356 



opinion in regard to its mode of action and effects we have already 

 quoted. We have never relied on this remedy alone in the treat- 

 ment of any of the forms of pulmonary disease ; but we have used 

 it much in all the forms of tuberculous or scrofulous diseases and 

 with the most gratifying results, when combined with the prepara- 

 tions of iodine. For some cases, and further observations on this 

 point, we must refer the reader to an article in the Neiu York 

 Journal of Medicine and Collateral Sciences, vol. v. p. 314; pre- 

 mising, however, that since that article was written, our experience 

 has satisfied us that the remedy is neither a stimulant or sensible 

 promoter of the secretions, but a most valuable sedative in the true 

 sense of that term. We have not been able to verify its reputed 

 specific action on the uterus; though in many cases of severe head- 

 ache, apparently depending on simple irritability of the brain in 

 females of delicate habits, I have prescribed a decoction of the root 

 in doses of a wineglassful every three or four hours with the most 

 prompt relief. Several attempts have been made by different indi- 

 viduals to analyze the root, without any very satisfactory results. 

 It is certain, however, that it yields its specific virtues to alcohol 

 more perfectly than to water. Hence it should generally be used 

 in the form of saturated tincture, or in substance pulverized. The 

 first is prepared by macerating four ounces of the root in a pint of 

 diluted alcohol, of which from thirty to sixty drops may be given 

 every one, two, four, or six hours, according to the nature and 

 severity of the case. 



In acute rheumatism from thirty to sixty gtts. of the tinct. or 

 twenty grs. of the powdered root should be given to an adult every 

 two hours until its effects are manifest. 



We had partially investigated several other indigenous articles, 

 some of which promise very valuable results, but we must delay re- 

 porting on them until our investigations are more complete. 



And in closing this report we must be indulged in a few words of 

 explanation, by way of apologizing for its meagerness and limited 

 extent. As soon as convenient after the adjournment of the Asso- 

 ciation in May last, we addressed letters to all the members of the 

 committee, requesting of them suggestions concerning the best course 

 to pursue ; and particularly requesting them to collect such facts in 

 regard to the indigenous remedies of their respective States as they 

 might deem valuable, and communicate the same to me previous to 

 the first of January last; thereby giving me time to incorporate 

 them in a general report, promising to exercise due care in giving 



