ON BLISTERING. 69 



ON BLISTEKINa. 



The Spanish fly in its action is intense, yet 

 superficial. It plentifully raises the cuticle, yet 

 rarely injures the true skin and therefore sel- 

 dom blemishes. The application of other acrid 

 substances is occasionally followed by deeply 

 seated ulceration; but a blister composed of the 

 Spanish fly alone, while it does its duty leaves, 

 after a few weeks have passed, scarcely a trace 

 behind. The art of blistering consists in cut- 

 ting or rather shaving the hair close, then rub- 

 bing on the ointment at least ten minutes. As 

 soon as the vesicles have risen, which will be in 

 something like 20 hours, you may relieve the 

 animal by the application of olive or neatsfoot 

 oil. In inflammation of the lungs, &c., it 

 should be made to act sooner. The principle of 

 the blister is, that no intense inflammation can 

 exist in the neighboring parts at the same time. 

 An infusion of 2 ounces of the flies in 1 pint of 

 oil of turpentine, for several days, is frequently 

 usedj and with good effect. This is a sure and 

 safe remedy. If in the winter blanket the horse 

 to keep him warm until he is over it; put a 

 blanket over the head also if very cold. 



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