Hydrastis canadensis

Volume I — Special Symptomatology

{Golden Seal.)

Description. — An indigenous plant found growing in shady woods, in rich soil and damp places. The root is of a beautiful yellow color, and imparts its virtues to water or alcohol.

[The Muriate of Hydrastia is a valuable preparation, especially as a topical application. The medicinal properties of the root of Hydrastis Canadensis depend upon two Alkaloids, both of which are now well settied principles in their ultimate composition and nomenclature. For some years the precipitate occurring when muriatic acid was added to an infusion of this root was collected, dried, and sold as Hydrastin, by manufacturers of the Eclectic School of Medicine — subsequently a definite examination of this substance by Dr. Mahla, of Chicago, proved it identical in its reactions and composition with the Alkaloid Berberina, obtained from the bark of Berberis Vulgaris, and now known to exist in several genera and species of five natural orders of the vegetable kingdom. Berberina and its salts are but sparingly soluble in cold water or alcohol. They dissolve to quite an extent in both liquids when heated, and separate in minute yellow crystals when cooling.

J. Dyson Perron says (Journal of the Chemical Society,) : "Doubtless its therapeutic effects merit much careful investigation. Natural instinct has pointed out its value for the alleviation of human sufferings, to nations widely separated, and enjoying different degrees of civilization. The polished Greeks, the semi-barbarous nations of Hindoostan and China, the North American Indians and the natives of tropical Africa, have been all impressed with the medicinal value of Berberina. In the West India Islands and in American pharmacy its virtues have long been recognized, though derived from different plants, and veiled under erroneous names; certainly it holds a place in European pharmacy, but one of little prominence, yet it seems to possess properties scarcely inferior to quinine itself. I am persuaded that nature has not placed Berberina in nearly every country without some adequate purpose."

Hydrastia, the White Alkaloid of Hydrastis, was discovered by Mr. A. B. Durand, of Philadelphia, but was first prepared in a pure state by Dr. Mahla, who determined its formula, When perfectly pure it separates from its hot alcoholic solution in tasteless, white prismatic crystals of great brilliancy. It dissolves readily in acids, forming soluble, uncrystallizable salts, bitter, and of a peculiar, somewhat metallic, after-taste. It is generally used in the form of muriate. In the preparation of this salt it is not necessary to carry the practice of re-crystallization, or bleaching with animal charcoal, to a sufficient extent to insure a product purely white, as it is considered profitless. It is essential that physicians, in prescribing these Alkaloids, do not confound them, as the insoluble yellow principle (Berberina) is often sold under the improper title of Hydrastia. The therapeutic action of the two principles is widely different — Berberina having no medicinal action upon diseased mucous tissues.

Sphere of Action.— (1.) The mucous membranes generally, which it stimulates to higher secretion, erosion and ulceration. (2.) The muscular tissues, increasing their nutrition, and imparting tonicity.

Officinal Preparations— Tincture of the root; dilutions; triturations of Hydrastin, and Muriate of Hydrastia.

Analogues.— Aletris farinosa, Ammonium muriaticum, Berberis vulg., Coptis, China, Cornus florida, Helonias, Iodine, Kali hydrojodicum, Mercurius jodatus, Nitric acid, Muriatic acid, Phytolacca.

Head.

• Dull, heavy frontal headache.

• Constant dull headache, with pain in the hypogastrium and

small of the back of a dull, aching character. Sharp, cutting pain through the temples, with dimness of

vision. Feeling as if intoxicated.

0 Headache of a nervous, gastric character, almost constant. ° Myalgic headache, in the integuments of the scalp and muscles of the neck.

Face.

Flushes of heat, followed by an erysipelatous eruption; mouth, lips and nose very much swollen, and pimples around the mouth and chin.

Eruption similar to all stages of small-pox.

Erysipelatous rash on the face, neck, etc.

° Pale face, with worn, weary expression.

Nose.

• Constant discharge of thick, white mucus, with frontal headache.

• Secretions so profuse as to be removed in long tenacious

shreds or pieces.

• Stuffed up, smarting sensation in posterior nares, with discharge of thin, clear mucus.

• Sharp, raw, excoriating feeling in both nares, with constant

inclination to blow the nose, with hoarseness. u Fluent coryza, followed by thick catarrhal discharge. '(Ezcencc, with ulceration, bloody or mixed purulent discharge;

(applied with a douche or syringe.)

Eyes.

• Mucous membrane of the eyelids much congested; discharge

of large quantities of thick, white mucus.

• Profuse secretion of tears; smarting of the eyes; burning of

the eyes and lids.

• Catarrhal inflammation.

° Acute conjunctivitis, with or without ulceration.

0 Scrofulous ophthalmia; (used as a collyrium, and giving the

anti-psorics internally, hastens the cure.) (Hale.) 0 Opacity of the cornea.

Ears.

Roaring in the ears, like cog-wheels, or the drumming of a partridge.

0 Otorrhoea, with thick mucus discharge. c Tinnitus aurium, from catarrh of the inner ear. 0 Many diseases of the outer canal of the ear, with bad discharges; (used as an injection.)

Mouth.

Mouth sticky, with yellow coat on the tongue.

Aphthae on the mucous membrane of the lips and mouth.

Taste as of pepper in the mouth.

Excessive secretion of sticky, tenacious mucus from the buccal cavity.

Tongue seems large, and marked by the teeth. ° Stomatitis of children, with weakness.

0 Stomatitis materna, with general debility; (used as a wash;)

gr. x of the muriate to § iy °f water.) ° Mercurial salivation, an excellent topical application, after

chlorate of potassa. {Hale.) 0 Cancerous affections of the tongue.

Fauces, Throat, etc. Sticky mucus in the fauces, with bad taste.

• Hawking up of tenacious, yellow or white mucus, with rawness of the fauces.

3 Ulcerated sore throat from salivation by mercury.

0 Sore throat from gastric derangements.

° Ulceration of the mucous membranes of fauces and throat.

° Diphtheritic exudations (?). Probably pseudo-membranes or tenacious mucus secretions, resembling diphtheria, accompanied or not by ulceration. It is not a remedy for true diphtheria. {Hale.)

° Chronic catarrhal affections of the throat.

Gastric Symptoms.

Eructations of sour fluid.

• Faint feeling at the stomach, preceded by a dull aching pain. Burning pain in the umbilical region, with faintness. Cutting pain in the stomach, which is acute and distressing. Great sense of sinking and prostration at the epigastrium,

with violent and long continued palpitation of the heart.

Painless gurgling in the stomach.

° Chronic inflammation of the stomach.

0 Indigestion from an atonic state of the stomach.

0 Indigestion, with acidity, and general weakness.

° Chronic gastric catarrh, the most general cause of so-called

chronic dyspepsia. (Hale.) ° Cancer of the stomach. (?)

0 Chronic ulceration of the mucous membrane of the stomach. 0 Gastralgia and dyspepsia, followed by an epigastric tumor, supposed to be scirrous. (Dr. Le Brunne.)

Liver.

Torpor of the liver, with pale, scanty stools.

° Catarrhal inflammation of the mucous linings of the gall

bladder, biliary ducts, etc. 0 Jaundice from structural disease of the liver.

Abdomen and Stool.

• Severe cutting pain in the hypogastric region, extending into

the testicle, occurring after stool, with faint feeling. Dull pains in the hypogastrium and small of the back worse from moving, with rumbling in the bowels.

• Constant dull, aching pain in the stomach, with faintness.

• Sharp pain in the region of the spleen, with constant dull

pain in stomach and bowels, with hot, burning sensation.

• Sharp pain in the region of the coecum.

• Griping, with profuse light-colored diarrhoea.

• Griping, with light acrid stools.

• Intestinal catarrh, followed by ulceration. 0 Flatulent colic, accompanied by faintness. 0 Chronic catarrhal enteritis.

° Soft stool, followed by severe cutting pain in the hypogastrium, with dull aching in the testicles, with faint feeling.

Soft stool, with great rumbling in the bowels.

Obstinate relaxation of the bowels.

Tenesmus, with acrid, greenish stools.

Profuse light-colored diarrhoea, with griping.

0 Constipation — " A precious remedy, far superior to "Nvlx vomica." (Hughes.)

0 Constipation, with piles.

° Constipation following rheumatic fever.

° Constipation attended with dyspepsia and hemorrhoids.

° Fissures of the anus.

° Excoriation of the anus.

Urinary Organs. * Urine smells decomposed.

Dull aching sensation in the region of the kidneys. Urine increased and neutral. ° Cystitis, chronic.

° Chronic catarrh of the bladder, with thick, ropy mucus sediment in urine. (This disease can be cured promptly by the use of daily injections of a weak infusion of Hydrastis, (or the muriate; gr. x to water 3 viii,) first drawing off the urine with a catheter. A high potency should be given internally at the same time.) {Hale.) Generative Organs.

Male. — ° Gonorrhoea, in the second stages, after the inflammation has subsided, and the discharge is thick and yellow; use also an injection of the Muriates.

° Gleet, with obstinate, thick discharge; (use as above.)

0 Debility following spermatorrhoea.

Women. — 0 Tenacious viscid leucorrhoea, uterine or vaginal. 0 Ulceration of the os, cervix, and vagina. 0 Uterine diseases, with sympathetic affections of the digestive organs.

0 Cancer of the mammas (palliative in many cases); use topically and internally.

[Injections of an infusion of the root, or the Muriate, are better than the tincture in water (1 dr. to aqua 8 oz.) For ulceration or erosion I prefer to apply with a brush or on cotton, or a solution of the muriate of Hydrastia in glycerine, gr. v. or x. to 1 oz. — Hale.]

Larynx, Chest, etc.

Bronchial catarrh, with debility, loss of appetite, etc. 0 Catarrhal cough, rough, harsh and rattling, day and night. Constant tickling of the larynx, with harsh, dry cough. 0 Thoracic or intercostal myalgia.

Back and Neck. Great soreness and lameness of the muscles of the neck. Flushes of heat on the face, neck and hands.

Dull aching sensation in lumbar region.

Back and Upper Extremities.

• Pain in the small of the back.

Aching in the lower region, with weariness in the arms.

" Crick " in the right elbow, also in the phalanges of the left

hand, on waking at night, and quite painful. Sharp cutting pains in the elbows and biceps muscles, with

feeling of contusion and lameness. Rheumatic pains in elbows, forearms, right shoulder, and first

finger of left hand. Intense aching pain in the small of the back.

Lower Extremities. Legs feel very weak, and ache.

Severe pain in right knee, lasting all day, worse on walking.

Dull aching in the loins.

Aching in the sole of the left foot.

° Irritable and indolent ulcers on the legs.

° Scrofulous ulcers on the leg and foot.

Fever.

Heat of the skin, with flushes of heat on the face and neck,

and intense itching in various parts of the body. Pulse slow and labored, fifty-two; with palpitation of the heart. Chilliness, with aching in the back and limbs. ° Quotidian fevers, with gastric disturbance; jaundice. 0 Debility from gastric, bilious and typhoid fevers.

Skin.

Erysipelatoid rash on the face, neck, palms of the hands, joints of the fingers and wrist, with burning heat and exfoliation of the skin.

Eruption like varioloid on the face.

Eruptions dependent on debility.

° Infantile intertrigo, (use internally and topically.)

0 All stages of small-pox, as a wash. ( Wilkinson.)

Volume II — Special Therapeutics

I believe I was the first to call the attention of our school in America to this medicine. I mentioned it in an article on the Prevention of Miscarriage, and the Treatment of its Consequences,” in the “North American Journal of Homoeopathy,” vol. viii.

Since that time, very extensive provings of the medicine have been made by Drs. Nichols, Burt, and others. The provings of Dr. Nichols are excelled by none of our modern experimenters.

The remedy was mentioned in 1858, and again in 1863, by Drs. Hastings, Bayes, and Pattison, in the “ British Journal of Homoeopathy.”

The use of Golden Seal as a medicine dates back into the dim traditional history of this country, when only the aborigines inhabited the continent. It was known to the first white settlers only through the Indian tribes with whom they came in contact. Notwithstanding its great and deserved popularity among the whites and Indians at an early day, the “regular” practitioner seemed to look upon it with suspicion, and we find small mention of the

Hydrastis in any of the writings of the early authors, with the exception of Dr. Tally, of New England ; Prof. Rafinesque, then of Kentucky; and Dr. Barton, of Philadelphia. Each of these men labored hard to substitute active and valuable indigenous remedies for the foreign ones, then as now so much more preferred by the allopathic school. At the rise of the “ Botanic ” practice of medicine, these remedies — the Hydrastis particularly — were taken up and used extensively. The latter eclectics were not slow to avail themselves of the remedial virtues of this and other indigenous plants. Although their use of this medicine was purely empirical, and based upon unsystematic observations, the success which attended its administration was highly satisfactory, both to patients and physicians.

We shall give the opinions and experience of the earlier physicians in order that its medical history may be understood. The biography of a medicine is as interesting as that of a man. We trace its development through infancy, childhood, and youth, and note the additions which are yearly made to its growth as a remedial agent. We also note, too, how one after another of its supposed attributes fall away and disappear, or how certain traits of character noticed in its infancy become forgotten, and finally reappear in the future development of its history. A medicine cannot be said to have reached maturity until it has been subjected to a thorough physiological proving. In other words, it is in the hands of the homoeopathic school alone that a medicine is capable of reaching complete development.

Among the earliest medical writers of this country was Prof. Rafinesque, a scientific botanist and a ripe scholar. He thus writes of the Hydrastis :

It is tonic, ophthalmic, detergent, etc. It is much used in Ohio, Kentucky, etc., for diseases of the eyes ; the juice or infusion is used as a wash in sore or inflamed eyes. It is considered a specific by the Indians for that disorder; they also apply it for sore legs, and many external complaints as a topical tonic. Internally it is used as a bitter tonic in infusion or tincture, in disorders of the stomach, liver, etc., and is equivalent to Aletris, Coptis, Frasera, Menyanthes, Sanguinaria, and Jeffersonia. (But none of these is so efficacious for sore eyes, except perhaps the Jeffersonia.) It is said to enter into compound remedies for the cancer, acting as a detergent tonic, and the Clierokees are supposed to use it in that disease, but better detergents are known. The properties of this plant are not yet fully known ; it appears to be slightly narcotic and available in many

disorders. Some Indians employ it as a diuretic, stimulant and escharotic, using the powder for the blistering and the infusion for the dropsy.

In this we see the earliest history of a plant as a medicine. Used first for diseases of the eye, much as Euphrasia was used among the early Britons ; then noted as an Indian remedy for cancer , and supposed to be narcotic. Its use in ophthalmia is still popular; its virtues in cancer forgotten until revived in England by physicians of the homoeopathic school ; and its supposed narcotic powers proved not to exist.

Howard, writing in 1836, says: “ It is very useful in recovery from fever, for dyspepsia, indigestion, sore eyes, ulcers, loss of appetite, etc.”

Dr. Barton and Dr. Tully estimated it very highly as a “ pure tonic, and as an alterative in diseased conditions of the mucous membranes.”

King gives it a prominent place among medicinal agents; reiterates all that previous writers have said about it, with the exception of its alleged usefulness in cancer; and adds that it is valuable in “chronic affections of the mucous membrane of the stomach, intestines, bladder, etc.,” all of which will be mentioned under the appropriate heads.

Scudder claims it as peculiarly an eclectic remedy, and remarks : “It seems passing strange that our allopathic brethren have not got their eyes open to its importance, as we believe that for the fulfilling of some indications it has no substitute.” I shall revert to Scudder’s testimony again in other paragraphs.

Allopathic authorities of the present day almost, if not entirely, ignore this important medicine. Wood, in his “Dispensatory,” repeats Rafinesque, but doubts if it is anything more than an ordinary tonic. In his “ Therapeutics ” and “ Practice ” it is not mentioned. Stills does not mention it in his extensive work on “Materia Medica and Therapeutics.” Bartholow gives it a good notice.

It is only after a careful study of all the provings that we can arrive at any definite estimate of the sphere of action of a medicine.

After nearly twenty years of experience with Hydrastis and an intimate acquaintance with the physiological experiments which have been made with it by members of our school, I confess that I do not feel like expressing a final opinion on the powers and qualities of this medicine.

However, it is proper that I should give you some idea of its mode of action, as well as its extent, and its curative capabilities.

Its general ‘primary effects on the system when taken in material or medicinal quantities by a healthy person, will undoubtedly be that of a nutrient tonic , i. e., it stimulates the digestive processes, and increases the assimilation of food. By these means the blood is enriched, and this blood feeds the muscular system.

I mention the muscular system because I believe it first feels the increased power imparted by the stimulation of increased nutrition. The consequent improvement on the nervous and glandular systems are natural results. But, as is the case with all socalled “tomes,” the condition of apparent unusual strength may be only apparent, and will sooner or later give way to the opposite condition, which I shall designate as secondary effects of the drug. The same effects have been observed from China, Quinia, and even Iron. The increased digestive power gives way to indigestion; the increased power of assimilation to deficient nutrition, and apparent strength to real debility. But, if these secondary symptoms already exist from natural diseases, then it is that we get the real curative power of Hydrastis. The question now is all-important : Have we special indications for the use of Hydrastis in cases of debility of a general character?

I believe our provings and clinical experience are now sufficient to furnish such data.

But let us examine the testimony of those outside of our school of practice.

Iu relation to its general effects on the system, there is no medicine in use in eclectic practice about which there is such general unanimity of opinion. It is universally regarded by that school as the tonic — useful iu all debilitated states, and under all conditions except that of acute inflammation.

This is to the eclectic school what Quinine is to the allopath, and China is to our own school. The first-named school looks with surprise upon the indifference with which this, their favorite tonic, is treated by the rival schools. I have known eclectics in large practice, to rely upon it almost to the exclusion of Quinine or Salicin, in intermittents and other malarious fevers. They usually prescribe one drachm of the tincture or fluid extract, or one or two grains (even as high as six grains) of the Hydrastin,

every one, two, or four hours, as the case seems to demand, and assert that it always acts as a pure tonic, and that its effects are not attended with any stimulation of the circulation, or congestion of the brain, as is the case with Quinine. Yet, curiously enough, English homoeopathists assert that a “few drops of the mother tincture will cause a physical prostration.” It could not do this by its primary action, like China; its secondary effect may be prostration. Drs. Marsden and McLimont state that “one of us has, for upwards of a month at a time, endeavored by experiment to ascertain its pathogenesis; but we have been unable to elicit any very decided symptoms, except upon the sensorium and heart, which were affected for a very short time, by doses of half an ounce and upwards, smaller quantities appearing to pass off without any effect at all.” The tincture used by the gentlemen must have been of a very poor quality, or half an ounce would have shown its effect in quite a decided manner. They state, however, that they “ know of no medicine which has caused so great an improvement in the general health of our cancer patients as has this, an improvement which, in most cases, has become visible in the bettered expression of the countenances to all who had previously known the patients.”

We must rank it, as to its general effects on the nutrient processes, with such medicines as China, Ferrum, Helonias, Aletris, Columbo, and Nux vomica. It differs from each, in many ways, from China (Quinine), in not being a powerful antiperiodic ; from Ferrum, in not acting directly on the blood ; from Helonias, in not affecting the functions of the kidneys and uterus; and from Nux vomica, in not acting as a stimulant to the spinal cord.

The action of Hydrastis on the glandular system must be direct and specific. It acts on the glands of the mucous membranes, namely, the intestinal and gastric. It acts on the larger glands, notably the liver. Its primary effect on the glandular system is to excite to unusual secretion when given to a healthy person.

Its action on all mucous surfaces is of a similar character. The natural secretion is at first increased ; then it becomes abnormal in quantity and quality. At first clear, white, transparent, and tenacious, it becomes yellow, or thick, green and even bloody, and nearly always tenacious. The tenacity of the discharge, allowing it to be drawn out in strings, is analogous to the discharge caused

by Kali bich., Ammon, brom., and Cubebs. It differs from the profuse mucous flux of Stannum, Copaiva, and Amm. mur., which is thick and lumpy, and falls in masses. The distance traversed by the primary mucous flux of Hydrastis passes from simple increase of mucus to erosion and ulceration. Its secondary effects are exhaustion or destruction of the glandular sources of the mucus — a condition in which the mucous surface is dry, glazed, and its functions destroyed.

A muco-purulent, or purely purulent discharge marks the ultimate primary action of Hydrastis. A total arrest of secretion from mucous membranes marks its ultimate secondary effects.

What clinical deductions are to be made from these pathogenetic and pathological effects? I answer, that Hydrastis is one of the most important remedies we possess for the treatment of mucous fluxes, ordinarily known as catarrh.

Now you must know that this disorder is not confined to any one portion of the body. It may exist wherever mucous membrane exists. The range of catarrhal diseases is very wide, and very many diseases which go commonly by other names might all be included under the single name of catarrh. The only form of catarrh to which Hydrastis is not suitable is to the acute inflammatory. So long as the fever lasts it should not be used. Gelseminum, Sticta, or some other appropriate remedy must be used. But as soon as the inflammatory symptoms subside, its use can be commenced, at first in the middle dilutions (10th to 30th); afterwards, as the catarrh nears its ultimate primary journey, to the 3d or 6th ; and finally, for the secondary stage, the 1st, or mother tincture, should be freely used. There is one fact connected with the history of the action of Hydrastis which should not be forgotten, namely, it is not a volatile medicine, like Copaiva, Cubebs, Kali iod., and the balsams. It is not thrown off as readily through the glands and mucous surfaces. It therefore requires that it should be oftener used topically, as well as internally. In all catarrhal fluxes its local application should attend its internal administration.

I hardly need enumerate the catarrhal or mucous diseases in which the Hydrastis is useful, but it may be well to do so in order to fix them in your memory, namely :

Otorrhoea (even with obstruction of the inner ear and Eustachian

tubes) ; chronic conjunctivitis (even with purulent discharge) ; old nasal catarrhs, of both the anterior and posterior passages ; ozcena, with bloody, purulent discharge from ulcerated surfaces (if the bones are affected, use Aurum or Mercurius); catarrhal affections of the respiratory passages ; catarrh of the stomach (one of the commonest causes of dyspepsia) ; catarrh of the gall-duct (a common cause of jaundice) ; intestinal catarrhs (which often go under the names of chronic mucous diarrhoea and chronic dysentery) ; catarrh of the bladder ; of the urethra (among which are chronic gonorrhoea and gleet) ; leucorrhoea, even with erosions and ulcerations ; uterine catarrh, etc.

The selection of the dose for internal administration has been mentioned. Its topical application will have to be varied with the severity of the case and the portion affected. The most useful preparations of Hydrastis for this purpose are (1) the tincture, (2) the Muriate of hydrastia, (3) an infusion of the pulverized root in water. The strength of the lotion may vary from a few drops or a drachm of the tincture to several ounces of water; from a few grains of the 3d tritutation of Hydrastis, or a few grains of the crude to a pint of water; or from ten grains to a drachm of the root in a quart of hot water.

It may be applied by means of a syringe, a douche, or an atomizer ; or it may be used as a gargle ; or (as in gastric catarrh) in doses of several ounces of an attenuated infusion.

A drug which causes a disordered condition of the mucous surfaces will, in nearly every instance, prove to be a good remedy for affections of the skin. The cutaneous analogue of a catarrh and its consequences is a moist, exuding eruption, with or without ulceration. Does Hydrastis affect the skin?

Rafinesque says, “ The Indians use the powdered root for blistering of the skin, as an escharotic, and as a topical application to old sores, ulcers, and cancers.”

I have never seen severe irritation of the skin follow its local application, although it sometimes causes redness with pustulation, when a lotion has been applied several days or a week. One prover observed “ an erysipelas rash on the face, neck, hand, and fingers, with great heat and irritation, which continued for six days, when the skin exfoliated.” Another asserts that it caused an eruption like varioloid on the face.

Since the appearance of the fourth edition, Dr. John Wilde communicated the following experience to the “ Monthly Homoeopathic Review,” in a paper entitled The Skin Pathogenesy of Hydrastis :

On two occasions I have seen some severe skin symptoms produced by Hydrastis, and as they were each time very different in character, I think they are worth recording.

The first case was that of a young lady, a clergyman’s daughter, about twentysix years of age, who suffered from enormous hypertrophy of one breast, for which she went up to London to consult one of our most eminent homoeopaths. The breast was so large that, when sitting down, it rested on the knees, the weight of it being very wearisome, though the tumor was painless. The physician referred to prescribed Hydrastis in mother tincture, five drops four times a day. She had taken this for about a fortnight or three weeks, when she was alarmed one day to find an eruption upon her arms and body of a number of small furuncularlooking pustules, which the family were afraid were symptoms of small-pox. I lived at a distance of seven miles and had never attended the family, but as they considered her at the time under homoeopathic treatment, they sent for me. On arriving I learned the history just related, and, on examination, I found a number of small boils, at a distance of about two or three inches apart, on the hands, and arms, and shoulders. Some were in a papular stage, with an inflamed area, ■while others were just ready to discharge pus. I gave it as my opinion that the Hydrastis was the cause of the eruption, and ordered its discontinuance, and prescribed medicine for its removal. In four or five days the boils completely disappeared.

The second case arose out of an endeavor to utilize the pathogenesy of the first above described.

My housemaid complained to me that she was suffering much from boils, which came out in crops one after another. They were rather small ones, of the description popularly called “ blind boils.” I gave her Belladonna and Hepar for a few days, but as fresh boils continued to appear, I gave her Hydrastis, mother tincture, two drops every three hours. The next day the boils were better, but she was covered with nettlerash from head to foot. The following day the face became affected, and through scratching it had become much swollen, and the eyelids were much puffed. She described the irritation as itching, burning, and stinging ; it affected all parts and was worse at night. Of course I ordered the Hydrastis to be discontinued, when both boils and nettlerash disappeared. Within a week a large and painful stye appeared on the left eyelid, which ran the usual course. This- was doubtless due to the Hydrastis, as the girl stated that she had never had a stye in her life before.

I ought to have stated that the rash resembled scarlatina both in color and in disappear ing for a long time under pressure ; indeed, so much was it like, that had it not been for the itching and my knowledge of the symptoms produced by Hydrastis, I should have suspected she had got that disease.

Remarks. — Among the recorded symptoms of Hydrastis in Allen’s “Encyclopedia” we find “ erysipelatoid rash covering face, neck, palms of hands, and joints of fingers and wrists. Irritation maddening, with intense burning heat ....

always worse at night.” Again, “ pimples made their appearance around the mouth and chin, resembling the early stage of small-pox.”

Thus the cases I have related confirm the previous provings of the drug, and this is very useful, and worthy of note, but in my first case the eruption was more distinctly furuncular than in the provings of Allen’s “ Materia Medica,” in which the eruption is described as resembling small-pox. On this account any additional description which will help to define the true skin symptoms is worth recording.

It will be seen from the second case that Hydrastis is a remedy for boils, for they were cured within a few days, and no more appeared after the medicine was commenced. I have no doubt that it will prove an equally good remedy in acute urticaria, and I intend giving it a trial.

It is probably homoeopathic to some acute exanthemata ; also to some forms of chronic skin diseases. When chronic eruptions depend on debility for their continuance, as is sometimes the case, then the Hydrastis, by its invigorating influence, may prove curative.

It has been found useful in lupus , rhagades, and excoriations. It may be employed as a simple lotion, or a glycerole, or in the form of a cerate ; if the patient is cachectic and exhibits symptoms indicating this remedy, its internal use will be of advantage.

Dr. McLimont, of England, claims to have treated three cases of lupus successfully with the internal and topical use of Hydrastis.

Dr. H. M. Saxton writes me that he has had considerable experience in the use of Hydrastis as an external application, and gives the following cases illustrating its use :

Case I. — A girl seven or eight years of age fell and lacerated the scalp above the left temple. The wound was several inches in length, in the form of a crescent. It suppurated and became a troublesome sore. After cleansing the surface, the Hydrastis, in fine powder, was applied. It checked the suppuration, allayed the inflammation, and under its use the ulcer healed in a few days.

Case II. — Was an ulcer from a burn, on the back of a child’s hand. It was much inflamed; very painful; she could hardly move her wrist. The powdered Hydrastis was applied lightly. Although the child irritated it a great deal, it soon healed and left the cuticle smooth and without a cicatrix.

Case III. — Infantile Intertrigo. “ Excoriations in the folds of the neck.” The dry powder was applied, and it healed in three days.

I would advise you to dilute the crude powder with starch or some similar substance.

As a wash, I have found one part of the tincture to ten of water more useful in obstinate excoriations of the skin in children than

Arnica. Glycerin is a better vehicle than water. The Glycerole of Hydrastis is used with great advantage in cases of intertrigo, sore nipples, and ulcerated surfaces. While Arnica seems specific for contusions, with extravasation, and Calendula for incised and lacerated wounds, even when unhealthy suppuration ensues, the Hydrastis seems the best remedy for chronic ulcers arising from either of the above causes, or from burns, scalds, or some disease of the skin.

The Hydrastis canadensis has been used in England in the treatment of variola. In a somewhat remarkable pamphlet issued in that country, written by Dr. J. G. Wilkinson, of London, and entitled “ The Cause, Arrest, and Isolation of Small-Pox, by a New Method,” the supposed virtues of this remedy are thus vauntingly set forth :

Hydrastis is the remedy which embraces something like a specific treatment of small-pox. Where the itching and tingling of the face at the time of maturation were so distressing that I ordered the face to be dabbed with a cold infusion of the Hydrastis, a small portion being warmed for each application, the relief experienced was instantaneous as well as complete and lasting. The swelling of the face also subsided quickly, and the case proceeded with more than ordinary rapidity to a happy issue. No second case occurred in the house, a point of importance which I request the reader to bear in mind.

But there is another point of importance which Dr. Wilkinson forgot to mention, namely, whether the patient, and other inmates of the house, had ever been vaccinated. It is a fact well known to all practical physicians, that small-pox occurring in persons who have been vaccinated, will frequently appear to pursue a severe and even aggravated type, up to the very point of maturation, and then suddenly subside as if cut short by some therapeutic power. It is this peculiar phase of disease that has led to so many unfounded laudations of new remedies, such as Sarracena, etc.

The Hydrastis has since been used in this country in small-pox, after the manner of Dr. Wilkinson. The testimony of several physicians as to its good effect was published in the second edition of “ New Remedies.”

I do not consider Hydrastis indicated in dry, furfuraceous eruptions, in which Arsenic and Phytolacca are useful. The skin may be dry and smooth, but not scaly. The eruptions must be moist. The ulcers may discharge profusely, or may be full of unhealthy granulations, or dry and shining.

This is a good place to mention the use of Hydrastis in cancer. It originated in England with two physicians claiming to be homceopathists. They evidently received the hint from Rafinesque, who mentioned its use by the American Indians in cancer. Those physicians claimed for Hydrastis the power of destroying the cancer disease, or dyscrasia in the blood, for they wrote:

This — the Hydrastis — is the medicine upon which we chiefly rely in our treatment of cancer, usually putting our patient under a course of it for a month or so before commencing the enucleation of the mass. Our doses vary from one to two drops of the 6th dilution, to drop doses of the mother tincture ; the lower forms being used in those cases in which the cachectic condition is fully marked ; and we must confess that we know of no medicine which has caused so great an improvement in the general health of our patients as has this. We continue the medicine during the whole of the treatment, and for some weeks after.

Those physicians did not, however, rely entirely upon the use of the Hydrastis alone, but consider it necessary to “enucleate ” the tumor. Hydrastis was applied to the tumor after it had been incised. But it will seem strange to American homoeopathists, who have always looked upon their English brethren with something akin to reverence, when they learn the manner of its application. “ A piece of lint is applied to the surface, spread with equal parts of a paste composed of a strong decoction of Hydrastis root, Chloride of zinc and flour , and Stramonium ointment .”

The testimony of Hr. Hastings, of England, relative to the efficacy of Hydrastis in cancers, is not so favorable. He says :

Having for some considerable time used Hydrastis in cancer cases, I think I may without any presumption make some remarks thereon. I have now for upwards of eighteen months prescribed it in about twenty cases of cancers, viz., cancers of the tongue, breast, lip, hand, etc., in a variety of forms, from high to low dilutions ; applied it externally, as Dr. Pattison does, and even by his directions, having twice sent patients for his advice, and I regret to say in no single

instance has it effected a cure, nor even appeared to check the disease .

In one or two cases it did seem at first to have some power of arresting the disease, but this was of short duration . It is no doubt a powerful medicine,

but whether it will cure cancer in any of its stages, is very questionable, at least according to my experience of it.

This was written in 1860, and if Hr. Hastings had found it useful, he would most probably have informed the profession.

In my criticism on this method, I denounced the mixing of Hydrastis with caustics. Fortunately their method was never

adopted by any respectable homoeopathist in this country, although many used the Hydrastis alone as an application to supposed cancerous tumors. In a few cases good results were claimed, but a large majority were only palliated. I do not think it has any more specific curative power over the cancerous dyscrasia than the Carbolic acid, recommended of late by a noted cancer doctor in this country.

I do not believe the Hydrastis has any specific power on enlarged glands, certainly not in any manner similar to the iodides. It is well known that any restorative remedy, even fresh air and a good diet, will cause the disappearance of glandular swellings.

The Hydrastis may have this effect, but only by its invigorating power.

Hydrastis has always been a favorite domestic remedy in “sore mouth.” Many physicians use it in all forms of stomatitis of children; in simple ulceration of the buccal mucous membrane; in mercurial sore mouth, and in stomatitis materna. I have witnessed the most obstinate varieties of these affections yield to the local application of Hydrastis in decoction or powder, after the mineral acids, astringents, nitrate of silver, of the old school, and even homoeopathic remedies had been tried in vain. The best method of application is to add one drachm of the tincture to half a pint of water ; use this as a wash every three or four hours.

The best preparation for use in diseases of the mouth and fauces is the Muriate of hydrastia — one grain to an ounce of water — applied every three or four hours. It is much more successful than the tincture. With it I have cured many cases of stomatitis, which had resisted other measures. In my own case it acted promptly in removing a disagreeable dryness of the tongue, with a sensation as if it had been burnt; it felt sore and raw, and had a dark-red appearance, with raised papillae. The gums were also dark red and swollen, as was also the mucous membrane of the mouth. The uvula was relaxed and sore ; large quantities of yellow tenacious mucus was hawked from the throat, leaving a sensation of rawness. A wash of Hydrastia mur. cured the whole in two days, although it had lasted for two weeks, uninfluenced by Nitric acid, Mercurius, and Tincture of hydrastis.

It is a favorite remedy with many homoeopathic physicians in the West as a gargle in cases of simple ulcerated sore throat ; also

in angina with ulceration, when accompanying scarlatina ; it does not, like Baptisia, remove the fetor in a direct manner, but its curative effect over the ulceration tends to remove any putrefactive condition. The pathogenetic symptoms are quite similar to those for which Dr. Gray, of New York, so highly recommends Mercurius iodatus; and the pathological condition, namely, inflammation and engorgement, with profuse secretion of mucus from the mucous follicles of the throat, very much resembles the condition which Mercurius causes. In some varieties of chronic angina, we find the mucous membrane of the fauces studded with round, protuberant spots, of a red color, as if injected with blood, and the patient complains of an aggravation from the least exposure to cold. For this state of the throat Hepar sulphur is generally prescribed, but its permanent curative effect is very much aided by the internal and local use of Hydrastis.

Dr. Lodge had excellent success with Hydrastis in a case of mercurial salivation. A man troubled with the itch was told that an ointment of Corrosive sublimate would cure it. He used it freely. As the skin eruption disappeared, severe mercurial salivation was developed. When called to see him his jaws were set, liquids were swallowed with difficulty, power of articulation was lost, and he could only make his wants known by writing on a slate. The ulceration of the mouth, which followed the salivation, was soon relieved by Hydrastis (j’-q), one part tincture to nine parts water, and the patient was able to speak in about a week. The recovery was rapid and permanent.

Syphilitic angina has been benefited by the use of this medicine; indeed, in its action on the glands of the mucous membrane, Hydrastis is an analogue of the mercurials. There is a kind of sore throat which often attends dyspepsia; it is sometimes known as “ bilious sore throat,” although the name is inappropriate; it is a sympathetic disorder, arising from irritation of the stomach and lower portions of the oesophagus; for this troublesome affection, the Hydrastis internally is an excellent remedy.

This leads us to a consideration of its value in gastric disorders. In my first edition of “ New Remedies,” I wrote as follows : “ This remedy seems likely to prove as prominent a remedy for those conditions which are known under the name of dyspepsia, as Nux vomica, Sulphur, or Pulsatilla.”

This prediction has been verified by hundreds of physicians during the intervening ten years. I quoted the opinions of eclectic physicians, and they will bear repeating again. Dr. King says :

It is successfully administered in dyspepsia and chronic affections of the mucous coats of the stomach ; in chronic inflammation of the stomach it is very valuable ; it will be found of special advantage in the treatment of persons who are intemperate, gradually removing the abnormal condition of the stomach, and in many instances destroying the appetite for liquor.

Dr. Scudder writes :

In anorexia, indigestion, and general debility, arising from a languid, or atonic state of the stomach, it is unsurpassed, restoring tone to the stomach, promoting the appetite, and acting as a general restorative. It may also be employed in those cases of chronic gastritis and chronic irritation of the stomach with altered secretion, which constitute the worst and most persistent forms of dyspepsia. In acid indigestion the Hydrastis, associated with calcined magnesia or prepared charcoal, will be found truly valuable, especially when attended with a torpid condition of the bowels. In those sympathetic diseases of the digestive organs, arising from uterine disease, we have obtained more benefit from this than from any other agent. The cases in which we have known this plant used with most success, were atonic dyspepsia, attended with torpidity of the liver, languid circulation, and constipated bowels.

The few pathological symptoms which we have obtained point to its use in dyspepsia with acidity, and dyspepsia from atony. The faint feeling with palpitation is quite suggestive of congestion of the portal system ; but we should be guided, perhaps, more by the general action of Hydrastis upon mucous membranes. We know that it causes (1) blennorrhagia ; (2) excoriation and ulceration (superficial f) ; and a condition simulating chronic inflammation. I have used this medicine in gastric disorders for several years, and my experience, together with a knowledge of its general effects, led me to consider it homoeopathic to the following conditions; I use the nomenclature of Dr. Chambers — (see Disorders of Digestion) :

(1) Mucous flux (chronic).

(2) Excess of epithelium (chronic).

(3) The anaemic state.

(4) Chronic inflammation (mucous).

(5) Ulcer of the stomach.

(6) Deficiency of gastric juice.

I also predicted in my second edition of “New Remedies,” that the Hydrastis might “ prove of value in cancer or scirrhus of the stomach, if the experience of our English colleagues should be verified.” It certainly is an excellent remedy in cases which appear to be due to ulceration of the stomach.

In the appendix to the second edition of “New Remedies,” a case is related by Dr. La Brunne, of epigastric tumor with marasmus, presenting the following symptoms :

Patient an old man of 70; had pains in the stomach five or six years, then loss of strength, great sensitiveness of the epigastric region, in which pulsations isochronous with the pulse were perceived, and a flattened, resistant tumor of some two inches in diameter. In a few months the pains became insufferable, loss of appetite and sleep became more alarming, frequent vomiting and great anguish about the heart, almost permanent. The tumor was pronounced scirrhus. He had taken Nux, Ignatia, Chamomilla, Colocyntli, Arsenic, and many other medicines with no benefit. He now took Hydrastis, mother tincture, two drops morning and evening in a spoonful of water. After six weeks the whole body felt improved and strength commenced to return, and in a few months was perfectly comfortable as regards pain, sleep, and digestion. The tumor had decreased 'two-thirds, the cceliac pulsations decreased three-fourths in intensity, and he now enjoys very good health. The report of this case was translated from the “ Journal Dispensaire,” Hahnemann, vol. iv, No. 11.

The intestinal symptoms, observed by the provers, are not notable in any respect. It caused light-colored, yellow-greenish stools, with griping and faintness ; the evacuations, like those of Podophyllin, were inclined to be persistent. I do not think it capable of causing watery stools, or any such severe symptoms as Podophyllum, Mercurius, or Iris. It rather resembles Rheum, Senna, Chelidonium, and Aloes. If provings were carried far enough we should doubtless get the stools mixed with or coated over with the peculiar tough mucus, constituting a raucous flux of the intestines, similar in character to that which it causes elsewhere. These are its primary effects.

The secondary effects of Hydrastis can readily be imagined, namely : An obstinate constipation from one of two conditions, — (1) a chronic, torpid mucous secretion from the intestinal canal, which retards its peristaltic action, and the natural advance of the

feces; (2) an unnatural dryness of the mucous surface, with hard, dry, knotty stools.

We feel safe in asserting that Hydrastis will not be found useful in diarrhoeas of a severe character. An irritation of the mucous coats is its initial primary effect; this causes expulsion of feces of a “light-yellow color, and of a soft, mushy consistence.” After this come the mucous stools, with burning pain and faintness. In such conditions it should be used highly potentized. It is also indicated in the ordinary non-inflammatory mucous flux of the bowels, in which the lowest dilutions may be used, or the 6th trit. of Hydrastin, which corresponds to about the lx dil.of the tincture.

Hydrastis is indicated in some forms of dysentery; in mucous enteritis, when of a catarrhal character, and the inflammation subacute, the Hydrastis at the third dilution will prove curative. In chronic enteritis, when the discharges are tenacious, slimy, and accompanied with tenesmus, or when the feces are in the form of hard balls, coated over with yellowish, tough mucus, this medicine will be of service in the first and second potency. The topical application of the remedy must not be forgotten in these cases. Enemas of Hydrastis will be found useful, and will bring about a cure unaided, or at any rate materially aid its internal action; when the disease is located in the rectum, this, form of application will be found particularly beneficial.

It is certainly indicated in blennorrhoea of the intestines, as much so as the Muriate of ammonia.

In ulceration of the rectum , occurring after bad cases of dysentery, the local application of Hydrastis will effect prompt cures; also in fissure of the anus. The cerate will be the best preparation in these cases.

In haemorrhoids this plant has some reputation. Reliable practitioners have assured me that they have cured the most obstinate cases by the alternate use of Hydrastis and Podophyllum, using enemas of Hydrastis every night.

In excoriation of the anus, as it occurs in little children, or even adults, in diarrhoea and dysentery, no better remedy can be advised ; it should be used in the form of a glycerole.

I ought to give you some information as to the manner in which the Hydrastis cures jaundice.

It causes jaundice evidently by inducing a catarrhal condition

of the hepatic ducts. I am not sure that it can irritate the secretory function of the liver, although the persistent yellow stool would imply that it has such an influence. But this may be coincident with the catarrhal irritation. It may cause, coincidently, by its primary action, an increase of the secretory power of the liver, and an undue secretion of mucus from the hepatic ducts. This increase of mucus may go on to such an extent as to prevent the flow of bile from the liver into the gall-bladder, and from the gall-bladder into the intestines. Then it may induce jaundice from suppression and from retention , the former by its secondary action, the latter by its ultimate primary effect.

Clinical experience in our school shows that it is capable of curing very bad cases of jaundice. Dr. Albertson, of San Francisco, reported many cases, twenty in all, for the second edition of my “ New Remedies/’ in which “ the skin and eyes were of a dark, greenish yellow; urine very dark, faeces light-colored, and great debility,” cured with this remedy in drop doses of the mother tincture, in some cases ;*in others the first and second dilutions.

It seems to be a favorite remedy with English physicians for constipation. Dr. Hastings reported many cases cured by its use in drop doses of the mother tincture.

Dr. R. Hughes, of England, says of the Hydrastis canadensis: “ My chief experience with this drug has been in the treatment of constipation ; for which it is a precious remedy, far superior to the Nux vomica usually prescribed. It is in cases where constipation stands alone, or is itself the cause of the other existing ailments, that I find the Hydrastis so valuable. I have used it in the potencies, from the first to the sixth decimal. The second has seemed to me to act most satisfactory.”

Dr. Massy, in his notes on “New American Remedies,” mentions it very favorably.

In this country the testimony of many of our most prominent physicians is favorable to its curative power.

In all the cases reported, as well as in the cases wherein I have found it successful, the constipation was of long standing ; had been aggravated by cathartic medicines ; the patients were weak and enfeebled ; the complexion sallow; the tongue foul ; pain in lower bowels and rectum ; indigestion ; stools hard and nodulated.

The best results have been obtained from the tincture, 1st and 2d dilutions, repeated two or three times a day. The following case, in the second edition of “ New Remedies,” gives a good picture of the cases which Hydrastis cures :

Mrs. H., age 26 ; light hair, pale complexion, and of feeble constitution ; has from childhood drank tea ; for ten or twelve years had attacks of headache with constipation. Three weeks after the birth of her first and only child, she was attacked while at stool with pains and soreness of the rectum and anus ; burning, smarting pains, very severe, continuing often six or eight hours after each stool, with a hot sensation in the bowels, also colic and faintness. She has only one or two stools a week, very hard, and of a natural color. She has no falling of the rectum or but little pain in that region, except at the time her bowels move, and for several hours following.

Her symptoms remained unchanged for two months under the use of Ignatia, Nux vomica, Pulsatilla, Sulphur, Nitric acid, warm water injections, and warm hip-baths.

On turning my attention to the new remedies for assistance in this case, I selected Hydrastis canadensis as being the most appropriate. I gave the tincture, having no other form of the remedy at hand. Three drops in half a glass of cold soft water, one tablespoonful taken every six hours.

In two weeks the pains in the rectum were wholly removed and the bowels regulated. Her colic, faintness, and heat in the abdomen also soon disappeared, leaving her well. It is now one year and six months since she took the Hydrastis ; as yet no return of her former symptoms.

No mention has been made of the diuretic action of Hydrastis, yet it would seem to have such effect; it needs confirmation, however, and further provings may clear up the matter. From analogy it is more than probable that, this medicine has the same effect upon the mucous membrane of the urinary organs that it has upon the mouth, nose, and fauces above alluded to. The resinoid principle of the drug may be eliminated through the kidneys, the same as Turpentine, Copaiva, and others; if so, it would undoubtedly cause those blennorrhagic conditions of the bladder, urethra, etc., for which it has been considered almost a specific.

King, and every other eclectic writer on therapeutics, asserts its “ great value in gleet, chronic gonorrhoea, incipient stricture , spermatorrhoea, and inflammation and ulceration of the whole internal coat of the bladder .” “ Many cases of ulceration of the internal

coat of the bladder have been cured by the decoction of Hydrastis alone. It must be injected into the bladder and held there as long as they can conveniently retain it — to be repeated three or four times a day, immediately after emptying the bladder.” It may

be prepared as follows : Tincture hydrastis can., one drachm ; hot water, one pint ; injected about blood heat. Its internal use alone would undoubtedly cure the disease, but it would require a longer time. I have cured cystic blennorrhoea with Copaiva, Chimaphila, and Uva ursi internally.

In chronic gonorrhoea or urethral blennorrhoea the Hydrastis is popular with some practitioners of our school. They use it after all the inflammatory symptoms have subsided, and a thick yellow or green tenacious discharge persists. It is prescribed internally (low dilution), and the dilute tincture or watery extract injected.

I have rarely met with cases which appeared to indicate it, and therefore have not used it in this disease. A cachectic condition, with indigestion and constipation, would be a good general indication in such cases. It would be as fully, if not better indicated in obstinate gleet.

In balanorrhoea it is an excellent remedy. It need only be used as a wash, and the diseased surface will soon be restored to its normal condition.

In conjunction with Phosphoric acid, it is one of our best remedies for the debility and general derangement resulting from spermatorrhoea. If there is spinal exhaustion, it should alternate with Nux vomica or Strychnia.

No provings of Hydrastis have been made by women.

The knowledge that we possess relative to the value of this remedy in diseases of the organs of generation of that sex has been obtained ex uso in morbis. Reasoning from analogy, we should naturally arrive at the opinion that it would be useful in many diseases of the uterus and vagina in which a blennorrhoea is the predominant symptom. Clinical experience has verified this opinion.

I have found it one of our most efficient remedies against uterine catarrh — known by its synonyms of chronic mucous metritis and chronic mucous cervicitis. The former is a disorder affecting the mucous lining of the uterine cavity, which may be eroded, and discharge constantly a purulent secretion, mixed with tough, stringy mucus. The latter affects only the glandular portion of the cervix uteri, and the discharge is tenacious mucus, transparent or yellow, and often hangs in long ropes from the os uteri.

In such conditions I give the Hydrastis internally, in the low

dilutions, and use a lotion of the watery infusion directly to the diseased surface.

When the os is open enough to allow its ready escape, or when it can be made so by the introduction of sponge tents, I inject an ounce of Hydrastis water into the cavity every day. If this is not feasible, a swab of cotton, on a silver probe or sound, or medicated gelatin bougie, can be medicated with Hydrastis muriate, and the cavity of the uterus or cervical canal wiped out every day.

In the majority of cases this gentle treatment suffices. In obstinate cases, or when extensive granulation has taken place, the Hydrastis applications may be followed by dilute Kali bichromicum or Chromic acid ; and Kali bich., Cubebs, and Phytolacca to be used internally at the same time.

In epithelial abrasion of the os, cervix, and vagina, it is one of our best applications. In these cases I prefer to apply it on a tampon, i. e., a ball of clean white cotton, to which a cord is attached, saturated with Glycerole of hydrastis, and placed against the os through a speculum.

( Aqua hydrastis is best made by infusing §j of Pulv. rad. hydrastis, in a pint or quart of water, to which add half an ounce or an ounce of Glycerin. Glycerole of hydrastis may be made by increasing the strength of the above about nine-tenths, or using 5j of Tine, hydrastis with 5j of Glycerin and water each.)

Vaginal leucorrhoea is often successfully treated by means of enemas of Hydrastis water, even when much irritation is present.

In cancer of the uterus and vagina, it has no curative value, but appears to modify the secretions and allay the pain a little, but it does not compare in efficacy with Carbolic acid or Chloride of zinc.

You must bear in mind that the general condition of the patient will often give you the strongest indication for the use of Hydrastis, namely, the cachectic state, the weak muscular power, the poor digestion, and obstinate constipation.

In that obstinate affection, vaginal leucorrhoea (catarrh) of infancy and childhood, you may have to prescribe injections of Aqua hydrastis, while you are giving internally Calc. carb. and Sepia.

Although our eclectic colleagues recommend it in “all chronic, and even acute inflammations of mucous membranes,” yet they make no mention of its use in catarrh of the air-passages. The pathogenetic symptoms point directly to its effects on the respiratory tract. It causes many notable catarrhal symptoms. I would recommend it, theoretically, in acute catarrhs — nasal, laryngeal, and bronchial (in the 6th dilution), also in chronic catarrhs of those passages. It is homoeopathic when the discharge is thick, yellowish, very tenacious, “ stringy,” and profuse. In these cases the low attenuations should be used, aided, when practicable, by the topical application in the form of injection. In the bronchial catarrh of old people, with debility, loss of appetite, cachectic conditions, it should prove very useful.

Dr. Small reports the case of a child affected with a chronic catarrhal cough, accompanied with febrile paroxysms in the evening and night, with debility. The cough was rough, harsh, and rattling, and continued day and night. After using many medicines with but little benefit, he gave Hydrastis 2d, and the cough and fever both disappeared in a few days. Under its continuance the child gained appetite and strength.

Since the introduction of the steam atomizer and various sprayinhalers, my favorite method of obtaining the curative action of this medicine in the bronchial catarrhs, is to throw the spray down the throat, when it is inhaled and moistens the whole bronchial mucous surface. The Aqua hydrastis of the strength above recommended cannot injure the most delicate mucous surfaces. I have often thrown the spray into the eyes in cases of chronic conjunctivitis, and the patients invariably felt only grateful relief.

I have alluded to the use of Hydrastis, and its active principle, Hydrastin, by the eclectics in the treatment of intermittent fever. Those of that school who claim the most thorough knowledge of its curative action, assert that the yellow alkaloid, or Hydrastina, is the one which possesses antiperiodic powers. This Hydrastina is the same as Berberina , obtained from the Berberis (Bayberry). I learn that Dr. Pulte, of Cincinnati, one of the best known physicians of our school, recommends the use of Berberina in ague and fever, and other periodic affections, on the ground that it causes no stimulation or congestion of the head as does Quinine. At one time during my early practice in the most malarious portion of Michigan I tried the Hydrastin in many cases, but in none did it answer my expectations, and while eclectic physicians in my vicinity claimed to cure ague with it, I found that they generally combined it with Quinine, Salicin, or Prussiate of iron.

The provings so far have not developed any characteristic febrile symptoms, nor do I believe it is a fever remedy in any sense. If it arrests ague it does so, probably, by its general restorative action, in a manner similar to many other bitter medicines.

The Sulphate of hydrastina is the best preparation when we wish to get the pure tonic power of the drug. It should be prepared in triturations. It is soluble in water, but not in alcohol.

Dr. Clifton, of Northampton, England, writes as follows of Hydrastis in dyspepsia. He gives the following indications:

1. The Facial Expression.

This is dull, heavy, of a yellowish-white color, sodden-looking, not unlike that in which Mercurius is indicated, but whiter and having less animation. Though there is in its provings no reference to the expression or complexion, as affording reasons for selecting Hydrastis, I have frequently found that when the gastric symptoms calling for this medicine have been present the character of the face has been that I have described.

1. Tongue.

The tongue is large, flabby, and slimy-looking. Underneath the fur the tongue is of a bluish-white color, having in its edges the imprints of teeth. So far it is like the Mercurius tongue, but lacks the tremulous character of this organ, so often seen in cases benefited by Mercurius. The coating is a yellow, slimy, sticky fur.

There are morbid states occurring in other organs to which Hydrastis is homoeopathic, but where the appearances of the face and tongue I have described are not present. In the dyspepsia it relieves. Both are met with.

1. Eructations.

These are generally sour or putrid, and more commonly the former than the latter.

1. Appetite.

The appetite is generally bad ; the power of digesting bread and vegetables being especially weak. Both are followed by eructations.

1. Stomach.

There is in the stomach a sensation of weight (not as after Nux and Bryonia, “weight like a stone”), and with the weight and fulness, an empty, aching, “ gone ” feeling, more or less constant, but aggravated by taking a meal. The aching “gone” feeling is something like that produced by Gelseminum, but is attended with more general fulness of the stomach, and more sour eructations. Further, although the Gelseminum tongue is sometimes coated white or yellow, it is not so large and flabby as is the Hydrastis tongue. This symptom is, I am aware, produced by many other medicines besides Gelseminum, especially by Ignatia and Cimicifuga, but Ignatia and other medicines do not give rise to the other symptoms peculiar to Hydrastis. In tea-drinkers this symptom occurs frequently, but with them the tongue is generally white (except when colored by the tea), and in their dyspepsia China is often found to answer better than other medicines, especially in removing the flatulence with which they are commonly troubled.

1. Action of the Bowels.

This may be either infrequent and constipated, or frequent, with the stools loose, soft, light-colored, and with flatus. But as a rule the bowels are constipated, and stools lumpy and covered with slimy mucus in cases indicating Hydrastis.

1. The Phthisical Constitution.

I say phthisical constitution, because there is a dyspepsia which often occurs in persons in whom phthisis is fully developed. They are patients, members of whose families have died of phthisis, but who, without having tubercles in the lungs, suffer every three or four weeks or longer from what they call bilious attacks and indigestion. Such persons generally have dyspepsia marked by the symptoms I have named. Here Hydrastis, in one or two drop doses of the mother tincture two or three times a day, works marvellous changes for the better. Then, again, in persons with developed phthisis pulmonalis, with cough, purulent expectoration, emaciation, furred tongue, loss of appetite, “goneness” at stomach, flatulence in the bowels, faint feeling after stool, stools generally loose and frequent — in such cases Hydrastis in alternation with Arsenicum will often prove very beneficial. Iodide of arsenic is also useful, but where it is so the tongue is generally less furred, and there is less flatulence. The late Dr. Marston called attention to the value of Calcarea carbonica in the dyspepsia of phthisical patients who had “ fulness of the stomach, acidity, dislike to meat and hot food, with pain and pressure in the stomach, vomiting and headache.” I can quite indorse his observations, but in such cases nightsweats and other symptoms of Calcarea are generally present, which we do not find to have been caused by Hydrastis.

I have not alluded to one symptom, printed in italics in Hale’s article on Hydrastis, viz., “great sense of sinking and prostration at the epigastrium, with violent and long-continued palpitation of the heart.” I have never noticed this symptom to have occurred in patients for whom I have prescribed Hydrastis, even in doses of five drops of the mother tincture, neither do I remember ever having given it for that symptom.

In Hydrastis dyspepsia I have generally found the lower dilutions, such as the 1st decimal, answer best ; but in catarrh of the head, nose, and fauces, indicating this remedy, I generally give the 6th centesimal, as in nearly all the provings of this medicine by dilutions, up to 30, catarrh of these parts was most marked.

HYDR0BE0MI0 ACID,

In this acid resides the hypnotic and nervine properties of the bromides. Each drop of the pure concentrated acid should represent the medicinal power of one grain of any of the Bromide salts. The acid possesses properties which the bromides do not possess, while each bromide possesses, in addition to the medicinal action of the acid, properties which belong to the alkali with which the acid is united.