The root of male fern is renowned for its anthelmintic properties. It is the ideal tape-worm remover, but it also has a powerful influence on all intestinal parasites. For the removal of tape worm it is best to take it only under the instructions of a physician.
Male fern is also a tonic and an astringent and due to these properties enters into No. 3.
Barberry
Berberis Vulgaris
Barberry is a common house-yard shrub bearing bright red berries which are frequently used for preserving purposes. The bark is the portion used medicinally.
Barberry bark is an intensely bitter stimulant, used chiefly for torpid conditions of the liver and flaccid conditions of the stomach. It is a pronounced tonic and is adapted only in
NATURE'S HEALING AGENTS 89
chronic cases or when combined with other agents. In jaundice, accompanied by loss of strength and feeble appetite, it is valuable. It is of good service in malarial diseases when combined with other remedies such as Capsicum, Lobelia and Hydrastis.
Berberis is one of the best agents in the treatment of syphilis, especially in the secondary and tertiary stages.
In chronic conditions of the stomach and intestines, especially if these conditions manifest in skin troubles, it is the remedy indicated.
In the early stages of consumption it is of great value but is best combined with Hydrastis and Capsicum, three drops of the Tincture Berberis, 10 of Hydrastis and 3 grains of Capsicum being the usual dose.
In catarrhal conditions of the upper air passages, Berberis as prescribed above, is excellent, and as a tonic for the weak and debilitated, this same combination is ideal also for those convalescing from serious illness.
Next Page (86)