen 
front, like a head at a Donnybrook fair, it is there to be hit. 

S. E. Chapmak. 

Watsonville, Cal. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



66 


A Reply to Dr . Dudgeon. 


January 


A REPLY TO DR. DUDGEON. 

Editor Advance: In the August number of. the Homceo - 
pathic World, Dr. Dudgeon in a specious article, entitled 
“ How Hahnemann Cured,” evidently has settled to his own 
satisfaction the status of the Hahnemannians for good and all. 
According to this “ dictum ex cathedra ” they are not follow¬ 
ers of Hahnemann, they are not Hahnemannian; they are 
further from Hahnemann than the most eclectic of his so- 
called followers! 

The above dispensation has been received with such joy 
and greeted as a “final utterance” in regard to the matter, 
by some of the journals on this side of the water that they 
will probably consider any protest from a Hahnemannian as 
extremely foolhardy, yet in the face of such scorching criti¬ 
cism a protest must be made. There is no necessity for 
disagreeable names or personal vituperation, such things are 
neither logical nor convincing. 

Dr. Dudgeon makes the usual mistake of the users of low 
potencies in thinking that all Hahnemannians use the high 
potencies exclusively, and that they consider the use of the 
low potencies, per se, as unhomoeopathic. 

This is not so ; it is not a question of potency primarily, 
but a question first, of the strict observance of the homoeo¬ 
pathic law of cure, that constitutes the Hahnemannian 
whether he uses the 6th or the 6,000th. 

The two cases in the Materia Medica Pura are then 
paraded in full, and as usual are claimed to illustrate the 
efficacy of the tincture of Bryonia and the 12th potency of 
Pulsatilla, although Hahnemann states in the latest edition 
that the 30th would have effected an equally rapid and com¬ 
plete recovery, and that the giving of the tincture “ should not 
be imitated ” (italics mine), which prohibition Dr. D. unfor¬ 
tunately omits. 

Hahnemann’s chief reason in relating these cases was 
evidently to show the method of selecting the remedy, the 
remedy itself and the dose being of secondary importance. 

For as Hahnemann says : “ Now if it is wished to describe 

a complicated case of disease consisting of many symptoms, 
in such a circumstantial manner that the reasons that influence 
us in the choice of a remedy shall be clearly revealed (italics 
mine), this demands a multiplicity of details fatiguing at once 


Digitized by VjOOQ - 



1891 


8. A. Kimball . 


67 


for the describer and for the reader. In order, however, 
to comply tvith the desire of my friends in this also (italics 
mine) I may here detail two cases of homoeopathic cure of 
the most trivial character.” 

Then follow the cases. But it isthe method of selecting 
the remedy, the careful individualization of the case and 
the differentiating between the remedies that Hahnemann 
intended to emphasize, not the drug or the potency. How 
many users of the low potencies make a record of their 
cases? How many endeavor to carefully differentiate 
between the remedies or study as carefully the diagnosis 
of the remedy as they do the diagnosis of the disease? Because 
the Hahnemannians do endeavor to carefully study their 
cases; because they consider the selection of the remedy vastly 
more important than naming the disease, and because they 
make a careful record of the symptoms, they rightly claim 
their name as far as these things go, and any user of low 
potencies has the same right if they fulfill the conditions; 
but how many of them do? 

Dr. Dudgeon says: “And yet we see self-styled Hahne¬ 
mannians mainly guided in the selection of a remedy by some 
symptom got out of a repertory, presumably derived from 
clinical experience only, as it is not to be found in any patho¬ 
genesis of the drug.” 

He would give the impression that “ key-notes ” or char¬ 
acteristic symptoms are mainly derived ab usu in morbis , and 
that Hahnemannians are often solely guided in the selection of 
the remedy by some such symptom. Such isthe great excep¬ 
tion. Hahnemann certainly deprecates their use as the only 
guide to the selection of the remedy without study of the 
Materia Medica, and every Hahnemaunian should agree with 
him in that. 

These characteristic and peculiar symptoms so much valued 
by Hahnemann, should serve simply as indications for the 
study of the remedy in the Materia Medica, and it will be 
found, when the key-note has led to the study of a remedy 
which cures, that the other symptoms present in the case 
will be mainly found under that remedy. It must be so, or 
it would not cure. Dr. Dudgeon lays great stress upon the 
lack of uniformity in the different high potency prepara¬ 
tions, their being not succussed, etc. He will, no doubt, be 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


68 


A Reply to Dr. Dudgeon . 


January 


pleased to learn that Johnstone's potencies are made strictly 
according to the Hahnemannian scale, each potency is snc- 
cnssed a number of times, and if he desires to use them he 
can depend upon the accuracy of their preparation from the 
lowest potency to the hundred thousandth or higher. 

He says: “The ‘high potency' craze broke out among 
homoeopathists after the death of Hahnemann. Had it 
appeared during his lifetime I am sure it would have met 
with his disapproval, as it is diametrically opposed to all his 
teachings, and it is evident, from a comparison of the last 
, editions of the- Chronic Diseases —his latest work—with the 
first, that he inclined in his later years to give his medicines 
less, rather than more, highly diluted, and to recommend 
much more frequent repetition of the dose than be had 
previously thought advisable," and just before this he 
refers to the preface to the third volume of the Chronic 
Diseases , written in 1837, to shew that Hahnemann gave his 
doses more frequently. He might also have quoted the 
following from the same preface: “Hence the first dose of 
the new solution must receive either fifty or sixty shakes 
to make it even with the last dose of the former solution, 
and five or six additional shakes to raise its dynamic power 
one degree higher than that of the previous dose." (Italics 
. mine.) We are usually told that Hahnemann in his later 
years was in his dotage, that his mental powers were weak- 
* ened, so it is refreshing to have "his opinions at that time 
qnoted as authoritative even if they are misunderstood. 
Now, in regard to the assertion that Hahnemann “inclined 
in his later years to give his medicines less, rather than more, 
highly diluted," it may be well to quote from the preface to 
the last volume of the latest edition of the Chronic Diseases, 
dated Paris, December 19, 1838: “ By employing proper 
care in the preparation of our potencies even the fiftieth 
potency (modern wiseadres (sic) have even sneered at the 
thirtieth, substituting the crude substances for it, and thus 
depriving themselves of the means of doing all the good that 
our art is capable of accomplishing) becomes exceedingly 
powerful, so powerful that a pellet of that potency has fre¬ 
quently to be dissolved in a large quantity of water and has 
to be taken in very small doses by susceptible patients, lest 
the effect should be overwhelming; for, I repeat that in those 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. A. Kimball . 


69 


high potencies almost all the inmost powers of the medicinal 
substance are fully developed and set tree.” And again from 
Fincke's “Historical Argument” in his work “On High 
Potencies,” remembering that Hahnemann died July 2, 1843 : 

“ Finally we have the evidence given by Croserio in a let¬ 
ter to Bonninghausen dated July 28, 1844, and published in 
the Nsues Archiv , Vol. I, 2, p. 30. Croserio was, of the 
Parisian Homoeopathicians, the one most intimate with 
Hahnemann, visited him almost daily, and thus had the best 
opportunity of knowing how Hahnemann prescribed in his 
latter days. The following passages are to the purpose : 

* ‘Hahnemann always used only the well-know little gobules com- 
‘ ‘ monly moistened with the thirtieth dilution as well for acute as for 
44 chronic cases. Of these globules he had one, or at most two, dissolved 
4 ‘and well shaken in a caraffe, containing fifteen tablespoonfuls of 
* ‘ water and one-half or a whole tablespoonful of (French) brandy. Only 
44 one tablespoonf ul of the solution was put in a tumbler of water, and of 
tl this last , the patient took only by teaspoonfuls , that is to say, on the 
“ first day, one teaspoonful; on the second, two ; on the third, three, and 
“soon, daily one teaspoonful more, until he noticed effect. He then 
4 4 lessened the dose or ordered to cease taking medicine entirely. In other 
4 4 cases he ordered a teaspoonful of the first tumbler to be poured into a 
44 second tumbler of water ; in others again, from this second, a spoonful 
“into a third, and so on to a sixth tumbler, only one teaspoonful to be 
44 taken from the last tumbler, when he had to deal with very excitable per - 
44 sons. Only in rare cases he allowed a table or a teaspoonful of the 
“ first solution in eight to fifteen tablespoonfuls of water to be taken 
44 once a day # * * In the last years of his practice, Hahnemann 
44 appears to have applied his whole dexterity to lessening the doses more 
44 and more. Hence, in the last years he made a very frequent use of 
44 olfaction. For this purpose he put one or two globules in a small vial, 
44 containing two drachms of alcohol, diluted with an equal quantity of 
4 ‘water, and let them smell only once or twice by each nostril , NEVER 
44 OFTENER. In this way my own wife was cured by him, of a violent 
44 pleurisy, within five hours. In chronic diseases, happen what might, 
44 he never let them smell oftener than once a week , and give nothing 
44 besides for internal use, except mere sugar of milk, and in this manner 
“he affected the most admirable cures , even in such cases where all 
44 others had been unable to accomplish anything. * * * I can give you 
44 the assurance he was most fully convinced that in no case it is neces- 
44 sary, even not of use to give the medicine in drops, and that, from day 
44 to day more, he satisfied himself of the noxiousness of LARGER doses” 

Then there is the testimony of Bonninghausen, whose fidel¬ 
ity to the law of Homoeopathy no one can question, and whose 
ability to distinguish good results from bad none can deny. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



70 


A Reply to Dr. Dudgeon. 


January 


As a presciber he is not excelled. In the preface to his 
“Pocketbook,” he says: 

“ Several practical physicians of the highest order have ascertained 
by a number of the most careful experiments, that the high dynamiza- 
tions, such as 300, 400, 800, so far from being inefficacious, not only con¬ 
tinue to act with sufficient power to cure every kind of disease, but that 
the power of the medicine generally, and the number of their character¬ 
istic symptoms, are developed in a more perfect manner by the high dy- 
namizations, and that very often a disease is cured with high dynamiza- 
tions which had been attacked in vain with the lower potencies of the 
same remedy. Convinced of the truth * of this most important dis¬ 
covery, I have used these high dynamizations for two years past, and I 
am so entirely satisfied with the results, that during the last year I have 
scarcely used any other preparations; since then, my practice, which has 
always been a successful one, has become still more so, and all those 
who have taken my advice are enthusiastic in their approbation of this 
progress.” 

Croserio shows that Hahnemann, in his later years, used 
more highly dynamized remedies, rather than less, and had 
Hahnemann lived, he would undoubtedly have used as high 
dynamizations as BOnninghausen did, who, as he says, in 
note 123 to paragraph 235 of the Organon , “has done more 
in behalf of our salutary art than any other of my disciples." 
Hahnemann changed his views frequently in regard to repe¬ 
titions of the dose, and constantly experimented to obtain the 
best results, but he never changed his method of selecting 
the remedy in strict accordance with the law of similars. 
How many of the users of the low potencies follow him in 
this? Dr. Dudgeon's long drawn-out explanations about the 
preparation of the high potencies differing from Hahne¬ 
mann's methods are of small importance as compared to the 
adherence to the homoeopathic law of cure. The use of the 
high potencies is pot at variance with Hahnemann's teachings; 
on the contrary, it is in perfect accord with them as they 
have been developed by experience. 

Hahnemann did not discover the law of similars but de¬ 
veloped it. He did, however, originate the dynamization of 
drugs, as he says in the preface to the last volume of the last edi¬ 
tion of the Cftromc Diseases , written December 19,1838: “ I 
have been the first to discover and promulgate this awakening 
of the latent dynamic properties of medicinal drugs which is 
affected either by the process of trituration or succussion. It 
is therefore improper to apply the term “dilution" to a dyna- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S.~ A. Kimball. 


71 


mized drag, although every new potency of a drug has to be 
mixed either with alcohol or sugar of milk, to enable us to 
carry on those processes still further, and to set free the very 
inmost power of the drug, which could not be done by sim¬ 
ply triturating, or shaking the original substance, were we 
to do it for ever so long a period.” 

The use of the dynamized drug, according to the law of 
similars, constitutes the art of Homoeopathy and it is purely 
Hahnemannian to improve that art. 

The use of the high potencies is strictly in accordance 
with advancing the art of Homoeopathy in the footsteps of 
Hahnemann and their use has increased its curative sphere 
immensely since Hahnemann's time, as BOnninghausen testi¬ 
fies, but success can only follow their intelligent use like the: 
application of any other art. 

So far from it being absurd for the users of the high po¬ 
tencies to call themselves Hahnemannians, they do so with 
perfect propriety if those potencies are used in accordance 
with the law. 

The absurdity consists in those users of the law poten¬ 
cies, who do not believe in the law of Homoeopathy, 
regarding it as a rule to be used with other rules, 
styling themselves Homceopathists. The st lucu8 a non lucendo 
principle” was never more clearly demonstrated than in this. 
Hahnemannians endeavor to practice Homoeopathy in its 
purity as a law of cure, uniform and constant, not as a rule to 
be used with other rules. Does not Dr. Dudgeon imply in his 
“ modifications suggested by experience and reflection ” that 
he does not regard similia similibus as a law, but as a rule? 
It is, then, the hollowest casuistry for him to assert that the 
Hahnemannians, who endeavor to improve the methods of the 
law, have gone farther astray from Hahnemann, than they who 
forsake the law to which he devoted his life in developing and 
sustaining, and which is the foundation of the practice of 
Homoeopathy. 

It must be emphasized that the right to the title of Hahn¬ 
emannian is not primarily a question of low potency or 
high potency, but depends first upon a strict adherence to the 
law of cure. Do Dr. Dudgeon and his admirers adhere to it? 

There is nothing in the Declaration of Principles of the 
International Hahnemannian Association that would exclude 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


72 


A Reply to Dr . Dudgeon. 


January 


the user of the low potencies. It demands a belief in the 
law of similars, which includes the totality of the symptoms as 
the only basis for the selection of the remedy, the use of the 
single remedy in its potentiated form in its minimum dose, 
and the minimum dose means the one necessary to cure in the 
opinion of the prescriber. Any user of the low potencies 
would be gladly welcomed, provided he uses them strictly in 
accordance with the homoeopathic law. Dr. Dudgeon entirely 
misses the spirit and aims of the Habnemannians. A user of 
the low potencies may be a striot Hahnemannian, and the 
use of the high potencies does not alone make one. The 
strict adherence to the law makes the Hahnemannian, and 
shall they who forsake the law be esteemed nearer to Hahne¬ 
mann than they who endeavor to improve its methods? If 
all were agreed as to adherence to the law, the potency ques¬ 
tion would settle itself. How many users of the low poten¬ 
cies are strictly homoeopathic in their practice? Singularly 
enough, those who are, usually find that more satisfactory 
results are obtained from the higher potencies, necessarily so 
if they are used intelligently, and it is not a question of theory 
with them but one of fact. Singularly, too, we find that some 
«of the very few who have forsaken the high potencies for the 
low are now advising us to wash out the urethra with corro¬ 
sive sublimate for gonorrhoea; facilis descensus! 

The solicitude expressed by some users of the low poten¬ 
cies, for fear that Hahnemann’s methods of observing the 
law are altered in any way by the Hahnemannians, is 
extremely touching. Do they adhere strictly to his methods 
or to the law by which they profess to practice? There can 
be no question but that the use of the low potencies has a 
tendency to incline those who use them to other methods, to 
lower their homoeopathic standard, and to cause them to fol¬ 
low more closely after the “golden calf ”of “scientific medi¬ 
cine.” Is it not because the most satisfactory results do not 
follow the use of the low potencies, and, instead of becom¬ 
ing more homoeopathic, they become more “ scientific ” ? 
Before forsaking Homoeopathy they should at least test the 
higher potencies, and test them intelligently. It is this non- 
observance of the law that brings discredit and reproach upon 
Homoeopathy; that makes it a laughing stock for allopathists; 
but even they are beginning to understand what is Homoeopa- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. A . Kimball 


73 


thy and what is not. It is this departure from the law that 
fills our homoeopathic hospitals and dispensaries with the 
odorous perfumes of iodoform and carbolic acid. Are they 
who do these things near to Hahnemann? Dr. Dudgeon says: 
“ Those of us who practice Hahnemann's system, with mod¬ 
ifications suggested by experience and reflection, which we 
imagine, perhaps mistakenly^ to be improvements, do not 
announce ourselves as Hahnemannian's or bestow on those 
who differ from us uncomplimentary epithets." But they 
are known as, and claim to be, Homoeopathists. 

Is it homoeopathic to use two or three remedies in alterna¬ 
tion? 

Is it homoeopathic to use morphine and other palliatives in 
physiological doses for pain? 

Is it homoeopathic to suppress malaria with quinine? 

Is it homoeopathic to suppress gonorrhoea with injections 
of bi-chloride of mercury? 

Yet all these things are done by leading men of those who 
use the low potencies and call themselves Homoeopathists. Are 
they near to Hahnemann? 

Dr. Dudgeon recommends to the Hahnemannians a course 
of reading of the Organon y the Materia Medica Pura and 
the Chronic Diseases . I would recommend to him a careful 
study of the same works, with especial reference to the para¬ 
graphs which refer to those who think it necessary to use 
other methods, in addition to the homoeopathic law, and see 
with what regard and esteem Hahnemann considered them, 
and how near to him he thought them to be. The following 
note (101) to paragraph 149 of the Organon is a sample. 

“ But this often very laborious search and selection of a homoeopathic 
remedy adapted in every respect to the morbid condition in band, is a 
business demanding the study of the original sources, and much careful 
circumspection, as well as serious reflection, notwithstanding the exist¬ 
ence of many praiseworthy books intended to facilitate the burdens of 
an office which finds its highest reward alone in the consciousness of 
having faithfully fulfilled a duty. How can this laborious, careful 
occupation, which alone furnishes the possibility of accomplishing the 
best cures of diseases, be expected to suit the convenience of the mem¬ 
bers of a new mongrel sect, who boast with the honorable title of 
homoeopathist, and who, for the sake of appearance, make prescriptions 
in the form and character of homoeopathic medicines, merely snatched 
up (quidquid in buccarn venit) at haphazard, and who, if the inaccur¬ 
ately chosen remedy does not bring immediate relief, do not throw the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



74 


A Reply to Dr. Dudgeon. 


January 


blame upon their inexcusable indolence and carelessness in transacting 
the most important and serious affairs of mankind, but who saddle the 
fault upon homoeopathy (italics mine), accusing it of great imperfections 
(perhaps because it does not supply them with the proper homoeopathic 
remedy for every morbid condition without any trouble on their part, 
after the manner of certain fabulous pigeons that flew, ready roasted, 
into an open mouth?), but like smart people, they do not allow their 
want of success, occasioned by their scarcely half-homoeopathic reme¬ 
dies, to trouble them; they resort at once to their more familiar allo¬ 
pathic hobbies, among which a dozen or so of leeches, applied to the 
painful part, or a little innocent blood-letting of about eight ounces, 
etc., serves to make a very favorable appearance; and, if the patient 
recovers, in spite of all this, they praise their blood-letting, leeches, etc., 
saying that without these, the patient could not have been saved; and 
they try to have it distinctly understood that these operations, derived, 
withput much deliberation, from the pernicious routine of the old 
school, have actually been most conclusive to the successful cure. But 
if the patient dies, as is often the case, they quiet the sorrows of the 
mourning relatives, by reminding them “that they had witnessed them¬ 
selves that everything possible had been done for the now departed 
patient.” Who would honor this careless and pernicious class with the 
name of homoeopathic physicians after the laborious and salutory art? 
May their just reward await them, that, if ever sick, they may be cured 
after their own fashion! ” S. A. Kimball. 

Boston, Mass., November, 1890. 


TEREBINTHINA. 

Editor Advance: While visiting Dr. L. B. Hawley, of 
this city, we unintentionally made an olfactory proving of 
Terebinthina. It happened in this wise: The doctor had his 
office painted yesterday, the paint being composed of white 
lead and turpentine, and last evening the odor of turpentine 
was very marked in the office, where the doctor has a folding 
bed in which we slept. This morning in urinating both of 
us noticed the odor of violets. 

Dr. Hawley had mentioned the fact of his having noticed 
the symptom at the time of the painting of a back room, and 
wondered if it would be repeated at this time. 

This symptom being noted under Terebinthina by Cow- 
perthwaite, we thought a verification of it might prove of inter¬ 
est, hence this communication. 

We would be pleased to learn your opinion of the foregoing 
facts. 0. S. Bamber. 

Rochester, N. Y. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Comment and Criticism , 


75 


HAHNEMANN’S METHOD. 

The following extract from a private letter of the late Dr. 
Ad. Lippe will be read with pleasure, showing as it does 
Hahnemann's mode of applying the law, as demonstrated by 
this great prescribes 

My Dear Dr.: Thanks for your letter of the 24th inst., which I 
received to-day. As to the single dose: It has always appeared to me 
to be correct to begin the treatment of certainly all acute diseases with 
one single dose ; and why should we conclude a priori that that single 
dose was not sufficient ? The dose should certainly never be repeated 
till its effects are exhausted—that we all admit. Now, I administer the 
single dose of the similar remedy, from the very moment that this dose 
enters the sick organism its effects begin to develop themselves ; if we 
then, after a lapse of time, administer another dose we are not certain of 
a salutary effect, nay, this second dose finding the organism at work to 
assimilate and utilize for curative purposes the first dose becomes 
unnecessarily disturbed in its actions. That is the naked theory. Again 
Hahnemann so very frequently speaks of the curative effect of this first 
single dose that we may as well try to follow his advice, and the experi¬ 
ment confirms the correctness of the observations of the greatest of all 
observing healers. The same may be said of chronic diseases; and I am 
sure we have hardly a conception of the long action of the highly poten- 
tised drugs. Only to-day I met a legal gentleman whom I had not seen 
for nine months. He received treatment for a month only and did not 
think he was recovering fast enough—he had a nervous twitching of the 
left arm, etc. I had given him one dose of Curare cm. (Fk) and he 
gradually but slowly improved. To-day he said: “ I intended as you 
know to go to a manipulator (magnetism) but I have since improved 
daily and have therefore allowed Nature to continue tbe cure.” I can 
not always cure an acute disease with a single remedy. We often meet 
with combinations and have to meet them. Here is an illustration: 
An old patient, a lady, came some seventeen days ago with great 
hoarseness, sudden weakness of chest prevented loud or continued talk¬ 
ing, etc. One dose of Stannum relieved her much and she was recover¬ 
ing when she went out to the country to dine with a friend; cold, damp, 
day; came home and was tired ; a call came; she wished to avoid talking, 
left the caller to the rest of the family and went into an extension of the 
library where there was no fire; there she sat with closed doors, feeling 
herself becoming colder all the time. The caller remained an hour ana 
she retired at once after 10 p. m. At 6 a. m. she awoke with a chill; at 
10 a. m. I found her suffering from pneumonia. Here wan a complica¬ 
tion sure. In the mixed up case I had to change the remedy often, at 
least every forty-ei^ht hours, gave never more than one dose, and while 
after the pneumonia gave away she had gout in her feet, and all sorts 
of ugly symptoms. She will be up and about in a fortnight. Now, if 
this same patient had been in her usual health when she escaped and 
locked herself up a prisoner in the library extension, I would have felt 
very mean if I had not cured her with the single dose. Formerly, say 
from forty-five till fifty-five, I used only Jenichen’s preparations ana they 
are good yet. Since then I have almost exclusively used Fincke’s. as I 
know him to be very careful, first in procuring the crude material and 
then in potentising. Yours very truly, Ad. Lippk. 

Philadelphia, January 27,1882. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



76 


Editorial. 


January 


Mmf. 

"When we here to do with an art whose end Is the saving of human 111b, any 
neglect to make ourselves thorough masters of It becomes a crime.”—H ahnbcanv. 

Koch’s Isopathy. In 1883, after a cessation of ten years, 
Asiatic cholera once more hovered over the confines of East¬ 
ern Europe. It first made its appearance in Damietta, whence 
it spread rapidly over Egypt. The German Government sent 
out a medical commission to investigate the disease upon the 
spot, and placed Koch, the bacteriologist, at its head. But 
before they had time to arrive at any definite conclusion, the 
disease abated in virulence and gradually disappeared. Koch 
obtained leave to follow it to India, where it is endemic, and 
pursue his investigations at its source. Here he claimed to 
have isolated and demonstrated the comma bacillus as the 
cause, and announced the discovery of its antidote, which 
was to eradicate the scourge. But, when applied in the sub¬ 
sequent epidemic at Marseilles, it met with signal failure; in 
fact the results were disastrous. Koch’s comma bacillus 
was found by the English cholera commission sent to India 
at the same time for the same purpose, to be a putrefactive 
germ, because they could not find it present in those dying 
of cholera, if examined immediately after death. Koch had 
found the effect —the pathological product—not the cause of 
cholera. 

♦ * * 

Now, for the past few months the medical profession 
(allopathic) is agog, over another wonderful discovery (?) by 
Koch. Our old friend Tuberculinum, rejected by the homeo¬ 
pathic profession because it has not been proven on the healthy, 
is discovered by Koch and is being proven on the sick. Our 
preparation, potentized and introduced by Dr. Swan, is the 
virus of the disease, prepared from the tubercular sputum; 
Koch’s remedy is the same virus artificially obtained in an 
incubator from the bacilli culture of beef jelly, with the addi¬ 
tion of the muriate of gold, because the allopath can never use 
any remedy singly. As soon as our remedy is thoroughly 
proven we will know how to successfully apply it in the treat¬ 
ment of patients suffering from tuberculosis, and like Arsenic, 
Phosphorus, Psorinum, Sulphur, etc., it will cure the patients 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


77 


for whose symptoms it is the simillimum. Dr. Koch and his 
friends will continue to treat tuberculosis , as they treat all 
other diseases , irrespective of the individuality of their 
patients, and will utterly fail as they did in Asiatic cholera. 
As followers of Hahnemann we can afford to smile at the new 
“fad v and pity the futile efforts of our scientific (?) 
brethren. 

* * * 

The result of these crude experiments on the sick can only 
be disastrous, not only to the unfortunate on whom they are 
made, but to the professional reputation of the discoverer. 
From the date of the reception of “the returns,” Koch's sun 
which has already reached its zenith will begin to decline. 
Here is one of the first dispatches: 

Professor Virchow delivered a lecture before the Berlin Medical 
Society giving the results of twenty-one post mortem examinations made 
on bodies of patients who had died after being treated with lymph 
according to the method employed by Professor Koch. These exami¬ 
nations had extended from the time the remedy had been first employed 
up to the end of December. Professor Virchow declared that the injec¬ 
tion of the lymph increases the bacilli in the body and causes them to 
migrate to portions of the body previously unaffected, thus virtually 
generating a new affection. The Professor also said that the lymph 
invariably causes intense hypersemia in various parts of the body, and 
endangers the life of the patient. It had not been clearly proved that 
the lymph would destroy tuberculous tissue, and it was dangerous to 
operate on weak patients. He declared that much patient experiment¬ 
ing with the lymph was still necessary to establish a clear judgment of 
the value of the new remedy. 

Read Dr. Fincke's admirable criticism on another page of 
this issue. 


Qtttn (puBftcaftons* 

The Century. —The first installment of the selections from Talley¬ 
rand's long expected Memoirs’is the most striking feature of the January 
‘number. A sketch of Talleyrand by Minister Whitelaw Reid prcfacas 
this installment. The opening pages tell us of Talleyrand’^ neglected 
childhood, and his entry into Parisian society. They also give his views 
of La Fayette, and the effect of the American on the French Revolution; 
some account of the beginnings of the latter; a very contemptuous 
opinion of the Duke of Orleans; a sketch of the author’s stay in Eng¬ 
land and the United States, and a highly interesting conversation 
between himself and Alexander Hamilton on Free Trade and Protection. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



78 


New PuMications. 


January 


Scribner’s Magazine for January opens the fifth year and ninth 
volume of a periodical, which from its first issue was a popular success, 
and which has continued to grow rapidly in public favor. Its pro¬ 
spectus for 1891 contains the names of a number of contributors who 
are unrivaled in their special fields—men like Henry M. Stanley, James 
Bryce, Sir Edwin Arnold and others. 

Mr. Stanley’s paper on “ The Pigmies of the Great African Forest ” 
is his first compact and complete presentation of all that he learned 
about these strange dwarfs throughout the many months of his journey 
across Africa. He writes of them as one fascinated with their cunning 
and general intelligence, their docility when properly treated, and their 
aptitude in all ways for the things which civilized man has considered 
peculiarly his own. The life of these nomads in their Liliputian 
villages, their methods of hunting and fighting, and their habits and 
customs generally are explained in detail by Mr. Stanley, and illus¬ 
trated from pictures based on photographs made by the expedition. 

The North American Review for January opens the 152d volume 
of a periodical in which public interest does not diminish with its increas¬ 
ing age. Although venerable in years, it is fresh and timely in its con¬ 
tents. The present number furnishes another illustration of this well 
known fact. The two uppermost questions in the world to-day are 
doubtless the Indian question in this country and the Irish question in 
Great Britain. Both of these find adequate treatment in its pages. Gen¬ 
eral Miles, an expert of the very highest authority, deals with the future 
of the Indian problem, and reiterates the views expressed in this maga¬ 
zine thirteen years ago. The distinguished historian, W. E. H. Lecky, 
writes of “Ireland in the Light of History.” Mr. Lecky’sopinion of 
the unfitness of the Irish people for self-government is presented in this 
article with admirable clearness and force. 

The Atlantic. “ The fancy took me to go to Noto,” says Mr. 
Percival Lowell, in his paper on “Noto: An Unexplored Comer of 
Japan; ” and where Noto is, and how he went there, is the subject of the 
opening article in the January Atlantic, and is to be the subject of 
several articles which are to follow. Mr. Lowell always writes cleverly, 
and his account of his journey is the freshest and most vivid travel 
sketch that has appeared for some time. He was accompanied on his 
wanderings by a certain Yejiro. who acted as servant and courier. Mr. 
Lowell says that “ besides cooking excellently well, he made paper plum 
blossoms beautifully, and once constructed a string telephone out of his* 
own head. I mention these samples of his accomplishments to show 
that he was no mere dabbler in pots and pans.” 

The January St. Nicholas —the second of the holiday numbers of 
this magazine—Charles Dudley Warner calls up thousands of its readers 
to hear “A Talk About Reading,” which is delivered with all the 
earnestness of a true humorist when talking of graver matters. This, 
with a description of the Pratt Institute, makes an interesting number. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editor’s Table . 


79 


Popular Science.— The story of American iron-making is continued 
in the January number, with an account of the introduction of Iron 
mills and puddling-furnaces. Like the first of the series, it is by Mr. 
Durfee, and is liberally illustrated. Dr. Andrew D. White has one of 
his vigorous “Warfare of Science” chapters in this issue, entitled 
“From Babel to Comparative Philology," in which the origin of the 
tower legend is given, and the history of the belief that Hebrew was the 
original language is traced. Prof. Huxley writes on The Aryan Ques¬ 
tion and Prehistoric Man, attacking the idea that the forefathers of the 
people of Europe and India must have been one race, because they 
spoke one language. 

Jennesb-Miller. Among the January numbers of monthly publi¬ 
cations, the current issue of this popular magazine is perhaps the most 
attractive to women. It is really a holiday number, rendered handsome 
and artistic by many elaborate illustrations. The subjects, nearly 
twenty in number, are of a very high standard, and many novelties are 
presented. 


Cbtfor 6 Ca6fe+ 

For the unpardonable delay in the issue of the last numbers of the 
Advance, especially the December number, we herewith apologize. It 
was not the fault of editor or publisher. The only reason we can give 
is that “ large bodies move slowly." 

Chapman's Cases, in the November issue, appear to have been “ too 
heavy " for many of our readers, if we may judge by the small number 
of correct prescriptions received. However, a goodly number appear to 
have taken an interest in the matter, and the names of those who “hit 
the bull’s eye " will be published as soon as all the returns are in. 

A Course op Lectures for Nurses. —The physicians of the 
Hahnemann Hospital, Rochester, are maturing arrangements to give a 
course of lectures for the nurses connected with the institution. Topics 
have been selected and assigned as follows: “ Homoeopathy, What it is, 
and What it is not," Dr. J. A. Biegler; “General Qualifications and 
Duties of a Nurse," Dr. Johnson, of Pittsford; * ‘ Physiological Anatomy," 
Dr. R. C. Grant; “Obstetrics," Dr. J. G. Schmitt; “ General Outlines of 
Anatomy," Dr. Brownell; “Temperature, Respiration and Pulse," Dr. 
A. C. Hermance; “Toxicology, Accidents," Dr. V. A. Hoard; “Minor 
Surgery, Bandaging and Anaesthetics," Dr. A. J. Norman; Gynae¬ 
cology," Dr. A. B. Carr; “Hygiene,” Dr. R. C. Grant. 

H. A. Mumaw, M. D., of Detroit, will issue a World’s Directory of 
Homoeopathic Physicians and Reference Handbook early in January, 
1891. In addition to the names of Homoeopathic physicians it will con¬ 
tain a complete list, so far as obtainable, of colleges, societies, periodicals, 
etc. For particulars, subscriptions, etc., address the publisher at 
Detroit. 


Digitized by v* DOQle 



80 


Editor's Tails. 


January 


Illinois State Society will hold its thirty-sixth annual session at 
Springfield on May 12, 13 and 14,1891. It is expected that a large 
number of valuable papers will be presented. 

Dualopathy, Dualopath, Dualopathic, are terms suggested by 
Dr. W. A. Yingling, of Nonchalanta, Kansas, for ‘ ‘ mongrel ” and 
“ mongrelism ”—for those who use two or more remedies in alternation 
or mixture. 

Dr. G. G. Clifford has been elected County Physician at San 
Antonio, Texas. “ The change in physicians from the allopathic to the 
homeopathic schools was the subject of some comment. It seems, how¬ 
ever, that the statutes recognize each school and the vote for Dr. Clifford 
stood 4 to 1.” 

Medical and Surgical Institute, of Minneapolis, is the title of a 
new institution—a private hospital. On the staff are Drs. Lawrence, 
Stone, Higbee, Myers, Tobey, Griswold, Leavitt, Slrickler. 

Philadelphia Post Graduate School. Two years ago Dr. Kent 
inaugurated a post graduate course of lectures on Materia Medica and 
the Organon. The success which attended his individual effort in pro¬ 
mulgating a practical knowledge of the Philosophy of Homeopathy, has 
culminated in the founding of a Post Graduate College which has been 
duly incorporated. 

The following is the Board of Directors : John Pitcairn, Esq., presi¬ 
dent ; W. A. D. Pierce, M. D., vice-president; W. H. A. Fitz, M. D., 
secretary ; Milton Powel, M. D., treasurer; T. P. Matthews, Esq.; R. B. 
Johnson, M. D. ; A. G. Allan, M. D.; W. F. Kaercher, M. D.; Franklin 
Powel, M. D.; Robert Farley, M. D.; J. T. Kent, M. D. 

Fatuity: Prof. J. T. Kent, M. D., Materia Medica and Philosophy ; 
Prof. W. A. D. Pierce, M. D., Clinical Medicine; Prof. A. G. Allan, 
M. D., Diseases of Eye and Ear; Prof. Franklin Powel, M. D., Thera¬ 
peutics of Surgery; W. H. A. Fitz, M. D., lecturer on Tokology ; Jennie 
Medley, M. D., Lecturer on Gynecology; Jean I. Mackay, M. D.; lecturer 
on Paedology; J. T. Kent, M. D., Dean; Milton Powel, M. D. Regis¬ 
trar. 

Arrangements are being perfected for the opening of the first regu¬ 
lar session, March 1, 1891. For particulars address the Registrar. 

This fills a long felt want in our profession—a college in which 
Homeopathy pure and simple will be taught and its teachings illustrated 
in practice by the various chairs. For instance, where the doctor may 
see the worst forms of iritis cured without the local use of Atropine or 
other topical application. Where all displacements of the uterus will 
be cured by the similar remedy only. 

Fee for the opening course, $50; three months; three lectures per 
day. 

The Homeopathic Medical Society, of Kansas, will meet at Kansas 
City, Kansas, on the first Wednesday in May, 1891. Sec. D. P. Cook is 
out with his notice to members in time to secure good work. Don't 
disappoint him. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



THE 


Medical Advance. 

A HOMEOPATHIC M4GAZINE. 


Vol. XXVI. February, 1891. No. 2. 


SARCOMA OF GREAT SIZE IN AN INFANT—CURED 
WITHOUT LOCAL OR SURGICAL TREATMENT 

The days of miracles are not quite ended, as the present 
case will prove ; at the same time let me observe that I con¬ 
sider the word miracle to be a misnomer. When any deed or 
action is said to be miraculous or a miracle, it is simply so by 
reason of the ignorance of the observer, a materialist, who 
prefers to discredit the evidence of his own senses rather 
than believe in any laws higher than those of matter or such 
laws as are recognized by so called science and scientists. 
Hence, the ignorant call a deed or action which their ignor¬ 
ance can not explain a miracle , and the proud and ignorant 
savant denies miracles altogether, because by his limited 
knowledge of the laws of nature and his complete ignor¬ 
ance of the higher or spiritual laws of the universe, he can 
not explain “ how it is done ” 

The case which I am now about to describe has, by many, 
been looked upon as “a miracle,” simply because they do not 
know how the cure has been effected. Yea! there are 
homoeopathic physicians who can not comprehend how the 
cure was effected, simply because they know next to nothing 
of the vast power which lies hid behind the veil of 
Similia Similibus Curantur aud of the dynamization of 
medicines to infinitesimality. The cure of this case was 
effected by the higher law of therapeutics, which is only 
revealed to him or her who honestly, lovingly and with one 
eye to the truth, “ proves all things and holds fast by that 
which is good.” They who do so will find there is no mira¬ 
cle, and it will be revealed to them that “ knowledge is 


Digitized by LjOOQle 







82 


Sarcoma . 


February 


power,” and a higher knowledge is a higher power. One 
popular homoeopathic physician in England has written and 
spoken of a higher and lower-homoeopathy, yet, strange to 
say, although it is some years since he wrote, he continues 
to practice the lower form. He is a teacher in Israel, but 
does not believe in “ Excelsior!” 

On the 6th of November, 1889, a child was brought to me by 
its parents, a distance of nearly seventy miles. The child was 
then six months old. When it was born it was observed that 
it had a small tumor or growth of a sarcomatous consistence 
about the size of one’s thumb nail, and slightly livid. The 
site was to the left of the spine, a little below the last rib. 
It took on a very rapid growth, and when I saw the child for 
the first time at six months, the tumor had assumed immense 
dimensions, covering the whole of the loins, four and a half 
by about six inches in diameter—that is, about the size of an 
ordinary small cheese plate. The surface was discolored a 
deep crimson or purple, limited to the integument over the 
tumor—very much resembling aneurism by anastomosis. I 
was informed that at one time the entire back was ecchymosed 
even round to the left groin, when the tumor was very pain¬ 
ful when touched or pressed. The tumor admits of being 
handled now, but only gently. 

I should reckon the middle of the growth to be at least 
two and a half inches thick and firm, hard and fleshy, of 
the consistency of sarcoma. The family physicians, two of 
them, declared they could do nothing. The opinion of a 
first class consulting surgeon in London was taken, and he 
gave it as his opinion that from the size of the tumor, the 
rapidity of its growth, and the age and delicate state of the 
child’s health, the knife, the cautery or the seton, could not 
be used with any prospect of success, without the greatest 
danger to the life of the child. He wisely advised attending 
simply to the general health of the child. 

The tumor was the chief symptom I was expected to 
remove, but there were other symptoms complicating the case 
very considerably—some of them the result of the previous 
allopathic treatment—namely, obstinate constipation and 
sleeplessness, caused probably by the brandy and narcotics 
administered to induce sleep and remove debility, which only 
served to confirm both conditions—pepsin, to aid digestion. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Thomas Skinner. 


83 


which ended in weakening it, as usual; add to this that the 
unfortunate infant was suffering from the most virulent form 
of eczema,or, as the mother termed it, “a succession of fiery 
eruptions” all over its body, driving it frantic and requiring 
its little hands to be kept constantly enveloped in mittens to 
prevent it from tearing its skin—and we have a picture of 
infantile misery of several months' duration, without hope 
of Amendment, except from Homoeopathy, pure and simple. 

Inasmuch as the child's worst hour was 5 p. m., or betweeu 
4:30 and 5 p. m., when it became fretful, peevish, pale and 
bluish about the mouth, relieved only by brandy (the latter, 
and all allopathic measures being stopped), I gave it one dose 
of Lycopodium cm. (F. C.), to be taken at bedtime, which 
was followed by no good effect. 

On November 8, 1889, I learned that the eruption of itch¬ 
ing vesicles Was concentrated behind the left ear, with swell¬ 
ing of the left parotid gland, on learning which I prescribed 
Graphites 30 m. (F. C.). On December 51 was informed that 
the child was less drowsy. Eczema aureum the same, as also 
the enlarged left parotid gland, though less painful to touch 
or pressure. In general, the child was better of himself 
since the parotid began to swell. The tumor on back the 
same, paler and redder by turns. I learned by letter that 
the mother had had three dead children before and soon after 
birth, which, in my estimation, pointed to constitutional 
syphilis on the mother’s side. As an abscess was threaten¬ 
ing, I gave one dose of Mercurius vivus, 50m. (F. C.), which 
was attended with good results in every way, and the abscess 
opened of its own accord on the 11th December. At this 
time, as the child's urine smelled strongly ammoniacal, I gave 
it Nitric acidlm., night and morning, up to the 20th 
December, when I was informed by letter that the abscess 
was nearly closed, but there appeared a copious sweat of the 
head when asleep. He got Silicea 50 m. (F. C.), at bedtime. 
Tumor lessening and discoloration also less ; abscess healed. 

January 6, 1890.—Eczema of ears and face worse and 
extremely irritable, for which I gave one dose of Melitagri- 
numfiOm. (F. C.). N. B.—This is a nosode of my own crea-- 
tion, which is the lymph and blood from the worse case of 
infantile eczema I have ever witnessed. It acted “like 
magic,” as the saying goes, and I heard no more of the case 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



84 


Sarcoma. 


February 


until February 6, 1890, when there was a return of “ the 
fiery eruptions,” for which Graphites 30 m. (F. C.), was pre- 
scribed, and seven doses of Sac. lac., one every night, but 
it had no effect, or so slight that the mother begged for 
“ something stronger.” 

On February 12, I sent one dose of Melitagrinum 60 m. 
(F. C.) which again acted “like magic.” All this time the 
tumor was slowly but steadily being absorbed (watched daily 
by the family allopathic physician, and to his great amaze¬ 
ment). On February 22, as all was going smoothly, and 
being certain that syphilis had some say as a morbid factor, 
I gave the child one dose of Luesinum cm. (F. C.) All went 
well until March 22, when the mother wrote to the effect that 
“the tumor on baby's back is growing distinctly smaller, but 
he has had a very bad night from the reappearance of these 
spots; the back of his neck is one mass of inflammation, as 
they have all run into one another.” On March 23, he got 
Melitagrinum cm. (F. C.) one dose, which aborted “the fiery 
spots ” in twenty-four hours. 

It now entered into my mind that possibly “compulsory 
vaccination ” “ had a finger in the pie.” I wrote to that 
effect to the mother, and the following is her reply: 

March 24, 1890. 

Dear Dr. Skinner: I have no hesitation in saying that 
these spots have dated from baby's vaccination, which took 
place when he was two months and three weeks old. Both of 
the allopathic doctors said at the beginning that the spots 
were owing to the vaccination, and they said that they con¬ 
stantly saw cases of the same kind in babies, but could do 
very little to relieve them. They rarely saw them as bad as 
baby's were, and of course only expected them to last a few 
weeks after the vaccination had taken place. It appears to 
me that the intervals between their appearance get longer, 
this last being six weeks, the one before five, and the one 
before less than a month.” 

On the head of this confirmation of my diagnosis of the 
fons et origo malt, I sent Thuja 20 m. (F. 0.) one dose, and 
Melitagrinum cm. (F. 0.) seven powders, with the following 
Directions: Give baby No. 1 (Thuja 20 m.) dry on the 
tongue, and let it have a start of at least twenty-four or forty- 
eight hours before giving one dose of No. 2. (Melitas cm.). 
After that, give one dose of No. 2 at the first of every fresh 
eruption. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Cases from Practice . 


85 


On June 1, 1890, I received a letter from the grandmother 
of the child, stating that she “had been to see the little dar¬ 
ling, and that she had found it, to her great astonishment 
and delight, a rosy infant, the very picture of health.” 

On June 8, 1890, I had to pay a visit to a patient in the 
neighborhood of the residence of the family, and I made a 
request to see the child, and the nurse brought the child for 
my inspection. I found the tumor, the Sarcoma, entirely 
absorbed, and all that was left was a slight thickening and 
stiffness of the skin—the back where the tumor was was as 
flat as a pancake—without any surgical or local interference 
of any kind. Further, the nurse (who was opposed to the 
idea of Homoeopathy being of the slightest use) informed me 
that the complete disappearance of the discoloration and the 
more rapid absorption of the tumor dates fully two months 
back—that is when the Thuja 20 m. (F. C.) was given; 
further, that the powders for the eruptions, if given at the 
first appearance, aborts the inflammation at once, and only 
two powders have been given since the seven were sent on 
April 30, 1890. 

So much for allopathy, surgery and compulsory vaccination. 
The sooner they are extinct, so far as therapeutics are con¬ 
cerned, the better. Thomas Skinner. 

London, England. 


CASES FROM PRACTICE. 

MELANCHOLY : SULPHUR. 

A young lady, scarcely grown, has for a long time suffered 
from melancholy and depression, a feeling as if she is going 
to die. She is dizzy and faint on rising in the morning, and 
has occasional obscuration of sight, when objects appear both 
dim and crooked, and it seems as if her eyes are not in their 
proper place. Besides, she has a bad taste in the mouth, 
weakness at the stomach and eructations if she takes coffee, 
and constipation for which she has taken Aloe. The menses 
occur four or five days'too soon, but are otherwise natural. 
She is sleepy by day, more so in the afternoon, but sleeps 
well at night. She is easily chilled and takes cold easily. 
To get the feet the least damp makes the forehead feel heavy, 
the eyes feel strange, and gives them a hollow look. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



86 


Cases from Practice . 


February 


She received one dose of Sulphur cm. (F. C.). Six 
months later her father, visiting me for himself, told me she 
recovered both from the melancholy and the bodily ailments 
soon after taking the medicine, and that she had remained 
well to that time. I have every reason to think she has had 
no return of the symptoms. 

intermittent: sepia. 

A middle aged single lady, living near swampy ground, has 
chilliness in the afternoon with coldness of the nose. She 
wakens at 3 a. m., with heat and throbbing in the abdomen, 
followed with perspiration of the feet and of the palms. Sev¬ 
eral other members of the family have had intermittents in 
former years. Sepia cm. (F), one dose dry, and subse¬ 
quently repeated in water, cured her. 

PR0LAP8E OF RECTUM, BACKACHE, INTERMITTENT URINE: 

RUTA, CONIUM. 

An old gentleman had prolapse of the rectum 'preceding 
very difficult stool . Ruta 900 (F), one dose, entirely relieved 
him of this difficulty. On another occasion the same gentle¬ 
man complained of a dribbling, intermittent flow while uri¬ 
nating. He received one dose of Conium 900 (F), and said it 
fully relieved him. Of Ruta I would like to add that in the 
early stage of a malignant disease of kidney and bladder, it 
relieved for a considerable time the pain in the back, and 
was given because the pain in the back was > by lying on 
the back. This condition has been verified as a trustworthy 
indication for the use of Ruta in many other cases. 

CHRONIC COUGH: AMMONIUM MUR. 

A gentleman wrote me from California that he had suffered 
there for several years with bronchitis and cough with afeeling 
of coldness between the scapulae. I sent him Amm. Mur. 20 
m. (F), ten powders, to be taken at intervals. In about 
three months, he wrote to say he was so much better he 
thought he did not need more medicine. 

I always examine Amm. Mur. in crises of cough, with cold - 
ness between scapulas or shoulders. It has nearly always been 
found suitable and helpful. 

UTERINE BEARING DOWN: BELLADONNA. 

An aged lady complained of a sense of fulness and much 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Rheumatic Fever: Cina. 


87 


bearing down in the lower abdomen, < in lying down and 
relieved by sitting up. Belladonna 50 m. (F. C.) relieved her 
in a short time. 

HEART COLDNESS AND TREMBLING: NATRUM MURIATICUM. 

An aged lady had a sense of coldness at the precordia, and 
of trembling of the heart. Natrum Mur. 900 (F), one dose, 
removed both these symptoms. 

cough: kali carbonicum. 

A boy of eleven years has grown very fast. He gets an 
ulcerated sore throat from slight exposure, and has often had 
a cough. A brother died before this patient was born, from 
scrofulous swellings, following scarlatina, under the treat¬ 
ment of an eclectic homoeopath. He now has a severe cough 
day and night with vomiting of food. The cough is worse 
about 3 to 4 o’clock in the morning. He sweats easily. The 
pulse is 114; temperature 101 to 102. There is sharp bron¬ 
chial respiration in the upper part of the right lung, heard 
posteriorly. Loss of appetite and of flesh as well. He has 
been under the care of the same eclectic homoeopath. 

He received one dose of Kali carbonicum cm. (F) graft. 
At the end of three weeks the pulse and temperature were 
normal, and the cough almost wholly removed. 

Edward Rushmore. 

Pli AINITOLD, N. J. 


RHEUMATIC FEVER: CINA. 

Roy James, aet 6 years. Was called to see him June 3d, 
and found him burning hot in profuse sweat; ankles and 
knees much swollen ; hot, spotted red, tender to the touch ; 
patient dreading least motion; thirst, with eager drinking, 
no stool or desire for several days. Bryonia. 

June 4.—Seemed to be slightly better. Sac. lac. 

June 5.—Hip joints, wrists, elbows, shoulders and neck 
involved; head drawn to right side; profuse, hot perspiration; 
joints swollen and very tender; dread of motion and touch, 
the latter seeming due to excessive irritability; hates to be 
even looked at, and yet wants to be amused by his mother all 
the time, and will only rest when so nursed ; nose dry, pro¬ 
ducing whistling breathing ; white line around mouth and 


* 


Digitized by 


Google 



88 


High Potencies—Morbid Growths . February 


from nostrils to angles of month; tongue covered with a 
brown fur, probably a chronic condition, as boy has a dirty 
skin and is illy nourished. Gina 30, in water, at three hour 
intervals. 

June 6.—Decided improvement; slept well during night. 
Sac. lac. 

June 7.—Boy up, dressed, playing carefully about room. 
Sac. lac. 

June 9.—Boy well, playing ball. 

Robert Farley. 

Phcehixtill*, Pa. 


HIGH POTENCIES—MORBID GROWTHS. 

January 13th, 1887.—Examined M. R., aged 13. He has 
a history of several of his father’s people having died of 
cancer ; and his father shows some signs of it. His moth¬ 
er’s family are scrofulous—at least some of them. 

His father’s mother died of cancer of the breast. 

He is good sized, light complexioned, blue eyed and sandy 
haired. 

He had ague when small, and the doctor said that he had 
“flesh consumption” (Marasmus, I suppose). 

He made a good recovery from scarlet fever, and last fall 
he had diphtheria, under allopathic treatment, which con¬ 
sisted largely of swabbing the throat with something. 

Ever since he began to wear boots his feet would sweat so 
as to become tender, and the perspiration is very offensive. 

His tonsils are enlarged, and his breath is offensive. 

He sleeps on his right side, as he does not dream so much 
in that position. 

In summer he gets up a good deal in his sleep ; his father 
is also a somnambulist. 

There is a bright red spot on the top of the nose near the 
end, of long standing. 

When out feeding the stock last fall, he noticed that the- 
left breast was sore to pressure, and the right one got sore 
about three weeks ago. 

Around the nipple, about the size of a quarter of a dollar, 
it looked purple, swollen and raised considerably, with prom¬ 
inent veins, and had something of the appearance of a rose 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


E. W, Sawyer . 


89 


cancer, before the skin breaks. Last night they ached when 
he was coming home from church. Gave one dose of Silicea 
45m. (Fincke's), and placebo. 

January 29th.—I see no difference in the breasts, except 
that the right one is a trifle larger. He says that he sees no 
difference in them. He is blue under the eyes. One dose of 
Thuja 45m. (Fincke), and placebo. 

February 13th.—There is no difference except that the nip¬ 
ples are larger. It hurts the breasts just the same when he 
presses on them. He has no catarrh this winter. Graphites 
cm. (Fincke), one powder, and placebo. 

March 7th.—Left breast is not quite so sore ; but they look 
the same as they did, and hurt more sometimes than others. 
Larynx hurts some this week on swallowing. One dose of 
Psorinum 200, and placebo, to be followed in two weeks with 
a dose of Psorinum cm. (Fincke), if no better. 

April 24th.—He took the Psorinum cm. The left breast 
seems bo be well so far as I can discover. The right breast is, 
if any difference, larger, but not quite so blue. Both are 
slightly tender to pressure. They vary in size at different 
times, I discover. The right breast was reduced almost to 
natural size, and then it raised again. The red spot on the 
nose is much paler. The left side of the chin is rough and 
chafed. 

He talks in his sleep occasionally, and feet are still too 
fragrant. Natrum sulph. 1,600 (Jenichen) and placebo. 

May 18th.—The left breast is about right, but the right 
one is growing, though they are not so sore to pressure. There 
is some tickling in the right ear once in a while. He swal¬ 
lowed a small coiled brass spring once, and he says that he 
notices when he eructates, once in a while, it tastes brassy. 
His eyes are a little weak. He tears around in his sleep and 
talks some. Foot sweat same, but don't smell so bad. Bad 
breath in the morning. One dose of Hepar sulph. 45m. 
(Fincke), and placebo. 

July 7th.—Left breast is all right, and the right one looks 
nearly so, their being a slight enlargement, and still slightly 
sensitive to pressure. All right in ether ways. Placebo. 

August 2d.—Eruption across the forehead, feeling hot, 
subjectively, and slight eruption below the left eye. Consid¬ 
erable pain in the spleen when walking or riding. Still 




Digitized by 


Google 



90 


High Potencies—Morbid Growths . February 


flounces about and cries out in his sleep. Left breast well, 
right one nearly so. Placebo. 

August 31st.—Breasts are beginning to enlarge a little and 
turn purple again, and there is a fine itching eruption, inter¬ 
scapular, feeling like nettles. One dose of Silicea 45m. 
(Fincke), and placebo. 

October 29th.—Has been having hiccough all the time for 
a week when at work, and when he hiccoughs a while, feels 
sore all over ; thinks eating ameliorates the hiccough. Has 
a pain in the liver, or just below it when he rides. One dose 
of Silicea, 45m. (Fincke), placebo, and one powder of Thuja 
cm. (Fincke), to be taken in a month if not getting along 
right, and he took it. 

December 24th.—No more sign of the tumors in the 
breasts, but considerable hiccough at times yet, but does not 
hurt much. Bed spot on the nose is gone. He is growing 
rapidly. His feet do not smell quite right yet. 

One dose of Silicea cm. (Fincke). 

He needed no more medicine. Cured. 

The 26th of last July W. B., a bright, well built boy, of 
nervous temperament, ten years of age, came to my office for 
treatment. He had a history of being a weak baby, having 
had tonsilitis three years previously under allopathic treat¬ 
ment and a year previously was vaccinated. At present his 
tonsils are enormously enlarged and he has eczema on the back 
of the head that has taken the hair off in small places, which 
has been there about three weeks, and he is a little croupy 
about the middle of the night. I gave him one dose of Sul¬ 
phur cm. and placebo. 

Aug. 17.—He reports the tonsils smaller, no new eruption, 
and that the spots where the eruption had taken the hair off 
were “dandruffy.” He got one dose of Lycopodium cm. 
(Fincke), and placebo. 

Sept. 19.—Tonsils look better and no more trouble with 
them. The spots on the head where the eruption had been 
are a little rough to feel yet, and he sweats some on uncov- 
red parts. Gave him placebo. 

October 20th.—The tonsils are too large yet, and the left one 
stems to have a little exudation on it and they are darkish 
red. Where the eruption was on the scalp it is some rough 
and the feet sweat too much yet. (Have just discovered that 


Digitized by VjOdyie 



1891 


A Hahnemannian Cure . 


91 


he was subject to excessive foot sweat). He takes a little cold 
and still coughs some at times. Gave him one dose of 
Kali hyd, 1 jn. (Jenichen) and placebo. I also gave him one 
powder of Lycopodium cm. and one of Lachesis cm. (both 
Fincke) to be given if he should have right or left sided ton- 
silitis. Two weeks ago the father wrote me that he is well 
but neglects to state whether he had been obliged to use the 
last two remedies or not, E. W. Sawyer. 

Kokomo, Ind. 


A HAHNEMANNIAN CURE. 

The following series of cases is designed to demonstrate 
the superior results which follow a strict adherence to the 
rules of Homoeopathy, as taught by Hahnemann; viz.: 

(1) The most similar remedy, selected according to the sym- 
toms of the patient, and not according to pathological theories. 

(2) The single remedy,not a mixture or alternation of medi¬ 
cines. 

(3) The minimum dose of the dynamized drug, not crude 
drugs, or unnecessarily repeated doses. As a result of nearly 
thirty years' practical investigation of Homoeopathy, I unhesi¬ 
tatingly declare that I have never once found Hahne¬ 
mann's practical teachings to be erroneous. 

Case I.— Phosphorus. 1885, April 15th. Mr. B-, aged 

55, consulted me for the following symptoms. In 1856 he 
had typhoid fever, treated allopathically. Ever since then, 
if he lies on his left side he has desire for stool; and if he 
persists a loose stool is the result. A few weeks ago he was 
in Boston, where he caught cold during cold weather. He 
has a dry hacking cough on entering the cold air; the cough 
shakes him. At first there was yellow sweet expectoration, 
but no sputa now. When on board ship returning to 
England, had much sweat on head, and the cough was worse 
when lying on back, better when lying on right side. Feels 
weak. 

His history is as follows: Never was a strong boy. His 
father was a healthy man, and died at age of 70; his mother 
died at age of 49 from overwork. Has had five sisters, who 
have had good health, but one died from the acute effects of 
catching cold. In 1865 patient had rheumatic fever, from 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



92 


A Haknemannian Cure . 


February 


which he made a good recovery under Homoeopathy.' Iu 1884 
had gastric fever, treated by a local homoeopath. He first 
consulted me on May 18, 1884, for dyspepsia, which was 
relieved by Carbo veg. cm. (F. 0.); at this time he made no 
mention of the “thirty years' war" which this troublesome 
intestinal symptom had waged in his organism. 

Diagnosis of remedy. —Taking the most peculiar symptom, 
not as by itself an infallible and exclusive keynote, but as a 
valuable guide to the totality of the symptoms, I found in 
Bell's Bepertory of Diarrhoea, “Aggravation from lying on 
left side, Am. Phosph." Of these two remedies, a reference 
to Lee's Cough Bepertory showed that Phosph. had all the 
cough symptoms, except the amelioration from lying on right 
side (it has aggravation from lying on right or left side); 
whereas Arnica has only the dry, hacking and shaking cough. 
A further reference to the Materia Medica showed that 
Phosph. also corresponded to the sweat on head and the 
weakness. 

I prescribed Phosphorus cm. (F. C.) every four hours for 
eight days. 

April 29th.—Has had no medicine for about a week. Is 
much better; cough almost gone; much less weakness; lie can 
now lie , and even sleep , on left side , without the stool symp¬ 
toms being excited . 

1886, Feb. 11th.—Has had no more of the abnormal desire 
for stool till some weeks ago, when it returned and has per¬ 
sisted. He also complains of rather sharp frontal headache, 
commencing on waking; with the headache, the mouth fills 
with saliva. 

Diagnosis of remedy .—“ Flow of saliva with headache " 
belongs to Epiphegus (viscid saliva), Hippomanes, Indium, 
Kal bichr., Opium, Phosph., Sepia. As the same remedy was 
again indicated, I prescribed Phosphorus cm. (F. C.) twice 
daily for eight days. 

March 30th.—Beports that the headache ceased soon after 
leaving my house. The stool symptom also ceased before he 
had finished the medicine, and when I next saw him, May 
8th, it had not returned. 

From this time he remained fairly well till March 21, 
1889, when he consulted me for a general breakdown from 
overwork, business worries, and heavy pecuniary losses. The 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


E. W. Berridge. 


93 


desire for stool when lying on left side had lately returned at 
times, but never so badly as formerly. His stools were now 
thin in diameter and very long (they had been so for some 
years), soft but difficult to pass, had to squeeze and press 
abdomen and loins to assist the evacuation. He also had 
other symptoms of dyspepsia, which, not being characteristic 
of any one remedy, need not be detailed. I prescribed one 
dose of Phosph. mm. (Fincke) a still higher potency than the 
former. This remedy speedily removed the unnatural urging 
to stool, and the evacuations became more consistent, better 
formed and less difficult to pass. His other dyspeptic symp¬ 
toms also improved. Whether the Phosphorus would have 
completely cured these other symptoms I am unable to say, 
as a change in his condition necessitated a prescription of 
Nux vomica; and later he required Arsenicum for an attack 
of the influenza epidemic. 

Comments. —(1) The efficacy of Hahnemannian treatment 
is clearly demonstrated in this case, where a troublesome 
symptom which had lasted about thirty years after the un¬ 
scientific treatment of typhoid fever, evidently showing some 
serious lesion of the intestinal canal, was rapidly cured by a 
few doses of the simillimum in a high potency; not returning 
for about three years, and then only under the unfavorable 
condition of a breakdown of health from overwork and 
worry, and again quickly cured. 

(2) The value of clinical symptoms is also proved. In 
the Encyclopedia I am unable to find the characteristic 
symptom of this case, either under Arnica or Phosphorus; 
neither is the equally characteristic symptom of Phosph., 
“ stool narrow, dry, long, difficult to expel, very like a dog's 
stool," to be found therein. They are, at present, merely 
clinical symptoms. Such symptoms are often absolutely 
indispensable to fill up the gaps in our Materia Medica, till 
further provings produce them as pathogenetic symptoms. 
But it is necessary that they be used with caution. It does 
not follow because a symptom disappears under the action of 
a remedy, that it has been cured by the direct homoeopathic 
action thereof. It is conceivable that a remedy may, without 
being homoeopathic to all the symptoms of the case, be so 
far homoeopathic as to remove a large number of them under 
the law of Similars; and that then, the chain of symptoms 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



94 


Coccus Cacti in Whooping Cough . February 


being broken, a few remaining links may drop off spontane¬ 
ously, the organism being now sufficiently relieved for the 
vis medicatrix natures to complete the work. Hence clin¬ 
ical, far more than pathogenetic, symptoms require frequent 
verifications, under diverse circumstances, before they can be 
safely resorted to as guides in the selection of thesimillimum. 

(3) The uselessness of the pathology, as a guide in the 
selection of the most similar remedy , is also evidenced by this 
case. What pathologist could declare with certainty the 
exact nature of the intestinal lesion which must have existed 
in this patient? And if he could, how could he distinguish 
pathologically the difference between Arnica and Phosph., 
which have both cured this symptom? The true “ method of 
Hahnemann ” is that of the selection of the remedy by 
symptom similarity; and to accomplish this satisfactorily, we 
must habitually use the Repertory and the Materia Medica, 
consulting them in the presence of our patients, and, if need 
be, questioning them from the symptoms recorded therein. 
Our Materia Medica is too vast to be carried in the head of 
any of us, even were he a BOnninghausen, a Hering, or a 
Wilson. Fortunately for the rising generation of homoeo¬ 
pathic physicians, their work in this direction is being 
greatly simplified by the publication of Lee’s Repertory of 
Characteristics,which is without exception the best in arrange¬ 
ment and execution that I—have ever seen in any language. 

E. W. Berridge. 

London, England. 


COCCUS CACTI IN WHOOPING COUGH. 

The object of this paper is to call special attention to 
Coccus cacti as a remedy for whooping cough in particular and 
other coughs in general. Being the pioneer of Homoeopa¬ 
thy in this section of the State of Ohio—a section in which 
the people had been taught that little or nothing could be 
done for whooping cough. Soon after locating here whooping 
cough came ; a few cases treated homoeopathically with marked 
success created quite a stir among the people, so that nearly 
all cases sought the new treatment and afforded good and 
frequent opportunity to study the disease. There has been 
more or less whooping cough either in the village or surround¬ 
ing country since 1876, and most cases “ came to this mill.” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Nathan Cash . 


95 


It is needless to go into the history of whooping cough. 

Of its nature I wish to say that I regard it as essentially of 
an inflammatory character, and I feel justified in this view 
after a protracted study of its characteristics. Observations 
of the beginning of whooping cough show the following symp¬ 
toms in infants as well as adults. A single light cough or 
hack, caused by a tickling irritation one to three inches 
below the larynx, and with each little cough there is a small 
quantity of mucus loosened and detached and in most cases, 
even in the adults, is swallowed. At the first these little 
coughs will occur from three to five minutes apart. 

Most people attribute the cough to a cold and will likely 
apply for medicine for a cold, but if you can discover on the 
patient those peculiar hacks, or short cough3, you will save 
the patient trouble by giving Coccus cacti. The act of 
swallowing will occur after each cough. This condition may 
last a whole week, but more likely three to five days, when 
one more little cough will be added to the spell and the swal¬ 
lowing occur after the two, not between them, because there 
is no perceptible interval between them or at least there is no 
rest between them. Some of the same mucus will be 
detached, as a result of the coughing and swallowed. The 
mucus at first is not colored in the least nor is it stringy, 
until in the second week; the viscid character Of the mucus is 
a gradual process, just as the cough increases in severity and 
the inflammation extends over the mucous membrane. 
Scarcely before the end of the second week is the fourth or 
fifth cough added to the paroxysm. As the disease progresses 
there are more coughs, and each cough becomes more power¬ 
ful, until the lungs are exhausted of air ; with each cough 
the mucus is propelled forward, but the effort to inspire drives 
it backward until some of it hangs over into the oesophagus, 
irritates the epiglottis and strangulation eusues. The whoop 
occurs at the very moment the glottis opens to admit air 
into the lungs, after the spasmodic closure in convulsive 
efforts to allay the irritation by expelling the mucus. 

The spasmodic character increases as the irritation ap¬ 
proaches the glottis. 

The expectoration becomes tougher as the disease pro¬ 
gresses. Seldom is the mucus changed from the transparent, 
before the third week. The paroxysms of cough are, as a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



96 


Coccus Cacti in Whooping Cough . February 


rule, worse at night after the first week; up to this time 
some may sleep all right but cough considerable when wak¬ 
ing. 

As near as I can determine, the period of incubation is 
fourteen days, but some may run twenty-five days. I can not 
say that any case came under my observation in which the 
expectoration was not stringy and tough, until it became 
purulent; but never before the latter end of the second week. 
It is more likely to become so in the third week. 

Coccus cacti has all of the characteristic symptoms of a 
fully developed case of whooping cough, but you will find all 
of the earlier symptoms as well and may be given with con¬ 
fidence; not only in whooping cough, but in many coughs in 
which the larynx, trachea and bronchia are involved. 

As a curative in the conditions named it is very satisfac¬ 
tory for, without exaggeration, I have treated as many as five 
hundred cases, with not more than two deaths, in the last 
thirteen years. 

As a preventive. Coccus cacti may be given with as much 
confidence for whooping cough as Belladonna for scarlet fever, 
which every Hahnemannian has proved to be a preventive. 

When I give Coccus cacti as a preventive, I give four pow¬ 
ders with medicated pellets in, one to be taken dry on retir¬ 
ing every third day. 

When given as a curative, I give two powders of the remedy, 
one to be dissolved in a third of a glass of fresh water, giving 
one teaspoonful every three or four hours until used, if 
awake; Sac. lac. to follow. 

In ten or twelve days, or when improvement ceases, I 
direct the second powder given like the first. If but little 
cough remains I give the second powder dry, and repeat Sac. 
lac. If given at the beginning one powder in solution is 
sufficient. Occasionally a repetition of the prescription is 
necessary, but the great majority get but one. Very sel¬ 
dom are there any sequelae or anything more than a slight 
sensitiveness of the larynx to colds for a week or two. 

A word as to potency. I have tested and used the 30th, 
60th, 100th, 200th, 500th, lm, 50m. and cm, beginning with 
the 30th. As I obtained the higher potencies I prescribed 
them. I find the higher potencies are quicker in their 
action and without aggravation, while the lower will some¬ 
times produce aggravation. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


More of Sanicujfl . 


97 


I know there are other remedies useful, yes even necessary, 
in the treatment of whooping cough, but until there is a change 
in the characteristics of whooping cough or some peculiar 
constitution demands some other special remedy, few reme¬ 
dies will be needed besides Coccus cacti. 

If treatment begins with the disease or first week, six days 
will do; if in the second week ten days; but in nearly all 
cases will improvement show in three days, and it is usually 
progressive. 

As for treatment you may ignore first, second and third 
stages. 

In the first stage give Coccus cacti. In the second stage 
give Coccus cacti. In the third stage give Coccus cacti, and 
report the failures, if directions above are followed. 

I wish to say a few words to those who may think I am too 
exclusive in the choice of remedial means for whooping cough. 
Just refer to Hering’s Guiding Symptoms or Allen’s Cyclo¬ 
pedia. Occasion has placed it in my course of observation, 
and experience has done the rest. I trust this paper may help 
others to be successful in treating this formerly troublesome 
and often very dangerous affection. Nathan Cash. 

Urichsville, Ohio. 


MORE OF SANICULA. 

Some one has said, “ You may have too much of even a 
good thing.” Now, while this may be true in the main, yet I 
do not think it true of such “a good thing” as the Sanicula 
mineral spring water. Therefore, I will give a little more 
clinical verification of it; somewhat different from any pub¬ 
lished heretofore. 

Case I.—Mrs. K-— came to the office for medicine; said 
she felt sure she was going to have an attack of fever. She 
felt sad and despondent on account of this. Had some fever 
the night before, with headache, yet no thirst. Mouth dry 
and tongue coated, with bad breath; inside of lips and cheeks 
many little aphthous ulcers; no appetite; bowels constipated; 
tired, numb, lame feeling in all her limbs; feels chilly and 
wants to warm, yet the head feels better in the open air. 

All of the above symptoms are characteristic of Sanicula. 
I gave her the 10m. every three hours, until better. Ten 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



98 


A Few Confirmed Symptoms. February 

days later she returned with a lady friend. On asking her 
how she felt, her reply was, “I am all right, but my friend 
wants some medicine.” 

Case II.—Mr. C-applied for some medicine for his 

mouth, the roof of which felt as if scalded, «< by taking 
anything warm in the mouth, especially hot drink. Had 
been that way for two days. Strange to say, he had no 
other symptoms that I could find. Smokers often have this 
condition of the mouth, but he did not smoke, nor* had he 
burnt the mouth with anything hot. I remembered the con¬ 
dition of my own mouth during my proving, and gave him 
Sanicula 10 m., a few powders. This did the work at once. 

While on the mouth question I will give another: 

Case III.—My horse, Dan, had not been feeling as well as 
usual, would not eat, bowels constipated, stools dark and 
scant. Seemed tired, did not want to go; would rub his tail 
at every opportunity, and had rubbed nearly all the hair off. 
I spoke to a veterinary surgeon about him, and he told me 
my horse had the lampers, and I would find his gums swollen 
and sore; that I would have to scarify his gums, tailing me 
what .to give him internally first. I found the gums as the 
doctor told me. His mouth was slimy and his tongue 
coated, but instead of scarifying I gave him Sanicula 10 m., 
a powder three times a day. In a few days he was all right. 
So you see there are some good things we can’t get too much 
of. Professor Kent used to tell us that Fenugreek was good 
for a horse. So is Sanicula when indicated. 

J. G. Gundlach. 

Walla Walla, Wash. 


A FEW CONFIRMED SYMPTOMS. 

Case 1 . —February 25, 1884, was called to see Mrs.-; 

patient 34 years of age, married, mother of four children; 
weight in health, 150 pounds; present weight about 50 
pounds. 

I found her propped up in bed, gasping for breath, with 
partially open mouth groaning at every inspiration. Had 
a chill every morning, at 8:30 a. m., continued two and a 
half hours, followed by high fever, lasting four hours. Pulse 
130 to 140, temperature 104 to 106. Fever succeeded by a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



99 


1891 J. R. Haynes . 

drenching perspiration which stained her linen, and was of a 
sour, musty odor. 

Before chill, great thirst, which continued till close of 
chill, but upon drinking water was immediately rejected by 
stomach, with violent retching. 

Cold, clammy perspiration, profuse upon uncovered parts. 

Chill was accompanied by severe, dull, aching pains, all 
over the body, worse in the long bones, head and spine; 
great soreness of the muscular system. 

Cough aggravated during chill. Decreased after chill; 
great restlessness. 

Patient desires to be well covered, exposure •< symptoms. 
Well defined hectic flush. Sleep difficult on account of per¬ 
sistent cough. 

Severe griping, twisting pains in abdomen, accompanied 
by black, watery diarrhoea, putrid, great tenesmus before 
and after stool, variable in regard to number. 

Skin and conjunctiva jaundiced. Bed sore covered the 
sacrum which discharged pus of musty smell. 

Violent cough, apparently loose; expectoration, grayish 
yellow, putrid. 

Tuberculous (?) matter present. 

Prognosis! Death in forty-eight hours. 

The family insisted that I should attend the case, and if 
possible mitigate her distress. She had been under the care 
of an allopathic doctor who had exhausted the Materia Med- 
ica on her. (Lord deliver us from their clutches!) I gave her 
Nux 25m. to antidote such treatment, and to gain time to 
study the case, it being impossible to distinguish real from 
drug symptoms. Left her 10 hours, then began a more 
thorough examination of her case; continued it at intervals 
for three days. After that lapse of time, being still undecided, 
I became disgusted and wished to surrender the case. Being 
desired to continue, I gave a dose of Drosera 25 m. to dis¬ 
lodge mucus from fauces. No results. After seven days 
decided to give Hepar, one powder 25 m. and waited results. 
Slight improvement in three days. Allowed remedy to act 
for thirty days, then case became stationary. Another dose 
of Hepar 5 m. caused improvement to commence, cure com¬ 
pleted in three and a half months. 

Patient has remained in health up to present time. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



100 A Few Confirmed Symptoms . February 

To say that I was completely disappointed is patting it 
very mildly. 

ANOTHER DISAPPOINTMENT. 

Case II.—I was called to see Ernest on the 9th of March, 
1890. I found a case that had for a number of days been 
in the hands of an allopath, and dosed with Quinine without 
stint, as well as Antipyrine. He was about 19 years of age, 
of lymphatic temperament, would weigh about one hundred 
and sixty pounds; light hair and blue eyes; he had been 
away to school, and came home on account of the recent 
attack of what they called the grippe, and sore throat. Found 
a very severe case of diptheria; the tonsils very much swol¬ 
len, and covered with a black, putrid ulceration. The breath 
very offensive, the whole membrane of the mouth of a dark 
red, the ulcer edges were perfectly black, and swallowing 
very difficult; the mouth and nares filled with a sticky, thick 
mucus. Seemed very much prostrated, pulse small and very 
rapid, 160. I gave a dose of Merc, cyan., 10m. 

The next morning there was not so much putrescence, and 
the mucus seemed to have cleared up in the throat and nares. 
Pulse 120, and seemed to be improving very rapidly. Was 
left on Sac. lac. for the day. At the evening call I found 
him in a drenching perspiration and feeling very much pros¬ 
trated ; still, the ulceration had improved, and I believed he 
would get well. He was left on Sac. lac. What was my 
utter astonishment to receive word in the morning that he 
had died about half-past two o'clock that morning. I must 
say that it gave me a slight setback. 

I did not see the case after, so I could not tell the cause of 
the failure. I have since learned that they filled him with 
sour wine, which I had previously forbidden. 

Case III.—Miss K-, eighteen years of age, light 

complexion, rather spare in flesh, a little extra tall, had been 
in the hands of several allopathists for dysmenorrhea, who had 
dosed her with everything they could conceive of without the 
least benefit. 

They had informed her and the family that nothing could 
be done for her but an operation; what the operation was to 
be I do not know. I found her propped up in bed, with a 
rubber bottle of hot water pressed against the lower abdo¬ 
men, crying and screaming so that the neighbors could hear 



Digitized by VjOOQle 




1891 


J, R. Haynes . 


101 


her for half a square; when the paroxysms of pain would 
come on she would press the hot water bottle against the 
lower abdomen with great force. The pains were the most 
severe just before the flow commenced, and, as nearly as I 
could get at the symptoms, were in the fundus of the uterus. 
There was no complaint,of any pain in either of the ovaries. 
These pains had been complained of at every menstruation 
for about two years, and would cause her to remain in bed 
nearly two weeks at every period. 

After looking the case over with some care, I threw away 
the water bottle, covered her up in bed, gave one dose of 
Pulsatilla 20m. dry on the tongue; and sat down to await 
developments. 

In less than half an hour she was asleep, and had no 
further trouble during that period. 

Just before her next period I gave her another. For sev¬ 
eral months they have called at her menstrual time and 
received Sac. lac., which for about two years has given 
relief, and she has not been compelled to go to bed # since, 
during her menstrual periods. 

Case IY.—Mr. C -, aged about 40 years, is large, rather 

portly, would weigh about one hundred and sixty-five pounds. 
Had been subject to attacks of sick headaches all his life. 

They would last for nearly a week. He was rather a 
lymphatic temperament, at the same time he was active in 
his movements, of light complexion, and very muscular and 
strong. 

I found four men trying to hold him in bed, and he was 
throwing himself about so that he would carry them all with 
him ; was groaning and seemed to be in great agony. 

My first act was to discharge the attendants and to call for 
plenty of clothing to cover him warmly, which was done. I 
made what inquiry I could among the family for the symp¬ 
toms of the case. The family told me that he had been in 
that condition for some five hours. These headaches would 
commence at the root of the nose and expand gradually over 
the whole head. They would become very intense as they 
reached the base of the brain, and cause semi-deliriousness. 
The emesis was severe, with a heavy retching; the contents 
of the stomach would come up rather easily at first, but as 
it continued the retching became more severe. By the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


102 


Clinical Notes. 


February 


straining to vomit, all the symptoms were *<; a large quan¬ 
tity of gas would accumulate in the abdomen, the pulse was 
but slightly elevated, very little thirst, but a continual moan¬ 
ing and groaning, as if in great pain; at the same time 
nothing could be got out of him. 

I gave him a dose of Cimicifuga, 10cm. dry on the tongue, 
and sat down to await developments. 

In a very short time he began to get quiet, and in less than 
half an hour he was asleep. I left Sac. lac. to be given in 
water, when he should wake, and went home. The next day 
my patient was on the street. 

He did not have another attack for two months, when 
another dose of Cimicifuga relieved him without going to bed. 

These attacks continued at longer intervals, and finally 
ceased altogether. He has not had one for the past two 
years. J. R. Haynes. 

Indianapolis, Ind. 


CLINICAL NOTES. 

FELA ARANEA (SPIDER’S WEB), ARANEA PELUDA. 

Case I.—Mrs. B , age forty-two, has chronic endometri¬ 
tis. Health otherwise not much impaired. Had received reme¬ 
dies indicated for uterine trouble, getting relief therefrom. 
Had been without for some time; came for medicine, complain¬ 
ing of sleeplessness the greater part of the night—afraid her 
old troubles would come back. She had some palpitation. I 
gave Fela cm., one dose, in the evening before going to bed; 
she slept well, palpitation gone; uterine symptoms also dis¬ 
appeared. 

Case II.—Mrs. W-, seven months pregnant; much per¬ 

spiration, especially at night; this occurs with her when ill, 
as after confinement. She is corpulent and has a weak 
heart, and not a good sleeper. A few doses of Fela cm. 
relieved her sweating, and she slept well. 

After her confinement the same symptom appeared again. 
Both the sweat and sleeplessness were pleasantly controlled 
The sweating in this patient had been helped with Calcarea 
200, formerly, but at this time was of no use. 

Leading symptoms so far observed: uterine irritation with 


Digiti * y Google 



1891 


W. H. Leonard . 


103 


heart sympathy, profuse night sweats, sleeplessness. Pro¬ 
fuse sweats after miasmatic fever; excellent. 

VIPERIA ACONTICA CARINATA. 

Of use in climacteric haemorrhages, flow red with dark clots, 
excessive flowing to prostration and faintness. There exists 
a small fibroid in uterus. A few doses of the remedy 
changed matters for the better, and the excessive haemorrhages 
did not return. 

Same remedy in case of a lady nursing child one year old; 
much prostrated from flowing for several weeks, not pro¬ 
fusely but continuously; nearly every day nosebleed; wean¬ 
ing brought no relief. A prescription of China 200 did no 
good. Gave Vipera cm.; three doses cured. 

PYROGEN. 

This remedy has been of good service in La Grippe during 
the past winter. Consider La Grippe a miasm, and Pyrogen 
an antidote for many miasmatic conditions. Many cases of 
La Grippe have been relieved, requiring no other remedy 
except for the peculiar cough, calling for Phos. Rumex, or 
other well indicated remedies. Leading indications: Great 
depression, great pains all over body, even to the bones. 

Case I.—Mr. C-came from Arkansas, a malarial district. 

He had fever; dry, red tongue; aching pain all over, especially 
in back and limbs. “ Knew he was going to have typho- 
malarial fever," which he had two years previous, after a 
malarious exposure on a foreign mission field. Had every 
other day what he called “dumb ague." The case looked 
promising for what he anticipated—a long sickness. Gave 
him Pyrogen high, every half hour, in water. (10 A. m.) 
Was to continue it until sweating was finally established, 
when the time should be extended to two hours. Saw him 
after twenty-four hours. A great change, had taken place; 
perspiration had set in after six hours, which was profuse when 
seen at second visit. The remedy was continued, at length¬ 
ened intervals, for two days, when he was well. 

Case II.—Mr. N-, hard student and overworked; had, 

for several weeks, what he thought was La Grippe, and was 
undoubtedly correct; but hoped to get well on domestic 
treatment. Found him with a well marked enteric fever 
(typhoid), much prostration, diarrhoea profuse, of terrible 
odor, pain in occipital region, dry tongue, with red center. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



104 


Clinical Notes . 


February 


Sleepless or disturbed; very talkative in sleep; dry, hacking 
cough. Considered the case a serious one. Gave at once 
Pyrogen. It soon modified the symptoms, except the diar¬ 
rhoea, especially the odor, which was terrible, permeating all 
parts of house but for thorough ventilation and disinfectant*. 
Tried to correct the odor with Kali phos # ., with no success. 
Gave two or three doses Psorinum, which changed matters. 
Pyrogen was principal remedy, except Phos., for cough. 
Recovery complete. 

Case III.—Mr. M.-was much broken in health during 

late war, being a prisoner in Libby for many months. Had 
pneumonia eighteen years ago, which was a close call for him. 
However, judicious treatment gave him a fair condition of 
health, but he was left with a weak lung. One year ago this 
May, 1889, he had an attack of what was called congestion of 
this weak lung. Saw him after the attack and found an 
unsatisfactory condition. The lower half of it useless. 
Gave a dose of Sulphur high. He continued to improve and 
went to California for the winter; came back last May, 1890; 
found him confined to bed with little use of this lung; hard 
cough, asthmatic spells at night with great suffocation; diffi¬ 
cult expectoration of heavy sputa, dark yellowish green ; 
chill every other day, showing the miasmatic character, antici¬ 
pating one or two hours. Every night before midnight he 
would be very nervous, which with his asthmatic attacks 
made the night almost intolerable, but towards morning 
would get some sleep. Gave him two or three doses of Pyro¬ 
gen high, in the evening. At once he commenced to improve; 
less cough and expectoration, but the nervous spells would 
come in the morning at 6 o'clock. In three days he had no 
chill or fever. He begged for less medicine as he dreaded 
the morning nervousness. After three days he took only one 
dose in the evening, all symptoms continuing to improve. 

This case may be considered as miasmatic in its origin, 
hence the relief obtained by the dose of Pyrogen. How long 
the effect may remain is yet to be seen. 

ARGENTUM NITRICUM. 

Lady 49—passing through the climacteric—has a small 
fibroid causing excessive menseB for years. Flow usually 
comes in gushes with clots; now much less in quantity but 
continuous; been flowing for 5 weeks; had used several 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Clinical Notes. 


105 


remedies with no satisfactory results. In May number of 
Journal of Obstetrics , read Dr. Choate's case of Argentum 
nit. cure. At once looked over my case to find the 
similar in this remedy,—found she had this drug used topic¬ 
ally several years ago and as a result was confined to house 
for 5 months following its application. 

“ Nervous symptoms always present"—“Nervous erethism 
after each haemorrhage "—“ Menses profuse and long lasting" 
—“Always clotted, but never controlled by any of the 
remedies." With these symptoms, concluded 1 had a case for 
the remedy. 

1st day gave a dose of Argentum nit. 200. 

2d day a change of color—another dose. 

In three days 2 doses were taken. 

4th day in the morning sick headache, pain through pel¬ 
vic region ; flow started up aud within an hour passed a 
large clot when she felt better; flow gradually diminished 
until it ceased after 6th day ; patient realized presence of 
each dose by a decided taste of the remedy which she knew 
by its use locally years before on “ canker sores" in her 
mouth. W. H. Leonard. 

Minneapolis. Minn 


CLINICAL NOTES. 

Staphisagria— I. Within the last year, we have had 
occasion in several instances to use this remedy. In one 
instance, in an inveterate case of nausea of pregnancy 
and threatened abortion, attended with obstinate consti¬ 
pation. subsequent and fruitless attempts to defecate, with 
more or less strangury in passing urine. There was com¬ 
plete anorexia, and almost constant vomiting. The patient 
was exceedingly sensitive to all impressions, and had become 
very much exhausted. 

She had been treated for several weeks by old school 
methods, without any relief. Staphisagria cured. 

II.—Staphisagria again imparted great relief in an instance 
of most incorrigible indigestion. One of those worn out 
cases in which, usually, nothing succeeds in bringing relief, 
and to which a brood of very ugly concomitants were attached, 
including the worst sort of nervous irritability and melancholy. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



106 


Clinical Notes . 


February 


This patient, a woman, ®t about sixty, had been a gorman¬ 
dizer, and had to keep filling up all the time in order to 
feel at all comfortable. A heavy meat eater; and the strong¬ 
est kind of tea and coffee were her delight. Regulated her 
diet and gave Staphisagria. ' Cured. 

III. —Staphisagria, in another case of years standing, which 
had grown from a badly managed case of intermittent fever— 
and one in which allopaths had acknowledged they could do 
no more—we have greatly improved by this remedy. This 
case (age sixty-five) had settled into a most invincible one of 
chronic gastralgia, with enlargement of spleen and liver, 
and passive renal congestion. The patient was farther sub¬ 
jected to very violent palpitation of the heart. The cause 
seeming to arise reflexly from thp kidneys and stomach. 
She is obliged to eat very little at a time, and has a very 
limited range as to choice. At the same time she dare not 
allow her stomach to become empty; and has had to get up 
nights to eat to prevent a renewal of an attack; suffers also 
from a very offensive sweat—scant. 

Staphisagria has subdued nearly all of these persistent 
troubles. The heart goes on occasionally with violent agita¬ 
tion. She is now taking Kalmia lat. Her heart symptoms 
are best described in the pathogenesis of Kalmia given in 
Hering’s Materia Medica — and this remedy now seems to 
meet the demands of her case. We expect, as a finale, as 
good results as could possibly be expected. 

IV. — Corrallium Rubrum.— In a case of laryngismus stri- 
dulas, infant set aboutnne year, Corrallium cured very promptly 
what had seemed to call for Lachesis. Worse during sleep, 
and after waking from sleep. The latter remedy very 
strangely failed. Corrallium cured . 

V. —Passaflora Incarnata. —I do not know that we have 
a proving of this remedy, but from its experimental use per¬ 
sonally we have found that it exercises a very soothing 
influence upon an irritable heart, brain and nervous system. 

For insomnia, broken sleep, waking up suddenly (usually 
in first sleep), confused, and almost overdone by anxious 
dreams and violent action of the heart, with blood seethings 
and ebullition, we have found this remedy more efficacious, 
and, consequently, more satisfactory than other remedies of 
established renown, as to similarity. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Clinical Facts . 


107 


We feel sure, that within its own true sphere of therapeu¬ 
tical correspondence (whatever that may prove to be) Passa- 
flora must soon become settled into a high position in our 
Materia Medica. It has been called, empirically, Somniferum 
seraphium; but this only hints of its peculiar individuality as a 
useful member in therapeutical society. It apparently pos¬ 
sesses no narcotic properties whatever. We predict for this 
remedy a unique and exceedingly useful sphere of action. 
Time spent in its proving will in no sense be wasted. Its 
literature is yet limited, but rich in its suggestiveness. If 
we accept what is said by physicians who have used it, it 
should be given in material doses of the genuine full strength 
tincture. In our own case we used pellets saturated with 
tincture, a dose at bedtime. J. N. Lowe. 

Milford, N. J. 


CLINICAL FACTS. 

Belladonna.— Paroxysmal, sudden cough with fulness 
in head, heat of face, sore chest. Cough causes sickness. 
Belladonna 200, tu die sumend . Next day but one, better in 
all respects. 

Sulphur. —Before going to sleep, dry cough a long time, 
evening in bed, and worse than during the day. Sulphur 
200. Prompt relief same evening. In a young child. 

Conium.— Since early morning, diarrhoea, painless, watery, 
followed by flatulency in abdomen. Conium 200 eve^r two 
hours. Next day, diarrhoea much less. Urging to micturi¬ 
tion with urine scanty, high colored (medicinal ?). Soon 
recovered. 

Pulsatilla. —Colic at epigastrium; chilly ; fat disagrees ; 
amiable temperament. Pulsatilla 200, three times a day. 
Next day but one, “considerable improvement." Repeated 
Pulsatilla twice a day. Three days later, husband writes: 
“ My wife is so far recovered that I think your contemplated 
visit tomorrow will not be required." 

Ammonium Carb. —Pain on taking hold of anything with 
the hands and Angers. Deadness of hands and fingers at 
« night. Ammon, carb. 80, three times a day. Reported in 
nine days, very mtich nnproyed. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



108 


Clinical Facts . 


February 


Magnetis polus Articus. —In a neurotic, middle aged 
woman, sensation as if the brain shook ; all noises aggravate 
symptoms ; griping in stomach; pains most after supper. 
North pole of magnet applied locally by patient to painful 
spot whenever pain was severe. Greatly relieved; applied for 
one minute each time. 

Gamboge. —A middle aged lady, plethoric, nervo-bilious 
temperament, who had been fearfully maltreated and 
drugged for about twenty years, but under true Homoeopathy 
for about twelve months reported that for the last three or 
four years she had been subject to ptosis and attacks of 
weight on the head with nausea, bringing up water only; 
drowsy also. She received Gamboge 200, four doses, one each 
night in water. Reported : after the first dose, in one minute 
felt it act on left side of brain only ; also, as if it lifted off the 
finest filmy substance from the nerves or let in sunshine on 
semi-darkness; made her feel very happy and thankful. 
After the four doses great improvement in spine, very little 
pain aud irritation. Uterine discharge increased, also dis¬ 
charge of yellow matter (probably leucorrhceal) with the usual 
pains. 

Plumbum.— Ptosis left upper eyelid, with lachrymation, 
photophobia, and cloudiness before sight in an eczematous 
girl of sixteen. Plumbum 30, night and morning for a week, 
cured. 

Naja. —Weakness in lumbar region, better stooping for¬ 
wards. Stabbing pains on waking, from chest to head and 
also dpwnwards. Naja 6, night and morning, one pilule. In 
a fortnight weakness much less, pains gone. Has had afeo 
nausea, pains in stomach; morning headache in temples 
(med. ?). 

Alumina. —Stabbing as of a knife in joints of lumbar 
vertebra. Alumina 200, three times a day. Relief very 
soon, in 2 days almost cured. Middle aged, tali man. 

Bryonia—Conium. —After exposure to damp and draft, 
severe catarrhal pains in large joints. Bryonia has relieved 
partially. Now, short cough from deep inspiration. Conium 
200. Next day but one cough greatly relieved. 

Prunus. —Perspiration on forehead and upper nose, only 
during sleep. Prunus spinosa 200. Four days later, per- „ 
spires now all over, sleeping or waking, feels weaker. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




1891 


Edward Mahony. 


109 


Chelidonium. —In a girl of 13; tinea decalvans in 
patches' on head. Aversion to cheese always . Chelidon. 200. 
In nine days, skin of scalp red, hot, slight scales. Symp¬ 
toms of menses appearing. 

Cbotalus. —The same patient that was benefited by locally 
applying the North pole of the magnet, now writes, nearly 
three months later, complaining of a feeling of shaking at the 
top of the head , pain in the eyes especially the left on reading 
or working; pains at the back of neck and head when tired ; 
unable to walk far from fatigue and weakness in the legs and 
aching of the thighs . Crotalus 200, a dose each night. In 
six days writes, “I am feeling better since taking the medi¬ 
cine. ^ 

Cuprum Sulph. —In a highly neurotic youth of fourteen, 
attacks on going to bed at night of nausea , accompanied by 
terror . Stimulants palliate. Cuprum sulph. 6 every half 
hour during nausea greatly relieved. 

Rhus radicals. —In a middle aged man, eczematous erup¬ 
tion on perineum and scrotum with sweat in the cleft of the 
nates . Rhus radicans 12 bis die . Reports in a week : erup¬ 
tion much lessened, also the sweat. 

Colocynth. —In a young lady, aged twenty-nine, spare 
habit, colicky pains all over abdomen, better from pressure 
aud movement. Col. 30, one dose. Pain went same after¬ 
noon and she felt quite another person. 

Colchicum. —In a gentleman aged seventy-four, dying of 
a complicated pathological condition : Broncho-pneumonia, 
auasarca, chronic vesical disease; note of his disease reads 
as follows : Unconscious from early morning; seen by me 
9:30 p. m. Respiration intermittent , face red, hot, fresh look - 
ing . Colchicum 200 every ten minutes, for 6 doses, changed 
the character of the breathing to quiet, regular movements with 
occasional puffing expiration, for about four hours; then sud¬ 
den change, countenance pale, and in about fifteen minutes 
he was gone. He had one dose of China 200 when the sudden 
change occurred as the puffing expirations were marked. 
During the four hours he made several efforts to raise expec¬ 
toration, and twice it came into his mouth. 

N. B. Was this not a proof that homoeopathic potencies 
will act, in articulo mortis? 

Oleum Animalb. —In a robust lady (single) of sixty-six, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



110 


Clinical Facts. 


February 


after three-fourth hour cross-questioning, nothing definite 
was made out, except that she passed much high colored urine 
only at night. For this. Oleum Animale 12 was prescribed. 
Reported herself four days later: yawning (spasm?) almost 
gone; sobbing worse; a rigid sensation like wood in the right 
hand which had troubled her for some weeks, was improved; 
ankles less swelled; state of urine improved, and greatly im¬ 
proved in herself. The urine had been examined meanwhile 
and was found to be acid sp. gr. 1.020, and on pouring fum¬ 
ing Nitric acid into some when cold , a distinct orange tint 
occupied the lower half of the fluid, and some warmth devel¬ 
oped. On boiling with Nitric acid no precipitate. 

Jaca ra nda. —Food tastes insipid. Nausea during eating . 
Jacaranda Caroba 3 in pilules, soon cured. 

Cyclamen.— Rheumatism in bones of forearms; bruised 
like , worse from touch , pressure , movement; has lasted some 
weeks. Cyclam. 200. In nine days, soreness nearly gone, 
feels better altogether. 

Damp weather aggravates all complaints. Heat of fire 
aggravates. Chilliness at stomach after breakfast. Zinc 30, 
removed in a week. 

Ranunculus Scel.— After relief to pain passing down¬ 
wards over glutei muscles, from Kali carb. 30 in a middle 
aged woman, subject to gout—there occurred smarting aching 
of dorsa of feet, especially right with wakefulness at nights. 

Ranunculus sceleratus 3, three times a day in a week, 
removed both troubles. 

Ipecac.— In an army sergeant aged forty-nine, invalided 
for aneurism of abdominal aorta and who had been strikingly 
relieved under homoeopathic treatment, each medicine admin¬ 
istered for the symptoms present at the time, there occurred 
while recovering from a catarrhal attack, and no medicine 
having been given for a week—coldness of the hands and 
feet not perceptible to himself. Ipecac 200, night and morn¬ 
ing, shortly removed this—note in Mat. Med. Pura, under 
fever —“ external coldness and internal heat.” 

Baptisia. —In a case of typical typhoid in a youth of 17, 
with the delusion that one of his arms was detached and 
belonged to some one else, two doses of Baptisia 200 were 
given, 2 hours apart, during the night. After the second dose 
he felt as if a load were taken off him and at 11:30 a. m. had 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Edward Mahony. 


Ill 


epistaxis with entire relief to headache. Pyrexia less in all 
ways and he felt more himself than he has been yet. No more 
medicine required for two days when Bryonia was indicated. 
Made a good recovery. 

Ammon. Mur—Sabina. —A middle-aged gentleman sub¬ 
ject at times for the last 2 or 3 years to neuralgia affecting the 
right parietal region, after extra mental or physical work and 
relieved by stimulants: This side of head is warmer than the 
other . Ammon, mur. 200, one dose, whenever the pain 
occurs. Reported: took one powder and it stopped it at once 
and there now appeared a touch of gout in big toe of right 
foot which Sabina 200 promptly relieved. Later on a second 
attack of neuralgia was permanently removed by a second 
administration of Ammon, mur. 

Borax.—A servant aged 23, subject at the menstrual per¬ 
iod to a gnawing pain at the epigastrium, passing downwards; 
also leucorrhoea after periods, wae greatly benefited in 5 days 
by Borax 200 night and morning, and Borax 31 taken for a 
week before the next period removed these symptoms entirely 
and an accompanying palpitation. 

Morphia. —A young woman aged about 22, neurotic, nervo- 
sanguine temperament, is subject during menses, which 
are now on, to a headache in the right parietal region; severe, 
worse after dinner, with a flushed perspiring face. Morphiae 
acetas 12, every 2 hours soon relieved. 

Stramonium. —The wife of an artisan, about 30 years old, 
reports pain at the very bottom of the back (coccyx?) as if it 
were opening. Stramonium 200, 2glbs. to be taken when in 
pain. Bbnninghausen, under “sensations,”gives: “sensation 
of joint being detached or wrenched open ;” and compare Mat. 
Med. Pura, vol. iv, p. 194. Reported: “The medicine acted 
at once on pain at bottom of back, taken at intervals as 
required.” 

Sulphuric Acid. —The same patient reported above as 
benefited by Gamboge, reports: all pains rise to a height and 
then suddenly disappear. Pains in thighs during menses. 
Sulph. Acid 30, one dose, caused return of sensation of many 
old symptoms. Character of pains changed in a measure. 

Calcarea Phos. —In a middle aged lymphatic man, 
inclined to be stout and always very depressed when ill, 
attacks of weakness with burning all over. Calc. phos. 30, 
soon relieved. 


Digitized by 


Google 



112 


Clinical Notes . 


February 


Niccolum. —In a middle aged lady, loose hacking cough, 
day and evening, and at 9 a. m.: has to put arms on thighs 
when coughing . Niccolum 200, soon cured. 

Cimicifuga. —In an old woman aged seventy-eight, 
plethoric; two hard nodules in right breast, one above, the 
other below the nipple, which was retracted, and accom¬ 
panied by a cold feeling in the breasts objective and subjec¬ 
tive. Cimicifuga 200, eight doses, taken in four days, 
removed the cold feeling and gave general relief for a month. 

Phosphoric Acid. —In an elderly woman, chronic dyspep¬ 
sia, whining temperament; brown bread won't digest, but 
passes through her unaltered; causes nausea. Phosphoric 
acid 30, one dose. In ten days reported, very greatly improved 
in all ways. 

Oxaltc Acid. —In a middle aged gentleman: sensation 
during the night of hot water flowing along the rectum, dis¬ 
tinct; no stool or flatus followed; after one dose of several 
globules of Acid Oxalicum 6, taken thirty-six hours before. 

Ammonium Carb. —In a woman at climaxis, pain on tak¬ 
ing hold of anything in the hands and fingers. Deadness at 
night of hands and fingers. Ammon, carb. 30 ter die . In a 
week very much improved. 

Spigelia. —The same person, a few months later, can't 
turn her neck; worse in herself in sultry weather; cardiac 
fluttering, can't lie on left side; great restlessness of limbs 
at night. Spigelia 200. In a week, all symptoms greatly 
relieved. 

Phosphorus. —A railway guard, aged about thirty-five, 
spare habit, fair complexion, after having had sciatica 
cured by Rhus, complained of neuralgia on left side of face 
from a decayed tooth relieved by pressure . The pain is 
tearing: cause, wet feet. Saliva in mouth. One dose of 
Phosphorus 30 caused an almost immediate aggravation 
while in my consulting room lasting about fifteen minutes; 
he then became easier; previous paroxysms had lasted about 
two hours. He was cured. 

Nux Vomica. —A woman aged fifty, who was subject to 
headache from thinking, had had a fright and other shocks 
since, one being the death of a brother on the railway; drank 
much tea and had had much quinine; now complains of 
weakness of chest with dys'pnoea and loose cough with expec- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Edward Mahony. 


113 


toration difficult to raise; worse from excitement; flatulence 
on chest; wakeful in the early hours; sudden faints from 
emotions with consciousness. One dose of Nux vomica 200 
relieved cough, headache, sleep and flatulence in five days. 

Symphytum* —An infant of .fourteen days had a swelling 
on posterior edge of base of left scapula; displacement? 
The mother says it was a cross birth and had to be manipu¬ 
lated a good deal to restore animation when delivered. 
Symphytum 3, one dose. In four days swelling less and 
less appearance of displacement. No more medicine was 
needed. 

Calgarea. —Mrs. G-, very stout; used to be very thin; 

now complains of wheezing at times, worse in damp weathef; 
desire to breathe deeply. Easy perspiration with exercise. 
Cough with blue, thick, easily raised expectoration, and pain 
In arms and some other symptoms—received Calcarea 200, 
one dose. In six days, pain in back, breast, arms, all less, 
also expectoration, and feels better in herself. No further 
medicine was required. 

Pulsatilla. —A young woman. Catarrh with chilliness, 
thirstlessness, foul yellow tongue, pains in limbs, vomits 
everything. Pulsatilla 200, every three hours. Next day a 
friend reports: “ all right this morning." 

Lycopodium. —Mrs. H-Constipation with flatulence 

in the left hypochondrium and vertigo. Evening aggrava¬ 
tions of all symptoms. Headaches at times. Has taken 
much medicine, allopathic and other. Lycopodium 200, one 
dose, cured, after causing an aggravation during the first 
week, which she called a cold. 

Calcarea.— A girl of seventeen. Amenorrhoea; five weeks 
(last time profuse). Has lost flesh (naturally stout). Worse 
in herself, mornings. Easily fatigued. Bushes to head. 
Before menses, weary, breast painful, legs swell, constipa¬ 
tion, leucorrhcea. Calcarea 500, one dose. In nine days 
reported: feels a “lot better." Sleep greatly improved. 
No further medicine required. 

Hepar.— Mr. J.-, asinger in a church choir, states that 

colds affect notes of voice, upper or lower; likes something 
light round throat, which is now relaxed, posteriorly (fauces.) 
Coffee loosens bowels if taken after dinner, and he has exer¬ 
cise. Stools twice a day, usually in the evening. Consti- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



114 


Clinical Facts . 


February 


pation with hemorrhoids. Micturition slow in commencing. 
Larynx sensitive to air. Hepar 200, one dose. In a week 
reported: throat cured in two days, slight relapse from extra 
work (singing) last Sunday. Micturition almost too free and 
easy. Stool still twice a day, costive; no hemorrhoids. Sac. 
lac. 

Nine days later, states: return of slowness on micturition 
last two or'three days; singing power increased; two stools 
daily, afternoon and evening. Sac. lac. 

Ten days later—Slowness of micturition less; stools still 
twice a day; some return of throat symptoms since damp feet 
yesterday. Hepar lm. (F. C.) one dose. In two days, 
throat dry on waking. Throat gave no further trouble except 
an occasional dryness, promptly relieved by Belladonna (low). 

Ammonium Carb. —Miss K-about climacteric period 

complains, among other things, of discharge occasionally of 
clear water from both nostrils, sometimes one or other nostril is 
stopped at night or towards evening. Feels the cold very 
much. Pain in left hip joint when walking. Ammonium 
carb. 30, three times a day. In a week, great improvement 
in symptoms and in herself, and a smell of ammonia fre¬ 
quently before the nose, a symptom she used to have years ago. 

Amm. carb. 200, given in the same way, diminished this 
at first, but it then returned and annoyed her at times for 
another two months, while being treated with Iodine for 
other symptoms. 

Silicea. —Mrs. L-. Perspiration in sleep, hot the 

upper half of her body, cold the lower half. Great suscepti¬ 
bility of bead to draft. Frequent urging to urinate, worse 
when standing; small quantities passed for weeks. Silicea 
200, one dose. 

The next day improved in all respects; the next, all symp¬ 
toms improving, perspiration nearly gone, urine freer than 
for months. 

Six days later, reports yesterday and the day before fre¬ 
quent diarrhoea, with griping; return of perspiration in sleep 
last night and night before, yet to-day she feels rather better 
and inclined to get up. The next day fresh symptoms 
occurred, calling for a different medicine. 

Aconite—Baptisia. —Mrs. L-. Seen in consultation 

a week after confinement, primipara ; natural, but retained 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


Beneficial Aggravations . 


115 


placenta, which the attending physician had torn away. 
Doing well until day before yesterday, when, probably from 
chill, there was some pyrexia; now 10 p. m., P. 112; sort of 
stupid state with complaint that her right arm will fall off . 
She received three doses of Baptisia 200, two hours apart; 
and next morning report was—all symptoms improved. 
Delusion gone, p. 100. Pelt marked effect from first dose 
with increase of arm symptoms. Slept some hours. Had 
beautiful visions. Difficulty still in speaking. Mind acutely 
sensitive. Told me she thought bad smells from her body 
might cause fever (she was quite free from odors). In the 
afternoon told the other doctor she was quite calm, but 
should be gone within twenty-four hours. We agreed to give 
two doses of Aconite 30, one at 5:30, the next at 7:30. Call¬ 
ing at 10 p. m., we were told she had had some sleep after 
the first dose, and was quieter altogether. She made an 
excellent recovery. 

Stramonium. —Mr. E——., a young man, a publican, while 
taking Aconite lx for tremor of approaching delirium tre¬ 
mens, with frequent thirst for small quantities, and restless¬ 
ness, and improving greatly in all respects, went out twice 
contrary to orders, and was found at home at 9 p. m. with 
great increase of all symptoms; frantic, requiring two men 
to hold him, bathed in warm perspiration ; seeing all sorts 
of figures, wanting to trample them down, etc. Conjuncti¬ 
vitis, right eye. Stramonium 4, every half hour. Next 
morning all symptoms greatly relieved, perspiration gone, he 
is quiet in bed. A few more doses of Stram. at longer inter¬ 
vals completed a good cure. Edward Mahoney. 

Liverpool, England . 


BENEFICIAL AGGRAVATIONS.* 

Medicinal aggravation may be defined as the increased 
intensity of existing symptoms following the administration 
of the most similar remedy, and is easily distinguished from 
the production of new symptoms by the exhibition of a 
remedy not exactly similar. I say “easily distinguished," 
but this should be qualified by the remark that careless 
observers frequently confound the two. As a rule we seem 
to learn most from our failures. Some years ago I had to con- 

* Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



116 


Beneficial Aggravations . 


February 


tend with an incurable case of abdominal pain, so violent and 
agonizing chat I could see no other remedy for it but Arseni¬ 
cum. But this drug instead of relieving added to the exist¬ 
ing pain the further suffering of ‘burning* which had not 
beeR present before. At first I was hopeful that this was an 
aggravation (properly so-called) and that the result would be 
beneficial; but 1 was soon undeceived to my great disappoint¬ 
ment. Afterwards when I related the case to Dr. Ad. Lippe 
he told me the proper remedy should have been Lachesis. 

The experience of the best homoeopaths has laid down an 
axiom that immediate benefit resulting from a remedy in a 
chronic case will not be lasting, whereas if there be a pro¬ 
nounced aggravation the subsequent improvement will be 
likely to continue for months, for the reason that quick 
improvement indicates a mere superficial action of the drug, 
and aggravation shows a grasping power of some depth. 
This point was brought very clearly to my notice in a recent 
case of epilepsy of three years standing in a girl of thirteen. 
Belladonna was very clearly indicated by the symptoms of 
the attack; one dose of which gave immediate relief which 
lasted upwards of five weeks. The fits then coming on 
again I gave Calcarea which brought on an aggravation, the 
spells being much more severe and more frequent; this lasted 
two weeks then ceased, and the girl remained without any 
attack for over three months. As this case is still in progress 
I can not say whether I shall succeed in making a complete 
cure or not, especially as the rest of the family are intensely 
psoric, the father having died of cancer. 

In chronic skin eruptions it is always wise to warn the 
patient before hand that the first effect of the remedy will be 
to cause an increase of the surface trouble, and just in pro¬ 
portion to the intensity and duration of the aggravation will 
be the likelihood of a quick and permanent cure, for the rea¬ 
son that the internal psoric condition must exhaust itself 
completely through the skin before a cure can possibly 
result. 

A recent case of congestion of the lungs may be of 
interest. Two years ago the lady, then aged 41, had a severe 
chill which suppressed the menses and brought on congestion. 
The allopaths did their best for eighteen months to put her 
out of the way, labelling the trouble “asthma** and “con- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Sycosis Hahnemannii. 


117 


gumption.” She got Sulphur to begin with and made very 
rapid and satisfactory improvement ^ but four weeks after¬ 
wards, exactly to the day, she was congested again with some 
new feature, showing the climacteric change at work upon 
her. It was now a clear Lachesis case, which was given in 
water, 3 or 4 doses of the cm. during a half hour. It was 
not all taken before aggravation began, and for four or five 
hours it seemed as if she could hardly live through it, but 
little by little she recovered and remained without any medi¬ 
cine for 40 days, when she got another dose of Lachesis 2 m. 
She recognized the remedy a few minutes after taking it! 
Case still in progress. D. C. McLaren. 

Ottawa, Can. 


SYCOSIS HAHNEMANNII.* 

Hahnemann estimated that seven-eighths of all chronic 
diseases arise from psora and the other eighth from syphilis 
and sycosis. It is evident that the far greater part of these 
are from the former, so that diseases arising from suppressed 
fig warts must be rare. Most of the observing physicians, I 
venture to say, are of the same opinion ; owing to this rarity, 
we seldom have the opportunity of verifying his views as 
applied to sycosis. Therefore I think it may be instructive, 
if I report a case which occurred to me. 

February 17, 1890, I was called to see Mr.-. He is 

about fifty-five, has always been delicate and has had several 
attacks like the present, but less severe. He served in the 
army during the war, but was discharged on account of 
chronic diarrhoea, and since then his bowels have always 
been slightly inclined to looseness ; has had asthma occasion¬ 
ally, or, more strictly, in certain localities he has it, since 
boyhood. 

He called me on account of haemorrhage from the glans 
penis. I found what looked like a small abrasion on the 
upper portion near the corona. From the description he 
gave of its first appearance, I pronounced it herpes pro- 
genitalis. The haemorrhage had been very profuse, although 
it came from such an insignificant looking lesion. I gave 
Sulphur 200, which appeared to materially lessen the bleed- 

* Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



118 


Clinics. 


February 


mg, but did not stop it. I made several changes, giving also 
Apis, Bhus and other remedies till 

April 3.—There has been no material benefit and in addi¬ 
tion to the abrasion, a glandular swelling, in the left inguinal 
region, had appeared, which had now reached the size 
and shape (as my patient expressed it) of a mouse. 
I told him that there was something about his case 
which I had not learned, and proceeded to examine him de 
novo . He said that before the war he had had warts (condyl- 
omata) on his penis. He had no appetite and an extreme 
aversion to meat. The pain in the glans at the point affected 
was as if there was a splinter in the sore. 

On the symptoms and his history I administered Nitric 
acid 5Q0 (the anti-sycotic, that is second only to Thuja) in 
water, to take four teaspoonfuls, then to be followed by 
placebo. Improvement set in immediately and proceeded 
rapidly, without any repetition or change of the remedy. In 
three weeks he was well, barring weakness. 

I forgot to say that the fig warts had been removed by 
instruments. I firmly believe that the sycotic miasm, or 
virus, had been deteriorating his health all those thirty years, 
and by the indicated remedy was so soon rendered innoccuous. 
Hahnemann’s services \o mankind consist in other things 
besides the discovery and formulation of the law of the Similars. 
The psoric theory was a discovery of transcendental value, 
and notwithstanding many of his professed followers have 
discarded it, the more advanced minds of the old school are 
taking it up and utilizing it by forbidding the suppression of 
disease manifestations by external applications. 

A. McNeil. 

San Francisco, Cal. 


CLINICS* 

Case I.— Arsenicum .—Miss L. K-, aged sixteen, very 

pale, brown hair, blue eyes. Has never menstruated regularly, 
and is very frail. Was taken very suddenly ill, about 2 o'clock 
in the morning, with a severe pain in the region of the heart. 
The pains were excruciating, causing her to cry out with every 
breath. Then pains began to appear in the extremities 
in different parts, but mostly in lower extremities. In 

*Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


E. 3. Nash 


119 


spile of the best prescribing I could do, the case progressed 
from bad to worse until the following condition was present, 
viz: Great dyspnoea; could not lie down at all. Violent beat¬ 
ing of the heart, shaking visibly the walls of chest. With 
first beat of heart very loud bellows sound. Waxy paleness of 
skin. Feet oedematously swollen up to knees. Great rest¬ 
lessness, wants to be moved from place to place. Great thirst 
for small quantities at a time. Pulse 110 to 120. 

Arsenicum 30th, four doses of a watery solution (a tea¬ 
spoonful dose) one hour apart, then waited. Immediate 
improvement which continued until the dyspnoea, swelling 
in feet, restlessness, and in short all the above symptoms, 
except the blowing sound of the heart (while it was very 
much modified) were removed; aud this last was so far removed 
under a dose of Spigelia cm. that it was hardly perceptible. 
The patient was out in an incredibly short time riding her 
bicycle all over the village. A single dose a week before 
menses were due of Puls. mm. and the menstrual flow came 
normally. 

O^sb II.— Arsemcum. —Mrs. M. J-, aged forty-five, dark 

hair, skin and eyes. Stout. Subject to attacks of sick 
headache for years. Was taken suddenly with very violent 
pains in right side, running through, beneath right shoulder. 
These rheumatic pains, with redness and swelling attacked 
hands, hips, knees and feet, about in the order mentioned. 
The pains were very severe, worse at night; and accompanied 
with profuse sweating which did not relieve. Hot applica¬ 
tions to the affected parts partially relieved. Great thirst 
for small quantities of water; pains greatly < on least motion. 
Bryonia and Mercury did not do much for her, and she con¬ 
tinued to grow worse until she presented the following pic¬ 
ture: 

Could not lie down on account of dyspnoea. Respiration 
35 to 40, pulse 120 and upwards. Great restlessness, having 
to be lifted from bed to chair and vice versa, every hour. 
Great oedema of lower limbs, pitting deeply on pressure. 
Heart sounds very faint, evidently on account of hydro-thorax. 
Abdomen greatly bloated; urine almost nothing. The first 
marked relief she got was from Arsenicum 30 administered 
as in the preceding case. Under the action of this remedy, 
she continued to Blowly improve without a repetition of the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



120 


Clinics. 


February 


remedy, for several weeks; the pain in right side of chest 
being the last to leave, and this not nntil after the exhibition 
of a few doses of Chelidonium 30. This case is now quite well 
and came to the office to see me. She still has some rheumatic 
pains in different parts. Her parents before her were chronic 
rheumatics, and on that account I expect it will take a long 
time to entirely cure her of her tendency to it. 

Case III.— Pulsatilla .—Mr. J. E-, aged 50, has been 

under allopathic treatment for several weeks for inflamma¬ 
tory rheumatism. Don't know what remedies he had been 
taking. He recovered so far as to be able to get out 
and walk around with a cane. Then he had a severe 
relapse and fell into my hands. Joints of hands, ifeet, 
knees, back, shoulders, nape of neck and even chest were 
involved in the case. The pains, redness and swelling 
traveled from place to place. The tongue was thickly coated 
yellowish white, and the breath terribly offensive. Con¬ 
siderable sweating, which did not relieve. On account of the 
migratory pains and the fact that they traveled cross-wise, on 
alternate days, I gave Lac. can. No relief followed. Then 
I tried Puls. 30th, with no better success. Then, on account 
of the sweat without relief, Merc, was prescribed, and still 
no relief. Great restlessness now supervened, wants continu¬ 
ally to change position, with momentary relief. Rhus; no 
goid. Carefully reviewed the case and found more symp¬ 
toms covered by Puls, than anything else. But Puls. 30 had 
been given and failed. What can one do ? Try another 
•power. Gave Johnstone's cm. in solution once in two hourB 
for twelve hours, then wait. First twenty-four hours «<; 
next twenty-four hours great relief and improvement, which 
continued until he was able to get out and attend to his 
business. 

Case IV.—Mrs. M. F. McF-, aged 45, stout, dark hair, 

blue eyes, has been unable to lie in bed nights on account of 
great pains in both forearms. This has been going on for 
about three weeks, and she looks pale and worn; says she can 
not stand it much longer. Says also that the only way she 
can be the least relieved is by getting right out of bed and 
walking slowly about the room. Ferrum 1000th (B & T) 
enabled her to rest quietly the first night, and she has never 
had a return of the trouble now two years since. 


Digitized by Google 



1891 


Erysipelas . 


121 


REMARKS. 

These cases are not given because to this society there 
is anything remarkable about them. Every one of us is 
having successes of this kind every year and month of the 
year. The first two, or Arsenicum cases, were very desperate 
cases of a disease in which this remedy is not very often used, 
but th e symptoms in both were very alike, and indicated it; 
and it cured, as the homoeopathic remedy must, no matter 
what the name of the disease, or whether it had ever been 
given before or not. 

Oasb III shows the folly of forsaking the right remedy 
because the trial of it in the 30th (or any mother) potency does 
not cure. If the high doses do not cure, go lower, or vice 
versa. No one potency is adapted to all cases. 

Case IV is another proof added to the fact that the metals 
do act even in the high potencies, notwithstanding so much 
has been said and written to disprove it. 

E. B. Nash. 

Cortland, N. Y. 


ERYSIPELAS.* 

Recently there has fallen to my lot a case which presented 
some unusual conditions; symptoms of directly opposite 
character upon opposite sides of the body, but which yielded 
promptly after the selection of the proper remedy. 

Mrs. M-, aged about sixty-five, for many years has been 

subject to attacks of erysipelas, nearly always in the same 
localities, but previously she had been troubled with tonsil- 
itis, for both of which she had received good old-fashioned 
“ regular ” treatment. From three to four weeks she was 
“laid up ” and for weeks afterward was not strong. About 
four years ago I attended her during one of these attacks of 
erysipelas, but did not consider that I had done any very 
brilliant work in the case, though she seemed much pleased 
with the result because, though lasting three weeks, she 
had not suffered as much, had not been heavily dosed nor 
subjected to the inconvenience of external applications, and 
when the local symptoms were gone she did not feel as much 
prostrated as formerly. 

And now there has been an interim of four years against 

♦ Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



122 


Erysipelas . 


Febbuaby 


the former almost yearly attacks. It is possible that this last 
attack had an outcropping a week before I saw her, as her 
husband came to me with a description of her sore throat. 
He did not think it necessary for me to see her, and as he 
gave a good picture of Mercury I sent that remedy in the 
30th potency. 

The effect was good, for in twenty-four hours she felt all 
right. 

May 25th,—I was called to see her, the following symptoms 
presenting: There was a red spot covering the point of the 
left elbow, extending half way around the arm and upward 
and downward about two inches. Upon the outer part of 
the left forearm another red spot about the size of a half dol¬ 
lar; upon the wrist another; on the leg and ankle other small 
spots. These were all of a phlegmonous character, very hot 
and extremely tender to the touch, but not especially painful 
on motion. Upon the right side at the wrist a small spot 
very red, with a line of red extending up the arm about two 
inches, one of the fingers at the metacarpal joint was slightly 
red and swollen. The right knee was like affected. These 
points were not as hot nor were they phlegmonous, but were 
more sensitive than upon the other side and the least motion 
caused great pain. This side she kept uncovered because 
heat aggravated it, but the left side was carefully wrapped in 
flannel because heat made it better. Motion aggravated all 
the pains. She was very thirsty; wanted large quantities of 
water. Thinking Bryonia was best indicated I gave it in 
the 200th potency. 

The following day there was a slight amelioration of the 
right side symptoms, but the left side was decidedly worse; 
phlegmonous spots larger and more of them. No change of 
remedy. 

Third day.—Bight side better as far as the rheumatic char¬ 
acter of tn« pains was concerned, but phlegmonous spots 
had appeared here also, and nearly the whole of the 
left arm was covered. There was no vesicular appear¬ 
ance at any point. The right side still uncovered, while the 
left demanded all the heat it could get. She felt somewhat 
restless, but could not move because it increased pain. I may 
not have previously looked at the tongue, but to-day I did, 
and found it heavily coated, except a triangle at the tip, the 
base being at the end of the tongue and the point inward. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


0. M . Pease. 


123 


This triangle was very dark red, quite dry, while the rest of 
the tongue did not look dry. 

This condition of tongue I have always associated with 
Rhus and Sulphur. Taking into consideration the other 
symptoms, it was an easy matter to decide between the two, 
and Rhus 200th was given. 

Fourth day.—As I entered the room my patient greeted me 
with a smile, and held out her left hand as if to shake hands, 
but withdrew it and extended the right. Words were not 
needed to define her actions, but she used them freely to 
express her feelings of satisfaction. The phlegmonous condi¬ 
tion had very greatly disappeared, the surface less red, 
scarcely any heat, did not need one side covered more than 
the other, had slept well all night, and now asked what she 
could have to eat. Remedy, Sac. lac. 

Fifth day.—As far as my professional services were con¬ 
cerned there was no necessity for my visit, scarcely a vestige 
of the late trouble being present. 

COMMENTS. 

Possibly the earlier inspection of the tongue might ha^e 
saved the patient a couple of days suffering, because it was 
the red tip which caused a change in prescription, but I am 
not prepared to say positively that I did not see it at an earlier 
stage, because it is such a natural thing to ask to see the 
tongue. 

According to Allen's Symptom Register there are a num¬ 
ber of remedies having redness of the tip of the tongue, 
prominently noted being Arg. n., Ars., Phyt. and Rhus, but 
he does not include Sulph. 

Many observations have fixed upon my memory the well 
defined triangle as belonging to Rhus and Sulphur, because 
other symptoms had so clearly indicated one or the other 
when that triangle was present, the most clearly marked 
triangle demanding Rhus. This decided contradiction 
between the two sides was peculiar. Was the first remedy a 
mistake? It was chosen to combat what appeared to be the 
most distressing symptoms; that it had some effect seemed 
evident. 

Bryonia and Rhus being complimentary to so great an 
extent, it often happens in my experience that when one has 
been given the other may be needed to complete the cure. 

8ak Francisco, Cal. Gb M. PiJASE. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



124 


A Case of Syphilis. 


Febbuabt 


A CASE OF SYPHILIS * 

I cite the following case of venereal infection, with the 
hope of further fortifying my belief in the possibility of 
prompt and radical cure in such cases, avoiding the long 
train of troubles that commonly follow when managed by 
villainous modes of treatment other than purely homoeopathic. 

My earliest knowledge of the present case dateB to within 
ten days of first exposure, up to which time no topical or 
remedial measures of any kind had been used, and there is 
the best reason to suppose that no similar infection had ever 
taken place. 

The first inspection disclosed an cedematous prepuce, 
rather firmly closed in front of the glans—permitting a pain¬ 
ful and difficult retraction which discovered three large and 
deep chancres the size of half a common soup bean—one 
on either side the fraenum, a third behind the glans on side to 
left, extending midway round the glans. The ulcers were erod¬ 
ing rapidly on the edges, their bottoms appeared dark, granu¬ 
lar and dry. Induration, in and around the sores, seemed 
to threaten the parts with rupture at each retraction of the 
foreskin ; the slightest manipulation was extremely painful. 
Merc. sol. 6 m. was given, five doses, and a light pledget of 
cambric muslin, moistened with milk and water, was closed 
in by the prepuce over the sores, and renewed as 
required. The medicine being allowed to act for three days, 
a second examination revealed the margin of the foreskin, 
knotted with numerous small chancres, similar in quality to 
those on the glans, at the same time those beneath had so 
deeply eroded that half the glans seemed destroyed from 
below and behind, leaving simply the urethral channel 
intact. 

The horrible gap evidently severed the confining hold of 
the prepuce, since it had retracted beyond the remainder of 
the glans in a vice like and most discouraging manner. The 
conditions of the case now reviewed with great earnestness 
presented the following points : 

Patient aet 20, slender in stature, of good flesh, ruddy 
and robust appearance, inheriting no dyscrasia. Sores deep, 
hard, of dark reddish color, rapidly extending; burning, 
pricking and itching in them; stiff feeling of whole penis to 
its root; not very copious discharge of strong looking urine, 

* Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Mahlon Preston . 


125 


containing mucus, giving it a ropy look. Tired aching in 
renal region, and absence of any sexual instinct whatever. 
This last, with the deep, corroding chancres, decided for 
Kali bi. cm., of which 8 doses were given dry. Signs of 
improvement became evident 24 hours later, and medicine 
withheld while improvement lasted. Granulations estab¬ 
lished steadily and continued rapidly during fourteen days, 
when the healing process had so nearly restored the destroyed 
parts, that little of it could have been noticed. In a little 
more than three weeks from the first observance of the 
chancre, this hrid taken place. 

If the priapism, usual to such a state of affairs, had pre¬ 
vailed in this case, remedial measures might possibly have 
failed to preserve the penis intact. The coincidence of deep 
and rapidly rodent ulcers, with such lack of sexual power, 
as here co-existed, brought Kali bi. to the rescue, with just 
the force thatsimilia, and it only, can exert, and preserved the 
organ. 

Now, for a short period, the restoration appeared quite 
complete, and so it might have been had the sexual power, 
recently dormant, thus remained. But erections amounting 
to priapism supervened, causing phymosis to occur, subject¬ 
ing the well nigh perfect parts to great danger from slough¬ 
ing, through strangulation. Around the fraenum, the pre¬ 
puce became oedematous, and the size of a large goose egg, 
and extended without delay to the pubis, giving the .penis 
the appearance of a filled shot bag, constricted at three 
points as by the finest cord, forming three separate sacs, as 
it were, within the outmost of which was contained some¬ 
where the glans penis, its presence only indicated by the thin 
purulent discharge which exuded from the surrounding 
(edematous folds. 

A good deal of uneasiness was caused by jerking in the 
penis, particularly if the patient fell into a doze. 

Merc. cor. first given when the phymosis occurred, having 
brought no relief, this jerking, in combination with the 
oedema, and the itching, pricking and burning about the 
seat of discharge caused me to choose Cinnabaris 500; three 
doses were given, followed by placebo for a day. This put 
a damper on this luminous state; by the next examination in 
four days the swelling was enough reduced to permit a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



126 


A Case of Syphilis . 


February 


thorough view of the remains of the chancres, and they pre¬ 
sented the best evidence of having borne the stress in a credit¬ 
able manner; but slight marks of the deep erosions remained. 

Yet a few days later a difficulty was encountered in the left 
eye. Ii became injected and swollen, with a very sore spot, 
above the limit, at the upper edge of the cornea, described 
as a swelling, protruding and pricking the upper lid; on 
everting it a red swelling was noticed from which vascular 
rays radiated, thickening the coating of the eye, and obscur¬ 
ing the upper portion of the cornea. 

Stitching pains were felt as if penetrating the inner can- 
thus into the eyeball, and causing floods of tears, with ina¬ 
bility to open the eye or to bear the slightest degree of light. 
There was also much general smarting, pricking and burn¬ 
ing in and around the eye. The cornea became obscured 
and vision lost. 

I observed the pupil fixed and distorted in shape, having a 
sort of quadrangular form. That these symptoms fore¬ 
shadowed not only an ulcer, a secondary chancre on the 
cornea, but also iritis, I was fully aware, and that they 
demanded prompt relief if the eye was to be saved. Yet this 
demand had been momentarily sacrificed at the first out¬ 
break of the pain and lacrymation, by the hasty administra¬ 
tion of Crocus. A careful review of the symptoms from first 
to last completed a picture of Clematis which would be diffi¬ 
cult to mistake. It gives: 

“ Stitches in left inner can thus as from a pointed instru¬ 
ment.” 

“ Pressure in the middle of the left eyeball.” 

“Reddened conjunctiva; smarting, burning eyes, sensitive 
to light and extreme lachrymation and fear to open the 
eyes.” 

Clematis 200 repeated three times and its effects allowed to 
develop a few hours, made short work with this iritis. The 
patient, a man with rather sanguine anticipations, reported 
himself for duty in a week’s time from the giving of Clematis. 
This haste was of course discouraged, but the eye regained 
both normal vision and appearance in two weeks. 

From this time forward, but a single phase of abnormal 
action has demanded remedial aid. The secondary eruption 
occurred of brown spots on face, chest and arms, and scaly 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Verifications . 


127 


patches on elbows. These not deterring the patient from 
duty, have been thoroughly removed by an occasional dose of 
Nit. ac. 5 m. administered at long intervals. The duration 
of this treatment did not exceed seven weeks. I desire the 
assurance, if I may receive it, from those willing and capable 
of giving it (for my experience in this line is not extensive), 
if I may expect that this patient will be exempt hereafter 
from revivals of his complaint from the recent infection, it 
now being more than seven months since the last symptom 
disappeared or any fresh ones have been developed. 

Mahlon Pbeston. 

Chkbtkr, Pa. 

VERIFICATIONS?.* 

Case I. —Meningitis : Belladonna .—I was treating a lady 
when she told me that her baby was sick. I thought from 
the symptoms that it was a Belladonna case and I gave it a 
dose of the 4 m. 

April 3d.—Child getting worse, restless and has a fever, 
rolling its head; gave it Belladonna cm. (Sk.) 

April 4th.—Head drawn back and rolls it from side to 
side; gave it a dose of Hellebore 33 m. 

April 5th.—Messenger called in the night; said “if I did 
not do something for that child it would die." At 9 p. m. 
no better. Child still rolls its head and at every little noise 
it jumps and starts in its sleep. I gave a dose of Belladonna 
4 cm. (F.) in a half glass of water, with instructions to give 
it a teaspoonful every half hour till better or worse; in either 
case stop. 

The child did not get any easier till three o'clock, then it 
went to sleep, and was sleeping when I came; they had not 
given any more medicine since it went to sleep, and it did 
not need any more as it rapidly improved. 

This case is instructive in that it shows that the 4 m. was 
not the simillimum, neither was the cm.; but the 4 cm. in 
water, after the other two potencies had failed as flatly as 
any thing could, was the true simillimum. The remedy 
suited the case. 

This was one of the late Dr. Lippe's potencies made by 
Fincke, and it proves to my mind that there is something 
in. the 4 cm. Had I had this case in my early practice, I 

* Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


128 


Verifications . 


February 


would have lost it, because I would have blamed the 3d or 
200th, and instead of going higher I would, like the most 
of our prescribers of to-day, have gone lower and killed my 
patient. Massive doses of Belladonna were not needed, as it 
proved that it required just the 4 cm. to restore its equilib¬ 
rium to that of health. 

This case would never have gotten well of itself, and is 
just as hard a case to control as a case of pernicious fever or 
congestive chill. It shows too, that we can't tell what 
strength of medicine is going to suit the individual case in 
hand until it has been tried and found faithful. It will 
always do the work when found. 

Case II.— Psorinum. —Mr. H.-has a skin trouble on his 

face at times; it commences to itch, burn and swell; gets red 
and the skin becomes thickened; it affects his whole face. This 
he has had for two years or more. Remedies only seem to 
palliate. He seemed to be cured with Apis and also with 
Arsenicum, but the disease came back again. He got dis¬ 
couraged, and went to treating it himself; bought all the 
salves on the market, and had given them a thorough trial; 
they relieved for a time only. He now thought that he would 
try the Springs, and went to the mineral wells and stayed 
there for a while, but grew rapidly worse and came home 
again. I was called again and found the face badly swollen 
and the eyes closed from swelling; large blisters, I call them, 
filled with pus, over the eyes and cheeks; he had not opened 
his eyes for several days; they were stiff and sore. I felt as if 
this was my last chance. His wife was keeping cloths wet 
in cold water on his face; this was all the relief he could get! 
This made me think of Apis, Alumina, Pulsatilla, Psorinum, 
Sulphur. I thought that I would put him on Psorinum 
42 m., one dose, and Sac. lac. It commenced to improve at 
once; in about four weeks he had a relapse. I sent him 
another dose and he has remained well to date—now for over 
a year. 

Case III.— Astigmatism: Phosphoric Acid. —Mrs.—, aged 
44, had an attack of weakness of vision. This was worse from 
sewing or reading; any fine work brought on the tired feeling 
in the eyes. The jeweler prescribed a pair of glasses, but they 
did no good; there was blurred vision on looking at fine work, 
and in reading the letters would run together. This condition 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


0. W. Sherbino. 


129 


was relieved by looking off for a moment; then she eould see 
for a short time till the eyes would become tired again, and 
the same blurred condition would return. I found this under 
Phosphoric Acid and cm. (Fincke), a few doses cured it in a 
few days. There was perceptible improvement from the first 
dose. 

Case IV.— Ophthalmia : Samcula.—* Master Mr— called 
at the office to have me treat his eyes. The right one was 
sore for a few days, was swollen and very red ; he could not 
keep it open at all. 

There was a discharge in the morning, agglutinating the 
lids, that had to be washed off ; there was nothing character¬ 
istic about the case ; the pain was worse at night; his mother 
said that he cried and seemed worse at night. 

The aggravation came on in the evening like Pulsatilla, 
One dose of Sanicula 10 m. (Sk.) cured him. 

Case V. —Ulceration op thh Cornea : Sanicula .—Mr* 

B-came to me from the country with -a sore eye. There 

was an ulcer of the cornea over the pupil with great intoler¬ 
ance of light; lachrymation in the wind, in cool air, or from 
anything cool applied externally.. The pain was worse 
towards evening; cold, clammy feet. He was cured with San¬ 
icula 50 m. (Sk.) in a few days. 

Sanicula has given me good results. It is like Apis, Puls¬ 
atilla and Mercury. You will think of those remedies when 
the Sanicula patients relate their symptoms in diseases of the 
eye, 

Case VI.— Asthma : Bryonia .—Mrs. B-came to the 

office for treatment for asthma. She has had it for seven years, 
and had taken all the remedies for asthma that are generally 
kept in the drug stores. They only relieved temporarily. 
Her husband gave the following symptoms : She was always 
worse when doing her work; was always better at night (or 
when she could keep quiet); motion < her condition. I gave 
her Bryonia cm. and she was cured. 

Has never had a relapse, now over a year since the cure. 

Case VII.— Rheumatism: Lycopodium .—Mr. H-,aged 

twenty-six, came here from one of the Eastern states for his 
health. He had been sick all winter, with haemorrhage of 
the lungs ; was now attacked with inflammatory rheumatism. 
The disease commenced in the feet and passed upward, until 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



130 


Verifications. 


February 


it had invaded every joint in his body. Kept moving all the 
time, attacking one joint and leaving it, then after awhile 
coming back to the same one again. The allopathic doctor 
he had could do nothing for him ; that is the way I came to 
get the case. Hie urine was very cloudy, and there was an 
abundance of red sand, some rumbling in the bowels, but he 
had no fulness after eating, as one would expect. I had tried 
several remedies with no benefit. I thought I now had the 
remedy, so gave him Lycopodium 30 m., and his rheumatism 
vanished like the dew before the sun, and when he left here 
there was no rheumatism; also, he was greatly improved in 
his lung trouble. 

Case VIII.— Inflammatory Rheumatism: Rhus. —Mrs. 

-suffered with acute rheumatism; an allopath had been 

dosing her for two weeks on Morphine, and all the hypnotics. 
When he found out that/ the money was not forthcoming 
(which is a very important thing), he quit the case. She had 
a very high fever with circumscribed redness of the cheeks, a 
temperature of 103, pulse 120; was very restless, and much 
worse at night; had to change her position often; she could 
get a little rest after beiqg moved, which afforded her a little 
ease. 

March 1st.—I found the patient sleeping on my visit this 
morning, she rested much better last night. Temperature 
101, pulse 100; she was feeling much better, gave her Sac. lac. 
every hour. 

March 2d.—Feels better, temperature 98£, pulse 72. Swell¬ 
ing nearly all gone, can feed herself now, rests well at night; 
continued the Sac. lac. 

March 4th.—I found the patient convalescent and dis¬ 
charged her cured; one dose of the proper remedy, Rhuq. cm. 
(Sk.), did the work. 

Case IX.— Bronchitis: Lycopodium. —Mr. W. A--, 

gick with bronchitis; had an allopath to attend him for the 
first two weeks, and was growing worse all the time; some of 
the neighbors influenced them to try Homoeopathy, and they 
did. 

I found him with a very bad cough, expectorating yellow 
mucus. I thought that he was expectorating about as much 
as a case with consumption; in fact there was a tendency 
that way, if he was not already in that condition. He had 


Digitized by U.ooQLe 



1891 


O. W. Sherbino . 


131 


marked fan-like motion of the alse nasi, worse towards even¬ 
ing; fulness after eating; despondent, thought he would never 
get well. I cured him beautifully with Lycopodium 30 m., 
in a few days. 

Case X.— Renal Colic: Nux. —Mr.-, visiting here, was 

taken with a pain in the region of the right kidney, passing 
down to the region of the bladder. It came on in paroxysms 
of about every five minutes; he would twist and turn in all 
directions to get a little ease. It being on the right side and 
they thought there was a sandy sediment in the urine, but of 
this there was no positive proof. I gave ^Belladonna cm.; 
then after waiting long enough, with no change, Lycopodium 
30 m. with no results. He now. after interrogatories, says 
that with each pain there is a feeling as though the bowels 
wanted to act but did not. Nux cm. cured him at once. 
While I was gone to the country he passed two small gravel 
stones which cleared up the diagnosis, but which did not 
help me one iota in finding the remedy to cure him of the 
pain. But for the sake of irregular science we will give the 
baby a name. 

Case XI.— Fever: Rhus .—Mr. P-,aged87, contracteda 

fever, and it ran on for several days, till it took a turn for the 
worse. One of the daughters was taken to his house one 
evening by a livery man, who found the old man so bad that 
he stayed all night to assist them. A messenger came for 
medicine. I had been giving him Rhus cm., but he was very 
bad, and they thought he would not live till morning. I sent 
him Rhus mm. (F.), to be put in water, a teaspoonful every 
half hour till he was better, then stop. He was in the fol¬ 
lowing condition: Great restlessness, could not lie but a 
moment in one position without being moved; was delirious, 
carpologia, tongue was dry aB a chip and cracked. 

The man that had stayed there said that an hour before I 
came he had no pulse; at this time the pulse was 140, 
but getting stronger. I stopped the medicine and put him on 
Sac. lac. In the course of a week he was out of danger and 
made a good recovery. The livery man said he did not know 
what kind of water I was giving him, but one thing he did 
know was, that it acted well on his heart, as he had no pulse. 

Case XII.— Wasp Sting: Apis .— A boy, driving a delivery 
wagon, called to show me his hand had been stung by a wasp. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



.132 


Verifications . 


February 


His hand was swollen and his arm was beginning to swell; he 
complained of it paining him, a burning, stinging sensation. 
He had a high fever, but was not thirsty. I wrapped his 
arm and band in a wet towel of cold water, which gave him 
some relief. One dose of Apis cm. cured him of the swelling 
and the fever by the next day. 

Case III. —Poisoning: Rhus .—Last summer a man living 
on the Brazos came to the office with a swelled neck. It was 
one mass of watery vesicles, and his neck was sore and stiff. 
He said that he had been working where there was poison oak; 
he was very susceptible to it. He was restless, he could not 
keep still; he came on horseback; as long as the horse was 
going at full speed he was better; let him get quiet and the 
nervousness would begin, and he felt that he must get up and 
commence knocking around again. One dose of Rhus cm. 
cured him at once. 

Case XIV. —Fkacture of the Lower Third of the 
Femur: Calcarea fihos. —Mr. J-, aged 56, became en¬ 

tangled in a rope with which he was leading a horse. The 
rope was around the left leg. He thought that if the animal 
should jump, it might break his leg, so he tried to get out 
of the tangle, and threw his weight on that leg, and it gave 
a sudden “pop,” as he called it. 

I put on a temporary dressing with splints from the peri¬ 
neum to the knee, extending all around the leg. The legs 
were then of the same length. I then put on an extension of 
about fourteen pounds; in about three weeks I put on a 
plaster cast. 

On my next visit I found him very restless and he says, 
“ Now give me a big dose of morphine.” 

He became very uneasy from lying on his back and had to 
twist and turn all he could to get a little rest. I gave him 
Rhus cm., and he needed no morphine. 

Taking the case altogether, the brittleness of the bones and 
his old age, I feared some trouble in obtaining the union. I 
gave him a dose of Cal. phos. 

He behaved very badly; he would loosen the dressing, take 
off the extensions, and he tore the cast off the next morning. 
I then refused to have any more to do with him; if he was 
foolish enough to take this responsibility upon himself, he 
should do so without my assistance. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


0 . W. Sherbino. 


133 


There is only one thing for which I report this case; viz., 
to show what Homoeopathy can do for a broken bone under 
disadvantages. 

Remarks. —This man recovered with a shortening of only 
about one-half inch, while an allopathic surgeon had a case at 
the same time, broken a little higher up, and the patient on 
crutches, now about eight months, with a shortening of two 
and one-half inches. Would not a few doses of Cal. phos. 
have effected a more rapid union? 

Case XY.— Hysteroid epilepsy: Belladonna . — Mrs. 

Y-was taken with spasms. They came for me but I was 

engaged. Two allopaths were called, and they had a terrible 
fight for about a week. They exhausted chloroform, mor¬ 
phine, bromide of potash, and all the latest things in the 
Materia Medica, and all to no purpose. The family became 
tired of this guessing business and 1 was now called. I 
found her very nervous; could not have any one talk loud in 
the room, nor make the least noise; The room was darkened; 
she was jumping in sleep; aggravation in the afternoon. 

Belladonna cm. cured case promptly. 

Case XVI.— sanicula.—M rs.-, mother of two children, 

has been in poor health for a number of years. She is a tall, 
slim woman, has the appearance of an anemic person. Is 
suffering with what she calls bladder trouble; has to urinate 
too often and too profusely; has to get up at night two or 
three times to urinate, urine is clear and pale in color, also 
has a leucorrhcea that is profuse, changeable in color, .at 
times is milky then yellow, < at, or during stool. Weak 
and prostrated, rumbling in the bowels before meals, feels bet¬ 
ter after eating and when the stomach is full. Hands cold and 
clammy; she said that feet were the same, especially in cold 
weather; stockings were always damp. Two doses of Sani- 
cula 10 m. and then 50 m. She was cured of all the trouble. 

Case XYII.— Sanicula. —Mrs.-, aged thirty-eight, has 

been a great sufferer for many years with asthma. 

I think that she was the worst case I ever saw. She had 
been treated by two pseudo homoeopaths with the “indi¬ 
cated ” remedy and “ electricity,” and she grew worse all the 
time. It was my misfortune to get control of the case. She 
looked like a woman in the second stage of consumption; 
had not had her menses for six months, was poor in flesh and 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



134 


Verifications . 


February 


weak, unable to do her work. I treated the case the best I 
could for six months from the totality, but I could only see 
palliation. The husband thought that she was improving, 
but it was imperceptible to me. 

The symptoms that I prescribed for were: Asthmatic 
breathing, mouth open, rising and falling of the larynx 
(Ant. t., Lyc.), arms elevated on top of a chair (Caust.), 
labored breathing, wheezing and coughing, and trying to 
belch, which gave momentary relief (Nux). 

These paroxysms would last some times all night or all day. 
A severe attack of coughing with expectoration would relieve; 
she could not move around, had to keep perfectly still, made 
her worse to move (Bry.); her hands were cold, her feet 
were clammy and cold as ice, she could not keep them warm; 
rumblings and gurgling all through the abdomen; she gets 
so very hungry before meals, especially before dinner; she felt 
so much better on a full stomach (Anac. Chel. Hep. Graph. 
Phos. Sep. Sulf. Staph.). 

I gave her Sanicula from the 10 m. to the dmm., and it 
helped her more than all the remedies that I had given her. In 
fact it was the only one that I could see had relieved her. 
Her appetite improved and she gained in flesh. She is not 
cured, but she is so much better, that this great remedy 
ought not to be forgotten. I believe it will ultimately make 
a cure. She goes now for months without the medicine. 

Case XYIII.— Sanicula. —Mr.-had lagrippe, followed 

by neuralgia. I was mixed up in a case of obstetrics, and in my 
absence he thought he would play smash and take Antipyrin 
and be cured by the time I got home. It palliated the dis¬ 
ease for a few days and then it would not work any more. 

He took a relapse and sent for an allopath, and he dosed 
him well on calomel and all the things they have to keep a 
person sick a long while ; he got so he could sit up, and he 
took a trip to an adjoining city. While he was making the 
trip, the cars jolted him so he thought he would have to get 
off the train and go to a hotel. He wrote to his wife to send 
him something from me. I sent him Bryonia, and in a few 
weeks he returned home and I had him for a patient as soon 
as he landed. He had lost thirty pounds since he took the 
regular (?) medicine. 

He was eating but very little food, as it distressed him 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Q. W. Sherbino. 


135 


so* and all kinds of food disagreed with him. He had 
been trying to diet himself; but his case did not mend on 
medicatrix natures , and he needed some from some other 
source. 

He complained of great soreness through the stomach and 
hepatic region; there was some enlargement of the liver; and 
great tenderness to pressure and jar. He could not laugh 
without pressure against his stomach and bowels. He felt 
the best when the stomach was full; and worse when empty. 

I gave SaniculalO m., and he commenced to mend at once; 
and kept on till he was restored to perfect health; he had 
debilitating night sweats as soon as he fell asleep. I think I 
gave him a dose or two of the 50 m. I thought I was going 
to have a tough case, but he was very easily cured. See the 
proving in transactions of I. H. A., 1887. 

Case XIX.— Chionanthus. —Mrs. W-> four months 

pregnant; slow fever, few guiding symptoms. The fever 
would go down in the morning, and rise in the afternoon each 
day. All the usual remedies were used and the fever kept on. 
I was satisfied that if I did not break that fever before long 
that she would abort and go the usual way of such cases. 
She had a pretty good appetite all the time, but I did not let 
her have anything but liquid food to eat. I gave one dose of 
Ohionanthus 13 m. (Santee), and I found all the fever gone 
the next morning. 

Case ‘ XX.— Neurasthenia: Chionanthus.— Rev. Mr. 

Me-came to me for a perspiration with which he had 

been troubled all summer; he had tried all the usual tonics 
in the shops without any benefit. He came to me because he 
could not help himself. 

Complained of great weakness in his arms and legs; was 
much prostrated after preaching; his mind ran on his sermon, 
and this he kept up all night and could not sleep on this 
account. 

He was stupid and drowsy all the time, had a poor appe¬ 
tite and all the food he ate distressed him. 

I gave him a dose of Chionanthus om. made on the Santee 
Gravity Potentizer. He was speedily cured. 

Case XXL— Chionanthus. —Mrs. S-, a woman who 

has worked very hard for years, attending to her household 
duties, is constantly fatigued, and when one of these over- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




136 


Prurigo: Sulphur . 


FEBRUJLklr 


worked days are done she is sure to have a spell of tired, all 
gone feeling come over her. She feels the next day as though 
she could not do another stroke or attend to the duties 
devolving upon her. With this malaise, she has a little fever 
with drowsiness—the temperature will be perhaps 99 or 99|— 
and an aching all over her body, in the bones, with a dispo¬ 
sition to lie down and keep quiet. 

There is loss of appetite, and a bad taste in her mouth, 
tongue coated white. 

This case had had these spells all summer, off and on. 

Baptisia would stop them, but they returned just the same, 
from overwork. 

Chionanthus cured this case permanently. I used it in 
7th and 10th potencies, the highest 1 had, which acted well. 

Case XXII.— Baptisia. —Aching and a numb feeling in 
the brain, worse on vertex. The brain feels as if it was going 
to sleep; a sensation as if there was a weight pressing on top 
of the head. 

A burning feeling all over the body, and a sensation as if 
she was swelling; the hands and feet and the whole body, 
even the tongue feels as if it was swelled; this causes a feel¬ 
ing as if she would smother, and she craves fresh air and must 
have it; she thinks that she has heart disease; the next day 
she is so stupid that she wants to sleep all the time; she can 
not collect her thoughts; has to rub her head to collect her 
thoughts soshe can express herself. G. W. Shebbiuto. 

Abilene. Tex. 


PRURIGO: SULPHUR* 

Mrs. S-, a married woman of fifty years of age, of light 

complexion, blue eyes, light auburn hair, a nervous sort of 
body—complained for nearly six months, as follows: 

Frequent micturition day and night. Urine passed in 
small quantities—about a large spoonful at once—with 
urgency before, pain, smarting, burning, scalding, after each 
passage. 

There was a sensation of pressure upon the bladder, also. 

The above were all the symptoms she gave, all I could get, 
at the time. 

The above condition was distressing and kept her from 
church, and social gatherings. 

♦Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Dolor — Homoeopathy . 


137 


Without any comparison of remedies for such condition, I 
gave Oantharis 200, which gave some relief, but only that. 

At the third call, I questioned her more closely, and found 
she had, in addition to the foregoing symptoms, the follow¬ 
ing: 

Had much prurigo of labia, groins, upper part of thighs; 
the itching beitig so intense she wore out her clothing rub¬ 
bing and scratching the parts. 

The labia, vestibulum, meatus urinarius, and ostium vagi¬ 
nas, together with the adjacent skin, were inflamed, and the 
labifr majora dry and cracked. All these areas were subject 
to attacks of intense itching, burning, and smarting after 
scratching, daily. 

She was subject to frequent flushes of heat with redness of 
face, followed by slight perspiration. 

Got cftlly easily, and as easily got warm. 

Heat and work aggravated her symptoms. 

Had considerable thirst, and less hunger. 

Often had burning heat of feet both day and night, worse 
nights. 

She had used all sorts of medicines, salves and ointments, 
hot and cold water, but only to repel the local irritation from 
time to time: This was what had been done, just pridr to the 
time she first called oil me, and this accounted for the pau¬ 
city of symptoms given at first and second call. 

On the basis of the last symptoms, I gave her Sulphur 500, 
three doses, and a subsequent prescription of Sac. lac. At 
the end of a week she was materially better, and from that 
time to this she had no more trouble. 

The Sulphur was given, February 22, 1890. 

T. D. Stow. 

Mexico, N. T. 


DOLOR—HOMOEOPATHY.* 

The most recent nosological classification treats of a class 
called “ Dolores,” a class of diseases characterized by more 
or less pain. Almost to a man our professional brethren of 
the old school—and their laity as well—in the dolores resort 
to all sorts of palliative and analgesic measures, from 

♦Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



138 


Dolor — Homoeopathy . 


Febbtjaby 


flaxseed poultices or other counter-irritants to the most 
heroic doses of morphia, chloral, phenacetine, sulfonal, etc., 
often to no purpose, and occasionally fatal. What would you 
do for a case of bilious colic, or dysentery,, or sharp neuralgia, 
or acute articular rheumatism? Ask a multitude of the 
curious, strangers to Homoeopathy. 

Very strange seems the question, to us, when put by them 
who have seen, though they may not have felt the marvelous 
power of the remedy homoeopathic in such cases. Passing 
strange is it when professed followers of Hahnemann resort to 
the unreliable and often hazardous measures of allopathy in 
treating painful conditions! 

I am moved to write this article after perusing the inter¬ 
esting and instructive article written by Dr. J. E. Menden¬ 
hall, of Saratoga, N. Y., for the May (1890) number of the 
Homoeopathic Physician , page 213. Dr. MendenhallVoes pure 
Homoeopathy signal service in reporting such cases. I wish 
to corroborate his statements by citations of somewhat similar 
cases; might cite hundreds had 1 kept a faithful record of 
them; so could any true homoeopathician of average practice. 

Case I.—J. M-, a watch repairer, aged forty-five, a 

slim person, of poor digestive powers, sedentary habits, was 
subject * to attacks of bilious colic. Had intense griping, 
cutting, in center of abdomen, forcing him to bend double 
and press his fists, a book, or the edge of bed into his 
abdomen, thus getting some relief. He rolled over the bed 
or on the floor in agony, and each paroxysm of pain was 
accompanied or followed by retching and vomiting of food or 
bile, one or both. 

I gave him Colocynth 30 in water, a large spoonful every 
fifteen minutes. At the third dose he fell asleep and was 
soon in a nice, warm perspiration. Had no more pain after 
that for some months, perhaps a year, when he had a similar 
attack. Colocynth 30, two or three doses, filled the bill 

again. I saw Mr. M-daily after that for years, and to 

my knowledge he never had another attack. I will add that, 

under old school treatment, Mr. M-seldom got out in less 

than a week; whereas, under Homoeopathy he went to his work 
the same or the next day. 

Case II.—Wm. McD-, a machinist, rode a long dis¬ 

tance one cold day in March ; got a hard chill and when he 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


T. D. Stow. 


139 


reached home was seized with severe bilious enteralgia. I 
found him in bed, or rather on a bed, in agony of enteric 
pain. His extremities were icy cold; he was very restless; 
his countenance had an anxious, frightened look; indeed, he 
said he could not live an hour. At the end of each paroxysm 
of pain he vomited mucus and bile. The abdomen was very 
sore to touch and somewhat tympanitic. 

Dull rumbling in abdomen. 

Pulse small and very frequent. 

I dissolved a few globules of Aconite 30 in half a glass of 
pure water and gave him a large spoonful every twenty min¬ 
utes. Soon after giving the second dose he was easier; at the 
end of an hour and a quarter he went to sleep and soon a 
profuse perspiration spread over his entire body. He had no 
more acute pain; no vomiting after the third or fourth dose; 
slept through the remainder of the night, and the next day 
sat up, but as a precautionary measure he remained in the 
house, taking light*food at meal time. Nothing more was 
heard of the colic and he resumed work on the third day after 
the attack, a well man. 

Cask III.—Toward night, on a bitter cold day in January, 
1869, the snow being very deep in the roads, a poor German 
attempted to walk on the D. & L. railroad track from Fulton 
to Oswego, N. Y. Night overtook him, tired, cold and 
weary at the tenant farm house of one Reynolds. In the 
night he was taken sick and at dawn the poormaster of 
Granby called me to see him. I reached the place with much 
difficulty at 10 a. m. 

•• There I found a patient who could not speak English, and 
myself, a poor doctor who could neither read nor write the 
German. So we had to trust to objective and other signs. The 
patient had fever, temperature at 101; pulse quite frequent; 
tongue coated, yellowish white; some thirst for water; vomiting 
of mucus, bile; the abdomen getting tympanitic, and tender 
under pressure; he could not bear his waistbands buttoned; 
the urine scanty, hot, red. As to the kind of pain, which was 
confined to the hypogastrium, he could only express it by 
using his hands, bending and separating his fingers like bird 
claws, from which I inferred they were “clawing like talons ” 
Governed by the gesture, coupled with the other symptoms, 
and the quality of his tramp and exposure, I gave Bell. 30 in 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



.140 


Clinical Notes . 


February 


water. In an hour or two he was easy, had no more pain, and 
was able to ride to Oswego well the next day. 

Case IY.—The two-year-old son of a family named 
Waugh, of Fulton, N. Y., was taken sick in the afternoon 
of the day I was called to him. Two days before the child 
had a painful, yellow, watery diarrhoea, offensive, etc., which 
the mother checked with cordial. The little fellow “pimped 
all the time after she gave it,” to use her expression, having 
paroxysms of pain, at times dreadful, culminating at night, 
when they sent for me. The father was carrying the child 
over his left shoulder, the child resting on his belly. He was 
sobbing when I went in, but when the paroxysms of paih 
came on, he was frantic , drawing up his limbs, striking out 
his arms and hands, and the only thing they could do to 
appease him was to carry him about the room. At the end 
of each pain he passed much foul flatus. When I attempted 
to handle him, he yelled and struck me, as he did his father 
when he stopped walking. It struck nje that Chamomilla 
was the remedy, so I gave a dose of the 200. In ten min¬ 
utes he was asleep, and they “put him in his little bed,” 
where he slept all night. He had but that dose that night. 
The next day the diarrhceic stools came on, for which I gave 
one more dose of Cham. 200. He immediately recovered, 
and remained well long as I knew him. 

These are' but samples of the good effects of true homoeo- % 
pathic practice, in the treatment of the dolores, witnessed 
every day by thousands! 

It is simply notorious that such painful affections as neu¬ 
ralgia, rheumatism, pleurisy, pleurodynia, colic, toothache, 
headache, etc., generally yield like magic to the well selected 
potentized remedy. T. D. Stow. 

Mexico. N. Y. 


CLINICAL NOTES * 

Case 1. Mr. S-, aged 41, called on me on the 18th of 

September, 1887, complaining of being overcome by the heat. 
He had nausea and vomiting; the nausea was < by every 
motion and he could not keep anything on his stomach for 
nine days. This nausea was accompanied by a continual 
hiccough during the whole time. At the time the patient 
♦ Trans. L H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. H. Sutfin. 


141 


called, the hiccough was very violent, shaking his whole 
body. At the beginning of the illness he had been treated 
by two allopathic doctors for several days, but failing to 
afford any relief they held a consultation with two others, 
and after several days further treatment pronounced his case 
hopeless; that he could not live but a short time. Seeing a 
perfect Ipecac, picture in his case, it was given, one dose 40 m. f 
followed with Sac. lac. Reported the next morning nausea all 
gone, but hiccough still continuing and feeling worse. I 
gave one dose on the tongue of Nux 46 m.; in five minutes the 
hiccough ceased and no return of the trouble. The patient 
fell asleep, and after waking in half an hour was able to take 
about two ounces of nourishment without any return of the 
bad symptoms. In a few days he recovered sufficiently to 
resume his work as foreman of brick work on a building. 

Case II.—Mrs. Cole, aged 28, August 4,1888, after child¬ 
birth some two hours, had. post partum haemorrhage; flow 
gradual and no pain, dark blood. Gave one dose Hamamelis 
200; relief followed in a few minutes, and in half an hour all 
was normal. 

Case III.—Mrs. A-, aged 24, September 12, 1887.—I 

was called just after the child was born; found the patient 
flowing profusely, bright red blood, hot. At a glance discovered 
Belladonna to be my remedy. The bed %as saturated with 
blood; gave one dose 40 rn.; flow ceased in about five minutes. 

Case IY.—Mrs. S-, aged 32, in April, 1888, in labor; 

pains short, irregular; patient complained of being very weak; 
had always been so in labor with two or three children prior 
to this time. Gave Caulophyllum 200. In fifteen or twenty 
minutes labor became natural and proceeded normally to the 
end. She said the labor was several hours shorter than any 
she had previously had. 

Case V.— Mrs. C-, aged 41, July 1, 1888, had asthma 

for fifteen years or over, suffering constantly for six or seven 
months previous to my treatment; always worse about the 
menstrual period; her friends believing that she would not 
live to the end of the week. She had the best of allopathie 
treatment during the six or seven months previous, and her 
physician had advised her to go to Denver, Colorado, which 
she did. The disease was > for a day or two, followed by 
severe < which caused her to return home on the first train. 

« 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




142 


Clinical Notes. 


February 


She then reported her case to me, but said she had no confi¬ 
dence in homoeopathic treatment; that it was not strong 
enough to do her any good. Finding that her bowels had 
not acted without a physic for seven months past, I gave her 
Nux 45 m., one dose, to start on, followed by Sac. lac. for 
three days. She reported at the end of that time, bowels 
acting regularly once a day. Repeated Sac. lac. for three 
days; bowels all right, one movement a day, but not feeling 
any improvement otherwise. She was obstinate about giv¬ 
ing her symptoms minutely, claiming that she could not see 
why a particular question had anything to do in her case. I 
prescribed Arsenicum 35 m., one dose, followed by Sac. lac. 
for three days. She slept some better, < not being quite so 
severe in the night, from 11 p. m. to 1 or 2 A. m. She found 
herself improving and became more tractable, and gave her 
symptoms with more particularity and a better grace, calling 
attention to the fact of the measles having been suppressed 
about twenty years before, at the age of twenty-one. This 
accidental statement on her part made the case plain. I 
gave her Carbo v. 45 m., followed by Sac. lac. for three days. 
I instructed her husband to watch closely for the eruption 
which would be liable to show on the face and back of the 
ears and neck. reported at the end of the three days that 
the face and neck were covered witli an eruption, the fourth 
day on the chest and body, and on the fifth day on the 
extremities. She slept comfortably for five hours at a time 
on the last night, and after waking for half an hour again 
slept well until morning. This was the first night she had 
done such a thing for years. During the seven months pre¬ 
vious she had perspired profusely at night. After the erup¬ 
tion had dried up the perspiration increased so that she 
became alarmed at that feature. I told her that I did not 
wish to check the sweating too suddenly, but she insisted that 
it must be done, and I then gave her one dose of Pulsatilla 
with no effect whatever. After three days I gave one dose 
of Acetic acid and after three additional days the usual per¬ 
spiration ceased. Oi* August 26th stopped treatment, the 
patient then being able to resume her household affairs and 
has remained well up to the present time. 

Case VI.—Miss S-, girl eight years old, November 16, 

188^ I was called to treat the child after six weeks of allo- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. H. Sutfin. 


143 


pathic treatment for fever. She still had fever, malarial 
typhoid; had become badly emaciated and the left knee 
anchylosed, swollen three times its normal size. I gave one 
dose of Silicea 71 m., followed by Sac. lac. Improvement set 
in at once, and in a week’s time, she was able to walk around 
the room without assistance. 

Case VII.—Miss C -, aged thirty-nne, complained of 

painful menstruation for the past sixteen years. Was born 
and raised in Ohio, and had lived there until two or three 
months before calling on me, and had employed the best 
medical skill of both schools; never had received any benefit. 
On consultation the doctors had decided that nothing more 
could be done for her without an examination to which she 
would not submit. She was then advised to change climate, 
go West, but leave the doctors there alone. After residing in 
this city for about three months, at her regular period having 
taken some cold, the pains became unbearable. She called 
on me for relief from the pains, but not for treatment. 
I told her that I did not do business that way, that I pro¬ 
posed to know what every dose of medicine that I gave out 
went for, and that I would have to have her symptoms. 
These she declined to give for the reasons heretofore stated. 
She, however, answered three questions which I asked her, 
and I discovered that she was afflicted with metrorrhagia, of 
dark, viscid, stringy blood of black clots, the menses profuse 
and lasting too long, but coming on at the proper time; very 
painful. I gave her one dose of Orocus 45 m. at three 
o’clock in the afternoon. At nine o’clock in the evening she 
was comfortable, and went to sleep and slept all night. The 
next morning she reported her case at nine o’clock. She 
supposed from what others had said that she must now be 
natural for the first time in her life, and requested another 
powder like the last given. I gave her Sac. lac. and 
directed her to watch her symptoms and report them to me 
when the menses ceased. At the end of the fourthgday she 
reported that she had had no more pain, and thatgeverything 
was all right. I told her to call for another powder of Oro¬ 
cus in three weeks time, which she did. The next period 
came on without pain and lasted three days in a natural 
manner. She has never had any trouble since. 

Case VIII.— Mr. J-, aged fifty-two, September 25, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



144 


A Clinical Case. 


February 


1888, having an attack of paralysis, some two years before, 
affecting the right side the most. He had been hurt by a 
fall, and had never recovered from it. At first he was par¬ 
tially paralyzed from the hips down; for six months very 
weak in the ankles; two months later the upper eyelids 
became immovable, and had to be lifted up with his fingers; 
cramps in the lower limbs and muscle of the thighs; very 
restless and felt better after moving a limb from one position 
to another. I gave Rhus 35 m., followed by Sac. lac. for one 
week. Patient fully recovered. 

• Case IX.—Mrs. 0-, aged fifty-eight, April 4, 1889, 

complained of constipation and piles for many years, attended 
with much straining and blood with stool, burning and shud~ 
dering Sensation about the loins following the stool. Desired 
to get near the stove; bad taste always; passing a great deal 
of flatus mornings after getting up. Gave Aloe 60 m. 
Reported much benefit in a week. Then gave Sac. lac. for 
ten days. Symptoms then indicating Mercurius sol. gave 
one dose lcm.; reported in three weeks entirely well-. This 
case bad been treated in New York about six months previous 
by specialists by the dilating process, without any benefit 
and only aggravation. J. H. Sutfin. 

Kansas City, Mo. 


A CLINICAL CASE.* 

Dear Colleagues: I send you only one clinical case. It is 
not very much, but I hope you will appreciate it, because it 
offers a good proof of the necessity and of the power of 
Hahnemannian individualization. 

I was spending my vacation in Spoleto in the summer of 
1887. It was the month of August and the Marchioness 
Lavinia Monoldi-Toni had been sick for several days, and 
another homoeopathic physician of that city, a little mon 
grel, was treating her. The sickness got worse and worse 
and became serious. I was invited to see the patient, who 
was an old patient of mine and a partisan of Homoeopathy. 

I took charge of her case with my colleague. The case 
was one which affected strongly the nervous centers and 
which was difficult to designate by one of the so many noso¬ 
logical terms. But this was not necessary for a follower of 
Hahnemann. The symptoms were: 

♦Trans. I. H. A. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


0 . Pompili. 


145 


Depression and total prostration of strength. The patient 
lay on the bed in a continuous and complete somnolency; 
and besides that weakness she suffered from a kind of stu¬ 
pidity. 

It was necessary in order to feed her to place her body in 
an easy posfure, but she could not remain long in that posi¬ 
tion. As soon as she swallowed, mechanically, a few spoon¬ 
fuls of soup and a little wine, against her wish, she kept 
looking somnolent and felt the necessity of sleeping and fell 
again into the lethargy. It was hard for her to speak, and she 
only answered briefly when she was questioned. She did not 
ask for anything; she never spoke and it was always necessary 
to waken her. 

The color of her face was always pale. 

Her expression was apathetic. 

The temperature of her body was always cold. 

Her pulse was feebJe and slow. 

Her respiration was slow. 

She had been in this condition for a few days, and I, con¬ 
sidering especially the weakness of all the senses which was 
the most visible symptom of her affection, administered in a 
hurry a dose of Anacardium 3 m. (Jenichen), which seemed at 
first to have good effect. But neither this remedy nor the 
other, Arsenicum 200, had any effect, and the condition of 
the patient grew worse. 

It happened one night that she tried to get up and fell like 
a corpse; it was necessary to put her back to bed as she was 
incapable of any action. 

While all these symptoms were becoming more intense, 
another mortal one was manifesting itself, in such cases 
always a prelude of near death, “the involuntary emission of 
the urine and feces." It seemed that a complete paralysis 
would be the last consequence as she was of a nervo-lynphatic 
constitution and more than seventy years old. 

There was no hope and her family was sure of the imminent 
loss. I had also almost lost hope, but I devoted myself to a 
long and diligent study of the Materia Medica, and the result 
was that if there existed a remedy, by the manifestation of all 
the symptoms, it must be Hyoscyamus. So on the 28th of 
August I administered a dry dose on the tongue, potency 200, 
with the intention of passing successively to the potency cm. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



146 


Central New York Society. 


Februjlrt 


(Fincke). But it was not necessary, because that dose alone, 
after having produced an exacerbation of all the symptoms, 
was in a little while followed, to the general astonishment, by 
a gradual improvement which after two days brought the 
patient to a complete recovery. 

Now, in her old age, she enjoys excellent health, confirm¬ 
ing to everybody the beneficial effect of Homoeopathy. As a 
comment to this clinical episode we may deduce the two fol¬ 
lowing corollaries: 

First. A good homoeopathic physician should never be in 
a hurry to give a prescription before studying and .consider¬ 
ing his case. 

Second. When the remedy answers to all the peculiar 
characteristic symptoms, one dose of high potency is enough 
to cure sickness, even of a very serious character. 

GL PoifPiLi. 

Rome. Italy. 


PROCEEDINGS OF CENTRAL NEW YORK HOMEO¬ 
PATHIC SOCIETY. 

Meeting called to order by the president, A. B. Carr, M. 
D., at 10 a. Members present: Oarr, Hawley, Seward, 
Hussey, Schmitt, Hoard, Clapp, Voak, Leggett, and Grant. 
Visitors present: Drs. Johnson, Dyke, Norman, Hermanoe, 
and Brownell. 

Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved, with 
the addition that Dr. Wells’ “ Resolution ” was carried. 

Communication was read from Dr. L. B. Wells, of TJtica, 
referring to his paper on the “History of Homeopathy in 
the State of New York.” 

The Board of Censors, through their chairman. Dr. Hawley, 
reported that the application of Dr..Santee had not been 
presented in the proper form, so conld not be reported at this 
meeting. The application of Dr. Norman was favorably 
reported and referred back to the Censors to await the 
required six months before ballot. 

§74 to §78, inclusive, of the “ Organon” were then read. 

Dr. Hawley: 1 would like to know if, in the experience 
of those present, the drug diseases, such, lor instance, ae 
mercurial poisoning, have ever been cured. 


Digitized by tjOOQLe 



im 


Central New York Society . 


147 


Dr. Seward cited bis own case, in which, as a child, he 
had been salivated. He had had relief, but had never been 
cured. He had treated many cases with relief, bnt could not 
consider that they had been cured. 

Dr. Hawley: I have a case in which the patient, as a 
young lady, was so thoroughly mercurialized as to lose every 
hair upon the scalp, and even the eyelashes and eyebrows. 
She has always had frequent attacks, in which the mercurial 
symptoms predominate, and which is always relieved, but I 
Can not pee that I make permanent impression upon the 
miasm produced by the drug. I have given Hepar, Mer- 
curius (high), and other remedies as they seem indicated, 
with but temporary relief, not cure. 

Dr, Clapp: I have succeeded best in acute cases, or 
early stages of mercurial poisoning, with low potencies of 
Nitric ac. 

Dr. Vpak reported a case of mercurial poisoning that 
bad resulted in anchylosis of the knee and elbow joints, much 
improved by Merc. 6 m. Tbs anchylosis wap fast disappear¬ 
ing when a removal of the patient from town caused him to 
lose sight of the case. 

Dr. Hawley: Hahnemann was the first physician to 
understand that in chronic disease, the manifestations were 
always in line of progression and with structural changes, 
toward the life centers, until death resulted. 

A man free from chronic disease might live in a swamp a 
long time without contracting malaria. A healthy man can 
use his eyes constantly without their becoming more quickly 
affected than the rest of his body. Brain fag, of which we 
constantly hear, depends entirely upon the constitutional 
condition of the patient, and those patients may be oured at 
home by the proper administration of the homeopathic 
drug, as well as to send them away. So far, I believe, I have 
not been guilty of sending a man from home to die. 

Dr. Schmitt related an interesting case where the patient 
was passing through a business crisis, unable either to go away 
or leave his business, wherein the homeopathically selected 
remedies had carried him through his sickness, and enabled 
him to endure great mental strain. 

Dr. Seward then moved a suspension of the regular order 
of business, that he might present a special subject. 

Granted. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



148 


Central Neto York Society . 


Febbuabt 


Dr. Seward: I feel it to be my duty, however unpleasant, 
to bring before this society the fact that one of our members 
(an officer) has been for weeks past advertising in the daily 
press of Syracuse. I have here a copy of said advertisement, 
which I will read. 

Kichabd S. Tbue, M. D., 

418 South Salina Street, Syracuse, N. Y., 

Treats Stricture, in the case of both male and female, successfully, with¬ 
out pain or the use of the knife. Many supposed kidney and bladder 
troubles are due to stricture. Scores of home references furnished on 
application. Telephone No. 847. 

I will also read from the constitution and by-laws of the 
Onondaga County Homeopathic Medical Society a quotation 
from the code of medical ethics, as adopted by and govern¬ 
ing all medical societies. Part II, article 1, section 3: 

Skc. 3. The physician should not resort to public advertisements or 
private cards or handbills inviting the attention of persons affected by 
particular diseases, or publicly offering advice and medicine to the poor 
gratis , or promising radical cures. Neither should he publish cases or 
operations in the daily prints; nor invite laymen to be present at opera¬ 
tions; nor solicit or exhibit certificates of skill and success; nor perform 
any similar act. 

After considerable animated discussion and criticism. Dr. 
Schmitt arose and said: “ I move that Dr. True be asked to 
present his resignation as secretary and treasurer of this 
society." 

Dr. Hussey: I second that motion* 

Dr. Clapp said: “l would suggest that a committee be 
appointed to wait upon Dr. True and ask for an explanation 
before resorting to harsher measures." 

Dr. Hawley: The mischief is already done. There is no 
explanation that can reach the public that will undo that 
mischief to the name of the followers of Homeopathy, and 
if we take no notice of it, we share in the responsibility. 

Dr. Schmitt: We are placed in an unfortunate position. 
We hold ourselves as representatives of pure Homeopathy as 
a higher order of medical practice, and we must be doubly 
careful not to bring discredit upon our good name. We can 
not afford to retain a man as secretary of this society who 
places himself in direct opposition to every expressed code of 
medical ethics in this country. 

The motion was then put and carried. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


149 


Dr. Hussey: 1 do not think we should drop this subject 
here, but that we should decide now as to the future connec¬ 
tion of this member with this society, as well as our future 
conduct in similar cases. I therefore move, Mr. President, 
that Richard S. True, M. D., be expelled from this society 
for conduct unbecoming a physician. 

Dr. Yoak: I second that motion. 

The motion was put and carried unanimously. 

Adjourned to 1:30 p. m. 

AFTERNOON SESSION—2 p. m. 

Dr. Hawley moved that a committee, consisting of Drs. 
Beigler and Grant, be appointed to consider Dr. .Wells' paper 
upon the “ History of Homeopathy in the State of New York," 
and advise as to what disposition shall be made of it. The 
essayists for the day, Drs. Nash, Gwynn and Martin, were 
absent. An interesting paper was sent in by Dr. Martin, 
which was read by Dr. Norman in the absence of the author. 

jaundice: clinical cases. 

It was entitled, and was listened to with great interest. 

Case I.—A woman, who had f what is termed by the laity, 
“ Black Jaundice," having grown steadily worse uijder regu¬ 
lar (?) treatment during the six months preceding his pre¬ 
scription, was discharged cured at the end of two months 
and seven days, under the action, principally, of Nux, as the 
indicated remedy. 

Case II.—Was a man, whose disease was diagnosed as 
“ Obstruction from Inspissated Bile," and who, for twenty- 
five years, had been subject to “bilious attacks" and Rheu¬ 
matism. There was a history of drugging from both schools 
during the first three months following January of 1890. 
Then Dr. Martin took the case. After study, finding Mag. 
m. strongly indicated as the curative remedv, it was given 
with excellent effect, and only interrupted by undue exposure 
and another regular (?) prescription. 

Dr. Martin had found it necessary to vary the prescription 
for conditions arising, or supposed to have arisen, and so 
classed this case as a cure by zig-zag prescribing. 

Dr. Hawley said he was reminded of a case of jaundice in 
which he had been called in consultation many years ago, by 
a member of this society, wherein, as in Dr. Martin's case, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



150 


Use and Abuse of Electricity. February 


the itching was a prominent symptom. Hepar, 85 in. (F), 
was, given. Four doses in solution half an hour apart, and 
for the first few hours produced such an < that the physi¬ 
cian in charge had wanted to make a change* Being very 
confident of the correctness of his prescription, and convinc¬ 
ing the consulting physician of the same, he waited, and the 
one prescription proved sufficient to cure the case. 

Dr. Carr: Dr. Hawley's case shows how important it is to 
adhere to a good prescription, even though we may see no 
apparent benefit, or get an «< at first. 

It was then moved and seconded that Dr. Martin’s paper 
be received and placed on file. Carried. 

Dr. Seward then offered some of his experience relating to 
the 

USE AETD ABUSE OF ELECTRICITY. 

I would like to call attention for a few moments to the con“ 
sideration of some of the injurious effects of electricity, both 
atmospheric and medicinal, and to some of the antidotes to the 
conditions so produced. 

Electricity is thrown about carelessly by the clouds, and 
is often used* injuriously, asua medical agent, by many who 
are ignorant of the effects it is capable of producing. I will 
give instances: 

Case 1 . —There came to my office for prescription, a few 
days ago, a lady who had been taking electricity for partial 
paralysis of the left arm. She said that during a recent 
thunder storm she had felt quite severe electrical effects 
through the left foot to the left side of the body, and to the 
head, which effect was repeated at every heavy electrical dis¬ 
charge, though not in the lighter discharges. It left that 
side and limbs painful and numb for several days. She took 
more electricity during the numbness. She could not ac¬ 
count for the phenomena, it being an entirely new experience* 
I told her that it was because that side was under the con¬ 
tinual effects of the electric fluid she had taken, and that 
when given in large quantities under unsuitable conditions 
its injurious effects will last for years, or during life, or even 
until it causes death, unless it is antidoted either accidentally 
or intelligently. 

A number of cases have come under my notice and treat¬ 
ment, having been injuriously effected by electricity. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


151 


Case II.—A young lady of this city took one electro-thermal 
bath. She had a cold when she took the bath, and lung dis¬ 
ease, consumption, was soon developed. She died in spite of 
the best homeopathic treatment this city then afforded. We 
might do better now. 

Case III.—I was called to a lady past the climacteric who 
had been taking electrical treatment. When she commenced 
the treatment she could walk to the doctor. She grew worse 
and could not walk to his office. Her chest and arms became 
stiffened and almost paralyzed. She felt heavy and weak, a 
condition produced by electricity. She recovered by the use 
of the indicated remedies. Bell, and Nux. 

Case IV.—A young married woman having b(en under 
electrical treatment, both general and local (to the uterus), 
for several weeks, complained of feeling so very heavy, as 
though she “ weighed a ton.” Her disease had not been 
benefited by electricity. She recovered from the effects of it, 
and from her disease, under the homeopathically selected 
remedies. 

Case V.—A woman, in whose household I practice^, told 
me that she had received a shock of atmospheric eleci ricity six 
or seven years before. She had suffered in every electrical 
storm that had since occurred. She said that she felt the 
effects while the storm was still miles away. She felt it in 
her body, but it was worse in the lower extremities. Dur¬ 
ing every storm her feet would patter rapidly upon the 
floor, and even her husband, sitting with his whole weight 
upon her knees, could not hold them still. I told her I 
thought I could cure her of the condition. She desired me 
to do so. I gave her a crowquill vial of Acetate of Morphia 
200. I believe she took three or four doses. She lias never 
felt such effects from a storm since, now more than ten 
years. 

Case VI.—My son, during the effects of a common cold, 
took an electro-thermal bath. He suffered more than two 
years from tuberculous phthisis developed by tint bath. 
You may ask how I know that it was so. From this fact: 
Soon' after the bath he felt a heaviness and stiffness of the 
chest and shoulders, such as he had never felt before. He 
said, u his chest and shoulders felt like marble.” This con¬ 
tinued until he died. He lived in Rochester, and I did not 


Digitized by nooQle 



152 


Use and Abuse of Electricity . February 


know of his having taken snch a bath until one year and a 
half had passed, and an incurable tuberculous condition of 
the lungs had been developed. He died from the injurious 
effects of an electro-thermal bath. 

Doctors, keep your patients from electricity while under 
the effects of a cold. Frequent antidotes are Morphia, Nux, 
Rhod. 

Case VII.—This case taught us a most useful lesson. A 
brother of Dr. Hawley, while in the city of New York, in 
November, took a severe cold, which brought on a rheumatic 
fever. He was treated by homeopaths who did not succeed 
in relieving him. He was advised to try the electro-thermal 
baths; he did so, and became worse. He was removed to 
Syracuse and the case was examined in counsel and treated 
by Drs. Hawley, Miller and Seward, with but little or no 
good. He suffered intensely, his voluntary, muscular and 
nervous system, were paralyzed by the electricity. He could 
neither move nor feed himself. He was taken to his home 
in Illinois, and in May could walk a little by dragging his 
feet. He had a fall upon the ground and bled from the 
lungs.♦ The doctor said to Mrs. Hawley, “there is no hope 
for him now, I will give him Morphine." He then dissolved 
some of that drug in water, and gave him a dose. In a few 
minutes he said, “ I can move my hands better than at any 
time since last fall." He improved from that time, and 
became quite well under the action of the true antidote! 

Dr. Carr: It is to me an interesting fact that Morphia 
will antidote the effects of electricity. I believe it is not so 
given in our repertories. 

Dr. Grant: I move that Dr. Seward’s paper be published 
with our proceedings in the Medical Advance. 

Carried. 

Dr. Voak: I move that we now proceed to "the election of 
a secretary and treasurer. 

Dr. Hoard: Seconded. 

Dr. Hoard was then appointed teller. 

Dr. Voak nominated S. L. Guild Leggett. 

The ballot resulted as follows: Dr. Leggett, seven, Dr. 
Schmitt one. The chair declared Dr. S. L. Guild Leggett 
duly elected secretary and treasurer of this society. 

Dr. Schmitt: I would like to call the attention of the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


153 


society to two symptoms of Sulphur, which I have found to 
be key-notes: First, the audible swallowing of saliva; second, 
a loud gurgling in the abdomen upon deep inspiration. If 
these symptoms are accompanied by red ears, Sulphur will 
almost invariably cure. 

Dr. Schmitt also reported a number of cases of rheumatism 
cured by Kali bi., upon the symptom of rheumatic pains con¬ 
fined to small spots on different parts of the body. One case 
had a gonorrhoeal history, and after the exhibition of Kali bi. 
the gonorrhoeal discharge re-appeared and the whole case 
remained cured. 

Dr. Hawley: Shall we then consider Kali bi. an anti- 
sycotic? 

Dr. Hussey reported a case of infantile diarrhoea which 
continued to return after the most careful prescribing. At 
last, calling to mind the history of the father, whom he had 
treated for gonorrhoea a year and a half before the patient 
Was born, Medorrhinum was given, and made a perfect cure. 

The applications of Drs. A. C. Hermance, W. G. Brownell, 
of Rochester, W. W. Johnson, of Pittsford, were received 
and referred to the Censors. 

The president appointed as essayists for the next meeting 
Drs. Nash, Voak and Schmitt. 

Dr. Schmitt moved that our next meeting be held in Syra¬ 
cuse on the third Thursday of March, 1891. 

Carried. 

Adjourned. # R. C. Grant, 

Secretary, pro tem. 

Rochester, December 18,1890, 


International Hahnemannian Association. — Bureau of 
Materia Medica for 1891. — B. Fincke. H. C. Allen, W. P. Weasel* 
hoeft, E. W. Berridge, J. T. Kent, W. L. Reed, E. E. Case, Phoebe 
D. Brown, M. Florence Taft, S. W. Cohen, G. W. Sherbino, Robert 
Farley, John V. Allen. Special subject for the year is a Proving of 
Kali Phosphoricum. Other provings as well and papers on any other 
topic of the Materia Medica earnestly requested from every member of 
the Association. Edward Rushmore, M. D., Chairman. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



154 


Editorial. 


Febbuaby 


dSbtfomf. 

m WftM w« havt to do with an art whose end Is the earing of human lift, aaf 
ghetto make onnelree thorough maeten of it becomes a crime.”—HjLHWMtut*. 


Materia Medic a: A Study. —In the original preface to 
Bbnninghausen’s Therapeutic Pocket Key, a new American 
edition of which has just been issued, it is suggested that a 
useful and profitable way of studying Materia Medica is to 
underline with a lead pencil, according to the order of that 
book, all those symptoms which have been indicated as char¬ 
acteristic by the explanatory type used. 

Probably no better method of mastering the Materia Medica 
has ever been devised. 

The young man about to take up the study of medicine 
may well view with some uneasiness the corpulent volumes 
devoted to this branch of the great art of healing, and his 
uneasiness will not be diminished on opening one of them and 
discovering that it consists of avast aggregation of symptoms 
often apparently conflicting, always confusing at first sight, 
and exhibiting little evidence of an orderly arrangement. 
The prospect may well dismay the stoutest oonrage and appall 
the most capacious memory. 

It is one of the functions of a book like Bonningbausen's 
Pocket Key to act as a guide in this wilderness and to put 
some kind of order into this seeming chaos of symptoms by 
exhibiting their relative importancej this is done by the well 
known device of using different kinds of types. 

If, for instance, Hering's Condensed be the book selected 
for stndy, all the symptoms, emphasized as characteristic of * 
a remedy, in the new edition of BOnninghausen by capi¬ 
tals, should be marked in Bering by the figure four, either 
before or after the symptom; those of the second degree of 
prominence in the same way by the figure three, and so on. 
Thus the beginner is enabled to first exert bis memory upon 
characteristic symptoms only, instead of squandering it, as 
is «o often done, upon the unverified ones. As this process 
goes on, there is, so to speak, erected in his memory a dis¬ 
tinct structure or framework for each drug, consisting of its 
salient features only, and which can, as time and opportunity 
offer, be filled in with symptoms of the second and third 
degree of importance, if deemed advisable. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


155 


By the time he has mastered fear or five remedies, another 
important lesson begins to dawn upon the student, And that 
is the necessity of a skillful use of the repertories in conjuno- 
tion with the materia* rnedica then and ever after; this is 
foroed upon him as a consequence of the absolute futility of 
trying to store it all in his headpiece. Copious draughts of 
materia rnedica in this style, together with slow, regular, 
methodical sips at the Organon , will soon put a valuable 
stock in the student's brain and greatly shorten the journey 
from a condition of know-nothingism to a fair, practical 
knowledge of this extremely important branch of medicine, 
which every homeopath must travel before he can become a 
master in the immensely difficult but entrancing art of mak¬ 
ing sick people well. 

* * * 

The Quintessence of Bigotry. —In a late issue of the 
Medical Mirror , of St. Louis, the editor. Dr. F. N. Love, 
treats the profession to an exhibition of professional bigotry 
rarely met with, even among the sticklers for upholding an 
intolerant and bigoted code of ethics. Hitherto Dr. Love 
has bitterly assailed all State interference with the unscrupu¬ 
lous managers of medical colleges which are run for the pro¬ 
fessorial addendum and “what money there is in them," irre¬ 
spective of the advancement of the profession or the good of 
humanity. In this fnslaught upon State supervision, for rea¬ 
sons best known to the editor, the Illinois State Board of Health 
has received especial attention. There has been a homeo¬ 
path on the board, and that has been a sufficient excuse for 
his bitter invective. But now, horror of horrors! in addition 
“ to the offensive homeopath, there is “a nigger on the 
board." He is a reputable medical practitioner, who, after 
three years'study, graduated at the Chioago Medical Col¬ 
lege. But the bigoted editor is not satisfied. He says: “ We 
are as liberal in our medical faith and as broad-gauged in 
our political faith as the average, we believe, but we would 
draw the line, even in health boards, before being in close 
harmony and juxtaposition with pronounced irregulars and 
representatives of Ethiopia." 

Certainly! liberality is seen in every line of the editorial. 
But there is never an effect without a cause, and even in the 
case of this pronounced liberal (?), we think we can detect a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



156 


New Publications . 


February 


cause for this overflow of bile. With one exception—and 
the U. of M. has three years of nine months each—the 
homeopathic colleges in the United States have agreed, after 
September, 1892, to demand four years’ study as a requisite 
to graduation, while more than half the colleges of the other 
school—Dr. Love’s, in which he holds three chairs, or 
teaches three branches, included—require but two courses of 
lectures and three years’ study. The “pronounced irregulars” 
have been the first to increase the requirements, to elevate 
the standard of medical education, in this country, and they 
must follow where the homeopaths lead. 

This is where the shoe pinches. The hated homeopaths 
have taken a rapid advance in medical education, and this 
advanced position is, sooner or later, to be followed by the 
better class of allopathic colleges. When this is done, the 
two-course schools, of which Dr. Love’s is a shining exam¬ 
ple, will be compelled to follow or see their incomes curtailed 
and their diplomas unsought. The real Ethiopian is in the 
college work and not in the Illinois State Board of Health. 


(JWi& (publication** 

FIVE IYEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE NtW CURE OF CON- 
SUMPTION BY ITS OWN VIRUS. By J. Compton Burnett, 
M. D., London : The Homeopathic Publishing Co. 1890. 

The title page says: “ Presumably on a line with the method of 
Koch. Illustrated with 54 cases.” On page vi of the Preface the 
author explains this “ new cure of consumption ” in the following: “ I 
think very highly of Koch's remedy, as the world will no doubt call it, 
and I know that he is on the right track. I am more sure than Koch 
can be himself, because I used it five years before he knew it, and he has 
yet to prove that his results are satisfactory. There is one other differ¬ 
ence, i. e., the mode of administering it to the patient; I use the remedy 
in high potency, which is not fraught with the palpable dangers of 
Koch’s method of injecting material quantities under the skin, or, in 
other words, straight into the blood. Of course, if Dr. Koch’s dosage 
and mode of administration should give better results than we have 
obtained, then Koch’s method will have to be adopted.” 

The author has been unfortunate in the selection of the name of his 
book, for neither “ the cure” nor the remedy is new. Dr. Swan, of 
New York, has advocated and used it many years. The cases cured 
may be convincing as clinical cases, but they are far from being 


Digitized by U.ooQLe 



1891 


New Publications . 


157 


unobjectionable as examples of homeopathic practice. It is Isopathy, 
pure and simple, and neither the prestige of a great name nor the quasi 
endorsement of the crude methods of Koch, will rescue it from igno¬ 
minious failure. It is treating consumption—the name of a disease, 
and all patients suffering from it—with the same remedy. It lacks the 
essential element of individualization which is the chief factor in homeo¬ 
pathic practice. Unlike Koch, the author frankly gives his mode of 
preparing the virus; but unfortunately, like Koch, he publishes his 
work at a time when he may hope to reap some of the harvest which the 
free advertising given Koch’s method has made possible. In America 
it would look like a species of advertising, for which the author would 
be held responsible at the bar of professional opinion. For the sake of 
the previous exemplary teaching which has been inculcated in all his 
works, we sincerely regret the publication of this work, and hope the 
author will eventually acknowledge his blunder. 

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF A RECONSTRUCTED MATERIA 
MEDIC A. By E. C. Price, M. D. Reprint from The Medical 
Times. 

Another lament over the imperfections of the Materia Medica, with a 
note of praise for the Cyclopedia of Drug Pathogenesy and the work of 
the Baltimore Medical Investigation Club. The author will not live 
to see a more practical Materia Medica than the works of Hahnemann 
and Hering, and we would suggest that he learn how to use them. 

WOOD’S MEDICAL AND SURGICAL MONOGRAPHS.—William 
Wood and Company, New York. $10 a year. Single copies, $1.00. 
The December number contains some valuable essays, the most con¬ 
spicuous of which is one by Sir Joseph Lister on The Present Position 
of Antiseptic Surgery. On page 558 he makes the following startling 
announcement: “ As regards the Spray, I feel ashamed that I should 
have ever recommended it for the purpose of destroying the microbes 
of the air.” Perhaps some of our homeopathic surgeons who are labor¬ 
ing so industriously to instill antiseptic surgery into the minds of their 
students would see a new light if they would read this essay. It is 
certainly a frank retraction of the erroneous theory and practice which 
secured for its author the K. C. B. Time often makes havoc with 
theories. 

TEXT-BOOK OF MATERIA MEDICA FOR NURSES.—By Lavi- 
nia L. Dock, graduate of the Bellevue Training School for Nurses. 
New York: G. P. Putnam Sons, 1890. 

This is a brief compilation from the larger text books, intended to 
facilitate the study of Materia Medica by nurses in attendance at Belle¬ 
vue Training School and others of a similar character under the direc¬ 
tion of the dominant school. While we are of the opinion that the study 
of therapeutics is foreign to the* requirements of nursing, yet if it 
must be done this little work appears to be well adapted to the purpose. 
Of course this does not refer to homeopathic nurses. 

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA: CATALOGUE AND AN¬ 
NOUNCEMENTS 1889-1890. 

A voluminous catalogue of 269 pages announcing the advantages of 
the University. 


Digitized by 


Google 



158 


New Publications. 


February 


THE MODERN TREATMENT OF HEADACHES. By Allan 
McLane Hamilton, M. D. Detroit: George 8. Davis. 1890. 

This is one of the popular aeries of the Physician’s Leisure Library, 
but in the therapeutical part of the work there is little that is either new 
or encouraging for the medical practitioner who earnestly desires to cure 
his patients. It is the old story of * * try ” this or that prescription. 

TEXT-BOOK OF HYGIENE, a Comprehensive Treatise of the Prin¬ 
ciples and Practice of Preventive Medicine from an American Stand¬ 
point. By George H. ftoh6, M. D. Thoroughly Revised and 
largely Rewritten. Philadelphia and London: F. A. Davis. 189Q. 
Price, $9.50 net. 

That a work on Preventive Medicine should meet with such a popu¬ 
lar reception as to demand a second edition in so short a time, speaks 
volumes for its practical merits. Many chapters have been entirely 
rewritten, and valuable additions will be found on nearly every page, 
so that it may now be considered a standard authority on Hygiene. 

CYCLOPEDIA OF THE DISEASES OF CHILDREN, MEDICAL 
AND SURGICAL.—The articles written especially for the work by 
American, British and Canadian Authors. Edited by John M. Keat¬ 
ing, M. D., Vol. IY. Pp. 1128; Illustrated. Philadelphia: J. B. 
Lippincott Company, 1890. 

The contents of Vol. IV are: 

Diseases of the ear and eye in children. Hygiene, including physi¬ 
cal development, massage, prophylaxis, school-hygiene, construction of 
children’s hospitals, juvenile crime, etc. The chapter on Physical 
Development is alone worth the price of the whole volume. 

Diseases of the Nervous System, occupying about 600 pages of this 
volume forms one of the most complete treatises on this subject to be 
found in our language, and will make an invaluable addition to any 
library. These essays are not only clear in their description, but are 
admirably illustrated. The profession is under many obligations to the 
publishers for the excellent taste displayed in the mechanical execution, 
for no expense has been spared to make this great work not only attrac¬ 
tive but useful. We can not too heartily commend it, and are unable 
to add much to what we have already written in reviews of the former 
volumes of the work. It is the standard authority on pedology in 
the English language. 

A PRACTICAL MANUAL OF GYNECOLOGY. By G. R. South- 
wick, M. D., Boston: Otis Clapp & Son. 1890. Illustrated. 

That a second edition should be called for in less than three years, 
speaks volumes for the popularity of the work. In the preface the 
author says: “ The present edition has been carefully revised, nearly 
every page showing some alteration or addition. * * Two new chap¬ 
ters have been added on Massage in Gynecology, and Electricity in 
Gynecology.” The number of illustrations is more than doubled and 
the work is well printed. For the sake of the author and the school, 
we wish he had omitted so many medicated topical applications. The 
value of the work would have been much enhanced by a more strict 
adherence to the principles of our school. 


Digitized by v. OQle 



1891 


New Publications. 


159 


TRANSACTIONS OP THE TWENTY-SIXTH SESSION OF THE 
HOMEOPATHIC MEDICAL SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA. 
Held at Philadelphia, September 17-19,1890. 

There are many valuable papers in this volume, some of which have 
already been given the profession in the pages of the journals, espe¬ 
cially in the Hahnemannian Monthly. It is well printed. 

TRANSACTIONS OP THE 14th ANNUAL SESSION OP THE 
CALIFORNIA STATE HOMEOPATHIC SOCIETY. Held at 
San Francisco, May 14-15, 1890. Vol. I. 

We are much pleased to welcome Vol. I of the transactions of 
this energetic Society to our table. The papers and discussions are 
valuable and some of their teachings have the true ring of the Home¬ 
opathy of Hahnemann. We hope to receive an annual volume in the 
future. 

DARWINISM AND POLITICS.-By David G. Ritchie, M. A., 
Oxford.—To which is added Administrative Nihilism.—By Prof. 
Huxley, F. R S.—Paper, 15 cents. The Humboldt Publishing Co., 
28 Lafayette Place, New York. 

In his able essay Mr. Ritchie eonttnds that the phrase “ survival of 
the fittest” is very apt to mislead, for it suggests the fittest or best in 
every sense, or in the highest sense, whereas it only means, as Professor 
Huxley has pointed out, “those best fitted to cope with their circum¬ 
stances.” 

The publication of the Prof. Huxley’s “Administrative Nihilism” 
Is well timed, and fits in with the preceding essay. The two essays 
form a very interesting number of “The Humboldt Library of 
Science.” 

THE MEDICAL BULLETIN VISITING LIST. —Philadelphia.— 
F. A. Davis, 1891. 

Under this title the well-known medical publisher, F. A. Davis, has 
gotten up a very convenient and desirable Call Record. A stock of use¬ 
ful information occupies the first few pages, followed by the ingeniously 
arranged Visiting List, in which by a noteworthy device the frequent 
repetition of the patient’s name is avoided. It makes a very useful book 
to the physician, whether his practice be large or small. 

A COMPEND OF CHEMISTRY, INORGANIC AND ORGANIC, 
INCLUDING URINARY ANALYSIS. By Henry Leffman, M. 
D. Third edition, Revised. Philadelphia: P. Blakiston, Son & Co. 
1890. Chicago: 121 Wabash avenue, A. C. McClurg & Co. $1.00. 
The least that can be said of this practical pocket companion for stu¬ 
dent and practitioner is, that two large editions have already been 
exhausted, and this third has been thoroughly revised and brought up 
to date. 

Magazine op American History.— In the February number of 
this splendid monthly is concluded The French Army in the Revolu¬ 
tionary War—Count De Fersen’s private letters to his father, 1780-81 
—giving a very graphic account of the siege of Yorktown and capture 
of Cornwallis. Another readable article is Raleigh’s Settlements on 
Roanoke Island. 


Digitized by KjO Qle 



160 


Editor's Table. 


February 




Doctor G. Pompili, Rome, Italy, editor Rimsta Omiopatica, has 
removed to Via Cavour 325. 

H. F. BtoGAR, M. D., of the Cleveland Homoeopathic College, has 
made twenty-seven consecutive laparotomies—a soft fibroid of eight 
pounds and an intra mural fibroid with womb of twelve pounds—includ¬ 
ing three hysterectomies before meeting a fatal case. This is a pretty 
good record. 

Boericke & Tafel have added by purchase the publishing business 
of F. E. Boericke, who retires, to their extensive pharmacy business. 
The firm has assumed all existing contracts with authors. 

R. B. House, M. D., general secretary of the Ohio Society, has 
issued a call on the members cf bureaus to prepare their papers, now. 

The Post Graduate Course.— It is with pleasure we announce the 
fact of the establishment of a post graduate course in connection with 
the Cleveland Homoeopathic Hospital College. It will begin on Tues¬ 
day following commencement, and continue two weeks. It will be free 
to all graduates of the Old College; to others $25. The course will con¬ 
sist of four lectures per day, by the following members of the faculty: 


Surgical Gyneecology.Prof. Biggar. 

Materia Medica. .Prof. Kraft. 

Physical and Differential Diagnosis..Prof. Pomeroy. 

Practical Surgery.Prof. J. K. Sanders. 

Ophthalmology and Otology .Prof. Phillips. 

Advanced Obstetricy.Prof. J. C. Sanders. 

Nervous Diseases.Prof. Eggleston. 

Orificial Surgery.Prof. Wells. 

Uriuary Analysis..Prof. Bishop. 

Nose and Throat.Prof. Hall. 


Upon one day of each week especially obscure and complicated cases 
will be solicited and examined and treated by the faculty. 

The Missouri Instituc of Homeopathy meets at Kansas City, April 
21, 22 and 23, 1891. The President, Dr. Comstock, of St. Louis, and 
Geaeral Secretary Jones, are preparing a bill of fare that should bring 
out every member. 

Cod Liver Oil. —The latest fad is to discard the venerable Cod 
Liver Oil on account of that persistent odor and taste, which the 
ingenuity of man has not been able to overcome, and to substitute some 
less offensive oil in its place. One*firm has emulsified a refined paraffin 
oil, one taste of which is sufficient to make a man welcome back Cod 
Liver Oil with open arms. Another preparation, made with the same 
idea, is composed of Olive Oil, eggs and Citric Acid. It may be said to 
be a masterpiece in the art of spoiling good eggs and oil. These desira¬ 
ble comestibles are so combined in one grand olio that all their savory 
qualities are changed into a taste that resembles last year's sour kraut 
mingled with onions. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 













THE 


Medical Advance. 

A HOMEOPATHIC MAGAZINE. ’ 


Vol. XXVI. March, 1891. No. 3. 


NUX VOMICA * 

This remedy brings about many of its most characteristic- 
symptoms through its action upon the brain and spinal cord, 
hence we find, when it has been given for a long time, a great, 
hyperesthesia of the sensorial system, evolving great sensi¬ 
tiveness to noise, to cold, to drafts of air, to taste, to odors,, 
in the sense of sight, to lightest touch, etc. The patient ia 
morbid and irritable to a degree. 

Three grains of Nux vomica will produce the most violent, 
spasms both clonic and tonic, upon the animal organism,, 
but these are neither the most important nor the most char- 
acteristic of its symptoms. 

The peculiarity of the convulsions produced by Nux, ia 
the perfect consciousness of the patient during clonic spasms. 
We will find this in patients poisoned by Strychnia. Violent 
spasms with consciousness •< by slightest draught of air, or 
by a bright light, like Stramonium. 

A child, a patient of mine, having had a terrible fall re¬ 
sulting in injuries to the upper cervical region had violent 
convulsions; a prominent symptom was the < from the 
slightest breath of air. Nux controlled the condition beau¬ 
tifully for four weeks and we hoped to save him. But at, 
that time the injuries again manifested themselves, and he 
died. 

The modalities were best produced upon persons of dark 
hair and eyes, the nervo-bilious temperament. 

The stitching pains in the paralyzed conditions are 
important. 

♦Notes from Lectures of Prof. J. T. Kent, M. D. 


Digitized by LjOOQle 






162 


Nux Vomica . 


March 


Nux produces great prostration both mental and physical. 
Its action upon the brain causes a marked irritability, cross¬ 
ness and snappishness, the patient does not want to be looked 
at or spoken to. 

Its action upon the stomach reflects something of this 
irritability, in a sense of lump. We compared that symptom 
with the condition produced by Sepia several days ago. 

Many physicians only understand the usefulness of Nux 
in its relations to gastric disturbances, by the symptom of 
“ lump in the stomach" and violent pains in the same region. 
They do not seem to realize that Sepia and Bryonia have the 
pains and the lump in the stomach. Sepia follows Nux well, 
but quarrels with Bryonia. Sepia is also more likely to be 
indicated when that symptom is one of long standing and in 
chronic disorders. 

Nux is a chilly patient even when in a high temperature 
and in profuse sweat. In the fever produced and cured by 
it, even the lifting of the covers gives him a chill. The 
patient does not become warm during the entire paroxysm of 
an intermittent though he is often covered with hot sweat 
with fever. 

This drug produces spasmodic action of the circular mus¬ 
cular fibres, causing reversed or anti-peristalsis, a condition 
finding expression in frequent ineffectual urging to stool and 
after the first effort, an insufficient evacuation. The pains 
usually shoot down the rectum, yet in the anti-peristalsis we 
find burning pains running up the rectum. Aloe has burn¬ 
ing with pains attending hemorrhoidal troubles, but in 
Aloe there is a sensation of insecurity of the rectum, a fear 
of losing the stool, that in further advanced cases becomes a 
fact. 

In diarrhoeas and dysenteries where Nux is indicated, we 
find the cases always relieved by stool. Mercury has the con¬ 
stant urging to a stool that is scant, but without the relief. 
The provers have described it as a “never get done" sort of 
feeling. Merc. cor. has teuesmus with great desire to uri¬ 
nate. Bhus has pain both before and during stool. 

Its action upon the nerve centers produces great fidgetiness 
of both mind and body. The head feels distended and he is 
as irritable and cross “ as two sticks." 

Its conditions correspond to those we find in high livers. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. T. Kent. 


163 


hard drinkers, debauchees, people who are physically shattered 
. through constantly urging each function of the body to the 

greatest possible pitch of endurance. 

It also corresponds to the brain fag, overwork and fidgeti- 
r ness of the business men of sedentary habits. The con¬ 

ditions are brought about by the over crowding of petty 
affairs, by many cares. In men who have a great variety in their 
business which is continually calling them from one matter 
to another. Men who have “ many irons in the fire,” each of 
which needs its share of attention. Business in many direc- 
• tions whose lines of connection he must continually hold 

through his alertness. At last he reaches a point from which 
he can go no farther, he can do no more and must drop his 
work unfinished. He suddenly finds himself sleepy in the 
midst of his work. If he begins to read he becomes sleepy. 
If he begins to study he becomes sleepy. No matter 
what he undertakes the sleepiness overcomes him. In 
„ spite of his sleepiness, when he puts his weary head upon 

the pillow, sleep refuses to come, and the events of the day 
he has tried so hard to fix upon his mind, now visit him in 
t seemingly eternal revolutions, taking every possible form of 

fantasy and exaggeration, until weary and exhausted from 
their haunting presence, he sinks into an unrefreshing slum¬ 
ber, from which he wakes late and with difficulty, like Sul¬ 
phur. 

In certain of the mental conditions he feels as though ruled by 
impulses; impulse that impels him to commit acts that verge 
upon insanity, and that are some of the earlier symptoms of 
insanity. 

We usually find that this condition has existed, when it is 
too late to remedy matters, for should the patient, in some 
moment of strong desire, yield to the impulse, he would 
instantly become raving mad. The tendencies are to the 
destruction of others. Nat. sulph. has strong desire to 
destroy himself. Arg. n. has also temptations to destroy 
himself, particularly to throw himself from a height, but he 
recognizes that tendency and avoids placing himself under 
temptation. A woman may have an impulse to kill her hus- 
^ band whom she loves dearly, or throw the child whom she 

worships into the fire or to injure a near and dear friend. A 
man feels that if any one should speak to him he should like 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



164 


Nux Vomica . 


March 


to stab him. In fact, we find many abnormal and fiendish 
impulses occurring in those who need or have overused Nux 
vomica. 

This drug has both a mental and a general < in the morn¬ 
ing. Like Puls, it has also a foul mouth and a foul breath 
in the morning; again like Puls, it has < of the stomach 
symptoms in the morning. In the morning, too, the tonsils 
are frequently covered with follicular ulcerations. 

Bursting sensations in the head coming on from gastric 
disturbances. Sensation of stone in the skull. Ign. has a 
sensation as of a nail driven through the skull. Nux has 
pressure upon vertex as if crushed in by a stone. 

Nux has also great dryness of the nose, causing bleeding 
and great dryness of the mucous membranes of the mouth, 
with or without thirst. The nose, eyes, mouth closely cor¬ 
respond to the < attending coryza. Every time he over eats 
on comes a cold. Every time a whiff of air touches him he 
takes cold. The coryza is peculiar, it is < in a warm room, 
and < in the night with a stuffing up of the nose, breathing 
clearly in the day time and in the open air. A desire to be 
warm and in a warm room which makes him worse. When 
evening comes on he has this stuffed feeling in the nose and 
head, and withal a fluent coryza, involuntary, compelling 
him to use a handkerchief, or to lie with his face in a hand¬ 
kerchief, sometimes a towel, it is so profuse. 

He is yellow, sallow, blackish, like Sepia, which also has a 
coryza < in a warm room. Nux, like Merc., is •<:by the 
warmth of the bed, but Nux is < from uncovering. Nux 
has a desire to be warm in warm room which -c. 

In chills, may be congestive, there is no relief from cover¬ 
ing, the clothing may be piled stacks high, even when the 
heat is excessive he can not lift a single covering without chill¬ 
iness and shivering. Ign. is >• by uncovering. In Nux 
most of the stomach and abdominal symptoms are better 
from herit but the head is < by heat. In intermittents the 
heat is short and dry, chill and heat intermingling, followed 
, by a hot sweat and intense heat. Marked < of complaints 
in the mornings, but there is no special period for the chills, 
they come at any time and at all times. 

Nux is full of uneasy dreams, uneasy sleep, sleepless 
between 12 and 3 a.m. The slightest argument upon any 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. T. Lent . 


165 


question “puts him out.” He can not talk when opposed, 
he immediately becomes angry. He is in such a shattered 
mental condition that he is quite unable to reason carefully, 
yet will settle questions to suit himself, will half think out a 
subject and form an opinion, after which he objects to any 
argument, or to any one disagreeing with him. 

Nux has many important eye symptoms, many stitching 
pains through the eye. It has a dry teasing cough like Nat. 
sulph. A harassing cough with great soreness of the chest 
and headache. Like Bryonia, the head feels as if it would 
fly off during the cough and is often caased by the coryza 
going to the chest. 

Complaints attending good living, high living upon rich 
foods in persons of sedentary habits. In those people we will 
find many headaches from gastric disturbances, cravings for 
hot, spicy foods, hot, spicy drinks, for wines and liquors; 
acne caused by a disordered stomach, and through eating 
cheese and cheesy substances; stomach symptoms < by eating, 
by motion, >by heat. Head symptoms < by heat. Nausea 
with awful retching, causing gagging and straining for days 
and nights, like Ipec. and Ars., but not with the same hor¬ 
rible sinking that is found in either of the above remedies. 
Nux must lie on the side because he is worse when lying on 
the back. Spasmodic vomiting of bile, leaving a bitter 
taste in the mouth > from water. Vomiting of mucus. 
Pains and at times nausea made better by hot drinks. Here 
is the sensation of pressing in the epigastrium as with a 
a ston9. Associate that symptom with one found in the ver¬ 
tex, sensation as of pressing in with a stone, and you will see 
the typical Nux condition. Nux has a sense of plug in the 
throat, like Sepia, and is < by eating, like Aloe. Aloe has a 
diarrhoea from leaving off th© drinking of beer, and Nux 
has the same when abstaining from alcoholic drinks. 

The stomach pains come on about one hour after eating, 
showing that it has made an effort at digestion, while in 
Abies nig. the pains come on immediately after eating. In 
Kreos. the pains do not begin until about three hours after 
eating, and then the food is vomited. 

Portal congestion through blood stasis; portal congestion 
causing hypochondriasis. Hemorrhoids with stitching and 
burning pains. Cutting pains about the navel extending to- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


166 


Nux Vomica . 


March 


ward the rectum, causing desire for stool. Cup. has cutting- 
pains in the abdomen, extending from front to back as though 
it were transfixed, when Copper will always relieve within a, 
few minutes unless you insist so strongly for the material 
dose as to give Copper crude. Labor pains in threatened 
abortion, pains in the stomach, uterus, or ovaries, with urgent 
desire for stool. The Nux patient will go for days with scant 
stool and anti-peristalsis. In abdominal complaints it runa 
closely to Bryonia with marked yellowness of the skin. 
Bryonia is < by motion and is not > by heat, while Nux is. 
both. Bryonia lies with limbs drawn to the body and is often 
indicated in peritonitis, while Nux is more likely to be con¬ 
fined to diseases of the portal system, the algias, etc. Nur 
is < by slight pressure. Colocynth is > by pressure in 
the algias. Mag. ph. is > by both pressure and heat. 

We shall find a sunken abdomen in Nux patients, while in 
Calc, and Sep. we find enlarged abdomen. In Nux the pains 
are < from cold, but decidedly > from heat. The patient, 
will tell you she is comfortable so long as she applies heat. 
You will find this remedy useful in uterine colics, dysmenor- 
rhoea, etc., when this modality is present. When moist heat 
gives relief to abdominal pains think of Nux. m. 

Then we may present it in this way. A uterine colic in 
which each pain causes urging to stool, not > by pressure,. 
> by heat, Nux. The same conditions > by pressure and not > 
by heat, Bry. A colic > by both heat and pressure, Mag. ph. 
Inula, has pains causing urging to stool, like Nux. Inula, 
has urging to urinate associated with urging to stool, and haa 
also many other symptoms in common with Nux, as has been 
ascertained by the provers. The present indications lead us- 
to think it will be the opposite of Nux in temperament and 
color, which will make it of great use. Nux has many colic 
symptoms associated with a suppressed hemorrhoidal flow. 
A cold, wet cloth applied to relieve the flow and the burning- 
pain may have brought on the colic, with urging to stool,, 
etc. 

Nux is often indicated in enlargement of the liver and of 
the spleen, ague cake. 

There has been but little study of the diseases of the pan¬ 
creas, and the symptoms at present are so confused with- 
those of the surrounding organs, that it is impossible to 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. T. Kent. 


187 

judge, of either the lesions, or usefulness of remedies, from 
our present knowledge of the subject. 

Nuz has a great sense of weakness in the region of the inguinal 
ring, there seems a continual pressure there, hence it is found 
curative in hernia when that sensation and the characteristic 
constipation are present. It has a left sided hernia. We 
find a hernia of babes, left sided, with fmjuent urging to ptool, 
and even though unable to get other symptoms we are able to 
cure many cases. 

If this sensation of pressure comes in the right side, with 
inguinal hernia, Lyc. is the principal remedy. Am. relieves 
in many cases where there is soreness and irritation of the 
ring. If Arn. is not deep or broad enough. Con. competes 
with it, in those symptoms, and relieves in many cases. Nuz 
and Con. are both prominent in the symptom of goneness and 
weakness in the region of the groin. 

Hernia is usually attributed by the doctors to mechanical 
interference and they are injected with all the latest fads in 
eurgery, and not always successfully. Suppose we purge the 
Materia Medica of all the little symptoms, that really mean 
nothing, you know, or suppose the provers had thought noth¬ 
ing of this sense of weakness in the inguinal region, how 
should we have cured hernia? 

Nuz has dribbling of the urine, retention of the urine, 
due to paresis, to paralysis of the bladder, therefore we find 
it of use in dribbling of urine of old men, with enlarged pros¬ 
tate, or in gonorrhoea. Allopathy has discovered its use in 
controlling many conditions of the sexual organs of both male 
and female. Nux has great mental sexual erethism, with 
inability to perform the act of coition and relaxation upon 
intromission. This condition is so extreme and causes such 
mental suffering, that it drives him to suicide. It is fre¬ 
quently indicated in the bad effects from sexual excesses, 
from abuse of drugs or stimulants. 

In the menstrul flow produced by Nux we find it coming 
too early, too profuse and lasting too long, with the charac¬ 
teristic pains, teasing to stool, aud bearing down as though 
the organs would escape from the pelvis. The flow may also 
be scant and fitful. Itching of the vulva is a prominent 
symptom. 

Its adaptibility to such conditions as prolapsus, dysmenor- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



168 


Nux Vomica. 


March 


rhoea, with the characteristic violent pains, so severe she can 
not stand, and making her so cross she can not speak a 
decent word to her best friend, is easily perceived from our 
knowledge of its modalities. Pains as if squeezed between 
stones like Colococynth, but entire > from quiet and heat 
applied. 

In pregnancy we find many backs to treat. Nux will be 
found indicated, when the drawing pains are < from lying 
on the back, < from lying down. Backache beginning as 
soon as she lies down in bed, compelling her to get up and 
walk about; all pains severe, labor pains, after pains attended 
with soreness, like Arnica. Pains in back as if it would 
break, like Phos. and Bry. (in back as if it was broken,. 
Kali c.). She must sit up in bed to turn over. 

The inflammations and congestions belonging to the blad¬ 
der, rectum or uterus, are always accompanied by the char¬ 
acteristic bearing down pains, with desire for stool. 

Headaches of active business men, men who are fond of 
good living, high living, such as first brings to them gastric 
disturbances followed by headache. 

Asthmatic conditions proceeding frofn a disordered stom¬ 
ach. This asthma is more of a wheezing than an asthma. 
He feels very well for a time, then takes what he calls “ a full 
meal," and on comes the asthma; he wheezes up to you with 
a “ Doctor, I think you will have to do something for me 
this time, I can't stand this," yet he may have been month* 
abusing himself. Nux patients have a great desire to talk*of 
themselves and their ailments. 

Nux produces a cough that is dry, tickling, spasmodic and 
fitful, like its temper. Like Bryonia, it seems as though he 
would “fly in pieces" and he always desires to hold the head 
when coughing. It is better from the pressure. 

Neuralgias of the highest type attended with soreness and 
numbness. Dryness of the joints. Fulgurating pains. 

Neuritis with great soreness of the skin. 

The least touch to the throat causes gagging; the least 
tickling of the soles of the feet may throw him into convul¬ 
sions; this latter symptom causes it to be considered a great 
remedy in spinal anaemia by pathological prescribers. 

If called to a patient fallen under the tender (?) mercies of 
the regular (?) and you find the table filled with bottles, the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. T. Kent . 


1(59 

room full of odors and of spices, you see at once the confused 
picture of innumerable symptoms and the necessity to clear 
the room of rubbish and give Nux until the picture resolves 
itself into harmony. 

The more active the sickness the more quickly you can 
accomplish the work. In a chronic case you will usually only 
need to wait until the first impression of the sickness, that 
has been suppressed by the drug, reappears. S. L. G. L. 


MATERIA MEDICA.* 

A complete knowledge of the materia medica is a most 
essential qualification for the practitioner, or he will be grop¬ 
ing in the dark like a ship on the ocean to be tossed about 
without chart or compass. How shall this knowledge be 
obtained? Certainly not by experimentation upon the sick, 
for this has been tried for many decades with unsatisfactory 
results. Says Dr. John Forbes, editor of the British and 
Foreign Medical Review: “ The history of medicine has been 
a history of perpetual changes in the principles and practices 
of its professors.” 

This admission is evidence that a more important change 
was necessary in the materia medica in its relation to thera¬ 
peutics. It has remained for the present century to develop 
the wonderful strides in the advancement of the arts and 
sciences. Steam in its application to all kinds of motive 
power; electricity in all its wonderful capacities has but just 
begun to develop its power for contributing to the wants of 
humanity. Thus the materia medica had been for ages an 
uncertain guide in therapeutics. Each physician had to 
form a materia medica for the occasion in its therapeutic 
application. Hippocrates advanced the sentiment that “like 
cures like” in practice,, but he made no effort to prove its 
truth, neither did his colleagues. It remained for Hahne¬ 
mann to lay a foundation for a materia medica on a purely 
scientific basis. Not being satisfied with Cullen's theory of 
the action of Peruvian bark in the treatment of intermittent 
fever, he resolved to try it upon himself. After a few days' 
trial he had shaking chills, followed by fever and perspira- 

♦Quarterly Meeting of the Oneida (N. Y.) County Society. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



170 


Materia Medica . 


March 


tion. Like an electric shock, the theory flashed upon his 
mind that possibly this was the manner in which all medi¬ 
cines cure. 

He then determined to test them upon himself and as 
many as he could persuade to aid him in the self-sacrificing 
process for the benefit of humanity. In this manner seventy 
of the drugs in most common use were subjected to this 
ordeal. 

The result of these provings has been confirmed by the 
treatment of the sick. Thus the maxim, similia similibus 
curantur, is proved to be one of nature’s laws as much as the 
law of gravitation. When a physician selects a remedy which 
in its proving upon the healthy organism has produced the 
symptoms corresponding to the totality of the symptoms of 
his patient, he may be assured that he has done that which 
is for the best good of his patient. The repeated proving of 
drugs upon the healthy organism, when the drug has been 
prepared in a form best calculated to develop its full powers, 
has demonstrated the important fact that each individual 
drug in its action has a definite specific action upon certain 
tissues, organs and parts of the body peculiar to itself, modi¬ 
fied of course by certain conditions of constitution, sex and 
temperament of the individual. 

Another important fact is demonstrated that when a new 
and untried drug has been thoroughly proven, the practitioner 
may prescribe it with the same confidence as of a well known 
remedy. The writer well remembers while engaged with a 
student in the year 1851 in the proving of a certain drug 
unknown as a remedy, that the effects upon both in its action 
upon the organs of respiration became so marked that com¬ 
fort and safety required a halt. 

A few weeks afterwards he was called to see a patient sit¬ 
ting up in bed, inclining forward on a pillow resting on a 
frame work. She stated she could not breath in any other 
position, and had been in th&t posture two weeks under treat¬ 
ment. The description of symptoms were so similar to the 
proving, that remedy alone was prescribed, the result a com¬ 
plete recovery in three weeks. Saw the lady five years after¬ 
wards, who stated that 3he had not had a sick day since. 

What about Koch’s lymph? This is no exception to the 
law. Its failure in the hands of some European physicians 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


L. B. Wells. 


171 


proves the fact that any remedial agent given only to the sick 
is and always will be attended with uncertainty and doubt. 
As each person is an individuality, so is disease. No two 
•cases are in every respect precisely alike, and when the lymph 
has been thoroughly proven upon the healthy organism, then 
and not till then will there be a sure guide for its therapeutic 
application. When the cholera in 1831 and 1832 in its west, 
ward advance from Asia had reached Moscow and St. Peters¬ 
burg, physicians from western Europe flocked thither to learn 
the true nature of the disease aud its treatment, sending back 
a full report of its characteristics. Hahnemann seated in his 
private office at Leipsic, having before him the proving of 
•drugs upon persons in health, there made the selection of 
remedies for the various stages of the disease. On the arrival 
of the disease these remedies were applied with success, and 
the great production of mortality proved its superiority, and 
from that period to the present these remedies are the reliable 
•choice of the practitioner of the homeopathic school. In a 
recent communication from a homeopathic physician in Cal¬ 
cutta, to a Philadelphia medical journal, he confirms the 
„ -above, and to the end of time where the cholera retains its 
present peculiar features these remedies will prove curative. 

If any one doubts the correctness of the foregoing state¬ 
ments let him follow the example of the late Dr. Benjamin 
E. Joslin, of New York city. 

On reading the statement that each drug had a special 
relation to certain tissues and organs of the body, he resolved 
to test it upon himself. He gave a thorough proving of sev¬ 
eral remedies one at a time, fora year or more, without having 
-any knowledge of any previous proving. When he had col¬ 
lected and arranged all the symptoms he then compared his 
•own with those of Hahnemann's and found them in every 
respect similar. His reprovings of drugs together with his 
original provings of the Rumex crispus will be a more valu¬ 
able memorial than the marble over his remains. 

But what about the microbes, those troublesome little pests? 
The prevalent trouble of physicians is, in seeking for *the 
•causes of disease, they only discover its effects, as in excretions 
and post-mortem examinations. The microbe is not the cause 
but the product of disease. It yet remains to be seen that a 
microbe has a place in a perfectly healthy organ. Disease is a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



172 


Materia Medica . 


March 


disturbance of the vital forces, and when a remedy has been 
prescribed in due form which restores those forces to a normal 
condition, all traces of the disease, microbes and all, will disap¬ 
pear in all curable cases. In what manner shall the drug be 
applied in the proving? Either in the usual form or by inocu¬ 
lation. Some of the most valuable provings were made with the 
30th potency. Variola vaccina prevents smallpox by inocu¬ 
lation on the law of similars, and is an important remedy in 
the treatment of that disease. So is Ant. tart., Bhus., or any 
remedy which will cause pustular eruptions, provided it cor¬ 
responds to the totality of the symptoms. 

L. B. Wells. 


DISCUSSION. 

Dr. Terry: I do not recognize any force or efficacy in the 
30th potency. 

Dr. Wells: That's where I think you are egregiously mis¬ 
taken. 

Dr. Terry: This is a discussion; we have the right to dif¬ 
fer, and I am glad you do. Dr. Wells can not live without 
his soul. In the 30th potency the microscope can not detect 
anything, because it is powerless. 

Dr. Wells: The force and power are there, in spite of the 
weakness of the microscope. The efficacy is there. 

Dr. Terry: That is the delusion. 

Dr. Wells: If I were sick, the physicians could adminis¬ 
ter to me medicines of the 30th potency and I can tell from 
their effects just what the remedies were. 

Dr. Terry: I am willing to bet a house and lot this could 
not be done with a score of drugs. This was exploded at a 
Milwaukee convention. You can not separate soul and body 
and perforin your functions.. When you get to the 30th 
potency, you have nothing left but imagination and a little 
alcohol, which works well sometimes. 

Dr. Wells: What we want in the medical profession is 
facts; theories are all wind. 

Dr. Terry: Yes, that is what the 30th potency is. 

Dr. Wells: Let me finish. If I have a patient with cer¬ 
tain symptoms, I prescribe the 30th potency, and- 

Dr. Terry: I object to your premises. 

Dr. Wells: Let me finish. The patient recovers, and we 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


L. B . Wells. 


173 


are to receive that as a fact. If we are not to accept facts, 
it demonstrates that the whole medical profession is a farce. 
That will be the result, if we do not accept the results shown 
by the higher potencies. 

Dr. Terry: When I was in college, there was a physician 
who never gave less than the 200th potency, but the 55,000th 
was his pet remedy. The patient was told to take a dose and 
report the result in a week. By that time nature, which 
does most of it, has made a cure or the patient is dead. The 
doctor lost his practice. High potency is not the practice of 
Homeopathy, but one of its delusions. During the last few 
years of his life Hahnemann took up with these potencies. 
The high potency is utter rot. Homeopathy is all right in 
principle. Many use it, however, as meaning only a high 
potency. The younger men in the profession are better 
taught. The great majority of allopaths use homeopathia # 
remedies. Give nothing short of the physiological action of 
a remedy and you will get results. 

Dr. Tousley asked Dr. White with what potency she had 
obtained results. 

Dr. White said she had obtained the red face and the 
throbbing pulse with the 200th potency. 

Dr. Tousley: I have known remedies of high potency to 
cure old chronic diseases, and you are just as certain to get 
a proving as with a low potency. 

Dr. Terry said at the convention in Niagara Falls a doctor 
claimed to get results with the 30th of Silicea, when it was 
proved to have been the fifth. Pharmacists often furnish 
remedies one-fifth, one-sixth or one-twelfth, but mark the 
remedies one-thirtieth. I give something and the patient 
gets well. When I give the thirtieth, I feel as if I had not 
given anything. 

Dr. Wells: Here is the difference between the doctor and 
we who believe in the trituration and succussion of drugs. He 
denies that trituration and succussion develop the power of 
drugs. Take charcoal, pulverized, and no one deems that it has 
any power as a remedial agent. But grind ten grains of char¬ 
coal with 90 grains of sugar of milk; grind ten grains of this 
mixture with 90 grains more of sugar of milk. Let this pro¬ 
cess continue till the tenth potency is reached. Let any one 
avoid coffee and take of the medicine three times a day for 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



174 


Materia Medica . 


March 


three weeks, and if it does not produce any effect the doctor will 
be justified in what he says. But there are thousands of 
physicians who are using these remedies with beneficial 
results. 

Dr. Terry: Perhaps the man who has done more to encum¬ 
ber libraries with materia medica is Dr. Allen, of New York. 
A few years ago at a convention in Albany he admitted to 
me he was mistaken with regard to high potencies. So our 
libraries are encumbered with trash. What Dr. Wells has said 
proves nothing. Remedies must be triturated finely to be 
taken up more readily. You can not triturate Dr. Wells and 
make him stronger than he is now. 

Dr. White: I have a case I would like to report, and surely 
I am nota high potency crank. I had a case-of sensitive throat. 
The lady went to New York to take music lessons and caught 
cold. After being treated by two physicians without obtain¬ 
ing relief, she went to a throat specialist, who prescribed 
Cansticum 40,000th. She obtained immediate relief. She 
returned to Utica, took another cold and I prescribed Causti- 
cum third. There was no effect. Made the potency higher 
and is cured. 

Dr. Tousley: That case is worth a thousand theories. 

Dr. Terry * One case proves nothing. 

Dr. White: With this patient this remedy cures these colds 
every time. They do not cure themselves. 

Dr. Tousley said he had had patients cured of ague by using 
salt of 30,000th, or 40,000th potency, when the same patient 
had probably eaten almost a handful of salt daily. He had 
8 een a patient suffering with catarrh, who had a bloody dis¬ 
charge from the nose cured by the use of a high potency of 
Kali bichromicum. 

Dr. Terry: The very statement of the case gives it away. 
It was acute and cured itself. Often these cases are cured by 
hygienic surroundings. The allopaths claim the cure for the 
remedy rather than for the surroundings. 

Dr. Capron thought if a remedy of high potency had no 
effect on a healthy person it could have no effect on a sick one. 
Here the meeting adjourned. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Bovista Officinalis . 


175 


BOVISTA OFFICINALIS. 

(LYCOPERDON BOVISTA, LIN.) 

Allow me to draw attention to the great confusion existing 
in the pharmacopoeias respecting this fungus. 

The absolute necessity that the plant made use of in the 
“provings” should be the one always used in preparing the 
drug, has led me to make a few remarks on the plant known 
in homoeopathic works as Bovista, a medicine of so much 
importance that there should be no doubt whatever about 
it. 

All the homoeopathic pharmacopoeias state that Bovista 
is “Lycoperdon Bovista” Lin. and Bovista nigrescens (two 
distinct fungi). At the present time fungology has attained 
a much higher rank than formerly, and exhaustive volumes 
have been written on the subject, and a most elaborate re¬ 
arrangement has taken place. We find that old names have 
often been changed and new ones given and it is in some 
cases very difficult to know which is the plant referred to in 
the old writings. This difficulty might have been avoided if 
a reference to a published figure and description had been 
given by the “prover ” and by the pharmacopoeias. At pres¬ 
ent, as will be seen by a reference to the various homoeopathic 
pharmacopoeias, the names and descriptions of Bovista are by 
no means identical, and in consequence there is the danger 
of different fungi, possibly possessing very different properties, 
being employed under the name Bovista. Thus in Jahr's and 
Gruner’s Pharmacopoeia the name is given as L. Bovista and 
B. Officinalis, but no authority is mentioned for these names. 
The plant is described as almost globular and in size from “a 
quarter of an inch to one inch in diameter,” the color finally 
changing to dark brown, this description is most like Bovista 
nigrescens, which usually attains to one inch or one and a 
half inches in diameter. The peridium of this fungus 
becomes blackish umber and the spores purple brown. 
(Cook.) But this can not be the plant called L. Bovista 
Lin., which is of much larger growth. 

The American Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia (Tafel) calls 
it “ B. Nigrescens” and “ L. Bovista Lin.” but there it is 
described as a plant varying in size from “one inch to one 
foot,” and in color at first white, afterward dirty yellow, finally 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



176 


Bovista Officinalis . 


March 


timber brown. This description might, as regards size, 
include either B. nigrescens (one inch) or L. giganteum (one 
ioot). 

The American Homoeopathic Dispensatory gives as syno¬ 
nyms B. nigrescens, B. officinalis, L. Bovista, L. Coelatum and 
Xi. gemmatum, etc., but gives no authorities and no size. 
"The last two named are also entirely different fungi. L. ccela- 
ttum is a rather large, oval, collapsing fungi. L. gemmatum 
tis a small warted puff ball. 

The British Homoeopathic Pharmacopoeia under Bovista 
gives as synonyms L. Bovista and B. nigrescens. 

Now the gist of the matter is this. The provers give L. 
Bovista Lin. as the name of the plant “ proved,” and they 
give the limit of size as “ four inches in diameter." There is 
ireally no need to give the smallest sizes that may be found, as 
•the ripe spores from the mature plant is the part ordered. 
The only guide is the limit of size. This being so, the plant 
in question is wrongly described by Jahr and Gruner, B. 
nigrescens being evidently the plant they describe, since the 
limit of size it attains is ei one and a half inches." The plant is 
wrongly described by Tafel, because neither does B. nigrescens 
or L. Bovista Lin. grow to a foot in diameter. The other 
pharmacopoeias I have quoted do not give the size, but they 
onix up different plants by name. The Bovistas as a rule are 
^filled when mature with stalked spores, and have no sterile 
•base. The lycoperdous as a rule have only the upper por¬ 
tion filled with spores, which are in most of the species sessile 
(although occasionally they are stalked as in L. Bovista) the 
lower,part being solid and sterile. 

L. Bovista, Lin., according to the specimens sent me by 
Professor Fries, is about four inches in diameter, subglobose 
in shape; the ripe spores are of an umber brown color (all 
the specimens are of this size and color); the spores are 
stalked, and, with the fluffy mass, fill the upper part of the 
plant, the base being solid and sterile ; it does not, I believe, 
grow in Great Britain. 

L. Bovista is official in the German Pharmacopoeia. 
There can be no question whatever that its maximum size 
does not exceed four inches, the fungus described by Tafel 
as being a foot in diameter is, no doubt, the one known as 
L. giganteum, which has often been substituted for the true 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Alfred Heath . 


177 


plant in preparing the tincture or trituration. On reference 
to “the proving” of L. Bovista,Lin. (Hartlaub and Trinks), 
it will be seen that it varies in size from one and a half to 
four inches in diameter. This is the plant, or, it may be, 
plants, described by the provers as L. Bovista, Lin. This, as 
regards the four inches diameter, is in accord with the size 
of L. Bovista, Lin. as given by the celebrated Swedish Fun- 
gologist and botanist, Professor Fries, who, in his work on 
fungi, gives a full-size colored plate of the plant, which is 
about four inches in diameter. He further says: “There 
is a great difference between L. Bovista and the giant puff 
ball L. giganteum ; the latter is generally regarded as a dis¬ 
tinct species, and grows to the extraordinary size of one foot 
in diameter. It is not so common as the former, and it gen¬ 
erally occurs singly; the spores in all the examples I have 
seen are olivaceous or greenish brown in color/ 1 I am 
indebted to the kindness of this eminent botanist for typical 
specimens of the full-size plant of L. Bovista, Lin. That 
there should be no further mistake, it would be well to 
reprove this drug, and I shall be happy to send some of the 
authenticated plant to any doctor who may wish to help in the 
matter. I also send you carefully-made full-sized drawings 
of the fungus, copied per Prof. Fries 1 work, and I should 
be glad if you would reproduce them in your journal. 

Alfred Heath. 

London, England. 


THE BOSTON HAHNEMANNIAN ASSOCIATION. 

DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES. 

The following resolutions express the sentiments and 
represent the practice of the members of the Boston Hahne- 
mannian Association: 

Whereas, We believe the law of similars to be the law of 
cure; we believe a proper knowledge of the curative power of 
medicines to be derived from provings made upon healthy 
persons; we believe Hahnemann's “ Organon of the Healing 
Art” to be the true guide in therapeutics; that the totality of 
the symptoms forms the only basis for the selection of the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



178 


Koch and His Discovery . 


Mabch 


remedy, and that the best results are attained by the use of 
the minimum dose of the single remedy in a potentiated form; 
therefore, be it 

Resolved, That we adopt the name “ Hahnemannian 
Homoeopathists,” in contradistinction to that of “Homoeopa- 
thists,” which has been and is misappropriated, by those who 
claim to practice Homoeopathy, but who do not comply with 
the conditions of the law as deduced by Samuel Hahnemann. 

Resolved, That either the alternation or combination of 
remedies in prescribing is non-homcoopathic. 

Resolved, That the use of local applications, unless homoe- 
op&thically indicated, is non-homoeopathic. 

Resolved, That mechanical appliances are admissible only 
when mechanical conditions are to be overcome. 

Resolved, That we deprecate any practice which tends to 
the suppression of symptoms, inasmuch as it injures the 
patient and renders difficult the selection of the specific 
remedy. 


KOCH AND HIS DISCOVERY. 

Another medical discovery has gone up like a rocket. Will 
it come down like a stick ? 

Since the origin of man the world has run after miracles, 
has sought for and demanded humbugs, has expected the 
unreasonable, and until the sands of time have run their 
course, and our world has been resolved into its original chaos, 
it will ever be so. To gain an ascendancy of life over death, 
of health over sickness, for the ingenuity of man to cope with 
that ignis fatuus “disease,” the search for the fountain of 
perpetual youth, has ever had its attractions and been the sub¬ 
ject of the greatest deceptions practiced upon the human race. 

Ponce De Leon will not be the only name written on the 
scroll of history as a fanatic in the search of perpetual life. 
Within the last three years three names have been added 
whose influence in the scientific world were formerly unques¬ 
tioned. Bergeon sought to overcome the monster consump¬ 
tion with his rectal injections of sulphurous gases; Brown- 
Sequard felt that he had placed death under parole through 
his discovery of his “Elixir of Life;” and now the great 
Koch has placed consumption on the “ pay roll ” by the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


H. P. Holmes. 


179 


injection of a fluid whose composition he chose to keep a 
secret until his methods were denounced as those of a charla¬ 
tan by his peers. 

Is it not time that the medical profession was crying a halt? 
Should we not gather ourselves together and seriously ask 
ourselves, “ Do we really know anything ? The laity are pok¬ 
ing fun at us, our patients are losing confidence in us, and 
the unscrupulous charlatans are using these insights into our 
weaknesses as a powerful leverage against us. 

Koch is now attempting to teach that consumption is the 
result of an inroad made into the organism by the tubercle 
bacilla and that the method of cure lies in a preparation of 
this same bacillus diluted to the second or third decimal 
attenuation and injected subcutaneously into the affected 
patient. The world half believes that this statement is true 
although not one patient has yet been cured. There is not a 
particle of evidence yet to show the truth of the assertion, or 
to base a hope on this new method. We are led a step farther 
and are told that it is in lupus that we have the grandest 
results. And yet there is not a single case of lupus on 
record which was cured by Koch's lymph. Dr. Thiberge, 
who witnessed the lupus treatment in Bergmann's clinic, 
says : “ In presence of these facts, I think myself fully 

authorized in declaring that, by the method of the injection 
of Koch's lymph alone, there does not exist a single case of 
recovery, even apparently, of lupus. And since my return to 
Paris, I have had the satisfaction of learning that a derma¬ 
tologist, whom I particularly esteem for his character and 
talent. Professor Haslund, of Copenhagen, has arrived at the 
same conclusions." (See L’Art. Medical, January, 1891, 
page 581.) 

The search for the cause of disease and the law which was 
a necessary outgrowth of this belief in a cause, “ sublata causa 
tollitur effectus,” has stranded the medical profession on every 
rock over which they have trimmed their vessels to sail. Sub¬ 
lata causa tollitur effectus is as false as the mirage which lures 
its victims from the path of safety on the desert sands. In 
the light of all the knowledge of to-day we can safely say that 
man has never found the cause of disease, and every leap 
blindly made at this uncovered death-producing agent has 
proven the falsity of the hope in a cause revealed. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



180 


Koch and His Discovery. 


March 


For the last few years the medical and scientific worlds 
have based their every hope on the germ theory of disease. 
That the specific germ was the cause of the disease and that 
the cure depended solely on killing the germ has remained 
almost unquestioned. And now mark the change: within 
the last few months the most enthusiastic adherents to the 
germ theory are changing their belief and theory. To-day it 
is not the germ per se that causes the michief. It is a some¬ 
thing, a toxine, which the germ secretes that sends our 
patients across that unknown boundary. They have brought 
the argument down to a hair and are now trying to split the 
hair. As a re&ult of this new line of reasoning we have a 
change in germicidal therapeutics. To-day it is not to kill 
the germ but it is to introduce into the system a modified 
solution of the toxine secreted by the germ and thus counter¬ 
act the influence of the toxine already at work in the patient. 
There is nothing else, no other remedy in the mighty field of 
therapeutics which can combat the dreaded disease but this 
same attentuated virus of the microbe (!) 

What does this mean for Homoeopathy? Everything. 
More than three quarters of a century ago the greatest man 
who ever lived in the field of medicine formulated a theory 
that disease was the result of a disturbed life force, a dynamis; 
that the cure of a disease must be through the action of a 
remedy which produced a train of symptoms similar to 
those found in the patient ; that the remedy must undergo 
a proper potentiating until the right dose (power) was one 
that would produce an aggravation along the same line of 
disease symptoms. Later on, our lamented French teacher, 
Dr. J. P. Tessier, formulated the law that disease held a rela¬ 
tion to the individual in proportion to the “ definite predispo¬ 
sition.” Still later were the experiments of men in the homoeo¬ 
pathic school that potencies of diseased products or tissues 
would act curatively in the same diseases, as variola, tuber¬ 
cular phthisis, syphilis, etc. While this theory of isopathy 
has been rejected on purely homoeopathic grounds, it has been 
used even by those who question the variation of the law, and 
the remedies are known to be excellent. 

Outside of the homoeopathic school we find the represen¬ 
tatives of this theory in Jenner who worked on purely homoeo¬ 
pathic principles in using a similar agent in variola ; in Paa- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


H. P. Holmes . 


181 


teur, who believes in isopathy and dilutes the rabic virus and 
injects it for the cure of the same disease; and lastly and 
principally we have to deal with Koch, who is the greatest 
isopathist before the public to-day. 

When Pierre Dufresne took the blood from the spleen of a 
diseased sheep, diluted it and gave it to sheep suffering with 
the same disease, malignant pustule, he cured the sheep and 
thereby made a most valuable discovery. But he was a hated 
homoeopath, not entitled to the respect of a scientific human 
being, and the scientific world shrugged its shoulders and 
kept silent. Had he been a Koch or a Pasteur, he would 
have had laurels on his grave to-day, placed there by a grate¬ 
ful government. We who have the only medical law known 
to be true ; we who have done the most in the perfection of 
medicine; we who have held the greatest control over the 
most desperate diseases (cholera and yellow fever); we who 
have been the precursors of almost every medical and clinical 
rule of value to the profession ; we who have stood for a hun¬ 
dred years by that grand law “ similia similibus curantur " and 
ever found it true ; we who are the Regulars to-day, are the 
only school that has gone bravely forward with our feet planted 
firmly on the rock of Truth and have been satisfied with a 
law demonstrated and proved wherever put to the test. 

And now let us take up this consumption cure and analyze 
it according to the best light of to-day. Will it cure tuber, 
culosis? We feel safe in saying no. In the first place there 
is no data to go by and from which we can reason, even by 
analogy. There has been no treatment brought out 
which may be used as an illustration along a similar 
line of action. The reason is that tuberculosis is a dis¬ 
ease having an ancestry; having an influencing factor 
which dips deep into the past history of the patient. To 
cure phthisis tuberculosis by injection of Koch's lymph, we 
would have to inoculate the great grandparents of the vic¬ 
tims. It is a course of reasoning which must be carried d 
posteriori. And this is no trifling statement. We inoculate 
against variola before the exposure to the disease. Pasteur 
inoculates against rabies after the patient has been bitten. 
Anthracine was given to sheep either just before exposure or 
while sick with malignant pustule. Inoculations of Koch's 
lymph should be given when we can say: To-day, a week 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



182 


Koch's Discovery . 


March 


ago, or two weeks ago, this patient received the contagion of 
phthisis tuberculosis. That day will never come. 

Consumption is a disease which lies dormant in the system 
for an indefinite period and is fanned into flame by some 
oxciting cause. It is hereditary and may allow a generation 
or more to elapse without reappearing in an affected family. 
We carry the argument a step forward and endorse the defi¬ 
nite predisposition of Dr. Tessier; and another step, and we 
are abreast of the later belief of the germ theory advocates— 
that one does not inherit tuberculosis, but that he inherits a 
tendency towards it, i. e., a definite predisposition, and that 
one must receive a contagious element before contracting the 
disease. In other words, the germ must be introduced into 
a suitable soil before consumption is present in the individ¬ 
ual. If these arguments are true, and they are the argu¬ 
ments of Koch and his followers backed up by the positive 
knowledge of experience, then Koch’s method must fail. 
For by the above statements of the conditions of the case, 
the disease lies in the definite predisposition, and it must be 
removed as much as the germ, which is a secondary feature. 

Phthisis tuberculosis may be stayed, but it is doubtful if 
it can ever be pronounced cured. No paint nor putty can 
repair the imperfections of a faulty construction; they may 
place it beyond superficial observation, but the errors and 
weakness remain, and no toxine nor ptomaine will be likely 
to have the power of removing either the contagious element 
or the definite predisposition of phthisis tuberculosis. 

H. P. Holmes. 

Omaha, Neb., Jan. 26, 1891. 


KOCH.S DISCOVERY? 

We clip the following interview of Dr. J. A. Biegler from 
the Rochester Union of January 19. 

Reporter: Doctor, I have been sent by the Union to inquire 
if you are willing to state your opinion of the much talked of 
discovery by Dr. Koch, of Berlin, of a sure cure for tubercu¬ 
lar diseases, and allow it to be given to the public. 

Dr. Biegler: I see no objection, now that Dr. Koch has 
published a statement to an extent sufficient to enable us to 
understand what his remedy consists of and u liat its origin is. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. A. Bugler. 


183 


The first observation I wish to make is that it is a step in 
the direction of a confirmation of Homeopathy. 

Secondly, that the lymph, or what may be called the 
remedy, might be curative according as it is homeopathic to 
the individual. That is to say, if its action on the healthy 
system corresponds to the manifestations of disease in a tuber¬ 
culous patient, which manifestations are to be noted by the 
symptoms, and it is homeopathic to such a case only when it 
is administered in an attenuation such as corresponds to the 
stage of the disease and the vital power of the patient. 

Thirdly, that the attenuation or potency of this remedy is 
of vital importance on the question of curing or of killing 
the patient. This is already foreshadowed in the following 
extract from the statement of Prof. Koch's experiments as 
detailed by him in the dispatch of the 15th instant from 
Berlin, published in the Union of Friday evening last: 

“Thus the injected tubercular bacilli quite differently affected the 
skin of a healthy guinea pig ftom one affected with tuberculosis. This 
effect is not exclusively produced with living tubercular bacilli, but is 
also observed with the dead bacilli, the result being the same whether, 
as I discovered by experiments at the outset, the bacilli are killed by a 
somewhat prolonged application of a low temperature or boiling heat or 
by means of certain chemicals. This peculiar fact I follow up in all 
directions and this further result was obtained, that killed pure cultiva¬ 
tions of tubercular bacilli, after rinsing in water, might be injected in 
great quantities under healthy guinea pigs’ skin without anything occur¬ 
ring beyond local suppuration. Tuberculous guinea pigs, on the other 
hand, are killed by the injection of very small quantities of such diluted 
cultivations. In fact, within six to forty-eight hours, according to the 
streugth of the dose, an injection which is not sufficient to produce the 
death of the animal may cause extended necrosis to the skin in the 
vicinity of the place of injection. If the-dilution is still further diluted 
until it is scarcely visible, the animals inoculated remain alive and a 
noticeable improvement in their condition soon intervenes. If the 
injections are continued at intervals of from one to two days, the ulcer¬ 
ating inoculation wound becomes smaller and finally scars over, which 
otherwise never does; the size of the swollen lymphatic glands is reduced, 
the body becomes better nourished and the morbid process ceases, unless 
it has gone too far, in which case the animal perishes from exhaustion. 
By this means the fiasis of a curative process against tuberculosis was 
es ablished.” 

Fourthly, I do not regard the bacilli as the power of the 
remedy. No more so than the fluids which contain them, as 
they are all mere vehicles of the force which produces the 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



184 


Koch’s Discovery . 


March 


effeot, and which is imponderable and can not be discovered 
by the scientist’s microscope. This is also fore shadowed in 
the experiment given with the dead bacilli. 

Fifthly, I believe that the tuberculous lymph, regardless of 
the presence of bacilli, may by proper attenuation become 
an active remedial agent, or otherwise, according to the 
mode of administration. 

Sixthly, that as the bacilli are not the cause of disease, 
they may, however, be a means of conveying it the same as 
any other product of diseased matter. They exist wherever 
fibrin is to be found, and are present as excretions from 
diseased surfaces and vary in form according to the diseased 
tissue from which they are produced. Thus we have what 
are called the bacilli of diphtheria, cholera, etc. They are 
also found in fresh water lakes where vegetable fibrin exists 
but where there is an entire absence of miasms. 

Reporter: Is this remedy to you a new discovery? 

Dr. Biegler: While I am perfectly willing to ascribe to 
Dr. Koch the merit of discovery claimed for him, I must say 
that it is not entirely new except as to the manner in which 
he discovered it and his method of applying it. 

Reporter: Have you ever used any remedy of a similar 
nature in your practice? 

Dr. Biegler: In answer to that question I must ask per¬ 
mission to refer to a case of tubercular disease of the brain 
treated by me between twelve and thirteen years ago in this 
city and cured by what then and is now called Tuberculinum, 
which case was published at the time in detail in The Organon , 
a quarterly Anglo-American journal of homeopathic medi¬ 
cine, published at Liverpool, England. The remedy above 
named was tuberculous lymph, or matter, prepared as a 
homeopathic remedy in accordance with the method of that 
practice, and given in a high attenuation. 

Reporter: Have you a copy of the case as published in the 
quarterly journal of Homeopathy to which you refer, and 
would you have any objection to its being quoted in the inter¬ 
est of medical science and as bearing upon the important ques¬ 
tion under discussion? 

Dr. Biegler: No objection whatever. Here it is in the 
second volume of The Organon for 1879. 

Following is a condensed statement of the case as given in 
The Organon: 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. A . Biegler. 


185 


Patient. —A girl six years old, prematurely developed mentally* 
Was called to see her November 1, 1878, and obtained the following 
statement: Two months previous the child was observed to be in a 
changed mood; she appeared melancholic, would be found frequently 
lying on the floor or in the garden in a listless state, often asleep, which 
condition the mother ascribed to loneliness, the other children having 
been sent away to school. She frequently complained of headache, and 
vomited occasionally; febrile exacerbations occurred daily. The family 
physician, who was called in about this time, regarded it as a case of 
malarial fever. At one of his visits he was surprised.to find the head 
drawn back and the neck stiff. Upon further examination he pronounced 
it to be a case of tubercular meningitis. 

Counsel [Dr. W. W. Ely] was called, the diagnosis was confirmed, 
and after a few days she was given up to die. On my first visit at 19 
p. m. I found the following symptoms: She kept up an almost inces¬ 
sant cry of “ Oh, my head, my back,” so much so that it was difficult 
to get any other answer to questions; but when asked, “Where does 
your head pain? ” she would invariably place her hand on the forehead 
over the left eye. The pain in the head was not continuous; but after 
long periods of suffering would remit for a short time. The head was 
drawn back, but not very rigidly; she had slept but little for several 
days and nights, keeping up in frequent paroxysms the above complaint. 
There was a rather converging strabismus, the pupils widely, and nearly 
evenly, dilated, responding feebly to the light; the vision impaired to a 
condition of amblyopia. Hearing was rather acute. No other contrac¬ 
tions than that mentioned in the nape of the neck were noticed. The 
pulse was about 140, and small in volume; cheeks somewhat flushed 
irregularly; the color of face changeable, sometimes pale; thirst moder¬ 
ate; abdomen retracted, as if hollowed or scooped out; bowels consti¬ 
pated. Urine examined and found normal, but had for a long time been 
rather small in quantity, and was passed at long intervals. 

Diagnosis. —In regard to this there could be no doubt. I differed 
from the opinion given by my predecessors in the case only on the 
question of the distribution or the localized or circumscribed limitation 
of the tubercular matter, and for the following reasons: While, to 
some degree, meningeal inflammation existed, it did not reach to that 
extent which might be expected in a case of diffused tubercular deposit 
in the pia mater, as was clearly shown by the absence of symptoms 
indicating great and general pressure from effusion. In tubercular 
meningitis, headache is constant to the end of consciousness, while, in 
the case of tumor (as in this case), the pain is remittent, and even inter¬ 
mittent In tubercular meningitis, the whole head is the seat of the 
pain; while with tumor, as was the case here, the locality is invariably 
and accurately pointed out. The impaired vision could only be 
accounted for by the pressure of an agglomeration of tubercular mat¬ 
ter, or a tumor in the region of the optic commissure, or anywhere in 
the optic tract; for amblyopia and amaurosis are rot only frequent 
symptoms of cerebral tumors, but they are often the first to present 
themselves. 


Digitized by tjOOQle 



186 


Koch's Discovery . 


March 


Treatment .—After careful study of the case I gave the child four 
doses of Tuberculinum of a high attenuation, dose night and morning, 
from the second of November to the fourth. Then it was discontinued. 
The child now commenced to rest better; the remissions of the pain had 
become complete intermissions; the paroxysms became shorter, the 
severest occurring about 8 p. m. and lasting until midnight. Pulse 140. 
The eyes remained twisted and pupils dilated. More quiet mood. 

November 7th.—Still less pain and more rest; eyes and pupils as 
before ; she can not see the length of the bedstead. The neck is not as 
rigid. The urine is voided without trouble four or five times in twenty- 
four hours; specific gravity 1,026, alkaline, a pale yellow color, with a 
whitish cloud ; cloudy on the application of heat, with clearing up on 
the application of nitric acid; microscopic examination showed phos¬ 
phate of lime in abundance, and a few nucleated epithelial cells. 

November 12th.—Tuberculinum was repeated, a daily dose for four 
days. From this date a gradual amelioration continued, and on the 16th 
I discontinued daily visits. The pain steadily diminished, so that at 
the latter date she had only slight attacks morning and evening. The 
appetite became good, almost craving. The child slept well for two or 
three hours at a time, but would wake up complaining of pain for a few 
minutes, and then either remain quiet or fall asleep. The condition of 
the eyes remained as before. 

The diagnosis of this case was confirmed by several opthalmic 
examinations made by Dr. Wm. P. Fowler, of this city, and others; 
also by tests made during the period of recovery. 

A steady recovery was noticeable from this time. 

November 20th.—Repeated the remedy as before. 

November 25th.—She is up and about the room during the greater 
part of the day, without tiring, and gains strength. 

The results of an opthalmic examination are reported to be in accord¬ 
ance with the apparent recovery, at which time Tuberculinum was 
administered as before. 

January 2d.—Notwithstanding the intervention of an acute sickness 
from extraneous causes, she made a good recovery down to the discon¬ 
tinuance of my attendance, January 10, 1879. 

Reporter: Is the patient still living, and, if so, what as to 
her general health? 

Dr. Biegler : She is not only living, but her general health 
remains unusually good. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


The International Congress . 


187 


THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF HOMOEOPATHY AND 

THE INTERNATIONAL HOMEOPATHIC CONGRESS: 

SECRETARY’S NOTICE. 

The American Institute of Homoeopathy will hold its 
Forty-fourth Annual Session and celebrate its Forty-eighth 
Anniversary, in conjunction with the Fourth quinquennial 
International Homoeopathic Congress, at Atlantic City, New 
Jersey, beginning on Tuesday morning, June 16th, 1891. In 
accordance with action taken at its last session, the Institute 
will transact, as far as possible, its necessary routine business 
on that day, and the International Cotigress will assemble on 
the following morning. The sessions of the latter will 
occupy the morning and afternoon of each day (Sunday 
excepted) until Tuesday, June 23d. This arrangement of 
the business of the Institute makes it necessary that all the 
standing and special committees should have their reports in 
readiness before the opening of the session. But it should be 
noticed that all scientific reports of committees and bureaus 
appointed last year will be deferred until the session of 1892, 
thus giving place to the scientific work of the Congress. 

All members of Homoeopathic Medical Societies will have 
equal rights as members of the Congress, and equal privileges, 
in the transaction of its business and in its discussions, 
under such rules as may be adopted for the government 
thereof. The transactions will be published by the American 
Institute of Homoeopathy and furnished to physicians on 
such terms as may be decided by the Executive Committee* 
It is expected that the proceedings of the Congress will 
be of the most interesting and important character. While 
general medicine, surgery, obstetrics and the specialties will 
have their place in the discussions, the interests of homoeop¬ 
athy will furnish the main topics for consideration. It is 
proposed that one entire day —“ Materia MedieaDay”—shall 
be devoted to the subject of homoeopathic materia medica, 
and the consideration of questions pertaining to its present 
status and its further improvement. Homoeopathic thera¬ 
peutics will also claim a large share of attention, while some 
of the subjects upon which the homoeopathic school is known 
to hold a distinctive position, will be presented and con¬ 
sidered. The essays and addresses on all of these subjects 
will be presented by physicians, carefully chosen by the com- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



188 


The International Congress . 


March 


mittee, having the matter in charge, and the discussions will 
be participated in by some of the physicians most dis¬ 
tinguished in each department. Arrangements are in pro¬ 
gress to secure reports of the condition and advancement of 
Homoeopathy in all the civilized countries of the world. 

A word as to the place of meeting. Atlantic City, as is 
well known, extends for a distance of two or three miles 
along the sea-coast of New Jersey, sixty miles southeast of 
Philadelphia, with which it communicates by three lines of 
railway and scores of trains daily, most of which make the 
distance in ninety minutes. New York and Baltimore are 
within four or five hours’ ride, while within a radius of four 
hundred miles there are nearly four thousand homoeopathic 
physicians. Atlantic City has, during “ the season,” a larger 
patronage than any other of our sea-coast resorts, her visitors 
coming from all parts of the country, but chiefly from New 
York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and the West and South. She 
has ample hotel accommodations for twenty-five thousand 
guests. 

The United States Hotel, which will be the headquarters 
of the Congress and the place of its meetings, is a new struc¬ 
ture, located one square from the beach, and within full 
view of the ocean. It has accommodations for eight hun¬ 
dred guests, and the “pavilion” in which the Congress will 
assemble is a large room on the first floor, with a seating 
capacity for eight hundred persons. The meeting of the 
Congress will occur during “the season,” but the United 
States Hotel will be practically at our exclusive disposal. 

The scientific and social features of the meeting, and the 
attractions of Atlantic City as a health and pleasure resort, 
render it probable that this Congress will be, by far, the 
largest gathering of homoeopathic physicians ever convened. 
It is especially suggested that the occasion will furnish 
unusual opportunity for our physicians to combine the profit 
of a scientific convention with the pleasures and benefits of a 
vacation, both for themselves and their families. 

THE INTERNATIONAL HOMOEOPATHIC CONGRESS. 

Editor Advance: The American Institute’s committee on 
the International Homoeopathic Congress is endeavoring to 
give direction and character to the essays and discussions of 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


The International Congress . 


189 


the congress, and to this object more time and energy have 
been devoted than to any other part of the committee's 
labors. It would seem that as the themes and discussions of 
a national medical association naturally take a broader scope 
than those of a local society, so the work of an international 
congress should be more comprehensive and far-reaching 
than even that of a national convention. This committee is, 
therefore, seeking to bring before the approaching congress 
some of the broadest and highest questions that confront our 
profession in all its departments. It is important that the 
congress should discuss, for instance, some of the broad and 
imperative issues of modern surgery, rather than the tech¬ 
nical details of some minor or major operation—the influ¬ 
ence of the Law of Cure in a whole realm of maladies, rather 
than the indications for this or that remedy in some particu¬ 
lar disease—the construction of a Materia Medica, rather than 
the symptoms of an individual drug. To this end our com¬ 
mittee has labored and, thus far, with most flattering pros¬ 
pects of brilliant success. Papers, bearing upon those classes 
of subjects, are in course of preparation by physicians selected 
from among those best qualified for the work, and others 
equally distinguished in the various departments have con¬ 
sented to take leading parts in the discussion of the papers. 

In order to correct a misapprehension, it may be stated 
that the object of the committee is not to control the con¬ 
gress, but to serve it. Undoubtedly the congress will adopt 
and enforce rules of its own, those governing the reception 
and discussion of essays included. This committee does not 
deem itself authorized to reject any paper that may be offered, 
on any medical or surgical topic whatsoever. Its object is 
to include papers of a certain general character, but not 
to exclude anything. All essays, whether prepared at 
the instance of the committee or as voluntary contribu¬ 
tions, must be passed upon by the congress or by its delegated 
authority; but the committee will probably recommend and 
urge that such of the essays as are more or less in harmony with 
the vie ws above mentioned shall take precedence of others, and 
it is quite likely that these will occupy nearly all the avail¬ 
able time of the convention. 

Notice is hereby given that to insure the publication of the 
title of any paper in the “ Annual Circular and Programme/* 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



190 


My Experience mth Potencies . 


March 


said title must be in the hands of the undersigned on or 
before April 5th, and the paper itself should be sent as soon 
thereafter as possible to the chairman of the committee. Dr. 
T. Y. Kinne, of Paterson, N. J., in order that provision 
may be made for its discussion. 

Pemberton Dudley, M. D., 

General Secretary, A. I. H. 

S. W. Cor. 15th and Master St3., 

Philadelphia. 


MY EXPERIENCE WITH POTENCIES.* 

Case I.—During the epidemic of “ grippe" I began to U3© 
Lac. can. cm. (Fincke), when indicated, for such of my 
patients who were suffering from that disease. Visited 
Mrs. M., a large, fleshy woman, who presented all the condi¬ 
tions of the catarrhal type of “grippe.” Intense frontal 
headache; alternate chill and heat; pain in all the limbs, back, 
and head; heavily coated tongue; nearly constant cough. 

Gave Lac. can. cm. Four days after, the husband called 
and reported much better; gave one more dose of Lac. can. cm. 
Cured. 

Case II.—Mrs. S-sent to the office formedicine: Severe 

pain in head ; pain all over body ; wanted something to 
relieve pain and produce sleep. Sent one dose of Lac. can. 
cm.; 3 or 4 days afterward met the daughter, who said: “You 
must have charmed my mother; that medicine relieved her 
in a few minutes and she slept all night.” 

Case III.—Mr. E-called for medicine. Clear case of 

catarrhal type of “grippe.” Gave Lac. can. cm., one dose, 
and placebo; cured. 

Case IV.—Miss B-, teacher, nervous bilious tempera¬ 

ment; boils on back of neck and arm, headache; feverish and 
fretful; felt distressed. I gave one dose of Lac. can. cm. Next 
morning very much improved. Fever gone; boils drying 
up; disposition cheerful; case ended. 

Case V.—Mrs. McN-, prostrated with “grippe;” low 

temperature; dizziness on attempting to rise; pain in head, 
back and extremities; oppression of chest. Tongue coated 
dark; sides of tongue clear; gave Lac. can. cm., every three 
hours in water; when better, gave one dose each morning, 
for several mornings; recovery satisfactory. 

’Indiana State 8ociety. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Repetition of the Dose. 


191 


Case VI.—March 9th, saw child H-, “ grippe;” well 

marked fever; hoarse, croupy cough. Catarrhal condition 
of the eyes. Throat symptoms called for Lachesis cm.; 
gave one dose. Heard no more from case;, suppose results 
satisfactory. 

Case VII.—Same family, an older child. Enlarged ton¬ 
sils, left tonsil sore first, red, highly inflamed; deafness in both 
ears. 3uffers in this manner every time he takes cold. Gave 
one dose Lachesis cm. Twelve days afterward met the 
mother, said the medicine acted like a charm. 

Case VIII.—March 9th.—Louise R —, 7 yrs. old; light 
fever; headache; pain in eyes; cough croupy; tongue coated 
in centre; tonsils badly inflamed and enlarged; no appetite. 
One dose of Lac. can. cm. finished the case. 

So far so much in favor of high potencies and single dose. 
I trust you will all be seekers after truth. t€ Prove all things, 
hold fast that which is good.” Many valuable cures have 
been made by high potencies. When the simillimum is 
found it is the only correct method of prescribing. 

But, in order to succeed, close study of both case and rem¬ 
edy is the great essential. 

When the directions of Hahnemann are faithfully followed, 
success will crown your efforts. 

F. L. Davis. 

Evansville, Ind. 


REPETITION OF THE DOSE. 

November 4, 1890, Miss M., chambermaid, age 24, applied 
to me for an acute inflammation of the iris of the right eye. 
She stated that in the morning of the 2d inst. she noticed 
that the eye^ball of the right eye seemed to be somewhat 
inflamed, the eye watered a little and seemed sensitive to the 
light. She did not sleep well the night before and was 
unusually restless. During the day the redness of the eye¬ 
ball increased and she had occasional shooting pains in it. 
By evening the pain had become almost constant and was 
very severe, so that she could scarcely bear the light. While 
lying in bed the pain, which had now extended from the eye 
to the whole right side of the head,became almost intolerable. 
It wasso severe that she was obliged to get up out of bed and 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



192 


Repetition of the Dose . 


March 


walk the floor. While up she seemed to be a little easier, 
but as soon as she got back in bed again and covered herself 
up warmly the pain steadily increased until she was again 
obliged to get up for the relief it afforded her. This con¬ 
tinued all night. As day dawned she grew easier and felt 
better all day. This temporary relief made her think that 
she was getting better, so she did not seek relief until the 
following day; but the experience of the next night was so 
severe, worse, if it could be, than that of the preceding one, 
that she came to me the first thing in the morning. Besides 
this pain, her breath was very offensive: her tongue, which 
was coated white, was large and flabby, and her mouth was 
filled with a copious and thick saliva that^ave her a great 
deal of annoyance. She was very thirsty and craved milk. 
This thirst for milk was something unusual, as before the 
present attack she had never cared for milk. The right 
pupil was very much contracted, and dilated but very little 
when she was in the dark. There were no posterior adhe¬ 
sions between the iris and the crystalline lens. Upon these 
symptoms she received a dose of Merc. cm. to be dissolved in 
water and taken in four doses half an hour apart. 

November 5th.—She reported that she was better; that she 
did not have any where near as severe a time last night as she 
had the previous two nights; that she had remained in bed 
all night and thought she slept four hours. The redness of 
the eye-ball was very much less than on the day before and 
there were no signs of any posterior adhesions. 

November 6th.—She reported that she slept all the last night 
and was entirely free from pain. The only disagreeable sen¬ 
sation she felt was an itching in the inner canthus of the 
eye. The redness of the eyeball was almost all gone, so that 
it could not be told which eye had been attacked unless upon 
close examination. The iris expanded nearly normally, and 
there were no posterior synechiae. 

From this time on she continued to improve without the 
least set-back, and has remained free from any eye trouble up 
to the present time. 

This case is not related to show any new point about iritis. 
The inflammation of the iris began as all syphilitic inflamma¬ 
tions of the iris begin, and developed as they all develop; but 
I have presented it to you to show that Atropia is unneces- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


ill Ct\ j&XIcl'ix* 


193 


aary as a mydriatic when the true homoeopathic remedy, 
which has been selected according to the requirements of the 
law of Homoeopathy, has been administered and allowed to 
act undisturbed by a second dose or by any other medicine. 

The common teaching of the oculists in our colleges is that 
Atropia must be instilled into the eye the moment we decide 
that we have before us a case of iritis. They tell us that 
unless we do this we are criminally negligent, and that 
through our carelessness the patient may lose the use of his 
eyes. Now, what has made them feel that the homoeopathic 
remedy is powerless to cope with iritis without the assistance 
•of palliatives, when it is able to cause inflammation every¬ 
where else in the body to subside without them ? The old 
school oculists may have excuse for their palliation, 
inasmuch as they know no better; but a homoeopathist 
who abides by the teachings of Hahnemann can find 
no occasion for employing palliatives, much less any 
necessity for them. The alleged necessity for pallia¬ 
tion among professed homceopathists lies not in the ina¬ 
bility of the law of Homoeopathy to cope with all morbid 
conditions that may arise in the organism, but in the inability 
of homceopathists, from ignorance of the law of Homoeop¬ 
athy, to apply their remedies so that they will cure the 
sick. Curing the sick patient of his disease and causing a 
few of his most prominent symptoms to subside are too 
widely different things. A physician may, by crude drugs or 
by low potencies repeated at frequent, short and arbitrary 
intervals, cause annoying symptoms and even pathological 
• changes, such as tumors, etc., to disappear, but these are not 
homoeopathic cures. The fact that one calls himself a 
homoeopathist, reads so-called homoeopathic medical journals, 
buys his medicines at homoeopathic pharmacies and then him¬ 
self administers these medicines to the sick patient, does not 
make his treatment any more homoeopathic than that of the 
out and out allopath, whose palliation he ha 3 learned to con¬ 
demn as irrational and injurious, although it temporarily 
relieves. Can any one claim to have cured a case merely 
because at the expiration of a few days of haphazard treat¬ 
ment the annoying group of symptoms to which some one 
has seen fit to attach a name has disappeared ? If this could 
he done, would not every case under allopathic or palliative 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


194 


Repetition of the Dose. 


March 


treatment that did not die or did not destroy the usefulness of 
the part affected, be as much of a cure as that under true 
homoeopathic treatment? And now I ask those who claim to 
be homoeopath ists, who use in rapidly repeated doses mother 
tinctures, crude drugs, first, second and third decimal tritura¬ 
tions, salves, washes, caustics, etc., in the treatmentof thesick* 
what difference is there between your so-called cures and 
those under allopathic treatment? Is there not just as much 
suppression in your cases as in theirs? Nevertheless we can 
hardly find a medical journal whose pages are not filled with 
alleged cures of this description. 

Without further digression, let us now take up each step 
in the study of our case in succession, just as we should do* 
were a patient before us for treatment. 

The first thing we must do is, “ take the case,” as it is called. 
Hahnemann has told us that this is the most difficult part of 
all. To one who knows and understands Homoeopathy this 
certainly is the most difficult part of the whole proceeding ; 
for out of the midst of countless symptoms and oftentimes 
meaningless talk and foolish speculation as to the most plaus¬ 
ible cause to which the patient or his friends are able to ascribe 
the present attack, etc., etc., we are obliged to cull a tew 
characteristic and peculiar symptoms which will point 
out to us the remedy that will cover the totality of the symp¬ 
toms and cure the disease. It will be noticed in our case* 
that there have been but few symptoms recorded. These* 
were by no means all that the patient related; for patients,, 
unless thoroughly educated in Homoeopathy, rarely give so- 
few or such pointed symptoms, but the few characteristic 
ones they do give are mingled with many general ones. As 
these were the ones upon which the prescription was based, 
they are all that need be recorded in giving a history of the* 
case. 

The next important move is the selection of the remedy. 
In selecting a remedy for eye diseases, it is rarely proper to* 
trust to the eye symptoms alone to indicate the homoeo¬ 
pathic remedy. Particularly is this the case iu chronic dis¬ 
eases. In this case of iritis, we had to deal not with a dis¬ 
ease of the iris alone, not with a local affair only, but with a. 
chronic miasm which pervaded every part of the living organ¬ 
ism. The iritis was a part of the syphilitic disease; it was a. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


A. 0 . Allan. 


195 


group of syphilitic symptoms and not an intercurrent affec¬ 
tion. Its cure demanded the same anti-syphilitic remedies 
that the patient would have required had there been no iritis. 
•Consequently, in selecting the remedy, the full train of 
symptoms from the head to the feet had to be taken into 
•consideration, leaving out no portion of the body, however 
far remote from the eye, from a rigid and critical examina¬ 
tion. In this way, and in this way alone, could a homoeo¬ 
pathic remedy be selected that would cure the eye disease. 
The most troublesome symptom that our patient complained 
-of was pain in the side of the head. As there is nothing 
about a mere headache to guide us in a choice of a remedy, 
let us analyze this headache and see what was characteristic 
or peculiar in this pain. In the first place, it was worse at 
night, with comparative ease as soon as the daylight began to 
appear. While it was dark, the suffering was most intense. 
Another peculiarity about the pain was that it was increased 
•or aggravated by lying in bed, especially after she covered 
herself up and began to grow warm, with some amelioration 
from getting up out of bed. When asked why she did not 
remain up if she obtained relief by so doing, she promptly 
replied that* it was because she became so chilly and trembled 
ao. Now, under what remedy do we find this same peculiar¬ 
ity: pain worse at night, < by warmth of the bed, > by 
uncovering, followed by chilliness, which obliges one to cover up 
again. Mercury, of course. But, as it is not always advisable 
to prescribe on one symptom, however characteristic it may 
be, let us go on a little and see if we have in the case more 
peculiar symptoms that will confirm our opinion in favor of 
Mercury. On looking at the mouth the tongue was found to be 
large,flabby and coated white; the mouth was filled withathick 
and unusually abundant saliva, and the breath had a peculiar, 
offensive odor. Here we find two, and possibly three, more 
good characteristic, mercurial symptoms, viz., fetor of the 
breath, abundant saliva and possibly another in the large 
flabby tongue. But there remains another symptom, a thirst 
symptom, which is likewise a good one when taken in con¬ 
nection with the rest: thirst for milk. By itself it would be 
meaningless, but in this case it helped to confirm the selec¬ 
tion of Mercury as the remedy for the patient. These were 
^11 the symptoms that could be found that were peculiar or 
unusual ;n a case of this nature. 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



196 


Repetition of the Dose . 


March 


Now let us see how it is best to give the remedy. Without, 
knowing the effect of remedies, the manner in which they act 
and the way in which the cure is brought about, no one, how¬ 
ever acute, can formulate or divine in what potency or in 
what dose a medicine should be administered or when a 
remedy should be repeated to best affect a cure. In the first 
place, as it is not the primitive action of the remedy that 
cures, but the reaction of the vital force which throws off the 
disease, we can readily perceive that it would be wrong to* 
give another dose of a remedy after the reaction has com¬ 
menced. Consequently, after the reaction of the vital force 
has become thoroughly established, another dose of the remedy 
must never be given, but this reaction should be allowed to 
continue undisturbed* by anything as long as it lasts. 

In the next place, what potency should be employed?* 
Without entering into a detailed discussion of this important 
subject, suffice it to say that as it is the vital force that is 
deranged we must bring to bear upon it a force similar to 
itself or as nearly of the same kind as we are able to com¬ 
mand. The vital force being non-material is influenced by 
the force contained in the drug and not by the material 
envelope or covering of the drug force. We have found that 
by what is termed potentization we are able to liberate the- 
force that is pent up in the drug and free it from its material 
covering. We also find that the higher potencies being 
further removed from the original crude matter and, conse¬ 
quently, more nearly similar in kind to the vital force, 
impress it with greater efficiency than do the crude or lower 
potencies. 

Finally, how must the medicine be given to produce the 
quickest result? In the first place, we must bear in mind that , 
when a second disease force is brought to bear upon a vital 
force already under the influence of a disease force, the second 
force will not be able to produce an effect upon the vital 
force unless it be of greater intensity of action than the first, 
force, when the action of the second force will supplant that 
of the first force. The length of time that the second force 
will affect the vital force depends wholly upon the length or 
time that its action be of greater intensity than that of the- 
first force, for as soon as the intensity of its action begins to- 
grow less than that of the first force, the action of the first. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


A . Q. Allan. 


197 


force will again reassert itself. Therefore, the greater the 
activity of, and, consequently, the more intense the action of 
the first force, the shorter will be the duration of the action 
of the second force. Consequently, in an acute disease, as 
the action of the disease is very intense the duration of the 
primary action of the medicine will be very short, owing to 
the fact that its duration of action is in proportion to the 
intensity of the disease action. Likewise in a chronic disease; 
as the disease is not very active and not of great intensity, 
its action is readily supplanted by that of a medicinal force 
whose intensity of action, being far more powerful than the 
disease action, is consequently of long duration. The dura¬ 
tion of and the intensity of the vital reaction after the admin¬ 
istration of a medicine, depends upon the strength of and the 
duration of the primary action; being less when the primary 
action is of short duration and of less intensity, and greater 
when the primary drug action is long and of greater intensity. 
When a drug is administered to an individual its primary 
action increases in force until it reaches a certain height; 
after reaching this point its action rapidly diminishes in 
intensity until it is lost in the reaction of the vital force 
which it provokes. Since a disease is the primary action of a 
miasm or a disease-producing influence upon the vital-force, 
we find that it produces in the same manner, as does the 
medicinal force, an effect upon the vital force which increases 
in intensity till it reaches a certain height, when it likewise 
diminishes in intensity to be finally lost in a vital reaction. 
When the action of an acute disease is upon the increase, it 
is necessary that the action of the medicinal force of the 
medicine administered be much more powerful in order to 
supplant the disease than would be required after the pri¬ 
mary action of the disease has exhausted itself and the disease 
action has commenced to decline in power. Therefore, in 
the case cited above, as the iritis was upon the increase, the 
cure of the case made it imperative that the action of the 
medicine be very powerful and of long duration for two reasons: 
First, so that the power of the medicinal force be greater 
than that of the disease force in order to supplant the disease, 
and second, so that there be sufficient reaction of the vital 
force to throw off the disease. 

To recapitulate: We have just seen that when a medicine 
• 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




198 


Repetition of the Dose. 


March 


is given to sick persons, its primary action is proportionate 
to the intensity of or the acuteness of the original disease; also 
that the duration of and the strength of the reaction of the 
vital force which follows the primary action of a remedy is 
proportionate to the strength of and the intensity of the pri¬ 
mary drug action. Thus, if the primary drug action belong 
and of considerable force, the reaction of the vital force will 
likewise be long and of considerable power. 

If, after a first dose of medicine has been administered, we 
give a second one before the primary action has ceased, we 
will prolong and intensify the primary action that had already 
commenced from the administration of the first dose; If, in 
a short time, we give another dose before reaction has com¬ 
menced, we shall still prolong and intensify the primary drug 
action. This may be continued with the desired result for 
four or five consecutive doses, covering a period of not more 
than four or five hours, but not longer. It was to obtain this 
intense and prolonged primary action, in the case cited above, 
that the dose was divided and given at short intervals. Had this 
not been done, it is very doubtful if the short reaction that would 
have followed the administration of a single undivided dose 
would have been sufficiently powerful and of sufficiently long 
duration to have restored that vital harmony which is known 
as health. 

Thus is clearly shown that the importance of knowing the 
principles governing the administration of homoeopathic 
remedies can not be over estimated. 

Unless we are familiar with them, we are not fit to man¬ 
age a case of any disease, least of all a disease affecting so 
important an organ as the eye. In place of saying that 
Atropia and other palliatives are necessary in eye diseases, 
would it not be far better to learn how to administer remedies 
homoeopathically, so that ignorance would not compel us to 
employ them rather than have the humiliation and disgrace 
of being obliged to confess our incompetency before the public? 

Homoeopathy is competent, but ignorance of homoeopathy 
is the cause of all failures . Too much pathology and too 
much science are responsible for the false teachings of the 
day. It is homoeopathy which is a truth from God, a law of 
the universe vs. science. 

“ Facts are truths from God; but science is froih man. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Stupidity Curable . 


199 


who stammers a few truths mingled with countless errors. 
Science, a fabrication of man's intellect, which would that 
God, the universe and all that is contained therein, were 
under man's laws and after his pattern, while man was cre¬ 
ated simply in the image of God." 

Arthur G. Allah. 

Philadelphia, Pa. 


STUPIDITY CURABLE. 

Properly speaking, this newest of all inventions ought to 
be kept secret still longer, but I am of a humane disposition 
and shall be looking on without envy if the invention ’ is 
followed up upon the basis which I have given. 

Rejoice, therefore, dear fellowmen! The remedy has been 
discovered which is to heal stupidity for the benefit of all 
needy individuals, and also, perhaps, of the whole world, for 
the latter itself is as yet too stupid for many. 

In my invention I lean with the entire reserve of my 
science against that last great bacillological discovery, and 
attack the voracious bacillus of stupidity* with a lymph, crys¬ 
tallized, out of the three most stupid brains in the world. It 
is also my principle to drive out like with like, and I transfer 
it into a golden practice by a manipulation which is based 
upon the latest researches and no doubt obvious to all sound 
minds. 

As it is inhuman and fortunately also forbidden by law to 
use up any human organism as the breeding ground of any 
lymph manufacture, I was from the beginning already 
directed to animalism, and here indeed I found in fortunate 
combination what I sought. 

First, I discovered it in the brain of the ass which wrong¬ 
fully is taken for being simply stupid; he is rather sly and 
knows how to let a full bag fall off his back very skillfully. 
But he is undoubtedly lazy and this is the first condition of 
stupidity. 

Then I went to the ox who owes his fame of stupidity like¬ 
wise to another obnoxious property. For he is brutal, and 
this is the second condition of stupidity. 

Last, I came to the sheep with its thoroughly besotted skull. 

^Bacillus stupiditaSte. (Cook.) 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



200 


Stupidity Curable . 


March 


Its stupidity is based upon an invincible dullness, and I know 
of no creature that has this third condition of stupidity in 
such perfection. 

Out of the brains of these three animals I extracted the 
bacilli of laziness, brutality and dullness, distilled them com¬ 
bined in a light-tight retort as lymph, and preserved them 
in this convenient form in original bottles. The injection 
under the skin of the forehead of the patient is made in the 
usual manner with that extremely handy medical instrument, 
a hypodermic syringe. The patient gets a rather thick head 
after the first injection, but that does not amount to much 
because as a necessary homoeopathic aggravation it soon passes 
off and makes room for the well being of an electrical incan¬ 
descent lamp. 

Since the source and the store of the lymph is simply 
immense, it is adequate to the equally immense amount of 
the disease. An injection will be very cheap and thus easily 
accessible to even the poorest creature, and it will be a god¬ 
send to the rich who can employ their wealth to no better 
purpose than this cure, when they are in need of it. Indeed, 
the advantage accrueing from this new method for the com¬ 
mon welfare of the people need not be further dilated upon. 

Prof. Dr. Ephraim Schutze. 

(From the “ Berlin er Clk ” 1891.) 


Dr. L. Olivieri, an Italian physician, has devised what promises to 
be a useful instrument for the rapid performance of tracheotomy. 
Tracheotomy is an operation that not infrequently has to be performed 
n haste to save the patient from imminent death. One of the chief 
features of the instrument is a sharp hook, bearing upon its back a tiny 
wfcid wheel, the revolution of which, at the moment the hook enters the 
trachea, gives to the eye a visible guarantee that the desired. place has 
been reached. A combined dilator and conductor puts a canula into 
proper place and the operation is finished. 


Hypnotics, et al. —If new hypnotics and anti-pyretics continue to 
be discovered in the future with the same frequency as during the past, 
it will soon be necessary to get daily bulletins after the manner of our 
weather reports, containing a list of the recently discovered, in order to 
keep up with the times. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Eczema . 


201 


ECZEMA. 

I wish to report a case for Homeopathy, and prove to the 
polypaths how they have missed it by not individualizing. 

Mrs. M. G., age 55, blonde, with blue eyes; weight, 150; 
solicitude about her spiritual welfare ; prays ; great anxiety; 
inclined to grief ; changeable mood ; irritable, fretful, easily 
vexed. She is sad with thoughts of death, with weeping. 
Has been afflicted for *ten or twelve years with this skin 
trouble. Appearance of eruption is dry and crusty, with a 
coppery color, worse in the folds of the skin, commencing 
in genital organs and spreading upward to neck; worse in neck 
and mammary glands, folds of the skin, on abdomen, in 
groins, on labia majora, and downward to knees. Skin thick 
and crusty, oozing a thick, sticky fluid, which excoriates the 
parts over which it flows. Skin dry, inclined to crack. 

The above symptoms were given to me by patient at the 
time I was called, four years ago. 

The history of this case is a remarkable one. “ Have tried 
no less than thirteen or fourteen physicians. Have been the 
rounds of the allopathic, eclectic, spiritualists and a few 
eclectic homeopaths. They all tried their hand with their 
external applications, but with only partial relief at first, soon 
to become unbearable.” 

The physician attending when I was called was a so-called 
homeopath, using some mixtures applied externally in the 
form of a wash, three times a day, which she said was almost 
death to apply it, and if there was any way in the world to get 
rid of this awful burning without using this wash she would 
give anything for it; besides, the wash was not doing her any 
good, having used it for three months without any relief. 

She sent for me for some unknown reason. It was twelve 
miles in the country near a neighboring village. I found 
her sitting up in bed lamenting over her condition. When 
her husband introduced me she was very much disappointed 
to find a boy doctor. She exclaimed: “Why, you are nothing 
but a boy, and you can't do me any good, for I have tried 
thirteen or fourteen physicians, and all of long experience, 
and they failed to cure me. I was expecting an old physi¬ 
cian.” After forty minutes crying, relating her past troubles 
and dreading the future, I told her that while I did not pre¬ 
tend to know it all, I thought I could give her relief that 


Digitized by 


Google 



202 Rochester Hahnemannian Society . March 

would be permanent. I showed her the fallacy of the local 
treatment which she had been receiving, and it looked so 
plain to her that she even felt better. 

With the above character, I had a plain case before me of 
Graphites, which she received in the 200; the highest I had 
in my case at that time. I gave her one dose and left a 
powder to be taken the next afternoon with Sac. lac., and 
in three weeks to call at my office if fcble. 

The first day of July she came to my office, saying: “I 
am almost well; better than I have been for over three years. 
The eruption had almost disappeared, some moisture in the 
folds of skin, burning nearly gone. 

I gave her one more dose of Graphites 6 m. with Sac. lac., 
the highest I had, and told her to return in thirty days, 
which she did, feeling well. No more medicine. 

This picture and the method of individualizing and phil¬ 
osophizing comes from the study of the Organon and Materia 
Medica. It takes this to cure according to the first three 
paragraphs in the Organon. A. T. Noe. 

Lincoln, Neb. 1 


ANNUAL MEETING OF THE ROCHESTER HAHNE¬ 
MANNIAN SOCIETY. 

The regular meeting of the Rochester Hahnemannian 
Society was held, January 21, at the offices of Dr. R. C. 
Orant, 167 South Avenue. The following officers for the 
ensuing year were elected: President, Dr. V. A. Hoard; 
vice-president,Dr. W. G. Brownell; secretary and treasurer. 
Dr. A. C. Hermance; board of censors, Drs. J. A. Biegler, 
R. C. Grant, A. B. Carr; delegate to the International 
Hahnemannian Association, Dr. Walter W. Johnson, of 
Pittsford, N. Y. The exercises consisted of reading of the 
Organon, essays, reports of cases, and the following address 
of Dr. Julius G. Schmitt, the retiring president: 

Members of the Rochester Hahnemannian Society: Another 
year of our existence as a pure homoeopathic society has 
passed, with occurrences.indicating a growth of strength, 
purpose and harmony that augurs well for the future Of the 
great truth our science and art represents. The Hahnemann 
Hospital, of this city, having been so far infans dolorum, is 


Digitized by AjOOQle 



1891 


Julius 0. Schmitt . 


203 


now, at the beginning of this year, in a flourishing condi¬ 
tion, and, although this has been due to the efforts of two 
men especially, still I maintain that we all have made sacri¬ 
fices to the full extent of our ability to further this great 
object. Children are born with pains; thus has the above 
infant come into existence. How often has its future seemed 
so dark that hardly a ray of hope penetrated the thick clouds 
of apparently invincible obstacles ! And yet, gentlemen, the 
great, the good, the true, can not be trampled under foot so 
easily, and, almost lifeless and dead, this noblest monument 
of Hahnemann was resurrected and stands now as a repre¬ 
sentative of the imperishable truth of the medical science of 
the future. Immortality cliugs to the names of Biegler, 
Hargous-Appleton and Loomis. But our society has also 
done well in other respects. Before all it has maintained its 
integrity as a body of pure Hahnemannians, and the papers 
that have been read and discussed during the last year have 
shown how deeply the teachings of the master have taken 
root in the minds of the members of this society. E$ch 
member has had opportunity, and, I think, has not lost it, 
to make propaganda for the science of pure Homoeopathy. 
The laity is gradually awakening to the understanding 
of our purpose, and, although this progress is very slow,, 
and disappointments meet us often in quarters where 
we thought we had gained our point, still there is prog¬ 
ress, and if it be ever so small, it must stimulate us not to 
give up our endeavors' to teach the people that which is to 
their greatest benefit. Humanity in its onward course to a 
higher grade of existence and welfare, might be compared to 
a picture of this kind. Imagine a forest in a valley sending 
its trees to the summits of the surrounding mountains. Will 
the dawn of the rising sun touch the whole forest at once ? 
Certainly not. The trees on the summit will greet the light 
at first, and as the sun rises higher and higher, those down 
in the dales and valleys will be illuminated and enjoy his 
beneficial light and warmth, while some unfortunate sap- 
plings, crippled by the thick underwood, will never see his 
rays. Can you expect that all humanity can see the dawn of 
a new truth at once ? There are few that will; others will 
follow gradually. Let us congratulate ourselves that fortune 
puts us on the summit of the hills and not among the forest 
in the valley or even amongst the crippled saplings. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



204 


Rochester Hahnemannian Society . . March 


The great crowd now believes; it sees a sun, representing 
the Ultima Thule of medical science. They rave over it. 
Emperors and kings donate great sums of money to benefit 
suffering humanity by this new medical discovery. The tele¬ 
graph carries the name of the great discoverer to every 
corner of the universe. “ Beaucoup de bruit pour une 
omellette” This great discovery was made once before, about 
twenty years ago, by one of bur best men, who ran after the 
fallacy that there were specifics for diseases atid that these 
specifics were derived from the morbid products of the same 
disease, which they are able to cure. Alas ! As we all know 
it proved a failure, although it would have been so beautiful 
and easy to cure diseases, if it had been true. Yet his dis¬ 
coveries opened a new field of investigation to the truly 
scientific physician, and to-day some of these specifics, after 
having undergone proving on the healthy body—the only 
scientific way to discover the character of any new remedial 
agent—belong to the armamentarium of every true homoeo¬ 
path. Twelve years ago our esteemed colleague, Dr. Biegler, 
cured a case of tubercular meningitis in a child, which had 
been given up to die by the ablest practitioners of the allopa¬ 
thic school, with the very substance that now moves the minds 
cf the people all over the world. Did he give it because 
there was a tubercular meningitis to be cured ? No, gentle¬ 
men, but because its provings indicated it. Carbolic acid, 
salycilic acid, thymol, mercurius corro % sivus, remedies hailed 
at one time as the great bactericides, have disappointed the 
allopathic school and are put away one by one into the waste 
basket of old physic, which is hardly large enough to receive 
all the rubbish of centuries, and there, after a while “Koch- 
ine ” will go. 

But, gentlemen, where do our greatest remedies come 
from, but from this very dung-hill of “science !” Why can 
we use with advantage what others throw away as worthless ? 
Homoeopathy as taught by the great master, Hahnemann, 
knows by its scientific procedure how to use rubbish which 
the followers of empty, although perhaps brilliant sounding, 
hypotheses come'to consider as such. The difference is law 
on the one side, chaos and Nihilism on the other. To which 
side shall the world belong ? 

Let future generations answer this question, when Hahne- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Suppressed Foot Sweat . 


205 


mann will be revered in every household, and Koch, et sui 
. 1 generis , will be only mentioned as curiosa in the history of 
medicine. 

SUPPRESSED FOOT SWEAT. 

In the summer of 1884 Mr. D., light hair, blue eyes and 
light complexion, age forty-five, presented himself for treat¬ 
ment, saying he had been “given up" as incurable by 
several physicians, one a homoeopath, the others prominent 
Dld-school practitioners of this city. His history was as fol¬ 
lows: 

Four years before commenced having headaches, character¬ 
ized by severe pain and coldness in the vertex, the skin being 
<3old to touch, and the sensitiveness of the head to cold was so 
great he commenced wearing a wig because of its warmth. 
Agg. from 1 p. m. until evening. Sleep poor and great 
mental and physical weakness. These headaches continued, 
at short intervals, for about a year, when one day he went 
from the dinner table to his room to change his coat, and a 
few minutes later was found unconscious on the bed, face 
flushed and stertorous breathing. This lasted four hours, 
and for two days speech was impossible and swallowing 
difficult. The diagnosis by the attending physician was 
apoplexy. The second attack, two weeks later, com¬ 
menced with a feeling of stiffness in tongue and throat, 
then followed unconsciousness, which lasted for two days, 
with loss of speech for three days longer, then had wild 
spells, two men being necessary to hold him in bed; these 
were followed by great weakness. These spells continued for 
two weeks, with cold, pale face, and coldness of the head, 
much heat of body, but no sweat. At this time the diagnosis 
was a tumor of the brain. For a year following this attack, 
had the headaches same as before, then had a third attack, 
about the same as the former ones, which was followed by, 
what was diagnosed, inflammatory rheumatism in the legs 
and arms. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Twe Hospital Cases . 


March: 


$06 


Here they changed from their so-called homeopath to an 
“ old school "physician, and the treatment was salts, massage, 
morphine and cotton. For two years after this had spells of 
numbness all through the body, and one day went to Mt. 
Hope, about two p. m., and was taken with a fourth attack; 
was found there on the grass at half past six o’clock the next 
morning, and removed to the hospital, where he regained 
consciousness at four o’clock in the afternoon. He remained 
in the hospital two weeks and was told by his physician that 
he could do nothing more for him. He came from the hos¬ 
pital to my office. The headaches were the same as four 
years before. Pain and coldness of vertex, sensitive to cold,, 
numbness of the limbs, confusion of the mind. In answer¬ 
ing a question would commence in the middle of a sentence 
and go over it again. In obtaining a history of his former 
health, learned that before these headaches commenced ho 
was perfectly well except that he had a very offensive foot 
sweat that caused a soreness between his toes. This he had 
cured, he said, by washing his feet with Witch Hazel. I 
gave him twelve powders of Silicea 30. Belore coming to 
the office again his feet commenced to sweat and his condi¬ 
tion to improve, and in four months he commenced light 
work, the first he had done in over three years, and in six 
months took his position and has worked steadily since. The 
foot sweat came back as bad as ever, then gradually improved 
and now is nearly gone. Volney A. Hoard. 

Rochester. N.Y. 

TWO CASE8 FROM THE HAHNEMANN HOSPITAL, ROCHESTER. 

Case I.—Annie Bischoff. Age, 20. Unmarried. Medium 
height, thin, light complexion. 

November 17.—Began just before noon yesterday to feel 
weak, faint and chilly, with a gone feeling at the stomach. 
Was seen at 9 o’clock last evening by Dr. Schmitt who pre¬ 
scribed Sulphur and sent her to hospital. 

This morning the throat is a deep red. The whole phar¬ 
ynx is very much swollen, especially the left tonsil. No 
deposit apparent yet. Tongue moist, red in center and on 
edges, with a dirty yellow coating on either side. Backache 
across lumbar region all night and especially this morning 
since awakening. Pulse 140; Temp. 103 2-5. Very restless. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


A . J. Norman . 


207 


can not lie long in one position. Pain through forehead from 
temple to temple. Face very red. Had an unusual amount 
of pain with last menses about a week ago. Has had much 
headache lately, usually beginning at 11 a. m. Deposit 
threatens on left tonsil. Pain when swallowing extending to 
right ear. Belladonna cm., 1 dose, dry. 

November 18.—Slept well last night, although she awak¬ 
ened about every two hours. Has some pain in loins, other¬ 
wise is much better. Throat not as swollen nor so fiery red. 
Tongue cleaning. No headache. Pulse 96; ten*p. 100 2-5. 

November 20.—No pain in throat or head. Backache 
gone. Tongue nearly clean but very red in center. Pulse 
76; temp. 98 2-5. 

November 22.—No fever, pains, or other abnormal symp¬ 
toms. Discharged well. 

Case II.—J. W. Lany. Age, 34. Married. Stonecutter. 
Tall; light complexioned. Admitted November 6, 1890. 

History. Two weeks ago had a feeling of weight in bowels 
with constipation for which he took castor oil which only 
caused vomiting. Then he took some cathartic pills, after 
which he was seized with cramps. He stayed in bed for a 
week, then went to City Hospital where he remained over 
night but left the next day as he was not satisfied with his 
treatment. He remained around home for another week at 
the end of which time he was again seized with cramps and 
called Dr. Hoard, who prescribed Nux cm. Previous to this 
time he had been kept under the influence of morphine 
almost constantly. After admission the record is as follows : 

November 7.—Very little sleep last night, was so restless. 
Most comfortable on back or right side. Tongue very thickly 
coaled white. Lips red, eyes red. Slight stool before 7 
A. m. Has had desire several times since but without result. 
Temperature 100 3-5; pulse 108. Dyspnoea with every exer¬ 
tion. Great thirst for small quantities. Tenderness of 
abdomen < on right side and in right inguinal region. Pain in 
right groin when taking deep breath, also when lying on right 
side. Arsenicum cm.; 1 dose, dry. 

November 8.—More sleep but still restless. More quiet 
after 12 p. m. Coating of tongue disappearing some. Less 
thirst. Much less dyspnoea. Abdominal walls tense. Slight 
tympanitis. Pulse 88; temperature 99 4-5. Sac. lac. 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



208 


A Clinical Case . 


March 


November 9.—Yesterday afternoon was taken with diar¬ 
rhoea. Bowels moved six or. seven times during night. Stool,. 
light yellow lumps with slimy mucus. Sudden urging to 
stool, can hardly wait for bedpan. Sharp cutting pains in 
bowels before and during stool. After stool prolapsus ani- 
with great sensitiveness to touch. Sulphur cm. 

November 10.—Bowels have not moved since 2 p. m. yes¬ 
terday. 

Last stool much more natural. None of the constant urg¬ 
ing to stool.' Pulse 86; temperature 100|. Very little thirst. 
Less soreness of arms. Some tympanitis. Some suspicion 
of ascites. Sac. lac. 

November 11.—Profuse watery, greenish discharge, mingled 
with a skinny substance. Nausea from smell of broth. Pro¬ 
lapsus ami during and after stool. Golchicum. 

November 12.—Diarrhoea has ceased. No prolapsus ani. 
Tongue quite clear. No soreness of abdomen, no tympanites. 

November 16.—Dull steady pain in right hypochron- 
drium, < no motion. Sulphur. 

December 5.—Stool knotty, difficult to expel and slipa 
back, of alight color. Pain on right side < lying on pain¬ 
ful side. Selicea cm., one dose. 

December 7.—Discharged well. Says he will never have 
morphine administered to him again when he is sick. 

Rochester, N. Y. A. J. NORMAN 


A CLINICAL CASE. 

Ulcer: Lachesis .—On August 22, 1890, an old man, John 
A—an old-fashioned horse and cow doctor, came to me, 
saying: “ Fve been trying Allopathy a long time now, and 
have at last made up my mind to see what you new school 
fellers can do for me.” With difficulty he hobbled to a 
chair and began to pull off some big rubber boots, the legs of 
which had been cut off. 

I stood near, wondering why he wore such boots in mid¬ 
summer, when, as the boot came off, I saw the foot, swollen till 
it seemed as though the skin must burst. Without a word, he 
stripped up the right trouser's leg and began to unbind the 
cloths which swathed the leg from knee to ankle. Layer 
after layer was peeled off, till at last he disclosed a number 
of soft soap and brown sugar poultices, which covered a dozen 
ulcers. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. W. Johnson. 


209 


The leg presented the following appearance: There was 
not a square inch of healthy skin from knee to ankle. There 
were-ulcers in all stages except the healing stage. Here and 
there were little pimple-like elevations, red, hot and angry. 
Near at hand were those in a more advanced stage, discharg¬ 
ing a thin, foul, ichorous pus. You could distinguish the 
age of each ulcer by its color. As I said, the first or youngest 
ones were red. When they began to discharge, the areola 
became bluish, and as they progressed this color deepened 
till it became purplish, and then the ulcer would be flat. One 
of the worst seemed to extend up under the patella, as pressure 
on that bone caused the pus to pour out freely, but I did not 
probe it. He said that he had been over a month getting in 
his present condition. That, in spite of good allopathic 
treatment and various “ blood" medicines, his case had grown 
steadily worse. 

While looking over his case I kept cudgeling my brain 
to find a remedy that covered such a case. I thought of 
Sulph., Ars., Phos. and Sil., but on looking at his tongue I 
found it large, perfectly smooth, as if denuded of all 
epithelium, glistening and cracked. I gave him a few doses 
of Lach. 200, dressed the ulcers with absorbent cotton, and 
ordered him to report in three days. On the following day 
I heard from him through a neighbor. The neighbor said: 
“ John was out doors to-day walking around; says he is better, 
and he slept better last night than in three weeks before." 

At the appointed time he reported himself very much 
better, and his improvement was steady. He did not receive 
any more medicine, and only a few days ago he came in my 
office to show me that he was perfectly well; only a few dark 
spots showed where the ulcers had been. It would not be 
strange to announce that my patient is now a firm believer in 
the new school W. W. Johnson. 


A VENEREAL CASE. 

August 24,1890.—Mr. J. S. W., aged 40, contracted gonor¬ 
rhoea last May, has been under allopathic treatment and 
passed part of the time in the city hospital (allopathic). 

The discharge was “ kept under control ” or partially sup¬ 
pressed by frequent injections, resulting in a stricture about 
two inches from the meatus. The stricture was “ regularly " 


Digitized by VjOOQle 





210 


A Venereal Case . 


March 


dilated and injections kept np till the patient is now com¬ 
pletely discouraged and disgusted with Allopathy. The under 
part of the prepuce is now much swollen, thickened, and 
indurated. The foreskin is retracted, but does not constitute 
a paraphimosis. The circumference of the penis at' this 
point is seven and one-fourth inches, the glans penis is 
swollen and studded with minute whitish yellow vesicles 
which break down, leaving small, red, raw spots. 

At night, as soon as urine begins to accumulate in the blad¬ 
der, has an erection, accompanied by a sticking pain in the 
stricture, which is relieved by passing water; urinal stream 
forked. After urination, a feeling of some drops running 
down urethra, also a tickling soreness. Slight watery dis¬ 
charge. He received four powders of Thuya 200 to be taken 
morning and night, followed by Sac. lac. 

August 29.—Reports that he is much worse: has to urinate 
every half-hour at night, preceded by the erections; great 
soreness along urethra. Yesterday, on walking, a splinter¬ 
like pain through urethra. 

The discharge became thick yellow on the 25tli, burning 
during, but especially just after, urination. Cann. sat., cm., 
one dose. 

September 3.—Less discharge, less pain when walking and 
on urination, still < just after, less sliver-like pain. Sac. lac. 

September 7.—Less discharge, but greenish; no pain on 
walking, very little pain on urinating; none after; festering 
points are drying up; only awakened twine last night by 
erections. Sac. lac. 

September 14.—More soreness in urethra and occasional 
scalding on urinating, < just after; itching of foreskin; sliver 
pain during erection, <ht night. 

At this time I carefully re-studied his case, the sliver-like 
pain was so characteristic that I would have given Nitric ac. 
had not the Cann. sat. afforded such marked relief when 
■exhibited on August 29, so repeated Cann. sat. in the 40m., 
one dose. 

September 20 .—“ Very much better,” no soreness on walk¬ 
ing, no particular pain on urinating, less swelling of prepuce 
{the first > of this symptom), suppurating point's same, no 
itching of prepuce, very few erections at night accompanied 
with a dull, aching pain; no sliver-like pain. Sac. lac. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Alfred J. Norman . 


211 


Sept. 30.—Continued improvement, swelling much lessened 
and soft, occasional slight discharge. Pain only in glan 
during erection, no pain during micturition, urinates once 
os twice during night. Stream of ufine larger, suppurating 
points same. Sac lac. 

On October 7> reports but little t soreness, swelling more soft, 
a small circular ulcer near glans. On the 5th caught cold 
and at 8 p. m. hap a chill, feverish all night, aching soreness 
in right side of throat, stiffness of back and limbs. Exami¬ 
nation showed right tonsil inflamed. Sour stomach, regur- 
ation of food especially aftee breakfast, also at night even 
awakening him. A “ little food fills right up.” Lycopodium 
cm., one dose at 8 p. m. 

October 12.—Throat symptoms < the following day, no 
regurgitation of food since the Lyc. Continued improvement 
of venereal trouble, except that there are now two ulcers. 
Sac. lac. 

October 15.—Not as well, sour stomach. Three ulcers, 
no pain except when touched and then like a splinter, ureth¬ 
ral discharge returning, soreness and erection. He now tells 
me that he had some ulcers just like these while under allo¬ 
pathic treatment and that they healed after applying for some 
time a weak solution of Nitric acid. Nitric ac. 5 m., one dose 

October 28.—He states the ulcers were cured within three 
or four days after I gave him the last medicine. Swelling 
nearly all gone. During erection at night has the splinter¬ 
like pain in the glans, no suppurating points. Sac. lac. 

November 11.—No symptoms remaining of venereal trouble, 
but for the past three or four mornings has been awakened at 
four or five o'clock with pain in bowels followed by urgent 
desire to stool. Sulph. 200, one dose. 

December 1.—Was > at first but is now worse again; offen¬ 
sive stool at 5 A. m., again four or five evacuations after break¬ 
fast; cutting pains and chilliness during stools; the desire is 
sudden and he has to hurry. Sulph. em., one dose. 

December 9.—His wife reports that he is feeling better 
than in twenty years, now weighing about 180 pounds, a gain 
of nearly twenty pounds under homoeopathic treatment. 

Alfred J. Norman. 

Rochester, N. T. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



212 


Clinical Cases. 


March 


CLINICAL CASES. 

CaseI.—Epithelioma: Thuya .—June9,1885,Mrs. T. S—, 
aged 84£ yrs. About three months ago there appeared on r. 
temple, one-half inch from outer canthus, a small pimple 
which was pricked at different times by members of the fam¬ 
ily, supposing it to be a boil. It is now nearly as large as a 
quarter, elevated above surface of skin, and full of little light 
colored pedicles, like a seed wart; sometimes it is moist and if 
touched is inclined to bleed. Thuya 200. 

During my absence from the city, the physician in charge 
of my practice unnecessarily repeated the Thuya, though 
the ‘ ‘ wart ” was not as inflamed, and improved in appearance. 

July 10.—Improving. Sac. lac. 

July 25.—The pedicles have entirely disappeared. There 
is now a cicatrix marking the site which is about the size of 
a one-half dime; general appearance improved. Sac. lac. 

Discharged. 

Case II.— Typhoid: Zinc .—Miss Georgie S—, Sept. 28, 
1885. Was called in and found a case of typhoid, pulse 100, 
temperature 103 3-5. Bapt. was indicated and exhibited in 
the 200 potency. 

Sept. 30.—As indicated, Bryon in 200. 

Oct. 7.—China, 200. 

Oct. 9.—Hyos, 200. 

Oct. 10, lip. m. —My record shows that she was very rest, 
less, rolling from side to side, some delirihm, repeats questions 
or what others speak; tongue brownish red, dry, papillae 
pointed and dry, rough like a cat's tongue;frequent desire to 
urinate; wants abdomen rubbed while urinating; eyes luster¬ 
less and half open; sees horses and is afraid of them; says she 
is “going up" and is frightened; inclined to put feet out of 
bed; wants the clothing close about her neck; pulse 168- 
temp. 103 2-5. Zinc 200, three doses two hours apart. 

Oct. 11, 11.30 a. M. —Less restless since 3 a. m. or half an 
hour after taking the second dose of Zinc. Tongue dry, red, pa- 
plilae less elevated; complains less of abdomen; eyes more nat¬ 
ural and closed during sleep; muttering during sleep, fewer 
hallucinations, less movement of feet; miliary eruption on 
buttocks and thighs; pulse 112, temp. 101 3-5. Sac. lac. 

11 p. m. no 8tool;much more quiet; tongue about the sam* 
made no complaints, calls for fruit and ice-water, but drinks 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Allen B. Carr. 


213 


Hess of toast water; eyes the same; less movement of feet, 
very little wandering; calls for red pan when she desires to 
urinate;some borborygmns; rash same; pulse 100,temp. 99 3-5. 

Oct. 12, 11 a. m.—N o stool, quiet, no fright on awakening, 
turns over occasionally but is not restless, rash gradually dis¬ 
appearing; has passed considerable flatus, less rumbling; 
pulse 86, temp. 99 1-5. Ordered one teaspoonful of beef tea 
-every two hours till 6p. m. Sac. lac. From Oct. 12 to the 
16th received Sac. lac. 

October 16, 12 m. —Has passed a very natural twenty- 
six hours; slept well; inclined to sleep and eat. Allow two 
teaspoonfuls of beef tea till 4 p. m., two square inches of toast 
.and two-thirds cups of milk and hot water aa at alternate 
hours. 

Tongue quite natural, very slight tenderness upon pressure 
in epigastrium, no stool, very little borborygmus. Pulse 78, 
temperature 99 2-5. Sac. lac. 

October 17.—Passed a very good night and feels well this 
A. m., except a slight uneasiness as if bowels ought to move; 
flight pain in hypochondrium, abdomen slightly tympanitic 
tongue slightly coated, pulse 78, temperature 1001-10. Sac. 
lac. 

October 18.—Pulse 76, temperature 99f. 

October 19.—Feeling and looking fine, no stool, but slight 
•disposition to have one; pulse 74, temperature 98 3-5. Sac. 
lac. 

October 20.—Gave injection last night which was followed 
by a comfortable and sufficient evacuation; tongue slightly 

• coated white, appetite good, inclined to be thirsty, no ten¬ 
derness of abdomen, urine dark colored but free, slept well 
all night, pulse 74, temperature 99 3-5. Sac. lac. 

October 21.—Bowels moved naturally. 

October 24.—No stool, very hungry, less thirst, no tender¬ 
ness of abdomen, urine more natural, pulse 68, temperature 
*97 3-5. Sac. lac. 

October 27.—Natural stool yesterday, urine natural, good 
appetite, no tenderness, sleep refreshing. Is sitting up with 

• clothing on, strength returning rapidly. Sac. lac. 

October 30.—All symptoms favorable, no stool since the 
;26th, food relished with no distress. Sac. lac. 

Allen B. Carr. 

Rochester, N. Y. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



214 The Homoeopathy of Hahnemann . March 

THE HOMOEOPATHY OF HAHNEMANN—ILLUSTRATIVE 

CASES.* 

It will not be convenient for me to attend the meeting of 
the Southern Association, and I have been out of the practice 
of writing medical articles for so long that I fear I will not 
be able to send anything that will specially interest the 
brethren. 

Besides, I do not know whether the members of this Asso¬ 
ciation are believers in Homoeopathy according to Hahne¬ 
mann's Organon, or whether they are followers of those who 
think they know a great deal more than Hahnemann. 

When I was ten years old—more than fifty-six years ago— 
I saw both of my parents restored to sound health by pure 
homoeopathic treatment, and by the 30th centesimal potencies, 
after having been doomed to die within a year by the old 
school practitioners of Philadelphia. Consequently, I am an 
old fogy. I believe in the 30th centesimal and in pure 
homoeopathy to this day. More than forty-four years age 
I began to practice Homoeopathy. During that time I have 
seen many errors creep into the practice of those calling 
themselves homoeopathic physicians. I have seen the cen- 
seimal scale abandoned for the decimal, which is to my mind,, 
an error, the promoters of which were influenced by a desire 
to make their doses more nearly approach those of the alio- 
pathists. They did not believe in dynamization, but only in 
the power of the crude drug. I have seen the Swan bottle 
washing absurdity developed, and what grieves me more, I 
see now, almost all the true followers of Hahnemann, in other 
respects, prescribing almost universally, what they call c. m., 
m. m., and 11 millionth attenuations, but which can easily 
be proved to be no such thing. The Fincke preparations are 
no less absurd. If my friends, the Hahnemannians, believe 
in the similimum, the single remedy, the minimum dose, and 
the single dose, why do they not follow Hahnemann's example 
in using the remedies carefully prepared according to the 
centesimal scale? 

Many of the younger members of the profession will use 
nothing in which they can not detect the crude substance of 
the drug. The first or second decimal triturations are 
the favorites. This in my opinion is not homoeopathic prac- 

♦Southern Homoeopathic Medical Association, Birmingham, Ala., November* 
1800 . 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1861 


M. J. Rhees . 


215 


tice at all. If the remedy is properly chosen such massive 
•doses must produce aggravation. 

In practice, I have seen the alternation of remedies flour¬ 
ish. I have known men to call for four or five teacups, half 
iull each with water, dissolve a separate remedy in each, and 
order a teaspoonful of each to he given in succession, half an 
hour apart. I have known others to mix two or more reme¬ 
dies in the same dose, and repeat frequently, and I have rea¬ 
son to believe that this abominable practice is prevalent at 
the present day among pretended homoeopaths. This morn¬ 
ing I was called to see a little child whose parents are making 
a visit in our city ; they are from New York, and I saw on the 
table an ounce vial filled with the fashionable tablets, almost 
.as black as charcoal; on.it were two labels, one marked 
Carlo . vegetabilis lx., the other Nux vomica 2x. Is that 
homoeopathy? I believe not. I have known men calling 
themselves homoeopaths to prescribe Podophylin lx, for con¬ 
stipation, and various other homoeopathic medicines, but one 
Temove from the crude drug, for the express purpose of pro¬ 
ducing the allopathic effects. A year or more ago I was called 
to pee a very young baby who was evidently dying. It had 
symptoms of narcosis. I was told it had been suffering for 
some days with cholera infantum. The pretended homoBO. 
path who had been attending it was out of town, so they called 
on me. I was shown the medicine prescribed, and it was 
•evidently a strong mixture of laudanum and camphor , and had 
beep given in three drop doses. The child died in three hours 
•after I first saw it, in convulsions. Not only is such treat¬ 
ment not homoeopathic, it is murderous. 

I might fill many pages with similar remarks and experi¬ 
ences; but you are probably already weary. 

I will conolude with short sketches of two or three cases. 
The first will illustrate the folly of too frequent repetitions of 
the dose. 

Last week I was called to see a child of three years of age, 
suffering with symptoms of bronchitis. I examined it care¬ 
fully and decided on Bryonia as the remedy. I ordered a 
dose every hour. Next morning I found all the symptoms 
aggravated, and was struck as soon as I entered the room with 
the brownish red color of the countenance. I stopped the 
Bryonia, and gave Sac . lac. every hour instead. The next 
morning the child was bright and smiling, and almost well. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



216 The Homoeopathy of Hahnemann . March 

Several years ago I had a case of obstinate cough, which 
called for Nux vomica . I gave Nux in the 30th, the 3d, and 
even in the 1st centesimal without effect. I then studied further 
and gave other remedies, all without effect. Renewed and 
careful study assured me that Nux was the remedy, and I 
gave it in the 2u0th. The very first dose showed decided 
effect in less than half an hour, and the second dose made a 
complete cure. 

Many years ago, a woman came to me complaining of pain 
in the breast. I examined and found a schirrus tumor of 
considerable size. The pains were “ stinging, pricking like a 
thousand red hot needles.” She. had not slept for two weeks. 
I gave her eight powders, the first of which contained Arseni¬ 
cum 20o, and the others Sac. lac., with directions to take one 
every night. At the end of the week the patient returned, 
saying the pain was all gone. The first night after I pre¬ 
scribed she slept all night, and and had not the least pain 
since. 

The last two cases are reported merely to show the power of 
high attenuations, when the remedy is properly chosen. I 
have not detailed symptoms because my letter was already too 
long. If you think it is at all worthy of presentation to the 
Association, I am perfectly willing that it should be presented 

M. J. Rhees, M. D. 

Wheeling, W. Va. 

[The author takes “the younger members of the profes¬ 
sion” to task because they “ will use nothing in which they 
can not detect the crude substance of the drug ” and claims 
this “is not homoeopathic practice at all.” They cannot be 
induced to use the thirtieths in practice because they do not 
believe in them, and they do not believe in them because they 
will not try them. The allopath will not investigate Homoe¬ 
opathy because he does not believe in it, and he does not 
believe in it because he will not investigate it. Many of the 
1 m. and cm. potencies are so carefully prepared on the cen¬ 
tesimal scale of Hahnemann as the thirtieths, and yet Dr. 
Rhees declines to use them for the allopath's reasons.—Ed. J 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


H . C. Morrow. 


217 


REPERTORY. 

Nipples, Symptoms of:— 
abraded: Hydr. 
aching: Cal. ph. Cot. Rheum, 
air streamed from, sensation as if: Cyc. 
aphthae, bleeding: Bor . 
biting in: Cal. 
bitten off, as if: Tab. 

bleeding: Ham . Lyc. Med. Mer. c. Sep. Sulph. 
when touched: Lyc. 
after nursing: Sulph. 

blood and water, discharge of; < touch: Lyc. 
blisters on, small bluish: Graph, 
bluish areola: Con. 

breathing, pain through nipple when: Eup. perf. Sulph. 
bruised, sore: Am. 

burning: Agar. Arum. d. Bell. Benz. ac. Cic. Graph. 
Lyc. Phos. Psor. Sil. Sulph. 
after nursing: Sulph. 
rubbing: Con. 

itching, > after rubbing: Hal. 
coating, crusty: Graph. Med. 
mealy: Petr. 

scabby: Lyc. Phyt , . , 

scurfy: Lyc. 
cold to touch: Med. 
constant pain in: Lac. can. 

cracked: Arn. Aur.s. Calend. Cast. Caust. FI. ac. 

Graph. Hydr . Lyc. Mer. c. Mill. Phyt . 
Sarr. Sep. Sulph. 
about the base: Sulph. 
across the crown: Sep. Sulph. (clinical), 
deep: Sep. 
end of: Graph. 

exuding a limpid serum: Graph. 
crust on, that is removed by nursing: Graph. Med. 
cutting pain in: Tell. Thu. 
darting pain in: Sil. 
deformed: Mer. 
drawing: Bell. 

in left nipple: Euon. Tell. Tilia. Zinc. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



218 


Repertory . 


Marcbt 


extending to axilla: Lob. 

scapula: Tell. 

from sides of mammas to the nipples: Kreos. 
as from leeches: Coc. c. 
dryer than usual: Cast. eq. 
eruption on: Caust. Dul. Graph. 

moist, oozing: Lyc. Psor. 
vesicular: Graph . 

excoriated: Ananth. Calend. Phyt. 
flaccid, flabby: Sars. 
flatulence, pain in as from: Rheum, 
gummy secretion drying on orifice: Med. 
hot: Phos. 

inflammation of: Agar. Arn. Cad. s. Cann. s. Cast. eq~ 
Cham. Colch. Fluor, ac. Phos. Phyt. Sil. Sulph. 
insensible: Sars. 
inverted: Apis, Sil. 

ovarian affections, with: Apis, 
indurated (hardness): Agar. Bry. Cal. Mer. s . Sulph. 
itching of: Agar. Ant. t. Cann. s. Con. FI. ac. Form. 

Hep. Lepid. Med. Ori. Petr . Phyt. Psor. Sep . 
Stann. Sulph. Tar. 
after lying down: Rhus, 
at night: Rhus, 
in spots: Kali c. 

> scratching: Chel. 
not going off by scratching: Puls, 
neglected cases: Cast. eq. 

oozing of water (serum) from: Graph. Lyc. Med. Psor. 
pain: Arum. t. Ascl. t. Cast. eq. Cham. Ferr. i. Graph 
Helon. Inn. Lac. can. Lach. Merc. cor. Ocim. c. 
Phyt. Sang. Sulph. Zinc, 
extending to shoulders: Phos. 
as if milk would be secreted: Nux. 
when nursing, running from nipple through to 
scapula of same side: Crot. t. 
with little or no soreness or raw¬ 
ness: Nux. 

with tensive pain in: Nux. 
starts from nipple and radiates 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



H. C. Morrow. 


219 


over whole body: Phyt. 
during respiration: Eup. perf. Sulph. 

< walking: Cot. 

pressure in, sense of: Anac. Arg. n. Hyper. Sab. Thu. 

behind left nipple: Berb. 
protruded: Colch. 
pulsating in: Zinc, 
raw, feels: Mer. 

redness of, and of areola: Agar. Cast. eq. Colch. FI. ac. 
Psor. Sulph. 

retracted: Ars.i. Ast. rub. Con. Cund. Hydr. Nux m. 
Sars. Sil. 

scabson: Lyc. Phyt. 

sharp pains shooting from 1. nipple downward: Ascl. t. 
shocks, electric like, after which hardness disappears: 
Bry. 

smarting after nursing: Sulph. 

sore, inflamed: Alumen . Arn. Cad. s. Cal. Cal. ph, 
Cann. s. Cast. eq. Caust. Cham. Colch. Grot. t. Dul. 
Ora ph. Ham. Helianth. Hydr. Hyper. Ign. Lyc. Med. 
Mer. Nit. ac. Ocim. c. Phos. Phyt. Psor-Puls. Sang. 
Sep. Sil. Sulph. 

stinging, stitches in: Agar. Bapt. Bis. Bry. Cal. Camph. 

Cham. Chel. Coc. c. Ferr. i. Form. Hal. Kali 
b. Lach. Lyc. Mang. Mur. ac. Rheum. Sab. 
on deep inspiration: Ign. Par. Ruta. 
extending into sides of chest: Brom. Cann. i. 
swelling of: Cal. Cham. FI. ac. Lach. Lyc. Mer. Ori. 
Phos. Sil. Sulph. 
infants: Arn. Cham, 
suppurate, seem about to: Sep. 
tearing all day: Con. 

extending to chest: Camph. 

pelvis: Camph. 

tenderness, sensitiveness: Cast. eq. Colch. Crot. t. 

Graph. Helcr. Med. Mill. Nux. Sulph. Zinc* 
can not bear touch of clothing: Cast. eq. 
of infants: Arn. Cham. 

after pinching by nurse: Arn: 
tingling, crawling: Con. Sab. 
ulcer on nipple discharging pus: Cal. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



220 


Letter from India . 


March 


ulcerated, nearly off, hanging by strings: Cast. eq. 
ulceration: Cal. Cast. eq. Graph. Merc. Sep. Sil. Sulpha 
Thu. 

wasting away, withering: Sars. 

water, glutinous, exudes from; ■< by touch: Lyc, 

white point in center, but no ulceration: Nux. 

H. C. Morrow. 

Shsrman, Tex. 


LETTER FROM INDIA. 

The bugbear of many would-be homoeopaths is the matter 
of palliation in cases of severe pain in lingering diseases, 
etc. 

During the three years of my practice I have never admin* 
istered a dose of Morphine or other sedative to relieve pain, 
have never administered a dose of Quinine for “ chills ; * r 
nor have I ever, for any purpose, given medicine in crude 
form. In fact, I do not keep either Morphine or Quinine, 
nor do I possess an hypodermic syringe. 

I will relate two cases of what I understand as homoeopathic 
palliation. 

Case I.— Mrs. -, primipara, small and spare, was 

delivered of a very large child, May 3d, 1890. The head 
was so large and hard that it was impossible for it to pass 
the pelvic brim without the use of forceps. A complete 
laceration of the perinseum resulted. The urethra, which 
was already much swollen at the time of delivery, was so 
much injured by the pressure that its lining membrane soon 
began to exfoliate and pass away in small shreds, leaving the 
walls of the urethra unprotected from the urine as it passed. 
In addition to this, the left ovary began to swell until it 
had reached the size of two fists. Now, what with the 
laceration, the sutures in which were daily sloughing out, 
the urethra, which was a source of constant pain, and the 
of vary, which was perhaps the most troublesome of all—after 
about three weeks, during which the patient had not slept 
three hours—the agony one morning became absolutely 
unbearable. She begged for Chloroform enough to kill her, 
to be knocked on the head—anything, death included, for 
relief. She could not move her body, but she was striking 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


C. S. Durand . 


221 


constantly with both hands, and crying with the pain. Gave 
Arsenicum 8 m. in water, a dose every five minutes. After 
the third dose she became perfectly quiet. After a short 
time, on being asked how she felt, she replied : “ I feel 
altogether different now. The pain is not all gone* but I 
can easily bear it, and could bear much more, if necessary, 
and not mind it in the least." 

Oase II.—Mr. W-has had periodical headaches since 

childhood. Has suffered many things from many physicians, 
but found no relief. 

I prescribed for the headache during an intermission, but 
made a failure. It returned with great violence, so much so 
that he was about to take some Morphine which he kept for 
relief when the pain went beyond his power of endurance. 
For although he knew and dreaded the effects of the Morphia, 
he was driven to such desperation by the pain that he did 
not hesitate to resort to desperate measures. This was the 
only violent paroxysm I witnessed. He asked my advice in 
regard to taking the Morphine and I asked him to try some¬ 
thing else first. I prepared, as in the other case, Arsenicum 
8 m. in water to be taken every five or ten minutes. After the 
third dose the patient was comparatively comfortable and 
congratulated himself that he had not taken his Morphine. 

I have given these cases, not to point out indications for 
Arsenicum, but to show how I manage desperate cases call¬ 
ing for the immediate relief of pain. I carefully weigh all 
the symptoms and administer the homoeopathic remedy high, 
and I have never wished for—have never felt the need for— 
antipathic palliatives. C. S. Durand. 

Hurd a, C. P. t India. 


NATRUM PHOSPHORICUM IN SPERMATORHOEA. 

A student, aged 18 years, had been suffering from seminal 
emissions every night for the past two years, which made him 
very weak both physically and mentally. The emission* 
occurred sometimes with and sometimes without dreams, and 
the ejected seminal fluid was rather thin. In Allen's Hand¬ 
book the symptoms of Natrum phos. on the male sexual organs 
run thus : “ Emissions every other night; at night, without 
dreams; at night, with dreams; at night, with vivid dreams; 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



222 Natrum Phosphoaicum in Spermatorrhoea, March 

aome hours after coitus, no dream or erection; watery, smell¬ 
ing like stale urine, every night, no lascivious dreams.” 

As the quotation of Farrington's statement in Boericke's 
recently published work on The Twelve Tissue Remedies of 
Schussler corroborates the symptoms cited in Allen's great 
work, I preferred to give Natrum phos. the first chance. On 
October 13th my patient was advised to take the 6x potency 
twice daily and wash his loins with cold water before retiring 
every night, and go to bed at least one hour after meals. 

On the fourth day he came again to inform me that on the 
third night of his taking the medicine he had two very severe 
emissions, each followed by violent burning in the urethar. 
Gave placebo, which was enough to make him all right. 

H. D. Chakrayarti. 

Sk a am pub, India. 


Comment anb Criticism* 


Ask yourself If there be any element of right and wrong in a question. If 
so take your part with the perfect and abstract right, and trust in God to see 
that it shall prove expedient.— Wendell Phillips. 


THE RELATION OF ALBUMINURIA TO PUERPERAL 
ECLAMPSIA. 

A paper under the above title read before the American 
Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Philadel¬ 
phia by Dr. W. S. Gardner deserves a passing notice. The 
observations include a report of the percentage of cases of 
Albuminuria discovered in one hundred and eighty pregnant 
and parturient women, taken consecutively, and an abstract 
of the records of the cases of eclampsia occurring within the 
selected period. 

While the number of cases presented is too small, from 
which to draw any definite conclusions, still the paper is use¬ 
ful as a contribution to the subject and serves to strengthen 
previous observations in the same line; it will also serve to 
correct an unfounded, but very prevalent impression that albu¬ 
minuria per, so, in a pregnant woman is an almost certain progr 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. B . S. King . 


223 


nostic of convulsions at labor. This impression is owing to 
the careless statements that have crept into several text books, 
and also to the erroneous teachings of certain professors in 
our medical colleges who would rather make a striking point 
in their lectures than tell the exact truth. 

The cold facts are these: First, according to the majority 
of reliable observations hitherto made, including those of the 
above paper, albuminuria occurs in from five to ten per cent, 
of all pregnant women, while puerperal eclampsia occurs in 
only one case out of five hundred. 

Second, of four patients who had convulsions, only one had 
albuminuria before labor; and of ten cases of puerperal con¬ 
vulsions only four had albuminuria before labor. 

Third, in a very largo percentage of cases of puerperal 
eclampsia, albuminuria re found immediately after the appear¬ 
ance of the convulsions. 

The first obvious deduction as made by Dr. Gardner is, that 
albuminuria in a pregnant woman is not a sufficient cause 
for giving a prognosis of probable eclampsia; and the second, 
that the absence of albuminuria in a pregnant woman is no 
evidence of the absence of the condition that gives rise to 
puerperal eclampsia. The third deduction that the convul¬ 
sions are the cause of the albuminuria rather than the reverse, 
is not so obvious although in accord with the fact that crises 
in other convulsive affections as in epilepsy are followed by 
a transient appearance of albumen in the urine. 

Albuminuria, once synonymous with Bright's disease, is 
thus gradually losing much of its former serious import, and 
subsiding into its proper place as a symptom to be considered 
in connection with other symptoms. 

It is by no means to be disregarded as trifling or of no 
importance, nor on the other hand is it to be exaggerated by 
itself into supreme importance in giving a prognosis. 

' If, for instance, albumen is found in the urine of a pregnant 
woman, otherwise in good health, we may consider it us call¬ 
ing only for extra watchfulness and care, but albuminuria in 
connection with severe headaches, blindness, dropsical swell¬ 
ings or pale urine is a very different state of affairs indeed, 
and gives good grounds for prognosticating serious trouble 
ahead. 

The same paper offers an opportunity for a much needed 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



224 


Comment and Criticism . 


March 


criticism on the manner of making approximate quantitative 
tests for albumen. The method used was to coagulate the 
albumen by means of heat and nitric acid and then to allow 
^he coagula to settle for a given length of time; the amount of 
albumen being estimated by the height of the sediment. 
This is a very fallacious method for the reason that the height 
to which coagulated albumep. will settle in a given length of 
time depends upon a number of other conditions besides the v 
amount of albumen present. Thus, the density of the urine 
and probably its acidity, the shape and smoothness of the tube, 
and the size of the coagula are all factors which have an influ¬ 
ence upon the height of the sediment.. A muoh better, 
although more troublesome way is to coagulate the albumen 
in a given quantity of the urine, collect it upon a tared filter, 
dry, and finally to weigh it upon an accurate balance. 

Finally, as puerperal convulsions are, according to all 
accounts, uremic, why would it not be more rational and more 
certain as a basis for prognosis to examine the urine of preg¬ 
nant women for the daily amount of urea excreted for some 
time before labor rather than for albumen. This operation 
can be performed with a much less expenditure of time and 
labor than that required by the quantitative albumen test, 
by the aid of a simple apparatus devised by Dr. E. R. Squibb, 
and. fully described in many of the text books, and the result 
would be much more satisfactory and instructive as an index to 
the condition of the patient. J. B. S. King. 

Chicago. 


LYCOPODIUM IX And dr. chapman. 

Editor Advance: There are a few points in Dr.. Chap¬ 
man's letter, on page sixty-three, that seem to require a 
reply. 

I have not asserted that any one strength of a remedy wyi 
develop all the symptoms belonging to that remedy or cure 
all the similar symptoms. I have denied that greater strength 
can be developed in a part than is inherent in a wholej but 
have claimed that a different “mode of action" may b 
developed in such part. 

If Dr. Chapman will consult Allen's Encyclopaedia he will 
find, under “Lycopodium," that prover 29 took 6x; that it 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Lycopodium lx. 


225 


soon developed severe stomach and abdominal, and later lung 
symptoms. It is evident that if the 6x was potential enough 
to make a well man sicfc it was potential enough to keep his 
sick man from getting well, as the Doctor has shown. It was 
remarkable that the man had so much resistance. He was 
not given a chance to react without any other dosing; so that 
it can not be known whether stopping the 6x or giving 15x 
helped him. The last prescription often gets credit that 
belongs to stopping the first. 

If the 6x is a potency and the lx is not, where does potency 
begin? There is a point where attenuated remedies have so 
changed their relation to the organism that they will pro¬ 
duce symptoms of an opposite character from those produced 
by crude preparations, and similar to the reaction of the 
system against them. That point is the one to be desired in 
prescribing, not because the remedy is stronger , but because 
its action is different —opposite; the position has become nega. 
tive (theory only). 

If shaking potentizes, as Hahnemann thought, why didn’t 
Dr. C. Hering’s “potencies” grow more powerful afte r 
being shaken all day in a saw-mill? They didn’t. 

Hahnemann revealed nothing; he discovered and taught; 
most of his theories have been disproved; his facts need noth¬ 
ing but a mind sufficient to follow; he gave one drop (not 
two) of Bry. to a strong woman and a dose of Puls. 15 to a 
weakly man. (Mat. Med. Pura.) 

The doctor challenges contradictory proof to his statement 
that Lyc. lx “has no sick-inajjring qualities.” Let him con¬ 
sult in Allen’s Encyclopcedm the record of provers as follows: 
10c, took 1st dilution; lOd, took 10 drops of tincture; 11 a, 
took of the tincture from 20 to 160 drops ; 15, took 1st trit.; 
18, took 1 gr. of pure, first, second and third days, and a dose 
of 1st trit. third and fourth days; 34 d, took two 5 gr. doses 
of 1st trit. twice a day for 29 days : if the record of those 
provers does not satisfy the Doctor, then he must be hard to 
please; but if he is not, let him go to Natrum mur., which can 
be dissolved either by the fluids of the body or outside of it, 
and which he refers to, and follow prover 25 who took the 
crude salt and see whether Natrum mur. can make sick when 
taken without “dynamization.” 

Chas. B. Gilbert. 

Washington, D. C. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



$26 


Comment and Criticism . 


March 


DR. WHITING’S CASE. 

Editor Advance: In the January, 1891, number of your 
excellent journal, on page 38 r a few cases are given by Dr. 
L. Whiting. 

In case number one, the doctor, I think, has cut his expla¬ 
nation father short in having us understand how he uses 
Bdnningbau8en. 

As for myself I am unable to form any idea of what he 
wished to convey. Everyone is anxious to find a plan which 
will enable him to accomplish what would be two hours work 
in one, and in studying Bonninghausen this is no exception. 
Let this, then, be my excuse for taking the doctor to task, 
trusting that he will furnish us a more complete explanation 
of this case. C. H. Fielding. 

Dartmouth, N. S. 

[The only practical “ short cut ”—a real, labor-saving device 
.and withal a correct method—we have ever found for using 
Bonninghausen's Pocket Book, is that designed by Wm. 
Jefferson Guernsey and known as Guernsey's Bonninghausen. 
- By its aid, I can do in half an hour what often required 
three hours.—E d.] 


FUCUS IN OBESITY. 

Editor Advance: For some months past my attention had 
been frequently called to “ Fucus vesiculosis 99 as a suitable 
remedy to reduce corpulency, and having a patient of short 
stature, weighing 245 lbs., who very much desired to be 
relieved of his burden, I secured a quart, and oii the fifth 
day of July had him commence taking a tablespoonful thrice 
daily. At the end of two weeks he weighed 247 lbs., and 
discontinued remedy, feeling improved in his general health. 
The only unpleasant effect of the medicine was a headache 
after each dose, for four days during the first week. But as 
an “ anti-fat" it was a complete failure in this case. Would 
be glad to hear from others as to its use, or any successful 
treatment of obesity; A. S. Huston. 

Anderson, Ind. 

[No, Doctor, it can never be done that way. That is the 
method of Allopathy, where a remedy is given for a condition, 
a diagnosis, a disease, without reference to the individuality 
of the patient, and the further we keep from such methods. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Voices of the Leal. 


227 


the better for us and for our patients. The law of similars 
which we profess to follow, knows no tc anti-fat” or “anti- 
lean/* and the purchase of such trash at a homeopathic 
pharmacy does not make it a homeopathic remedy. The 
simillimum and proper diet and hygiene will cure all curable 
cases.— Ed.] 


VOICES OF THE LEAL. 

Editor Advance: I send the list of those grand men and 
women who have responded to my call in the November 
Advance. The battle is going bravely on, and we shall cer¬ 
tainly score a victory for Homoeopathy. The world and 
Allopathy are about to discover that there is a scientific school 
of medicine ; and the unfaithful, sceptical, alternationists in 
our own ranks will be made to understand that there are 
thousands who are not bowing the knee to Baal; who are not 
following after false gods, even though their name be Lister- 
ism, Brown-Sequard’s Elixir, or even the latest fad, Prof. 
Koch’s Specific for Consumption ; who let such glittering 
pyrotechnics dazzle and attract whom they may, but who 
steadfastly keep their eyes upon the bright, morning star— 
Similia ! The following doctors prescribed correctly: 

R. N. Morris, Constantine, Mich. H. C. Irvin, Earlham, la. 

Mary A. Willard, Detroit, Mich. L. H. Goodale, Nashua, la. 

Chas. B. Gilbert, Washington, D. C. M. A. A. Wolf, Gainesville, Tex. 

T. J. Haughton, Vernon, Tex. A. G. Smith, Louisville, Ky. 

N. Starr, Charleston, Ill. W. A. Humfeld, Holstein, Mo. 

Wm. H. Bacon, Cleveland, O. Clarence N. Payne, Bridgeport, Ct. 
James Andrews, Colfax, Ind. W. H. Kirkland, Massillon, O. 

J. A. Whitman, Beaufort, S. C. G. M. Pease, San Francisco, Cal. 

Frederick Hooker, Plainville. N.Y. J. D. Day, Carbondale, Pa. 

J. A. Wakeman, Centralia, Ill. E. Arthur Hults,Perth Amboy, N.J. 

F. M. Gustin, Union City, Ind. A. M.Hutchinson, Hutchinson, Kan. 

G. W. Harman, Newark, N. J. L. F. Acers, Sac City, Iowa. 

L. H. Muncie, Brooklyn, N. Y. O. J. Jordan, East Buffalo, N. Y. 

C. H. Lee, New Castle, Pa. C. H. Oakes, Dighton, Mass. 

H. C. Leonard, Minneapolis, Minn. C. M. Boger, Parkersburg, W. Va. 

Ernst A. Bohm, St. Louis, Mo. J. M. Meadows, Anniston, Ala. 

A. L. Fisher, Elkhart, Ind. M. J. Stearns, Massena, N. Y. 

F. H. Lutze, Cheshire, N. Y. Phoebe D. Brown, Hilton, N. J. 

S. L.Eaton,Newton Highlands,Mass. H. Burrows, Burlingame, Kan. 
Chas. G. Wilson, Clarksville,Tenn. S. P. Stone, Chicago, 111. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



228 


Comment and Criticism . 


March 


Lena E. Hitchcock, Geneva, O. 

Ella M. Tuttle, New Berlin, N. Y. 
Chas. B. Young, Lynchburg, Va. 
W. L. Reed, St. Louis, Mo. 

A. P. Stauffer, Hagerstown, Md. 

O. T. Huebener, Lancaster, Pa. 

B. L. Hotchkiss, Argyle Park, HI. 
W. E. Alumbaugh, Vacaville, Cal. 

C. P. Meredith, Eminence, Ky. 

A. P. Bowie, Uniontown, Pa. 

J. R. Simson, Tonawanda, N. Y. 

J. G. Gundlach, Spokane Falls. 

R. Farley, Phcenixville, Pa. 

W. E. Ledyard, San Francisco. 

C. C. Wiggins, St. Ansgar, Iowa. 
W. O. Jacobi, Chicago, 111. 

C. G. Sprague, Omaha, Neb. 

C. A. Bozarth, Lyons, Kan. 

Freeda M. Lankton, Omaha, Neb. 
C. H. Evans, Chicago, Ill. 

Katherine Kurt, Akron, Ohio. 

S. W. Cohen, Waco, Tex. 

I. D. Johnson, Kenneti. Square, Pa. 
John Benson, Colfax, Wash. 

Mary E. Stewart, Topeka, Kan. 
John Q. Garner, Perry, Ill. 
C.F.Tegtmeier, Conshohocken, Pa. 
G. M. Chase, Traverse City, Mich. 

A. Putsch, Winona, Minn. 

G. H. Quay, East Cleveland, O. 
Asa F. Goodrich, St. Paul, Minn. 
Clarence R. Vogel, Cincinnati, O. 

H. C. Hoefle, Davenport, Iowa. 
Willis B. Stewart, Peru, Ind. 

F. W. Patch, S. Framingham, Mass. 
Helen M.Robertson,Middleport,NY 
O. N. Hoyt, Pierre, S. Dak. 

F. W. Lange, Scranton, Pa. 

W. W. French, Hill City, Tenn. 

H. C. Brigham,Grand Rapids, Mich 
E. R. McIntyre, Topeka, Kan. 

B. A. Cole, West Lima, Wis. 

H. E. Mes ; enger, Hutchinson, Kan. 
S J. Millsop. Bowling Green, Ky. 

S. Mills Fowler, Gainesville, Tex. 
A. S. Eshbaugh, Lexington, Ill. 
Leora Johnson, Iowa City, Iowa. 
Peter Cooper, Wilmington, Del. 


A. A. Lovett, Eaton, O. 

E. V. N. Hall, Gobleville, Mich. 
Francis M. Morris, Boston, Mass. 
Julius Schmitt, Rochester, N. Y. 

I. Dever, Clinton, N. Y. 

C. T. Canfield, Chicago, Ill. 

Wm. P. Cheeseman, Chicago, Ill. 

G. S. Barrows, Marion, Kan. 

W. H. Stover, Tiffin, Ohio. 

J. C. Holloway, Shelbyville, Ind. 

W. W. Russell, Marysville, Cal. 

W. R. Titzel, Butler, Pa. 

Thos. H. Bragg, Austin, Tex. 
Horace P. Holmes, Omaha, Neb. 

J. N. Lucas, Shelbyville, Ind. 

Stella E. Jacobi, Chicago, Ill. 

R. Hearn, Toronto, Ontario. 

E. B. Nash, Cortland, N. Y. 

E. B. Finoey, Lincoln, Neb. 

T. F. Thompson, Snohomish, Wash. 
Kate M. Cory, Akron, Ohio. 

F. Powel, Chester, Pa. 

A. A. Waterhouse, San Francisco. 
A. McNeil, San Francisco, Cal. 

J. K. Mulholland, Newark, N. J. 

L. T. Van Horn, Rives Junct., Mich. 

V. C. Piatti, New York, N. Y. 

J. Ferris, College Hill, Ohio. 

S. W. S. Dinsmore, Sharpsburg, Pa. 
P. B. Peterson, Fultonham, Ohio. 

W. P. Roberts, Evansville, Wis. 

E. S. Evans, Columbus, Ohio. 

J. W. Means, Troy, Ohio. 

H. P. Boyce, Chicago, Ill. 

C.G. Wintersmith,ElizabethtownKy 
Wm. Steinrauf, St. Charles, Mo. 

S. H. Sparhawk, St. Johnsbury.Vt. 

C. F. Junkermann, Nelsonville, O. 

G.W. Simmons, Elizabethtown, Ky. 

I. N. Paul, Perry, Iowa. 

Guy E. Manning, San Francisco. 

A. F. Randall, Port Huron, Mich. 
A. T. Noe, Lincoln, Neb. 

Wm. E. Leonard, Minneapolis. 

D. C. Perkins, Rockland, Me. 

Julia G. Clayson, Chicago, Ill. 

W. G. Dietz, Hazelton, Pa. 

T. L. Brown, Galion, Ohio. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1«91 


Voices of the Leal. 


229 


H. W. Rose, Westerly, R. I. 

V. H. Hallman, Hot Springs, Ark. 
Henry Neville, Jamestown, N. Y. 

W. R. Bentley, Morristown, Ind. 

B. W. Severance, Mineville, N. Y. 
J. H. Lowrey, New York City. 

M. M. Howells, Hartwell, O. 

W. P. Polhemus, San Diego, Cal. 
Nathan Cash, Urichsville, O. 

J. H. Hammond, Anderson, Ind. 

J. W. Mullin, Wilmington, Del. 

Dr. Hesse, Hamburg, Germany. 

F. C. Stewart, Peru, Ind. 

Edward Adams, Toronto, Canada. 
H. W. Champlin, Towanda, Pa. 

J. W. Pratt, Coatsville, Pa. 

Erastus E. Case, Hartford, Conn. 
Joseph T. O’Connor, N. Y. City. 
Mrs. M. A. Palm, Chicago, Ill. 

S. P. Tracy, Sault Ste Marie, Mich, 
A. N. Bonham, Washington, Ind. 

E. D. Brooks, Flushing, Mich. 

W. D. Hill, Greencastle, Ind. 

E. T. Schreiner, Philadelphia, Pa. 

C. H. Reed, Waco, Tex. 

H. L. Stambach, Santa Barbara, Cal. 
M. S. Brown, Afton, N. Y. 

M. W. Turner, Brooklyn, Mass. 
Robert Willis, Chicago, Ill. 

Geo. W. Sherbino, Abilene, Texas. 


Chas. N. Cooper, Cincinnati, Ohio. 
G. F. Martin, Skaneateles, N. Y. 
W. I. Wallace, Montgomery, N. Y. 

S. S. Kehr, Sterling, Ill. 

I. E. Paul, Perry, la. 

Edwin West, New York City. 

A. Morgan, San Diego, Cal. 

J. F. Griffen, Plainfield, N. J. 

F. Becker, Clermont, la. 

E. M. Santee, Cortland, N. Y. 

T. L. Hazard, Anamosa, la. 

D. Ogden Jones, Toronto, Canada, 
C. H. Fielding, Dartmouth, N. S 
O. F. Hill, Epworth, la. 

S. A. Mullin, West Chester, Pa. 
Helen Cox O’Connor, N. Y. City. 

A. H. Babcock, Randolph, N. Y. 

C. C. Huff, Pittsburg, Pa. 

M. Dills, Carlisle, Ky. 

F. S. Davis, Quincy, Mass. 

F. S. Smith, Lock Haven, Pa. 

W. C. McTaggart, Bryan, O. 

L. C. Voss, Columbus, Neb. 

G. S. Stevens, Providence, R. I. 
IdaV. Stambach, Santa Barbara, Cal. 
A. E. Horton, East Poultney, Yt. 

R. C. Markham, Marquette, Mich. 
W. J. Martin, Pittsburg, Pa. 

E. Agate Foster, Patchoque, N. Y. 

S. P. Alexander, Southsea, England. 


STUDENTS. 


P. H. Hagedom, Chicago, Ill. 
S. V. Allen, 

E. J. Knowlton, 44 

L. M. Chidester, 4 * 

S. T. Kelly, 

Mrs. M. D. Baker, 4 4 

Effie M. VanDelinder, “ 

Leo Schrane, 44 

S. Cordelia Enos, Alton, Ill. 
Laurens Enos, 44 

J. G. Miller, Edwardsville, Ill. 
Chas. W. Bacon, 44 

Emma Wentzel, St. Louis. 

F. Brase, 44 


G. H. Ripley, Chicago, Ill. 

S. H. Hilliard, 

H. S. Llewellyn, 44 
W. H. Gifford, 

Geo. L. Le Fevre, 44 
J. G. Seidel, 

Henry Doyle, Pittsburg, Pa. 

Horace G. Cork, Ft. Worth, Tex. 
Geo. F. Dunham, Wenona, Ill. 
Clinton Enos, Jerseyville, Ill. 

Chas. L. Gangloff, Cleveland, Ohio. 
A. H. Barker, Iowa City, Iowa. 

-Elfeld, St. Louis. 

-Lyons, 44 


Digitized by VjOOQle 







230 


Comment and Criticism . 


March 


Chas. F. Hitchcock, St. Louis. 
R. Y. Henry, “ 

Frank B. Seitz, 11 

E.D. Wilcox, “ 

-Goerke, “ 

J. W. Smith, “ 

J. B. Julian, 44 

Lina M. Rosat, 44 


F. J. Jones, St. Louis. 
P. N. Lilliken, 

M. Elizabeth Love joy , 44 
Wilson Taylor, 44 

H. L. Lott, 

W. B. Young, 

J. L. Dryden, 44 

LAYMEN. 


J. F. Tapley, Marysville, Cal. C. Gersman, Pittsburg, Pa. 


u THE RELATIVE VALUE OF SYMPTOMS IN SELECT* 
ING THE REMEDY.” 

Editor Advance: In the November issue of the North 
American Journal of Homoeopathy appeared an article by Dr. 
T. F. Allen, on “ The Relative Value of Symptoms in Select¬ 
ing the Remedy.” As dean of a medical college, as the 
author of several homoeopathic works, and as a frequent con¬ 
tributor to our periodicals, the doctor exerts a manifest 
influence upon the trend of homoeopathic thought and study. 
He is even regarded by many in the profession as an authority 
upon matters homoeopathic. In Dr. Allen's article a prin¬ 
ciple is formulated, upon which he determines the relative 
value of symptoms. “Make a careful diagnosis,” he says, 
“of the case in hand; group around that diagnosis the symp¬ 
toms which maybe said to be the outcome of the pathological 
lesion, and which may be taken as symptoms common to all 
forms of the disease; then eliminate these more or less com¬ 
pletely from the symptoms which are to be used in selecting 
the remedy.” If this principle be sound, what relation has it 
to the law of similars? If Homoeopathy were merely a rule 
in therapeutics, and not a natural law, then Dr. Allen might 
vary its method of application according to his pleasure or 
experience. 

In a communication to The Homoeopathic Physician , for 
November, 1887, the Doctor says he believes in the law of 


Digitized by OjOOQle 






1891 The Relative Value of Symptoms. 231 

similars . A belief in \wr necessitates a belief also in the con¬ 
ditions essential for the operation of that law. Law admits of 
no exception. ' 

What has a law of cure to do with a diagnosis? Diagnosis 
is, at best, a mere conjecture, an hypothesis. In only a cer¬ 
tain proportion of cases do physicians agree upon a name, to 
say nothing of the lack of knowledge concerning the condi¬ 
tions attending and underlying the pathological lesion* With 
all his vaunted scientific lore, the physician is acquainted 
with only the grosser expressions of pathology. 

To eliminate symptoms of the disease, as advised by Dr. 
Allen, would be a procedure entirely at Variance with the 
conditions of the law of similars. It would remove indiea^ 
tions, such as modalities, character of sensations, etc., which 
are indispensable to a correct diagnosis of the remedy. Were 
this a prerogative of physicians, to what extent might it not be 
carried? With equal reason might characteristic symptoms 
elicited in the drug proving be omitted at will, . No doubt it 
is often done, and the practitioner failing, Homoeopathy is 
denounced as a mockery. 

What are the conditions of the law of similars? The name 
implies a similarity of forces, and the acting force must be 
similar in all its parts to the forge acted upon . In medicine 
the law requires that the sick-making powers of the remedy 
shall be similar to the totality of the morbid symptoms 
exhibited by the patient. Does Dr. Allen comply with this 
condition of the law? Does he not violate this fundamental 
principle? His method is an arbitrary interpretation of the 
law which can not be justified. 

Dr. Allen continues: “In all of these acute disorders we 
have to contend with two groups of symptoms; first* those 
peculiar to the acute malady; and second, those peculiar to 
the individual constitution of the patient. . . . Make 

your diagnosis for the purpose of knowing what not to pre¬ 
scribe for. In this way only, in a great majority of our cases, 
are we enabled to arrive at what is peculiar to the patient." 
This advice is dangerous by reason of its speciousness. True, 
the name of the disease should not be considered in the search 
for the remedy, but this does not mean eliminating symptoms 
grouped around a diagnosis. 

The most rational view of disease consonant with known 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



332 


Comment and Criticism . 


March 


facts is that of a disturbed equilibrium of the vital force. 
This vital force pervades the entire organism. A malady, 
produced by some disturbance in the system, must partake of 
the peculiarities of the individual constitution. Are we then 
“ to arrive at what is peculiar to the patient ” by eliminat¬ 
ing many of his peculiarities ? As soon might a sculptor 
expect to chisel a perfect human figure by omitting a portion 
of the statue. 

A practical illustration of his method is given by Dr. Allen. 
“A lady in middle life was attacked by pneumonia. She 
rapidly developed all the symptoms characteristic of that dis¬ 
ease, the cough, the expectoration, the various chest symp¬ 
toms, many of which were severe and distressing; but, in addi¬ 
tion, she exhibited symptoms of gastric disturbance together 
with diarrhoea. I found her extremities swollen, her color 
pale, yellow; tenderness over the region of the liver, and, 
what alarmed me most, the appearance of albumen in the 
urine. Now, two courses were open to me; first, to prescribe 
remedies for the symptoms of pneumonia; the other, to ignore 
the symptoms of pneumonia and prescribe for her general con¬ 
stitutional disability. The latter was evidently the proper 
thing to do. I therefore ignored all the symptoms of the 
acute disorder and turned my whole attention to the group of 
general symptoms, saying to myself that very little was to be 
apprehended from the pneumonia provided her general con¬ 
dition could be improved; the lesion of the lung would run 
its course, the lung would become clear in time, and she 
would return to a state of health; I had nothing to fear on 
this score, but unless something were done to put her nutri¬ 
tion into a better condition the pneumonia would not run a 
benign course, resolution would not take place, and even if 
she survived the first four or five days of the disease her 
ultimate recovery would be extremely doubtful. I, there¬ 
fore, immediately prescribed the remedy indicated by ter 
complicating symptoms— Mercury —(quite disregarding the 
chest symptoms, cough, etc.) with the happiest results. The 
case is related simply to illustrate a general principle which I 
find myself following more and more in my everyday Work." 

Dr. Allen was most fortunate in his selection of Mercury, 
but do the results prove the soundness of his principle? He 
evaded the requirements of the law, for he “ ignored all the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


The Relative Value of Symptoms . 


283 


symptoms of the acute disorder.” Either Dr. Allen unwit¬ 
tingly fulfilled the conditions of the law, by prescribing a 
remedy which covered the totality of the symptoms, or he 
has demonstrated an exception to the law. If the latter 
be true, then the law exists only in name. 

I shall place in parallel columns the symptoms presented by 
the patient and those produced by the proving of Mercury: 

Patient. Mercury. 

(Symptoms upon which Dr. (Allen’s Hand Book of Materia 

Allen based his prescription.) Medica and Therapeutics.) 

“Gastric disturbance.” Many gastric symptoms. 

“ Color pale, yellow.” # Color pale, yellow. 

“Diarrhoea.” Diarrhoea. 


“ Extremities swollen.” 


Lower extremities swollen. 


“Tenderness over region of Region of liver sensitive. Tender- 
liver.” ness over right hypochondrium. 

“Albumen in urine.” Albuminuria. 


(Symptoms ignored by Dr. 

Allen.) 

“ Cough with expectoration.” Cough with expectoration. 

“ Various chest symptoms, many Many chest symptoms. Pains in 
severe and distressing.” various parts, sticking , stitching , 

stabbing . 

“Pneumonia.” “ Useful in some cases of pneumo¬ 

nia accompanied by hepatic dis¬ 
orders.” 

Pneumonia, with bilious symptoms. 
Bilious pneumonia, with great 
tenderness over right hypochon- 
drium. (Guiding symptoms.) 

From this it will be seen that Mercury covered all the 
symptoms, even those “ ignored ” by Dr. Allen, and the 
“ happy results,” notwithstanding his eliminating method, 
were due to the perfect similarity of the remedy prescribed. 

The symptoms which were considered by Dr. Allen pointed 
equally well to Dig., Lach., Phos., Plumb, and Sec. To 
differentiate between these remedies, more symptoms were 
necessary, but we are told all the other symptoms were 
ignored. Therefore the prescription was avowedly empirical. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



234 


Comment and Criticism. 


March 


I was hastily summoned one morning to attend a young 
man suffering from severe pain in the abdomen. He was in 
great agony, tossing about in the bed, moaning and declaring 
he would die. I forbade the application of hot cloths, fearing 
they would remove valuable indications for the remedy. I 
learned that he had had a slight diarrhoea from some error 
in diet, for which a mixture of laudanum, camphor and rhu¬ 
barb had been taken. The diarrhoea was suddenly checked, 
and nausea and vomiting ensued. Very soon violent,pains 
began in the abdomen. Around' the umbilicus was a con¬ 
strictive pain with sharp, paroxysmal stitches from right to 
left side of abdomen. Shooting pains from umbilical region 
extending into left hypochondrium and left chest, coming and 
going suddenly. The pains caused him to draw up his knees 
and “double up.” The abdomen was sensitive to touch. Skin 
hot, pulse full and quick, and great restlessness* The symp¬ 
toms indicated Belladonna. Relief followed the second 
dose, and he required no more medicine. 

According to Dr. Allen’s method, I should have “ignored 
the symptoms of the acute disorder, and turned my whole 
attention to the group of general symptoms.” The basis for 
my prescription then would have been restlessness, hot skin; 
full, quick pulse. As more than one hundred remedies have 
the same symptoms, the simillimum could have been found 
only by atrial of each remedy—a procedure both impractic¬ 
able and absurd. 

Dr. Allen says, however, that “against this method must 
be urged the necessity of prescribing for most severe and dis¬ 
tressing symptoms of the acute malady simply to modify 
their severity 99 (italics mine). 

“ This method (of palliation?) is one, I am persuaded, chat is 
easily followed, but if followed too habitually leads too fre¬ 
quently to the change of medicines, alternations or combina¬ 
tions, and to the general use of palliative measures. We can 
not ignore the necessity of adopting this method in many 
cases. It must be done even in pneumonia, scarlet fever, in¬ 
termittent fever, and in many, if not all, forms of acute disease. 
But let me urge upon you the necessity of following this plan 
as little as possible. Always keep in mind the fact that if the 
individual patient be brought to a normal state as regards 
his general functions, the acute malady will be greatly modi- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 The Relative Value of Symptoms . £35 

fied in severity and will take a benign course. These acute 
diseases, as a rule, will have their run. My maxim is to attend 
t6 the patient and let the disease run. Exceptions? Yes, 
but the rule is a good one, and leads to the best results.” 

One can hardly imagine Dr. Allen capable of such jargon. 
Almost in the same breath we are told of the “necessity” to 
palliate in severe cases, with the advice not to follow it too 
frequently lest it lead to general palliation. We are also 
told: “We can not ignore the necessity of adopting this 
method,” as “ it must be done,” “'in many if not all” acute 
diseases. Again he says : “let me urge upon you the neces¬ 
sity of following this plan as little as possible.” We are 
advised, too, in equally strong terms, to do and not to do the 
same thing. Like Addison, the reader is “puzzled with 
mazes and perplexed with error.” Notwithstanding the sug¬ 
gestions to palliate and not to palliate, “ these acute diseases 
as a rule will have their rum” One comfort, however, is held 
out to us. If we can only get the patient into “a normal 
state as regards his general functions, the acute malady will 
be greatly modified, and will take a benign course.” How is 
it possible for the patient to be both sick and well at the same 
time ? The doctor concludes, axiomatically : “ My maxim is 
to attend to the patient and let the disease run.” If the 
“average practitioner” is able to understand and put in 
practice such advice he is more clever than Dr. Allen's solici¬ 
tude concerning him would have us believe. 

It would seem that Dr. Allen experiences some difficulty 
in being understood, for he says this subject “has been pre¬ 
sented to the medical profession by me in a somewhat differ¬ 
ent form, but not being fully comprehended (italics mine), 
it must again be urged upon your attention.” If the doctor's 
previous articles were as obscure in meaning as the one under 
review, I do not wonder that he has not been understood. 
But why should the learned professor urge physicians to 
adopt a rule in practice which he admits has many exceptions? 
Why then uphold a theory, acknowledged by him to be 
faulty, paramount to the certainty of law? Scores of wit¬ 
nesses attest the truth of the conditions of the homoeopathic 
law as deduced by Hahnemann and declare there is no excep¬ 
tion in its application to disease. 

Dr.. Allen writes that his rule “ leads to the best results.” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Comment and Criticism . 


March 


This he probably regards as a sufficient reason for its adop¬ 
tion. But his percentage of cures must necessarily be small, 
since he allows acute diseases to run without interference, 
unless severe, and then he resorts to palliation. Does Dr. 
Allen realize the harmful practice of palliation ? Bemedies 
are always positive in their action, and in disease produce 
certain definite results. If given in accordance with the law 
of cure, they act beneficially, otherwise they cause suppres¬ 
sion, metastasis, or aggravation of the disease according to 
the well known law of action and reaction. 

As if to justify himself. Dr. Allen says : “ There is nothing 
whatever new in these ideas ; but their application to practi¬ 
cal therapeutics seems to have been lost sight of, which is 
greatly to be deplored, since I believe that their adoption is 
necessary to the most successful treatment of the sick ” (italics 
mine). How does Dr. Allen reconcile this declaration with 
what follows ? “ There can be no doubt that Hahnemann’s 
precept to take the totality of the symptoms of the patient 
would, if followed, lead to the very lest results” (italics 
mine). Do not each refer to a cure ? If so, then we have 
this most anomalous statement that two propositions diamet¬ 
rically opposed produce the same results. To be consistent, 
the doctor must reject one or the other or be regarded as 
misapprehending logic as well as law. 

Dr. Allen says: “ The neglect of this maxim (Hahnemann's 
precept), has led many to abandon the attempt to practice 
Homoeopathy, and it must be conceded that it is extremely 
difficult, if not impossible, for the average practitioner to 
salect a remedy which will coincide with all or even with the 
majority of the symptoms of his patient.” Why is it impossi¬ 
ble for the “average practitioner?” Does he consider him 
ignorant or too indolent? If either, the sooner he takes to 
some other occupation the better for suffering humanity. 
There is no royal road to Homoeopathy any more than to any 
other of the sciences. 

I happen to know of three physicians who attended one of 
the largest homoeopathic—so-called—medical colleges, for the 
purpose of studying Homoeopathy . After graduating they 
discovered their mode of practice to be little different from 
that of the Allopaths. Being too honest to call themselves 
Homoeopaths, while following old school methods, they sub- 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


237 


sequently graduated from an allopathic college. Who is 
responsible for this state of things? Is it not painfully evi¬ 
dent that the professors in our homoeopathic colleges are 
faithless to their trust? Were these colleges not chartered to 
teach Homoeopathy? Students are induced to enter these 
institutions under the belief that Homoeopathy will be taught 
them there. They do not receive, however, the instruction 
to which they are both morally and legally entitled, and their 
practice many times is so allopathic, that the public distin- 
guishes the two schools only by their titles. 

Very few of our graduates know anything of the philoso¬ 
phy of Homoeopathy—the foundation of the science of heal¬ 
ing. It is absolutely impossible to practice Homoeopathy 
without a careful study of its principles as found in the 
Organon of Samuel Hahnemann. 

No wonder opprobrium is attached to these hybrid institu¬ 
tions, and not until our college professors are more honest in 
their endeavors to teach the truth will the stigma be removed. 
Then only will these attempts to abridge the conditions of a 
natural law for the sake of the benighted “ average practi¬ 
tioner," cease. Rufus L. Thurston. 

136 Boylston Street, Boston, Mass. 


"When we have to do with an art whose end Is the saving of human life, any 
neglect to make ourselves thorough masters of it becomes a crime.”— Hahnemann. 


The Boston Homeopathic Hospital. —The recent report 
to the Board of Trustees is a most flattering one, and one of 
which we may all feel proud. During the past twelvemonths 
691 patients were treated with a loss of only twenty-two— 
making three and one-fifth per cent, of the number treated. 
And not satisfied with the addition of 100 beds, which 
the new hospital will'give, the trustees are contemplating the 
purchase of 100 acres, a few miles from the city, and building 
a new hospital where more room and better ventilation may 
be obtained. 

At the banquet of the semi-centenary celebration of the 
Massachusetts Homeopathic Society, Mayor Hart, of Boston, 
paid the school the following compliment: 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



238 


Editorial . 


March 


Ladies and Gentlemen: To all persons interested in Homoeopathy 
this is a memorable occasion. The Massachusetts Society of Homoeop¬ 
athy, we learn, had its beginning just fifty years ago, and that was but 
fifteen years after the introduction of Homoeopathy in the United 8tates, 
where it was carried by a native of Boston. To day, I believe, there 
are ten times the number of Homoeopathists in this country than you can 
find in its native land. Boston and Massachusetts have been most kind 
and generous to “the new fechool,” Boston having given land for a 
homoeopathic hospital, and the State a large sum of money besides other 
favors. The people at large have been glad to receive homoeopathic 
treatment. Moreover, your cause here in Boston is identified with one 
of our great universities You have, therefore, much cause for rejoic¬ 
ing. The founder of Homoeopathy is gaining rather than losing as time 
wears on, and “ the new school ” has certainly helped to destroy the 
hard and offensive practices once peculiar to medical art. Your past is 
secure; your future is largely in your own keeping. I wish you wisdom 
and strength lor whatever is right, and I trust that you will respond 
whenever the cause of humanity demands the best services. We owe 
the medical profession one tribute, which I pay gladly. Of all the pro¬ 
fessions none is so ready to serve the poor and the suffering as is the 
medical profession in the United States. 

* * * 

Vicarious Brain Work. —Doctors of the dominant or so- 
called regular (?) school, have for some years past been 
relieved of the vulgar necessity of doing their own thinking. 
For it has come to pass in this age of gigantic enterprise, that 
the thinking for the profession is done in a wholesale way, by 
a comparatively few large pharmaceutical firms, who retail 
the results of their brain work at reasonable rates to the indi¬ 
vidual physician. In that happier time,when doctors used their 
cortical substance, some feeble effort was made on their part 
to adapt their prescriptions to the particular needs of the 
patient; thus, if a purgative pill was required, the prescriber 
bethought himself of the various drugs. Aloe, Rheum, Scam- 
mony, Jalap, etc., most likely to help the case before him, 
and proceeded to combine them in suitable quantities; or, if 
a tonic appeared to be the thing, he would write for a com¬ 
bination of Cinchona, Gentian, Quassia, or what not, together 
with flavors and aromatics, which, according to his judgment, 
would be beneficial to the patient. 

All this is changed now. The large firms, before men¬ 
tioned, have, by a reckless expenditure of the gray or ciner- 
itious substance of their brains, and a few dollars, gotten 
up a stock of pills, elixirs, solutions and emulsions, so 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 'Editorial. 239 

admirably compounded, so. elegantly prepared and so well 
adapted to every possible condition of disease, as to entirely 
relieve the doctor of the necessity of wasting any of his brain 
substance. 

Little indeed is left for him to do but order Messrs. Bolus, 
Purge & Co.*s Elixir No. 3, or Rufus Spleen's Laxative Con¬ 
fection, which, as every one knows, can be done almost in a 
reflex way with a lead pencil and the basil ganglia without 
the least expenditure of the cineritious substance or exertion 
of those noble cortical cells with which we think. 

The docile manner in which the profession, in general, 
allows itself to be led by the nose by the manufacturing 
chemists, is really a matter of astonishment. 

The modus operandi is as follows: The members of a busi¬ 
ness firm get up an Emulsion, an Iron Preparation, a Laxa¬ 
tive Syrup, or an Emmenagogue Pill, according to the rules 
and regulations of their own sweet will. Then a glowing 
commendation from as many medical nobodies as can be 
crammed into a twenty-page pamphlet is printed; to this is 
added a number of cases which it has raised from the dead 
for the purpose of giving an “air of verisimilitude to the 
otherwise bald and unconvincing narrative.” Then a suave 
and voluble retired book agent or broken down doctor is sent 
to distribute samples of the wonderful compound to all the 
doctors in the country, with such commendations as his own 
imagination and impudence can add. What follows? The 
doctor, finding in the pamphlet all that he had dared to hope 
for in his wildest dreams, immediately begins to order the 
preparation in his prescriptions at the druggist's expense. 
This goes on until his attention is attracted by a pamphlet or 
an agent that can lie more potently than the last, and soon 
to the end of the chapter. This gigantic age of progress in 
the arts and sciences seems to have brought the ancient and 
honorable science of medicine to a pretty low pass. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


240 


Editor's Table. 


Maboh 




Philadelphia Post-Graduate School of Homeopathics.— This 
school is chartered by the State of Pennsylvania and will confer the degree 
of Master in Homoeopathies upon any M. D. who attends the required 
time and passes the examinations. 

At present there are nine rooms, devoted to clinical work, where the 
student may examine and prescribe for cases under clinical demonstra¬ 
tors, who will instruct in “ the taking of a case ”—the most difficult par- 
of practical homoeopathic therapeutics—the manner of working the 
repertories and final reference to the Materia Medica. 

This is a college where liberal-minded old school and eclectic 
physicians may be directed in their studies of similia, and demonstrate 
whether the law is entitled to respect and confidence or be exposed as a 
delusion, as has been claimed. 

It is not in competition with any other college. 

It i9 a college where a graduate will meet only graduates; where a 
doctor will not be compelled to listen to the theories which a student 
must master. 

It is a place where a doctor may attend a few months, and not be 
encumbered with subjects nonconnected with practical work. 

It is the only school where practical, everyday, bedside Homoe¬ 
opathy can be learned in its completeness, its simplicity, its purity; 
where the principles enunciated by Hahnemann can be put in practice 
without adjuvants of any kind. 

The clinic is now open and there are plenty of patients indoor as 
well as outdoor. We advise students to remain in the clinic a year, 
where they not only see patients prescribed for but are expected to 
examine and work: out cases under the eye of the clinical demonstrator. 

We call attention to the above extracts from a private let¬ 
ter, for the establishment of this college leaves the student no 
excuse for attending the post graduate schools of Allopathy. 
If Homoeopathy is not taught in the college from which he 
graduated, here is a place in which he can learn it. 

Hom<eopathy in Russia.— Dr. J. Adams, of Toronto, recently 
received a letter from his nephew in Moscow, in which he says: “ You 
may perhaps be interested to know that there are over 1,500 doctors in 
Moscow, but only 35 of them are homoeopaths.” Many of our readers 
will be gratified and surprised to hear that we have so many. 

Dr. A. B. Norton, 152 West Thirty-fourth street, New York, 
announces that he has succeeded to the business of his brother, the 
late Dr. Geo. S. Norton. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



THE 


Medical Advance. 

A HOMEOPATHIC MAGAZINE. 


Vol. XXVI. April, 1891. No. 4. 


OBSERVATIONS ON THE CLIMATE OF THE PACIFIC 

COAST. 

In response to your request of last month saying: “We 
want a paper from you on the climate of California showing 
what diseases are promptly relieved and what cured by a 
resort thereto,” I herewith give my impressions without 
attempting to treat the subject scientifically, if there is such 
a thing as scientific climatology. The climate of California 
is not unlike that of the whole Pacific Coast from the Mexi¬ 
can line to British Columbia. It divides itself into three 
different sections or strips of country: the coast, valley and 
mountain region. The first, characterized by uniformity and 
mildness of temperature, great humidity. Second, the valleys 
of San Joaquin and Sacramento in California and Willamette 
in Oregon characterized by heat and dryness in summer, and 
much rain in winter. Third, the mountain ranges of Sierra 
Nevada in California and the Cascades in Oregon, character¬ 
ized by low temperature and much snow in winter and cool 
and dry summers with a maximum of ozone. These three 
parallel strips average about sixty, seventy and one hundred 
miles in width, extending from Mexico to British Columbia, 
a distance of fifteen hundred miles north and south. A 
marked similarity as to humidity and temperature exists 
increasing considerably as you go north, with a marked 
difference east and west, and a break longitudinally at the 
Tehatchipi mountains in southern and the Siskyous in north¬ 
ern California, both spurs of the great Sierra Nevada mount¬ 
ains; though proximal localities may differ greatly in 


Digitized by LjOOQle 





242 Observations on the Climate of the Pacific Coast. April. 

each of these characteristics; for instance, in this locality, 
central California, fifty miles north of San Francisco the 
Board of Trade reports give as high as 54 in. annual rainfall, 
and at Healdsburg, 16 miles north, the most reliable records 
give 84 4n. maximum; so that localities not very remote 
may show a marked difference in precipitation and tempera- 
ture, rain along the coast and valleys and snow on the mount¬ 
ains to a depth of 15 to 20 feet in some places. We are 
now, October 28th, at the beginning of the rainy season and 
have had over eight inches rainfall, which has been very gen¬ 
eral all over the Pacific coast, in some localities greatly 
exceeding this; Vacaville nine inches. Winters ten. Clover- 
dale thirteen, some localities in Humboldt county north of 
here over eighteen inches, all within fifty to seventy-five 
miles of Santa Rosa; warm rains in the valleys and on the 
coast, on the mountains cold and some frosts and hard freez¬ 
ing a month later. Along the coast and in the mountain 
region quite exempt from malarious diseases, and patients 
suffering from intermittents, malaria, anaemia, enlarged 
spleen, hepatic disorders, are soon relieved, while in the 
larger valleys of the Sacramento and San Joaquin, malarious 
diseases, and intermittent, prevail, and some typhoid fever, 
which also prevails in the larger cities along the coast from 
bad sewerage and unsanitary surroundings. In over two years 
I have only treated five cases of typhoid fever, all caused by 
unsanitary surroundings. 

I have yet to see a case of diphtheria and I hear of very 
little throughout the State and those cases reported from 
cities around the bay. The general state of health has been 
good, the mortality reported by State board of health 11 and 
a fraction for the State. The dryness and dust of summer 
aggravate all nasal, laryngeal and bronchial catarrhs, espe¬ 
cially hay fever, (i August sneezes ” or infusorial catarrh 
(whatever you call it), worse during north winds, which, 
like the east winds of the Atlantic coast, “blow nobody 
any good.” 

Hot and dry winds from the north will continue two or 
three days in summer, absorbing the moisture and depressing; 
the vitality from all vegetable and animal life and in the 
valleys brings the disagreeable sand and dust storms—but 
never the rain. Hot winds in the East and on the western 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


E. Beckwith . 


243 


plains are generally precursors of rain , which are here pre¬ 
ceded by cool or cold weather—south winds, and followed 
by warm weather, though sometimes frosts, as in the east, 
but never those cold northwest winds. Hay fever patients 
may be benefited by the mountain and foothill climate, but 
don’t send them to the coast or valley region till after the 
rainy season begins, which precipitates all the dust and 
infusoria and brings a delightfully pure and bracing air, giv¬ 
ing complete relief to such sufferers; and if they are not sub¬ 
ject to chronic catarrh or asthma, such cases may find life quite 
endurable all winter, which you must remember is not one 
continuous rain—but at intervals—we have weeks of pleasant 
spring-like weather. But the subjects of chronic catarrh will 
find the marked difference in the diurnal temperature of day 
and night very trying, as such cases are more susceptible to 
acute attacks here than in any climate in which I have ever 
lived, and my acquaintances will readily admit that I have 
had quite extensive opportunities for observation from Min¬ 
nesota to Florida and from Oregon to Mexico. I have learned 
from experience that one feels the cold about as much in one 
place as another. “ God tempers the shorn lamb to the 
wind ” so that one can endure the dry tonic air of Minnesota 
as comfortably as the damp malarial chill of the Gulf States 
or the fogs or enervating warmth of South California. Dur¬ 
ing the mildest and balmiest of San Diego weather in Janu¬ 
ary, 1886, the writer took the severest cold followed by acute 
bronchitis, which continued to defy the action of the best 
selected remedies till I was transported to the summit of the 
Sierra Nevada mountains, where the snow was ten feet deep 
and the ice over a foot thick, when the whole condition of 
cold and bronchitis subsided as if by magic; showing that 
the whole trouble arose from atmospheric conditions and not 
from exposure to cold. I met several who were similarly 
affected and ameliorated by the change to a highly azotized 
atmosphere. 

The diurnal changes here occur with much regularity, while in 
cast Tennessee they occur suddenly and with great irregularity. 
After warm days when the system is much relaxed, we felt the 
4€ little end ” of those northwest blizzards which come swooping 
down upon us about as much as the residents of Minnesota 
and Dakota. We have none of that here, but the physician 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



244 Observations on the Climate of the Pacific Coast . April 

needs a good heavy ulster and lap robe for his night rides and as 
much cover over him when he sleeps as in east Tennessee. That 
they have a good climate in southern California goes without 
the saying, but that it is all one universal sanitarium we very 
much doubt . There is the same marked difference in diurnal 
temperature there, as in all the rest of California. That there 
are many localities in the foothills and mountain regions of 
San Diego and SanBernardino counties favorable to asthmatic, 
bronchitis and pulmonary diseases there is no question. I 
agree with Dr. E. M. Hale in his article in the Chicago Medical 
Era , 1887, that it is not in Los Angeles, San Diego or Santa 
Barbara, or any of those coast towns, but in the higher and 
dryer sections, like Colton, Redlands, Banning, Palm Valley, 
all east of Los Angeles, sixty to one hundred and fifty miles, 
and north along the same Southern Pacific railway, Newhall 
2,000 feet elevation, Lancaster on the Mojave desert, having 
the one disagreeable feature of sand storms occasionally, which 
raise the fine sand high into the air and carried for two hun¬ 
dred miles over Santa Barbara and out into the ocean. Ojai 
valley, 45 miles northeast of Santa Barbara, is another salu¬ 
brious and delightful place, also Fresno, midway between 
Los Angeles and San Francisco, in the San Joaquin valley, 
all good for winter climate on account of dryness of soil and 
air, minimum fog, some frosts, pure water,especially at Colton, 
Redlands, Newhall and most of the places mentioned, while 
Los Angeles and San Diego have miserable ivater. Water, 
pure, soft and sweet, is a sine qua non with the invalid, and 
that one is not very likely to get in any California towns 
remote from the mountains. Take San Diego, for instance, 
where they must drink blackish alkali well water, or pay five 
cents a bucket for that which is hauled in from the mountain 
springs and carted around. In December, 1886, 1 saw an 
invalid there with an intolerable thirst from hectic fever and 
heard him beg for one drink of good water. He said: “ I would 
give a dollar for one drink of such water," and he didn't get 
it till he got up into the Temecula canon on his way to Col¬ 
ton. Oh! but they will tell you “ we have the flume now, 
over forty miles long right from the mountain streams. Such 
water may be pure and soft when taken near its source; but 
after traversing forty miles of alkali and desert country in 
open ditch, over miles of plank aqueducts and through 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


E. Beckwith . 


245 


extensive pasture lands, with sheep and cattle wading 
through it, with all manner of filth and surface drain¬ 
age pouring in, with leaves and other vegetable matter and 
grass blown in by the winds, not forgetting the dead animals 
which on this dry and arid country find their burial place 
in the ditch and are floated down to the beautiful city of 
u Bay and Climate,” 1 imagine thejlume water, when it gets 
there, not very pure. All the coast towns and some in valleys 
are about ditto. In Santa Rosa, the city water caught from 
rains and mountain streams, and stored in'an elevated reser¬ 
voir two and one-half miles out, comes to us in the sum¬ 
mer with a taste reminding one of some stagnant creek or 
mill-pond. Of course, if the medical, editorial or the real 
estate booming fraternity should read this they would rise 
up as one man and jump on your humble servant with both 
feet, and the rest of the 7,000 population would follow suit. 
And still, there is scarcely a spot in California where there 
is not sufficient rainfall to fill cisterns enough to supply all 
demands for good pure drinking water for both man and beast. 
But I think there are not three cisterns in’Santa Rosa, and I 
doubt if any of the towns of 7,000 population will average that 
number. Santa Rosa (and the whole coast country for fifty 
miles back) is not a good climate for rheumatism, bronchitis, 
asthma, hay fever or catarrhal troubles of a chronic nature. 
Not much better—if any—than east Tennessee, north 
Georgia, North and South Carolina. The coast climate is 
good for the aged, who seek rest in a mild, uniform temper¬ 
ature; to many such, from the Eastern or Northwestern States, 
ten years or more of comfort may be added to their days. 
In the coast and mountains, those suffering from malarial 
and quinine cachexia have a reasonable prospect for recov¬ 
ery, as the exposure to the chilly air on frosty mornings and 
midday hot sunshine does not tend to produce relapses as in 
the East, in those malarious portions of the Mississippi valley. 
It is a good climate for dyspeptic and hepatic disorders, and 
over-drugged and over-worked people who need rest; as it is 
a good place for quiet, restful sleep, especially in the rainy 
season, the air seems of a soporific nature favorable to neuras¬ 
thenia and “brain fag.” Mosquitoes are not troublesome as 
they are all through the South, In July and August of the past 
summer fleas were quite annoying, but not at all the previous 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



246 Observations on the Climate of the Pacific Coast. April 

year. In some sandy localities, I am told, they are numerous 
every summer. But the rain finishes them entirely, which is 
not true of the festive and musical mosquito; he lingers till 
the frost gives his sharpened appetite a ferocity that is 
appeased with naught but blood. These little annoyances 
detract much from the comfort of the invalid, matters of no 
little importance to the physician recommending a change of 
climate to the sick. 

In any portion of the State where raisins are dried in the 
sun you may know it is intolerably hot in summer. Fresno 
and Riverside are both in the raisin districts with a tempera¬ 
ture ranging frequently from 100° to 116°, and all who can 
afford to, flee to the mountains or the coast, and such places 
being extensively irrigated causes much chills and fever. 
Both places are very mild and pleasant in winter excepting 
occasional sand storms and the same marked variation in the 
night and day temperature, causing much bronchitis—also— 
I think, quite a good deal of pneumonia, quite a surprise to 
me after having heard the Fresno climate extolled by Dr. E. M. 
Hale and others. While spending the month of February, 
1887, in Fresno, I myself suffered a severe attack from bron¬ 
chitis, and upon inquiry of the local physicians I learned that 
it was extensively epidemic. At nightfall, even in winter, it 
is very common to see a cloud of dust suspended like a fog 
over the city and suburbs. Last winter, 1888 and 1889, they 
had much fog and cold, disagreeable weather, not favorabl© 
for invalids in any stages of pulmonary affections. Ojai 
valley (pronounced Ohi) already referred to, 18 miles north 
of Ventura, the nearest railroad station, is much visited by 
invalids from Los Angeles and Santa Barbara on account of 
salubrity of climate, altitude and minimum fog and ocean 
winds. It is a narrow valley, about three miles long, sur¬ 
rounded by a high mountain wall which gives it an immense 
water-shed and a supersaturated soil during the rainy seasons. 
As a comfortable place for invalids it is far better than any 
of the popular coast towns; getting sufficient sea breeze to 
moderate the heat of summer. The water good. Much 
fruit and very fine oranges are grown in this valley. In cen¬ 
tral California are many delightful salubrious places, among 
which, for want of time and space I only refer to one , is 
Auburn , well up in the foothills of Placer county on the Cen- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


E. Beckwith . 


247 


tral Pacific railway, seventy-five miles east of Sacramento, in 
sight of the snow-capped Sierras, is a delightful and healthful 
place, much visited by all Californians for rest and its healing 
air for pulmonary and malarial diseases. Here the air since 
the rains is very pure and rarefied, free from dust and infu¬ 
soria, especially good for asthmatics and hay fever. As one 
looks down from the hilltops around Auburn at this season 
of the year he may take in a grand and picturesque scene in. 
the snow-covered Sierras, the everlasting hills about him green 
and fresh, to the west the wide valley of the Sacramento. 
The beautiful snow will ornament the mountains to the east 
for the next five months and the bracing air will tone up 
the most debilitated and enervated as they come from the hot, 
malarial valleys below; and as they enjoy this grand scenery and 
the “ glorious climate,” their minds turnback to those hot days 
in June, July and August, and wish there might be some 
blending of the heat of summer with the chill of this mount¬ 
ain winter air. Thousands of people from the east daily 
pass through Auburn in their rash haste to get to worse 
places, who would do well to stop a few days at Auburn and 
inspire its pure air and drink the pure water, and take in 
the inspiration of its diversified and romantic scenery, and 
eat of its luscious fruits and grapes, which are grown so 
abundantly everywhere, all over California. No better place 
in the world to test the grape cure, which grow no where to 
greater perfection than on the hills around Auburn and New 
Castle. The writer has frequently been there and knoweth 
whereof he writes, as well as all the other places mentioned in 
this paper, and what I have written is from my own stand¬ 
point of experience and observation, and I expect a whole 
regiment of California editors to jump on me with both feet, 
as they did with Dr. E. M. Hale two years ago; though with 
the main facts stated in his paper 1 fully concur in condem¬ 
nation of certain localities so highly extolled for all pulmonary 
diseases. All the coast region is bad for sixty miles or more from 
the ocean, excepting some few localities which, on account 
of elevation, freedom from fogs and protection from ocean 
winds and maximum ozone. All invalids coming here should 
have impressed on their minds the fact that there is a marked 
difference in temperature let ween the shady and sunny side of 
the street for a residence, if ever so temporary. And if the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



248 Observations on the Climate of the Pacific Coast . April 

sunny rooms of Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Jose are all 
occupied, they had better hunt the State over for a sunny 
room, rather than “ take up” with a sunless room where the 
cool, frosty air will linger the major part of the day, and all 
invalids after walking or exercising in the warm sunshine will 
take cold on returning to their rooms and experience a marked 
aggravation of their troubles, as in those Southern resorts 
the average hotel or lodging house keeper is “ not there for 
his health,” but to make money, and fuel is a most expensive 
luxury which only the rich can afford. Let me illustrate: 
H. D., aged 47, for many years a resident of California, lived on 
a ranch in the foothills of Rincon mountain, five miles from 
town, good elevation, with a sunny slope toward the south 
and west, with a grand soul-inspiring view from every win¬ 
dow and veranda of his residence over the whole Rincon 
valley—a very beau ideal of a home, making life cheerful 
and pleasant—became impressed with the idea that “he was 
working himself to death” in his thirty-acre vineyard (just 
the kind of work and air and surroundings that he needed to 
perfect his physical condition and prolong his life), rented his 
place and moved to Santa Rosa to engage in the real estate 
business in a cold, sunless office on the shady side of the 
street. In a few months he applied to me for relief from 
“shortness of breath, hoarseness, pallor, emaciation, and 
slight hacking cough.” Physical examination revealed les¬ 
sened respiratory murmur and bronchial respiration, cold 
extremities, somewhat feverish. Phos. 30 with advice to get 
on sunny side of street and keep much in open air, which was 
not heeded; continued to hug the stove in the same chilly 
office several weeks, when a slight haemorrhage alarmed him 
and he moved across the street with only temporary improve¬ 
ment. He then visited several noted health resorts and 
returned last summer and moved back to his ranch where he 
seemed to gain strength and appetite from moderate out-door 
exercise and hill-climbing, till the present month he was able 
to ride to town and back every day. On October 12 he had a 
telegram to come to San Francisco on business, which trip 
seemed to tire him out, as he did an unusual amount of walk¬ 
ing while in the city. He returned to the ranch October 13th, 
slept well all night, had a slight coughing spell at 5 A. M., 
the 14th, then a rush of blood and all was over. His life was 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Carbolic Acid in Intermittent Fever . 


249 


no doubt sacrificed to those few months' residence on the 
sunny side of the street. E. Beckwith. 

Santa Rosa, Cal. 


CARBOLIC ACID IN INTERMITTENT FEVER. * 

I. 

A gentleman, aged about 28, living in the malarious dis¬ 
trict of Pfirnid, consulted me in June, 1883, for chronic mala¬ 
rious Intermittent Fever, with enlargement of the spleen 
from which he was suffering from January, 1883. In the 
acute stage he was treated allopathically with the routine 
fever mixture and massive doses of Quince Sulph. which 
apparently cured the fever and left the spleen enormously 
enlarged in all directions, and quite indurated. The fever, 
both in the acute and chronic states, was of a Quotidian 
type, with an interval of from 1 to 2 hours. The fever, 
in the acute stage, was cured in two weeks by the above treat¬ 
ment. The patient, as I was told, and as I gathered from the 
prescriptions, swallowed about 360 grains of Quinine in twelve 
days. After this treatment the patient remained well (?) for 
a couple of months or so, during which he took the so-called 
tonic mixtures . In March, 1883, he was again laid up with 
Quotidian Intermittent Fever, and suffered from it contin¬ 
uously till June, 1883, when he came down to Calcutta and 
consulted me. After examining the patient on the 28th 
June, 1883, I prescribed Arsenic 30, three doses daily for a 
week. On the 5th July, 1883, I saw the patient again, when 
I found no perceptible change for the better in him, and at 
the same time no other medicine than Arsenic was indicated 
in his case. I prescribed Arsenic 12, three doses daily for a 
week. This treatment also did the patient no good. On the 
15th July, 1883, I prescribed Ceanothus tinct., in five-drop 
doses, and at the same time ordered an external application of 
the medicine over the region of the spleen. Even two months' 
Ceanothus treatment did the patient no good, and he became 
extremely anaemic. As might naturally be expected, he became 
impatient to change the treatment; but his wife, who had been 
cured by me of her dysmenorrhcea when many other phy¬ 
sicians here had failed even to give partial relief, would not 

* Southern Homeopathic Association, 1889. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



250 


Carbolic Acid in Intermittent Fever . 


April 


change the treatment. So she left her husband under my 
treatment, and gave me assurance that he would be under my 
treatment as long as I did not give up the case as past my 
treatment. Now, my responsibility in this case doubly 
increased, and I did not know what to do. On the 18th 
September, 1883, I examined the patient and found that 
almost all the symptoms of Arsenic were present, so I 
prescribed it at the 12th potency, three doses daily for a 
week again. On the 26th September, 1883, I saw the 
patient again, when I found there was no fever, but the 
spleen remained enlarged and indurated as before. His pres¬ 
ence at Purni& being required by his master, the patient 
went back there. He remained well (?) there for about 
three months, after which he got another attack of quotidian 
intermittent fever on the 2d December, 1883. For two 
weeks he took no medicine, but as he began to grow worse 
his wife got alarmed and brought him down to Calcutta for 
treatment and consulted me again. On the 26th December, 
1883, I saw the patient, and from that day I examined him 
daily, and watched his case for a week, but gave him no medi¬ 
cine. At this time 1 had fairly studied the case, and noticed 
the following symptoms : Heaviness in the head and dull 
headache, the patient feeling as though an elastic bandage 
was kept tied around his forehead, with great disinclination to 
any kind of work, either bodily or mental, and a slight cause 
irritating the patient much. I must mention here that when 
I treated the patient last time, he appeared to me to be of a 
very mild disposition. I noticed some pustular eruptions on 
the upper part of the left eyebrow, itching and burning to 
the great annoyance of the patient. 1 also noticed that the 
patient felt much pain or uneasiness over the right eyebrow 
of a neuralgic character. He felt a distressing sensation of 
burning all over the face which looked bloated. There was 
loss of appetite, with nausea and often inclination to vomit; 
there was tympanitic distension of the abdomen, relieved by 
belching of wind by eructations which were rather frequent, 
and the belching was almost invariably preceded or followed 
by rumbling of the abdomen. The patient had five or six 
fetid stools day and night and the stools were of such stuff 
ns might be mistaken for rice water stools of cholera; the 
urine was brown-colored, with very strong odor like that of 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


R. K. Ghosh. 


251 


horse's urine; there was short dry cough during the fever, 
with tickling in the throat, though on examination I could 
detect nothing wrong in the lungs or any other thoracic 
organ. The patient felt pain in the muscles, particularly in 
those of the back. During the fever the lower limbs seemed 
feeling heavy and benumbed. I also noticed some pustular 
eruptions about the angle of the mouth and over the lips. 
The patient also felt much itching all over his body during 
the fever. The fever came on between 4 and 5 p. m. The 
patient felt no chill or rigors at the commencement; but dur¬ 
ing the hot stage he felt alternate chill and heat similar to 
those which we generally notice in hectic fever and pyaemic 
condition of the system. In no stage of the fever had he any 
thirst; but he felt a peculiar sensation of dryness in the 
mouth, throat and the lips in all the stages of the fever on ac¬ 
count of which he had to lick his lips constantly. From what I 
had gathered from a study of Carbolic Acid poisoning cases and 
the resemblance of their symptoms with those of pyaomic or 
septic poisoning of the system to which Carbolic Acid has 
proved to be of very good service in my hands, and from a 
remembrance of the marked effect which Dr. D. Supta’s 
patent medicine, which seems to have an admixture of Car¬ 
bolic Acid in an appreciable quantity, is seen to have on 
chronic malarious fever or chronic malarial infection in this 
country, I was first led to the belief that Carbolic Acid might 
have some effect in this case. On a reference to our Materia 
Medica, I found that tome of the most prominent symptoms 
of this case corresponded with some of the pathogenetic symp¬ 
toms of the drug. Accordingly I prescribed it at the 6x 
potency, three doses daily. After the 6th dose was taken the 
fever stopped on the second day and it did not come for the 
next ten days, after which the fever came on again. I was 
called again to see the patient. This time the fever com¬ 
menced between 7 and 8 p. m. and continued till 5 or 6 P. M. 
next day,when the fever left the patient entirely after profuse 
perspiration, and the patient fell into profound sleep and 
slept for an hour or two, after which the fever commenced 
again between 7 and 8 p. m. This way the fever continued 
for three days. In this attack also, I noticed chill and heat 
almost alternating during the hot stage, and did not find the 
indications of any other medicine than those of Carbolic 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



252 


Carbolic Add in Intermittent Fever . 


ApbiIt 


Acid, so I prescribed it again, but at the 3x potency, three 
doses daily. On the second day, or after the third dose of 
Carbolic Acid 3x was taken, the fever stopped and it did not 
recur for three months, after which it came on again with the 
same train of symptoms as above enumerated. The spleen 
also remained enlarged and indurated as before. This case 
solely engrossed my attention now, and it puzzled me so 
much that I was about to give up the treatment of the case 
as hopeless, as I was not able to hit at the proper remedy for 
this suffering young man’s case; hut on a second thought (I 
do not know why) I was led to the belief that Carbolic Acid 
would help me in curing the patient. I am of opinion that 
fever coming on later than the usual time is a good sign, 
more especially in malarious intermittents, and I concluded 
that the change in the hour of accession of the fever was the 
result of Carbolic Acid treatment. I also believed that a still 
lower potency than the 3d might do some service in this 
patient’s case. I accordingly prescribed Carbolic Acid lx, 
three doses daily, and to my great delight and to the surprise 
of the patient the fever stopped after the 3d dose of Carbolic 
Acid lx was taken, and it did not recur. The spleen which 
had got enormously enlarged and indurated gradually de¬ 
creased. In December, 1885, the patient came here and 
told me that he had been doing well ever since he had been 
cured by me with Carbolic Acid lx, and on examination I 
found that the spleen was not at all perceptible, and the 
patient looked very healthy. In March, 1888, the patient 
saw me again in connection with his wife’s ailments, when 
he told me that he was doing well. In September last the 
patient saw me, when he told me rather dogmatically that Car¬ 
bolic Acid lx was a very good medicine for intermittent 
Fever, with enlarged and indurated spleen, as be said he had 
cured many cases of the kind among the coolies employed 
under him in the Phrni& district with this remedy. 

From a study of the cases of poisoning by Carbolic Acid, 
as also of the pathogenesy of the drug, it will be seen that 
almost all the symptoms of the fever in this case corre¬ 
sponded with the so-called pathogenetic symptoms of the 
drug, and it is no wonder that I should have got such good 
results from its use in the treatment of the case under 
review. My personal observation of this case and a few 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


R. K. Ghosh. 


253 


other cases of intermittent fever of malarial origin, which I 
have successfully treated with Carbolic Acid, have led me to 
the belief that it is a very good medicine for intermittent 
fever of malarial origin, both acute and chronic, especially 
the latter, with enlarged and indurated spleen. My personal 
observation has also led me to the conclusions that Carbolic 
Acid is indicated in cases of intermittents where (1) the fever 
is of the quotidian type; there is no chill or rigors at the 
commencement of the fever, and where chill and heat alter¬ 
nate during the hot stage; (2) where fever commences 
between 4 and 8 p. m. ; (3) where the temperature rises sud¬ 
denly, even up to 105° Fah.; (4) where there is much 
itching of the body during the hot stage; (5) where there 
is little or no thirst, but dryness of the throat, mouth and 
lips, on account of which the patient is compelled to lick his 
lips constantly in all stages of the fever; (6) where there is 
profuse perspiration before intermission and profound sleep 
after intermission, which is very marked, and the interval is 
of very short duration , say from one to two hours at the 
most; (7) where pustular eruptions appear in the angle of 
the mouth ; (8) where the spleen is enormously enlarged and 
indurated (in chronic cases); (9) where the disposition of 
the patient is irritable and the head symptoms are prominent 
and distressing. 

From the excellent results which I have been getting from 
the use of Carbolic Acid in the treatment of chronic and 
acute intermittents, especially the former, of malarial origin, 
I am inclined to recommend it to the profession for an exten¬ 
sive trial in such cases when occasion offers. I am sorry I 
could not make mention of this useful agent in my book on 
4t FeVers and their Treatment on Homoeopathic Principles/’ 
published in June last, as my clinical notes were missing 
when the manuscript for the book was sent to press. I have 
regular records of several cases of chronic and acute inter¬ 
mittent fever which were cured or much benefited by Car¬ 
bolic Acid, and I hope to publish them by and by. 

B. K. Ghosh. 

Calcutta, January 14,1801. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



254 


High Potencies . 


April 


HIGH POTENCIES. 

Until enlightened I have been among the majority. A few 
of the leading characteristics of the remedies were fixed in 
the mind, and when a case presented these indications, the 
two remedies coming to mind were given in alternation. I 
was never guilty of giving more than two, and always be¬ 
lieved Homoeopathy was of itself sufficient to cure disease 
without the aid of allopathic adjuncts. At times my first pre • 
scription of the alternation of two remedies, would not do the 
work assigned them. Then another selection was made. As 
with all such prescribers, I had use for but few books. Cow- 
perthwaite’s, Burt’s, Guernsey’s Key Notes, Cleveland’s Sali¬ 
ent, and a few others were all that were necessary. Cowper- 
thwaite’s is good as far as it goes, and it would be well for 
all to have it, yet it is but an abridgement. I would not wish 
to do without it, but I have no use for the others mentioned, 
except, possibly, Guernsey’s Key Notes as a mentor to lead 
my mind to something better. Bryant’s Pocket Manual was 
all that was necessary in the way of repertories. 

I was very fortunate in happening to subscribe for the two 
medical journals devoting their space to the advocacy of pure 
Homoeopathy—Hahnemannian Homoeopathy—the Medical 
Advance and the Homoeopathic Physician . 

In reading of the cures effected with lm., 40m., 70m., cm., 
etc., I was wont to allow my lip to curl in the smile of 
incredulity. I wished my cases would be so wondrously 
cured—spontaneous recoveries—I imagined. That these 
high potencies acted, according to the deluded advocates of 
them, “more promptly, effectively, and permanently,” I 
thought was moonshine, the result of imaginary cures. Yet 
the old rule of “line upon line,” etc., had the result of pro¬ 
ducing a comparison, and caused me to examine into the 
merits of these cranks. Their acute cases had rapid recov¬ 
eries without a crisis. I knew mine were very frequently in 
the same category with the Allopath’s; cures in spite of the 
crisis. Yet I was called a “good doctor” because I cured 
such “severe cases.” I knew my chronic cases would improve 
grandly for a time, then I would come to the conclusion of the 
allopathic physicer, that the cas9 was incurable. I remem¬ 
ber a case of goitre having the indications of Iodium. It 
nearly disappeared during the first ten days of treatment. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. A . Tingling. 


255 


A wonderful cure! After that it speedily became larger than 
ever; too much medicine. No remedy would affect it in any 
way, nor stop the rapid growth. I lost the case. 

This “ line upon line,” found in the pages of these journals, 
caused me to think of a similar time, when I was led to 
exchange the garb of a “ regular," for the shining mantle of 
a despised homoeopath. I saw that the high potencies, or 
spontaneous cures, or chance, or something, had better results 
than I could get. I prescribed fully. I selected my remedies, 
frequently, with book in hand. I bought more books. The 
results were quite perceptibly better; but I could not reach 
the goal claimed by the high potency cranks. Like the prodi¬ 
gal son, I finally “came to myself." I said to my better 
judgment: What is the use of condemning the high poten¬ 
cies without a hearing? It is my duty to get the best. I am 
paid to cure diseases in the best manner obtainable. I am 
practicing medicine from principle, not for the fun of it, nor 
simply for the pay. There must be conscience in this busi¬ 
ness. Duty must be obeyed. 

I ordered some of the 200, 500, 1000, 10m., cm. Shall 
these be given upon a few leading indications? No; I am 
after the truth. Prescribe them only when you have the 
assurance of the true simillimum. These were given with a 
great deal of incredulity, but carefully. Hard cases were 
selected. A crucial test was to be made . 

The result: 1. I have need of more books; complete, 
full books, and greater study. I must have the best reper¬ 
tories, the fullest works on Materia Medica, and Therapeu¬ 
tics. This implies expense, but then I am making more 
money by being called long distances to neighboring cities and 
towns by men who have the cash to pay. 

2. I find myself studying the Materia Medica with the real 
delight of a good novel. I pick it up at every spare moment, 
for there is interest and real gold in them. 

3. Most of my acute cases go through without a crisis, 
and my curable chronic cases go to the end constantly 
improving to a happy, permanent cure, while my incurable 
patients shall die in peace. I have had none so far. 

4. I use the single remedy and nothing lower than the 
200, with adecided preference for the higher potencies, know¬ 
ing by actual trial and close observation that the high poten¬ 
cies do act “ more promptly, effectively and permanently.” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



256 


High Potencies . 


April 


I will add a few of my first high potency cases, showing 
what led me on the road ending in my becoming a “ crank" 
on the high potency question and a firm believer in the power 
of pure and unadulterated Homeopathy. These cases are not 
so severe as some I could report, but they show the “ more 
prompt effective and permanent" power of the high poten¬ 
cies. The empiric could have seen them get well, possibly, but 
he could not have cured them so promptly and permanently. 

Cholera morbus in a women three months pregnant; exces¬ 
sive vomiting, retching and purging; cold sweat on forehead. 
One small powder of Veratrum 200 in ten spoonfuls of water, 
one spoonful every half hour till better, then stop. One 
spoonful entirely cured. From the great straining during 
vomiting this woman came near aborting. Next day I was 
called to find her flooding alarmingly; could not move with¬ 
out increase of flow; severe bearing down pains; pains from 
hack to pubis, etc. This was a very trying case; there was 
immediate danger and the necessity of prompt relief. One 
powder of Sabina 1000, in water as above, one spoonful 
entirely cured the case. She was up and around in less than 
forty-eight hours as well as usual; no return of trouble. I 
used no adjuncts, no cold water, nothing but the remedy in 
this case, and had her remain perfectly quiet. 

A case of mountain fever (really, abortive typhoid) develop¬ 
ing strongly a typhoid crisis. Belladonna 200 and Apis. 200, - 
were given as indicated with the best results. On the eighth day 
I found tympanitis and peritonitis caused by improper nurs¬ 
ing and inattention to directions. Picture a sod house of two 
illy arranged small rooms, crowded with the usual household 
effects, wheat in a large bin, the flurry of a crowd of thresh¬ 
ers, the only child of poor, ignorant parents and no suitable 
diet possible, and who would wonder that a threatened crisis 
came. I selected Mer. cor. 1000, by the aid of my Materia 
Medica at the bed side. I was not “turned off" for using 
the book, and in twenty-four hours the child was past the 
danger line, and made a good recovery, being convalescent in 
less than fourteen days from the beginning. I have lost no 
case since using the high potencies'. 

I have used Santouine lx and Cina 3x in worm troubles, 
but have never seefa any indications of worms per stool from 
their use. After I began to use the “ scientific" potencies 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. A. Yingling . 


257 


(look up the meaning of “ scientific ” in Webster), I had a 
case where Cina 3x failed to bring away any worms. After 
some weeks I gave one dose of Cina 10 m, and each stool 
following contained pieces and whole worms. In eight or 
ten days improvement and the passage of worms ceased. 
Another single dose of the same was followed by the same 
results. 

The presiding elder M. E. Church was taken sick while 
out on his circuit. He telegraphed ahead to his next appoint¬ 
ment, “sick/* left the town where there were six doctors, 
one a dualpath, (that is a conglomeration of two antagonistic, 
ununitable schools of physic) and came twenty-five miles to 
me for a speedy and sure cure, having received such for 
another sickness. A very severe diarrhoea with frequent, 
thin, watery, yellowish stools, that threatened to bring him 
to a sick bed of weeks, as he thought, was cured immediately, 
for after one dose, dry on the tongue, of Podophyllum 500, he 
had no more trouble. He received the dose at 5 p. m., and 
was himself, well as usual, the next morning when he arose. 

I could add many cases but time and space forbid. From 
my experience I am constrained to use exclusively the high 
in preference to the low potencies, and to rest my severest 
cases on the single remedy with no repetition of the first dose, 
if there be immediate aggravation of the main symptoms, or 
any improvement, till I wait and have a reason for repeating. 

The object of this paper is to induce the reader to investi¬ 
gate for himself, as I did, and to do it honestly . All who 
have done so know what the result will be. Duty calls for 
the best means of cure. Denial is not argument; incredulity 
is not reason; opposition is not investigation. The allopath 
looks upon the low, as many homeopaths look upon the high 
potencies. The same cause prevents either adopting some¬ 
thing better than he now has. W. A. Yingling. 

N OUCHALANTA. KANSAS. 


CHOREA: STRAMONIUM. 

Saturday, July 14, 1866. Harry S-,«ged 12 years, of 

rather a light complexion, about usual development for boy 
of his age and very studious habits. Had just been admitted 
into the Philadelphia Central High School, though a year 
under the admitting age. 


gitized by VjOOQle 


258 


Chorea: Stramonium . 


April 


His mother had first noticed a twitching and shrugging of 
right shoulder and arm, then he would grasp for articles he 
wanted, then he lost the power to write on account of shak¬ 
ing of his hand; this state developed until every movement 
of his right limbs and side was of a spasmodic nature. On 
attempting to walk he would reach out suddenly with his 
right arm and leg as though going to grasp something. 
When eating his meals his fork would make several revolu¬ 
tions about his eyes and nose, until finally coming opposite 
his mouth he would jerk his head forward and snap it off in 
his mouth. On discovering any one watching him, would set 
up a piteous sobbing and crying. 

The fact that his trouble was on the right side wholly and 
the tendency to tearfulness led me to give Ignatia 200; still 
the symptoms increased in severity, no aggravation nor 
amelioration, but gradually growing worse, his mind became 
more and more affected, he would subside into an idiotic 
giggle and seem very foolish in his actions. After waiting 
two weeks, gave Sulphur 200; another week and then Calca- 
rea 200 for still another week. 

Now his father reports that in addition to his former symp¬ 
toms he would stand before the looking glass and make 
grimaces and gesticulations, seeming to be in great glee; on 
discovering any one peeping at him through the door, would 
fall down on all fours, scramble to a corner and hide his face 
in his hands and weep piteously. This led to Stramonium 
200, one dose. Next day, Sunday morning, had no vestige 
of the chorea except the unsteadiness of his hand, which pre¬ 
vented him from forming letters. On the next Saturday 
evening there was no change, had no symptoms but the 
trembling of hand when he attempted to write. Stramonium 
2000. 

On Sunday following could write as well as ever, mind per¬ 
fectly restored and appeared to be in good health. During 
ten years after there was no return, and I believe has never 
been any trouble since. 

SUPPRESSED SYPHILIS. 

Wednesday, April28,1875. Chas. W-, aged 29, medium 

complexion, well built man, farm hand. Terrible ear ache, 
throbbing, aching and sticking pain inside the ear, had to go 
to bed and send for physician. Hepar 200 in water every 2 
hours till better. 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


Chorea: Stramonium. 


259 


Thursday called, but he had gone to depot with team per- 
fectly well, the abscess had broken the day before and dis¬ 
charged a quantity of pus with entire relief. 

Called May 20th to pay his bill. “Doctor, could that 
medicine have caused a chancre to come on my penis ?” “Yes, 
if you ever had syphilis.” “ Well I had a chancre when I was 
about 18 years old. I was in the navy at the time and the 
ship surgeon had trouble curing me with black wash and 
transferred me to marine hospital where I was cured and dis¬ 
charged . Ever since I have had poor health and have been 
working on farms from here to Missouri. My brother is a 
physician on Broad street in Philadelphia, and tells me it is 
the best I can do. I have had a spell of sickness every spring, 
some fever or other, and every doctor I have had has asked me 
if I had syphilis, and said that was the cause ; since I took 
your medicine I have felt like a new man. Now, if you can 
cure the chancre Fll be entirely well.” I suggested that he 
had felt too well, is the way he got the chancre. No, he 
said, he had been absolutely unable to have connection since 
his treatment in the navy, and in fact had no desire that way 
and did not care for women's company. 

The chancre was a depressed surface on the upper side of 
the glans extending from the corona nearly to the upper 
edges, slightly elevated and had the appearance of being cov¬ 
ered with a thin gold-beater’s skin. Sac. lac. morning, noon 
and night for a week. In four days he returned, frightened, 
afraid the “ head of the penis would drop off; ” the ulcera¬ 
tion had spread around the corona and appeared to have 
eaten deeply in to it. Stopped the medicine and gave him 
a similar package of Sac. lac. to be taken, one every three 
hours; called in a week, much better. 

Aug. 12th. Wanted to be cured of clap. After he saw 
me the last time his passions had come on so strong he was 
forced to hunt up a woman, hence his present condition. 

April 7, 1880. Walter G.-, aged 11, medium complex¬ 

ion, stout build, sluggish, dull, disliked school, played truant 
whenever he got a chance, would work very well at anything 
physical, but did not like to read. First noticed that he 
would get by himself and giggle and laugh, would sober up 
immediately and look stolid, stupid when anyone noticed him; 
afterwards twiching the shoulders and arms or trembling all 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



260 


Lachesis SO cent. 


April 


over. Said it commenced with a pain in his stomach, and 
then spread upwards, twitchingof corners of mouth and facial 
muscles, especially at the table (mealtimes) became taciturn, 
quiet; could get nothing out of him in answer to questions. 
Cuprum 200 one dose, without placebo, with orders to report 
when worse, or in one week if better. At end of week 
reported, bad again, had been much better immediately 
after the medicine and brighter and brighter ever since, but 
the last two days the twitching had been getting worse; it had 
never altogether left. One dose Cuprum 200, to report in 
one week. Reported had been better ever since. One dose 
Sac. lac., to report in one week. Reported worse, been quite 
bad the last three or four days, growing worse and worse. One 
dose Cuprum 200. This is the last dose he had ; the improve¬ 
ment was gradual from this time, passing away some time 
within three weeks. 


LACHESIS 30 CENT. 

IN A CASE OF SNAKE-BITE CURED BY DR. THORER IN GOERLITZ. 

Mrs. B., in C., aged thirty-six, robust and healthy, July 
29, was bitten by an adder in the field when turning rye. 
Besides violent pain she felt at once a severe burning in the 
wound. She was so frightened that she could not speak and 
nearly fainted; the whole foot commenced to swell rapidly, 
and she could not use it for walking. She had to be placed 
in a wagon and carried in this way into the village. In the 
meantime the continually increasing swelling of the foot was 
tried to prevent by binding living frogs upon the wound, by 
ligation of the suffering limb above the seat of injury; and by 
frequently giving buttermilk as a drink, proper position, etc., 
they tried to alleviate the pains which were burning like hell- 
fire, but it was all in vain. 

Dr. Thorer continues: “I was called July 30th, but, hav¬ 
ing been abroad, I had returned too late in the night to call. 

‘• July 31st, in the forenoon, I went to see the patient, and 
found the following pathogenetic picture: 

“ Patient was sitting in an easy chair, the sick foot extended 
on a bench. The limb was swollen from the point of the 
great toe to the inguinal region, evenly, as if going to burst; 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


Lachesis SO cent . 


2C1 


hard, of an erysipelatous appearance, extremely painful on 
touching it. Some water blisters, size of a pea, were on the 
instep; at other places the epidermis was burst open and 
exuded a watery fluid. The wound from the bite could not 
be detected under the most exact scrutiny. Patient com¬ 
plained of violent abdominal pains, and of an intolerable, 
indescribable burning in the whole limb, extending from the 
instep as far as the abdomen. She felt distinctly how the 
burning sensation went higher and higher, from below upward, 
as also the swelling; the abdomen began already to swell. 
The head was confused, drowsy, and on rising, dizzy. She 
saw colored shapes before the eyes; felt inclination to vomit; 
complained of violent thirst; tongue clean, but no appetite; 
intestinal function normal; micturition increased.” 

All these symptoms gave me not much time for medita¬ 
tion, especially as there was periculum in morn . Lachesis 
was the first thought; and of 

Lachesis 3 ) cent, patient received one drop of the tinct¬ 
ure at once, and besides three powders of milk sugar were 
prepared, each of them medicated with one drop of the same 
potency. Patient was to take the second powder if the pains 
would not subside in a few hours. I would call again in the 
evening. But, already at 5 p. m., the husband came for me, 
and asked me to see his wife, since she could not endure any 
longer the furiously raging pains, which, after taking the 
first powder, had increased to an unbearable degree; if not 
soon alleviation could be afforded. I went immediately, and 
found Mrs. B. in the greatest excitement, so that she was 
unable to say anything. She cried incessantly at the raging 
pains; she would burn up; she cried for help; and the facial 
muscles twitched convulsively, similar to the convulsions 
observed from hydrophobia.* Patient received now Lachesis 
3uth, one drop in milk sugar, being the second powder left. 
For a drink nothing should be given than water and milk. 

I could hardly await the next morning; my curiosity was 
strained to the highest. I read again the pathopoetic symp¬ 
toms of Lachesis by Dr. Hering, and was much elated, when 
I found the remark: “ The more violent the reaction will set 

♦Compare the beautiful cure of hydrophobia, by Dr. Von Boenninghausen, 
with one single drop of Hyoscyamus 12 cent. (Medical Advance, Oct. 1886, p. 
860.) Can any other school of medicine show anything like these two cases ? 
See also Hahnemann's M. M. Pura, 2d ed., Vol. IV, p. 45, note to Hyoscyamus. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



262 


Lachesis SO cent . 


April 


in after the first dose the surer an early improvement will take 
place.” It was an agreeable sign that I was not called in the 
night. In the morning I hurried immediately to my patient, 
and oh! glorious Hering! found the full confirmation of this 
purely practical remark. Patient after the second dose had 
had the most violent pains till after midnight, and then grad¬ 
ually came to rest. She even had slept a few hours, though 
with many dreams and fancies. She was more quiet, had less 
pain, the yesterday so hard, and erysipelatous looking limb 
swollen to bursting was softer, and left dents to pressure with 
the finger; she had no appetite yet, but the thirst was less; 
nausea, headache, dizziness on rising, and the general excite¬ 
ment had disappeared. She was again hopeful to get well — 
in one word, evident convalescence had commenced. 

Hering says on Lachesis: “ That it has to be repeated 
more frequently than any other remedy, for as lonq as the symp¬ 
toms last, during the proving of th is medicine , as little is it the 
case in the cures ” 

Upon this recommendation I gave August 1st, in the fore¬ 
noon, the powder No. 3, containing a drop of Lachesis 30 in 
milk sugar. 

Shortly after this the most violent pains in the suffering 
foot and leg commenced anew, and lasted nearly two hours, 
but then they gradually lessened. Patient kept pretty well 
during the following night. 

August 2d (the fifth day after the bite), I found patient 
extremely cheerful and satisfied with her condition. She 
complained only of a little pain. The swelling of the thigh 
and knee was almost entirely gone, also the swelling of the 
lower leg had gone down by one half, and was soft; the water 
blisters were dried up. Patient had, not without appetite, 
taken some spoonfuls of water-soup (bread, boiling water, a 
little butter and salt). 

R. Nihil. 

August 3. Patient was more restless before midnight, 
but after midnight had a quiet and refreshing sleep till morn¬ 
ing. She could now bend her knee, and ate her soup with 
increased appetite. 

R . Nihil. 

August 5th. Patient sleeps well, eats well; only a little 
swelling on the instep is observable, but without pain even on 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


B. Fincke. 


263 


touch. She can walk and stand, bend her knee and foot, and 
since she was perfectly well every way, she was dismissed as 
cured. 

This was the eighth day after the bite. During the whole 
treatment the suffering foot was only the first days covered 
with fresh cabbage leaves, but latterly it was merely wrapped 
in a piece of fine old linen. 

COHMENTS. 

This unique case which thus far has not been printed, ex¬ 
cept in a little lay paper,* long after the death of the author, 
is full of suggestions, of which a few are offered in the fol¬ 
lowing remarks : 

Nobody can deny that this case was one of the much feared 
species of blood poisonings, for which the physico-chemical 
school has no help but the amputating knife as the last 
resort, and this in the present instance would hardly have 
brought about a happy termination even if the lower extrem¬ 
ity affected would have been sacrificed. The short shrift in 
such cases is: “ Blood poisoning stated by the physician, 

death." 

The tardy help which the homoeopathician, one of the best 
that ever lived, could bring on the third day after the tite 
was indeed speedy enough and not the less effective as the 
sequel proved. Any surgical interference appeared to be out 
of question, since evidently the effect of the poison pervaded 
the whole system, and the life-force was in serious danger. 
“Nothing to be done" would have been the verdict of those 
who do not know the powerful and beneficent action of the 
similar potency of homoeopathies. The homoeopathician took 
the picture of the present totality of the symptoms and found 
immediately the striking likeness to it in the pathopoetic pic¬ 
ture of Lachesis, the first proving of which we owe to the 
genius and courage of Dr. C. Hering, whose name is a house¬ 
hold word in the homoeopathic world. Dr. Thorer, after 
being sure of the correct selection of his remedy, did not 
think of giving a low potency to which he might have attri¬ 
buted superior strength on account of its coming nearer to 
materiality which many erroneously take for the only reality 
in existence, but fearlessly he followed not the dictate but the 
admonition of the Master, who recommended the thirtieth 

♦Horn. MonatsblKtter, Stuttgart, Vol. VII, p. 142. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



264 


Lachesis SO cent. 


April 


potency for practice as being able to cure anything that from 
a homoeopathic remedy could be expected, and gave that 
very thirtieth centesimal potency. And see how precisely 
according to Organon § 157 the homoeopathic aggravation 
followed the first dose immediately after taking it! But 
Hahnemann speaks of “a kind of slight'aggravation in the 
first hours,” and § 159 he says: “ The smaller the dose, of 
the homoeopathic remedy , the smaller and shorter also is this 
apparent heightening of the disease in the first hours ” The 
present aggravation in the case before us teaches emphatic¬ 
ally that, though the 30th cent, used to be called an infini¬ 
tesimal dose, it by no means was infinitesimal enough, and a 
much higher potency would probably have avoided this 
unnecessary aggravation and induced at once a speedy, pleas¬ 
ant and permanent cure. This, of course, is not intended to 
throw even an infinitesimal of blame upon the eminent prac¬ 
titioner to whom we are indebted for this inestimable experi¬ 
ence, but it is only proposed as a consequence of the dictum 
of Hahnemann in combination with our own experience with 
Lachesis, the same Lachesis which came from Dr. Bering's 
own hand, of which we now have in addition to the original 
proving of him, published at Allentown in 1837, provings 
with the 41m. cm., 2M., 3M.,4M., 5M., 6M., 7M., 8M., 9M. 
(M denoting the millionth centesimal potency, as m stands 
for the thousandth). It stands to reason, that when a 30th 
was able to produce the serious aggravation we see after the 
first dose, a 9M or an intermediate high potency might have 
prevented it. For it is not pleasant to observe these aggra¬ 
vations upon our patients, and we ought to learn to avoid 
them, which, according to Hahnemann's observations, we 
may be enabled to do, if we have nerve enough to apply in 
the most trying cases the more or less extreme potencies 
which even in the state of health have power enough to dis¬ 
tune the life-force with surprising energy. In order to get 
more light upon this subject, we have to continue Hahne¬ 
mann's work of proving and reproving not only the crude 
drugs and low preparations, but the high and highest poten¬ 
cies which, in able hands, give a far richer pathopoetic har¬ 
vest than the lower end of the scale can ever promise. 

When the aggravation was at its highest, in the afternoon 
about 5 p. m.. Dr. Thorer, at the hand of the remark of Dr. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


b . Fincke . 


265 


Hering about repetition of the dose, gave the second powder 
of the same potency, and even after this second dose the 
aggravation went on uninterruptedly till midnight, after 
which time the life force approached its normal equilibrium 
again and patient found some rest after midnight. From 
that time convalescence seemed to commence (in the com¬ 
mon phrase: reaction set in), when in the forenoon of the 
fourth day the Doctor, elated and seductfd by the remark of 
Dr. Hering, though the improvement was clearly established, 
gives the third powder, and produces by it another aggrava¬ 
tion for two hours. After this, now real manifest convales¬ 
cence set in, without any more need of medicine and any 
other drawbacks. It may also be supposed, that the second 
dose did not act at all, as the aggravation went right on 
without intermission till midnight. According to Hahne¬ 
mann the pathopoetic force of Lachesis took the place of the 
pathogenetic force in the organism and equalizing it by its 
simility enabled the life-force to resume its functions with 
the necessary energy for the restoration of health. The 
aggravation, then, represents too great an action (over-action) 
by the pathopoetic upon the life-force which surpassed the 
amount of the pathogenetic force, requiring only equalization, 
because the remedy was not exactly proportioned in its potency 
to the amount of susceptibility of the life force. But, clearly, 
the life force had gained in restorative strength on the fourth 
day when the third dose produced an aggravation only for 
two hours. 

But the case was cured. Think of it! Three tiny drops 
of a medicine, in which “ neither the senses , nor chemical 
analysis , could discover the least absolutely injurious medica¬ 
ment, not even at all the least properly medicinal thing ,'' 
(Hahnemann's petition to a high magistrate), hence decid¬ 
edly infinitesimal if it were not for its homoeopathic action 
upon the organism. Take heart, you, who are afraid to touch 
high potencies, because distrust, malevolence and ridicule 
stick to them, thrown upon them by an ignorant and invid¬ 
ious world! Do not be afraid of them, apply them in acute 
and chronic cases, but stick to the true doctrine of Hahne¬ 
mann: meeting the totality of the symptoms of disease with 
the totality of the similar symptoms of the remedy, adapted 
to the life force by its potentiation. Do not think: I don't 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



266 


Lachesis SO cent . 


April 


know enough of Materia Medica to prescribe high potencies 
which may act like a rifled cannon and spoil my case utterly, 
if I do not hit on, the simillimum. Is it not much worse 
when you prescribe low potencies and crude drugs (Alas! 
poor Logan!) and that pell-mell, if you do not know enough 
Materia Medica? The medicine in your hand, then, will act 
like a Gatling gun, spreading horror all over your case. Let 
Hahnemann’s stirring words in regard to hydrophobia be a 
warning for ever and ever: “ Large doses of liomceopathically 
commensurate medicines are certainly more injurious, than if 
they had been when administered without similar (homoeo¬ 
pathic) or in opposite (antipathic) relation to the case , i. e* 
quite in the wrong place (allceopathically). In the use of homoeo¬ 
pathic medicine where the totality of the morbid symptoms is 
reached by the medicinal action in great simility, it is a real 
crime , not to give quite small least possible doses; there the 
doses in the quantity as the medicines are prescribed in 
the common routine-practice , are real poisons and instru¬ 
ments of murder” (R. Arzneimittellehre 2. ed. Yol. IV, 
p. 46.) 

If you miss with your high potency, who is hurt? Nobody 
but your own self-appreciation, which gets the shock from 
missing your aim and losing time in the cure. But the high 
potency if not homoeopathic will, on account of its nature of 
minutulity vanish, because there is nothing in it to sus¬ 
tain its action if the organism does not do it. However, 
you will always even by an imperfect knowledge of Materia 
Medica—and who can be perfect in that most difficult of all 
studies?—select a remedy which will approach that Similli¬ 
mum which is the cynosure of the homoeopathician and thus, 
the action of your potency will not be so wide of the mark 
as you may think, and it will not have the deleterious effect 
which frightens your mind as a bug-bear set up by ignorance. 
Hahnemann proclaimed Similia Similibus, not Simillima 
Simillimis, or else he would have used the then more appro¬ 
priate term Aequalia Aequalibus which would not have 
expressed his intention of applying Similia . 

One caution, however, may not be found amiss, that if in 
ordinary practice you have to deal with very sensitive natures, 
you should not go too high in the potencies, if you do not 
want to make provings upon them. For such is 2c. to 9m. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


B. Fincke . 


267 


high enough. Be, therefore, in your practice not afraid 
of those powerful weapons in the hands of a genuine homceo- 
pathician, of the high potencies. 

Another aspect of the second dose given when the aggrava¬ 
tion ran so high that patient did not seem able to further 
endure it, is in the repetition of the same remedy and potency. 
It looks to us—and it is indeed easy to say so when sitting 
quietly writing at the table, as we are well aware—that the 
repetition was uncalled for, because after the second dose 
which should have acted homceopathically upon the aggrava¬ 
tion called out by the first dose, but didn’t, the aggravation 
continued uninterruptedly till midnight. The probability is, 
that the aggravation was rising stili when the second dose 
was given, and as it was in no manner modified by it. Hahn¬ 
emann says, somewhere in the Organon, that in provings 
with frequently repeated doses the repetitions re-act homceo¬ 
pathically upon the previous one and annihilate their actions, 
and this no doubt frequently takes place also in treating dis¬ 
eases, as when Dr. Hering found that Lachesis requires fre¬ 
quent repetition even if it has a range of long action. But it 
did not seem to bear out this doctrine in our present case. 
Perhaps the sameness of the potency was to blame. Perhaps 
the storm of the first dose would have abated, if for a second 
dose a higher potency would have been employed. 

There is not the least doubt, that Hahnemann proposed the 
correct rule for action when he recommended the single dose 
of one remedy to allow to act as long as any improvement 
from it could be perceived. But by that rule he by no means 
repudiated the necessary repetition of a remedy which had 
done well, and ceased to act, when the symptoms remaining 
require it. But he recommended in such cases to change its 
potency to another lower degree. Nay, in case of pericu - 
lum in mora where the life force was in imminent danger to 
be extinguished, he recommended frequent repetitions of the 
indicated remedy as e. g. in Cholera asiatica. 

From the first introduction of high potencies by Jenichen 
a dogma has come down to us, that a high potency must 
never be repeated at all. Try it in practice, do not take any 
dogma for granted because it is backed by a big name. In 
this matter of high potencies it is altogether too soon to lay 
down the law with regard to their administration. But we 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



268 Freedom in Medical Matters . April 

should treat them according to the primary principles of 
Samuel Hahnemann, which, before all, demand that as we 
should individualize the remedy in its selection, we should 
also individualize the dose and potency, as to its selection, and 
just so the repetition of it, and above all the potentiality of 
the life-force upon the restorative power upon which we rely 
in the homoeopathic cure. B. Finoke, M. D. 

Brooklyn. N. Y.. 1890. 


FREEDOM IN MEDICAL MATTERS. 

THE HOMOEOPATHIC ASYLUM AND THE PAUPER INSANE. 

[The Homoeopathic Insane Hospital at Middletown, N. Y., 
has, by strict adherence to homoeopathic practice, so reduced 
the mortality and increased the percentage of cures as to 
incur the jealousy of its allopathic competitors, and the conr 
sequence wa3 the enactment of a law in 1890 depriving the 
homoeopaths of the State for whom it was erected, from the 
benefits of the treatment of their choice. 

As usual the New York Medical Times takes the side of 
allopathy against the homoeopaths of the State, to which Dr. 
Talcott makes a vigorous protest. —Ed.] 

The following is the opinion of the Times Editor: 

“Senator Richardson has introduced a bill to exempt the Middle- 
town Insane Asylum from the operations of the Pauper Insane bill. 
This institution is now on a liberal paying basis, and the fear that the 
pauper insane may encroach upon the confines of wealthy patients who 
occupy two or three rooms has led to the introduction of this bill, 
which, on humanitarian grounds, ought to be beaten.” 

The statement that exemption from the laws of 1890, or 
any amendment in behalf of this hospital, is sought for 
because of a “fear” on the part of the friends of this institu¬ 
tion that the pauper insaue may encroach upon the “confines 
of wealthy patients," is untrue. No such fear exists in the 
minds of the friends of this hospital. The real object of the 
proposed amendment to exempt this institution, to a very 
limited extent, from the provisions of the law of 1890 is to 
secure freedom in medical matters—such freedom as every 
honest man desires either in the government of his own con¬ 
science or in the care of his body or mind when either may 
become diseased. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Selden H. Talcott. 


269 


The proposed amendment does not relieve this institution 
from State supervision, nor does it interfere in any way with 
State care for the insane. It simply provides for the unhin¬ 
dered admission of cases from all parts of the State for whom 
homoeopathic treatment may be desired; and it provides also 
that the rates for board and maintenance of patients shall be 
fixed by the Trustees of this hospital. These Trustees were 
appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, and 
they are pledged by the provisions of Chapter 121 of the 
Laws of 1876 “ to maintain the homoeopathic mode of med¬ 
ical treatment in such asylum." They know the purposes of 
this hospital, and are competent to fulfill them. 

The State of New York established the Middletown State 
Homoeopathic Hospital fora specific and designated purpose, 
and for seventeen years this institution has afforded homoeo¬ 
pathic treatment to those insane persons residing anywhere 
in the Commonwealth whose friends desire in their behalf the 
application of those methods of treatment discovered and 
exemplified by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann. 

Under the provisions of a law passed in 1890, the State 
was divided into as many districts as there are State hospitals 
(with three exceptions), and to each hospital was assigned a 
given district, composed of certain designated counties. The 
State asylums at Auburn, Matteawan and Ward's Island were 
exempted, in the original law, because they were set apart 
for the treatment of certain specified classes of the insane* 
Under the provisions of the law of 1890, insane persons resid¬ 
ing in one hospital district might be sent for treatment to a 
hospital in another district “ in the discretion of the Chair¬ 
man of the State Commission in Lunacy and the Superin¬ 
tendent of such asylum." This provision of the law has 
caused serious delays in some instances in the commitment of 
the acute insane to the hospital of their choice, and in order 
to obviate such delays in the future, and to place the selec¬ 
tion of hospital entirely with the friends or guardians of an 
insane patient, and in order to secure the just and equitable 
right of freedom of medical opinion and action to every citi¬ 
zen in this State, the friends of the hospital ask for an 
amendment to the law of 1890. This amendment provides 
for the commitment to this hospital of those for whom homoe¬ 
opathic treatment is desired ; and it places the regulation of 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



270 


Freedom in Medical Matters . 


April 


rates for board and care of patients in the hands of the Trus¬ 
tees. Nothing could be more fair and equitable than such 
a procedure. The reasons for the amendment are obvious 
to every thoughtful and unbiased citizen who has studied the 
subject. 

In asking for the amendment we do not ask to be relieved 
from State supervision, nor do we interfere in any way with 
the broad and benevolent principle of State care for the 
insane. On the contrary, we ask positively, emphatically, 
and solely for the right and privilege of affording State care 
to all the insane—poor, medium and rich—whose friends 
may prefer for them the homoeopathic method of treatment. 
Homoeopaths do not seek to compel those who prefer “ old 
school” treatment to be placed in this hospital for care; nor 
do homceopafchists wish to be compelled to seek permission 
to enter here from “old school” authorities. 

No private patient occupies “two or three rooms” in any 
of the wards of this hospital. On the contrary, no patient 
is allowed more than one room in a ward, and such room is 
often shared by one of the regular attendants or by another 
patient. At the present time there are 698 patients upon 
the census list of this hospital. Of this number but 23 pay 
more than $10 per week. The remaining 675 are either 
pauper or indigent patients or patients paying low rates of 
board. We have nearly 200 patients who pay from $3 per 
week to $10 per week each, and between 400 and 500 who 
are maintained by the counties from which they come. Last 
year thirty-eight of the sixty counties of this State were 
represented in our wards by patients residing therein. The 
vast majority of paying patients would be pauperized in a 
short time if compelled to purchase care in an expensive pri¬ 
vate institution. While we do not object to private asylums 
for the insane, for those who wish to patronize them, we do 
object most earnestly and strenuously to compulsory patronage 
of private institutions established and designed by their pro¬ 
prietors for the purpose of making money while caring for 
the most helpless beings on earth, to wit, persons who have 
become bereft of their reason. 

It is a strange condition of affairs when the State, having 
erected hospitals for her insane wards, may direct that the 
prodigal lunatic, whose insanity is self-induced, and who has 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Selden H. Talcott, 


271 


brought upon himself and family both poverty and disease by 
the recklessness of his mode of living, should be placed in a 
public hospital, and surrounded by every comfort and luxury, 
while the thrifty and economical citizen who has accumulated 
a moderate competence by patient and persistent toil is, 
when stricken with mental disease and rendered absolutely 
helpless, compelled to patronize a private institution, estab¬ 
lished for personal gain, until his money is gone and himself 
and family beggared. Then, when thus despoiled, this 
industrious and useful citizen is to be placed in a State hospi¬ 
tal as a pauper patient. How much better would it be for all 
concerned if the State would assist the private citizen in 
maintaining independence and self-respect and self-support 
when he is brought to bay by the most disastrous of all known 
diseases. 

In the three main buildings of this hospital now used for 
patients, there are 1,147,831 cubic feet of air space. This 
includes halls, day rooms, sitting rooms and sleeping rooms. 
Of all this space only 31,561 cubic feet are occupied by the 
twenty-three patients who pay more than $10 per week for 
board and care. The balance of space, namely, 1,116,270 
cubic feet, is used indiscriminately by pauper and indigent 
patients, and by those paying low rates of board. This is a 
plain, practical showing of the actual condition of affairs, 
and by it you will sea that wealthy patients are not spreading 
themselves over spaces that should be occupied by the poor 
insane. It seems to me that only a very moderate percentage 
of space is now being used by those who have contributed 
largely to the erection of these State hospitals for the insane. 

We believe in State care for the insane; in State care for 
all the insane; in State care for the acute insane; in State 
care for the poor; in State care for those in moderate cir¬ 
cumstances, and in State care for those who have been blessed 
with opulence, if the friends of such patients desire for them 
treatment in our State hospitals. At the same time, we do 
not believe that it would be wise to transfer from county 
institutions to State hospitals those who are most unlikely to 
recover to the exclusion or over crowding of patients suffering 
with acute insanity, and who would be likely to recover if 
afforded the benefits of State hospital treatment. We are 
willing to take all who need to come, acute and chronic, as 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



2?2 


Sepia in Sterility. 


April 


soon as sufficient room is provided by additional buildings. 
We seek now by means of wise and equitable laws to establish 
the principle of State care in the Middletown Hospital for 
all who may desire homoeopathic treatment. 

There are, in this State, over 1,000,000 adherents of Homoe¬ 
opathy. As far as we have been able to learn, these patrons 
of our cause stand as a unit in favor of freedom of medical 
opinion and action; all strenuous in behalf of the medical 
liberties and unhampered right of choice, of those who may 
need treatment in this hospital. The homoeopathists of this 
State pay a very considerable portion of the taxes. In some 
parts of the Commonwealth more than 50 per cent, of the 
taxes are paid by the adherents of Homoeopathy, consequently 
it would seem to the unprejudiced mind that we are justly 
entitled to at least one hospital of the eight, which have been 
erected for the insane by the generosity of this Common¬ 
wealth. The legislators of the State thought that the appeal of 
homoeopathists for a State asylum, where homoeopathic treat¬ 
ment might prevail, was a just one twenty years ago, and their 
belief in the justice of our cause has been reiterated and 
emphasized by liberal appropriations made annually ever since. 
We know of no reason for any change of attitude at the 
present time. All we ask is fair play and a continuance of 
the privileges which have been accorded to us, to which we 
are justly entitled, and which we hope to continue to deserve. 

We do not wish to interfere with the rights of others, nor 
with the plan of State care for the insane, but we do wish 
to secure to every resident in this State the untrammeled and 
unhindered right of admission, direct and without delay, to 
this hospital whenever the necessity of sickness impels com¬ 
mitment to an institution for the insane. 

Selden H. Talcott. 

The State Homoeopathic Hospital. 

Mildletown, N. Y. 


SEPIA IN STERILITY. 

Mrs.W., age 28, married four years. Complained of aching 
pain in right side of sacrum, relieved by pressure. Uterus 
in normal position, has had no children, although in other 
respects she appeared to be in robust health, had been treated 
allopathically, but nothing relieved the unbearable pain in 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



1891 


Alfred Heath . 


273 


her back. Sepia 12 dec. trit. was given her which immedi¬ 
ately removed the pain. In the course of two or three weeks 
she reported her period stopped, and in the usual time she 
had a little girl. The pain in her back has never returned 
now some years since. Alfred Heath. 

London, England. 


SUPPRESSED ERUPTIONS VS. CONSUMPTION. * 

I will tell you how two patients were cured, WKo did not 
have consumption, and two were cured who had. The alarm¬ 
ing increase in deaths from phthisis, leads us to thinking 
whether it is phthisis. If not, what is it, and how can it be 
prevented ? I do not profess to have a consumption cure, or 
a microbe killer, but in the four cases I have to relate, I wish 
to show that we have neither. But, that in true Hahneman- 
nian Homoeopathy, we have a* natural law that eures acute 
diseases, and thereby removes the morbid vital (Organon) 
forces from the system ; which weakens the tissues till they 
are unable to expel the effete matter, and permits tubercles 
to form ; by preventing which, we prevent consumption, and 
have no use for a microbe killer, disinfectants or cod liver oil. 

Case I.—Mr. J. B—, age 45, farmer, medium size, dark 
complexion, a hard working man, had measles when in the 
army that did not break out. Prior to which he had excel¬ 
lent health, but subsequently had cough and chest troubles 
all the time. I saw him first May 5, 1877. He suffered 
from violent pain in the chest under the sternum, witli 
dyspnoea and a troublesome cough and high fever; pulse 120, 
strong, throbbing ; white tongue ; restless and impatient* I 
gave Gels. 60, every fifteen minutes, and Puls. 60, every 
hour. In six hours he broke out with measles, and all other 
symptoms disappeared. No other measles in the* country. 
Measles recognized by appearance and odor'; a little cough 
remained. The next morning he went out to plant corn, 
but soon took sick; the measles disappeared. 

The same treatment re-developed the eruption and he went 
to the cornfield the next day with the same results, after 
which I made many efforts but never could find any treat¬ 
ment that would bring it out, and notwithstanding he said 

’Maryland State Homoeopathic Medical Society. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



274 Suppressed Eruption vs . Consumption . April 

he had suffered sixteen years, he was still too stubborn for Nux, 
and after six months' worry with him, I had to abandon his 
case because I could not find the Simrllimum. 

Perhaps now, since I have learned more of Homoeopathy, I 
could do better, but four years later he was still a sufferer 
from his folly, when if he had obeyed directions he would 
have been a well man. 

Lynchburg, Va., Feb. 2,1883. 

Case II.—Miss S—, age 29, slender, light complexion; in 
the last stage of consumption. Prognosis unfavorable, 
treated only to alleviate her suffering. Nine years before, 
the other members of the family had measles. Miss S— 
was sick, yet had no eruption, but had a troublesome congh 
from that time to the date above, growing worse all the time, 
first hectic in character, but now rough and hard with pain, 
and a great amount of tough phlegm. She got Hep. 60. 
cent., but occasionally a dose of other remedies as appeared 
to be indicated, and she claimed that the treatment made her 
much easier till the 15th, at 11 a.m. The cough was rough, 
harsh, throat sore and painful, eyes red and watery, high 
fever and quicker pulse. Fauces and soft palatte red with 
measles. Puls. 60. cent, one dose, followed by Gels. 30 
cent, every 30 minutes. At 10 p. m. a red rash came out all 
over, which, the family said, looked and smelled like measles, 
and remained out about four hours, and then disappeared. 
During the time she was very comfortable, except the cough. 
Four days later she died, quite easy. An infant which was 
on the bed at the time of eruption, had measles ten days 
later, and three children took the disease from it. Isolation 
prevented further spread. As there was no other measles in 
the city at the time, there was no other source, from which 
the babe could have taken it; hence, there can be no question 
but that it was a case of suppressed measles. 

Had the Hepar been judiciously used four years sooner, it 
would have developed the eruption, phthisis would not have 
existed, and the lady have lived to die of other causes. 

Case III.—Ella Y., age 14, colored. Had been in ill 
health from the time she took cold with measles four years 
before; always taking cold, poor digestion, constant headache, 
pain in the chest and sore eyes. 

February 5th.—Some improvement, able to walk about the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Wm. L. Morgan. 


275 


room, with symptoms of advanced stage of phthisis. I gave 
a grave prognosis and Calcarea 200 once a day; saw her occa¬ 
sionally, but no improvement. 

March 28th.—High fever; hoarse, rough cough; headache, 
very sick; throat sore; soft palate and fauces specked with 
measles. 

March 29.—Measles out all over. Five days after, well and 
continues well to this third day of October, 1890. 

Case IV.—September, 1890, Dr. Hummer, who had read 
the above pages, called me into his office and introduced me 
to Mrs. W—., who gave the following sketch of her case. 
She is tall, slender, and blonde; age 29. Had measles Feb¬ 
ruary, 1884. Took cold and eruption disappeared. Called 
in Dr. M., who treated her four months. Then Dr. C., one 
month. Then Dr. B., homeopathic, three years. Then Dr. 
S., Philadelphia, two or three months; John Hopkins hos¬ 
pital one month. Then the British Staff of Physicians, who 
told her that she had marasmus. Then Dr. T., homeopathic, 
three months; all without any benefit and finished by saying: 
“ I know from my rapid decline that I can’t last long, with¬ 
out something can be done to relieve me.” From this, I sus¬ 
pected a suppressed measles, and found, on further examina¬ 
tion, that she had taken immense quantities of various kinds 
of medicines, and had worn very extensive tar plasters, both 
back and front, and what was supposed to be consumption 
went on with its work of destruction. We decided Calcarea 
phos. to be her remedy. This was approved by Dr. H., and 
Calcarea phos. cm., one powder was given and told her to look 
out for the measles, which created some alarm among her 
neighbors. 

Nine days after, her sister reported her thoroughly broken 
out with measles; cough, consumption, pain in chest, diffi¬ 
culty in breathing, all gone, and in their stead, a good appe¬ 
tite and digestion, and the lady feeling well and happy. Gave 
directions to keep in bed, and take the best care; sent Puls. 
200 to give in the event of taking cold, or suppression. I 
called to see her five days later, and found her feeling per¬ 
fectly well, excellent appetite, and measles yet out in full 
bloom. 

October 4th, Miss M. called at his office in good health, and 
well pleased. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



276 Suppressed Eruptions vs. Consumption. April 

Calcarea appears to have been the leading remedy in the 
three cases, to bring about the favorable conditions for the 
re-development. In the first case it is uncertain whether 
Puls, or Gels, was the appropriate remedy, for they were both 
ased at the same time. 

I have selected these cases to show how many cases sup¬ 
posed to be consumption, and have every symptom to justify 
the diagnosis, end in tuberculosis. The real dynamic force 
(disease) is suppressed measles, or some other eruption that 
has been suppressed by cold or improper local medication. 
Vide Organon, section 204 in order to cure, or rather to 
prevent these cases of consumption. It may, and can be 
done, by using the proper antipsoric treatment to remove 
the cause that suppressed the eruption, and throw it again to 
the skin. Treat it there, until the life-force (Organon, Sec. 
16, 17, 18) of disease is driven from the system, and 
the eruption disappears for want of support lrom its parent, 
morbid vitality. (Org., Sec. 16, 17.) These principles are 
applicable to suppressed intermittents, and other diseases. I 
will add that in removing the cause that suppressed the dis¬ 
ease the original disease is apt to reappear in its original form, 
and then must be treated as it should have been treated at first. 
I have observed this mostly in agues suppressed by quinine. 

Wm. L. Morgan. 

Baltimore, Md. 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE ORGANON AND MATERIA 
MEDICA SOCIETY OF PHILADELPHIA. 

At a regular meeting of the Organon and Materia Medica 
Society of Philadelphia, held on Tuesday evening, Feb. 3, 
1891, at 1419 Walnut street, the following members were 
present: Drs. F. Powel, A. G. Allan, D. W. Clausen, J. T. 
Kent, M. Powel, H. Powel, Pierce, Johnson, Smith, Medley, 
Mackay, and Gladwin; also the following visitors: Drs. W. 
L. Morgan (of Baltimore), Balwin, Alexander, and Yan Atta. 

As Dr. Mackay, the appointed essayist on the Organon, 
was not present in proper time, Dr. Kent read § 42 of the 
Organon. The reader, in commenting upon this §, said: It 
is a fact—those who have lived in the West have proved it— 
that two identities may complicate themselves together. At 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Philadelphia Organon and Materia Medica Society . 277 

times, diphtheria and scarlatina, being epidemic, may com¬ 
plicate themselves in the system. Dr. Kent then quoted Hahn¬ 
emann, in relation to psora and syphilis in the system in their 
combination. Syphilitic eruptions do not itch except in the 
nature of complication. When the eruption comes out itch- 
ing, you may know there is a complication with psora. Com¬ 
plications take place only in diseases that are dissimilar; for 
if they were similar, the one would cure the other. The 
essayist then remarked that the experiences of physicians 
were important in confirming the statements made in these 
paragraphs of the Organon. 

Dr. F. Powel gave his experience with psora and syphilis, 
and related a case in which syphilitic symptoms had passed into 
the tertiary stage, the nose having been much diseased. Rupia 
was present. Evidently there was a combination of psora 
and syphilis. Sulphur controlled the Rupia; and other rem¬ 
edies were used in the case; but the patient finally succumbed. 

In answer to a question by Dr. F. Powel, Dr. Kent said 
that he thought Hahnemann had reference to chronic rather 
than acute diseases, in this matter of complication. Even 
after Mercury has controlled syphilis, the latter will again 
burst forth as soon as the complication is over. This he has 
seen many times. Mercury, moreover, does not cure syphilis, 
in massive doses. Patients who had been “ cured fifteen 
years ago,” as they say, he has seen breaking down with 
structural changes, and having the evidences of gummata in 
the brain and spinal cord. When we have a thorough com¬ 
bination of psora and syphilis, so that both come up, we have 
a hard case. The remedy that disengages them—separates 
them—is the right remedy; you are then on a right road to a 
cure; nevertheless, you still have a job on hand. After dis¬ 
engagement of the two miasms, a little bad treatment will 
recomplicate them, and render the case incurable. Moreover, 
a drug can just as well become complicated with a miasm, as 
can another miasm. 

Dr. Morgan remarked on certain singular complications of 
malarial fevers; and cited one or two cases. He could not 
understand how four different types of ague could exist at 
the same time in one patient. Dr. Kent replied, that if they 
had been of one type, one would have cured the other. 

The reading of a paper on Materia Medica being next in 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



278 


Bryonia and Nnx Vomica . 


April 


order. Dr. A. G. Allan apologized for an unfinished article, 
but read it so far as it was written. 

BRYONIA AND NUX VOMICA. 

It has seemed to me that it would he profitable for our 
study of the Materia Medica this evening to take up for con¬ 
sideration not one remedy, but two, which in some respects 
resemble one another, and point out differences in their 
symptoms, which will assist us in making a selection of the 
remedy. The medicines that I have chosen for this purpose 
are Bryonia and Nux Vomica, two of our most prominent and 
frequently employed remedies. I have chosen them, not 
because there is anything new to be brought out in this paper, 
but because on one occasion they gave me so much trouble 
and I had so much difficulty in deciding which one was the 
remedy for my case that I made a detailed comparison of 
of these two remedies, which I thought possibly would be of 
interest and profit to us all. 

We all know that each remedy has a sphere of action that 
can not be covered by any other single remedy. When sick 
persons present a large number of the symptoms of a remedy, 
we have no difficulty in prescribing for them, because under 
such circumstances we can not fail to get the picture of the 
disease. But, unfortunately, our patients often present but 
few symptoms. On this account, the picture of the disease 
has been compared to an unfinished portrait in which some of 
the features have been delineated with fidelity, while others 
are in such a crude form that they fail to make a perfect 
ensemble and thus give us a correct idea of whose likeness 
this may be ; and so we stand, as it were, before it, gazing 
intently upon the finished portions, trying, if possible, to 
decide whose portrait it is. In alike manner, in a case of 
disease, we have some characteristic symptoms together with 
many more that give us but an uncertain idea of the homoeo¬ 
pathic remedy. In such a case our choice lies between 
several remedies which seem equally capable of covering the 
finished portions of the case. To help us in such occasions, 
I have written out this comparison of Bryonia and Nux 
Vomica, merely endeavoring to give such points of aggrava¬ 
tion and amelioration as will be of assistance in a case where 
the symptoms are so few as to render the choice between 
these two remedies difficult. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 Philadelphia Organon and Materia Medica Society . 279 

In the first place, we find that Nux Vomica acts power¬ 
fully upon the spinal cord, intensifying spinal activity and 
irritability. On the other hand, Bryonia acts more upon the 
brain, inducing a sort of stupor. Neither are what may 
be termed antipsorics, as their sphere of action is not 
large enough, neither is their action deep enough to 
cover that of a chronic miasm. Nux Vomica has by 
far less depth of action than Bryonia, and Nux symptoms 
are developed with great rapidity, while those of Bryonia 
come on slowly. Nux induces but slight alterations either 
in the tissues or in the blood, while Bryonia may cause a con¬ 
siderable breaking down of the blood. On this account Nux 
can not correspond to typhoid conditions, but Bryonia may 
even include typhoid fever and diphtheria in its sphere of 
action. Nux, as I have already said, expends its force upon 
the spinal centres and consequently covers those diseases that 
are of nervous origin, such as hysteria, functional disturb¬ 
ances of various sorts, reflex troubles as gastric, hepatic and 
intestinal disturbances from over eating and drinking, intes¬ 
tinal obstruction, biliary coiic, colds, congestive fevers, such 
as pneumonia, dengue, influenza, malarial fevers, etc. 
On the other hand, while Bryonia may likewise include 
in its sphere of action such disorders, its mode of 
action is different and it enters more deeply into the 
life of the individual, including in its sphere of action 
such disorders as miasmatic and blood diseases, over which 
Nux Vomica has no power. From these few words it will 
be seen that the nature of the sickness is of some value 
in determining our choice of the remedy. We must be sure 
that the sphere of drug action can cover that of the disease 
action. If we find that the disease action is of such a depth 
that it can not be covered by Nux Vomica, then if the 
choice is between Bryonia and Nux, Bryonia must be the 
remedy which will cure. 

We notice that remedies have certain times of the day for 
aggravation and amelioration. Some have the period of 
aggravation by day and others by night; some in the forenoon 
and some in the afternoon. In looking over Nux Vomica we 
find that this daily period of aggravation is in the morning 
early and by day while it is light. On the contrary, the time 
of aggravation under Bryonia is in # the evening and at night 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



280 


Bryonia and Nux Vomica . 


April 


while it is dark, with amelioration when it is light. Some 
symptoms of Bryonia are worse in the morning and after 
waking, but this is not the period of the Bryonia' aggrava¬ 
tion. Such symptoms may be alternating ones; however, 
this matter will be spoken of fully later on; but in selecting 
a remedy for such a case, great care should be taken, and the 
concomitant symptoms should be observed with circumspec¬ 
tion. The Nux patient is under great spinal irritability, 
consequently he is worse in the morning and by day, since 
then he is subjected to external impressions such as will 
irritate his nervous centers. On the contrary, as the Bryonia 
patient is depressed, his period of aggravation is at night, 
since by night the nervous system is regularly subject to a 
depressing influence of darkness which serves to increase the 
depression of the disease. 

Motion aggravates a Bryonia patient. He desires to be 
still. All his pains are made worse by motion and amelio¬ 
rated by being quiet. His favorite position is on the back, 
and he is not comfortable when lying on the side. When, as 
in chest troubles, for instance, he has pain in the side, he 
feels relief from lying on the painful side. On the other 
hand, the Nux patient is better when lying on the side and 
aggravated when lying on the back. 

Again, the Nux patient is a chilly one; he is aggravated by 
cold and ameliorated by heat. Heat from whatever source 
is agreeable to him. The heat of the bed makes him feel 
better, even though perspiring freely. The least draught of 
air chills him and aggravates; even turning in bed makes 
him chilly. 

Bryonia is a chilly remedy, too, but not to the same extent 
that Nux is; and while Bryonia is aggravated by cold and 
ameliorated by heat and warmth, still we observe that there 
is not that same sensitiveness to cold that we observe under 
Nux. The Nux patient is ameliorated by warmth> no matter 
how it is generated. Even warmth brought on by exercise 
will ameliorate his condition. On the other hand, the Bryonia 
patient is so aggravated by motion that, although he is 
ameliorated by heat when applied, still so great is the aver¬ 
sion to motion, that the exercise aggravates far more than 
the heat or warmth so generated ameliorates. This we notice 


Digitized by VjO . Le 



1891 Philadelphia Organon and Materia Medica Society . 281 

is *in keeping with the sphere of the drug action which was 
mentioned above. 

Finally, as to external impressions or influences, the Nux 
patient, as has been shown, is a sensitive one. As we have 
seen, his nervous system is in a state of super-excitability, 
consequently we find him irritable and exceedingly sensitive 
to external impressions. He is aggravated by noises, by the 
sound of persons talking, by music, etc.; his eyes are sensi¬ 
tive to the light, he is aggravated by daylight; his nose is 
sensitive to odors and even those that are ordinarily agreea¬ 
ble to him disturb him; the sense of touch is more acute and 
even slight pressure aggravates. On the contrary, the senses 
of a Bryonia patient are less acute than normally, external 
impressions do not disturb his serenity and neither noise nor 
light nor odors visibly affect him. He merely wants to be still 
and to rest. 

It was mentioned above that some Bryonia symptoms have 
a morning aggravation, or, at all events, manifest themselves 
more in the morning than at any other period of the day. 
These symptoms, when present, are good characteristic ones 
of Bryonia, provided they are well understood. So let us 
look at them and obtain, if possible, their full meaning. In 
looking over the Materia Medica, we see that the Bryonia 
headache is worse in the morning after waking, on opening 
the eyes and after moving. There is also a sick stomach 
which has a similar time for aggravation; likewise, there is 
a diarrhoea and a cough worse in the morning. At first glance 
this seems to be an exception to the general statement made 
above that the Bryonia daily period of aggravation is in 
the night. Nux has a morning aggravation, it has a sick 
stomach, a foul mouth, a headache, and a cough worse in 
the morning, very similar to these Bryonia symptoms, and 
if we are not extremely careful to observe closely the symp¬ 
toms of the patient, we might give, on the general time of 
aggravation ahd amelioration, Nux, when Bryonia is the 
homoeopathic remedy. But if we analyze these Bryonia 
symptoms which are worse in the morning, we see that these 
are not worse until after the patient has made some move¬ 
ment, even though it is merely so slight a motion as that of 
moving his eyelids. All Bryonia pains and symptoms are 
worse from motion; this is its most characteristic phenome- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



282 


Bryonia and Nux Vomica . 


April 


non. Aggravation from motion runs through the whole* of 
its symptomatology and modifies every symptom and group of 
symptoms that the patient experiences. When we find these 
symptoms just mentioned, worse in the morning after waking, 
it is not because these 8)mptoms are an exception to the rule, 
and have a diurnal period of aggravation different from the 
daily Bryonia aggravation, but it is because this characteristic 
of Bryonia aggravation from motion so outweighs the other 
Bryonia phenomena, that the amelioration derived from the 
hour of the day is so slight as not to be noticeable. When a 
person awakes in the morning the first thing he does is to 
move. And it is this motion that aggravates just the same 
as under aggravation from heat and cold; it was shown that 
heat generated by motion did not ameliorate, because the 
motion aggravated more than the heat ameliorated. 

In the Nux patient we find also an apparent exception to 
the rule. We have seen that Nux is ameliorated by heat and 
aggravated by cold; but in the catarrhal troubles of Nux we 
see the symptoms ameliorated in the cold air and aggravated 
on entering a warm room. At first glance this seems incred¬ 
ible, because heat ameliorates all Nux symptoms, even the 
heat from exercise, although Nux pains are worse from 
motion^ but on a closer investigation of this phenomena we 
find that it is not the general condition of tfye Nux patient 
that is ameliorated by cold air, but it is the local catarrhal 
trouble that is aggravated by breathing warm air and 
ameliorated by breathing cold air. Now, how is this to be 
explained? In the first place, the great Nux characteristic is 
sensitiveness to external impressions. This modifies all Nux 
conditions. The inflamed mucous surfaces in catarrhal 
troubles, as well as all inflamed parts in Nux patients, are 
sensitive to the highest degree; consequently, the pas¬ 
sage of warm air over an inflamed mucous membrane 
irritates and cold air soothes by its direct and local action 
alone in the same manner that immersion of a burn in hot 
water increases the pain, while plunging it in cold water 
allays temporarily the irritation and quiets the pain. That 
the general condition of the Nux patient is ameliorated by 
heat and aggravated by cold in cacarrhal troubles, the same 
as in all other Nux conditions, is evidenced by the fact that 
although the cough and the stuffed up feeling in the head are 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Philadelphia Organon and Materia Medica Society . 283 

better while breathing cold air, still the patient feels better 
when the head is wrapped up warmly and the body is well 
protected by clothing. 

To what has been said, let me add but this which will 
guide us in difficult cases. All Nux symptoms are subordi¬ 
nate to, and caused by, increased activity of reflex centres, 
consequently, sensitiveness is the key-note of this remedy. 
On the other hand, the Bryonia patient is not sensitive, but 
his sensibility is more obtuse than normal. His great char¬ 
acteristic is aggravation from motion. All his symptoms are 
modified by motion and everything is ameliorated by rest. 
Therefore to distinguish between the two remedies, we must 
satisfy ourselves that the symptoms which we see before us 
are either accompanied by sensitiveness due to increased reflex 
activity, or by blunted sensibility with aversion to motion, 
which outweighs all other symptoms. 

If we study remedies in this way, we shall soon be able to 
see in the individual symptoms, such distinctly characteristic 
features as will make a complete portrait of the remedy. But 
if we try to memorize a symptom here and a symptom there, 
for a key-note, upon which to base our prescription, we will 
never be able to say with certainty this is Bryonia, or this is 
Nux vomica. But if we learn in the way pointed out above, 
what is the true image of the medicine, then we will be able 
to recognize in the symptoms themselves, Bryonia or Nux 
vomica, just as we are able to recognize an old acquaintance 
by his walk or by his general appearance, 

Arthur G. Allan. 

Dr. Allan thought it well to consider two remedies, so as 
to compare them, and to point out their differences. This 
unfinished paper so effectually furnished evidence of close, 
application to the study of the two remedies in their com¬ 
parisons and differences, that the essayist received applause, 
and Dr. Kent commended the study as a grand one, and said 
that the differences were well put in Dr. Allan’s paper. 

Dr. Kent further called attention to a Bryonia aggrava¬ 
tion—that even the opening of the eyes in the morning will 
bring on pain in the head. It is motion , yea, motion that 
brings on Bryonia aggravations in the morning. He sug¬ 
gested that Dr. Allan, in finishing his paper, would carefully 
note all exceptions, etc.; then the Doctor cited the following 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



284 


Bryonia and Nux Vomica . 


April 


facts : Bryonia—coryza worse in warm room, also Nux vom.; 
better in open air, also Nux vom.; nevertheless, the Nux 
patient wants the covfers piled on him, he can’t put his hand 
from under the covers but what he chills. After studying 
the constitutional adaptabilities of remedies, then the little 
differences are of much importance, for we may prescribe 
on a difference. The way that Dr. Allan has written his 
paper is the way in which medicines should be studied. 

Next in the order of business was the reading of a paper 
on clinical medicine; but the appointed essayist, Dr. Farley, 
was not present. 

In the order of new or unfinished business, a motion was 
made, seconded and carried, that the names of two members 
be stricken from the roll of membership by reason of their 
absence from every meeting during the past year, and their 
evident disinterestedness in the progress of our society. 

Dr. F. Powel proposed that we keep a “ roll book,” which 
the secretary was instructed to do. 

Dr. W. L. Morgan (of Baltimore) was proposed for mem¬ 
bership by Dr. Kent; and the chair appointed Drs. Kent, 
Milton Powel and Pierce, a committee to report on the can¬ 
didate at next regular meeting. 

Dr. Kent reported favorably on Dr. M. N. Johnson, of 
this city, for whom a ballot was then cast, and she was duly 
elected a member. 

The following members were then appointed essayists for 
the next meeting: Dr. Mackay, Organon; Dr. A. G. Allan, 
Materia Medica; Dr. J. T. Kent, Clinical Medicine. 

Dr. M. N. Johnson asked advice concerning a patient in 
California. 

The meeting was then adjourned until the first Tuesday in 
March ensuing, 

When all the happy eve will greet, 

To learn once more of Coethen’s sage 
A truth divine. 

Daniel W. Clausen, 
Secretary. 

Philadelphia, Pa., 

February 8,1801. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Quinine in Pernicious Intermittent Fevers . 285 

QUININE IN PERNICIOUS INTERMITTENT FEVERS * 

The writer has been honored by a request to contribute an 
article for this meeting. It would have pleased him much 
more had it been possible that he could have stepped into the 
arena, and met the many illustrious gentlemen who to-day 
make these halls glad with their presence, and listened to the 
ever-to-be-treasured words that fall from their lips. The 
words imprinted on this paper were not sent to you to teach 
a lesson, but on the contrary to call forth from some of the 
leaders present opinions upon a subject so near and dear to 
our hearts. Not being a member of the Southern Association, 
my pertinent inquiries may by some be condemned as 
m-pertinent, but it is to be sincerely hoped that the courte¬ 
sies due an invited guest will be extended to me, and that no 
suspicion of abuse will mar the discussion that this article 
may challenge. There are so many opinions, and shades of 
opinion, among members of our school of medicine as to 
what constitutes Homoeopathy, that it occurred to me it might 
be well for our Southern Association to assert itself by an 
emphatic opinion. Be ye not afraid, my brethren, that the 
old question of potency is to be introduced to disturb your 
deliberations. No, indeed ! I have too often asserted my 
belief to permit potency to enter as a discomposing element in 
our controversies. Notwithstanding the fact that I am partial 
to the highest potencies, I am not bigoted enough to proclaim 
and maintain that low potencies, or even tinctures, have no 
place in the domain of Homoeopathy. We not only have 
the master's experience that they have, but I also have my 
own experience to testify to their worth—their healing quali¬ 
ties. Still, permit me to insist, that, after many years' trial 
of all potencies, I find the higher more efficient. But the 
high potency, even though a similar, can not be as efficient 
as a low potency or tincture, if the latter be the simillimum, 
and I would rather trust the tincture of Aconite in an Aconite 
fever, than I would the 200th of Ferrum Phosphoricum, the 
1000th of Veratrum or the cm. of Gelsemium, though my 
peculiar idosyncrasy, as some have seen fit to term it, would 
cause me to present Aconite in one of the last-named poten¬ 
cies. That potency is a corollary of the simillimum there 
can be no doubt; but who shall determine what potency? You 

♦ Southern Association, November, 1890. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



286 Quinine in Pernicious Intermittent Fevers . April 

say low—I say high, and there be hundreds who range along 
every intermediate step between your low and my high. 
Each one’s determined research and multiplied experience 
must be his mentors. I have thus made clear my exact posi¬ 
tion in order to rid you of any prejudice that might arise when 
I propound my questions., These questions were bom of a. 
recent controversy regarding the use of narcotics and similar 
palliatives—and by similar I mean similar to the narcotics, 
and not to the condition of the patient—and the presentation 
of Quinine in the so called “Pernicious Intermittent Fevers.” 

What I desire to know is: 

1st. What constitutes the-science of Homoeopathy? 

2d. Is the homoeopathic law an universal, infallible one, 
or, in other words, is it all sufficient upon which to base any 
prescription for an idiopathic case of sickness—or is it not? 

3d. If the law is infallible , why resort to allopathically 
suggested expedients? 

4th. If the law is fallible , why not embrace the best 
policy, which they tell us is called Honesty, and haul down 
our flag? 

And now permit me to call your attention to the use of Quinine. 
It has been asserted early and late, formerly and recently, and 
from many quarters, that Quinine “in appreciable doses” is 
the simillimum to “ Pernicious Intermittent Fever.” Is this 
Homoeopathy? The very gentlemen who declare that dose 
has nothing to do with Homoeopathy here cry “ appreciable 
doses,” and we all know what that means. Then, again, they 
first diagnose the name of a disease, and then prescribe for that 
name. “ But hold ! ” say these doctors; “ while the name, we 
admit, is only a handy arrangement bequeathed us in part by 
the old school gentry, it really encompasses a totality of symp¬ 
toms. Is that so, my friends? Then I challenge you to. 
give to the homoeopathic profession a detailed list of symp¬ 
toms essential to constitute your so called “ Pernicious Inter¬ 
mittent Fever,” so we may. judge from those symptoms 
whether you are correct, or are merely cutting off all inquiry 
by presenting us with your diagnosis. I further challenge 
you to report the cases of Intermittent Fever that may come 
under your observation in the next year, symptom by symp¬ 
tom, which, according to your declaration, were cured by Qui¬ 
nine crude, and could only have so been cured. The broad 


Dii -zed by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. W. Cohen . 


287 


assertion that certain cases of Intermittent Fever can be 
cured by Quinine only has too much of an allopathic flavor 
to be considered Homoeopathy, Yes, Quinine will cure if it 
be the simillimum, but, like Arsenicum, Nux vomica, Natrum 
muriticum, Eupatorium perfoliatum, or any other medicine, 
it will cure in potentized form. What has here been written 
was not sent you to wedge its way into your councils as a 
source of disorder, but to put every true follower of Samuel 
Hahnemann, be his predilection for the “ high or low,” upon 
his metal, not only through the instrumentality of his tongue 
and pen, but also through his mode of medication. In con¬ 
clusion, let me ask that, if this paper be debated upon, that 
such as may reply be not allowed to make “ pretty speeches ” 
on foreign issues, but held to reply to the questions presented 
here. S. W. Cohen. * 

Waco, Tex. 


STRAMONIUM: A PARTIAL PROVING. 

In a psychological study of ibfancy, entitled “ The First 
Three Years of Childhood,” by Bernard Perez, the following 
is quoted as an instance: “ Where the absorption of poisonous 
substances has thrown young children into nervous states 
analogous to the state of hallucination.” 

“A little fifteen months old, had swallowed, in her mother’s 
absence, a considerable number of grains of Datura Stra¬ 
monium . Almost instantly the child was thrown into a state 
of agitation which frightened her mother very much. The 
doctor, who was called, made the following depositions: ‘A 
great change has supervened in the visual organs; the child 
seems to be deprived of sight; she does not look at any of the 
objects around her, and pays no attention to things which 
used to please her and which she was in the habit of asking 
for. A watch is shown to her, and some of her toys, but 
they do not attract her attention, while, on the contrary, she 
appears to be reaching after imaginary objects at some dis¬ 
tance from her, and which she tries to get hold of by con¬ 
stantly stretching out her arms and clutching with her hands. 
She even raises herself up by leaning on the sides of her 
cradle, as if to get nearer to these objects. She tossed her 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



288 Letter from India . Apbil 

hand8 about in the air as if trying to catch objects that are 
flying away/” 

This is found in “La Folie Chez V Enfant” by Compayre, 
Dr. Thor6 being the reporter of the case. ( Revue Phil., De¬ 
cember, 1880, in the Annales Medicate.) 

It is a confirmation of the characteristic hallucinations of 
this drug, remarkable for the tender age of the prover. Of 
course, it had no therapeutic meaning to the minds of the 
observers, and yet, to scientists, engaged in finding nature's 
serects, it should have had great significance. 

Wm. E. Leonard. 

Minneapolis. 


LETTER FROM INDIA. 

SURGERY WITHOUT GERMICIDES. 

Case I.—February 20, 1890, was called to see a native boy 
twelve years old who had fallen from a tree, fracturing left 
femur at junction of the middle with the upper third. Found 
that the lower fragment had pierced the tissues to the sur¬ 
face, leaving an open wound from which blood was discharg¬ 
ing quite freely. Two pieces of bone, each about half an 
inch in diameter, were afterward discharged through the 
same wound confirming my diagnosis of compound, commi¬ 
nuted fracture. 

The surroundings were as unfavorable as could well be 
imagiued, so far as danger of infection from filth was con¬ 
cerned. The boy was dirty; his clothes had certainly never 
been washed and they were about worn out; he lived on a 
dirty street where goats, sheep, fowls, and horribly nasty 
dogs had their abode and came into the house on equal terms 
with the other dirty neighbors; and the house itself was built 
of mud, plastered on the inside walls and floor with cow- 
dung; and the bed on which he lay was a perfect marvel* for 
bugs and dirt, while the covering was in perfect keeping with 
all the rest. 

I washed the wound with water and soap, applied some 
improvised bamboo splints, and clean absorbent cotton to the 
wound, wrapping the whole with clean roller bandage, leav¬ 
ing the wound itself lightly covered and no splint in the way 
so that the discharge might easily escape. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


C. 8. Durand . 


289 


To prevent shortening and rotation I wound roller band¬ 
age tightly around both legs, not allowing the knees to bend, 
and around the ankle of the injured limb put a strong band- 
age, pulled the foot down till the proper length was secured 
and tied it fast to the other foot. 

Fever appeared from time to time which was promptly con¬ 
trolled by Arnica 200, sometimes Aconite 200, as symptoms 
indicated. 

The boy made a rapid and complete recovery, with no rota¬ 
tion of the limb and less than half an inch of shortening— 
indeed the latter would never be noticed by a casual observer, 
as the boy stands flat on both feet and walks without limping. 

Case II.—Feb. 5,1891, was called to see a case of cataract. 
Decided upon immediate operation and prepared for a pre¬ 
liminary iridectomy. The patient, a native man about sixty 
jears of age, washed his face with water and soap. I washed 
my hands in the same way, dipped my instruments into clean 
water and wiped them with clean, absorbent cotton. The 
moment before using each instrument I dipped it into a 
solution of -Boracic Acid, 10 grs. to the ounce of distilled 
water. 

The patient recovered promptly, and three weeks later I 
removed the cataract, using the same care in the matter of 
cleanliness as before. The second operation gave no more 
trouble than the first. I have recently fitted a lens to the 
■eye, and vision is almost perfect. 

The surroundings in this case were the same as in the other 
with the additional disadvantage that the room in which the 
patient lay was used also to cook in and as a work shop for 
manufacturing metal ornaments. 

No medicine was given in this case. 

How much better would it have been in these cases if I 
had dressed the wounded leg with Iodoform (the vile stuff! 
I have none and never expect to get any) and had sprayed 
the atmosphere of the whole neighborhood in the second case 
with Carbolic acid and had used Merc, bichlor. to kill— 
what? 

Is it not time that homoeopathic surgeons as well as physi¬ 
cians stop chasing after the ignes fatui of allopathic fads and 
fashions? C. S. Durand. 

Hurd a, C. P M India. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



290 


Experience with Diuretin . 


Apbil 


EXPERIENCE WITH DIURETIN. 

This drug is made as follows : Salicylate of soda and theo¬ 
bromine are mixed in equal parts. It is a light gray powder 
with an acrid bitter taste. The dose, as prescribed by Kor- 
itschoner, of Vienna, is “four grammes (60 grains) a day.” 
He says : “This may be increased, and is well borne even 
when taken for months. Even in cases of chronic Bright’s 
disease it hardly ever causes nausea or giddiness, only when 
large doses are given—8 to 10 grammes daily—it causes slight 
anguish (slight anguish is good) and palpitations, and in 
some rare cases diarrhoea. Collapse is only threatened when 
its diuretic action is too powerful, just as we witness it after 
emptying the ascitic fluid too rapidly by puncture. 

Soon after reading the above I had a case of cardiac dropsy 
without any renal disease. It was a chronic valvular disease, 
and the woman had had dropsy several times which I had 
succeeded in removing with various remedies as they were 
indicated. But this last attack was rebellious to all. Elate- 
rium promoted a serous diarrhoea, but caused such nausea 
and colic she would not continue it. 

I concluded to try Diuretin, and gave it in the doses above 
recommended: fifteen grains three times a day. After using 
it four days there was only a slight increase of urine, but 
there occurred at 6 p. m. every evening a violent , throbbing , 
bursting headache which lasted until after midnight. She 
believed it was caused by the drug and refused to continue it. 
As soon as it was discontinued the headache ceased. After a 
few days I persuaded her to take half the usual dose (seven 
grains) three times a day. On the second day the headache 
returned and she ceased taking the drug, nor could I per¬ 
suade her to take even one grain at a dose. By this time the 
ascites had increased enormously, and I proposed tapping, 
but as she would not consent, I tapped her in another way. 
Under the use of one ounce of Epsom salts in one ounce of 
water before each meal, the ascites soon disappeared. 

Notwithstanding I failed to remove the dropsy with Diure¬ 
tin, I got a valuable pathogenetic symptom which will enable 
us to cure a periodic headache of that peculiar character and 
modality. E. M. Hale, 

Chicago . North- Western Journal. 

[It is to be regretted that Dr. Hale did not obtain more par¬ 
ticulars of this peculiar headache, especially its modalities. 
—Ed.] 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




1891 


P. L. McKenzie . 


291 


DR. TERRY AND THE POTENCY. 

In the March number of The Advance I notice a most 
vigorous and refreshing denial of the efficacy of high 
potency by Dr. Terry, in a discussion at the quarterly 
meeting of the Oneida County (N. Y.) Society. That kind 
^of protest, whether it be right or wrong, is just what is 
needed to keep us out of ruts and routine in the practice of 
medicine, and I, for one, believe that if we pin our faith 
exclusively to the use of any particular potency, we will miss 
the mark many times. In submitting the following case as 
an experience with potency, let me say that I am a young 
homoeopath and use generally the lower potencies; in ordi¬ 
nary work my favorite being the third decimal, so that I can 
not be accused of being a “high potency crank;” at the same 
time I am trying hard to find the truth experimentally. 

Case.— Mrs. S —, aged 37, severe and persistent constipa¬ 
tion for the last seventeen years, seldom having a passage 
without an enema of warm water. I carefully selected Sepia 
30th trit., a powder night and morning for two days, and for 
the first time in years a natural and painless passage vas the 
result. The bowels continued to act regularly for three or 
four weeks, when the old condition returned. Now mark 
what occurred. I again prescribed Sepia 30, but in dilution 
(having run out of the trit.), without any effect whatever. I 
then tried Sepia 3x trit., which had the desired effect in about 
a week’s time, but the result was not as lasting. Meantime I 
had procured a supply of the 30th trit., and by giving the 
patient a powder occasionally, the condition of the bowels 
remained good for several months ; but some weeks ago she 
became as bad as ever. Sepia 30 trit., was again given and 
utterly failed. I had just obtained a supply of remedies in the 
200th potency (B and T), and I gave the patient one dose of 
Sepia 200 at night; result, a free passage next morning, and 
no further trouble up to the present. I would call Dr. 
Terry’s attention to the fact that the last remedy was in 
dilution, and if he can claim the result obtained was due to 
the alcohol, we might ask why it failed when marked Sepia 
30 and acted finely when marked 200. Let us have the 
truth at all cost. “ Prove all things, hold fast that which is 
good.” P. L. McKenzie. 


Digitized by C.ooQLe 



292 


Lycopodium . 


Apbil. 


LYCOPODIUM lx: DR. CHAPMAN'S REPLY. 

“ As a man thinkeih in his heart, so is he." 

St. Paulsays: “Therefore having the principles of the 
doctrines of Christ, let us go on unto perfection.” This is aa 
sound in Homoeopathy as in Christianity. We must work up 
from first principles. The Organon iu our colleges is the • 
hope of Homoeopathy. Many pooh-pooh at theory—“give 
us something practical ”—but a doctor without a theory is 
like a ship without compass or rudder. Theory is an exposi¬ 
tion of the principles of a science ; a formulation of truths; 
not mere hypothesis or speculation. Hence the incalculable 
importance of becoming thoroughly indoctrinated in the 
theory of our system as laid down in the Organon. Whoso¬ 
ever buildeth on this foundation will have no use for pallia¬ 
tives, polypharmacy, or alternation. This much by way of 
prelude to what I wish to say in reply to Dr. Gilbert, March 
Advance. 

The doctor attacks a most important fundamental principle 
of our theory of the healing art—potentiation by attenua¬ 
tion—and he makes the astounding assertion that “Hahne¬ 
mann revealed nothing !” He did not reveal to a phlebotom¬ 
ized, purged, blistered, and otherwise depleted, exsanguin¬ 
ated, murdered world the beautiful, safe, delightful, but 
straight and narrow way that leads to health—Similia ! Hie 
doctrine of potentiation was no revelation. More than likely 
he drew his inspiration and ideas from Hippocrates, who fore¬ 
shadowed the law of similars. I am at a loss to understand 
the doctor when he makes the remarkable declaration that 
Hahnemann revealed nothing. While I would not apotheosize 
Hahnemann, yet I look upon him as the man raised up by 
God to lead us out of Egyptian bondage and darkness. And 
though he was not permitted to enter inta the promised land, 
yet he climbed Mount Nebo before he went hence, 

‘‘And viewed the landscape o'er.” 

And we, unto whom the oracles of God have been given, 
instead of going up and possessing this goodly land ; instead 
of converting the world to Homoeopathy and affording the 
sick and dying the beneficent aid and comfort of Similia, are 
still wrestling with principles when we should long ago have 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. E. Chapman. 


293 


gone on unto perfection. But the leaven is working; Joshua 
will soon arise and lead us over Jordan. 

“ Theie’s one more river to cros8. ,, 

Moses, St. Paul, Martin Luther, John Wesley, George 
Washington, Samuel Hahnemann, Abraham Lincoln, etc., 
are all epochal men, raised by God for special occasions, to 
advance His kingdom and overthrow the powers of darkness. 
And the womb of Time is heavy with another “Who shall 
come to'the kingdom for such a time as this.” And the 
doctor, to overthrow a fundamental principle of our system, 
must so completely repudiate Hahnemann as to declare 
“most of his theories disproved,” and “he revealed noth¬ 
ing.” He must have been the jolly old humbug his enemies 
have claimed him to be. Will Dr. Gilbert be kind enough 
to enumerate the exploded Hahnemannian theories ? I ask 
for information. I confess ignorance. The Ignatius Donnelly 
of the school will soon rise, and by some cryptogrammatic 
hocus-pocus prove that'Samuel Hahnemann never lived. 

When Dr. Gilbert uses the term “strength ” as applied to 
a homoeopathic remedy, he undoubtedly refers to its power to 
heal; or, if he prefer it, sick-making properties. He says, “ I 
have denied that greater strength can be developed in a part 
than is inherent in a whole.” Bear in mind, now, that the 
subject under discussion is a homoeopathic remedy, and the 
word “strength,” as here used, stands for “power to alter the 
condition of the organism.” Having thus settled our pre¬ 
mises, let us examine the doctor's statement. Is Lycopodium 
lx the whole of that remedy, or is it the part? I am willing 
to admit that it is a part, and that I was too hasty when I 
said it had no sick-making properties. So I concede that it 
is a part; but that it is the whole of that noble remedy cer¬ 
tainly is not true. Lycopodium lx might ride upon a jiggling 
saw-log for centuries, and remain the diminutive end-part 
that it is. But at stated intervals, if our saw-mill pharma¬ 
ceutist will attenuate according to prescribed rules, he will 
eventually develop the whole of this incomparable remedy. 
This is in strictest harmony with the teachings of Hahnemann, 
Dunham, et al., and no proposition can be more susceptible 
of demonstration. * 

The case I reported in the January Advance was but one 
of many parallel cases I could give. It was failure to accom- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



294 


Lycopodium. 


April 


plish cures with low potencies that drove me higher. The 
instantaneity of the action of Lycopodium 15x was one of the 
mo3t wonderful demonstrations of “ power to alter the condi¬ 
tion of the organism” in the potentiated drug, that I have 
ever witnessed. If I can not be sure of this, then clinical 
experience is valueless, and of all men we are the most miser¬ 
able. Dr. Gilbert may attribute the cure to discontinuance 
of Lycopodium 6x if he choose, but he makes a pitiful exhi¬ 
bition of begging the question, which approximates the con¬ 
temptible. No such case recovers from anything short of the 
potentiated indicated remedy. 

The doctor nearly floors me when he propounds, i( Where 
does potency begin?” 

“ Small ships must keep near shore, 

But larger ones may venture more.” 

My tonnage is too light, doctor, and I hug the shore. I 
don't know where potency begins or ends; but, like grim 
Death to an Ethiopian, I cling to my original tenet—Lyco¬ 
podium lx is not a potency ! I base this assertion upon the 
assumption that it is incapable of curing a typical Lycopo¬ 
dium case, and therefore has no place in the armamentarium 
of a homoeopath. Is there in all our literature a report of 
cure with this preparation? 

Dr. Gilbert is an unctuous gentleman. Have I anywhere 
intimated that Natrum mur., crude, had no sick-making 
properties? “ It is only in such highly potentized form that 
this (Natrum mur. 30x) and all other drugs display the whole 
of their power to alter the condition of the organism.” This 
is my text, the burden of my song. High attenuation means 
high potency! It does not matter a rap of the gavel how 
many provers are recorded in Allen's Encyclopedia as having 
taken Lycopodium or Natrum mur. crude. No such prov¬ 
ings ever did or can display the whole of the power of the 
remedy to alter the condition of the organism. I reiterate 
these words of the great apocalyptic character of medicine— 
Hahnemann! 

I have not noticed the points in the doctor's article seri¬ 
atim, but in a discursive way have touched them all. If I 
understand the doctor's position, it*is this: Attenuation 
does not develop power or potence, but simply changes the 
mode of action. And if this be true, what then? This dif- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S, E. Chapman . 


295 


ferent mode of action is the homoeopathic remedy in its 
entirety; the whole of the picture. Where does potency 
begin? Well, with the inoccuous substances under consid¬ 
eration, probably potency begins where “this different 
mode of action "develops. “This at a venture," as the old 
deacon said when he roared “amen!" during a very long 
prayer that could not be heard three feet away. 

Get right in the theory, ladies and gentlemen> and then 
we may go on to perfection in the practice of Homoeopathy. 
Study the Organon. 

Of Hahnemann I say as the Irishman did of Texas: I don't 
believe more than half the lies they tell about him. He is the 
great lawgiver of medicine, and his theories are no more 
exploded than is the Decalogue. Truth don't explode. 

S. E. Chapman. 


CONFIRMATIONS OF THE MATERIA MEDICA COM¬ 
PILED FROM VOLS. XX AND XXI OF THE 
MEDICAL ADVANCE. 

Mindful of the value of confirmation in the study of Materia 
Medica and of the utter impossibility of always keeping in 
mind the many symptoms given in cases reported to our 
journals, the follow article has been arranged, with the hope 
that it may prove of value to those physicians who have not 
the time to keep a personal index. The article is compiled 
from Vols. XX and XXI of the Advance. The symptoms 
selected are all those given in the cases reported during that 
year which-seem to bear the stamp of conciseness and relia¬ 
bility, followed by the given potency which seemed to remove 
those symptoms, and page where the report mhy be found. A 
few cases have necessarily been omitted on account of the 
difficulty of condensing them into proper form for this ar¬ 
rangement which follows, that of Hering's Condensed Materia 
Medica. 

Mind . Convulsions with complete loss of consciousness. 

Cicuta 6. Vol. XX, 47. 

Sensation of sinking, of the bed, of the person, of all 
about her. Lachesis. Vol. XXI, 84. 

While talking he easily forgets what he is talking 
about. Rhododendron 500. Vol. XX, 115. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



296 


Confirmations of the Materia Medica. 


April 


Fear, anxiety, apprehensive of impending evil, 
intensely morbid feelings induced or aggravated by foggy 
weather or strong winds, cause her to weep by herself. 
Natrum mur. cm. Vol. XX, 262. 

Weariness of life, tired of existence. Aurum 30. Vol. 
XXI, 69. 

Sensation of utter despair and fearful confusion of 
mind, aversion to society, pallor, heat and throbbing of 
vertex, feet cold, often covered with clammy sweat, 
suicidal thoughts. Calcarea cm. Vol. XXI, 67. 

Delirium tremens from the use of alcohol; patient is 
restless, trembling; various hallucinations, especially with 
a tendency to become furious and uncontrollable; 
unquenchable thirst. Cannabis i. Vol. XXI, 84. 

In the brain affections of infantile life—in the stupor, 
insensibility and unconquerable desire to sleep. Nux 
Mos. Vol. XXI, 84. 

Albuminuria of pregnancy; the mental symptoms are 
guiding; always better when doing something, when the 
mind is occupied; restless, wants to be continually mov¬ 
ing about; general “fidgety” sensation which is not con¬ 
fined to the feet as in Zinc. Helonias. Vol. XXI, 84. 

Believes he is not at home; aggravation from alcoholic 
liquors. Lachesis mm. Vol. XXI, 512. 

Mental conditions arising from leaving off stimulants 
in old drinkers; patient is restless; undertakes many 
things and accomplishes nothing; wants to go home; 
mania from alcoholic stimulants. Lachesis. Vol. XXI, 
84. 

Always theorizing. Apis, Cannabis i. Sulphur. 

Old misers when they get sick. Lycopodium. Vol. 
XXI, 343. 

He goes into a rage when he sees the doctor, saying : 
“ Go home, I am not sick, I did not send for you.” (Apis) 
Arnica. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Puerperal mania; she assumed to feel herself a person 
of great superiority; when her violent paroxysms of 
mania were off she complained of pain in the back; 
alternate appearance of the symptoms of the body and 
mind. Platina 6. Vol. XX, 256. 

Fretful and peevish; rolls the hands continuously; 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frank W. Patch . 


297 


uneasy and distressed all the time. Cina 1000. Vol. 
XX, 117. 

Inner Head . Fear of impending evil, severe headache 

throughout the cranium, with sensation of fullness, 
dizziness, flickering before eyes, impairment of vision, 
roaring, hissing in ears; nausea, anorexia, eructations of 
gas, tenderness in epigastrium; icy cold hands and feet; 
redness of iace on lying down, pallor and nausea on 
rising. Aconite 30. Vol. XX, 266. 

Intense pain in occipital region, worse at every throb 
of the heart. Retraction of head and neck; neuralgic 
pains in the limbs. Macrotin 2x. Vol. XXI, 231. 

Pain beginning in left temple and extending to right, 
over the right eyeball to occiput; also from the superior 
part of sternum through to the back, and crosswise 
between shoulders, with tenderness on pressure at all 
these points; swelling aud soreness of left side of cervical 
spine; sudden attacks of vertigo, nausea and vomiting; 
loss of memory, even forgetting his own name, with deaf¬ 
ness of left ear. Sulphur 9. Vol. XXI, 118. 

Headache in temples, with single stitches, relieved 
after eating. Rhododendron 30. Vol. XX, 109. 

Headache goes to the side not lain on. Calcarea Ars. 
Vol. XXI, 343. 

Bursting headache with paroxysms, causing her to 
scream with the terrible, bursting pain; sensation of 
great tension in membranes of brain. Began in nape of 
right side, came up to forehead and then spread involv¬ 
ing whole brain, also marked sensation of loneliness. 
Worse from light, noise, jar, even the careful walking 
across the floor of others. Ameliorated bjr sitting in a 
stooping posture and from heavy pressure on nape and 
vertex. Menyanthes 30. Vol. XXI, 240. 

Headache with sensation of a ball in forehead and 
hollowness in occiput. Staphisagria. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Headache worse, and hurts if leaned against anything. 
Belladonna 1000. 

Eyes. Scrofulous opthalmia of left eye occurring every eighth 
year, producing ulcers of the cornea, with almost total 
blindness. Sulphur 15 cent. Vol. XXI, 119. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



298 


Confirmations of the Materia Medica . 


April 


Eyes wide open, staring, pupils dilated and insensible, 
eyes turned to left; convulsions. Cicuta 6. Vol. XX, 47. 

Sudden blindness followed by convulsions. Cuprum. 
Vol. XXI, 343. 

Eyes, fixed upon the dark side of the room away from 
the light; violent speech with wrinkled face. Stramo¬ 
nium. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Ears . Constant discharge from both ears, very offiensive, 
sour smelling odor; dislike of having ears washed out. 
Sulphur 30. Vol. XX, 432. 

Nose. Epistaxis preceded by the most intense redness and 
flushing of the face and throbbing of carotids. Melilotus 
30. Vol. XX, 325. 

Severe fit of weeping, without depression, before epis¬ 
taxis. Melilotus. (proving) Vol. XX, 116. 

Extreme epistaxis every day in the afternoon. Melilo¬ 
tus. (proving) Vol. XX, 116. 

Daily nosebleed mornings. Arsenicum 1000. Vol. 
XXI, 393. 

Obstruction of nostrils with profuse discharge of thin 
mucus which reddens the nose and lips; itching and 
smarting of eyelids; post nasal discharge which does not 
relieve the sensation of stoppage of the nose. Sinapis 
nig. cm. Vol. XXI, 354. 

Hay fever; eyelids red with smarting, burning and 
itching; slight conjunctival congestion; much lachryma- 
tion; frequent violent sneezing; thick acrid discharge 
from the nose; loss of taste; no thirst. Sinapis nig cm. 
Vol. XXI, 354. 

Eyelids red and itching, eyes watery; sensation of 
burning and itching in the nostrils, with severe sneezing; 
nose obstructed, especially at the bridge, although there 
is considerable irritating discharge; nasal voice, no 
thirst; partial loss of taste and smell; hacking cough. 
Sinapis nig. 200. Vol. XXI, 354. 

Nasal passages obstructed; thin, acrid mucus dis¬ 
charged profusely from anterior nares; wings of nose 
red ; eyelids smart and itch ; no cough or thirst. Sina¬ 
pis nig. 12. Vol. XX, 353. 

Profuse, thin watery discharge from the anterior 
nares, excoriating and acrid; wings of nose red and 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frank W. Patch. 


299 


aore ; mucus in posterior nares and throat; voice thick, 
nasal; frequent short, hacking cough, painless, worse 
during day, relieved by lying down. Sinapis nig. 12. 
Vol. XXI, 354. 

Hay fever; smarting and itching of eyelids, worse 
toward inner canthus; margins red; eyes filled with 
tears; profuse, watery, excoriating nasal discharge; 
much sneezing, worse in morning and on lying down at 
night; itching, burning and tickling “high up” in 
nostrils ; frequent hacking cough during the day ; dull 
frontal headache; irritable. Sinapis nig. 200. Vol. 
XXI, 356. 

Face. Face pallid, drawn to left, convulsions. Cicuta 6. 
Vol. XX, 47. 

Intensely red face. Melilotus. Vol. XX, 257. 

Deep furrows in forehead and face with flapping nos¬ 
trils in pneumonia or bronchitis. Lycopodium. Vol. 
XXI, 342. 

Teeth. Painful, difficult dentition; gums bluish red; 
inflamed ; swollen over a tooth causes convulsions; teeth 
begin to decay as soon as they appear. Kreosote, Vol. 
XXI, 84. 

Tongue. Sensation as though a hair was on the tongue, 
which he was always trying to remove by hawking or 
spitting. Natrum mur. 30. Vol. XX, 35. 

Mouth. Greasy taste in mouth, causing constant spitting. 
Lycopodium 200. Vol. XX, 36. 

Mouth firmly closed, teeth clenched, froth oozing 
from between teeth and lips. Convulsions. Cicuta 6. 
Vol. XX, 47. 

Deep cracks in the angles of the mouth, with indur¬ 
ated edges. Cundurango. Vol. XXI, 228. 

Throat. Sore throat beginning on left side and extending 
to the right, relieved by taking warm drinks. Saba- 
dillalm. Vol. XX, 246. 

Great dryness of throat, much aggravated by breathing 
cold air; obliged to swallow saliva or other liquid, 
although on first swallowing there was great pain. 
Cistus 200. Vol. XX, 248. 

Parotid gland swells every evening at sundown ; better 
all day. Throat felt as if she had swallowed a piece of 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



300 


Confirmation* of the Materia Medica. 


April 


paper. Region of throat behind palate aches severely 
without other soreness. Carbo an. 30. 

Desires—Aversions . Desire for fresh fish. Phosphorus 3. 
Vol. XX, 25. 

Eating and Drinking. Violent pain in stomach, which was 
relieved after eating. Rhododendron 30. Vol. XX, 
109. 

Nausea ami Vomiting. Sour stomach from tomato soup. 
Lithium carb. 200. 

Vomiting and purging, with cold, blue, dry skin. 
Camphor. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Stomach. Pull feeling in stomach. Lycopodium 200. Vol. 
XX, 36. 

Contracting pains in pit of stomach, particularly when 
the stomach is empty. After eating the pains are entirely 
removed for a couple of hours, then they return; pain 
alsa at night beginning at twelve o'clock; many anxious 
dreams; he can not lie with head low. Arsenicum 10. 
Vol. XX, 367. 

Gnawing sensation below the sternum which compels 
him to eat frequently; canine hunger with feelings of 
emptiness in stomach, relieved by eating; can not bear 
pressure of clothing over stomach; warm room is disa¬ 
greeable, he must have fresh air and open windows; flat¬ 
ulence; he lies on his side with back elevated at night; 
frequent urging to urinate. Lycopodium 10. Vol. XX, 
435. 

Hypochondria. Sore, heavy, pressing pain in left side, below 
the ribs, and in the axilary, in region of spleen. Chinin 
sulph. cm. Vol. XX, 39. 

Abdomen. Attacks of colic everyday at four p. m. Colocyn- 
this. Vol. XX, 401. 

Cholera morbus with violent cramping in stomach, 
even jerking patient from lying to sitting posture, 
screaming with pain; vomiting and stool every five min¬ 
utes. Cuprum. Vol. XXI, 506. 

Cholera morbus; violent straining to vomit, with per¬ 
spiration on forehead; continuous nausea, vomiting and 
diarrhoea; vomiting of food with great effort, following by 
debility, chilliness and sleepiness. Antimonium tart 
Vol. XXI, 506. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frank W. Patch . 


301 


Cholera infantum; painful swollen gums; intense thirst 
with greedy drinking and almost immediate vomiting; 
stools extremely offensive and brownish; great and 
increasing prostration; very restless, continual tossing 
and moaning, sometimes dozing with half open eyes, 
can not sleep except when caressed or fondled, very pain¬ 
ful dentition. Ereosote 200. Yol. XXI, 505. 

JStool . Non debilitating diarrhoea, worse in morning, dis¬ 
charge pouring from her like water. Phos. 200. Vol. 
XX, 64. 

Stool not oftener than once a week, large, hard and 
coal black; the dilatation of anus is attended by a tearing 
crackling sound with flow of blood from fissures; evacu- 
tions only after long and violent effort, producing a pro¬ 
fuse, cold, clammy perspiration, followed by tremor, 
exhaustion and great pain at anus for several hours, 
relieved by bathing the parts in cold water. Lycopodium 
15. Yol. XXI, 207. 

Cholera infantum; painless, offensive stools; profuse 
and frequent; vomits large quantities; wants to nurse 
all the time, but vomits immediately after; great pros¬ 
tration, paleness and listlessness, surface warm. Bis¬ 
muth 200. Vol. XXI, 505. 

Stool of bloody mucus; tenesmus after stool; cutting 
colic pain below umbilicus; nausea, perspiration before 
and after stool, particularly on lowfcr part of body and 
thighs, aggravation day and night. Mercurius cor. lm. 
Vol. XXI, 525. 

Urine . Burning pain before and after urinating; meatus 
red and sore; thick yellow pus from the urethra. Copa¬ 
iba om. Vol. XX, 439. 

Violent burning, cutting pain on micturition, so severe 
that he bends double and fairly screams with pain; con¬ 
stant urging. Cantharis cm. Vol. XX, 439. 

Incontinence of urine which occurred always on lying 
flown and ceased as soon as the patient sat up. Ereosote, 
Vol. XX, 108. 

Narrowing of urethra, so that the urine passed only in a 
thin stream with much pain; burning during and a 
minute or so after passage; a drop seemed to remain 
behind ; burning far back in urethra; stiffness on aris- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



302 Confirmations of the Materia Medica . April 

ing in morning; hawking of thick tenacious mucus 
from the fauces ; urine dark red in color; mouth dry. 
Kalibi. 6, Vol. XXI, 443. 

Male Sexual Organs . Spermatorrhoea, attended by gloomy 
thoughts and great depression of mind. Sarsaparilla 
200. Vol. XX, 257. 

Shining face, impotency, prostatic dribbling. Sele¬ 
nium. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Discharge of a teaspoonful or more of prostatic fluid 
immediately after every erection. Phosphoric ac. Vol. 
XXI, 443. 

Female Sexual Organs . Copious, thin, brown, horribly offen¬ 
sive, acrid leucorrhoea. Kali ars. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Out of humor, always sad, better in open air, yet very 
sensitive to cold and wind. Breath smells badly ; coitus 
painful, followed by bleeding ; uterus very sensitive, 
enlarged and almost immovable. Aurum 3. Vol. XX, 
367. 

Menorrhagia, worse while baby is nursing and after 
drinking beer. Millefolium 30. 

The recently delivered uterus becomes actually jammed 
into pelvis, with great pain. Actea 1000. Vol. XXI, 
393. 

Pains, seemingly neuralgic, at the close of menstrua¬ 
tion ; the pains radiate from the dorsal spine and seem 
to meet over stomach and abdomen ; some hyperaesthesia 
of spine; worse from cold ; very much improved by warm 
clothing; compelled to wear corsets for the pressure pro¬ 
duced. Magnesia phos. cm. Vol. XXI, 544. 

Pregnancy . Constant bearing down sensation as though 
every thing was coming through the vulva ; every few 
seconds this bearing down is suddenly and violently 
increased and I feel the hot blood spurt. Post partum 
hemorrhage. Belladonna 40m. Vol. XX, 113. 

Cough and shortness of breath ; worse in dry air, fog 
and north wind, and the atmosphere before a thunder 
storm almost suffocates her; when walking she often 
looses her shortness of breath ; lying on left side is dis¬ 
agreeable ; must lie with head high and often sit up in 
bed ; a warm room is often uncomfortable ; salty expec¬ 
toration ; urine has blood red sediment; complaint worse 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


Frank W. Patch. 


303 


before and during menses ; disposition sad and disposed 
' to tears. Sepia 10. Vol. XX, 437. 

Breathing. Asthmatic attacks either day or night which did 
not permit him to lie down ; the paroxysms gradually 
increased and decreased in the same way. Stannum 30. 
Vol. XX, 108. 

Cough. Croup ; the cough is dry and sibilant; sounds like a 
saw driven through a pine board, each cough corre¬ 
sponds to a thrust of the saw ; no sound of looseness or 
mucous rattle any where ; the cough is dry and hoarse, 
causing pain in the throat; the attack comes on or grows 
worse before midnight. Spongia. Vol. XX, 252. 

Croup; rattling, choking cough ; the child chokes 
with every coughing spell, coughs until he chokes ; the 
attack comes on, or grows worse after midnight. Hepar. 
Vol. XX, 252. 

Cough; dry, wheezing, occurring with inspiration, 
must lie with head high; paroxysms relieved by eating 
ever so little. Spongia 3. Vol. XX, 349. 

Dry cough at night, worse by lying on left side, and 
and by laughing and talking; hoarseness, tightness 
across chest. Phosphorus 3. Vol. XX, 349. 

Exhausting cough on entering a warm room and on 
going into the open air; the cough is not troublesome 
while walking, but when she stops the cough is much 
aggravated. Astacus Fluv. 30. Vol. XX, 115. 

Lungs. Partial loss of voice from getting overheated; it 
began with a hot, sore patch in the larynx; soreness of 
throat on swallowing saliva; feeling of a bar across center 
of chesty about the level of the clavicle; the bar feels 
heavy, hot and burning on awaking in morning, like a 
solid, square bar with sharp edges; later, sensation of the 
fluttering of 6 feather at same place, causing constant, 
irritating cough, which does not relieve it; must draw the 
breath by exertion over the bar. HsBmatoxin 200. Vol. 
XXI, 442. 

Neck, Back. Violent neuralgic pains implicating whole 
spinal column; worse morning and evening and after 
eating. Phosphorus 3. Vol. XX, 25. 

Opisthotonos; head, neck and back bent backward like 
an arch. Cicuta 6. Vol. XX, 47. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



304 Confirmations of the Materia Medica. April. 

Lower Limbs . Sciatica; .pain in the hip and posterior muscle* 
of thigh, intolerable when standing, as if the thigh would 
break. Valeriana. Vol. XXI, 84. 

Dull pain in right hip to the front of leg, after expos¬ 
ure, also darting pains running around the leg and down 
the front of limb; patient made restless by the pains, and 
was relieved for a short time by moving, Rhus cm. VoL 
XX, 11. 

Nervousness, felt especially about the ankles. Pulsa¬ 
tilla. 

Sciatica; pain running down from hip on outside or 
back of thigh, aggravated when straightening out the 
limb, especially in standing. Valeriana 12. Vol. XXI r 
507. 

Sciatica; right side; pain very much aggravated by any 
pressure upon the affected side, either by sitting, or 
especially by lying on it; pain deep in the joint. Lyco¬ 
podium. Vol. XXI, 507. 

Severe pain in great toe of left foot; darting, tearing,, 
excruciating pain, extending in shocks from the toe to* 
knee along the course of the anterior tibial nerve; aggra¬ 
vated by the merest touch of the bed clothing; from the- 
knee the pain darted into the hip or abdomen; complete 
exhaustion from the pain; worse after sleep. Lacliesis 
12. Vol. XXI, 441. 

Limbs in General . Frightful distortion of left upper and 
lower extremities, the right remaining passive. Cicuta 
6. Vol. XX, 47. 

Ulcers of hand and leg looking like raw flesh, with 
violent itching, burning and pulsating; must keep leg 
elevated; warmth increased the pains; she lies on her 
back, with head elevated; aggravation toward evening;: 
regularly at 4 o'clock she becomes hot and can not toler¬ 
ate the warm room. Lycopodium 10. Vol. XX, 435. 

Chronic rheumatism with deformity of finger joints;, 
large, puffy knuckles, swelling, stiffness and pain of both 
ankles; great tenderness of heels and balls of feet. The- 
swelling of all joints affected were puffy, like wind galls;, 
patient's general condition aggravated inland and relieved 
near the sea shore. Medorrhinum. Vol. XXI, 85. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frank W . Patch . 


305 


Nerves . Hiccough occurring morning, noon and night for 
the last ten years, which was brought on by the use of 
Quinine, Natrum mur. 6. Vol. XXI, 229. 

Sleep. No sleep day or night, child restless, naps of only five 
or ten minutes* length. Cina 1000. Vol. XX, 117. 

She can not go to sleep because things in her room are 
out of place, and the room is not tidy. Arsenicum. 
Vol. XXI, 343. 

Sleeplessness; awakes suddenly from every pap as if in 
a fright, po relief from what she had slept. Physo- 
stigma 12. Vol. XX, 258* 

Screaming out in sleep, Cina 1000. Vol. XX, 117.. 

Temperature and Weather. Red face, great nervousness* 
excitability and fear, intense thirst; hot, dry skin; full* 
bounding pulse; following prostration from heat. Aco¬ 
nite 3. Vol. XX, 349. 

Chill , Fever , Sweat . Patients in low fever want to be mes¬ 
merized, they are starving for vital energy. Phosph. 
Calc. Vol. XXI, 342. 

High fever (croup); dry skin; much restlessness, dis¬ 
tress and anguish, from exposure to dry, cold air. 
Aconite. Vol. XX, 252. 

When fever is present or when there are pains in the 
abdomen he covers up, but after these (both fever and 
pain) pass, the skin becomes cold and he uncovers. 
Camphor. Vol. XXI, 343. 

Sides . Convulsions confined to left side. Cicuta 6. VoL 
XX, 47. 

Pain and soreness has changed from one side to the* 
other every day—Tonsilitis. Lac Can. 200. Vol. XX, 61^ 

Skin. Pain like that of shingles, without the eruption. 
Ranunculus b. 200. Vol. XXI, 394. 

Intense itching on retiring, it begins on removal of 
clothing and continues until wprm in bed. Rumex 200. 
Vol. XX, 249. Frank W. Patch. 

South Framingham, Mass. 


KALMIA. 

Toward evening the Kalmia patient has an irritability 
which continues the next morning. He seems to have no- 
disposition to move. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



306 


Kalmia . 


April 


Kalmia ha8 vertigo attended with pains in head and limbs; 
blindness and weariness. The vertigo comes on by moving 
from a recumbent posture. This reminds us of Aeonite 
which has vertigo on rising from a recumbent posture, accom¬ 
panied by nausea and vanishing of sight: 

Kalmia hris vertigo on stooping, and on looking downward. 
Pulsatilla has vertigo on stooping, and turning the eyes up¬ 
ward. 

Kalmia has headache with sensation when turning, as if 
something were loose in the head diagonally across the top of 
it. Bhus has a sensation when shaking the head as if the 
brain were loose, and were striking against the skull. 

Nux Mosch. has the same sensation as Bhus, but it is 
accompanied with heat and pain, especially in the temples 
which are sore. Sulphuric ac. has a sensation in the region 
of the forehead, as if the brain were loose and falling to and 
fro. 

Kalmia has pain in the top of the head, as if bound closely 
with a cord.* Compare Aeth. Coc. Mer. Nit. ac. Sulph. Tber. 

Kalmia has pain in the forehead, and over the eyes in the 
evening; it seems to move backward and down the neck out¬ 
ward on both sides, then it disappears, and is followed by 
pains in the left shoulder. It also has pain in the forehead 
which extends to the roots of one of the upper molar teeth of 
the right side. Kreosotum has tearing pains extending 
through the temples to the left side of the face and teeth. 
Compare also with Lycopodium. 

There is a pain in Kalmia from the back of the neck up 
over the scalp to the top of the head and temples, affecting 
the face, mostly on the right side, which reminds us of the 
Spigelia pain, which comes up from the nape of the neck 
and over the head, settling over the left eye. 

The eyes of Kalmia are painful on turning them. Bhus 
and Spigelia havb‘ the same symptom, but in Spigelia the 
eyes feel too large. 

Kalmia has sensation of stiffness in the muscles and around 
the eyes, and of the lids. Bhus has a stiff, rigid sensation of 
the eyelids in the evening, as if paralyzed. Spigelia also has 
a difficulty of raising the lids, which feel stiff and painful; 

Kalmia has supra orbital neuralgia worse on the right side. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1.891; F. (Ua4wn. 3Q7 

Cedronhas u^urajgia ii^yQ^ingthe B^pra.prbi^af ^ve ^ud 
eye, worse .on the left side. [See Qheh] \ } 1 

Kalmia, threat, feels swollen; tjxere is thirst and great dry¬ 
ness of the throat, which renders deglutition difflcidtl> t Com¬ 
pare here Digitalis and Lachesis. 

Kalmia has a sensation as though p ball were rising, in the 
throat. Lycopodium has the same, and Lachesis has a sensa¬ 
tion of a round lump in ff the oesophagus rising up from the 
stomach to the region of the throat, with the sensation as if 
the lump.remained and would suffocate her. Compare also 
Asaf., Com, Lob., Mag, c., Plumb., Phys. 

. Kalmia has, pressure as if some pne had squeezed the throat 
with the thumb and fingers. Chelidonium has sensation as 
if the larynx were being pressed upon the oesophagus by some 
external pressure which does not impede deglutition, 

Kalmia has oppression of the chest and shortness of breath, 
which obliges him to breathe quickiy and involuntarily; some¬ 
times the patient seems almost suffocated, so sharp and seypre 
are the chest pains. 

There is a sensation in the chest pains of Kalmia as if 
strained by overlifting, reminding us of Arnica and Rhus. 

When articular rheumatism has been suppressed by appli¬ 
cations, and cardiac symptoms ensue, or when the pains sud- 
* denly leave the limbs and go to the heart, think of Kalmia. 
It has severe pain in the cardiac region with slow pulse. 

The pulse of Kalmia is extremely weak and feeble, the 
artery seems slowly to contract and dilate like the action of 
an earthworm. With the slow, weak pulse, the arms are 
weak and the limbs cold. We are here led to think of Digir 
talis, in which the pulse is even slower than Kalmia, and also 
of Hellebore, in which .the pulse is slower than its heart-beat. 

Kalmia has palpitation up into the throat after going to 
bed, trembling all over, dying on left side,>lying on hack. 
Cactus also has palpitation at night, < lying on left, but the 
palpitation of Cactus is > by sitting erect. Compare Arseni¬ 
cum. 

Kalmia has pressure in the pit of the stomach like a mar¬ 
ble; < sitting bent, > sitting erect, with sensation as if some¬ 
thing would be pressed off below pit of stomach. Spigelia 
has pressure in pit of stomach as from a lump, disappearing 


Digitized by <^.ooQle 



308 


Kalmia . 


April 


after pressing with the hand, and changing to tension and 
pressure in chest. Compare Aconite and Gratiola. 

Kalmia has crampy pains with eructations of wind. Stan¬ 
num has the same symptom, but the eructations of Stannum 
are bitter. 

Kalmia has sudden pains in paroxysms across abdomen 
above umbilicus from lower border of liver downward toward 
the left, then ceasing in the right; < by motion, >by sitting , 
erect. 

The Kalmia stool is papescent, and the discharge is fol¬ 
lowed by pressure in the rectum. The discharge of Senega 
is also followed by pressure in the rectum, but the stool is 
hard and scanty. 

Kalmia, the menses appear from eight to twenty-four days 
too soon, the following period coming two weeks too late. 
During the insufficient and delayed menstruation there is 
pain in the loins, back and anterior part of the thighs. Com¬ 
pare Berb., Petr., Yerat. alb., Xanth. A week after the 
appearance of menses, Kalmia has a yellowish leucorrhoea, 
during which all df the symptoms are more prominent. 

With the cardiac affections, Kalmia has numbness and 
tingling of left arm. conite ha3 tin gling in fingers. Rhus 
has sensation of numbness in left arm and shoulder following t 
over exertion. Pulsatilla has numbness about the elbow. 
Phytolacca has numbness and tingling in the right arm. 

Kalmia has frequent pains fn the limbs, changing from one 
place to another. Compare Puls., Lac. can. 

Kalmia has a bruised feeling all over the whole body. Com¬ 
pare Arnica. F. Gladwin. 

POPULARITY OF HOMOEOPATHY. 

It is worthy of note that while there are but 200 homoe¬ 
opathic physicians in Brooklyn to 800 allopaths, fully half of 
the taxable property is in possession of families employing 
homoeopathic doctors. This same proportion' holds good in 
New York City, and in many of the larger cities of the 
United States. This fact was demonstrated to the Commis¬ 
sioners of Charities and Correction in New York City some 
years ago by the descendants of Dr. Carroll Dunham, and as 
a result of this demonstration the hospital at Ward's Island 
was turned over to the homoeopaths .—New York Evening 
Telegram , Feb. 7 , 1891 • 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Editorial. 309 


•When we have to do with an art whore end is the saying of human lift* any 
neglect to make ourselves thorough masters of it becomes a crime.”—HAHmotUf*. 


“The Homeopathist—What is He, and wbatis to 
Become of Him.”— In a recent editorial of the Medical Index 
of Kansas City, the editor thus incisively dissects the homeo¬ 
pathic school. It contains about as many errors as could well 
be crowded into the space: 

There are three classes of men today practicing under diplomas of 
k homoeopathic colleges. , 

The first class embraces those who are conscientious, and are stick¬ 
ing to the old-fashioned homoeopathy—the law of similia timilibus 
curantur , as applied by high attenuations, or potencies. These are 
deluded men; caring those cases which would naturally recover under 
the vis medimtrix natures and losing many patients whose lives might 
be saved by the application of rational therapeutics. This class const!- 
• tutes what may be called * ‘ high dilutionists, ” and is rapidly diminishing, 
soon to be a thing of the recent past, like the dodo and the Tasmanian. 

This learned opinion is from the pen of one of that numer¬ 
ous class of editors of allopathic journals, who obtains his 
knowledge of Homeopathy from his homeopathic (?) ex¬ 
changes and from this source dispenses wisdom to his readers. 
Can it be logically denied that the journals which he reads 
are not exponents of the science? Can a knowledge of 
Homeopathy taken from such a source be questioned? He 
probably read the erroneous assertion of the Netv York Times 
in an obituary notice of Dr. Bayard, that there was not a 
strict Hahnemannian homeopath left in New York. He was 
not expected to know that the editors of The Times now drill 
in the allopathic camp, and one is a inember of an allopathic 
society. He will soon learn, however, to take all assertions of 
The limes concerning Hahnemann, or Hahnemann's Home¬ 
opathy, cum grano salis . The editors of The Times ought to 
have known that there are now more Hahnemannian homeo¬ 
paths within a radius of fifty miles of its office, than there 
were in all the world twenty years ago. And this, we 
believe, is also true of Boston and Philadelphia. . Instead of 
becoming extinct <‘like the dodo and the Tasmanian,” there 
are about 1,000 homeopaths in this year of grace> who believe 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



oltf Editorial. April 

in and practice the “ old-fashioned Homeopathy" of Hahne- 
mann, every one of whom Js jprepaped* to give a reason for the 
faith that is in him or searching all other 

fields for truth. \ The transactions'of 'thenaitional soeiety^for 
iSStf/far tt weif fffled volume of ifearly Sftfr pages; and, msteaiJ 
of “rapidly diminishing,"'the true followers of Hahnemann 
arte becortSrig mote aggressive atad making inertra^id strides 
ih fhiuence and numbers than ally other so-called el&ss of 
hcM^opaths. ^ 1 v* w : ’ 

So far ‘.from being s deluded men," the largemajorifcy 
have studied the best the old school has to tffor,‘&Od have hon¬ 
estly ^’undertaken to apply its delusive theories in practice. 
They have adopted the Homeopathy of Hahnemann, only* 
after aii honest trial of its merits at the bedside. They have 
put the. teachings of. the Organon, to a practical test in the 
enre^ not alone of diseases which “would, naturally recover 
under the vis medicatrix natures” but of the most fatal in 
thief list bf acute" affections^ such as Asiatic cholera, yel¬ 
low fever and diphtheria, as well as Bright's disease, cancer 
and tuberculosis in chronic diseases. ’ During one of the recent 
epidemics of Asiatic cholera in Naples, a Hahnemannian 
homeopath treated 705 Cases pf cholera with a loss of only 
three patients, while the published mortality under allopathic 
treatment was from 50 to 60 percent. If cholera patients 
“would naturally recover under the vis medicatrix natures” 
why did not the medical friends of the editor of the Index 
let them alone? The percentage of recoveries of the insane 
at Middletown Asylum, where “only strait Homeopathy is 
used," is the largest ever reported by any public institution. 
It is for such reasons as these—results that they have never 
been able to obtain under any other methods—that impel 
the “conscientious" Hahnemannian to follow the practice of 
the master. 

, The second class includes that vastly larger array of men who are 
^conscientious; they see the absurdity of the “high-potency ” theory, 
and never pui it to use; they cling more or less tenaciously to the law 
of similia in their therapeutics—profe&sedly—but give, in a great 
part, the same remedies that We do; however distant these maybe 
from the rules of homoeopathic lines of treatment; notably, da they 
administer such things as antipyrine, bromidia, tongaline, celerina, 
Tarrant’s seltzer aperient and other like patent or proprietary articles 
as far from homoeopathic remedies as is from the earth the remotest 


• gitized by VjOOQle 


18*1* 


Editorial . 


311 


nebula which marks the marginal dawn, of .non-existing .w.prlds. 
Leading homoeopathic journals, like The Hahnemannian and The Otin* 
teal Reporter are filled to the brim with advertisements of these arti¬ 
cles. Men of this class are not true homoeopaths, they use the name 
“homoeopath ” for the'prestige/ it gives them in some places; These are 
the men utrho hate rendered the School so obnoxious tb regulars; they 
are the “ quacks” of Homoeopathy, and the men who; by- their dis¬ 
reputable methods, have caused all practitioners in their* school to be 
classed among “irregulars.” • :* 

' 'The term “irregulars” is not inappropriate here,, wbep 
applied to those who profess to-praotioe Homeopathy and yet 
u$e antipyriiie, quinine, bromidia, etc. The same remedies 
that we do’” And ^irregularis equally applicable to 
thosq pf the other school who profess to practice Allopathy; 
and yet when called, in case of emergency, boast that . they_ 
/f use homeopathic remedies” when the case demands it. 

The third class !is rapidly increasing in numbers. It consists of 
men who, like the first class, are really conscientious,—but more, they 
are educated. They are the men who have insisted that all students 
shall take three full courses of lectures prior to graduation, and who v 
have made this a necessity by the action of thpir National Association 
—something the managers of the American Medical Association have 
not done, for reasons best left unsaid. They are really scientific phy¬ 
sicians; cultured; progressive; they see the error of attempting to 
practice by any exclusive rule or dogma, and use everything that expe¬ 
rience has shown to be curative; many of them have dropped the dis-r 
tinctive title altogether, and call themselves simply ** physicians.” 
Not long since the Medical Eh'a (and its Hahnemannian orthodoxy is 
unquestioned) said: “Wonderful as it is, homoeopathic law does not 
cover everything, yhe fact is, it is applicable to a retry email part of 
the great field of medicine. Our opponents have been quicker to see 
this than some of our number, and hence they have been very anxious 
to pin us down to the idea that all medicine is covered by our law, 
knowing that if they could do so we would be doomed as a school.” 

So far as practice is concerned we can see no difference 
between the last two classes, perhaps the editor of the Index 
may. The editor of the Medwal Era , and many of its readers, 
will no donbt be astonished to find that his “Hahneman¬ 
nian orthodoxy is unquestioned.” Somebody may have to 
apologize. 

* * * 

Quinine in Pernicious Intbrmittents.— In a paper read 
before the Nebraska State Society by Dr. J. W. Hingston and 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



312 


Editorial. 


April 


published in the March number of the North Western Journal 
4>f Homeopathy occurs the following logic: 

In a late number of the Medical Advance, Dr. Fisher, by reputation 
known to most of you, in reference to the treatment of pernicious inter¬ 
mittent fewer, asks the editor of that journal how, after berating the 
southern homeopaths for using quinine in that disease , 4 4 he treats like 
«ases.” It appears to me that Dr. Allen’s answer is entirely ewasiwe. 
The question Is plainly asked: “ How da you treatacase ? ” Markyou, 
mot “ how would you ? ” And the answer is, “ I object to the use of 
quinine for ”—a stated number of reasons. Dr. Fisher explicitly asks 
for facts, Dr. Allen gives little more than theory; Dr. Fisher asks for 
•art, Dr. Allen gives him science. Now, though I have the greatest re¬ 
spect for Dr. Allen as a man and a physician, though I hold Dr. Allen 
Inferior to no one living as a close prescribes though he quotes scrip¬ 
ture — 41 If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be 
persuaded, thpugh one rose from the dead,” yet I do claim that he is not 
only unfair but unreasonable, while such answers only tend to convert 
bones! points of differing into points of fanatic dispute. 

[While we thank the author for the flattering yet unde¬ 
served compliment paid us as “ a close prescribes” and assure 
him that we intended no disrespect to Dr. Fisher or those 
who think as he does, much less did we intend to be consid¬ 
ered “unfair” or “unreasonable” or “to convert honest 
points of differing into points of fanatic dispute;” yet we 
have written nothing for which we can apologize; the 
demands of law are imperative^ We can not see how a true 
follower of Hahnemann—one governed by law instead of the 
ipse dixit of experience—can think of crossing his bridges 
before he reaches them. Dr. Fisher asks: “ * How do you 
treat a case of pernicious fever? , Mark you, not, ‘ how 
would you?' Dr. Fisher explicitly asks for facts, Dr. Allen 
gives little more than theory; Dr. Fisher asks for art. Dr. 
Allen gives him science.” 

There are two factors essential in the making of a homeo¬ 
pathic prescription: 

First , a knowledge of the symptoms of the patient. . 

Second, a knowledge of the symptoms of the remedy in the 
provings of which the simillimum is to be found. 

How could we, or any one else, tell what the latter would 
be, before we knew what the former was? How could any 
homeopath select a remedy for a given case of sickness, until 
the symptoms of the case were known? We might with 
oqual justice ask Drs. Hingston or Fisher, How do you treat 



Digitized by VjOOQle 




1891 


Editorial . 


319 


a case of pneumonia? not, how would you?* No follower of 
Hahnemann who is guided by law, can select a remedy for a 
case of sickness until the symptoms, the data of .the problem 
to be solved, are given. Such a prescription would have 
neither art nor science in it. We could have detailed the 
symptoms of Apis, Camphor, Gelsemium, Lachesis, Natrum, 
Nux, Quinine or Veratrum—remedies often called for and 
often effective^bxrt'none of them would be* of any-use if the 
symptoms of the patient suffering from a pernicious inter¬ 
mittent called for Arsenic. In view of these facts, let us ask 
Dr. Hingston who is “ unreasonable,” Dr . Allen or Dr. Fisher? 
Wfc can not hope to convert “ these men,” however much we 
would like to do so, if they will not put the teachings of the 
Organon—the method of applying the law—into practice.] 

If Df. Allen would be reasonable, T belieVe he could readily convert 
many of these men. I presume many qf them could give the same 
reasons for prescribing quinine In pernicious intermittent, that I would 
give for using Bell, in scarlet fever—I always administer it when no 
other remedy is clearly indicated. I claim that this is not unscientific. It 
is not necessarily prescribing for the name of a disease. I think that 
from the known action of quinine on the system it must be the frequent 
eimillimum to these ^mgerous fevers. I have seen but one case. 

[Dr. Hingston's clinical illustrations are unfortunate selec¬ 
tions. “I always administer Belladonna when no other 
remedy is clearly indicated ” is not only an unscientific but 
unhomeopathic method of treating patients suffering with 
scarlet fever. The elements of both the science and art of 
Homeopathy are wanting. It is simply a repetition of the 
practice of giving Quinine for pernicious intermittent, pre¬ 
scribing for the disease instead of the patient.] 

Here it is from my case book : 

“May 18, 1882, Mr. C-, age 88, blonde; every spring and 

summer for four years he has had chills and fever. Quinine, quinine, 
quinine, without relief. Highly prejudiced against Homeopathy; a 
favorable feeling toward myself. Sallow, a poor appetite, slightly con¬ 
stipated. Chill every day when going home to dinner about 11:80 
o'clock. Still, if he started home earlier the chill was liable to take him 
on the way. Chill not overly severe and without shake, but excess¬ 
ively tired and exhausted, compelling him to sit down by the way. 
Then numbness and finally unconsciousness for one-half to two 
hours. Would waken with commencing fever which was not great 
but long lasting and .accompanied with severe, hammering headache. 
Sweat not severe. Considerable thirst all the time—prodrome, chill, 
fever, sweat, apyrexia. Pres. Nat. mur. 80, No. 85 pellets, 6 night and 
morning. May 17, I was summoned in great haste to his residence. 
When f arrived about 11:30 p. m. found him unconscious and cold, 
blue veins standing out on his face, rattling, snoring breathing. As I 


. zed by VjOOQle 



814 Editorial. April 

was learning from bis wife tbat as~be had been fading nauknally bad 
that morplfig h© had started home much earlier than usual and . had 
gone into a very severe chill soon after his arrival, he awakened and 
said, *1 ffeel hungry / an unknown thing, his Wife said. I was about to 
question him further when he went into a most dreadful shake and 
complained qt his back aching high up. On attempting to place my 
hand over the gainful location he cautioned me not to touch his back¬ 
bone as it was very sores Almost immediately he became ag^in uncon¬ 
scious. I neyer, before or since, saw such a condition. I would surely 
have thought the man would die, but was somewhat contorted from the 
knowledge of his previous attacks. As it was, I had grave fears for his 
life, and his wife assured me that he certainly would die. She always 
knew and Said he wotild die in one of these attacks, and this was much > 

worse than he had ever before been. She implored me to give him 
some quinine, assuring me he would be able to swallow it if I put it in 
his mouth.. I said I would do so. " Ihad been studying Wilson's mono¬ 
graph and remembered quinine has the symptom “ soreness.of the spine 
to pressure." I.gave him a third decimal trituration, one or two grains 
dissolved in water, and allowed It to trickle and gurgle down his throat. 

We applied hot applications and rubbed and worked over an hour when 
the collapse left and he began to get feverish and soon after he partially 
awakened into a delirium. I left more of the quinine trituration to be 
given less and less often as 1 \p got better. Next day he was vastly ex¬ 
hausted, in bed* but escaped the chill. Under an alternation of the china 
sul. Sxt.and sac. lac., he gradually recovered to a more perfect health 
than he had known for many months, and, so far as I know, never had 
another chill. 

[In this case, from the symptoms given, it was Natrum 
mur. 30, and not Quinine that cured the patient. At least 
every symptom given, including the “sorAess of the spine/* 
are to be found under Natrum, instead of Quinine. There 
may have been symptoms overlooked or neglected which 
might have called for Quinine, but as none were given we must 
credit Natrum with the cure of the patient. If Quinine cured 
the case, it cured in a potency after failing in the crude.] 

Again quoting Dr. Allen as a representative of hundreds of others : 

“When quinine is indicated by its characteristic symptoms, it win cure 
in the 6, 12, 80, 200 or 1000 potencies, just the same as arsenic or any 
other remedy. There never need be resort to massiye doses of the 
drug/’ Here is a statement that was good enough to give the student 
when Dr. Allen was Professor of Materia Medica in the University of 
Michigan. The student and pupil is supposed to take as true—consider 
as axioms—many bare statements of the professor and teacher. But 
men who have long since passed through college life and are now learn¬ 
ing in the school of experience require these statements proven. 

[We practice what we teach. We have verified this state¬ 
ment a thousand times in practice, and Dr. Hingston may do 
the same if he will. We can not do it for him. He will 
never see Jupiter’s moons until he looks at them. Put this 
statement to the clinical test and publish the failures to the 
world.] 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



i#l A 


•CMrfien^thS' (^Utnsin. 


8 i 5 


x-i, '.vt 


<tommmt cub fotitctenw 



v,V)I‘ s ’ • ; . -v ■ • ? • f,« ,» • .» ; - y 11 j, ... • 

Ask yourself \l there be any element of right and wrong in a question!, it 
iff lake font part WKh the perfect and abstract rigAt, anA'tftist In God te see 
(bet it shall proVe expedient.— Wendell Phillips. 


INSTRUMENTS OP DECISION AND CURING. ' 

Apparently, medical science has held its own in'thifc age of 
progress and intellectual/ activity. At least we'see nothing 
* so frequently in the medical journals now-a-days, as boasts 
and vaunts of the marvellous process which medicine is mak¬ 
ing. Modern arts and' sciences s^em eager to assist her; 
Anatomy, Physiology, Electricity, Chemistry and* Physics in 
all its branches hold out their hands to her, laden with rich 
gifts/ All sorts of most wonderfully constructed instruments 
of precision have been adapted to investigating the status of 
the body. 

With thermometers we tell to the fraction of si degree the 
temperature of the various parts of the body; with delicate 
hydrometers we ascertain the specific gravity of its various 
fluids* with a slender pencil of reflected light and variously 
constructed endoscopes we illuminate its hidden cavities; 
the microscope enables us to examine the mifiute Structure of 
parts, else invisible; the sphygmograph presents to us a visi¬ 
ble tracing of tbfe quality of the pulse, and Anatomy and 
Physiology are penetrating to the Very inner courts of our 
earthly tenement. Every morning Chemistry presents to the 
doctor from the jungles of coal tar a brand new antipyretic 
or hypnotic. 

But—(alas, that there should be a but )—the sick man with 
a thermometer in this mouth, a hydrometer in his urine, & 
microscope over his sputa, a stethoscope to his chest, a sphyg¬ 
mograph on his wrist, with all his microbes fully known, and! 
a dose of the latest antipyretic in his stomach continues to die 
as heretofore. 

It is true that the doctor, although unable to prevent the 
catastrophe, can yet tell the patient exactly why he dies and 
how. As to any real use this science of the mysteries of dis- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



316 


Comment and Criticism . 


April 


solution, this dreary analysis of death is a lame and impotent 
affair. 

It imay be/airly doubted whether medicine is pot hindered 
from its main function of healing by these ovcr^fiaenre&ts 
in the direction of diagnosis, whether Anatomy, Physiology 
and Diagnosis have not been developed beyond the needs of 
medicine proper. Any one of these sciences is fascinating 
enough for its own sake 1 to be the occupation of a life. For 
practical work, medicine and surgery want but a small part 
of their voluminous and ever-increasing informations. 

A man may know much about the motor oculi nerve and 
the structure of orbicularis palpebraw^m muscle, but all this 
fine knowledge does not help him, one Vint, to wink any bet- • 
ter than the unlearned. Laborious thougntKof how it is done 
interferes .with the process. The conscious possession of 
unlimited sciences squanders energy over ali^i^ fields, and 
diverts the simple and direct effort of healing. % 

Medicine, with its immense modern learning, is a 
so overfreighted with valuables that its main business sa ^“ 
ing the seas and delivering a cargo is interfered with, oJ l^e 
a house so garnished and over-decorated with curtains >*and 
tapestry, hanging lamps and ornaments, that its usefulness^ M 
a dwelling place is gone. . 

What medicine needs in Anatomy and Physiology, i t 
already, in the main, possesses; regional divisions, leading 
functions, position of organs are the essentials, and then cer-. 
tain Instruments of Precision are indispensable to a successful \ 
practice of the art; namely, two eyes, twp ears, a nose, the » 
tactile finger, the thinking brain. 

Far better than the thermometric record or the crooked 
line of the sphygmograph are the phenomena as recorded by 
this living instrument of precision, for instance; that the 
skin is hot, dry, biting; the face flushed, the patient restless, 
anxious, fearful, thirsty; the pulse full, hard and frequent; 
we learn, also, of a recent exposure to a cold wind. Without 
the cumbrous machinery of science, we have here a series of 
facts directly available for curing, which the most exact 
knowledge of the state of the patient’s internal organs, his 
temperature, the microbes in his secretions, the chemical 
analysis of his urine, etc., could never give. 

Science, pretentious and arrogant, puffed up with useless 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


817 


1891 • New Publications . 

external knowledge, spreading ont a wonderful array of deli¬ 
cately contrived instruments, of newly discovered drugs, 
boasting of immense progress in the sciences of pathology and 
diagnosis, yet does little or nothing toward restoring health. 

Homoeopathy on the other hand makes no display of mar¬ 
vellous contrivances, but by using trained faculties o£ obser¬ 
vation and a law of cure, “surpasses every other method in 
fulfilling one not unimportant object of the physician—the 
cure of the patient.” J. B. S. King. 



Qtoo QpuBftcaftons* 

REPORT OF THE CALCUTTA HOMOEOPATHIC DISPENSARY. 

NO. YI, 1890: 

This is the sixth annual report of an institution that is doing good 
work in the way of introducing Homeopathy in a far away country. 
The report includes some clinical cases and a brief proving of one of the 
Indian drugs, Ficus Indica. 

Popular Science for April contains Herbert Spencer’s views on 
State socialism in an article entitled, “ From Freedom to Bondage/* 
which opens the number. This is probably the strongest refutation of 
socialistic theorizing that has yet appeared. 

What Keeps the Bicycler Upright?—A question that is often 
asked—is answered in an illustrated article contributed by Charles B. 
Warring. Read it. 

In The Century for April, life in another war prison, at the 
North, is described by a Confederate soldier, Dr. John A. Wyeth, now 
of New York City. Ue shows that “Cold Cheer at Camp Morton/* 
Indianapolis, included hardships bordering on the worst phases of cold 
and hunger. This article is creating much just and bitter criticism 
from medical men and should be read, even if it be unpalatable. 

Scribner’s Magazine for April marks the beginning of the richly 
illustrated series on * ‘ Ocean Steamships ” which, it is believed, will be as 
successful as the “ Railway” and “ Electric ” series. The most compe¬ 
tent authorities have been chosen to write of “ Ocean Passenger Travel,” 
“ The Ship’s Company,” “ Safety at Sea,” “ Speed,** and the ‘'Lines of 
the World.’* Original drawings by skilful artists (who have been 
granted special privileges for study by the various steamship com¬ 
panies) will illustrate each paper. “What is Right-Handedness?” is 
discussed by Professor Dwight, anatomy professor of the Harvard Med¬ 
ical School. This will interest all our readers, we are certain, for he has 
something to say that is new. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



. JjfaO'ffybfaatiprw 




ai^ 


. Annuls of Surgery tyr Apr!) contains a serfo* of papers op: 
Pathology of Appendicitis; The Indications for Early Laparotomy in; 
The Technique for the Operation for; The Operative technique of ;‘ the 
series forming a very complete resume of the sufgery of' this obstinate 
affection. *;• • • ’ : • • * \ 

The Magazine of American History for April opens with a 
frontispiece of ‘.‘Columbus at the Court of Ferdinand and Isabella." 
“ The first meeting, of Admirable Porter and Sherman,” and "A Defens? 
of Captain John Smith ” are among its cfeoipe historical gems. 

WideAwake. A great variety of contributions characterizes the 
April number from its frontispiece of white lilies to its amtishig end- 
page drawing by Bridgman. “ The Mysterious Choir Boy/'a beauti¬ 
ful story full of the Easter spirit—the uprising of rejoicing life from 
conditions dark as death—is by Henry Kirke White, Jr. Like all the 
sketches by this author, this is captivating. 

J. B. Lippincott Company will, beginning with April, issue quar. 
terly thereafter a work entitled “ International ✓Clinics.” This work 
will comprise the best and most practical clinical lectures on medicine, 
surgery, gynaecology, pediatrics, dermatology, laryngology, ophthai- 
mology, and otology, delivered in the leading medical colleges of this 
country, Great Britain, and Canada. These lectures have been 
reported by competent medical stenographers and thoroughly revised 
by the professors and lecturers themselves. The object of the work is 
to furnish the busy practitioner and medical student with the best 
and most practical clinical instruction in concise form. Each volume 
will consist of over 350 octavo pages, illustrated with photographic 
reproductions of important cases. 


fiktfor 8 Ca6fe+ 


J. T. Kent, M. D., has removed to 1605 Walnut street, Philadel¬ 
phia. 

Tile Saginaw Valley Homoeopathic Society appears to be the 
most active and aggressive organization in the State, evidence of what 
a few earnest men can do. 

H. M. Paine, M. D., of the Committee on Medical Legislation of the 
A. I. H., is endeavoring to raise funds with which to continue his war 
on the single medical board, by selling copies of reports on Legislation. 
It is a worthy object and the doctor deserves the support of the profes¬ 
sion. Write him for a list of articles. 

The Denver Homeopathic Club, through its Compaittee, propose 
the following amendments to the hill recently introduced in the legisln- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editor’t Table. 


319 


ture, which provides for a board of six allopaths, two homeopaths and 
one eclectic: 

First—That in'no ease shall a majority of the physicians constituting 
said State Board of Medical Examiners be appointed from or belong to 
any one school of medicine. 

Second—That no appointment shall be made except upon the recom¬ 
mendation of the State Society of the School of Medicine to which the 
applicant may belong. 

Third—No certificate shall be refused or revoked unless by consent of 
^ majority of all the members of said board. 

It will be .observed that we ask no favors for our school. We desire 
no special legislation for the homeopaths. We demand an equal repre¬ 
sentation for aU. We want no more than this, and will accept no less. 

Correction.— Dr. L. B. Wells’ article on page 171,. March number 
of the Advance, sixteenth line from the top, for “production” read 
“reduction.”, 

Ohio State Society.— The Twenty-seventh (27th) Annual Session 
of the Homeopathic Medical Society of the State of Ohio will be held at 
Findlay t May 12 and 13. A fine programme is promised and a large 
attendance expected. 

Married.— Dr. K. J. Severance and Miss Kate M. Foss, of Ver- 
gennes. Vt., were married March 18. The doctor is a graduate of Old 
Hahnemann (’82) and will practice with Dr. Page, Keesville, N. Y. 

E. Lippincott, M. D., of Memphis, Tenn., writes: “I recently 
began the treatment of hernia by the injection method. Any hernia 
that is reducible and can be held in or up by a pad or truss is curable, 
and I offer to cure gratis any physician who will come here for treat¬ 
ment.” 

Grace Hospital. —The next regular examination for the position 
of Junior Assistant to the House Surgecyi will beheld at the hospital on 
Saturday, May 9,. 1891, at 4 p.m.; term, eighteen months. 

First six months as Junior Assistant. 

Second six months as Senior Assistant and Ambulance Surgeon. 

Third six months as House Surgeon. 

Applicants must show evidence of graduation from a recognized 
homeopathic college. 

All applications must be addressed to the President of the Medical 
Board, The Grace Hospital, Detroit, not later than May 1st, and must 
be accompanied by certificate of good moral character. 

New Orleans Homeopathic Hospital. —This latest of hospital 
projects bids fair to be soon brought to a successful issue. A friend— 
an earnest advocate of Homeopathy—has already offered to donate the 
site for the first Southern Homeopathic Hospital. A little earnest 
work will now make it an assured success. 

The Indiana Institute will hold its Quarto-Centenary Meeting at 
Indianapolis, May 13 and 14, 1891. At the last annual meeting 41 new 
members were elected, and for the first time in the history of the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



320 


Editor’s Table . 


April 


Institute the transactions of 1891 will be published in book form for 
preservation. The discussions will be stenographically reported, and 
contributions from well known members of the profession outside the 
State will form a prominent feature of the meeting. Reduced railroad 
and hotel rates are promised. 

The * Hahnemann Association of Iowa will meet at Des 
Moines, May 12 and 18, 1891, and an enthusiastic meeting is expected. 
The secretary, Dr. Hanchett, of Council Bluffs, is making preparation 
for all the members and a large delegation from other States. 

H. F. Biggar, M. D., had 170 surgical operations besides 105 gyne¬ 
cological clinics, during the recent session of the Cleveland Homeopathic 
College. 

Michigan State Society meets in Grand Rapids, May 19 and 20, 
and every homeopath in the State is earnestly requested to be present, 
prepared not only with a paper, but to discuss all that may be presented. 

Toronto Homeopathic Hospital has been in operation a little over 
a year and has been, in that short time, compelled to move into larger 
quarters. The hospital is now full and has a large and flourishing dis¬ 
pensary attached. The mortality is already less than in any hospital in 
Canada, and will continue to decrease with each succeeding year. 

The Kentucky Homeopathic Society will meet at Lexington, 
May 19 and 20, and the President, Dr. Vansant, In a stirring appeal to 
the profession in the State, says: “ Much of the success of Homeopathy 
depends upon the success of the State Society, and it is to the interest 
of every subscriber to Similia in the State to join in a united effort to 
further the cause.” 

A Correction. —In the February number you have Fela aranea 
which should be Tela aranea. It is one of Swan’s preparations. All 
the literature I have upon the remedy is found in the Edectic Medical 
Journal , Cincinnati, November, 1886. What I have said in notes has 
been verified repeatedly by myself. W. H. Leonard. 


Digitized by A.ooQle 



T.HIE 


Medical Advance. 

A HOMEOPATHIC MAGAZINE. 


Vol. XXVI. May, 1891. No. 5. 


GLONOINE* 

The violence and rapidity with which this medicine affects 
the head will individualize it, wherever you see it. The 
violent determination of the blood to the head, the congestion 
of the blood vessels, the violent throbbing of the heart, the 
intense heat of the head, the cold body, the cold extremities, 
give you a general picture of this remedy and associate it 
with Arnica and Belladonna. 

After the premonitory symptoms, the face becomes pale, the 
head continues extremely hot, there is throbbing in the car¬ 
otids, the eyes become glassy, there is loss of memory, forget- 
fullness, falling and unconsciousness. 

In the more passive mental conditions, or disturbance of the 
central nervous system, we have loss of memory, patient loses 
himself in well known streets, frequently becomes dizzy, falls, 
with frothing at the mouth, glassy staring eyes, dilated pupils, 
frightful to look upon. We see this also in congestion of the 
brain, epilepsy, etc. 

The complaints are all aggravated by light, intense light, 
sunlight, more than by heat, as are the conditions found in 
sunstroke. 

There is great agitation, fear and dyspnoea, fears he has been 
poisoned, like Ehus and Hyos. 

The remedy is full of vertigo, we get many like symptoms 
in sunstroke, the throbbing, the pale yellowish-red face. It 
is a great remedy in sunstroke. If you run across a case of 
sunstroke, pull out your little case (Glon. is pretty nearly 

* From the Lectures of Prof. J. T. Kent, M. D. 


Digitized by LjOOQle 







322 


Olonoine . 


May 


always the remedy), give a highly potentized dose of Glon. 
and keep the patient quiet. A person smitten with sunstroke 
needs absolute quietude. One of the first efforts made by 
enterprising friends is to drag the patient to some shady spot, 
or have him taken to the house, or try to make him sit up; 
don’t do it. If at all possible, don’t move him. Shade him 
from the strong light as quickly as possible, but don’t move 
him. The vertigo is occasioned by the strong light as much 
as the heat. If you can pursue this treatment you will find 
your patient all right next day. Belladonna will be your 
next best remedy. The heat is not as powerful an agent in 
sunstroke as the bright, intense light. A bright light has 
often produced loss of consciousness. Dark colored glasses 
have prevented sunstroke. 

There is a sensation in the head, as of swelling, like that 
in the throat. The head seems to the patient to be growing 
larger and larger. The eyes feel as if starting out of their 
sockets; there is loss of taste and smell; the tongue is per¬ 
fectly milk white as in Ant. tart; a condition often seen in 
brain troubles. 

The headaches are congestive; there is a balancing sensa¬ 
tion, with constant effort to keep the head erect; worse in the 
open air. With this you will find tearing, throbbing, pressing 
pains, burning in the brain continuing till unconsciousness, 
sensitiveness to a jar, these are the most prominent features. 
The throbbing felt with every pulse, gives the sensation as if 
the head would break open. 

Like Bell, it has this congestive condition coming from a 
cold taken through the head; from cutting the hair or from 
getting the head wet. 

There are all descriptions of varied and illusory vision in 
these head troubles, with both dilated and contracted pupils. 

The ear symptoms are such as come from violent surging 
of blood to the head, defined as throbbing and roaring sensa¬ 
tions. 

The face is flushed and hot, or pale and cold, in the first 
instance showing the paralysis of the inhibitory nerves. 

Studying the symptoms of congestion to the head, either 
as a result of disease, or of drugging, you will find that as 
the passive state comes on, the pallor of the face comes on, 
and it increases in pi’oportion to the depth of disturbance. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. T. Kent . 


323 


First we find the face flushed and hot, then it cools and 
becomes pale, cold aud deathly. The heat of course being 
while they are yet able to go about; when they have fallen, 
the condition assumes the passive form, the activity passing 
rapidly, usually before the fall. 

The skin is dry in Glon. and is hot aud dry in sunstroke. 
Glon. and Nitrite of Amyl are both used by some practition¬ 
ers, to prevent epileptic attacks. 

There is violent and anxious vomiting associated with brain 
troubles, pain and gnawing in the stomach. You may find 
this condition in pregnancy, with violent determination of 
blood to the head; the symptoms are reflex, the keynote and 
•center of action is in the brain. Study the svmptoms care¬ 
fully. 

Scant menstruation is characteristic, opposing it to Bell. I 
have used Glon., many times successfuly in congestive condi¬ 
tions of the head, not caused by light, when'there is deter¬ 
mination of blood to the head with swelling of the neck; sen¬ 
sation of filling up in the chest, at a time when the menses 
should appear. 

During the congestions to the head, there are many sensa¬ 
tions in the chest: dyspnoea, palpitation, suffocation, filling 
up of chest and neck. 

In bookkeepers, who work under the strong gas light, we 
frequently find headache, with loss of the senses. The 
patient may be almost unconscious, or there may be only con¬ 
fusion of mind—a stunned condition from this rush of 
blood to the head; violent palpitation, neck so swollen that 
he can not bear the collar buttoned. There is diminished 
flow of blood from the brain and increased flow of blood to 
the brain. These headaches begin in the back of the head, 
not allowing him to lie down, forcing him to sit up. There 
is sensation of choking owing to the filling up of the chest 
with suffocation, anguish and vomiting. 

Bookkeepers, being men of sedentary habits, are much given 
to congestive headaches. A patient says to you, “towards 
evening, I have headache.” You will naturally turn to the 
rubric for evening headache, as a strong symptom from which 
to base your prescription. You may not find Glon. has eve¬ 
ning headaches, you find that the peculiar headache of Glon. 
is worse in^the morning and forenoon. You make the list of 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


324 


Glonoine. 


May 


remedies having evening headache. You then take the symp¬ 
toms thoroughly, writing down the symptoms that he 
describes, you then compare each symptom with the fore¬ 
going list, to find the curative remedy. Should you fail to 
ask him his business, and his manner of doing it, you may 
not discover the remedy. He says, “ book keeper . 99 By 
experience you know that in many of the offices as night 
approaches, there is made a bright light, many times an 
electric light, often more or less artificial light all day. The 
bright light in the evening, may, in your patient’s case, bring 
on the attacks. This will take you into a new list of rem¬ 
edies, and if you are not an expert at weighing the reasons 
pro and con you may yet make a mistake. The bright light, 
then, may bring on the headache and not the approach of 
evening, the environment and not time, being the chief 
factor; this will be the central point round which your study 
will revolve. 

It is well to know the complaints excited by different 
occupations, the better to comprehend the fundamental 
truths of Homoeopathy. 

We see here that a patient may have a morning headache, 
which is peculiar to the action of the remedy; on rising 
in the morning a sensation of fullness of the head and a dull 
aching pain in the occiput, that is made worge by returning 
to bed, to which he is inclined, because the pain is so severe ; 
but he may have a congestive headache, brought on at any 
time of day by light, intense light, either natural or arti¬ 
ficial. The latter being peculiar to Glon. according to the 
kind of its congestion, the former according to time, or both. 

Children after exposure to the cold, warm their feet at the 
fireside, go to sleep in the glare; on comes the congestive 
chili, the pallor, the throbbing of the heart, the surging of 
the blood to the head, relieved by sweat which is most profuse 
about the head and neck. 

The principal aggravations of Glon. are heat, light, 
motion, especially from jarring the parts, and lying down; 
better from general motion. Light hurts the eyes in the 
evening, artificial light at any time. There is great restless¬ 
ness and jerking of the limbs in epileptiform convulsions. 

S. L. G. L. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Principiis Obstal 


325 


PRINCIPIIS OBSTA! 

Dr. Arthur G. Allan has rendered an eminent service to 
Homoeopathies in reporting a case of colic cured by a dose of 
Belladonna cm. within four minutes, terminating in a sound 
sleep (Medical Advance, Vol. XXY., p. 349). 

This happy effect gives the author the opportunity to com¬ 
ment upon the rationale of the cure, based upon the following 
statement: 

“Homoeopathy teaches us that every drug when swallowed pro¬ 
duces symptoms in the healthy organism , that are peculiarly its 
oivn , which will he invariably followed by a reaction of the vital 
force diametrically opposite to , or the exact counterpart of the 
individual symptoms of the drug . This reaction of the vital 
force being stronger than the medicinal action overcomes and 
throws it off, so that vital harmony, ivhich is called health , is 
restored” 

The first requisite for reasoning upon a fact is to ascertain 
whether it is a fact. Is that teaching, implied to Homoe¬ 
opathy, founded upon fact, and what • is the fact? It 
must here be premised that a drug for us is not a com¬ 
mercial article, but a substance from which the remedy 
is derived, what Hahnemann calls “ Arzneistoff,” med¬ 
icine substance. Now, it is claimed as a fact that every 
drug when swallowed produces symptoms of its own in 
the healthy organism. If stated in this generality this 
is not true; because there are substances, or, in the med¬ 
ical sense, drugs which when swallowed do not produce 
symptoms of their own, at least not such as may be useful for 
homoeopathic purposes: e. g. Silicea, the Carbos, Lime, 
Alumina, metallic Aluminium, Silver, Gold, Tin, Graphites, 
Platinum, Sepia, Gems, Grains, Honey, Sugar, Milk, Milk- 
Sugar, Nutriments, etc. Besides, there are other agents: 
the Dynamides, Light, Electricity, Magnetism, which are 
not called drugs, and can not be swallowed, but nevertheless 
produce symptoms of their own upon the healthy organism, 
and they are left out of the statement. The fact, therefore, 
which has been stated as being true for every drug, is true 
only for a certain class of drugs. Hence, the following teach¬ 
ing in regard to the contrariety of symptoms can not be 
predicated from it as a general rule, for where a drug 
produces “no symptoms of its own” no diametrically 
opposite symptoms can follow. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



326 


Principiis Obsta! 


Mat 


Furthermore, to ascribe the opposite symptoms to the 
reaction of the life-force alone is an inadmissible postulatum. 
The symptoms produced by the drugs from beginning to 
■end are, owing to the reaction of the life-force upon their 
action, and these two opposite actions in the organism form 
a mutual action, which can not be separated, as, likewise in 
motion, the force can not be separated from the moving 
body. The symptoms, direct and opposite, are the outward 
signs of the mutual action going on in the organism. The 
opposite symptoms, though evidently the external signs of 
the reaction of the life-force by which the drug-action is 
shown, are just as well as the initial (primitive) direct symp¬ 
toms, the drug's own symptoms: only they appear at a later 
time in an inverse direction, and are owing to the drug's 
individual power to produce symptoms upon the healthy, 
followed by the opposite symptoms. This opposition resembles 
that of a boomerang which, thrown in a forward direction, 
returns to the thrower. 

Why the life-force at the appearance of these opposites 
should be stronger than the primitive drug-action is likewise 
postulated, not proved, and, according to the facts, it must be 
denied as aj vetitio principii, in as much as that is taken for 
granted which is to be proved. There is no proof in the 
alleged teaching that when opposite symptoms appear, the 
reaction of the life-force is stronger than the drug-action and 
produces these opposites. Contrarily, there is nothing to dis¬ 
prove that these opposites are the continuation of the drug- 
action, but the proof appears to be conclusive that the life- 
force reacting during both the first and after action of the 
■drug is weaker than the drug-action, because it submits and 
presents the symptoms peculiar to the drug; just as a body 
must move if impelled by a force, and its resisting force is 
consequently weaker than the impelling force. If, after nar¬ 
cotics and other strong drugs, symptoms opposite to the first 
appear, they belong to the totality of symptoms which the 
drug is able to produce according to the character of its 
individuality. The opposite symptoms claimed for the supe¬ 
riority of the life-force are owing to the inverse direction of 
the drug-action, indicated by the life-force, and as drug 
symptoms they are available for the selection of the homoeo¬ 
pathic remedy. 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



1891 


B. FincJce. 


32? 


From this it appears that the greater strength of the life- 
force in overcoming the drug-action when opposite symptoms 
from swallowing a drug occur, is an untenable speculation 
which can not be sustained as a fact. Consequently it can 
not be admitted as the teaching of Homoeopathy. 

The foregoing also answers Dr. Vandenburg’s question in 
the Homoeopathic Physician, Vol. XI, p. 118: “Are not the 
secondary symptoms in any case as much peculiar to the 
drugs as the primary?” in the affirmative. 

The author continues: “ Likewise this same primitive 
drug-act ion,and the reaction of the vital force against the drug - 
action takes place in disease the same as in health ” 

If the former statement about the drug-action upon the 
life-force in health can not be sustained, because it is not 
founded on fact, it can also not be true for disease, and as dis¬ 
ease is nothing but distuned life-force, by some cause or other 
a drug can not act on it in the same manner as if it were in 
tune. How, then, does the drug act upon the life-force in 
disease? The old allopathic indication is to give a drug in a 
maximum dose, short of being fatal, which will either over¬ 
come the complaint by contrariety of action through opposite 
symptoms as narcotics do, or lead it into other channels for 
physiological elimination — Allopathization . The homoeo¬ 
pathic indication is to give a drug in a minimum dose just 
sufficient to cure, which will overcome the complaint by con¬ 
trariety of action through similar symptoms and consequent 
equalization— Homceopathization. Thus the contrariety of 
action takes place in any drug-action, whether allopathic or 
homoeopathic, but the difference in the homoeopathic method 
is, that whilst the allopathically (palliatively) applied drugs 
do not possess the contrariety of action necessary to cure, 
because of their symptoms-contrariety they are not con¬ 
trary to the state of the life-force existing; the drugs homceo- 
pathically indicated by syrnptoms-simility are possessed of 
the necessary contrariety for the cure; and, consequently 
are enabled to convert .the present state of disease into that of 
health. From this it appears that the superior strength of 
the life-force is not depending upon its supposed stronger 
reaction against the drug-action, but upon that quality of the 
life-force which we call simility. Where this simility is 
wanting, no homa3opathic contrariety of action, no equaliza¬ 
tion, no cure will ensue. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



328 


Principiis Obsta! 


May 


The drug-action, then, is twofold, according to the power 
to overcome disease; the allopathic action with its inverse, 
and the homoeopathic with its direct direction. Here the 
objection may be raised, that even in as high a potency, as a 
cm, Opium has been observed to show the inverse direction 
in the healthy subject. The explanation must be sought in 
the extreme sensitivity of the provers. This inverse drug- 
action of high potencies is just as allopathic as when large 
quantities are given to persons of low sensitivity. 

Where is the reaction of the life-force, in the author’s sense 
in his model cure, upon which the comment has been written? 
The similar remedy at once equalized the disease or distune- 
ment of the life-force without any reaction being preceptible 
at all; in other words: the drug-action assimilated the disease- 
action within the life-force so immediately and completely, 
that no further effort of the life-force was necessary. Sleep 
was the result, as that physiological action of the life-force 
which repaired the loss sustained by the complaint. It 
does not seem appropriate to call this physiological com¬ 
pensation a reaction of the life-force, because after the dis¬ 
appearance of the drug-action in the equalization of the 
disease-action, there was no occasion for such a reaction. 
The sleep could not be considered as the after-action of the 
drug nor the reaction of the life-force. For it is a symptom 
of health appearing after the symptoms of disease had been 
extinguished, and stands simply for the physiological method 
of repairing the pathological loss, just as a healthy person* 
having watched through the night, makes up the loss of sleep 
the next day. 

The case commented on would have ended quite differently 
in an allopathist’s hand. He very likely would have either 
injected opium in some form or other, or given it by the 
month in large doses; and possibly, but by no means certainly, 
he might have succeeded in silencing the pain, or producing 
unconsciousness, to see pain and wakefulness follow afterward; 
a treatment which would have been a true palliation, but no 
cure. His fault would have been principally in the selection 
of the remedy which was not homceopathically indicated, and 
secondarily, in giving too large a dose of a crude drug. But 
what becomes of the secondary action in this case if it does 
not belong to the reaction of the life-force? The action of the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


B. Fincke. 


329 


opium had expended itself in silencing the pain and enforc¬ 
ing unconsciousness. The return of the pain and wakeful¬ 
ness is a sign that the opium-action had ceased and the dis¬ 
ease reappears, continuing to distune the life-force, and the 
more so, the more it is subdued by the inimical palliation. 

From the premises quoted, the author deduces and explains 
the homoeopathic mode of healing. If they are fallacious as 
it appears from the foregoing arguments, the conclusions 
from them must be equally fallacious, and the homoeopathic 
healing method would be neither deduced nor explained. But 
the law similia similibus curantur does not need such a rea¬ 
soning from supposed facts, because everybody can easily con¬ 
vince himself of the fact by experiment, that the remedy simi¬ 
lar in symptoms and dose restores the distuned life-force to 
its normal state, and the case of colic cured by one dose of 
Belladonna cm. in four minutes exemplifies it. 

B. Fincke. 

Brooklyn, March 21,1891. 


RELATIVE VALUE OF THE PRINCIPAL TESTS FOR 
SUGAR IN THE URINE.* 

In looking over the chemical and pharmaceutical Journals 
of the past few years, one can not fail to be struck by the 
number of new tests for abnormalities of the urine that have 
been published. Sugar and albumen being the chief abnor¬ 
mal constituents that concern the doctor, the number of tests 
for these bodies have been correspondingly large. The dis¬ 
coverer or inventor of each with that fondness for one's own, 
which is a part of human nature, seldom fails to perceive in 
his new test some rare quality either of delicacy or conven¬ 
ience, that commends it above all others. 

But unfortunately time and experience have revealed no 
transcendent merits in any one of these multitudes of novel 
methods, and we still await the arrival of a chemical manipu¬ 
lation that will omit all the objections and combine all the 
merits of its predecessors. The desirable qualities in a test 
to be used by physicians, pushed as they usually are for time, 
are simplicity, ease of application, certainty of result and the 
amount of information conveyed. 

♦Missouri Institute of Homeopathy, 1891. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



330 


Tests for Sugar in the Urine . 


May 


Trommer's test or some modification of it has been very 
generally used for a long time. The method is as follows : 
a few drops of a dilute solution of copper sulphate are added 
to the suspected urine. The mixture rendered alkaline with 
potassium or sodium hydrate, and heat applied: if sugar is 
present a precipitate varying in color between red and yel¬ 
low will appear. 

So used the test is not especially simple or easy as two 
reagents are required, the result is far from certain and the 
information afforded meager. The modification of the above, 
known as Fehling’s solution, is more simple and easy of appli¬ 
cation, but owing to the unstable character of the solution, is 
liable to mislead by giving the same percipitate as the result 
of decomposition as it does when sugar is present. 

In another modification of the same, by Dr. Haines, this 
tendency to decomposition lias been overcome by the addition 
of a sufficient quantity of pure glycerin to preserve it. This 
eolution, commonly known as Haines' Tes% keeps' indefi¬ 
nitely and has many qualities to recommend it, being simple 
and easy of application, reasonably certain in result and not 
likely to mislead.. 

Fehling's test, in good condition, is to have it made in two 
sepa v ate solutions, the copper Sulphate in one and the alka¬ 
line Tartrates in the other. These two, mixed in equal vol¬ 
umes, make Fehling's test in a fresh and reliable condition. 
As this involves the measuring of two liquids, it may be 
found a little circumstantial and tedious, but it surpasses the 
others in reliability, and when used with a pipette gives 
somewhat of an idea of the amount of sugar present. 

In using tests based like the above, upon the reducing 
action of Glucose upon a Copper Salt, it should be borne in 
mind that the more or less complete disappearance of the 
blue color of the reagent is not a proof of the presence of 
sugar. To prove the latter present there must be a distinct 
characteristic precipitate of Cuprous Oxide. Moreover, as 
all these reagents are alkaline, the dirty, flocculent precipi¬ 
tate of the Earthy Phosphates generally thrown down is to 
be distinguished from that caused by sugar, which it may be, 
by its color and density. 

Still another and a very excellent way of preserving Sol. of 
Potassium Hydrate together is simple and easy, but not deli- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. B. S. King . 


333 


.he had 


cate, as minute quantities of sugar escape it. DI ^AL 
serve a purpose as a preliminary test to assist in^ * 
diagnosis, inasmuch as the single reagent necessary’ 
had ready made at every drug store in the land. resident, 

The Thymol test has a very unusual disadvantage, 
is too extremely delicate to be frequently useful, iirew " 
it is not complicated, it may find a sphere of us i' 
as a means of diagnosis in obscure cases, wh< 
amount of sugar is only infinitesimal. It may be s 
detect almost the shadow of an on-coming disease. It i , 
performed: To about 2 cc. (two-thirds of a fluid dra 
urine add two drops of a twenty per cent, alcoholic sol. 
of Thymol, agitate, and then add an equal volume of st| u ^ . 
sulphuric acid; a deep red color indicates the present^ 11 " 
sugar. By this test sugar may easily be shown to exis 
normal urine. By diluting the suspected urine with wate^ 11 * 
will detect amounts of sugar slightly in excess of the non ar ^ 
amount, and yet so minute as to be far beyond the reach ^ 
any other test. r 

Nylander’s modification of Boettger’s test is an excellent 
one; one reagent only, which keeps indefinitely, is needed; it is 
very delicate and easily performed, but is susceptible to one 
source of error, which might mislead, i. e., urine containing 
sulphur in some organic combination, such as albumen cr 
cystin, gives the same reaction as if sugar were present. The 
general usefulness of this test is thus somewhat lessened, but 
not so much so, perhaps, as might be imagined at first sig.;t, 
as albumen is easily excluded and cystin is rare. 

The Picric Acid test for sugar possesses the peculiar 
advantage of being at the same time a test for Albumen, t d 
thus is something of a time saver. It is to be commend 
too, for the ease with which it is performed, but not for any 
special delicacy. The addition of a saturated solution of 
Picric Acid to urine will show the presence of Albumen by 
turbidity. This is a very delicate test for Albumen, but not 
a very reliable one, since it gives the same reaction with some 
other abnormalities. A further addition of solution of 
Potassium Hydrate and heat gives a red color if sugar is 
present. This last is very similar to Moore’s test already 
described. 

Mulder’s test with Indigo Blue presents no especial quali¬ 
fications that make it desirable for physicians. 


Digitized by 


Google 



330 


Tests for Sugar in the Urine. 


May 


Tromm' mentat i° n test combines the advantages of abso- 
generally^ nt y> of great delicacy if properly carried out, and 
a few drc^ the same time a reliable approximative test, close 
to the so 01 * purposes of practice. 

potassiu ,er ^ orine ^ * n two ways : One is to put the urine into 
present 3 > with one is mixed a little yeast—it should be kept 
low wil rm place. The other is kept covered in a cool place. 

g or the fermentation of the one is complete, they are 
reagent to the same temperature and their specific gravities 
infor*- Each degree lost in the fermented specimen is 
know a l en t to one grain of sugar in each fluid ounce of urine. 
catic ie second method requires specially made test tubes 
liab> vn as fermentation tubes. In these the gas given off 
the fermenting uriue is collected in the upper part of 
inverted tube, which is graduated so that the amount of 

i in cubic centimeters and also the percentage of sugar 
te&v be at once read off. 

o'From this comparison of tests the physician may select 
xhose which seem best adapted to his purpose. The test 
that gives the most information, and is the most satisfactory 
in managing a long lasting disease, like Diabetes Meilitus, 
seems to me to be the fermentation test. This should be 
supplemented by another test, more quickly made, for the 
purpose of diagnosis in new cases, and for single tests, such 
as Haines* test, or the Fehling solution in two parts. Some 
might prefer the Picric Acid test, because it shows the pres¬ 
ence or absence of two abnormal bodies in one manipulation. 

Below are given the formulae for tests not fully described in 
the text. 

Fehling Solution, (a) Copper Sulphate (crystals), 84.65 grams 
are dissolved in 200 or *50 cc. dis'illed water, (b) Sodium Hydrate 
(sticks) is dissolved in 500cc. water till the solution has sp.gr. of 1.14; 
then in this last solution dissolve 173 grams crystallized Rochelle Salt. 
Mix (a) and (b) and add sufficient water to make one litre. For quali¬ 
tative work, no great accuracy in the above weights is necessary. This 
solution does not keep well; if it remains clear on being boiled in a test 
tube it is all right; if it becomes turbid, it is decomposed. 

Fehling’s Solution in two parts.—169 28 grams Cupric Sulphate is 
dissolved in water, 1 cc. Sulphuric Acid added, and sufficient water 
again to make 1 litre. This makes the Copper Solution. 

350 grams Rochelle Salt are dissolved in about 700 cc. water; 100 
grams Sodium Hydrate in sticks are dissolved in about 200 cc. water; 
the two areihen mixed and water added to make 1 litre. This makes 
the Alkaline Tartrate Solution. Equal volumes mixed make Fehling’s 
Solution in perfectly reliable condition. 

Haines’ or Low’s Solution.—Cupric Sulphate, grains, 95; Sodium 
Hydrate (stick), drams, 6; Glycerine fluid ounces, water to make 
fluid ounces, 6. 

Mylander’s Solution.—Bismuth Sub-Nitrate, 2 parts; Rochelle Sait, 
4 parts; solution of Potassium Hydrate, U. S. P., 100 parts. 

J. B. S. King. 


Chicago. 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


383 


CENTRAL NEW YORK HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICAL 
SOCIETY. 

Syracuse, N. Y., March 19, 1891. 

The regular meeting was called to order by the president, 
A. B. Carr, M. D., at 10: 45 a. m. 

Members present—Drs. Voak, Stow, Martin, Wells, Brew¬ 
ster, Seward, Dever, Emens, Carr, Clapp and Leggett. 

Visitors—Drs. True, Hitchcock ^nd Tobey. 

Minutes of last meeting were read. 

Dr. True moved, as amendment to the minutes, that he had 
put an advertisement in the papers but twice. 

Minutes were approved as read. 

Dr. Seward, chairman pro tem of Board of Censors, thought 
there was no action to be taken to-day, in the matter of appli¬ 
cations, by the Censors. 

Was reminded that six months had elapsed since the appli¬ 
cations of Drs. Norman and Santee, and that it was necessary 
that their names be presented for ballot. 

Dr. Santee's application having been received twenty-four 
hours late, discussion followed as to the legality of bringing 
his name to ballot at this meeting. 

Dr. Stow made a motion that the application be considered 
in this special instance, as the matter of 24, 36, or even 48 
hours, made no real difference to this Society. 

Carried. 

The President—Then the Society will proceed to ballot for 
the applicants, Drs. Norman and Santee. 

Dr. Martin was appointed teller. 

Dr. A. J. Norman was first presented for ballot, and 
declared unanimously elected. 

Discussion again arose as to the fitness and eligibility of 
Dr. Santee as a member. 

Dr. Stow, having forgotten that he was one of the Board 
of Censors, and not having informed himself in regard to 
this matter; asked to be allowed this motion: that matters be 
suspended for the present, and taken up as the first business 
of the afternoon session. Seconded. Carried. 

Dr. Martin was then appointed to read the Organon, begin¬ 
ning at § 79. 

Dr. Martin described a remarkable case of sycotic excres¬ 
cence upon the labia, which had come under his observation, 
but not treatment. It was afterward removed by ecraseur. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



334 


Central New York Society . 


May 


§80. Dr. Stow spoke of deeper miasmatic disturbances, 
and had been led to query whether they were eradicable, and 
if not. how far they were amenable to treatment. Cited a^ 
case from his own practice which wonld go to prove the 
eventual cure. 

Case. —While practicing in Fall River, Mass., a young 
man consulted me for “pin-worms crawling out of anus, 
with discharge of slimy, white mucus, and much itching in 
the rectum ; he could not stand it.” He was tall, thin, blue¬ 
eyed and brown-haired, freckled, perspired easily and pro¬ 
fusely, drank much water and tea, and was always tired. 
Had been subject to colic paius, with one or two yellow 
liquid stools on rising in the morning. Many symptoms 
were worse at night, in bed, but the perspiration, thirst and 
debility were worse in the morning. Sulphur 200 (Dunham). 
Cured. 

Some months later a return of symptoms again brought 
him to me, and he received Sulphur mm. (Tafel) with no 
further trouble in that direction. 

During March of 1886 he called again, with the following 
symptoms : Very weak, thin, dejected ; perspiring freely on 
slight exertion; anorexia, craving milk and eggs when he 
could eat anything; bloating and tenderness of abdomen, 
rumbling of gas; sour eructations; sweating after meals. He 
was despondent, irresolute; crawling in the rectum; fre¬ 
quent discharge of gray, or thin yellow, offensive stool, < 
afternoons or evenings; dry itching eruption about scalp,. 
< at night, or when perspiring about the head. The pre¬ 
puce, glans penis, and meatus urjnarious much inflamed and 
covered with a glairy, sticky mucus. There were two chan¬ 
croids ; one on the mucous membrane of prepuce, and on& 
on the dorsum behind the corona glandis. The parts were 
very sore, bleeding if rudely handled; swollen, itching, 
burning ; increased sexual desire ; nightly priapism ; urine 
strong, red and turbid; three or four sycotic growths about 
the rectum, itching, easily bleeding, and smarting when 
scratched. Setting aside the objective symptoms, and com¬ 
paring remedies, I gave Calcarea 40 m. Two prescriptions 
cured him so far that he was able to resume his business as 
commercial traveler, within three months. 

Two years ago he asked for a prescription “ for a red, itch- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


335 


ing eruption that cracked the skin, and caused falling of the 
eyebrows.” One prescription of Selenium cm. stopped all 
that. 

Saw him last summer, well, and his only symptoms were 
easy fatigue and easy perspiration. 

The young man’s mother, a patient of mine some twenty 
years, was in 1886 the most complete picture of Ichthyosis I 
ever saw. The skin of her abdomen, thighs, arms, hands, 
eyelids and forehead, were covered with the characteristic fish- 
soale eruption. Itching, burning, stiffness of the skin of 
eyelids, limbs and body, < at rest, and on first motion after 
rest,' Rhus. 300 cured her. When I saw her last July, 
she met me with tears saying, “ Dr. Stow, we would not 
begrudge $1,000 for what you have done for my son and my¬ 
self.” Aside from anything acquired by his own imprudence, 
it is to me evident, that the young man and his mother were 
victims of the psoric, syphilitic and svcotic miasms. 

A question is constantly rising in my mind, what is Psora? 
Are we to consider it a complicated germ resulting from all 
the different skin troubles as mentioned by Hahnemann, or 
an intermingling of blood contagion? 'What is this hydra¬ 
headed monster so often, and in so many guises, presented to 
us? 

§§81-82. 

Dr. Martin would suggest that Psora has been undergoing 
potentization through many generations preceding the pres¬ 
ent. 

Dr. Dever: Why! Psora is a dynamic power causing the 
disturbances found in chronic disease. I will cite the case of 
a miner poisoned with syphilis who came to me for treatment; 
the symptoms presented called for Rhus, which was pre¬ 
scribed. Later, after an injury, a closer examination revealed 
a symptom picture of Ant. c., and it cured. It is the pecul¬ 
iarity of the patient that must be treated. The man might 
have needed Ant. c. even before he had syphilis. 

Dr. Stow denied that the bacilli, microbe, etc., are the cause 
of disease, but considers them as always resultant from 
disease; and, any search for the remedy to kill or eradicate 
thega as a cause, is but an ignis fatuns , and will lead, no 
one knows whither. 

Dr. Dever: The conditions are such as invite disease. 


Digitized by ejOOQle 



336 


Central New York Society, 


Mat 


The system is right for it and ripe for it. People have itch 
before the acarns appears, as pediculi come when conditions 
are favorable. 

Dr. Martin believes that the bacillus is the result and not 
the cause of disease, and that the homoeopathically adminis¬ 
tered remedy so changes the “ conditions v that the bacillus 
no longer finds a home in the organism. 

Dr. Carr: We can better substantiate Homoeopathy 
through teaching it to the people, and proving its truth to 
them by our practice. 

Dr. Brewster: As homoeopaths we try to work in har¬ 
mony with nature, and to protect the organism, while in old 
school practice, they try to eradicate as a cause that which is 
simply a result, through a theory based upon an hypothesis. 

Dr. Voak is in sympathy with the last speaker in the man¬ 
ner of cure of disease. Medicine does not cure disease, but 
renews the vigor of the vital force. He often describes it to 
his patients in this way: “A horse, pulling a heavy load, 
comes to a standstill at the foot of a hill. The driver applies 
the whip, and, with renewed exertion, the horse passes the 
obstacle. It was not the lash that drew the load, but the 
lash was an incentive to the flagging energies of the hoarse.’* 

Dr. Wells: The fault in old practice is that in the con¬ 
tinual search for a cause, and not finding one, they create 
one hypothetically. Now we must take disease as we find it, 
objectively and subjectively, according to its expression. Dis¬ 
ease is a disturbance of the vital force, and bacilli are but tho 
products, and under the well selected .remedy the disease and 
its products disappear. A microbe can not be found in a 
healthy body. 

Dr. Martin showed that the microbe always died in a 
healthy blood. 

Dr. Wells: We had the seeds of chronic disease sown in 
our family through the suppression of skin disease by oint¬ 
ments. I have carefully t studied the direct effects of sup¬ 
pressions in the direction of Hahnemann’s own observation, 
and believe it to be the only intelligible solution we can give of 
its progress. 

Dr. Dever: I have yet to find Hahnemann wrong in jjis 
statements and observations; at times, when I have thought 
him at fault, study and observation have proved it to be myself 
that was at fault, not Hahnemann. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


33T 


Dr. Brewster: Speaking of transmission of the dynamized 
sick force, does that suggest a reason for the dynamization of 
drugs as practiced by homoeopaths? 

Dr. Carr: I think that there is the strong similarity, and 
that it is the mam reason for using a dynamized rather than & 
crude force. 

Dr. Stow wonders if drugs undergo the same dynamization 
in the system as disease. 

Dr. Brewster: Can such conditions ever be met by crude 
drugs? 

All: That has been settled, long ago. 

Dr. Stow: Will the potentized remedy produce in the 
healthly organism a chronic miasm like unto that produced 
by suppression of a disease manifestation? 

Dr. Clapp supposed no symptoms would be produced upon a. 
healthly organism by a potentized drug. 

Dr. Dever: A wrong remedy will so confuse a case, that 
oue may not be able to prescribe at all. 

Dr. Voak: Dr. Lippe once said, “ the perfect similar 
would produce an <, but would have but little effect if not on 
the same line of action as the similar.” 

Dr. Stow thinks that both the profession and laity misun¬ 
derstand the facts of contagion. A perfectly healthful human 
is not subject to contagion. Contagion is a firing up of some 
latent force already in the system. In the provings the 
remedy finds an affinity to its own peculiar conditions, latent 
in the subject. We find ourselves in this world in the midst of 
sins (broken laws) of which allopathic practice may be con¬ 
sidered as one of the greatest. 

Dr. Brewster: Why are the symptoms of a potentized 
drug more similar to chronic conditions than those produced 
by the crude or toxic doses of the same drug? The treatment 
of these long standing cases needs great patience, that the 
conditions be allowed to slowly work themselves out without 
interference. Is it not about time to adjourn? 

The President: Yes. Taking up the organon again at our 
next meeting at § 82. A motion to that effect is now in order. 

Dr. Dever: Moved to adjourn to 1:30 p. m., which Dr. 
Stow amended to 2 p. m. 

Meeting called to order by the president, at 2 p. m. 

The first business to be considered was the election of Dr. 
Santee. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



338 


Central New York Society . 


May 


Dr. Stow, as censor, called for ballot. 

The President presented Dr. Santee's name for ballot. 

But one affirmative returned. 

Declared not elected. 

Essayists for this meeting, Drs. Nash, Schmitt and Voak. 

The only essayist present. Dr. Voak, apologized for not 
having finished, and presented his talk upmi Apoplexia in 
form of a written essay, saying that if he had taken the nec¬ 
essary time to do so, he would have had to deny himself the 
pleasure of coming to the meeting at all, so he had elected 
to come and say what he could. 

Dr. Voak: My talk upon Apoplexia will be not so much 
in the nature and progress of the disease, which you will 
find discussed in the books, but upon its results in my hands 
under homoeopathic treatment. I can not say that its treat¬ 
ment depends upon its cause, or upon whether it is situated 
in one hemisphere of the brain or the other, or that it is 
with or without aphasia. It makes little difference if it is 
the result of a clot or an aneurism. The conditions are 
present and must be met. The greater number of cases met 
are conditions of engorgement of the brain, and, to relieve 
this engorgement, I find Belladonna during the first twenty- 
four hours succeeds admirably. After this stage, I have to 
meet the results of disease, the bruised and torn blood ves¬ 
sels, caused through extravasation and pressure. In the 
majority of instances these are met and covered by Arnica. 
I find I differ from most physicians in this course of treat¬ 
ment. At times other remedies—as Op., Bry., etc.—are 
clearly indicated, when of course they are administered, but 
most frequently I find Arnica the remedy needed for the next 
seven days or more; and in a practice of twenty-five years 
have lost but two cases. I have found cases in which the 
anaemia of brain caused by alcoholism was < by Belladonna, 
but was perfectly relieved by Bryonia. 

Dr. Clapp would like to know how Dr. Voak thought alco¬ 
holism produced Apoplexia? 

Dr. Voak replied, “that in this case the brain was 
cooked." 

Dr. Wells had used both Belladonna and Arnica, the former 
under congested conditions in the brain. He had had fewer 
cases of Apoplexia to treat, perhaps, than Concussions. With 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


33£ 


latter remedy he had treated a goodly number effectually. 
Arnica comes In well there, when there is necessity for absorp¬ 
tion of the extra vasated blood, and could see that it must 
act equally well under same conditions in cases- of Apo- 
plexia. 

Dr. Voak had never seen the theory stated in books, but 
had administered Arnica on that principle. 

Dr. Dever: In Apoplexia there is certainly sufficient ham¬ 
mering of the arteries to produce traumatism, therefore 
Arnica ought to be a good remedy. 

Dr. Wells had never lost a case of concussion of the brain 
through the use of Arnica. He prescribes it invariably in cases 
of a fall with symptoms of concussion, especially in children. 
Keported an interesting case of a fall. 

Dr. Clapp: I wish to present a case not strictly in point, 
and would like your assistance in diagnosis. Five weeks ago,, 
a tffan came to me who was not in the habit of using intoxi¬ 
cants. The peculiar facial contortions and expression, the 
shuffling gait, dragging of the limbs, etc.; he appeared as if 
he had been drinking. He wanted cure for a violent pain in 
the right shoulder. When the terrible pains were on he was 
horribly restless, and had quite worn out a heavy leather 
chair with the contortions and twisting about of his body. 
His restlessness and tearing about is worse at night, and his 
suffering terrible. I gave Cicuta. At times he is very com¬ 
fortable, at others ready to tear himself in pieces with the 
pain. 

Dr. Seward has had many cases of Apoplexia, and has cured 
some cases. Has a case now of two years standing, in which 
the woman cau walk, but can not use the arm. Has not used 
Arnica. 

Dr. Voak thinks it would now be too lace. 

Dr. Seward: During the sickness of the late Dr. Miller, in 
the first stroke, which occurred two years before his death, ho 
was helped with Belladonna. At the recurrent stroke, Bella¬ 
donna did not help him. 

Dr. Voak had had but one case in which the symptoms 
recurred. Jahr mentions the fifth and eighth days, as days 
upon which it is likely that < will occur. Dr. Voak watches 
for those periods. 

Dr. Dever thinks we should learn something from the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



340 


Central Netv York Society . 


May 


Organon. We are too likely to say we give Belladonna in 
Apoplexia, or we give Arnica in Apoplexia, when Hahnemann 
taught us especially to say “a kind of apoplexia, etc.” If it 
is a Belladonna apoplexia, Belladonna will do the work, per¬ 
form the cure; if it is a Sulphur apoplexia, Sulphur will per¬ 
form the cure. It is but too easy to get into routine and 
eclecticism; givingone remedy for,every case with the symp¬ 
toms of the same disease, is just that. 

Da. Voak: That is quite right. It is very easy to fall 
into a manner of expression, and also into routine treatment; 
but I think I stated clearly that there were attacks where 
other remedies were clearly indicated, and I gave them ; but 
must say that the majority of cases coming under my treat¬ 
ment have needed Belladonna aud Arnica. 

Dr. Wells: I may have been open to the same criticism 
in my remarks, but, really, the truth is that apoplexies very 
closely resemble one another. 

Dr. Clapp spoke upon the subject of echymoses, both 
external and internal, and the homoeopathicity of Arnica 
to these conditions. 

Dr. Martin cited three interesting cases, and spoke of 
his mother, a large woman, who had frequent congestive 
attacks treated effectually by himself. 

Dr. Voak cited Dr. Hammond's observations in a fixed 
number of cases, by which it was proven that aphasia resulted 
from effusion into the right, as well as into the left hemi¬ 
sphere ; proving also that the development of the organ of 
speech was not always confined to the left ascending con¬ 
volution, although true of the majority of cases. 

Dr. Stow had a case in which the effects seemed to be 
from traumatism. The patient had received a carelessly 
thrown sponge in the eye. Within the following twenty- 
four hours had developed dimness of vision, etc. Examina¬ 
tion showed extravasation of blood into the retina. Arnica 
was administered with apparently excellent effect. A few 
months later the patient came with symptoms of pressure 
and lancinating pain in eyeball. These pains continuing, 
with restlessness and anxiety, Aconite was administered with 
relief, but not cure. The blindness, the < from a jar, etc., 
continued. Belladonna did not relieve. Later, the right hand 
and arm became paralyzed. Aphasia, loss of motion, sensa- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


341 


tion, and even the power of deglutition, yet still he was 
perfectly conscious. The only solution of the problem 
seemed to him surgical, to relieve the pressure upon the 
brain. The wife objected; called counsel. Counsel agreed 
with him, but thought it would be better done later. Case 
finally passed into allopathic hands, and slowly grew better ; 
but the pressure and aphasia continued, and is told the 
patient is becoming vindictive. 

A second case was a neighbor, in easy circumstances, who 
had been thrown from a load of hay, striking his head upon 
a box. He seemingly recovered under treatment, but a 
mouth later developed epileptiform spasms. These were 
relieved by Hyoscyainus. He had two attacks. In February 
he sent saying that he had symptoms of an approaching 
spasm. It came with pronounced spasmodic action of left 
side. This time it did not yield to Hyoscyamus, but he grew 
rapidly worse until he died. While dying there came on 
hemorrhage from the nose; dark,grumous blood, which really 
was broken-down blood corpuscles, proving it to have been a 
clear case of extravasation, followed by abscess and final 
death. 

Another case was seized upon the witness stand with loss of 
consciousness, sensation, motion, retarded action of the 
heart, suffusion of the face, and stertorous breathing. I 
knew nothing of the history of the case, and could only 
prescribe upon the objective symptoms, which I did, and 
gave Belladonna, which proved curative. The differentiation 
of Apoplexia and Epilepsy is often confounded. In Apoplexia 
we find loss of consciousness, motion, retarded heart action, 
respiration, etc., while in Epilepsy we always find clonic and 
tonic spasms. There is always soreness of the brain sub¬ 
stance after Apoplexia. We often have to prescribe upon 
objective symptoms % when we have no history of the case, and 
find Aconite, Belladonna, Arnica frequently indicated. 

Dr. Dever: We must often do as Dr. Stow says, take 
that remedy which presents to us the greater number of 
objective symptoms; but don’t say you give Belladonna so long 
and Arnica so long, for Apoplexia. That savors too much 
of routine. 

Dr. Voak: I see you don’t intend to spare me. 

This was followed by a discussion of lesion, in which there 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



342 Central New York Society . May 

was mention of prescribing upon (supposed) pathological 
conditions. 

Dr. Carr: I have been greatly impressed with Dr. 
Voak’s success in the treatment of Apoplexia, but don’t like 
him to say he would first give Belladonna and then follow with' 
Arnica. Again, we must not give remedies on pathological 
conditions. We simply suppose they exist, but we do not 
know that until the subject is dead and we see the lesion. 
The symptoms present are what we are to prescribe upon. 

Dr. Stow: I used the word carelessly, and beg pardon of 
the President and Society. 

Dr. Carr then cited a case in which a man, helping another 
to carry a heavy basket, fell to the right with paralysis of 
right half of body, tongue drawn to the right, accompanied 
by the usual apoplectic phenomena. Gave one dose of Phos¬ 
phorus upon the symptom of falling to the right, and he 
never needed another dose. He wa9 cured. 

Dk. Wells: We often have to form an opinion upon 
such objective symptoms as we can gather at the bedside. 
My experience with Arnica has been good, but I did not intend 
to say I prescribed it on pathological conditions. 

Dr. Dever only objects to rules being laid down to do so 
and so in certain diseased conditions. 

Dr. Voak: Did I not say I gave Belladonna, and Arnica, if 
I did not find other indications? 

The discussion of Dr. Voak’s address now closed. 

Dr. Wells, who had introduced and discussed the desirabil¬ 
ity of Richfield Springs as a meetiug-place for the I. H. A. 
during the September meeting of the C. N. Y., now offers a 
report of his correspondence with the executive committee of 
that body. 

Dr.Wbll8: T wrote to each of the officers of the I. H. A., 
presenting the subject in its most favorable light. In return, 
the President of that society, C. W. Butler, M. D., inclosed a 
circular to every member of that association, and had received 
a cordial endorsement of Richfield Springs, N. Y., as the 
place of meeting the coming June, 1891. The proprietor has 
assured me that every thing possible shall be done for the 
interest and comfort of his guests, and I would ask for the 
influence and attendance of all the members of the Central 
Hew York Homoeopathic Medical Society, as it is easily 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


New York Central Society. 


343 


accessible from all points by rail. I would also make the 
motion that this society adjourn to the Spring House, Rich¬ 
field Springs, subject to the call of the President upon one of 
the days of June 24, 25, 26, 27, after the convocation of the 
I. H. A. upon the 24th. Carried. 

Dr. Wells would suggest that the Secretary, in the call 
issued to this society, should urge upon its members the 
interest and necessity of their attendance during the coming 
meeting of the I. H. A. in June. 

Dr. Stow: In view of the fact that a school for homoeopath' 
icshas been recently organized in Philadelphia, I would make 
a motion that there be a committee of two appointed to draft 
resolutions commendatory of the Philadelphia physicians, for 
their excellent work in establishing such a school. Carried. 

The President appointed Drs. Seward and Hawley as such 
committee. 

Dr. Carr states that Drs. Biegler and Grant require further 
time for consideration of the paper of Dr. Wells now in their 
possession. Granted. 

Dr. Stow then moved that Dr. True be allowed to explain 
hia position relating to the facts that led to his expulsion at 
the last meeting. 

Dr. Clapp seconded. Carried. 

Dr. True: Two years ago there came to this city two 
specialists, professed homoeopaths, who were anxious to 
establish a practice here. Calling upon me one evening, 
they asked what I thought of advertising. I replied, “If I 
wanted to and could, I should.” Nothing more was said. 
The next morning’s edition of the Syracuse Standard con¬ 
tained an advertisement of these physicians as homoeopathic 
specialists, with my name and three others in the list of refer¬ 
ences. I really thought little about it for a while; not more 
than that as they were new to the place it was but a temporary 
announcement. The thing ran on until I began to get 
uneasy. It began to savor of advertising. Icalled upon the 
others of the list, and suggested the same to them. They 
agreed with me; still nothing was done. The matter ran on 
for more than a year. I began to find that I was losing 
patients. Some ten or twelve of my old patients, seeing my 
name as reference, and fancying they needed local treatment, 
had gone to these doctors, and upon some pretext or other 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



344 


Central New York Society . 


May 


were kept under treatment. Still nothing done by my 
confreres . One morning I wrote a note, requesting that 
my name be removed from the list of references. The 
next morning it was gone, and in the place of it another 
name.. Still the advertising went on. Finally, to test 
the matter, I thought I would advertise, putting two 
insetions in each paper. I did so. At the Courier office 
they urged me to continue for the month, as it would 
be but $5. I said “No; I only want the two insertions." 
They still urged. I said, “ You put it in twice. If I want 
it longer I will telephone." I telephoned them not to insert. 
At the end of the month a bill of $4 was presented. They had 
issued for a month without consulting me. What could I do 
but put my hand in my pocket and pay it? This occurred in 
October of 1890. No notice was taken of the matter so far as 
I knew, until upon the sixth of January, 1891, at the County 
Society, a letter was sent to that society by the secretary of 
the C. N. Y., referring to the action of the C. N. Y. in a 
late case of advertising, and begging the president of the 
County Society to remind such of the members as had been 
transgressors of the Code (Sec. 3, Article 1 , Part 2d) of their 
duties to the profession. It burst upon me like a bomb. I 
had no thought of other than the local effect of my act. I 
had not received notice of the act of the C. N. Y. in regard to 
the matter. The notice reached my hand the next day. I 
had not known of the agitation of the subject, or that it was 
to come up at the meeting of the Central Society, or I should 
have been there, patients or no patients. I thought that they 
had acted hastily, and that they should have appointed a com¬ 
mittee to see what I had to say for myself in the matter. 

Dr. Leggett : W ill you tell the Society why, after giving an 
account of the matter, and of the motive as a test case the 
other day, you said to me, “and I thought the best thing I 
could do was to keep away from the Central Society?" 

Dr. True: I certainly did not intend to say such a thing, 
or leave such an impression on your mind. 

Dr. Stow: As there seems to be some reason to think that 
this Society did act rather hastily in this matter, I would 
move that the Central New York Homoeopathic Medical 
Society reconsider its action at the meeting in Rochester, 
December 19th, in relation to Dr. True. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Central New York Society . 


345 


President: Dr. Stow, were you present and a voter at the 
last meeting of this Society? 

Dr. Stow: I was not. 

President: Then you can not move to reconsider. The 
only thing possible for you to do, would be to move an inves¬ 
tigation. 

Dr. Stow: Then I move that a committee be appointed for 
investigation of Dr. True's conduct, and that it report at the 
meeting in September next. 

Dr. Voak: Seconded. Carried. 

The President appointed Drs. Stow and Voak as such 
investigating committee. 

Dr. Leggett: The Secretary finds the Society is indebted 
to Dr. True, 45 cts. Is she empowered to pay the debt? 

Dr. True: After some explanations of his relations to 
the Society, financially, forgives the debt. 

Dr. Leggett would like to remind the Society that the 
choice of the place of meeting to-day, was made because it 
was highly improbable that the Society will ever be called to 
this room again as Dr. Hawley's office; as upon the first of 
May, the Doctor removes his office to his residence, and gives 
up the lease of this one. 

Dr. Stow moves that the thanks of the Society be extended 
to Dr. Hawley for his hospitality, also, that the sympathies of 
this Society, because of his illness, and its good wishes for 
his speedy recovery, be added. 

Carried. Adjourned. 

Addendum .—By letter from the President. The reap¬ 
pointment of Drs. Nash and Schmitt, and the appointment 
of Dr. Seward, as essayists for the next meeting. 

S. L. Guild-Leggett, Sec'y. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



346 


Allegheny County Society, 


May 


ALLEGHENY COUNTY HOMCEOPATHIC MEDICAL 
SOCIETY. 

Pittsburgh, Pa., March 13, '91. 

President, Chas. H. Hofmann, M. D., in chair. 

In absence of Dr. C. A. Wilsou, Dr. Z. T. Miller acted as 
secretary. 

After regular business transacted, tbe evening's discussion^ 
were called. Dr. T. B. McClelland, who was to open the 
discussion on obstetrics, being abseut, Materia Medica was 
called. Dr. Z. T. Miller presented the following paper: 

THE HASTY REMEDIES. 

On account of certain strictures recently pronounced 
before this Society against the nosode remedies, I have taken 
this opportunity to examine, with a view to ascertaining 
whether we could get along without them. 

The remedy selected for this examination is the much- 
abused Psorinum. I shall not tax your time by taking up 
the indications for Psorinum entire, but rather a few of the 
most marked or characteristic—the symptoms upon which it 
is usually prescribed. The first: 

“ Despairsof recovery; thinks he will die; hopeless, espe¬ 
cially after typhus; better from nose bleed." 

Now, who has not met this mental state a number of times, 
and what remedy could take the place of Psorinum? 

Does the “ anxious fear of the future and of death " caused by 
Aconite, or the " dread of death when alone, anxiety and fear 
of permanent loss of health "of Arsenic cover this ground? 
Not at all; for we have the additional symptom of Psorinum 
that all are made “ better by nose bleed." 

Rhus tox. comes nearest covering the ground, for it has 
the anxiety and fear of death, with some relief from nose 
bleed in typhus; but with it there is satiety of life. 

Another indication for Psorinum not found under either 
Aeon., Ars. or Rhus is the profuse sweating from even the 
slightest motion. 

There are other mental symptoms not paralleled by any 
other drug. 

Among the symptoms of the head, we find: 

“ Like hammers striking the head from within outward." 

Nat, mur. is similar as to the hammering, but that is all. 
Psorinum is always “ hungry during headache," and this is- 
found under no other remedy. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Allegheny County Society . 347 

‘‘The hair is dry, lustreless, tangles easily” under Psori- 
num. 

Borax has something like this, but only the tips of the hair 
become tangled; these tangles re-form if cut off. The Psor. 
hair might be likened to a rat's nest made of hair. 

The head is cold, “ wants to be covered with a fur cap in 
summer.” 

The eye symptoms of Psor. are pronounced and of a psoric 
character. The blepharitis and photophobia, where the child 
lies with its head buried in a pillow, has been seen by all of 
you, and if Psorinum cures a single case, it commands your 
commendation, not condemnation. 

The ear symptoms, principally eczematous, find in Psor. a 
curative remedy when others fail. The same may be said of 
the nasal symptoms, when an eczema of the cheeks has been 
suppressed and the Schneiderian membrane takes on the 
trouble. The sensitiveness to inhaled air is found under 
other remedies, notably Cistus and Actea, but the other 
symptoms call for Psorinum. 

The eczematous symptoms of the face have been verified 
many times over. 

The hepatic symptoms are not unlike Mag. mur., and 
might follow that remedy well. 

The eructations tasting like rotten eggs is also found under 
Arnica and Tart, em., but there the similarity ends. 

The stool symptoms are found only under and are cured by 
Psorinum. Fluid, fetid smell lik6 rotten eggs or carrion, 
worse at night. 

The griping and desire for stool while riding, with soreness 
in the rectum and anus while riding, is characteristic. 

The leucorrhoea, large lumps unbearable in odor, with vio¬ 
lent pains in sacrum and right loin, makes you think of Mer¬ 
cury as regards the lumps; but a comparison shows that the 
Merc, discharge is smarting, corroding, causing itching, and 
always worse at nights The unbearable odor and lack of 
excoriation decide. 

During pregnancy the foetus moves violently; the abdomen 
is tympanitic. There is nausea and vomiting. Forthe vom¬ 
iting of pregnancy, when the best indicated remedies fail, 
think of Psorinum. s 

Under Thuja we find the child moving so violently that it 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



348 


Allegheny County Society . 


May 


wakens her, and causes cutting pains in the bladder, with 
urging to urinate, with pain in the left sacro-iliac articula¬ 
tion, running to the groin. 

Sepia feels the motion of the child too sensibly, but it is 
on account of soreness of the abdominal walls. 

How many remedies have dyspnoea better when lying down, 
worse the nearer the arms are brought to the body? Nearly 
all our asthmatic remedies are < by lying down. 

A chronic blennorhoea threatening phthisis, or, more prop¬ 
erly expressed, an eczema of the pulmonary mucous surface, 
calls for Psorinum. What other remedy can take the place? 

Chronic gonitis is also a condition calling for Psorinum. 
I can cite three cases, every one of which confessed to an 
eczema earlier in life. 

Coming to the nervous system, we find: “Weakness, 
especially loithout structural disease changes.” 

It occurs to me that what we call hysteria may be nothing 
more or less than an eczema of the nervous system. We have 
learned that suppressed psora may give rise to asthma, 
phthisis, gonitis, meningitis, chronic diarrhoea, chorea of 
heart, fainting with fear. Why may it not be the cause of 
hysteria? Certainly in the above symptom we have a drug 
to cover at least the unaccountable weakness of that com¬ 
plaint. How many people are insane because of an eczema 
capitis suppressed in babyhood ? 

If it had but this one symptom, and cured it, you might 
well take off your hat to it, viz.: “ Sick babies will not sleep 
day or night, but worry,fret and cry.” If you cure babies so 
afflicted, your nest is feathered. 

This barometric symptom is found nowhere else. Yiz.: 
“ Feels a restlessness in his blood days before and during a 
thunder storm.” Phosphorus has anxious restlessness during 
a thunder storm only. 

How often do old chronic rheumatics tell you they can 
always tell when a storm is coming? 

Psorinum has a cough that returns every winter, and such 
people generally have blenorrhoea. I know of such a case. 

Nocturnal enuresis is another condition due to the psoric 
taint. I have been trying to cure a case with Pulsatilla, Sul¬ 
phur, etc. I shall give Psorinum, for the father showed me 
an eczema in the bend of his knee. The body has a filthy 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Allegheny County Society. 


349 


smell, even after a bath. The body itches intolerably < 
warmth, scratches until bleeds. Crusty eruptions all over. 
These symptoms must have Psorinum to cure them, and we 
can not neglect its use because of its origin. The 42 m. 
potency, or the two hundredth for that matter; is raised above 
the plane of nastiness. Of course the man who uses the first 
three potencies of drugs and does not scruple to mix* a few 
crudes in one bottle, can hardly be expected to deal largely in 
Psorinum, or even Ambra, Cantharis, Mephites, etc., but the 
man who has caught the spirit of Homoeopathy and recog¬ 
nizes the possibilities of potentization can and does use what¬ 
ever agent is capable of making the well sick, come from 
whatever source it may. 

DISCUSSION. 

Dr. \V. J. Martin endorsed the paper and reported several 
verifications of the symptoms of the remedy, notably st wears 
a fur cap in the summertime." The patient came into his 
office in the summer wearing a fur hat. The ophthalmic 
symptoms he had also verified. 

A case of fever in the hospital, where the pulse was 180 and 
weak, with a foul odor from body, even after bath. At 8 p. 
m. received Psor. 200, and in two hours after the first dose 
the pulse reduced to 99. Patient got four doses. 

Dr. Edmundson approved the paper and declared that he 
could not get along without it in diseases of children. 

A case of rheumatism of eight weeks* standing, with fever 
and intolerable itching of skin, was cured by one dose. Eight 
years before had an tczematous rash on body. Has not been 
so well for six years; is without a rheumatic pain. 

Dr. Pitcairn had a repugnance to the remedy, and would 
not use it under any circumstance;' would as soon give the 
syphilitic virus. 

Dr. Millie J. Chapman commended the paper and did not 
see how some children could be treated without it. Children 
with impure blood, offensive discharges, fetid body, and 
where baths and disinfectants fail, a dose, once in 24 hours, 
generally was sufficient. The right remedy in a high potency 
is followed by immediate relief and cure that does not follow 
the lower, it must be the remedy. I have seen such marked 
relief follow the use of Psorinum that I should feel I neg¬ 
lected my patient if I did not use it. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



350 


Allegheny County Society. 


Mat 


Have seen eczema facialis disappear, to be followed later by 
Laryngismus stridulus, convulsions and death. Could this 
be due to the disappearance of the eruption? Would advise 
brother Pitcairn to use it. 

Doctor Hofmann had not used it often. He recognized 
one grand requisite of a remedy, and that was its ability to 
-cure. * 

Had observed clinically that Sanguinaria had hunger espe¬ 
cially at the beginning of the headache. 

A girl who had gone the rounds of doctors and hospitals 
came to Ward's Island with facial neuralgia. She had been 
relieved by hypodermics of morphia. Doctor Lilienthal rec¬ 
ommended Syphilinum, 42 m., which was given for two 
months, after which time she was perfectly well. Whether 
due to the Syphilinum or leaving off the moiphine could not 
say. Thought the medicine was repeated too often, other¬ 
wise the cure might have been more speedy. 

Doctor Martin reported a number of oases of grippe with 
high fever, red face, etc., cured by Belladonna. Eupatorium 
perf. where there was a great deal of backache and little 
sweat. Bryonia wants to cover up warm, chills as soon as 
moves. Eupatorium does not sweat, but vomits. Bryonia 
wants much water. Children usually got Gelsemium. Mer¬ 
cury, profuse sweat without relief. 

Also reported case where there was great thirst, profuse 
urine, had to get up at night, weakness. S. q. 1028. Cured 
by Sizygium, lx. 

Another case of complete hepatization of left lung, no 
fever, soapsudsy expectoration, cured in two weeks by Kali, 
iod., lx. After beginning to take the remedy observed a rise 
of temperature.. Probably had had pneumonia. 

Another case, vesicles on inner surface of thigh, burning 
and pricking, < when quiet, > motion. Rhus cured. 

Was it shingles ? No difference. Diagnosis does not 
amount to two rows of pins in selecting the remedy. 

Dr. Hofmann reported cases of grippe. Paiu up back into 
head; thinks will go insane. Eyes congested. Gels, relieved. 
Intense backache; aching all over. Eupat. cured. 

Chronic pharyngitis with thickening of mucous mem¬ 
brane from repeated inflammation, with glairy mucus. Kali, 
hydriodicum. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 


Allegheny County Society . 


351 


Fauces subtended by a bubble. Populus. 

Dr. Edmundson reported a number of cases of grippe 
with loss of hearing, for which Dr. Hofmann suggested Phy¬ 
tolacca. 

Dr. Edmundson—Case of diphtheria, began with convul¬ 
sions. Offensive breath, left tonsil covered with dark mem¬ 
brane. Throat dark bluish. Lach. 30 every two hours. At 
2 p. m. temperature down from 104 to 99.5. Continued Lach. 
for four hours. Noticed spot on right tonsil about size of 
split pea. Less blueness of throat, and membrane now becom¬ 
ing white. Next morning could see traces of normal tissue 
through the membrane. Right tonsil clear. Evening tem¬ 
perature 100.5. Right tonsil completely covered with mem¬ 
brane. Now gave Lach. every two hours. Next morning 
temperature had fallen,.appetite better, no pain. Lach. con¬ 
tinued. Fetor disappeared. Membrane now changed to golden 
yellow. Gave Mer.j.r. 3x every three hours, which concluded 
the cure. 

Dr. Pitcairn reported cases of La Grippe which were cured 
by Bryonia. One case of measles, woman in fourth month 
of pregnancy, felt motion during eruption, recovered. Also 
case of orchitis, left testicle highly inflamed, compelling 
patient to go to bed. Prescribed remedies indicated. Gon¬ 
orrhoeal discharge reappeared, orchitis went tof right testicle, 
intense itching. Gave Sulphur, Urtica, Arsenicum without 
relief. Finally gave injection, Zinc. Sulph. gr. iii. to oz., 
followed by relief from discharge during the first day. 

On motion it was ordered that paper and discussions be sent 
to the Medical Advance for publication. 

Appointments were made for next regular meeting, and 
the society adjourned. 


A REMARKABLE CASE. 

On January 2d I was called to see a young man, age 24, 
who about four months since was taken with a severe rigor, 
followed by more or less fever of a remittant character for 
three or four weeks. One physician diagnosed typhoid fever. 
The acute symptoms passed off and he seemed to improve for 
awhile. One day while doing some light work he felt some- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



352 


Graphites . 


May 


thing tear or give way in the region of the liver. Almost 
from the first there was pain, sometimes quite severe, which 
was followed by swelling that gradually increased up to the 
time I saw him. 

At that time there was quite a large tumor on the right 
side extending down to the crest of the ilium and a little in 
front of the median line and well up against the lung. Pulse, 
130; temperature, 101; respiration, 30. 

January 3d, in consultation with Dr. States, we explored 
the tumor and forced out about one-half pint of pus. 

January 5th we introduced a trocar near the base of the 
tumor a short distance from the crest of the ilium, and drew 
off 16 pints (2 gallons) of a yellowish green pus, in one hour 
and thirty minutes. He felt very faint for awhile after the 
operation, but he also felt much relieved. 

January 7th his pulse and temperature normal, and he had 
a ravenous appetite. The most remarkable feature of the 
case is that on the 13th day after the operation he was out 
fox hunting. He is still improving. Diagnosis—encisted 
abscess of the liver? What do you think about it? 

C. T. Riley. 

New Mat a mo has, O. * 


GRAPHITES:—An Interesting Case. 

Miss M. had for years a crack in the skin at the edge of 
the thumb nail. It was a troublesome little sore, not larger 
than a line in diameter, and could not be induced to heal. I 
was requested to examine it and make a prescription. Men¬ 
tioning Graphites as perhaps the appropriate remedy, the 
young lady’s father laughed outright and said that the patient 
was continually holding the sharpened end of a lead pencil in 
her mouth. 

I do not know whether it was really a proving of Graph¬ 
ites, but the symptom, “ Worse from cold water,” induced 
me to give a single dose of Sulphur, very high, which cured 
the thumb in short order. This case occurred in Chicago. 
The witnesses of it are people of the first order of intelli¬ 
gence. They believe and gladly declare that the high potency 
really cured the thumb, and the probability is they are right! 

Chicago. Howard Crutcher. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Organon and Materia Medica Society . 


353“ 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE ORGANON AND MATERI^^ 
MEDICA SOCIETY OF PHILADELPHIA. 

At a regular meeting of the Organon and Materia Medica 
Society of Philadelphia, held on Tuesday evening, April 7, 
1891, at the residence of Dr. J. T. Kent, 1605 Walnut 
street, the following members were present: Dr. F. Powel, 
president; Drs. A. G. Allan, D. W. Clausen, J. T. Kent, W. 

A. D. Pierce, W. It. Powel, C. A. Reger, Jean McKay, Jennie 
Medley, A. S. Ironside, F. Gladwin, M. N. Johnson and 
Linnaeus Smith; also the following visitors: Drs. Alexander,. 
Wm. Baldwin and Van Atta. 

The appointed essayist on the Organon being absent, it was 
moved, seconded and carried, that the order of business be 
suspended for the present. This was followed by a motion 
that Dr. Kent’s paper on clinical medicine be next read. The 
motion was carried, and Dr. Kent read his very instructive 
paper, illustrating the cure of a patient who had been given 
up by the “ old school.” 

Dr. Pierce said that Dr. Kent’s case was all very well for 
Homoeopathy; but he thought that some of us would have 
been tempted to give more medicine. 

Dr. Kent replied that it showed how important it is to wait 
after a slight improvement, to stick to the remedy. 

Dr. F. Powel remarked that it requires years of practice 
and nerve, to wait on a remedy as Dr. Kent had waited on 
his; a good lesson, indeed, was that taught by Dr, Kent’s 
paper, to wait on the remedy. 

Dr. Clausen proposed that Dr. Kent’s paper be sent to the 
Medical Advance for publication. The motion was car¬ 
ried. 

Dr. C. Albert Reger read a good paper on Materia Medica— 
Picric acid. (See page 356.) No comments. 

Dr. A. G. Allan, the appointed essayist on the Organon,, 
having by this time arrived, read § 44; he read also § 45, as he 
said that this section explains § 44. 

Dr. Kent, in commenting upon these paragraphs, said, 
that wherever Hahnemann had laid down rules for practice, 
he was infallible; but that when he attempted to explain or 
theorize, he was like the rest of us. In Hahnemann’s note 
to this section, for example, regarding the extinction of a 
feeble light by the greater light of the sun, it is not true that 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



354 


Organon and Materia Medica Society . 


May 


the solar rays wipe out or obliterate a feeble light, as one 
disease wipes out a similar one. The weaker flight is not 
wiped out at all; it is still there , notwithstanding the over¬ 
powering brilliancy of the rays emanating from that celestial 
orb. 

Dr. Kent proceeded to say that in the matter of cure, if the 
remedy is only similar, that is all; for a weak miasm may cure a 
violent one, if it is only similar. No matter how much it gains 
in strength, it is of no avail if it departs from the similar. 
Syphilitic disease may be similar to a mild miasm; the disap¬ 
pearance of the mild miasm is due to similarity, and not to 
the strength of the syphilitic miasm. Sulphur antidotes 
Aconite. If it were a less powerful agent, and still similar, it 
would still antidote the Aconite. Aconite (high) will actually 
stop the action of Sulphur given in chronic cases. Give 
Aconite comparatively low (30, or 200), therefore, if indicated, 
to break up a cold, while the patient is under Sulphur, for a 
chronic disease. Aconite is a weaker miasm than Sulphur, 
yet it will antidote the latter. 

Dr. A. G. Allan thinks Aconite not “ a weaker miasm than 
Sulphur," but more violent, only shorter in its duration of 
action; it will kill more quickly than Sulphur. Sulphur is 
more slow, insidious. He thought that Hahnemann ought 
to be defended in his comparison. 

Dr. Kent: If Sulphur is weaker, it nevertheless anti¬ 
dotes Aconite. 

Dr. Allan: If a force has pervaded the system, and you 
administer a similar, it causes a reaction, increasing the vio¬ 
lence of symptoms of the previously existing trouble. The 
reaction then is followed by annihilation. 

Dr. Kent: If you get the idea of the remedy being 
similar, it is about all that you can get out of it. 

Dr. Allan further remarked that he did not believe that 
any one could tell anything about the relative power of rem¬ 
edies; but he meant that Aconite appeared to act more vio¬ 
lently and quickly than Sulphur. 

Dr. Pierce said he did not like to hear of " deep-acting" 
remedies, “ Typhoid remedies," and the like; for any remedy 
may be the similar under certain conditions. 

Dr. Kent: How about Belladonna? That is not a 
typhoid remedy. Experience has taught that the genius of 


Digitized by KjO Qle 



355 


1891 Organon and Materia Medica Society . 

certain diseases does not correspond to the genius of certain 
remedies. 

Dr. Pieroe: As a matter of fact, it goes only so far as 
experience goes. You may come across a case of typhoid in 
a malarious district and have to give an intermittent remedy. 
The experiences of physicians may be widely*different in dif¬ 
ferent localities. 

Dr. Kent: The genius of typhoid is the same in Phila¬ 
delphia that it is in Calcutta; so with Aconite—it is an 
unchanging entity. The symptoms may change under cer¬ 
tain conditions, but the genius ever remains the same. Prov- 
ers will produce the same symptoms—the same essentials —of 
a remedy in different places, although they may get symptoms 
peculiar to the locality; but the striking characteristics , or 
genius , will be the same. This is the way to understand a 
remedy. Different symptoms may oome up in different peo¬ 
ple in the same disease, as well as in different plaoes and 
under different circumstances; but the genius is common. 

The Secretary read a letter from Dr. Wm. L. Morgan, of 
Baltimore, expressing his regret at not being able to attend 
the present meeting. 

The Secretary begged to inform, or rather remind, the 
members, that he had a roll-book; and suggested that no 
member should be considered present , who was not present 
at the reading of the Organon, which he considered the most 
important item in the order of business. This suggestion 
was made with a view to the welfare of the Society, as well 
as to command a due share of respect for that clause in the 
meeting notices, which particularly states that the meeting 
is called to order at 8:30 p. m. The Secretary was not 
encouraged in his suggestion, however, and so the matter was 
dropped. 

The following members were appointed essayists for the 
next regular meeting: 

M. N. Johnson, Organon; D. W. Clausen, Materia Med¬ 
ica; Jennie Medley, Clinical Medicine. 

Adjournment until further notice. 

Daniel W. Clausen, 
Secretary. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



356 


Picric Acid . 


May 


PICRIC ACID.* 

The study of this drug shows us that it exerts a profound 
influence upon the vital powers; its action on the brain is very 
pronounced and of a very depressing nature. We find it pro¬ 
duces a state of indifference, a disinclination for any mental 
or physical wo»k, a weariness, which, although slight at first, 
soon progresses to paralysis. There is a desire to rest. 

It produces great muscular weakness, especially of back 
and legs. 

The pathological observations show it to be a remedy par 
excellence for diseases of the brain and spinal cord. 

Picric acid is very useful for the headache of brain workers; 
it is a dull, pressing, heavy, aching pain, < mental exertion, > 
quiet and in open air. Heaviness extending down the spine. 
Any attempt to study or to use the mind brings on these 
symptoms anew and also produces great weakness of the legs 
and back. The characteristic symptoms are the heavy, tired 
feelings; the patient is always tired. 

Phosphorus is most similar in these head symptoms. But 
the Phosphorus patient is more irritable, he is very excitable, 
oversensitive; the least unpleasant impression prostrates him. 

Phosph. acid also is similar, but it suits when the heaviness 
is more pronounced; any study or exertion causes heaviness 
and even numbness. 

Arg. nit. Arsenic, Sulphur are also to be compared. 

Prom its action on the spinal cord we may expect a variety 
of nervous symptoms, nor are we disappointed in this respect, 
as experience has proved that Picric acid is of great use in 
locomoter ataxia, meningitis, neurasthenia and myelitis. 

It produces, characteristically, heaviness; heavy pains 
extending down neck and spine, heavy dull pains, aching in 
lumbar region and legs, < motion. Great weakness of back 
and legs. Prostration on least exertion. (Phosp.) Sexual 
desire increased. Violent erections. 

Most similar to Picric acid in spinal affections are Oxalic 
acid. Sulphur, Silicea. 

Oxalic Acid is to be compared especially in softening of 
the brain. Here the heaviness of Picric acid differentiates. 

Oxalic acid, more numbness; Picric acid, more heaviness. 

Oxalic acid, legs blue and cold; Picric acid, only cold. 

♦Organon and Mat. Med. Society of Philadelphia. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 C. Albert Reger. 357 

Oxalic acid has characteristically pains in small spots, < 
thinking of them. 

Silicea is distinguished by its peculiar constipation, and 
the numbness of fingers and back. 

Sulphur is distinguished by the intense spinal congestion it 
produces , and by the retention of urine. 

Eyes. —Many eye symptoms are produced by Pic. acid, but 
in all we find the heavy sensation so characteristic of the 
remedy. 

Heaviness of the eyes ; heaviness in evening, with burning 
in eyes; heaviness and inability to keep them open. 

Conjunctivitis <r. eye; > washing with cold water and 
by cold air ; <warm room, with difficulty in keeping eyes 
open, and sticky feeling on reading. 

For the conjunctivitis, compare first Apis, Arg. nit. 
Aurum, Sepia. Nit. Acid. 

For the heavy feeling, compare Hell. Hipp., Lachn., Plb. 
Sulph. 

Ears: Crawling as from worms. 

Small boils in ear. 

Puffiness of ears. 

Nose: Epistaxis, with heat; congestion of the head; full 
of mucus; can breathe only with mouth open; 
> open air. Compare Bell., Puls. 

Throat: Redness; raw, scraped sensation, > eating. 

Sore on empty swallowing, «< after sleep. Com¬ 
pare Lach. 

Stomach: Weight; wants to belch, but does not seem to 
• have power to do so, evidently from the muscular 
weakness. Thin, yellow, oily diarrhoea; straining, 
burning, smarting at the anus, with prostration. 
Urging to stool unsuccessful. Nux is quite sim¬ 
ilar, but lacks the prostration and burning, also 
the yellow diarrhoea. Sulphuric acid is somewhat 
similar, but has a trembling sensation over the 
body, without visible trembling; also great irrita¬ 
bility. 

Urine: Abnormally high sp. gravity, 1030. Contains 
sugar. 

Skin : Yellow. Papules on face, becoming small furuncles. 

Chilly, can not get warm, followed by clammy 
sweat. Chilliness predominates. 

C. Albert Reger. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



358 


Anagallis Arvensis. 


Mat 


ANAGALLIS ARVENSIS.* 

We think of this remedy for the following clinical indica¬ 
tions: Hypochondriasis, mania, epilepsy, amblyopia, cata¬ 
ract, spots on the cornea, syphilis, hepatitis and indurated 
liver, visceral obstructions, inflammation of rectum (horses), 
hemorrhoids, inflammation of kidneys, gleet, copious urina¬ 
tion (horses), gravel, syphilis with deranged mind, nosebleed, 
pain in small of back, gonorrhoea, amenorrhoea, cancer of 
mammae, sterility (cows), consumption, lumbago, itching, 
gout, bloody sweat (murrain of calves), dropsy, ill-condi¬ 
tioned ulcers, snake-bites and hydrophobia, promotes the 
expulsion of splinters, inflammation of stomach (horses). 

. It is characterized by great tickling and itching. We And 
tickling and pricking in urethra; in left ear; on tip of nose; 
at soft palate as from something cold; in symphysis pubis; as 
from a brush against epiglottis (with hoarseness); pains'in 
right leg and at os ilium; itching on vertex and occiput; of 
eyelids; in left ear; on cheek-bones; itching and tickling 
stitches on left corner of mouth and upper lip; in rectum; at 
anus after the evacuation of the bowels; on left side of chest, 
principally on nipple; on neck and scapula; on inside of upper 
arm, just above elbow joint, on back of right hand; tetter on 
hands and fingers. In fact, great itching all over the skin. 

Headache just over supraorbital ridges, with eructations 
and rumbling in bowels; spasmodic lancination 
in temples, extending to eyes; pressive aching in 
forehead and occiput from a current of air blow¬ 
ing on him; intense headache and nausea, with 
pains throughout body. Occiput: dull or tearing 
pains and inclination to vomit; violent headache, 
with hard, knotty stools; knocking pains in left 
side; dull pain all night. 

Paixs: Teeth pain as from cold. 

Stitches: in scalp, over left ear and on occiput; in eyeballs; 
in temples; in left corner of mouth; in right ear; 
in left side, region of fourth and fifth ribs; in left 
tibia, when sitting, when moving leg or foot; dis¬ 
turb sleep. 

Neuralgic pains: in right cheek bone. Rheumatic, gouty 
pains. 

* Organon and Materia Medica Society of Philadelphia. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. H. A. Fitz. 


359 


Tearing pains: in occiput; in right cheek bone; in upper 
molars; in spermatic cords; in muscles of left 
leg; disturb sleep. 

Drawing pains: in right testicle and cord; tensive draw¬ 
ing in left shoulder to neck, feturns when lifting 
or stretching arms; in muscles of upper arm; espe¬ 
cially when moving hand or arm, in writing; 
in right carpal and metacarpal bones (sometimes 
left), returning at regular intervals; also tearing; 
in muscles of left leg. 

Pressing pains: in forehead and occiput; with stitching 
in eyeballs; in eyes; on lungs; in sacrum. 

Dull pain: in occiput; in hollow tooth, with trembling of 
heart; in upper molars; in gums, accompanied by 
hard stools. 

Cramps: in right thenar; ceasing there, it goes to left; in 
right calf, slightly in left. 

Violent pain: as if occasioned by external pressure on 
occiput, behind left ear; in sacrum when lifting, 
they take her breath; in muscles of forearm, 
inside, near elbow joint; in carpal and metacar¬ 
pal bones, extending to shoulder; in palm of right 
hand between thumb and forefinger, as if a pin 
were thrust through. 

Sensation: in lungs, as if struck by cushion full of pins; 
anxiety in chest; skin of forehead feels too tight; 
tension in bend of left knee, as if swollen or sore. 
Cold or chilly sensation on right frontal protuber¬ 
ance; in teeth, as if something cold were placed 
on tongue; at soft palate, as from touch of some¬ 
thing cold; chilly trembling. 

Scratching in throat after eating; when reading 
aloud. 

Soreness on chest. 

Burning in urethra. 

Heat rising to head. 

Dryness in throat with scraping of hands. 

Things seem to float to and fro; he cannot write. 

Pain: In right ear as if meatus auditorius were obstructed; 
in facial muscles, in lungs, in the front and the 
back up to the scapulae; in right side of back. 


Digitized by jOOQle 



360 


AnagaUis Arvensis. 


May 


followed by violent sneezing; in upper arm, out¬ 
side, near the shoulder; pain and twitching in 
left thumb ; in bend of left knee; at upper part 
of metatarsus of right foot; in great and little 
toe of leftrfoot in morning; in sole of left foot. 

Hence we find under— 

Locality and direction—below upwards. 

Pains in upper limbs. 

Eight: Chilly sensation on frontal protuberance; pain in 
eyeball; in palm of hand; in and about knee and 
tibia; in foot; pain and stitches in ear; tickling, 
pains in leg and os ilium; drawing in testis and 
cord; pressure on lungs; itching on scapula; weak 
lame feeling in leg. 

Left: Knocking in side of occiput; pain in knee and pos¬ 
terior muscles of leg; in tibia; in foot; glitter¬ 
ing before eye; stitches over ear; in corner of 
mouth (and itching) tensive drawing from shoul¬ 
der; drawing in muscles of leg; itching in ear; 
on side of chest; tight feeling in bend of knee. 

Motion: In bed: trembling of heart with toothache; chil¬ 
liness. 

Position: Sitting with legs crossed; pain in and about 
right knee; stretching arm; tensive drawing from 
left shoulder up to neck; lifting; tensive drawing 
in left shoulder; pain in sacrum. 

Rest: Walking: pressure on right lung; motion: of leg or 
foot < stitches in right and left tibia. 

Time: Night: dull pain in occiput; neuralgia in cheek; 
tickling at palate; erections. 

Morning: burning in urethra ^fhen urinating; 
pain in feet. 

Towards evening: spells of chilliness. 

Evening: glittering before left eye; trembling, 
anxious feeling in chest; toothache. 

Aggravations: pain in right eyeball < from touching lids; 
burning in urethra when urinating, mostly in 
mornings; violent pain in sacrum when lifting a 
slight load; tensive drawing, ascending from left 
shoulder to nape of neck < raising and extending 
arm; pain in right eyeball < from touch. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. H. A. Fitz . 


361 


Ameliorations: Coffee relieves headache; burning in 
urethra before and during erection, ceases during 
coition. 

Causes: mental work causes great prostration (Picric Ac.); 
when cutting with shears, cramp in ball of thumb; 
pressure on right lung after eating, or when walk- 
ing; pressing in eyes after headache; obstruction 
and pain in right ear after pressure in eyes. 

Mental State: exhilarated, mind very active; everything 
gives pleasure. 

Nose: Nosebleed, violent sneezing, expelling lumps of 
viscid yellow phlegm; running of water from nose; 
copious secretion of yellow phlegm. 

Mouth: Viscid saliva in mouth, raised by coughing; water 
in mouth with tearing pains in molars. 

Abdomen: Distended with wind; weak feeling in abdo¬ 
men. 

Stools: Piles; passes offensive flatus; stools soft and 
pappy; watery diarrhoea ; stools hard, like stone, 
knotty. 

Urine: Dark, straw-colored ; orifice seems agglutinated; 
presses to urinate; urine escapes in divided 
streams. 

Skin: Rough, dry ; dry, bran-like tetter in rings; groups 
of small vesicles, smarting and itching, oozing a 
yellowish-brown lymph, which soon turns into a 
scurf, new vesicles appear beneath. 

Ulcers and swelling on joints ; promotes expulsion of 
splinters (Hepar). 

Relationships. —Collateral relation. Cyclam. Similar 
to Coffee (joyous, excited); Picric Ac. (prostra¬ 
tion after mental exertion); Cyclam. (sneezing); 
Lith. c. (rough skin, ringworm); Sepia, Tellur 
(ringworm); Puls, (chilliness; catarrhs); smelling 
‘ of Rhus., and an hour later, taking Col. relieved 
sacral pain. Rhus, relieved swollen gums. 

W. II. A. Pitz. 


Digitized by 


Google 



362 


Ledum: Verifications . 


Mat 


LEDUM: VERIFICATIONS.* 

At oar last meeting the interesting and extended discussion 
on Ledum created a determination on my part to present a 
few cases for our consideration to-night, in which Ledum 
plays the prominent part. It has been my experience with 
this remedy that it is usually given after other remedies 
which were not indicated. This is probably due to the fact 
that so-called characteristic symptoms have been used as the 
only guide. The differentiation between Ledum and films 
was fully shown by Dr. Kent, so that it will not be necessary 
to go into detail. 

The first case to which I wish to call your attention is 

that of Mr. T-, farmer, about 38, had suffered for years 

with all sorts of neuralgias, aches and pains, heat and 
burning in the eyes. Photophobia from little light with 
scalding tears which made the cheeks sore, the eyes filled con¬ 
stantly with a yellowish sticky mucus, racking cough from 
tickling in larynx, followed by great prostration and dizzi¬ 
ness. 

Expectoration frothy, bloody. Severe pain of a stitching 
character, especially worse on the left side, starting from the 
edge of the lower ribs and extending upwards. Pressing 
boring pains in the shoulders < by motion. Intense awful 
burning pains shooting up the left leg. Never able to get to 
sleep until towards morning. Most severe pain began in 
left great toe joint, extending to knee and even into the body. 

Coldness, desire for cover; sensitive to air or cold, while 
the foot feels hot to himself the skin is cold to others. 
These pains were followed by profuse, debilitating, sour¬ 
smelling sweats; the skin bruises easily, and suppurates on 
slightest provocation. 

Ledum 200 was given three times a day for two days, 
which relieved the case for several days to such an extent 
that he returned to work and continued to work until some 
six months later, when the old symptoms returned. 

Ledum was now repeated in the cm. potency, which wag 
followed in short time by entire and permanent relief. An 
element in the case which I did not discover until long after 
the cure was effected, was that he at one time, years before, 
completely crushed his left great toe. 

* Organon and Materia Medica Society of Philadelphia. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 






1891 


R . B. Johnstone . 


363 


Mrs. R-, suffering from ague, had received a number of 

remedies, which seemed to be indicated, but without relief, 
when I was led to prescribe Ledum, because of the peculiar 
pains, which were sharp, cutting, began in the ankles and 
extended to her shoufders at times. Heat of the stove and 
of the bed were intolerable. 

The entire lower extremities felt like a burning fire. 
Covering was out of the question, because it < the burning 
so much. She also suffered from profuse, foul-smelling 
night sweats, beginning after midnight. There was little or 
no thirst. Ledum cm. was prescribed, followed by rapid and 
complete cure. % 

Mr. W. W., aged 58. Cough every winter, better in sum¬ 
mer; < by lying down; from sitting up. Expectoration 
tastes sweet. Profuse perspiration. Must get out of bed as 
soon as the cough comes on. Cough caused by tickling in 
the epigastrium. Urine dark red, scanty. Intermittent, 
burning in urethra. Cough by drinking. General lying 
on the face, con back. Rheumatic pains in legs, so stiff he 
can not walk, hobbles around the room with his hands on his 
hips. 

Rhus cm. was given with the usual results with such pre¬ 
scriptions, no relief. Three days after he remained in the 
same condition. I discovered, however, on close examination, 
that all the rheumatic pain he suffered began in the knee, 
and extended upwards. 

When an attack came ou, it would sometimes first reach 
the knees, then the hips, finally the arms, and would disap¬ 
pear gradually. This had been his experience for a number 
of years. The pains were intense, sharp, cutting, burning, 
always going up. Ledum 50m. was administered in several 
doses (3), and was followed by almost instant relief. Severe 
< intervened for several days from which he quickly recov¬ 
ered, and to this day has had no return of his old symptoms. 

R. B. Johnstone. 


Diarrhoea of undigested food, painless, occurring in day 
time only, and after each evacuation great hunger. Petro¬ 
leum 3x promptly cured. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



364 


Chronic Headache: Sepia . 


May 


CHRONIC HEADACHE: SEPIA. 

July 20, 1890.—Consulted by Mrs. -, aet. 50, spare 

habit, dark hair and eyes, nervous temperament, neurotic 
family hisjtory; has been ill all her life with what she terms 
sick headaches; has been treated years at different institutions 
and by the best physicians (allopaths); still her headaches 
remain (strange, isn’t it?). For a year or more marked mental 
symptoms have made there appearance which has caused 
patient to renew her effort for relief, although in a half¬ 
hearted way. 

The following symptoms are given, nearly, in the patient's 
own words: 

Headache in forehead on awakening in the morning, is 
relieved by a movement of the bowels, caused by drinking a 
cup of coffee. Should the coffee fail to produce an evacuation 
a severe headache ensues, pain extends to the temples. Any 
little overexertion, mental or physical, caused an < or any¬ 
thing said that recalls past unpleasantness <. 

Easily frightened. Fright constipates. 

Weakness of the stomach with palpitation, worse about 10 

A. M. 

Nausea after headache begins, < by moving about and 
looking downward, by holding head well back and by 
pressure on the forehead. 

After 2 a. m. sleepless. 

In the morning tongue coated with a yellow mucus, no 
taste, sometimes vomits yellow mucus. 

Perspires from any little overexertion, especially about the 
head. 

Bearing down due to any overexertion followed by leu- 
corrhcea, and the feeling that her “ insides” would come out 
unless she held herself or sat down, keeping her limbs closely 
together. 

Great sensitiveness of the abdomen; can wear nothing 
tight about the waist; all clothing loose and supported from 
the shoulders; accompanying the bearing down, difficulty of 
breathing. Coldness of top of head. 

Mental: Does not want to do anything; neglectful; this 
symptom is the opposite of what this patient has 
ever been; avoids strangers; dread of even meeting 
them. Constant fear o* an invalid and 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch . 


365 


being unable to help herself; irritable; sad and 
discouraged. Will go to the wrong place, when 
ordinarily knows better. Oftentimes a familiar 
place will seem strange. 

Uwne: Profuse, light colored; sediment orange color, 
with tendency to adhere to vessel; this symptom 
noticed just before an < of headache. 

General < morning and night. 

Another peculiar symptom noticed before < is: Itching of 
the skin, no evident eruption (?); scratching relieves, but 
leaves a sore spot. 

A condition noticed by the patient is < in summer by 
south winds, and in winter by north and east winds. 

After a careful comparison of symptoms, Sepia was chosen 
as the simillimum, and given in the 1000th potency (B. & T.) 
(One dose; an < occurred which lasted three days, after which 
a gradual improvement of mental condition noticed; her 
symptoms, one by one, disappeared. 

Mar. 17, 1891.—Patient called at my office and states that 
she has never been so well as at present. 


VERIFICATIONS. 

The following article has been compiled from volume eight 
of the Homoeopathic Physician . The symptomatology is 
taken from cases there reported, followed by the remedy 
which cured the case, or removed the given symptoms, and 
the potency used. 

The arrangement, like the preceding compilation from the 
Advance is according to “Hering*s Condensed Materia 
Medica.” 

Mind: Nausea and disgust of food with painless watery 
diarrhoea; flushed face and trembling voice; so home¬ 
sick that she cries nearly all the time. Capsicum 
lm. Vol. VIII, Page 184. 

Acute rheumatism with excruciating pain in 
lower abdomen, left testicle and left thigh; deliri¬ 
ous during the attacks, thinking his attendants 
were hurting him, and also saying, “Give me 
something to tear.” Verat. alb. 200. Vol. VIII* 
page 372. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Verifications . 


May 


3*6 


Head: Aching in right forehead, extending to right eye 
and forcing it to close; pain in the eccipnt of a 
sudden, shooting character. The pain commences 
between nine and ten every morning and lasts for 
about three hours, when it. gradually disappears. 
Calcarea, 107 m. Vol. VIII, page 649. 

Sick headache, beginning all over head, worse on 
right side; pain in temples and back of eyeballs; 
when pressing the eyes seems as though die could 
touch the pain; pressure does not aggravate. 
Great sensitiveness of eyes to light during head¬ 
ache. Headache usually begins in the morning, 
growing worse during the day until she sleeps. 
Always better after vomiting; vomiting difficult; 
aggravation during vomiting, relief after. Desire 
to remain perfectly quiet; noise or sudden jar 
causes intense agony, pains throbbing, beating 
with the pulse; worse from motion. Stooping 
causes a knife-like pain, mostly in right frontal 
eminence. Belief by binding the head up 
tightly, from hot water; worse from cold; wants 
to lie with head high. When raising the head, 
feeling as though it would burst open, roaring and 
ringing in the ears all the time. During the 
headache sense of a great load in the stomach, 
with goneness and oppression in the epigastrium. 
Frequent pains in the right hypochondrium and 
under left shoulder blade, going through from 
breast. After the headache bruised feeling in 
abdomen; can hardly stand up. Constipation; 
stools causing sharp, hard pains just before the 
moving, relief after; during menses pain in lower 
part of abdomen, sharp, always worse at begin¬ 
ning. A dull pain in sacrum. Bheumatic pains 
in both upper extremities, worse when moving, 
worse in right side, disinclination to move. Feet 
cold, rheumatic pains in left hip; menstrual 
blood thick, dark, scanty; during menstruation 
face very red, fretful, cross, don*t want people to 
move around. Sanguinaria 200. Vol. VIII, 
page 663. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch . 


367 


Rush of blood to the head, chest and arms; feet 
cold, must constantly move them, especially after 
lying down at night. Lilium 200. Vol. VIII, 
page 378. 

Pain like a bad bruise over right eye, worse on 
bending head down; the spot is very tender to 
pressure; exposure to wind brings on the pain; 
also has a pain like a tight band over vertex later¬ 
ally. Ignatia, mm. Vol. VIII, page 550. 

Headache worse and hurts if leaned against any¬ 
thing. Belladonna 1 m. Vol. VIII, page 407. 

Headache on vertex, as if carrying an immense 
weight which would break through skull; she feels 
it all day and whenever she wakes at night; worse 
from reading or writing; better by walking in open 
air. Carbo veg. cm. Vol. VIII, page 552. 

Outer Head: Eczema on head, neck and behind ears 
where it began; bald spots on top of head were 
covered with the eruption, extending into the hair, 
matting it together by clear, watery and sticky 
discharge; considerable itching and stinging. 
Graphites, cm. Vol. VIII, page 438. 

Ears: Acute catarrhal inflammation of middle ear; face 
flushed bright red; right cheek and parotid region 
swollen and very sensitive to touch; snapping 
and cracking in ear; pain in paroxysms; excrucia¬ 
ting, causing her to scream out and weep; pain is 
sharp, stitching, from within outward, also extends 
below ear along eustachian tube; paroxysms come 
on suddenly, “like a flash of lightning," last 
about half a minute and disappear as suddenly as 
they came; during the paroxysm she screams, 
throws herself about; strikes at anyone who comes 
near her; says she can't help it, feels as if she 
must strike somebody; pains across lower part of 
back and in uterine region; aggravated by turning 
in bed. Belladonna 200. Vol. VIII, page 92. 

Deafness in left ear following chill; no pain, sound 
in left ear as of trees waving; aggravated by driv¬ 
ing; feeling as if a slide was let down over the^ 
ear. Calcarea, cm. Vol. VIII, page 548. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



368 


Verifications. 


May 


Nose: Violent, exhausting sneezing, during and after 
which running of clear water from left eye and 
left nostril. Kali. carb. cm. Vol. VIII, page 
550. 

Daily nose-bleed mornings. Arsenicum lm. 
Vol. VIII, page 407. 

Face: Facial neuralgia, left side, so severe he could not 
keep still; darting, shooting, flashing pains, that 
come and go like lightning. Spongia 200. Vol. 
VIII, page 156. 

Parotid gland swells every day at sundown, 
better all day. Carbo. an. 30. Vol. VIII, page 
407. 

'.Tongue: Tongue feels swollen, seeming to fill the whole 
of mouth, making her lisp. Cajeput 30-200. 
Vol. VIII, page 593. 

All food tasted bitter; directly food or water 
touched the palate it seemed to diffuse a bitter 
vapor through mouth and throat. Lycopodium 
cm. Vol. VIII, page 551. 

Throat: Throat felt as if she had swallowed a piece of 
paper. Carbo an. 30, Vol. VIII, page 407. 

Region of throat behind palate aches severely, 
without other soreness. Carbo an. 30, Vol. VIII, 
page 407. 

Upward pressure in soft palate in catarrh. 
Thuja cm., Vol. VIII, page 552. 

Pain in throat on empty swallowing, as if swal¬ 
lowing over a tender lump, first on right side, then 
on left; throat inflamed. Merc. viv. cm., Vol. 
VIII, page 554. 

Right tonsil inflamed, swollen, with a grayish- 
yellow patch, size of a dime; tongue heavily 
coated; aggravation from 4 p. m. till bed time; 
rumbling in the bowels. Lycopodium 1 m., Vol. 
VIII, page 619. 

Diphtheria; sleepless and restless because bed 
felt so hard; heat, chilly on movement, cheeks 
flushed and hot; aching all over; great fatigue; 
throat dry, with thirst for cold drinks, which 
relieve; mouth full of viscid, salty saliva, running 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F W. Patch . 


369 


out on pillow during sleep? frequent swallowing; 
sharp pains in tonsils, worse on right side and on 
swallowing; throat sensitive externally, worse on 
right sidet pain and soreness began on right side 
and extended to left; right hand and arm go to 
sleep easily; tonsils swollen, red, shining; light 
yellow membrane on tonsils, worse on right side, 
diffused, in points, looking like lid of a pepper 
box; also patches on posterior wall and pillars of 
pharynx; offensive odor of breath. Lac. can. 45 
m. (F) Vol. VIII, page 329. 

Desires, Aversions : For three years an intense craving for 
salt, covering her food with it and eating it by the 
spoonful, also used tea excessively and took quinine 
for every indisposition. Nat. mur. 45 m. [F], 
Vol. VIII, page 370. 

Eating and Drinking: Whenever she would try to drink 
would have to take very small sips at a time for 
want of breath; would seem to want a quantity of 
liquid at a time, but would get so tired would 
have to desist. Nitrum 30. Vol. VIII, page‘445. 

Sour stomach from tomato soup. Lith. carb. 
200. Vol. VIII, page 407. 

Nausea and Vomiting: Renal colic, with writhing, 
moaning and wringing of hands; the pain cul¬ 
minated every little while in distressing retching 
and vomiting; constant urging to stool and to 
urinate during the pain. Nux. Vol. VIII, 
page 239. 

Stomach: Stomach felt as if being scraped; the pain goes 
through to back; it is worse about two hours after 
food; it also comes on almost directly after stool. 
Alumina cm. Vol. VIII, page 551. 

Abdomen: Colic in umbilical region; relieved only by 
pressure and bending double. Colocynth 1 m. 
Vol. VIII, page 439. 

Pains like a knife in right abdomen on walking. 
Rhus. 101 m. Vol. VIII, page 554. 

Stool, etc.—Abdomen so tender she shrank from slightest 
touch; stools frequent, exceedingly painful and 
consisting only of blood and milky water; felt as 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



370 


Verification*. 


Mat 


though she would never get done; abdominal pain 
constant; strength gone; no thirst; little perspira¬ 
tion; tongue yellowish-white with deep teeth 
marks. Merc. viv. 60 x, Vol. VIII, page 90. 

Complete fistula in ano; weakness; stitches 
through the rectum and a constant slight discharge; 
usually a drop or two of bloody pus upon the 
sheet in the morning. Silioea, 30, Vol. VIII, 
page 309. 

Diarrhoea before and during menses, so severe 
as to cause much debilitation; dents on fingers 
from pressure of scizzors, or any hard pressure. 
Bovista, 30-200, Vol. VIII, page 377. 

Obstinate constipation for two years; stools hard 
and dry; desire for stool delayed and causes con¬ 
siderable effort and accompanied by involuntary 
passing of urine. Alumina, cm., Vol. VIII, page 
439. 

Diarrhoea during and after meals, stools dark 
and painless; amelioration in afternoon. China, 
cm., Vol. VIII, page 553. 

Empty feeling in abdomen after stool, as if she 
needed food, also headache on vertex about 5 p. m. 
Veratrum alb., cm., Vol. VIII, page 553. 

Itching in and about the arms, and forward along 
the perineum is so severe at night as to deprive 
him of sleep. It is relieved by scratching vigor¬ 
ously and by application of cold water. When 
relieved by the compress, he drops to sleep, it 
quickly wakens him and it is not unusual with him 
to be obliged to rise to apply these compresses 
every twenty or thirty minutes, all night long. He 
has lost flesh and strength, little appetite; nervous 
and irritable. Amm., c*#«., Vol. VIII, page 93. 

Following an attack of dysentery which had been 
suppressed with walnut barkj the patient experi¬ 
enced a return of the pains and tenesmus, but there 
was absolutely no stool, only a very scanty, white, 
glairy substance. She must lie on her back with 
knees drawn up and strain, but to no effect; tongue 
coated yellowish-brown, mostly in the center, with 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch . 


371 


tip and border red; thirsts for large drinks of 
water, erampy pains in limbs, cross, fretful and 
changeable humor. Bowels felt as if full of sore 
pimples; retention of urine; thought always that 
“some one of the family was mad at her.” Sul¬ 
phur, cm., Vol. VIII, page 183. 

Urine: Painful urging to urinate with erections and 
bloody urine, the attacks coming on and ceasing 
suddenly. Belladonna 50m. Vol. VIII, page 372. 

Weakness, lame all over, drawing in knees, 
painful cracking in knees when walking; darting 
pains from the hip to the hollow of knee, aggra¬ 
vated when urinating; excessive backache which 
causes him to lose much sleep early in the morn¬ 
ing; must sit up or roll over in bed to get relief; 
brick dust sediment in urine which closely adheres 
to vessel. Constipation; ineffectual urging to 
stool with some mucus discharge. The feet are 
cold and damp; cramp in calves at night only 
relieved by standing on the floor. Urine passed 
with difficulty; painful pressure in bladder before 
urinating; painful urging; urine passing in drops 
with burning; must stand with the knees bent 
and frequently change position before urine begins 
to pass. Don't feel that life is worth living, and 
has a notion to kill himself. Nux 200. Vol. VIII, 
page 662. 

Male Sexual Organs. —Swelling and hardness of left 
testis, following gonorrhoea. Rhododendron 200. 
Vol. VIII, page 553. 

After an attack of gonorrhoea the patient took 
cold, resulting in paroxysms of intense pain coming 
on about every ten minutes, causing him to writhe, 
groan and weep and grasp the bed-posts tightly; 
the pain began in left iliac region extending to 
left groin and half way down front of left thigh; 
it was as if a fluid were farcing its way there , 
something like an injection, and it ends in a sud¬ 
den pain in anterior part of middle of left thigh, 
as from a jagged knife. Between the paroxysms 
there is throbbing in different parts of left groin 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



372 


Verifications . 


May 


and front of left thigh; left inguinal gland 
enlarged and tender; left testis swollen; scarcely 
any discharge; also dull pain extending from left 
iliac region to left mid thigh, with frequent digs 
in various parts thereof; tongue white; pulse 
quick. Coccus cacti cm. Vol. VIII, page 315. 

Female Sexual Organs. Terrible paroxysms of cramp¬ 
ing, aching, burning pains, commencing in right 
ovary and extending to left side and lower part of 
abdomen; last from two to six hours; not relieved 
by any position or application; aggravated by hot 
(wet) applications. Great soreness all through 
pelvic cavity after attack passes away. Rumbling 
in abdomen; bloating, fullness in bowels not re¬ 
lieved by eructations, but better from emissions of 
flatus and rubbing. Pain in right ovary running 
down the limb. Urine looks like strong coffee— 
at times blood red; sensation in stomach as if every 
thing were swinging bach and forth . Lycopodium 
71 m. Vol. VIII, page 306. 

Dysmenorrhcea; at approach of menses she be¬ 
comes weary and languid ; headache; backache, 
aching all over body; deep aching in the bones; 
bed feels hard; become stupid and drowsy; tongue 
coated yellow down the center; no appetite; food 
makes her sick; fever, and sometimes delirium, 
at night; vertigo on rising; better when quiet, yet 
the bed gets so hard she must move to find soft 
place. Baptisia cm. Vol. VIII, page 179. 

Dysmenorrhcea; menses regular, rather profuse, 
natural in color, somewhat offensive in odor; 
leucorrhoea in inter-menstrual period. For the 
first twelve or eighteen hours of menstruation 
she has severe cramping pains low in the abdo¬ 
men, accompanied with nausea, vomiting and 
diarrhoea. The bowels move three or four times, 
usually loose and profuse [she is habitually con¬ 
stipated], but the vomiting continues through the 
first day.—Amm. c. cm. [H. 8,] Vol. VIII, 
page 93. Menorrhagia, while baby nurses, if beer 
is drank. Millefolium 30. Vol. VIII, page 407. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch. 


373 


Amenorrhcea; leucorrhoea instead of menses, 
profuse and excoriating, accompanied by burning 
in right ovary. Arsenicum cm. Vol. VIII, page 
439. 

Ulcer on left labium majora externally, two inches 
long, covered with dirty yellow pus, edges hard; 
sensation as of needles sticking in the edge, 
especially at night; beating and throbbing at 
night so she can not sleep. Leucorrhoea acrid, 
excoriating, profuse, thick, yellow, sometimes 
putrid, flows more when walking. Itching of 
pudendum by scratching. Pain in sacral region. 
Vertigo passing Off by closing eyes. Great desire 
for fat meat, especially pork, after eating which, 
the ulcer pains more severely. Left hand goes to 
sleep when resting it quietly, also at night in bed. 
Nitric Acid m. Vol. VIII, page 306. 

Profuse menstruation, lasting eight to ten days, 
leaving patient very weak; no pain. Sabina 200. 
Vol. VIII, page 445. 

Menorrhagia from first menstruation ; had never 
been pregnant. Sabina 200. Vol. VIII, page 445. 

Pain always in the heart when the ovary ached ; 
pains sharp and cutting, come on about a week 
before the menses, growing worse until flow began, 
then easier till the next month, when they would 
return. Naja 12. Vol. VIII, page 445. 

Pregnancy: Continuous and persistent nausea without 
vomiting; great fear; fears she will not survive her 
confinement; anxious and timorous; does not dare 
to go on the street alone; in constant fear when in 
crowded places, as church, market, etc., but does 
not know what she fears. Aconite 45 m., Vol. 
VIII, page 93. 

The recently delivered uteru6 becomes actually 
jammed into pelvis, with great pain. Actea 1 m., 
Vol. VIII, page 407. 

Threatened miscarriage at third month, pains 
frequent and strong, but not participated in by the 
uterus, abdominal walls doing all the work; awful 
bearing down pains, almost unbearable, but which 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



374 


Verifications . 


May 


are merely abdominal. Patient sanguine and sen¬ 
sitive to cold. Amanita 59 m., (F) Vol. VIII, 
page 117. 

Premature pains at seventh month, threatening 
abortion, resulting from a fright during the day; 
os enlarged, pain steady and severe. Opium 200, 
Vol. VIII, page 118. 

Fourth month of pregnancy complained of severe 
nausea and occasional vomiting, which annoyed 
her only late in the afternoon and evening; no 
thirst; tendency to be chilly all the time (in Aug.). 
Pulsatilla mm. (Tafel), Vol. VIII, page 93. 

Following a normal labor, patient suddenly 
became very pale, this almost immediately suc¬ 
ceeded by nausea and vomiting, with profuse 
hemorrhage of bright red Wood from the relaxed 
uterus. Ipecac 200, Vol. VIII, page 119. 

Breathing: Pneumonia; great efforts to breath; eyes 
fairly starting from their sockets; could not move 
or breath on account of the pain in lungs; every 
effort to cough would start the tears. Bryonia 
45m. Vol. VIII, page 378. 

Cough: Restless sleep; wakens often, feeling sore and 
tired all over, must get up and sit in a chair for a 
few moments. All-gone feeling, worse as digestion 
proceeds; slightly alleviated after a meal; can not 
tolerate Balt fish; constant tickling in throat caus¬ 
ing desire to cough; slight expectoration of white, 
frothy sputa; shortness of breath on exertion, with 
tumultuous beating of heart; sensation of constric¬ 
tion across chest; soreness to touch in left sub- 
clavicular space. Phosphorus 200. Vol. VIII, 
page 307. 

Severe illness rapidly following measles; high 
fever, rapid pulse, great thirst with desire for 
wine or beer; restlessness, complete sleepless¬ 
ness, caused by a feeling of intense giddiness, 
directly the patient attempted to close her eyes; 
frequent convulsive cough, during which the head 
was spasmodically jerked forward, the knees at 
same time being jerked upward to abdomen. 
Theridiop 200. Vol. VIII, page 648. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch . 


375 


Feeling of emptiness in chest after cough. Kali 
carb. cm. Vol. VIII, page 552. 

Hacking cough all day with whitish, frothy 
sputa, formerly salty; cough worse in damp 
weather, excited by tickling in throat; sputa on 
waking is harder and a dirty yellow color. At 
times, noisy escape of flatus downward when 
eoughing. Lachesis cm. Vol. VIII, page 551. 

Lumgs: Feeling of a bar across center of chest about 
level of clavicles, the bar feels heavy and hot and 
is very burning on waking in morning; it feels 
like a solid square bar with sharp edges; later a 
feeling of fluttering of a feather there causing 
constant irritating cough which does not relieve 
it; she must fetch the breath by an exertion over 
the bar. Hasmatoxylon 200. Vol. VIII, page 593. 
On going into cold wind felt something strike icy 
cold in center of lower chest; since then has cough 
caused by lying on right side, aggravated by eat¬ 
ing, and often for a short time afterward; also 
worse on rising from bed in the morning; sputa 
thick, yellow, tasteless; cough causes pain like a 
smarting at front of throat about root of tongue; 
constant pain in center of lower chest; can not 
draw long breath on account of weight on chest, 
relieved by sighing. Phosphorus cm. Vol. VIII, 
page 547. 

Neck, Back: Pain and sensitiveness in the coccyx, espe¬ 
cially when sitting. Petroleum cm. Vol. VIII, 
page 438. 

Upper Limbs: Gouty deposits about the finger joints, 
which were very painful during cold, stormy 
weather. The joints and nodes were sore and 
hot at such times. The nodes ceased to be pain¬ 
ful, and sudden hoarseness came; ulcers in 
larynx followed ; great dryness in nose and pain¬ 
ful dry throat; sticking in cardiac region. She 
lost flesh, but the appetite kept good. Abrota- 
num 45 m. Vol. VIII, page 58. 

Lower Limbs: After exposure, severe drawing pain in 
left leg, commencing at nates and extending down 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



376 


Verifications . 


May 


posterior aspect of thigh to the popliteal space 
and on to the calf of the leg ; better while lying 
quietly, with leg extended, and while walking 
slowly, but is unbearable while sitting. Amm. 
mur. cm. (H. S.) Vol. VIII, page 93. 

When walking on hard ground a pain oatches her 
in middle of left thigh, rather toward inner side, 
when she puts left foot forward ; there is a crack 
in bend of right thigh where it joins body; also 
cracks between second and third toes of right 
foot, and between all the toes except first and 
second of left foot. Violent sweat on genitals, 
extending over lower abdomen nearly to umbilicus, 
with feeling as if skin would come off if rubbed. 
Lachesis mm. Vol. VIII, page 550. 

Sudden pains in inner side of right thigh, where 
it joins the body, as if a bruise were pressed on ; 
worse when throwing left foot forward in walking, 
and so bearing all the weight on the right 
foot. Causticum cm. Vol. VIII, page 550. 

Toes itch and burn; are red and swollen, as if 
frostbitten; case of eight years' standing. Agaricus 
30. Vol. VIII, page 377. 

Nervousness felt, especially about ankles. Pul¬ 
satilla. Vol. VIII, page 407. 

Feet cold and felt wet as if she had damp 
stockings on. Calcarea, cm. Vol. VIII, page 
553. 

Pain in both shins, especially left; worse when 
standing; outer side of left lower leg swollen; bor¬ 
ing pain in left lower leg, like a gimlet going just 
below knee to ankle. Sulphur, dm. Vol. VIII, 
page 553. 

Itching of legs below knees when undressing at 
night, only removed by violent scratching. Bumex, 
cm. Vol. VIII, Page 554. 

After walking a short distance, compelled to stop 
from a feeling of intense weariness, heaviness, 
lameness and stiffness of the legs, which felt sore 
as if bruised. Berberis, 70m. Vol. VIII, page 
651. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch . 


377 


Chronic rheumatism of left ankle and knee, 
suppressed by a strong liniment and followed by a 
severe condition with the succeeding symptoms: 
Profuse, cold perspiration; small, quick pulse; 
pain at heart; she was sitting up in bed atid appar¬ 
ently in a dying condition; six months pregnant. 
Abrotanum. Yol. VIII, page 59. 

Nerves: Epileptic fit; eyes staring, total insensibility, 
starting, striking or throwing arms violently about; 
clenching teeth and biting tongue; clenching 
hands; then rigid tonic spasm with limbs and body 
immovable; suddenly a violent trembling and jerk¬ 
ing of the right arm. Cicuta 300. Vol. VIII, 
page 186. 

Sleep: Wakes about 3 a. m., with feeling of discomfort 
and can not go to sleep again unless she first gets 
out of bed, then she passes much urine which 
generally relieves and she can sleep; at same time 
there is cramp in right elbow and shoulder. If 
she lies on right side, feels stagnant and cold all 
over, especially in feet, if she turns over onto left 
side, the blood feels as if it trickled back into 
feet and she feels comfortably warm all over. If 
she goes to sleep on right side, she wakes with a 
start and is cold all over. Kali carb. cm., Vol. 
VIII, page 552. 

Weak feeling at 8 p. m. Sleeps poorly, wants 
to lie in bed mornings; feels full after a mouthful; 
low-spirited. Baryta carb. cm. Vol. VIII, page 
553. 

Chill, Fever, Sweat: Remittent fever: prodrome, flushes 
of heat and nausea; no thirst. Chill, no thirst, 
can't get warm, even by a stove. Heat, great 
thirst, between chill and heat, much sour vomit¬ 
ing. Sweat, profuse. Was hungry each day but 
a few mouthfuls caused him to feel full. Lyco¬ 
podium 43m. Vol. VIII, page 274. 

For two years had taken quinine almost every day; 
has had chills and fever more or less for a dozen 
years; now, severe chill every other day with long 
heat and no sweat; feared she would die; restless, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



378 


Verifications . 


Mat 


always worse after midnight; very thirsty for slight 
amounts. Arsenicum 30. Vol. VIII, page 312. 
Intermittent fever; chill and coldness predominate, 
cold all night in bed, with chill on moving; chills at 
eight a. m., eleven a. m., and three p. m.; after¬ 
noon fever beginning at about three o’clock, fol¬ 
lowing the last chill; during heat prickling in 
skin all over body as from needles; great thirst 
for large quantities during all stages, can not get 
enough water. Severe pains in knees aggravated 
by motion, bending knees and especially going 
down stairB; general aggravation from motion. 
Feels pretty good when she keeps still but mis¬ 
erable when she tries to move about. Bryonia 
200. Vol. VIII, page 91. 

Sensations: Peculiar sensation on walking, midway 
between groin and neck, like a bunch of needles or 
pins sticking in deep; does not feel it when sit¬ 
ting. Bryonia cm., Vol. VIII, page 185. 

Tissues: Dropsy of six months’ standing, with gnawing 
hunger early in the morning, before breakfast, 
relieved by eating; feels full and bloated after 
eating; loud eructations of tasteless gas for half an 
hour at a time, which relieve; thirst for large 
quantities of water frequently; rumbling in bowels? 
diarrhoea of foul-smelling stools, rushing him out, 
can scarcely reach the closet; seldom and scanty 
passage of high-colored urine, leaving red sedi¬ 
ment in vessel, which is difficult to wash out. 
Lycopodium 1 m., Vol. VIII, page 305. 

Contact, Injuries, Etc.: Left upper eyelid ecchy- 
mosed, and also round left internal canthus; it 
came on suddenly, after rubbing it with a towel. 
Arnica mm., Vol. VIII, page 549. 

Si£in: Giddy when rising from a recumbent position, with 
chilliness and pressure in the head, forward. 
Brain feels as though wabbling about when shaking 
the head. Hair so sensitive that he can scarcely 
bear to comb it. Eyelids dark, red, swollen, 
agglutinated, oedematous; conjunctiva injected; 
eyelids feel as though they were made of parch- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


F. W. Patch . 


379 


ment. Total loss of strength. Note dark red, 
erysipelatous, intense itching, soreness of nostrils. 
Mouth dry, putrid breath, much thirst. Stools 
yellow, bloody, cadaverous. Urine hot, burning, 
frequent, scanty, involuntary at night. Scrotum 
and penis swollen; skin thick, dark red, erysipela¬ 
tous. Frequent erections, maddening, exquisite, 
voluptuous itching, which nearly sets him mad; 
better by gentle rubbing with a silk handkerchief; 
better from oool applications; worse from warmth 
and in bed. Great sleepiness, but can not Bleep 
on account of itching. Worse from sitting still, 
better from motion and in a cool place. Eruption 
on the arms a quarter of an inch thick, torn and 
ragged from violent scratching. More or less itch¬ 
ing on other parts of the body having no erup¬ 
tion. Rhus cm. Vol. VIII, page 662. 

Pain like that of shingles, without the eruption. 
Ran. bulb. 200. Yol. VIII, page 407. 

Red spots of different sizes on legs and right side 
of abdomen; not raised; no itching or burn¬ 
ing; they sometimes turn bluish or green and look 
like bruises; at times legs feel numb; feet tender 
and sometimes swell and burn after protracted 
standing; feet often cold on first lying down at 
night, more usually burning both day and night; 
often swollen and stiff; veins swollen and throb¬ 
bing; blood sluggish and thick. Conium 10m. 
Yol. VIII, page 547. 

Eczema of body, especially on the bends of 
joints, with terrible itching, for many years, also 
an open ulcer on left leg with burning pains day 
and night, excoriating discharge and sensitive¬ 
ness to least touch; skin feels subjectively hot. 
The application of water burns her; can not bear 
the touch of flannel on the eczematous spots; con¬ 
stant thirst for water which disagrees; mouth and 
fauces dry, with sensation as of cotton in it; 
worse in morning, worse from berries; food 
oppresses her and lies like a load in stomach; skin 
dry, cracks easily; sometimes little vesicles spring 
up but soon dry. Insomnia. Sulphur 10m. Vol. 
VIII, page 664. Frank W. Patch. 

South Framihoham, Mass. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



380 


Tubercular Meningitis Cured . 


May 


TUBERCULAR MENINGITIS CURED. 

Tubercular disease of the brain is said to beinourable under 
allopathic treatment. When cases under homoeopathic treat¬ 
ment are oured, they have generally been looked upon by 
homoeopaths with some doubt, on account of the difficulty in 
verifying the disease (if the patient lives) by finding tubercles 
in the brain. Such is the intraceable nature of the complaint 
that one is more inclined to doubt one's diagnosis. I will 
give the principal symptoms of this case, which I first saw on 

December 6, 1890.—I found the baby, a little girl of seven 
months of age, very fretful, constantly waking up with a cry, 
and not easily pacified; perspiration of the scalp; mouth dry, 
saliva having almost ceased to be discharged from the mouth 
as previously; no teeth; she had been brought up at the 
mother’s beast for three months, and then by the bottle with 
cow’s milk. She was a particularly good-tempered baby 
before the illness, smiling at everyone, and giving no trouble 
whatever—lying for hours, crowing and smiling. She was 
vaccinated from the “ beast,” all the three places taking; 
had a very bad arm , and went back from the time it was vac¬ 
cinated. After the arm healed, she was taken to the seaside 
for some months, and appeared to get on again very well 
until the present illness. The child did not appear to be 
very ill, and I put down the disturbance to teething, and 
prescribed Calcaria 12. 

December 9.—No better; always wakes up with a cry, as if 
frightened; wants to be nursed; bowels costive; rubs its head 
on the pillow; is dull, and sleeps only in short naps. Lyco¬ 
podium 30. 

December 10.—Better. Continue medicine. 

December 12.—Not so well; temperature 100 F.; suspected 
tubercular disease, partly on account of the slow and insid¬ 
ious invasion of the disease, and from the temperature being 
too low for simple acute meningitis; from the irritability, 
constipation, and now some diarrhoea, also a good deal of 
albumen in urine; this stage came on without any convul¬ 
sions, but with some twitching of the face, stiffening of the 
body almost amounting to opisthotonos; strabismus, great 
sensitiveness of the skin to touch; on drawing my finger over 
the abdomen a red line soon came up, the “cerebral stain” 
of Trousseau, supposed by some to be diagnostic of this 
disease. Gave Tuberculin 200 three times a day. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Alfred Heath . 


381 


December 13.—Continue medicine. 

December 14.—Cries a good deal; easily startled; eyes 
sensitive to light; suddenly crying out when lying still on 
mother's lap, and when smiling. Kali carb. 

December 15.—Temperature 103. Dr. Burnett saw the 
case with me to-day; he agreed with me that it was a decided 
case of tubercular disease, and suggested that the vaccination 
may have had something to do in inducing the attack; 
advised me to undo the probable influence of vaccination. I 
accordingly gave the child the antidote to vaccine, Thuja 
200 . 

December 16.—Temperature in the morning fell to 101, 
although in the evening it rose to 102.3; continued Thuja. 

December 17.—Temperature 101 morning, 101.1 evening ; 
improving in every way; continued Thuja. 

December 18.—Temperature 99.4 morning, 1 doseTuberc.; 
evening temperature 100, doing well; no medicine 

December 19.—Temperature 100.4 morning, 100.1 even¬ 
ing ; continued Thuja. 

December 20.—Temperature 98.2 morning, 98.2 evening; 
child a little restless, wakes rubbing nose and side of face ; 
stares a good deal, as if lost in thought; cries as if in pain 
in the head. Hellebore 30. 

December 21.—Temperature 97 morning, 98 evening; 
doing well; continued Hellebore. 

December 22.—Temperature 97 morning, 98.3 evening; 
much better; continued Hellebore. 

December 23.—Temperature 97.1; gave one dose of 
Tuberc. 200 ; this low temperature continued until the 28th. 

December 24.—Some constipation, rubbing back of head, 
waking up crying, etc., for which I gave Lycopodium with 
benefit. 

December 28.—Temperature 99.4 morning; continued 
medicine. 

December 29.—Temperature 101.4 morning, 101 evening: 
one dose Tuberc. 200. 

December 30.—Temperature 101.4 at 7 a. h.; when I saw 
child at 11:30 it was 99 ; in the evening it was 101.1. 

January 1.—Temperature 97.4 morning, 97.2 evening ; 1 
dose Tuberc. 

January 2.—Temperature 96.4 morning, 97.1 evening. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



382 


Tubercular Meningitis Cured . 


May 


Very restless day and night, no sleep, drowsiness, constantly 
looking at her fingers. Hyos. 6. 

January 3 —Temperature 99.4 morning, 100.4 evening ; 
good night; long sleeps ; continued Hyos. 

January 4.-*—Temperature 98.4 ; much better ; 100.1 even¬ 
ing. 

January 5.—Temperature 98.1 morning, 97.4 evening. 
Better all day yesterday and to-day. • 

January 6.—Temperature 97.3 morning, 97.1 evening. 
Better; bowels costive; pain continued on action; passes 
large, hard lumps. Bryonia. 

January 7.—Temperature 97.1 morning, 98.1 evening. 
Better; rectum red, painful at stool. Sulph. 200. 

January 8.—Temperature 98.1 morning, 97 evening. 
Fretty on waking; must be attended to at once. Cham. 

January 9.—Temperature 97 morning, 97 evening. Wants 
to be always nursed; fretty all night; rubs her nose a good 
deal; one cheek flushed. Cham. 30. 

January 10.—Temperature 96.3. Better; bowels acted 
twice since yesterday morning; very happy and good; 1 dose 
of Tuberc. 200. 

January 11.—Temperature 96.3 morning, 96.4 evening. 

January 12.—Temperature 96.4. Wakes up smiling; red¬ 
ness of chest; bowels costive; takes her food well; rather 
more wakeful. Sulphur 200. 

January 13.—Temperature 98.4 morning, 97.3 evening. 
Actions consist of little hard lumps, like lumps of jelly or 
altered bile; good night. 

January 14.—Temperature 96.1 morning, 97.1 evening. 
Fits of temper and crying; almost loses her breath with 
temper; dark redness of face. Kali Iod. 30. 

January 15.—Temperature 96.1 morning, 97.1 evening. 
Better; bowels relieved; a hard lump at 5 p. m. and again in 
the night, more freely and easier; slept well from 10 p. M. to 
3 a. h.; very happy; laughs a good deal. 

January 16.—Temperature 96.1 morning, 96.2 evening. 
Chafing of the back with rough, brittle skin which cracks; 
red spots on back; rubs head about on pillow; generally 
wakes with a cry; no action of bowels; a good deal of flatus 
passed. Nat. sulp. 12. 

January 17.—Temperature 97.1 morning, 97.3 evening. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Alfred Heath . 


383 


Passed lumpy, clay like motions; sneezing and snuffing, as if 
from cold; spots drying up; rubs nose continually. Nat. 
snip. 12* 

January 18.—Temperature 98.2 morning, 98.1 evening. 
Restless night; softer and larger action of bowels in night, 
draws up legs and screams loudly after action; had another 
large, soft action; pale in color since 10 a. m.; eyes watery; 
1 dose Belladonna 30. 

January 19.—Temperature 97.2 morning, 97.2 evening. 
Slept much better; bowels relieved twice; more natural color; 
lay all day very quiet, but more excited toward evening. 
Tuberc. 200, 1 dose. 

January 20.—Temperature 97.2. Bowels more relaxed; 
color more natural; good night; head perspires freely; wakes 
startled; chaffed on outside of buttock; no trace of Albumen 
now in her water; no medicine. 

January 21.—Chafed, a good deal at rectum, quite red and 
sore; skin of back inclined to crack. Sulph. 200. 

January 22.—Temperature 98.2. Normal redness and sore¬ 
ness of rectum gone; skin pealing off; child apparently quite 
well; sent to seaside for change of air. 

Alfred Heath. 

114 Eburv St m London. 


POISONING BY QUININE. 

There are three grades of poisoning, corresponding to a 
dose of one to two grammes for the first, of two to four 
grammes for the second or more than four grammes for the 
third. The symptoms of the first grade are a Quinine intox¬ 
ication : roaring in ears ; decrease of the sensation of touch ; 
auditory hallucinations and decrease of hearing and seeing, as 
if the eyes were covered by a veil, sleepiness, apathy. Of the 
second grade: oscillating gait, as if he were drunk, diminu¬ 
tion of the reflexes, deliria, deafness, sometimes amaurosis, 
difficulty of speech. From more than four grammes, death 
may set in with convulsions or from paralysis of the respira¬ 
tory organs or of the heart, yet exceptionally the reflexes may 
be at first fearfully increased by large doses of Quinine, of 
which Erlenmeyer narrates a beautiful example, where exam¬ 
ination for the patellar reflex caused terrible convulsions all 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



384 


Poisoning ly Quinine. 


May 


through the body with mental anguish lasting over half an 
hour. In such cases Quinine effects far more the brain itself 
than the spinal cord, though it is well known by experiments 
on hogs that Quinine in small doses increases reflex irritabil¬ 
ity, because the action of Quinine is at first stimulating, and 
secondly, paralyzing. This drug is too often indiscriminately 
prescribed in locomotor ataxia and in spastic spinal paralysis, 
whereas the dose in the one disease ought to be the very reverse 
in the other. The same difference must be made in relation 
to neuralgia and neuritis. Quinine increases epileptic attacks 
and after giving large doses (4.8 grammes in thirty hours) 
epileptic spasms were observed. A middle-aged man suffered 
from headaches which were worse at night, and for this neu¬ 
ralgia he took large doses of Quinine, in consequence of which 
he lost all power over his legs, walked as if he was drunk and 
trembled in arms and legs, he was unable to hold anything in 
his hands and complained of constant twitching all over the 
body, probably because the reflex irritability was also in this 
case increased. His headache was as bad as ever.— Centralb ., 
J. Werverheilk , June , 1890 . 


ON THE PARALYZING ACTION OF STRYCHNINUM. 

Poulsson studied the influence of Strychnine on the motory 
nerves of the frog and explains the different opinions of 
authors. The general paralysis following large doses of 
Quinine is caused by a direct paralysis of the entire central 
nervous system, small doses only paralyze certain parts of the 
’medulla oblongata and of the cord. Direct introduction of 
large doses in the blood never causes tetanus; but immediate 
paralysis and the spasms appear much later after the excre¬ 
tion of a large quantity of the alkaloid. The whole symptom 
complex is similar to the action of large doses of Morphium 
on lower animals. Very small doses of Strychnine (up to 
0.1 mge.) cause tetanus, medium doses (up to 1.0 mge.) first 
tetanus; then paralysis; and then again tetanus.— Centralb ., 
J. Nerocali, June, 1890. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


On the Treatment of Iritis. 


385 


Comment anfc triftcternw 


Ask yourself If there be any element of right and wrong in a question* U 
so take your part with the perfect and abstract right, and trust in God to see 
that it shall prove expedient.— Wendell Phillips. 


ON THE TREATMENT OF IRITIS. 

The value of a therapeutic measure is determined, not 
by the theories upon which it may be based, but upon its 
practical results as a matter of every-day experience. The 
strongest argument for Homoeopathy is not that it is the 
embodiment of a natural law, but that the bedside experience 
of many thousands of physicians has shown its practical 
superiority as a means of cure. In fact, whether the law of 
similia is a natural law or not can be known only by putting 
it to the test of experience; if it is competent to explain 
every phenomenon in the domain of therapeutics, we have 
the inductive proof of its' universality; if it is incompetent 
for this we discover its limitations. Thus, it would seem 
that to find the truth in medicine were simple enough, and 
so it would be, certainly, if we could all agree upon the 
interpretation to be given to the phenomena we are called 
upon to discuss, but here is a rock upon which our hopes are 
sure to be very soon shattered. We agree upon the facts, 
but arrive at diametrically opposite interpretations, when wo 
come to study them. This is the reason why we do not suc¬ 
ceed in proselyting and converting the entire allopathie 
school to Homoeopathy; at least it is one reason, and it also 
explains why all members of our own school do not believe 
and practice alike. I may believe my neighbor when he tells 
me that a wart has disappeared from the back of his hand > 
but I may refuse to believe that its disappearance was due 
to his having carried a potato in his pocket for a week, or 
from having buried a bit of pork under a stone at midnight, 
and my readiness to believe or disbelieve comes not only from 
what I know, or think I know, about warts, but also from 
the extent of my credulity. The business of the commercial 
world is rendered possible, largely, through the existence of 
a system of credit, and similarly the profession of medicine 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



386 


On the Treatment of Iritis. 


May 


has its basis in faith. Bnt just as business credit must be 
justified by the payment of debts in gold or silver, or their 
equivalent, so medical faith must be justified by the expe¬ 
riences of the sick-room, and justified under the most liberal 
and varied interpretations. This is the appeal to whioh all 
of our preconceived notions must be subjected, and which is 
to decide upon their validity. 

In the March number of this journal there is an article by 
Dr. A. G. Allan on “Repetition of the Dose," illustrating by 
a clinical case a phase of belief common to many homoeopaths, 
and it is a legitimate question whether or not the facts shown 
by the history of the case are sufficient to justify this belief 
from any standpoint other than that assumed by the author 
of the article. 

The patient was a young woman, who applied to the doctor 
“for an acute inflammation of the iris of the right eye," from 
which she had suffered very ‘severe pain for two nights 
previously, and for which she wished relief. “The right 
pupil was very much contracted, and dilated but very little 
when she was in the dark. There were no posterior adhe¬ 
sions between the iris and the crystalline lens. Upon 
these symptoms she received a dose of Merc, cm., to be 
dissolved in water and taken in four doses, half an hour 
apart." The next day she was better, and reported “that 
she did not have anywhere as severe a time last night 
as she had the previous two nights; that she remained in bed 
all night, and thought she slept four hours." Upon the next 
day she was still better, and had slept all night without pain. 
“The redness of the eyeball was almost all gone. * * * 

The iris expanded nearly normally, and there were no posterior 
synechias." 

This is the case, and the writer states that it is presented 
‘“to show that Atropia is unnecessary as a mydriatic when the 
true homoeopathic remedy, which has been selected according 
to the requirements of the law of Homoeopathy, has been 
administered and allowed to act undisturbed by a second dose 
or by any other medicine. The writer states also, that the only 
•excuse for the use of this drug as a mydriatic in iritis lies in 
the ignorance of homoeopaths as to how to apply their reme¬ 
dies so as to cure the sick, and that moreover, “curing the 
sick patient of his disease, and causing a few of his most 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Harold Wilson . 


387 


prominent symptoms to subside, are two widely different 
things.” One thing further remains to be noted, and that is 
that this was a case of what is called syphilitic iritis, although 
no other symptoms of the syphilitic condition are noted as 
haying been present. 

It may fairly be inferred, I am sure, that if this case is 
•cited to prove that atropia is unnecessary in iritis, it may be 
supposed to be typical in character, method of treatment and 
results. The patient applied for relief after the disease had 
been shown by more or less acute symptoms for forty-eight 
hours, and after two nights of severe suffering, and yet upon 
examination the pupil of the affected eye was found to dilate 
sufficiently to enable the doctor to say that “there were no 
posterior adhesions between the iris and the crystalline lens.” 
Inasmuch as it requires considerable dilatation to determine 
this point with certainty, it is evident that the mobility of 
the iris was not very seriously impaired at this time, and that 
there had been no exudation of plastic lymph upon its sur¬ 
face. In these respects the case is not at all typical, for at 
this stage of the disease there is, as a general rule, great immo¬ 
bility of pupil, and more or less adhesion between the iris and 
the lens. 

From the limited number of symptoms given, the selection 
of the remedy seerps to have been judicious, if we take it for 
granted that “ Merc.” stands for Merc, sol., and it is doubt- 
iul if any other remedy could have been found to cover the 
•case so well. For twenty-four hours, more or less, after the 
administration of the remedy, the patient still suffered some 
pain, although this and the redness of the eyeball both sub¬ 
sided shortly afterward. The record shows that the symp¬ 
toms of the iritis disappeared, but does not state what the 
-effect of the prescription was upon the primary syphilitic 
disease, or even upon the symptoms which had led to the 
selection of Mcrcurius; such as the offensive breath, the flabby 
tongue, the thirst for milk, etc.; and as the symptoms that 
are reported as .cured were only “ a few of the most promi¬ 
nent ” ones, it is hard to say that the cure was a homoeopathic 
one, for the same facts would be noted by an oculist who had 
used Atropia and given no internal remedies whatever. But 
if we grant that it was homoeopathic, it is hard to see wherein 
it was a more successful and valuable act of practice than the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Mat 


388 On the Treatment of Iritis. 

cure of a similar series of symptoms, as in such a case as the 
following: 

Miss J. B-, age 22, referred by Dr. Mera, March 18, 1890, for 

severe pain in both eyes, which began on the day previous and was- 
worse during the night. Pupils contracted, sluggish; circumcomeal 
injection, etc. Atropia was instilled two or three times at short inter¬ 
vals, and in a few minutes the pain had entirely subsided, and the pupils 
were pretty well dilated. The patient was given a few powders of 
Merc. cor. 30 and a dram or so of a four-grain solution of Atropia 
sulph. for frequent local application, and in two days reported herself 
as having been entirely without pain ever since the first visit, and I 
found upon examination that the ciliary injection had disappeared. The 
further use of remedies was discontinued, and recovery went on without 
interruption. The patient has had no further trouble with her eyes 
since this time. 

This case is not selected as a typical one, bat because it is 
closely similar to the one reported by Dr. Allan. The only 
difference in his results and mine is in the duration of the 
pain after the first treatment. It would be a baseless assump¬ 
tion to say that either patient was not as thoroughly cured, 
or rather did not recover as completely, as the other. The 
fact is, both of them recovered, and we can not dispute it. 
To those who employ Atropia in the treatment of iritis, the 
relief of pain in this disease is a common occurrence, and is 
something very gratifying to physician and patient alike, but 
that one case should have recovered without this drug, par¬ 
ticularly a mild and simple case, is not remarkable, nor can 
it go very far in establishing a principle of therapeutics. 
Standing by itself, the fact is interesting and has its value, 
but can not be accepted as a type, because it is not typical. 
Those who believe in the employment of Atropia in iritis 
rest their belief upon certain theoretical necessities not to be 
specified here, as well as a large body of experiences, and not 
upon the fact that one or two cases have recovered under its 
use; yet no one would deny the possibility of a better method 
of treatment. It might be very illiberal to say that iritis 
could not be better cured by the indicated remedy alone, and 
in the cm. attenuation, than by Atropia alone or by Atropia 
and the indicated remedy together; but it would be entirely 
proper to declare that the eviderfce is wanting upon which to 
base any such claim. If those who have the temerity to try 
such a plan of treatment will accumulate sufficient clinical 
facts to prove their assertions, no reasonable man can longer 
contradict them. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Harold Wilson. 


389 


There is one more question to be considered and that is, 
what evidence is there that Atropia in iritis is objectionable? 
As a palliative measure, its usefulness in relieving pain is an 
every-day observation, as is also its importance in preventing 
posterior synechise, but unless we start with the assertion that 
every palliation of pain not brought about by the administra¬ 
tion of a dynamized simillimum is a positive injury to the 
patient, we may find it hard to show wherein it is inferior to 
any other means of cure. It has proven itself to betrust¬ 
worthy through the experience of many years, and it will 
take a very clear and unanswerable argument to drive it from 
the armamentarium of the oculist. Two things must be 
demonstrated—first, that other means of cure are as good, 
and, second, that they are better. 

Harold Wilson. 

Detroit, Mich. 

[Clinical experience is much more valuable when a single remedy, 
Mercury, is used, than when Mercury is used internally and Atropia 
locally. If the cure be equally rapid and gratifying, it is far more 
scientific and satisfactory to know what did it, and to know also that 
the law of similars is just as applicable in diseases of the eye as in any 
other affection.— Ed.] 


“GUERNSEY’S B&NNINGHAUSEN.” 

I notice on page 227 of the current number of #the Homoeo¬ 
pathic Physician , in an article headed “ The Hahnemannian 
Analysis Sheet,” a reference to “Guernsey’s Bonninghausen” 
as being “too cumbersome,” and would like to suggest a 
means (and the only one I can think of) by which this really 
just objection can be removed. When the work was gotten 
out it was so different from the usual order of publications 
that no printer seemed anxious to handle it, in fact some of 
them positively refused to do so at any price, and while it 
was finally produced at a cost that barely compensated for 
the labor expended upon it, it was found difficult to sell it at 
a price whioh would cover the outlay. This fact, coupled 
with downright dishonesty on the part of several subscribers, 
prevented the undersigned from subsequently supplying 
them with a proper receptacle for it, such as he found to be 
neoessary for his own use, to render the slips less “cumber- 
som ”—in short, to make it of actual value. As I can not 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



390 American Institute of Homeopathy. May 

well be accused of having any pecuniary interest in the 
following, and as it will be of benefit to those of your readers 
who avail themselves of it, I will describe a simple contriv¬ 
ance which will enable the student to quickly find any slip 
and as readily replace it: Order from any paper box manu¬ 
facture fifty square “tubes” (if you will pardon the expres¬ 
sion), each measuring 1£ inches wide X 1 inch deep X 12f 
inches long, closed at one end, open at the other. Have him 
stand these on end in five rows, ten in each row, the 1| inches 
surface presenting. Then elevate each row one and one- 
fourth inches above the other, and have them glued in this 
position with an outside casing of cloth. Thus you will have 
a series of pigeon-hole cases, into which you can place the 
slips, fifty in each, and by the rows being placed in this posi¬ 
tion the front slips of each will show its number; the whole 
looking not unlike the ordinary ticket office case. The cost 
will be from $1.50 to $4 according to the finish. 

Wm. Jefferson Guernsey* 

Philadelphia, May, 1891. 


THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF HOMEOPATHY. 

The International Convention. The first meeting was 
held in Philadelphia in 1876; the second in London in 1881; 
the third in Basle, Switzerland, in 1886, and the fourth will 
convene at Atlantic City, N. J., June 16-23, 1891, in con¬ 
nection with The American Institute of Homeopathy, for 
which complete arrangements have been made. 

“ There is not a single indication pointing to a failure of the 
Convention in any important respect. The fear that it might 
be international only in name has no longer any warrant in 
fact. There will be representatives present from England, 
France, Germany, Russia and probably other European coun¬ 
tries; and of our distinguished transatlantic brethren, there 
will be at least twenty-five of them represented, either by 
essays, reports, or their personal presence.” If you do not 
receive the annual circular, with list of essays, etc., write Dr. 
Pemberton Dudley, 15th and Master streets, Philadelphia* 
If you are not a member of the Institute, you are cordially 
invited to attend. Reduced rates have been granted over all 
lines to Atlantic City for members and their families and all 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


391 


others desiring to attend. Purchase a ticket to Atlantic 
City, taking a certificate from the ticket agent at point of 
starting. This certificate, when signed by the Chairman of 
the Railroad Committee at Atlantic City, will entitle you to 
a return ticket at one-third the regular fare , but no reduc¬ 
tion can be obtained without a certificate. Tickets can not 
be purchased earlier than three days before date of meeting, 
and will not be honored unless presented within three days 
after adjournment (Sunday excepted). No stop-over privi¬ 
leges allowed on return journey. 

Members from Chicago and all points North and West 
thereof coming through Chicago will find the Pennsylvania 
lines the most direct—in fact, the only line running direct 
to Atlantic City without change. 


febtfortaf. 

m When we hare to do with an art whose end is the saving of human lift, mj 
neglect to make ourselves thorough masters of it becomes a crime.”—H ahnemanh. 


Koch's Lymph. —After more than two months' experience 
with Koch's lymph in the treatment of tuberculosis in the 
Hospital Saint-Jacques, Paris, Dr. P. Jousset closes his clin¬ 
ical report with the following remarks* upon the use of that 
remedy: 

“ What shall we say now of Koch's lymph ? Presented as it 
has been by its inventor, recommended as a specific for tuber¬ 
culosis, it is only a sad deception which has already produced 
several deaths, and, perhaps, a single definite recovery. In 
addition, the infatuation of physicians and of patients has 
died out with the same rapidity with which it flared up. The 
danger of the method has alarmed and overpowered the judg¬ 
ment, and to-day prevents its benefits being seen. Moreover, 
the rapidly fatal cases which have repeatedly occurred abso¬ 
lutely justify that attitude. 

“I add that the theory given by Koch on the action of the 
lymph is the principal cause of the mistakes experienced by 
the physicians. They have persistently watched for that 
reaction which Koch deems so necessary to obtain the cura- 

* Translated from L'Art Medical , April, 1891. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Editorial . 


May 


392 

tive effects of the lymph, and they have brought about seri¬ 
ous results, which, iu some cases, have caused the death of the 
patients, and in others prevented the continuation of the 
remedy during a time sufficient for the recovery of chronic 
diseases. 

‘•But what could be expected from therapeutists without 
doctrines, always searching for specifics, for medicines which 
destroy the cause of disease, poisons or microbes; who fly 
from antithermics to antiseptics, enameling all the Oalenistic 
rubbish? It is certain that Koch's lymph will always be a 
dead letter for them, and that they will henceforth abandon 
its employment. 

“ The physicians of the Hahnemannian school are guided 
by a better light; they alone may say they know what they do 
and why they do it. They know that Koch's lymph is an 
energetic agent which localizes its action upon the tubercu¬ 
lous affections; they know also why they administer it to con¬ 
sumptives; it is because this remedy, given in strong doses, 
aggravates phthisis and produces tubercle. They know why 
they give it; it is because it is a homoeopathic remedy; that 
is to say, a remedy which modifies the organism in such a 
manner that the organism cures the disease which the remedy 
produces in the healthy person. 

“And, as it is a homoeopathic remedy, they well know that 
it acts only when indicated by the ensemble of lesions and 
symptoms; that, consequently, it is necessary to complete the 
pathogenesis of this remedy in order to know in what cases of 
phthisis it is indicated and in which it is not. 

“Finally, like every remedy which acts in the same sense 
of the disease, Koch's lymph should be employed in very 
small doses, so as to avoid the aggravations. What is that 
dose? It is surely variable with the subjects, and clinical 
experience alone will teach it to us." H. P. Holmes. 

Omaha. 

* * * 

Our National Societies. —There never was a time in the 
history of Homeopathy in America, when a large and influ¬ 
ential attendance at the annual meetings of our national 
societies was more urgently demanded. There never was a 
time, also, when an active interest in the work was more 
needed, or more likely to be productive of lasting benefit. 
Many physicians who have contemplated joining these socie- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


393 


ties, but from some cause have postponed it from year to 
year, should come out of their shell, abandon their hermit- 
professional life, become acquainted with the representative 
men of our school, and assist in promulgating the truths of 
similia. You can not make a professional investment that will 
bring you better returne. 


Qtexo (puSftcotton** 


A TEXT-BOOK OF MATERIA MEDIC A AND THERAPEUTICS, 
CHARACTERISTIC, ANALYTICAL, AND COMPARATIVE. 
By A. C. Cow perth waits, M. D. Sixth Edition. Entirely rewrit¬ 
ten and revised, with Clinical Index. Chicago: Gross & Delbridge, 
1891. 

Is announced for delivery June 15,1891. “ The entire text has been 
completely rewritten and thoroughly revised. Every symptom of 
doubtful origin has been expunged.” We are very skeptical of a work 
on Materia Medica which bases its claims to professional acceptance by 
4t expunging ” symptoms. This promise and “ a complete resume of the 
clinical uses of the drug ” looks like improvement in a backward direc¬ 
tion. This is the way in which Dr. Burt spoiled a promising work on 
characteristics. Give us more Materia Medica, and not so much authors' 
opinions. 

A MYSTERY OF NEW ORLEANS: SOLVED BY NEW METH¬ 
ODS. By W. H. Holcombe, M. D. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott 
Company, 1890. 

The author needs no introduction to the readers of a homeopathic 
journal. For years his contributions to our periodical literature have 
been read with pleasure, if not with profit. “ How I became a Homeo¬ 
path,” one of the earlier popular pamphlets from his pen, was one of 
the most convincing missionary leaflets that ever appeared. This work 
is in another direction, and its purport is clearly set forth in the brief 
preface. “ Hitherto my vacations from strictly professional work have 
been devoted to metaphysical and theological studies and writings. 
This time the result is a novel, written not without a purpose. To 
illustrate the new discoveries in physio-psychology, with certain notes 
of warning; to throw a little helpful light upon the race problem; and 
to cultivate friendly sentiments between North and South are the moral 
threads which have been woven into this web of romance.” There is 
•also a “ Note on Vivisection,” and a “ Symposium on the Race Prob¬ 
lem.” It will do every busy doctor good to sit down and read it. 
WOOD’S MEDICAL AND SURGICAL MONOGRAPHS. 

In the January number is a Discussion on Anaesthetics, by Drs. 
Mace wen, Coats, Henderson, Hartley and Kirk. The following points 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



394 


New Publications . 


May 


were taken up: 1. The relative value of various ansestlietics. 2. 
Their mode of administration, including the examination of patient. 
8. Fatal issues: how they arise and how to avert them. 

The February number contains an article on Ether-Drinking: its 
Prevalence and Results, by Earnest Hart, which will be of interest to 
our readers. It is being used as a substitute for alcoholic stimulants, 
and often with fatal results. 

The most noticeable article in the March number is Paidness and 
Grayness: Their Etiology, Pathology and Treatment, by Tom Robin¬ 
son, M. D. There are many curious and* interesting facts here collected 
which, to the majority, will be new, and will repay perusal. 

TRANSACTIONS OF THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL SESSION OF 
THE INTERNATIONAL HAHNEMANNIAN ASSOCIATION. 
Held at Watch Hill, R. I., June 24-27, 1890. Published by the 
Association. 

This volume of 488 pages is “full of meat” for the student of 
homeopathic therapeutics, and one from which any homeopath may 
derive much that will be helpful in his daily labors. 

THE CONCORDANCE REPERTORY OF THE MORE CHARAC¬ 
TERISTIC SYMPTOMS OF THE MATERIA MEDICA. By 
Wm. D. Gentry, M. D. Vol. III. Pp. 930. New York: A. L. Chat- 
terton&Co. 1890. 

The contents of Vol. Ill are: 

The Abdomen, 17 pages; Anus, Rectum and Stool, 230 pages; Urine 
and Urinary Organs, 583 pages; the Male Sexual Organs, 793 pages. 

Thi9 great work, thanks to the energy and enterprise of author and 
publisher, is now rapidly approaching completion, and when finished 
will enable the physician to find almost any symptom of recognized 
prominence in the Materia Medica. It will be an encyclopedic reper¬ 
tory, and be or she who possesses it will have little complaint to make 
in future of our “cumbrous” symptom record. 

SECRET NOSTRUMS AND SYSTEMS OF MEDICINE: A BOOK 
OF FORMULAS. By C. W. Oleson, M. D. Chicago: Oleson & 
Co. 1891. 

This collection is from the published analyses, sometimes exposures, 
of prominent proprietary mediciues and the secret methods of the 
itinerant and quack. “ For a number of years the compiler, a physician 
in acdve practice, has been collecting analyses of such proprietary 
nostrums as have appeared from time to time in the medical and phar¬ 
maceutical journals. From various sources has aho been obtained 
exposes of many of the secret systems of practice in vogue in different 
parts of the country.” From these various sources the author has made 
a curious yet interesting work. To the physician it is often an advan¬ 
tage to be able to show a patient that he is posted in regard to all these 
worse than useless preparations, and thus demonstrate that their con¬ 
tinued use can be only detrimental to health, or. what is often the case, 
the chief cause of his or her illness. To the homeopath it may be used 
with practical benefit, as it will often enable him to antidote the cause 
of a case of sickness. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


New Publications . 


395 


A CYCLOPEDIA OF DRUG PATH0GENE8Y. PART XIV. SUL¬ 
PHUR-VALERIAN A. By Richard Hughes, M. D., and J. P. 
Dake, M. D. 

This work is now rapidly approaching completion, and the editors 
now appeal for contributions to the Appendix. 

HEREDITY, HEALTH AND PERSONAL BEAUTY. By John 
V. Shoemaker, M. D. Philadelphia and London: F. A. Davis. 
1890. 

While this treatise is chiefly intended for popular instruction, yet 
from a semi-scientific standpoint as well as from the intrinsic value of 
the matter itself, it will be a decided acquisition to any professional 
library. The question of “Health and Personal Beauty/’ is discussed 
upon the general basis of the laws of health, the strict conformance to 
which is the true source of beauty, both physical and spiritual. One of 
the most interesting and instructive chapters is “ The Evolution of the 
American Girl,” and the knowledge gained from this, both from a histor¬ 
ical and psychological point of view will repay the cost of the volume. 

It is by far the ablest work which the author has yet given the profes¬ 
sion, and is capable of doing much good. We must also thank the 
publisher for a most attractive volume. 

ORIFICIAL SURGERY AND ITS APPLICATION TO THE. 
TREATMENT OF CHRONIC DISEASES. By E. H. Pratt, M. D. 
Chicago: Halsey Brothers. 1891. 

Practically, this is a third and more carefully written edition of the 
author’s work on oriflcial surgery. It is the fruit of his later surgical 
experience, and gives the most advanced views of the subject and best 
methods of operating yet devised. The various steps in the different 
operations are illustrated by a new process, and although good of the 0 
kind we frankly confess we prefer the other kind. So far as we know, 
this is the best work on this subject yet published ; at all events it is the 
best in our school of practice. The publisher has given us a beautiful 
volume, for which he should receive the thanks of the profession. 

TRANSACTIONS OF THE HOMCEOPATHIC MEDICAL SOCIETY 
OF NEW YORK. Vol. XXV. 1890. 

There is, as a frontispiece of this volume of over 600 pages, an 
excellent likeness of President Dillow, an introduction, as it were, of the 
feast in store for the reader. For this volume is one of the best which 
has ever been issued by the Society, notwithstanding the publication of 
Dr. Decker’s tirade. The report of the Committee on medical legisla¬ 
tion, with the arguments, addresses, appeals, circulars, etc., which 
resulted in the passage of the act providing for three separate State 
Boards of Medical Examiners, occupies 190 pages, and shows the amount 
of work done by these indefatigable men. 

THE INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL ANNUAL for 1891. Edited by 
P. W. Williams, M. D., secretary of staff, assisted by a corps of 
thirty-eight collaborators, European and American. 600 octavo 
pages* illustrated. $2.75. New York: E. B. Treat. 

The ninth yearly issue of this one-volume reference work is received, 
and it richly deserves the reputation which its predecessors have made, 
for selection of material and accuracy of statement. Its numerous 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



Hew Publications . 


May 


39C 


illustrations, many of which are in colors, make the Annual welcome to 
the profession, providing at a reasonable outlay ready rfesumfe of medical 
progress. 

Part I comprises the New Remedies and a review of the therapeutic 
progress of the year. 

Part II is devoted to special articles on diagnosis: the first on 
Deformities of the Hand, and their Diagnostic Value in Nerve Lesions; 
the second on the Character of the 8putum as an Aid to Diagnosis. 

Part III, comprising a large portion of the book, considers new 
treatment, and is a retrospect of the year’s work. 

Part IV is made up of miscellaneous articles, such as Recent 
Improvements in Sanitation, Concerning Climatology and Hygiene, 
Alcoholic Inebriety and the Results of Asylum Treatment, Improvements 
in Pharmacy, Books of the Year, etc. The work is alphabetically 
arranged and has a complete index. It i9 a recapitulation of the 
year’s progress in medicine, serving to keep the practitioner abreast of 
the times. 

SEXUAL NEURASTHENIA: ITS HYGIENE, CAUSES, SYMP¬ 
TOMS AND TREATMENT; WITH A CHAPTER ON DIET 

FOR THE NERVOUS. By George M. Beard, M: D. Edited by 

A. D. Rockwell, M. D. New York: E. B. Treat. 

In the Introduction the author says: 

The causes of sexual neurasthenia are not single or simple but com¬ 
plex ; evil habits, excesses, tobacco, alcohol, worry and special excite¬ 
ments, even climate itself, are the great predisposing causes. 

The subject is restricted mainly to sexual exhaustion as it exists in 
the male , for the reason that the symptoms of neurasthenia, as it exists 
' in females, are, and for a long time have been, understood and 
recognized. Cases analogous to those in females are dismissed as hypo¬ 
chondriacs, just as females suffering from now clearly explained uterine 
and ovarian disorders were formerly dismissed as hysteiics. 

This view of the relation of the reproductive system to nervous dis¬ 
eases is in accordance with facts that are verifiable and abundant; 
that in men as in women, a large group of nervous symptoms, which 
are very common indeed, would not exist but for mcrbid states of the 
reproductive system. 

This forms Volume XX of Treat’s Medical Classics, and is, practi¬ 
cally, with revisions, additions, etc., the third edition of this popular 
work. The causes and symptoms of forty-three cases are given and a 
chapter on Diet for the Nervous. 

TRANSACTIONS OF THE HOMOEOPATHIC MEDICAL SOCI¬ 
ETY OF MICHIGAN. 21st and 22d annual sessions. 

This volume of nearly 200 pages contains only the papers not pub¬ 
lished elsewhere, and contains some papers of merit. 

A COMPEND OF GYNECOLOGY. By Henry Morris, M. D. With 

forty-five illustrations. Philadelphia: P. Blakiston, Son &Co 1891. 

Another of those convenient pocket companions—Quiz Compends— 
which form such splendid works for ready reference, for either student 
or practitioner. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


New Publications . 


397 


KNOWLEDGE: A WEEKLY MAGAZINE. Supplementing all 
Cyclopedias. Pp. 586. Yol. I. June to December, 1890. New 
York: John B. Alden. 1891. 

Knowledge undertakes to give the information which one ordin¬ 
arily seeks in a Cyclopedia and fails to find , because the Cyclopedia is 
not “ up to date"’; it was published last year, or more probably ten 
years ago. “ The world moves,” and the most important questions to 
be answered are of to-day , and not of yesterday. The bound numbers 
will make two encyclopedic volumes per year. Write the publisher 
for particulars. This may be what you are looking for. 

ANNALS OF THE BRITISH HOMOEOPATHIC SOCIETY, and 
of the London Homoeopathic Hospital. 1890. 

A volume of essays and discussions, much of which has already 
appeared in the English journals The World and The Review . 


fikifor b €a6le+ 


International Hahnemannian Association meets at Richfield 
Springs, N. Y., June 23, for a four days’ session. The Springs is one of 
the most delightful summer resorts of Central New York. It is situated 
on Lake Canadarago, six miles from Otsego Lake—the Glimmerglass 
of Cooper’s tales—1,700 feet above the sea, and the seat of the famous 
White Sulphur Springs of the North. The sessions will be held in the 
parlors of the Spring House, which under its present management has 
won an enviable reputation, and the Association is assured that nothing 
will be left undone to make the meeting one of the most pleasant and 
profitable in its history. Every member who has ever attended one of 
the sessions has been fully repaid, and this meeting promises to be no 
exception. Hotel rates have been made $2.50 per day. 

The R. I. State Society has voted to invite the American Institute 
to hold the session of 1892 “within the boundaries ol the State.” We 
think we can see the plucky hand of Dr. Peck in this early move. 

Brookside Retreat, a private homeopathic hospital for the insane, 
has been established at Plainfield, N. J., under the management of 
J. H. Cooley, M. D., with Brs. Rushmore and Davis as consulting 
physicians. These names are a guarantee that patients will receive 
homeopathic treatment. 

F. F. Casseday, M. D., has removed to 828 First avenue South, Min¬ 
neapolis, and taken the Medical Argus with him. 

Glenmary Home, Oswego, N. Y., is another private hospital for the 
insane. 

“ If you should ever have a friend or patient for whom you wish to 
find a small Private Asylum, where the medical treatment is strictly 
homeopathic, and the best hygienic regulations are adopted, and where 
the care and surroundings are homelike and pleasant, investigate the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



398 


Editor's Table . 


May 


above. Dr. A. J. Givens, formerly Interne at Middletown, is the medi¬ 
cal superintendent. 

G. G. Clifford, M. D., has been appointed physician to the county 
hospital, containing sixty beds, at San Antonia, Texas. We believe 
this is the first official recognition of Homeopathy in the South. The 
homeopaths of the Lone Star State are to be congratulated. 

Dr. Thomas M. Stewart has removed his office to 104 W. Eighth 
st., Cincinnati, Ohio. 

H. A. Mumaw, M. D., has, after spending a year in post graduate 
study in the Detroit hospitals, located at Elkhart, Ind., where he will 
•engage in general practice. 

Drs. T. P. and Harold Wilson have removed their office to 
96 Miami avenue, Detroit, where they will pay exclusive attention to the 
•eye and ear (of Detroit). 

Lippincott for June. The eyes of travelers and pleasure-seekers 
who are weary of the beaten paths are just now turned towards Alaska, 
which is said to possess some of the most marvelous scenery in the 
world. An article describing a trip to Alaska and the beauties of its 
mountains and valleys is contributed by Grace Peckham, M. D. 

H. F. Biggar, M. D. has performed 239 laparotomies. In the last 
39 only two deaths, both malignant, in which were included seven hys¬ 
terectomies without a fatal issue. 

J. R. Kipp ax, M. D., will be out of the city this year from May 
:25th to July 15th. His office will be closed during his absence. Fortu¬ 
nate doctor. 

Off for Europe. Drs. Ludlam and Bailey have gone, and Drs. 
Hoyne, Shears and Hawkes go on the 1st of June. A few have to 
remain to represent the Faculty of Hahnemann College. 

To the Members of the International Hahnemannian Associ¬ 
ation: Richfield Springs is right before us. The Bureau of Surgery 
is short. If it is to make a fair showing, members will have to write 
for it soon. Too many have the notion that only cases requiring 
mechanical assistance belong to this bureau. A great mistake I Every¬ 
one is requested to contribute the history of some case cured with med¬ 
icine that would have been condemned to the knife by the old school; 
or some case, necessarily operative, rendered more surely and quickly 
successful, and more comfortable by homeopathic medicine. We 
should put many such cases upon record, and confound our enemies. 

Reader, this is addressed to you. Please send the title of your paper 
at the earliest moment practicable. Edmund Carleton, Chairman, 

53 W. 45th St., New York. 

Frank Kraft, M. D., editor of the American Homeopathist , has 
removed to 1905 Euclid avenue, Cleveland, Ohio. 

C. C. Howard, M. D., has removed to 64 West 51st street, New 
York. . 

S. E. Chapman, M. D., writes: “ Please add the following names to 
the list of correct answers: B. Fincke, Brooklyn; C. St. Clair Drake, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editor’s Table . 


399 


■St. Thomas, Ont.; J. L. Coombs, Grass Valley, Cal.; C. H. Barber and 
F. E. Brown, Hahnemann College, Chicago; Arnly Quackenbush, 
Mountain View, Ont.; J. S. Cron, Gladbrook, la.; Lilian A. Dell, 
Oakland, Cal. A few of the students of St. Louis College did not 
answer all the questions correctly.” 

Married: W. I. Wallace, M. D., and Miss Hattie L. Vanderoef, on 
Wednesday, May 18,1891, at 384 Green avenue, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

“ The Three Fates,” a new novel by F. Marion Crawford, opens 
attractively in the May number of the Home-Maker. The illustrated 
articles are “Some Old Time Jersey Weddings,” beginning with the 
■“Bridal of Lady Kitty Alexander,” and followed by the “Camera,” 
llustrated by a number of distinguished amateurs, including Miss 
Catherine Reed Barnes, Mr. Elbridge T. Gerry, Mr. Franklin Harper, 
Mr. David Williams, and others. 

“Bicycling for Women” is delightfully written about by a well 
known New York expert, Mrs. Josephine R. Redding, editor of the 
Art Interchange. 

Grace Ellery Channing, Clinton Scollard, Lucy Agnes Hayes and 
Carlotta Perry contribute charming poems, and there are short stories 
And a great variety of excellent miscellaneous and domestic matter. 

IN MEMORI AM. 

David Sheppard Smith, M. D., president of Hahnemann Medical 
College, died April 29th, of angina pectoris, aged 75. He was bora in 
Camden, N. J., April 28, 1816; studied medicine in Philadelphia and 
graduated from Jefferson Medical College, in 1836, when 20 years of 
Age, and soon after settled in Chicago. In 1887 he married Miss Rebecca 
A. Dennis, of New York, and four children were bora to them, two of 
whom survive him. In 1840 he began to investigate, and in 1842 
adopted and began the practice of Homeopathy in Chicago, the first 
homeopath west of the lakes, from which he received the well-earned 
title of “Father of Homeopathy” in the West. In 1854, assisted by 
Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Hoyne, he obtained the charter of Hah¬ 
nemann Medical College and was its first president. In 1858 he was 
elected president of the American Institute, and in 1865 its treasurer, 
and no member ever took a more active interest in its welfare. He was an 
honest, patriotic, progressive, public-spirited man, of sterling integrity, 
a sincere Christian, with a large circle of friends both in and out of 
the profession. He attained an oft expressed wish to outlive his seventy- 
fifth birthday and died the day after. 

William A. Hawley, M. D., died at his residence in Syracuse, N. Y., 
at i a. m., May 16th, 1891, in his 71st year. His loss will be severely 
felt in Central New York, and in the I. H. A., of which he was a recent 
president, and has always been an active and valued member. An 
honest, earnest, fearless man, who had the courage of his convictions 
and the ability to maintain them. 

Dr. Hawley was born August 28,1820, in Hinsdale, Berkshire county, 
Mass. He was a son of Rev.W. A. Hawley, a Congregational minister, 
who preached for twenty-five years in that place, the Hawley family 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



400 


Editor's Table . 


Mat 


being descendants of Joseph Hawley, who settled in Stratford, Conn., 
about 1680. Dr. Hawley was fitted for college by his father, and when 
eighteen years old entered the Williams College, and graduated with 
credit in 1842. He first turned his attention to teaching, going for that 
purpose to Kentucky. In the winter of 1848 he returned to New Eng¬ 
land and took up the study of medicine and graduated from the Albany 
(N. Y.) Medical College in 1851, as he himself expressed it “a confident 
believer in allopathy.” He began the practice of medicine in Albany, 
and in a few years turned his attention to Homeopathy and was one of 
the old school practitioners. From Albany he went to Saratoga Springs 
and associated himself with Dr. Bedortha in the water cure at that place 
He then took charge of the water cure establishment at Lebanon Springs 
Columbia county, w hich was the first water cure establishment in this 
country, and was very successful. After a year or so spent at Lebanon, 
he removed to Watertown, and in 1861 came to this city, associated himself 
with Dr. A. R. Morgan, and has practiced here ever since. He was one 
of the oldest practitioners of homeopathy in the country, and his practice 
was characterized by a strict obedience to its laws. He was a thinker 
not alone on the practice of medicine, but on many subjects which 
claimed his attention. His position in his profession was in the front 
rank, and he was honored by his brethren in many ways, having held 
the office of president of the County Homeopathic Medical Society eight 
years out of the twenty-seven of its existence. He was a member of 
the International Hahnemannian Association, of which he was president 
in 1888. He was also a member of the Central New York Homeopathic 
Society. 

In September, 1851, he was married to Miss Willard, of Massachusetts, 
who died in 1889. He leaves three children, Mary E., William A., of 
Pittsburg. Pa., and Mrs. M. J. Howes, of Holyoke, Mass. 

At a special meeting of the Onondaga County Homeopathic Medical 
Society, held at the office of Drs. Sheldon and Candee, the following 
resolutions were unanimously adopted: 

Whereas, Death has entered our ranks, choosing therefrom a shining 
light in the person of Dr. William A. Hawley, be it 

Resolved , That through the death of Dr. Hawley this society has lost 
one of its oldest, most valued and respected members, one whose 
place it will be hard to fill; a man whose natural abilities would 
have rendered him prominent in any walk of life, whose professional 
attainments had gained for him deserved eminence, whose stability, and 
devotion to principle were most remarkable, and whose professional 
consecration was most thorough—a wise counsellor and a leader of men. 

Resolved , That this society pays highest tribute to Dr. Hawley's un¬ 
tiring efforts for the cause of Homeopathy, to his invaluable services in 
behalf of this organization to his long years of effectual work among 
the sick, and to his value in the profession and to his fellow-men. 

Resolved , That we extend to his afflicted family our most cordial sym¬ 
pathy, together with expression of our own personal bereavement. 

Resolved , That a copy of these resolutions be sent to the family of the 
deceased, to the Medical Advance, and that they be engrossea upon 
the records of the society. 

J. W. Sheldon, M. D , 

S. L. Guild-Leggett, M. D., 

E. Elmer Keeler, M. D., 

Syracuse, N. Y., May 18, 1891. Committee. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



THE 


Medical Advance. 

A HOMEOPATHIC M40AZINE. 


Vol. XXVI. June, 1891. No. 6. 


AMAUROSIS, DUE TO CHANGES AT THE VISUAL 
CENTRE—A PECULIAR CASE ; CURED. 

The following case is one of such rarity and of such unusual 
profundity in its expressions, and the result attained so emi¬ 
nently satisfactory and remarkable in its exemplification 
of the law of similars, that an exhaustive description of the 
symptoms, with their objective and subjective manifestations, 
as well as the reasons for the choice of the remedies, are here¬ 
with fully given: 

Chas. E. Y., aged 30 years, was referred to me by his 
physician. Dr. A. D. Smith, who accompanied him to my 
office. The history of the case is as follows: During the 
latter part of August, 1888, Mr. Y., who worked as fireman 
on a locomotive, was subjected to much care and worriment 
of mind, incident to the sickness and death of a child. The 
child’s illness lasted four or five weeks, during which time the 
father worked on his locomotive by day, remaining frequently 
with his child during the whole night, and for the last ten 
days of the child’s illness the father had no sleep, preferring 
to be up and watching, being wakeful, as he thought, on 
account of his anxiety of mind. On October 2d, the child 
died, and the father went to bed at night, waking, however, 
after having slept ten minutes, in a state of restlessness, 
sleeplessness and depression of spirits; he got up and dressed, 
remaining up all night, during which time he complained of 
feeling strangely, with great dejection of spirits; dizzy in the 
head, as if everything about him whirled in a circle. This 


Digitized by LjOOQle 





402 Amaurosis , Due to Changes at the Visual Centre . Juke 

wakefulness and dizziness, to about the same degree, persisted 
during the time preceding the funeral of the child, after 
which he went to bed early, at 8 o'clock in the evening, and slept 
well all night, being awakened at 4:30 by an alarm clock set 
forthe purpose of rousing him, when he found himself totally 
blind, not the slightest response to, or consciousness of, the 
presence of light, although the lamp was burning brightly at 
his bedside. With this condition was associated twitching 
and spasmodic distortion of the muscles of the face. In this 
state, with the addition of the following symptoms, he pre¬ 
sented himself at my office: He had no distinct headache, 
but a dizzy, whirling, confused feeling was almost constantly 
present, aggravated when stooping, and especially on rising 
from stooping, with a pressure toward the forehead, as if the 
contents of the skull would almost protrude. The left eye¬ 
ball converged, and although he had not the slightest object¬ 
ive consciousness of the presence of light, he was very sensi¬ 
tive to an exposure to it, especially to artificial light, which 
caused an intense, stinging pain, shooting directly backward 
to the lower occipital region. As the light from an ophthalmo¬ 
scopic mirror was permitted to enter the eye, the sensation 
was unbearable; at such an examination he would spring as if 
he had received a charge of the most pungent pepper thrown 
into his eyes, causing the eyeballs to roll convulsively. 

On October 26, 1888, he appeared for treatment, being led 
to my office by an attendant. On ophthalmoscopic inspection, 
the retinal and optic discs showed a somewhat blanched, 
anaemic appearance, but the retinal blood vessels gave no evi¬ 
dence of a want of conducting ability, and the media were 
perfectly transparent. 

Treatment was commenced with Belladonna 30, the doses 
being repeated daily, several times, till November 3d,when such 
evidence of gain was manifest that Sac. lac. was substituted; 
from this time to November 13th he continued to improve 
steadily, becoming gradually more conscious of the presence of 
light, with marked change for the better in the facial expres¬ 
sion, and a steady decrease in the dizzy consciousness of the 
head. With the gain in the visual ability, he first became 
conscious of the presence of white things, although no form 
or outline could be discerned, yet tvhite objects were recog¬ 
nized as white, and produced much distress of dazzling sensi- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frederick W. Eay?ie. 


403 


tiveness, causing a stinging backward from the eyeballs to 
the center and base of the brain. As his visual ability still 
further increased, objects began to assume form and shape, 
although microscopic and exceedingly diminutive in size, as 
if they were at a great distance, such as would be produced by 
looking through the large end of an opera glass, though much 
more markedly so, for everything was of exceedingly reduced 
appearance and proportion; for instance, the white curtain 
at the window looked like a distant, diminutive, white bead; 
the sidewalk looked like a thin, narrow ribbon, and persons 
walking thereon appeared in size like minute, black spiders 
or bugs. During this time extreme sensitiveness to light 
continued, so that, with much difficulty, could he expose his 
eyes long enough to be tested as to his visual ability; the 
stimulus of white light producing much more distress than 
any other, though all light was extremely trying. On 
account of the disproportion in the appearance of objects, 
looking both too small and too distant, with great sensitive¬ 
ness to white light, and a continuance, more or less marked, of 
the facial d istortion, I concluded to give Stramonium 200, which 
was done on Noveiriber 15th and continued till the 17th, at 
which time he reported a renewed increase of discomforture, 
more consciousness of the head, with inclination to increased 
wakefulness at night; vision became more blurred, with 
greater sensitiveness to white light, so I deemed it advisable 
to return to the use of Belladonna, under which remedy he 
had certainly gained; it was given in the 200th potency, 
repeating an occasional dose till February following. During 
this interval of time, vision and strength steadily improved, 
objects getting progressively more normal looking, with ref¬ 
erence to distance and size: for instance, a person walking a 
few yards away on the sidewalk, from looking at first as small 
as a diminutive ant and extremely distant, improved in pro¬ 
portions daily, increasing gradually in stature to the normal 
appearance in steadily progressing gradation. 

On December 15th vision for distant test type equalled 
v == -£-, with the diminutive and distant appearance in a rela¬ 
tive degree. Had been able to come alone to the office for a 
week past, having vision enough to avoid objects and keep 
upon the sidewalk. Early in February v = §£ in each eye; 
his head felt well and he had refreshing sleep at night. At 


Digitized by <sjOOQLe 



404 Amaurosis , Due to Changes at the Visual Centre. June 

his earnest request, although not without many misgivings 
and repeated injunctions to him as to the necessity of the 
observance of the utmost care in exposing himself to great 
muscular exertion, to heat, or to the glare of strong light, as 
would be the case in work on his locomotive, I yielded to his 
entreaties and gave a certificate to the railroad company; that 
Mr. Y. was able to again do duty as a fireman, which occupa¬ 
tion he soon thereafter undertook. 

On the 27th of February, while pursuing his vocation, had 
again a profound relapse, beginning with a gradual, but rapidly 
increasing, blurriness in the visual fields; vision became double 
and treble in each eye individually, with hard, stinging pains 
extending from the eyeballs to the back of the head; sight was 
soon thoroughly obliterated, first in the left eye, then as pro¬ 
foundly in the right. A mild delirium developed, and the 
head was drawn forcibly backward, with much rigidity and 
pain in the occipital region; face flushed, and a very sore 
throat developed; tympanitic condition of the bowels and con¬ 
stipation. Pain in the eyes, worse at night, so far as con¬ 
tinued suffering was concerned, but the stimulus of light at 
any time, although unable to see it, produced an aggra¬ 
vation of the stinging distress, extending from the eyeballs to 
the lower occipital region. Paresis of the extremities devel¬ 
oped, especially of the lower, with a marked influence on the 
cardiac plexus of nerves, whereby the motion of the heart 
became unsteady and very slow, decreasing to 30 to 35 beats 
per minute; respiratory motion was greatly impeded, causing 
much dyspnoea, and necessitating lying with the head high, 
almost in the erect position, to avoid suffocation; when los¬ 
ing voluntary control in sleep, or first falling asleep, respir¬ 
ation would stop and revive again only as he wakened with a 
start to recover it; but this want of respiratory control would 
disappear after having been repeated a few times; this con¬ 
dition was accompanied by a state of great prostration, con¬ 
fining him to his bed; with it he complained much of severe, 
snapping sounds in the head, repeated frequently; was very 
drowsy, sleeping two or three hours at a time, day and night; 
countenance looked wan and drawn, with facial twitching. 
Prescribed Secale 30. When these symptoms first developed 
he was attended by an allopathic physician, who diagnosed 
the case as one of typhus fever; to me, however, the situation 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frederick W. Payne . 


405 


seemed to be that of a combination of meningeal inflamma¬ 
tion, with effusion into the vertricles at the base of the cer¬ 
ebral cavity. During the following month, in the main, Dr. 
Smith kindly attended him, reporting to me, at intervals, of 
the condition, which, so far as physical improvement was 
concerned, progressed, with aggravations and ameliorations 
alternating, till the middle of April. During this inter¬ 
val of time Laurocerasus was given first, then Gelsemium 
was prescribed, also Grindelia robusta was given a few times; 
the last two remedies, particularly with reference to the con¬ 
dition of loss of respiratory ability on falling asleep. The 
treatment, however, was conducted mainly under the influ¬ 
ence of Belladonna. 

By April 17th Mr. Y. was physically able to be about, but 
not a vestige of the return of vision was manifest. The 
severe stinging pain in eyes, induced by the presence of arti¬ 
ficial light, continued; eyes felt much worse during the act of 
looking (rolling them) upward; the eyeballs felt cold to the 
sensation, not so to the touch, with aggravation of the cold 
sensation in the open air; feet cold and clammy much of the 
time. Prescribed Calcarea 200; a general relief to eye dis- 
comfortures, and an improvement in the circulation com¬ 
menced and progressed under this influence, but vision 
remained unchanged. 

On May 15th again prescribed Belladonna, not so much, 
however, from existing symptoms, for they were almost nil, 
but principally from the fact that so much had heretofore 
been accomplished under its influence. This remedy was 
continued, with occasional repetition of the dose, till July fol¬ 
lowing. 

In June the question arose as to Mr. Y/s probable perma¬ 
nent blindness, instituted by the Lodge of Locomotive Fire¬ 
men, to which order he belonged, as to the right for payment 
or not of the sum due to disabled members, to which he was 
entitled if he was to be permanently blind. Considering it 
advisable to obtain other and varied testimony and opinions 
upon the case before a decision was given, he was examined 
by several prominent oculists of both the old and new schools, 
who unhesitatingly concurred as to the probable permanency of 
blindness, and this statement was made to the Lodge in ques¬ 
tion. During this time and until the latter part of Septem- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



406 Amaurosis, Due to Changes at the Visual Centre . June 

ber Mr. Y. reported at the office at intervals of ten days and 
had an occasional dose of Calcarea administered. The eyes 
now began to develop an appearance as of catarrhal conjunc¬ 
tivitis, with congestion of the conjunctival blood vessels; 
the secretion of mucus was of a peculiarly glutinous, tena¬ 
cious and discomforting character, cementing the eyelids 
together most firmly during sleep, thus necessitating much 
washing and continued efforts to release them; this state was 
accompanied by an increased sense of icy coldness of the 
eyeballs, the sensation being much worse when exposed to the 
open air; the tarsal borders became congested in appearance 
and sensitive to the touch. Prescribed Alumina 200, which 
produced a gradual modification in the sensation of coldness 
of the eyeballs, also in the adhesive character of the mucus 
secretion. Alumina was continued, with occasional doses, till 

Jan. 29th, 1890. During the intervening time there was a 
gradual, progressing consciousness of a disposition to a clear¬ 
ing in the area of the visual fields, though no form or shape 
was yet apparent; he was conscious, however, of the shadow 
of objects passing closely between himself and the light. 

On Jan. 29, wakened in the morning, with a tremendous 
noise and pain in the occipital region, and an aggravatingly 
increased sensitiveness to the presence of light from the win¬ 
dow towards which his bed was facing. The stinging pain 
in the pupils, extending straight through to the occipital 
region, became greatly augmented on exposure to the stimu¬ 
lus of light, so that the room must be darkened. Alumina 
was continued as before. Vision still gradually improved, 
announcing itself* as after the first attack, with a microscopic 
diminution in size and position of objects, with much mistiness 
in the visual fields; notwithstanding, however, that objects 
had steadily improved in their relative size, and even after he 
had sight enough to go about alone vision continued very 
misty. 

On March 10th, on account of continued sensitiveness to 
light; pressure and stinging in the eyes; acrid lachrymation, 
keeping the eyelids wet all the time; a slight dizzy, stupid 
feeling in head existing, and a humming sound in the ears, 
with a sense of distension within the auditory canals, I pre¬ 
scribed Nitric acid 30, which proved to be the last remedy 
needed to complete the cure. He is now in the full enjoy- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frederick W. Payne . 


407 


ment of his strength and sense of vision, and is following the 
vocation of brakeman, instead of fireman, for the railroad 
company deemed it unsafe to again permit him to work upon 
a locomotive, for fear of a possible sudden return of the 
trouble. 

The exact nature of the brain disturbance seems to me 
somewhat obscure, although an effusion into the basilar 
region was evident, which extended itself along the visual 
tract. An effusion into the gyrus angularis, or final visual 
area, was evidently present, as well as in the cuneus and sub¬ 
jacent gyrus, where the visual center in man is established. 
The cardiac plexus was involved in the influence, through 
pressure on the cephalic portion of the cranial nerves and 
the sympathetic. There was no history of venereal disease 
associated with the case. Mr. Y/s first attack of profound 
blindness lasted thirty-four days, and the last attack one year 
and fifteen days. He now affirms that his eyes are stronger 
and vision clearer than ever before. 

\ Frederick W. Payne. 

Boston. 


THE INDIANA INSTITUTE OF HOMOEOPATHY. 

The Indiana Institute of Homoeopathy held its quarto- 
centenary meeting May 13th and 14th at Indianapolis, and 
it was very successful. We regret that we only have room 
for an abstract of the practical address of the president, 
E. W. Sawyer. After congratulating the members of the 
Institute upon their increased growth and prosperity as a 
society, the doctor spoke of the disgraceful fact that although 
a large proportion of the wealthy and intelligent people of 
Indiana were believers in, and patrons of, Homoeopathy, and 
although so large a per cent, of the taxes were paid by them 
still there was not a public institution in the State that was 
controlled by homoeopaths. There was absolutely no hospi¬ 
tal and no insane asylum in the State where patients could 
be treated liomoeopathically. Give Homoeopathy a fair 
chance, let it have an equal standing before the law and it 
has nothing to fear. In this respect our beloved State is 
behind New York, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Illinois and 
many others. Let us hope that the proper presentation of 
these facts will be made, and this great injustice remedied. 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



408 


The Force in Drugs we Employ . 


June 


The doctor then spoke of the unfairness of having a 
mixed board of State examiners for all schools. Only in this 
way can we attain freedom from majority rule, the right to 
examine and licence our own candidates, and secure fair play 
in the exercise of our professional and constitutional rights. 
A vigorous effort for the establishment of separate examining 
boards has been successfully made in New York, and he 
advised the inauguration of a similar effort to be made in 
Indiana. Every homoeopathic physician in the State was 
advised to see the representative of the district in which he 
practiced in the interest of fair play for all. 

The year’s progress in medicine was then briefly reviewed, 
and much of it shown to be fallacious. The inception, rise 
and fall of numerous medical fads were referred to, including 
the world-wide famous Koch Lymph, and the conclusions 
stated that the real progress of the year was chiefly confined 
to those who had carefully studied their cases, profiting both 
by their own and others' experience, and thus attained to 
greater skill in curing the sick. This was real progress, and 
none the less so because it was'not heralded with a fanfare of 
trumpets, a great noise and commotion. He concluded by 
extending the right hand of fellowship to the visiting physi¬ 
cians. 


THE FORCE IN DRUGS WE EMPLOY.* 

Diseases are either modified, ameliorated, or cured by sub¬ 
stituting another disease. This is so universally admitted aa 
to become a postulate. 

Co-equal with this is a second acknowledged fact, that arti¬ 
ficial diseases are created by application or administration of 
substances which have been termed by the general name of 
drugs, or medicinal substances. 

The employment of said medicinal substances admits of an 
inherent power resident, which is sought after to produce the 
condition above stated. Thus far all schools are a unit in 
belief and practice, but as to preparation and law of adminis¬ 
tration of these medicinal forces they here reach the point 
of divergence, especially in theory. But it is not the intention 
or purpose of this paper to discuss that side of the issue, but 
as homoeopathician8 to discuss the force we employ accord¬ 
ing to Similia. 

♦ Indiana Institute of Homoeopathy, May, 1891. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


W. R. Bentley . 


409 


Natural philosophy teaches there is a force known as cohe¬ 
sion, which attracts and- holds atoms and molecules of the same 
kind together, thus giving us aggregation of same, collecting 
matter into a mass or bulk, hence in its aggregated form we 
behold the gold or silver mass or any of the sixty-four or 
more simple elements which are not gaseous in form. 

Peck’s Ganot says: “ Cohesion differs from chemical affin¬ 
ity, which determines the molecules by uniting dissimilar 
atoms according to fixed laws. Chemical affinity unites 
atoms of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen to form molecules of 
sugar, but it is cohesion that unites the molecules of sugar 
into a solid body.” 

Here we have a new force entering into the composition of 
substances which are denominated compound, being composed 
of two or more simple elements chemically combined. 

Molecular force is spoken of, but on analysis we believe it a 
term used to designate two opposing forces* which might be, 
and are, known under the titles of attractive and repellant. 
Some philosophers, among them Peck and Ganot, think these 
forces give to bodies many of their most important physical 
properties. 

Of these forces, can either be the one sought for? Will 
they fulfill all the demands of this force? Were we to con¬ 
clude it cohesion, we would be confronted with the following: 
So far as we can learn, cohesion is the same identical force 
wherever found; hence its action according to Similia must 
be the same at any and all times. Our provings of remedies 
give us that great variety which goes to make up the homoeo¬ 
path’s strong armamentarium; hence cohesion fails. 

Chemical affinity is subject to the same objection as cohe¬ 
sion, with still a stronger. Were it the power, elementary 
substances would necessarily be deprived of medicinal power 
by absence of this force. 

Molecular force being a compound, viz.: Attractive and 
repellant, giving to bodies many of their physical properties, 
might have a faint possibility of being our desideratum; but 
we know the forces only when operating on matter, giving it 
the physical properties by which we are made cognizant of 
their presence. 

Analysis of these forces, according to our known knowl¬ 
edge, favors cohesion as being identical or the same as this 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



410 


The Force in Drugs we Employ. 


June 


attractive force spoken of as being one of the components of 
molecular force. 

Sacred history teaches that in the beginning God created all 
things, giving to each its own peculiarity or individuality. 
We, through study and investigation, have learned that sub¬ 
stances are under the guidance of a force which maintains 
and directs their existence, the same as the life of man. 

Down in the cell, mysteriously hidden from the physical 
vision, dwells this intangible, imponderable, invisible, strong 
force, silently directing and performing the mightiest of 
works. Call it vital power, vital force, spirit force, dynamis, 
individuality,—it is the same mighty principle, silently per¬ 
forming its great mission. Through the principle of poten¬ 
tiation, made known to us by the immortal Hahnemann, we 
are all able to separate and transfer it to a proper medium, 
capable of holding it until administered, whence it manifests 
its power on the healthy of making sick; and, under the 
beautiful law of Similia, of conquering morbific forces, 
retuning vital force, restoring health. 

W. R. Bentley. 

MORRIBl OWN, IND. 


HOW SHALL WE STUDY THE MATERIA MEDICA?* 

This is a question of the greatest importance, and it has 
engaged the attention of the best intellects of our school from 
Hahnemann's time to the present. This has not yet been 
solved, nor does the writer of this article presume to offer 
anything conclusive on the subject; but if these hurriedly 
written thoughts should provoke discussion, some good will 
come of it, and he will have accomplished his object. 

In our college course we gain a general knowledge of the 
“key notes," or most salient features of the polychrists. 
Beyond this, we *do not know much. Thus equipped, we 
enter the field and encounter disease with its infinite symp¬ 
tomatic manifestations. And now, as never before, we must 
engage in the study of Materia Medica. The simillimum is 
the great desideratum, and it must be found. A human life 
is at stake; our own reputation and fortune depends upon 
our finding the indicated remedy. These weighty considera¬ 
tions stimulate us to our utmost endeavor. So we are brought 

* Indiana Institute of Homoeopathy, May, 1891. 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



1891 


S. E . Chapman . 


411 


to confront that colossal mass that constitutes the homoeo¬ 
pathic Materia Medica. We can not manage so much mater¬ 
ial without method. I have a few thoughts to offer: 

First. When we approach this endless symptomatology, 
we must entertain a clear concept of what we are seeking. 
This involves that all important item, “The taking of the 
case.” At this point many fail, fall into bad practice, such 
as alternation, polypharmacy, palliative methods, etc. Eight 
at this point is the key to success. In difficult cases the 
symptoms should be carefully written down, and all those 
that are persistent, periodical and peculiar, should be sed¬ 
ulously studied, especially those that are purely subjective 
and mental aberations. 

Second . Having taken the case, we are now prepared to 
seek for the remedy. We have taken the picture and we will 
know the simillimum when we see it. Of course, as homoeo¬ 
paths, we understand that but one remedy is indicated in a 
given case. How then, can the alternationist come to this 
tremendous mass of symptoms, seeking and hoping to find 
the remedy? Alternation is the legitimate child of ignor¬ 
ance and laziness. 

I do not come before you as a transcendentalist, advocating 
the single dose of the highest possible potency, but with all my 
soul I do contend for the single remedy. Nothing less than 
this can fulfill the requirements of science as. formulated in 
Similia Similibus Curantur. 

I had been practicing but a few months after graduation, 
when there fell into my hands a case of typhoid fever, the 
patient, despite my most earnest, zealous, agonizing efforts, 
progressed very unsatisfactorily, and I felt that I was about 
to be dismissed unless a change for the better occurred very 
soon, In this desperate strait I learned that one of my old 
college professors was stopping a few days in an adjoining 
town. Joyfully I hastened to bring him to see my patient, 
entertaining no doubt but that he would save her and teach 
me a jolly good lesson. The great man came, saw,but did not 
conquer. After examining the patient we consulted in the 
parlor. 

“ Professor, can you save her?” 

“With a most sapient expression of countenance he sagely 
replied: “There is no reason to think she will live, and no 
reason to think she will die.” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



412 How Shall We Study the Materia Medical June 


Of course that was most edifying! “What remedy do you 
find indicated, professor?” 

“Doctor, I would give Arsenicum album 3x, Rhus tox 2x, 
and Muriatic acid lx in half hourly alternation.” Just so! 
'Twas done—she died. 

Now if Homoeopathy be the science of therapeutics, was 
not that woman the victim of ignorance? How can such a 
man as this professor study the homoeopatic Materia Medica 
to any advantage? He is a stumbling block and a blind 
leader of the blind! If they do not all .fall into the ditch a 
heavy percentage pf their patients will do so. 

Third . And now we must consider how we can most expe¬ 
ditiously discover the simillimum. Without question this 
can only be done by the aid of our repertories. I confess 
a great liking for Huirs Jahr's Symptomatology and Reper¬ 
tory. To be sure it is old and needs bringing up to date, but 
it often serves me a good turn. Monographic repertories such 
as Bell on Diarrhoea, and. Allen's Therapeutics of Intermit¬ 
tent Fever, are of the greatest value. T. F. Allen's Bon- 
ninghausen's Pocket Book will prove to be a wonderful aid 
to all true homoeopaths who use it. There are many other 
repertories worthy of mention, but must be omitted for lack 
of space. That the best arrangement has not yet been devised 
seems apparent from the fact that works on Materia Medica and 
repertories are multiplying. But the womb of Time contains 
a giant who will come in good time. He will make the crooked 
paths straight, and give us a perfect arrangement. Conden¬ 
sation or abridgement I do not believe to be a movement in 
the right direction. In gathering out what we suppose to be 
tares, we are sure to pull up wheat. Spurious symptoms will 
become eliminated by reprovings, and eventually we shall 
possess a perfect pathogenesis of every known remedy. Who, 
then, would abridge such a work? Is a pocket edition of 
Webster to be compared with his great “Unabridged” for 
practical purposes? Herring's “Condensed” is a grand 
book; but when his “Guiding Symptoms,” with a well- 
arranged repertory, is completed—I am not prophet enough 
to say when that will be—the abridged edition will fall into 
disuse to a great extent. 

In conclusion, our Materia Medica, when perfected, will 
be the homoeopath's exhaustless picture gallery. And the 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S . E. Chapman. 


413 


good time is coming when we may take our guide book (rep¬ 
ertory) in hand, and walk unerringly to the picture we seek. 
But this glorious millennial period is for the true homoeopath 
alone; the man who patiently and studiously takes the case, 
and enters the gallery with a clear-cut, definite idea of what 
he is there for. But for the alternationist, the eclectic- 
homoeopath, the fearful and unbelieving, no such time is pos¬ 
sible. They must continue to walk in darkness, because 
they reject the light. S. E. Chapman. 

Watsonville, Cal. 


HYDROCEPHALOID: A CASE AND ITS LESSONS.* 

Sunday, March 29th, the three year old son of Mr. B. was 
taken ill with a convulsion. The previous health of the child 
had been excellent, though of a somewhat scrofulous tend¬ 
ency. When one year old he barely recovered from a severe 
and prolonged attack of catarrhal pneumonia. 

No reasonable cause of the convulsion was apparent, other 
than a profuse and frequent discharge from the bowels, which 
had been present since midnight of that day. These dis¬ 
charges were quite frequently bloody or bloody water. Think¬ 
ing that the child had eaten some poisonous or irritating 
substance, and as the symptoms seemed to agree thereto, 
Arsenicum was given with no relief. At the close of the 
second day the case had become very alarming, from the fre¬ 
quency and exhausting character of the discharges, which 
were returning as often as every five or ten minutes 

A very careful study of the case presented the following 
characteristic symptoms at midnight of the second day: 

1. Stools frequent. 

2. Violent tenesmus. 

3. Color green; occasionally bloody. 

4. Great thirst. 

By reference to the repertory in Bellas Therapeutics, the 
remedies having symptoms 1 and 2 were found to be: 

Ant. t., Bap., Bell., Bov., Canth., Caps., Coc., Colch., 
Cub., Dulc., Kali b., Lach., Merc, c., Merc, v., Rhus, 
Thromb. 

These being contrasted with symptom No. 3, the following 
remedies were selected: 

* Minnesota State Homoeopathic Society. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



414 Hydroceplialoid: June 

Ant. t.. Bell., Canth., Colch., Dulc., Mer. c., Mer. y., 
Rhus. 

Contrasting these with symptom No. 4, the following were 
selected. The degree of importance of each of these symp¬ 
toms as appearing in the pathogenesis of these various drugs 
was indicated by marking them with one, two or three marks, 
according as the symptom was seldom present or very 
emphatic. These marks were counted at the end of the 
process of cancellation, with the following results: Ant. t., 4; 
Colch., 6; Dulc., 5; Merc., v., 8; Rhus, 5. 

Merc. v. was clearly the indicated remedy and was given in 
the 200th potency. But, to my bitter disappointment, the 
case steadily grew worse and presented at the close of the 
third day the following prominent and undoubted symptoms: 

1. Stools frequent. 

2. Stools watery. 

3. Color green. 

4. Stools painless. 

5. Sopor. 

• By the use of the Repertory as in the previous case Apis 
was clearly the indicated remedy, for the symptoms obtain* 
ing at that time, and was given in the cm. potency. Two 
powders were given three hours apart and allowed to act 
uninterruptedly for five days. 

During this time there appeared no change in the appear¬ 
ance and frequency of the evacuations from the bowels. Life 
hung on such a brittle thread, all hope was given up by the 
family and the allopathic physician called in council. Dur¬ 
ing this brief period and the days just immediately preced¬ 
ing it, no less than 500 passages occurred of a very exhaust¬ 
ing character. 

But of the hydrocephaloid condition, for which the rem¬ 
edy was given, there was a slow but continuous improvement. 
The pupils were no longer contracted, the rolling of the head 
ceased, and the cri encephalique no longer startled the anx¬ 
ious watchers. 

But these symptoms being only complications, and inci¬ 
dental to the original trouble, I was not surprised to find on 
the morning of the ninth day that the passages had returned 
to the former deep olive green, jelly-like mucus and had 
become very painful. Evidently the Apis had finished its 
work and now the system called for Merc. v. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


G. E. Clark. 


415 


This time the effect was prompt and satisfactory. A few 
doses of the 200th were given and allowed to act uninter¬ 
ruptedly the remainder of the w.eek. The improvement in 
the frequency and appearance of the passages was exceedingly 
slow, but, nevertheless, sufficient to require only an occa¬ 
sional repetition. 

On the morning of the thirteenth day, the Merc, having 
expended its force, the following symptoms presented: 

1. Stools followed by tenesmus. 

2. Color green. 

3. Aggravation from 12 p. m. to morning. 

Three doses of Sulphur cm. repeated at intervals of three 
or four days as there appeared a revival of the above symp¬ 
toms, cleared up the case and added the finishing touches to 
as sick a child as rarely falls to the lot of the physician under 
a favorable termination. 

COMMENTS. 

The severity and long continued action of this case, placing 
it beyond the probabilities of a natural favorable termination, 
and the clear cut selection and undoubted action of the rem- 
*edy, renders this a fitting case to illustrate three important 
rules of the Organon. 

First, On the Proper Manner of Taking the Symptoms 

of a Case: 

I am anxious to emphasize this point as being the fruitful 
cause of avast amount of indifferent and harmful prescribing. 
Allow me to quote freely from the Organon. §84 reads thus: 

The patient narrates the history of his complaints; his attendants 
communicate what they have heard him complain of, and describe his 
behavior and other circumstances they have observed. The physician 
observes by means of sight, hearing and touch what is changed and 
abnormal about the patient, and writes down everything in pre¬ 
cisely the same expressions used by the patient and his attendants. 
He quietly allows them to finish their story, if possible, without inter¬ 
ruption, unless they digress upon irrelevant subjects, only requesting 
them at the outset to speak slowly, to allow him to take notes of the 
speaker's words. 

The following paragraphs speak of reviewing and rewriting 
the statements until the whole is accurately and systematic¬ 
ally “ boiled down.” In this way only can the unmistakably 
characteristic symptoms be sifted out and arranged so as to 
fit to them the drug picture to be found in the Materia 
Medica. 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



416 


Hydrocephaloid: 


Jtjtte 


You say this takes too much time and is not practicable for 
the busy practitioner. It is practicable and becomes a solemn 
duty, if thereby we can save a desperate case, that would 
have otherwise died under much of the ordinary careless off¬ 
hand prescribing. Such care and accuracy may not be needed 
with every patient, especially if the physician has become 
skillful in writing out and selecting the salient points of a 
case. But such skill comes only from frequent writing, and 
the more often it is used the better the prescribing. Certain 
it is unless the physician acquires* the habit of writing out 
his cases, he will not be able to do so at a time when h e 
might be most anxious to avail himself of the accuracy and 
skill that that habit brings. Here is the great advantage— 
the discipline it gives to the physician in the line of accuracy 
and conciseness of thought and expression, and a wider 
familiarity with the Materia Medica. 

Second, On the Use of the Repertory: 

Only in thus preparing a statement of the case can we 
avail ourselves of the valuable aid of the repertory. How 
the conscientious homeopathic physician can consider his 
duty discharged to his patients who never makes use of the 
repertory is past my comprehension. Certainly it must be 
through ignorance of its use and of its wonderful help in 
time of need. I am bold to say that no man can be a master 
in the homeopathic profession who does not use that well 
thumbed book often and freely. It prevents careless and 
routine prescribing, deepens and extends the knowledge of 
the Materia Medica and often points out the long-needed 
remedy from a source from which one had never thought to 
look. 

A case to illustrate: Woman, aged 43. Agonizing, lan¬ 
cinating pain in the ball of the left great toe. Aggravation 
at night and from hot applications. This last symptom 
knocked out of the ring all the usual rheumatic remedies and 
set me all at sea, never having met that combination before; 
the aggravation had always been from cold, not from hot 
applications in rheumatism. Without the repertory I would 
not likely have found the only remedy that could and did 
relieve that terrible suffering the very first night—a suffer¬ 
ing for which quantities of morphine had been taken in 
years previous, but never before cured. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


G, E. Clark . 


417 


Further inquiry disclosed great physical disturbance from 
the poisonous bite of all insects. 

Lastly, Ok the Repetition of the Dose: 

§ 248 reads thus: The dose of the same medicine is to be repeated 
several times, if necessary, but only until recovery ensues, or until the 
remedy ceases to produce improvement; at that period the remainder of 
the disease, having suffered a change in its group of symptoms, requires 
another homeopathic medicine. 

I am satisfied that this is a very wise rule, and we do well 
to strictly adhere to its teaching. My own experience con¬ 
vinces me that many a favorably progressing case is hindered 
in its action and recovery, even spoiled, by a repetition of the 
remedy after improvement had become established. I am 
satisfied that the finer and deeper effects of the drug are 
only brought out by allowing it to act uninterruptedly till 
its force has been expended. Then it may be necessary to 
repeat or select a new medicine, as in the rule. 

To get a clear tone from a bell, only one firm stroke is 
needed; and as these vibrations die out on the distant air, 
one other stroke is needed. To strike rapidly would inten¬ 
sify the noise and jargon, but would not give a clear, musical 
note. So acts the impression made upon the delicate nerv¬ 
ous system by the single dose of the indicated remedy. Vio¬ 
lence and inharmony is reached by a continued application. 
The aggravation so obtained is surely detrimental to the 
action of the remedy, and in critical cases, like that cited, 
might easily have become fatal. 

But you say, to sit and wait and do nothing while life 
hangs tremblingly in the balance is the height of presump¬ 
tion and nothing less than suicide. Just there is where 
many physicians make the mistake of their lives. It is vastly 
more important to do nothing than to do the wrong thing. 
This last would likely prove fatal*in many a case, while the 
first leaves Nature—the Great Healer—free to practice her 
divine art. But are you sure that nothing was being done 
while we anxiously waited five days for Apis to complete its 
action? Was not the very utmost being done chat it was 
possible for any or all drugs to do? The firmest ground the 
homeopathic physician ever stood upon (and he will realize 
it when he gets there) is to know the symptoms of his case 
and equally well know the adaptability of the remedy, and 
then await its action. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



418 


Hydrocephaloid. 


June 


Neither he nor the family need be disturbed nor lose their 
heads, as long as there is observed “a letting up" of the 
severity and diminution of the number of the symptoms on 
the list. Frequent and accurate observation will discover 
when the improvement has ceased and the time has come to 
renew or change the medicine, and until that time is reached 
the physician risks nothing by waiting, as in the case reported, 
but gains immensely. Rather, I might say, it was the only 
possible course by which to obtain the full curative action of 
the remedy. To have repeated often would have so aroused 
and taxed the flickering vitality as to seriously endanger the 
little life. 

Let us review the statements we have made: 

1. We should write out and analyze the symptoms pre¬ 
sented by the patient. 

2. We should make frequent use of the repertory. 

3. We should repeat the remedy only when clearly 
indicated. 

But as practical physicians what are we to gain or lose by 
this added labor and expense? 

What is the Dr. and Cr. account ? 

By adhering to these rules, the first more especially, we 
would 

Lose:— (a) More or less valuable time, consumed in writing 
out the case and in condensing it under its 
characteristic heads, then finally in running 
over long lines of remedies in the repertory. 

“ (b) The expense of several costly books. 

“ ( c) A large slice off, in the size of the doctor's bill. 

But what do we and humanity # 

Gain:—(a) Many valuable lives. 

“ (b) A grepfr saving of time and suffering to the 

patier 

“ (<?) Greale? skill and knowledge to the physician. 

“ (d) The knowledge and satisfaction of having 

improved the powers and opportunities God has 
placed within our reach, and filled to the full 
the measure of the responsibility He has placed 
upon us, for the right use of such powers. 

G. E. Clakk. 

Stillwater, Minn., May 21,1691. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Experience in the Cure of Consumption . 419 

41 FIVE YEARS’ EXPERIENCE IN THE NEW CURE OF 
CONSUMPTION BY ITS OWN VIRUS.” 

BY J. COMPTON BURNETT, M. D. 

This is one of the most delightfully entertaining little 
books we have ever read on a medical subject. The fresh¬ 
ness, the child-like honesty, the thorough love of the subject 
he handles, gives the author a hold upon the reader that does 
not relax until the last page is reached. When the little 
volume was laid upon our desk we forgot the world, and even 
the dinner table, through the charming influence of its 
pages. In all our worldly reading we had found but one 
author that could compare with this handiwork of Burnett's. 
As page after page was devoured we felt more and more 
impressed with the idea that J. Compton Burnett and H. 
Rider Haggard were the same person. 

Listen to these descriptions of the work done with the con¬ 
sumption virus and then read either “Allan Quatermain" or 
“King Solomon's Mines:" “One of my very early cases of 
bad phthisis, which the virus quite cured, was the daughter 
of an aged army surgeon then resident in South Wales. The 
old gentleman has since gone home; but Miss H. is now a 
fine, stout woman, whom I totally failed to recognize when 
she came to thank me for her cure. She must have gained 
thirty pounds in weight. But as I can not lay my hands on 
the notes of the case, I will count it for nothing. 

“In my little treatise entitled 4 Fistula and its Radical 
Cure by Medicines,' may be found a case of urinary fistula in 
which the bacillic virus saved the patient's life, and cured his 
disease with the help of other remedies; but I will not count 
that case as anything, because the virus was not always given 
by itself." 

Case V the author describes at some length, and then says: 
44 The virus of consumption was here administered, the thir¬ 
tieth at twelve days' interval, and after one month of this the 
perspirations had greatly diminished; after two months the 
dullness on percussion at the right apex had gone; the chest 
took on a much better shape [the depressed right side stood 
out much better]. In another two months of the same medi¬ 
cation she was in capital health, and her mother wrote me 
at the end of October, 1887: 4 She is so well.' 

“And now, two years later, I am able to say that she has 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


420 Experience in the Cure of Consumption. Junk 

never looked back, and is a bonnie person—just a wee bit 
stout, perhaps. Patient had altogether forty-eight globules 
of the virus of the thirtieth potency, spread over four 
months." 

CaseVI was a frightfully bad one,that the good doctor treated 
faithfully from February to October, 1888, with no relief. 
He says: “I then determined to try the phthisic virus. 
After being under it for a month she did not trouble herself 
till March 15, 1889, and then she only came because she had 
a cold, and therewith some cough again. She bad been so 
well all the winter that she considered herself quite cured. 
Here I repeated the October prescription of the virus, and I 
discharged the patient cured in one month and two days 
therefrom, viz., on April 17, 1889. She has never looked 
back, and is now a stout woman." 

In comparison we would like to quote a few lines from 
Haggard where he speaks of the danger to oxen from “ lung 
sick," and against which the animals have to be inoculated 
before going far into the wilds of Africa: “As for ‘lung 
sick/ which is a dreadful form of pneumonia, very preva¬ 
lent in this country, they had all been inoculated against it. 
This is done by cutting a slit in the tail of the ox, and bind¬ 
ing in a piece of the diseased lung of an animal which had 
died of the sickness. The result is that the ox sickens, takes 
the disease in a mild form, which causes its tail to drop off, 
as a rule about a foot from the root, and becomes proof 
against further attacks. It seems cruel to rob the animal of 
its tail, especially in a country where there are so many flies; 
but it is better to sacrifice the tail and keep the ox than to 
lose both tail and ox, for a tail without an ox is not much 
good except to dust with." 

Burnett's book is so interesting, the descriptions are so 
straightforward, the author seems to be such a fine shot and 
brings down his cases—“ pop, bang!" right and left, that we 
are so carried away by the story that we forget all about the 
real subject in hand. To save our life we can not decide 
whether Dr. Burnett had better go on treating consumption 
by its own virus or spend his time writing books. 

Omaha. Neb., April 27, 1891. H. P. HOLMES, M. D. 

[ But Dr. Burnett, and every other homoeopath who treats all cases 
of phthisis with the same remedy, does not individualize his cases, and 
must necessarily meet with many mortifying failures. He is treating 
the disease and not his patient.— Ed.] 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


High Temperature . 


421 


HIGH TEMPERATURE. 

Perhaps one of the most extraordinary fevers on record has 
been under the observation of several physicians of Memphis 
during the last three weeks. A patient's temperature rose to 
158° Fahrenheit, and eleven physicians' thermometers were 
burst by the pressure. 

At the home of M. T. Paoli, manager of the Postal Tel¬ 
egraph Company, 94 Monroe street, a young girl from Cat 
Island, Miss., has been sick of a remarkable fever for the last 
three weeks. She is a cousin of Mrs. Paoli, and has been 
attending the Clara Conway Institute for two years. 

The fever started in tonsilitis, to which she is subject. 
Little was thought of the matter until a fever followed two or 
three days after. It was then found that the girl was danger¬ 
ously ill. The tonsilitis, meanwhile, had been cured. 

Mrs. Paoli took her temperature with her own fever ther¬ 
mometer. It registered 106°. A physician was summoned. 
He pronounced the case serious. 

Next day the temperature rose to 108° Fahrenheit. Dr. 
Sale, who was present this day, doubted the accuracy of Mrs. 
Paoli's thermometer and used his own. It reported the same 
result. The physicians, Drs. Jones and Sales, became alarmed 
and expressed it visibly. Telling Mrs. Paoli to telephone 
them if the fever rose again, they left. 

The fever was intermittent. It rose usually about 9 or 10 
o'clock in the morning and continued at intervals until about 
noon. [Nat. mur.] The patient rested well during the 
night. 

Soon after the physicians had gone on the second day of 
the fever Mrs. Paoli summoned them again, announcing that 
the temperature had risen to 118°. This was all the ther¬ 
mometer could register, and the bulb burst. A second attempt 
was attended with no more success. 

From this time thermometers broke daily. Little esti¬ 
mate could be made of the fever's height, for every fever 
thermometer that was tried broke under the great pressure. 

Finally a thermometer of extra strength, and highly grad¬ 
uated, was obtained from Chicago. It was capable nominally 
of registering 160°. It was tried. When the mercury 
rose rapidly to 110, 120,130, 140°, and lastly to 158°,the phy¬ 
sicians and attendants were simply nonplussed. The ther¬ 
mometer broke at 158°. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



422 


High Temperature. 


June 


It is estimated that as there could have been no pressure at 
158° the real temperature must have been fully 180^ to break 
this thermometer. In all, eleven instruments were broken. 
The extreme temperature could not be measured many times 
for want of a thermometer. 

The patient has been aware of her wonderful condition 
almost the whole time. She kept “tab” of her temperature 
and used to take bets about its height at certain times. 

She had ways of describing and measuring it that required 
no thermometer. When she felt it coming on she would say, 
feeling her head with her hand: “It is numb.” When the 
fever increased, it grew “number.” Finally she would 
declare that was “numbest.” 

The fever was attended with many peculiarities. The skin, 
instead of being dry and hot, appeared rather damp and cold 
at the extremities. As the fever increased numbness set in 
at the top of the head. The patient declared that she had no 
sense of feeling whatever in her head when the fever was 
highest. The strangest, most wonderful part of the whole 
affair is that the little girl is expected to recover. She has 
not suffered with the fever for three days and seems much 
better. 

One peculiarity was the rapidity and extent of the change. 
The patient's temperature sometimes fell to 92° F., when 
stimulants would be needed to raise it. Perhaps only half an 
hour later the temperature might be climbing toward 120°. 

A physician said last evening that he had known of but two 
instances where the temperature had reached the fatal limit— 
110°. Both died. One was a case of sunstroke, the other 
lock-jaw. 

Following is the ordinary scale of fever temperature, 
Fahrenheit’s thermometer: 

100°—Feverish. 

100 to 102°—Mild. 

103°—Moderately severe. 

104 to 105°—High temperature. 

106 to 108°—Dangerous; hang out the red light. 

108 to 110°—Fatal. 

The case was carried before the Shelby County Medical 
Association for discussion. It was well established that the 
fever was not of a malarial nature. Concensus of opinion 
deemed it due to a disturbance of the nerve centers. The 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Deaf ness Hereditary . 


423 


fever never lasted more that two hours at a time. It is due 
to this, according to the physicians, that the patient's tissues 
were able to endure the heat. 

Dr. Heber Jones, who had charge of the case, had kept as 
complete a record of the temperature as could be obtained. 
The case will be reported in full .—Memphis Daily . 


DEAFNESS HEREDITARY. 

The question whether and in what degree deafness is hered¬ 
itary has much light thrown upon it by the records of the 
marriages of pupils of the American Asylum, Hartford, Conn. 
From the institution of the asylum till 1891 there were 
received 2,459 jfhpils; and there have been 590 marriages in 
which one or both of the parties were once pupils: the off¬ 
spring of these marriages number 811. The facts bearing on 
the question of the hereditariness of deafness are exhibited in 
the following table, in which c. = congenitally deaf; ad. = 
adventitiously deaf; h. = hearing; u. indicates that the age 
at which deafness occurred is unknown: 


Parentage. 

Number of mar¬ 
riages. 

Children congen¬ 
itally deaf. 

Children adven¬ 
titiously deaf. 

Hearing children 

Children whether 
deaf or hearing 
unknown. 

Whole number 
of children. 

Percentage of 
children congen¬ 
itally deaf. 

Husband, c.; wife, c 

62 

48 

1 

88 

16 

151 

31.78 

Husband, c.; wife, ad — 

37 

5 


74 

7 

87 

5 74 

Husband, ad.; wife, c ... 

61 

17 


102 

5 

124 

13.70 

Husband, ad.; wife, ad... 

56 

4 


129 

6 

139 

3.87 

Husband, h.; wife, c. 

16 

12 


62 

2 

66 

18.18 

Husband, h.; wife, ad_ 

5 



16 

2 

18 


Husband, h.; wife, u. ... 

1 



4 


4 


Husband, c.: wife, h — 

26 

9 


f8 

5 

72 

12.50 

Husband, ad.; wife, h... 

6 



13 


13 


Husband, ad.; wife, u . 

23 



43 

8 

51 


Husband, u.; wife, u. 

2 



4 

2 

6 


Husband, c.; wife, u. 

27 



68 

4 

71 

12.67 

Husband, u.; wife, h. 

1 



4 


4 


Husband, u.; wife, c. 

2 



4 

1 

5 



8* 







Sterile. 

283 















Totals. 

590 

104 

1 

649 

57 

811 

12.82 


Mr. Job Williams, who drew up this table, supplements it 


in Science (vol. xvii., no. 418) with the following important 
observations: 

Of the 52 familes in which both parents are c., 23 have c. 
children. 

♦Three families are reported with several hearing children in each. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 





































424 


Deafness Hereditary . 


June 


Of the 37 families in which the husbands are c., and the 
wives ad., 2 have deaf children—4 in one family, 1 in the 
other. 

Of the 51 families in which the fathers were ad. and the 
mothers c. 7 produced deaf children, and 9 of the c. children 
came from,2 families. 

There are 55 families in which both parents are ad. and 
from these have sprung 4 c. children—1 in each of 4 families. 

Four of the 16 families in which the husbands are h. and 
the wives are c. have deaf children. 

In 5 families out of the 26 in which the husbands are c. 
and the wives h., there are children born deaf. 

Six of the 27 families in which the husband^ were c. and 
the wives u. produced c. children. • 

Of the 26 families in which both parents are deaf and have 
c., children, there are 5 families in which one of the parents 
has 1 deaf parent, 17 families in which both parents have 
deaf relatives of the same generation, 4 in which 1 parent 
has deaf relatives of the same generation, and 5 in which 
neither parent has deaf relatives of the same generation. 

Of the 26 families in which both parents arec. and have 
h. children only, there are none in which either parent has 
a deaf parent, so far as reported; 12 families in which both 
parents have deaf relatives of the same generation; 11 fami¬ 
lies in which 1 parent has deaf relatives of the same genera¬ 
tion; and 3 families in which neither parent has deaf relatives 
of the same generation. 

The proportion of issueless marriages is very much greater 
than normal; after allowance has been made for defective 
reports, recentness of many of the marriages, and other cir¬ 
cumstances, the percentage of childless unions is still very 
high. Alden’s Cyclopedia . 


PROCEEDINGS OF THE ORGANON AND MATERIA 
MEDICA SOCIETY OF PHILADELPHIA. 

At a meeting of the Organon and Materia Medica Society 
of Philadelphia held on Tuesday evening, May 5, 1891, at 
the residence of Dr. J. T. Kent, the following members were 
present: Dr. F. Powel, president; Drs. A. G. Allan, D. W. 
Clausen, J. T. Kent, W. A. D. Pierce, Wm. F. Kaercher, 


Digitized by VjOOQ l 



1891 


Organon and Materia Medica Society. 


425 


C. A. Reger, L. Smith, Jean I. Mackay, Jennie Medley, F.' 
Gladwin, and M. N. Johnson; also the following visitors: 
Drs. Wm. Baldwin, S. A. Alexander, Foster, J. D. Tyrrell, 
E. M. Van Atta. 

Dr. M. N. Johnson read §46 of the Organon. 

Dr. Pierce: We will all agree with Hahnemann. 

Dr. Kent: This paragraph sustained a different relation to 
the time when it was given, to what it does at the present. 
We do not need observations, like the old school physicians, 
to know the law of cure. Our time is more profitably taken 
up by discussing clinical observations. We see now with 
more experience. The allopaths close their eyes to the 
truth, by shutting off all proper resources, and shutting off 
homoeopathic observations. They live in darkness now, just 
as much as ever. All their avenues are closed. They refuse 
to intei view us, or to accept our literature; but we, who have* 
accepted a law, have, nevertheless, very valuable experience. 
We have the natural evidences furnished us by nature; and 
we have the evidences furnished by art. 

Dr. Medley asked if any one present had ever had any 
experience in regard to bovine virus producing symptoms sim¬ 
ilar to those of syphilis; as she had read it somewhere. 

Dr. Clausen offered an apology for a paper on Materia Med¬ 
ica, as other business had precluded the possibility of prepar¬ 
ing one suitable for the oocasion. 

Dr. Medley read a paper on Clinical Medicine. 

Case I. — Belladonna —Mrs. B-, aet, 25. About 4 

o'clock one morning was called to see a patient with the fol¬ 
lowing symptoms: She had been married three years and had 
not been pregnant until a little over five months ago. She 
aborted at the third month in spite of her efforts to prevent 
it. The above is what I obtained previous to taking the case, 
which is as follows: 

Had an abortion ten weeks ago; ever since has had bearing- 
down pains and discharge of bright red blood. Yesterday 
took a long walk; did not feel the worse for it until 2 a. m., 
when the violent bearing-down pains and hemorrhage came 
on. I immediately inquired if the after-birth had come away 
after the mishap. She replied that one of her neighbors 
had advised her to send for her family physician, and see if 
that wasn’t the cause of her trouble; she did so, and was 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



426 Organon and Materia Medica Society . June 

assured that it had come away. Although the symptoms 
looked suspicious I thought I would venture the remedy 
first; then if 1 didn't notice improvement shortly, make an 
examination. She had been suffering excruciating pain since 
2 o'clock and flowing steadily; flow bright red, with dark 
clots. She lay on her back, nails clenched into palms, body 
arched back occasionally; she was not worse from a jar, the 
flow did not seem hot now, but was about 2 o'clock; no other 
symptoms. Prescribed Belladonna 4 m. in three teaspoonfuls 
of water, teaspoonful every five minutes. Before the third 
teaspoonful was administered wind began to pass from the 
bowels, and shortly afterward she vomited about a cupful of 
watery mucus; after this the hemorrhage ceased, and half an 
hour later I took my departure. I left Sac. lac. and another 
powder of Belladonna in case the hemorrhage returned, to be 
given in the same way. On my second call in the evening 
learned that she had one violent pain with the passage of a 
small amount of blood, but had been very comfortable 
since, having had a good nap in the afternoon. She was 
instructed to keep quiet. The next call was the following 
morning. 

I inquired if she had any more flow; she replied, “No, but 
I had something else;" on urinating, that morning, the after¬ 
birth dropped into the vessel. She wanted to know if I 
wasn’t surprised. I replied, when I gave medicine *1 expected 
it to do its work; although I was surprised at the work it had 
accomplished in this case. 

When the patient had such prompt relief after the remedy, 
I felt that the diagnosis of previous physician had been cor¬ 
rect. The placenta had been in the uterus ten weeks. 

Case II.— Rhus —Mrs. B., aet. 38. —This patient did not 
believe in Homoeopathy thoroughly, thought it was splendid 
for babies, but she would give it a chance now, and would be 
a thorough convert if it helped her present malady. Her 
allopathic doctor who stands very high, gave her very power¬ 
ful medicine, and instructed her to be sure to send for 
him within twelve hours from the time she was taken 
or she would be past'help. Symptoms: when she takes a bad 
cold becomes suddenly very hoarse, if she dosn't speak for 
a few minutes hoarseness is ■<; and if she doesn't speak 
for fifteen minutes, can scarcely speak in a whisper. If she 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Organon and Materia Medica Society . 


427 


takes a nap even for a few minutes day or night, can hardly 
breath and her voice leaves her almost entirely. Pain from 
upper part of sternum to back, as if from a string, throat 
slightly relieved by a swallow of water; aching as if pounded 
from head to foot; profuse sweat with no relief; restless, 
worse toward evening and during night; ichorous discharge 
from the vagina ; brick-dust sediment in urine. 

I could not settle on a remedy and knowing I would have but 
one chance I took the symptoms to Dr. Kent who prescribed 
Rhus cm. The next morning I called to see her and was 
greeted with these words/ 4 Now I am a homoeopath. Who would 
think those sugar pills would do such wonderful things, when 
it takes such strong old school medicine?” The hoarseness 
had almost left her when I arrived in the morning. Has 
had one attack since which was also relieved by Rhus cm. 

Case III.—Mrs M. M., aet. 40, sister-in-law of one of the 
leading old school specialists in this city, had been treated 
for her trouble, which was constipation, by the leading doctors 
of that school medically, but would not submit to an opera¬ 
tion. She had suffered very much with constipation for the 
last twelve years, would take one prescription after another 
until she began to notice that from year to year it was having 
less effect on her. At length Prat/s operation was suggested, 
but she would not have it. About this time one of her 
friends advised her 4o try Homoeopathy. Symptoms: 

Says bowels would never move if she did not take physic, 
and even then has a hard time. Burning, throbbing piles 
pain all the time; can scarcely, sit down sometimes. Sleeps 
very little during night, dreads to go to sleep, has such 
frightful dreams; constant pain in the left ovary relieved 
during menstrual period. Gave Lachesis 43 m. one dose. 
Her bowels did not move for nineteen days, when she had a 
dreadful time; she was tempted to take physic, but remem¬ 
bered what I said, that she might as well not take the med¬ 
icine if she took physic. After this movement she had sev¬ 
eral at intervals of from one week to three days, and suffered 
a great deal with them; but she found out her bowels would 
move without physic, which she considered impossible here¬ 
tofore, and that encouraged her to persevere. At the end of 
three months her bowels moved every day and she felt better 
than she had for years. It is two years since I first treated 


Digitized by CjOOQle 



428 


Organon and Materia Medica Society. 


June 


her; since then she has had one spell of constipation, which 
was relieved again by the same remedy in the same potency. 
Her children have had severe illnesses since, and Homoe¬ 
opathy has cured them, and now the husband says no other 
medicine will be used in his house. 

Jennie Medley. 

Philadelphia. 

Dr. Kent called attention to the peculiar Rhus symptoms 
in Dr. Medley’s case. 

Dr. Clausen, who is about to remove from the city, regretted 
that he was compelled to tender his resignation as secretary. 
After expressions of regret from the president and several 
members his resignation was accepted and a vote of thanks 
for efficient services rendered the Society, was passed unani¬ 
mously. 

Dr. Mackay was elected secretary. 

Drs. Tyrrell And MacDonald of Toronto were elected honor¬ 
ary members, and Drs. Baldwin of Toronto and Van Atta of 
Colorado were proposed for membership. 

The following members were appointed essayists for the 
next regular meeting: 

Milton Powel, “Organon.” 

W. A. D. Pierce, “Materia Medica.” 

Wm. F. Kaercher, “Clinical medicine.” 


At a regular meeting of the Organon and Materia Medica 
Society, held on Tuesday evening, June 2d, at the office of 
Dr. Kent, the following members were present: Drs. A. G. 
Allan, D. W. Clausen, J. T. Kent, W. H. A. Fitz, H. Powel, 
J. I. Mackay, J. Medley, A. S. Ironsides, M. Powel, F. Glad¬ 
win, Linnaeus Smith; also as visitors, Dr. Biegler, of Roches¬ 
ter, N.Y., and Dr. William Baldwin, of Toronto, Canada.' 

Dr. Milton Powel, the appointed essayist on the Organon, 
then read §§ 47 and 48, closing with the remark that on 
these sections there remained little to say. 

Dr. Kent: We have been reading the Organon for three 
years to get to these sections. It is a summary of what is 
before. We notice in nature that similar diseases will cure 
similar diseases, that dissimilar diseases will not cure dissim¬ 
ilar diseases. We observe that drugs producing symptoms 
similar to a sickness will cure that sickness. In those pages 


Digitized by VjOOQle 


1891 Organon and Materia Medica Society . 429 

all the observations of Hahnemann and all previous literature 
prove tha t no cure has been observed by other than homoeopathic 
means. In this section Hahnemann held forth the challenge, 
and it still stands. We, in our day, must continue to hold it 
out. Hahnemann says so; all our masters say so; experience 
says it is so. Then what are we to call the results of old 
school treatment? They can not see that they do not cure. 

Dr. Biegler: As Dr. Kent said, what keeps the old-school 
practitioners from seeing that they do not cure, is the fact 
that they suppress the symptoms. They think they have per¬ 
formed a cure, and when they are called again to the patient 
they think they have a new disease to contend with. They 
do not see that it is another manifestation of the same sick¬ 
ness. 

I have left home under difficulties. I left a very sick and 
valuable young man with u Bright’s disease,” if I should name 
it. I believe, however, his trouble to be masked syphilis. 
When he began to improve, as the urine increased, which was 
of coffee color (he now voids a chamber in twenty-four hours), 
an eruption appeared on the forehead and an ulcer on the left 
side of the throat, showing that his disease had not originally 
been cured, but suppressed. 

Would it not be well for this Society to alternate the read¬ 
ing of the Organon with the reading of the Chronic Diseases? 
The study of one leads to the study of the other. 

Dr. F. Powel: A very good suggestion. 

Dr. Kent: When we come to chronic diseases in the 
Organon it would be well to also read from Hahnemann’s 
Chronic Diseases. 

In the absence of the essayist on Materia Medica, Dr. Pierce 
and the essayist on Clinical Medicine, Dr. Kaercher, Dr. 
.Kent reported a case of a clergyman who was troubled with 
loquacity, otherwise apparently well. The wife reported the 
case to Dr. Kent, saying that her husband was talking all the 
time, connectedly or otherwise. He would not even let her 
finish her sentence, but he would do it for her. She thought 
this talking amounted to a disease, although he preached 
better sermons than he had ever done. 

Four years previously Dr. Kent had treated this man for 
periostitis involving the entire hand. Lachesis worked so 
effectually that he had the complete use of his hand except a 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



430 


Organon and Materia Medica Society . 


June 


slight stiffness of the index finger. He had also treated other 
members of the family who called for Lachesis. With this 
knowledge and the single symptom, he prescribed Lachesis, 
which entirely wiped out this latest manifestation of his sick¬ 
ness. I relate this case to call out the discussion that often 
family ailments run in the line of one remedy. The father 
and mother have much to do in shaping the symptoms of the 
child. You see in this case an outcropping of the old rem¬ 
edy, also that other members in the family called for the same 
remedy. 

Dr. Biegler: One case comes to my mind, the case of a 
young lady sick, for a name I should call it Chlorosis. She 
was not a light but a dark one. Her face was green. For 
two years I studied her case with no effect, but the family was 
faithful. As I have no record of the case with me I can not 
give it accurately, but she had scanty and painful menstrua¬ 
tion with jerking pain, I think in the right temple. Another 
symptom was emaciation. Accidentally one day the mother 
told me the menstrual flow turned green on the napkin; that 
reminded me of what I had done for an older sister. Lac. 
caninum had cured her. . Then came this single symptom, 
“menstrual flow turns green on the napkin.” She got Lac. 
caninum, and last week I had the mother's grateful thanks. 
The girl is well and hearty and about to be married. 

Dr. Kent: I remember a Sepia family. One member 
called for Sepia after confinement (the symptoms forgotten) 
which made a radical change in the patient (after confin- 
ment the patient often calls for a constitutional remedy). 
Another sister came after giving no definite symptoms. At 
last she said “ I have hard work, doctor, to make myself love 
my children’or my husband.” Sepia cured. Third sister 
came with nondiscript constipation. She got, Sepia, which 
cured. Finally the brother came. He began by telling me 
how well he felt after riding his bicycle, etc., and I said “Well, 
if here isn't Sepia again.” Probably they all came from a 
stock who should have bad Sepia. In obscure cases frequently 
some little symptom will come up that gives insight into 
the case, leads to the remedy and cures the case. 

Dr. Fitz: I had a case, not long ago, of diarrhoea in a 
young man. The case seemed to call for Sulphur. He had 
the ‘early morning diarrhoea that hurried him out of bed. 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


Organon and Materia Medica Society. 


431 


I waited on the remedy but with no effect. He then told me 
of rumbling of gas in the abdomen and flatulence with the 
stool which led me to Aloe. It quickly cured the case. 
Not long after the mother, sister and brother followed suit, 
and were all relieved by the same remedy. 

Dr Kent: Did they drink beer? 

Dr. Fitz: Mother did, but not the rest of family. 

Dr. Kent: Aloe is a great remedy for bad effects from beer 
drinking. 

Dr. Medley: I had a Natruin Mureaticum family. After 
I had prescribed Nat. Mur. for one member with good effect, 
two others came, out of whom I could get nothing on which to 
base a prescription. Remembering my one success in the 
family I gave Natrum Mureaticum, and cured both cases. 

Drs. M. Powel and J. Medley reported favorably on the 
candidates for membership, Drs. Baldwin and Van Atta. 
Drs. Tyrrell and Overton McDonald, of Toronto,Canada, and 
Eleanor M. Van Atta, of Telluride, Col., were elected to hon¬ 
orary membership, and Dr. William Baldwin to active mem¬ 
bership. 

On motion of Dr. Kent, Dr. F. Powell was elected as del¬ 
egate and Dr. A. G. Allan as alternate to represent the Society 
at the meeting of the I. A. H. at Atlantic City this month. 

Dr. Ironsides then presented a case for advice. Woman, 
age forty-three years, was taken with violent tenesmus on 
urinating three days before. She had aching and sharp cut¬ 
ting pains across the sacrum, which get easier, then they appear 
in the bladder and drive her to urinate with violent tenesmus. 
She lies easiest on the left side. Must walk slowly for relief. 
Urine dark yellow, shreds, passes two or two and one-half 
cups. Skin burning hot at times, then chilly, mostly during 
night. Can not take water or tea, it makes her sick. Have 
given her Nux. Sulphur and Cantharis without relief. 

Dr. Kent: What is the color of her face? 

Dr. Ironsides: Pale. 

Dr. Biegler: Is she restless? 

Dr. Kent: More so than the pains would make her ? 

Dr. Ironsides : I do not think so. 

Dr. Biegler: Do the pains extend down the thighs ? 

Dr. Ironsides : No, I think not. 

Dr. Kent: Has she taken any nourishment ? 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



432 Organon and Materia Medica Society . June 

Dr. Ironsides: Yes, a few strawberries, but they sickened 
her. 

Dr. Kent: Then both food and drink make her sick? Is 
she constipated ? 

Dr. Ironsides: Her bowels have been regular. 

Dr. Kent: It reminds me of a saleswoman whom I 
treated. The urgency to urinate would come while on her 
feet. I think Sepia might be thought of in this case. You 
said the deposit was hard to remove from the vessel. “Slow 
motion ameliorates,” is Ferrum and Pulsatilla prominently. 
Is there anything in the patient to lead you to either of these 
constitutionally ? 

Dr. F. Powel : What is her mental state ? 

Dr. Ironsides: Rather patient. 

Dr. Biegler: I was impressed with Pulsatilla, which has 
the painfulness down the thighs, also the changeableness of 
her symptoms. The Pulsatilla patient you can't do anything 
with; what you offer to her she don't want. 

Dr. F. Powel: Pulsatilla has the > from lying on the left 
side. 

Dr. Clausen : It has the pale face and thirstlessness. 

Dr. Kent: The < from tea made me think of Ferrum. 

The > from slow motion, Pulsatilla. 

Dr. Biegler: What is her menstrual condition? 

Dr. Ironsides: She has not menstruated for three months. 
She says she is not pregnant and has delayed once before as 
long. She is sensitive across the sacral region. 

Dr. Kent: That looks like Sepia. You have a close 
differentiation between Pulsatilla and Sepia. 

Dr. F. Powel: I had a patient not long ago who had pains 
in the back < by stooping, with pain and tenesmus after 
urinating. I relieved this case with Angustura. 

Dr. Biegler: One of the first questions to ask in such 
cases is: “Have you been tinkered with?” The physician 
must be on the alert. It is important to inquire into this as 
a symptom, for there may be a suppressed discharge to con¬ 
sider in the treatment. 

Dr. F. Powel: I have at present such a case, a victim of 
“ stretching the rectum.” 

. Dr. Biegler: Such a case frequently requires several visits 
before it can be fully taken. Do not let the young physician 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 Organon and Materia Medica Society • 433 

unjustly or hastily accuse himself for not finding the remedy 
at once. 

Dr. Ironsides: The patient has a faint feeling after urin¬ 
ating. 

Dr. P. Powel: 1 think Opium has this symptom. 

Dr. Kent: Aconite is given under €t faintness after urin¬ 
ation." 

The secretary then read to the society greetings from Dr. 
C.H. Lawton, of Wilmington, Del., with his expression of 
deep regret at his inability to be present, but hoped to be 
present in the near future. 

Adjourned to meet July 21, 1891. 

Jean I. Mackay, Sec. 


CALCAREA FLUORICA. 

In The Advance for March, 1890, I reported the absorp¬ 
tion of an induration in a case of typhlitis under the use of 
Calcarea fluor. 3x. I have since proved its efficacy in promot¬ 
ing absorption of indurations without abscess, in two cases of 
•enlarged meibomian glands, and also an induration in epigas¬ 
tric region. 

Case I.—C. 0%, a young man, age 28, has been troubled 
with tumors of the eyelids for several years. They were hard 
and painless, produced no inconvenience, but were unsightly. 
Under Calcarea fluor. 3x three times daily, his general health 
improved and the tumors entirely disappeared. 

Case II.— B. G. has had a tumor of eyelid for several 
months; it was hard and painless. He would not submit to 
its enucleation, and said he preferred to take medicine to 
•cause absorption. Calcarea fluor. 3x improved his health and 
the tumor disappeared. 

Case III.—A young girl had been kicked in the epigastric 
region by a colt. She came to me from an allopathic physi¬ 
cian some months after the accident. Palpation discovered 
an induration as large as my hand, and she complained much 
of the stomach. Calcarea fluor. absorbed the induration and 
restored her to health. 

In each case the remedy mentioned was the only one 
administered. Geo. P. Hale. 

Memphis, Mich. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




434 


Hyo8cyamu8. 


JuKB 


HYOSCYAMUS.* 

Hyoscyamus is usually classed with Bell, and Stram., on 
account of similarity of mental states and febrile conditions. 
It has active and passive mania, insanity, madness, rage, hys¬ 
teria, and low fever. (In active delirium compare it with 
Bell. Stram. Stram. has the highest degree of delirium, with 
or without fever; Bell, has intense heat; Hyos., least heat.) 

Patient wants to run away; glassy eyes; bites; afraid of 
water (Bell., Canth, Lyssin, Stram.), < by light (Bell. Strain* 
—Bell, has red face most marked; Stram. next; Hyos. last). 
Hyos. has mottled face. 

Stupor (Bell. Stram. — Bell, and Hyos. have passive coun¬ 
tenances; Stram. is more wakeful). 

Haggard, wrinkled countenance, anxiety, fear, aggravated 
by light;—these conditions* in insanity, and in the mania of 
old drunkards. 

The patient sees lizards; watches the flowers on the wall 
paper; wants to run them in rows and can not; gets angry 
about it, and swears; he sees the bed bugs on the wall, and 
arranges them like soldiers. 

Jealousy (Apis, Lach.). 

Suspicious; afraid she will be poisoned; full of fear; sings- 
obscene songs one minute, and the next minute she prays, 
followed by foolish actions, silly expression. 

Ungovernable rage. 

Disappointed love, followed by epilepsy. Epileptiform 
convulsions. Puerperal convulsions. 

Groundless suspicion of being watched. 

The Hyos. patient is inclined to expose the genitals, with 
or without fever, also in hysteria; no modesty (Phos. and 
Phyt. also have a desire to expose genitals). 

There is a most violent form of erotomania; this may exist 
in typhoid and puerperal fever. 

In Hyos. fever the patient rouses up, asks bystanders where 
he is, and drops again into a stupor; he can be aroused, and 
can usually answer questions put to him; sometimes drops 
into a stupor before he answers the question (like Baptisia). 

Forgets words while trying to answer (Arn. Bry.). For¬ 
gets where he is (Bry. Rhtis—Bry. wants to go home; Rhus 
is away from home on business). 

‘Indiana Institute of Homoeopathy, May, 1891. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


J. T. Kent . 


435 


In typhoid, the Hyos. delirium comes on late (Bry. delirium 
early—Bry* is not the remedy in stupor. Stram. is not often 
indicated in typhoid, except for the delirium. Nor ought 
Aeon, and Bell, to be given in typhoid fever, as they do not 
conform to the inner nature of the disease, even though some 
of their symptoms be present). 

The Hyos. patient is restless, but not so much so as Rhus 
(Rhus corresponds to the first stage of typhoid). 

The patient sees persons who are not present or are dead; 
calls his wife by the name of some one who has been dead for 
years (Calc, silicata). 

Stupor comes on at the onset of typhoid (Bapt. stupor 
comes on slowly after a long period). 

Constant staring; pupils dilated; face sickly, mottled, 
bloated, besotted look. Tongue dark brown like burnt 
leather. Puts his tongue out slowly; needs to be constantly 
reminded; can hardly draw the tongue back in his mouth, 
sordes on the teeth; cadaverous smell from mouth. Thirst, 
but is not relieved by water, yet is not made sick by it ( Bry. 
better from water; Rhus worse from water). 

Typical typhoid stool, yellow, mushy, like corn meal mush 
(Bry. Rhus); stool passed involuntarily; urine and stool invol¬ 
untary in bed; retention or suppression of urine. When he 
strains to urinate, stool passes (Mur. acid has involuntary 
stools and urine; exhausted muscles; mind clear; patient 
wonders why he is so weak. Phos. involuntary stools and 
urine; exhaustion of mind; vacant look; answers slowly; tires 
him to think). 

Hysterical girls dare not laugh, for fear of passing stool; 
relaxed bowls. Hyos. is often indicated in-young girls suffer¬ 
ing from spinal trouble. Tympanic abdomen. 

Paralysis of sphincter of bladder after labor; the mother 
can not pass water; has no inclination, though the bladder is 
full (Are. has desire to urinate, but can not; Caust. no desire, 
and can not; Aeon, the baby can't urinate). 

Spasms with hemorrhage (Secale, uterine hemorrhage with 
puerperal convulsions). After labor, hemorrhage begins 
with convulsions; every convulsion, more blood; sub sultus 
tendinum. 

Stiffness of the cervical muscles, as if too short. Spinal 
meningitis, convulsions, also after injury, neck drawn back, 
fever not high; head drawn back with mental picture. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




436 


Natrum Muriaticum. 


June 


(Bell. Gels, head drawn back; Bell, hot head, cold extrem¬ 
ities. Gels, head heavy, tired; free in mind. Natr. sulph. 
in beginning of cerebro-spina) meningitis; head drawn back, 
pain in back of neck, like gnawing of a dog; knife-like pain 
in head and spine. Natr. carb., Natr. ars., and Natr. mur. 
are likewise useful in meningitis. Opium, pupils small; face 
red; child stupid; arching back. Apis, same condition; no 
thirst; face red; pupils not contracted; pink round eruption;* 
screaming. Arg. nit., pain; further down seems affected; 
patient feels constricted, caged in a gauze. Lyc., child wakes 
up frightened, looks around, bewildered; then drops to sleep 
again. After a short time will repeat the same process.) 

Hyos. has a nervous, dry, hacking cough, with spinal irri¬ 
tation in women and children; as soon as the head touches 
the pillow, cough comes on. Cough worse after singing, 
talking, laughing, eating, and drinking; worse in bed at 
night; after midnight > by sitting up. Cough shakes the 
whole body (Phos. cough shakes the whole body, with tremb¬ 
ling going all over). Cough after measles. 

J. T. Kent. 

Philadelphia. 


NATRUM MURIATICUM. 

Case I.— Headache: Natrum mur .—May 8th, W. S., 
set. 42, slight build, spare, wrinkled, looks old; wants relief 
for a myalgia of chest. Arnica 6 relieved. 

May 15th. Soreness all gone from chest, but has some 
stiffness in dorsal spine and calves of legs; now he asks treat¬ 
ment for a chronic condition which he did not mention, 
before, because the myalgia troubled him more then; he now 
gives this history: Had sunstroke in 1889, since which ho 
suffers from a pain in left temple, beginning with obscuration 
of sight and followed by a dull, heavy throbbing, with thirst 
and sleepiness; he is very weak and much prostrated by the 
heat of this season and by being in the sun. On pressure 
there is a tender spot in the affected temple; better by sleep,, 
and slight perspiration, if it be in the shade. Hot days dis¬ 
tress him greatly, causing weakness, oppression of breathing- 
and nervousness. 

During the attack of pain left eye becomes bloodshot and 
sore, any movement of the ball aggravating the temporal 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 ' 


C. M. Boger . 


437 


pain. Lies on right side during sleep. Natrum mur. 30, 3 
powders, one every other night, then report. 

May 22d. Greatly improved, but, this being a hot day, 
he feels the effect of working in the sun, which he has not 
done for years, and it seems as if the pain might return. 
Sac. lac., 4 powders, as before. 

May 29th. Better until to-day, and now has a return from 
exposure to the sun. Natrum mur. 30, 1 powder dry on 
tongue, then Sac. lac. for one week. 

June 6th. Has had no return and works in the sun with¬ 
out any trouble; has gained fifteen pounds since May 8th. 
Sac. lac.. 

June 20th. Reports himself well. 

Case II. — China: Rheumatism ,—September 5th, was 

called to see Mrs. M-■, aet. 28, who had contracted a cold, 

and presented general symptoms calling for Rhus, of which 
she received the 200. The symptoms yielded rapidly, but in 
their stead appeared a large, soft swelling, about the second 
and third metatarso-phalangeal joints of the left foot. It 
was pale red, hot and very tender to the touch. She gave 
this symptom and complained greatly about it: "With my 
slippers on I am in agony, but if I put on tight shoes the foot 
feels pretty comfortable." Not knowing just what to give, I 
gave Sac. lac., and looked up the Materia Medica. In Per¬ 
kins on Rheumatism I found these symptoms: 

"Very soft swelling of soles of feet," "aggravation from 
touching parts softly," "amelioration from hard pressure." 
Therefore she received China 200, and in a few days I had 
the pleasure of seeing the trouble entirely disappear, verifying 
the above symptom and its conditions. 

Case III.— Glonoine: From my case book I take the fol¬ 
lowing: April 4, was called to see Mrs. L-, aet. 39. Sev¬ 

eral weeks ago she looked at the bright snow, which gave her 
a violent headache, from which she now suffers every time 
she looks at a bright or glistening object. There is a violent, 
throbbing and splitting sensation, obliging her to close her 
eyes and lie down. Glonoine, 2x, in a half glass of water, 
relieved her in a few hours, and there has been no return. 

C. M. Boger. 


Digitized by 


Google 


Parkersburg, W. Va. 



438 


The Hog as a Disease Producer . 


June 


THE HOG AS A DISEASE PRODUCER. 

The following practical suggestions are from the report of 
Dr. Houston, health officer of Urbana, Ohio: Some of the 
diseases in our midst we attribute to the unsanitary condition 
of our city which is unavoidable, so long as hogs and hog¬ 
pens are allowed to exist within the city limits. In some 
portions of the city, residents, during the summer evenings, 
^re unable to sit on their porches or in their yards because 
of the stench from neighboring pens. At night when the 
air becomes heavy and damp, and windows of sleeping-rooms 
are lowered to admit fresh air, the poisonous gases from hog¬ 
pens rise and float in with the air, bringing disease with 
them. Hogs render impure the air above and the water 
supply beneath them. From a report made by the Board of 
Health of Warren, Ohio, a city of over 8,000 population, we 
learn it was made unlawful, on and from January 1st, 1888, 
to keep a live hog within the city limits, and that from that 
date to January 1st, 1891, a period of three years no death 
has occurred there from typhoid or scarlet fever, diphtheria 
or any other contagious disease. The report says “after 
three years not only has the air cleared, but the public mind 
as well, and to reinstate the hogpens would create as great a 
storm as did the order prohibiting them.” It may be this 
immunity from contagious diseases should not be attributed 
wholly to the absence of the hog, but it certainly is in part 
due to that fact. 

During the period from 1888 to *91 referred to in the 
report, nearly thirty deaths occurred from the above mentioned 
diseases in Urbana. 

Not only is it probable that many cases of disease are to be 
attributed to the effluvia from these pens, but it is also a fact 
that disease is often developed from the eating of meat of 
hogs raised in ill-ventilated, foul pens and fed on swill. 
Such meat is very different from that of hogs allowed to run 
at large in the pure air of the country, feeding on fruit, 
corn, etc. 

During the past year a census of the hogs in our corporate 
limits was taken and they were found to number 1089 con¬ 
tained in 262 pens. With 262 sources of noisome odors and 
filth is it to be wondered at that our death rate is greater 
than it should be? The utmost care on the part of the sani- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


jET. C. Houston . 


439 


tary policeman and the Health Officers did not prevent over 
one hundred complaints being entered by indignant citizens 
against thitf* nuisance. In view of these facts and believing 
the accumulated filth of 262 pens responsible in part for 
disease in our midst, the Board at a meeting held on the 
evening of February 27th, 1891, unanimously passed the 
following: 

Resolved , That the Board of Health request the city Coun¬ 
cil to enact an ordinance prohibiting the keeping of live hogs 
within the limits of Urbana on and after May 1st, 1891, 
excepting they be on farm lands and allowed to run at large 
on these farms. 


PATHOLOGY AS IT RELATES TO THERAPEUTICS* 

From the multitude of definitions of pathology given by 
the various makers of dictionaries, it might be hard to select 
one upon which we could all agree. I have chosen to adopt 
the definition of Pathology presented by your chairman,to-wit: 

“ We define Pathology as the science of disease. Science 
is knowledge. Therefore, Pathology is what we know of dis¬ 
ease. ^ 

And Therapeutics, according to Dunglison, is: “That 
department of medicine referring to the application of rem¬ 
edies, and the cure of diseases.” 

Therefore, “Pathology as it relates to Therapeutics,” 
translated briefly, means: “The medicines that cure dis¬ 
ease.” 

Plainly stated, there is no such thing known to Homoeop¬ 
athy. From the opening to the closing paragraph of the 
Organon we are never permitted, even for a single instant, 
to lose sight of the great Hahnemannian law: “Thou shalt 
not treat diseases. Thou shalt the rather treat thy patients.” 
If we accept the Organon as the bible of Homoeopathy, and 
it has been so decreed and promulgated by the American 
Institute of Homoeopathy, it is difficult to understand how 
pathology can have any relation whatsoever to homoeopathic 
therapeutics. Find the totality of symptoms, give th$ 
indicated remedy, and cure your patient. And, conversely, 
if you depend not upon the symptoms, and the indicated 

* Transactions Michigan State Society. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




440 Pathology as it Relates to Therapeutics . June 

remedy, you will lose your case, no matter how great the 
expenditure of gray matter and midnight oil may have been 
in pursuit of pathological lore. 

“Pathology is what we know of disease.” As that sweet 
Melanchthon of Homoeopathy, Carroll Dunham, somewhere 
has said: “ I think, I may know exactly when my buggy 
broke down; I may be able to describe learnedly the fault in 
the grain of the wood, the flaw in the iron; may be competent 
to trace the wood through its various gradations back into 
its primal elements; may be capable of writing a treatise on 
metallurgy, showing the faultiness in the metal composing 
the broken part of my buggy; I may even be posted in geol¬ 
ogy, meteorology, and the other essential things which united 
in breaking my buggy; but, and unless I ani a practical wheel- 
right, all this erudition will not restore my buggy. On the 
other hand, if I am a good wheelwright I will not need to 
concern myself with these excellent though practically use¬ 
less accomplishments. I will take the buggy, overhaul it, 
find its breakage, repair and rebuild until it leaves my shop 
as good as before the breakdown. To make the application 
—I may know exactly where my patient was exposed to his 
ailment; I may know that he ate or drank that which pre¬ 
cipitated the attack; I may know that his heart is twice its 
normal size, that there is a cancer in the pyloric orifice, or a 
dangerous inflammation of the Peyer's patches, but if I am 
not a skilled Materia Medicaman, the pathological knowledge 
will serve me but little, if any.” 

That I may not seem dogmatic, and in order to make plain 
the position I assume, I ask permission to append two cases 
from my practice: 

Mrs. Fred D., living on a farm in Michigan, aet. about 48, 
was given up to die with cancer of the stomach. I was the 
fifth or sixth physician called in, and then only, I suspect, 
more in derision of my school than with any expectation of 
help from “little pills ”—my predecessors having all been 
members of the old school—or possibly to put the signing of 
the death certificate on me. I asked the question, quite 
natural under the circumstances, what is the matter with her? 
Cancer of the stomach, came the answer. The doctors had 
all agreed upon that diagnosis, and had set her death for two 
weeks ahead—long enough to have relatives who had been 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frank Kraft . 


441 


telegraphed for, come from Dakota. Pathologically she 
had cancer; an intimate acquaintance with that disease had 
left no doubt in the minds of the pathological prescribers on 
that score, and the treatment was for cancer. Entering into 
the case between the eleventh and twelfth hour, I firmly 
resolved to ignore the cancer, and address myself wholly to 
the eliciting of symptoms, if any could be found under the 
mass of drugs. I found the lady propped up in bed, a con¬ 
stant stream of saliva running from the corner of the mouth 
on a board, and down the board into a chamber vessel. 
If she lay down the saliva choked her. Restless, fidgety, 
nervous, uneasy, terribly prostrated, the stomach on fire like 
the slaking of lime, with the explosion of air bubbles, and 
eructations of burning hot gas, which had cankered the mouth. 
Water, a bare touch to the tongue was sufficient. Yellowish- 
white, transparent complexion; oedematous appearance of the 
face and dependent parts of the body. So weak could hardly 
speak; u tired unto death.” Bowels running off too freely. 
What was this but cancer? Had I been better versed in pathol¬ 
ogy than I am in homoeopathic therapeutics, I would perhaps 
have given Dr. Mitchell's recommendation of Arsenicum 2x 
and 3x a trial, and lost my patient. Remembering the teach¬ 
ings of my old preceptor, lir. Wilcox of St. Louis, and of my 
alma mater, I went back into the history of the case to look 
for a cause for this alleged cancer in an otherwise healthy 
family. I found that some eight months preceding this time 
now spoken of, being in July, the “menfolks” had gone to 
town, leaving her and a small girl alone on the farm. While 
engaged inputting up fruit she heard the dog bark, and going 
to the kitchen door saw that some pigs had found their way 
into the garden. Throwing a sun bonnet on her head she 
rushed out, and after considerable exertion succeeded in driv¬ 
ing the pigs out. She returned to the house in a per¬ 
spiration, panting and almost breathless, sat down in the 
kitchen door on a stone door sill, a strong current blowing 
through the kitchen from an opposite door, and fanned her¬ 
self with her apron. She remembered that she suddenly 
shivered, got up, washed her hands and face, and resumed 
her preserving. But within three or four days she began to 
have nondescript chills, rheumatic twinges took her here and 
there, appetite began to fail, she grew nervous and peevish, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



442 Pathology as it Relates to Therapeutics . Juke 

couldn’t get to sleep till after midnight, and then she was 
driving pigs or doing something else in her dreams that caused 
unusual exertion. Quinine eventually “ broke” the chills, 
but the lady felt that she never got completely over the 
“breaking.” She continued to grow weaker until she was 
bedfast. Then the old school pathologists began to experi¬ 
ment on her with cancer medicines, until they and the rela¬ 
tives reached the conclusion that death was imminent. I gave 
Mrs. 1). one dose of Nux vomica on general principles, to 
antidote the cancer medicines of the pathologists; put her on 
Sac lac for twenty-four hours, and at the end of that time she 
received Ehus tox. in water, one powder, divided into bi-hourly 
doses until all was taken. I treated her ten days, and with 
but one exception, that of a solitary dose of Sulphur, she 
received no other medicine. She is alive, fat and hearty to¬ 
day, and the funeral has been postponed. Did Ehus tox. cure 
cancer of the stomach? I don’t know, and what is more I 
don’t care. But this I do know, that the instant I found 
the clear cut totality for Ehus I told the lady, “ You have no 
cancer, and you will get well.” I found Ehus symptoms so 
unmistakable, that it made no matter to me whether she had 
cancer, corns or consumption, I knew I could help h&r. Of 
what value would pathology have been to me in this case? 
Even supposing that a perfect knowledge of pathology had 
saved me from the error of diagnosing a cancer, what more 
could it have done beyond giving me a long-handled name 
for what I chose arbitrarily to call nervous dyspepsia? It 
could not in the remotest degree have suggested the remedy 
or remedies. 

The other case occurred in June, 1888. Mr. Jerry M., a 
middle-aged farmer, residing a few miles south of this village,* 
had been bedriden for upwards of ten years. Had doctored, 
and doctored, and doctored, until discouragement set in, and 
he began investing in patent medicines. One doctor told 
him he had a cystic tumor of the left liver; another, that his 
liver was grown fast to his midriff; another, that he had holes 
in his liver like those made by buckshot; another, that he had 
what I interpret to have been cirrhosis of the liver; another, 
that the bottom of his right lung had hardened and had 
rubbed a hole in his liver; another, that there was a bag of 
water as big as a teacup on the under side of the liver; in short 

* Sylvania, O. 



Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Frank Kraft . 


443 


all the learned old gchool physicians, except one, bad saddled 
the disease on the liver; pathologically it was a liver trouble 
and he was given liver medicine; he got lots and lots of it. 
The more he got the less strong he became, until eventually 
he could not leave his bed. The excepted one said he had 
stomach fever and need calomel. This went along from bad 
to worse, until one of his grown up sons, meeting the last 
attending physician, got out of him the declaration that all 
the doctors in the United States couldn't get the father out 
of bed again. The son took it upon himself to discharge the 
physician, and came to see me for a little talk. The result 
was that I was persuaded to take up this forlorn-hope case, 
and visited the patient. The history I received has already 
been detailed. I resolutely determined to put the liver behind 
me, and addressed myself wholly to the presenting symptoms. 
I found him a little, dried-up old man, prematurely old, a 
squeaky voice, yellow of complexion as a ripe cow pumpkin, 
dyspeptic, hungry for oysters, but they were no friends of his; 
terrible agony from wind in the bowels, eructations and flat¬ 
ulence, rattle in his abdomen like distant musketry, a most 
pronounced four o'clock aggravation, pain across the “coup¬ 
ling" of the back, constipation, piles, bloody urine, with red 
sand sediment, in short a Lycopodium case. And that is 
what he got and nothing else. I made him two visits, and 
the man is alive and well. (I met him to-day, March 12, 
1890, driving a fiery team of young horses, feeling himself as 
he hallowed to me, “pert and sassy.") 

Now for the application. Suppose I had been awed by the 
many diagnoses of my predecessors of the old school, who are 
nothing if not pathologists, had followed in their wake, and 
given “liver" remedies, what would have been the result? 
Unquestionably .death. As in the former case, I am moved 
to ask of what especial value would a close pathological knowl¬ 
edge have been to me in this case? 

To recapitulate, therefore, I beg to say, as in the beginning, 
if the chief end of a physician is to cure the sick, to do so 
homoeopathically, I can do it equally well with the patho¬ 
logical prescriber; and, further, that if I give my leisure time 
to the study of Materia Medioa, I can make more and better 
cures than the pathological prescriber. Hence, I conclude 
that there is no vital relation between pathology and homoeo¬ 
pathic therapeutics. Frank Kraft. 

CiiKYELAKD, Ohio, 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



444 Homoeopathic Practice by Allopathic Physicians . June 

HOMOEOPATHIC PRACTICE BY ALLOPATHIC PHYSI¬ 
CIANS: PODOPHYLLUM IN DIARRHCEA. 

In the University Medical Magazine of October, 1890, 
Prof. Hobart A. Hare contributes “Specific Indications for 
the use of Podophyllin and Mercuric chloride" in the treat¬ 
ment of diarrhoea. So far as he mentioned these indications 
they are in perfect accord with homoeopathic materia medica 
and therapeutics. He has, however, omitted some of the 
peculiar symptoms that we have found to be important in 
deciding the remedy. According to Dr. Hare Podophyllin is 
indicated in diarrhoea dependent upon deficient secretion of 
the various intestinal juices. There is a history of constipa¬ 
tion accompanied by the occasional passage of slightly colored 
or greyish stools, which has ended in a sudden reversal of 
symptoms, consisting in a watery diarrhoea of a more or less 
profuse type, containing particles of curdled milk or pieces 
of food semi-digested. These passages are often somewhat 
musty or mouldy in odor as the case progresses, and the entire 
attack is one in which the patient rapidly wastes, has persist¬ 
ent vomiting, and almost uncontrollable watery purging, 
which, if it be retarded briefly by powerful remedies, seems 
to renew its vigor through delay P The prescription for a 
child sixteen months to two years old is as follows: 

R. Besinae Podophylli grs. j. 

Alcohol, f 3 j, M. 

Sig . One drop in a teaspoonful of water every five hours. 

This is equivalent to one drop of the second decimal dilu¬ 
tion of Podophyllin. Dr. Hare does not describe this as a 
new treatment, but a very useful one, the value of which the 
profession does not recognize. 

This treatment is comparatively new to the allopathic 
school. But very little is said in their textbooks on the use 
of Podophyllin in diarrhoea. An article in Quain's Diction¬ 
ary of Medicine says it is useful when there is severe pain. 
However, allopathic journals have contained frequent reports 
of the successful use of small doses of Mandrake for bowel 
complaints. The source of this information has undoubtedly 
been the homoeopathic materia medica. Nearly fifty years 
ago Drs. Jeanes, Williamson arid Hering gave the pathogen- * 
esis of Podophyllum to the homoeopathic profession. In 
1846 this pathogenesis was published in Yol. I, Transactions 


Digitized by OjOOQle 



1891 


H. W . Champlin . 


445 


of American Institute of Homoeopathy. This first proving 
revealed the true curative sphere of the remedy. On page 
308 of the above mentioned volume occurs the following: 
“Much may be expected from Podophyllum peltatum in the 
following diseases, when indicated by the similarity of the 
symptoms,—diarrhoea, dysentery, prolapsus ani, hemorrhoids, 
cholera infantum, diseases of children during dentition,” etc. 
The characteristic bowel symptoms were brought out in that 
proving and being confirmed by clinical cases, the homoeo¬ 
pathic school has been using the Mandrake for the cure of 
diarrhoea for nearly fifty years. 

The writer would like to make a suggestion to allopaths 
using Podophyllin according to similia. Purchase the hom¬ 
oeopathic tincture of Podophyllum and make attenuations to 
the sixth, on the decimal scale, keeping the remedy free from 
contamination of any other drug substance. The third to 
the sixth dilution will give better results than the second or 
first. Dr. Hare says his prescription will not succeed every 
time. Every homceopathist knows that his specific indica¬ 
tions are insufficient. 

A week ago I was called to see a child having had diarrhoea 
three weeks. I found a case having the indications exactly 
as described by Dr. Hare. I was not satisfied that Podo¬ 
phyllum was the correct remedy, as characteristic symptoms 
were lacking. I administered that remedy, however, and for 
two days the child grew rapidly worse. Being called to see 
the patient again I learned that there was swelling under the 
eyes like bladders, worse every morning. The other symp¬ 
toms corresponding to Apis, a small powder of the third deci¬ 
mal trituration was dissolved in a half glass of water, to be 
given in teaspoonful doses every two hours. This effected a 
speedy cure. 

Nine months ago I cured the same child of diarrhoea in 
twenty-four hours with Croton tiglium, the characteristic 
symptoms being present. Apis has saved several cases for me 
of severe enterocolitis. 

Dr. Hare’s indication for Mercuric chloride is “mucous 
passages.” His prescription is one teaspoonful doses of the 3£x. 

Two years ago, Mary A— presented herself at my office, 
saying that she was suffering from a very bad bowel com¬ 
plaint. That it was bad was evident from her haggard look. 


Digitized by DOQle 



446 Homoeopathic Practice by Allopathic Physicians . June 

quite different from her usual robust appearauoe. A care¬ 
ful questioning failed to draw out any characteristic symp¬ 
toms. The discharges were frequent, scanty, painful, occur¬ 
ring day and night alike. She had taken hot medicines and 
all of the domestic remedies and vile mixtures that her 
friends could suggest. I had several times prescribed for her 
with marked success because she generally gave me char¬ 
acteristic indications. Instead of prescribing Nux vomica I 
asked her to describe the beginning of the attack. She said 
she had profuse, watery stools without pain, worse every 
morning. I gave her Podophyllum. A few days later, when 
she called to pay the bill, she said the medicine helped her 
very quickly. 

I practiced three years without appreciating or scarcely 
learning the value of Podophyllum in diarrhoea. The editor 
of this journal having been called to see a case in consulta¬ 
tion with me, was stopping at our house. Our oldest boy, at 
that time our only child, was very sick with a bowel com¬ 
plaint. We asked Dr. Allen to prescribe for him. He said 
that Podophyllum was the remedy.. The exhibition of a few 
doses confirmed the correctness of the prescription. For 
some time after that my wife considered Podophyllum the 
only remedy for children teething during hot weather. 

H. W. Champlih. 

TO WAND A, PA. 


HOMEOPATHY DYING OUT (?) 

The following is from a paper by T. S. Hoyne, M. D., read 
at the Illinois State Homeopathic Society, May 13, 1891: 

Since the last annual meeting of this association the United 
States has taken the usual census, and the total population 
of each state and territory has been published. We are thus 
enabled to give an accurate statement of our exact position 
in this country, and to compare it with our standing of for¬ 
mer years. 

It is frequently asserted by the intelligent as well as the 
ignorant enemies of the homeopathic school of medicine, that 
the number of our adherents is constantly diminishing—in 
fact, is not keeping up with the growth of the population; or, 
in other words, is “ playing out.” In order to show that 
there is no true ground for such assertions, I wish to call your 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Homeopathy Dying Out . 


447 


attention .to a few figures, which will not only astonish even 
you, who are accustomed to hear wonderful things of Home¬ 
opathy, but will conclusively prove to our avowed enemies that' 
our school is not dying yet—that it is still growing—that it is 
more than keeping up with the increase in population. 

Let us begin with our own State, Illinois, which had a pop¬ 
ulation of 2,539,891 in the year 1870, and 3,818,536 in 1890, 
a satisfactory growth of slightly over 50 per cent, for the 
twenty years. The period of twenty years is used because 
Homeopathy was to die twenty years ago, and when it did 
not the period was extended twenty years more. The num¬ 
ber of homeopathic physicians in this State in 1870 was 394, 
and in the year 1890 was 766, an increase of over ninety-three 
and one-half per cent. Not a very sickly patient truly is 
Homeopathy in Illinois. 

In other words, in 1870 there was one homeopathic physi¬ 
cian to every 6,446 persons, and in 1890 one to every 4,985. 
Hence in the State of Illinois the school has lost no ground, 
but has increased nearly twice as fast as the population. 

In the State of Iowa during the last two decades, the popu¬ 
lation was augmented less than sixty per cent., while the 
number of homeopathic practitioners grew 160 per cent. 

The banner Western State, however, was California, where 
the population increased 115 per cent., and the “little pill 
doctors ” 1,655 per cent, in the past twenty years. 

In Minnesota, hampered by a one-sided board and a large 
foreign element, the population and number of practitioners. 
show a growth of 288 per cent. 

In the State of Missouri, where little was expected, 
Homeopathy grew nearly 250 per cent., while the population 
barely passed a fifty-five per cent, growth in the twenty 
years. 

Much was looked for in Kansas and we were not disap¬ 
pointed. Over 290 per cent, was the growth in population, 
while 837 per cent, marked the increase in number of 
homeopathic physicians. 

So far as your chairman knows, there is only one Northern 
or Western State that has not kept up with the procession, 
and that is Wisconsion. The new settlers in this common¬ 
wealth are nearly all foreigners who know nothing of 
Homeopathy, and our doctors have had a hard fight to over- 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



448 


Homeopathy Dying Out. 


June 


come stupidity, ignorance and prejudices. The population 
in twenty years was augmented 59£ per cent., while the 
number of homeopathic prescribers increased only 11 per 


cent. How much the Milwaukee test had to do with these 
figures it is hard to say, but it looks very much as if the pro- 
fession were still suffering from that cause. 

The following States taken at random, illustrate fully the 
unparalleled growth of Homeopathy in twenty years: 

INCREASE IN 


Alabama. 

California. 

Connecticut. 

Delaware. 

Florida.. 

Illinois. 

Indiana. 

Iowa. v . 

Kentucky.. 

Kansas. 

Maine. 

Maryland. 

Michigan. 

Minnesota. 

Nebraska. 

Missouri. 

New Hampshire 

Texas. 

Virginia. 

Vermont. 

West Virginia... 
Wisconsin.. 


POPULATION. 
Per cent. 

. 31 .... 

.... 115 .... 

. 57 .... 

. 83 .... 

....108 ... 

. 50 .... 

. 80 .... 

. 60 _ 

. 40 *.. 

.... 290 .... 

. 5 *.. 

. ... 38 *.. 

. 76 .... 

.... 288 ..,. 

.... 751 .... 

. 55 .... 

. 18 .... 

.... 182 .... 

. 84 .... 

. 1 .... 

. 71 *.. 

. 59 *. • 


HOMEOPATHY- 

Peroent. 

.. 180 

. 1655 

. 150 

. 270 

. 750 

. 98 * 

. 179 

. 160 

. 190 

. 837 

. 128 

. 190 


21.75 

..250 

. 98 * 

..600 

...87 

...17 

..260 

...11 


In the above table we have figures from the north, south, 
east and west, and everywhere they tell the same story—that 
Homeopathy is growing at a more rapid pace than the num¬ 
ber of inhabitants. A continuation at this pace will, in the 
course of time, make Homeopathy the dominant school.— 
The Medical Visitor. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 













































1891 


Mental Delusions . 


449 


MENTAL DELUSIONS. 

Afternoon, that it is always: Stann. 

Air, that everything is in the: Stann. 

he is lifted high in the, and is anxious lest the 

slightest touch should make him fall: Hyper, 
is hovering in, like a spirit: Asar. 

Alone, that she is always: Stram. 

in the world: Plat. 

Arms, that her, do not belong to her: Agar, 
are bound to her body: Cim. 
that she has three: Petr. 

Ball, that he is sitting on a, Chim: Gan. i. 

Beautiful, everything is: Sulph. 

Bed, was bouncing her up and down: Bell. 

sinking under her: Kali c. Bry. Bhus. 
falling through, she is: Bell. Lach. 
motion, is in: Lac. can. 
people are at foot of: Bry. 

Bier, is lying on a: Anac. 

in next room, upon which he or a friend is lying: Anac- 
Birds, that he is picking feathers from: Hyos. 

Body is separated from soul: Thuja Anac. 

would sink down between thighs: Bell. 

Bottle, sees, with friend's head sticking out of mouth: Bell- 
Bowels, were turning: Sabad. 

Brains, that her feet are in her: Amphisboena. 

Brittle, that he is made of some substance, hence does not 
want any one to approach him for fear of being broken: 
Thuja. 

Called, thinks he is, by his distant mother or sister: Anac. 
Cats, sees: Am. Daph. Hyosc. Puls. Stram. 

Chair, is rising: Phos. 

mouse running from under: Cim* 

Chin, is too long: Glon. 

Child is not hers: Anac. 

Churchyard, that he is dancing in a: Stram. 

Ciphers, sees: Phos. ac. 

Confined, that she will soon be: Verat. 

Consciousness, will soon loose, or that it belongs to another: 
Alum. 

Convent, will have to go to a: Lac def. 

Corner, sees something coming out of: Phos. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



450 


Mental Delusions . 


Juhb 


Crime, is about to commit a: Kalibrom. 

Criminal, he is a: Hyos. ~ 

Damned, thinks he is: Kali phos. 

Dancing in a churchyard, thinks he is: Stram. 

Dead, everything is: Mez. 

all her friends are, and she must go to a convent: 

Lac def. 

people, sees: Hep. 

that he is, and that preparations are being made 
for his funeral: Lach. 

is nearly, and begs some one to help her off: Lach. 

Deaf and dumb, that he is, Yerat. 

Death, she feels approaching: Anthracinum. 

she feels approaching, with despondency: Arn. 
she sees as a black skeleton: Crot. 
ghtes wrong things to people causing their: Sulph. 
Deformed, thinks same part of her is: Aeon. 

Delirious, will become: Bry. 

Delivered, will soon be: Verat. 

Devil, is possessed of the: Hyos. 
is riding on her back: Anac. 
in his ear whispering blasphemous words: Anac. 

Die, has to, but no fear: Lac def. 

has to, and she weeps: Bar. c. Kali c. 
time has now come to, and begs those around to 
help her off: Bell. Lach. 

Disease, has incurable: Plumb. Arg. n. 

Dissected, that he will be: Can. i. 

Dress, which has been made for her, sees: Aeth. 

Dresses and fine ornaments, she has: Sulph. 

Duty, has neglected, and deserves reproaches: Aur. 

Ear, devil in, whispering blasphemous words: Anac. 

opens and closes: Bor. 

Enemies, is pursued by: Lach. 

Eyes, sees big: Lac can. 

Face, thinks is elongated: Stram. 
grows larger: Aeon. 

Fall, is in air and slightest touch would make her: Hyper. 
Fire, house is on: Bell. Hep. 

everything is on, hence she has got to go home: Bell, 
a little noise in the street, seems like cries of, and fright¬ 
ens her so she trembles: Bar. c. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Mental Delusions . 


451 


Fits, thinks he will have a, so he must walk faster; Arg. n. 
Forehead, that the skin of, is drawn into folds: Graph. 
Following him, thinks some one is: Anac. Crot: Staph. Lach. 
Friend sees, lying dead: Ars. 

Glass, thinks is made of: Thuja. 

Goose, thinks he is a: Con. 

Greens, for sale he has: Cup. 

Halves, is divided into, left half does not belong to her: Sil. 
Hand, is too large, and she is constantly looking*at it: Hyos. 
Head, cold breeze blows on : Petr, 
too light: Strain, 
scattered : Bapt. 
too full: Calc, 
transparent: Bell. 

sees friends', sticking out of bottle :^Bell. 
is tall and can't look over : Zinc met. 
his, belongs to another : Ther. 
can lift it off: Ther. 

Health, he has ruined his : Chel. 

Heart, turning around, is : Aur.. 

disease, is going to have, and die : Lac. can. 
is too large: Lach. 

Home, is not at: Op. 

hasgottogo, because everything is on fire: Bell. 

House, is on fire; Bell. Hep. 

Husband, thinks is not her husband: Anac. 

Insane, that people think her: Calc. 

Insects, sees, and throw them away by handfuls: Ars. 

Island, is on a distant, and is a lady of rank:*Phos. 

Juggler, thinks he is a: Bell. 

Journey, talks of going on a, and is ready: Op. 

Killed, roasted and eaten, thinks he is: Stram. 

Knee, that he walks on his: Bar. c. 

Laughed at when walking on street: Bar. c. 

Legs, has three: Petr. 

don't belong to her: Agar, 
are holding a conversation: Bapt.* 
are cut off : Bar. c. 

are cut off, and walks on knee: Bar. c. 

Lie, thinks all she says is a: Lac can. 

Lip, lower, is swollen: Glon. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



452 


Mental Delusions . 


Junk 


Live, longer, can not: Thuja. 

Magician, is a: Bell. 

Man, he orders away a: Puls. 

Medicine, is poison, thinks the: Lach. 

Men, sees old: Laur. 

thinks, are swine: Hyos. 

Mouse, see, running from under chair: Cim. 

Murder, thinks she is about to, her husband or child: Kali 
brom. 

that he has to, some one: Ars. 

Music, is at a concert and hears sweet: Croc. 

INeck is too large: Kali c. 

Officer, is, and gives the word of command: Bell. 

Paralyzed, that he is, when lying on back: Sang. 

Pursuing him, thinks some one is: Anac. 

Places, thinks he is in two, at same time: Sil. 

Power, thinks herself in the hands of some: Lach. 

Pregnant, thinks herself, old maid: Thuja. 

thinks herself, after menses: Ign. 

Queen, thinks she is a: Can. i. 

Kailroad car, is in, and everyone is talking, and she begs to 
be held: Sang. 

Rank, thinks he has noble: Phos. 

Rocked, thinks she is: Bell. 

Rocks, sees: Magn. m. 

Running against the people he meets: Aeon. 

Sees, thinks some one else, for him: Alum. 

Sheep, is driving: Aeon. 

Shoulder, thinks people are looking over his: Brom. 

Sick, believes he is going to be: Pod. 
beloved friend is, and dying: Bar. c. 
members of his family are: Hep. 
he is not sick: Arn. 

Skeleton, sees black, which is death: Crot. 

Soul and body are separated: Thuja. 

Space, that there is empty, between brain and skull: Caust. 
Speaks, when he speaks<he thinks it is some one else: Alum. 
Spiders, sees: Lac can. 

Spirit, sees, hovering in the air: Aur. 

Stare, thinks he must: Kali mur. 

Steps, hears: Canth. 


Digitized by 


Google 



1891 


Mental Delusions. 


453 


Stomach, thinks be has nicer of: Acet. ao. 
is devoured: Sabad. 
was shortened: lgn. 

that all the functions of the soul were performed 
in pit of: Aeon. 

Striking him, thinks some one is: Elaps. 

Succeed, that he can not; does everything wrong: Aur. 
Thieves in house, and wants to jump out of window: Lach. 
Throat disease, she has, and it will end fatally: Sabad. 
Tongue cold, air blowing on: Aeon, 
too long: Aeth. 
is made of wood: Apis. 

Two places at same time, thinks he is in: Sel. 

is cut in, thinks he is: Plat. 

Veins, thinks cold water is in: Rhus. 

Virgin Mary, thinks she is: Can. i. 

Voice, hears, from left side, which she must follow: Crot. 
Walk, can not, hence must run or hop: Hell. Apis. 

on knees, must: Bar. c. 

Water, sees falling: Merc. 

Wood, is made of: Nitrum. 

[These symptoms have been verified; if not in your Materia 
Medica or repertory, put them there, where you can find 
them when wanted.—Ei>.] 


HOW TALLEYRAND WAS CRIPPLED. 

The cause of Talleyrand’s lameness has long been a matter 
of dispute. During the fifty-two years which have elapsed 
since his death, his deformity has been accounted for in all 
manner of ways. 

In the extracts from his memoirs, published in the January 
Century , Talleyrand himself settles the controversy. “ At 
the age of four,” says he, “I accidentally fell from the top 
of a cupboard, and dislocated my foot. The woman to 
whose care I was entrusted only informed my family of this 

several months afterward.The dislocation of my foot 

had been neglected too long to be remedied; even my other 
foot, having to bear alone the whole weight of my body, had 
grown weaker, and thus I remained lame for life. “That 
accident,” he adds, “ had a great influence over my after life.” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




464 The Stigma Upon Southern Homoeopaths. Juke 

“THE STIGMA THAT RESTS UPON SOUTHERN 
HOMCEOPATHS.”* 

The title of this paper was suggested to my mind by a phy¬ 
sician who has not only been honored by this association, but 
who stands high in the esteem of its members; one of the 
leading Homoeopathic physicians of the South. If, there¬ 
fore, it (the title) or some of the expressions herein voiced 
seems to harp discordantly upon the sensibilities of some, 
please to bear in mind that I, the writer, am only one of a 
goodly number who feel the pressure, the weight of respon¬ 
sibility portrayed by this same title. 

In a personal communication this representative Southern 
Homoeopath says: “ Help remove the stigma that rests upon 
Southern homoeopaths of crudism,” and he might have added 
of un-homceopathic methods . 

For a number of years I have been striving to do this with 
pen, precept and example. I have in the past done all I 
could in this direction within the range of my ability and 
influence, and it is my purpose to continue so doing at all 
times, and on all occasions when consistent. 

There is a lamentable proneness on the part of a certain 
class of physicians who arrogate to themselves the title of 
“ Purists,” or “ Hahnemannians,” or “ Homceopathicians,” to 
hold aloof from their fellows and establish a sort of exclusiv- 
ism which tends to disintegrate and thus to weaken our stand¬ 
ing and iq^uence as a school of medicine. This is especially 
damaging where and when any organized action is necessary. 
This tendency should by all fair and practical means be dis¬ 
couraged. Each side should be less intolerant of the other 
than at present. 

Because my brother differs from me in methods of prac¬ 
tice; because he can not see as I do; because he has not been 
able to overcome his prejudice, or timidity, or incredulity; 
because he has not observed such operations or has failed to 
secure such results as others claim—and truthfully too—to 
have done, is no reason why he may not some time overcome 
those clogs which hinder and learn the better way. Above 
all things it is no reason why he should be called a “ mon¬ 
grel,” and have heaped upon him the slur and opprobrium of 
wrong doing. Scolding and calling names is in no sense 

* Southern Homeopathic Association. 


Digitized by tjOOQle 



1891 


S. Mills Fowler . 


455 


argumentative, and fault finding is far from being the best 
method of teaching and converting. . 

The charge of crudism and un-homoeopathic methods 
made against us of the South, is, we are sorry to confess, too 
true. Witness, for instance, a recent controversy between 
Northern and Southern writers on the subject of intermittent 
fever. 

Among us are many bright men—men of intelligence and 
education, ambitious men, men of character and capacity. 
But how many Simon Pure homoeopaths are there among us ? 
So far as this writer knows they can all be counted on one's 
phalanges and yet have enough left to scratch with. Among 
these few, however, are the brightest and most capable men, 
who wield much influence where they live, men who are 
respected at home and abroad but who are not in touch with 
either this association or their State societies, and take no 
interest in our deliberations or work* 

Ask of one of them, “ Why don't you attend the Society 
meetings ?" and the answer is, “I am not in sympathy with 
them. There is no harmony between us. I go there and am 
forced to listen to all sorts of talk about pathology, the germ 
theory discussions, and to a few men striving to impress the 
others with their wonderful superiority in scienti. c attain¬ 
ments, a little of this and that and other things, but hardly a 
word of Homoeopathy. And if any one attempts to offer 
anything in that line indifference is at once manifested, he is 
only tolerated and is made to understand that his statements 
are considered as vagaries and himself as a materia medica 
‘ crank.'" 

That there are grounds for this situation in the South none 
can deny. 

First. “ Our friends the enemy" are, and have been for a 
generation at least, unceasingly preaching that Homoeopathy 
may be all right in the North but it won't do in the South; 
that only massive doses of medicine will be found effective in 
the South. They have reiterated these and such like state¬ 
ments, in season and out of season, until a majority of the 
laity and many professional men have come to regard it as 
truth, although it is one of the most senseless fallacies ever 
perpetrated upon trusting humanity. Many homoeopaths 
(by profession only) have fallen into this egregious error, as 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



456 


The Stigma Upon Southern Homeopaths. Juxb 


seen in their writings and shown in their daily work. They 
assert that immaterial dynamic doses may, and doubtless do, 
meet the requirements in the Northern States, but that we 
must use stronger medicines in the South. Pernicious inter- 
mittents can only be controlled by large doses of Quinine, or 
a mixture of a number of crude drugs (as advocated in an 
article recently published in a homoeopathic journal, a for¬ 
mula of which can be obtained on application to the author). 

An answer to such statements, which is simple and to my 
mind irrefutable, is “Why?” Is it possible that a man or 
woman bom and educated in Iowa is of finer clay, of more 
refined and sensitive material, than a man or woman born 
and educated in Florida? Is there more delicacy of organ¬ 
ism, more natural refinement; are symptoms more easily 
influenced, temperaments more accurately adjusted, and 
therefore more in harmony with the laws of nature in the 
North than in the South? Are the rules of living, of 
hygiene, of relations—are the laws governing physics, physio¬ 
logical and philosophical, in nature and art, in science, or the 
operations of either dynamic or material influences relatively 
different in different countries or different sections of the 
same country? 

No man in his senses, whose judgment is worthy of consid¬ 
eration in such matters, will dare to assume the affirmative 
of these propositions. 

* As a matter of fact and experience, those who have tested 
the questions and conditions have found that the law is uni¬ 
versally applicable . If it was otherwise it cofild not be a law, 
for all natural laws operate at all times and under all circum¬ 
stances in the same way. Chemical affinities and proportions 
are always exact and unchanging. The relations of the 
immaterial to the material, as motion, heat, light, etc., are 
ever the same. Then, if we have a law of cure, it is just as 
unvarying, and must operate at the tropics as at the poles 
and vice versa. If a man is suffering from a set of Sulphur 
symptoms Sulphur is the remedy, and will as surely remove 
them, whether the man lives in the swamps of Louisiana or 
on the Adirondack mountains. 

“But,” says the skeptic, “if these things be true, why 
such diversity in methods ?” 

Ignorance of the law and its application affords the only 
solution to the problem; the only explanation to the situation. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


S. Mills Fowler . 


457 


If you will show me a man who administers medicines in 
crude doses—one who mixes two or more medicines and then 
administers the mixture, or one who administers two or more 
drugs in alternation or rotation—I will show you a man who 
never studied the Organon of the Art of Healing, by Samuel 
Hahnemann, or if he has it has been to little purpose* This 
book teaches the law and its application. It is the very Bible 
of Homoeopathy, and he who has failed to possess himself of 
a knowledge of the principles therein taught is less qualified 
to practice Homoeopathy than the man is to practice law who 
has never read Blackstone, or to preach Christianity who is a 
stranger to the Hew Testament. It contains what there is of 
Homoeopathy and all there is of Homoeopathy. 

When we look over the list of papers presented at the meet¬ 
ing of this Association one year ago, we Are forcibly reminded 
of the lack of Homoeopathy and kindred subjects. On the 
list which came under my eye there was not one, and, so far 
as the title went, the papers might have been presented at a 
meeting of an allopathic medical association as well. Some 
of them have been published in the journals, and in not one 
of them which I have read did the author give any exhibition 
of possessing any knowledge of the principle Similia. 

It is no wonder, then, that a stigma rests upon Southern 
Homoeopaths, not only as regards crudism, but in everything 
relating to the subject. And while we continue to run after 
the pathological will-o*-the-wisp, which is so constantly under* 
going revision and change—the germ theory and its microbe 
craze—or strive so much after the scientific flesh pots, just so 
long will that stigma continue to rest upon us. 

It is well to learn all there is to know regarding diseases^ 
their causes, courses and probable termination. To learn to 
know what to look for, what to expect, and how to find any¬ 
thing that will shed light upon any given case of sickness. 
“ Knowledge is power,” and the attainment thereof is always 
commendable, and for the gaining of it no man is condemned. 
But to the followers of Hahnemann is revealed truth , a knowl¬ 
edge of which renders obsolete and useless all such teachings 
when we come to the treatment, the therapeutical manage¬ 
ment of human ailments. 

But the “stigma that rests upon us as Southern Homoeo¬ 
paths ! ” — can we remove it ? 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



458 The Stigma Upon Southern Homeopaths . Juint 

One way suggests itself to me, and I believe that it is the 
only one in which we can be relieved of this incubus, and if 
pursued will as surely lead to a revolution in matters medical. 
I offer it. It is an old method, and in substance is what 
Hahnemann offered nearly a century ago. 

Let every Southern homoeopath, who has not one already, 
procure a copy of the Organon and read it through care- 
fully, section by section, at least three times during the com¬ 
ing year. Let us study to apply the knowledge thus gained 
in our daily work. If we fail the first time let us try only 
harder the next, and conscientiously labor to the attainment 
of wisdom in Homoeopathic Therapeutics, and at the next 
meeting report results. 

I tell you it is God’s truth, revealed to the world by Hahne¬ 
mann. It is God’s law, and when rightly understood and 
properly applied, what a flood of light is shed upon us. What 
a consciousness of power takes possession of us, and what • a 
happy spirit of contentment is ours as we contemplate our 
work, well done. 

Hahnemann’s challenge was, “ Put these principles to the 
test in the manner described, and publish the failures to the 
world .” 

This is now the challenge of every true follower of the law, 
and it is the challenge of the writer of this paper. 

S. Mills Fowler, 

In Southern Journal of Homoeopathy. 

Gainesville, Texas. 

[The “stigma” to which Dr. Fowler refers belongs to* 
Northern as well as Southern homeopaths, and can only be 
removed by a desperate effort on the part of both—viz., prac¬ 
tice Homeopathy according ta Hahnemann’s teachings.—E d.} 


POST DIPHTHERITIC DROPSY: ARSENICUM. 

Was called Feb. 5th to see A. P., age 15 yea*e. Had 
been treated by an allopath two weeks for diphtheria. During- 
the second week of his illness he was taken with dropsy, 
which commenced in his feet and gradually went to hie 
abdomen and chest. He could not lie down for fear of suf¬ 
focation. Waxy skin. Great thirst for cold water, but takea 
but a little at a time. All the symptoms worse at night. On 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Gonorrhoea Instead of Psorinum . 


459 


examining his nrine I found that it contained a large per 
cent, of albumen, with a specific gravity 1012. The patient 
was given Arsenicum 30th, and was discharged Feb. 10th as 
cured. Another victory for Homoeopathy. 

barlham, ia. J • F. In yin. 


GONORRHOEA INSTEAD OF PSORINUM. 

Editor Advance: On page 349 of the May number of this 
journal, in the report of a discussion on Psorinum, Dr. Pit¬ 
cairn, of Pittsburgh, ts reported to have said that he “bad 
a repugnance to the remedy and would not use it under any 
circumstance; would as soon give the syphilitic virus.'' 

The interpretation, of course, is that he would not give the 
syphilitic virus, yet we find him re-establishing a gonorrhoeal 
discharge in a case of orchitis and then giving it back to the 
patient in its crude form and in its entirety , by means of 
injections of sulphate of zinc! (p. 351.) That is the doctor 
who would not give Psorinum or Syphilinum in any degree 
of attenuation, no matter what the attending circumstances 
might be. 

The above is a good example of anti nos.ode doctors: they 
have a holy horror of such “ nasty ” remedies as Psorinum , 
and yet they will be guilty of the most damnable practices in 
the same line; you can always depend on them for suppressing 
gonorrhoea for fear of being “left behind in the race,” and 
for all sorts of allopathic treatment, on the plea that Home¬ 
opathy does not cover the condition. The doctor found a man 
with orchitis from suppressed gonorrhoea which he restored 
with remedies that yrere only similar, not the most similar; 
for the orchitis went to the other testicle at the same time that 
the discharge was restored; and yet in the face of that the 
doctor proceeds to suppress the discharge again. If the orchi¬ 
tis was not renewed, it was the patient's good fortune, not the 
doctor's devotion to similia, that saved him. Strange to say, 
the doctor was not ashamed to tell of it. 

Chas. B. Gilbert. 

"Washington, D. C. 


Homoeopathy is a perfectly simple system of medicine, 
remaining always fixed in its principles as in its practice. 


• Digitized by VjOOQle 



460 Homeopathic Graduates for 1891 . June 

which, like the doctrine whereon it is based, if rightly appre¬ 
hended, will be found to be so exclusive (and in that way only 
serviceable), that as the doctrine is pure so must the practice 
be also, and all backward straying to the pernicious routine 
of the old school (whose opposite it is as day is to night) ia 
totally impossible, otherwise it ceases to deserve the honora¬ 
ble name of Homoeopathy. That some erring physicians, 
who would wish to be considered homoeopaths, engraft some,, 
to them more convenient, allopathic bad practices upon their 
nominally homoeopathic treatment is owing to ignorance of 
the doctrine, laziness, contempt for suffering humanity and 
ridiculous conceit; and, in addition to unpardonable negli¬ 
gence in searching for the best homoeopathic specific for each 
case of disease, has often a base love of gain and other dis¬ 
honorable motives for its spring. And for its result ?—that 
they can not cure all important and serious diseases which 
pure and careful Homoeopathy can.— Hahnemann. 


HOMEOPATHIC GRADUATES FOR 1891. 

So far as heard from the number of graduates is 390, cred¬ 


ited as follows: 

Hahnemann Medical College of Chicago. 97 

Hahnemann Medical College of Philadelphia. 50 

Chicago Homeopathic Medical College...58 

New York Homeopathic Medical College. 45 

Pulte Medical College, Cincinnati. 20 

Boston Homeopathic College. 29 

Cleveland Medical College... ]0 

Iowa City Homeopathic College... 17 

Homeopathic Medical College of Missouri. lfi 

Woman’s Homeopathic Medical College of New York.... 0 

Cleveland Homeopathic Medical College.. 8 

Kansas City Homeopathic Medical College. 6 

Hahnemann Medical College of California. 4 


The University of Michigan is yet to be heard from. The 
figures show conclusively that Chicago has become the home¬ 
opathic center of the world. There are more students in our 
two colleges every year than there were practitioners in the 
State twenty years ago. “ Westward the star of Empire,”' 
etc .—Medical Visitor . 


Digitized by VjOOQle 















1891 


Editorial. 


461 


febitotiat 

41 When we have to do with an art whose end is the saving of human lift, any 
neglect to make ourselves thorough masters of it becomes a crime.”—H ahnmahk. 


Higher Medical Education. —If by this term is meant, 
higher literary and scientific attainments as preliminaries to 
the study of medicine, no objection will be offered by any 
follower of Hahnemann. But does higher medical education 
in the general acceptation of the term fulfill the requirements 
of § 1 of the Organon, where Hahnemann says: “The phy¬ 
sician’s highest and only calling is to restore health to the 
sick?” Does the highest education to be obtained from the 
ablest allopathic faculty, either in this country or Europe, 
enable the graduate to “ restore health to the sick?” Does 
the death list during the recent epidemics of la grippe answer 
this question in the affirmative? What we, as a school, need, 
is better instruction in the art of healing from our college 
rostrums; a better and more thorough drill in the method of 
applying the law of similars in homeopathic therapeutics 
from both college and preceptor; a better, a higher, a more 
thorough education in the principles of the Organon. This 
teaching is now practically neglected in our colleges, and it 
contains the essence of homeopathic therapeutics and all there 
is of Homeopathy. Omit this from a “higher education ” and 
so far as the healing of the sick is concerned — “the physi¬ 
cian’s highest and only calling” — the homeopathic graduate 
is placed on a par with his allopathic brother. He can use 
the knife, morphine, quinine and other palliatives just as 
well, but no better than his allopathic competitor; and he 
meets with about the same success. 

* * * 

Our friends of the dominant school are generally credited 
with having received the higher medical education, and yet 
the excessive mortality during the recent epidemic influenza 
in all our large cities clearly demonstrates that they have 
yet to learn how to “restore health to the sick.” Here is a 
sample from the Buffalo News: 

“‘There’s a queer thing about this epidemic, which is 
that the allopaths are losing all the cases,’ said an over¬ 
worked undertaker to a News reporter yesterday afternoon. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



462 


Editorial . 


June 


“ ‘Are you serious or jesting?' asked the reporter, who is 
an allopath by predilection. 

“‘Dead in earnest/ was the reply. ‘We've been rushed 
to death for a month and we haven't buried a homoeopathic 
victim of grip or pneumonia yet. If you doubt what I say, 
go and look at the death certificates.' 

“ The reporter proceeded to the bureau of vital statistics 
and found the undertaker's statement pretty well backed up. 

“ The registrar had just moved into the board of health's 
new quarters in the new Municipal building and was unable 
to comply with the reporter's request to be allowed to scan 
the death certificates for the past month, and was only able 
to exhibit those filed since April 14th. 

“With the aid of a list of physicians of both schools and 
the individual knowledge of reporter and registrar, the inves¬ 
tigators were able to identify most of the names as those of 
.allopaths or homeopaths. 

“Altogether, out of seventy certificates of death from acute 
lung diseases, such as pneumonia, congestion of the lungs and 
‘la grippe/ it was found that sixty-three bore the signatures 
of allopaths, six signatures were described as in doubt as to 
which school the practitioner belongs, and but two were signed 
by physicians recognized as belonging to the homeopathic 
school. 

“The Eegister looked very uncomfortable as he aided the 
reporter in his task, for the city government's Health Depart¬ 
ment is old school. ‘You should remember that there are 
more allopaths than homeopaths in this city/ said he, as he 
■called out ‘allopath/ reading from the last death certificate 
which had just come in. 

“ Inquiry elicited the fact that there are 300 allopaths in 
Buffalo to sixty homeopaths—a proportion of five to one. To 
bring up the proportions and eliminating the doubtfuls the 
reporter multiplied the homeopathic deaths by five, which 
would give that school ten deaths to the allopathies sixty- 
three, given an equal number of homeopaths and allopaths in 
Buffalo." 

From the above it is evident that to the kind of higher 
medical education is due the vast difference in the mor¬ 
tality during great epidemics. This was just as true of 
Asiatic cholera and typhus in the time of Hahnemann, as it 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


46a 


has been of yellow fever, influenza and every great epidemic 
since. How “to restore health to the sick,” has unfortu¬ 
nately been neglected. 

* * * 

But much as we regret it, honesty compels us to say that 
many in our own school have yet to learn the principles of 
applied Homeopathy—higher medical education—as ex¬ 
pounded by Hahnemann; and this neglected knowledge of the 
history and course of chronic diseases is often attended by 
deplorable results. Why professed homeopaths should be 
guilty of suppressing chronic eruptions and discharges, a la 
Allopathy, and proclaim such bungling treatment as “the 
best Homeopathy can do ” is past comprehension. Yet, this 
is what is being done every day in the week, both in hospital 
and private practice, and that too in the name of Hahne¬ 
mann and Homeopathy. Is it any wonder that the people 
are unable to distinguish any difference between “modern 

Homeopathy and old school methods? 

* * * 

A gentleman recently applied for the relief of a chronic 
neuralgic affection of the left side of the head and face, of 
many years standing. It had been, and was, most severe in 
the temple and along the course of the superior and inferior 
maxillary nerves; tooth after tooth having been extracted 
until the entire left side, as far as the symphysis was tooth¬ 
less, and yet the neuralgia was unaffected. The nerves were 
“ stretched,” and yet the pain persisted; Morphine and 
Chloroform alone modified its severity. Flushes of heat pre¬ 
ceded the attack; left side extremely sensitive to touch; and 
it was attended by a nervous weakness in stomach and abdo¬ 
men. Lachesis afforded prompt relief. 

Here is another case, and our journals are teeming with 
similar illustrations, treated by a professed homeopath, which 
to say the least might have had a very different termination 
had the higher medical education of Hahnemann been under¬ 
stood and practiced. It is reported by Dr. Carmichael, of 
Philadelphia: 

Miss E. R-, aged 18, strumous. Has had nosopharyngeal catarrh 

and otitis media for several years. I found her complaining of lassi¬ 
tude, headache and intense pain in left ear, which was discharging 
profusely. There was also some discharge from right ear. The ears- 
were loosely packed with Boric acid, which was removed every night 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



464 


Editorial. 


JUNB 


by syringing, and internal remedies were given with marked relief of 
nil symptoms. 

On the seventh day after my first visit she suddenly developed tonic 
and clonic convulsions, with strabismus and slight inequality of the 
pupils. After regaining consciousness she experienced intense pain in 
the frontal region and in the left mastoid. The latter was almost 
unbearable, but it was the only indication of mastoid disease. Delir¬ 
ium was a prominent symptom. At no time was the temperature 
above 101.2. I diagnosed brain abscess, which I supposed was related 
to the disease of the left ear. Up to this time the treatment consisted 
in the application of heat to the head, mustard to tbe mastoid and nape 
of the neck, and Belladonna, Hepar, Acetanilide and Codeine inter¬ 
nally. 

On the tenth day Dr. Carl Vischer saw the case in consultation and 
suggested incision and trephining the mastoid. 

On the same evening I made a free incision over the mastoid, but with 
a negative result, and next morning Dr. Vischer trephined the mastoid, 
but without any indication of pus or diseased bone. It was then 
decided to explore the brain, and Drs. Vischer, Bartlett and myself 
trephined at the usual point above Reid's base line, for cerebral abscess 
following suppurative ear disease. On removing the bone the tissues 
surged into the opening, showing abnormal tension, but incision of the 
dura mater and pia mater and probing in every direction failed to dis¬ 
cover pus. The probe met with no resistance save when it came in 
contact with the tentorium. The wound was dressed antiseptically, 
but loosely, so as to favor the exit of pus should it have been over¬ 
looked. 

The patient rallied nicely from the operation, and for several hours 
was apparently relieved, but delirium and restlessness again recurring, 
she was given Phanacetine and Morphia with good results. On the 
following day she was rational, took bovinine and chicken broth, but 
at 8 p. m. died suddenly while attendant had left the room. 

Post mortem revealed no evidence of mastoid disease. On the under 
surface of the tentorium, and within a quarter of an inch of the edge of 
the trephined area, pus was found. There was about a drachm of it spread 
over the membrane. From the appearance of the parts it was decided 
to be of tubercular origin. 

The case was interesting from tbe fact that it followed an acute 
catarrhal otitis media, and that the subjective symptoms mainly pointed 
to the ear as the source of the trouble. 

* * * 

Another feature of the case which the physicians over¬ 
looked entirely was the fact that the brain symptoms 
promptly supervened in about the usual time, after the local 
application of the Boric acid to the ear and the suppres¬ 
sion of the profuse discharge. Had the discharge not been 
suppressed, it is very doubtful if the patient would have 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editorial . 


465 


succumbed to the tubercular pachymeningitis, and had the 
attending physician been imbued with the higher education 
to be found in the Organon and Chronic Diseases, he would 
not have used allopathic measures in the treatment of his 
patient. 

* * * 

Remarkable Temperature.— The reliability of the clin¬ 
ical thermometer as a diagnostic and prognostic measure has 
recently been put to a severe test. In the Journal of the 
American Medical Association, March 21, 1891, Dr. W. J. 
Galbraith, Prof, of clinical surgery, Omaha Medical College, 

reports the case of a Mrs. M-, aged 26, married five years, 

mother of one child two years old, suffering from peritonitis 
as a result of tubal pregnancy, in which the temperature 
ranged from 6° F. below normal to 117°, 125°, 137°, 145°, 
151° and 171° F. above; and, what is still more peculiar, 
when the temperature reached 140° F. or more, her pulse 
was 60 or 70, and when the temperature was normal or below, 
the pulse was from 100 to 120. 

Another case is reported from Memphis, Tenn., of a young 
girl in which, after an acute attack of tonsilitis, a fever set 
in each morning about nine o’clock, lasting two or three 
hours, in which the temperature ranged from 92° F. to 158° 
F.; at the latter point the thermometer broke. Our colleague, 
Dr. Lippincott, writes that he has seen eighteen broken ther¬ 
mometers, including the one that registered 160°. Both these 
patients are recovering, notwithstanding the fact that the 
temperature has fallen 6° below normal and raised more than 
60° above. 


Naja in Asthma. — I was subject for fifteen years to severe 
attacks of asthma, and I never found a remedy to touch it 
until I found Naja. I have since found that it is one of the 
most important remedies with which to control hay fever and 
autumnal catarrh, and the symptoms which seem to indicate 
it are first a flow of water from the nose, which is continuous 
for a few minutes, and is followed by intense sneezing, after 
which there is freedom in breathing; but after a continued 
recurrence of this same condition for a few days there fol¬ 
lows dryness in the lungs, great difficulty of breathing. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



466 


Editorial . 


June 


worse on lying down; the asthma from the difficult breathing 
is relieved by rising and sitting in an erect position. In my 
case, and in several others, Naja has always relieved in a 
short time. I have always used it in the 30th potency. 


Sanitarium and sanatorium are words often used synony¬ 
mously, but really of different, though allied, meanings. 
Sanitarium is derived from the Latin sanita , health, and 
means a place of health, a health retreat, a spot where cor¬ 
rect sanitary conditions prevail. Sanatorium is derived from 
the low or late Latin sanatorious, which in turn comes from 
the Latin sano , sanare, to heal, and means a place of heal¬ 
ing, a curative retreat, a spot where active health-restoring 
conditions prevail. The former, in brief, is hygienic or 
prophylactic ; the latter therapeutic. The same distinction 
is to be observed between sanitary and sanatory.— Exchange . 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Principiis Obsta. 


467 


Comment anb Criticism* 


Ask yourself if there be any element of right and wrong in a question. If 
so take your part with the perfect and abstract right, and trust in God to soe 
that it shall prove expedient.—W endell Phillips. 


PRINCIPIIS OBSTA: DR. ALLAN’S REPLY. 

Editor Advance: In the May number of The Medical 
Advance Dr. B. Fincke has seen fit to severely criticize the 
explanation I made in a paper that appeared in the Novem¬ 
ber number, of the rationale of the homoeopathic cure. 
Throughout his paper, from the very beginning to the end, 
he has misconstrued my words entirely and made it appear 
as if I had made an assertion which has no foundation 
whatever in fact, but only in the imagination. It does 
appear as if there will always be some one who fails to 
comprehend the meaning of an argument, however clearly 
it be explained, and it is with profound surprise mingled 
with deep regret that I read Dr. Fincke's criticism. Sur¬ 
prise that he should have misunderstood my paper, and 
regret that he should have fallen into the grave error of 
considering secondary (alternating) symptoms and secondary 
action (reaction) to be one and the same. 

In his criticism Dr. Fincke has taken me to task on two 
points: 

First. For saying that every drug when swallowed pro¬ 
duces symptoms in the organism peculiarly its own. 

Secondly. That I had ascribed the opposite symptoms 
observed after the administration of a drug to the reaction of 
the vital force. 

When I made the assertion that every drug when swallowed 
produced symptoms peculiarly its own, I did so with the full 
knowledge of what I was saying, and since my critic has 
called me to task for it, it is now in order for me to defend 
my position. # 

In the first place, when a drug, medicine, substance—call 
it by any name you please—is swallowed or is by any other 
means (swallowing being the usual way) introduced into the 
organism so that its inherent force is brought to bear upon 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



468 


Principiis Obsta . 


June 


the vital force of the individual, it produces symptoms that 
manifest themselves to the senses of the patient and to the 
eye of the observer. These symptoms produced in different 
individuals are always alike so that a trained physician is able 
to recognize by the totality of these morbid manifestations or 
symptoms the medicines that gave rise to them. Proof of 
this assertion is to be found in the provings of the remedies 
and these provings are the corner-stone of Homoeopathy. 
Belladonna invariably gives rise to symptoms which are char¬ 
acteristic of Belladonna, and Ipecac to those of Ipecac, Silicea 
to those of Silicea, and so on through the entire list of medic¬ 
inal substances. Were this not the case there never would 
have been a possibility of the existence of the Law, Similia, 
Similibus Gurantur. 

In order to show his readers that I have made a false state¬ 
ment, our critic has given as examples to prove this assertion 
that all drugs under all circumstances when swallowed do not 
produce symptoms, Silicea, the Carbos, etc., in their crude 
state. Such an illustration as.this is puerile, indeed, and is 
no proof whatever of the truth of his objection to my state¬ 
ment. Crude Silicea may, under certain circumstances, not 
produce any apparent symptoms; but, I venture to say that 
if the doctor should swallow a large enough lump of it he 
would shortly have plenty of symptoms and before many days 
would pass to 

“ That undiscovered country, from whose bourn 
No traveler returns.” 

Again, he sets forward grains, honey, milk, nutriment, etc., 
as a further proof of his objection; but here again he 
blunders. In grain, in honey, in milk and in all articles used 
for food there resides a force around which the matter has 
arranged itself in perfect order. The matter then is a cloak or 
covering of a force residing within, just the same as our bodies 
are the material covering of a vital force contained within. 
This force in food, etc., can not be seen or detected by the eye 
any more than the vital force which animates our bodies can be 
seen with the material eye. We have merely to potentize, as 
we call it, that is to say, liberate these forces which are con¬ 
tained in these very articles of diet, free them from their 
material covering and make a proving of them, to find that 
they too may produce symptoms upon the healthy which are 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Arthur 0 . Allan . 


469 


peculiarly their own. And I might here call our critic's 
attention to Lac can., Lac felin, Sac lac., as well as some 
other articles of diet (?) which he has potentized and himself 
uses as medicine. It is not necessary in all cases to potentize 
articles of diet in order to obtain symptoms in the healthy. 
I may here call attention to the fact that persons are found 
who are made sick by certain articles of diet. We call this an 
idiosyncrasy on the part of the patient, perhaps it is a super¬ 
sensibility of the individual to this particular substance. But 
it nevertheless exists, and no doubt many, if not all, of my 
readers have in mind at least one case who could never eat 
honey on account of the disagreeable symptoms it produced. 

Still this is one of the inert substances which our critic 
declares does not produce symptoms in the healthy when 
swallowed (introduced into the organism). Again, he says 
light, heat, electricity, etc., can not be swallowed, yet they 
produce symptoms of their own upon the healthy. Here 
again he contradicts himself, for he declares light, heat, 
etc., produce symptoms in the healthy, when most of us 
have been about in the light and in various degrees of 
heat for many years, and have not yet exhibited a proving 
of those forces any more than those of us who have eaten 
bread and honey for a like number of years without exper¬ 
iencing symptoms, and yet his objection in the one instance 
is his proof in the other. Thus the fact that something 
is found that can produce symptoms and yet can not be 
swallowed is thrust before me as evidence of the falsity of 
my statement, yet the doctor knows the mere act of deglu¬ 
tition has nothing to do with the question of a drug's action 
upon the vital force. A medicinal force will act, no mat¬ 
ter through what channel its force is brought to bear upon 
the vital force. Hahnemann states this in numerous places 
and shows that inhalation is equally as efficient as a means 
of introducing a medicine into the system as swallowing; 
likewise the medicine can be applied to any mucous or abraded 
surface and will act equally as well as if introduced into the 
mouth; and, more than this, some substances act when applied 
to the unbroken skin alone, viz.: Mercury. We have merely 
to watch the gums of a patient on mercurial inunctions to be 
convinced of this last assertion. Enough has been said upon 
this subject, as time and space will not permit of lengthy 
arguments. 


Digitized by 


Google 



470 


Principiis Obsta. 


June 


We now come to the second objection that our critic has 
raised to my statement, and here, from the beginning to the 
end of his paper, he shows that he did not comprehend what 
I actually said. From the first to the last he accuses me of 
saying that those symptoms which we often observe after the 
administration of a remedy, which are the opposite of some 
that appeared earlier, are caused by, and are evidences of, the 
reaction of the vital force. Did he comprehend my words, 
he could never have made this assertion, for what I said 
means nothing of the hind . No one who understands the 
Organon could ever make such a statement as I am accused 
of. Our critic says, “ To ascribe the opposite symptoms to 
the reaction of the vital force alone is an inadmissible pos- 
tu^tum.’' 

To this I will add that it is an error which no true stu¬ 
dent of Homoeopathy could make, and it is an unwarranted 
assumption on the part of our critic to draw from my words 
such an unreasonable meaning. Now, in order that all may 
know how I stand in this respect, I will give in as few words 
as possible my reasons for writing what I did. Then, if 1 am 
not understood, let the points be clearly set forth and objec¬ 
tions shown, so that I shall be able to defend my words at 
length and in detail. 

There are ’two kinds of drug action, one upon the tissues 
and another on the vital force. In other words, drugs pro¬ 
duce some sort of an effect either upon the tissues or upon 
the vital force. When Arsenic is introduced into the system 
in large quantities it produces an effect which is shown by a 
variety of morbid symptoms. We are able to distinguish 
among these symptoms evidences of a two-fold action. We 
find some symptoms due to a direct and irritating local effect 
upon the tissues themselves, and others due to a dynamic 
action upon the vital force. Its direct, local, corroding 
action upon the tissues is due solely to that matter which 
we see and recognize by its physical appearance and proper¬ 
ties as Arsenic, corroding and destroying the matter in the 
tissues with which it has come into contact. But .the symp¬ 
toms of mental anguish, of restlessness, etc., which charac¬ 
terize its dynamic action, are due to a hidden power or force 
which is stored up in the matter, deranging not the material 
portions of the human organism, but that force which ani- 


igitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Arthur 0 . Allan . 


471 


mates the material bodies which we call the vital force of the 
individual. This force in drugs is the power which we 
should employ as remedial agents. In each and every sub¬ 
stance throughout the universe there resides an unseen force 
which, when brought to bear upon the vital force of the 
individual, impresses it in its own peculiar manner and no 
two of them in exactly the same way. It is this power 
of affecting the vital force, which substances possess, that 
makes them available as medicines, and it is the total¬ 
ity of the drug action being similar to the totality of the 
disease action which makes them of value as remedies in a 
given case of disease. We often notice that we are called 
upon to employ some remedies quite frequently and others 
more rarely. This is because diseases met with oftener bear 
a resemblance to those remedies. Consequently, some medic¬ 
inal forces are of great value and others of little or no value 
because disease rarely resembles them in sphere of action. 
Some substances in their crude form are apparently inert, as 
Lycopodium, Silicea, Bismuth, the Carbos, etc., but they 
can be made use of, and, if administered in large enough 
quantities, act mechanically and produce symptoms and 
remove existing ones; namely. Bismuth to coat ulcers, 
tin for worms, charcoal as an antacid and absorbent of 
foul gases, etc., etc., as employed by allopathists. Others 
are irritants when applied to the tissues and others have a 
variety of modes of action, hence the classification of drugs 
according to physical properties, etc., by the allopaths, who 
have discovered nothing in substances beyond the matter 
which can be seen and recognized. But the follower of Hah¬ 
nemann, the homceopathist, as he is called, has no use for 
crude matter in his remedies. His drugs must first be 
divested of all matter so that he can have nothing but the 
drug force to administer to his patients. Therefore Homoe¬ 
opathy which taught us to potentize our remedies, that 
is to say, to employ only the drug force as medicine, 
also teaches us that every drug, that is to say, every drug 
force, 'when swallowed, in other words, when introduced 
into the organism, so that its force will be brought to bear 
upon the vital force, will produce an effect which will 
manifest itself in symptoms, which in totality are peculiarly 
its own, that is to say, are different from those produced 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



472 


Principiis Obsta, 


June 


by each and every other drug force. When the drug force 
has been introduced into the organism, it immediately 
attacks the vital force with all its energy. Then commences 
that struggle between the vital force and the drug force, 
which results in morbid symptoms. But when the drug 
force has expended its energy, then the vital force reacts 
inversely to the impression made upon it by the drug force 
to rid itself of the power of the drug and to return to its 
normal state, which is health, which is characterized by 
absence of symptoms. See Organon, §§ 63 and 64. There¬ 
fore, all symptoms which are experienced during the proving 
from the beginning to the end, whether they are like some 
that appeared previously or whether they are their opposites, 
are the drug's own direct action upon the vital force, what 
Hahnemann termed primary action. See Organon, § 115. 
But the secondary action, which is the reaction, is not 
attended with symptoms; on the contrary, when the reaction 
takes place the symptoms subside, until all the primary 
action of the drug has faded away, as it were, in a complete 
absence of symptoms, which is health. Organon, § 64. 

In disease this same action and reaction take place as in 
health. 

Were this not a fact there could be no cure by Homoeop¬ 
athy. This action and reaction after the administration of 
a remedy take place when we apply our remedies correctly 
or wrongly. They take place when the allopathist applies his 
as well as when the homceopathist applies his. But when 
the medicinal action upon the vital force is similar to that of 
the disease force already acting, the effect of the medicinal 
force superadded to that of the disease force intensifies to a 
certain extent the already existing effect upon the vital force. 
But as soon as the action of the medicinal force begins to 
wane the vital force reacts against it the same as though no 
disease existed, and the reaction thus started continues either 
until the entire disease is ejected together with the drug 
action and the normal state is re established; or, if the disease 
force is too great to be thus overcome, the reaction moderates 
the disease so that a second dose, or some other remedy, will 
complete the reaction and effect the cure. But when a 
wrong remedy has been administered, either by a homceop¬ 
athist or by the allopathist, the reaction, not being in an 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Arthur G. Allan . 


473 


inverse sense to the action of the existing disease force, 
merely wipes out the drug action, leaving the disease to 
still continue in its course. 

Arthur Gr. Allah. 

Philadelphia. 


WAS THE KNIFE NECESSARY? 

Editor Advance: In the Medical Advance for Novem¬ 
ber I see a report of cases, which I fail to understand, under 
“a few cases in surgical practice." Cases I and III. Pages 
390 to 391. 

If the remedies used in the cases proved beneficial (as 
reported), why were they not allowed to act? But if not, why 
were not the proper ones selected? Why was the knife used 
in either case? I write for information. In my limited 
practice, the Remedy has been my dependence, and I have 
learned from some source that the use of the knife in such 
cases is exactly the wrong thing. Now, if I am mistaken, 
please correct me. If the knife is to be used in some, or all 
cases, at first, or later in the case, I wish to know it. Quite 
the contrary is taught in the Organon. Fortunately for the 
patients, but unfortunately for my purse, very few such cases 
have been mine to treat, but in those few cases the results fol¬ 
lowing the use of remedies have been satisfactory; 

One case in particular : An aged lady, seventy-two years, 
after la grippe last year (treated by herself), suffered with 
double pneumonia, with apparent hepatization of both lungs, 
and so pronounced by a professor in consultation with me, 
who also declared the case utterly hopeless. She recovered 
under the use of the simillimum, after settling up her busi¬ 
ness, choosing her pall-bearers, selecting the text, hymns, etc. 

During her illness, a small hard growth was noticed under 
the skin on the forehead. It gradually grew, and by the 
time she was well of the pneumonia the growth was the size 
of a pea. Then she began treating it herself (as she has a 
book and case of her own). Belladonna was indicated, as 
she thought, and she took it for several weeks. And when I 
next saw the growth it was as large as a black walnut, with a 
red, angry look, as though it might break out into a running 
sore'at any time. There were severe stinging pains, for 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



474 


W. S. Hatfield. 


June 


which Apis was prescribed, with some relief. Soon after this 
a blow upon the growth from a grandchild’s head caused it 
to break, and a sticky, watery fluid was discharged, also blood. 
After that time the growth began to spread, and from the 
symptoms Thuja was prescribed with the best results, as 
there is scarcely a trace left. 

Early in the case she was advised by a medical friend to 
have it removed, but concluded to wait for a time, at least. 
Perhaps she might have been relieved of the growth much 
sooner had the knife been used. But would the result have 
been as satisfactory? Now I want to know if I am right or 
wrong? Does good homoeopathic practice sanction the use of 
the knife in such cases? 

W. S. Hatfield. 

Cincinnati. 


HOW TO LESSEN THE LABOR OF MAKING POTENCIES. 

Editor Advance: Reports of cases and our own experi¬ 
ence often prove the greater efficacy of the higher over a 
lower potency; hence the need that we have the former at 
our command. The great question, however, is the time and 
labor required. Why the higher potency should have the 
better effect we are unable to say. If, however, we ask our¬ 
selves the question: What is the difference in the making of 
the higher and the lower potencies? the only answer is, that 
the higher receive so many mc*e shakes. Would it not, 
therefore, be a legitimate conclusion, that to make the lower 
of equal efficacy to the higher, it is only required to give to 
each potency a proportionately greater number of shakes? 
By giving each potency ten times the number of shakes more, 
would not the 10th equal in efficacy the 100th? The labor 
required would be so very much reduced that I offer the sug¬ 
gestion for trial. R. F. Secous. 

Barbados, West Indies. 

[We suggest that the doctor answer his own question by 
solving his own problem. Potentize Aconite and a few others 
to the 200th, in this way, and test them at the bedside. Then 
with the results before us we can form an opinion of their 
efficacy. Ed.] 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


New Publications . 


475 


(Ueuo (puSficafton** 


A TREATISE OF DISEASES OF THE EYE FOR THE USE OF 
STUDENTS AND GENERAL PRACTITIONERS. To which 
is added a series of test types for determining the exact state of vis¬ 
ion. By Henry C. Angell, M. D., Professor of Ophthalmology in the 
Boston University School of Medicine. Seventh edition. Rewritten 
and illustrated. Boston: Otis Clapp & Son. 1891. 

This edition has been largely rewritten and brought up to date, 
aided by the facile pen of F. Park Lewis, M. D. As in the previous 
editions, the author’s aim has been to aid the general practitioner in 
treating the more common diseases of the eye. But much of the teach¬ 
ing is by far too mechanical for a professor of Ophthalmology in a 
homeopathic college. For instance, in the treatment of Chalazion, the 
author says: “Such tumors are usually an indication of impaired 
health,” yet the treatment recommended is an ointment of red oxide of 
mercury and the knife, measures not well adapted for the removal of 
the constitutional impairment. 

Warts of the lids “maybe ligatured, or snipped off with the 
scissors.” Why not cure the constitutional ailments, and the warts 
go as they came? It is the unhomeopathic part of the work that is 
disappointing. 

CHOLERA AND ITS TREATMENT ON HOMOEOPATHIC 
PRINCIPLES. (Based mainly on the results of fourteen years’ 
practice as a Homoeopath) by Rftdhakanta Ghosb, author of “ Saral- 
Chikits&,” “Chikitsa Sopan ” (Practice of Medicine), “ Bhaisajya- 
Sop&n” and “Chikitsd-Probesikd” (Elements of Materia Medica 
and Therapeutics), “Treatment of Cholera”* and “Diseases of 
Women and Children” on Homoeopathic Principles. Calcutta: 
Published for the author by Berigny & Co. 1887. 

A valuable pocket companion in a cholera epidemic, if Bell’s 
work is not available. It has the advantage of giving “personal 
experience,” which, in this case, is greatly reduced in practical value 
by the absurd habit of alternating remedies. We trust, if another 
edition be called for, this senseless and unhomeopathic method will 
be entirely eliminated. 

SIX CENTURIES OF WORK AND WAGES: A HISTORY OF 
ENGLISH LABOR. By J. E. T. Rogers, M. P., late Professor of 
Political Economy in the University of Oxford. Abridged; with 
Charts and Appendix by the Rev. W. D. P. Bliss. Introduction,by R. 
T. Ely, Ph. D., Associate Professor of Political Economy in Johns 
Hopkins University. Price 25 cents. New York: The Humboldt 
Publishing Company. 

This is the first number of the Social Science Library, which puts at 
the disposition of the public a record that is invaluable. It is the story 
of the struggle of the English poor against the avarice of priest, king, 
landlord and capitalist; a story told by the records of thousands of court 
rolls, and stewards’ accounts, compiled by unconscious historians, 
who little dreamed the figures they so patiently added up would 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



476 


New Publications. 


June 


one day tell a tale. From the beginning of the thirteenth century, when 
almost every one not only possessed land, but cultivated it; when a land¬ 
less man was looked on as an outlaw and a stranger; when the use of the 
common pasture was without stint, and the arable land of the manor 
was usually communal; from that remote date to modern times Professor 
Rogers conducts the reader through the successive stages of a drama 
whose motive was the cheapening of labor for the benefit of the monopo¬ 
list. And surely no time could be more fitting than the present for pub¬ 
lication of this work; which, with its charts, clear type and good paper 
is destined to have an extensive sale. 

DUST AND ITS DANGERS. By T. Mitchell Prudden, M. D„ New 
York and London: G. P. Putnam’s Sons. 1890. 

In the preface the author informs us that “ This little book has been 
written with the purpose of informing people, in simple language, what 
the real danger is of acquiring serious disease —especially consumption— 
by means of dust-laden air, and how this danger may be avoided.” 
While the dangers from bacteria and bacilli, as disease producing fac¬ 
tors exist largely in the imagination of the author, the subject is pre¬ 
sented in a clear and pleasant style and is as attractive as a romance. 

MANUAL OF CLINICAL DIAGNOSIS. By Dr. Otto Seifert, of 
Wurzburg, and Dr. Friedrich Mtlller, of Berlin. Translated from 
the fifth German edition by W. B. Canfield, M. D. Second English 
edition revised and enlarged, with 50 illustrations and one colored 
plate. New York and London: G. P. Putnam’s Sons: 1890. 

That this little pocket manual of 185 pages has already run through 
several editions and been translated into many languages, speaks 
“ louder ” than any review notice can of its practical value. The author 
evidently has given only what is considered reliable and practical, omit¬ 
ting everything self evident and of secondary or minor importance, thus 
making it an every day reference book for the student and physician. 
Like all works from the Puinam’s, it is beautifully printed; an excep¬ 
tionally handsome volume, for which the house will receive the thanks 
of the profession. 

MEDICAL EDUCATION. MEDICAL COLLEGES, AND THE 
REGULATION OF THE PRACTICE OF MEDICINE IN THE 
UNITED STATES AND CANADA, 1765—1891. Medical Educa¬ 
tion and the Regulation of the Practice of Medicine in Foreign 
Countres. By John H. Rauch, M. D., Secretary, Illinois State 
Board of Health, 1890; p. 222. 

From this admirable report, filled with statistics, we learn that 
there are now 148 medical schools in the United States and Canada, of 
which forty-five admit women and three are for colored students. Of 
these, three do not grant medical degrees. Besides the colleges there are 
twenty-six examining and licensing bodies. Cornell, Yale, Princeton, 
Lake Forest, Johns Hopkins, the universities of Pennsylvania and Wis¬ 
consin, and the North-Western University offer courses preliminary to 
the study of medicine, 

The first college to adopt and adhere to the three years* graded 
course of study was the Chicago Medical Colleg % in June, 1868. The 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


New Publications . 


477 


American Institute of Homoeopathy was the first National Society to 
require four years of study and three full courses of medical lectures, 
and eighty colleges will now exact four years of study, while twenty- 
one colleges have failed to arrange for the three years course of six 
months each. 

A foot note to preface, page xxvii says: “ The craze for establish¬ 
ing medical colleges commenced in the United States about 1840, and 
continued uninterruptedly until 1880, where there was a lull, but it 
seems to have broken out again,” a fact upon which Dr. Rauch cannot 
lay too much stress. There are elaborate and valuable tables affording 
a summary of the requirements, standing and character of the medical 
schools and examining bodies in the United States and Canada, as well 
as foreign countries, and those who are interested in medical education 
will find here a guide to information not to be found elsewhere. Dr. 
Rauch has done his work well, 

THE DAUGHTER, HER HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WED- 
LOCK. By William M. Capp, M. D. Philadelphia and London: 
F. A. Davis. 1891. Price $1. 

This book of “ homely suggestions for mothers and daughters” was 
written, the author informs us, by special request of “ayoung wife 
who found reasons to deplore the insufficiency of an education which, 
though good as far as it went, was totally wanting upon subjects relating 
to present and prospective duties.” A knowledge of its practical con¬ 
tents is calculated to save much misery, pain and consequent sickness, 
both before and after marriage. 

INTERNATIONAL CLINICS: A Quarterly of Clinical Lectures on 
Medicine, Surgery, Gynecology, Pediatrics, Neurology, Dermatology, 
Laryngology, Ophthalmology, and Otology. By Professors and 
Lecturers in the leading Medical Colleges of the United 8tates, Great 
Britain and Canada. Edited by Drs. Keating and Griffith of Phila¬ 
delphia. and Bruce and Finlay of London, England. April, 1891. 
Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott Company. 

The Lippincott’s have the very latest thing out, in the way of cur¬ 
rent medical literature, and show an enterprise in medical publishing 
that is worthy of patronage. It will be composed largely of steno¬ 
graphic reports of lectures of the best known teachers in Europe and 
America. As the authors announce in the preface: “It is proposed to 
make this periodical a complete post-graduate course of medical instruc¬ 
tion.” It is similar to Wood's Medical Monographs, but issued quar¬ 
terly instead of monthly. 

ANNUAL OF THE UNIVERSAL MEDICAL SCIENCES; A 
YEARLY REPORT OF THE PROGRESS OF THE GENERAL 
SANITARY SCIENCES THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. Edited 
by Chas. E. Sajous, M. D., and seventy associate editors, assisted by 
over 200 corresponding editors and collaborators. Illustrated with 
chromo lithographs, engravings and maps. Philadelphia: F. A. 
Davis, publisher. 1890. 

The herculean task of preparing the Annual should be duly consid¬ 
ered when the five large and handsomely illustrated volumes are taken 
into account. The main improvements are the creation of departments 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



478 


New Publications. 


J IT NT? 


on subjects which have hitherto been c msidered under general heads, 
such as Syphilis, Surgical Mycoses, Thoracic and Oral Surgery, etc. 
The authors have done their work well, and, with the enterprising pub¬ 
lisher, deserve and should feceive the thanks of the profession. 

PRACTICAL TREATISE ON ELECTRICITY IN GYNAE¬ 
COLOGY. By Egbert H. Grandin, M. D., Chairman Section on 
Obstetrics and Gynaecology, New York Academy of Medicine; 
Obstetric Surgeon. New York Maternity Hospital; Obstetrician, New 
York Infant Asylum, etc., and Josephus H. Gunning, M. D., 
Instructor in Electro-Therapeutics, New York Post Graduate Med¬ 
ical School and Hospital; Gynaecologist to Riverview Rest for 
Women; Electro-Gynaecologist, North-Eastern Dispensary, etc. 
Illustrated. Octavo, 180 pages. Muslin, $2.00. New York: Wil¬ 
liam Wood & Company. 

The preface defines the sphere of the work: “The aim of the 
authors has been to present, as far as possible, an unbiased estimate of 
the value of electricity in the treatment of the diseases peculiar to 
women. The agent is considered not from the standpoint of a specific, 
but as a valuable adjuvant to routine therapeutics.” 

Chapter I is devoted to “ General Considerations and Descriptions of 
Apparatus.” 

Chapter II, “ Routine Uses of Electricity.” 

Chapter III, “ Electrolysis.” 

Chapter IV, “ Static Electricity.” 

Chapter V, ‘ ‘ Treatment of Malignant Growths by the Galvano-Cau- 
tery.” 

Chapter VI, “ Electricity in Obstetrics.” 

To be honest, we do not think, after perusing much of this work, 
that the authors have made out a case for the galvano-cautery in malig¬ 
nant growths. It may be a useful agent when we know how to af>ply 
it; but very few know how, and we do not think any one will master 
the knowledge from this work. 

ALDEN’S MANIFOLD CYCLOPEDIA OF KNOWLEDGE AND 
LANGUAGE, WITH NUMEROUS ILLUSTRATIONS. Vols. 
XXVI, XXVII, XXVIII from Neuvaines—Perseus. 

This splendid and practical cyclopedia improves in illustrations as it 
nears completion, and the publishers are pushing it rapidly onward. It 
is fully up to date, and its definitions and pronunciations are reliable so 
far as we have examined the volumes. Write the publishers for terms. 

THE PHYSICIANS’ LEISURE LIBRARY, Paper, 25 cents; cloth, 
50 cents. Detroit: Geo. S. Davis, has recently issued some of the 
most valuable of the series : 

Auscultation and Percussion , by Shattuck. Taking Cold , by Bos- 
worth. Electndty , its Application in Medicine, in two volumes, by 
Wellington Adams. 

Dr. Bosworth discusses the question: “ How do we take cold? ” and 
an intelligent and scientific answer is given. Read it. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



1891 


Editor's Table. 


479 




C. F. Menninger, M. D., Topeka, Kas., writes Dr. King: “ Permit 
me, however late, to congratulate you upon the Associate Editorship of 
The Advance. I feel proud to have the honor of being one of your 
pupils. The Advance has been on my table ever since I left college 
and every month becomes more helpful to me in my practice. The rea¬ 
son is that it is strictly homeopathic and as such has helped me out of 
more difficulties than any Materia Medica or work on Therapeutics in 
my library.” [Thank you, doctor. Many readers have told us the same. 
But remember, a journal is what its contributors make it. We have 
not seen your name to an article for many years.— Ed.] 

Wood’s Monographs. The April number contains two articles 
worthy of especial notice: “Causes and Prevention of Phthisis,” by 
Ransome; and “ Railway Injuries, with Special Reference to Those of 
the Back and Nervous System in Their Medico legal and Clinical 
Aspects,” by Herbert W. Page, of England. This is a valuable paper 
and should be read # by every physician and surgeon in the country. 

The May number contains “ Differentiation in Rheumatic Diseases ’» 
so-called) by Hugh Lane, L. R. C. P.; and “Cure of the Morphia 
Habit,” by Oscar Jennings, M. D, 

J. P. Rand, M. D., of Worcester, Mass.,gives his “Personal Obser¬ 
vations of Koch’s Bacilli ” in a summary of fifty cases, which appears 
to satisfy the observer that all cases of suspected phthsis in which the 
bacilli appeared in any numbers, proved fatal, and those in which no 
bacilli were found recovered. It will require many more observations 
and many more experiments to demonstrate that the bacillus is the 
cause of tuberculosis, Koch and his experiments to the contrary, not¬ 
withstanding. 

Lippincott for July contains a new and complete novel, entitled “A 
Rose of a Hundred Leaves,” by Amelia E. Barr, author of “Friend 
Olivia,” “Jan Vedder’s Wife,” “ The Bow of Orange Ribbon,” etc. 

A Correction. Editor Advance: In the April number of the Med¬ 
ical Advance you charge the New York Medical Times editor with 
taking steps against the homeopaths of this State, and then you quote 
the^ opinion ol the Times editor. Now this quotation was never issued 
by the New York Medical Times , but was published by the New York 
Daily Times , which is a mugwump journal, apparently under the con¬ 
trol of old school kfluences. Selden H. Talcott. 

[The editor of the New York Medical Times has our apology. We 
were after the man or men who struck Homeopathy.— Ed.] 

The June Century has an interesting frontispiece portrait of 
George Mifflin Dallas, formerly Vice-President of the United States. 
This portrait accompanies the second and last installment of the papers 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



480 


Editor's Table . 


June 


extracted from Mr. Dallas’s journal, written while be was American 
minister to the Court of the Czar Nicholas I. In this installment he 
describes not only the great luxury and splendor of the Court, but tells 
about hearing Thai berg, the great pianist, and Son tag, the famous 
singer. A portrait of the Empress is printed with the article. 

A Western physician (says the JBoston Med. and Burg. Journal) 
is said to have received the following from a brother physician: “ Dear 
Dock, I have a pashunt whose physical sines showes that the windpipe 
has ulcarated off, and his lungs have drop into his stumick I have given 
hym everry thing without effeckt his father is welthy honable and influ- 
enshal as he is a member of assembly and god nose I dont want to lose 
hym what shall I do ans by return male. Yours frat, -.” 

An English Duke’s Opinion. —After a trip over the New York 
Central we fully endorse the following from the Troy Budget: “ In his 
very interesting and instructive article on American railways, published 
in the April number of the Fortnightly Review, the Duke of Marlborough 
places the New York Central at the head of the great railway corpora¬ 
tions of the United States. Its central location through an almost con¬ 
tinuous city from New York to Buffalo and Niagara Falls; its wonder¬ 
ful capacity for handling an immense traffic; its splendid passenger 
service, with eleven daily trains between New York and Buffalo and 
Niagara Falls, eight between New York and Chicago, three between 
New York and St. Louis, three between New York and Cincinnati; 
reaching by its own rails and through its connections every important 
commercial center in the country; its beautiful scenery comprising, as it 
does, every variety of landscape; its entrance into the very heart of the 
metropolis of the country; these advantages, in connection with the 
number and variety of health and pleasure resorts, which it reaches by 
its unequaled through-car service, combine to impress the opinion upon 
all who investigate the subject, as the Duke of Marlborough did on his 
recent extended tour of the United States, that the New York Central 
is to-day ‘America’s greatest railroad.’” 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



VOL. XXVI 


cr\ 




JUNE, 1891. 


No. 6. 


THE 

MEDICAL 

ADVANCE 

Qt QUonf(5£p QVla^tne. 

“ITS LAW IS PROGRESS; A POINT WHICH YESTERDAY WAS INVISIBLE IS ITS 
GOAL TO-DAY, AND WILL BE THE STARTING POINT TO-MORROW.” 


HENRY C. ALLEN, M. D„ Editor. 

J. B. S. KING, M. D., Associate Editor. 


CONTENTS. 


Amaurosis, Due to Changes at the Visual 
Centre-A Peculiar Case Cured. F. W. 

Payne 401 

The Indiana Institute of Homeopathy. 407 

The Force in Drugs We Employ. W. R. 

Bentley. 408 

How Shall We Study the Materia Medica ? 

S. E. Chapman. ... 410 

Hydrocephaloid: A Case and its Lessons. 

G. E. Clark.413 

44 Five Years Experience in the New Cure of 
Consumption by its Own Virus.” H. P. 

Holmes .419 

High Temperature. 421 

Deafness Hereditary. 423 

Proceedings of lhe Organon and Materia 

Medica Society of Philadelphia. 424 

Calcarea Fluorica. G. P. Hale. 433 

Hyoscyamus. J. T. Kent .434 

Natrum Muriaticum. C. M. Boyer.436 

The Hog as a Disease Producer.438 

Pathology as it Relates to Therapeutics. 

Frank Kraft . ... 439 

Homeopathic Practice by Allopathic Physi¬ 
cians: Podophyllum in Diarrhoea. H. 

W. Champlin. 444 


Homeopathy Dying Out. 446 

Mental Delusions . 449 

How Talleyrand was Crippled. 453 

The Stigma that Rests upon Southern 

Homeopaths. S. M. Fowler. . 454 

Post Diphtheritic Dropsy: Arsenicum. 

J. F. Irvin .458 

Gonorrhoea instead of Psorinum. C. B. 

Gilbert.459 

Homeopathic Graduates for 189i .460 

Editorial. 

Higher Medical Education. 461 

Remarkable Temperature.465 

Comment and Criticism. 

Principus Obsta: Dr. Allan's Reply. 

A. G. Allan. 467 

Was the Knife Necessary? W. 8. 

Hatfield. 473 

How to Lessen the Labor of Making 
Potencies. R. F. Secous. 474 

New Publications.475 

Edito r’8 Table . 47ft 


JOHN RICE MINER, Publisher, . . 415-417 Dearborn St., Chicago, Ilf. 


ALFRED HEATH Sc CO., 114 Ebury Street, S. W M London, England. 


Subscription; $3 a year in advance; 25 cents a copy. 


Digitized by LjOOQle 































DO YOU READ 


S he fjJX&dical ? 


THOSE WHO D0 9 SAY THAT IT IS THE BEST HOMEOPATHIC 
MEDICAL JOURNAL IN THE WORLD. 

IT 18 THE BEST 

In quantity, having from eighty to ninety-six pages in each num¬ 
ber, not including advertising pages. 

IT 18 THE BEST 

In circulation, being sent to every State and Territory in the 
United States, and to every foreign country that is civilized enough to 
have homoeopathic physicians. 

IT IS THE BEST 

In price, giving from sixteen to thirty-two more pages in each 
number than any other three dollar journal, and from two to five 
times as many pages as any of the lower priced journals. 

IT IS THE BEST 

In quality, having as contributors the ablest and best known 
writers among the homoeopaths of both Europe and America. 

Carroll Dunham said: “A study of Materia Medica will yield a 
better return than any other department of medical science.” 

THE MEDICAL ADVANCE 

Has more Materia Medica than all other homoeopathic journals com 
bined ; is constantly publishing new provings; is publishing an admir 
able series of lectures on this subject by Prof. J. T. Kent; in fact, a 
homoeopathic physician who wishes to keep up with the times, to know 
the provings of new remedies, and the clinical verification of old ones, 
MUoT read The Medical Advance. 

Subscription, $3.00 per year in advance. Send for sample copy. 

JOHN RICE MINER, 

Publisher “MEDICAL ADVANCE” 

415-417 Dearborn St., CHICAGO, ILL. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

the medical advance. 


1 


THE BEST ANTISEPTIC 

FOR BOTH EXTERNAL AND INTERNAL USE. 


-LI5TERINE- 


FORMULA.— Listenne is the essential antiseptic constituent of Thyme, Eucalyptus, Fapti«ia, Gaultheri* 
and Mentha Arvenis in combination. Each fluid drachm contains two grains of refined and puri¬ 
fied Benzo-Boracic Acid. 

QOSE— Internally: One teaspoonful three or more times a day (as indicated), either full strength or diluted 
as necessary lor vanea conuiuwna. 

LISTERINE is a well-proven antiseptic agent—an anti zymotic—especially adapted to internal use, and to 
make and maintain surgical cleanliness—asepsis—in the treatment of ail parts of tne human body, whether by 
spray, irrigation, atomization, or simple local application, and therefore characterized by its particular adapta¬ 
bility to the field of 

PREVENTIVE MEDICINE-INDIVIDUAL PROPHYLAXIS. 


Physicians interested in LISTERINE will please send us their address, and receive by return mail our new 

and complete pamphlet of 36 quarto pages, embodying: 

A Tabulated Exhibit of the action of LISTERINE upon inert Laboratory Compounds. 

Full and Exhaustive Reports and Clinical observations from all sources, confirming the utility of LISTER 
INE as a General Antiseptic for both external and internal use; and particularly 

Microscopic Observations, showing the comparative value and availability of various antiseptics in the treat¬ 
ment of the Oral Cavity, by W. D. Miller, A.B., Ph.D., D.D.S., Professor of Operative and Clinical 
Dentistry, University of Berlin, from whose deductions LISTERINE appears to be the most acceptable 
prophylactic for the care and preservation of the teeth. 


HiBBBBBB of the Uric Acid BiatheBia. 

LAMBERT’S 

LITHIATED HYDRANGEA 


KIDNEY ALTERATIVE—ANTI-LITHIC. 

FORM ULA. —Each fluid drachm of **Lithiated Hydrangea ” represents thirty grains of fresh Hydrangea 
and three grains of chemically pure Benzo-Salicylate of Lithia. Prepared by our improved process of 
osmosis, it is invariably of definite and uniform therapeutic strength, and hence can be depended upon 
in clinical practice. 

DOSE. — On* or two teaspoonfuls four times a day (preferably between meals). 

Urinary Calculus, Gout, Rheumatism, Bright's Disease, Diabetes, Cys* 
tltls, Ma@maturia v Albuminuria, and Vesical Irritation generally. 


have prepared for the convenience of Physicians Dietetic 
Notes, suggesting the articles of food to be allowed or pro¬ 
hibited in several of these diseases. 

These Dietetic Notes have been bound in the form of small 
perforated slips for Physicians to distribute to their patients. 
Mailed gratis upon request, together with our latest compilation of 
case reports and clinical observations, bearing upon the treatment 
of this class of Diseases. 

LAMBERT PHARMACAL COMPANY, 

814 North Main St, St Louis. 


RHEUMATISM. 

D ietetic note. — A fruit 

and vegetable diet is most favorable 
for patients with chronic rheumatic 
troubles* 

Allowed. —Beef and mutton in mod¬ 
eration, with horseradish as a relish; 
fish and eggs* green vegetables and 
fruit, especially lemons. The skimmed 
milk diet has been advocated by some 
authors. 

Avoid —Starchy and saccharine food * 
all malt liquors, wines and coffee. 


Digitized by 


Google 






JN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 


* THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


We publish on this page, for the benefit of our subscribers, the names of 
specialists in the different departments of Medicine and Surgery residing in various 
parts of the United States. 


J. W. DOWLING, H. D., 

DR. PHIL. PORTER, 

0 East 43d Street, - NEW YORK 

SURGICAL 

SPECIALTY : 

DISEASES OF WOMEN, 

DISEASES OF THE HEART, LUNGS 


AND THROAT. 

CINCINNATI, OHIO. 

H. C. ALLEN, H. D. 

S. S. SALISBURY, M. D., 

5401 Jefferson Ave., CHICAGO. ILL 

Los Angeles, Cal. 

CHRONIC DISEASES 

Office, Rooms 11 and 12, Los Angeles National 
Bank Building, corner First and Spring 

A SPECIALTY. 

Streets. 

Consultation by letter or in person will 

DISEASES OF THE LUNGS AND 

receive prompt attention. 

THROAT A SPECIALTY. 

G. C. MCDERMOTT, M. D., 

THOMAS M. DILLINGHAM, M.D., 

EYE AND EAR SURGEON, 

46 West 36th Street, 

118 West 7th St., CINCINNATI. 

NEW YORK CITY, - NEW YORK. 

Office Hours : 9 a. m. to 12 m.; 4 to 6 p. m. 

* 

E. V. VAN NORMAN, M. D., 

DR. JOSEPH T. O’CONNOR, 

937 Sixth St., 

SAN DIEGO, CAL. 

51 West 47th Street, NSW TORE. 

NERVOUS 

CONSULTING PHYSICIAN. 

AND MENTAL 


DISEASES. • 

Chronic Diseases and Gynecology 


a specialty. 

Receives Patients in his own Home. 

DR. SAMUEL F. SHANNON, 

THIS SPACE FOR 

(Philadelphia, 1879.) 


630 Sixteenth St., - DENVER, COL 

$5.00 a Year, 

OFFICE HOURS: 

IN ADVANCE. 

8 to 10 a. m., 2 to 4 and 7 to 8 p. m. 

Digitized by CjOO^Ic 




3 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDIC AIL ADVANCE. 


BROOKSIDE RETREAT, 

PLAINFIELD, N. J. 

-A. QUIET HOME FOR THE INSANE. 

GOOD CARE, PLEASANT SURROUNDINGS. 

STRICTLY HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT. 


Forty five minutes from New York. An hour and a half from Philadelphia. For Information 
Address, JUSTUS H. COOLEY, M. D., Medical Superintendent. 


EDWARD RUSHMORE, M. D. I „ , . 

T. S. DAVIS, M. D. f Consulting Physicians. 


The Best Account Books 


FOR PHYSICIANS ARE 

— MINER’S— 

Combined Day Book and Ledger, Condensed Ac¬ 
count Book, Visiting Lists, Weekly and 
Monthly Forms, Case Record. 

Send four Cents in Stamps for Sample Sheets. 


John xsxce 2v£xxtbxs, 

415-417 DEARBORN STREET, 

CHia-fi-GO. ILL 



Fine OFFICE DESKS 

A special design for 
Physicians’ use. 

Send for Circular II- 

LUS1 RATING SAME. 

DEN’ISSSSIM 
NolSsS 

Easily Cleaned 
Moved and ad- 


UCITj t Fol ding f PCU 

Easily Cleaned I 

loved and ad- I If 

usted. M ideij fS81 

ONLTBTl (or ^"" 


I. H.lndrews ft Co. y Chicago 




ji A pamphlet of information and ab- / 
\ stract of the laws, Showing How to i 
\ Obtain Patents, Careuts, Traded 
\ Marks, Copyrights, sent free./ 

k \Addr*« MUNN at co.^ 
^361 Broadway, 

New York. 


Digitized by 


G&bgW 
















IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 


4 


THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 



Constipation, 


FOR TTIE TREATMENT OF 


Pavara Pills are prepared especially 
for the treatment of Constipation. They 
ure tasteless, harmless, and produce natu¬ 
ral movements of the bowels, without vain , 
nausea, or any inconvenience whatever . 

Physicians are requested to test these 
pills in those cases which they think to 
be incurable, also, in cases of constipa¬ 
tion during pregnancy. Thousands of 
physicians now use and prescribe them. 

Physicians will see by the formula 
(on the outside label) that each medicinal 
ingredient is absolutely harmless. 

Prices: small bottle,(25 pills),25cents j 
large, (150 pills), $1.00. Liberal discount 
to physicians. 

A large bottle will be mailed to nny 
physician, for trial, on receipt of 25 
cents in postage stamps. 

Prepared by C. L. Topliff, New York. 
Depot, 115 Fulton Street. 


Haemorrhoids or Piles 


ToplifTs Suppositories supply what 
physicians and the public have long 
desired, namely, a simple, effective, and 
perfectly harmless remedy for hemor¬ 
rhoids or piles. 

Physicians thoroughly approve of 
these Suppositories because they are 
so effective, and will not interfere in the 
slightest degree with any other medical 
treatment. 

Price 50 cents per box, (24 Supposito¬ 
ries). Liberal discount to physicians. 
Two boxes will be mailed to any phy»l- 
clnn, for trial, on receipt of 25 cents in 
postage stamps. 

Prepared by C. L. Topliff, New York. 
Depot, 115 Fulton Street. 


GASTRIC 

DERANGEMENTS. 


HORSFORD’S ACID PHOSPHATE 

Unlike other forms of phosphorus in combination, such as dilute phosphoric acid, 
glacial phosphoric acid, neutral phosphate of lime, hypophosphites, etc., the phosphates 
in this product are in solution, and readily assimilative by the system, and it not only 
causes no trouble with the digestive organs, but promotes in a marked degree their 
healthful action. 

In certain forms of dyspepsia it acts as a specific. 

Dr. H. R, Merville, Milwaukee, Wis., says: “I regard it as valuable in the 
treatment of gastric derangements affecting digestion.” 


Send for descriptive circular. Physicians who wish to test it will be furnished a bottle on: 
application, without expense, except express charges. 

Prepared under the direction of Prof. E. N. Horsforj?, by the 

RUMFORD CHEMICAL WORKS, Providence, R. I. 

BEWARE OP SUBSTITUTES AND IMITATIONS. 


Caution:—B e sure the word “ Horsford’s ” is printed on the label. All others are spurious. 

Never sold in bulk. 


Digitized by 


Google 





5 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

the medical advance. 

~ CH. MARCHAND’S 

PEROXIDE of HYDROGEN 

(MEDICINAL) Ha Oa (Absolutely Harmless.) 

Is rapidly growing In favor with the medical 
profession. It Is the most powerful antiseptic 
known, almost tasteless, and odorless. 

This remedy Is not a Nostrum. 

Can be taken Internally or applied externally 
with perfect safety. Its curative properties 
are positive, and Its strength and purity can 
always be relied upon. 

A REMEDY FOR 

DIPHTHERIA ; CROUP; SORE THROAT, and all inflammatory diseases of the throat. 

OPINION OF THE PROFESSION. 

Dr. Geo. B. Hope, Surgeon Metropolitan Throat Hospital, Professor Diseases of Throat, University of 
Vermont, writes in an article headed, “ Some Clinical Features of Diphtheria, and the treatment by Peroxide 
of Hydrogen (N. Y. Medical Record, October 13, 1888). Extract: 

“. . . On account of their poisonous or irritant nature the active germicides have a 

utility limited particularly to surface or open wound applications, and their free use in reach¬ 
ing diphtheritic formations in the mouth or throat, particularly in children, is, unfortunately, 
not within the range of systematic treatment. In Peroxide of Hydrogen, however, it is con¬ 
fidently believed will be found, if not a specific, at least the most efficient topical agent in 
destroying the contagious element and limiting the spread of its formation, and at the same 
time a remedy which may be employed in the most thorough manner without dread of pro¬ 
ducing any vicious constitutional effect. . . . 

“In all the cases treated (at the Metropolitan Throat Hospital), a fresh, standard 
Marchand preparation of fifteen volumes was that on which the experience of the writer has 
been based. . . .” 

Dr. E. R. Squibb, of Brooklyn, writes as follows in an article headed '‘On the Medical Uses of Hydrogen 
Peroxide (GaillareTs Medical Journal , March, 1889, p. 267), read before the Kings County Medical Associa¬ 
tion, February 5, 1889: 

“Throughout the discussion upon diphtheria very little has been said of the use of the 
Peroxide of Hydrogen, or hydrogen dioxide ; yet it is perhaps the most powerful of all disin¬ 
fectants and antiseptics, acting both chemically and mechanically upon all excretions and 
secretions, so as to thoroughly change their character and reactions instantly. The few 
physicians who have used it in such diseases as diphtheria, scarlatina, small-pox, and upon all 
diseased surfaces, whether of skin or mucous membrane, have uniformly spoken w r ell of it 
so far as this writer knows, and perhaps the reason why it is not more used is that it is so 
little known and its nature and action so little understood. . . 

)“ Now, if diphtheria be at first a local disease, and be auto-infectious ; that is, if it be 
propagated to the general organism by a contagious virus located about the tonsils, and if this 
virus be, as it really is, an albuminoid substance, it may and will be destroyed by this agent 
upon a sufficient and a sufficiently repeated contact. . . . 

“A child’s nostrils, pharynx and mouth may be flooded every two or three hours, or 
oftener, from a proper spray apparatus with a two volume solution without force, and with 
very little discomfort; and any solution which finds its way into the larynx or stomach is 
beneficial rather than harmful, and thus the effect of corrosive sublimate is obtained without 
its risks or dangers. . . .” 

Further on Dr. Squibb mentions that Charles Marchand is one of the oldest and best 
makers of Peroxide of Hydrogen, and one who supplies it to all parts of the country. 

CAUTION.—By specifying in your prescriptions “ Ch. Marchand’s Peroxide 
of Hydrogen (Medicinal), which is sold only in J^-lb., and t-lb. bottles, bearing 

my label and signature, you will never be imposed upon. Never sold in bulk. 

PREPARED ONLY BY 

A book containing full explanations concerning the 
therapeutical applications of both Ch. Marchand’s 
Pbroxidbof Hydrogen (Medicinal) and Glycozone, 
with opinions of the profession, will be mailed to 
physicians free of charge on application, 
jy Mention this publication. 

Chemist and Graduate of the " Ecole Centrale des Arts et Manufactures de Pans ” ( France\ 
SOLD BY LEADING DRUGGISTS. 

Laboratory, lO West Fourth Street,York. 





6 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDICAL ADVANCE 


THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 

A MONTHLY HOMEOPATHIC MAGAZINE. 

JOHN RICE MINER, Publisher, 415-417 Dearborn St., Chicago, III. 

Entered at the Chicago Postofflce for Transmission Through the Mails as Second Class Matter. 


Terms.— For the United States, Canada and Mexico, $3.00 a year; for Great Britain, 14s. a 
year: for other oountries in the Postal Union, $8.50 a year, all postpaid. For countries not in 
the Postal Union, $3.00 and postage a year. 

Remittances should be made by draft, money order, postal note, or registered letter, and 
payable to the publisher. 

Discontinuances.— Remember that the publisher must be notified by letter when a sub¬ 
scriber wishes his journal stopped. All arrearage s must be paid. 

Returning the Journal will not enable us to discontinue it, as we can not find your name 
on our books unless your postoffice address is given. 

Subscribers desiring to have the address changed should be careful to name postoffice to 
which The Advance has been sent as well as the new address. 

Subscribers should remember that second-class matter (which includes all regular publica¬ 
tions) can not be forwarded without prepayment of postage—therefore when a change of address 
occurs, the publisher must be notified. Do not expect to receive The Advance unless such 
notice is given. 

The Medical Advance is published on the 1st of each month; if you do not receive it by 
the 15th, notify the publisher and another copy will be sent you. 

Copy for new advertisements must be received by the &/th, and changes in running adver¬ 
tisements by the 15th of the previous month, to secure insertion. 

Articles for publication, Dooks for review, and exchanges should be sent to 

H. C. ALLEN. M. D., 5401 Jefferson Ave., Chicago, III. 

All subscriptions, advertisements, etc., and remittances for the same to be sent to 

JOHN RICE MINER, 415-417 Dearborn St., Chicago, III. 


Advertisements of “for sale/’ “ want¬ 
ed,” etc., not exceeding five lines in 
length will be inserted in this column for 
fifty cents each insertion. Additional 
lines, ten cents per line. 

TVTedical practices and Drug Stores bought 
iVA and sold. Partnerships arranged. Assist¬ 
ants and Substitutes provided. Particulars 
free. Address. 

‘•The Medical Transfer Bureau,” 
_ Lynn, Maes. 

Lippe’ s Repertory. — A few more 
copies of* this work on hand and will be 
sold at the following rates: Flexible mo¬ 
rocco covers, $4.50; cloth, $2.50. For 

P articulars address. Mrs. G. A. Lippe, 801 
>St., N. W., Washington, D. C. 


Valuable Text Books for physicians 
studying the French language. For sale 
by the author. Complete in six numbers, 
*2; 10c. for postage. Address from date 
for one year. Mile. V. Prud’homme, care 
of Mrs. G. A. Lippe, 801 D st., N. W., 
Washington, D. C. 


Back Numbers Wanted. —Two months 
subscription will be given for each num¬ 
ber of the Advance for July and August, 
1890, sent to me. 

John Rice Miner, 
Pub. “ Medical Advance ” 
415-417 Dearborn street, Chicago, Ill. 

Wanted— A good Homoeopathic physi¬ 
cian, of several years experience, desires 
a position as assistant to a busy practi¬ 


tioner. Can furnish best of references. 
Address: “Doctor,” 112 Merrimac street, 
room 18, Lowell, Mass. 

PEROXIDE OF HYDROGEN IN GYN¬ 
ECOLOGY AND IN OBSTETRICS. 
By Egbert H. Grandin, M. D., Obstetric 
Surgeon New York Maternity Hospital, 
Visiting Obstetrician New York Infant 
Asylum, etc. Published by The limes 
and Register , of Philadelphia, January 
81, 1891. 

Modern methods of antisepsis enable us 
in the vast proportion of cases to prevent 
suppuration. The problem remaining is 
how arrest it when present, or abort it 
when imminent. 

The virtues of peroxide of hydrogen 
(H a Oa) in general surgical practice have 
recently been heralded by Dr. Robert T. 
Morris, of this city, in the columns of Ihe 
Times and Register * The object of the 
writer is to exemplify his personal experi¬ 
ence with this agent, through the brief 
record of a few cases in which he has 
tested it. 

Case I. Sub-mammary Abscess .—About 
one year ago I was consulted by a Mrs. G. 
She was nursing a two-and-a-half months’ 
puny infant, notwithstanding the fact that 
the right mamma was fairly riddled with 
sinuses, and the left presented to my 
touch faint fluctuation. Her previous 
medical attendant had exhausted all rou- 

♦See reprint of article headed “The Necessary 
Peroxide of Hydrogen,” by Dr. Robert T. 
Morris. 

on page 8. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 





IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

TELE MEDICAL ADYAUGE. 


T 




H y v>%9Jkgt n t 

Produce* rapid increase in Flesh and Strength. 



POBHVUL-KMh Dose oootates: 

Fore God LlTerOU.JO m. (drops) I Soda.14 OralM 

Dlstillsd Watsr.U •* Salicylic Add _ .14 ** 

8oldblePancrsaUa. SQratas. HyochoUe Add..140 “ 


It Is Economical In Usb and Certain In Results. 

ftjYDROLEINK (Hydrated Oil) " not * Simple alkaline emulsion of oleum morrhuc. but' 
11 M . ■ I. i . g hydro-pancreated preparation, containing acids and a 

small percentage of soda. Pancreattn is the digestive principle of fatty foods, and in the soluble form 
here used, readily converts the oleaginous material into assimilable matter, a change so necessary to .the, 
reparative process in all wasting diseases. 

Lautenbach*s Researches on the functions of the liver would show the beautiful adjustment of 
therapeutics in preparation of Hydroleme, furnishing, as it does, the acid and soda necessary to prevent self¬ 
poisoning by re-absorption of morbid tubercular detritus and purulent matters into the general circulation* 

In Wasting Diseases the most prominent symptom is emaciation, the result of starvation of. 
the fatty tissues of the body as well as the brain and nerves This tendency to emaciation and loss'bf weight 
is arrested by the regular use of Hydroleine , which may be discontinued when the usual average* weighjj 
has been permanently regained. 

The following are some of the diseases in which HYP ROLE INEisTindicatcd :1 




Scrofula, Chlorosis, General Debility, etc. 


To Brain Workers of all classes. Hydroleine is invaluable, supplying as it does, the tru^ 
brain-food, and being more easily assimilated by the digestive organs than any other emulsion. 

The principles upon which this discovery is based have been described in a treatise on “ The Digestion 
and Assimilation of Fats in the Human Body," by H C Bartlett, Ph D, F. C S.and the experiments' 
which were made, together with cases illustrating the effect of Hydrated Oil in practice, are concisely stated 
in a treatise on ** Consumption and Wasting Diseases," by G. Overend Drewrv, M. D. 

COPIES OP THESE WORKS SENT TREE ON APPLICATION. 


^"■■■■■Sold by all Druggists at ® 1.00 per Bottle."""""* 

C. N. CRITTENTON, 

MU AfiENT FM THE UNITED STATES. IIS FULTON STRSKT, N. Y. 


A — fl« *f H>4r*Utms van to mmt Um sppll— O— » to m; pRjstolM t tosto s to# to s to s*s— t«)to *to 


Digitized by VjOOQle 





















IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

CEV MWDIOAZ ADVAMOM. 


0 


tine measures, and yet, as she expressed 
it, “ she was going from bad to worse.*' 
She had hectic fever and other symptoms 
of sepis; her appearance suggested the 
absolute necessity of rapid action. 

I at once weaned the child, of course; 
made a deep incision in the left mamma, 
giving exit to a mass of fetid pus, washed 
out the cavity with bichloride (1-1,000), and 
packed it with gauze. I thoroughly wetted 
the sinuses in the right mamma, irrigated 
aod packed them similarly. In a few days 
I had control of the sepis, but the pyogenic 
membrane and its product resisted all my 
efforts. In despair, and without much 
hope of success, I washed out the cavitiee 
with peroxide of hydrogen (half diluted 
with glycerine), and applied a compression 
gauze bandage. At the end of ten days 
the abscesses were cured. 

Case II .—Suppurating Pelvic Hematocele * 
—This case was seen in consultation. The 
patient was a young prostitute, and the 
only etiological cause 1 could determine 
was copulation during menstruation. The 
tumor bulged in the retro-uterine pouch, 
and I treated it as follows: Under anti¬ 
septic irrigation I aspirated along the 
finger as a guide, and obtained a mixture of 
blood and pus. Using the aspirator muzzle 
as a director, I enlarged the opening trans 
versely, sufficiently to admit a Palmer dila¬ 
tor. Inserting this I divulsed, curetted the 
cavity—which measured fully three inches 
square—and washed it out with equal 
parts compound tincture of iodine and 
watef. I next inserted a flange rubber 
drain tube. The cavity was washed out 
daily through this tube with two and one- 
half per cent, carbolic, but contrary to 
my experience with similar cases, it had 
not contracted much at the end of the 
week, and was still secreting pus. I then 
inserted a small Chamberlain glass uterine 
tube, and distended the cavity with undi¬ 
luted peroxide of hydrogen. This checked 
suppuration at once, and when the patient 
was seen three weeks thereafter an in¬ 
duration in the posterior vaginal cul-de- 
sac was the only remnant of the hema¬ 
tocele. 

Case III. Puerperal septic endometri¬ 
tis .—Seen in consultation. Fifth day 
post-partum. Patient had foetid lochia, 
tenderness over uterus, rise of tempera¬ 
ture, rapid pulse. A number of intra¬ 
uterine bichloride douches had been ad¬ 
ministered before I saw the case. Having 


differentiated extra-uterine source of 
the general sepsis, I curetted the 
cavity of the uterus, according to the 
method I have repeatedly described and 
advocated, removing a mass of de¬ 
generated decidual matter, and then 
instead of applying pure phenic acid to 
the cavity, and irrigating it with iodine 
and water, I washed it out through a 
Chamberlain glass tube with a pint of per¬ 
oxide of hydrogen (undiluted). The local 
sepsis was thus at once checked; the pa¬ 
tient made a rapid convalescence under 
the means which suggest themselves for 
meeting the sepsis already in the system. 

These cases typify instances in which 
the peroxide of hydrogen will be found 
useful by the gynecologist and obstetri¬ 
cian. As opportunity offers I propose to 
resort to this agent in vaginitis, urethritis, 
and purulent cystitis. Further, and in 
this direction I am as yet only experiment¬ 
ing, I am hopeful that in this agent we 
will find we possess a means which will 
enable us to avoid laparotomy in certain 
instances of pyosalpinx. My conclusions 
on this point, however, it would be prema¬ 
ture to state. 

My experience thus far with the perox¬ 
ide of hydrogen justifies the statement that 
it is absolutely harmless, and that it is at 
the same time the most efficient of all the 
agents at present at our disposal for pre¬ 
venting the ravages which uncontrolled 
suppuration is capable of causing. 

New Sydenham Society's Lexicon of 
Medicine and the Allied Sciences. By 
Henry Power, M. B., and Leonard W. 
Sedgwick, M. D., London: The new Syden¬ 
ham Society.—This is the most complete 
and valuable lexicon of medical terms 
ever published. 

It is a very extensive work, consisting 
of six to eignt large volumes. 

It is issued in three parts, the first part 
appearing in 1888, the latest in 1889. 

The latest issue is partxvi., from Lin. 
to Mas., in which the word-symbol “Lis- 
terine ” is thus defined: 

“Listerine—A solution containing the 
antiseptic constituents of thyme, eucalyp¬ 
tus, baptisia, gaultheria, and mentha ar- 
vensis, with two grains of benzo-boracic 
acid in each drachm. It is recommended by 
J. Lewis Smith as a preventive and anti¬ 
dote of scarlet fever, in doses of a tea¬ 
spoonful, for an adult, every three o frour 
hours." 


Digitized by VjOOQle 




0 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDICAL, ADVANCE, 


Sent)_, 

FOR A COPY OF THE INDEX OF THE 

HAHNEMANNIAN 

MONTHLY 

.. j for 1890 .. 


It will be furnished free on request by postal card or letter 
By looking over this - Index you will/see that the Hahne- 
mannian Monthly gives its readers tnofe information concern¬ 
ing the different medical sciences than any other medical 
journal in the world. 


ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION, - - $3.00 


SINGLE NUMBER, 30 CENTS. 


qffice, 1506 Girard Avenue, Philadelphia. 


Digitized by kjOOQle 




IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

TEE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 




The Egan Imperial 
Truss Advertisement 
is on the third cover 
page. 

Read it. 


Digitized by LjOOQle 


11 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 


THE MEDICAL ADVAJfCM* 













12 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


OTIS CLAPP Sc SON’S 

CASE DEPARTMENT. 


Physicians’ Buggy and Pocket Cases. 

We desire to call the attention of Physicians to our make 
of Pocket and Buggy Cases. 

These cases are manufactured in our Case Department by most competent 
workmen. They are made from the finest quality of Turkey morocco or sealskin, 
velvet lined, and fitted with a superior quality of imported nickel-plated catches ; 
and for beauty of finish and quality of material and workmanship are u'nexceUed 
by any in the market. 

Our .prices are not subject to discount. We think, however, on examination it 
will be found that they ao not exceed the prices charged for Physicians’ Cases 
made from the many excellent imitations of Turkey morocco, in sheepskin and bock 
leather, and from which a large proportion of such cases are made. 

.It can be truthfully said of this class of goods that 

M THE BEST ARE ALWAYS THE CHEAPEST.” 



OTIS CLAPP & SON, Boston and Providence. 


Digitized by 


Google 









18 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

TELE MEBICjLL JLDVAITCE. 


WITTE’S 

TRITURATIONS 


SZ OB HIGHER. 


4 Ounces In a Package 
4 14 “ Bottle .... 

4 •• Free by Mall 


...80 Gents. 
.36 “ 

...40 “ 


With a few exceptions, indicated in the list that will be sent on application. 
Larger quantities, but not smaller, at same rate. 


Separate Poreelaia Mortars and Pestles are used for Each Separate Benodj, 
not the case anywhere else. 


That WITTE’S TRITURATOR is the 
Only perfect one in use and that all others 
have some fault that compromises the value 
of the product will be shown and explained 
fully on application. Witte’s patent covers 
every known triturator not haring any 
frictional parts in the machinery above 
the trituration. I am not liable to any one 
for royalty for the use of triturators. 

Witte's 't riturator, rat. March 17, xo»s. 

Witte’s ordinary ix trit. of Lycopodium was found by Prof. J. Edwards Smith, M.D., to 
have all the spores broken (see N. Y. Med. Times, Sept., 1882,) while the best extra-triturated 
ix trit. of Lycopodium of a prominent Philadelphia homoeopathic pharmacy was found by Dr. 
W. H. Winslow to have only ten per cent of the spores broken (see Hahn. Monthly, July, 
1882). The failure of the Philadelphia product is not only due to their badly-constructed trit¬ 
urator, but also to their use of inferior milk sugar. 

The milk sugar used in making Witte’s Triturations is superior to that used by any one else 
(see Trans. Am. Inst, of Horn., 1883). The superiority is not only in the purity, but in the 
quality, it being harder and keeping its sharp cutting edges well during the act of triturating, 
1 hence Witte’s triturations are gritty, differing in this respect from all others. 

In addition to the above I am prepared to furnish to order, in pound packages, at 

A MUCH LOWER PRICE, 

triturations smooth to the touch, triturated as weir and with milk sugar as good as used any¬ 
where else. 

I FURNI8H A8 LOW TO PHYSICIANS AS TO DEALERS. 

All others charge physicians much more than they charge dealers, either charging pfaysidagi 
too much or making a lower grade of goods for dealers. 

L. H. WITTE, 

HOMCEOPATHIC PHARMACY, 

35D SUPERIOR BT., CLEVELAND, □. 


Perfect Triturations, Pure Tinctures and Pure Alcohol 



WITTE’S PHARMACY IS THE ONLY HOMEOPATHIC PHARMACY. 
PROPERLY SO-CALLED, IN NOtitHERN OHIO. 






14 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 


TBM MMMCAZ ADVANCE _ 

Philadelphia Post-Graduate School 

OP 

Homoeopathies. 

Two courses of lectures each year, beginning March 1st, and October 
1st. Open to men and women, graduates in medicine from all reputable 
colleges. Pupils assigned c$$es to\nanage, .under competent demonstrators. 
Clinical instruction calculated to demonstrate that puke homoeopathy 
is all that is desirable in the management of the sick, is the prime object 
of this school. Address 

J. T. KENT, Dean, 

Ho. 1605 Walnut st. t Philadelphia. 

New York Homoeopathic Medical College. 

♦ — 

T. F. ALLEN, A.M., M.D., Dean. 

For Announcement and information, address 

L. L. DANFORTH, M.D., Secretary, 

35 West 51st St., Now York City. 

Chicago Homoeopathic Medical College. 

OPPOSITE THE GENERAL HOSPITAL. 

The Fifteenth Autumn and Winter session opens September 
23, 1890, and closes March 24, 1891. 

For Annual Announcement and Catalogue, giving the Collegiate Regulations and 
other information, address 

J. R. KIPPAX, M. D., LL. B. 

8154 IniiiMia Avenue, Chicago. Secretary. 

Homoeopathic Medical College of Missouri, 

Cor. Jefferson Ave. & Howard St., St. Louis, Mo. 

The Thirty-second Opening begins Sept. 18 th, 1890 , and closes March 17 th, 1891 . 
Preliminary examination required. 

For Announcement, eta., address 

8 B, PARSONS, M.DVDoan, 

2246 Washington ▲▼anno. 

Digitized by vJfOO^lC 







IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

TKX MEDICAL ADVANCE. IS 


Peas 3DOOTOI3: 


The People’s Health Joubnal, a pop ular 
monthly, devoted to Hygiene, Dietetics and Homoeopathy, has become 
one of the most powerful weapons in battling for the cause of homoeo¬ 
pathy among the people. It is cheaper and better than any tract to 
place in their hands to enlighten them in regard to homoeopathy. 

You will find the Joubnal the most effective means of riveting 
the faith of your old patrons and of making new converts. 

Sixty representative physicians will contribute at least one article 
each to the Joubnal during the year 1890 . 

For example, Talbot, of Boston; Dowling, of New York; Buck, 
of Cincinnati; Nottingham,of Michigan; Moore, of Indiana; Boynton, 
of Chicago; Leonard, of Minneapolis; Cowperthwaite, of Iowa, etc. 

The North - Western Journal of Homoeopathy says: “The People’s 
Health Joubnal of Chicago, is, in our opinion, the best Joubnal of 
the kind published. Every homoeopathio physician should give it sub¬ 
stantial encouragement, a few copies distributed among their patrons 
each month would do good missionary work and would prove a well¬ 
paying investment.” 

One of the many physicians who last year saw it advantageous to 
themselves as well as to the public to supply their patrons and neigh¬ 
bors with the People’s Health Joubnal has already unsolicited 
renewed his order of 100 copies for next year, and adds these words: 
“ I never invested money that gave as much satisfaction or brought 
me as large returns in proportion to the amount invested.” 

Its increasing popularity, and the prospects of a circulation of 
100,000 copies each month enables us to make you the following special 
offer, for 1890 ; the sixth year of its publication: 

For One Dollar we will mail the Joubnal to any five addresses 
during the year 1890 . 

For Six Dollars we will send it to any fifty addresses or for Ten 
Dollars to any one hundred addresses for the same time. 

Another offer is, that for $ 1.00 we will send the Joubnal one year 
to any address, and send as a premium, a medicine chest, strongly 
made of Spanish cedar, having hinges and fastenings of brass, and 
containing 24 two-drachm bottles, labeled and filled with the most 
commonly used remedies, accompanied with directions for using. 

The Joubnal will be discontinued when subscription expires. 

Address, 


THE PEOPLE’S HEALTH JOURNAL CO., 

CHICAGO, ILL. 

i Google 


Digitized by ' 




16 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

HUB MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


PRESERVE VOUR MAGAZINES. 

• ———— 

They cost too much to throw away. Don’t 
let them knock about the office, become soiled 
and tattered, and finally go to the waste 
basket. Nobody gets all the good out of a 
magazine by reading it once; if It is worth any¬ 
thing you will want to read it a second time, 
possibly a third. You can not do this if one 
number is in your study, another in the garret, 
a third lent to your neighbor, and the rest lost. 

THE 

MEDICAL ADVANCE 

is worth keeping, therefore buy a Common- 
Sense Binder and have all your numbers in 
good condition and together. One will be sent 
to you, postpaid, on receipt of 60 cents, by 

JOHN RICE MINER, 

407-425 Dearborn St., Chicago, III. 



A Word to Recent Subscribers. 


For the benefit of those who have 
recently subscribed to “THE 
ADVANCE,” and who want the 
back volumes, we have made up 
a few sets of 

Volumes XXII, XXIII and XXIV, 

(Which Include Yol. I, HAHNEMANN’S CHRONIC DISEASES), 

IN THE COMMON SENSE BINDERS, 


and will send a set post paid to 
any address for three dollars. 


JOHN RICE MINER, 

Publisher “ Medical Advance,” 

415-417 Dearborn 8t. v - Chicago, III. 


Digitized by 


Google 




IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


17 


BECKER’S 



Is the name given to the most active and pow¬ 
erful medical agent ever discovered for Indi¬ 
gestion or Dyspepsia. It r^lievfes the stomach 
of the labor of digesting food, and furnishes 
the conditions, without which a cure is impos¬ 
sible, viz.: rest and perfect nutrition. It takes 
the place of 44 Soothing Syrup’’for children, 
inducing sleep and correcting all Stomach Dis¬ 
orders. A sure cure for Chronic Diarrhoea, 
Cholera Morbus, Cholera Infantum, and all 
gastric disorders from whatever cause. 

I have no hesitation in saying that Becker’s Compound 
Digest is a genuine preparation. I prescribe it with 
great success in all forms of Indigestion, and complaints 
arising therefrom. E. M. Hale, M. D., Chicago. 

Becker’s Compound Digest has been of great use to 
mein the treatment of almost every form of nervous 
disease involving derangements of I ndigestlon. I do not 
hesitate to recommend it most highly. 

N. B. Pelamates, M. D., 

Prof, of Nervous Diseases in Chicago 
Homoeopathic College. 

For Sale by all Druggists. 

Prepared only by 

J. W. BECKER, - Chicago, Ill. 


R JVl I ^ 

'A ■' I L’ 


U S u 


Uterine Tonic, Aotispasnodic til Anodyoi. 

A RELIABLE REMEDY FOR THE RELIEF OF 

Dysmenorrhcea, Amenorrhoea, Menorrhagia, 
Leucorrhoea, Subinvolution; checks Threat¬ 
ened Abortion and Vomiting in Pregnancy. 

Directing its action to the entire uterine 
system as a general tonic and antispasmodic. 

Prepared exclusively for prescribing. The 
formula will commend itself to every physician. 

FORMULA.— Every oanoe contains 3-4 drachm of ths fluid 
extracts: VibornomiPraulf© llam,,Vibnrnam Opnlns, Dioeoore* 
Villose, Aletrls Farinosa, Hetonlu Dlocia, Mitchella Bepene, 
CaalopbyUam Thelistrotds, Beotellarln, Lateriflora. 

On application we will mail to practitioners, 
our Treatise on Uterine Diseases, wherein 

DI-O-VI-BUR-NIA 

is indicated, including commendations of many 
eminent physicians. 

BEWARE OF SUBSTITUTION I 


See that 
this trade¬ 
mark f9* 
is on label 
around bot¬ 
tle. 



A trial bot* 
tie fur¬ 
nished free 
to those 
willing to 
pay express 
charges. 


ORDER OF YOUR DRUGGIST. 

DIOS CHEMICAL CO., St. Lools, Mo., U.S.A. 


DR. KNORR’S 

Antipyrine. 

Soluble in Cold Water. 


The best known of all modern 
antipyretics; has a world-wide repu¬ 
tation. 

^ Antipyrine reduces temperature 
quickly, safely, and without any 
secondary effects.. 

Recommended in Diseases of 
Childhood, Typhoid Fever, Erysip¬ 
elas, Acute Rheumatism, Phthisis, 
Headache, Migraine, Hay Fever, 
Asthma, Seasickness, Whooping- 
Cough, Diabetes, etc. 


Dr. GERMAIN SEE, Paris, prafers Antipyrine to Mor¬ 
phine in Hypodermic Injections, to relieve pain. 


The Academy of Medicine, Paris, in their 
especially published pamphlet, December 17, 
IfSiJ, say, repeatedly: The effects of ANTIPY¬ 
RINE in treating INFLUENZA are wonderful. 


j. movius a SON, 

79 Murray Street, NEW YORK. 
Sole licensees for United States of America. 


MINNEAPOLIS 

MEDICAL and SURGICAL 

INSTITUTE. 


This Institution is open for the treat¬ 
ment of patients requiring special treat¬ 
ment in obscure and serious cases, and a 
staff has been secured of well-known 
specialists in all departments of Medicine 
and Surgery, who will respond to all 
reliable calls by wire or letter, for con¬ 
sultation or operations, in any part of 
the Northwest, Correspondence solic¬ 
ited. 


W. D. LAWRENCE, M. D. 

SECRETARY, 


828 1st Ave. South, MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. 

Digitized by Google 


18 


IN WA»TH*&TO ADVERTISESS, PLEASE MENTION- 


nu MXDICA.il ADTAjrCX. 



TO NEW SUBSCRIBERS OF THE 


North'American Journal 

. . or . . 

HOMEOPATHY. 


Upon receipt of $3.U0 for one year's subscription in advance, we will send you the Journal 
from September, 169to January, lfe92. In other words, giviug the September, October, Novem¬ 
ber and December, 1891, numbers gratis to all new subscribers remitting in advance. 

THE NORTH AMERICAN isjthe Oldest, the Largest and the Leading Homoeopathic 
Journal Published. 

It upholds homoeopathy ^and its distinctive title in every instance. It is edited and not 
scissored 

Its 1889 volume contained ORIGINAL ARTICLES from SEVENTT-EIGHT of the most 
prominent Homoeopathic writers of the world. 

No other homoeopathic journal had over tifty contributors of original articles to any one 
volume for 1889. 

THE NORTH AMERICAN is not made up from dippings of homoeopathic journals, but is 
strictly original from cover to cover. 

Its department of “THERAPEUTIC NOTES" is alone worth, to the busy practitioner, 
many times the price of the Journal. “ It Is the aim of this department to collate experience 
which may seem to writers insufficient for formal papers, but which, if published, will diffuse 
valuable information otherwise likely to be lost. The pages will be made as unhackneyed and 
practical as possible.” _ 

Subscription (Price, $3.00 per Volume. Single Copies, 30c. 


JOURNAL PUBLISHING CLUB, LIMITED. 

A, B. NORTON, M. D., Business Manager, 

152 West 34th St., New York City. 


THE NATIONAL MEDICAL EXCHANGE. 


Physicians’, Dentists’ and Druggists’ Locations and Property 
bought, sold, rented, and exchanged. Partnerships arranged. Assistants and Sub¬ 
stitutes provided. Business strictly confidential. Medical, Pharmaceutical, and 
Scientific Books supplied at lowest rates. Se^d 10 cts. for Monthly Bulletin coil 
taining terms, locations, and list of books. Correspondence solicited. 

Address, 

H. A. MUMAW, M. D., 

ELKHART, IND. 


Digitized by 


Google 





19 


IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


Chicago, St. Paul and Kansas City Railway 

. . THE . . 


FAST LIMITED EXPRESS TRAINS 


NOW RUNNING BETWEEN 



CHICAGO, 

ST. PAUL 

AND 

MINNEAPOLIS 


AND 

CHICAGO 

AND 

KANSAS CITY, 

OVER THIS LINE ARB 
THE 

FINEST TRAINS 

WEST or 

CHICAGO. 


THEY CONSIST OP THE 


CELEBRATED VE8TIBTILED COMPARTMENT AND PULLMAN 
SLEEPING CARS, 

MODERN DAY COACHES AND SMOKING CARS 


ELEGANT DINING CARS. 


Only 13 Honrs and 30 Minutes between Chicago and St. Paul and Minneapolis. 


Connections made with all lines in Union Depots at Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Des Moines, 

St. Joseph and Kansas City. 

Tickets via this Popular Route can be secured at all the principal Ticket Offices In the United States and Canada. 
BE SURE THAT TOUR TICKETS READ VTA THIS LINE. 

JMO. M. EGAH, W. R. BUSENBARK, 

President and General Manager. Gen’l Pass, and Ticket Agent, 

CHICAGO, ILL. 


Digitized by 


Google 





IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

SO THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 



Sugar Disks. 

Cane Sugar Globules. 

Pure Milk Sugar Globules. 
Re-Crystallized Sugar of Milk. 

The above “ Standard Brand ” Specialties are made with 
greatest care. They are of Superior Quality and best 
adapted for dispensing Homoeopathic Medicine. 

Standard Homoeopathic Globule Manufactory, 

F. BISCHOFF, Manager. 

129-131 WORTH STREET, - NEW YORK CITY. 

^“Our Goods can be obtained at Homoeopathic Pharmacies inlGeneral. 


Digitized by VjOOQle 



IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

THE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


MclNTOSH 


DR. MclNTOSH 


Battery and Optical (Jo. 

141 and 143 Wabash Ave., Chicago, III. 

OUR 

specialty: 
MEDICAL 
AND 

SURGICAL 
ELECTRICAL 
APPARATUS 

We manufacture 
McIntosh 12-Cell Combined Gal- a complete line 
▼ante ana Faradic Battery. of 

Combined Galvanic and Faradlc Portable Bat* 
teries, Office and Bath Apparatus, Galvano-Caut- 
tery Batteries, Electrodes, Static Machines, 
Rheostats for Using Electric Light Current, 
Milliampere Meter, Electric Motor for Static 
Machines. Dental Engines, Electric Light Laryn- 

S oscopes, and all kinds of Philosophical and 
(edical Electrical Apparatus made to order. 

Also all Accessories demanded by the Medical Profes¬ 
sion for the application and regulation of Electiicity in 
the Treatment of Disease. We also manufacture the 
Celebris ed McIntosh Solar Microscope and Stereopticon 
Combination, Professio»al and Clinical Microscopes, Ster- 
eopticons, Sciopticons, Objectives and Lenses. 




iT ATURAL 

UETRINE 

Supporter 


Has been used for the last twenty years and is 
the only one that has given 

PERFECT SATISFACTION. 

Every indication of Uterine Displacement is 
met by this combination. 

REDUCED PRICE TO PHYSICIANS, $5.00. 

Instruments sent by mail at our risk, on 
receipt of price, or by express, C. O. D.; return 
charges ad* ed. 

83T*Caotion.— To protect ' ur patrons from 
imposture, we stamp each pad of the abdom¬ 
inal belt in gilt letiers “ Dr. McIntosh N. U. 
Supporter, Chicago, III.” The base of each 
cup is stamped “Dr. McIntosh N.U.S. Co., 
Chicago, III., H. S. A.” 

83 #“Our valuable pamphlet on “Displace¬ 
ment of the Womb,” will be sent you free on ap¬ 
plication. For further porticulare, address 

DR. MclNTOSH N. U. SUPPORTER COMPANY 
141 and 143 Wabash Ave., CHICAGO, ILL. 


. . . THE R gan 

I mperial T russ. 

Has been introduced and is now in use in every State and Territory of the 
United States, and from the large number of commendations voluntarily 
sent to us, we have every reason to believe is giving general satisfaction in 
cases of Inguinal, Femoral and Umbilical Hernia. 

The Spiral Spring Pad with interchangeable springs, giving any pres¬ 
sure from one pound to ten pounds, is a most desirable feature. 

This Truss has the approval of the Medical Faculty of the University 
of Michigan. Dr. H. L. Obetz, Professor of Surgery in the Homeopathic 
College has many times stated in his Clinics that it was the best Truss he 
has ever used. 

If you do not find this Truss for sale by the local Druggists, order 
direct from us. Special Discount to Physicians. 

Egan Imperial Truss Co., Ann Arbor, Mich. 

Digitized byVjOO^LC 



IN WRITING TO ADVERTISERS, PLEASE MENTION 

TELE MEDICAL ADVANCE. 


THE ADVANTAGES OF 

STERILIZED MILK 

As a food is too well known to the Medical Profession to need mention, but the incon 
venience of sterilization, and the failure of the public to appreciate the value of the 
product, makes its use impracticable, especially among the poorer classes where the 
greatest mortality among children always occurs. 

HOELICK’S MALTED MILK 

Is a pure fresh cow’s milk, perfectly sterilized, and combined with the extract of selected 
grain, put up in hermetically sealed glass packages. 

The simplicity of preparation makes Malted Milk particularly valuable, as it has 
merely to be stirred into warm water which has previously been sterilized (boiled), when 
it dissolves instantly. 

Samples of Horlick’s Malted Milk will be sent free to any Physician on appli¬ 
cation to 

MALTED MILK CO., RACINE, Wis. 


pahschtld's 

ESSENCE OF PEPSINE 

Obtained by Direct Maceration from the Calf Rennet 

Has for ten years been successfully employed as the most generally useful, accept¬ 
able and effectual aid to digestion, to correct flatulency aDd distress arising from 
Dyspepsia, as an indispensable corrigent of remedies which derange the digestion and 
destroy the appetite. 

In the digestive disorders of infancy it is peculiarly indicated as a carminative, 
grateful digestive. 

Its use (in doses of a few drops) checks the regurgitation of food, relieves colic, 
and, by restoring tone to the whole digestive tract, affords a most valuable adjunct in 
the treatment of cholera infantum, etc. 

For nervous and habitual Dyspepsia it affords a most rational and acceptable 
resource, its continued use enabling the patient to enjoy and assimilate the quantum of 
food, otherwise intolerable. 

FAIRCHILD BROS. A FOSTER, 

82 and 84 FULTON STREET, NEW YORK. 


Digitized by 


Google 


Digitized by 



Digitized by 


Google