felters materia_medica-g

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GALIUM.

The herb Galium ap arine , Linn, and other species of Galium (Nat. Ord.Rubiaceae). Comm on in mois t g roun ds in Eu rope and th e Uni ted S ta tes .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Cleavers , Goose-Gras s , Ca t ch-Weed, Beds t ra w.

P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .Rubichloric, galli tannic, and citric acids.

P r e p a r a t i o n s 1. Infusum Galii , Infusion of Galium (1 ounce to Water, 16fluidounces) . Dose , 1 to 4 flu idou nces .

2 . S pe cific Med icine Galium . Dose , 5 to 60 drops.

S p e c i f i c I n d i c a t i o n s .Dysuria and painful urinat ion in febri le andinflammatory states; renal and cyst ic i rr i tat ion with burning; nodulargrowth s or deposi t s in sk in or mu cou s m emb ran es (Scu dder).

Ac t i on a n d T h e r a p y .Galium is a useful refrigerant diuretic in feversand inf lammat ions , and to re l ieve dysur ia wi th pa in and sca ld ing orburning in the ure thra or neck of the b ladder. I t may be used as asedative diuret ic in scarlet fever. I t is undoubtedly al terat ive and maybe exhibited in s crofu lous d isorders , bu t h as been u n wise ly cla imed a sa remedy for carc in omatou s growth s .

Galium tinctoria i s a romat ic and has been recommended in the

spasmodic cough of as thma and chronic bronchi t i s . The bes t use forthese d ru gs i s a s d iu re t ic s .

GALLA.

An excrescence on Que rcus infe ctoria , Olivier, and other allied species of Quercus(Nat . Ord. Fagaceae) , caused by the punctures and deposi ted ova of the Cynipstinctoria , Hartig.

Co m m o n Na m e s : Nu tgal l , Gal ls .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Tan n in (24 t o 80 per cen t) an d gallic acid (1 1/ 2 percent) .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Pu lvis Galla e , Pu lverized G alls . Dose , 5 to 20 gra ins .2 . Ungue ntum Gallae , Oin tm en t of Nut gal l (20 per cen t n u tgal l).

Ac t i on a n d T h e r a p y .Galls are astr ingent and owe this property to theFel te r s Mater ia Medica - (G) - Page 1


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large quanti ty of tannic acid they contain. As an internal medicineand largely for external purposes they have been supplanted by gal l icand tannic acids, which see. Galls , however, are considered especial lyeffect ive in hemorrhoids, being preferred by many as a localapplicat ion, in ointment, in preference to the acids named. They are

com m only ass ocia ted with opiu m for the s am e pu rpose .

GAMBIR.

An extract prepared from the leaves and twigs of Ourouparia Gambir (Hunter),Baillon (Nat. Ord. Rubiaceae). Sumatra, Ceylon, and countries bordering theStra i ts of Malacca. Dose , 1 to 30 gra ins .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Gam bir, Gam beer, Ter ra J apon ica , Pa le Catechu .

D e s c r i p t i o n .Irregular masses or cubes, reddish-brown, pale brownish-gray orlight brown, friable, crystalline, and breaking with a dull earthy fracture, bitterishwith s weet i sh a fte r- tas te , no odor and grea t a s t r in gency. Dose , 15 grains .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Catechu tann ic acid (35 to 40 per cent) the activeas t r i ngen t ; catechin (catech u ic a cid) probably in er t ; an d pyrocatechin .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Trochis ci Gam bir , Troches of Gambir (Gambir about 1 grain,Su gar, Tra gacan th , an d Ora n ge-flower Water).

2 . Tinctu ra Gam bir Comp osita , Compound Tincture of Gambir (Gambir andCinnamon) . Dose , 1 flu idra chm .

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y . External . Gambir is powerfully astringent. Itrestrains excessive discharges, overcomes relaxation and congest ion,an d ch ecks local hem orrha ges . Gam bir is n ow u sed in p lace of ca techu(extract of wood of Areca Catechu ) as i t carr ies pract ical ly the samebodies in more avai lable form, though i t conta ins less tannin than tha text rac t . I t may be used in re laxed sore throat , re laxed uvula , and there laxat ion and conges t ion of the fauces common to speakers andsingers. A gargle or the troches may be employed. I t is rarely used, byinject ion, in leucorrhoea, and in powder or t incture to controlepis ta xis . It i s a good a s t r in gen t for con ges ted an d s pongy gu m s.

Internal . The powerfully astringent properties of gambir are utilized inth e cont ro l of serous d iar rh eas . If th ere is m u ch m u cu s pres ent a p u rgeof castor oil is advised, to be followed by the gambir alone, or withcamphorated t inc ture of opium. I t i s se ldom used in modern Eclec t icpract ice.

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GAULTHERIA.

The leaves of Gaultheria procumbens , Linn (Nat. Ord. Ericaceae). Damp woods andsan dy so ils o f e a s t e rn t h ird o f t he Un i t ed S t a t e s .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Win tergreen, Teaberry, Moun tain Tea, Boxberry.

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .An aromatic volatile oil ( Oleu m Gaultheriae ); arbutin ,ericolin a n d urson .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Oleum Gaultheriae, Oil of Wintergreen. True Oil of Wintergreen; composed of about 96 per cent of methyl salicylate. Dose , 5 to 15drops .

2 . S pe cific Medicine Gau lthe ria . Dose , 5 to 20 drops .3 . S piritus Gau lthe riae , Spirit of Gaultheria (Essence of Wintergreen5 per

cent of oil in alcohol). Chiefly a flavor essence.

Re l a t ed O i l . Methy lis S alicylas , Methyl Salicylate or Artificial Oil of Wintergreen.This is prepared synthetically and sold under the name of Oil of Wintergreen. Itssource must be stated on the label. It ranges from colorless to yellowish orr edd ish an d h as t he odo r and t a s t e o f w in t e rg reen . Dose , 5 to 15 drops.

S p e c i f i c I n d i c a t i o n s .Irri tat ion of the bladder and prostate gland;u n du e sexua l exc it emen t , an d ea r ly s t a ge of r ena l in flam m at ion .

Action .Oil of wintergreen has identically the same physiologicalact ion as sal icyl ic acid except that in poisonous doses i t is morecertain to produce coma. The symptoms of toxic doses are drowsiness,cerebral congest ion with throbbing of the carot ids, del ir ium,contrac ted or d i la ted pupi ls , v isual d is turbances , t inni tus aur ium,pares is , somnolence , and coma preceding death . Autopsy revealsconges t ion o f th e s tomach , duoden u m , and the k idneys .

T h e r a p y . External . Oil of wintergreen in full strength may be appliedto carious teeth to rel ieve toothache. In ful l s trength, or in sui table

dilu t ion with olive oil or cot t on s eed oi l, i t pr ovides a good p a in rel ievingappl ica t ion for acute ar t icular and chronic rheumat ism and ingonorrheal a r thr i t i s . I f used very s t rong the skin may subsequent lyexfoliate . Applied to denuded surfaces i t is readily absorbed and mayproduce toxic effects.

Embrocations containing oil of wintergreen are valuable for local



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inflammatory swell ings, neuralgic pain, pleurodynia, myalgia, i tching,and swelling and stiffness of the joints. The following are a few of manysuch liniments: (1) Oil of Gaultheria, 3 fluidrachms; Oil of Olive,enough to make 6 f luidounces. Mix. (2) Oil of Gaultheria , 3 drachms;Sa licylic Acid, 2 0 gra ins ; Alcoh ol, 2 flu idou n ces ; Oil of Olive, en ou gh

to make 6 f lu idounces ; Mix. Shake when used. Especia l ly useful uponrheumatic joints. (3) Oil of Gaultheria, 3 fluidrachms; ChloroformLiniment and Soap Liniment, 2 f luidounces each. Mix. Shake whenused. For painful surfaces. (4) Oil of Gaultheria , 2 f luidounces;Aseps in , 15 gra ins ; Echa folta an d Alcoh ol, 2 1 / 2 flu idou n ces each .Mix. Valu ab le for ap plicat ion to cu ts , bru ises , an d d ilu ted with water a sa m o u t h w a s h .

Internal . Specific Medicine Gaultheria, or an infusion (Leaves, 1 ounceto Water, 16 f luidounces) , has a specif ic act ion upon the urino-genitalt ract , rel ieving irr i tat ion and subacute inflammation. This act ion isespecia l ly exer ted upon the neck of the b ladder and in the pros ta t icu re thra . It does n ot grea t ly in crease th e secre t ion of u r in e , bu t ren dersits voiding easier by alleviating the sphincteric irritation. It is,therefore, a remedy for dysuria. In incipient renal inflammation i tsom et im es does good, an d in a cu te tu ba l n eph r it is it is a ss er ted to h avegiven benef i t even where b lood and tube cas ts a re passed.Considerable good has been accompl ished wi th i t when spermatorrheaand sexual exci tement are caused by ure thra l i r r i tabi l i ty and pros ta t icful lness. The specif ic medicine may be administered in 5 to 15 dropsdoses in water 3 or 4 t imes a day. Some physic ians have advised bothgaultheria and its oil for the relief of hepatic congestion and insluggish vasculari ty and engorgement of the intest inal glands, as wellas to rel ieve hemorrhoids by overcoming congest ion of the portalvessels.

Oil of gaultheria has aromatic and antiseptic propert ies . I t consistsm ost largely of m eth yl sal icylat e, over 90 pa rts at leas t , a n d is th ereforeanalogous to salicylic acid and the salicylates in its effects. Large

doses depress the hear t jus t as the sa l icyla tes do; la rge doses a lsocause nausea and vomit ing . Used wi th in bounds , shor t of suff ic ient toinduce gas t r ic derangement , i t i s very useful where an ant i - rheumat icis demanded and in cys t ic d isorders wi th put rescent ur ine . Too longcont inued, however, i t may induce renal i r r i ta t ion , and th is must becareful ly guarded agains t . Ur ine tha t was ammoniacal and put rescenta few hours af ter passage has been fol lowed, af ter the administrat ion of



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twenty drops of the oi l , by an output that remained free frompu trefact ion for twelve da ys. One p ar t of th e oil in ab ou t two hu n dred of ur ine has preserved the la t te r f rom change for e ighteen days . Hencethe value of this oi l in cyst i t is with putrescent urine. While few agentsshould be administered with digi tal is , oi l of wintergreen is a grateful

adjuvant and does not impair the usefulness of the foxglove. If for anyreason sodium sal icylate disagrees with rheumatic pat ients , oi l of wintergreen, which is less l ikely to contain deleterious by-products ,may be given. I t is useful in al l types of acute rheumatism in whichsalicylic acid or the salicylates are effective. Those most benefited arethe acute inf lammatory rheumat ism and so-ca l led gonorrhealrheumatism, a specif ic gonorrheal ar thri t ic infect ion. Small doses haverel ieved facial neuralgia and t ic douloureux; and sometimes i t exerts asoothing and antiseptic effect in acute gonorrhea. The oi l may beadministered in olive oil or in the form of the spirit (essence) mixedwith sweetened water.

The essence is of service in dry, persis tent bronchial cough, and thespecif ic medicine in cough with considerable bronchial secret ion. I t isalso u seful in th e colic of in fa n ts .

Gaultheria is an agent of special value as a f lavoring agent andpreservat ive for water-d ispensed medic ines in the summer season. Forthis purpose i t should be widely used. The spir i t (50 parts of oi l of gau lth eria to 950 pa rts of alcoh ol) is th e preferred form for th is pu rpose.

GELATINUM.

Gela t in .

A purified glue prepared by boiling gelatinous animal tissues in water andpu rifying, evapora t in g an d d ryin g the p rodu ct .

D e s c r i p t i o n .A non-crystalline solid in sheets, flakes, shreds, or powder;without color or slightly yellowish, and having a feeble characteristic taste.Unal terable in dry air, but readi ly decomposes when moist or in solut ion.Insoluble in alcohol, fixed or volatile oils, ether, chloroform or cold water, butswelling and softening in the latter, 5 to 10 per cent of which it absorbs; solublein hot water, glycerin, and acetic acid. It is largely employed in making gelatincapsu le s fo r t h e t a s t e le s s adm in i s t r a t ion o f med ic ine s .

P r e p a r a t i o n . Gelatinum Gly cerina tum , Glycer in a ted Gela t in .

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Ac t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .Styptic an d p rotect ive. Gelat in m ay be u sed inthe t rea tm ent of some forms of eczema an d n as a l ca ta r rh ; an d as asoothing protec t ive in rec ta l a ffec t ions . It en ters in to th e ph arm aca lprep ar at ion of cap su les, lozen ges, wafers , s u pp ositories , cou rt plas ters ,

an d a s a coat ing for pi lls . I ts in tra ven ou s or h ypoderm oclyt ic u se (of ab out 3 ou n ces of a 1 per cen t s ter ile so lu t ion) to in creas e b loodcoagu la t ion in a n eu r ism or hem orrha ge is less in favor th an former ly,n ow th at coagu lin an d s im ilar read y prepar ed b iologica l prepar a t ionsare available.

Internal . Gela t in i s demulcent and may therefore be used as a leni t iveafter cases of irritative poisoning. While having some antidotal powerover iod in e an d b rom in e an d th e a lu m s , it is u n des i rab le on accou n t o f the length of t ime required to prepare i t properly for use. As a proteidfood it is prepared largely in various ways for feeding the sick, andowing to i ts freedom from the formation of indol i t has been advised asa par t of the d ie t in in tes t ina l put refac t ion showing markedi n d i c a n u r i a .

GELSEMIUM.

The dried rhizome and roots of Gelsemium sempervirens (Linn,) Aiton (Nat. Ord.Loganiaceae). Dose , 1 / 10 t o 1 gr a in .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Yellow J as m in e , Yellow J ess am in e , Caro lin a J as m in .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Two bitter alkaloidscrystallizable gelsemine , theparalyzing agent , and amorphous gelseminine , a very toxic and tetanizing principle,an d a vo la t il e oil. Th ere i s a l so presen t gelsem inic acid (beta-methyl-aesculetin ).

P r e p a r a t i o n . S pecific Med icine Gels em ium . Dose , 1 / 10 to 10 drops . Usua l methodof administration: Rx Specific Medicine Gelsemium, 10 drops to 1 fluidrachm;Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every 1 to 3h o u r s .

S p e c i fi c In d i c a t i o n s . Hyperemia ; br ight eyes, contracted pupils , greatheat , and nervous unres t ; menta l i r r i tabi l i ty ; insomnia , wi th nervousexcitat ion; pain over the whole head; t remulousness, with greatnervous exci tement and h igh tempera ture ; i r r i ta t ion of ur inary t rac t ;dysuria, with scant secret ion of urine; ar ter ial throbbing, with exaltedsensibi l i ty; pinched, contracted t issues; convulsions, with hyperaemia;



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th in , dry, u n yie ld ing os u ter i, with dry an d h ot vagin al walls .

Action .Gelsemium acts chiefly upon the spinal cord, f i rs t impressingth e sen sory t rac t , even to the extent of produ cin g complete an es th es ia ;later, i ts dominant act ion occurs, that of expending i ts force on the

motor neurons , caus ing para lys is of mot ion. Somet imes th is sequenceis r eversed . Upon th e h igh er bra in it h as bu t s ligh t e ffec t , bu t u pon th emotor f i laments of the nerves of the head, part icularly the third andsixth cranial pairs , i ts act ion is profound. This is well shown by theresultant palpebral ptosis and relaxation of the jaw. Respirat ion is f i rs ts t imula ted , then depressed. Modera te doses do not appreciably d is turbthe circulat ion. Toxic doses, however, depress both the pulse rate andthe b lood pressure . In man convuls ions do not occur. Both gelsemiumand gelsemine, when dropped into the eye, cause violent di lat ion of the pupil , with accompanying paralysis of accommodation. Them ydrias is is n ot so las t in g as th a t from a t ropin e . Gelsem iu m is qu icklyabsorbed and spends i t s force in about three hours . The a lkalo idgelsemine, correspondingly more act ive, is el iminated unchanged byway of the kidneys. Death from gelsemium is due to asphyxia.Gelsemium does not affec t a l l human beings a l ike , some ' be ing butsl ightly influenced by i t while others are profoundly impressed. Thesmallest act ive doses (ranging from 5 to 15 minims of the specif icmedicine or fluidextract, according to susceptibility) occasion alanguid sense of ease and sl ight lowering of the force and frequency of the pulse. Larger doses induce a desire to l ie down, and cause vert igo,d is turbed s ight , and somet imes orbi ta l pa in . Cont inued smal l dosesmay, af ter several hours, provoke vomiting; otherwise i t has l i t t le or noeffect u pon th e stom ach or bowels.

Toxicology .Toxic doses produce ext reme muscular re laxat ion andprostrat ion, double vision (sometimes bl indness) , widely di lated andimmovable pupi ls , in ternal squint , and the eyel ids droop and areraised with diff icul ty, or complete paralyt ic palpebral ptosis occurs.Of ten the pa t ient s inks in h is t racks , or i f he s tands he s taggers .

Sensibi l i ty is great ly impaired, the jaws drop and speech fai ls .Breathing becomes slow, labored, and shal low; the pulse rapid, weak,and thready; the sk in i s wet wi th cold sweat , and the body-heatmarkedly depressed. Drowsiness may be fe l t , but consciousness i susual ly re ta ined unt i l jus t before death , evidence tha t the h ighercerebral centers are but s l ightly involved. Death takes place fromcentr ic respi ra tory para lys is , and a lmost s imul taneous ar res t of the



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action of th e hea rt .

The cardinal symptoms of poisoning by Gelsemium, therefore, are ptosis, d iplopia, d ropping of the low er jaw , and ab s olute m us cular prostration .

In poisoning by gelsemium or i ts alkaloids, the emetic or s tomachpump should be used i f the pa t ient i s not too weak. Tannic ac id (orstrong infusion of s tore tea) should be administered, external heatapp lied , an d a r t ific ia l respira t ion a t tem pted a s s oon as brea th in g showssigns of fai lure. St imulat ion of the respiratory function should beenforced by the hypodermat ic use of a t ropine , and tha t of the hear t byammonia, ether, alcohol and digi tal is , the f irs t three in the ordernamed, to sus ta in the organ unt i l the d ig i ta l i s , which should be g ivena t once , can ac t .

I t has been asser ted tha t morphine comple te ly ant idotes the poisonouseffects of gelsemium. As gelsemium poisoning is quite rare theantidotal t reatment is none too well establ ished and is , therefore,ba sed m ost ly on genera l pr inc ip les .

T h e r a p y .Gelsemium is primarily the remedy for acute hyperemia of the brain a nd s pina l centers . All th rou gh th e woof a n d war p of its t h era pyruns the thread of nervous exci ta t ion and unres t ; and of ten fever,spa sm , and pa in . In p roper doses it r e laxes h igh ne rvous an d m u scu la rtension. By diminishing the veloci ty of the blood current to the headan d s pin al t rac t i t prevents sp as m odic ac t ion . It is , th erefore, a r emedyfor hyperaemia; never a remedy for congestion. It is the specific agentfor relief in the nervously excited and highly feverish state, for thechi ld wi th hot head and t remulous and jerky muscles , for grea tres t lessness wi th e levat ion of tempera ture ; for the touchy and grouchybut feverish individual who magnifies his ai lments; and for those whodread even the simple ordeals and tr ials of l i fe . The most directindication for its employment is exaltation of nervous function . It is

contraindicated by a weak heart and feeble circulat ion. As anant ispasmodic i t s tands unr iva led save by lobel ia and bromide of potassium, with both of which i t acts kindly and harmoniously. Theflushed face, bright eye, contracted pupil , increased heat of head, greatrest lessness and excitat ion are the classic indicat ions for i t as f i rs tformula ted by Scudder, and these s tand among the t rues t of speci f icgu ides ever recorded for th e u se of a m edic in e .



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Though not c lassed as an ant ipyre t ic , ge lsemium sof tens b loodpressure , s lowly reduces the pulse , and overcomes hyperaemiaassocia ted wi th exal ted nervous ac t ion , thus making i t indispensablein some kinds of inflammation and fevers. This period of exci tement

usually obtains early in the febri le s tate . When this nervous tensionhas been re l ieved by the drug, then i t s usefulness i s prac t ica l ly a t anend . To con tin u e with it wou ld imp eril th e in tegrity of th e h eart , which,while apparently but l i t t le affected during heal th, appears to be readilyendangered by i t during the advanced stages of febri le process. Only insthenic fevers is i t indicated; never when the heart is weak ordegenerate or the pat ient is prostrated by debil i ty. A soft , open pulse,mois t sk in , c leaning mois t tongue and nerve ca lm being essent ia l tothe effect ive use of quinine, gelsemium is administered in the febri lestage of malarial or intermit tent fevers to produce these effects andprepare the way for the kindly act ion of that great ant iperiodic. This i tdoes wi th d i rec tness and d ispatch . Even before th is prepara tory usegelsemium alone was employed in these d iseases wi th asser tedsuccess by early Eclect ic pract i t ioners, and in doses which we of to-day would hesi tate to administer. In other forms of fever, as remit tentand so-cal led bi l ious types, which t ip the balance one way or the othertoward malarial fever or typhoid fever, the drug is efficient if theindicat ions above noted are s tr ict ly observed. For the febricula of chi ldren , with grea t a n d t rem u lou s a gita t ion , h igh fever, h ead ach e, an dn ear s pa sm odic explos iveness , it i s u n su rpa ss ed both to a l lay th e feverand to give rest and sleep. Scudder remarks that in fevers we f indmany t imes that i ts influence is very decided; i t causes relaxation of the sys tem; the pulse i s less f requent and sof ter ; the respi ra t ion i sslower; the skin becomes cooler, soft and moist ; there is lessdetermination of blood to the head, and if there is pain in i t , i t isredu ced or ent i re ly ceas es , wh ile a t th e sa m e t im e we frequ en t ly n ot icean increased secret ion of urine. In typhoid or enteric fever i ts useshould be more guarded. When of the robust type wi th v igorous onset ,i t is serviceable i f used early, but when the sl ightest evidence of

enfeeblement of the heart or disintegrat ion of the blood is apparent i tshould be wi thheld a t once . Under such c i rcumstances we have seen arapidly d icrot ic and i r regular pulse and pros t ra t ion ensue , eventhough but smal l doses were being adminis tered . By no cer ta in meanscan this resul t be wholly at tr ibuted to the drug, yet surely the stage forgelsemium medicat ion has then passed. In puerpera l fever i t i s usefulas long as exalted n ervous ten s ion ca l ls for it .



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As s ta ted gelsemium is a remedy of marked usefulness in the s thenicfevers of childhood. The more these tend to convulsive complicationsthe stronger becomes the indicat ion for this agent . Infants , however,are qui te suscept ib le to the drug and the dose for them should be

minuteeven fract ional . In inflammatory bowel disorders of chi ldren,part icularly during denti t ion, i t is one of our most direct medicines,an d i s th en m ost potent in en ter it is , gas t ro-en ter it is , ch olera infan tu m ,and diar rhoea and dysentery, both wi th tenesmusall of whichderangements are so of ten the b l ight of the chi ld ' s second summer.Here the direct guide wil l be the exalted nervous tension, theincreased heat of head and body, the bri l l iant , shif ty eyes, greatrest lessness, and the near explosive state . If convulsion occur, thenlarger doses will cont ro l the s pa sm s.

Observing the indicat ions undeviat ingly gelsemium wil l be found oneof the best remedies for the spasms of chi ldhood, or infanti leconvulsions. Though single remedies are preferred in Eclect icpract ice, the fol lowing combination is the most effectual we have usedfor such at tacks: Rx Specif ic Medicine Gelsemium and Specif icMedicine Lobelia , 1 f luidrachm each; Potassium Bromide, 1 drachm;Water enough to make 4 f luidounces. Mix. Sig. : One teaspoonful everyf ive minutes unt i l the spasms cease . Then adminis ter one teaspoonfulof the solut ion every two hours for one or two days. The bowels shouldbe th orou gh ly em pt ied by a copious enem a of soapy water an d th e chi ldim m ersed in a warm ba th (tes ted by th e a t ten da n t 's b are e lbow), with acold pack to the head. I f the convuls ions are due to gas t ro- in tes t ina labuse , the spasms are soon contro l led; i f they are the precursors of infect ious or other diseases, and centr ic in origin, an advantage wil lh ave been gain ed by the ea r ly u se of th e ge lsem iu m .

Gelsemium is an impor tant sedat ive in the ear ly s tage of acutebronchi t i s , broncho-pneumonia , lobar-pneumonia , and p leur isy. Inpneumonia i t i s less of ten requi red than vera t rum, but in a l l acute

respiratory inflammations, of a s thenic type, i t may be required to meetthe nervous manifestat ions and to give rest . In acute febri le andinflammatory diseases it is frequently effective in quieting deliriumand overcoming insomnia. This is part icularly evident in la grippe. Of the few remedies that offer any therapeutic hope in acute cerebro-spinal meningit is and acute poliomyeli t is gelsemium has beenfavorably considered. I ts administrat ion should not be continued in

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the former when effusion takes place, nor in the lat ter when paralysisis es ta blish ed.

Gelsemium is a remedy for pain, provided i t is dependent upon orassocia ted wi th nervous tens ion. For pa in in the weak and apathet ic i t

has no value. I t has ful ly just if ied i ts reputat ion in s imple neuri t is andvar ious types of neura lg ia when there i s hyperaemia , nervousi r r i tabi l i ty and sharp , muscular twi tching. Under these condi t ions i tmay be used in intercostal neuralgia (often the precursor of herpeszoster) , ovarian neuralgia, and is sometimes effectual in sciat icneur i t i s or neura lg ia , though too much re l iance must not be p lacedu pon it in th is affect ion. If sciat ic an d oth er forms of n eu rit is ar e pu relynervous and hyperaemic, i t is most l ikely to be of service, but i f dependent upon sugar toxemia , pressure , in jury, loaded caecum, orpelv ic sublaxat ion , o ther measures must be resor ted to . The bes tresults from gelsemium in neuralgia are obtained in t r igeminal orfac ia l neura lg ia , dependent upon cold , denta l car ies , or per identa linf lammat ion. Toothache in apparent ly sound tee th , but wi th v io lentthrobbing from active circulation, frequently yields to this drug. Liberaldoses of gelsemium are required to ease neuralgic pain. I t gives rel ief in recent t ic douloureux wi th ac t ive c i rcula t ion in the head, but whenthe Gasser ian gangl ion becomes permanent ly impaired i t fa i l s , as doother medicines. Surgical rel ief is then the only rat ional procedure. Inacute inflammatory rheumatism gelsemium is serviceable chiefly toal lay excitement and to some extent al leviate the pain. I t is adaptedonly to the ini t ial s tage and when sthenic condit ions prevail , and thenonly as an a id to the more d i rec t ant i rheumat ic remedies . I t i s one of the commonest and bes t remedies for myalgia due to the s t ra in of muscular exert ion, or to recent colds from exposure to inclementweather.

Various forms of headache yield to gelsemium. I t is best adapted tonervous headache wi th ac t ive c i rcula t ion and throbbing pain .Occasionally i t serves well in migraine, but is less effectual than the

synthet ic analgesics. I t is more eff icient when headache is caused byeye-s t ra in .

Limited to the indicat ions of nervous excitement with increasedvasculari ty and spasmodic or col icky pain, gelsemium is of very greatut i l i ty in dysmenorrhea in robust subjects , as i t is also in so-cal leduterine colic . Full doses are required. I t acts favorably, when similarly



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indicated, in ovari t is and metri t is , and in salpingit is beforesuppura t ion se ts in ; a f ter tha t i t i s of no o ther va lue than to quie t then e r vo u s p h e n om e n a .

Scanty ur ine , wi th hyperaemic i r r i ta t ion of the renal organs and

urinary passages, is a direct indicat ion for gelsemium. I t should thenbe given preceding or with the desired diuret ics . Renal suppression isthen promptly rel ieved by i t , but not when there is congest ion, forwhich bel ladonna is far more effectual . For the dysuria of spasmodicurethral s tr icture i t is the remedy. I t a l lays the irr i tat ion andtempera ture exci ted by the passage of ca theters , bougies , anddivulsors. We rely upon it in cystic irritation from cold when theurging to pass urine is frequent and the passage diff icul t . For thispurpose, together with apis or eryngium, i t gives the happiest resul ts inthis annoying complaint in women. I t may also be sat isfactori lyemployed for suppression of urine in hysterical women. In acutenephri t is i t is one of the surest remedies, and is just as serviceable ina c u t e c ys t it is wh e n d u e t o co ld s a n d n o t d e p en d e n t u p o n t h e r e t en t i onof putr id urine. I ts relaxant powers sometimes faci l i tate the passage of sm a ll ren a l ca lcu li an d cys t ic gra vel.

In the inf lammatory s tage of gonorrhea no agent i s more sa lu tary thangelsemium. I t prevents and re l ieves chordee , eases ur ina t ion , andgives comfor t when burning and i r r i ta t ion are pronounced. For th ispurpose i t may well be combined with cannabis and aconite as fol lows:Rx Specific Medicine Gelsemium, 1 fluidrachm; Specific MedicineAconite, 10 drops; Specif ic Medicine Cannabis , 1 f luidrachm; Water,enough for 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One teaspoonful every two or threeh o u r s .

Obstetr ic therapy would be impoverished without gelsemium. Oneshould not be reckless with i t , however, as many bel ieve that i t favorshemorrhage. Our experience does not verify this view. I t is the remedyto relax r igid os when the r im is thin and unyielding, holding the head

as in a v ise , and there i s dryness of the par tur ient canal . I t verypromptly removes this impediment, favors normal secret ion, andfaci l i tates labor. In fact , a l l sphincters acutely contracted are relaxedby ful l doses of gelsemium. During labor i t is most valuable toovercome the great rest lessness, fear, and excitement experienced bynervous women, and by i ts calmative power rect if ies jerky andineffectual contract ions. I t a lso mit igates the severi ty of the pain and



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re l ieves the sense of heat and dryness compla ined of by the pa t ient .Indeed, this is one of the most praiseworthy effects of this drug. I t a lsocontrols af ter-pains and the nervous agitat ion that fol low a few daysafter parturi t ion. For puerperal convulsions i t is inferior only tovera t rum and sha res wi th th i s d rug and morph ine and ch lo ro fo rm in

being the most generally effective remedies in this form of eclampsia.In no way does i t interfere with the recently introduced Fischer 'sa lk a l in e in t r a ve n o u s t r e a t m e n t .

GENTIANA.

The dried rhizome and roots of Gentiana lutea , Linn (Nat. Ord. Gentianaceae.)Common in the mounta inous reg ions of sou thern and cen t ra l Europe . Dose , 10 to30 grains .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Gen t ian , Gen t i an Roo t .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s . Gentiopicrin , an active, bitter glucoside, associatedwith gentisic acid or gentisin (C 14 H 10 O 5 ). No tannin is present but a coloring

ma t te r which is da rkened by iron comp oun ds .

P r e p a r a t i o n s ,1. Infusum Gentianae , Infusion of Gentian. Dose , 1 flu idra chm to 1f luidounce.

2 . Specific Medicine Gentiana . Dose , 5 to 30 drops .3 . Tinctura Gentiana e Com posita , Compound Tincture of Gentian. (Contains

Gentian 10 percent , Bi t ter Orange Peel , and Cardamon.) Dose , 1 / 2 t o 1f luidrachm.

S p e c i f i c I n d i c a t i o n s .Sense of epigastr ic depression, with physicaland menta l wear iness ; a tony of s tomach and bowels , wi th imperfec td iges t ion .

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .Gentian is one of the best of the simple bi t tertonics, for the act ion of which compare Calumba . In large doses,however, i t is capable of deranging digest ion, with the production of nausea , vomit ing , and d iar rhoea , and fu l lness of the pulse , wi thh ead ach e. It i s cont r a ind ica ted in gas t r ic ir r i tabi lity or inflam m at ion.

The chief use of gentian is to promote the appeti te and improvedigestion in states of chronic debility. This it does when given inmoderate doses. For atony of the stomach and bowels, with feeble orslow digest ion, i t is an ideal s t imulat ing tonic; and after prolonged



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fevers and infect ions, when the forces of l i fe are great ly depressed andrecovery depends upon increased power to assimilate foods, gentianmay be used to improve gas t r ic d iges t ion and thus has ten theconvalescence. Gentian is especial ly useful in anorexia, in thedyspepsia of malar ia l or ig in , and in subacute gas t r i t i s and in tes t ina l

ca tar rh . The infus ion and the compound t inc ture of gent ian may beu sed a lon e or as veh ic les for o ther m edic in es .

GERANIUM.

The rhizome of Geranium maculatum , Linn (Nat. Ord. Geraniaceae). Common inth e r ich s o ils o f woods an d low grou n ds in t he Un ited S ta tes . Dose , 5 to 60 grains .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Cran esb i ll, Wild Cra n esb i ll , Crowfoot , Spot ted Ger an iu m .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Tannin (10 to 28 per cent , according to season) andga llic a cid (in d ried root).

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Decoctum Geranii , Decoct ion of Geran iu m (1/ 2 ou nce to Water,16 flu idoun ces). Dose , 1 to 2 f luidounces.

2 . S pe cific Med icine Geran ium . Dose , 5 to 60 drops.

S p e c i f i c I n d i c a t i o n s .Relaxed mucous t i ssues wi th profusedebi l i ta t ing d ischarges ; chronic mucous d iar rheas ; chronic dysentery;d iar rhoea wi th cons tant des i re to defecate ; pass ive hemorrhages ;gas t r ic u lcer.

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .Geranium is one of the s imple and muchneglected of the early Eclect ic medicines. I t is an ideal astr ingent andfor condit ions requir ing such an act ion i t is preferable to many otherconst r inging drugs . Geranium is indica ted in subacute and chronicbowel d isorders when the evacuat ions are abundant and debi l i ta t ing .It is especially adapted to relaxation of the mucosa followinginf lammat ion. For the summer d iar rheas of o lder chi ldren , andespecially the cholera infantum of infants, i t is splendidly effective

after the bowels have been thoroughly cleansed of undigested anddecomposed contents . For infanti le use we prefer the decoction inmilk. If that does not agree, small doses of the specific medicine inwater may be employed. When dysentery tends to chronici ty, thethorough use of magnesium sulphate fol lowed by geranium wil l rendergood s ervice.



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Geranium is of some value in pass ive hemorrhages , as haematur ia ,hemoptysis , and menorrhagia. I t is only useful in the f irs t two when theblood los t i s smal l in amount , and in the la t te r when bleeding i sprolonged, but merely oozing. Though a useful agent in relaxedcon dit ions with ca tar rh al d isch arges o ther th an th ose of th e bowels , a s

chronic pharyngeal ca tar rh , re laxed uvula , leucorrhea , e tc . , i t i s nomore valuable than o ther tannin-bear ing drugs , and i s of ten infer ior tota n n ic a c id it s e lf.

Geranium is of specif ic value where long saturat ion of the mucosa withunheal thy ca tar rhal secre t ions favor a tendency to des t ruct ion of t i ssue . We have found i t to quickly cure aphthous u lcera t ion of themouth a t tended by gas t r ic ac id i ty and ac id d iar rhea . For gas t r ic u lceri t i s one of the bes t therapeut ic means we possess . Geranium,hydras t i s , mang i fe ra , b i smuth subn i t r a t e and manges ium ox ide ,singly, or in indicated association, have proven the most effectiveagents in our experience for the medicinal rel ief of curable cases. Theyrestrain hypersecret ion, correct excessive acidi ty, check hemorrhage,and re l ieve pain ; somet imes heal ing appears to progress rapid ly underth e ir in flu en ce .

GLUCOSUM .

Glu cose, Liqu id Glucos e, Syru py Glu cose.

A syrupy liquid, composed chiefly of dextrose (dextro-glucose) and dextrin. It isobtained by the incomplete hydrolysis of s tarch.

D e s c r i p t i o n .An odorless or nearly odorless, sweet, syrupy liquid, of a little orno color. It is sparingly dissolved by alcohol, but water dissolves it freely, theaqueous solut ion being neutral or s l ight ly acid to l i tmus paper. Dose, 2 to 6f luidounces of 6 to 30 per cent solut ions of glucose.

Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Shock; acidosis.

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .Glucose is an easi ly digested nutr ient ,fermentable, and comparing in food value closely to sugar. Diuret icpropert ies h ave been as cribed to it , an d it is s aid to protect agains t fat tydegenera t ion produced by the adminis t ra t ion of genera l anes thet ics .Glucose, in 6 to 10 per cent solut ions, has proved serviceable, given byenteroclysis , in dropsical effusions, provided the kidneys are not badlydamaged, and in uremic ec lampsias , and o ther affec t ions wi th faul ty



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elimination of urine. Intravenously administered, in solut ions of 10 to30 per cent , i t has been very successful in surgical shock. One of i tsmost important f ields of usefulness is in infant feeding (2 to 3f lu idounces of 6 per cent so lu t ion per rec tum), and in the samestrength solut ion (6 ounces) intraperi toneally to prevent acidosis in

malnour ished infants . Acetone quickly d isappears under such use of it .

GLYCERINUM.

Glycerin, Glycerol.

A liquid composed most largely of a trihydric alcohol (C 3 H 5 (OH) 3 ) obtained by the

processes of hydrolysis and distil lation of fats, both animal and vegetable, or of fixed oils.

D e s c r i p t i o n .A thick, syrupy, colorless liquid having a sweet and warming tasteand a faint but agreeable odor. I t has a great avidi ty for moisture, becomingappreciably thinner upon long exposure to the atmosphere. I t mixes with water oralcohol; and is insoluble in ether, chloroform, and fixed and essential oils. Dose ,1 / 2 to 2 flu idrachm s.

P r e p a r a t i o n . S up pos itoria Gly cerini , Su pp osi tor ies of Glycerin.

Action .Glycerin is a powerful hygroscopic. So great is its avidity forwater that i t wil l readily abstract moisture from the t issues to which i ti s appl ied . I t i s a lso s l ight ly i r r i tant to the sk in and mucous surfaces ,and considerably so to abraded surfaces. The discomfort quicklysubsides , however, and i t then ac ts as an ant isept ic and protec t iveemoll ient to the skin. I t is a demulcent to mucous t issues. Applied tothe rec tum i t provokes evacuat ion , both by i t s i r r i ta t ing anddehydrat ing effects . Glycerin ki l ls parasi tes , both cutaneous andintest inal , and al lays i tching, probably by i ts protect ive, ant iseptic , andhygroscopic powers. Glycerin is rapidly absorbed by the intest ines andis mostly oxidized in the body. By some i t is thought to be, in some

measure at least , a food, and indirect ly a conservator of fats through i tseffects of increasing the non-nitrogenous reserve of the body. It is alsobelieved to increase energy. Upon the glycogenic function its effectsare s t i l l in doubt , many contending tha t i t reduces the sugar when inexcess in the body. Glycerin is laxat ive and in very large amounts actsnot unlike alcohol , producing a s imilar intoxicat ion and l ike gastr iceffects . It is a ls o sa id t o fa vor th e elim in a tion of u ric acid.



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T h e r a p y . External . Th e b lan d a n d p rac t ica lly un ir r ita t ing cha rac ter of pure glycerin, in the presence of a l i t t le water, i ts permanence whenexposed to the air (except absorption of moisture) , and thecompleteness wi th which i t sh ie lds the par ts make i t the most la rgely

used external applicat ion in a great variety of local disorders. I tsprotec t ive unctuousness wi thout be ing greasy, i t s sp lendid andextensive solvent powers, i ts ability to hold in close contact to thet issues powders and other medicines that would dry and fal l off i f applied with alcohol or water, i ts ant iseptic and emoll ient propert ies ,and i ts ant ipruri t ic quali t ies , make i t an indispensable vehicle. I t isfreely miscible with water and most ointment bases, and dissolves orholds in suspension the most commonly used external medic ines . I tshould never be applied ful l s trength, however, except where i tsdehydrating effects chiefly are desired. Through its great greed forwater i t readily removes moisture from the t issues, leaving themhardened and more l ikely to crack. A l i t t le water should be added to i tfor local use, or the parts may be moistened and lef t wet before i tsap pl ica t ion . On ly pu re glycer in s h ou ld be u sed .

Equal parts of glycerin and water, or preferably rose water, form anelegan t an d em ollient cosm et ic lo t ion for cha pp ed h an ds , lips , an d facecracked or sore nipples, excoriated and chafed surfaces, and swollenhemorrhoids. A few grains of borax sometimes add to its efficiency.Compound t inc ture of benzoin and g lycer in i s a lso a p leasantapp lica t ion . For th ose exposed to win ds an d s torms , an d who h ave th e irh a n ds m u ch in wat er, th e followin g is sp len didly effect ive: Rx Glycerin ,2 fluidounces; Carbolic Acid, 10 grains; Tincture of Arnica Flowers,1/ 2 flu idou n ce; Rose Water, enou gh to m ak e 4 flu idou n ces. Mix. Sig.:Apply af ter thoroughly washing and r ins ing the hands , and whi le theyare s t i ll wet . Somet im es lobelia m ay be u sed in p lace of th e ar n ica .

Glycer in , added to poul t ices , renders them soothing and keeps themmoist . I t forms a good applicat ion to boils , carbuncles, small abscesses,

an d to local edemas , as of th e prepu ce . Here it m ay be u sed p u re for it santiseptic and dehydrating effects. Mixed with alcohol (1 part), glycerin(3 parts) , i t makes a useful and drawing applicat ion for boils , and anantiseptic s t imulant for foul ulcerat ions. A mixture of glycerin andwater in propor t ions to su i t the case may be used as a to i le t wash forth e mou th in fevers , to keep th e tongue a n d l ips soft an d p l iab le , an d toremove sordes and o ther v iscous secre t ions . I t a l so reduces the th i rs t



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occas ion ed by th e dryn ess of th e mou th .

Glycerin may be used as a vehicle for l ime water for applicat ion tosmall burns, erythema, and sl ight excoriat ions; for menthol for therel ief of i tching in urt icaria , chronic eczema, and other pruri t ic

conditions; for boric acid in the mild forms of facial dermatitis; forlac t ic ac id in f reckles , sunburn , and o ther p igmenta t ions ; for b ismuth ,borax, sal icyl ic acid, phenol , boric acid, or sodium or potassiumbicarbonate when their long-continued local effects are desired,especial ly in ulcerat ions and various skin diseases. A small port ion of liquor potas sa e (1 / 2 per cent ) m ay be added to it for us e u pon rou ghskin and in chronic eczema. Among the skin d isorders in which i t i sespecial ly useful as a vehicle may be mentioned impetigo, l ichen,porrigo, psoriasis, pityriasis, herpes, and tinea versicolor (withm ercu r ic ch lor ide) an d o ther pa ra s i t ic a ffec t ions .

Glycerin (di luted) is one of the best agents to soften hardened andimpacted cerumen prior to removing i t by gently syringing with warmwater. Any i r r i ta t ion caused by the hardened mass or the means of removal may be overcome by the following: Rx Colorless Hydrastis(Lloyd's), 1 fluidrachm; Glycerin, 20 drops; Distillate of Hamamelis,enou gh to ma ke 1/ 2 flu idou n ce. Mix. Sig.: App ly warm to the pa rts bymeans of cot ton. Glycerin is sometimes useful in otorrhea. A 5 per centsolut ion of phenol in glycerin upon cotton may be used for insert ionin to the au ra l cana l a f t e r rup tu re o f the membrana tympan i whentenderness a round the ea r pe r s i s t s . I t ac t s by dehydra t ion , r educ ingthe swell ing and faci l i tat ing a more complete drainage from the middleear.

Either glycerin or the glycerite of boro-glycerin are favorite agents forthe deple t ion of the t i ssues in conges t ive and subacute inf lammat ionof th e wom b.

I t should be appl ied upon tampons so as to remain in contac t for

several hours, and then be fol lowed by a hot (not warm) douche. Thesame t rea tment g ives good resul ts in u ter ine subinvolut ion . A smal lquantity of pure glycerin, or the glycerin suppository, is very effectivein provoking a movement of the bowels when the feces are below thesigmoid flexure. For a small child it is one of the most effectualmethods for overcoming const ipat ion, with lack of rectal response tothe ca l l s of na ture . Care should be had to see tha t the syr inge t ip i s



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perfect ly smooth, and any irr i tat ion caused by the glycerin may be dueto using the enema too frequently or to the use of an impure glycerin.As a ru le, 1/ 2 d ra chm properly an d ca refu lly in jected is followed a tonce by a fecal evacuation. Diluted glycerin is sometimes useful toprevent bed-sores .

Glycerite of Starch is a useful application in ichthyosis, and glycerinpas tes a re m ore clean ly an d effec t ive th an th ose m ade with pe t ro la tu mor fats . Montgomery advises a paste made as fol lows: Starch, ZincOxide, of each 1 part; Glycerin, 2 parts. Prepare without boiling. Thisforms a whi te pas te of pa in t - l ike cons is tence , adherent , non-greasyand pl iable , and may be appl ied by spreading wi th the hand. I t holdsth e pa rts like a sp lin t , a llowin g disch ar ges free egress, wh ile it d oes n otinterfere with the natural secret ions. I t is especial ly designed forpapu la r sk in e ru p t ion s .

A lar ge proport ion of th e good derived from th e m agm a -pou lt ices, s u chas An t iph logis t ine, e tc ., a re d u e to th e an t isep t ic an d d eh ydra t in gqu al it ies of th e g lycer in th ey con ta in .

Internal . Only pure glycerin should be used for internal use. Glycerinis invaluable as a f lavoring and sweetening preservat ive for water-d ispensed medic ines . Especia l ly i s i t demanded in the summerseason. From 1 to 2 drachms are suff ic ient for most four-ouncemixtures , depending somewhat upon the quant i ty of a lcohol or o therpreservat ive agents present . In special cases of diabetes i t may be usedas a su bs t itu te for su gars . Wh ile som ewh at laxat ive it i s se ldom so u sedin Eclectic practice, and if selected would be indicated only whereei ther cons t ipa t ion or d iar rhea i s dependent upon fermenta t ivechanges. There are, however, cases of hemorrhoids, both bleeding andnon-bleeding, in which i t may be used as a laxat ive ; and these areaccompanied by fermenta t ive ac t ion in the s tomach and bowels .Glycerin is sometimes useful in fermentat ive dyspepsia, withflatulence and const ipat ion, rel ieving largely by i ts ant iseptic and

dehydrating effects. Glycerin, well diluted with iced water, makes afairly good drink for low forms of fever, where putrefaction is shown bythe dry tongue, foul brea th and sordes . I t s va lue as a nut r i t ionalm eas u re, in place of cod-liver oil an d oth er fat s , is open to gra ve dou bt ,with the probabil i t ies in favor of i ts uselessness. I ts employment as afood for d iabet ics , and in phthis is and o ther wast ing d iseases , haspract ical ly lost prest ige, though in the f irs t named many bel ieve i t



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useful to check, in some degree at least , the excret ion of sugar. Thecommon custom of taking glycerin, rock candy, and whisky forcommon coughs and colds i s nothing less than a popular form of mi lda lcoh olic t ipp ling.

GLYCYRRHIZA.The dried rhizome and roots of Gly cyrrhiz a glabra ty pica , Regel et Herder (SpanishLicorice), or of Gly cy rrhiza glab ra glan d ulifera , Regel et Her der (Ru ss ian Licorice),(Nat . Ord. Leguminosae) . Southern Europe and western Asia; cul t ivated. Dose , 5to 60 gra ins .

C o m m o n N a m e s : Licorice, Licorice Root, (1) Spanish Licorice Root, (2) RussianLicorice Root .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .The sweet glucoside glycyrrhizin (C 24 H 36 O 9 ),

asparagin , glycyramarin an d an ac id r e s in .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. S pe cific Med icine Gly cyrrhiza . Dose , 5 to 60 drops .2 . Fluidextractum Glycyrrhizae , Fluidextr act of Glycyrrh iza. Dose , 30 drops .

D e r i v a t i v e : Glycyrrhizinum Ammoniatum , Ammoniated Glycyrrhizin. Very sweet,odorless , da rk-b rown or red -brown s cales; solu ble in alcohol or water. I t is d er ivedfrom glycyrrhiza an d comb ined with am mon ia. Dose , 1 to 8 gra ins .

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .Glycyrrhiza root is demulcent, laxative, and

expectorant . I t ac ts upon mucous surfaces , lessening i r r i ta t ion andrel ieving coughs, catarrhs, and irr i tat ion of the urinary tract . Thepowdered extract is sometimes used to give sol idi ty to pi l ls , and thepowdered root as a dust ing powder for the same. The f luidextract is anagreeable f lavoring agent for other medicines and soothing to i rr i tatedbronchia l surfaces . The b i t te rness of cascara , quinine , a loes , quass ia ,th e acr id ity of sen ega , gua iac , an d th e tas te of am m oniu m chlor ide an dsodium sal icylate are more or less masked by the f luidextract . Licoriceroot i s a n in gredient of Com poun d Licorice Pow d er . (See Sen n a ).

GOSSYPIUM.

The bark of the root and the hairs of the seed of Gossypium herbaceum , Linn, andof other species of Gossypium (Nat. Ord. Malvaceae). An Asiatic plant extensivelycu lt iva ted , espec ia l ly in s out h ern Un i ted S ta tes . Dose , 5 to 60 gra ins .

Co m m o n Na m e s : (1) Cotton-Root Bark; (2) Cotton, Cotton Wool.



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P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .The root-bark yields a red resin called goss y pic acid (8per cen t ) an d vola t i le o il and tan n in .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1 Specific Medicine Gossypium . Dose , 5 to 60 drops .2 . Gossypium Purificatum , Purified Cotton (Absorbent Cotton). (Cotton freed

from imp u ri t ies a n d dep rived of fat ty ma tter. )3 . Oleum Gos s y pii S em inis , Cottonseed Oil. A pale, yellow, odorless or nearlyodorless oil , having a bland taste; slightly dissolved by alcohol and miscible withe ther, ch loroform, pe t ro leu m, a nd ben zin . Dose , 1 / 2 t o 2 flu idounces .

S p e c i fi c In d i c a t i o n s .-(Uterine inert ia; preparat ions of fresh root-bark -large doses.) Tardy menstruat ion with backache and dragging pelvicpain; ful lness and weight in the bladder, with diff icul t micturi t ion;sexu al las s i tu de with a n emia; h ys ter ia , with pe lvic a tony an d an emia .

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .- External . Absorbent cot ton is of mechanical useonly in pract ice. A cotton jacket is preferred by many to poult ices andmagmas for use in acute lung d iseases . I t mainta ins an evenprotec t ion f rom changes of tempera ture , and s l ight mois ture usual lyaccumula tes under i t , t hus mak ing i t s e rve the purpose , wi thou t theweight and dangers, of the poult ice. Cotton is widely used in surgicalpract ice for sponging and dressings, to take up secret ions, to protectpainful surfaces in burns and sca lds , and to prevent the ingress of atmospheric microbic invasion. I t is a comfort ing applicat ion torheumatic joints , usually being applied over some oleaginousapplicat ion. Upon raw surfaces oi ls or some lubricant should be f irs tapplied and then the parts encased in cotton. If al lowed to become st iff and hard i t acts as any other foreign body. Cotton is used for vaginalt ampons , bu t they shou ld be removed a f t e r a f ew hours use , a s theybecome exceedingly foul and veritable hotbeds of infection. Forpacking wounds and cavi t ies and s imi lar surgica l uses gauze i spreferred to cot ton. Cotton is a good medium by which to applyan t isep t ic an d du s t in g powders .

Internal . Fresh cot ton-root bark i s emmenagogue. I t i s useful in ta rdymenst ruat ion , wi th much backache and dragging pelv ic pa in . Owing toi t s undoubted power upon the u ter ine muscula ture i t i s of va lue inuter ine subinvolut ion and i s asser ted to have reduced the s ize of fibroids . It probab ly ac ts m u ch in th e sam e ma n n er as ergot , th ough farless powerfully. It has the advantage, however, of being practically non-poisonous. In uterine inert ia during labor i t is said to act well , though



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i t is seldom brought into requisi t ion. The reputed use of the decoctionas an abor t i fac ient by the cot ton-dis t r ic t negresses i s commonknowledge. Fortunately the fresh root is not everywhere available, if i treal ly possesses ecbolic propert ies , for old bark is said to be valuelessfor an y pu rpose.

Webster employs gossypium in hys ter ia in chi ldren and adul ts . Hereports i t eff icient in screaming children, morose women, and gir lswi th uncontro l lable laughter, as wel l as in those assuming muscularr ig id i ty. These adul t cases undoubtedly depend upon menst ruald e r a n g e m e n t s .

Cotton Seed Oil . This is a bland, nutr i t ious, and wholesome digest ibleoi l , used as a food and emol l ient ; and employed in pharmacy,medicine, and surgery for many of the purposes for which olive oil isu sed . (See Oleu m Oliva e .)

GRANATUM.

The dried bark of the s tems and roots of Punica Granatum , Linn (Nat. Ord.Punicaceae) . India , southwestern Asia , and the Mediterranean shores;na tu ra l ized an d cu lt iva ted in warm la t i tud es . Dose , 30 grains .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Pomegran a te , Pomegran a te Root Bar k .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s . Pelletierine or punicine (1/ 2 per cent ), meth yl- , pseu do-,and isopel let ier ine, a l l a lkaloids , and punico-tannic acid (20 per cent) .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .-1. Pelletierina e Tan na s , Pelletierine Tannate. (Contains in varyingproportions, in admixture, the four alkaloids mentioned above.) A pale-yellow,noncrystal l ine powder, without odor, and an astr ingent tas te . Soluble in alcoholan d less read ily in water. Dose , 4 grains .

2 . Decoctum Gran ati , Decoct ion of Pomegran at e Bar k (see b elow).

S p e c i fi c In d i c a t i o n s .Taeniacide and taeniafuge for the destruct ionan d expu ls ion of tap eworm.

Action .Pomegranate prepara t ions , in la rge doses , causes nausea andvomiting, f latulence and intest inal pain. Notwithstanding the largeamount of tannin i t contains, such act ion is frequently fol lowed bydiar rhea . Other effec ts are t remors , muscular weakness , and cramps inthe extremit ies , dizziness, mental confusion, drowsiness, diplopia and



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mydrias is , and o ther ocular d is turbances . The tannate k i l l s thetap eworm ea s i ly, bu t h as far less effec t u pon other in tes t in a l para s i tes .The associated alkaloids, sold as pel let ier ine, const i tute anexceedingly active combination, capable of producing paralysis of them otor n erves. The ta n n at e, proba bly owin g to its s low solub ility, is less

lia ble to distu rb t h e system , bu t is equ a lly effect ive as a ta en iacide.

T h e r a p y .When pomegranate decoct ion can be re ta ined by thestomach i t is a certain specif ic for the destruct ion and expulsion of t apeworm. When th is p repara t ion cann o t be u sed , the t a nn a te , which isfar more easi ly administered, may be subst i tuted. A semi-proprietorypreparat ion cal led granatin is a sal t of pel leter ine in solut ion, and isa very effective destroyer. It is sold ready for administration as a singledose. Locke's method of t reat ing tapeworm is popular with Eclect icphysicians. The decoction he advised is prepared as fol lows: Press 8ounces of the coarse bark in to a vesse l and pour upon i t three p in ts of boil ing water; boil , s t rain, and then boil again unti l but one pintremains . A br isk ca thar t ic should be g iven a t n ight and a l ightbreakfast al lowed in the morning. In the middle of the forenoon fouroun ces of th e decoct ion s h ould be adm in is tered . In order tha t th is m aypass quickly in to the in tes t ines and i t s absorpt ion be prevented , as faras possible, a fluidrachm of fluidextract of jalap aromatized with oil of anise or oi l of cinnamon should be given with the dose. In two or threehours the dose should be repeated . When the bowels begin to moveadminister a copious enema, and remove the worm in a vessel f i l ledwith warm water s o tha t it m ay float freely an d n ot be broken . If n au seaan d vom it in g occur u pon firs t g ivin g th e decoct ion , lem on ju ice sh ou ldbe given a n d th e r ecu m ben t p os it ion m ain ta in ed .

When pel let ier ine preparat ions are administered a l ight milk diet inthe evening is fol lowed in the morning by a sal ine purge, and then thecombined a lkalo ids adminis tered . In about one hour another dose of the purgative should be given. Epsom sal t , f luidextract of jalap, orcas tor o i l may be used as the ca thar t ic . I f the tannate i s employed i t

ma y be adm in is t e red in ca ps u le .

GRINDELIA.

The dried leaves and flowering tops of one or several species of GrindeliaasGrindelia camporum , Greene; or Grind elia s qua rros a (Pursh), Dunal. (1) Marshes of Cal iforn ia; (2) West ern plain s . Dose , 5 to 40 grains .



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Co m m o n Na m e : Grind elia .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .A saponin-like resin ( grindelin ), volatile oil, and analkaloid grindeline .

P r e p a r a t i o n . Specific Medicine Grindelia . Dose , 5 to 40 drops.

S p e c i fi c In d i c a t i o n s .Asth m at ic brea th in g with sen se of soreness an drawness ; ha r sh , d ry cough ; dyspnea wi th cyanosed coun tenance .Locally, rhus poisoning; old indolent ulcers . Grindelia squarrosa:malar ia l cachexia wi th sp lenic conges t ion .

Action .The grindelias have a bi t ter, acrid taste , leaving anunp leasan t , pe r s i s t en t , ac r id sensa t ion in the mouth and cause anincreased f low of sal iva. The kidneys are excited by them and diuresisis increased, whi le upon the bronchia l membranes they produce aprimary increase of secret ion fol lowed by a lessened expectorat ion anddiminution of the rate of breathing. They are el iminated by the bronchiand the k idneys . Marked re laxat ion of the bronchi i s produced bygr indel ia .

T h e r a p y .External . Grindelia promotes reparat ion in damagedcondit ions of the epithel ium. I t is especial ly valuable in chronic skindiseases with feeble circulat ion and tendency to ulcerat ion. For

indolent ulcers a lotion of the specific medicine (2 fluidrachms toWater, 16 f luidounces) may be applied freely upon compresses. I ts t imulates growth and heals the ulcers . Grindelia s imilarly applied isone of the best of applicat ions in rhus dermati t is . Applied to chroniceczema of the ves icular type i t has been credi ted wi th many cures .Webster asserts i t is of value in malignant ulcerat ion, as epi thel iomataof the mucosa and the skin . This i s c la iming much and awai tsconfirm at ion from th e experien ce of oth ers .

Th e leaves of gr in delia , s m oked a lone or m ixed with s t r am onium ,lobelia , or pota ss iu m n it ra te , ha ve been u sed su ccessfu lly to re lieve th eparoxyms of spa sm odic as thm a.

Internal . Grindelia is a remedy for asthmatic breathing, with pectoralsoreness and a sense of rawness . The accompanying cough is dry andharsh and the brea th ing labored, caus ing in p le thor ic individuals adusky colorat ion of the face. In some cases i t promptly stops the



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par oxysm s of as th m a, a n d in o thers ap pa rent ly h as n o effec t . It is u sefu lin subacute and chronic bronchi t i s , especia l ly in o ld persons , and inb r on c h o r rh e a a n d e m p h ys e m a .

Grindel ia squarrosa i s c redi ted wi th ant imalar ia l proper t ies and to

relieve splenic congestion and hypertrophy of malarial origin. Theindicat ions are dull pain with ful lness over the spleen, sal low skin,debi lity an d in diges t ion , with gas t r ic d is t res s .

Th e bi t ter ta st e of grin delia is bes t d isgu ised by ch loroform .

GUAIACUM.

The resin of the wood of Guaiacum officinale , Linn, or of Guaiacum sanc tum , Linn(Nat . Ord . Zygophyllacea e). West In dian t rees . Dose , 5 to 30 gra ins .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Res in of Gu aiac , Gu aiac .

D e s c r i p t i o n .Greenish, gray-brown fragments , masses or tears of a balsamicodor and slightly acrid taste. Usually admixed with fragments of vegetablet i s su es . Ea s i ly so lu ble in a lcoh ol, e th er an d ch loroform. Dose , 5 to 15 gra ins .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Three resins: gua iaconic a cid (70 per cent), guaiacicacid , and guaiaretic acid .

P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. S pecific Medicine Gua iacu m . Dose , 5 to 30 drops.2 . Tinctura Gua iaci Amm oniata , Am m oniated Tin ctu re of Gu aiac (Gu aiac, 20 per

cent, in Aromatic Spirit of Ammonia). Dose , 10 to 30 drops .

S p e c i fi c In d i c a t i o n s .Dryness and s t i ffness of the throat wi th tumid,swollen tonsils, painful deglutition and dribbling of saliva; incipientton s illit is (ea rly); rh eu m a tic ph a ryngit is .

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y . External . The ammonia ted t inc ture or thedilution of the specific medicine (1 to 3 of alcohol), added to water, actsefficiently as a gargle or preferably a wash, for the forms of sore throatment ioned below.

Internal . Guaiaic once had considerable vogue as a remedy for syphil is ,but i s prac t ica l ly out of use in tha t d isease a t the present day. I t wasa l so much used in rheumat i sm, in which i t has a be t t e r c l a im toefficiency. Guaiac is laxative, expectorant, and diaphoretic. When it



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fa i ls to ac t u pon th e sk in it u su al ly s t im u la tes th e k idn eys . Large dosesmay occas ion gas t ro- in tes t ina l inf lammat ion. I t has somewhat of anan t isep t ic ac t ion , which i s exten ded to the s ecre t ions cau sed b y it .

The chief uses for guaiac are in rheumat ic pharyngi t i s or rheumat ic

sore throat and incipient tonsi l l i t is , with angry, red, raw-lookingsurfaces, where the parts appear to be severely inflamed or great lycongested. The lat ter may be the type which is the forerunner of anat tack of acute inflammatory rheumatismthe tonsi ls being the foci of infec t ion . In such cases i t ac ts be t ter than in o ther forms of amygdalitis. While seemingly indicated in active conditions in soreth roa t and in ch ron ic rheumat i sm, i t i s bes t adap ted to pass ivecondit ions-cold hands and feet , feeble circulat ion, and vi taldepression. In general plethora or inflammation of the gastroenterict rac t i t i s usual ly cont ra indica ted . Guaiac has been much employed inchronic sore throat of syphilitic origin. The best form of administrationis a fourfold dilution of specific medicine, mixed with syrup and water.St ronger prepa ra t ions t h an th is d i lu ted t in c tu re prec ip i ta te hea vily.

GUARANA.

A dried paste, chiefly consisting of the crushed or pounded seeds of PaulliniaCupana , Kunth (Nat . Ord. Sapindaceae) , yielding not less than 4 per cent of caffein e. A sh ru bb y vin e of n orth ern an d western Brazil .

Co m m o n Na m e ; Gua ran a .

D e s c r i p t i o n .Cylindrical, dark reddish-brown sticks, paler internally, andadmixed with fragments of seeds and integuments . Sl ight odor, and feebleas tr ingent , bit ter tas te . Part ly solu ble in water an d in alcohol . Dose , 15 to 30grains .

P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s . Caffeine , vo la t i le o il, sa ponin , a n d ta n nin .

P r e p a r a t i o n . Specific Medicine Guarana . Dose , 10 to 30 drops .

S p e c i f i c I n d i c a t i o n s .Headache with pal lor, weak circulat ion, thepain aggravated by exert ion; s ick headache (migraine) , with cerebralanemia ; mens t rua l headache , wi th ce rebra l anemia ; men ta lexhaust ion or depress ion; headache f rom diss ipa t ion .

Ac t i on a n d T h e r a p y .Guarana is a gentle exci tant act ing very much



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l ike tea and coffee. I t is valuable where the brain becomes exhausted ordepressed through menta l overwork, or when the body is fa t igued orexhausted . I t must be careful ly used as i t somet imes causes d i ff icul tur ina t ion . Nei ther should i t be employed in neura lg ias tha t a reaggravated by st imulat ion of the heart . I t is indicated only in atonic

cond i t ions .

Guarana is a remedy for the rel ief of nervous headache, or those formsfol lowing menst ruat ion or drunkenness . The face i s pa le , the pulsefeeble , the eyes dul l and express ionless , and nausea i s prominent .Every m ovemen t cau ses a n aggravat ion of th e pa in , th e pa t ien t is m in d-weary, and cerebral anemia is always present . I t sometimes rel ieveslumbago, and whi le cont ra indica ted in s thenic neura lg ias i tsometimes rel ieves occipi tal neuralgia when the indicat ions are asgiven above. Temporary paralysis of the motor oculi nerve, followed byheadache, has been re l ieved by i t . In headaches the doses of 20 to 30dr ops of th e sp ecific m edicin e sh ou ld b e given .

GYNOCARDIA .

The seeds and oil of Hydnocarpus odorata , Lin dley). (Nat. Ord . Flacou rtia ceae). AnEas t Ind ian t r ee .

Co m m o n Na m e s : Chau lmoogra , Cha u lmu gra .

P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t .A granular oil ( Oil of Cha ulm ugra ) containing gynocardicac id . It h a s a n a c r id t a s t e . Dose , 2 to 3 drops.

A c t i o n a n d T h e r a p y .Oil of chaulmugra has given surprisingly goodresults in leprosy; and i t has often fai led. The dexteri ty with which i thas been adu l t e ra ted has p robab ly s t amped the med ic ine wi th anu n cer t a in r epu ta t ion . It i s u sed bo th loca l ly an d in te rn a l ly. Man y oth e ruses, chiefly local , are ascribed to i t , but the agent is seldom employedin this country, though i t is of interest to physicians going to countr ieswhere leprosy ab oun ds .



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m o n o gr a p h s e x t r a c t e d fr o mT h e E c le c t i c Ma t e r ia M e d ic a , P h a r m a c o lo gy a n d T h e r a p e u t i c s

by Harvey Wicke s Fe l t e r , M.D. (19 2 2)

NOTE: Throughout these monographs are references to Specific Medicines.In some respects Specific Medicines are the single reason that Eclecticismsurvived so long in the face of Organized Medicine and were still beingmanufactured for the surviving Eclect ic M.D.s as la te as the ear ly 1960s.Using u p t o eight organ ic solvent s a n d th e Lloyd Extra ctor, Specific Medicin esrepresented the s t rongest possible concentrat ion of the bioact ive aspects of bo tan ica l s th a t wou ld s tay in a co llo ida l so lu t ion .

Perfected over fou r d ecades by J ohn Uri Lloyd, each Specific Medicin e wasprepared according to the nature of THAT specific plant. You cannot translatea Specific Medicine into tincture or fluidextract. The latter are GENERICor standard strengths applied across the board to ALL botanicals. A SpecificMedicine represented the greatest s t rength, without degradat ion, for aPARTICULAR plant, using anywhere from several to all of the solvents toachieve this . The Eclect ic physician was t rained to use botanicals in anoftent imes rural set t ing, and these medicines had to resis t breakdown in thedeepest winter and the hot test summer. Since they needed to contain eventhe most ephemeral const i tuents of a plant remedy, Lloyd approached eachplan t separa te ly.

The amazing qual i ty of these preparat ions assuredly maintained the Eclect icMovemen t long after oth ers h ad fad ed. Lloyds recipes were Paten tMedicines, were not official, and when relatives finally closed down theLloyd Broth er s Pha rm acy in Cincinn at i, thes e form u lae disa ppea red. On e of the hot test topics for many years amongst professional herbal is ts in NorthAmerica and Europe has been So who has the Lloyd Formulas, a l ready?Since we cannot access them, the best approach is the use of wel l madet inctures , capsules or tea . I might suggest the preparat ions and dosesrecommended in my Herbal Mater ia Medica 5.0 as a s tar t ing place. . . in manyrespects I am perhaps a Neo-Eclectic at heart, and have tended to followth e la te r Ec lec t ics in m y app roach to p lan ts an d dosa ges .

Michael MooreBisbee, Arizon aOctober, 200 1

felters materia_medica-g

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