Veratrum viride

Volume IV — Main text

VERATRUM VIRIDE.

feratrmm ijiritU, Willd. American hellebore. Nat. Ord., Melantiaeea.

I. Pravings. — i. Mr. Worthington took gr. J of alcoholic extr. It caused acrid, burning sensation in mouth, and communicated to throat and fauces a sensation of dryness and heat, which finally

reached the stomach. In the course of an h. this fech'ng became intense, and a disposition to hiccup was excited which soon commenced, graduaily increasing in frequency, until it reached 15 — 20 times in nj. This was attended with some sickness and retching, until vomiting took place, which was violent, and recurred every 10 — 15 m. for space ofanh. During this time dizziness and tremor were present. With the hiccup there was copious secretion of saliva, and discharge of mucus from stomach and nose. During action of dose, pulse was weakened so as to be scarcely perceptible, and reduced from 68 to 52. This experiment was repeated 3 times, and in neither was there any disposition to catharsis. (Hale, Nnv RemedieSy 2nd cd.)

1. a. Dec. 20th, 1832, e., I took 2 gr. of extr. prepared from

i'uice of root. Slight glow in stomach followed, but no other effect, n i h. took 4 gr. Nothing occurred for \ h. save an increase of this feeling; but then began sensation as if stomach were slowly contracting on its contents and forcing them into oesophagus, producing sensation as of a bail at top of sternum. Also, sensation at epigastric region as if a full dose of calomel were operating. About | h. after last dose vomiting was produced, without effort or the least nausea. This was several times repeated, and hiccup accompanied ; much bile was thrown up, and there was great increase of salivary secretion. Skin with this was cool i much dizziness ; cloud before eyes ; great prostration ; considerable fatigue of muscles ; pulse very weak, small and soft, 34 only. Sense of contraction at stomach increased and became very disagreeable, still without nausea. About \ h. after first vomiting I took 5$s of laudanum, and in 20 m. 45 dr. more. Relief soon followed, and 1 went to sleep, and slept quietly till next m., when I awoke feeling unusually well.

b. About 8 a.m. took 3 gr. No effect for 2 h., when there began to be queer feelings about head. Sensation of cramp in gastrocnemii followed, with inability to exert them ; there was no contraction in them, but rather paralysis. This feeling went off in about an h. At 12.15 took 3 gr. more. Same sensation in gastrocnemii returned, and muscles of forearm were also affected in like manner. Vomiting followed in 45 m., with same symptoms as on n. before, but in less degree. Laudanum again relieved. Two gr., taken in e., caused slight vomiting but no other trouble.

c. I afterwards took gr. \ every 3 h. for 3d. A feeling of clumsiness of limbs was produced, and several times the peculiar muscular affection before mentioned. It seemed to affect any muscles that had been fatigued from previous exertion. The feeling of contraction of stomach was occasionally perceived. (W., in Bost. Altd. and Sutg. Journ.^ X, 216.)

1. Dr. Ei'HRAiM Cutter, April 7th, 1862, put 60 min. uf tiiifl of his own preparation into 5J of vehicle, and took f of whole^ff 6.30 p.m., pulse being 60. At 7 pulse was 52, At 7,30 took a second dose. At 9.30 pulse still 52 : took another dose. At 10.30, pulse 48 ; no nausea or unpleasant symptom, save very slight uneasiness at epigastrium. Slept soundly as usual. [Alonthly Horn. Iccv,, vi, 496.)

2. Dr. Woodward, a:t. 50, very nervous, pulse normally 90,

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tap. 20. At 8 p.m., after a busy day, pulse 94, took 8 dr. of Nor- I wood's tinct. In i h. pulse 87, resp. 18. In 2 h. pulse 80, resp, 16; tooiidr. more. In 3 h. pulse 75, resp. 14, lassitude. In 4 h. pulse 65, with sense of sinking at heart, resp. 12 j took 3 dr. more. In 10 m. felt nausea; pulse 50, resp. 8. In 15 m. more he vomited} pulse 42, resp. 6 ; profuse diaphoresis, and sense of utter prostration. ^Slept well that n., and awoke without any trace of trouble. {Phil. \ Mii. and Surg. Rep.^ Nov. 3rd, i860, p. 109.)

5, At noon took 2 gr. pulverised extract, i p.m., uneasiness in Uomich, not amounting to nausea. This continued till 1.30 p.m. when vomiting ensued, which occurred without nausea, but with a sense of rising in oesophagus like rumination. Felt as though muscular fibres of stomach contracted gradually and steadily on its contents till they were

expelled, the diaphragm and abdominal muscles remaining entirely in- I active. After the vomiting had continued a considerable time, it appeared to be more the effect of spasmodic action, and was attended with chills and coldness of whole body, but moist skin. After i h. fomitiiig ceased, and was followed by dimness of sight, dilated pupils, vertigo, faintness and drowsiness ; pulse 40, hardly perceptible. Took f^xxv laudanum and fell asleep. After I h. woke with same symptoms and dull pain in epigastrium, so again took laudanum. But nnding no relief, dimness of sight increasing, and amounting almost to blindness on moving body or turning head, and stitt sensation in mus* dcs, especially temporal and extensors of head, with general prostration, took a double dose of laudanum. This relieved him. (Osgood, Amer. JwH. if Mid. SCf xvi, 302.)

1. A medical man took at 9 p.m. 2 gr. In \ h. slight uneasiness of 'totnach. 9.30 p.m. 4 gr. 10 p.m. feeling of a ball rising in oesophagus as far as top of sternum, as if propelled by a gradual tonic con-

I "action of stomach. 10.15 p.m. vomiting commenced, at first mildly

^H l>ut then more heaving, ejections chiefly of bile, much ineffectual retch-

^■■'"gi constant hiccup, chilliness, dimness of vision, vertigo, inability to

^■control voluntary muscles, distress of stomach, pulse small and creep-

^■'°&34 (usually 56). Took laudanum 5SS, which sent him to sleep.

At 7 a<m. took 3 grs. 9 a.m. confused head and almost entire loss of

P<'*crof gastrocnemii muscles. At noon, 3 grs. 12.30 p.m. all mus-

do of forearm similarly affected, i p.m. vomiting, pulse 40, and other

'Jixpioms of previous d. 2.30 took laudanum, n\xlv, and in 2 h. all

•yniptoms subsided except powerlcssness of gastrocnemii muscles.

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pm. 2 gr., which in | h. caused vomiting but nothing besides. ' '>e same prover took subsequently ^ gr. every 3 h., which after 3 doses Mujed uneasiness of stomach and paralysed condition of extensors of feet, t gr. every 3 h. caused similar symptoms but less markedly. | gr. '""y 3 h« caused diuresis. {Ibid.)

1. Dr. James Watsov and a fellow-student proved a tinct. prepared by Dr. Cutter. At 6.15 p.m., their pulses being 64, they took 8 dr., and repeated dose 3 times at k h. intervals, but without effect. Dr. Watson then proved another tinct. prepared by Duncan and Huckhart, taking 8 min. at 3 p.m., ai\d repeating dose at 5. No change in pulse or other effect was observed till 7, when he was troubled a

good deal with flatulence. In a few m. more he began to feel nauseated, and would have vomited had he not restrained the tendency. Force and frequency of pulse were now diminished. Griping in bowels now followed, also sickness and weakness with considerable pain at cpi> gastrium. There was heavy dull headache with occasional throbbing in temples. Pulse (70 at 3 p.m.) was now 64. Pain in bowels continued, and he felt himself growing weaker ; but nevertheless took another 8 dr. at 7. At 7.15 debility was greater still, and he felt that he must soon vomit. Pain in stomach and bowels became much more severe, clammy cold sweat broke out on forehead, and at 7.30 he vomited. By this time his back had become very weak ; the retching was attended with intense pain, at times almost amounting to agony. While vomiting, which he continued to do till about 8, it required all his remaining strength to support himself. Pain was at this time most severe over front of chest, with occasional twitching in small intestines. He was now attacked by one or two cold shivers. Feet and hands became cold and numbed, though there was a large fire blazing in grate. This cold numbness crept up legs and arms, and at last whole body felt as if enveloped in cold damp cloths, and he became quite prostrate. Hands and feet were quite cold ; pulse 40. Flatulence continued pretty constant till 8.15, when he vomited again, less painfully; clammy cold sweat remained, and whole surface felt benumbed. At 8. 30 bowels were slightly moved, and after this griping nearly disappeared. Depression and prostration continued, but gradually went off after taking some wine. Face was very pale after vomiting, but pupils were not dilated. {Edinb. Med. Journ.^ ix, 616.)

1. a. Dr. Burt, in perfect health, took at 9*50 a.m., Dec. list, 30 dr. of 3X dil. of fl. extr. (prepared with water). 10, sharp drawing pain over I. eye, with contracted feeling of skin of forehead, to. 30, constant dull frontal headache, with neuralgic pains in r. temple, close to eye. 11, dull pains over eye, with quite severe drawing pint in umbilical region ; pulse 67. Took 50 dr. 12, slight frontal headache, with pricking pains in region of heart and frequent drawing paint in umbilical region ; pulse 70. Took 60 dr. 2, drawing pains in forehead ; natural stool. Took 100 dr. 3, dull frontal headache, with pricking pains in pra?cordial region. Took 150 dr. 5, slight frontal headache j neuralgic pains in region of heart and cardiac portion of stomach. Took 200 dr. 7, very frequent pains about cardii. Took 175 dr. Slight dull frontal headache j neuralgic pains in r, side of umbilicus, passing down to groin ; slight drawing pains in r. elbow and calves ; sharp flying pains in epigastric and umbilical regions. Pulse 66.

b. Slept well, but had frightful dreams of being on the water. 9 a.m., feeling well, pulse 79, took 3 dr. of fl. extr. 9. 30, pulse 76 ; slight dull frontal headache, with contractive feeling of skin of fore* head. 10, took 4 dr. 1 1, dull frontal headache, with neuralgic pains in temples ; sharp pains in epigastric and umbilical regions, passing down to pubes ; pulse 71. 12, took 5 dr. 2 p.m., very severe frontal headache, with dull aching pains in umbilical region •, puUe 'x.

Xook 6 dr. 4, constant dull headache ; pulse 70. Took 6 dr. 9, head as at 1 1 a.m.; tongue feeling as if it had been scalded ; dull aching in epigastrium ; very sleepy. Toole 8 dr. 23rd. — Restless n. ; frightful dreams of persons drowning. In m. flat taste in mouth ; tongue coated yellow along centre. Soft papescent stool. 9 a.m.. Cook to dr. ; pulse 70. 10, there have been constant and severe cutting aching pains in umbilical region, with rumbling in bowels, and a soft stool. Took 12 dr. Thereupon dull heavy aching pains in region of gall-bladder and umbilicus ; arms also ache. 12, took 12 dr. i p.m., very severe aching in back of neck, difficult to hold head up ; constant burning distress in region of heart ; felt very weak, and trembled all over ; pulse 46, soft and very weak hardly to be felt j mushy stool without pain. 2, dull frontal headache ; face very pale, nose looks pinched and blue ; constant hiccup, with violent and constant spasms of upper oesophagus, causing dysphagia ; profuse vomiting of thick glairy mucus and watery profuse secretion of tears, also of saliva; neck aching severely ; pulse 44, soft and very weak. 2.20, violent vomiting, with severe frontal headache and hiccup ; cannot walk, if he attempts it he is faint and completely blind; obliged to keep in horizontal position. 4, pupils dilated; neck and arms ache severely ; dull aching in umbilical region, with rumbling; pulse 44, soft and very weak. 5, still umbilical aching, with sharp neuralgic pains in 1. groin { an walk about 10 rods, when he becomes blind and is obliged to sit down; pulse 46. 8, feeling much better; pulse 61, soft and weak ; aching still in umbilicus, and also about gall-bladder. Took 8 dr., and retired. 24th. — Slept soundly, but had frightful dreams of water as before. Mouth and tongue as yesterday on waking ; slight dull pains in bowels; pulse 64, soft and full. Took 10 dr. 8 a.m., dull aching pain about umbilicus and gall-bladder, occasionally becoming sharp and shooting; tongue felt as if scalded. 10, took 10 dr. 12, dull frontal headache ; natural stool, followed by aching in rectum ; pulse 55, soft and very weak. Took 10 dr. i p.m., very severe frontal headache, and symptoms as on 23rd — hiccup, oesophageal spasms, vomiting, lachrymation and salivation, aching and weakness in back of neck and arms. Pulse was 44, soft and scarcely to be felt ; after a short walk became blind and faint, but could sit up without any trouble. Hiccup and spasm lasted 2 h. 2, dull frontal headache ; •evere aching in neck, very much worse on movement ; dull pain in bowels ; pulse 46 ; constant dull aching burning pain in region of heart, under sternum ; ringing in ears, and movement quickly brings on deafness. 3, pain in region of heart and in umbilicus, as before; pulse 46, very soft and weak. 5, same, but pulse 57, 6, same, but pulse 60. 10, pulse 66 ; dull pain in umbilicus, with desire for stool ; mushy stool, followed by aching in rectum. Next m. felt well ; pulse 66, small and hard. {Hale's N'eui Remedhs^ 2nd cd.)

g. Mrs. — dissolved i dr. of tinct. in Oiss of water, and took a wineglassful at 8.5 p.m. Pulse rose at once from 74 to 80, and in 5 m. ftll to 70. At 9 p.m. nausea, which passed ofF on eating. (Berridge, iV. ytm. Joum. of Horn. ^ N. S., iii, 500.)

1. a. Dr. James Lillie, Dec. 19th, 1865, dissolved i dr. of

you IV.

tinct. in Oiss of water, shook it, and took a wineglassful at 8.5 p.m Pulse rose at once from 74 to 80, and in 5 m. fell to 70. In (\ni J h. had aching in 1. humerus just above elbow, which changed soon to ]. breast about nipple (this was very slight and transient). It then returned to 1. humerus about middle, soon shifting to I. shoulder-joint, lasting longer there than elsewhere, but going off on eating at 9 p.m. Took another wineglassful before 9. Pulse fell at once from 76 two or three beats. At 10 had aching in I. tibia, about middle, for I or 2 m. At 10.30 a wineglassful ; pulse 82. In 20 m. pulse 80, with slight aching over r. eye, also in r. temple and malar bone just under eye. 20th. — Last n. in bed, itching in 1. malar prominence, in oriAce of 1. ear, and in 1. groin. On waking from a short sleep, indescribable sensation rising from forehead towards crown, and grasping as it were vertex and occiput. On waking a second time felt as if waves were rising from stomach into chest. Rose at 7, and at 8 took a wineglassful. Pulse rose at once from 60 to 66, but in 15 m. had fallen to near 60 again. At 9.30 took 2 wineglassfuls, and while riding in aa omnibus had pain in r. elbow, which went up to scapula, also aching in I. eye. While sitting, pain in 1. tibia returned. At 5 p.m. one wineglassful ; at 6.45 (after dinner), 3. Pulse rose at once from 76 to 8a, but fell to 76 again in { h. In 30 m. pain returned above C elbow, rose to middle of humerus, and then to shoulder-joint ; it was severer than last n. It then went to I. instep and outside 1. ankle, also over to r. ankle. At 8.45 took 3 wineglassfuls of a dil, made of I wineglassful of former to Oiss of water. Pulse rose from 66 to "2, and fell again in ^ h. While eating at 9 p m. distinct aching in bend of 1. foot inside. On waking next m. pain in 1. hip-joint, which $000 went to r. 2i3t. — At 8.15 a.m. took 4 wineglassfuls, after whidi pulse was 70 ; in 30 m. it was 62. Pain in I. hamstrings, then in 1. instep, and at same time in middle of r. tibia ; afterwards a dull steady pain in muscles of I. thigh, and in those above ridge of 1. scapula. Al I [ p.m. took 4 wineglassfuls of a 3rd dil. made as above. Immediatelr a sudden severe ache in r. trochanter. 22nd. — At 7 a.m. took 4 wine-

flassfuls. Immediately, distinct ache over r. eye. At 9.30 took 5. n a few m. severe shooting, suddenly-stopping pain in I. eye. ijfd.— Woke at 4.30 a.m. with violent cramps in both calves. Rose, and had stool before 5, larger and easier than usual. Took 2 wineglassfuli P.m., steady pain of some intensity about 1. nipple. 24th. — At ti a.m. took 4 wineglassfuls of a 4th dil. prepared as before. 25tb.— On waking in m., shuddering for some time, with pains in joint* tiU he fell asleep. On waking again felt shuddering once more, but without chilliness. 26th. — Woke with same shuddering, and with throbbing ache in knee (r.) on which he was lying. On turning to 1. tidt and rubbing knee, pain gradually went off; it then came into 1. kntf in a milder and less steady form, then went back to r., went ofFwhik dressing, but returned at times during d., especially when limb «* in a constrained position. Pain in arm also came on when huldinj anything in band, and went off on setting it down. Pain in r. kn* recurred every n. save one up to 30th, always when lying on r. ti^j (his usual position). It went oiFas before on turning and rubbing.

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i. 30th. — At 11.15 ^•^' took I dr. of ist dil. Pulse rose at once from 82 to 92, but in 25 m. was 73, and in 20 m. more 72, One h. after, feeling of dislocation in r. ankle, so severe as to make walking almost impossible. This pain (not unknown to him in former years, but rare of late) lasted more or less all d. In e. had slight return of pain in r. knee, and in 1. thigh just above knee. At 10.48 p.m. took 3 dr. Pulse rose at once from 72 to 80, and in 5 m. fell to

1. Felt at once distinct but transient pain at extremity of r. elbow, ain in r. knee returned, and also that in 1. thigh ; also some heaviness about forehead, and sharp steady pain about middle of I. instep towards inside, going off gradually in about i m. On going to bed very sudden severe lancing pain in r. hip. Frequent return of throbbing aching in r. knee, and once a little in 1., and slight return of that above ridge of scapula, that in middle of 1. tibia, and that felt tirst in humerus above elbow. Also aching in upper part of r. orbit. Much lively dreaming, in which he was continually provoked and baffled, Jan. 1st. — At 8.30 a.m. took 10 — 12 dr. in jij water. Pulse rose at once from 64 to 76, and fell again in 10 m. A.m., very slight pains in 1, shoulder and great trochanter ; p.m., something of dislocated feeling in r. ankle. At 10.57 P-'"- ^^^l^ ^ ^'' Pulse rose at once from 72 to 80, and in 7 m. fell to 70 ; and there was aching in r. knee about inner condyle of femur, pain soon extending to inner middle of thigh, and wandering to front of thigh and above knee. Inner condyle of 1. femur began to be similarly affected, also inner condyle of 1. humerus and 1. instep. Pains then seemed all to settle in r. ankle outside. 2nd. — Twice during n. towards m. a shuddering; pain felt in r. knee on waking. This m. slight pain in r. knee and ankle. At 11 p.m. took 12 dr. in j'ss water, sipping it in 2 — 3 m. Pulse by that time had fallen from 82 to 76, 3rd. — This m. steady ache for a m. or two in middle of 1. ulna. At noon took 2 or 3 dr. Pulse rose at once from 70 to 80. In e. made 30th dil. from 3rd, and drank all the intermediate (watery) dils. at once. In a few m. felt old pain above tibow and in r. knee, also above I. knee and in 1. shoulder-joint, uring n. had several of the former pains, and an itching between r. aia nasi and face. There was also the former aching in upper part of orbit, and in line between r. glutei and thigh. c, Jan. 1 0th. — At 10.35 took 1 dr. of tinct. in a glass of water.

ulsc rose at once from 64 to 76, and in a few m. fell to 70. In first h. slight transient pains in r. and 1. knee, and several other parts.

fter going to bed pain in upper part of 1. shoulder, and the itching in side of nose. nth. — On waking, had much slight shuddering in r.

id 1. shoulder in succession, and afterwards in whole chest, extend-

Ig into abdomen ; also pains in fingers and toes. At 12.30 p.m. took

lother dr. Pulse rose at once from 78 to 82, and in 5 m. fell to 74. U 4.15 p.m. repeated dose, pulse 92 (after a meal). Pulse rose at once 98, and in 20 m. was 88. After a few m. more, transitory pains

id flying aches occurred in various parts, and returned repeatedly, icre was also steady dull pain over r. eye, gradually extending to brehead. During e. pains became severer and steadier than before,

chiefly in condyles of legs and arms ; there was also a long-continued

steady thrilling about an inch to 1. of dorsal vertebra;, 4 in, below scapula. At 10.20 p.m. took another drop. At n. on going to bed intense painful itching in middle of 1. eyebrow, and same on first joint of], index Hnger. (He had had this feeling before in same and correspending joint of next finger.) While lying, pain on r. side of I. sole (this also had occurred previously). Had the pain in I. great trochanter and both knees — simultaneously or alternately. 12th. — At 8.45 a.m. 1 dr. In ^ h. had pain in back. During d. felt occasionally usual pains in joints. At 10.45 p.m. another dr. After going to bed, itching on several spots of face. No more was taken till 17th, but former symptoms recurred from time to time, especially in m. on waking.

d. On 17th, at 1.30 p.m., took 3 dr. of 3rd dil. on sugar. Pulse (which had been but slightly influenced by later doses of tinct.) rose at once from 82 to 98. Repeated dose at 7 p.m., with same result. At 10. lo p.m. took I dr. in water ; pulse 82, did not rise at once, but in 3 — 4 m. was 88. In first 30 m. after dose several of the old pains recurred. Before going to bed noticed a pain in 1. shoulder, and after lying down had itching in face again. l8ch. — At 8.15 a.m, took i dr. Pulse unaffected. Several pains in forenoon. At noon, i dr. on sugar. Pulse rose from 74 to 80, falling again in 5 ra. Usual pains occurred during afternoon. At 6.30 p.m. took 3 dr. on sugar. Pulse rose at once from 86 to 106, and in 5 m. fell to 82. The thrilling quivering sensation of the nth was felt in back all e., over about size of half a crown in extent. Two h, after dose, severe pulsating pains in 1st joint of r. middle finger, lasting i m. At 10.30 p.m. 5 — 6 dr. on sugar. Pulse rose from 72 to 78, and immediately pain set in at lower third of 1. tibia. Itching in face at n. On rising next m. found urine passed the n. before turbid, dark, depositing a reddish sediment and covered with a scum. There was smarting this m. upon urinating. At 8.30 a.m. took 7 — 8 dr. on sugar. Pulse rose from 66 to 72. Pains as usual. At i p.m. 3 dr. in water. Again usual pains, and thrilling in back changed once into a severe ache on rising from a reclining posture. At 10.20 p.m. took 7 dr. in water. Pulse rose from 64 to 72, and had not come down in 25 m. For the third time noticed nasal catarrh and sneezing shortly after the dose, soon passing off.

e. Dr. L. finally proved 30th and 200th, with very similar results as regards pulse and (flying) pains, but with no new symptoms. Prover dreamt much, especially of water, throughout his experiment. {Ibid., ii, 505.)

1. Feb. I, 1862, at 2 p.m., after a light meal, pulse being 70, resp. 16, took 7 dr. of tinct. 3, pulse 65. 4, pulse 60 ; repeated dose. 6, pulse 50. Took 4 dr. From 6 to 7 there was slight nausea and feeling of weakness throughout body. 8, took 6 dr. 8.30, pulse 46; considerable nausea ; no vomiting; indescribable feeling of weakness and lassitude in limbs. Went to bed at g.30, and slept soundly till m. There was, during the 24 h. following the first dose, a considerable increase in the amount and corresponding decrease in the sp. gr. of the urine. (Abbott, Bost. Med. and Surg. Joum., Ixvi, 190.)

2. Having taken 20 m. of tinct. of V. vir. in 3j water, nothing

isual occurred until about 3 h. after, when I went out to walk. I had not gone far when I experienced a sense of weariness in ail the muscles of progression — especially the gastrocnemii. I remained out for about an h,, and was scarcely able to get home from muscular weakness. At this time I was in a profuse perspiration and in a few m. was obliged to lie down ; pulse was only 30, and not perceptible at wrist. I remained thus for ^ h., cold perspiration pouring off, when my stomach got a little sick. Retching continued for J h., food, mucus, &c., being brought up ; but I got no relief till I threw up some bitter stuff with the characteristic taste of the V. vir. My mind was perfectly calm all the time ; and although I thought it probable I should die, I did not feel alarmed. An unmistakable tendency to cramp was present in my legs when touched or moved. During all this time, if I assumed the erect position even for a m., dimness of sight and partial syncope supervened, which obliged me to resume the recumbent posture. This continued for i^ h., extremities being quite cold, but clammy perspiration gradually wearing off. After this I slowly recovered, a cup of hot strong coffee doing more good than anything else. (P. M. Rice, Brit, journ. of Horn., xxiv, 343.)

1. T. L — , act. 14, took 10 pellets of 3X every \ h. all d, for 4 d. On 3rd d., vertigo and photophobia, relieved by closing eyes and resting head (in m.). Dull headache in occipital region. Tongue white in centre with red edges and white tip ; it does not look like a coated tongue, but as if the blood were pressed out (in m.). Water tastes like lime-water. V^ery thirsty, drinks little, which relieves for a short time. Thirst with slight nausea an h. after rising in m. Very sleepy. Tenesmus and diarrhoea, copious and offensive stool, with burning of anus and pale face ; tenesmus and burning before and up to the stool, but not during and after ; felt better after stool. Felt cold in m., after being up ^ h. 4th d. — When rising from a seat or from bed a slight dizziness. Dull headache, occipital, all d. Edges of tongue red, tip white, and centre almost pure white. Submaxillary

f lands swollen and sore to touch. Pulse 70 and weak (normal pulse o). Three loose stringy stools, with tenesmus and burning in the anus up to stool, relieved by stool. 5th d. — Dull headache, occipital, all d. 6th d. — Took 5 dr. of tinct. in water every \ h. Slight occipital headache. One loose stool. 7th d. — Dizziness, nausea, and severe vomiting on rising in m. Pulse slow. Several loose stools during d. with tenesmus ; felt better after each stool. Clothes would not fit him, seemed as if they were scratching him somewhere, and he could not relieve himself; constant twitching of different parts of the body, trying to relieve the rubbing sensation. (Dr. Sullivan's provings, from Allen's Encyclopadiay x.)

1. E. B. S — on 1st d. took lO dr. of tinct., p.m. Pulse as frequent but softer than usual (at n.). Slept but little during n. ; restless. 2nd d. — Took 5 dr. every \ h. Face pale. Tongue bright red at tip and edges, white in centre. Usual morning stool, but scanty and soft ; at noon tenesmus, followed by loose stool with burning of anus ; stool relieves tenesmus ; four stools, all the same. Urine scanty. At n., when standing, pulse 58. 3rd d. — Constipated. Two d. later took

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5 dr. of It every ^ h. all d. General coldness of body (after 3^ h.), 2ndd. — Took ii all d. No effect. 3rd. — Same. No effect. 4th d.— Took 3x every ^ h. Slowness of heart's action. Had a severe piin in 1. testicle all the time after 2nd d. {Ibid.)

1. a. W, E, D — , 1st d., 10 dr. of 6x at 9.20 and 10.20 a,tn. and I p.m. 2nd d. — 10 dr. of i, at 10.12 a,m. and i p.m. A heavy dull feeling over 1. eye, worse when stooping (a p.m.). Two wft stoob in e.) at 6 and 7.

i. 1st d. — 3 dr. of tinct. at 7 andjio a.m., and at 2, 6, 6.30, and 10 p.m. Soft stool, discharged easily. Urine very clear. 2nd d.— 3 dr. at 7.45 and 1 1 a.m. Awoke in m. with a frontal headache, which seemed relieved after stool. Ravenous appetite on waking in m. Soft stool with slight tenesmus in m.; during d. several soft stools, but no tenesmus. Decreased amount of clear urine. Pulse 80 and irregular at 7.15 a.m., norma! (72 to 76) remainder of d. 3rd d.— Sensation about anus as if something were crawling out or about it, it seemed like a worm. It seemed clothes did not fit well, they irritated wherever they touched ; would keep twitching, and it seemed almost impossible to keep still, especially when sitting. 4th d. — 10 dr. at 8 a.m., 12 m., and 7 p.m. Tongue red on edges, greyish from tip halfway back, back part grey with red spots size of a pin's head (strawberry tongue). Ravenous appetite at noon. At i p.m. while riding was attacked with sudden and fearful tenesmus, which doubled him up in spite of all he could do ; an offensive watery stool came with a gush and great force ; it came all at once, and that was the end of it ; after the stool there was pain in bowels, with ineffectual desire for stool ; pains in abdomen continued all afternoon. Pulse 78, full and strong. 5th d. — Desire for stoo} woke him with urging tenesmus at 6.30 a.m. ; stool soft, stringy, and doughy ; at 7.30 a.m. another stool of about the same consistence, but not with so much tenesmus. During this proving had no headache after 1st and 2nd d.

c. Took pellets saturated with 30th potency for 6 d. with no results, then took pellets saturated with third potency every i h. for ad. 1st d. — After i p.m. noticed a frontal headache which extcndd back on 1. side of head to occiput ; continued all d., more when lying down, especially when lying on occiput. Evacuation of bowcli regular, but soft and stringy ; had to use some force to start stool from sphincter, it seemed to stick, but after passing it was as described. 2nd d. — Pain in bowels with flatulence ; this is a very marked symptom, as the prover seldom passes flatulence. Pain in both testicles. 3rd d. —Flatulence continued all d. 4th d. — Same doses as on ist d., beginning at 2 p.m. Slept very poorly during n. Flatulence a marked symptom. Pain in bowels ran down into scrotum ; pain in scrotum was last to disappear. Two soft stools after 5 p.m., doughy and stringy, with tenesmus relieved after stool. Headache which stopped (.' started) at temples^ and seemed to take a diagonal course across head (after 2 h.). 5th d. — Alternating soft and hard stool every 2 h. ; the soft stool was doughy, stringy, and large ; the hard stool of moderate size and followed by pain. Pain in testicles, worse in 1., in m. During proving a fulness in 1. ear, with continued beating of carotids; he

K

could hear the beat distinctly. PuJse ranged from 72 to 80, never ewading the latter.

</. On ist d. 3rd potency every ^ h. Headache, 1. side, back to temple. Stool at 9 p.m., which was doughy and hard to expel ; the umr again at iz m., with tenesmus. At 6 p.m. pain in both testicles, worse on I. side, sometimes shoots up cord into abdomen ; continued alle. Pulse 80 in e. 2nd d. — Headache, 1. side, from before backwards. Tongue white, not coated, looks as if bleached. Pain in lower ponion of bowels. One soft stool. Pulse 78 at 7.30 a.m. 3rd d. — 5 df.of tinct. every h. Pain in abdomen. Pulse 68, regular, at 8 a.m. ; 71, irregular and soft, at 9 ; 80, regular, at 10 ; 84, regular and full, at II ; 83, regular and soft, at 12 m.} 72, regular and full, at 2 p.m. ; 76, regular and full, at 3 ; 83 at 4.30 ; 82 at 6 ; 85 at 9 ; 76, regular, at u. 4th d. — 10 dr. of tinct. at 8 and 9 a.m., 12 m., and i and % p.m. Dull feeling in head all afternoon and c. Fulness and throbbing in carotid in 1. ear ; this came on soon after beginning to Uke drug. Nausea and dizziness, followed by heat of surface, then icy coldness. Pulse 70 at 8 a.m., 85 at 11, 84 at 12 m., 75 at t p.m., 80 at 2, (/*iV.)

1. J. H. C, aet. 28, took loth potency every 20 m. from 7 a.m.

Heavy dull pain in head with weakness ; full, pressing, heavy feeling

"1 eves. Pain in bowels with nausea ; desire for stool with nausea ;

»ojue wind passed, but not much faeces. Drawing pain in lower

thoracic region with nausea. Feet cold and chilly. Slight heat of

''ody and cold sweat of forehead. Pulse {normally 72 to 76) at g a.m.,

r* ; 13 m., 68; i p.m., 58} 4.30, 76 and full, and d, — Continued

*"nic. Vertigo with nausea ; head full and heavy. Frontal headache

*'«ih cold feet and hands. Numb constrictive pain in forehead pressing

"ick to ears, sensation as if membrans tympani would break. Unsteady

•sion. Nausea and vertigo with pain in bowels ; these symptoms 4 rties in succession, 20 m. apart, each lasting 3 to 5 m. Soreness Across abdomen and pain in bowels. Urgent desire for stool, but no Passage ; felt weak and faint. Difficult respiration, with nausea. In • tickling, spasmodic cough, from just above sternum. At 6 p.m. feet '^d hands cold, with frontal headache. Skin of head hot and moist. fUlse, 9 a.m., 90, very weak, hardly perceptible ; li m., 72. 3rd d. ■■"-Pain and soreness acrossabdomen, just above pelvis, continubg all d,, B^'^dually decreasing. {/6id.)

1. Mr. Chas. Bullock experimented with the resin of Ver. v. ^ter it had been entirely freed from alkaloids. He took | gr. dissolved in alcohol every 4 h. until l gr. had been consumed. No effect on Circulation, or other result, was noticeable. On a second trial same dose was administered at same intervals till 2 gr. had been taken. No effect on force or frequency of pulse was observed ; the only result »a» great prostration of the digestive functions, subjecting the experimenter to a temporary but severe attack of dyspepsia. (H, C. Wood, Jm, yottrn. of Mtd. Sc.^ N. S., lix, 51.)

2. Dr, Wood, at 3.35 p.m., pulse 80, took gr. j of resin. 4, omach feels mawkish and slightly nauseated; pulse 82. 4.15, took

her gr. 4.30, pulse yb; slightly nauseated. 5, pulse 80, still

nausea. 5.20, took 2 gr. more. 6, pulse 70 ; nausea marked, relieved at times by eructations of wind. At 6.30 he took a meal, though food was repugnant to him, and he ate little. All through e. he suScred from tightness, nausea, stomachic wretchedness, with frequent eructa* tions of wind. A glass of whisky gave some relief, {/bid.)*

ig. For the following observations patients were chosen in the hotpital in a state as nearly approaching to health as possible, and to these the tinct. was administered in increasing doses till a marked etfect wit produced. In each case patient was put upon a stated diet, and kept in bed for a d. or two previous to administration of drug, their temp, and pulse being frequently noted, so as to compare their normal state with the observations subsequently made.

a. C. G — , set. 45, widow, suffering from false angina pectoris, general condition fairly good. After being in hospital for a week temp, and pulse were noted for 3 d. Tinct. was then given in 20 min. doses. Pulse was soon affected, but no fall of temp, worthy of note occurred. After 2nd dose pulse fell within 2 h. 10 to 20 beats in m., and continued so for about 2 h. On rising again to about 60 beats, 3rd dose reduced it within an h. to 50. Two d. later, medicine being given in same way, corresponding results were observed, and there was faintness and retching. Next d. (Dec. ist) one dose of 40 min. was given at 10 a.m. This reduced pulse in an h. about 10 beats, and till 4 p.m. it remained about 20 beats below average of days on which no medicine was taken. Dec. 2nd, 60 min. were given at 10 a.m. From 9 till 10 pulse had ranged between 64 and 72. One h. after medicine had been taken pulse began to fall, being between 11 and 12 as low at 42, ranging between this and 54 till 2 p.m., and gradually rising till it reached normal rate at 4. Temp., unchanged on previous d., was ihii d. slightly higher.

b. S. W — , at. 48. Admitted complaining of beating sensation in abdomen, which gave rise to much uneasiness at times, and occasionally to vomiting. Pulsations of abdominal aorta were very distinctly felt in epigastric region, but there was no enlargement. Heart healtlijr. In this case 2 doses of 20 and 40 min. respectively were given on 6th and 7th Dec, smaller dose producing a slight, and larger one a most marked diminution in the number of pulse-beats, within 2 h. of taking medicine. Temp, was not in the least altered. Each dose made him sick, faint, and weak, and 7 h. after latter there was slight headache. (SquAREY, Pract., iv, 210.)

II. Poisonings. — i. C, xt. i\ years, was given repeated doses of tinct. till he must have taken about 35 dr. in 2 to 3 h. There were efforts to vomit every few m. after 2nd dose. Dr. Harris was called to him 7 h. after ist dose. He found him unconscious, very palci breathing heavily — almost stertorously ; pulse 40; extremities cold, and a profuse cofd perspiration over body. Stimulants were given, and mustard applied ; but child died in 6 h. more. (Bost. Med, and Sur£. Jeurn.^ Jxxii, 249.)

• Dr. Wood al«o experimented with the retin on a pigeon and two rabbits. I latter the effect was mJ, but the former sufFered from repeated vomiting.

Ob

1. On e. of Dec. 18th I was called to see a scientific chemist. I found him sitting in the w.c, vomiting into the pan. His features were sunken, skin cold, and covered with profuse clammy sweat ; pulse quite imperceptible. He complained of intense pain about epigastrium. The vomited matter appeared to consist at first of the food and contents of the stomach, afterwards of glairy mucus, I gave him immediately 3>8s of pure brandy, which checked the vomiting. He was removed to an adjoining room, and laid on a couch in front of the fire. Surface was still very cold, especially on extremities. Clammy sweat continued ; but pulse could be felt indistinctly, beating very feebly and irregularly, 44 to m. Two or three efforts at retching afterwards took place, and he once or twice vomited food, mucus, and a small quantity of blood. Warmth gradually returned to surface, and pulse became somewhat better in volume and power. Brandy was repeated at short intervals, and after about an h. he fell asleep, slept for 15 m., and woke saying, " I am right now," as he appeared to be. There was no diarrhoea throughout. He had 2 or 3 times a slight return of the symptoms ; did not sleep during n., but was quite easy ; and next m. felt only soreness of muscles from retching.

2. The following was his own account of the attack. After saying that he had taken experimentally what he thought a safe dose, viz. 3J of tincture, at about 4.45 p.m., he went on — '* My stomach soon afterwards whispered that I had admitted a troublesome guest. I went upstairs and sat down, thinking a cup of tea would set all right ; but the uneasy constriction of the stomach continuing, with a tendency to sickness, made me retire to the closet. The sickness, once commencing, soon became alarmingly violent, with the most excruciating pain in the lower part of the stomach, in spot about size of palm. The feeling was as if all the warm drinks I took to provoke the vomiting went under the pain, making the constriction more and more violent. Finding the case desperate I sent off for medical aid. The pain continued to increase, and the ejection from the stomach was now of glairy mucus with blood, and there was running from nose and eyes. The most painful and profuse cold sweating now came on, and the breathing became more and more laboured. I could not help wondering at the absence of anything like heat or constriction of throat ; my mind was perfectly calm ; and, although I thought it more than probable that I should die, I did not feel alarmed. Hearing and recognising the voice of one of my medical friends is all I recollect for some time. Immense circles of*^ green colour appeared round the candle, which, as vertigo came on, and I closed my eyes, turned to red. The pain continued excruciating at pit of stomach, and a slight tendency to cramp existed when my legs were touched." The bowels were not moved until (after aperients) second m, (Edwards, Al/d. Times and Gaz., 1863, i, 5.)

3. Dr. Woodbury prescribed for a gentleman, aet. 45, as an expectorant, 40 dr. of tinct. in Jj of water, a teaspoonful every 3 h. First dose was taken as directed, but after an h., no effect being felt, patient ventured on a tablespoonful, 1. e. 20 dr. In 10 to 15 m. he experienced burning sensation in throat, oesophagus, and stomach, dizziness and

pain in head, with dimness of vision, dilated pupils, and severe niutei though little vomiting. Dr. W. saw him ^ h. after 2nd dose. He found him in great distress j very pale, with cadaverous look ; convul. sive breathing, almost to suffocation ; pulse very small, about 40 ; ex> tremities cola to elbows and knees; profuse cold sweat about hands and face ; weakness and stiffness of limbs, with frequent efFurts » vomit, and extreme prostration. Emetics (ipec, which acted freely), sinapisms, and stimulants were given. Patient became somnolent, soon followed by lethargy, which continued 4 h., from which he awoke feeling much better, though weak, and complaining of an indescribable sensation, more felt in limbs than elsewhere. (Hale, op, cit.)

1. My little girl, a:t. 21 mos., got hold of my pocket case, and I found her sitting down drinking medicine. She had a vial of V. vir. in her hand, with the cork out, and its contents emptied. It had contained about I drachm of tinct. She could not have had the cue more than 5 m. before I discovered her, but in 2 m. she commenced vomiting. I immediately gave half a cup of coffee, and went for some camphor, returning in about 5 m. Her jaws were then rigid, ind nothing could be put into her mouth ; pupils were widely dilated, ^ce blue, hands and feet cold, no pulse could be found at wrist. I bathed her bowels and back with camphor, when she went into a spasm, with violent shrieks ; body was bent backwards, arms rigid and thrown up over head, face dark blue, breathing suspended for several seconds; this lasted about 2 m., and then, after some moments' ease, she went off into another spasm similar to the first. I put her into a tub of warm water, which soon relaxed whole muscular system. Vomiting kept on, with severe retching every few m. for 3 h., when it gradually subsided ; matter vomited was a white ropy mucus. She remained pulseless all this time, with blue hippocratic face ; hands and feet were shrivelled up, as if they had been in water for a long time. When she was not vomiting she lay in a stupor, with pupils widely dilated. After 3 h. pulse could be counted ; it was 36, and very feeble. In 3I h. after taking the V. she went to sleep, and slept quietly »nd soundly for 3 h,, then awoke well, save for a little weakness. (Biht, in 7i(W.)

2. A man, xt. 45, had tertian ague. The febrile paroxysm was unusually severe, and lasted 12 — 18 h. He was taking arsenicum in the apyrexia, but I left a vial of tinct. of Ver. v., and ordered i dr. every h. during the fever. By some mistake 5 dr. were given instead. When I saw him he had taken about 30 dr. I was informed thit after the third dose he had perspired warmly and freely, vomited very profusely, and complained of burning in oesophagus and some pain in stomach. He seemed prostrate, and I was sent for. When I arrived his whole body was covered with a cold sweat ; face, hands, and feet were very cold ; pulse 30, full and soft, easily compressible (this vu quite different from the small feeble pulse it sometimes causes). He had not had diarrhoea, and the vomiting was not yery painful. Hi* pupils were dilated, but there was no headache or dimness of vision. A few oz. of brandy sufficed to antidote the effects of the medicine. He had no more ague. {Ibid.)

4"

1. A man, xt. 30, was under treatment for pneumonia. By mistake 7 — 8 dr. were taken every h. for 4 h. About 10 m. after last dose great uneasiness came on, followed in a few moments by intense pain in stomach. This pain was of a drawing, twisting, pressive character; stomach felt as if drawn tightly against spinal column, causing pain in back (dorsal region). There was at same time drawing pain in cervical region of spine. Patient could not lie on back, as it seemed to increase pressure of stomach on spine. This uneasiness and pain would culminate, every 5 — 10 m., in a paroxysm of sudden, powerful, and expulsive vomiting, after which there would be a lull of a few moments in the pain. During its intensity there was great nervous sensitiveness ; the least noise, as talking, walking across floor, Ac, would aggravate it excessively. The vomiting was not preceded by nausea, and was of mucus only ; when, however, stomach had been emptied, there was excessive, painful, and ineffectual retching. The pain, vomiting, &c., reached its height about i h. after first onset, and subsided in about the same time (under morphia). (Smart, in JUd,)

2. A man of 55, suffering from sciatica, but otherwise strong, dosed himself with Ver. v. macerated in whisky. For about 2 d. he liad taken sufficient to produce perspiration, but then suddenly increased dose. He was seized with vertigo and sudden prostration, soon followed by vomiting of bile, and then of mucus and dark-coloured t>Iood ; then severe retching and moaning, with great fear of death ; pulse scarcely perceptible, and very slow — 40 to 45. This state contiriued about an h., when I gave a dose of arsenicum 3. Soon after- ^'^rds retching and vomiting ceased. During greatest depression he <^Oraplained of being very cold, and his. limbs were bathed in cold **Vcat. Most of the time between the vomiting spells he was lethargic, **^ith slow and difficult respiration. When vomiting ceased he com- P'^ined of severe constriction about chest, with great anguish. These '^>' inptoms continued 10 — 15 m. He then became quarrelsome and '^^lirious, striking and kicking with r. hand and foot. At times these ^^«3vements appeared to be involuntary. This mental condition changed ^c a happy and comical delirious state, which lasted 15 h. There was ^Vadual return to normal pulse and temperature. For several d. patient ^^as troubled with a sour and acrid rising from the stomach. {Hahn, '^^^mthly, viii, 46.)

3. A timily had taken a large quantity of V. v. in mistake for a *^ble vegetable. Five partook largely of the dish. In 30 or 40 m. ^«ley felt extreme sickness and distress at epigastrium, and made several 'fleffectual efforts to vomit. Prostration, cold extremities, with severe ^ues, soon followed. Some 3 h. after the poison was taken, I found two V> prostrated that the pulse could not be felt at wrist and only slightly in Carotids ; was told their distress had been excruciating. There had been frequent and severe spasms of stomach and respiratory organs. These, trith constant and ineffectual retching, temporary delirium and colliquative sweats, were the chief symptoms. They were given ^s sulph. ether, and mustard applied to epigastrium and extremities. Three of them immediately vomited, and threw up a quantity of vegetables ; the two

most prostrated were not so affected. Re]>eated dose every lo m. and frictions of tinct. capsici, when, after 40 m., free vomiting ensued^ pulie and warmth returned, and the patients gradually recovered. (Hubbard, Boston Med. and Surg. "Journ,, xix, 31.)

III. Experiments on animals. — i. From a number of experiments on dogs with V. vir. and veratrine it appeared that the most remarkable effect was on the pulse, which was diminished in frequency to a remarkable degree, in one case from iio to 14. In this case the dog became perfectly insensible to pain. The respiration was slow but full. In another the pulse fell from 142 to 34. (Percy, Trans, if Ainer. Med. Ass.., xiv, 235.)

1. From hypodermic injection of resinoid of V. v. in a slut, the stomach, intestines, uterus and bladder were intensely injected. The coats of stomach and intestines were thickened and probably inflamed. Liver dark and congested, heart distended, ventricles full of blood, r. lung congested with ecchymotic spots on its surface. (Peugnet, AT. T. Aitd. Rec.^ vii, 1 14.)

2. OuLMONT, after various experiments on dogs, rabbits, and frogs with the tinct. of V, ver., administered hypodermically, gives following as results of his observations : — " The first effect was on the circulation, a remarkable falling of the pulsations ; then a diminution of temperature of I — 5 degrees, the respiration becoming slow and irregular. Then followed vomiting and purging. The most prominent symptom was the extreme prostration, followed by insensibility and total loss of power, — the animal totally insensible to electric shocks or any other irritation. Death, however, rarely ensued ; and when it did there were no lesions of the digestive tract." (With V. album, on the other hand, these P.M. appearances were very marked, and death occurred constantly and rapidly.) [Bull, de Ihir.., Ixxiv, 152.)

3. Dr. BoRT experimented on a very large dog, weighing 60 lbt.| resp. 20, pulse 88, " Injected into jugular vein 15 dr. of Tilden'i fl. extr. at 5 p.m. In 2 m., violent vomiting; 3 m., tries to get up but falls to floor ; 10 m,, pulse 140, resp. 32 ; 20 m., pulse 120} 35 m., pulse 138 ; 45 m., pulse 160 j i h,, pulse too ; li h., pulse llOj 2 h., pulse 112; 3 h., same ; 5 h., 130. Has been vomiting every

iz^ m. all the while : at times he would hold his breath, so that then would be but 4 or 5 respirations in a m. I left him 10 h., and when I returned I found resp. g and pulse 102 : he could not stand. Tried to inject 25 dr., but dog struggled, and fluid passed into cellular tissue. In 0 m, he became very restless, and pulse had fallen to 88; 30 m. after, pulse 74 ; i h., pulse 60. No vomiting. I noir injected 20 dr. into jugular; he immediately began to move am! tried to get up and vomit, but he could not. Some bile ran from his mouth in his efforts to vomit. Pulsation of heart was so feeble that I could not iind it for 1 5 m. ; then it was 60 : it could not be felt any more, and he died in 20 m. after the last injection without a struggle. Autopsy, 20 h. after death. — Great congestion of lungs, especially lower lobes. Heart : Both auricles empty, both ventricles filled with coagulated fibrin, clot extending into aorta and pulmonary vein. Slight congestion of m, m. of stomach, which was filled with bile and

dirty-looking fluid. A good deal of congestion of small intestines. Other organs natural. (Hale, op. cit.)

J. Same injected under skin of fore-leg of a large cat 5 dr. of fl. extr. n 10 m,, nausea, and efforts to vomit j 18 m., violent vomiting, ouoders about in much distress ; resp. 176, while before injection it was Oi 30 m., great prostration, reap. 200, nausea and vomiting ; 50 m,, iolent spasms, flounders about at a fearful rate. After 5 m. of this it ibtcame still, with slow, heavy, rattling resp., and died in 5 m. more. Autopsy, II h. after death. Arteries of arachnoid greatly congested, though none could be found ruptured. Lungs could not be more congested, looking completely hepatized. R. heart distended with blood, 1. empty; about jss of fluid in pericardium. Pyloric portion of stomach congested and covered with bile ; gall-bladder half full ; liver looked congested. All other organs natural. [Ibid.)

1. Same injected 8 dr. under skin of a large female cat at 1 1.24. a.m. In4m. nausea; 12 m., violent vomiting, resp. — at first 80 — now lOO; 20 m., violent nausea and retching, resp. 198, great prostration, cannot stlnd ; 36 m., complete prostration, resp. 202, urinated and had a thin •tool; 50 m., resp. 160, nausea. 1.15 p.m., resp. 176; pupils contracted ; ears and legs very cold. 1.22, had a short spasm ; came near dying, resp. 130, heavy and rattling. At 1.30, resp. was 'So; at 2 it was 100, at 3 only 725 at 3.30 it had fallen to 14, ")d she seemed in great pain. At 4.30 and 6 resp. was 12, and ''•Cre was great prostration. Six dr. more were injected. At 8 p.m. '^sp, was 10, and there was complete prostration. In m. she was '^^Und dead, but not rigid. Autopsy, 12 h. after death. Cere- '^llum appears congested. Both lungs very much congested, and Apparently hepatized in spots. Pericardium contained ^ss oi serum ; ^*oth ventricles inflamed (?), 1 in. of 1. as black as ink; 1. ventricle '**ll of coagulated blood, r. empty. Cardiac portion of stomach '^^'^ngcsted and covered with bile; stomach much distended with air ; '■>^er looks congested ; mesenteric arteries very much distended. Other '^■^ans natural. {Ibid.)

2. I killed 7 more cats with V. vir. Nausea and vomiting were

P«~<)duced in all, 5 — 10 m. after injection. In 5, resp. increased from

I ^.atural standard up to 200 — 300, and then would come down to about

'*■ S before death. To keep up the respirations, medicine had to be

'"e^peated every \ h. With two the respirations did not rise above 90;

their lungs were found natural, but the heart had evident signs of

iriflatnmation, with great collections of serum in pericardium. All but

*^^fse had violent congestion of lungs; in 3 complete hepatization

*«€med to have taken place, and in one i. lung adhered to pleura for

about the space of a dollar. In those I let live for 3 or 4 d., the lungs

^cre inflamed in small patches. All had signs of inflammation of heart,

*'>d a large quantity of serum in the pericardium. All had congestion

*^f stomach, and it was covered with bile and distended with air. The

'iver in all appeared congested ; and all had great distension and

engorgement of the mesenteric arteries. {Ibid.)

Veratroidia, alkaloid obtained from V. vir.

I. Prevings. — I. a. I took of Veratroidine gr. ^ in pill, pulse being 80^ In 15 m. pulse was 78 ; in 40 m., 72. Dose was then repeated, and in 20 m. it was 76, in 30 m. 72. I then took gr. ^. In 15 m. pulse was 70, and continued so at 30 m., when 1 took gr. ^. In 15 m. it was 76, in 30 m. 72, in 45 m. 70, in 60 m. 68. I now ate a hearty lunch, with two glasses of claret ; and 2 h. after took gr. Jfy pulse being 80. In 30 m. it was 92, in i h. 72, in i^ h. 80.

i. 1 now took gr. ^ of the alkaloid from V. album, pulse being 70. In 30 m. it was 72, when I took gr. ^. In 14 m. it was 66, in 30 m. 62, in 40 m. 67, when I took gr. r^. In 20 m. pulse was 69, m 35 m. 64, in i h. 62.

In neither experiment was there any unpleasant feeling save a sh'ght depression or languor.

c. As above experiments were made 2 h. after eating, I took gr. ^ (from V. viride) 4 h. after eating. In i h. 20 m. pulse was not materially afiected, but about 3 h. after dining a feeling of depression and weakness came on, accompanied with tingling of tongue and lips, which continued for some h., and was exceedingly unpleasant. (Peugnet, kc, cit.^ p. 129.)

III. Experimenu en animals. — ^The influence of V. on the animal may be summed up as follows :

a. Locally it is somewhat irritant.

b. It is an irritant emetic and sometimes cathartic.

c. It exerts no direct influence on the brain or on the pupil.

</. It is a direct spinal motor depressant, producing death by asphyxia, and acting at the same time to some extent upon the conducting nerves and the muscles.

e. It depresses the heart's action both in force and in frequency, but

4i8

the period of depression is followed by one of reaction, its primary cardiac action being independent of its spinal influence. (H. C. Wood, he. cit.)

Viridia, another alkaloid from V. vir.

1. Provings. — i. Several trials were made by administering it to persons in health, gr. ^ dissolved in alcohol being administered every J h. until gr, ^ had been taken. In ^ h. after taking last portion pulse in each case was reduced 8 — 12 beats in m. No nausea or other cffecB were experienced, and the benumbing sensation of aconite was wanting. (Bullock., he. eit.)

2. Dr. Wood, pulse 85 sitting, took at 1 1.40 a.m. gr. -^ of sulphate in aqueous solution. 12, no reduction of pulse, but ever since taking dose there has been persistent, peculiar numbness in fauces. Took gr. -Jj more. 12.15, fauces same ; general feeling of languor and quietness; sense of exertion on going upstairs. 12.35, puls< unchanged; repeated dose, i, pulse when quiet 76; fauces same. Took a hearty meal. 1.40, pulse 76 still ; another dose. 2, 10, pulse 80 ; took gr. ^. 2.40, pulse 74 ; numbness of throat not noticeable. 3.15, pulse 6g ; another ^ gr. 3.40, pulse 66. 4, pulse 72 j took gr. ^. 4.30, pulse 73 ; another ^ gr. 5.15, pulse 67 ; decided feeling of weakness ; no other symptoms. 5.30, pulse 68 ; any exertion an effort, and when forced sending pulse rapidly up to no (walking once or twice round room sufficient to do this). 6, pulse 70 ; any exenion painful. A friend coming in asked what was the matter, he looked » languid. 6.15, pulse nearly 70, down at times to 62. At 6.10 took supper, with 2 oz. of brandy, but pulse continued 66 — 70. No digestive disturbance or other symptom has been manifested since taking the drug, save only the slowing of the pulse and the not unpleasant muscular languor. The benumbing of the throat seemed local, and there was no tingling sensation as from aconite. [Amer. youm, if Med. Sc, 1870, i, 53.)

III. Experiments on animals. — The results obtained by my investigations as to the physiological action of Viridia may be summed up zs follows :

a. It appears to be but very slightly, if at all, locally irritant.

b. It has no action at all upon the alimentary canal, never producing either vomiting or purging.

c. It exerts no direct influence on the brain, and the pupil >> unaffected by it, except it be an indirect dilatation just before death.

d. It is a spinal motor depressant (probably directly so), producing death by paralysis of the respiratory nerve-centres, and is without action on the muscles or nerves.

e. It is a direct depressant to the circulation, lowering the force a*** rapidity of the blood-stream, slowing the action of the heart, and final^l affecting the force of the single beat, independent of any spinal acti*^^ it may exert. (Ibid.^ p. 50.)