48 University Geological Survey of Kansas. 
this agent possesses certain very important therapeutic proper- 
ties, some of which may be considered at this time. When 
ordinary pure water is swallowed it is almost immediately 
taken up by the radicles of the gastric veins, passing directly 
to the liver, and from thence into the systemic circulation. Its 
manifold functions in the body are fully treated in works on 
physiology. For our purpose, itis sufficient to notice its in- 
fluence on the emunctories. Water is actively diuretic, not 
only increasing the liquid flow of the urine, but, if taken in 
large quantities, greatly augmenting the amount of solids— 
urea, uric acid, etc.—escaping from the system in a given 
length of time. It thus aidsin the process of tissue metamor- 
phosis, and may be said, so to speak, to ‘flush the system.’ 
It also dilutes the urine, renders it lighter in color and specific 
gravity, and sometimes relieves it of irritating qualities.’’ 
Water in large quantities thus becomes useful in certain kid- 
ney diseases, characterized by stagnation of the renal circulation 
and suppression of the urine. It is also valuable in acid states 
of the urine, characterized by scalding on urination, and a fre- 
quent desire to empty the bladder, symptoms which are observed 
in numerous affections of the genito-urinary passages. In warm 
weather, water is also diaphoretic, and, aside from its grateful, 
cooling and refreshing effects, it thus has some influence as an 
antipyretic in febrile states of the system. According to Mail- 
lart, of Geneva,” typhoid fever may be treated internally by 
copious draughts as a definite method. Jive to six quarts may 
be administered daily, during the whole of the febrile period, 
and there are no contra-indications. The good results which 
have been observed are no doubt due to oxidation of the toxins 
and refuse material, which are thus rendered soluble and elimi- 
nated. When taken cold in considerable quantities, water also 
stimulates the peristaltic action of the small intestines, and thus 
has a certain cathartic influence. 
ADVANTAGES OF USING NATURAL WATERS. 
Considerable has been written in regard to the action of natu- 
ral mineral waters being entirely different from what could be 
23. Revue du Med., March, 1894, 
