Colonial North America: Countway Library of Medicine

262

Materia Medica

Tonics

Nitric Acid my patient was eventually cured by taking it.

Tin. This medicine was once much used, but has now fallen into disrepute it is a week tonic, and is still employ’d as an anthelmintic, it probably acts in this case mechanically, it has been celebrated for its antispasmodic power, as in Epilepsy those who used it gave it in large doses and it has been said to be advantageous, but in those cases where it was used the disease originated from worms. Monroe has used but always found that worms were voided.

Bismoth. The white oxide of bismoth is that which is generally used though it has never been used in this city, yet it is highly recommended by the Physicians in Europe. In affections of the stomach bismoth should here come next to Lime. The practice of giving this medicine originated in Geneva in the form of the Magistery of Bismoth, and has been used by the Ladies for painting their faces. It is called by Dr Davy the White Hydrate of Bismoth. It is given in hysteria accompanied with dyspepsia. Dr Jackson gave it in the same complaint to the extent of 20 grs. [grains] in 24 Hours in union with gentian and Iron, the patient was completely cured, the usual dose is from 4 to 5 grains combined with Gum. Tragacanth.