(seq. 149)

140

Materia Medica

Tonics

regulated according to the age of the patient generally from grs iij [3 grains] to V
to that X or XV has been sometimes three or four times a day, but
it has been given in doses of a Ʒ [dram] every three hours. Dr Heberden
told me he never knew it hurtfull in gout, it is the only bitter that
has retained its character, all others have been accused of
containing something narcotic, a beautifull tincture is formed by
putting ℥ ij [2 ounces] Colombo in lb ij [2 pounds] Proof Spirit. Dr Percival’s experiments
prove that the columbo has not the power of stimulating the
sanguiferous system, but I must have some other proof
before I can believe it. I believe both gentian and columbo,
particularly the former have the power of affecting the heart and
arteries as stimulants, the columbo has been used as a cure in
intermittants, the colombo is particularly usefull in such cases
as when the chill and succeeding fever is not as violent as
general, in such cases it is preferable to the Pulv. Cort. Peruv, it
has been used in hectic Pulmonary fevers. Dr Cullen says he has
used it in dyspepsia. I consider it one of the most important
tonics that can be employed in this disease. I use it in
substance in large doses it must be continued for a long time.
Lichen Islandicus. Iceland live wort or moss