ARTIFICIAL INFLAMMATION. 187 



Mustard is generally applied by spreading it on whitey-brown paper cut 

 to the required size. The plaster so made is self-adherent. The plaster 

 should not be left on more than 15 minutes. If left on longer, the 

 mustard is apt to be absorbed, and then produces debilitating effects on 

 the system. The plaster may be reapplied at short intervals, say six 

 hours, if needed, two or three times, but not more. The mustard at 

 each application should not be permitted to remain more than 15 

 minutes on the skin, and should then be washed off. 



Plasters are generally used. But the better plan is to take as much 

 of mustard so prepared as a man can hold in the hollow of his hand, and 

 rub it very gently on the part affected until the skin is reached, and 

 then leave it there, unless the symptoms of the case indicate the need 

 of further treatment, in which case it must be washed off before renewed 

 action. 



In all cases the action of the mustard requires to be most carefully 

 watched. If the application produces excessive irritation and increased 

 feverishness, it must be at once discontinued. The pulse must be taken 

 from time to time. A marked increase in its beats will tell us plainly 

 that the application is doing harm; whilst on the other hand, if it is 

 relieving the congested condition of the part affected, the pulse improves 

 in tone and becomes more tranquil. 



383&. Ammonia. 



On account of its volatile character and severe action, Ammonia is very 

 seldom used alone, but generally in combination with mustard or other 

 agents. One ounce of strong ammonia added to one pound of mustard 

 will considerably increase its activity. 



384. Biniodide of Mercury (reduced strength). 



Biniodide of Mercury in reduced strength, i. e. one part of biniodide to 

 twelve of lard, is a very useful stimulant. It is mild in its action, but 

 its effect is tolerably abiding. It is much used to assist nature in taking 

 up newly formed tumours or growths bursal, otherwise called synovial 

 enlargements, and in slight sprains of ligaments and tendons, and in 

 thickening of the periosteum. 



If moderately employed, its effect is not so severe as to throw a horse 

 out of work for more than a couple of days. This is a great advantage. 

 It should be reapplied at short intervals, soon after the effect of the pre- 

 vious application has completely passed away. Practically it may gene- 

 rally be reapplied every nine days, until the needed effect is produced. 



384&. Perchloride of Mercury. 



A preparation of Perchloride of Mercury, commonly known as corro- 

 sive sublimate, is a useful application in cases where actual vesication is 



