cleansing the stomach with the one universal and non-harmful
agent—Lobelia.
32. To effect such a relaxation of the system there is
probably no agent of equal value. This medicine exerts a
surprising influence in equalizing the nervous power, and in
relaxing the system, without in any way weakening the vital
properties. In many instances, however, fever and its cause
may be removed by the same means that alone will overcome a
chill, i. e., pure stimulants and vapor or hot baths, vapor baths
preferred. According to the Physio-Medical philosophy, med
ical men of the dominant school have not made a proper dis
tinction between true stimulants that strengthen and promote a
healthy action, and those agents which occasion morbid excite
ment at the expense of the vital forces. Brandy and other
alcoholics, frequently excellent medicines at the very onset of a
cold, generally aggravate fevers and hence it has been inferred
that all stimulants are improper in such cases. A patient who
would be injured by brandy, would be benefitted, in the same
condition, by taking one grain of Capsicum every thirty minutes.
33. As a consequence of a reduction and derangement of
vital action, there are, in disease, thickened, morbid secretions,
termed "canker" by Dr. Thomson. These are formed on the
lining membrane of the stomach and bowels and indicated by
"cold sores" in the mouth. In acute diseases, as in dysentery,
pleurisy, also the various forms of eruptive diseases and all
other febrile affections, there is a tendency more or less, to putre-
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