felters materia_medica-m
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MACROTYS (Cim icifuga r a c e m os a ).
The rhizome and rootlets of Cim icifuga racem osa (Linn), Nuttall (Nat. Ord.
Ranunculaceae). A conspicuously handsome perennial widely found in r ich
woodlan ds of th e eas t ern h alf of th e Uni ted Sta tes . Dose, 1 to 20 grains .
Co m m o n Na m e s : Black S n ak eroot, Black Coh osh , Ratt leweed.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .No alkaloidal principles have been isolated from the
drug, but i t yields a mixture of resins upon which, according to some, the virtues
of the plant depend. An impure mixture of the resins is variously known as
cimicifugin, macrotin, or macrotyn, and was one of the early Eclectic resinoids.
Though not without value, the lat ter is now scarcely ever employed.
P r e p a r a t i o n .S pecific Med icine Macrotys . Dose, 1 / 10 drop to 20 drops .
Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Heavy, tensive, aching pain (Scudder); paincharacter ized as rheumatic-dul l , tensive, intermit tent , drawing, and
seeming as i f dependent upon a cont rac ted s ta te of the muscular
f ibers; soreness of muscular t issues, as i f one had been pounded or
bruised; the so-called rheumatoid pain; st iff neck; aching of whole
body from colds, the onset of fevers, or from muscular exertion;
lumbago; bruised feeling of muscles of the forehead, with stiffness of
the ocular muscles; soreness and st i f fness of the throat with sense of
muscular drawing in the pharynx and fauces; muscular pa ins in the
loins, thigh, or back, of a drawing character; deepseated boring and
tensive pains; rheumatoid dyspepsia, associated with rheumatism of other par ts , and in those having a rheumatic diathesis who experience
dull , aching pain and tenderness in stomach and bowels, with
tend ency to metas tas is , an d aggravated by food a n d dr ink, th e stoma ch
feeling as if painfully contracting upon a hard body or lump; the
soreness and aching intest inal pains of abdominal gr ip, when of
rheumatoid type; sore, bruised sensat ion in the respiratory t ract ;
chronic muscular rheumatism; ovar ian pains of a dul l aching
cha racter ; draggin g pain s in th e wom b, with sen se of soreness ; the du ll
tensive pains incident to reproductive disorders of the female, as wellas the annoying pains accompanying pregnancy; false pains; af ter-
pains; weak, irregular uterine contractions during labor; irregular,scanty , or de layed menst ruat ion , wi th dul l pa in and muscular
soreness ; chorea , wi th absent io mensium; and rheumat ism of the
u t e r u s .
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Action .Upon man moderate doses of cimicifuga give slowly increased
power to the hear t and a r ise in ar ter ial pressure. Large doses impress
th e cerebru m decidedly, an d proba bly other pa r ts of th e nervou s s ystemnot yet definitely determinedoccasioning vertigo, impaired vision,
pupil lary di latat ion, nausea, and vomit ing of a mild character , and a
reduction in the rate and force of the circulation. A condition closelyresembling del i r ium tremens is said to have been produced by i t . Ful l
doses cause a severe f rontal headache, with a dul l , ful l or burst ing
feeling. This headache is the most characteristic effect observed when
giving even therapeutic doses. While large amounts may poison, no
deat h s h ave been k n own to occu r from i ts u se. Th e ph ysiological act ion
has been well determined upon animals, but i t gives no hint as to the
possible relationship of the drug to i ts practical therapy and clinical
worth , ad m itted a s valu ab le by pra ctit ion ers of all sch ools of m edicin e.
In small doses cimicifuga increases the appet i te and promotesdigest ion. Larger amounts augment the gastro- intest inal secret ions. I t
is excreted by both the skin and kidneys, impart ing to the ur ine the
peculiarly earthy odor of the drug. I t also stimulates the bronchial
secret ion, making i t a serviceable though not pronounced expectorant .
That i t ac ts upon the u ter ine , and poss ib ly o ther smooth muscular
fibers of the tubular organs or the nerves supplying them, is evident
from its known power of increasing and normalizing weak and erratic
contract ions dur ing labor . I t a lso st imulates the funct ion of
men st ru at ion a n d is sa id to in crease the venereal propens ity in m an .
T h e r a p y .Macrotys is primarily a remedy for rheumatoid and myalgic
pain and in disorders of the reproductive organs of women. I t
apparent ly possesses sedat ive, cardiac, anodyne and ant ispasmodic
properties, and is an ideal utero-ovarian tonic. Macrotys was
introduced into Eclectic medicine by King in 1844 as a remedy for
acute rheumat ism and neura lg ia wi th such success tha t i t g radual ly
came to be recognized as a leading medicine for these disorders. The
extensive list of indications given at the beginning shows sufficiently
its general scope of application. While many still regard it as one of thefirst of an t irh eu m atics, others, an d we are am ong the n u m ber , regard itas less fu l ly an ant i rheumat ic than as an anodyne for pa in s imula t ing
rheumatism, or the so-called rheumatoid pain. The original
indication as enunciated by Scudder is heavy, tensive, aching pain.
This is essentially different from the exquisitely sensitive and acute
pain of acute ar t icular rheumatism. I t is not to be understood that i t is
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of no value in this affection, but that i t is of greater worth as an
associate remedy. I t assists in rel ieving the pain, but rheumatism is ,
without doubt , an infect ious disorder and needs something moredirectly antagonistic to the infecting agent, and the salicylates prove
bet ter than any others for this purpose. As a matter of fact , the
indicat ions for both macrotys and sodium sal icylate are usual lypresent. As they do not interfere with each other, they may be
judiciously given together , and administered in this manner aid the
action of each other so that lesser doses of the salicylates are required.
Rx Sodium Salicylate, 2 drachms; Asepsin, 10 grains; Specific
Medicine Macrotys, 1-2 fluidrachms t; Fluidextract of Licorice, 2
fluidrachms; Water enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: One
teasp oon fu l every two or three hou rs a s s eems to be dem an ded.
When pain persists in spite of this medication, and fever is active,
aconite, veratru m or gelsem iu m , pa r t icu lar ly th e first n am ed, produ cesa marked change in the act ivi ty of the disease. Fever subsides,
secret ion becomes reestabl ished, pain is markedly decreased, and
sleep, tha t h as been imposs ible, is p ermit ted. Th at i t protects th e hea r t
and strengthens i t dur ing rheumatic invasions seems establ ished. In
so-cal led rheumatism of the hear t and rheumatic endocardi t is i t may
be given with expectation of relief , and in diaphragmatic rheumatism,
pleurodynia, intercostal and other neuralgias i ts pain-relieving effects
are app aren t . Gas tralgia, en teralgia, m edias t in al pa in , tenes m ic vesical
discomfort , pain in the orbi ts and ears, when acute and rheumatoid incharacter, derive quick relief from macrotys. When diseases of the ear
are associated with rheumatism, macrotys aids in giving relief , as i t
does in neuralgia in the same area when accompanied by st i f fness of
the faucial and pharyngeal muscles. I t is the remedy in acute
muscular pain, such as occurs in the myalgias of the chi l ly seasons of
the year, in torticollis, and in the pains, tensive and contractive, due to
changes of weather and muscular exer t ion. Here macrotys is of ten the
only agent needed. If febrile reaction occurs, either aconite or
veratrum, as indicated, or possibly gelsemium, may be al ternated with
it .
According to Webster cimicifuga is a remedy for dyspeptic
manifestat ions when due to rheumatoid states of the gastro- intest inal
can al , or when as sociated with rh eu m atism of other pa r ts of th e body. It
should be remembered in those cases where there is a dul l or aching
pain and tendency to metastasis , made worse by taking food or dr ink,
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an d when the walls of the s toma ch s eem to be cont ra c t ing u pon a ha rd
lu mp , the pa t ien t h avin g a rh eum at ic tenden cy or h is tory.
In the acute infect ious and non-infect ious diseases i t is a most
important drug to rel ieve the muscular discomfort . Macrotys and
eupator ium in l iberal doses are the best remedies for the intensemuscular aching and bone-breaking pains exper ienced at the onset of
th e rh eu m at oid type of in flu en za, an d in oth er forms of la gripp e. In th e
respiratory forms they also relieve cough and bronchial soreness. The
ameliorat ion of pain is prompt and enduring, and unl ike aspir in and
the coal- tar products , the drug is absolutely without danger to the
hear t or nervous system. Should a sense of ful lness in the f rontal
region or a bursting headache be occasioned by full doses, i t quickly
su bs ides , with n o after-effects, u pon with dra wal of th e dru g.
For headache, whether congestive or from cold, neuralgia,dysm en orrh ea, or from la gripp e, ma crotys is often prom ptly cu ra tive. In
eye strain from over-use of the eyes, giving rise to headache, and
associated with a sensat ion of s t i f fness in the ocular muscles, or a
bruised feeling in the muscles of the frontal region, macrotys is one of
the most successful of remedies. As a palliative agent in phthisis
pu lm onalis , good resu lts are obtained, in th at it lessen s cou gh , sooth es
the pain, especial ly the aching under the scapulae, lessens
secretions and allays nervous irr i tabili ty. In the cerebral complications
of the simple and eruptive fevers, especially in children, its action isprompt and decisive. I t uniformly lessens the force and frequency of
the pulse, soothes pain, allays irr i tabili ty, and lessens the disposition
to cerebral irritation and congestion. In febrile diseases especially, it
induces diaphoresis and diuresis . In the exanthemata i t is a valuable
agent, controlling pain, especially, it is asserted, the terrible bone
aches of smallpox, rendering the disease much milder. In scarlatina
and measles i t rel ieves the headache and the backache preceding the
erupt ions .
Macrotys is a very important drug in the therapeutics of gynecology Itis a remedy for atony of the reproductive tract. In the painfulconditions incident to imperfect menstruation its remedial action is
most fully displayed. By its special affinity for the female productive
organ s, it restores su ppres sed m ens es. It is even a bet ter remedy in th at
var iety of amenorrhea termed absent io mensium. In dysmenorrhea i t
is surpassed by no other drug, being of greatest uti l i ty in irr i tative and
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congest ive condit ions of the uterus and appendages, character ized by
tensive, dragging pains, resembling the pains of rheumatism. If the
pat ient be despondent and chi l ly , combine macrotys with pulsat i l la ,especially in anemic subjects. In the opposite condition associate i t
with gelsemium. It is a good remedy for the reflex side-aches of the
unmarried woman; also for mastit is and mastodynia. Macrotys relievessoreness and tenderness of the womb when aggravated by walking or
jarr ing of the organ when descending steps; and through i ts tonic
power helps to reduce uter ine subinvolut ion. I t should be remembered
in so-cal led rheumatism of the uterus, and in uter ine leucorrhea, with
a flabby condition of the viscus. When there is a disordered action or
lack of functional power in the uterus, giving rise to sterility,
cimicifuga has been known to do good. Reflex mammary pains during
gestation are relieved by it , and in rheumatic subjects i t promptlyrelieves ovaralgia and ovarian neuralgia, the pain being of an aching
cha racter . For the lat ter cond it ion i t is on e of th e best r emedies kn own .
Orchialgia and aching sensat ions of the prostate are condit ions
sometimes relieved by macrotys, and as a tonic and nerve sedative i t is
not without good effects in spermatorrhea. I ts effects are less apparent
u pon th e m ale reprodu ct ive organ s, h owever , tha n th ose of th e fema le.
Macrotys has proved a bet ter agent in obstetr ical pract ice than ergot
except for the control of hemorrhage. I t produces natural intermittent
uter ine contract ions, whereas ergot produces constant contract ions,thereby endangering the l ife of the child, or threatening rupture of the
uterus. Where the pains are inefficient, feeble, or irregular, macrotys
will st imulate to normal action. For this purpose full doses should be
given in hot water; many still prefer a decoction of the root for this
purpose. Unfortunately i t is less employed than formerly since pituitr in
has come into use. I ts simulation of normal parturient efforts, however,
m ak es i t s t i ll th e idea l regulator of u ter in e contra ct ions du r in g lab or . It
is an excellent partus praeparator if given for several weeks before
confinement. I t is a diagnostic agent to differentiate between spurious
and true labor pains, the lat ter being increased, while the former aredissipated under i ts use. I t is the best and safest agent known for therelief of after-pains, and is effectual in allaying the general excitement
of th e n ervous system after lab or.
Macrotys has a powerful inf luence over the nervous system, and has
long been favorably known and accepted as the best single remedy for
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chorea. I t may be used alone or with valerian, equal parts. More
especially is i t useful when the incoordination is associated with
amenorrhea, or when the menstrual funct ion fai ls to act for the f i rstt im e. Its act ion is s low, bu t its effects a re perm an ent . It h as been u sed
successfu l ly as an ant i spasmodic in hyster ia , and as an a id to
treatment in epi lepsy when due to menstrual fai lures: and inspasmodic asthma and kindred affect ions, nervous exci tabi l i ty , and
pertussis . In the lat ter i t sometimes proves bet ter than any other drug,
and especially if the child is one subject to periodic choreic seizures.
As the hear t is never injured, but on the contrary is s t rengthened and
toned by macrotys, the drug is very valuable as an auxiliary to other
agents in n ervous affect ions , par t icular ly wh en th e lat ter d epend u pon,
or are a ss ociated with chorea.
The usual form of administration is: Rx Specific Medicine Macrotys,
10-30 drops; Water, enough to make 4 fluidounces. Mix. Sig.: Oneteasp oon fu l every two hou rs. In m ost insta n ces th e fu ller doses, s h or t of
producing headache, are the most effect ive, and the maximum amount
given in this prescription may be considerably increased (1-2
flu idra ch m s) for ad u lts .
MANGIFERA
The inner bark of the root and tree of Mangifera indica, Linn (Nat. Ord.
Anacardiaceae). A native East Indian fruit tree; naturalized in the West Indies.Dose, 5 to 60 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e : Mango.
P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .Tan n ic acid (17 per cen t) an d a n acrid oil.
P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Medicine Mangifera . Dose, 5 to 60 drops.
Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Feeble, relaxed tissues; mucous discharges;
chronic dysentery with muco-purulent discharges; red, congested or
in flam ed fau ces.
Ac t i on a n d Th e r a p y .External. Mangifera forms a soothing, astr ingentgargle for acute or chronic inflammation of the fauces, especially when
ful l , red and congested and intensely painful . I t may be used also to
alleviate inflammatory conditions of the mucosa of any part of the body
or upon excoriations of the skin. Especially is it effective in acute
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ph ar yngitis a n d th e follicu lar an d p h legm onou s forms of tons illit is. Too
much has been c la imed for i t in d iphther ia , though i t s use as an
ad ju van t is n ot in ap propriate , esp ecial ly if th ere is ei ther m u ch r edn essand pain, or relaxat ion of t issue. In acute rhini t is i t may be used as a
douche; and in acute inf lammation of the uter ine cervix i t has been
employed with advantage. For use upon the nose and throat about twodrachms of specific medicine mangifera may be added to two ounces of
water.
Internal. Owing probably to i ts tannic acid, and somewhat to other
in h eren t pr inciples, ma n gifera is a u sefu l dru g in r elaxa t ion of m u cous
t issues, associated with catarrh and diarrhea and feeble capi l lary
circulat ion. I t appears to be best adapted to entero-col i t is and watery
diarrh oea. Man y value it in pa ss ive hem orrha ges from th e nose, u teru s,s tomach, in tes t ines , and lungs; and some good therapeut i s t s have
declared it of value in hemophilia. One should not, however, expectmuch in the lat ter disorder f rom a drug whose hemostat ic proper t ies
are evidently mostly due to i ts tannin. Mangifera is one of the
pleasantest forms of administering the latter , which may be of a special
type, as there are many tannins. I t agrees well with the stomach and
seems to promote the appet i te and digest ion, and apparent ly is non-
constipating. When not contraindicated syrup is a fair ly good vehicle
for mangifera in throat affections.
MANNA.The concrete saccharine exudation of Frax inu s Ornu s , Linn (Nat. Ord. Oleaceae).
A t ree of sou th ern E u rope. Dose, 1 d rachm to 2 oun ces .
Co m m o n Na m e : Man na .
D e s c r i p t i o n .Irregular, flattened, longish pieces, of a yellowish-white exterior
and nearly white interior, somewhat porous and crystall ine-l ike, having a peculiar
odor, a taste sweet followed by feeble bitterness and acridity. It should not
contain more than four-tenths part of irregular, yellowish-white, resin-like
fragments .
P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .Man n ite (90 per cen t) with su gar (10 per cen t).
Ac t i on a n d Th e r a p y .Nutritive in small doses and mildly laxative in
larger amou n ts. In doses of one to three drach m s for in fan ts a n d one to
two ounces for adults i t makes a very pleasant laxative when
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administered in milk. I t is suitable for the constipation of pregnancy. I t
sometimes causes f latulency and griping. This may be obviated by
givin g with it a n y war m ar oma tic.
MARRUBIUM.
The leaves and tops ofMarrub ium vu lgare , Linn (Nat. Ord. Labiatae). Europe;
naturalized in America. Dose, 5 to 60 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e s : Horehound , Hoarh ound .
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t .A bitter principle marrubiin (C30H43O6)
P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Specific Medicine Marrub ium . Dose, 1 to 60 drops.
2 . S y rup us Marrub ii Com pos itus , Compou nd Syru p of Hoarh oun d. Dose, 1 to 4
fluidrachms.
Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Chronic irr i tation of the bronchial membrane
with cough an d ca tar rh .
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Hoarhound is a s t imulat ing expectorant and
tonic, and is adapted to both acute and chronic i r r i tat ion of the larynx
and bronchial t ract , and gives added power to respirat ion. In small
doses it is a gastric tonic of considerable value, but given too freely itwill act as an emetic an d ca th ar t ic . A h ot in fu sion is diaph oret ic; a cold
in fu sion , diu ret ic . Hoarh oun d, u su al ly in th e form of a syru p, is u sefu lin hoarseness, coughs, and colds that do not clear up rapidly, chronic
bronchial catarrh, and humid asthma. The specif ic medicine may be
used in atonic dyspepsia, especial ly when associated with bronchial
debili ty. The compound syrup is an agreeable and efficient expectorant
for chronic cough. Hoarhound candy is a popular remedy for irr i tation
of th e th roat with cou gh .
MATICO.
The leaves of Piperangustifolium , Ruiz et Pavon (Nat. Ord. Piperaceae). A Peruvian
s h r u b .
Co m m o n Na m e s : Matico, Mat ico Lea ves.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .A bitter principle, maticin , and an a romat ic
camphoraceous volati le oil .
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P r e p a r a t i o n .Tinctura Matico , Tin ctu re of Matico (2 1/ 2 ou n ces to Diluted
Alcoh ol, 16 fluidou n ces). Dose, 1 to 2 flu idrach ms .
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .An aromatic, bit ter st imulant of reputed value
in catarrhal s tates, par t icular ly of the stomach and geni to-ur inal t ract .
It is seldom u sed.
MATRICARIA.
The dried flower-heads of MatricariaChamomilla , Linn (Nat. Ord. Compositae).
Was tes of Europe, Asia , a nd Au stra lia . Dose, 1 to 60 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e s ; Germa n Cha mom ile , Wild Ch am omile .
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .A dark-blue, aromatic, volatile oil (Oleu m Cham omillae
Aethereum ) and possibly a crystallizable, bitter, anthemic acid, and a crystallinealkaloid a n th emidine .
P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Specific Medicine Matricaria . Dose, 1 to 60 drops .
2 . InfusumMatricaria , In fu sion of Matricaria (1/ 2 ou n ce to 16 fluidou n ces).
Dose, 1 to 4 drachm s.
Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Nervous irritability, with fretfulness,
peevishness, impatience, and discontent ; morbid sensi t iveness to pain
and external impressions; sudden f i ts of temper when menstruat ing;
muscular twitching; fetid, greenish feculent alvine discharges, orwhen the stools are green and sl imy, or of mixed whit ish curds and
green mucus, associated with flatulence, colic, and excoriation of the
anal region; if a child, the head sweats easily and the discomforts of
teething, f latulent colic, etc. , are transient and intermitting, and the
n ervous n ess is relieved by bein g carr ied abou t in th e arm s.
T h e r a p y .According to dose and manner of use, matricaria is a
stimulant diaphoretic and nerve sedative. I ts calmative action is so
sat isfactory that even the skept ic in therapeut ics becomes a convert to
the fact that there is great therapeut ic energy in some simple agents
which, by usual tests, fail to show decided so-called physiological
action. Matricaria, simple and safe as i t is, is remedially potent. Could
it more generally have taken the place of soothing syrups, so largely
destructive to infant l ife, the history of baby mortali ty might have been
a less appalling story. No child need be laid in i ts grave because of i ts
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adminis t ra t ion .
Matricaria, better known to some as chamomilla, is pre-eminently achild's remedy, especially for the very young child. It has two well-
marked, specific f ields of action(1) on the nervous system, subduing
irritability; and (2) on the gastro-intestinal tract, allaying irritation. Itsinfluence is well seen upon the infant during the period of dentit ion.
In such conditions i t is adapted to the restless, peevish, irr i table,
discontented, and impatient infant , who is only appeased when carr ied
about in order to quiet i ts nervousness and unrest . The chi ld needs
both sympathy and matr icar ia , both sound measures in infant
therapeut ics. In such chi ldren i t may be equal ly a remedy for
const ipat ion or diarrhea. In the former case, there is usual ly hepat ic
tenderness. In the lat ter , the discharges may be var iouslycharacterized-watery and greenish, sl imy, green and slimy, or yellow
and white lumps of undigested curds, giving them the wellknownname of eggs and greens. Such stools usually excoriate the child
severely, and are accompanied by colicky pain of greater or less
severity. The urine is passed with difficulty, and there is more or less
bloat in g of th e ab domen . Flatu lence is often m ark ed, an d th e su rface is
alternately flushed and pale. Under such irr i table conditions i t proves
a useful remedy in infant i le dyspepsia, and when teething the chi ld
cr ies out in sleep and there is sometimes a tendency to convulsions.
This condition it may ward off by controlling the nervous excitation,
but i t is of l i t t le value after convulsions occur. Sometimes a gentlylaxat ive dose of sodium phosphate preceding or accompanying the
matricaria will enhance the efficacy of the latter . Matricaria is useful
for th e swellin g of th e brea st s in th e n ewborn (u su ally with ph ytolacca ),
and in the involuntary passage of ur ine in the young. For the f latulent
colic of early infancy it is one of the safest and most effectual
medicin es . For th is pu rpose it s hou ld n ot be sweetened.
Ma tricar ia is in valu a ble in som e affection s of n ervou s wom en , a field in
which it is too frequently neglected, perhaps not being considered a
powerful enough medicine. In woman or child i t is a nerve sedative,and adapted to i r r i tat ion and not to atony. In the lat ter months of pregnancy i t f requently al lays false pains, cough, nervous muscular
twi tching , and o ther unpleasant nervous phenomena. In amenorrhea
and dysmenorrhea, with weighty feel ing in the uterus and tympanites,
i t often relieves, as i t does in cases presenting sudden explosions of
irascibili ty, and in those having cramping or labor-like pains and
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meteorism. The hot infusion is par t icular ly useful in suppressed
menstruat ion from colds, and of ten controls earache and facial
neuralgia f rom the same cause. The matr icar ia pat ient is extremelyand morbidly suscept ible to pain, is hyperesthet ic , and the nervous
apprehension is all out of proportion to the actual pain suffered. This
remedy should be resor ted to when one is tempted to employ opiatesan d other m ore powerfu l pain r elievers.
MEL.
A saccharine substance deposited in the honey comb by the Apis m ellifera , Linn
or Honey Bee (Family Apidae).
Co m m o n Na m e : Honey.
D e s c r i p t i o n .A thick, viscous, syrupy, yellowish or yellow-brown fluid, clearwhen fresh, but losing i ts translucence with age and deposit ing crystals . I t has
an in ten sely sweet , feebly acr id tas te , an d a d is t inct ive odor .
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Laevulose (fruit sugar), dextrose (grape sugar or
glucose), and sucrose (cane sugar) , with the f irst named predominating; also a
t race of formic acid.
P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Mel Depuratu m , Clar ified Hon ey.
2 . Mel Boracis , Bora x Hon ey (Borax, Glycerin, Hon ey).
3. Mel Rosa, Rose Honey (Fluidextract of Rose mixed with Clarified Honey).
Dose, 1-2 flu idra chm s.
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External. Honey is sometimes incorporated in
poult ices for mammitis , f issured nipples, boi ls and carbuncles, and is
added to gargles for irr i tated conditions of the fauces. Honey of borax
and honey of rose are preparat ions f requently recommended for
aphthous ulcers of the mouth and female geni tal ia . Our exper ience has
led us to regard honey as a barbarous appl icat ion in sore mouth of
infants and young chi ldren on account of the vicious smart ing i t
cau ses . Th e bora x, in weak s olu t ions , is equ al ly as efficient .
Internal. Honey is nutr i t ious, demulcent , diuret ic and ant isept ic;
sometimes it proves laxative. Though extensively used as a food itsomet imes occas ions u np leasan t symptoms, a s pyrosis , a pecu liar an d
persistent bellyache, f latulent colic, head symptoms and occasionally
diarrhea and ur t icar ia . I t is sometimes incorporated in cough mixtures
as an agreeable demulcent, and is occasionally used to allay irr i tation
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of th e u r ina ry pass ages.
MELILOTUS.
The leaves and flowering tops of Melilotus officinalis, Willdenow (Nat. Ord.
Leguminosae). A common weed found everywhere in the United States. Dose, 1 to30 grains.
Co m m o n Na m e s : Yellow S weet Clover, Yellow Melilot, Yellow Melilot Clover.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .An active substance of a vanilla-like odor, coumarin ,
as socia ted with m elilotic acid; orth ocou m ar ic acid, a n d a volat i le oil, melilotol.
P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Medicine Melilotus . Dose, 1 to 20 drops.
Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Idiopathic, a tonic headaches and chronic
neuralgias; coldness, tenderness, lameness or marked soreness of t issues; painful menstruat ion or menstrual col ic with soreness and
coldn ess ; ovar ian n eu ra lgia .
Ac t i on a n d Th e r a p y .Melilotus is a remedy for pain associated with a
sensat ion of coldness of the extremit ies and marked tenderness,
lameness, or soreness to the touch. With these indicat ions i t is very
effectual in some cases of ovar ian neuralgia and dysmenorrhea.
Though it may relieve headache due to gastric disorders, i t is best
ada pted to pa in fu l s ta tes n ot resu lt in g from reflexes, bu t ra th er th ose of an idiopathic type. Following the specific indications it has proved a
remedy of worth in menstrual and intestinal colic, gastralgia,
neuralgia of the stomach, visceral neuralgia, painful dysuria, and
sciat ic neuri t is . I t f requently cuts short recurrent neuralgia whenin du ced by cold , an d ben efit s in rh eum atoid lam eness or soren ess .
MENISPERMUM.
The rhizome and roots of Menispermum canadense, Linn (Nat. Ord.
Menispermaceae). In woods and hedges in the eastern half of the United States.Dose, 5 to 60 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e s : Yellow Paril la , Ca n ad ian Moons eed, etc.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Berberine in small quanti ty and a large amount of a
bit ter , wh ite alkaloid, menispine; t an n in , gu m, an d res in .
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P r e p a r a t i o n .Tinctura Menispermii, Tincture of Menispermum (Rhizome, 8
oun ces; Alcohol (76 per cen t), 16 ou n ces). Dose, 5 to 60 drops.
Spec i fi c In d ica t ions . - Skin brown , tongue coated a t th e ba se, t ip red,
irregular appetite, constipation (Scudder).
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Yellow parilla is little used, though possessing
decidedly active tonic properties. Full doses increase the volume of thepulse, sharpen the appet i te , and prove laxat ive. Excessive doses cause
emeto-catharsis. I t is a good laxative, bit ter and alterative, and may be
used with benef i t in st rumous and chronic ar thr i t ic inf lammations,
when accompanied by ful lness of the lymphatic nodes and weak
digest ion. Its p oss ible valu e in leu cocythem ia h as been s u ggested .
MENTHA PIPERITA.
The leaves and tops of Menth a piperita , Smith (Mentha X piperita L.) (Nat. Ord.
Labia ta e). Eur ope and t he Uni ted Sta tes . Dose, 60 to 120 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e s : Pepperm in t .
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .A volatile oil (Oleum Mentha, Piperitae) and menthol.
(See Menthol.)
Preparations.-1. Oleu m Men tha e Pipe ritae , Oil of Peppermint. (A clear, colorless oil
having the strong odor and taste of peppermint and giving a sensation of cold
when air is drawn into the mouth or water is drunk; soluble in alcohol.) Dose, 1 to10 drops .
2 . Aqua Menthae Piperitae, Peppermint Water. Dose, 1 f luidrachm to 1
fluidounce.
3 . S piritus Menth ae Pipe ritae , Spirit of Peppermint (Essence of Peppermint-10
per cent oil). Dose, 5 to 60 drops.
D e r i v a t i v e . -Ment h ol. (See Men th ol. )
Speci f ic Indica t ions .Ga s trod ynia, fla tu len t colic, d ifficu lt diges tion .
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External. Oil of Peppermint is rubefacient and
an odyn e. It is u sed alon e or in combina t ion with other oils for th e relief
of neuralgia and toothache, in both of which it is often very efficient. Its
external use has been somewhat superseded by menthol , the
camphoraceous body to which oil of peppermint owes most of i ts
virtues. Still it is used largely to relieve local pain, especially that of
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bu rns an d sca lds .
Internal. Peppermint infusion is a very grateful agent to allay nauseaand vomiting, and to break up a cold. I t forms a part of the well-known
Neutralizing Cordial. The essence is a common and unexcelled
carminative for gastrodynia and the flatulent colic of children, and isused extensively to modify the act ion and mask the taste of other
medicines. Applied by atomization, essence of peppermint and alcohol,
equal parts, frequently eases the pain of tonsillitis and gives relief in
the cou gh of acu te bron chit is a nd pn eum onia .
MENTHA VIRIDIS.
The leaves and tops ofMentha s picata , Linn (Mentha viridis, Linn). (Nat. Ord.
Labiatae.) Wild in Europe, and introduced into. the United States, growing
abu nda nt ly in dam p grou nds ; cu lt iva ted . Dose, 60 to 120 grains .
Co m m o n Na m e : Spearmint .
P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .A volatile oil (Oleum Mentha Viridis ), res in , a nd gu m.
P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Oleu m Mentha e Virid is , Oil of Spea rm int. Dose, 1 to 10 drops.
2 . S piritus Menth ae Virid is , Spirit of Spearmint (Essence of Spearmint). Dose,
5 to 60 drops .
3 . Aqua Menthae Viridis , Spearmint Water . Dose, 1 / 2 to 1 flu idoun ce.
4 . Infu s um Mentha e Viridis , Infusion of Spearmint (Spearmint, 1 ounce to
Water , 1 6 ou nces). Dose, ad lib itu m.
Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Scanty secretion of high-colored urine; simple
n a u s e a .
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Spearmint is used much l ike peppermint .
though it is somewhat inferior as a carminative. I t is especially
valuable to allay nausea, particularly that following a sick headache.
The warm infusion is a very agreeable and simple medicine for an
acute cold. Spearmint is one of the surest and kindl iest diuret ics i f
given in cold infusion; or the essence may be used well diluted with
cold water. We frequently employ it to render acetate of potash more
effective as well as pleasanter to take. The spearmint increases the
watery flow; the potash salt the solids of the urine. Spearmint may be
used in st rangury, suppression of ur ine, and scalding of ur ine, withdifficu lt mictu rit ion .
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MENTHOL.
Menthol .
A secondary alcohol obtained from the oil ofMenthapiperita , Linn, or from other
oils of mints . It s h ould be k ept in wel l-s toppered bot t les , a n d in a cool p lace .
D e s c r i p t i o n .Color less needle or pr ism at ic crys ta ls wi th a s t ron g odor an d ta s te
characteristic of peppermint, very soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform, and
slightly soluble in water. It gives a feeling of warmth when tasted, followed by a
sen sa t ion of cold when a i r is inh aled or water i s dru nk . Dose, 1 / 8 to 2 gra ins .
Speci f ic Indica t ions .Prur itu s ; n au sea an d vomit ing .
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External. Menthol is a local antiseptic,
anaesthet ic and ant iprur i t ic . I t is used with great success in var iousdisorders at tended with i tching and pain. I t may be used alone or
rubbed up with camphor , chloral hydrate, or phenol in combinat ions
desired, and painted upon painful surfaces or employed to obtund the
pain in a carious tooth. In alcoholic or oil solution it is an unexcelled
application for the i tching of hives, pruritus vulvae et ani, eczema,
ringworm, or herpes zoster. For pain and cellular inflammations i t is
very effectual in burns and scalds, insect bi tes and st ings, earache,
n eu ra lgia, boils , carb u n cles, an d th e su rface pa in s of sciat ica. Th e pain
of local and superficial neuralgias and of arthrit is, simple, rheumatic,or gonorrheal, may be relieved by painting upon the affected surface acombination of hydrated chloral, thymol, and menthol. A 20 per cent
menthola ted pet ro la tum may be used as a s t imula t ing agent when
there is a lack of cerumen in the audi tory canal , and for boi ls in that
passage a 20 per cent oil solution is very comforting. A 10 to 20 per
cent solution in liquid petrolatum or olive oil gives relief in coryza and
hay fever, or may be sprayed into the larynx for the relief of the
distressing pain of laryngeal tuberculosis. An albolene spray of
menthol is largely employed in inflamed and irr i table conditions of the
nose and throatozaena, ca tar rhal sore throat , as thma, chronicbronch it is , a n d wh oopin g cou gh . Th e vap or is u sefu l to al lay h ara ss in g
an d ir r itab le bronch ia l cou gh .
Internal. Minute doses of menthol relieve nausea and vomiting, as of
pregnancy and seasickness. I t is sometimes of value in hiccough. I t
should not be used in large doses internal ly because of the profound
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nervou s d is tu rba nces i t may occas ion .
MITCHELLA.
The whole plant of Mitchella repens, Linn (Nat. Ord. Rubiaceae). Dry woods,
hem lock fo res t s , a nd dam p p laces in the Un ited S ta tes . Dose, 5 to 60 gra ins .
C o m m o n N a m e s : Partridgeberry, Squawberry, Squaw-vine, Checkerberry,
Deerberry, One-berry.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t .An undetermined saponin-like body. No alkaloid,
glu coside, n or volati le oil presen t.
P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. S pe cific Med icine Mitche lla . Dose , 5 to 60 drops .
2 . Syrupus Mitchellae Compositus , Compound Syrup of Partr idgeberry
(Mothers' Cordial). (Contains Mitchella, Helonias, Viburnum Opulus and
Caulophyllum, Brandy, Sugar and Essence of Sassafras.) Dose, 2 to 4 f luidounces,3 t imes a day.
Speci fic In dica t ion .As a partu s p raepara tor.
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .Based upon the pract ice and t radi t ions of the
American Indians this plant was eager ly adopted into domest ic and
early botanic and Eclectic therapy. I t is believed by some to have a
salutary inf luence upon the pregnant woman, easing many of the
distresses incident to her condition, giving a sense of well-being and
str en gth ening h er for th e ordea l of child b irth . If it h as an y virtu e it l iesin quieting nervous irritability and giving a psychologic balance
throughout the lat ter months of pregnancy. There seems to be rel iable
test im ony to the effect tha t it a ss ists in su sta in in g agains t m iscar r iageswhere such accidents have previously occurred. As a female regulator
it has also had many devoted advocates. The Mother 's Cordial is a
popu lar a n d more rat ional prepa rat ion .
MONARDA.
The leaves and flowering tops ofMonardapunctata , Linn (Nat. Ord. Labiatae).
In digenou s to the greater pa r t of th e Un ited Sta t es , in s an dy fie lds a nd ba rren s .
Co m m o n Na m e : Horsemin t .
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t .A volatile oil (Oleum Mona rda ,) , a pungent, aromatic,
yellowish to yellowish-red or brown oil; soluble in alcohol, and depositing the
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s tea rop ten thymol (C10H13OH) (monardin) (25 to 56 per cent).
P r e p a r a t i o n s .1. Oleum Monardae , Oil of Monarda. Dose, 2 to 5 drops , on su gar .
2 . Infus um Monarda , , Infusion of Horsemint, (1 ounce to Water 16
fluidounce.)Dose, 1 / 2 to 2 flu idoun ces to
D e r i v a t i v e .-Thymol. (See Thymol.)
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External . Locally applied the oil is rubefacient,
and if too closely or long applied painfully vesicant. It has been
su ccessfu lly u sed in local neu ra lgias
Internal. Infusion of monarda has long been a popular remedy for
retarded menstruat ion from cold. Both the plant and i ts oi l , which is
sharply pungent and diffusive, are st imulat ing, carminat ive,
an t iemetic , an d diur et ic; in h ot in fu sion d iap h oret ic . Both m ay be us ed
to relieve nausea and vomiting even when there is diarrhoea, inflatulent distention of the bowels, in the tympanites of typhoid fever,
and the catarrhal vomit ing of the drunkard. I t checks the serous
diarrhoea of debili ty, and tends to promote rest and sleep from
exhaust ion when associated with nervous exci tat ion. Monarda has
recently come into renewed prominence as an available source of
thymol, now largely used as the most generally effective agent against
hookworm. Oil of Monarda is an ingredient of domestic preparations
lau ded for th eir a ss er ted effect ivenes s in per tu ss is .
MYRICA.
The bark and wax ofMy rica cerifera , Linn (Nat. Ord. Myricaceae). Dry woods and
open fields from Can ad a t o Florida . Dose, 5 to 60 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e s : Bayberr y, Waxber ry, Can dle Berry, Wax-Myrtle.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .Tannic and gallic acids, resins, bayberry tallow (from
fru it), 32 per cen t; myricinic an d laur ic ac ids .
P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Medicin e Myrica. Dose, 1 to 60 drops.
Spec i fi c In d ica t ions .Profuse mucous discharges, with atony of the
circulat ion; sore mouth and sore throat .
A c t i o n a n d Th e r a p y .External. Bayberry, in powder, decoction, or
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specific medicine, may be applied for the relief of spongy, flabby, and
bleedin g gu m s, th e sore th roat of sca r lat in a with enfeebled a n d s wollen
t issues, and to aphthous and indolent ulcerat ions. As an inject ion i t isva lued by some in a ton ic leu cor rh ea .
Internal. Bayberry is a stimulating astringent. In full doses i t is emetic.I t is a remedy of considerable value in relaxed and flabby conditions of
t issues with hypersecretion. In small doses (2 to 5 drops of specific
medicine) i t st imulates the gastro-intestinal glands, favors digestion
and imparts tone, thereby increasing blood-making and nutr i t ion. In
doses of 5 to 20 drops i t is a decided gastr ic s t imulant , and as such
may be used in chronic gastri t is. I t is also of value in chronic catarrhal
diarrh ea, mu coent er it is , an d typh oid dysen tery, thou gh th e lat t er is n ot
encoun tered as m u ch a s in former years . It m ay be given in terna lly, aswell as used locally upon the throat, in scarlet fever, in the latter
stages, when a f labby and enfeebled rather than highly inf lammatorycondition exists. As a rule bayberry should not be employed in active
conditions, but rather in debili ty of the mucosa, with feeble venous
flow an d fu ll, oppres sed pu lse.
MYRISTICA.
The ripe seeds ofMyris tica fragrans , Houttuyn, deprived of their testa (Nat. Ord.
Myrist icaceae). Molucca Island; and cult ivated in the tropics. Dose, 5 to 15 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e : Nu tm eg.
P r i n c i p a l C o n s t i t u e n t s .A fixed (25 to 30 per cent) and a volatile oil (Oleum
Myristicae, 2 to 8 p er cen t). Dose of volatile oil, 1 to 5 dr ops .
P r e p a r a t i o n .Specific Medicin e Nut m eg. Dose, 1 t o 15 drop s.
Act ion and Toxicology .An aromatic st imulant and carminat ive in
small doses; larger doses produce nervous sedat ion and are soporif ic .
Death has resul ted f rom large doses (more than three drachms) , the
chief symptoms being headache, coldness, and col lapse, drowsinessand indisposi t ion to muscular movements. Diuresis is apt to be
in creased , th ough in one cas e it was en t ire ly su ppress ed .
T h e r a p y .External. An ointment containing the finely powdered nut,
or the volati le oil sometimes proves obtundant to painful piles. Grated
upon a larded cloth and applied warm we have found i t to give prompt
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and grateful relief in soreness of the chest attending an acute cold or
the beginning of acute respiratory inflammation. I t may also be used as
a sp ice pou ltice to th e a bd omen in pa in fu l bowel affections from cold. Aliniment of oil of nutmeg (1) and olive oil (3) is regarded by some as an
efficien t p a ra s iticide for m ild t ypes of rin gworm .
Internal. Both the powdered nut and the oi l are good carminat ives and
may be used to al lay nausea, vomit ing, and gastr ic pain, and to check
f latulent col ic and serous diarrhea. The grated nut is in f requent
domestic use to f lavor foods for the sick, and it and the oil in
prescr ipt ion ph ar m acy to arom atize sleepin g m ixtu res.
MYRRHA (Com m iph ora sp p.)
The gum-resin obtained from one or more varieties of Commiphora (Nat. Ord.
Burseraceae). Region of Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, Africa, and Arabia. Dose, 1to 15 gra ins .
Co m m o n Na m e s .-Myrrh, Gu m Myrrh.
D e s c r i p t i o n .Brownish-yellow or reddish-brown tears or masses, covered with a
brownish-yellow dust; taste: bitter, acrid, and aromatic; odor: balsamic. Soluble in
alcoh ol; forms an emu ls ion with water . Dose, 1 to 30 gra ins .
P r in c i p a l Co n s t i t u e n t s .A res in, myrrhin , 23 to 40 per cen t; a volat ile oil,
myrrhol, 2 to 8 p er cent ; gu m, 4 0 to 60 per cent , an d a b it ter pr inciple .
P r e p a r a t i o n .Tinctura Myrrha e, Tinctu re of Myrrh (Myrrh , 20 per cent ). Dose, 1 to
30 drops .
Spec i f i c Ind ica t ions .Mucous membrane pale and lax; tonsi ls
enlarged and spongy; throat pale and tumid; chronic bronchit is with
profuse secretion of mucus or muco-pus, difficult to expectorate;soreness an d s pongin ess of th e gu m s; ptyalism ; weigh t a n d d raggin g in
pelvis in fem ales; leu corrh ea; m u scu lar debi lity .
Ac t i on a n d Th e r a p y .External. Myrrh is the best local application for
spongy and bleeding gums and is effective in mercurial and other
forms of sa livat ion. Th e tin ctu re m ay be dilu ted with ab ou t 6 to 10 p ar ts
of water . I t may also be used with benef i t when the throat is sore and
exhibi ts aphthous or s loughing ulcers, and in chronic pharyngit is with
tumid, pal l id membranes and elongated uvula. In spongy, enlarged
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tonsils it is an ideal topical medicine. After the removal of tonsils the
following gives great relief from pain and deodorizes the fetor: Rx
Tin ctu re of Myrrh , 1/ 2 flu idra chm ; Asep sin, 10 grain s; Ech afolta , 2flu idra ch m s; Glycerin , 2 flu idra ch m s; Wat er, en ou gh to m ak e 4
fluidounces. Shake. This may be applied by means of an atomizer. This
combinat ion is also a good mouth wash and dent if r ice and minimizesthe possibility of pyorrhea alveolaris. Myrrh, in powder, is often added
to den tifr ices.
Internal. Myrrh i s a s t imulant to mucous t i ssues and should not be
used, as a rule, in active inflammatory conditions. Small doses
promote digestion and prove antiseptic to the intestinal canal. Large
doses quicken the pu lse , ra ise th e tempera tu re , cau se gas t r ic bu rning,
great sweating and prostration; vomiting and purgation may follow.Myrrh is a remedy for enfeebled conditions with excessive mucous
secretion, exhibiting its restraining power especially upon thebronchial and renal mucosa. I t is of much value in chronic bronchit is
with relaxat ion of t iss u es, profu se, u n h ealth y an d exha u st ing secret ion
and difficulty in raising the sputa. Locke advised the following: Rx
Compound Tincture of Myrrh and Capsicum, 2 f luidrachms each;
Syrup of Wild Cherry, Syrup of Senega, 2 fluidounces each. Mix. Sig.:
One teaspoonful every three hours. This acts kindly upon the stomach
and sustains the st rength of the pat ient . The same combinat ion of ten
relieves th e as th m a of th e aged.
Myrrh is useful in chronic gastri t is and atonic dyspepsia, with full ,
pa le tongue and membranes , and f requent mucous s tools
accompanied by flatulence. I t acts well with the simple bitters,
especial ly gent ian.
Myrrh is probably emmenagogue, though much of i ts reputat ion as
such has been acqui red in anemic s ta tes in which i t has been
administered conjointly with iron and aloes. I t is used in diseases of
women when there is weight and dragging in the pelvis and
leucorrhea; and in suppression of the menses in anemic gir ls . For thetype of amenorrhea dependent upon uter ine torpor and const ipat ionLocke advised the following: Rx Myrrh, 30 grains; Aloes, 10 grains;
Macrotin, 10 grains. Mix. Make into #20 pills. Sig.: One or two pills,
three t imes a day. Myrrh is an ingredient of the celebrated Griffi th 's
Mixture (Mistura Ferri Composita) for the amenorrhea of chlorosis and
other forms of anemia; and of the Compound Pills of Rhubarb (Pilulae
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Rhei Comp ositae).
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m o n o gr a p h s e x t r a c t e d fr o m
Th e Ec le c t i c Ma t e r ia Me d ic a , P h a r m a c o lo gy a n d Th e r a p e u t i c s
by Harvey Wicke s Fe l ter , 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 being
manufactured for the surviving Eclectic M.D.s as late as the early 1960s.
Using u p t o eight organ ic solvent s a n d th e Lloyd Extra ctor, Specific Medicin es
represented the strongest possible concentration of the bioactive aspects of
botan icals th a t wou ld s tay in a collo ida l so lu t ion .
Perfected over fou r d ecades by J ohn Uri Lloyd, each Specific Medicin e was
prepared according to the nature of THAT specific plant. You cannot translate
a Specific Medicine into tincture or fluidextract. The latter are GENERIC
or standard strengths applied across the board to ALL botanicals. A Specific
Medicine represented the greatest s trength, without degradation, for aPARTICULAR plant, using anywhere from several to all of the solvents to
achieve this . The Eclectic physician was trained to use botanicals in an
oftentimes rural sett ing, and these medicines had to resist breakdown in the
deepest winter and the hottest summer. Since they needed to contain even
the most ephemeral consti tuents of a plant remedy, Lloyd approached each
plant separa te ly .
The amazing quali ty of these preparations assuredly maintained the Eclectic
Movemen t long after oth ers h ad fad ed. Lloyds recipes were Paten t
Medicines, were not official, and when relatives finally closed down the
Lloyd Broth ers Pha rm acy in Cincinn at i, thes e form u lae disa ppea red. On e of
the hottest topics for many years amongst professional herbalists in North
America and Europe has been So who has the Lloyd Formulas, already?
Since we cannot access them, the best approach is the use of well made
tinctures, capsules or tea. I might suggest the preparations and doses
recommended in my Herbal Materia Medica 5.0 as a start ing place.. . in many
respects I am perhaps a Neo-Eclectic at heart, and have tended to follow
th e la ter Eclect ics in m y app roach to p lants an d dosa ges .
Michael Moore
Bisbee, Arizon a
October, 200 1