90 PHYSIOLOGY AXD HEALTH. 



the circulation of the b!occl, nor produce fever. Dangerous 

 and even fatal consequences sometimes ensue from a neg- 

 lect of this distinction. 



194. When we rub the skin with pepper, mustard, or 

 spirit, it creates irritation ; the veins and arteries enlarge ; 

 the blood flows to the place in unusual abundance; there is 

 an increased heat in the spot, and the surface is red; there 

 are greater action and quicker life ; but these effects soon 

 cease; and then the skin is pale, the circulation is more 

 languid, and the life of the part is more dormant, as unusual 

 action of the muscles leaves fatigue behind. These are the 

 natural effects of stimulation: first, increased activity; arid 

 next, increased languor; for all unnatural excitement of the 

 natural actions of the living system is followed by a corre- 

 sponding depression. 



195. The same takes place in the stomach from the use 

 of all condiments, such as spices, pepper, mustard, with our 

 food. The stomach is stimulated, the circulation of blood 

 in its walls is quickened, the gastric juice flows more readily, 

 and digestion begins more promptly. But soon this unnatu- 

 ral activity ceases ; and then it falls below its natural stand- 

 ard, and digestion is finally retarded. This is the effect of 

 once using the stimulating condiments ; but, if this use be 

 continued and often repeated, the power of the stomach, 

 from frequent excitement and fatigue, becomes somewhat 

 worn, and the organ is permanently enfeebled. To a healthy 

 stomach, then, condiments and stimulants, are not only 

 unnecessary, but injurious. They give no strength; they 

 only quicken the action and expenditure of power already 

 existing. 



196. These enfeebling effects follow the stimulation of 

 wines and spirits even more than that of spices. Alcohol is 

 more speedy in its action, both of excitement and exhaustion. 

 Dr. Beaumont saw that St. Martin's stomach was reddened 

 after drinking spirit, and sometimes the covering of the inner 

 coat peeled off, and left spots of canker upon the surface. 

 The remote result of this drinking is more severe and dan- 



