Grease, 103 



rangement is the consequence. But^ the chief reason why this com- 

 plaint is frequently found so difficult of curej is owing to the cir- 

 cumstance of considering it a primary disease of the constitution ; 

 which^ it is supposed, must be altered or amended befoie the com- 

 plaint can be cured. Hence, the farragos of Alteratives, and sweet 

 eners of the Blood, (as such medicines are called) which abound in 

 books, and in the receipts of nostrum-mongers ; and which are fre- 

 quently exhibited for weeks, and even months, in many cases, where 

 a judicious application of simple external remedies, would be found 

 capable of effecting a cure in as many days. 



And here i must remark, that I cannot help considering the fre- 

 quent, indiscriminate use of Diuretics, (the great panacea of the 

 stable) as highly prejudicial in this disease. For, diuretics are very 

 frequently exhibited to Horses, labouring under great debility, from 

 standing in hot stables, and a long continuance of this complaint ; 

 being considered by the ignorant, excellent substitutes for pure air, 

 good grooming", and regular exercise. True iadeed it is, that their 

 immediate action upon the kidneys and urinary passages, does, for 

 a time, reduce the gorged and distended limbs of those miserably 

 neglected animals ; and this way, give a deceptive appearance 

 of relief ; but, the subsequent debility which ensues from this plan 

 of treatment, is sure to exasperate, ultimately, the symptoms of the 

 complaint. In slight and recent cases of this disorder, however, 

 there certainly can be no objection to two or three mild diuretic 

 balls^ allowing an interval of three or four days between each dose. 

 But, it may be laid down as a general rule, that where much heat, 

 inflammation, and swelling of the limbs exist, a gentle purgative is 

 the best internal medicine, that can be exhibited. — The propriety of 



