OPIUM. 103 



OPIUM. 



Is the most valuable drug on the list as an 

 anti-spasmoclic; it is also a sedative and astrin- 

 gent. As an anti-spasmodic it enters into the 

 colic drink; as a sedative it relaxes spasms of 

 the muscular system. Opium should, however, 

 be given with caution. In the early acute stage 

 of fever it will be a bad practice to give it even 

 in the smallest quantity. When the fever has 

 passed it may be given with great benefit. 



POULTICES. 



Few persons are aware of the value of these 

 simple applications in abating inflammation, 

 relieving pain, cleansing wounds, and disposing 

 them to heal. In all inflammations of the foot 

 they are very beneficial, by softening the horn 

 hardened by the heat of the inflamed foot. — 

 Linseed meal forms the best general poultice. 



