HAY ASTHMA. 293 



Lobelia Inflata. — The value of the tincture of Lobelia 

 as a remedy for asthma in the human subject has been long 

 known ; and this led me to test its efficacy in Hay Asthma, 

 and in numerous cases I have found it to fully answer my 

 expectations. I have frequently prescribed it in doses of 3 or 

 4 drachms of the 1st dilution ; in some cases, however, it will 

 require to be used in 2-drachm doses of the strong tincture. 

 If used in the diluted form, mix it each time with 2 or 3 ounces 

 of water ; if in the strong tincture, mix it with 6 or 8 ounces 

 of water. The Lobelia may be given in alternation, either with 

 extract of ]3elladonna or with Chloroform. 



CHLOKoroRM. — Chloroform is another excellent remedy for 

 Hay Asthma. It should be given in 2-drachm doses, hy mea- 

 sure ; and as it requires to be used with more than ordinary 

 care, I shall detail what I have found to be the best mode of 

 preparing and administering it. 



Eirst make a quart of thin flour gruel, and while hot, force 

 it through a fine linen cloth ; then pour it into a clear glass 

 bottle, and place it aside until cold, and when cold add to the 

 mass 2 ounces, by measure, of Chloroform ; then cork the bottle 

 securely, and shake it vigorously for a few seconds, and it is 

 ready for use. Put the mixture in a dark, cool place, and keep 

 it there until required. Give an 8th part of the combination 

 for a dose; and give it in alternation with Lobelia, morning, 

 noon, and night. Should the gruel become too thick after 

 standing six or eight hours reduce it to the required consis- 

 tency with cold water.* 



Diet. — The diet of the patient should be strictly examined. 

 The hay should be changed if in the least objectionable, either 

 from being clover hay or from the presence of dust, mouldiness, 

 or the plant Antliox Odoratum. 



* It is a good plan to prepare the gruel over night. 



