LobeUa is essential in labor. It will allay and regulate the
THE MEDICINES OF NATURE 69
violent pains in the loins during labor which are due to rigidity of the passages, and is far safer and much to be preferred to ergot or other agents generally employed.
In disorders of the menstrual period, it is, with the addition of such agents as pennyroyal, the ideal agent to relieve contraction and pain, and to establish normalcy.
In hysteria, whether due to congested ovaries, swollen uterus or other cause, Lobelia with nervines, may be safely relied upon to bring relief.
IMPORTANT: Whether lobelia is given in the powdered, tinctural or tablet form, it is always to be remembered that the full dose should be given at once. If emesis does not occur promptly, follow with slightly warm water every five minutes until there is free vomiting. This plan is followed in all cases where emptying of the stomach and relaxation is desired, as in spasms, congestions, fits and infectious diseases. As soon as the vomiting ceases, stimulants and nervines must be given.
When stimulation is desired, then the dose is always small, from one to five grains in conjunction with a stimulant such as Capsicum.
EXTERNAL APPLICATION: In all cases where an external compress or plaster is indicated, as in pnuemonia, pleurisy, boils and acute swellings, a compress may be made with hops and Lobelia herb, or bran and Lobelia herb, or a plaster with lard and Lobelia herb. In each case these are to be applied as hot as the patient can comfortably bear and changed as they become cold.
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