(seq. 271)

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.