350 REPORT OF NATIONAL MUSEUM, 1888. 



is supposed to be due to the charm wrought in it by the shaman or 

 other person in its preparation or decoction. Preparations of bark are 

 the principal specifics, but Langsdorff (1804) says of the Tlingit, "the 

 root of a particular species of valerian is considered as the most effectual 

 remedy that can be administered. * * * The wing bones [of the 

 eagle], particularly the radius and ulna, are used in illness as tubes for 

 sucking up fluids." * Around Sitka, the virtues of hot sulphur baths 

 were recognized by the Indians long before the advent of the whites. 

 Near that settlement are some natural hot springs impregnated with 

 sulphur, salt, and magnesia. In addition to these, however, the In- 

 dians take steam baths by pouring water on red hot stones in an in- 

 closed tent or shed. In bathing and in some attempt at personal 

 cleaidiness, the Indians of the northern region of the northwest coast 

 compare favorably with any of those in the world living in the temper- 

 ate zone, but their ignorance of the simplest laws of health is child- 

 like and lamentable. 



* Langsdorif, Voyages, Pt. ii, pp. 107 aud 134. 



