31 



stimulate the reproductive organs. Ginger is a local stimulant and 

 stomachic and gentian, a bitter tonic, stomachic and alterative.- Sul- 

 fur has a laxative and alterative effect, and increases the activity of 

 the skin. Sulfate of iron is a tonic and a restorative and tumeric 

 an aromatic heart stimulant. In brief, these drugs act as alteratives 

 and tonics, increase the appetite, relieve indigestion, and hasten the 

 removal of waste products from the system, and are unquestionably 

 valuable as simple medicines, when properly used. It is certain, 

 however, that they can be purchased very much cheaper separately, 

 than in the prepared mixtures under discussion. Most dairy and 

 stock farmers are familiar with the curative properties of these drugs, 

 their uses and their, limitations, and invariably keep a part of them, 

 at least, on hand. 



Apparently most of the condimental foods are sold 

 Claims for a short period because of particular efforts and 



of Man- claims of the manufacturers, and then the demand 



ufacturers. for them ceases. A few brands are extensively and 

 continuously advertised and are well distributed 

 throughout the state. The claims made for these products are 

 numerous and extravagant. It is stated that they are appetizers (by 

 imparting a pleasant odor and flavor, cause the animals to consume 

 more food), promote perfect digestion, and assimilation, and thereby 

 induce rapid growth and fattening, increase the quantity and improve 

 the quality of the milk, cause a large increase in egg production, and 

 make beautiful plumage. Medicinally they are claimed to be a pan- 

 acea for all ills that horses, stock and poultry are heir to, a preven- 

 tive and cure for all diseases. 



Carefully conducted experiments by many investiga- 

 Use and tigators have proved conclusively that the claims 



Effect. relative to ^''/'7?7i:'/'// 'and production are ivithotit foun- 



dation. Furthermore, the use of such preparations 

 should be condemned for reasons other than financial. Medicine 

 should not be given to animals unless there is positive evidence that 

 it is needed. Well animals are better without it, for in health there 

 is an equilibrium of body functions, and all that is required to main- 

 tain this balance are good sanitary conditions, a sufficient quantity 

 of pure food and water, and access to salt. Sick animals should be 

 treated for the special trouble with which they are affected, or an 

 end put to their suffering. It is far better to employ one or more 



