438 EHETJMATISM. 



horses in stables which are damp and ill-ventilated ; while, as 

 exciting causes, I may enumerate the prevalence of east winds ; 

 exposure of the animal^ when prespiring, to cold draughts; also 

 long exposure of the animal to cold and wet in association; 

 also irritation of the system from superpurgation. 



Teeatmewt. — Warmth, dryness, and comfort, within the 

 habitation of the patient, are essentials highly necessary to the 

 cure of Rheumatism. 



The best remedies and modes of treatment, in general, are 

 — Aconite, Arnica, Belladonna, Bryonia, Colchicum, Ehus Toxi- 

 codendron, Cantharides, and Rhododendron ; also Mustard 

 Embrocations, Hot Water Cloths, and Warm Lotions. 



Aconite and Arnica. — These are excellent remedies when 

 the disease is of a sub-acute character ; and when it has arisen 

 in consequence of recently exposing the animal to cold and 

 wet, or to cold draughts of wind. 



TJse each remedy in 2-drachm doses of the 1st dilution, 

 and give them ia alternation, at intervals of three or four 

 hours. 



In the severer forms of the disease, or where it is associated 

 with Pleuritis and with disease of the heart. Aconite will con- 

 stitute one of the principal remedies ; it may be used both 

 internally and externally. Make the lotion as follows : — 



Tincture of Aconite ... ... 2 ounces. 



Soft "Water ... ... ... 1 gallon. 



Mix the two together; and, immediately before using the 

 lotion, warm it to a temperature of about 116° Fahrenheit, 

 and apply it (where practicable) to the swollen limbs, by means 

 of woollen bandages dipped in the warm fluid. 



