Diseases > Domestic medicine

DOMBSTIC MED1CINK. 27V
powdered with two drachms of Virginian snake root,
may be boiled in an English pint and a half of water
to half a pint; to which a tea-spoonful of the elixir
of vitriol may be added, and an ordinary tea-cupful of
it taken every three or four hours. Blistering
plasters are very beneficial in this disease, especially
when the patient’s pulse and spirits are low. They
may be applied to the thr oat behind the ears, or upon
the back part of the neck.
Should the vomiting prove troublesome, it will be
proper to give the patient two table-spoonsful of the
saline julep every hour. Tea made of mint and a
little cinnamon will be very proper for his ordinary
drink, especially if an equal quantity of red-wine be
mixed with it.
In case of a violent looseness, the size of a nutmeg
of diascordium, or the japonic confection, may be
taken two or three times a-day, or oftener if necessary.
If a discharge of blood from the nose happens, the
steams of warm vinegar may be received up the nos¬
trils frequently; and the drink must be sharpened
with spirits of vitriol, or tincture of roses.
In case of a stranguary, the belly must be fomented
with warm water, and emollient clysters given three
or four times a-day.
After the violence of the disease is over, the body
should still be kept open with mild purgatives; as
manna, senna, rhubarb, or the like.
If great weakness and dejection of spirits, or
night-sweats, with other symptoms of a consumption,
should ensue, we would advise the patient to continue
the use of the Peruvian bark, with the elixir of
vitriol, and to take frequently a glass of generous
wine. These, together with a milk-diet, and riding
on horseback, are the most likely means for recovering
his strength.