70 
ON THERAPEUTICS. 
The occurrence of perspiration under the peculiar circum¬ 
stances mentioned at the commencement of our remarks, we 
have not essayed to explain. Nor, indeed can we connect the 
“ cold sweats” that precede death, or occur during sphacelus, 
and under other conditions of general depression, with the 
ordinary function of the sudoriferous follicles. As phenomena 
they are of importance and deserve investigation ; but they do 
not at all obscure the question under discussion, viz., the pro¬ 
duction of diaphoresis in a variety of artificial ways, and for a 
variety of purposes. 
The diseases which call for the aid of “ diaphoretics” are 
numerous; every disorder that is attended with a dry, harsh, 
or cold condition of integument may be appropriately met 
by them. The kind of agent will depend upon the nature 
of the disease; but, in some form or other, their value is 
universal. 
In inflammation and fever, where defective action is not 
the predominant element, we cannot consistently suggest the 
use of active or stimulant diaphoretics, save indeed on the 
hypothesis that the good they may do in cleansing the system, 
and restoring the balance of circulation, will outweigh the 
evil that must result from their stimulant action. Such a line 
of argument will justify experiment; but, according to our 
system of treatment, we cannot admit the use of the Turkish 
bath, or any of the diaphoretics of the first class, to be 
legitimate in cases of disease, where the predominant element 
is “ excess,” and not “defect.” In these affections, the salts 
of antimony, nitric aether, frictions, and warm clothing are 
clearly indicated. 
Catarrh, in its various forms of common cold, influenza, and 
strangles, may be safely treated by the same agents; or where 
there is no reason to fear the consequences of excited cir¬ 
culation, the diaphoretics of the first class may be employed. 
We do not scruple to recommend the “ bath” for this disease; 
as far as our experiments have gone, no apprehension need 
be entertained of injurious consequences accruing. 
In skin diseases of every possible phase, active “ diapho¬ 
resis” is desirable, if for no other reason, for its effects in 
cleansing the surface, and loosening accumulations of des¬ 
quamated cuticle. Exertion, when not contra-indicated, may 
be tried; but, beyond dispute, the “ bath” is most efficacious. 
A large number of diseases may be comprehended in the 
term “ cachaemia,” or 66 bad blood,” as the word may be 
literally rendered. “ Glanders,” “ grease,” “ cancer,” “ blain,” 
* e pleuro-pneumonia,” and even ordinary “ bad condition,” are 
attended with the elimination of effete matter in various 
