diff options
Diffstat (limited to '75168-0.txt')
| -rw-r--r-- | 75168-0.txt | 10071 |
1 files changed, 10071 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/75168-0.txt b/75168-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..00a779d --- /dev/null +++ b/75168-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,10071 @@ + +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75168 *** + + + + + +Transcriber’s Notes: + + Underscores “_” before and after a word or phrase indicate _italics_ + in the original text. + Small capitals have been converted to SOLID capitals. + Old spellings have been preserved. + Typographical and punctuation errors have been silently corrected. + + + + + SECRET REMEDIES, + + WHAT THEY COST AND WHAT THEY CONTAIN. + + BASED ON ANALYSES MADE FOR THE + + BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. + + + LONDON: + BRITISH MEDICAL ASSOCIATION, + 429, STRAND, W.C. + 1909. + + + + +TABLE OF CONTENTS. + + + CHAPTER PAGE + I.—Catarrh and Cold Cures 1 + II.—Cough Medicines 9 + III.—Consumption Cures 20 + IV.—Headache Powders 37 + V.—Blood Purifiers 42 + VI.—Remedies for Gout, Rheumatism and Neuralgia 50 + VII.—Kidney Medicines 66 + VIII.—Diabetes 76 + IX.—Obesity Cures 83 + X.—Skin Diseases 105 + XI.—Medicines for Baldness 114 + XII.—Cancer Remedies 117 + XIII.—Remedies for Epilepsy 124 + XIV.—Soothing, Teething and Cooling Powders for Infants 130 + XV.—Remedies for Ear Disease and Deafness 134 + XVI.— ” Eye Diseases 142 + XVII.— ” Piles 147 + XVIII.—Preparations for Rupture 158 + XIX.—Cures for Inebriety 162 + XX.—Cure Alls 170 + + APPENDIX 182 + INDEX 185 + + + + +PREFACE. + + +One of the reasons for the popularity of secret remedies is their +secrecy. It is a case in which the old saying _Omne ignotum pro +magnifico_ applies. To begin with, there is for the average man or +woman a certain fascination in secrecy. The quack takes advantage +of this common foible of human nature to impress his customers. But +secrecy has other uses in his trade; it enables him to make use of +cheap new or old-fashioned drugs, and to proclaim that his product +possesses virtues beyond the ken of the mere doctor; his herbs have +been culled in some remote prairie in America or among the mountains +of Central Africa, the secret of their virtues having been confided to +him by some venerable chief; or again he would have us believe that his +drug has been discovered by chemical research of alchemical profundity, +and is produced by processes so costly and elaborate that it can only +be sold at a very high price. + +The British Medical Association considered, therefore, that it would +be useful if not instructive to make analyses of some of the secret +remedies, the virtues of which are so boldly advertised, especially +in popular monthly magazines and weekly newspapers, and in diaries +and almanacks pushed under the front door or dropped over the area +railings. The results are given in the following pages; they have been +classified under various heads, according to the particular kind of +disorder for the cure of which the preparation is more particularly +vaunted. The claims in some instances are so comprehensive that it has +not always been easy to assign the nostrum its proper place, and for a +few it has been necessary to institute a chapter on Cure Alls. + +An inquiry of the kind is, from the analytical point of view, tedious +and often difficult; for though the analytical chemist can easily and +quickly identify the nature of inorganic salts in a mixture or powder, +and estimate their amount, most vegetable drugs which exert any +appreciable effect on the body owe their power to the presence of an +alkaloid or glucoside. The active principle of opium, for instance, is +morphine; that of cinchona bark, quinine; that of belladonna, atropine, +and so on, and the chemist can recognise any alkaloids present in a +mixture or pill. It is otherwise, however, with vegetable extracts and +colouring matters, for which pharmaceutical science has not yet been +able in all cases to supply easily applicable and conclusive tests, +because for the most part they contain no active principle and are +used in pharmacy for their agreeable odour or bitter taste, as vanilla +or sorrel are used in cookery. Of the accuracy of the analytical data +published there can be no question; the investigation has been carried +out with great care by a skilled analytical chemist, who has controlled +his results in various ways, one being that in every doubtful case +the formula obtained by analysis has been tested by making it up +and comparing the appearance, taste, and physical properties of the +imitative mixture with those of the secret preparation sold to the +public. + +The articles in this volume have not been confined to a mere dry +statement of the results of analysis. Care has been taken to reproduce +the claims and exuberant boasts of the vendors, and the contrast +between them and the list of banal ingredients which follow must strike +every reader. This juxtaposition of analytical facts and advertising +fancies is instructive and sometimes entertaining, the fancy is so free +and the fact so simple. + +It must not be assumed that the concoctors of these mixtures and +powders and ointments show any particular skill in the compounding of +drugs. On the contrary, they appear curiously indifferent to taste and +appearance, and perhaps count on the belief, common among the poorer +classes at least, that the nastier a drug the more effective it is. +There is, at any rate, the excuse for this belief that the effort to +subdue the repugnance to the draught produces a glow of virtue which +may perhaps have a certain stimulating effect on the mind; the patient +having not only spent his money but suffered some discomfort, is +anxious to justify his faith by assuming himself to be the better for +the double sacrifice. + +It is not, however, only the poorer classes of the community who have +a weakness for secret remedies and the ministration of quacks; the +well-to-do and the highly-placed will often, when not very ill, take a +curious pleasure in experimenting with mysterious compounds. In them it +is perhaps to be traced to a hankering to break safely with orthodoxy; +they scrupulously obey the law and the Church and Mrs. Grundy, but will +have their fling against medicine. Usually, however, people of these +classes take to some system. It used to be electricity or hypnotism or +some eccentricity of diet; nowadays it is more often Christian Science. + +Judging from the relative number of secret remedies advertised for +different complaints, it would seem that the most attractive fields +for exploitation by the “patent” medicine man are afforded by those +diseases which are widely prevalent, and sufficiently serious to cause +considerable suffering and incapacity, inasmuch as such disorders lend +themselves to sensational descriptions of the dire consequences which +will follow if the one and only real and certain cure is not purchased. + +The estimates of cost given throughout the volume refer only to the +ingredients, the prices of the various drugs being those quoted in +an ordinary wholesale drug list, and take no account of the cost of +bottles, boxes, wrappings and packages, very often a much more serious +source of expenditure. The stamp duty levied by the Inland Revenue +under an old Act of Parliament must also be taken into consideration, +but, ostensibly at least, it is paid by the purchaser, for the full +price of a nostrum is usually 1s. 1½d. or 2s. 9d. and so on, the extra +1½d. or 3d. representing the value of the stamp. “Store prices” have, +however, invaded this, like most other fields of enterprise. + + + + +CHAPTER I. + +CATARRH AND COLD CURES. + + +The analyses here given of some of the proprietary articles which the +public are induced to buy for the cure of ordinary colds and catarrh +furnish a good example of the absurdity of the barefaced pretensions +in which nostrum mongers indulge, for minor ailments are by no means +neglected by the makers of nostrums; if the price to be obtained is +somewhat lower than in the case of more serious disorders the cost +price can be reduced in an equal or greater proportion. Alarming +accounts, too, of the evils to be expected if resort be not had to the +advertised articles are not wanting. Thus, in the advertisement of one +of the articles described below, it is stated that catarrh “invariably +creates biliousness, constipation, pleurisy, asthma, bronchitis, +catarrhal fever, and consumption”; also that “it is estimated that +over 20,000 people died in the United Kingdom last year of consumption +caused by catarrh.” The remedy put forward for this malignant disease +is shown by analysis to consist of a solution of a pinch of common salt +with a trace of carbolic acid, the actual cost of the quantity sold for +a shilling being one-thirtieth part of a farthing. The probability that +many people would regard a slight cold in the head as not requiring a +resort to a “specialist in chronic disease in every form” such as the +proprietor of this preparation, is turned to account by a disparaging +reference to the medical profession. “Catarrh,” we are told, “in its +chronic form (and the complaints arising from it) is a malady which has +not, up to the present time, received that attention and research from +the medical faculty which it deserves. Most practitioners have given +it merely a passing thought, or poohed at it as a mere cold which +would soon pass off, and perhaps give some light tonic to tone up the +stomach.” Another of the “remedies” described well illustrates the way +in which the public is deluded by such “specialists”; camphor, quinine +and ipecacuanha are frequently employed as domestic remedies in the +early stages of a cold in the head, and persons who believe in their +usefulness can no doubt be induced to buy a “cold cure” which professes +to contain them in combination with other drugs, presented in a form +convenient and agreeable to be taken; but in the tablets which are +represented as consisting of cascara, bromide, quinine, ipecacuanha, +camphor and bryonia, analysis did not reveal any appreciable traces +of cascara, bromide, quinine, ipecacuanha, or camphor. The principal +ingredients actually present were cinchonine, an alkaloid found in +the bark from which quinine is prepared but cheaper than quinine, and +acetanilide, a chemical better known under the name antifebrin, both in +very small doses. + +Many proprietary medicines of varied kinds are recommended for colds +among a host of other complaints for which they are stated to possess +curative powers. Apart, however, from such inclusive recommendations, +a considerable number are put forward expressly and primarily for cold +and catarrh, and it is a selection of these which is here described. + + +DR. LANE’S CATARRH CURE. + +This is prepared and sold by a Company giving an address in London. The +price is 1s. a bottle, containing 2½ fluid ounces. + +Much printed matter is supplied with this preparation, and a few +extracts are here given: + + Catarrh, in its chronic form (and the complaints + arising from it), is a malady which has not, up to the + present time, received that attention and research + from the medical faculty which it deserves. Most + practitioners have given it merely a passing thought, + or poohed at it as a mere cold which would soon pass + off, and perhaps give some light tonic to tone up the + stomach. And therein lies the fatal error, for Catarrh + is a disease that cannot be trifled with, as millions + can only too surely testify. + + ... to let any part or organ of the system become + diseased breeds the seeds of a host of other + complaints, as all the organs of the body are in + sympathy with each other. The cause of this is easily + explained in a case of Catarrh.... It invariably + creates Biliousness, Constipation, Pleurisy, Asthma, + Bronchitis, Catarrhal Fever, and Consumption. + + It is estimated that over 20,000 people died in the + United Kingdom last year of Consumption caused by + Catarrh. + + The speciality of myself and Associate Physicians is + chronic disease in every form. Our library was selected + to this end, and the Herbal World explored for this + purpose—the successful treatment of chronic disease. + + We have never seen one out of five hundred of the + patients whom we have cured. Most cases can be treated + just as well at a distance as if we saw them in person; + as our experience enables us to judge correctly from + a written description the nature and extent of the + disease under which the patient is labouring. + +The preparation is described on the wrapper as: + + The _Only Reliable_ and Effective Preparation for + the Permanent and _Radical Cure_ of this most + dangerous disease. + +The directions on the label are: + + For Catarrh.—Pour one-half teaspoonful in the palm of + the hand, close one nostril with the finger, and inhale + the liquid through the open nostril with sufficient + force to carry the spray down into the throat. Inhale + another half teaspoonful through the other nostril + in the same way; it is not advisable to swallow the + Catarrh Cure—however, it is perfectly harmless if you + chance to do so. Use night and morning and in extreme + cases three times a day. + +Analysis showed the composition of the liquid to be: + + Phenol (carbolic acid) 0·4 part. + Sodium chloride (common salt) 3.3 parts. + Water to 100 fluid parts. + +The traces of impurities usually present in common salt were also found. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients in 2½ fluid ounces is +one-thirtieth of a farthing. + + +VAN VLECK’S CATARRH BALM. + +This balm is supplied by an American Company having an address in +London. The price charged is 4s. 6d. for a package containing 1⅛ oz. + +In an accompanying circular it is stated that: + + This preparation is perfectly harmless, readily + absorbed, and through its healing, soothing action + affords immediate relief and quickly cures Catarrh of + the Nose and Head, Catarrhal Deafness, Hay Fever, Cold + in the Head, La Grippe, Tonsillitis, Sore Throat and + all inflamed, irritated conditions of the nose and + throat. + +The “Balm” was an ointment, contained in a collapsible tube. The +directions on the label are: + + First clear your head out thoroughly by blowing your + nose, then squeeze out from the tube a piece of Dr. + Van Vleck’s Catarrh Balm about the size of a pea, on + the end of the finger, and rub it well up into each + nostril, hold the other nostril and snuff it up until + you can feel it all the way up through the air passages + in your head. For severe Catarrh in the Head and Cold + in the Head also rub thoroughly over the outside of + the nose and across the forehead and on the sides of + the head just below the temples. For Catarrhal Sore + Throat and Tonsillitis rub thoroughly on the outside of + the throat and swallow at bedtime a small piece about + the size of a pea. Do not get it into the eyes. This + preparation is perfectly harmless, readily absorbed, + and through its healing, antiseptic, soothing action + affords immediate relief. + +The substance consisted of soft paraffin containing a small quantity +of phenol and about 2 per cent. of a mixture of volatile oils. Oils +of eucalyptus, pumilio pine, and yellow sandal-wood were recognized, +and the respective proportions of these were estimated by comparing +mixtures of known composition with the original. The results obtained +gave the following formula + + Phenol 0·6 part. + Sandal-wood oil 0·5 ” + Oil of pumilio pine 0·7 ” + ” eucalyptus 1.2 parts. + Soft paraffin to 100 + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 1⅛ oz. is ½d. + + +DR. MACKENZIE’S “ONE DAY” COLD CURE. + +This is supplied by a Company described as of London and New York. The +price charged for a box containing 30 tablets is 1s. 1½d. + +This preparation is described on the package as: + + The Best Cure! For the Worst Cold! + A Speedy Cure in all Cases of Cold, Influenza, Headache, + and all Neuralgic Affections. + Nature’s Remedy. + + Dose.—One tablet to be swallowed with a little water + every two hours until relieved. + + As a preventive, one every four hours. + + Not for Children. + +The tablets were coated with sugar coloured with ferric oxide +(so-called chocolate coating); after removal of the coating they had an +average weight of 2 grains. Analysis showed them to have the following +composition: + + Cinchonidine sulphate 0·83 grain. + Acetanilide 0·71 ” + Camphor 0·10 ” + Talc 0·21 ” + Water 0·15 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 30 tablets is 1¼d. + + +KEENE’S “ONE NIGHT” COLD CURE. + +This also is supplied by a Company giving its address as New York and +London. The price charged is 1s. 1½d. a box, containing 30 tablets. + +This is recommended in the circular enclosed in the box in the +following terms: + + Keene’s One Night Cold Cure will break up any cold + overnight; or money refunded! Influenza cured in three + days. Guarantee Label around every Box. If Keene’s + One Night Cold Cure fails to Cure your Cold, your + money will be cheerfully returned on presentation of + Guarantee Label. + + Keene’s One Night Cold Cure is in Tablet form and + contains nothing injurious, being chiefly composed + of Quinine, Cascara, Camphor, and other Ingredients + adopted by the Leading Medical Authorities for Colds in + the Head, Throat, and Lungs. + +The “guarantee label” is worded as follows: + + + GUARANTEE. + + If Keene’s “One Night” Cold Cure fails to effectually + break up any ordinary cold, return this Guarantee with + box to your Chemist and he will refund price paid. + + Cascara—Bromide—Quinine—Ipecac— + Camphor—Bryonia—tablets. 7½d. per box. + The Keene Co. + Irving A. Keene, Treasurer. + + +The tablets were coated with sugar, coloured with ferric oxide +(so-called chocolate coating). After removal of the coating they had an +average weight of 2·07 grains. Analysis showed that they contained no +bromide, no quinine, except the minute trace occurring as an impurity +in the cinchonine found, and no camphor in sufficient quantity to be +detected; there was no evidence of any extract or other preparation +of cascara, and if any were present, the quantity did not exceed a +small trace; the alkaloid found did not give the slightest indication +of ipecacuanha alkaloid; extract of bryonia may have been present, +as it has no distinctive characters serving for identification. The +ingredients found were: + + Cinchonine sulphate 0·21 grain. (approx.). + Acetanilide 0·32 ” ” + Calcium carbonate 0·25 ” ” + Starch 0·34 ” ” + Extractive and excipient 0·87 ” ” + In one tablet. + +The extractive and excipient possessed no characters indicating the +substance from which it was derived; it contained a small proportion +of alkali in organic combination, equivalent to 1·2 per cent. of dried +sodium carbonate in the tablet, and the mineral constituents usually +present in vegetable extracts. The estimated cost of the ingredients +for 30 tablets is ¼d. + + +MUNYON’S CATARRH TABLETS AND SPECIAL CATARRH CURE. + +These two preparations, which have been at one time or another very +extensively advertised, are supplied by a Homœopathic Company. They are +stated to be manufactured in U.S. of America. The price charged for the +tablets is 1s. a package, containing 17 tablets. + +This preparation is recommended in the circular which accompanies it in +the following terms: + + CATARRH POSITIVELY CURED.—Are you a sufferer + with catarrh? Have you taken all sorts of drugs and + patent nostrums? Are you tired of paying big doctor + bills without being cured? Are you willing to spend two + shillings for a cure that permanently cures catarrh + by removing the cause of the disease? If so, ask your + chemist for a shilling bottle of Munyon’s Catarrh Cure + and a shilling bottle of Catarrh Tablets. The + Catarrh Cure will eradicate the disease from the system + and the Tablets will cleanse and heal the afflicted + parts and restore them to a natural and healthful + condition. + +On the package it is stated that: + + When used in conjunction with the CATARRH + CURE, they cure discharges from the head and + throat, dryness, soreness and scabs in the nose, + pains in the head, and all symptoms of Catarrh. + +The directions are: + + Dissolve one Tablet in 20 teaspoonfuls of warm water + and use this solution for thorough cleansing of the + nose and throat, night and morning. Inject through the + nostrils with Munyon’s Atomizer or by snuffing. + +The tablets had an average weight of 6 grains. Analysis showed the +composition to be: + + Sodium bicarbonate 1·87 grains. + ” chloride 1·81 ” + Borax, partly dehydrated 2·20 ” + Phenol (carbolic acid) trace. + Gum 0·12 grain. + + in one tablet. The amount of borax was equivalent to + 2·58 grains of the fully hydrated salt. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 17 tablets is one-twentieth +of a penny. + +Besides the “Catarrh Cure” referred to in the above as intended for use +with the tablets, there is a “Special Catarrh Cure” which costs 4s. a +package containing 460 pilules. + +On the package it is stated that: + + It cures the most aggravated cases of hawking and + spitting of mucus, stuffy or oppressed feeling in + the head, dryness or scabs in the nose, gloomy, dull + spirits, difficulty of breathing, dropping of mucus + from the head into the throat, and liability to take + cold easily. + +The directions are: + + Take four pellets every hour. Half quantity for children. + +The average weight of the pilules was ½ grain. On first opening the +bottle containing them a slight smell of alcohol was noticeable, but +the loss of weight on drying was only 0·08 per cent. No medicament of +any kind could be detected, nor any substance but sugar; determination +of the amount of the latter showed 100 per cent. to be present. + +From the odour of alcohol observed it is not unlikely that the pilules +had been “medicated” by treatment with some dilute tincture, but if so, +the amount of medicament so imparted was infinitesimal. + +The estimated cost of 460 pilules is one-tenth of a penny. + + +BIRLEY’S ANTI-CATARRH. + +The price charged for this fluid, sold by a London Company, is 1s. 1½d. +a bottle, containing nearly 3 fluid ounces. + +The bottle was accompanied by four pages of printed matter headed “The +Birley Monthly Report,” in which the “Anti-Catarrh” was included in +a “List and Prices of Dr. Birley’s Compounds of Free (or Unoxidised) +Phosphorus,” and described as “Special Remedy for Catarrh and +Influenza.” The following extracts are from the same circular, under +the heading “The Wonders of Phosphorus.” + + Free (or unoxidised) Phosphorus, whose chief seat or + situation is in the brain, is one of the most important + elements contained in our bodies. Without Free + Phosphorus there can be no thought, and very probably + no life.... + + One thing is proved beyond doubt, that the degree of + intellectual thought depends upon the amount of Free + Phosphorus in the brain, and just as the Phosphorus is + unduly wasted, so does the brain power weaken.... + + Free Phosphorus, it is thus shown, must be the saving + agent—no other means is possible. This one element + must be replaced. + +The directions are: + + For an ordinary cold take one teaspoonful every two + hours until better, then every third and fourth hour, + and finally night and morning. + + For severe attacks, commence by taking a dose every + hour until better, then gradually increase the period + between each dose as attack abates. For Children, give + half doses. + +Analysis showed the presence of: + + Sugar (partly as “invert sugar”) 74 parts. + Tartaric acid 1·15 parts. + Phosphoric acid 0·07 part. + Alcohol trace. + Water to 100 fluid parts. + +No free phosphorus could be detected, but the odour when the bottle was +first opened suggested the presence of a trace. From the presence of +a trace of alcohol it appears probable that an alcoholic solution of +phosphorus had been added, and that the phosphoric acid had been formed +by its oxidation. If the phosphorus found were in the free state each +fluid drachm would contain about ¹/₈₀ grain. The liquid was of a light +straw colour, probably produced by addition of a trace of colouring +matter. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 3 fluid ounces is ½d. + + + + +CHAPTER II. + +COUGH MEDICINES + + +There are probably few, if any, ailments more frequently treated by +the sufferer or his friends, without recourse to medical advice, than +coughs and colds. The remedies employed in such domestic practice +include preparations like “linseed tea” and others made at home, +but these no doubt are supplemented in very many instances by some +proprietary preparation, either one of those so largely advertised, or +the speciality of some local compounder. It might be contended that +here, if anywhere, is a legitimate field for the maker of nostrums, and +it is therefore of some interest to ascertain what is being supplied +in such nostrums. The particulars as to composition and claims made +which are given below show that they well illustrate the evils which +inevitably creep into the dealing in secret remedies, and the downward +steps which lead to purely swindling nostrums. One of the articles +now described bears on the label the unusual recommendation, “For +serious cases seek medical aid”; this preparation is recommended as a +“valuable aid” in various complaints, and the fact that it contains +morphine is stated clearly on the label, but information is not given +as to the amount of morphine present. Less modest claims are made +for competing articles, until we eventually reach such statements as +“all that is necessary is to take one dose of the lung tonic in warm +water on retiring to rest, and the cold will have disappeared in the +morning ... cure is quite certain,” and “If it fails no other medicine +will ever succeed.” Again, while the presence of morphine in one of +the medicines is plainly declared, as we have stated, this is not so +in other instances. In one of those in which on analysis morphine +was found to be present the advertisement begins with a “guarantee” +that the medicinal remedies contained in the lozenges cannot injure +the most delicate constitution, and includes the statement that they +may be safely administered to very young children; in another case +the specific declaration is made that “the cough pills do not contain +opium,” which would certainly be regarded by most people as meaning +that they do not contain the active principle of opium—morphine; and +yet this was found to be present. The uncertainty as to what the +composition of a secret medicine may be at any particular time is +illustrated by another of the articles described, which has in past +years been the subject of legal proceedings in the course of which the +presence of morphine was proved, but which is now found not to contain +any. + +The number of advertised proprietary medicines for the cure of coughs +is very large, and the number of those but little advertised and having +principally a local sale is still larger; the latter, as a rule, have a +good deal of resemblance to the advertised preparations. A selected few +of the most widely advertised of this class have been examined. + +The information which chemical analysis can give as to the composition +of proprietary medicines is necessarily limited to the recognition +of those ingredients which possess more or less definite chemical +properties. The makers, of course, can make use of any one or more +of a long series of vegetable extracts which very much resemble each +other, and of various sweetening and flavouring materials sold for +the purpose. In the case of many secret preparations analysis can +afford complete and positive information as to their composition; but +this is not so in every case, owing to many preparations commonly +used in pharmacy being devoid of definite active principles that can +be identified, and possessing no characters distinguishing them from +others of the same class. Many such preparations are likely to be +employed in cough mixtures; and, as these medicines usually contain a +large proportion of treacle, honey, extract of liquorice, decoction of +linseed, or some other old-fashioned complex preparations as basis, +the identification of small proportions of many substances which are +likely to be present becomes practically impossible. Many of the drugs +in recognised use for coughs, such as senega, Virginian prune, etc., as +well as domestic remedies like horehound and coltsfoot, are practically +safe from certain identification by chemical analysis for such reasons, +and in some of the preparations described below such substances may +perhaps be present in addition to the ingredients named. The receipts +given are not put forward as necessarily representing the whole of the +ingredients in the articles in question, but they probably include all +those which are of any importance or possess any known curative action. + +The chief interest in the composition of such medicines, however, +centres in the presence or absence of more potent remedies, such as +preparations of opium, ipecacuanha, etc.; and here the analyst is +on surer ground. The extraction of minute quantities of alkaloids +from complex mixtures containing large quantities of saccharine and +“extractive” matters is, however, a matter of much difficulty, and +their identification is complicated by the great similarity in the +behaviour of morphine and the alkaloids of ipecacuanha towards the +various reagents used in their recognition. In this connection it may +be pointed out that one or two of the nostrums here dealt with have +been the subject of fairly frequent legal proceedings in consequence +of their having been sold without proper observance of the poisons +regulations, and the evidence given in such cases has shown wide +differences in the results obtained by different analysts of high +standing, both as to the quantity of morphine present, and even as +to the fact of its presence or absence. In making the analyses here +recorded, great pains have been taken to obtain accurate results, and +they have been confirmed by the employment of alternative methods, +etc.; but the results can only be given subject to the caution just +expressed. + + +KAY’S LINSEED COMPOUND. + +This compound is sold by an English provincial company in bottles, +price, 9½d., 1s. 1½d., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. per bottle; the 2s. +9d. size contained a little over 5½ fluid ounces. + +This preparation is described on the label, wrapper, and in circulars, +both as “Linseed Compound,” which is given as the registered trade +mark, and as “Kay’s Compound Essence of Linseed, Aniseed, Senega, +Squill, Tolu, etc.” On the label it is also stated that it + + contains a preparation of chloroform and morphine, and + it is, therefore, labelled Poison. It is Demulcent, + Expectorant, Tonic, and Soothing for Colds, Coughs, + Asthma, Hoarseness, Difficulty of Breathing, + Consumption, and Simple Ailments of the Chest, Throat, + and Lungs. + +In a pamphlet enclosed in the package, this preparation is recommended +to be taken for Cold, Influenza, Sore Throat and Quinsey, Pulmonary +Catarrh, Bronchitis, Asthma, Consumption of the Lungs, Whooping Cough +and Croup. In most of these, however, it is recommended as a “valuable +aid” rather than a positive cure; other articles, such as ipecacuanha +wine, muriate of ammonia, cod liver oil, and chemical food, as well +as “Kay’s Linum Catharticum Pills,” are also recommended; while under +Bronchitis we read: + + In an acute attack, _i.e._, when the symptoms + are inflammatory with much fever, etc., _the family + doctor should at once be called in_. + +The directions on the label are as follows: + + Scale of Doses { To be modified according to the + { age or debility of the Patient. + + For over 21 years, a teaspoonful in water, at bedtime. + ” 12 ” half a teaspoonful ” ” + ” 6 ” 15 drops ” ” + ” 4 ” 10 ” ” ” + ” 2 ” 5 ” ” ” + + Half Doses may be taken three or four times a day. + It is not intended for Infants. + For serious cases seek medical aid. + +Analysis showed that 100 parts by measure contained 1·07 parts of +chloroform and 4·3 parts of alcohol, both by measure, and 67 parts of +solids; about 48 parts of the latter consisted of sugar, partly in the +form of invert sugar, and the remaining 19 parts consisted principally +of the mucilage of decoction of linseed; oil of aniseed was present, +and evidence was obtained of small quantities of preparations of tolu +and squill. Tho ipecacuanha alkaloids extracted amounted to 0·007 per +cent., and the morphine to 0·021 per cent. If the ipecacuanha were +present in the form of wine of the official strength, this represents: + + Ipecacuanha wine 42 minims. + Morphine ¹/₇ grain. + Chloroform 5 minims. + +in each fluid ounce. + + +OWBRIDGE’S LUNG TONIC. + +This is sold by another English provincial company, price, 1s. 1½d., +2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. a bottle; the 2s. 9d. size contained a +little over 6½ fluid ounces. + +It is stated on the wrapper that this: + + Cures Coughs, Colds, Asthma, Bronchitis, Influenza, and + all Affections of the Chest, Throat, and Lungs. + +Also, + + This Preparation does not contain any Opium, Laudanum, + or Morphine, therefore does not require a Poison Label. + +A pamphlet was enclosed in the package, from which the following is an +extract: + + Having once contracted a cold, however slight, it + is of the first importance to have it thoroughly + and radically removed. To do this it is worse than + useless to rely upon a few lozenges, or any of the + simple expedients to which many have recourse. Avoid + linseed poultices, which are excessively weakening, + and highly calculated to make the patient liable to a + second, and, perhaps, more severe cold than the first. + All that is necessary is to take one dose of the lung + tonic in warm water on retiring to rest, and the cold + will have disappeared in the morning. The lungs and + bronchial tubes will be fortified and invigorated + to an extraordinary degree. Should the cough not be + quite removed by the first dose, continue according to + directions. Cure is quite certain. + +The directions on the label were: + + Scale of Doses. + + Above 14 years one teaspoonful. + 6 to 14 years half a teaspoonful. + 3 ” 6 ” fifteen drops. + 1 ” 3 ” five to seven drops. + 6 months to 1 year three to five drops. + + Not to be given to a child under Six Months old. + + To be repeated 3 or 4 times a day, if necessary. + The doses given during the day should be mixed + with a little cold water, the one at bedtime in a + tablespoonful of warm water. + +Analysis showed that 100 parts by measure contained 0·3 part of +chloroform and 2 parts of alcohol, both by measure, and 89 parts of +solids; about 73 parts of the latter consisted of sugar, rather more +than half of which was in the form of invert sugar; it is probable that +this had been added in the form of honey, and that the remainder of the +solids consisted largely of the non-saccharine portion of the honey. +Oils of aniseed and peppermint were present, and evidence was obtained +of a very small quantity of a preparation of capsicum. The alkaloids of +ipecacuanha were found to the amount of 0·002 per cent.; if these were +present in the form of wine of the official strength, this represents: + + Ipecacuanha wine 15 minims. + Chloroform 2 ” + +in each fluid ounce. + + +POWELL’S BALSAM OF ANISEED. + +This fluid, prepared by a London maker, is sold in bottles, price, 1s. +1½d., 2s. 3d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. per bottle; the 2s. 3d. size contained +a little over 3 fluid ounces. + +In a circular enclosed with the bottle it was stated that: + + This old and invaluable Medicine has the extraordinary + property of immediately relieving Coughs, Colds, + Bronchitis, Hoarseness, Difficulty of Breathing, and + Huskiness in the Throat. It operates by dissolving + the congealed Phlegm, and thus promotes free + expectoration.... + + In Asthma, Chronic Cough, Influenza, Difficulty of + Breathing, etc., no pen can describe the wonders + that have been wrought by this deservedly popular + preparation. + +The directions for use were: + + For a Grown Person a teaspoonful two or three times a + day. For a child about 8 years old, 20 drops; and 12 + years, 40 drops. + + N.B.—Grown persons as well as children should take it + in a little gruel or warm water; or saturate a lump of + sugar with the above quantities is a pleasant way of + taking it. + +Analysis showed that 100 parts by measure contained 1·8 parts of +benzoic acid, about 4·2 parts of extract of liquorice, and 2 parts of +sugar, 40 parts by volume of alcohol, and enough oil of aniseed to +give a strong aniseed flavour; a very small quantity of an aromatic +resin, apparently benzoin, was also found, and 0·012 per cent. of +alkaloid. This alkaloid resembled morphine in its behaviour to +solvents, by which all the commoner alkaloids were excluded; but other +tests showed that it was not morphine, and it is possible that it was a +morphine derivative, such as dionine or peronine, but it was not found +practicable to establish its exact identity owing to the smallness +of the amount. Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed has, in the past, been the +subject of legal proceedings on several occasions, and evidence has +been brought in those proceedings proving that it contained morphine; +so that it would seem that its composition has been changed since then. + + +DR. KILMER’S INDIAN COUGH CURE. + +This preparation, stated to be made in U.S.A., is advertised from an +address in London. The price is 1s. 1½d. a bottle, containing 3 fluid +ounces. + +It was stated on the outside of the package that: + + This wonderful preparation contains no opium, morphine, + chloral, or other hurtful drugs, and therefore does + not dry up a cough. Every ingredient is from Vegetable + products which grow within sight of almost every + sufferer. It will not only help but cure the most + Chronic and Complicated cases. + +The directions were: + + Dose: ½, 1, or 2 teaspoonfuls every ½, 1, 2, 3, or 4 + hours as the case may require. Children—less according + to age. + +Analysis showed that 100 parts contained 63 parts of solids, of which +practically the whole was sugar; there was also present about 2 per +cent. of alcohol and about 0·5 per cent. of oil of pumilio pine, with +rather less than 0·1 per cent. of a resinous substance agreeing well +with the resins from compound tincture of benzoin; a small resinous +deposit also remained adhering to the inside of the bottle. A trace of +a bitter yellowish substance was present, which may have been the aloes +contained in the compound tincture, but did not agree perfectly with it +in character; the quantity was too minute for exact identification. No +alkaloid was present. + + +CROSBY’S BALSAMIC COUGH ELIXIR. + +This elixir, sold from a provincial English town, and wholesale through +a company in London, costs 1s. 1½d., 2s. 9d., and 4s. 6d. per bottle; +the 2s. 9d. size contained nearly 4¾ ounces. + +It was described on the label as: + + A safe, speedy, and effectual remedy for Coughs, Colds, + Hoarseness, Difficulty of Breathing, Wheezing and + Irritation of the Throat, Hooping Cough, Asthma, and + Incipient Consumption. + +In circulars enclosed with the bottle, its use in these various +complaints was more fully described; and it was stated further that:— + + It contains no opiates, and is absolutely + non-poisonous, and may therefore be taken with safety + by the young and aged alike. + +The directions given on the label were: + + For Children, one month to one year, 5 to 10 drops + in a little water. From one to five years, 10 to 20 + drops. From five to ten years, 20 to 30 drops. From ten + to fifteen years, 30 drops to one teaspoonful. From + fifteen years and upwards, one teaspoonful, gradually + increased to three teaspoonfuls, in a wineglassful of + water. + +Analysis showed that 100 parts by measure contained 65 parts of solid +matter, about 58 parts of which consisted of invert sugar, 10·6 parts +by volume of alcohol, a trace of chloroform, 1·35 parts of sulphuric +acid, and 0·3 part of acetic acid; a trace of an aromatic substance +probably derived from tolu was present, and a minute trace of alkaloid +(much less than 0·001 per cent.); the remainder appeared to consist +of extractive and colouring matter, and may have contained the +non-saccharine portion of honey if the invert sugar were added in that +form. A trace of acetic ether could be detected, and it is probable +that the acetic acid found represented acetic ether originally added, +which had undergone hydrolysis; in that case the amount of acetic ether +originally present would be 2¼ minims in 1 fluid ounce. The sulphuric +acid found corresponds to 44 minims of the official dilute sulphuric +acid in 1 fluid ounce. + + +VENO’S LIGHTNING COUGH CURE. + +This is prepared by a company in an English manufacturing town. The +price charged is 1s. 1½d. a bottle, containing 2¾ fluid ounces. + +On the label it was stated that: + + If it fails no other medicine will ever succeed. + It should be used in all cases of Coughs, Colds, + Bronchitis, Pleurisy, Sore Throat, Hoarseness, Asthma, + Croup, Whooping Cough, Influenza, and Catarrh. + + In most cases it should be used with Veno’s Lightning Fluid. + + Dose.—For an Adult, one teaspoonful; for a Child under + ten, half teaspoonful; for an Infant, five or ten drops + every two or three hours, during the day only. + +Analysis showed that 100 parts by measure contained 7·6 parts of +glycerine, 1·6 parts by volume of alcohol, a trace of chloroform, 0·23 +part of a resin, 0·2 part of alkaline ash, and 1·1 parts of extractive +and colouring matter. No alkaloid was present. The resin was not +aromatic, and possessed no well-marked characters, but showed some +resemblance to the resin of _Grindelia robusta_; the fluid extract of +this drug is prepared with the aid of alkali, and the strongly alkaline +nature of the ash found would agree with the presence of fluid extract +of grindelia, but positive proof of the presence of the latter could +not be obtained; the amount of resin found corresponds to about 7 +minims of the fluid extract in 1 fluid ounce. + + +KEATING’S COUGH LOZENGES. + +These lozenges are sold from an address in London in boxes, price, 1s. +1½d., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. per box; the 1s. 1½d. size contained +50 lozenges. + +A circular enclosed in the package was headed: + + Notice—Guarantee. + + The medicinal remedies contained in these lozenges + cannot injure the most delicate constitution. + +Another extract from the circular stated: + + Very many also of the Nobility and Clergy, and of the + public generally use them _under the recommendation + of some of the most eminent of the Faculty_. Such + medical testimony must be convincing of their efficacy + as well as conveying the satisfactory assurance of + their freedom from any medicine in the slightest degree + injurious to the constitution, Medical Men being well + aware of the deleterious effects of many preparations, + which in Pulmonary Affections do but mask the symptoms + for a time, and afford only temporary relief, while + perhaps the constitutional disease is aggravated, or + at least unsubdued. They may be safely administered to + females of the most delicate frame, and to very young + children, for they not only allay Cough and Nervous + Irritation, but they sustain the constitution, by + promoting a healthy state of the Digestive Organs. + They have immediate influence over the following + cases:—_Asthmatic and Consumptive Complaints, + Coughs, Shortness of Breath, Hoarseness, etc., etc._ + + Directions for Use. One or two, taken at bedtime, will + allay the irritation in the Throat, and prevent the + Cough from disturbing the patient during the night, + _and one also eight or ten times in the day_, when + the Cough is troublesome, will afford great relief. + +The average weight of the lozenges was 16½ grains; analysis showed +that they contained morphine, alkaloids of ipecacuanha, extract of +liquorice, sugar (partly as invert sugar), and gum; some evidence +was also obtained of the presence of extract of squill and tolu, +but positive proof of the identity of these was not obtainable. The +proportions of the various ingredients found corresponded to: + + Morphine 0·007 grain. + Ipecacuanha 0·07 ” + Extract of liquorice 2·1 grains. + Sugars 13 ” + +in one lozenge. + + +BEECHAM’S COUGH PILLS. + +These cough pills, sold from a town in Lancashire, cost 1s. 1½d. per +box, containing 56 pills. + +The following extracts are from a circular enclosed with the box: + + Persons suffering from Cough and kindred troubles + should relieve their minds of the idea that nothing + will benefit them unless it be in the form of a + lozenge, or taken as liquid. Let them try _Beecham’s + Cough Pills_, and they will never regret it. + + The _Cough Pills_ do not contain opium; they do + not constipate; they do not upset the stomach. On the + first symptoms of a Cold or Chill, a timely dose of + Beecham’s Cough Pills will invariably ward off all + dangerous features. For years many families have used + no other Winter Medicine. Householders and travellers + should avail themselves of this good, safe, and simple + remedy for Coughs in general, Asthma, Bronchial + Affections, Hoarseness, Shortness of Breath, Tightness + and Oppression of the Chest, Wheezing, etc. + + The doses may be from three to six pills morning, noon, + and night. + +The pills had an average weight of 1·4 grains. In spite of the +statement that they “do not contain opium,” analysis showed morphine to +be present, together with powdered squill, powdered aniseed, extract +of liquorice, and a resinous substance agreeing in character with the +resin of ammoniacum. Approximate determination of the proportions +of the ingredients is alone possible in such a mixture; the results +obtained pointed to the following formula: + + Morphine 0·0035 grain. + Powdered squill 0·1 ” + Powdered aniseed 0·3 ” + Ammoniacum 0·3 ” + Extract of liquorice 0·4 ” + +in one pill. + + +SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS. + + Dr. F. Zernik, assistant in the Pharmaceutical + Institute of the University of Berlin, undertook a + short time ago, at the invitation of the Editor of the + _Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_, to report + on some of the secret remedies which are thrown on the + market in such numbers in Germany as well as England. + It would appear that for the most part the remedies + advertised in Germany are not the same as those most + advertised in this country, but it is proposed in this + and subsequent chapters to give some abstracts from + the articles in which Dr. Zernik has from time to time + reported the results of his examinations. + + +DR. LAUSER’S COUGH DROPS. + + Dr. Zernik found on analysis that these Cough Drops + did not contain the ingredients alleged; there was + for instance only 3·35 per cent. of alcohol, although + the advertiser speaks of tinctures of 50 per cent. + In addition to this small proportion of alcohol the + mixture appeared to consist of a watery solution of + liquorice, an infusion of senna root, some ammoniated + solution of aniseed and small quantities of ammonium + chloride. + + +REICHEL’S COUGH DROPS. + + Reichel’s Cough Drops cost 1 mark for a bottle + containing 65 ccm., about 2¼ fluid ounces. The + purchaser is supposed to take 15 or 20 drops on + sugar or in water four or five times a day. It is + an alcoholic fluid, smelling and tasting of arnica, + pimpinella, and anise. + + +TUSSOTHYM. + + Tussothym, in spite of the wonderful qualities claimed + for it by the firm producing it, proved to be a weak + alcoholic distillate of thyme, diluted with water but + probably containing another indifferent drug. It is + advertised as good for all diseases of the respiratory + organs, and especially for whooping cough. + + +DR. B. ASSMANN’S WHOOPING COUGH REMEDY. + + This Whooping Cough Remedy is, according to the vendor, + so complicated that it is only made by himself, and + cannot be obtained elsewhere. The packet contains forty + powders, twenty of which are marked No. 1, and twenty + No. 2. The chemical analysis showed that each powder, + weighing 2 grams, consisted of milk sugar (lactose). No + other constituent was detected. + + + + +CHAPTER III. + +CONSUMPTION CURES. + + +Nostrums and quack medicines vary greatly in the extent to which +they constitute deliberate fraud. In the case of some of them, it is +easy to believe that the makers themselves have a certain faith in +their preparations, and recommend them in cases for which they are +unsuited with that bona fides which arises from ignorance, assisted, +unconsciously perhaps, by an appreciation of the profitable nature of +the business. Such preparations frequently contain some one or more +of the drugs in common use for the complaints for which the nostrum +is offered, and are even, occasionally, combinations compounded in +the first place from a medical prescription which may have been found +useful in certain appropriate cases. The injury to the public in such +instances arises from the excessive nature of the claims made, the +excessive price usually charged, and the probability of the advertised +medicine being taken in cases for which it is quite unsuitable, when it +may do harm positively by its effects or negatively by preventing the +sufferer from seeking proper advice. + +But with other proprietary medicines it is quite clear that the +makers cannot in the slightest degree believe in the claims they +make; the “remedy” in these cases is some substance or mixture +devoid of medicinal activity, or possessing some slight therapeutic +property having no relation to the disease for which the nostrum is +put forward as a cure. It is often, indeed, for inert preparations +that the most extravagant and emphatic claims are made; the makers, +and the advertisement-writers whom they employ, are untrammelled by +any necessity of squaring their statements with the real properties +of the thing to be recommended, and having set out consciously and +deliberately to deceive, they are able to give their whole attention to +telling the most effective stories in the most plausible manner, and +reaping the maximum of payment for the minimum of expenditure. People +who are ill or suffering are to be frightened with impressive pictures +of the aggravated suffering and premature death that await them unless +they take the “only cure” in question, therefore let them be frightened +thoroughly. Careful suggestion will induce people who are not ill +to believe that they or some of those dear to them are in the early +stages of some disease; therefore let everything possible in the way +of striking advertisements, personal letters, and repeated assertions +be utilised to produce the result. It is the victim’s money that is +wanted; therefore let the price be fixed high, and the advertisements +be written up to it. If it should be discovered by correspondence that +so much cannot be cajoled or frightened out of an individual sufferer, +the price can be reduced gradually as “special concessions,” in return +for which testimonials may be extracted. + +Of quack medicines the sale of which is conducted more or less on these +fines, two examples are described in this chapter, and other examples +will be enumerated later. + +One of the two now dealt with is “Tuberculozyne,” largely advertised +in Great Britain but apparently of American origin; it affords an +instructive example of the methods of the Transatlantic nostrum monger. +The two liquids sold under this name consist of little more than +coloured, flavoured water, but the modest price demanded is £2 10s. for +a month’s, supply. No effort is spared to induce the victim to continue +the “treatment” month by month, in spite of the evident absence of any +benefit, which is unblushingly accounted for by the seriousness of the +particular case, while the necessity of getting the system thoroughly +permeated with the remedy is insisted on. The sale of another +preparation advertised as a cure for consumption, Stevens’ Consumption +Cure, is conducted in a very similar way, but this time the herbs +are said to be African, and the odd names they bear certainly have +a Kaffir flavour. The vendor considerately warns the public against +American quacks and impostors and against the preposterous and wicked +swindles of Polish or German Jews. Although Stevens is so engagingly +candid about his rivals he follows the plan of sending one letter after +another to any sufferer whose name he may have obtained, a system which +seems to have been invented in America; it is certainly cheaper than +bold advertisement in newspapers, and is apparently found even more +satisfactory, as it enables the vendor to give individual attention +to the depth of his correspondent’s pocket if not to the severity of +his disease. But Stevens has somewhat bettered his instruction, and +his letters and circulars have a character of their own due to the +effrontery of his attitude toward the medical profession. Persons who +respond to the advertisement receive a list of questions to be answered +by the doctor who has attended them, and are advised to continue under +the observation of their medical man in order that the latter may be +impressed by the marvellous effects of the remedy. Not long ago a +circular letter was sent out to medical practitioners, asking them to +treat consumptive cases “which defy all the ordinary remedies” with +this secret preparation. The circular continues: “The great drawback to +my cure, so far as the medical profession is concerned, has always been +the fact that I would not reveal its formula. This is now done away +with; its formula is 80 grains of umckaloabo root and 13⅓ grains of +chijitse to every ounce, prepared according to _British Pharmacopœia_ +methods.” The farce of revealing a formula by the employment of such +fancy names as these is one of the oldest dodges of the quack medicine +man, and no such names as “umckaloabo” and “chijitse” appear in any +available work of reference on pharmacy. Enquiries made in various +parts of South Africa have been negative, experts in native matters +being unable to ascertain that the names were known. Further, the +Native Affairs Department of Cape Colony has caused enquiries to be +made in the Transkeian territories into the question whether the native +tribes there resident had any knowledge of “umckaloabo” and “chijitse,” +or of their reputed medicinal properties. The result of the inquiry +was entirely negative. Nothing was known of any such plants, nor was it +even possible to identify their names. Smith’s _South African Materia +Medica_ contains no record of any such names as “umckaloabo” and +“chijitse.” + +A similar system of repeated letters sent in series to the sufferer or +his friends appears to be followed by the Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, +Ltd., which carries on a home in the south of England but also treats +patients by correspondence. The proprietors, who would seem to hail +from Germany, issue a pamphlet with the title _Dum spiro spero_, which +is made up mainly of the usual testimonials, but contains also a sort +of outline of the physiology of various organs, taken from medical +works. The pamphlet does not differ from the ordinary productions of +advertising quacks; the terms are said to be very moderate, the more +so as it is the rule to make one charge only for the whole treatment, +the proprietors taking the risk of its being of long duration. It would +seem, however, that this arrangement is not always followed, for in a +“Diet Table” headed “Direction for Weidhaas Home Treatment” we find the +following: + + It is absolutely necessary that all patients, while + under my treatment, shall take the “Star Tonic” + regularly. + + On Rising.—Take one cup of “Star Tonic.” (This must be + always taken in sips only.) + + For Breakfast.—Take the delicately flavoured Nutritive + Salts Cocoa, boiled in milk (which, being specially + prepared for invalids, on account of the great + percentage of nutritive salts which no other cocoa + contains, is most suitable in your case....) + + Between Breakfast and Lunch take one or two tumblers of + milk. If possible this should always be taken in the + form of Kefyr, one of the easiest digestible nourishing + and strengthening tonics. (Full particulars of this are + enclosed herewith.)... + + Half an hour before mid-day meal.—(From 1 to 2 + o’clock.) Sip one cup of Star Tonic. + + For Mid-day Meal.—_Make it a strict rule to take + regularly green vegetables of some kind, such as + spinach, cabbage, lettuce, etc. A fair amount of these + should be taken daily._ To these may be added a + few potatoes, very little meat or fish, and now and + then, in the place of the latter, some pulses, such as + lentils (German are best).... + + At Tea Time.—If absolutely necessary, take a cup of + weak ordinary tea or health coffee; better still, take + a cup of Star Tonic, some _cold_ toast.... + + For Supper.—(Let this meal be not later than + two-and-a-half, or, better still, three hours before + going to bed.) Take either Cocoa or Kefyr.... + + Before going to bed.—Always make a point of taking one + glass of Kefyr or cup of Star Tonic. + + When in bed always have some cold “Star Tonic” near at + hand, and sip some when troubled with cough or acute + symptoms. + +At the bottom of the diet table is a notice to the following effect: + + “The above specially recommended articles can be had + from the Sales’ Department of the Weidhaas Hygienic + Institute, Ltd.” + +In the circular, referred to above as enclosed, Kefyr ferment is +offered for sale. + +In one case which was enquired into of a young man who had been induced +to obtain the treatment, his mother wrote to the institute complaining +that the treatment appeared to have done her son more harm than good. +The reply, after insisting that the remedy supplied was the very best +cure for his complaint, continued: “As to it lowering his vitality, let +me say that it is not unusual for patients to feel apparently worse in +the beginning, but it only shows that the treatment is disturbing the +cause of the trouble. Now, this is just what I want it to do. I want to +disturb it and thus drive it out of the system. I hope then you will +allow your son to proceed under my directions. Give the treatment a +fair trial and it will do all that is claimed for it.” The patient was +at the time in an advanced stage of pulmonary phthisis, and died of +hæmoptysis, of which he had had two previous attacks, seven weeks after +the letter quoted above was written. A month after his death a letter +was addressed to him by the director of the institute in the course of +which it was stated that: “Many patients do not gain immediate relief, +or even partial improvement during the early stages of the treatment, +but Perseverance and a faithful adherence to all my instructions will +invariably bring about the desired result.” + +Among the papers sent to an enquirer was a printed form which seems +worthy of reproduction, since it illustrates a method of getting +into touch with possible patients, which appears to be followed with +variations by other companies that appeal to the sick: + + R. B. + +_HAVE YOU FRIENDS WHO NEED OUR TREATMENT?_ + +If you know of anyone whom you think might derive benefit from the use +of our Home Treatment, you will do them and us a great favour by noting +hereon their names, addresses, and the trouble you believe them to be +afflicted with. Upon receipt of the names we will send them information +concerning our method of treatment, _but will not mention your name +unless you desire it_. + + -------------------+---------------------------+------------------- + Name. | Address. | Ailment. + -------------------+---------------------------+------------------- + | | + | | + | | + | | + | | + -------------------+---------------------------+------------------- + Please return to The Weidhaas Hygienic Institute. + +Some time ago a firm of pharmaceutical chemists in a provincial town +received a postcard from a company which offered 5s. for the name of +any patient suffering from diabetes, pointing out that “it is money +easily earned.” The pharmaceutical chemists expressed indignation at +the attempt to bribe them to commit a breach of confidence, but such +a request might not be so regarded by a patient, more especially if +the advertiser lays great stress upon his benevolent motives, and his +anxiety to benefit as many persons as possible. + +But although this letter-writing system with its paraphernalia of +biographies of the discoverer, typewritten personal letters, free +coupons and guarantee bonds is much in vogue, there are other nostrums +advertised in the old-fashioned way and sold at the familiar price of +1s. 1½d. for a small bottle. Among these are some old preparations for +coughs, for which more emphatic claims as remedies for consumption have +been made of late years. The result of the analysis of two of these +will first be given. + + +CONGREVE’S BALSAMIC ELIXIR. + +This preparation, advertised from an address in London, is sold in +bottles, price 1s. 1½d., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., 11s., and 22s. The 2s. 9d. +bottle contained 1⅖ fluid ounces, the 4s. 6d. bottle contained 4 fluid +ounces. + +On the outer package was to be read: + + Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir. Has had a World-wide + Reputation for 80 years as the Best Remedy for + Consumption, also for Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, + Coughs, Colds, and Whooping cough. Safe and Effective. + Free from any poison. + +The following extracts are from a circular enclosed with the bottle: + + In the most obstinate attacks of Asthma, which have + threatened speedy suffocation, when the sufferer, + harassed by excessive coughing, has laboured dreadfully + for breath, with an acuteness of agony not to be + described, this Balsam has restored the patient to + health, after the medical practitioner had abandoned + the usual means in despair. + + In Pulmonary Consumption, the best remedy is this + Balsamic Elixir, as most unquestionable Testimonials + prove. It has been successfully prescribed in + Consumptive cases regarded as hopeless by the first + physicians. + + Correspondence. Advice by letter from time to time + will be given to any patient whilst continuing Mr. + Congreve’s Treatment, provided that the 22s. or 11s. + bottles of Elixir are _obtained direct from_ [the + address given by the vendor in his advertisements] + during the period of correspondence. + +The directions were: + + _For adults._—Take a teaspoonful, alone or mixed + with honey or lump sugar, three or four times a day, as + the urgency of the case requires. Children from 8 to 15 + years may take two-thirds of a teaspoonful; from 5 to + 8 years, half a teaspoonful; from 2 to 5 years, twenty + drops; at six months, ten drops; younger infants from + four to six drops. + +The “elixir” was a bright red liquid; analysis showed it to contain +28·5 per cent. by volume of alcohol, and 2·6 per cent. of total +solids; the latter consisted of resinous constituents (about 0·5 per +cent.), sugar (about 1 per cent.), a little tannin, colouring matter +(apparently cochineal), and extractive. Alkaloid was present only to +the extent of a trace, under 0·001 per cent.; the extractive showed +no characters by which its source could be determined; the resinous +material was of an aromatic nature similar to the resins of benzoin, +storax, tolu, or balsam of Peru, and appeared to be derived from a +mixture of two or more of these. No other active ingredients were found +to be present. + + +THE BROMPTON CONSUMPTION AND COUGH SPECIFIC. + +The “Sole proprietor” gives an address in a part of London remote +from Brompton, but it is perhaps hoped that the name may suggest some +connection with the well-known Brompton Consumption Hospital. The price +charged is 1s. 1½d., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. per bottle; the 2s. 9d. +bottle contained 3⅔ fluid ounces. + +The origin of the preparation is thus described: + + This Specific is prepared from the Prescription of an + eminent Physician, who practised nearly forty years + in Madeira, he was celebrated for his success in the + treatment of Consumption and diseases of the Chest. + Upon a visit to this country some years since, he gave + the Prescription to a late Physician, who tried it upon + five hundred out-patients; its effect was wonderful; + it acted like magic upon their Coughs, and prevented + that great waste of strength and flesh peculiar to + this disease. It will save the lives of thousands and + prevent Consumption, by administering it upon the first + symptoms of Cough, which will be immediately cured by a + few doses. + +In a circular enclosed with the bottle it was stated: + + A Cough is the forerunner of Consumption. In England + alone 50,000 people die of it thus constituting + one-fourth of the nation’s death rate annually. It + has destroyed more human beings than War, Pestilence, + and Famine combined; it neither spares the old nor + young, “and there is no family in which this rapacious + destroyer of the human race has not had its victim.” It + is a well-known fact that people with diseased lungs + can live for years, and follow their usual avocations + in life, provided they are relieved of the principal + feature of the disease—the Cough—which shakes and + destroys the very elements of the blood, upon which + life is supported. How very valuable and important to + all, then, must a medicine be which will arrest and + cure so fearful a malady! + +The directions were: + + _Dose._—One teaspoonful three times a day and at + bedtime. It may be repeated at night, or at any time + when the Cough is troublesome.—Children over five + years of age, one-third of a teaspoonful. + +The following appeared on the outside wrapper: + + In conformity with the Sale of Poisons Act, 1868, this + preparation, containing a minute quantity of Laudanum + and Chloroform, must be labelled Poison, but its + composition remains unaltered. + +The preparation was a syrupy liquid of pleasant odour and taste, +resembling diluted treacle. Analysis showed it to contain in 100 fluid +parts, 61·4 parts of total solids; of this, 35·5 parts were glucose +and 9·9 parts cane sugar, and 2·6 parts ash, consisting principally +of calcium sulphate. Chloroform, referred to on the wrapper, was not +present in sufficient traces to be detected; alkaloid was present +to the extent of 0·025 part in 100 fluid parts, of which 0·015 part +appeared to consist of the alkaloids of ipecacuanha, and approximately +0·01 part was morphine. The difference between the sugars found and the +total solids would be fully accounted for by the non-saccharine portion +of treacle; extractive contained in the preparations of ipecacuanha and +opium used would also be included in this. Small proportions of other +drugs having no well-marked characters might possibly also be present; +there was no evidence of any further ingredients, but in the presence +of so large a proportion of treacle small quantities of indifferent +substances it would not be possible to detect. + +About 1 per cent. by volume of alcohol was present; assuming liquid +extract of ipecacuanha and tincture of opium to have been the +preparations of these drugs used, the formula is approximately: + + Liquid extract of ipecacuanha 0·75 part. + Tincture of opium 1·3 parts. + Treacle 75 parts. + Water to 100 fluid parts. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 3⅔ fluid ounces, ¾d. + + +STEVENS’ CONSUMPTION CURE. + +This is advertised as manufactured only by C. H. Stevens. The price is +5s. per bottle, containing 2¼ fluid ounces. + +This preparation does not appear now to go under any other name than +that of “Stevens’ Consumption Cure”; as regards its past history, the +following extract from _Truth_ Cautionary List for 1908 is of interest: + + Stevens, C. H.—The proprietor of a remedy for + consumption which has been put on the market in South + Africa and England under the name of Sacco, and later + in South Africa as Lungsava, the recipe for which is + stated to have been long in use amongst the Kaffirs and + Zulus. In connection with the advertising of Sacco in + England, an article which appeared in _Truth_ was + circulated in a mutilated form, omitting a condemnation + of its sale as an absolute remedy for consumption. + Stevens has acquired a number of testimonials from + medical men, who must now regret their precipitate + action. He is now in England on a new campaign. + +The claims made for this preparation were put forward in printed +circulars, and in letters, apparently printed in imitation of +typewriting, sent at intervals to an applicant for particulars of the +cure. Extracts from these are here given: + + It has been admitted the world over that there is + no remedy known to the Medical Fraternity to really + cure Consumption, so it is preposterous to claim the + ordinary drugs that are known to every Chemist even, to + cure this disease, just because they are given a fancy + name, and advertised by a Polish or a German Jew; it is + not only preposterous but a wicked swindle. + + There is no other treatment, drug, or medicine + advertised in Great Britain to-day to cure Consumption, + the ingredients of which are not known to every doctor + and chemist in the world, and if you cannot obtain + relief from these under the care of your own Medical + Adviser, how can you be cured by using them on the + advice of an American Quack. + + Your own doctor will bear out what I say. Most of these + American Impostors come to England after the U.S.A. + Post Office Authorities have refused to convey their + letters. + + I do not say in my advertisements “Consumption can be + cured,” “Consumption is curable,” or any such evasive + remarks, but I say “_I will guarantee to cure you_ + if you are consumptive, or _return your money_ in + full,” and that my terms are “No Cure, No Pay.” + + The African herbs which my Cure is prepared from have + never been used by any white Doctor or Chemist before + I introduced same to civilization a few years ago. + These herbs are original and have defied our cleverest + Analysts to discover the active principals they + contain.... + + I only returned to England a few weeks ago to prove my + Cure to the satisfaction of the British Government, + having been absent for many years.... + + It does not matter whether a Doctor is attending + patients or not whilst they are under my treatment, + although I always prefer a Doctor to be in attendance + to see the cure being effected because I particularly + wish to convince the Medical fraternity of the + genuineness of my cure. + +From the first letter: + + Usually two or three weeks’ treatment is quite + sufficient to make a substantial improvement, and a + three months’ course, in most cases, is sufficient to + effect a cure. + +From the second letter: + + Let me send you a two weeks’ treatment, which is more + than sufficient to completely stop the progress of the + disease. + +From a later letter: + + In spite of the mountains of prejudice to be overcome, + I intend to prove that at last something has been + discovered that will destroy the Tubercle Bacillus + without being detrimental in any way to the human + system; in fact, besides destroying this germ, it + is a strong tonic, and will invigorate a healthy + body as well as bring back to its normal condition a + Consumptive one.... + + Now you must know that throughout the world our + clever Scientists and most Prominent Specialists on + Consumption have for ages past spent their lives trying + to find something which will destroy the Tubercle + Bacillus without injuring the human system. They have + had everything at their command; the most up-to-date + Sanatoria, the cleverest Nurses, and the pick of + climates, yet they have failed, though every drug and + remedy known, including every ingredient contained in + any proprietary medicine or cough mixture ever heard of + has been exhaustively tested in every shape and form. + My treatment differs in this one great respect, that + none of the ingredients have ever been used before by + any Chemist or Doctor, and are an entirely original + discovery.... + + I will give any Doctor its formula who requests it, and + will supply him free of charge with all the treatment + he needs for experimental purposes, and you must see + that I can gain nothing by doing all this unless my + treatment positively cures Consumption, as I claim it + to do. + +On the back of the printed letter quoted above appeared the following: + + +GUARANTEE BONDS. + + The following are specimens of my guarantee Bonds. + No. 1, I give to any sufferer who is considered by + his Doctor to have at least six months to live in the + ordinary course of matters. Terms of No. 2 Bond have to + be mutually arranged. I do not accept any money under + this Bond until all the conditions are fulfilled. + + + NO. 1 GUARANTEE BOND. + + To Mr. In consideration of you having paid me £2 12s. + 6d. for a three months’ course of my treatment for + consumption, I hereby guarantee that your health has, + at the end of the three months, considerably improved + to the satisfaction of yourself and also of your Doctor + (who must be a practitioner registered in the British + Isles) under a penalty of refunding the whole of the + amount paid, viz., £2 12s. 6d. + (Signed) C. H. STEVENS. + + Broadway, Wimbledon. + + NO. 2 GUARANTEE BOND. + + I hereby guarantee that it will be impossible to find + any trace of the Tubercle Bacillus in your system and + that you will be completely cured of Tuberculosis + (consumption) to the satisfaction of your own + Doctor and the Government Laboratory on or before, + ______________ 19___. + + The only condition being that the sum of £_______, is + paid to me when this guarantee is fulfilled. + (Signed) C. H. STEVENS. + + Broadway, Wimbledon. + +These are “specimens” of guarantee Bonds. Another document, however, +which appeared to be the guarantee bond actually given, differed in +containing a clause by which the patient: + + hereby agrees to take same [_i.e._, Stevens’ + Consumption Cure] according to the directions sent out + with the medicine, for three calendar months from date + hereof, and to follow as far as possible the advice + given regarding habits of life, diet, etc., and to fill + in the form on counterfoil attached, correctly. + +The “form on counterfoil attached” contained a number of questions +to be answered by the patient, and also a portion “to be filled in +by a Medical Practitioner after the above has been filled in by the +Patient,” including such questions as: + + How long have you attended to this Patient? + + Do you consider this a mild, severe, or hopeless case? + + Do you consider this Patient has a fair chance of + recovery providing Stevens’ Consumption Cure is all it + is claimed to be? + +and on the back the following appeared: + + This Guarantee must not be given by a chemist or any + one else until it is signed by a registered Medical + Practitioner to the effect that he considers the + Patient to have at least six calendar months to live. + +Thus the appearance was maintained of guaranteeing benefit or cure, +and refunding the money if the undertaking were not fulfilled; but the +conditions to be complied with were such that it appears unlikely that +Mr. Stevens is ever troubled with applications for return of money +under one of his “Bonds.” + +A “detailed direction sheet” was supplied, from which the following is +taken: + + One teaspoonful in a wineglass of water (as hot as + can be conveniently taken for preference) one hour + before breakfast and two hours after the last meal + in the evening, unless the patient be in the habit + of waking between 12 midnight and 3 a.m., in which + case an extra dose may be taken then. After the first + week’s treatment half-an-hour before breakfast is quite + sufficient. + +It appears that the use of this wonderful substance is not limited to +consumption cases. + + Stevens’ Consumption Cure is a vegetable germicide, + fatal to all disease germ growths, but acts as a strong + tonic; is a blood purifier, stomach cleanser, and a + nerve stimulator; one will readily understand that + it must be all these to cure Consumption and build + up a broken-down system entirely by itself. Stevens’ + Consumption Cure can safely be advantageously given + wherever a germ disease exists or is suspected. + +One of the most recent circulars sent out by Mr. Stevens is addressed +to medical practitioners, asking them to use his remedy in severe cases +of pulmonary tuberculosis which defy all the ordinary remedies, and +professing to give the formula of the preparation as follows: + + Its formula is 80 grains of Umckaloabo root and 13 and + one-third grains of Chijitse to every ounce, prepared + according to British Pharmacopœia methods. + +The medicine was a clear red liquid, and analysis showed it to +contain in 100 fluid parts, 21·3 fluid parts of alcohol, 1·8 parts +of glycerine, and 4 parts of solid substance; this solid substance +contained about 1 part of a tannin and 0·2 part of ash, the remainder +being extractive. No alkaloid was present and no other active substance +could be detected. The solid substance agreed in all respects with the +solids of decoction of krameria, or a mixture of this decoction with a +little tincture of kino. The formula thus appears to be approximately: + + Rectified spirit of wine 23·7 parts by measure. + Glycerine 1·8 parts. + Decoction of krameria (1 in 3) to 100 parts by measure. + +or it may be made with tincture of krameria. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 2¼ fluid ounces, 1½d. + + +TUBERCULOZYNE. + +The Derk P. Yonkerman Company, Ltd., an American company with an agency +in London, charges £2 10s. 0d. for a month’s treatment and supplies +two bottles, labelled respectively No. 1 and No. 2 Tuberculozyne, and +containing in each between 11 and 12 fluid ounces of liquid. + +The advertisement offered a book on “Consumption and how it may be +quickly cured,” and a trial of the cure itself, to be sent free. +Application for the book and sample brought bottles of “No. 1 +Tuberculozyne” and “No. 2 Tuberculozyne,” holding about ½ ounce each, +and a book of 48 pages dealing with the remedy. A few extracts from the +book will sufficiently indicate the nature of its contents. + + There have been found cures for small-pox, and safe + precautions, such as vaccination, prevent the spread + of the disease; the horror of yellow fever has been + dispelled by a remedy that amounts practically to a + cure, and one could always flee to a northern clime and + escape it. The dread diphtheria also has yielded up its + dark secret, and now is no more a stalking spectre; + while yet dangerous it can be handled. + + But through all these discoveries, consumption remained + as mysterious and deadly as ever. It invaded the homes + of the rich and the poor. It hunted out its victims + among the inhabitants of the far northland of ice and + snow, and it was just as persistent in the temperate + zone and at the equator. + + Climate, temper, condition of health or purse made no + difference. One day the health and strength of the + athlete, and the next day the fever of the consumptive; + in a short time the frail skeleton would be laid + away—another victim. That was the oft-repeated story + of the “great white plague.” + + But this horrible, awful consumption, that has gone + stalking through the land, should never again strike + the same terror to the souls of brave men and women, + and fill our hearts with such a helpless despair—for + consumption can now be cured. Tuberculozyne + (Yonkerman), the most wonderful and marvellous medical + discovery of the age, cures consumption.... + + After researches lasting for nearly twenty years, the + persistent efforts of Dr. Derk P. Yonkerman have been + crowned with success, for his Tuberculozyne treatment + has already been proved in hundreds of cases to be + a specific of almost miraculous curative power. Its + healing virtues have been demonstrated in not only the + early stages of consumption, but in far advanced and + seemingly hopeless cases as well.... + + Tuberculozyne (Yonkerman) was such a marvellous remedy + that when its discoverer first announced he could + cure consumption there were few ready to believe. He + had, however, discovered certain salts of copper of + remarkable therapeutic value, and his production was + immediately subjected to the most elaborate and rigid + demonstrative tests.... + + The consumption germs (tubercle bacilli) cannot live + in the presence of copper, and as the Tuberculozyne + treatment introduces copper into the blood, the + consumption germs cannot live.... + + Intra-Venous Injection, after thorough tests under + the most favourable conditions, proved absolutely + ineffective. Trachael (_sic_) Injection has + also been tried with equally unsatisfactory results. + Inoculation with lymph from tuberculous animals not + only utterly failed, but frequently hastened the + patient’s death. Antimony, prussic acid, emetics, + blisters, mercury, iron, digitalis, clover, and + numerous other drugs, have all proved useless, for + they failed to have any action upon the cause of the + disease, and only gave the patient temporary relief, if + they produced any beneficial effects at all. + + In treating consumption in the past, physicians making + Tuberculosis a speciality have been accustomed to + recommend creosote and its product guaiacol, while + later arsenic has found a certain amount of favour. + These physicians have undoubtedly been honest and + conscientious in prescribing such treatment, for + they were upheld by the practice of years, and the + indorsement of the greatest specialists in each + generation for a hundred years. Yet they were wrong; + just as wrong and just as ignorant of the true remedy + for consumption as the ancients were of geography + before the new world was discovered. + + Against the use of creosote or guaiacol, Dr. Yonkerman + speaks positively and emphatically, and his opinions + have now the support of all present-day physicians + making Tuberculosis their special study. + +A “Life History of Dr. Derk P. Yonkerman” was also given, from which it +appeared that the home of Tuberculozyne is in Michigan, U.S.A. + +The book was accompanied by a long letter, and this was followed at +intervals by others; these were all printed to appear as typewritten, +and dealt chiefly with the terrors of consumption if neglected, the +importance of taking Tuberculozyne at once, and, after a supply had +been sent, with the necessity of continuing its use even if no apparent +benefit results. A few extracts are here given: + + You need not be discouraged or believe your case + incurable, even if you have tried all the usual + remedies and found no relief, for hundreds of our cured + patients have had the same experience; after all other + remedies had failed to even stop the progress of their + disease, they tried Tuberculozyne and were quickly + cured. + +From the third letter: + + We realize that since you were taken ill your expenses + must have been burdensome, and if you feel that + at the moment the cost of a complete treatment of + Tuberculozyne is more than you can readily meet, we + will send you the full month’s supply upon receipt of + but 40s.; the remaining 10s. you may pay at your own + convenience when you are fully satisfied that your cure + is complete and permanent. + +From the fifth: + + It is therefore with a genuine desire to help you that + we write enclosing a Special Voucher Coupon issued in + your name, which will help you materially if the cost + of our remarkable specific has been more than you could + really meet.... This Special Voucher Coupon which we + have issued to you is good for £1 Sterling when sent + with your order for Tuberculozyne. You have only to + post the coupon together with 30s., and immediately we + will forward to you the complete treatment and full + instructions for its use. + +From later letters: + + Even if her improvement is not at once pronounced, do + not be discouraged; for in some cases the patients + at first even seemed to be losing ground, but they + persevered and finally were cured. It would be much + better to take the treatment a few weeks too long than + to stop too soon.... + + Just at this time, when the patient has been taking + our treatment for some weeks and it is beginning to + permeate her system through and through, courage is + needed, for great improvement may not yet be apparent + though her cure be assured. + +Every letter was accompanied with one lithographed copy, or more, of +testimonials. + +The directions were: + + After each meal, put thirty drops of the medicine from + each bottle into a tumbler of milk; stir well and drink + immediately. + + If milk is distasteful, the medicine may be taken in + water which has been boiled. + + For patients between the ages of seven and fifteen + years, give one-half of the above dose; for those under + seven years, give five (5) drops only, from each bottle. + +No. 1 was a bright red liquid; analysis showed it to contain in 100 +fluid parts, 3·4 parts of potassium bromide, 12 parts of glycerine, +a trace of a pungent substance, sufficient oil of cinnamon (or oil +of cassia) to give a flavour, a very small quantity of alcohol, and +cochineal colouring matter darkened with a trace of alkali; no copper +was present. The following formula gave an exactly similar liquid: + + Potassium bromide 3·4 parts. + Glycerine 12·0 ” + Oil of cassia 0·1 part. + Tincture of capsicum 0·17 ” + Cochineal colouring q.s. + Caustic soda 0·06 part. + Water to 100 fluid parts. + +No. 2 was a brown liquid, one specimen being bright and another +containing a little sediment. Analysis showed it to contain in 100 +fluid parts, 18 parts of glycerine, sufficient essential oil of almonds +to give a flavour, and a colouring matter which appeared to be burnt +sugar. No copper was found in the small free sample, but the larger +bottle of No. 2 contained 0·01 per cent. of copper, and a trace of +sulphate: this quantity of copper is equivalent to ¹/₄₈ grain of +crystallised copper sulphate in each fluid drachm. As regards the other +ingredients the following formula gave an exactly similar liquid: + + Glycerine 18 parts. + Essential oil of almond 0·1 part. + Burnt sugar q.s. + Water to 100 fluid parts. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for No. 1 and No. 2 together is 2½d. + + The following notes on some German nostrums for + Consumption are derived from Dr. Zernik’s articles in + the _Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_. + + +KÖRBER’S CURE FOR CONSUMPTION. + + The advertisements of this preparation are described + as particularly flagrant. Treatment for a fortnight + costs about 12s., and the medicine contains butter fat, + honey, catechu and tar-water. + + +BACILLENTOD. + + Bacillentod or “death to bacilli” also described as a + “family tea,” is advertised as a miraculous preparation + which cures all diseases of the respiratory tract. + In the prospectus the word “phthisis” is misspelt. + One packet costs 1s., and consists of 85 grams of + galeopsidis, the dog, flowering, or hemp nettle, a herb + which is now quite obsolete but was an ingredient of + “Lieber’s tea for consumption,” which used to have an + extended sale. + + +HONEY COD LIVER OIL. + + Pastor Felke’s Honey Cod Liver Oil is recommended in + preference to the ordinary forms of cod liver oil, on + account of its pleasant taste and of the absence of + any disturbing effect on the digestion. It is said to + contain “fat extracted cod liver oil,” whatever that + may mean, but proved on examination to be nothing more + than a mixture of 0·05 per cent. of cod liver oil with + oil of peppermint and raspberry syrup. + + + + +CHAPTER IV. + +HEADACHE POWDERS. + + +Headache is so common a disorder that it was to be expected that secret +remedies asserted to be certain and safe cures would be extensively +advertised, and the sale, especially to women, of headache powders, in +most cases as proprietary articles, is at the present day undoubtedly +enormous. Persons who may be disposed to resort to their use should, +however, bear two facts in mind; the first is that headache is not +a disease but a symptom, and that the only rational treatment is to +ascertain and remove the cause, whether it be error in diet, want of +exercise, local irritation of some nerve as by an unhealthy tooth, +eyestrain, or some serious chronic nervous disease. The second is that +fatal results have been known to follow self-treatment with antifebrin +(acetanilide), which figures largely in most of them. + +The powders analysed were in all cases obtained from ordinary dealers +in unopened packages; the composition of each is given in such a way +as to show the dose of each article in one powder of average weight. +Since the separation of the ingredients depends largely on their +different solubilities in various liquids, it is not possible to obtain +quantitative results having quite the same degree of accuracy as in +some other kinds of analytical work; but the results of analysis have +been checked by preparing mixtures of the composition calculated and +submitting them to the same analytical process; the possible error in +the proportions given below does not in any instance exceed a very +small fraction. + + +DAISY POWDERS. + +The English Company which sells this remedy charges 7½d. for 10 +powders; the average weight of one powder was 6 grains, but the weight +of individual powders in a packet was found to vary from 5·7 to 6·4 +grains. + +The medicament consisted of acetanilide alone. Being an unmixed drug +it was not liable to stamp duty, and the package was accordingly +unstamped. The dose was stated to be one powder, repeated in two hours +if necessary; half a powder for children of 12 years; not adapted for +children under 12 years. + +Two “certificates” were printed on each wrapper from individuals who +are notorious for giving testimonials in the guise of certificates +of analysis. The only fact certified was that the powders were “free +from any injurious substance,” in which medical opinion will scarcely +support the writers. + +The estimated cost of the drug (60 grains) in a packet is one-eighth of +a penny. + +The same Company also supplies “Head powders prepared by Daisy, Ltd.,” +the wrappers being printed in such a way that careful inspection was +required to distinguish these from the powders sold as “Daisy powders.” +The “head powders” were found to consist of phenacetin only. + + +CURIC WAFERS. + +These so-called wafers, also put up by an English Company, are +recommended as a “safe and certain cure for headache, toothache, and +neuralgia”; stated to be prepared “from the Prescription of an Eminent +West-End Physician.” + +The “wafers” consisted of ordinary cachets, with the name of the +article embossed on one face. They contained the medicaments in the +form of powder. The package contained 12 wafers for 1s. 1½d. The +average weight of the contents of one wafer was 8·2 grains, but that of +the contents of individual wafers in a package varied from 7·3 to 9·3 +grains. Analysis showed the composition of the powder to be: + + Acetanilide 3·28 grains + Phenacetin 3·28 ” + Caffeine citrate 1·64 ” + +Directions for taking the wafers were given, but it was not stated +whether the dose is one or more. + +The estimated cost of the drugs (98·4 grains) in a packet is +nine-tenths of a penny. + + +STEARNS’S HEADACHE CURE. + +This remedy, advertised by an American Company with agents in London, +is recommended as “A Speedy, Certain, and Safe Cure for Headaches of +all Origins, whether Sick, Bilious, Nervous, or Hysterical.” + +Like the foregoing it was put up in cachets described as wafers. The +package contained 12 wafers for 1s. The average weight of the powder +contained in one wafer was 9·8 grains; but the weight of individual +wafers in a package varied from 9·3 to 10·2 grains. + +Analysis showed the composition of the powder to be: + + Acetanilide 3·92 grains. + Caffeine 0·98 grain. + Sugar of milk 4·90 grains. + +The dose was one wafer. “If relief is not obtained, repeat in an hour, +but more than two wafers should not be taken.” + +The estimated cost of the drugs (118 grains) in a packet is a little +under ½d. + + +BELL’S FAIRY CURE. + +This Fairy Cure, which is put up by an English Company, is stated to +give relief instantly in all cases of neuralgia, headache, etc. A +handbill enclosed in the package made further claims, from which the +following extracts are taken, “guaranteed to be an instant and absolute +cure” for “neuralgia, headache, brain fag, nerve pains.” “Nothing else +is like it. Nothing else is so good. Don’t compare it with ordinary +‘cures’ or ‘powders.’ Fairy Cure stands absolutely alone.” + +Ten powders were sold for 7d. The average weight of a powder was 2·7 +grains, but individual powders in a package varied from 2·0 to 3·7 +grains. + +Analysis showed the composition of the powder to be: + + Acetanilide 1·16 grains. + Phenacetin 1·16 ” + Caffeine 0·38 grain. + +The directions were to take one powder, “repeat in an hour if +necessary, then every two or three hours until a cure is effected.” Yet +it is guaranteed to be an instant cure! There was a notice that it was +not to be given to children below 12 years of age. + +In this case also an “analyst’s report” was given on the wrapper; it +stated that the powder “is composed of several organo-therapeutic +agents well-known in medicine”; probably the “analyst” did not mean +quite what he said in the following: “In my opinion, the preparation +is well calculated to fulfil the purpose for which it is intended, +namely—neurotic affections.” + +The estimated cost of the drugs (27 grains) in a package is ¼d. + + +KAPUTINE. + +This preparation, put up by an English Company, is stated to cure in +ten minutes headache, neuralgia, and all nerve pains. In view of the +similarity in composition of these articles, the claims to uniqueness +are amusing. In this case the wrapper bore the words “Nothing as good. +Nothing similar,” while on the circular enclosed in the package it was +stated that “Kaputine is composed of several approved ingredients. +That is, unlike the white headache powders, which consist solely of +one crude drug, and which have frequently been condemned as dangerous +by the Medical Press—Kaputine is most carefully prepared from several +ingredients which have the absolute confidence of the Medical +Profession.” + +The price of 18 powders is 1s. 1½d. The average weight of one powder +was 6·6 grains; the weight of individual powders in a package varied +from 5·7 to 7·5 grains. + +Analysis showed the composition of the powder to be: + + Acetanilide 6·30 grains. + Ferric oxide 0·05 ” + Sugar 0·21 ” + +That is, the acetanilide was tinted pink with what is practically the +saccharated carbonate of iron of the _British Pharmacopœia_. + +The dose was given as one powder: “If not completely cured in two +hours, the dose may be repeated. Half a powder for children under 12.” + +The estimated cost of the drugs (119 grains) in a packet is just over +¼d. + + +HOFFMAN’S HARMLESS HEADACHE POWDERS. + +These powders are prepared by a New York Drug Company, but the package +also bears the name of another company, presumably the English agents. +The powders are described as “a simple and effective cure for all +headaches.” + +Ten powders were sold for 1s. 1½d. The average weight of one powder was +10·5 grains; nine out of ten weighed from 9·3 to 10·5 grains, the tenth +weighing 15·3 grains. + +Analysis showed the composition of the powder to be: + + Acetanilide 5·02 grains. + Cocoa 4·02 ” + Sodium bicarbonate 1·01 ” + +The dose was given as one powder, to be repeated in half an hour if not +relieved. + +Estimated cost of drugs (105 grains), one-third of a penny. + + +WHOLESALE AND RETAIL SPECIALITIES. + +In addition to the above proprietary articles, large numbers of +headache powders are supplied singly by retailers, and are commonly +bought for this purpose ready packed from a wholesale house. It was, +therefore, thought worth while to examine a sample of such powders; +the one taken for the purpose is known as the “Good as Gold” headache +powder; three dozen were attached to a card for exhibition, and the +powders are retailed at 1d. each. The average weight was found to be +2·8 grains, six individual powders ranging from 2·7 to 2·9 grains. The +powders consisted of acetanilide only. + +The estimated cost of the drug for three dozen powders is ¼d. + +There is reason to believe that practically all the others sold in this +way are of the same composition. + + + + +CHAPTER V. + +BLOOD PURIFIERS. + + +Although, as a rule, the makers of any kind of quack medicine find no +difficulty in showing that almost any disease that can be named takes +its rise in the organs or part of the system which their own particular +nostrum professes to benefit, it is, of course, particularly easy to +connect a great variety of diseases with the condition of the blood. +The claims made for some of the following “blood purifiers” do not fail +in comprehensiveness, for ringworm and itch, among other complaints, +appear to be regarded as disorders of the blood. + + +CLARKE’S WORLD-FAMED BLOOD MIXTURE. + +This is advertised and sold by an English Drug Company, price 2s. 9d. a +bottle, containing 8¼ fluid ounces. + +The following passages are quoted from a pamphlet enclosed with the +bottle: + + No matter what the symptoms may be, the real cause of a + large proportion of all diseases is bad blood. Clarke’s + World-famed Blood Mixture is not recommended to cure + every disease; on the contrary, there are many that + it will not cure; but it is a guaranteed cure for all + blood diseases.... It never fails to cure Scrofula, + Scurvy, Scrofulous Sores, Glandular Swellings and + Sores, Cancerous Ulcers, Bad Legs, Secondary Symptoms, + Syphilis, Piles, Rheumatism, Gout, Dropsy, Blackheads + or Pimples on the Face, Sore Eyes, Eruptions of the + Skin and Blood, and Skin Diseases of every description. + +On the label it was stated: + + The Mixture is pleasant to the taste, and warranted + free from anything injurious to the most delicate + constitution of either sex, which all Pills and most + Medicines sold for the above diseases contain. + + Directions: The mixture must be taken about + half-an-hour after meals, in the following doses:— + + _For Adult Males._—One tablespoonful four times a day. + ” _Adult Females._—One tablespoonful three times a day. + ” _Children under 12 years of age._—Two teaspoonfuls + three times a day. + ” _Under 12 years._—From half to one teaspoonful, according + to age, mixed with a little water and sugar. + +Analysis showed the mixture to contain 1·5 per cent. of potassium +iodide, 1·2 per cent. of sugar (partly inverted), 1·6 per cent. by +volume of alcohol, and traces of chloroform and ammonia, a brown colour +being given by a small quantity of what was evidently burnt sugar. The +composition of 8 ounces is thus: + + Potassium iodide 52·5 grains. + Spirit of sal volatile 10 minims. + Spirit of chloroform 67 ” + Simple syrup 50 ” + Burnt sugar q.s. + Water to 8 fluid ounces. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients is 1⅓d. + + +OLD DR. JACOB TOWNSEND’S AMERICAN SARSAPARILLA. + +This is sold by a Company having offices in London. A bottle, holding a +little under 9 fluid ounces, costs 2s. 6d. + +On the wrapper it was stated: + + This Sarsaparilla is the great purifier of the blood + and general juices of the system, it effects the most + salutary changes in disease; cures scrofula, salt + rheum, all scorbutic disorders, chronic sore eyes, + rheumatism, piles, liver complaints, erysipelas, all + blotches and eruptions of the skin; in short, it + removes every impurity of the blood, and all humours + and morbid collections of the body. + +The directions given on the label were: + + Take half a wineglassful three or four times a day, + an hour before or after meals. Persons very weak and + debilitated may begin with a tablespoonful and increase + the dose as the patient recovers health and strength. + It is better to take it without the addition of water. + +Analysis showed 100 fluid parts of the liquid to contain 18·2 parts +of solids, of which 5·5 parts were sugar (partly inverted) and 2·5 +ash, the remainder being of the nature of a vegetable extract. The +mineral constituents were only those common to the ash of most drugs, +and no metallic salts were found in medicinal doses; nothing of +alkaloidal nature was present. The mixture contained 8·1 per cent. +by volume of alcohol. In the case of a vegetable preparation of this +kind, containing no definite active principle that can be identified +chemically, it is not possible to state with certainty the various +drugs from which it may have been prepared; a study of its general +properties, and a series of careful comparisons, pointed to the +present mixture being of similar nature to the compound concentrated +solution of sarsaparilla (liquor sarsae compositus concentratus) of the +_British Pharmacopœia_, with the omission of the liquorice, and with +the addition of sugar: the drugs in the official preparation (besides +liquorice) are sarsaparilla, sassafras, guaiacum wood, and mezereon. A +liquor prepared in this manner, with the alcohol reduced to the amount +found in the mixture under examination and the aroma slightly increased +by adding a little additional oil of sassafras, agreed fairly well both +in general properties and the results of chemical examination with the +medicine under consideration. + + +MUNYON’S BLOOD CURE. + +Munyon’s Homœopathic Home Remedy Company has an office in London, +but the label on the bottle bears the words “Manufactured in U.S. of +America.” On the outer package it was stated: + + It eradicates all Impurities from the Blood, and + cures Scrofulitic Eruptions, Rash on the Scalp, Scald + Head, Itching and Burning, and any form of Unhealthy, + Blotchy, Pimply, or Scaly Skin; + +and similar claims were put forward on the label and in a circular +enclosed with the bottle. + +The bottle cost 1s. and contained about 200 pellets or pilules, of the +average weight of ½ grain. They consisted of sugar; careful search was +made for small quantities of medicament, but no other ingredient could +be detected. Quantitative determination of the sugar showed just 100 +per cent. + +The estimated cost of the pilules is one-thirtieth of a penny. + + +HARVEY’S BLOOD PILLS. + +These pills are sold by a Company giving an address in Wales. A bottle, +containing 20 pills, costs 1s. 1½d. + +The label and the enclosed circular bear the picture of a man’s head, +with the words, “Harvey. Discoverer of the circulation of the blood,” +with the possible implication that the Harvey who discovered the +circulation of the blood also discovered or invented these blood pills. + +The modest claims made in the circular included the following: + + Harvey’s Blood Pills for Skin Diseases. An Unfailing + Remedy for Scurvy Sores! Harvey’s Blood Pills for + Scrofulous Sores. A Certain Remedy for Ulcerated + Legs! Harvey’s Blood Pills for Sluggish Liver. The + Surest Remedy for Ringworm! Harvey’s Blood Pills for + Erysipelas. The Quickest Remedy for Itch! Harvey’s + Blood Pills for Boils. An Effective Remedy for + Eruptions! Harvey’s Blood Pills for Rheumatism. The + Safest Remedy for Piles! + + Harvey’s Blood Pills are purely Vegetable, and contain + the best properties of Sarsaparilla, Dandelion, + Burdock, and Quinine. They are Warranted Free from + Mercury. + + Harvey’s Blood Pills fortify the feeble, restore the + invalid to health, and do good in all cases. All + sufferers should immediately have recourse to these + celebrated Pills. + + Harvey’s Blood Pills are “specially” suitable for + Females. They remove all impurities. + +Somewhat lengthy directions were given for diet, etc., as well as for +taking the pills, in various cases; from which it appeared that the +usual dose is: + + For a male adult, one Pill three times a day; a female + adult, one Pill twice a day; children one Pill at + bedtime. + +The pills were coated with French chalk, coloured red externally; +when deprived of their coating, the average weight was 2·76 grains. +Analysis showed them to contain quinine equivalent to 17·3 per cent. +of the crystalline sulphate, 21·7 per cent. of potassium iodide, small +proportions of powdered rhubarb and liquorice, and vegetable extract +or extracts. A mass prepared from the following formula agreed closely +with the pills in general properties and in results on analysis in +various ways: + + Quinine sulphate 17 grains. + Potassium iodide 22 ” + Powdered rhubarb 16 ” + ” liquorice 8 ” + Extract of sarsaparilla 12 ” + ” burdock 12 ” + ” taraxacum 12 ” + Divided into 36 pills. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 20 pills is ¾d. + + +PROFESSOR O. PHELPS BROWN’S BLOOD PURIFIER. + +Professor O. Phelps Brown advertises in this country from an address in +London; the bottle sold for 2s. 9d. contained 6 fluid ounces. + +The following paragraph appeared on the label: + + This medicine is a concentrated preparation of Rock + Rose and Stillingia, combined with other plants, + well-known for their specified action on the blood, + which makes a compound medicine, that has never been + equalled, and will be hard to surpass in the scientific + future. It is impossible to give a full account of its + virtues and cleansing capacities on this label, and the + Prof. must, therefore, be content with briefly stating + that it is an infallible remedy for All Diseases of + the Blood, be they Constitutional, Hereditary, or of + Recent Contraction. Nearly every ailment known to + the medical faculty is in a greater or lessor degree + dependent for its appearance and its virulence upon a + _Disease of the Blood_. Ulcers, Tumours, Scrofula + Bunches, Fistula, Piles, Painful Eruptions, indeed + all afflictions manifested upon the outer surface of + the body are the consequences of diseased blood. Many + terrible maladies, which take the shape of Internal + Inflammation, Sores, etc., and appear in the form of + Fevers, Aches, Swellings, Glandular Disturbances, + Mental Derangement, and General Debility, also proceed + from the same cause. It is an admitted fact that, with + Pure Blood and Regular Bowels, no individual ever can + be permanently, seriously, or dangerously ill, if ill + at all. + + Dose.—For Adults, one tablespoonful three times a day + before eating. For Children, the dose must be reduced + to a teaspoonful. + +Analysis showed 100 fluid parts of the liquid to contain 19·7 parts +of solids, of which 15·5 parts were sugar (partly inverted); a good +deal of mucilage was present, but no alkaloid and no mineral substance +except the small quantity of ash always present in vegetable extracts; +alcohol was present to the extent of 23 per cent. by volume. Evidence +was obtained of the _probable_ presence of a preparation of stillingia, +but this drug does not contain any active principle by which it can be +certainly identified. Rock rose (_Cistus canadensis_) has been used +to some slight extent medicinally, but no particular virtues appear +to have been assigned to it; it is, however, described as bitter and +astringent. The 3 or 4 per cent. of extractive matter present in the +mixture under consideration showed neither bitterness nor astringency, +nor any property by which it could be identified, or which would +indicate any medicinal properties. + + +HOOD’S COMPOUND EXTRACT OF SARSAPARILLA. + +This is an American preparation, but the Company which makes it has +offices in London. A bottle, costing 1s. 1½d., contains 2¼ fluid +ounces. + +The following paragraph appeared on the covering of the bottle: + + A trial bottle will convince the most skeptical of the + real merit of Hood’s Sarsaparilla, and will enable + everybody to test its wonderful power in restoring + and invigorating the whole system, in renovating and + enriching the blood, in giving an appetite and a tone + to the stomach, in eradicating and curing Scrofula, + Scrofulous Humors, Scald Head, Syphilitic Affections, + Cancerous Humors, Ringworms, Salt Rheum, Boils, + Pimples and Humors on the Face, Catarrh, Headache, + Dizziness, Faintness at the Stomach, Constipation, + Pains in the Back, Female Weakness, General Debility, + Costiveness, Biliousness, and all diseases arising + from an impure state or low condition of the blood. + Hood’s Sarsaparilla is designed to act upon the + blood, and through that upon all the organs and + tissues of the body. It has a specific action also + upon the _secretions_ and _excretions_, and + assists nature to expel from the system all humors, + _impure particles and effete matter_ through + the lungs, the liver, the kidneys, and the skin. It + effectually aids _weak, impaired, and debilitated + organs_, invigorates the _nervous system_, + tones and strengthens the _digestive organs_, + and imparts new life and energy to all the functions + of the body. The peculiar point of this medicine is + that it strengthens and builds up the system while it + eradicates disease. + +In a pamphlet enclosed with the bottle it was stated: + + It is carefully prepared from Sarsaparilla, Dandelion, + Mandrake, Dock, Pipsissewa, Juniper Berries, and other + valuable vegetable remedies, in such a peculiar manner + as to retain the full curative value of each ingredient + used. + +The dose was given as: + + Adult, ½ to 2 teaspoonfuls; usual dose 1 teaspoonful + three times a day; children, less, according to age. + +Analysis showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure, potassium +iodide 1·7 parts (7½ grains in 1 fluid ounce), and sugars (partly +inverted) 9·1 parts; the total solids amounted to 12·8 parts, thus +leaving 2·0 parts of vegetable extract per 100 fluid parts. The +concentrated compound solution of sarsaparilla in the _British +Pharmacopœia_ contains about 21 parts of solids in 100 fluid parts, so +that it may be concluded that the amounts of extracts of “Sarsaparilla, +Dandelion, Mandrake, Dock, Pipsissewa, Juniper Berries, and other +valuable vegetable remedies” in this mixture were not large. The liquid +had a somewhat aromatic odour and taste, in which oil of juniper could +not be detected, nor was it recognizable on distillation; none of the +other ingredients mentioned is capable of being identified in such a +mixture. No alkaloid was present, and careful search for other likely +ingredients gave only negative results. The mixture contained 19·6 per +cent. by volume of alcohol. + + +HUGHES’S BLOOD PILLS. + +These pills, made in Wales, are sold in boxes, price 1s. 1½d., +containing 30 pills. + +They were described on the label as “For all Blood, Skin, and Nerve +Diseases.” In a circular enclosed with the box there was a dissertation +on the functions and composition of the blood, from which the following +extracts, with all their capital letters, are taken: + + The Blood being therefore the Life of the living Body, + it stands to reason that if it is poisoned, you poison + the whole system, and eventually destroy the life of + the man. When the blood is chilled, or distempered + through breathing impure air, unhealthy food, etc., it + at once gets disturbed, and breeds disease in some form + or other. This is the cause of Blast, Scurvy, Piles, + Boils, King’s Evil, Swollen Glands, Inflammation of the + Eyes and Lids, Pains in the Sides, Back, and Kidneys, + Cough, Bronchitis, Pleurisy, Rheumatism, Wounds in the + Legs and Different Parts of the Body, all Scorbutic + Affections, Cancer, Pimples on the Face, Neck, + etc., and all Skin Eruptions, Chilliness, Headache, + Indigestion, Fullness after Meals, Dyspepsia, Vomiting, + Loss of Appetite, Consumption, Toothache, Neuralgia, + Fits, St. Vitus’s Dance, all Liver Complaints, + Costiveness, Yellow Jaundice, Depression of Spirits, + Stitches in the Sides, Fevers, Epidemics, Plagues, + Gout, Nerve Diseases, Lumbago, Erysipelas, all kinds of + Inflammation, and most Chest Diseases. + + The noted Pills, “Hughes’s Blood Pills,” act directly + upon the Blood and Juices of all parts of the system, + which they Strengthen and Purify. By so doing the + Liver, Kidneys, Heart, Lungs, Stomach, Bowels, Brain + and Nerves are renewed and toned to such a degree that + their functions are perfectly performed, securing to + the man healthy days. + +Very lengthy directions were given for taking the pills for a variety +of complaints, from which it appeared that the usual dose was one or +two pills at night, or one three times a day. + +The pills had a thin loose coating of French chalk; after removing +this the average weight was 2 grains. Analysis showed the presence of +no inorganic salts, except the usual small quantities of phosphate, +sulphate, etc., found in the ash of most vegetable drugs. The pill +contained a trace of oil of cloves and consisted of powdered drugs +to the extent of about half its weight; ginger and cinchona were +identified in this portion; a trace of alkaloid was extracted, +showing the properties of the alkaloids of cinchona. A portion of the +tissue, which appeared to be derived chiefly from a seed, could not +be recognized, and a lengthy series of comparisons failed to identify +it. The remainder of the pill was separated into two substances, which +appeared to be aloes and jalap resin, but in each a mixture as this +pill presented, the identity of these substances cannot be established +with complete certainty. The proportions of the ingredients, also, can +only be ascertained approximately; the following formula was indicated: + + Aloes 0·7 grain. + Jalap resin 0·2 ” + Powdered cinchona bark 0·3 ” + ” ginger 0·2 ” + Oil of cloves Trace. + In one pill. + + + + +CHAPTER VI. + +REMEDIES FOR GOUT, RHEUMATISM, AND NEURALGIA. + + +The medicines here described vary considerably in their nature, and +to some extent in the complaints for which they are recommended, but +no definite line can be drawn between them. Some are primarily for +gout, but are recommended also for rheumatism; others are mainly for +rheumatism, but are also recommended for gout and neuralgia; while +others, again, are chiefly advertised for neuralgia and headache. + + +BLAIR’S GOUT AND RHEUMATIC PILLS. + +These pills, which are a British product, are sold in boxes, price 1s. +1½d., and containing 14 pills. + +They were described in a circular accompanying the box as: + + The great and universal remedy for the immediate + relief and cure of Acute and Chronic Gout, Rheumatism, + Suppressed Gout, Rheumatic Gout, Gouty Skin Diseases, + Bronchitis and Asthma, Sciatica, Lumbago, and + Neuralgia, and as a preventive or prophylactic where + the disease has a tendency to recur, or attacking any + vital part, as the Stomach, Brain, or Heart. + +Other extracts from this circular are: + + In all cases of Gout, no matter of what length of + standing, they not only give relief from the almost + intolerable pain, but where the patient has kept his + bed for months, _One Box will frequently carry off + the attack_ in two or three days—in many cases + of extreme torture relief has been obtained in two + or three hours ... in those gouty skin affections, + Psoriasis and Eczema, these Pills have no equal. + + Blair’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills are not only + efficacious in curing Gout, but in all those diseases + allied to it. + + They never fail. They always cure. + + Directions and Doses. + + For Gout and Rheumatic Gout.—Take two Pills three + times a day, just after meals, and when it is very + severe, take two during the night, and they should be + persisted in until the swelling and stiffness have + disappeared. + + In cases of long standing, where the tendency of the + disease is to recur, it is advisable to take a short + course of the Pills as a preventive. Dose.—Two twice a + day for a fortnight. + + For Suppressed Gout, including Gouty Asthma, + Bronchitis, Dyspepsia Rheumatism, Rheumatic Headaches, + Lumbago, Sciatica, Tic Doloreux, Pains in the Head, + Face, etc., they must also be taken, two Pills three + times a day, just after meals, that quantity being + generally sufficient, but in some cases a longer + continuance of them is necessary, particularly in + Rheumatism of long standing, but that will also be + eradicated by perseverance in the use of these Pills. + _They should be taken from time to time also as a + preventive._ + + Spring and Autumn. In these treacherous Gout and + Rheumatic Seasons, to prevent a recurrence, sufferers + are earnestly advised to take a short alterative course + of this famous medicine. + + It is requested, in case this medicine should + considerably open the bowels, that it may be laid + aside until that effect has ceased, when it may be + resumed, beginning with a smaller dose. Patients are + also informed that it is unnecessary for any aperient + medicine to be taken during its use, unless they have + been costive for some days. + +The pills had an average weight of 2·9 grains. Analysis showed them to +contain powdered colchicum corm, exsiccated alum, and an excipient. The +quantities found indicated the following formula: + + Powdered colchicum corm 2·1 grains. + Burnt alum 0·35 grain. + +in one pill. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 14 pills is one-seventh of a +penny. + + +HAMM’S RHEUMATIC, GOUT, AND SCIATICA CURE. + +The Originator and Proprietor of this cure, who hails from the north of +England, charges 2s. 9d. for a bottle containing 8 fluid ounces. It was +described on the outside package as “The Greatest Remedy in the World. +It has no equal for the cure of Rheumatism, Gout, and Sciatica.” In a +circular enclosed with the bottle it was stated that: + + It never fails to Cure those distressing and torturing + Complaints, and in most cases has given relief from + the excruciating pains by taking a few doses. This + Standard Remedy has time and again succeeded after all + other internal remedies have failed. Purify the Blood + by driving the Uric Acid from the system and you will + remove the cause of all Rheumatism, etc. Hamm’s Famous + Rheumatism Cure has Never Failed to do it. + +The dose was given on the label as “One Tablespoonful three times a +day, after meals.” + +The preparation was a brown, slightly turbid liquid. Analysis showed +it to contain potassium iodide, sodium salicylate, a little vegetable +extractive, and a trace of alcohol. The extractive was moderately +bitter, but possessed no characters indicating the drug from which it +was derived; it contained no alkaloid. Quantitative determination of +the ingredients showed the formula to be: + + Potassium iodide 15 grains. + Sodium salicylate 66 ” + Extractive 28 ” + Alcohol Trace. + Water to 8 fluid ounces. + +Assuming the extractive to be of the same price as extract of gentian, +the estimated cost of the ingredients of 8 fluid ounces is ½d. + + +GLORIA TREATMENT FOR RHEUMATISM. + +This “treatment” is advertised as follows: + + Cure yourself of Rheumatism. I will tell you how and + send you the remedy Free. My combination treatment + cures, not merely relieves but actually cures, cases + of Rheumatism, Gout, and Sciatica.... The numerous + so-called remedies offered to the public, through the + medium of the newspapers, have absolutely killed all + confidence; therefore, in order to make my genuine + remedy more generally known, I have decided to give + away a large quantity so that everybody can test for + themselves the truth of my statements. My combination + treatment consists of: 1. Gloria Balm, which Instantly + Relieves Pain. 2. Gloria Pills which Purify the Blood + and Invigorate the Whole System. 3. Gloria Tonic + Tablets which Effect a Complete and Permanent Cure.... + I earnestly ask every Rheumatic Sufferer to obtain a + free supply of this medicine at once. Simply send a + postcard request, and a supply will reach you in less + than 24 hours. + +Application to the address given brought sample boxes of the pills and +tablets only, accompanied by a booklet entitled “Rheumatism and Gout, +Causes and Cure,” and a letter of the usual type, as indicated by the +following extracts: + + I was very pleased to receive your communication this + morning, as having suffered from the terrible disease + with which you are afflicted myself it naturally + affords me a great deal of gratification to be able to + place in the hands of every sufferer a genuine remedy + for it—a remedy which cured me and has cured many + thousands of others besides.... + + It is, as I have often heard it described by persons + bubbling over with gratitude for their relief from + the above distressing ailments, Nature’s very own + cure for Rheumatism and Gout. The danger of allowing + the poisonous acids which cause these diseases to + continue their work day by day in the body cannot be + exaggerated.... + + Before closing this letter I once more beg to impress + upon you the danger of delay in commencing the + treatment, especially as applied to your particular + case. + +Since “Gloria Balsam” was apparently not thought sufficiently important +for a sample to be sent, supplies were obtained of the tablets and +pills only for examination. + +_Gloria Tonic_, price 4s. 6d. a box, containing 50 tablets, was +described on the box as “a scientific preparation for the cure of all +uric acid ailments, including Rheumatism and Gout, Lumbago, Sciatica, +Scrofula, and all other diseases resulting from Impurities of the +Blood.” This rather wide claim was somewhat at variance with statements +made in the booklet, from which a few extracts may be given: + + It was with the object of curing all rheumatism that + I introduced “Gloria Tonic” to the public, and I + believe that it is a task worthy of the cause. I do not + propose to make the attempt with a remedy similar to + the many thousands of cure-alls with which the market + is overloaded, but with a true and reliable rheumatism + specific—“Gloria Tonic.” + + I am not offering you a remedy of that kind, but one + which is solely compounded for the cure of rheumatism, + one that has been tested in Hospitals and Sanatoriums, + one that has the endorsement of physicians and + University professors, and, above all, one which has + already enabled many hundreds of persons to abandon + crutch and cane. Do not wonder if this can be true. The + foregoing statement is an absolute fact.... + + I could easily get many times 4s. 6d. for a box of + “Gloria Tonic,” but it is my purpose not so much to + accumulate wealth as to benefit suffering mankind.... + + “Gloria Tonic” is to-day the only remedy on the market + that cures all forms of rheumatism effectively, and + without destroying the delicate tissues of the Heart, + Stomach, Liver, and Kidneys.... + + The merit of this remedy is unapproachable. I have + no object in telling you this aside from having your + interests at heart, and wish to protect you against + the many harmful drugs. You need not have any fear in + taking “Gloria Tonic” as directed, while the smallest + dose of other rheumatic remedies might harm you. + +The directions were: + + For adults: From one-half to one tablet is a dose, and + four doses should be taken daily as follows: Half to + one tablet before the morning, noon, and evening meal, + and on retiring.... Dose for children from 10 to 15 + years, one half-tablet. From 5 to 10 years, one-quarter + of a tablet. Below these years, the medicine should not + be given. + +The average weight of the tablets was 11·2 grains; among 12 weighed +separately the weights varied from 10·5 to 12·5 grains. Analysis showed +the presence of potassium iodide, guaiacum resin, extract of liquorice, +powdered liquorice, starch, mineral matter—apparently a mixture of talc +and kaolin—a resinoid substance, and a trace of alkaloid. The alkaloid +amounted to 0·016 per cent.; it did not agree in properties with any +of the common alkaloids, but agreed, so far as it was practicable +to examine it, with the alkaloid of phytolacca (the American weed, +poke-root, or pokeberry); the resinoid also agreed in its properties +with the resinoid phytolaccin, but there are no distinctive tests by +which its identity could be certainly established. The quantities of +the various ingredients were estimated as accurately as possible, and +the following formula was indicated: + + Potassium iodide 1·8 grains. + Guaiacum resin 0·8 grain. + Extract of liquorice 1·0 ” + Resinoid (phytolaccin?) 0·9 ” + Powdered liquorice 1·7 grains. + Rice starch 2·0 ” + Talc and kaolin 2·1 ” + In one tablet. + +In the formula the most expensive ingredient is the phytolaccin, which +is also the least certain, both as to identity and quantity. Taking +the formula here given, the estimated cost of the ingredients for 50 +tablets is 8d. + +_Gloria Pills_, price 1s. 1½d. per box, containing 40 pills, in +addition to being supplied as part of the “treatment” for rheumatism, +were recommended as a general laxative. It was stated in the circular +enclosed with them that “Gloria Laxative Pills will cure Constipation, +Torpid Liver, Piles, Headache, Dizziness, Sour Eructation, Heartburn, +Bloating, Flatulence, Nausea, Sleeplessness, Mental Depression, +Palpitation of the Heart, Nervousness, Kidney Trouble, and all other +conditions resulting from Dyspepsia and Indigestion.” + +The pills were coated with talc, coloured to a chocolate colour with +oxide of iron. After removal of the coating, the average weight was +1·1 grains. Analysis showed the constituents to be chiefly extracts +and resins. The two samples of pills examined—namely, the gratis +sample of eight pills first supplied, and the full box afterwards +obtained—differed materially in composition; the former contained +about 25 per cent. of powdered liquorice, 6 or 8 per cent. of powdered +rhubarb, and 6 or 8 per cent. of wheat flour, while the latter +contained neither liquorice nor rhubarb, and proportionately more of +the soluble constituents, which appeared to consist in both cases of +extracts of aloes and cascara sagrada with jalap resin. The various +constituents were estimated quantitatively, but in such a mixture exact +results are of course unattainable, and even the qualitative results +must be given with a certain reservation. The formula indicated for the +pills in the 1s. 1½d. box was: + + Extract of cascara sagrada 0·3 grain. + ” Socotrine aloes 0·5 ” + Jalap resin 0·07 ” + Flour } q.s. + Excipient } + +in one pill. + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 40 pills, ½d. + + +BARING GOULD’S ANTI-RHEUMATIC PEARLS. + +This article is introduced to the public by an advertisement headed: + + “Rheumatism speedily cured.” The advertisement states + that Mr. Baring Gould, of an address at a provincial + watering place, “very strongly recommends Marvellous + Cheap Remedy for Chronic Rheumatism, Gout, etc. Free + Information for addressed envelope.” + +Application for information with regard to the remedy brought a box of +the “Pearls” with an intimation that the price was 5s., or 3s. 9d. for +prompt cash. In the enclosed circulars the proprietor was described as +“W. Baring Gould, Rheumatic Specialist and Scientist in Chemistry,” and +the “Pearls” were referred to in the following terms: + + Baring Gould’s Anti-Rheumatic “Pearls” (Patent and + Trade Mark Registered). The Most Wonderful and Most + Effectual “Anti-Rheumatic” Ever Known.... + + Mr. Baring Gould desires to say that from a recent + careful examination of his records, he finds that he + relieves or cures (mostly by his wonderful “Pearls”) at + least eighty people in every hundred who come under his + care. + + There is nothing to approach the “Pearls” in Curative + value for all kinds of Rheumatism, Sciatica, and Gout. + They are entirely free from every kind of injurious + substance, and may be taken with absolute safety and + benefit by the most delicate bedridden sufferers. + + DOSE.—Take 2 Pearls twice a day. Being + flexible and tasteless they are easily swallowed, or + the gelatine casing may be removed and the contents + placed in half a wineglass of water (hot or cold) and + taken in that way. The flavour of the medicaments is + agreeable to the palate and to the stomach also. + +The “Pearls” consisted of gelatine capsules, of the flattened form +known commercially as “perles,” containing a white powder. The average +weight of the contents was 5·9 grains, the contents of single capsules +varying from 5·0 to 6·5 grains. It should be said that aspirin, a drug +in very common use for rheumatism, is acetyl-salicylic acid. Analysis +showed the powder to consist of: + + Acetyl-salicylic acid 85 per cent. + Sugar of milk 15 ” + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 40 capsules is 1½d. + + +GOWER’S GREEN PILLS. + +These pills, which cost 1s. 1½d. per box, containing 44 pills, were +described in the advertisement as: + + A real remedy for rheumatism, backache, muscular + rheumatism, sciatica, gout, lumbago, cramps, stiffness + of joints, kidney disorders, dropsical swellings, etc. + These Pills act directly on the organic and muscular + parts of the body, and bring instant relief to tired, + aching, and painful muscles and joints. + +In the circular enclosed with the pills it was stated that: + + The ingredients ... are known only to the proprietors. + They are not to be found either in the _British + Pharmacopœia_ or in any surgery in the land. It was + not your doctor’s fault that he did not cure you, it + was his misfortune—he did not know how. He had not + these remedies in his possession. We offer you the + opportunity of using them and recovering your health. + + Gower’s Green Pills, though an eminently scientific + pill, do not act like magic. The days of miracles have + gone by. They act surely, but sometimes slowly in cases + of Rheumatism of long standing. + + In taking these pills we would like it to be thoroughly + known that if your disease is one of long standing you + cannot be completely cured with one or two boxes. A + rheumatic sufferer who has tried most remedies and has + been tortured with pain for five years cannot expect + to be a new man in five weeks. If it takes as many as + a dozen 2s. 9d. boxes to cure a case like this, the + sufferer cannot but consider it the best investment + that he ever made in his life. + +The directions were: + + One dose to be taken three times a day, before or after + meals. Three Pills are one dose. + +The pills were coated with talc, with a small quantity of a green +colouring matter. After removal of the coating the pills had an average +weight of 1·2 grains. Analysis showed them to contain soap (about 36 +per cent.), an alkaline salicylate (about 37 per cent.), extractive, +and vegetable tissue. No alkaloid was present; the extractive was dark +in colour, without bitterness or other characteristic taste, and showed +no properties by which its source could be identified; microscopic +examination of the tissue showed the presence of two powders, one of +which agreed well in its characters with powdered cimicifuga root, +while the other bore much resemblance to jalap, but not enough to +warrant the statement that it was jalap. The total amount of vegetable +powder was about 20 per cent., of which about one-third appeared to be +cimicifuga; 11 per cent. of silicious ash was also present. + + +DR. COLLIE’S OINTMENT. + +This ointment, supplied by a Scottish Company at the price of 1s. 9d. +for a box containing 1¾ ounces, is advertised in the following terms: + + Try Dr. Collie for Rheumatism. His ointment positively + cures while you sleep. You don’t rub it in, but apply + just like a poultice. It draws out the cause of your + trouble, and a speedy cure ensues. Try Dr. Collie’s + Ointment—Instant relief for Sciatica, Lumbago, and + swollen joints. + +It appeared, however, from a booklet sent with the ointment that +rheumatism was only one among a large number of complaints for which +the ointment was recommended; it was described on the label as: + + A certain cure for Sprains, Bruises, Cuts, Burns, + Chapped Hands, Eczema, Blood Poisoning, Whitlows, Sea + Water Boils, Abscesses, Piles, Rheumatism, Sciatica, + Lumbago, Pains in the Back and Loins, and all Sores and + Ulcers of every description. + +The directions for its use in rheumatism were: + + First wash the part to be treated with warm water and + soda, then thoroughly dry—(a quantity of the ointment + may then be well rubbed in). Now get a piece of thick + cotton cloth (old sheeting answers very well) or better + still, chamois leather, spread the ointment thickly and + apply like a poultice. When the dressing begins to get + dry, take it off, and after scraping the cloth replace + it with fresh ointment. The part may, after a dressing + or two, begin to itch, and the skin, being stimulated, + may come out in a humour. If so, do not be alarmed but + persevere. This is a sure sign that the Ointment is + doing its work, drawing out the deleterious matter, + viz., Uric Acid Poison, from the body through the most + natural of all channels, the pores of the skin. + +Analysis showed the presence of colophony resin, petroleum jelly, a +little beeswax, and a fatty base. The colophony was accompanied by +a small proportion of another substance of resinous nature, which +appeared to be the altered resin to be found in the variety of +colophony known commercially as “black resin”; a dark substance was +also present which appeared to consist of the natural impurities of +crude petroleum; the fatty basis showed generally the properties of a +mixture of lard and tallow. A similar ointment was obtained by using +the following formula: + + Black resin 12 per cent. + Beeswax 2 ” + Crude petroleum jelly 26 ” + Tallow 20 ” + Lard 40 ” + +Estimated cost of ingredients for 1¾ ounces, 1d. + + +ZOX. + +Zox is a powder made by a Company with an address in London and the +price charged is 1s. for a box containing eight powders. It was +described on the wrapper as: + + The most marvellous pain reliever. Instantly cures + Toothache, Neuralgia, Headache, Sciatica, and all + Nerve Pains. Pure, Harmless, not Aperient. + +In a circular enclosed with the box directions were given for taking +the powders for neuralgia, toothache, headache, sciatica, rheumatic and +gouty pains, and influenza. For neuralgia the directions were: + + Ono Powder should be taken when in pain, and should the + enemy return, continue the Powders every four hours, + for a few days. If very weak from continual pain, take + a few doses of Zox Tonic; this will give you speedy + relief. + +For rheumatic and gout pains: + + Take one Zox Powder two or three times a day while pain + is acute; avoid beer and spirits of all kinds. + +The average weight of the powders was 4½ grains, single powders in a +box varying in weight from 4 to 6 grains. Analysis showed the powder to +consist of acetanilide only. + +The estimated cost of the drug for eight powders is one-tenth of a +penny. + + +OQUIT. + +The vendors, a Company with a London address, sell tubes of 20 tablets +for 1s. 1½d. + +This is advertised as follows: + + Neuralgia. Within 10 minutes of taking “Oquit” that + frightful nerve-racking pain will be cured. One dose + will convince you. Try it. + +A pamphlet was enclosed with the package, headed “Oquit for Headaches +and Nerve Pains, Headache, Neuralgia, Gout, Sciatica, Rheumatism, +Lumbago, Influenza, Feverish Colds, Sea Sickness.” A few extracts are +here given: + + Oquit ... is made in strict accordance with a medical + prescription from drugs which are daily prescribed by + the most eminent physicians for the relief of nerve + pains. There is nothing experimental about “Oquit.” The + drugs of which “Oquit” is composed are perfectly well + known, and their claim to be regarded as unrivalled for + the purpose has been rigidly tested and endorsed by the + leading exponents of modern medicine. What is really + unique about “Oquit” is the scientific proportion in + which the constituent drugs are combined. It is a + remarkable fact, and one which is attested by every + medical man, that the action of a drug may be made + effective or ineffective according to the manner in + which it is prescribed. There are certain subordinate + drugs which prepare the way, as it were, for the action + of a principal drug, and the proportion between the + ingredients of a prescription is of vital importance + in relation to the effect produced. It is to this + scientifically adjusted proportion that the remarkably + beneficial results of “Oquit” are due.... + + In the cure of Neuralgia, “Oquit” has proved eminently + successful when taken in the same way as recommended + for headache, with the addition that a third and + further doses should be repeated, if found necessary, + at intervals of three hours.... + + In Rheumatism, whether the acute or chronic forms, + “Oquit” is extremely beneficial, expelling from the + system the inflammatory agents which give rise to the + frequently excruciating pains in the joints and muscles + involved, and confers a most welcome relief.... + + In Gout, Sciatica, and Lumbago the eliminating power of + “Oquit” is of the greatest possible value. In all these + cases, adults should take three “Oquits” every three + hours at the commencement of an attack, reducing the + dose to two, and then to one, as the pain decreases. + +The average weight of the tablet was 5·1 grains. Analysis showed them +to contain: + + Acetyl-salicylic acid 66·2 per cent. + Starch, chiefly maize 20·0 ” + Talc 4·2 ” + Gum 1·5 ” + Extractive 3·1 ” + Moisture 5·0 ” + Alkaloid a trace. + +As stated above aspirin is acetyl-salicylic acid, and so it may be +added is xaxa. + +The alkaloid did not show well-marked characters by which it could be +identified, but agreed fairly well in its reactions with the total +alkaloid of gelsemium; the general nature of the extractive was +consistent with its being a preparation of this drug. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 20 tablets is ¾d. + + +GENOFORM TABLETS. + +A substance was described under the name Genoform in the +_Pharmaceutische Post_ in 1905, as being the methylene-glycol ester of +salicylic acid; but as the present preparation is advertised to the +public, and supplied under a patent medicine stamp, it must be regarded +as a secret remedy. The proprietor, it is stated, resides in Leipzig +but there is a London agency, and the remedy is sold in tubes price 1s. +1½d., containing 10 tablets. + +An advertisement of this preparation was headed: “Gout, Rheumatism, +Sciatica, and Neuralgia Cured. A Miracle in Rheumatism.” Then followed +a testimonial describing the “miracle.” On the package of the tablets +it was stated that: + + Genoform cures gout, rheumatism, sciatica, neuralgia, + etc. Genoform gives instant relief and effects a + permanent cure. + +A circular enclosed in the package stated: + + Genoform is a certain cure, and you need not suffer + another day. No matter where the pain is, or how severe + it is, or how long you have had it, Genoform Tablets + will rid you of it. They give relief in many cases + immediately, and produce a permanent cure. + + Take them to-day and feel well. Genoform eases pain + with a rapidity which is remarkable, at the same time + doing away with the cause. Remember that. + + It is no mere relief. It stamps out the cause of Gout, + Rheumatism, Sciatica, and Neuralgia. It is absolutely + harmless. No remedy equals it in its quick and certain + effects. + + Patients afflicted for years and unable to walk or use + their limbs have been made sound and free from pain in + a very little time.... + + Absolutely crippled rheumatic persons, unable to dress + or undress themselves, have entirely recovered with + only a few doses of this preparation. + +The directions were as follows: + + The Tablets must never be taken on an empty stomach, + but either during or after meals (from 3 to 9 tablets + daily). Taking the Tablet is facilitated by letting it + soak first in a spoonful of water and drinking a little + water afterwards. Any oppression of the stomach is soon + relieved by 5 or 6 drops of dilute Hydrochloric acid + taken in half a glassful of water. + + As Genoform contains Salicylic Acid and that well-known + drug for Rheumatism sometimes causes a little buzzing + in the ears, if such buzzing ever occurs it is well to + discontinue Genoform for 24 hours and afterwards take + only a small dose for a day or so. It must be clearly + understood that there is no possible harm or danger + in such buzzing and few persons are so affected, but + we think it wise to advise you lest you should think + Genoform does not agree with you and discontinue its + use. + +The tablets had an average weight of 7·7 grains. They contained no +free salicylic acid, but on hydrolysis with alkali they yielded 91·0 +per cent. of that substance. Starch was present to the extent of +4·1 per cent., so that the material other than starch yielded 94·9 +per cent. of its weight of salicylic acid. Salicyl-methylene-glycol +ester CH₂(C₇H₅O₃)₂ would yield 95·6 per cent.; investigation of the +other products of hydrolysis showed that this ester was the substance +present; no other ingredient was found. On examination the substance +proved to be hydrolyzed at once by alkali in the cold, but not by cold +dilute acid; hot water caused slight decomposition, and on boiling it +in water it readily yielded salicylic acid. The formula of the tablets +is thus: + + Salicyl-methylene-glycol ester 95 per cent. + Starch (and moisture) 5 ” + + +POST’S C. B. Q. TABLETS FOR RHEUMATISM. + +Two specimens of the proprietary article sold under the name of C. +B. Q. have been examined at an interval of nine years. The earlier +analysis showed that the tablets contained potassium iodide, quinine +and colchicine in small quantities, a salicylate and extract of +liquorice, used no doubt to bind the powder together. The analysis +made in 1908 showed that of the tablets then examined each contained +about 1½ grains of potassium iodide, a small quantity of salicylate, +a vegetable extract, and magnesia. The extract was hygroscopic and +the magnesia was no doubt employed to bring the mixture into a form +suitable for tablet making. The extract was slightly bitter and the +tablets contained a small amount of alkaloid, which was not certainly +identified. + + +GOUT VARALETTES. + +Analysis of Bishop’s Gout Varalettes showed the presence of lithium +citrate and a small quantity of what appeared to be piperazine, +together with the usual effervescing basis consisting of sodium +bicarbonate and tartaric acid. + + +PISTOIA GOUT POWDERS. + +There was a powder for gout known to an earlier generation under the +name of the “Portland Gout Powder;” according to the prescription given +by Jourdan in the _Pharmacopée Universelle_ (1828); it consisted of: +Gentian root, round birthwort root (_Aristolochia rotunda_), ground +pine root (_Teucrium chamaepitys_), the tops of germander (_Teucrium +chamaedrys_), and of the lesser centaury (_Erithroea centaurium_), of +each equal parts to be ground separately to a fine powder and mixed; +dose, half a teaspoonful. He gives of this three variants, in one of +which the gentian is replaced by guaiacum. + +For some years past a good deal has been heard about the Pistoia +gout powders. A pamphlet entitled _The antigouty powders of the R.R. +Benedictine Mothers of Pistoia for the treatment of a gouty source_ +(Rome, 1904) presents a curious resemblance to the advertising +pamphlets issued by ordinary nostrum dealers. There is a short +disquisition on gout written in very odd English, this is followed by +a translation of a large number of testimonials to the virtues of the +powder, and this again by the following “Warning to our Customers”: + + Having known that in some towns of Italy, and even in + Pistoia, some antigouty drug circulates under the name + of “Vegetal Antigouty Powders of the Cloister” or under + other names alike, making every body trust that they + come from our Monastery, we think ourselves, in duty + bound, to remember to our Customers that no deposit of + our Antigouty Powders is to be found neither in Pistoia + nor in other towns or places in Italy or abroad, + and that we have accorded to nobody the faculty of + preparing or selling them. + + Consequently every antigouty remedy which in any way + should be made known as coming from this Monastery, + must be considered as a product of vulgar falsification + and adulteration. + +The label on some boxes of the powder states that it is based on +gentian, and on Indian wood, which is one of the synonyms of guaiacum. +The pamphlet, which has already been quoted, states that the powders +do not contain colchicum, belladonna, or any other poisonous +substance, but + + are a composition of medicinal grasses, none of which + can ever have a pernicious effect upon the health, + whatever may be the state of the person who uses it. + +It is asserted that “often many miraculous cures are obtained,” but it +appears that the treatment must be a prolonged one, for the pamphlet +further states that: + + When it is question of a first affection or of a light + gouty attack, the treatment of a whole year without + interruption can in general be sufficient; because it + is necessary for the blood to stay under the action + essentially depurative of the drug during four seasons. + + But when the illness is old, a year of treatment + cannot of course be enough to extirpate entirely the + distemper, and the use of the drug must be protracted + till necessary. + +The sample of Pistoia gout powder examined was of a greenish ginger +colour and had a bitter taste. MM. Guignard, Collin, Chastaing, and +Barillot give the following formula for the Pistoia gout powder: + + Colchicum corm 10 parts + Bryony root 10 ” + Betony (root, stem, and leaves) 50 ” + Gentian root 10 ” + Camomile (chiefly stem, leaves, a little root, and flowers) 10 ” + +M. Collin is one of the leading authorities on the microscopic +characters of powdered vegetable drugs, and a microscopical examination +of the specimen revealed characters consistent with this formula; such +small differences as were observed were only such as might be expected +between specimens grown under different conditions of soil, climate, +etc. + +Another formula which has been published for the powders is as follows, +but the sample examined agreed more nearly with No. 1: + + II. + + Colchicum corm 20 parts. + Bryony root 10 ” + Betony root 40 ” + Gentian root 10 ” + Camomile 10 ” + + +LAVILLE’S ANTIGOUT REMEDIES. + +According to Zernik, the chief constituents of the Liqueur du Dr. +Laville, an antigout remedy, very popular in France, in spite of its +high price and secret composition, are colchicin (about 0·08 per cent.) +and quinine in alcoholic solution. The pilules du Dr. Laville are +sold as preventive remedies against gout. They were found to contain +extract of winter cherry, Physalis alkekengi, one of the Solanaceae +(? capsicum), guaiacum resin, powdered leaves and root of the marsh +mallow, and sodium silicate. Each bottle contains 75 grams, about 2½ +fluid ounces, and costs 8s. + + +SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS. + +The following notes upon a few German remedies are quoted from Dr. +Zernik’s reports in the _Deutsche Medicinische Wochenschrift_. + + +URICEDIN. + + This is a Berlin product vaunted as a remedy for the + gouty diathesis, but its composition is very simple; + it contains 2½ per cent. sodium chlorate, and 66·5 per + cent. dry sodium sulphate, the remainder being sodium + citrate and sodium tartrate. + + +RHEUMACID. + + The prospectus asserts that this material, the result + of years of careful and earnest study, revolutionizes + all medical knowledge, and cures rheumatism, colds, + neuralgia, sciatica, gout, bladder, kidney, and skin + affections, etc. The price demanded for 50 grams + (about 1½ ounces) is 17s. 6d., while a sample costs + 1s. The sample is supposed to contain ten doses of + 1 gram each, but was actually found to contain only + half that quantity. There appeared to be three sorts + of rheumacid, marked A, B, and C respectively, but + the analysis revealed that the constituents were + practically the same and included aspirin, salol, and + at times salpyrin, with a little citric acid. This + seems rather like making a revolution with rosewater. + + +ANTIGOUT SOAP. + + Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic Soap is prepared in Dresden. + It is a piece of medium-quality sodium soap, containing + a very small quantity of an ethereal oil. The cake + weighs 70 grams (about 2 oz.), and costs 1 mark. + + +PINE PREPARATIONS. + + Electricum, described as “aethereal Tyrolese fir and + pine wood oil,” and recommended by the vendors as an + external remedy for rheumatism, gout, pains in the + limbs, paralysis, sciatica, lumbago, and backache, + neuralgia, tumours, etc., seems to consist merely of + pine oil. + + Weigand’s Rheumatic and Gout Spirit which it is stated + relieves the pain within a few hours and cures after + a short time, consists of 55 parts of turpentine oil, + 55 parts of spirits of camphor, and 5 grams of Venice + soap. A bottle containing 115 grams, less than 4 + ounces, costs 2s. 6d. + + +RHEUMA TABAKOLIN. + + This is a Berlin preparation; a box containing about + 100 grams (about 3½ oz.) costs 5s., but the quantity + for neglected and obstinate cases cost 15s. It is + asserted to be a newly discovered remedy for rheumatism + and gout obtained from tobacco. The directions are to + extract the material with about 24 ounces of 50 per + cent. alcohol, and to use this extract as a liquid + application to the painful areas. Analysis showed that + the substance consisted of waste and powdered tobacco + perfumed with lemon oil. In Germany waste broken + tobacco can be bought at about 5d. or 6d. a pound. + + + + +CHAPTER VII. + +KIDNEY MEDICINES. + + +This group of nostrums consists of those which are put forward for the +cure of kidney troubles, or conditions of ill-health commonly, but +as a rule erroneously, attributed by the public to kidney disease. +Several of these are in the form of pills, while others are liquids. +The two principal drugs employed are oil of juniper and potassium +nitrate (nitre or saltpetre), separately or together; in some cases +aperients are added. Altogether extravagant claims are made for some +of the articles, as is usual, of course, with proprietary medicines; +this point is dealt with more fully in the descriptions of individual +preparations. + +In analysing complex mixtures, such as some of these nostrums are, +it is, of course, not possible to attain the same precision as when +dealing with medicines which consist chiefly of inorganic salts, as in +the case of nostrums for epilepsy, dealt with in another chapter. A +vegetable extract containing no definite active principle, such as, for +instance, extract of taraxacum (dandelion), cannot be identified by any +direct test; if such an extract is mixed with another, with a powdered +drug, or an essential oil, its identification with perfect certainty +may become almost impossible. The large variations, again, which may +occur in the proportion of solid matter in a tincture or infusion, as +well as the variations in the relative proportion of the different +constituents of drugs, prevent the results of analysis being translated +with certainty into the formula from which the mixture was compounded. +These considerations apply to several of the articles described in +this chapter. While the principal ingredient or ingredients in each +case can be ascertained with little or no possibility of error, the +subsidiary ingredients in some cases cannot be determined with the +same confidence; we have endeavoured to indicate in each case the +possibility of such minor errors. Full use has been made of check +methods, by compounding mixtures according to the formulæ obtained by +analysis and comparing them with the originals. + + +DOAN’S BACKACHE KIDNEY PILLS. + +These pills, of American origin, which have been very extensively +advertised for some years, are sold in boxes price 2s. 9d., containing +40 “kidney pills” and 4 “dinner pills.” + +They were described on the wrapper of the package as a + + Specific for kidney complaints and all diseases + arising from disorder of the kidneys and bladder. Cure + Backache, Weak Back, Rheumatism, Diabetes, Congestion + of the Kidneys, Inflammation of the bladder, Gravel, + Bright’s Disease, Scalding Urine, and all Urinary + troubles. + +A circular was enclosed with the box, in which a dissertation on +“Diseases of the Kidneys and Bladder” was given, together with +directions for taking the pills for various complaints. The following +extracts are taken from the circular: + + Doan’s Backache Kidney Pills are composed of rare and + valuable medicinal agents in a combination best adapted + to the speedy relief and cure of Kidney Disease, + urinary and bladder affections, and all diseases + resulting therefrom. They are purely vegetable, + containing no ingredients of a deleterious nature, and + may be taken by the most delicate person, with every + confidence of their giving quick and permanent relief, + without any after ill effects ... they are the only + medicine known that quickly relieves and permanently + cures. + + This medicine has restored to health thousands of + women. As a means of healing the kidneys, and as a + tonic to the whole female constitution it is unequalled. + +The last sentence of the next extract shows some ingenuity: + + Chronic cases of long standing. These frequently come + under our notice and we hear that the patient, after + trying every known remedy and failed (_sic_) has + despaired of ever getting relief. Now in all stages of + Kidney Disease this is where Doan’s Backache Kidney + Pills are the most needed, and, indeed, are the only + remedy possible to give permanent relief. But it takes + time. One cannot expect to be cured in a few weeks.... + In some cases three or four boxes of Doan’s Backache + Kidney Pills are sufficient; but in these cases of + long standing, 8, 10, and even 20 or 30, are required + to effect a cure. But they will cure in the end if the + patient perseveres. We are emphatic on this point, + because in kidney disease patients are so easily + discouraged. It is one of the symptoms of the disease. + +The directions were to take from two to four of the dinner pills at +night before commencing to take the kidney pills; then to begin with +one kidney pill after each meal and one at bedtime, increasing the dose +to two or three, after a short time. For children under 8, the dose was +given as half a pill after each meal and at bedtime. + +The “kidney pills” were ovoid in shape, and of a brown-grey colour +externally, with sugar-coating beneath the thin, coloured layer; after +removing the coating, the average weight of the pills was about 2 +grains. Analysis showed them to contain oil of juniper and (in spite +of their “purely vegetable” nature) potassium nitrate, together with +a considerable proportion of a resinous substance, and of powdered +fenugreek seeds and wheat and maize starches. Examination of the resin +showed it to be derived from a coniferous source, and on comparison +with various coniferous resins it agreed in characters with that of +_Abies canadensis_ (_Pinus canadensis_), known as hemlock pitch. The +proportions of the different ingredients were determined by analysis; +but oil of juniper, in such small quantity, can only be approximately +determined, and the amount found was confirmed by comparison of a pill +containing this quantity with the pill under examination. The following +formula gives a similar pill: + + Oil of juniper 1 drop. + Hemlock pitch 10 grains. + Potassium nitrate 5 ” + Powdered fenugreek 17 ” + Wheat flour 4 ” + Maize starch 2 ” + In twenty pills. + +The estimated cost of the materials of the 40 kidney pills and 4 dinner +pills, ½d. + +The dinner pills, of which four were included in the box of kidney +pills, are also supplied separately in boxes of 50 for 1s. 1½d. The +label stated that: + + Doan’s Dinner Pills Cure Constipation, Sick Headache, + Biliousness, Dizziness, and all deranged conditions of + Stomach, Liver, and Bowels. + +The directions were: + + For adults, 1 to 3 Pills; for children, ½ to 1 Pill. + +These statements and directions were amplified in a handbill enclosed +in the package. + +The pills were ovoid and enclosed in white sugar-coating; the average +weight of one, without coating, was about ¾ gr. Analysis showed the +presence of podophyllin, aloin, oil of peppermint, a resin that +appeared to be jalap resin, cayenne, liquorice, gum, maize starch, and +a small quantity of an extract that resembled extract of henbane; as +the extract last named had no sufficiently well-marked characters to +enable a small quantity of it to be distinguished perfectly when mixed +with larger quantities of the other drugs named, the identity of this +ingredient could not be completely established. The following formula +gives a similar pill: + + Oil of peppermint 1 drop. + Podophyllin 3·8 grains. + Aloin 6·9 ” + Jalap resin 0·8 grain. + Powdered capsicum 0·5 ” + ” liquorice 0·6 ” + Maize starch 0·5 ” + Acacia gum 1·5 grains. + Extract of henbane 1·5 ” + In twenty pills. + +Estimated cost of materials of 50 pills, 1d. + + +DODD’S KIDNEY PILLS. + +These pills, made by an American Company advertising from a London +address, are sold in boxes containing 35, price 2s. 9d. + +The label round the box stated: + + A positive cure for all kidney diseases: cures + rheumatism, Bright’s disease, diabetes, backache; + cures female weakness, purifies the blood, cleanses the + system. + +The following extracts are from a circular enclosed with the pills: + + Experience has proved that Dodd’s Kidney Pills are the + only cure for kidney diseases. + + Dodd’s Kidney Pills is the only remedy that has cured + Bright’s Disease. + + Diabetes—Dodd’s Kidney Pills will cure this disease. + + Dropsy—The first object in treating dropsy is to + restore the kidneys to their normal condition. This is + what Dodd’s Kidney Pills do and hence their peculiar + efficacy for this disease. + + Dodd’s Kidney Pills will cure any form of heart disease. + + What is known as the “change of life,” is a period of + great importance to woman. At such a time, no remedy + could be more effective than Dodd’s Kidney Pills. + + These pills ... consist of the active principles of + vegetable substances, which have been carefully studied + by the discoverer of the remedy, both as to their + nature and effect, and finally given to the world + in the form of a sugar-coated pill, which to-day is + universally acknowledged to be the best kidney remedy + obtainable. + +The directions are: + + Take one to three pills morning, noon, and night, + before or after meals. In the majority of cases one + pill is a dose. + +The pills were ovoid in shape, coated and coloured red on the outside. +The colouring matter formed a strongly fluorescent yellow solution, +showing it to be fluorescein or an allied substance; the coating was of +sugar on the outside, with an inner layer consisting of chalk. In spite +of the statement quoted above, that the pills consist of the active +principles of vegetable substances, it was no surprise to find that the +principal ingredient was potassium nitrate, of which each contained +about 1 gr.; the other constituents were sodium bicarbonate, soap, +hard paraffin, wheat flour, powdered turmeric, two resins respectively +soluble and insoluble in ether, a small quantity of a bitter substance, +and a little extractive. Examination of the resins showed that they +agreed in their characters with the two constituents of jalap resin; +the bitter substance was not alkaloidal, and after careful comparison +with a large number of bitter principles was found to agree with that +of cascarilla. The following formula gives a pill which is practically +identical with the one under examination: + + Extract of cascarilla (alcoholic) 0·15 grain. + Jalap resin 0·3 ” + Hard soap 1·0 ” + Potassium nitrate 1·0 ” + Sodium bicarbonate 0·85 ” + Hard paraffin 0·5 ” + Turmeric 0·3 ” + Wheat flour 0·8 ” + In one pill. + +The estimated cost of the materials of 35 pills is 1d. + + +DR. VAR’S AMERICAN KIDNEY PILLS. + +On the outside of the package these pills, which are advertised from +an address in a town in the south of England, and sold in boxes of 14 +costing 1s. 1½d., are stated to “correct the stomach and stimulate +the liver and kidneys.” In a circular enclosed with the box they are +referred to as “Certain Corrective! Positive Cure!” while the obscurity +of the following is perhaps intended to make the warning conveyed more +effective: + + Do not let slight or severe Kidney Disorders develop + into Cancerous Decay, Twin Complaints—Kidney Liver + Diseases. Cure them! Put both in strong active order. + There is not a safer, surer, speedier remedy in + existence. Myriads of people thank Providence for Dr. + Var’s Kidney Pills. _Should be taken for Natural Weak + Kidneys._ + +The directions are: + + One to be taken three times a day after meals. + +The “pills” were in reality flexible capsules, each containing about 5½ +grains of a soft mass in which oils of juniper and peppermint could be +recognized in small quantity; examination also showed the presence of +potassium nitrate, of small quantities of iron and magnesium compounds, +and of lycopodium,[1] together with powdered squill, wheat starch, and +a “green” extract, containing a trace of alkaloid, which appeared from +its characters to be a mixture of extracts of henbane and taraxacum. +The iron was perhaps an accidental impurity, and the magnesia and +lycopodium were probably added to assist in making up the mass and not +for therapeutic effect. The following formula gives a similar mass: + + Oil of peppermint 1 drop. + ” juniper 8 drops. + Potassium nitrate 8 grains. + Powdered squill 3 ” + Wheat flour 6 ” + Extract of henbane 7 ” + ” taraxacum 21 ” + In 10 capsules. + +The estimated cost of the materials of 14 capsules is under ¾d. + +[1] Lycopodium is a fine powder consisting of plant-spores sometimes +used by pharmacists for enveloping pills which easily take up moisture. + + +FITCH’S KIDNEY AND LIVER COOLER. + +A bottle of this preparation containing rather less than 4 fluid ounces +is sold for 2s. The directions are: + + Take two teaspoonfuls mixed in water every morning. + +The label and package appear to have been devised for the purpose of +suggesting, without explicitly stating, that it is a cure for the +complaints named. On one side appears the following (divided into +sections by use of different type): + + Oh my back, how it aches! Why? Fitch’s Kidney and + Liver Cooler. Trade Mark. Sluggish liver. Inactive + kidneys. Over-heated blood. Bad urine. Acts chemically + by absorption. + +and on the other: + + Oh my back, how it aches! Why? Because your Kidneys and + Liver are Sluggish, and a deposit has formed in the + urine which will contaminate the whole system unless + dissolved chemically. Try this; you won’t regret. It’s + a grand conception. + +Analysis showed the liquid to consist simply of a solution of potassium +nitrate in water, the strength being 56 grains in a fluid ounce—that +is, 14 grains in a dose. + +The estimated cost of the contents of the bottle is one-eighth of a +penny. + + +WARNER’S “SAFE” CURE. + +Warner’s Safe Cure is a liquid sold in a bottle holding about 8 fluid +ounces at the price of 2s. 9d. + +The label bore the words, “For Kidney and Liver and Bright’s disease +and jaundice, gravel, stone”—and a long list of other complaints. “Dose +for adults, one tablespoonful 5 or 6 times a day.” + +A “medical pamphlet” of 34 pages accompanied the bottle, from which the +following extracts are taken: + + Warner’s “Safe” Cure is a purely vegetable compound, + and contains no narcotic or harmful drugs; it is free + from sediment and is pleasant to take; it is a most + valuable and effective tonic; it stimulates digestion, + awakens the torpid liver, and puts the entire system in + the very best receptive state for the work of restoring + the kidneys. It does its work with absolute method, + preparing the tissues, soothing and stimulating the + enfeebled organs, healing at the same time. It builds + up the body, gives it strength, and restores the + energy which is or has been wasting under the baneful + suffering of kidney disease. Warner’s “Safe” Cure was + discovered about thirty years ago by one of the most + eminent specialists in diseases of the kidneys, who had + made a life-study of kidney and kindred diseases. + + How to test your kidneys. Put some morning urine in a + glass or bottle; let it stand for twenty-four hours; if + there is a reddish sediment in the bottom of the glass, + or if the urine is cloudy or milky, or if you see + particles or germs floating about in it, your kidneys + are diseased and you should lose no time but get a + bottle of Warner’s “Safe” Cure, as it is dangerous + to neglect your kidneys for even one day. Bright’s + disease, gravel, liver complaint, pains in the back, + rheumatism, rheumatic gout, inflammation of bladder, + stone in the bladder, uric acid poison, dropsy, eczema, + scrofula, blood disease, offensive odour from sweating, + so-called ‘female weakness,’ painful periods, too + frequent desire to urinate, and painful passing of + urine are all caused by diseased kidneys, and can be + speedily cured by Warner’s “Safe” Cure, which has been + prescribed for twenty-five years.” + +Of Bright’s disease it is remarked: + + It is one of the harassing complaints which physicians + in family practice seldom have the patience to + investigate and manage with sufficient care. + +The assumed predilection of the public for vegetable remedies is +no doubt answerable for potassium nitrate being classed as “purely +vegetable” in so many of these medicines. In the present case analysis +showed the presence of potassium nitrate, alcohol, glycerine, a trace +of oil of wintergreen, and vegetable extractive; there was no alkaloid +or similar active principle, and the extract had little distinctive +taste or character; all its properties pointed to its consisting +largely of extract of taraxacum, with some other extract containing a +small quantity of tannin; a careful series of comparisons with all the +drugs in ordinary use which were not excluded by various tests did not +identify it with any of them, and it is probable that it is obtained +from some non-medicinal plant. + +The following formula gives an almost identical mixture: + + Potassium nitrate 50 grains. + Oil of gaultheria ⅓ minim. + Rectified spirit 5 fluid drams. + Liquid extract of taraxacum 10 ” + Glycerine 4 ” + Water to 8 fluid ounces. + +This contains about 10 per cent. of pure alcohol, which is the +proportion found in Warner’s Cure; in a mixture of which a +tablespoonful was to be taken five or six—or, according to the handbill +with it, six to eight—times a day, this proportion of alcohol is by no +means negligible. + +In such a mixture there is no means of determining exactly the amount +of liquid extract of taraxacum, especially as it is liable to vary +considerably in colour and in amount of solid residue; this is by far +the most expensive ingredient in the above formula, and it is probable +that the amount is here over-estimated. Taking the quantity here given, +the estimated cost of the drugs for one bottle of the mixture is 5¼d. + + +VENO’S SEAWEED TONIC. + +The Company in Manchester which advertises Veno’s Seaweed Tonic sells +it at the price of 1s. 1½d. a bottle, holding 2¾ to 3 fluid ounces. + +The label states: + + Contains in a pleasant and agreeable form the active + principles of seaweed. First introduced into the + medical world by Mr. Veno, and now admitted to be a + most efficient and valuable medicine. Veno’s seaweed + tonic is prepared on an entirely new principle, and + is free from poisonous or mineral drugs. It cures + all ailments arising from a diseased condition of + the Stomach, Liver, Kidneys, and Blood, which, when + diseased, cause nearly all sickness. Dose.—For an + adult, one teaspoonful twice or three times daily. + +The following extracts are taken from a pamphlet enclosed with the +bottle: + + Veno’s Seaweed Tonic is a specific remedy; money cannot + make it better. If it fails, no other medicine will + ever succeed; but sufferers must have patience. + + Kidney Diseases, Weak Back, Backache or Lumbago, + Incipient Bright’s Disease. If you suffer from a weak + back, with pain, soreness, or stiffness; if there is + a dragging weakness in the limbs and lack of muscular + energy; or if your urine is very clear or high + coloured, showing a sediment of white flakes through + it, it indicates a weakness or disease of the kidneys. + Veno’s Seaweed Tonic should be taken for at least two + or three months, in teaspoonful doses twice or three + times daily, after meals. + +The mixture contained a small proportion of undissolved sediment, +which, when collected and examined, agreed in all respects with the +insoluble portion of leptandrin. Glycerine, a little phosphate, +alcohol, and a trace of chloroform were present, and vegetable +extractive. Careful examination of the latter gave evidence of the +presence of the constituents of cascara sagrada, senna, and rhubarb. +Such a mixture as this could not, of course, be quantitatively resolved +into its components, and the proportions given below were arrived at +by comparisons of the properties of various trial mixtures with the +properties of the original; no indication was obtained of any substance +derived from seaweed. The following formula gives a practically +identical mixture: + + Leptandrin 10 grains. + Sodium phosphate, crystals 33 ” + Liquid extract of cascara sagrada 45 minims. + Concentrated infusion of rhubarb (1-7) 1 fluid dram. + ” ” senna (1-7) 2½ fluid drams. + Glycerine 2 ” + Chloroform water 1 fluid ounce. + Water to 3 fluid ounces. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients is 1½d. + + +MUNYON’S KIDNEY CURE. + +This is sold by Munyon’s Homœopathic Home Remedy Company from an +address in London, but is stated to be “Manufactured in U.S. of +America.” The price is 1s. a bottle, containing 132 pilules. + +The directions are: “Four pellets every hour,” which must at least keep +the patient amused. + +The label bears the words: + + Cures Bright’s disease, gravel, all urinary troubles, + and pain in the back or groins from kidney diseases. + +The following extracts are from a circular enclosed with the bottle: + + Munyon’s Improved Homœopathic Remedies are radically + different from those used by the regular school of + homœopathy or any other system of medicine. We have the + true cure for the most obstinate as well as the most + intricate of diseases. The whole secret of Munyon’s + Remedies is the science of combining and harmonizing + all drugs that are known to cure certain diseases, so + that by our special combinations we cover every phase + of the case, no matter what the complaint. There is no + experimenting, no guesswork, but an absolutely fixed + law of cure. + + Munyon’s Kidney Cure has no equal. It cures pain in the + back, loins, or groins, from kidney disease, puffy and + flabby face, dropsy of the feet and limbs, frequent + desire to pass water, scanty urine, dark-coloured and + turbid urine sediment in the urine, gravel in the + bladder, and too-great a flow of urine. + +The pilules were found to vary much in size, the average weight being +0·6 grain. Analysis showed them to consist of ordinary white sugar; no +trace could be detected of any alkaloid or other active principle, or +of any medication. The sugar was determined quantitatively, and found +to be just 100·0 per cent. of the weight of the pilules. + +Estimated cost of contents of bottle, one thirty-fifth of a penny. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII. + +DIABETES. + + +Diabetes, being a disease which runs on the whole a steady course +unaffected by anything but diet, does not afford a promising field for +the use of drugs; but as drowning men catch at straws, patients who +have been told that they are incurable are naturally disposed to try +any remedy that holds out a prospect of cure or relief. Although there +are a good many proprietary remedies for diabetes, few seem to have a +large sale, but such as exist are pushed by the usual pretensions set +forth in advertisements and circulars. Every one must admit that few +things can be more cruel than to trade upon the hopes and fears of sick +people or to sell them worthless remedies with the positive assurance +of cure. Yet this is what is done by the sellers of quack remedies, and +the Inland Revenue pockets the patent medicine duty without a blush. +Some account is here given of two much advertised preparations—Vin +Urané Pesqui and Dill’s Diabetic Mixture. It may be objected that +Pesqui’s Uranium Wine is not a secret remedy because it is said to +contain uranium nitrate, pepsin, and “other appropriate elements” +added to “old Bordeaux wine”; but uranium nitrate is a drug well-known +to the medical profession, and whatever may be its properties it is +not a cure for diabetes. There is no trustworthy evidence that it has +ever cured a single case, and the most that can be honestly said of +it is that patients have improved in general health while taking it, +although it has not influenced the amount of sugar. Yet we are told +in this advertisement that Pesqui’s Uranium Wine “positively cures +sugared diabetes provided it is resorted to at an early stage and used +during a sufficient length of time.” Dill’s Diabetic Mixture appears +to consist mainly of extract of hydrastis, a well-known drug, which +amongst the many virtues claimed for it has never been shown to possess +any influence over diabetes; yet the advertisement says that Dill’s +Diabetic Mixture is the “only known remedy for this deadly disease”! +There is another triple nostrum for diabetes which, on examination, +was found to consist of tablets of aspirin, unsweetened lime-juice, +and a pink powder composed of sodium sulphate flavoured with oil of +peppermint and tinted with phenolphthalein. These simple remedies were +solemnly vouched for by the vendors in the following words: “We have +satisfied ourselves that the treatment is an absolute and permanent +cure”! Apparently the law cannot reach those who publish deliberately +untruthful statements with the object of selling their goods. The words +of the judgment of the Lord Justice Clerk in a case with reference +to Bile Beans, heard on appeal in the Court of Session at Edinburgh, +should have aroused the Government to a sense of its duty to provide +protection to the public. The Lord Justice Clerk exposed in plain +language the procedure by which the vendors of this nostrum had worked +up their business and palmed off their medicine on the public, yet the +number of their advertisements does not appear to have diminished. + + +VIN URANÉ PESQUI. + +This medicated wine is made in Bordeaux but is sold in this country +from a depôt in London. The price charged for a bottle holding 24 fluid +ounces is 8s. + +A small booklet, entitled _Diabetes and its Cure by the Vin Urané +Pesqui_, was enclosed with the bottle; a few extracts from this are +here given: + + It has been shown by medical statistics that there are + in France every year 10,000 deaths or more, due to + diabetes through a deficient treatment, whilst they + could have been cured by taking the Vin Urané Pesqui.... + + Organic sugar enters the blood together with the + alimentary sugar, the former being destroyed by the + molecular changes that it undergoes for the nutrition + of the different organs. If not sufficiently destroyed, + it is productive of glycohemia, and as it passes into + the urine it brings forth glycosuria; this pathological + state determines, in course of time, particularly among + persons suffering from obesity, some of the following + diseases: polydipsy (excessive thirst), oedema in the + legs, the enfeeblement of the physical and intellectual + faculties, visionary troubles, amblyopia, cataract or + gutta-opaca, headaches and anaemia, followed by dryness + of the skin, successive furuncles, gatherings or boils, + eczemas, itching on the skin provoking an irresistible + desire to scratch one self, anthrax, urinary gravel, + lumbago, sciatica, albuminuria, polyuria (insipid + diabetes, without sugar, excessive emission of urine), + rheumatism, dropsy, bulimia (insatiable appetite) + or polyphagia, azoturia (large quantity of urine + with a heavy percentage of uric acid), then fearful + complications; pneumonia, prurience, either vulvar or + prepucial; diabetic phimosis, gangrene in different + parts of the body, particularly in the toes, the nails + of which become black; consumption, etc. Great mental + worries are also productive of glycosuria.... + + Pesqui’s Urané Wine positively cures sugared diabetes, + provided it is resorted to at an early stage and used + during a sufficient length of time. + + As soon as the patient has made use of this wine, his + thirst is allayed almost instantaneously; his strength + reappears; all his functions are gradually restored; + his breathing, which the absence of feculents had + rendered difficult, becomes easier; he is no longer + put out of breath, nor does he feel any lassitude; he + can now walk about without undergoing any fatigue; his + look improves and his temper assumes a more pleasant + character.... + + The Vin Urané (Uranated Wine) prepared by Mr. Pesqui, + of Bordeaux, has been qualitatively analysed at the + Barral chemistry laboratory. The result of this + analysis points to this medicine being a compound of + old Bordeaux wine, in accordance with Bouchardat’s + prescriptions, to which the following elements have + been added: azotate of uranium, pepsine, and other + appropriate elements. + +The dose was given on the label as: + + Three small sherry-glassfuls per day, with or without + water, 5 minutes before, or immediately after meals, + and at night before bedtime. + +Analysis of the wine showed it to contain, in 100 parts by measure + + Alcohol 8·75 parts. + Glycerine 3·55 ” + Total solids 2·92 ” + Fixed acid, reckoned as tartaric 0·43 part. + Volatile acid, reckoned as acetic 0·21 ” + Reducing sugar 0·28 ” + Cane sugar doubtful trace. + Ash 0·30 part. + Uranium, equivalent to crystalline uranium nitrate 0·02 ” + +No digestive power whatever on egg-albumen could be detected, +indicating the absence of unchanged pepsin. The amount of uranium found +corresponds to one-twelfth of a grain of the nitrate in 1 fluid ounce, +or half a grain in the daily dose, a sherry glass usually holding about +2 ounces. + +The cost of the preparation depends, of course, on the cost of the +original wine, and is scarcely affected by the added ingredients. + + +DILL’S DIABETIC MIXTURE. + +This mixture is sold by a firm in Manchester at the price of 8s. 3d. +for three bottles (not supplied singly), holding 2 fluid ounces each. + +It was advertised in the following terms: + + DIABETES. + + Dill’s Diabetic Mixture is the only known remedy for + this deadly disease. No dieting necessary. It also + cures Yellow Jaundice, Gall Stones, Hepatic Asthma, and + all Liver Complaints. It is also the very best remedy + we know for Kidney Diseases. + +In a leaflet enclosed in the package it is stated: + + In Diabetes the Government returns of health show + that 100 per cent. die of the disease—that is, all + of them—66 out of every 100 die of Coma, and 34 of + Pneumonia, so that in ordinary medicine there is no + cure. But after 15 years’ experiment I discovered this + remedy, by means of which hundreds have been restored + to health and strength, the world and their families. + It is the only known remedy for this deadly disease.... + + ... all Liver complaints and Kidney complaints are + cured by this remedy. And it is natural that it should + be so, for when we know that the Liver is the workshop + of the body; that it makes the Blood, and the Bile, + and the Urine, and the Sugar which the kidneys only + filter out, I say, when we know this, we may be quite + sure that any remedy that cures the liver benefits the + whole body. The nerves, the flesh, the skin, the blood, + and tissues; even the special senses such as sight, + hearing, and smell, with the sense of touch are all + improved and benefited by it. + + The Remedy, it is needless to say, will have to be + persevered with. These are deadly diseases and must + have time. + +The dose was given on the label as: + + One teaspoonful every four hours in a tablespoonful of + water. + +The mixture contained a considerable amount of sediment, partly of +a heavy nature and partly very light; this caused some difficulty +in dividing the contents of a bottle without altering the relative +proportions of the ingredients, and increased the possible error in +the quantitative results. Alcohol was present to the extent of 35 per +cent.; the heavier sediment consisted of sodium bicarbonate, which is +very little soluble in such a liquid; this constituent formed 7·4 per +cent. of the mixture. Two alkaloids were present in approximately equal +proportions, the total amounting to 0·25 per cent.; these proved to be +hydrastine and berberine, and the general nature of the extractive, +etc., present showed that they had been added in the form of extract, +fluid extract, or tincture of hydrastis; there is no official standard +for the alkaloidal strength of these, but, taking the usual proportion, +the alkaloid found would represent 1·5 per cent. of extract of +hydrastis. This left a portion of the total solids to be accounted +for; a small amount of a resin was found which resembled scammony +resin in its properties, and a larger proportion of a resinoid having +general resemblance to caulophyllin (obtained from the blue cohosh or +squaw-root), but the identity of the resin and resinoid could not be +established owing to the absence of characteristic properties. The +formula was thus found to be: + + Sodium bicarbonate 7·4 parts. + Extract of hydrastis 1·5 ” + Resin, resinoid, and other extractive 2·2 ” + Alcohol 35 ” + Water to 100 ” + +On the rather liberal assumption that the whole of the unidentified +portion costs as much as caulophyllin, the estimated cost of the +ingredients for 6 fluid ounces is 11d. + + +LANCASHIRE NOSTRUM + +A treatment for diabetes was, and perhaps is still advertised by a firm +of manufacturing chemists in Manchester. In a letter addressed to an +enquirer the manufacturers wrote: + + The treatment was recently discovered by a Lancashire + doctor who had himself suffered from diabetes for a + great number of years, and used all the recognized + medical treatments without effect. His own discovery + cured him entirely. The formulas have been entrusted + to us, and we are manufacturing and offering the + preparation to the suffering public. We have satisfied + ourselves that the treatment is an absolute and + permanent cure.... We have, therefore, every confidence + in recommending it to you. + +These statements are supported by a batch of testimonials which are +not so strong as is usual in such cases. For example, one is headed in +black type, “Completely cured a gentleman and his two friends,” and +runs as follows: + + Dear Sir,—I received the treatment yesterday. A friend + of mine, a London gentleman, has told me your treatment + and the Gluten Bread has (_sic_) completely cured + him and two friends of his of sugar diabetes. + +The medicines supplied consisted of (1) tablets, of which four were +to be taken each morning, and (2) a mixture. A month’s supply was +forwarded for 10s. 6d., from two to four months’ treatment being +said to be sufficient. A booklet was also sent giving the usual +directions for a diet free from carbohydrates, and enjoining the use +of warm clothing, with occasional hot or Turkish baths. The tablets +(1) contained 5 grains of aspirin; the mixture (2) was composed +of unsweetened lime-juice containing 6 per cent. of free citric +acid. A pink powder, described as an aperient, consisted of dried +sodium sulphate, flavoured with oil of peppermint, and tinted with +phenolphthalein. These remedies are not new, nor has their use been +attended with any particular success in the treatment of diabetes. It +is difficult to see why they should give better results when supplied +as a nostrum than when ordered in the usual way by medical men, unless +we attribute something to the suggestive power of bold assertions and +public advertisement. + + +NOTE ON DIABETIC FOODS. + +In the treatment of diabetes it is the rule, in order to diminish the +amount of sugar passed, to decrease or altogether exclude starchy foods +from the dietary, and to replace them by various substitutes, of which +the most important are gluten bread and biscuits. Some of the so-called +gluten flour and special foods sold as suitable for diabetic patients +are impositions, inasmuch as they are found to contain either as much +or nearly as much starch as ordinary flour. In one instance brought +to notice at the end of 1905, a so-called gluten flour and special +diabetic foods obtained from Messrs. H. H. Warner and Co., Ltd., who +are also the vendors of Warner’s Safe Cure, but who in this instance +acted as agents, it was found that the flour was practically ordinary +wheaten flour. This is indicated in the following table, in which the +result of the analysis of the special articles is placed side by side +with the figures of the official analysis of wheaten flour published by +the United States Department of Agriculture: + + --------------------------+-------------------+-------------------- + | Department of | The Special + |Agriculture, U.S.A.| Materials. + +---------+---------+---------+---------- + | Spring | Winter | Gluten | Special + | Wheat. | Wheat. | Flour. | Diabetic + | | | | Food. + +---------+---------+---------+---------- + Water | 10·4 | 10·5 | 12·65 | 11·06 + Proteid | 12·5 | 11·8 | 10·60 | 12·40 + Fat | 2·2 | 2·1 | — | 3·00 + Convertible carbohydrates | 71·2 | 72·0 | 70·30 | 71·06 + Mineral matter | 1·9 | 1·8 | 0·44 | 1·52 + Fibre | 1·8 | 1·8 | — | — + --------------------------+---------+---------+---------+---------- + +It will be seen that the amount of starch and other convertible +carbohydrates in spring wheat is 71·2, and in the so-called gluten +flour 70·30. + + + + +CHAPTER IX. + +OBESITY CURES. + + +The claims made for nostrums advertised for the reduction of corpulence +are, as a rule, rather less extravagant than usual. A reason for this +is not far to seek; it is important that the consumer of the medicine +shall be encouraged to persist in its use for a considerable time, and +statements as to rapid cure might very soon be found to be at variance +with the facts and would probably only lead to discontinuance of the +medicine, and therefore defeat the maker’s object. Nevertheless, the +emphatic and confident statements, backed by testimonials, so important +a weapon of the nostrum vendor, are by no means abandoned, as some +of the quotations below will show. The prices named for the various +articles described refer, as a rule, to the smallest size of package; +in most cases larger packages, containing sufficient for several weeks’ +or months’ consumption, are supplied at proportionally lower rates, and +purchasers are urged to obtain these larger packages. + +While certain of these preparations present no particular difficulty +to the analyst, the majority not only contain vegetable preparations +devoid of well-marked characters, but since the most important of +these, extract and fluid extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_, are not +prepared according to any official formula, and are naturally therefore +liable to great variation, it is not possible to arrive with perfect +certainty at the precise composition of such articles by analysis; +and when, as in the case of any nostrum, the maker can draw on all +unofficial and even non-medicinal substances for his ingredients, it +is inevitable that some shall remain not certainly identified. It may +fairly be assumed, however, that such unknown substances, possessing no +well-defined chemical characters, will not be likely to have much, if +any, therapeutic importance. + +The belief that sucking lemons will make one thin is widespread, and +gave origin a few years ago to a passing fashion, so that it was +impossible to go anywhere, in private house or club, without meeting +some gouty man or too stout lady who asserted that a sure cure and +preventive for either condition was some drink made with a fresh lemon. +It was not surprising, therefore, to find that the chief ingredient in +two of the secret remedies first analysed was citric acid. + +Bladderwrack (_Fucus vesiculosus_) is a common seaweed which has +earned, it is not quite easy to understand on what grounds, a +reputation for reducing corpulency. It contains sodium salts in rather +large quantities, and a small proportion of iodine, much less than many +other sea-weeds. In Ireland it was once thought to be good for pigs, +making them fat, and if it has an opposite effect on human beings, that +effect must be very slight and uncertain. + +Still, if people like to pay an absurdly high price for citric acid +or extract of bladderwrack under other names, it would, perhaps, +be churlish to object, but the case is rather different with the +extract or other preparation of the thyroid gland found to be present +in two of the nostrums most recently analysed. Medical men are not +infrequently asked by patients for information or for their opinion +with regard to some substance that has been praised in a family +newspaper or other easily inspired or corrupted medium to which some +authority is ascribed, and the detection of thyroid gland in two of the +preparations analysed justifies a note of warning. The administration +of thyroid requires to be carefully regulated, and its employment +in self-medication cannot be regarded as a safe proceeding. Under +these circumstances it can hardly be necessary to say that postal +communication with the vendors of the medicines in question, even +when accompanied by the patient’s answers to printed questions and +description of his symptoms, is not only of no value, but may be a +source of danger by giving a false sense of security. + +It is curious indeed to note that one of these secret preparations, +Marmola, does not appear to be advertised to the public as a +proprietary article at all, but is named as one ingredient among others +in a prescription which is recommended in a paragraph apparently +dictated solely by pity for suffering fat people; the chemist to whom +the prescription will be taken to be compounded, however, is the +recipient of advertising matter urging him to lay in a stock of the +article to be in readiness for the demand. It is to be hoped that no +chemist would dispense such a “prescription” without making it clear +to his customer that what is supplied is a proprietary article, about +the usefulness or innocuousness of which he knows nothing; otherwise +the customer, who finds it named along with preparations bearing the +letters “B.P.,” is likely to suppose that it is a known substance, +and that the dispensing of the prescription by a chemist indicates +that the mixture is a proper and safe one to take. Two of the other +preparations described are evidently usually or always supplied to the +public without the agency of any retailer, the vendor thus securing the +whole profit, which, it will be seen, is considerable. In both these +cases the attempt is clearly made to get the customer to pay at once +for as large a quantity as possible, presumably because he will be less +likely to do so after giving the medicines a trial. The most alluring +prospects are, of course, held out in the advertisements, but when the +customer has been drawn into correspondence, and especially after he +has begun to send his money, a process of “hedging” begins, as will be +seen from the extracts quoted from letters sent by the vendors. + +Phenolphthalein—a chemical body sold sometimes under the trade names +purgen, laxoin, laxatol, laxen, etc.—appears as an ingredient in two of +the nostrums, and formamine (hexamethylene-tetramine)—which goes also +by many names, urotropine, cystamin, cystogen, metramine, and vesalvine +among others—in one, the preparation containing the latter is said to +have been devised as the result of an accident in the laboratory, in +which a piece of fat became changed into oil without the rupture of the +fat cells, a statement which suggests that the advertiser thinks that +fat in the human body is solid like tallow or lard. + + +ANTIPON. + +This preparation is sold by a Company with offices in London. The +bottle in which it is sent out holds a little over 6½ fluid ounces and +costs 2s. 6d. It bears no label, but has the word “Antipon” blown in +the glass. A circular enclosed with the bottle gives a number of rules +on the subject of dietary, together with statements as to the merits of +the article, from which the following extracts are taken: + + As a really permanent cure for corpulence, combining + remarkable fat-reducing properties with tonic + principles of the highest quality, “Antipon” is justly + regarded by the most competent authorities as one of + the most valuable discoveries in modern therapeutics, + solving once and for all the vexed question of the + radical cure of obesity without harmful after-effects. + “Antipon” absolutely and definitely replaces all the + weakening and frequently dangerous processes, systems + and medicines which have hitherto done duty as remedies + for the disease of obesity. It provides the medical + practitioner and the public with a powerful and + entirely harmless specific not hitherto within their + reach. + + Within a day and a night of taking the first dose + there will be a reduction of weight varying from 8 oz. + to 3lb., in extreme cases even more. The subsequent + daily decrease will be persistent until normal weight + and dimensions are attained, when the doses may be + discontinued. + + Directions for Use.—Take two dessertspoonfuls in half + a wineglassful of water, immediately after meals. + N.B.—After taking dose, cork the bottle securely. + +Analysis showed the liquid to be a solution of citric acid in water, +of the strength of 39·3 grains in a fluid ounce; a red colouring +substance was also present, and O·4 per cent. of alcohol, the latter +being doubtless introduced with the colouring. The red colour could be +perfectly matched with cochineal, but the behaviour towards alkalies +and other reagents showed differences; cochineal, with the addition +of a little methyl orange, however, showed in most respects a similar +behaviour. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 6½ fluid ounces is 1⅓d. + + +RUSSELL’S ANTI-CORPULENT PREPARATION. + +This preparation is sold from an address in London and like the +previous one, was in a bottle bearing no label; the letters “F.C.R.” +were blown in the glass, and the bottle, which held 12½ fluid ounces +and cost 6s., was enclosed in a perfectly plain case, with no printed +matter accompanying it. A pamphlet on the subject of the medicine was +posted separately to the person ordering it; in this it was explained +that: + + Acting upon the many suggestions received, principally + from ladies, the bottles are packed quite plainly, + and without the ordinary trade labels usually found + upon medicines, etc. The box is quite devoid of + advertisements or anything whatever likely to denote + its contents. The servants and others attached to the + household may therefore be safely entrusted to open the + box; inquisitiveness, if present, will not be rewarded. + +In this pamphlet very detailed directions were also given for taking +the medicine, and for diet and exercise. It was stated that: + + In a very short space of time, say twenty-four hours, + a considerable quantity of the most unhealthy fat will + have been removed from that part of the system most in + need of relief from the adipose matter oppressing it + (the quantity varies from 8 oz. to 2 lb., or even more). + + The dose is one tablespoonful in a half-wineglassful of + water, within, say, ten minutes after each meal. + +Analysis showed the liquid to consist of a solution of citric acid in +water, containing 37 grains in a fluid ounce. The orange colour was +found to be due to iron, which was present to the extent of 0·012 per +cent.; and 0·4 per cent. of alcohol was also found. Addition of this +proportion of iron in the form of the ammonio-citrate was found to give +a practically identical colour, and the formula is approximately: + + Citric acid 37 grains. + Iron and ammonium citrate ¼ grain. + Rectified spirit 2 minims. + Water To 1 fluid ounce. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 12½ fluid ounces is 2·1d. + + +ABSORBIT REDUCING PASTE AND J. Z. OBESITY TABLETS. + +These two preparations are sold by a “Hygienic Skin Specialist.” The +paste, or, perhaps, both preparations, appear to be also known under +the name of “Zobeide,” as the paste was supplied in response to an +order for “Zobeida,” and the jar bore a label giving a so-called +“analysis” (which it is needless to say was no analysis) beginning, +“We have carefully examined the Zobeide Tissue Absorbers and Paste.” +The price of the paste was 3s. 6d., and the jar contained just over 2 +ounces. The directions on the label were: + + Rub in a circular direction, at night, where needed, + for five minutes or more; firm, even movements, and + only use as much as the skin will absorb. + +The paste was a pink ointment, containing 93 per cent. of a fatty +basis, 4·8 per cent. of a substance which agreed in its characters with +dried bile, and was evidently ordinary “purified ox-bile,” and a little +carmine, the remainder being moisture. Further examination of the fatty +basis showed a considerable proportion of beeswax, and the analytical +results obtained agreed with a mixture of: + + Beeswax 23 parts. + Lard 46 ” + Rapeseed (colza) oil 31 ” + +It is not possible, however, to assign an exact formula to a mixture +of fatty substances like this. The composition of the paste was +approximately: + + Purified ox-bile 5 per cent. + Beeswax 22 ” + Lard 44 ” + Oil 29 ” + Carmine q.s. + A trace of perfume was also present. + +The estimated cost of ingredients (2 ounces) is 3d. + +The tablets are sold in boxes, containing 25, price, 2s. + +The directions were: + + Two at night dissolved in the mouth as an ordinary + lozenge. + +The tablets were flat oval lozenges weighing 19 grains each. Analysis +showed their composition to be as follows:— + + Sulphur 24 per cent. + Ginger, about 4 ” + Sugar 61 ” + Acacia gum 8 ” + Moisture 3 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 25 lozenges is ½d. + + +XL REDUCING PILLS AND REDUCING LOTION. + +Hughes & Hughes’s XL Reducing Pills and Ointment are advertised from +an address in a seaside town. The pills are sold in boxes containing +28, price 2s. 9d. a box. The preparation was described, in a circular +enclosed with the box, as: + + A remedy at once safe, speedy, and efficacious, and + of marked value from the health point of view, as it + combats the special ills to which the corpulent have + a liability. It is very easy to take, the pills being + tasteless, and does not necessarily oblige any special + course of diet. + +The directions were: + + 2 pills, twice a day, after principal meals. + +The pills were coated with French chalk, and coloured pink on the +outside. After removal of the coating they had an average weight of 3 +grains. Analysis showed them to contain a vegetable extract, powdered +ginger, powdered liquorice, iron, potassium, phosphate, and iodide; in +addition to the mineral constituents just named, the ash showed all +the constituents of the ash of extract of bladderwrack; various other +tests applied to the pills indicated this extract to be present, and +failed to show any other ingredients. The quantities of the respective +substances were determined as accurately as possible, and the formula +found to be approximately: + + Potassium iodide 0·15 grain. + Iron phosphate 0·35 ” + Powdered ginger 0·2 ” + ” liquorice 0·1 ” + Extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_ 2·2 grains. + In one pill. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 28 pills is 1¼d. + +The Reducing Lotion for external use only with the XL reducing Pills is +sold at 4s. 6d. a bottle, containing 2¼ fluid ounces. + + Directions for Use.—To a little of the lotion add + three or four times the amount of water (to a spoonful, + three or four spoonfuls of water). The lotion is in + a highly concentrated form, and equals a bottle four + times the size. The lotion should be applied night and + morning, gently, without rubbing, by means of the hand, + or a piece of rag, to the part desired. Any part that + is abnormally enlarged can be so treated, except the + face, to which it should not be applied. The XL lotion + will not irritate the most delicate skin, but it should + not be used when there is any scratch or abrasion. + +Analysis showed the presence of chloride, bromide, and iodide of +potassium, glycerine, and a small quantity of a resinous substance in +combination with alkali. The amount of the last constituent was very +small, the resinous substance only amounting to 0·08 per cent.; it +was somewhat bitter, with little colour, and showed no characteristic +reactions or properties by which it could be identified. The +proportions of the other ingredients were found to be: + + Potassium iodide 9·7 grains. + ” bromide 13·5 ” + ” chloride 6·9 ” + Glycerine 105 minims. + Water To 1 fluid ounce. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients (2¼ fluid ounces) is about ¾d. + + +TRILENE TABLETS. + +These tablets are advertised from an address in London, in boxes price +2s. 6d., containing 66 tablets. + +Enclosed with the package was a little book containing testimonials, +directions, etc., and also a small circular giving instructions as to +diet, with the addition: + + We desire to say that such precautions are not + indispensable by any means, but we formulate the above + for the guidance of those in whom any peculiarity of + Constitution may render such care salutary, and to + promote rapidity of cure. + +The directions were: + + Three of the tablets three times a day 10 minutes + before meals, either dissolved on the tongue or taken + as pills. (_No change of diet being essential._) + +It was also added: + + The present supply lasts one week, in which time + the weight begins to lessen, but a marked change in + appearance naturally occupies _several weeks_ to + effect. + +Two separate packages of the tablets were obtained for analysis at an +interval of several weeks; in the first supply the tablets were of a +dirty white colour and contained no dye, but in the second they were +bright yellow, and contained a yellow dye, which appeared to be one +of the coal-tar colours; the other ingredients were the same as those +found on the first occasion. The average weight of one tablet was 0·9 +grain, and they were found to contain 87 per cent. of sugar, 2·4 per +cent. of moisture, and O·5 per cent. of ash; about three-quarters +of the remainder was starch, principally potato starch, but with a +little maize. The residual 2 or 3 per cent. was a gelatinous substance +which showed no marked reactions or characters, and exhibited only +traces of cell tissue when examined microscopically. Analysis of the +ash showed it to contain sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium +chloride, sulphate, and phosphate; these are the constant constituents +of the ash of extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_; an aqueous extract of the +tablets contained a small quantity of mucilage similar to that yielded +by the same drug. By taking some _Fucus vesiculosus_ in the wet state, +pounding it to a pulp and boiling it, a material was obtained agreeing +with the gelatinous substance from the tablets, and there appeared no +ground for doubting the identity of the two. Careful search was made +for alkaloids and other substances in small quantity, but without any +being found. The formula thus became: + + _Fucus vesiculosus_, in pulp 3 per cent. (dry weight). + Starch 7 ” + Sugar 87 ” + Water 3 ” + Yellow dye q.s. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients (66 tablets) is one-fortieth of a +penny. + + +HARGREAVE’S REDUCING WAFERS. + +This preparation is supplied from an address in London in boxes price +1s. 1½d., containing 21. + +The following extracts are taken from a circular enclosed with the box; +the circular contained also a number of testimonials, with directions, +etc. + + Purely vegetable. Contain nothing harmful. Can be + taken at any time with perfect safety. Dose: Three + wafers daily. One after Breakfast, Dinner and Supper. + If Supper is not taken, one after Tea instead. May be + dissolved on the tongue or taken as pills. No change in + diet necessary. + + The supply sent herewith lasts one week, in which time + the Fat commences to get less. In most cases, however, + to complete a cure takes about seven weeks, therefore + clients should now send for the further six weeks’ + treatment. + +The “wafers” were really compressed tablets of the ordinary shape, +coated with French chalk, and coloured pink externally with eosin. +After removing the coating the average weight of the tablets was +2·4 grains; they consisted of substances of “extract” nature, with +about 10 per cent. of powdered liquorice. Analysis of the ash showed +all the constituents of the ash of extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_ +(bladderwrack), and other tests indicated that this extract formed +about one-half of the tablet; the other constituent (or constituents) +also of “extract” nature, showed no reactions or properties by which it +could be identified, and it was probably present merely as excipient. + + +ALLAN’S ANTI-FAT. + +This substance is supplied by an American “Botanic Medicine Company” +from a London office, in bottles containing 6½ fluid ounces, price 6s. +6d. + +On the wrapper appeared the words: + + Purely vegetable. Perfectly harmless. Always + efficacious. + + We call special attention to the efficacy of + our Anti-Fat in the cure of that distressing + complaint—indigestion or dyspepsia. It acts solely + upon the food in the stomach, regulating and putting + the liver and discharging organs in good working order. + +A circular was enclosed with the bottle, entitled, “How to get lean +without starvation,” from which the following extracts are taken: + + A very extensive observation has convinced us, since + our first circular treatise was issued, that in the + majority of cases the Anti-Fat must be taken for + from two to three, and, in rare cases, even four + weeks before the patient will begin to notice much + reduction of flesh, after which the loss goes on + rapidly—generally from three to five pounds a week. In + some cases the diminution in weight commences from the + first two or three days’ use of it. + + The treatment of obesity has hitherto rested on no sure + basis. + + Through the study of physiological chemistry, a + _specific_ has at length been discovered, which, + from the name of the discoverer, has been called + Allan’s Anti-Fat. + + Directions: Take two teaspoonfuls of the Anti-Fat in a + wineglass full of water or sweet milk before each meal. + +A small slip was also enclosed headed “CAUTION!!” which stated: + + The color, as well as the flavor, of the Anti-Fat, + varies somewhat with age and exposure to light, + but neither in the least impairs its virtues. The + temperature of the weather at the time of the + manufacture of this remedy has also much to do with its + clearness, or transparency, but does not affect its + properties. + +Analysis showed the presence of alcohol, glycerine, potassium iodide, +salicylic acid, and a vegetable extract which from its properties and +the analysis of the ash was evidently a purified extract of _Fucus +vesiculosus_. The proportion of the latter drug represented could not, +of course, be determined with certainty for the reasons already given, +but the amounts of the other ingredients were ascertained by analysis, +and the formula was approximately as follows: + + Potassium iodide 0·3 grain. + Salicylic acid 1·0 ” + Glycerine 40 minims. + Fluid extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_ 70 ” + Water To 1 fluid ounce. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients (6½ fluid ounces) is 3d. + + +MARMOLA. + +This preparation is supplied by another American Company, which also +has a depôt in London. It is sold in packages, containing ½ ounce, +price 2s. 6d. + +This preparation, which has been largely advertised in daily and +weekly newspapers, is not represented as a proprietary article, but +is mentioned as one ingredient of a prescription to be made up at a +chemist’s. The following advertisement is a sample: + + Is Fatness a Social Offence? + + “The female form, being capable of expressing a supreme + degree of grace, should be an inspiration in our daily + lives and lead up to higher ideals of beauty,” said + an art lecturer lately. Therefore the fat woman is an + enemy to the artistic uplift, for she is entirely too + heavy for any wings of fancy to raise. + + Why should any woman remain fat when it is so easy + to reduce one’s flesh? A woman may take but little + exercise and enjoy the best of food, and still + preserve a beautiful figure. She has at hand a simple + fat-reducer that takes the place of starving and + gymnastics. It consists of a dessertspoonful after + meals and at bedtime of this simple mixture: One + half-ounce of Marmola, one ounce of fluid extract of + Glycyrrhiza B.P., one ounce of pure Glycerine B.P., + and Peppermint Water to make six ounces in all. Every + over-fat person should try it. It’s quite harmless, and + will take off as much as a pound of fat a day. With a + chemist’s handy, anyone can have a good figure at a + reasonable cost. + +A dessertspoonful of the mixture prescribed would contain about 9 or 10 +grains of Marmola. The prescription and directions were reproduced on +the label of the package, and it was added: + + If faithfully taken as directed for 60 or 90 days, + satisfactory results should be obtained. + +which is a decidedly milder statement than that in the advertisement +that it “will take off as much as a pound of fat a day.” + +The box contained a light brown powder, and analysis showed the +presence of (1) a large proportion of a powdered seaweed, agreeing well +in characters with the powder of _Fucus vesiculosus_, its identity +being further indicated by the composition of the ash; (2) a substance +of proteid nature, agreeing well in characters with the powder of +dried thyroid gland, its identity being further indicated by the +presence of iodine in organic combination; (3) phenolphthalein; (4) +sodium chloride (common salt); and (5) extractive. The last showed no +well-marked characters by which it could be identified, and differed +both in quantity and some minor properties from the extracts obtained +from a specimen of powdered fucus which was used for comparison. This +difference might quite well be due to differences in the drug or in +the treatment it had received, or the extract may represent some other +ingredient possessed of no distinctive characters; a trace of oil of +peppermint was also present. + +Although it was easy to ascertain the nature of the ingredients the +determination of the proportions in which they were present in such a +mixture offered no little difficulty. It is not necessary to detail +here the methods employed, but it will suffice to say that while every +care was taken to make the results as accurate as possible, they cannot +in the nature of the case be more than approximate. The formula arrived +at was: + + In one Dose. + Dried thyroid gland 14 per cent. 1·4 grain. + Phenolphthalein 4 ” 0·4 ” + Sodium chloride 7 ” 0·7 ” + Powdered _Fucus vesiculosus_ 50 ” 5·0 grains. + Extractive 25 ” 2·5 ” + Oil of peppermint trace trace. + +Taking the “extractive” at the price of some of the commoner medicinal +extracts, the estimated cost of the ingredients for half an ounce is +about 4d. + + +FIGUROIDS. + +The tablets sold under the name of Figuroids are or were recently +supplied by a London Company, price 2s. 9d. per bottle, containing 12 +large and 12 small tablets. + +They were described in a pamphlet enclosed in the package as + + A Scientific Obesity Cure discovered through an + accident while making Scientific Investigations in the + Laboratory. + +Other extracts from the pamphlet are as follows: + + In looking through quantities of anti-fat literature + one finds all kinds of crude, ignorant explanations, + such as, for example, that the remedy absorbs the fat. + Now, a sponge absorbs water, or any dry thing will + absorb a liquid, but common sense will tell you that + a liquid taken into the body will not absorb fat; you + can clearly understand that point without further + explanation. Another remedy, it is claimed, simply + destroys the fat. This explanation is, as you can see, + equally preposterous. In Nature nothing is destroyed. + When a piece of coal is burned it is not destroyed, it + is only changed into gases and smoke, and fat is not + destroyed by any remedy. + + Now here is the true and scientific explanation. When + Figuroids are taken, and the fat passes out of those + cells into the circulation, it is oxidized. This + produces chiefly water and carbonic acid gas. This + oxidation takes place while it is being carried along + in the circulating blood. This carbonic acid gas and + water vapour are eliminated from the system as already + explained. + + When you take Figuroids, therefore, your extra fat + simply passes from the adipose cells through their + unbroken walls into the blood, and is there changed to + water and Carbon Dioxide, and thus leaves the body. + + This is the scientific, simple, natural explanation, + and Figuroids is the only remedy which has the + effect.... + + If then you are exceedingly stout and suffering from + all the unpleasant symptoms resulting from that + condition, if you find your weight excessive, if you + suffer from heart palpitation, if you have redness + of the face with annoying perspiration and shiny + appearance of the nose and face, if the throat and + bosom are altogether too stout, and if the lines of the + figure have been lost, or if the abdomen has become + too prominent, if Gout and Rheumatism make themselves + manifest occasionally, and all the disagreeable and + often dangerous symptoms of Obesity are apparent, you + will know that in Figuroids you have a perfectly safe + remedy, while if you suffer but slightly from Obesity + and all the symptoms are less marked, you will also + know that Figuroids furnish you with an effective, + agreeable, and perfectly Safe cure.... + + When taking Figuroids it is not necessary to unduly + restrict yourself in the matter of diet. You may eat + and drink what you desire in reason. It would of + course, be foolish to drink or eat excessively of fat + or fattening foods. + +In another enclosed circular the Company stated that: + + They have decided to originate a No Cure No Payment + system, and will refund the purchase money to any + patient whose weight is not reduced by from two to six + pounds per month whilst taking Figuroids.... This offer + to refund purchase money is made on the understanding + that the Figuroid Company’s instructions are faithfully + observed and the conditions of their offer complied + with. + +The directions on the label were as follows: + + Each bottle contains an equal number of full doses + (large tablet) and half doses (small tablet). + + Take regularly one full dose (large tablet) dissolved + in plain or soda water within 30 minutes after each of + the first three meals on the first day. Next day take + one half dose (small tablet) dissolved in plain or + soda water within 30 minutes after each of the three + meals. Third day take full doses again; and so continue + alternating. + +Although it is here clearly conveyed, without directly making the +statement, that the large and small tablets only differ in being full +doses and half doses respectively, examination showed their composition +to be different, and it was necessary to analyse them separately. + +_Large Tablets._ + +The large tablets had an average weight of 58 grains; analysis showed +them to contain an effervescing mixture of sodium bicarbonate and +tartaric acid, in which the former was in excess, so that the resulting +product was alkaline, together with sodium chloride (common salt), +phenolphthalein, formamine (hexamethylene-tetramine), talc, and gum. +The quantity of each of the ingredients was determined as accurately +as possible, with the results given below; it will be noted that these +quantities add up to 101·4 instead of 100, the reason being that the +whole of the soda is for convenience represented as bicarbonate, +whereas a portion of it had become converted to carbonate by loss of +carbon dioxide. + + In One Tablet. + Sodium bicarbonate 62·0 per cent. 38·9 grains. + Tartaric acid 22·6 ” 13·1 ” + Sodium chloride 6·5 ” 3·8 ” + Phenolphthalein 2·0 ” 1·2 ” + Formamine 3·5 ” 2·0 ” + Talc 2·8 ” + Gum about 2·0 ” + +Hexamethylene-tetramine or formamine, is perhaps better known by its +trade names—urotropine, cystamin, urisol, etc.; it does not appear to +have been described as of value for obesity. + +_Small Tablets._ + +The small tablets had an average weight of 34·3 grains. Analysis showed +them to contain sodium bicarbonate and tartaric acid, but in this case +the latter was in excess and the product acid; the other ingredients +were sodium chloride, phenolphthalein, and talc. The results of +quantitative determinations indicated the following formula (more +carbon dioxide had been lost in this case; the figures add up to 108·5, +the reason being that given above): + + In One Tablet. + Sodium bicarbonate 34·8 per cent. 11·9 grains. + Tartaric acid 46·3 ” 15·9 ” + Sodium chloride 22·8 ” 7·6 ” + Phenolphthalein 1·6 ” 0·5 grain. + Talc 3·0 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of the contents of a 2s. 9d. +bottle is 1¾d. + + +FELL REDUCING TREATMENT. + +In pushing this “treatment,” advertised by an Association giving an +address in London, the system of letters in series is resorted to, but +a small package, containing 112 tablets, can be purchased for 6s. 6d. + +An advertisement ran as follows: + + FAT PEOPLE GIVEN FREE TREATMENT. + + We have such marvellous records of reductions effected + in hundreds of cases with the Fell Reducing Treatment, + that we have decided, for a limited period only, to + give free trial treatments. + + 7 LB. PER WEEK REDUCTION IS GUARANTEED, + without dieting. Perfectly harmless, pleasant; easy and + quick results. Send no money. Simply address the Fell + Formula Association, 340, Century House, 205, Regent + Street, London, W., enclosing stamp to pay postage, + when a free supply in plain wrapper will be immediately + forwarded. + +A free supply was sent on application, accompanied by a letter and +sundry circulars; other letters followed at intervals, and extracts +from some of these will be given. They were printed in imitation of +typewriting, with the name and address typed in, so as to give the +appearance of being personal letters. It will be noted that when a +customer has been attracted by the advertisement that “7 lb. per week +reduction is guaranteed, without dieting,” very much smaller claims are +gradually substituted. + + Esteemed Friend, + + Your favour of recent date has received our careful + attention, and we take pleasure in sending you a three + days’ trial of the Fell Reducing Treatment. Before + taking it, weigh yourself, and then again in three + days, on the same scales and in the same clothes, you + will find you have lost some 3 lb. in weight. + + An abnormal condition like corpulency requires that the + antidote directly reaches the seat of the complaint, + and by these Reducers the blood will be purified, and + all the organs of the body restored to natural healthy + action, while the germs of the disease will be entirely + eradicated from the system, so that the superfluous + fat, which will be removed will not return.... + + At the present stage of the disease in your case, we + can positively assure you that under our treatment a + marked improvement will begin at once, and continue + steadily until a complete reduction in weight, with all + the benefits to general health, is effected. Unlike + most other methods of treatment, the action begins + immediately and the sufferer feels better almost from + the beginning, and it is with confidence that we advise + you to begin a course of treatment with our Reducing + Preparation at once. + + Our regular terms and prices are 26s. for a case + containing three 11s. boxes, whereby a saving of 7s. is + effected. + + If you take up the treatment in this manner you can be + sure of having sufficient of the Tablets to take you + through to a quick reduction. Single boxes of Tablets, + however, are supplied at 11s. and smaller sizes at 6s. + 6d. The 6s. 6d. box covers a ten days’ treatment, while + the 11s. boxes contain three times the quantity of the + 6s. 6d. + +This letter was not answered, but before long another was received +which contained the following passages: + + In sending you the sample of the “Fell” Preparation, + we did so more to show the thorough nature of our + treatment than from the expectation that material + benefit would be realized from same. As you require to + bring about a certain reduction you must necessarily + undergo a certain course of treatment. A pound a day + reduction results in many cases, and there is every + reason to expect that such reduction can be effected in + yours. A serious affliction such as obesity is not to + be removed by any temporary remedy or with a few days’ + treatment.... + + Remember, a 26s. case contains sufficient treatment to + reduce materially the most stubborn and long standing + case, while an 11s. box contains three times the + quantity of the 6s. 6d. box.... + +A supply was sent for and was accompanied by the following letter: + + Dear Sir, + + I have despatched to you the Tablets together with + directions and instructions. I ask you to carefully + observe same, and am confident if you do so, you will + very soon see most beneficial results.... + + I am confident that you will be highly delighted with + the splendid effects of the Tablets at the end of a few + weeks if you follow carefully my instructions and are + prompt and regular in taking the Tablets. I am sending + you herewith printed instructions and rules for diet. + You will note that our suggestion as to what you should + eat, if strictly followed, will not work any hardship, + and that you will never go hungry.... + +This letter, signed “________ ‘Adviser, Fell Formula Association,’” +was accompanied by a printed circular giving rules as to diet, etc., +and by a “symptom blank,” to be filled up by the patient in order to +obtain particulars of “the Fell System of Simple Muscular Movements +for Reducing the Weight and Increasing the Strength, in combination +with the ‘Fell’ Reducing Treatment”; it appears from the latter that +particulars of these exercises are only supplied when the 26s. case is +sent for. + +A fourth letter dealt with generalities and recommended taking the +reducing treatment in increased quantities, but after an interval a +fifth was received, enclosing a booklet advocating the use of “the +Century Thermal Bath Cabinet,” from which the following are extracts: + + ... We have strongly recommended the Home Turkish Bath + that it may be used at least once a week as an adjunct + to the Reducing Treatment; hence our affiliation to + the “Century Thermal” Bath Cabinet, Ltd., whose home + cabinet is built on such lines as to render it the best + device extant for taking Hot Air or Vapour Baths. + + ... in any event, it were better to spend the required + amount, for were the cost as much as £10 in all (it has + but rarely exceeded that) the expense is out of all + proportion to the ultimate benefit. + + ... with the Fell treatment no case of obesity, in + either sex, can fail to be reduced if assisted with the + regular use of the Hot Air Bath. + +Booklets entitled _Corpulence or Obesity. Its causes, results, and +successful treatment: The Treatment of Obesity by the “Fell” Reducing +Treatment_: and _Make Muscle of your Fat_, were also sent at different +times. The following extracts from two of these scarcely appear +consistent: + + A Guarantee to Reduce Weight. + + It is not our purpose to indulge in empty talk only, or + in unconsequential boasts. We are prepared to, and do, + give a positive guarantee that the Fell Treatment, used + in conjunction with the Muscular System, will reduce + the fat of any person—provided our instructions are + adhered to—in the space of a very few weeks. + + Do We Guarantee? + + We are frequently asked this question personally and by + letter, and reply emphatically—No, we do not. To say + Yes—would be illogical and certainly demoralising. + + A guarantee that any medical remedy or curative + will absolutely effect its stated purpose is + misleading, deceptive, delusive, and is a trap to + ensnare, not intelligent individuals, but the unwary, + the unsophisticated, and those utterly unable to + discriminate as to the merits or demerits of any + so-called specific. + +The dose was stated to be: + + Nine tablets daily. Three taken three times a day + before meals. They may be taken as pills or dissolved + on the tongue. + +The tablets had an average weight of 1 grain. Analysis showed them to +contain 90·8 per cent. of milk sugar, 2·4 per cent. of greasy matter, +which appeared to be a mixture of stearic acid and paraffin, evidently +employed as a lubricant in making the tablets, and 6·8 per cent. of +an extract which agreed well in its characters with extract of _Fucus +vesiculosus_; its identity was further indicated by analysis of the +ash. Each tablet would thus contain: + + Extract of bladderwrack 0·07 grain. + Milk sugar 0·91 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 112 tablets is ¼d. + + +NELSON LLOYD SAFE REDUCING TREATMENT. + +In this instance the bait of free trial for a fortnight is held out in +the advertisements issued from an address in London; the following are +extracts from one advertisement: + + I myself am a member of a family many of whom died + prematurely after much mental and physical suffering, + arising from corpulence. While studying medicine for + my degree, I saw the signs of the family complaint + in myself. I naturally sought to avert what I for + some time feared as being my hereditary fate. It was + when I had almost given up hope that I discovered a + cure for my condition, which all the time grew worse, + in spite of my hopeful trials of all advertised and + unadvertised remedies for stoutness. I at last gave up + expecting a cure from other people. I experimented with + my own thought-out remedies, and, happily, at last my + perseverance—or, rather, my desperation—succeeded.... + + The result of several years’ study and experience + has only served to make my treatment more and more + successful.... + + I specially invite those who have tried other remedies + for reducing weight without success to write me for: + + I. A copy of my book, “The Scientific Treatment of + Obesity” (just published, price 6d.), thoroughly deals + with the subject in a popular, readable style.... + + II. Two photos of the lady referred to above, with her + letter giving full particulars of her cure. + + III. Everything required for a complete fourteen days’ + free trial treatment. + + I make no charge for all the above, but ask you to + enclose sixpence (by postal order), just to cover the + expenses of carriage, packing, and dispatch of parcel. + +Application for the “Treatment” brought a box containing 42 tablets, +a copy of the booklet mentioned above, and a letter and form for +particulars. A few extracts will suffice to show what was claimed and +the methods adopted. + +From the booklet: + + Different cases vary so much that the same treatment is + never exactly suited to any two cases. Moreover, the + treatment has to be modified as the patient progresses, + the condition of the individual being periodically + allowed for.... I wish to make it perfectly clear that + not only do I offer every client the full benefit + of practically a life-study of the whole subject of + corpulence, but that I _guarantee_ to effect a + cure of every case I take up. + + There are no “ifs” and “buts” about my promises to my + patients. I undertake to reduce corpulence by rational + individual treatment in each and every case entrusted + to me, and I undertake to promise (_sic_) that my + treatment is in no way weakening, that it is permanent, + and also that it has absolutely no ill effects. + +From the first letter: + + One of the Tablets should be taken after each of the + three chief meals of the day for the next fortnight. I + suggest that if convenient you weigh yourself before + beginning the course, and again in fourteen days’ time, + with the same scales and in the same clothes. You will + find you have lost weight, while improving in your + general condition.... My course of Treatment lasts a + month except in unusual cases. The tablets I have sent + you for the first fortnight will at once put a stop + to the fat-forming habit of the body; these tablets + are taken during the first fortnight in all cases, + and while excellent results follow even in this brief + period, they need to be followed up from the fifteenth + day by additional and different remedies, adapted to + each individual case. + + In order to prepare this part of your Treatment I + shall need to have before me full particulars of your + case, which you can easily give me by filling up the + Consultation Form enclosed herewith.... + + My fee for a month’s course of Treatment is one guinea, + but you will see that I have given you credit for the + first fortnight’s Treatment sent you herewith, because + this is free in accordance with my offer through the + Press. This means that by sending at once you can + have one month’s complete treatment for half cost. To + secure this concession you must, however, send me the + Consultation Form filled up, and remittance for 10s. + 6d. in time to continue your Treatment on the fifteenth + day, and I must have at least three clear days in + which to consider your case and prepare and post your + Treatment to reach you in time. + +The “Consultation Form” contained questions as to age, height, weight, +chest and abdomen measurements, details of bodily condition, habits, +and diet; this was filled up so as to represent an ordinary case of +moderate obesity, and returned with 10s. 6d. In the next letter it was +stated: + + I am preparing your second fortnight’s treatment, and + it will be forwarded in due course, but I feel I should + like to take this opportunity of pointing out to you that + there are special features about your case which, while + not preventing the accomplishment of the improvement + you desire, will, however, entail a little longer + course of treatment than one month. + + In my opinion your case requires a two months’ course + of my treatment, at the end of which time the results + will be all that you can desire. I thought it only + right you should know this, and I would like you to + tell me if you will take the full course my experience + leads me to advise you. + + My fee for the two months’ course is two guineas, but + you have already standing to your credit the sum of + one guinea, being one half-guinea allowed for first + fortnight’s free trial, and the other half-guinea you + have just sent me. + + I should like you to take the full course my experience + tells me is necessary for you, and if you now send me + the one guinea balance, I will at once arrange for the + supply of all the necessary remedies to you at the + proper intervals. + +The second fortnight’s treatment consisted of “special tablets” and a +liquid; these were accompanied by a further letter, a diet table, and a +report form, to be filled in and returned after 10 days. + +The three kinds of medicine were examined with results as follows: + +_The preliminary tablets._—There were 42 in the box, and the directions +were to take one three times a day after meals. + +They were sugar-coated and coloured red externally; after removal of +the coating, they had an average weight of 4·7 grains. Analysis showed +them to consist principally of substances of extract nature, together +with an amount of liquorice fibre representing about 20 per cent. of +powdered liquorice; iodine was present in organic combination, and +a nitrogenous substance; the amount of nitrogen was 0·51 per cent., +representing 3·2 per cent. of proteid; no tissue of thyroid gland +was present, and the nitrogenous material was probably contained in +an extract of this substance. The remainder possessed the general +characters of extract of _Fucus vesiculosus_, and its identity was also +indicated by analysis of the ash; some gum was also present, and some +indication was obtained of another substance also, which, however, +possessed no important characters, and was probably also of the nature +of excipient. The formula indicated by the results was thus: + + Extract of bladderwrack 2·5 grains. + Proteid of thyroid gland 0·15 grain. + Powdered liquorice 0·9 ” + Excipient and moisture, etc. q.s. + In one tablet. + +_The “special” tablets._—There were 33 of these in a box; the +directions were to take one after the mid-day and one after the evening +meal. They were sugar-coated but not coloured. After removal of the +coating, they had an average weight of 4·6 grains. Analysis showed +their composition to agree qualitatively with that of the preliminary +tablets, but the nitrogenous material and the liquorice were present +in somewhat larger amounts. The following formula was indicated by the +results: + + Extract of bladderwrack 2·5 grains. + Proteid of thyroid gland 0·19 grain. + Powdered liquorice 1·4 ” + Excipient and moisture, etc. q.s. + In one tablet. + +_The liquid._—Two fluid ounces were supplied, the directions being to +take 30 drops in a wineglassful of cold water the last thing at night +before retiring and on rising in the morning. Analysis showed this to +contain alcohol, glycerine, nitrogenous matter, a little iodine in +organic combination, and substances of extract nature; the character of +the extract and the composition of the ash again pointed to its being +derived from _Fucus vesiculosus_; the amount of nitrogen was determined +and the equivalent amount of proteid matter calculated; the alcohol and +glycerine were also determined quantitatively: the amount of extract +of bladderwrack could only be arrived at by difference, supported by +the probability that the alcohol was all, or nearly all, added in the +form of the fluid extract of this drug, and the figure can therefore +only be given with reservation; there were also indications of some +small amount of flavouring and colouring matter having been added. The +approximate formula appeared to be: + + Proteid of thyroid gland 0·3 part. + Liquid extract of bladderwrack 32 fluid parts. + Glycerine 12 ” + In 100 fluid parts. + +The amount of thyroid actually represented by the nitrogenous matter +found in these three preparations was too uncertain for an estimate of +the cost price to be of value. + + +CORPULIN, AND DALLOFF’S TEA “CONTRE L’OBESITÉ” GRAZIANA ZEHRKUR. + + Of the German preparations examined by Dr. Zernik two + contain bladderwrack. One called Corpulin contains also + tamarind and cascara sagrada. The other, Dalloff’s Tea + “Contre l’Obesité,” as to which the advertisers assert + that “regular use leads to the removal of superfluous + adipose tissue and the person becomes healthy and + attains old age” was found to consist of a mixture + of the leaves of senna, bearberry (_Uvœ ursi_) + and lavender, and anthylla flowers. Any action it may + have depends probably on the senna leaves. It is sold + in boxes costing 7s. 6d. or 4s. 6d.; the smaller box + contains 80 grammes, or nearly 3 ounces of the powder. + + Graziana Reducing Treatment (Zehrkur) is sent out + in parcels costing 3s. Each contains a packet of a + greyish-brown powder, a box of 40 starch capsules, + each containing 0·2 gramme of a light brown + finely-divided powder, and a box of 86 pills, each + weighing 0·22 gramme. The chief ingredient of each of + the preparations is powdered _Fucus_. The pills + contain some substance yielding emodin, the purgative + principle, or one of the purgative principles, of + aloes, rhubarb, buckthorn, and senna, and also some + sulphates and chlorides. + + + + +CHAPTER X. + +SKIN DISEASES. + + +Proprietary articles for the cure of eczema and other skin affections +include several which are as widely advertised as any nostrums of +any kind. Some of them are at first offered at the comparatively low +price of 1s. 1½d.; but in almost every case the further information +supplied on application shows that what is really recommended is a +“treatment,” including an ointment or other application, a special +soap, and a medicine to be taken internally, and often also a dusting +powder, and occasionally other articles. The importance of persisting +in the treatment is strongly emphasised, with the result that anyone +who once lays out 1s. 1½d. is likely to be drawn into spending quite a +considerable sum. Only a few out of the long list which might be made +of these articles have been analysed, but the results throw sufficient +light on the general nature of the whole class. The most striking point +about them is perhaps the extremely commonplace nature of the drugs +selected, although the vendors in some instances would have the buyer +believe that the preparation sold is the result of years of patient +experiment. + + +ANTEXEMA. + +A Company with an address in London advertises for sale a bottle, price +1s. 1½d., containing a little less than 1½ ounces, but the “Antexema +Treatment” includes Antexema, Antexema Soap, and Antexema Granules (to +be taken internally). On a handbill enclosed with the bottle it was +stated that: + + In most cases “Antexema” will by itself effect a cure, + but the permanence of this is assured by the continued + use of a suitable soap, and the cleansing and purifying + action of “Antexema Granules” on the blood. + +A booklet on “Skin Troubles” was also enclosed, containing some +“before” and “after” illustrations, but they could hardly be expected +to convince anyone; directions were given in this for the course to be +pursued in a variety of disorders, including such “skin troubles” as +in-growing toenails, lupus, piles, ulcers, etc. Incidentally, twelve +other preparations made by the same Company, in addition to the three +named above, were recommended. + +On the outer package it was stated that: + + “Antexema” is the most efficacious remedy known for + the relief of all inflamed conditions of the skin. Its + beneficial effects are not confined to the curing of + Eczema, Psoriasis, Nettlerash, Erysipelas, Boils, and + other serious troubles, but it is also by far the best + remedy for Cuts, Burns, Sores, Bruises, Chilblains, + Blisters, Insect bites, and every variety of trouble to + which the skin is liable. + +Only “Antexema” itself was analysed. It consisted of an emulsion, with +more or less of a watery layer below it. The directions for use were: + + Shake the bottle well, and, if necessary, stir up + the contents until a milky substance is formed. Then + gently rub “Antexema” into the parts affected until + dry, and if the case is a severe one it should be + applied as often as possible. “Antexema” is odourless, + non-poisonous, and invisible when rubbed on the skin, + and it instantly allays irritation. Do not wash any + weeping or inflamed surface until healed, and, if + possible, avoid dressings and coverings. + +Analysis showed it to consist of: + + Soft paraffin 35·4 per cent. + Boric acid 1·5 ” + Gummy matter 12·4 ” + Water 50·7 ” + +The gum resembled in some respects a mixture of acacia and tragacanth, +but could not be exactly identified. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of 1½ ounces is two-thirds of a +penny. + + +PACIDERMA PREPARATIONS. + +These preparations are advertised as follows from an address in London: + + New Cure for Eczema.—A victim who was cured after + 5 years’ intense suffering will gladly send to all + readers of the _Christian Herald_ full particulars + (free) of an inexpensive guaranteed cure for Eczema, + Bad Legs, Sore Hands and all Skin Eruptions, on receipt + of stamped addressed envelope.—Write to A. Paciderma. + +An application to the address given brought a typed letter apparently +produced on a multiple copy machine, from “Paciderma. Manageress, Mrs. +E. Avice,” from which the following extracts are taken: + + “Paciderma” ... consists of three preparations (in one + package), one for internal use and two for external + use. Both internal and external Remedies are absolutely + necessary to eradicate the disease.... The price is + most moderate, namely 6s. and postage 3d. for the + package containing the three preparations for thirty + days’ full treatment. In conclusion I would point out + to you that these Remedies have met with a world-wide + success, even in the worst forms of these terrible + complaints, and are in fact so wonderfully successful + that they are + + GUARANTEED EFFICACIOUS IN EVERY CASE + + no matter what has previously been tried and failed.... + Be sure to fill up the Order Form which I am enclosing + you as carefully and accurately as you can so that I + may be able to give your case my fullest attention and + consideration. + +This letter was accompanied by a booklet entitled “Eczema and how to +Cure it,” and by an order form with spaces for name, address, date, and +the following further particulars: + + Age; sex; occupation; how long been suffering? where + the complaint is located; are the spots or wounds + dry? is there any sticky discharge? are your bowels + constipated? do you suffer from piles? do you suffer + from indigestion? do you suffer from rheumatism or + gout? Do you suffer from any other complaint? + +This form, filled up with the details of an imaginary case, was sent +with a postal order for the requisite amount. A case of “Paciderma” +preparations was at once received, and needless to say there was no +evidence of their having been modified in any way in consequence of +the “fullest attention and consideration” given to the particulars +supplied. The preparations were accompanied by a further letter, typed +like the first, from which the following is extracted: + + One case of the remedies is generally sufficient to + effect a cure, and I trust that it may be so in your + case, but if the disease has been in the system for + years it has got a firm hold, and naturally takes + longer to eradicate; therefore, if this case of + remedies should not cure you, you must lose no time + in writing for a further supply so that no time may + be lost between. You must avoid anything likely to + irritate the skin, and be especially careful as to the + soap you use, as many soaps are most injurious, being + quite sufficient in themselves to cause an eruption. I + should recommend you to use “Paciderma Skin Soap” to + wash yourself with, as it is absolutely pure, and will + keep your skin smooth and healthy. + +After an interval a further letter was received, which ran as follows: + + Dear Sir,—I have been expecting to hear from you as to + how the treatment I sent you some time ago has affected + you. I sincerely trust that you have derived benefit + from it. As I think I told you before, some cases are + naturally much more difficult to cure than others, and + take longer time, as in most cases the disease has + been for years getting a firm hold on the system, and + cannot, therefore, be eradicated in a few days. + + I assure you I should be the last to induce you to + spend money, unless I honestly thought and believed + that the treatment would benefit you. I have been a + fellow sufferer myself, and know what it did for me + by persevering after everything else had failed. If, + therefore, you are not yet cured, I think it is only + my duty to strongly urge you to persevere with the + treatment, and if you hesitate to do so owing to the + money being a consideration to you, I am willing to + meet you as far as I possibly can, and will send you + the complete 6s. 3d. case for 4s. 6d. post free, which + is just cost price, or I will send you the Blood Wafers + for 2s. 2d. per box post free instead of 2s. 10d., or + the Crème for 2s. 2d. post free instead of 2s. 10d., or + the Powder for 7d. instead of 9d. post free. + + I am offering you this very great reduction in price + as I am most anxious that you should be cured, as I + am quite certain that you will be if you persevere + steadily. + + Do not be afraid of troubling me by writing me fully as + to how the treatment has affected you, as I can assure + you that I am quite as anxious to cure you as you + yourself are to be cured, and I take a special interest + in your case. + + Trusting soon to hear from you. + + Yours truly, + E. AVICE. + +The booklet already referred to contained a sworn statement by Mrs. +Avice detailing her own sufferings and cure, the latter being due to +“a dear old friend, an M.D.” Further paragraphs, not in the sworn +statement, were as follows: + + It remained for my old friend, the Doctor, to whose + discoveries I owe my cure, to find the only certain + remedy for this dread complaint. For years he studied + and searched to find a cure for that curse of hot + climates, the “prickly heat,” a very distressing + form of Eczema which is very prevalent in warm + countries, and which few Europeans escape. At last his + perseverance was rewarded, and the long sought for + Remedy found and used with the greatest success both + abroad and after his return to England. Since his death + I have still further improved on and perfected his + ideas, and have evolved my now well-known “Paciderma,” + which has met with the most startling success in every + case in which it has been tried.... + + Paciderma cures all skin troubles without exception, + all pimples, blotches, sores and eruptions of every + kind, in sufferers of every age, from the infant at + the breast to the old and infirm man or woman who has + reached or passed the allotted span of three score + years and ten. + + It is absolutely the only cure for Eczema. + +The following are the results of the examination of the remedies +evolved after so much study and research and perfected and improved: + +_Paciderma Crème._—Price 2s. 9d. per box, holding nearly 4 ounces. +Directions for use: + + Apply the Crème to the parts affected with the finger, + or spread on lint or soft linen, and bandage. + +The Crème consisted of a fairly stiff ointment, which on analysis gave +results corresponding to the following formula: + + Zinc oxide 25·6 per cent. + Calcium carbonate 2·7 ” + ” sulphate 15·8 ” + Boric acid 15·9 ” + Basis 58·7 ” + +The basis consisted of soft paraffin, apparently with a small +proportion of a saponifiable oil, such as olive oil. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 4 ounces is 1½d. + +_Paciderma Powder._—Price 9d. per box, containing about 3 ounces. The +directions ran: + + Allays all itching and irritation, and should be + applied freely and frequently to the affected parts, in + fact whenever they itch or irritate. + +Analysis showed the composition to be: + + Maize starch 54 per cent. + Boric acid 14 ” + Insoluble mineral matter 19 ” + Moisture 13 ” + +The insoluble mineral matter contained alumina, magnesia, and silica, +corresponding to a mixture of talc and kaolin; this composition also +agreed with all its other properties. + +The estimated cost of ingredients for 3 ounces is ¾d. + +_Paciderma Blood Wafers._—Price 2s. 9d. per box of thirty. + + Directions. One to be taken every night at bedtime. + +The “wafers” consisted of cachets, each containing about 8½ grains of a +powder, the composition of which was indicated by analysis to be: + + Sodium bicarbonate 59 per cent. + Precipitated sulphur 37 ” + Powdered ginger 3 ” + Aloin 1 ” + +The ginger and aloin could only be estimated approximately. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 30 wafers is one-fifth of a +penny. + + +CUTICURA REMEDIES. + +The remedies are stated to be prepared by a Drug and Chemical +Corporation in the U.S.A. + +The “system,” which has been very widely advertised, consists of +Cuticura (Ointment), Cuticura Soap, and Cuticura Resolvent (liquid or +pills); the ointment and the resolvent liquid were taken for analysis. + +A booklet was enclosed in each package, containing, with other matter, +directions for the use of the remedies in fourteen languages; from it +the following extracts are taken: + + In the treatment of torturing, disfiguring, itching, + scaly, crusted, pimply, blotchy, and scrofulous + humours of the skin, scalp, and blood, with loss of + hair, the Cuticura Remedies have been wonderfully + successful. Even the most obstinate of constitutional + humours, such as bad blood, scrofula, inherited and + contagious humours, with loss of hair, glandular + swellings, ulcerous patches in the throat and mouth, + sore eyes, copper-coloured blotches, as well as boils, + carbuncles, sties, ulcers, scrofulous rheumatism, and + most humours arising from an impure or impoverished + condition of the blood, yield to the CUTICURA + SYSTEM OF TREATMENT in the majority of cases, when + the usual remedies fail.... Parents are assured that + these Remedies are composed of the purest and sweetest + ingredients known to modern pharmacy, and may be used + on the youngest infants with complete satisfaction. + +_Cuticura Ointment._—Price 2s. 6d. per box, containing 1¾ ounces. + + Directions.... Cuticura Ointment may be applied to any + part of the surface of the body by direct application + with the finger, the palm of the hand, or spread on + cotton, linen, or absorbent cotton, and covered with + a light bandage, or by any means by which a remedy of + this consistence would be used. + + ... in rare instances of individual tendency to acute + eczema, acne, acne rosacea, erysipelas, and other + highly inflammatory conditions, especially those + affecting the face, it may act as an irritant, and + hence those using it must observe what has been said + in the foregoing directions in order that they may + exercise judgment as to whether to continue it or not, + should any unfavourable symptom present itself. + +Examination of the ointment showed the absence of all metallic +compounds, also of alkaloids or other active principles, and of +saponifiable fat. It consisted of a mixture of hard and soft paraffins, +slightly perfumed with rose, and coloured green. The chief green +colouring matter present appeared to be an aniline dye, and a mixture +of paraffins, coloured with a trace of malachite green and a little +chlorophyll, agreed very closely with it in its properties. No other +ingredient could be discovered. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of 1¾ ounces is ¾d. + +_Cuticura Resolvent._—Price 2s. 6d. per bottle, containing 6½ fluid +ounces. + +In the pamphlet quoted above it is stated: + + Cuticura Resolvent is alterative, antiseptic, tonic, + digestive, and aperient, and is confidently believed + to be superior to other preparations for purifying the + system of humours of the skin, scalp, and blood, with + loss of hair. CUTICURA RESOLVENT is prepared + in accordance with the most advanced pharmaceutical + and therapeutical knowledge from medicinal agents + of ascertained purity and potency, and while in the + highest degree effective, commends itself to delicate, + sensitive, and refined people, especially women, + because of its pure, sweet, and gentle action.... + It is believed to be one of the most successful of + blood-purifying and strengthening medicines for + children in all conditions which point to inherited + impurities and weaknesses, and may be taken on the + first appearance of glandular swellings, ulcers, sores, + especially on the neck, pallor, weakness, and delicate, + frail conditions, with every hope of success. + + DIRECTIONS.—Adult dose, two teaspoonfuls + three times a day; for children over ten years of + age and delicate females, one teaspoonful; for + children from five to ten years of age, one half of a + teaspoonful; for children two to five years of age, 15 + drops; from one to two years, 10 drops. To be taken + three times a day, immediately after each meal. + +Analysis showed the composition of the mixture to be: + + Potassium iodide 17 grains. + Sugar and glucose 486 ” + Extractive 8 ” + Alcohol 10 fluid drachms. + Water to 6½ fluid ounces. + +No alkaloidal substance was present; the extractive gave a slight +indication of the presence of a preparation of rhubarb; all other drugs +with well-marked characters were absent. + + +ZAM-BUK. + +This ointment is sold by a London Company in a box, containing +three-fifths of an ounce, price 1s. 1½d.; a Zam-Buk soap is also +recommended for use as part of the treatment. In a circular enclosed in +the package it was related how: + + Certain medicinal plants were taken, and from them + were extracted gums and juices possessing considerable + healing and curative power. Costly experiments at last + secured the right blending of these juices; and to + the final product, a preparation virtually capable of + growing new and healthy skin, the name of Zam-Buk was + given.... + + Zam-Buk practically contains those substances which + Nature has intended for the use of man ever since she + bequeathed to him the instinct to rub a place that + hurts.... + + Zam-Buk has proved itself to be unequalled for Cuts, + Bruises, Burns, Scalds, Abrasions, Festering Sores, + Poisoned Wounds, Lacerated Wounds, Old Wounds, Sprains, + Strains, Swellings, Dog Bites, Cat Scratches, Obstinate + Sores, Chafings, Itch (Scabies), Stings from Hornets, + Bees, Wasps, Centipedes, and Spiders; Running Sores, + Ulcers, Ringworm, Eczema (acute or chronic form), + Psoriasis (tetter), Pimples, Acne, Abscesses, Boils, + Carbuncles, Scrofula, Cramp, Barber’s Itch, Heat + Rashes, Sunburn, Freckles, Blotches, Blackheads, Scalp + Irritations Scurf or Dandruff, and other Scalp Sores; + Colds, Chills, Raw Chapped Hands, Sore Lips, Raw + Chin after Shaving; Inflamed Patches, Sore Nipples, + Glandular Swellings, Swollen Knees, Bad Legs, Blind + and Bleeding Piles, Cold-Sores, Sore Backs, Diseased + or Weak Ankles, Sore and Aching Feet, Perspiring Feet, + Chilblains, Soft Corns, Saltwater Sores. Rubbed well + into the part affected, Zam-Buk gives great relief from + Rheumatism, Lumbago, Neuralgia, Sciatica, Toothache, + and allays all kinds of Inflammation, Itching, and + Irritation. + +The directions on the box were: + + For Bruises, Cuts, Sores, Sprains, Open Wounds, Sore + Breasts, Inflamed Patches, Ulcers, Eczema and Piles; + first cleanse the parts with pure water and then apply + Zam-Buk direct or on a piece of clean lint. For Burns, + Scalds, etc., rub Zam-Buk lightly over the injured + part and cover same as soon as possible in order to + exclude the air. To use Zam-Buk as an Embrocation rub + it in well, both into the muscles and tendons, when the + healing, stimulating and strengthening ingredients in + Zam-Buk will be absorbed into the system. + +Analysis showed its composition to be: + + Oil of eucalyptus 14 per cent. (approximately). + Pale resin (colophony) 20 ” ” + Soft paraffin 55 ” ” + Hard paraffin 11 ” ” + Green colouring matter a trace. + +An ointment prepared in accordance with this formula and tinted with +chlorophyll agreed in all respects with the original. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for three-fifths of an ounce is +¼d. + + +ZIP OINTMENT. + +This is supplied by a Company giving an address in a London suburb in +box containing rather less than an ounce (0·85 ounce) at the price of +1s. 1½d. + +On a circular enclosed with the box this ointment was described as a +“cure for Eczema, Ringworm, Psoriasis.” It was also stated that: + + Zip is the product of many years’ experience and + trials, and will be found the best and most reliable + remedy for the above troublesome complaints. + +The directions given on the box were: + + Wash well the parts with the Zip Skin Soap, and apply + Zip night and morning. + +Analysis showed the composition of the ointment to be: + + Calomel 2·1 parts. + Lead acetate 1·0 part. + ” oleate 2·5 parts. + Oil (probably olive) 2 ” + Glycerine 5 ” + Creosote A trace. + Oil of lemon grass Sufficient to perfume. + Paraffin ointment To 100 parts. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 0·85 ounce is ½d. + +The following are quoted from Dr. Zernik’s notes on some of the skin +remedies most advertised in Germany. + + +CRÈME EKZEMIN. + + Crème Ekzemin, advertised as a cure for almost all + diseases of the skin, including psoriasis, is a mixture + of precipitated sulphur and a semi-fluid fatty mass, + coloured red. The tube contains 75 grammes, and costs + 5s. 2½d. + + +PHEUN SKIN PASTE. + + Pheun Skin Paste, according to the vendors, possesses + marvellous properties, and when applied to the skin + it not only removes all the dirt but kills all the + bacteria, even when situated in the deeper layers, + and it is recommended as a cure for all forms of skin + diseases. Zernik, on analysis, found it to contain 31 + per cent. of soft paraffin, 5 per cent. of water, 2 + per cent. of soap, and 10 per cent. of a dry substance + yielding slimy material. + + +JUNIPER BEAUTY CREAM AND JUNIPER BEAUTY SOAP. + + It may be worth while to add that Zernik says of a + certain “Juniper Beauty Cream,” sold in Berlin, that it + is a water-containing ointment, perfumed with oil of + bergamot, containing 5 per cent. of white precipitate + (ammoniated mercury) and 11 per cent. of salicylic + acid. It seems to be intended for the face, but looking + to the large proportion of salicylic acid it contains, + it might, perhaps, be more appropriate for use as a + corn plaster. + + +RINO CURATIVE OINTMENT. + + Rino Curative Ointment, advertised as containing + naphthalan, Peru balsam, chrysarobin, etc., was found + by Zernik to consist of turpentine, oil of cade, 1 per + cent. of boric acid, 6 or 7 per cent. of yolk of egg + and an indifferent vehicle, + + + + +CHAPTER XI. + +MEDICINES FOR BALDNESS. + + +During recent years the number of preparations put forward for the cure +of baldness has been increased by a new class, those, namely, which are +not applied locally but taken internally. The principal ingredient in +all seems to be the dried colouring matter of the blood of warm-blooded +animals—haemoglobin. The most widely advertised of them is sold under +the name of “Capsuloids.” + + +CAPSULOIDS. + +The price was 2s. 3d. for a box containing 36 capsuloids. + +On the outer package it was stated that: + + Our special process used in making Capsuloids is never + used and never has been used outside our Laboratory. It + is known only to the Capsuloid Company, Ltd., and has + never at any time been communicated to any other person + or firm. This material is then enclosed in little + pear-shaped gelatine capsules which are made of the + finest and purest gelatine. As a result of our special + process, Capsuloids have that particular and remarkable + effect upon the hair through the medium of the blood + which is so well and widely known. There is no other + preparation which possesses anything like the same + effect. + + Capsuloids not only cause the death of those harmful + germs which we have proved to be the cause of falling + out and prematurely grey hair, but they also restore + the injured growing cells of the hair roots, and + nourish them, and cause them to multiply so that + the roots become firm and grow rapidly, producing + thick and luxuriant hair, and where there has been + premature greyness, it is also cured. Recent scientific + investigation has definitely proved this, and has + demonstrated that hair cannot be made to grow by using + external preparations. + + Directions. To stop falling out of the hair and to + restore the colour to prematurely grey hair, adults + should take two, or in very severe cases three, + capsuloids before eating or with the first part of each + meal, three times daily. The doses for younger persons + is one or two with each meal. Capsuloids never cause + constipation or indigestion, nor do they in any way + upset the stomach, or any part of the system. + +A booklet of 20 pages was enclosed in the package, in which the above +statements were repeated and further elaborated with the aid of a +diagram of the root of a hair, with blood-vessels, oil gland, “growing +cells containing harmful germs,” etc. + +The capsuloids were elongated gelatine capsules containing a dark +material, the average contents of one weighing 3·4 grains. The material +yielded 32 per cent. to a solvent suitable for extracting fats, and +this portion proved to be a mixture of about equal parts of a neutral +oil and a fatty acid, agreeing in their characters with olive oil and +oleic acid, respectively. Extraction of the residue with alcohol then +removed 10 per cent. of an aromatic balsamic substance, generally +resembling Peruvian balsam, but lighter in colour; a mixture of +equal parts of Peruvian balsam and purified storax gave a substance +practically identical. The residue, insoluble in both solvents, was +a red-brown powder, which was found by its characters to be dried +haemoglobin. Careful search was made for arsenic, alkaloids, and other +ingredients, but nothing else was detected. The results indicated the +following formula for the contents of the capsules: + + Haemoglobin 1·97 grain. + Olive oil } + Oleic acid } of each 0·54 ” + + Balsam of Peru } + Purified storax } of each 0·17 ” + In one capsule. + +The estimated cost of materials for the contents of 36 capsules is 1d. + +Other dealers have paid the company the sincere compliment of +imitation, and various similar articles appear to be largely sold. The +following particulars are taken from price lists and advertisements +intended for retail chemists; as haemoglobin is referred to as the +principal constituent in each case, they were not submitted to analysis. + + +CAPSULATED HAEMOGLOBIN OVALS FOR THE HAIR. + + “Capsulated Haemoglobin Ovals for the Hair. Contain 2½ + grains of Pure Haemoglobin.” + +They were supplied by a firm in a south country seaside town, labelled +with name and address of the retailer. The wholesale price quoted was +for tubes of 25, 4s. per dozen. + + +HAEMOGLOBIN HAIR CAPSULES. + + “Capsules for the Hair. When falling out or turning + prematurely grey, these capsules by enriching the blood + make the hair glossy, luxuriant, and full of vitality.” + +These were not described on the package as containing haemoglobin, but +were quoted in the price list as “Haemoglobin Hair Capsules.” They +were supplied by a company in a seaside town. “Store price, 1s. 6d.” +Wholesale price, 7s. per dozen packages. + + +SOLUBLE CAPSULES OF HAEMOGLOBIN. + + “Soluble Capsules of Haemoglobin. A natural hair food. + Produces Healthy, Strong, and Luxuriant Hair.” + +The wholesale price of these, supplied by a London firm, was for boxes +of 36, 5s. 9d. per dozen. + + + + +CHAPTER XII. + +CANCER REMEDIES. + + +A very slight acquaintance with the advertisements of quack medicines +is enough to show that a knowledge of the causes of the disease for +which a cure is promised is in no wise necessary for the composition of +either the medicine or the advertisement, in fact, it is impossible to +believe that the extravagant claims and absurd statements made could be +put forward by persons having any knowledge of disease. It is no matter +for surprise, therefore, that in the case of the least understood and +least successfully combated of diseases many proprietary “remedies” are +put forward. A considerable number of these articles have been received +and the alleged claims tested at the laboratories of the Imperial +Cancer Research Fund; specimens of a few of these were obtained and +submitted to analysis, and some notes on their composition cannot +fail to be of interest to members of the medical profession, who will +probably from time to time have to treat sufferers from cancer who have +been induced to buy one or other of these preparations. + +As was to be expected, the articles examined have little or nothing +in common. In the case of diseases for which the ordinary treatment +involves the use of certain specific drugs, proprietary medicines +are usually merely varying compounds of those drugs; thus, of the +advertised cures for epilepsy, analyses of which are given in the +next chapter, the essential ingredient in all but one is an alkaline +bromide. But in cancer the would-be maker of a proprietary “cure” has +no such accepted treatment to guide him, or to restrict the free range +of his fancy in selection of ingredients; it is probable that some of +the “remedies” here described were inspired by the fact that some +apparent improvement followed their fortuitous use in some cases, +_post hoc_ having been assumed to mean _propter hoc_; the first to be +described, however, can hardly rest even on this basis. + +It is a colourless liquid, containing a trace of sediment; the +odour is that of alcohol, though very slightly vinous. Fractional +distillation showed the presence of about 40 per cent. of alcohol; +on complete evaporation, a trace (0·02 per cent.) of dry residue was +left. This residue was free from any alkaloid, and its behaviour with +reagents gave no indication of any other active principle; it agreed +in character with the “extractive” found in spirit that has been kept +in a wine-cask. After removing the alcohol, the liquid was perfectly +tasteless. This “remedy” is thus very simple in nature, consisting +merely of diluted and slightly impure alcohol. Its composition brings +to mind the analysis published some years ago of a so-called electric +fluid, or “electricity,” for the cure of cancer, which was taken up by +a certain well-known journalist and boomed by him in the pages of the +review which he edited; many marvellous cures were ascribed to it, but +examination showed that although it was sold at several shillings per +fluid ounce, it consisted of plain water. Notwithstanding the exposure, +the article is at present quoted in wholesale lists, and is therefore +presumably still in demand. The cost of the “medicine” we are now +dealing with is of course considerably greater than the cost of plain +water, but this fact will be but small consolation to the victim who +derives as little benefit from the one as from the other. + +The next article analysed was a blue fluid containing a considerable +blue sediment, and smelling fairly strongly of terebene. The chief +ingredient was found to be a blue dye stuff of the oxazine or thiazine +group, much resembling methylene blue (which is the only member of +these groups ordinarily used in medicine), but differing from it in +solubility and in its behaviour with certain reagents. This constituted +the greater part of the sediment, and a portion of the dye was also in +solution. The liquid further contained a dissolved gum and a trace +of terebene; these, with a little magnesium carbonate, were all the +ingredients present. No trace of any alkaloid was found, and the +solvent was water. The gum showed no difference from ordinary acacia +gum, and was probably added to suspend the undissolved dye stuff. Water +dissolves very little terebene, and no more of the latter was present +than could be dissolved by the water; it was probably employed to give +an aromatic taste and smell, and the magnesia was doubtless used to +subdivide the terebene in the manner commonly followed by pharmacists +when dissolving essential oils in water. It thus appears that the +essential ingredient of this medicine is the blue dye stuff; it is +possible that this has been used as methylene blue, since the articles +sent out under the same name by different dye manufacturers often +differ in composition; but, as already stated, it is not identical with +the methylene blue usually met with. The total solids in the mixture, +after shaking up the sediment, amounted to 13·2 per cent., of which the +dye stuff constituted something like one-half. + +A third preparation was a brown liquid of syrupy consistence found +to consist of wood tar. It was a much purer product than ordinary +Stockholm tar, and its peculiar odour indicated that it was derived, +at least in great part, from the birch; no other ingredient could +be found. This article came from Sphakia, Crete; the label bore no +directions for its use, leaving it uncertain whether it was intended +for internal or external use, but the latter appears the more probable. + +The remaining articles are clearly intended for external application; +the first of these consisted of a plaster mass, in the half-pound +sticks in which such masses are usually supplied. Analysis showed the +principal ingredient to be lead oleate, with a little stearate, and +small quantities of resin and soap. These are the ingredients of the +resin and the soap plasters of the _British Pharmacopœia_, and the +proportion of soap present showed the specimen under examination to be +emplastrum resinae. + +The next preparation was an ointment of Dutch origin. It contained +large quantities of ammonium alum and zinc sulphate, with a little +sodium sulphate, made up into a stiff ointment with a basis consisting +of beeswax, soft paraffin, oil, and resin. The quantities of the salts +were approximately: + + Alum 27 per cent. + Zinc sulphate 37 ” + Sodium sulphate 8 ” + +The presence of so large a proportion of mineral salts, of course, +leaves very little tenacity in the ointment; particles of the white +salts were easily visible to the eye, and the effect of applying the +preparation must be practically the same as if the dry salts were +rubbed on the skin except that the basis would, of course, act as a +lubricant in the rubbing. + +The last of these preparations was another ointment; the mineral +ingredients in this case, however, were in organic combination. This +ointment contained copper oleate and aluminium oleate with a basis of +lard and a little resin. The proportions of the active ingredients were +approximately: + + Copper oleate 15 per cent. + Aluminium oleate 35 ” + +No alkaloid or other active principle was found. + +A bottle of lotion for cancer and other affections, obtained in the +ordinary way through a dealer, was examined. The label commences with +the statement that the lotion “cures cancerous or malignant sores”; +then follows a list of other diseases, with the addition, “even cases +that have been under the treatment of doctors and at infirmaries +for years.” Analysis showed the composition of the lotion to be +substantially as follows:— + + Zinc sulphate 92 grains + Carbolic acid (pure phenol) 1·2 oz. + Glycerine 1·8 fl. oz. + Cochineal solution sufficient to give a + deep red colour. + Water to 3·3 fl. oz. + +This quantity is contained in a bottle costing 4s. 6d.; the directions +are to add the whole contents to 1½ pints of water, which is to be +applied to the diseased parts for about five minutes two or three times +a day. + +Another pretended “cure” for this disease was supplied from an address +in Croydon, by a person who described himself as a retired Government +analytical chemist. The bottle did not bear an Inland Revenue stamp. +The vendor seems to prefer to see and examine the patients. In one +such case he was paid 3 guineas, and asked for more, as it was, he +said, a complicated case. The directions given were “two tablespoonfuls +should be taken three times a day.” Analysis of this liquid showed +the presence of ferric chloride, and traces of hydrochloric acid and +alcohol, and nothing else except water; the alcohol indicates that the +tincture of perchloride of iron, and not the liquor, was employed; +determination of the amounts of iron and chlorine present showed that 6 +fluid ounces of the mixture contained 5·7 fluid drachms of the tincture. + +A few years ago a good deal was heard of the wonderful cures said to +be achieved by two persons who resided at Cardigan. A great deal of +secrecy was observed, but it was known that a fluid was applied to the +surface of the cancerous tumour. The treatment, it was stated, began +with prayer, and exhortations to the patient to trust in the Almighty; +the lotion or oil, which was said to be made entirely from herbs and to +contain no mineral caustic, was then painted on with a brush. Unlike +other empirics who profess to remove the “roots” which the knife leaves +behind, these Welsh practitioners asserted that their remedy made +the “roots” shrink into the original growth which then fell off like +a ripe apple from a tree. The practice seemed to be to require the +patient to attend daily to have the local application made for periods +extending over several months. Eventually, in some cases, a mass of +dried, heaped-up crusts formed, and when this became detached it was +put into a bottle and given to the patient who was told that it was +the cancer extracted by the treatment. In one case which was enquired +into, this bottle cancer was submitted to microscopical examination; +it was found to consist of crusts formed of sloughing parts of the +skin and inflammatory exudation, the whole being such a mass as might +be produced by the use of an escharotic. The crusts when submitted to +chemical analysis were found to contain zinc chloride in considerable +amount, together with a very appreciable quantity of an insoluble +compound of lead. A healing oil was also supplied to help the cancer +falling off, and this when chemically examined was found to contain 27 +per cent. of oil of turpentine, the remainder consisting principally +of an ordinary saponifiable oil, probably cotton-seed or olive oil. In +addition there was a considerable amount of deposit which proved to +consist almost wholly of barium sulphate, a very insoluble salt, used, +under the name of permanent white, by watercolour artists. It would +seem, therefore, that the statement that the applications contained no +mineral caustic was inaccurate. In other patients the effect of this +Cardigan treatment was more destructive. In the case of one woman who +had been informed that the cancer had been cured and that she only +required some tonic medicine to complete the cure, the surgeon who was +called to her when she was _in extremis_ has said that he never beheld +anything like it in his life; the whole breast was a necrosing mass, +black and stinking, the ulcers extending up to the collar-bone and down +to the margin of the ribs and across the middle line; the hand could +have been inserted under the margin of the dead part all round. Some +unfortunate patients persevered with the treatment although suffering +pain described as excruciating. + +Caustics are, in fact, the weapon of the quack, and although they may +have a legitimate sphere in surgery, it is very limited; zinc chloride, +for instance, has occasionally been used in a strong solution or paste +as a caustic under special circumstances. Although portions of a tumour +may be removed by caustic application, it is impossible to eradicate +the whole in this way, as the cancerous process is extending into +adjacent parts. The formula of the quack—“cancer treated without the +knife”—appeals with great force to the public who do not know the +terrible long-drawn-out agony which those treated with caustics have +to undergo. Of this a vivid description was given by a well-known +naturalist, the father of a distinguished man of letters, in a little +book in which he related the suffering of his own wife; she was treated +by an American cancer-curer by caustics. The process of “cure” lasted +several months, and the result may be summed up in the statement that +“suffering never ceased from the beginning of the operation till her +spirit was freed from the worn-out body.” + + + + +CHAPTER XIII. + +REMEDIES FOR EPILEPSY. + + +The nostrums which appear to be most advertised at the present time +for the treatment of epilepsy afford a good example of the fact which +has been previously pointed out that in some instances the vendors of +secret preparations make use of drugs in common use by the medical +profession for the treatment of some particular disorder; this is, of +course, only possible when the symptoms are well-marked and easily +recognised. As will be seen from the analyses given below of a number +of nostrums advertised as remedies for epilepsy it was found that all, +with one exception, contained bromide salts, that is to say, a drug +the effect of which is described and discussed in every medical work +dealing with the disease; nevertheless, the advertisers endeavour to +lead the purchaser to believe that the preparations possess peculiar +virtues unknown to the medical profession. The exceptional preparation +contains vervain (_Verbena officinalis_) which held a place in the +old pharmacopœias and herbals, chiefly as an astringent application +to wounds or as a lotion for sore mouth. Dodoens (1572) says it is +good for headache applied as a plaster, while Gerarde (1633) mentions +its use as a garland round the head for the same condition, but he +disapproves of the many old wives’ tales told regarding it which +tend to sorcery, and are such as honest ears abhor to hear; indeed, +he hints that some assert that the “divell did reveal it as a secret +and divine medicine.” According to Pliny, vervain was gathered by the +Druids of Gaul and Britain at the rising of the Dog Star, when neither +sun nor moon shone, with the left hand only, and after libations of +honey. When thus obtained it was said to vanquish fevers and other +distempers, to be an antidote to the bite of serpents, and a charm +to conciliate friendship. Paris speaks of it as in his own time the +subject of a work on scrofula by a Mr. Morley, which was written for +the sole purpose of restoring the much injured character and use of +vervain, so that it is evidently a herb which has suffered much from +detraction. Mr. Morley directed the root of the plant to be tied, with +a yard of white satin ribbon, round the neck where it was to remain +until the patient was cured. The modern vendor does not indulge in +these refinements. + +In submitting the following analyses it should be stated that a mixture +or powder, dispensed according to the prescription obtained by the +analysis, produced in each case a preparation closely resembling in +appearance and taste that sold by the secret medicine vendor; further, +the mixtures possessed the same specific gravity as the originals. + + +OZERINE. + +“Ozerine,” prepared by a chemist in Ireland, is described as an +unfailing remedy for epilepsy, fits, or falling sickness. The bottle +examined had no medicine stamp affixed. + +The formula ascertained by analysis is as follows: + + Potassium bromide 120 grains. + Ammonium carbonate 16 ” + Burnt sugar q.s. to colour. + Chloroform water to 1 fluid ounce. + +Potassium bromide (111 grains) and potassium chloride (9⅓ grains) were +found by analysis, but as some potassium bromide containing a large +percentage of chloride had recently been in the market the latter was +not regarded as an intentional addition. + +_Dose._—One teaspoonful before breakfast and dinner, and two at bedtime. + +The price charged for a bottle containing 8 fluid ounces was 4s. 6d.; +the estimated cost of contents was under 4d. + + +W. AND J. TAYLOR’S CELEBRATED ANTI-EPILEPTIC MEDICINE. + +This preparation, sold in this country through an export agent in +London, is said to be “simple, efficacious, harmless, and cheap.” The +effrontery of the following paragraph, extracted from a circular which +was wrapped round the bottle, is amusing in view of the analytical +results: + + The principal drug is to be found in nearly every + surgery, and yet not one doctor in a hundred would + think of using it in Epilepsy, simply because he has no + precedent to act upon—he is not directed by any of the + great medical writers to prescribe or administer it in + this disease; he knows not of its being so used, and he + has not tried it himself, and thus he remains unaware + of the one grand means of curing Epilepsy, even with + the very drugs necessary at his elbow. + +The formula ascertained by analysis was: + + Tincture of iodine ¾ minim. + Potassium bromide 13 grains. + Ammonium bromide 4 ” + Water to 1 fluid ounce. + +The mixture contained the proportion of iodine indicated in the above +formula; but as it also contained traces of iodide, it was probable +that tincture of iodine was used in its preparation. It may, however, +have been prepared from an aqueous solution of iodine and potassium +iodide. + +_Dose._—One teaspoonful three times a day. + +The price of a bottle holding 12 fluid ounces was 2s. 9d.; the +estimated cost of the contents is about 1d. + + +OSBORNE’S MIXTURE FOR EPILEPSY. + +This mixture is stated to be prepared in a small town in England. + +The following is an extract from a circular accompanying the bottle: + + It scarcely ever fails to prevent the fits, loss of + consciousness, convulsions, nervous twitchings, &c., + of epilepsy, while at the same time it acts as a most + valuable tonic; it allays irritation of the nervous + system, purifies the blood, strengthens the frame, + improves the general health, and helps to check the + progress of disease on the intellectual faculties, and + may be taken by the most delicate. + +The formula ascertained by analysis was: + + Potassium bromide 166 grains. + Sugar 48 ” (= syrup Ʒj). + Burnt sugar q.s. to colour. + Peppermint water to 1 fluid ounce. + +Traces of fixed ammonia were also present. + +_Dose._—One large teaspoonful morning and night. + +The price charged for a bottle holding 5 fluid ounces was 2s. 9d.; the +estimated cost of the contents is about 3d. + + +“PROFESSOR” O. PHELPS BROWN’S VERVAIN RESTORATIVE ASSIMILANT. + +This preparation is recommended by the vendor— + + “for the positive and speedy cure of epilepsy or fits, + dyspepsia, indigestion, all derangements of the stomach + and bowels, and for every form of debility, no matter + from what source it may arise. An unequalled tonic and + nervine.” + +The formula ascertained by analysis was: + + Decoction of Vervain (2 oz. to a pint) 4 fluid drachms. + Port wine 1 ” ” + Rectified spirit 2 ” ” + Water to 1 fluid ounce. + +The dose was stated to be one dessertspoonful three times a day before +eating. + +The mixture contained 25·75 per cent. of absolute alcohol by volume, +and reacted towards lead acetate and lead sub-acetate exactly like a +specimen prepared according to the above formula. It also contained the +same amount of extractive, and had the same specific gravity. + +The price is 2s. 9d. for a 6-oz. bottle. The estimated cost of the +contents is about 5d. + + +TRENCH’S REMEDY FOR EPILEPSY AND FITS. + +This is, or was, made by a company giving an address in Ireland. The +package examined had no medicine stamp affixed. + +_Liquid Preparation._—The following formula refers to the liquid +preparation supplied for use in the United Kingdom. + +The formula ascertained by analysis was: + + Potassium bromide 70 grains. + Ammonium bromide 10 ” + Sugar 72 ” (= syrup Ʒjss). + Fuchsia q.s. to colour. + Water to 1 fluid ounce. + +The dose was stated to be one teaspoonful in the morning and two at +night; the price for a 3-oz. bottle is 3s.; the estimated cost of the +contents was about 1d. + +“_Concentrated Form._”—This was supplied for export to the colonies, +was a moist coarse brown crystalline powder in hermetically-sealed +tins, with directions enclosed for dissolving in water. A quarter +package (the smallest supplied) contained 11¼ ounces, and was directed +to be dissolved in one pint of warm water. The resulting mixture was +found to measure 25 fluid ounces. From the formula given below it will +be seen that the mixture thus prepared differed from the one issued for +home consumption in two important particulars: (_a_) ammonium bromide +was absent, (_b_) the dose of potassium bromide was considerably larger +than that of the total bromides in the latter. Is this a form of +colonial preference? or is it that our brothers beyond the sea are more +robust and hence proof against the depressing influence of potassium +salts? The formula of the powder ascertained by analysis was: + + Potassium bromide 61 parts. + Moist brown sugar 39 ” + +The calculated composition of the finished mixture was: + + Potassium bromide 120 grains. + Moist brown sugar 77 ” + Water to 1 fluid ounce. + +The dose of the mixture directed to be taken was one teaspoonful in the +morning and two at night. + +The price charged for a quarter package was 15s., but the estimated +cost of the contents is about 8d. + +Such then are these secret remedies for epilepsy; with one exception +they are weak preparations of well-known drugs supplied at considerably +more than the usual cost, and administered without that careful +adjustment of dose to the needs of the particular patient which +is, after all, the most essential part in the treatment of epilepsy +by bromide salts. The exception contains an old-fashioned herb once +praised by the superstitious but abandoned time and again even by them; +it has never been shown to possess any definite therapeutic properties +and was long ago discarded by the medical profession because it was +found useless. + + +SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS. + +Of five nostrums sold for the cure of epilepsy in Germany, examined +by Dr. Zernik, three were found to contain bromide salts as chief +constituents: _Lamma powder_ consisted of equal parts of bromide of +sodium and bromide of ammonium; _Antiépileptique_ (Uten) was a solution +of potassium bromide (16 per cent.), coloured green, and containing 1 +per cent. of an indifferent bitter tincture, while _Berendorf’s powder +for epilepsy_ contained potassium bromide 53·3 per cent., borax 40·3 +per cent., and zinc oxide 4 per cent., the remainder being water. Borax +is a remedy occasionally used to correct some undesired effect of +bromides and has sometimes been prescribed for patients who could not +tolerate the bromides. Zinc oxide has, or at one time had, a certain +reputation as a nerve sedative. Of the two German remedies which did +not contain bromide one consisted largely of formaldehyde which is used +as an antiseptic and preservative for food, and the other consisted of +pills containing nothing beyond inactive powdered leaves and roots. + + + + +CHAPTER XIV. + +SOOTHING, TEETHING AND COOLING POWDERS FOR INFANTS. + + +The number of proprietary infants’ powders that can be said to be at +all widely advertised is small, but some of them are sold in very +large numbers. In addition, powders for the same purpose are very +largely supplied by retailers, put up by themselves; they are usually +of similar composition to one or other of those here described, but +there is, of course, great scope for variations in the quantity and +proportion, as well as in the nature of the drugs employed. It may, +perhaps, be hoped that the efforts now being made by the employment of +health visitors in many towns will, by the spread of instruction as +to the common-sense management of infants, gradually lead to a great +diminution in the custom so prevalent among the poorer classes of +dosing infants whenever the curious foods, still so commonly given, +cause indigestion. + + +STEDMAN’S TEETHING POWDERS. + +The powders “with one e” are sold from an address in the north of +London in boxes, price 1s. 1½., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. The 4s. 6d. +box contained 60 powders, and the 11s. box contained 216; the other +sizes are stated to contain respectively 9 and 30 powders. + +In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated that: + + The returns of the Registrar-General tell us that the + period of Dentition is one of more than ordinary peril + to the child. It is a time of most active development, + a time of passing from one mode of being to another, + and we may fairly congratulate ourselves when this time + of Teething be passed. To pass this time safely, and + with the least risk to the child, one of “Stedman’s + Teething Powders” should be given about twice a week, + during the whole time of Dentition, according to the + directions below.... + + When the bowels are moved regularly and the motions + of a natural yellow colour, the Powders had better + be omitted for a time, unless great irritability be + present, accompanied with restlessness, then a dose had + better be given. Diarrhœa will generally be checked by + giving a dose at the commencement of the attack. + +The directions are: + + When the Child is under three months of age, the Third + of a Powder only is to be given; from three to six + months Half a Powder may be used; when above six months + a Whole Powder may be taken. + +The average weight of one powder was 2·4 grains; twelve powders weighed +singly had weights varying from 2·25 to 2·6 grains. Analysis showed the +powder to be composed of: + + Calomel 29 per cent. + Sugar of milk 71 ” ” + +A trace of alkaloid was present also, and when extracted from the +material of a large number of powders, was found to amount to only +0·016 per cent., or ¹/₂₅₀₀ grain in one powder. This trace of alkaloid +did not show the behaviour of morphine, and did not give any reactions +characteristic of any of the ordinary alkaloids, so far as it was +possible to test for them on the minute amount available. + +The estimated cost of the materials for the powders in a 4s. 6d. box is +one-third of a penny. + + +STEEDMAN’S SOOTHING POWDERS. + +The powders, “with two e’s,” are stated to be prepared in the south of +London, and are sold in packets, price 1s. 1½d. and 2s. 9d. per packet; +the 2s. 9d. packet contained twenty-four powders. + +In a circular enclosed in the packet it is stated that: + + The good effects of these Powders during the period of + Teething have now had _Fifty Years’ Experience_, + during which time _Thousands of children have been + relieved annually_ from all those distressing + symptoms which children suffer while cutting their + teeth—viz., Feverish Heats, Fits, Convulsions, + Sickness of Stomach and Debility, accompanied with + Relaxation of the Bowels, and pale and green motions, + or Inflammation of the Gums. + + ... the striking superiority both in the health and + strength of those children who have taken the soothing + Powders during the period of Teething has induced the + Proprietor to make this MUCH-VALUED MEDICINE more + generally known by this advertisement. + +The directions are: + + Dose.—From one to three months, the third of a Powder; + from three to six months, half of a Powder; from six + months and above that age, one Powder only and no more; + ... + +The average weight of one powder was 2·8 grains; twelve powders weighed +singly had weights varying from 1·9 to 4·5 grains. Analysis showed the +powder to consist of: + + Calomel 27 per cent. + Sugar 22 ” + Maize starch 50·5 ” + Ash 0·5 ” + +A minute trace of alkaloid appeared to be present; the quantity was +considerably less than in the Stedman’s powders described above, and so +small, in fact, as hardly to give positive evidence of its alkaloidal +nature. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of Steedman’s powders in a 2s. +9d. packet is one-eighth of a penny. + + +PRITCHARD’S TEETHING AND FEVER POWDERS. + +The proprietors of these powders give an address in a large provincial +city. The price charged is 1s. 1½d. for a box containing sixteen +powders. + +In a circular enclosed in the package it is stated: + + The constantly increasing sale of these justly + esteemed Powders proves them to be the most effectual + Medicine that can be given to young children during + the troublesome and anxious period of teething. By + their gentle action on the Bowels, and valuable cooling + properties, they allay all irritation and Feverishness, + prevent Fits, Convulsions, &c., ensure refreshing and + natural sleep for the child, and therefore peaceful + nights for the parents. + +The directions are: + + From one to three months, a third of a Powder; from + three to six months, half a Powder; from six months + and above that age, one Powder (not to be given if the + child is relaxed). + +The average weight of the powders was 2·1 grains; twelve powders +weighed singly had weights varying from 1·9 to 2·3 grains. Analysis +showed the powder to consist of: + + Calomel 47 per cent. + Antimony oxide 0·7 ” + Calcium phosphate 1·4 ” + Sugar of milk 50·9 ” + +No trace of alkaloid was present. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of the powders in a 1s. 1½d. box +is one-ninth of a penny. + + +FENNING’S CHILDREN’S COOLING POWDERS. + +The proprietor gives an address in the south of England, and the prices +charged are 1s. 1½d. and 2s. 9d. a box; the 2s. 9d. box contained 48 +powders. + +They were described in a circular enclosed with the box as: + + The best medicine for infants cutting their teeth, + preventing convulsions, thrush, disordered bowels, and + for all the feverish diseases of infants and children. + +The following directions are given: + + For an Infant under _three_ years of age, give + _one_ of Fenning’s Cooling Powders mixed with a + little water, or it could be thrown dry as it is into + the opened mouth of the baby, and gently holding back + the head for half a minute it would be swallowed. + + Whenever an Infant is restless or feverishly hot from + Teething, when it is griped or sick from improper food, + or over-feeding; has acidity, or a disordered stomach, + _one_ of these Powders should be immediately given + and, if necessary, repeated every day.... + + When a Child is attacked with Thrush, Measles, Hooping + Cough, or Fever of any sort, always keep the feverish + blood cool by giving a dose of _Fenning’s Cooling + Powders_ every or every other day. + +The powders had an average weight of 3·4 grains; twelve powders weighed +singly had weights varying from 3·2 to 3·8 grains. Analysis showed the +powder to consist of: + + Potassium chlorate 70 per cent. + Powdered liquorice 30 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of the powders in a 2s. 9d. box +is one-sixth of a penny. + + + + +CHAPTER XV. + +REMEDIES FOR EAR DISEASE AND DEAFNESS. + + +Some of the advertisements most frequently seen headed “Deafness +cured,” “Eyes and Ears,” “Eye Diseases cured,” etc., do not refer to +nostrums obtainable in the usual way through patent medicine dealers. +The reader of the announcement is invited to write to the address +given for particulars of special remedies, or an “interesting and +convincing book post free,” dealing with the cure of diseases without +operation, etc. Application for particulars brings much printed matter +recommending the advertiser’s method, accompanied by a set of questions +to be answered by the sufferer. If these answers are supplied and the +fee demanded paid, medicine of some sort is sent. Medicines sold in +this way, of which many other instances have been given in previous +chapters, form a special class of “secret remedies,” and might be said, +perhaps, to come rather under the head of prescribing at a distance, +but it is, to say the least, very doubtful whether the composition of +the medicines supplied is modified according to the answers given to +the questions, and the two kinds of quackery are not sharply separated. +In the case of the preparations now to be described, one or two belong +more nearly to the class just referred to than to that of ordinary +“patent medicines.” + +We meet again the benevolent gentleman who having cured himself +offers “to send particulars of remedy free,” but eventually sells his +treatment at a price which would seem to represent no bad profit on the +outlay for materials. + +We also meet the dealer who to encourage the possible buyer sends a +reduced price coupon only asking in return for the names and addresses +of two or three friends who suffer in like manner. + + +ALFRED CROMPTON’S SPECIFIC FOR DEAFNESS. + +This so-called specific, prepared in a town in the north of England, is +sold in a bottle containing half a fluid ounce, and costing 1s. 1½d. + +The label on the outside of the package was headed: + + Deafness Cured! + +and continues: + + Alfred Crompton’s Specific for Deafness, Noises in the + Ears, &c., is decidedly the best remedy out for this + most annoying complaint. A single Bottle has in most + instances effected a speedy and permanent cure. + +The directions were: + + Warm the Specific and Shake the Bottle. Two or three + drops to be dropped in the Ear, night and morning, and + rub behind and under the Ear with the Specific. + +Analysis showed the following composition: + + Soap 3·6 per cent. + Glycerine 45·0 ” + Oil 21·7 ” + Water 29·5 ” + Alcohol a trace. + Oil of rosemary ” + +There was a slight indication of a trace of camphor; probably this with +the alcohol and oil of rosemary and part of the soap were added in the +form of soap liniment. The oil gave analytical figures corresponding to +a mixture of almond and colza oils in about equal proportions. + +The estimated cost of ingredients, for ½-oz., is one farthing. + + +DELLAR’S ESSENCE FOR DEAFNESS. + +This so-called essence, prepared it is stated by a company giving an +address in London, and sold at the price of 1s. 1½d. for a bottle, +containing two-fifths of a fluid ounce, is described on the label as +“An old-established and valuable remedy.” + + Directions for Use.—A small piece of wool, well + moistened with the Essence, to be pushed into the + cavity of the Ear every night at bedtime, and removed + in the morning. + +Analysis showed the composition to be; + + Oil of turpentine 16 per cent. + Fixed oil 84 ” + +The properties of the fixed oil and the figures which it gave on +further analysis corresponded to those of almond oil. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients, for two-fifths of an ounce, is +one halfpenny. + + +HERBERT CLIFTON’S TREATMENT FOR DEAFNESS. + +This is brought to the notice of the public by an advertisement in the +following terms: + + A new cure for deafness. A Gentleman who cured himself + after 14 years’ suffering will send particulars of + remedy free. + +Here followed the gentleman’s address, and an application brought +a letter and a pamphlet entitled “Deafness and Noises in the Head, +with Instructions how they may be Absolutely Cured,” which was marked +“40th edition.” It professed to give an account of the writer’s own +experiences. A few extracts will suffice to give an idea of it: + + Those only who have suffered from the terrible calamity + of deafness can understand the misery it brings into + one’s life; and only those who have had occasion + to seek the assistance of men who profess to cure + this awful affliction can appreciate how utterly its + treatment is misunderstood by the various advertising + empirics who profess to cure it, whether by electrical, + galvanic, or any of the other methods which are so + alluringly set forth as perfectly infallible by + people who never suffered themselves, who can have no + sympathy, therefore, with those whom they profess to + assist, and whose only object is to extract as large + a sum as they possibly can from the pockets of those + whom they have been able to attract to their spider’s + parlour. The writer, however, of the present pamphlet + is in a different position.... As a lad I began to + suffer from noises in the head, which as time went on + increased to such an alarming degree that I was taken + to an Aural Surgeon.... The usual result followed. I + became worse and worse, and, of course, weaker through + his treatment.... Another doctor was consulted.... But + the treatment failed, my affliction increased, and MY + LIFE BECAME A BURDEN.... There seemed no hope for me. + Nearly a dozen eminent surgeons had seen me, examined + me, said different things about me, and indifferently + treated me; but all to no purpose.... As a last + resource I tried the various quack remedies which have + allured so many to their bitter cost, and many a pound + was wasted on mechanical, electrical, magnetic, and + other useless appliances, and upon ear-trumpets, drums, + tubes, &c., with no result.... Then the wild, yet + happy, thought flashed across me: “Why not try and cure + yourself?” I pondered and pondered over the idea, and + at last, rather than submit to my fate, determined to + study physiology and medicine and endeavour to discover + the cause of my deafness, with the distant hope that + I might alight upon the method of its cure.... The + conclusion I came to was that what I really required + was a medicine which should reach the minute muscles of + the inner ear, as upon their proper action the sense + of hearing almost entirely depends ... after a time I + had succeeded in discovering a preparation which would + do the required work.... My disease was of so long + standing, that I had found it had caused the drums of + my ears to become weak and shrunken ... and I soon + devised a small appliance to fit inside each ear—the + appliance which I now term the “Invisible Drum Support” + ... in my gratitude to the Almighty for my merciful + deliverance I vowed that I would publish to the world + the method by which I had struggled out of the dark + past into the brilliant light of the present. + +A postscript to the letter stated that “No charge whatever is made for +advice, so you need not hesitate to avail yourself of the benefit of my +_opinion_,” but no information was vouchsafed as to the price charged +for the “treatment,” except that it would be found extremely moderate. +Paragraphs, of the usual inspired kind, were quoted from the _Family +Doctor_, _Christian Union_, _Family Churchman_, _Health_, and local +newspapers of varying degrees of obscurity. + +The letter and pamphlet were followed after an interval by another +letter, as follows: + + Dear Friend, + + Referring to your application for my Pamphlet some + time back, I shall be glad to know whether you wish me + to proceed further in the matter. As I have received + no letter from you, I presume that you imagine the + cost of treatment will be too high. I will, therefore, + make you a Special Offer, that is, for the sum of 10s. + (which may be paid in two monthly instalments of 5s. + each, if more convenient) I will forward you the full + Treatment and Directions. Should you avail yourself of + this offer, kindly detach the form at the bottom of + this letter and return to me. The Treatment is, without + doubt, the most effectual ever placed before the + Public, as will be found by the numerous testimonials + received. + + I am daily in receipt of letters similar to those + enclosed herewith, and I feel confident that, should + you give the treatment a trial, you will also be able + to report quite as good results. + + Kindly let me know your decision as soon as possible. + If you will take my advice you will not further delay. + + May I draw your attention to the letters on the other + side? + + I am, yours faithfully, + HERBERT CLIFTON. + +The “treatment form” was filled up and sent in with 10s., and, as was +to be expected, “my candid opinion as to whether my system of treatment +is calculated to efficiently meet the requirement,” was apparently in +favour of treating the case, as a pair of “drum-supports” and a bottle +of fluid were received, together with a letter asking the recipient to +follow out the directions given very carefully and not be disheartened +“because you find no improvement immediately, you must give the Cure a +fair trial. I shall be glad,” the letter concluded, “to hear from you +in about three weeks’ time with a general report on your case.” + +The “drum-supports” consisted of half-inch lengths of narrow +india-rubber tubing, as used for the valves of bicycle tyres, with an +inner tube of “gum-elastic,” the india-rubber being expanded at one +end into a funnel ¼ in. long, and attached at the other to a small +oval disc of sheet india-rubber. The prime cost of the pair would +probably not exceed 3d. The bottle was labelled “No. 1. Price 3s.,” and +contained 1 fluid ounce of liquid; analysis showed this to have the +following composition: + + Glycerine 10 per cent. approx. + Oil 28 ” ” + Ether 2 ” ” + Water to 100 + + A trace (about 0·01 per cent.) of an alkaline substance + was present, which appeared to be borax. The oil showed + the characters of almond oil. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients, for 1 oz., is one halfpenny. + + +OHRSORB COMPOUND. + +The following advertisement is taken from _Cassell’s Saturday Journal_: + + DOCTOR MAKES DEAF HEAR. + + A medical book just published describes a German + doctor’s wonderfully simple cure for deafness and head + noises (a real home cure). A limited number of those + books have been secured for readers of _Cassell’s + Saturday Journal_, and will be sent free by post by + the publisher, M. Franckel. + +Application to the London address given brought a pamphlet of sixteen +pages, from which a few extracts are here given: + + For years it has been known to Medical Men that the + minute vessels or channels of the lymphatic system + underlying the skin, covering the bone behind the ear, + were intimately connected with those supplying vital + nourishment to the middle and internal ear, where we + find the common seat of deafness and head noises. + If, then, we could medicate through the skin, this + important current of lymphatic fluid, controlling the + health of the essential parts of the organ of hearing, + our medications could be made to flow inward to reach + and to cure a disease so deeply hidden within the + ear as to be otherwise regarded as incurable. It is + the province of this little work to explain why the + prescriptions of so many aurists have failed in years + past, and to present a new chemical compound which is + of the utmost value to deaf people. + + Applications behind the ear are recommended in the + writings of our greatest ear surgeons. Gruber, + Politzer, Delstanche, Grünfeld, and numerous others + have given us prescriptions of this kind, and, + although their combinations of drugs have failed to + produce any remarkable results, they have pointed + out the remedies that would cure if combined with a + substance which could penetrate the skin freely.... + Until lately we possessed no basis for our ointments, + embrocations, or plasters, which could freely penetrate + the skin.... Happily there is a new basis lately + brought to the notice of the medical profession, + which has the remarkable property of uniting with the + watery secretions of the body in such a way that it + (_sic_) absorbed by the skin, and taken up by the + lymphatic circulation (described on p. 1), together + with any drugs that are combined with it in the form of + an ointment.... To this new basis has been given the + name “Ohrsorb.” + +Quotations purporting to be from the writings of medical men are +given, but no references are provided by which they can be checked; +and, indeed, the extracts only refer to a “new preparation” and a “new +treatment,” without any indication that the advertised article is +the one intended. Another quotation is then given “From the Private +Clinical Memoranda of Dr. Kupfinn,” described as an “Hon. Auris +Chirurgis,” in which “Ohrsorb” is referred to in a laudatory manner; +this is followed by an account of some “typical cases,” but it does not +appear that this is part of the quotation, although it is so put that +it might easily be taken to be. The pamphlet continues: + + It should be clearly understood that Ohrsorb by + itself is only a basis used solely for the purpose of + providing the _active portion_ of the Author’s + Absorption Treatment, and that the cure depends on the + medicinal action of the drugs compounded with it in + any special prescription. It is for this reason that + certain particulars as to each patient’s case are asked + for on the enclosed coupon, namely, that the individual + form of deafness, head noises, or ear trouble may be + treated by an “Ohrsorb” compound specially adapted to + it. + +The pamphlet proceeds to give reasons for supplementing the treatment +by the use of other articles, of which the following are recommended: +“Ohraseptic,” “Nazaseptic,” “Specially Prepared Catarrh Tonic,” a nasal +irrigator, and a safety ear syringe. It was accompanied by a leaflet +headed, “Medical Report on the ‘Ohrsorb’ Treatment,” in which many +testimonials are given, but not one from a medical source or anything +of the nature of a medical report; also by a “reduced price coupon,” +offering a 2s. 9d. tube for 1s. 6d. or a 4s. 6d. tube for 3s., provided +the applicant undertook to use it as directed and report the result, +and a list of about fifty questions to be answered in connexion with +deafness, &c., and catarrh of the nose and throat, concluding with the +following paragraph: + + As a little return for supplying the tube of “Ohrsorb” + compound at the reduced price, and for the very special + attention that will be given to your case, the author + will be grateful if you favour him with the names and + addresses of two or three of your friends who suffer + from deafness, head noises, or catarrh of the nose or + throat. This is entirely confidential, and your name + will not be mentioned. + +In order to test the importance attached to the answers to the +questions, a supply of “Ohrsorb Compound for Deafness” was sent for, +without giving any particulars of the supposed case for which it was +required. The compound was at once sent, together with a multiple-typed +letter of the usual kind, as shown by the following extracts: + + “I hope you will not neglect to write me about your + progress with my treatment”; “of course you will + appreciate that in obstinate cases Ohrsorb must be + persisted with for some time before the improvement can + begin to show itself.” + +and offering for future supplies three 4s. 6d. tubes for 10s. 6d. + +The “Special Ohrsorb Compound” is supplied in collapsible tubes, and +the 2s. 9d. size contained just over ½ oz. of ointment. The directions +were to rub the ointment once, twice, or thrice a day over the skin +close behind the ear, and also from just beneath the ear around to the +front of the throat, for three to five minutes. + +The ointment, nearly black in colour, contained about 70 per cent. of +vaseline, and about 4 per cent. of beeswax, a little soap, and a little +saponifiable fat; sulphur and ammonia were present in combination, +and the dark constituent appeared to be of the class represented by +thiol, tumenol, and petrosulfol, artificial compounds intended to +take the place of ichthyol, and like it containing much sulphur in +combination but free from its disagreeable odour. The total sulphur +found in “Ohrsorb Compound” was 0·8 per cent., which corresponds to +about 8 per cent. of one of these substances. An ointment made up with +tumenol, soft paraffin, wax, and a little ammonia soap resembled +“Ohrsorb Compound” very closely, though the correspondence was not +quite complete. It was not considered worth while to isolate the +dark constituent in a state of purity permitting of more precise +identification than is here indicated; to determine the detailed +characterization of such a substance a large quantity would be +necessary. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI. + +REMEDIES FOR EYE DISEASES. + + +The proprietary articles advertised for the cure of diseases of the +eyes, though perhaps not so numerous as some other classes of nostrums, +vary a good deal in nature, but the claims made for most of them are +equally comprehensive. The results of analysis of a few are here given +and it will be seen that two of them, including one called “botanic,” +are mercurial ointments. Another advertiser seems to think or pretends +to think that cataract can be cured by bathing the eyes with soda alum +dissolved in coloured water, while we come across also an “Ophthalmic +Institution” selling for external application an anti-cataract mixture +consisting of glycerine with a little potassium iodide and starch. + + +SINGLETON’S EYE OINTMENT. + +This is stated to be prepared, by a person whose name is not Singleton, +at an address in London. The price charged is 2s. for a pot containing +about 55 grains. + +The ointment is described on the outer package as + + “An Absolute Specific for all Eye Troubles and Diseases.” + +On a circular enclosed in the package it was stated: + + “It cures Weak Sight, Inflamed Eyes, and all disorders + of the Eyelids from whatever cause arising.... + Singleton’s Eye Ointment requires great skill in + making, and is composed of costly ingredients. One pot + will cure you.... The Ointment also cures Piles and + Scorbutic Eruptions.” + +A book dealing with the ointment was also supplied, in which it is +stated that + + “Singleton’s Eye Ointment will cure all affections of the eye.” + +Analysis showed the principal ingredient to be red mercuric oxide, of +which 7·4 per cent. was present. The fatty basis contained about 4 +per cent. of beeswax, and the remainder was a practically neutral and +colourless substance which agreed in properties and analytical figures +with a mixture of lard, Japan wax, and purified cocoanut oil. It is, +of course, impossible to determine with certainty the composition of a +mixture of fats, unless a large quantity is available for analysis; but +the exact nature of the fatty basis is immaterial, and no indication +was obtained of any other medicinal ingredient. + +The assertion that such an ointment “requires great skill in making” is +absurd, and as to the costliness of the ingredients, the 55 grains in +the pot are estimated to be worth one-ninth of a penny. + + +BOSTOCK’S EYE OINTMENT. + +This ointment, stated to be manufactured by a limited company with +an address in London, is sold in a pot containing half an ounce, and +costing 1s. 1½d. It is described on the label as “An invaluable remedy +for every Disease to which the Eye is subject.” In a circular wrapped +round the pot it is called “Bostock’s Botanic Eye Ointment,” which + + is strongly recommended as a valuable Restorative + and Preserver of the Sight, removing Inflammation, + Bloodshots, Scorbutic Humours, Shooting Pains, Dimness, + Swelling in the Eyelids, and numerous other diseases to + which the Eye is subject; it also preserves the Sight + against the injuries arising from extreme Heat and Cold. + +Analysis showed the presence of small quantities of ammoniated mercury +(commonly known as white precipitate) and an insoluble compound of lead +which appeared to be the oxide; a little glycerine was present, and +a bitter, light-coloured substance of the nature of an extract; this +contained no alkaloid, and gave no characteristic reactions indicating +the drug or plant from which it was derived; a trace of a vegetable +powder was also found, the quantity being so very small that it was +probably only an accidental contamination of the extract; when examined +microscopically it appeared to consist chiefly of the tissue of a seed. +The basis of the ointment contained soft paraffin and spermaceti, and a +third constituent agreeing in its characters with lard. Determination +of the amounts of the respective ingredients indicated the following +approximate formula: + + Ammoniated mercury 0·88 per cent. + Lead oxide (litharge) 0·15 ” + Glycerine 2·25 ” + Extractive 3·32 ” + Spermaceti 31·0 ” + Soft paraffin 31·0 ” + Lard 31·4 ” + +Neglecting the extractive, the estimated cost of the ingredients for +half an ounce is under one halfpenny. + + +A NEW AND MARVELLOUS REMEDY FOR THE EYES. + +This substance, sold from an address in Wisbech at the price of 2s. 9d. +for a packet containing 135 grains, was enclosed in a small envelope, +on which was written, “Remedy for Eyes only”; there was no printed +label except the revenue stamp. In the accompanying circular it was +described in the following terms: + + A Cure for Cataracts, Films, White Specks, &c. without + Operation. The Remedy Cures and Improves the Sight when + every other remedy and human skill fails. The Remedy + within Twelve Months has proved itself to have no equal + for removing Cataracts, Films, White Specks, &c., and + is guaranteed the greatest and most marvellous Remedy + in the world for such, and for all Eye Sufferers. + +Directions for use were given in another circular, as follows, and seem +worth quoting as an illustration of pretensions so preposterous that +they seem calculated to defeat their own object even when addressed to +the most credulous: + + Divide the packet of powder into four parts; into an + ordinary six ounce medicine bottle put one part out + of the four, then fill up the bottle with pure water. + Filter or strain the water before so doing, then let + the Lotion stand all night after it is made, it is then + ready for use. Keep the remainder of the powder in a + dry place until required for use. + + Shake up the bottle well before using, and in case + of Blindness or very bad eyesight, for deep-seated + Inflammation, Cataracts, White Specks, &c., pour some + of the Lotion into an earthen cup or basin, and bathe + the eyes three times a day, about two minutes at a + time, and let the Lotion go well into the eyes by + winking them whilst bathing them—the Lotion will do no + harm by going well into them, for good results can only + be obtained in such cases by the remedy going well into the eyes. + After bathing the eyes cover up the Lotion with a saucer or plate to + keep dust, etc., out, until required for use again. Use a piece of + linen rag for bathing the eyes. + + N.B.—For Painful, Bloodshot, Weak, Dim, and Misty Eyes, or Floating + Black Specks, or for Eye Strain, Etc., and for Strengthening the + Optic Nerve, Etc., and for Inflammation, Short Sight, Etc.—Simply + bathe the eyes twice a day, morning and night, just before going to + bed, about two minutes at a time, letting a little of the Lotion go + into the eyes, and should the Remedy make the eyes smart too much, + and too long, or make the eyes inflamed or water, etc., too much, + make the Remedy a little weaker by adding a little more water to + same quantity of Powder, or by not putting quite so much powder to + same quantity of water. + +This circular concludes with the following notice: + + Please Note the Remedy can only be had direct from + the Proprietor himself, as no other human being in + existence sells it. + +The package was accompanied by a written paper as follows: + + Please note. Since instructions have been printed I + find it necessary for a slight alteration for the + benefit of those suffering from Cataracts, Films, and + white specks. In such cases when first commencing to + use the remedy divide the packet of powder into 4 parts + make one bottle out of one part and use according to + instructions. After the use of first bottle divide the + rest of the powder into 2 parts you will then have + sufficient for 2 bottles and will therefore have remedy + much stronger of which is needed in case of Cataracts, + etc. And when more remedy is required always divide the + packet into 3 parts sufficient to make 3 bottles and + follow instructions. + + (P.S.) I may say for the benefit of those suffering + from Cataracts, Films, and white specks the best and + quickest results have been obtained by using one bottle + per week. + +The packet contained a coarse pink powder, with many white particles. +Analysis showed it to contain: + + Basic aluminium sulphate 48·2 per cent. + Sodium sulphate (anhydrous) 18·3 ” + Colouring matter a trace. + +the remainder being water. The double sulphate of aluminium and sodium, +or soda alum, contains 48·8 per cent. of aluminium sulphate and 20·3 +per cent. of sodium sulphate, and the substance under examination thus +practically consisted of this salt, somewhat deficient in sulphuric +acid. The colouring matter did not quite agree in its behaviour with +any of the common pink colours, though it was very similar to acid +magenta. + +The estimated cost of 135 grains is one-twentieth of a penny. + + +POMIES’ ANTI-CATARACT MIXTURE. + +This application is sold from a place called an Ophthalmic Institution +in London at the price of 2s. 6d. for a pot containing 162 grains. + +It is one of a series of preparations sold under the name “Pomies,” +including anti-cataract oil, anti-inflammation eye lotions Nos. 1 and +2, sedative collyrium, and others. The package itself was singularly +free from printed matter; the directions on the label were as follows: + + “Take some of the Mixture on a camelhair brush and + introduce it into the eye in wiping the brush between + the lids two or three times, twice a day.” + +Analysis showed the composition of the substance to be: + + Potassium iodide 5·6 per cent. + Glycerine 56·5 ” + Starch 6·4 ” + Water 31·5 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients, for 162 grains, is one-third of +a penny. + + +SOME GERMAN NOSTRUMS. + +The eye preparations analysed by Dr. Zernik are not very interesting. +One called _Okterin_ is a sulphate water, colourless, odourless, acid, +and astringent, apparently pumped out of a mine containing ochre. +Another sold under the name _Opthalmol_, and described as a natural +remedy for all kinds of eye disease is supposed to be made from the +glands of a fish. It yielded analytical data which appeared to prove +that it was rancid olive oil, with 6 or 7 per cent. of a mineral oil +like paraffin. A third wonder-working application, _Augenwol_, said to +be made from various plants obtained from many countries proved to be +a coloured and perfumed solution of common salt containing a little +glycerine and some extractive substances. + + + + +CHAPTER XVII. + +REMEDIES FOR PILES. + + +The series of analyses of secret remedies for hæmorrhoids, and the +extracts from the advertisements by which these nostrums are commended +to the public, make it evident that the prevalence of this complaint, +which is always disagreeable and painful, and sometimes incapacitating, +provides a happy hunting ground for the nostrum monger. An additional +attraction is, perhaps, to be found in the fact that considerable +variety is possible in the method of treatment. Local applications, +represented by suppositories and ointments, appear to be most in +favour, but there is an obvious opportunity for the man who wishes +to sell a medicine to be taken internally to declare that local +applications “only afford temporary ease, and do not tend to remove +the cause. Only internal treatment can cure.” The further possibility +of extracting double or threefold payments from sufferers by insisting +on the necessity of both local and internal remedies has by no means +been neglected; in some cases one preparation only is advertised, and +after obtaining this the sufferer learns that something further must be +bought if the promised cure is to be effected. In another case, where +the remedy is a “threefold treatment, because there are three avenues +of approach to the seat of the ailment,” it is advertised to be sent +without payment, the money to be paid after a week’s trial if benefit +has been received; any one availing himself of this offer necessarily +supplies the vendors with his name and address, and will then, it +seems, become the recipient of numerous letters, emphasizing the +dangers of neglect, and offering “our full-size guinea treatment” on +special terms. It has been shown in previous chapters that this method +of doing business directly with the persons taking quack remedies is +in great, and apparently growing, favour with makers of such things. +The letters with which the sufferer is inundated are, as a rule at any +rate, printed in imitation of typewritten letters or reproduced by +some manifolding process, and the recipient, unless he be something of +an expert, is likely to suppose that he is receiving letters composed +for his personal benefit, an illusion that is sedulously maintained by +a profession of “special interest in your case,” or some equivalent +fiction. The majority of the preparations described in this chapter +contain substances commonly employed for the relief of piles, such as +hamamelis (witch hazel), lead acetate, zinc oxide, calomel, or others, +if possible, still more old-fashioned; some, like the “Muco-Food Cones, +containing concentrated glutinous nourishment,” consist of flour and +cocoa butter, and are innocent of medicinal ingredients. Advertisers, +of course, indulge in the usual impudent reflexions on the work of the +medical profession; one, for instance, hazards the statement that “for +centuries piles have been treated in a careless, listless, manner by +physicians, who, through ignorance or indifference, were unfit to be +entrusted with such cases.” These same advertisers remark: “The people +do not like to be humbugged”—a statement, perhaps, as far from the +truth as some other assertions in the advertisements and letters. One +company—two of whose “cures” have been shown in previous chapters to +consist of sugar only, and whose ointment for piles is about equally +active—invites those who are not cured by it to detail their symptoms +to “our medical correspondence department”; it is easy to believe +that “you will receive the same thorough attention from our medical +staff as if you were examined personally,” but how much attention +that would be is wisely not stated. The majority of the articles are +of American origin, some of them being marked “Made in U.S.A.,” and +others being now prepared in this country, but having originally come +from across the Atlantic. Whether English or foreign, however, the +usual disproportion is to be found between the prime cost and the price +charged. If in the present series the highest price is charged—and the +greatest pertinacity in extracting the sufferer’s money is shown—by a +transatlantic concern, in other chapters English quacks have been shown +well to the fore as regards both price and methods. + + +BUER’S PILES CURE. + +On purchasing from an address in one of the Home Counties Buer’s “Piles +Cure” for 1s. 1½d., it proved to consist of a box of Buer’s Mul’la, and +a single sample powder of Buer’s Pile Powders, which cost a further 1s. +1½d. for a box. Several circulars were enclosed in the package. The +trade mark was a picture of a donkey; a few extracts will suffice as +specimens of the statements made: + + Is it money (1s. 1½d.) or your life? Buer, the founder, + the proprietor is the seventh son, not trading on his + birthright but on his cure, testified by hundreds. + Warrants it will cure you. If you suffer, will you try + it? + + The pains experienced range all the way from the + slightest itch to the most terrible sufferings, which + appear like tearing the body asunder, and unless + the piles are cured with Buer’s Mul’la there is no + relief.... + + They cause you to be despondent, caring little to live; + no go in you; quarrelsome in yourself; weakening to the + constitution; until something gives way and hastens + your death. It is therefore money or your life; no + hesitation. + + But one thing—not for the sake of selling the + Powders—keep a box of Buer’s Pile Powders in house—12 + for 1s. 1½d. ain’t dear—and take one as directed + whenever you feel any irritation. + +The box of ointment contained two-fifths of an ounce. The directions +were: + + Apply this Mul’la to parts affected. + +Analysis showed the ointment to contain: + + Lanoline (anhydrous) 66·5 per cent. + Beeswax 1·5 ” + Water 32·0 ” + +Hamamelis ointment is usually made from the liquid extract which +contains rectified spirit, but no alcohol was present in this +oddly-named preparation; it may have been made with liquor hamamelidis +prepared without the use of alcohol; a minute trace of water-soluble +substance contained in the ointment suggested by its behaviour with +reagents that such was the case. The estimated cost of ingredients is +three farthings. + +Twelve of the powders are supplied in the 1s. 1½d. box. The directions +are: + + To be taken at bedtime in a glass of milk or water. + +Analysis showed the composition to be: + + Precipitated sulphur 14·9 grains. + Calcined magnesia (partly carbonated) 23·6 ” + +in one powder of average weight. Single powders in one box varied from +28 to 48 grains. The estimated cost of the ingredients for twelve +powders is 1¼d. + + +MUNYON’S PILE OINTMENT. + +This ointment is supplied by the same Homœopathic Home Remedy Company +as has been encountered in earlier chapters. The price charged was 1s. +a package, containing a collapsible tube holding 1 oz. of ointment and +a metal tube for introducing it. + +On the outside of the package it was stated that the ointment + + permanently cures all forms of Piles or Hemorrhoids, + and immediately relieves pain, burning, itching, and + distress at the outlet of the bowels. + +In the circular enclosed in the package, in which thirty of this +company’s preparations for different complaints were advertised, it was +stated that the ointment + + cures piles, blind or bleeding, protruding or internal, + stops itching instantly, allays inflammation, and + gives ease at once to the sore parts, heals fissures, + ulcerations, cracks, and all anal troubles.” + +A label on the tube of ointment asked the purchaser + + if this remedy fails to cure him, to write to the + proprietor stating fully all your symptoms. He + will have your case carefully diagnosed, and, you + will receive the same thorough attention from our + medical staff as if you were examined personally. + All communications are kept strictly confidential, + and replies are sent in plain envelopes. Our Medical + Correspondence Department is having great success in + curing old obstinate cases. Remember we sweep away + all fees for medical advice, we put special medical + attention at your service absolutely free. We want you + to feel at liberty to write us whenever you need any + medical advice, and to fully understand that there will + be no charge of any kind for our service. + +Analysis showed the ointment, which was directed to be applied three +times a day, to consist of soft paraffin, with a trace of ichthyol +sufficient to give a slight odour, but not enough to affect the +appearance of the ointment. Experiments showed that 0·2 per cent. or +over of ichthyol appreciably darkens the colour of soft paraffin, and +it appears therefore that less than this proportion was present. The +estimated cost of one ounce of the ointment is one farthing. + + +DOAN’S OINTMENT. + +This is sold by a company giving an address in London; the price is 2s. +9d. a tin, containing 1⅔ oz. + +On the package it was stated that + + Doan’s Ointment cures Piles, Salt Rheum, Chilblains, + Eczema. Cures Black-headed Pimples, Hives and any + itching disease. + +In the enclosed circular it was referred to as: + + The “Thorough” Cure for Piles, Eczema, Shingles, and + Itching Diseases of the Skin. + +And the statement was made that: + + Bleeding and torturing itching piles are quickly and + thoroughly cured by Doan’s Ointment, relief being + usually obtained from the first application. A cure + will follow—a “thorough” cure. + +A “Pile Pipe” was supplied at 6d. for applying the ointment to internal +piles; for external piles it was directed to be applied with the finger +or a piece of clean soft rag. Analysis showed the composition of the +ointment to be: + + Calomel 36·0 per cent. + Zinc oxide 11·2 ” + Phenol 1·3 ” + Beeswax 2·3 ” + Soft paraffin 49·2 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients is 2d. + + +OXIEN MEDI-CONE PILE TREATMENT. + +The sole proprietors of this treatment are stated to be “The Giant +Oxie Co.,” of a town in the U.S.A., but having a British depôt in +London. The price charged for a box was 2s. 3d.; it contained twelve +suppositories, described on the label as: + + Warranted to cure Blind, Bleeding, or Itching + Hemorrhoids, and all other Diseases of the Lower Bowel + and Rectum. + +The following extracts are quoted from the enclosed circulars: + + Just so far as an electric light is ahead of a tallow + candle, is the Oxien Medi-Cone Pile Treatment in + advance of and superior to all other remedies for + Rectal Diseases. + + The people do not like to be humbugged. Modern Men + and Women demand modern methods of treatment. With + this in view we have after careful painstaking study + and experimenting organized a radically new method + for the positive cure of Bleeding or Itching Piles or + Hemorrhoids, Rectal Ulcers, Fissure, Polypi, Fistula, + and all ailments of the Rectum and Lower Bowel.... + + If you are a sufferer from this terrible malady which + has scourged people of all classes of society, in every + clime since Bible times, do not now give up. You can + be cured. For centuries Piles have been treated in a + careless, listless manner, by physicians who through + ignorance or indifference were unfit to be entrusted + with such cases, or by quacks who by questionable + methods and high-titled nostrums extracted dollar after + dollar from patient sufferers. During the past few + years, however, a great awakening has taken place. The + people demanded a suitable and satisfactory treatment + and students have been at work, and the subject and + its cures have had the most careful and scientific + attention. + +The result of the careful and scientific attention of the students is +these suppositories, which were found on analysis to have the following +composition: + + Lead acetate 5·6 per cent. + Creasote, about 2·0 ” + A resinoid substance 3·0 ” + Vegetable tissue 1·0 ” + Hard paraffin 7·0 ” + Oil of theobroma (cocoa butter) 81·4 ” + +The resinoid substance showed the presence of tannin; it could not +be identified with any certainty, but may have been “hamamelin,” an +extract of hamamelis (witch hazel) for which there is no official +standard or method of preparation, but it did not agree closely in +character with the hamamelin ordinarily supplied in this country. The +vegetable tissue appeared to be that of a young leaf, and from the +peculiar nature of the hairs was probably hamamelis leaf; the mature +leaves as imported into Great Britain, however, possess characters +which were absent. The suppositories were of the average weight of 19 +grains, and the estimated prime cost of the ingredients for twelve is +1¼d. + + +HEMOTORA. + +The fluid to which this name is given is stated to be manufactured for +a company by a chemist in Cheshire. A bottle containing nearly 4 fluid +ounces, costs 2s. In the accompanying circular the company’s views as +to the cause of piles are expounded as follows: + + Hemotora is a Concentrated Extract of Herbs which has + been tested and proved beyond doubt to be a “Certain + Specific for Piles.” A short explanation will clearly + show the action of Hemotora. Should any hindrance occur + to the flow of blood through the hæmorrhoidal veins, + they naturally become congested and distended; this + further brings about a thickening of the vein walls, + eventually developing painful tumours called “Piles,” + or technically, “Hæmorrhoids.” The many and various + conditions that eventually produce Piles can always + be traced to this accumulation of blood, and it is + in this direction, the very basis of the complaint, + that the active principles of Hemotora display their + wonderful efficiency by removing the obstruction to + the natural flow of blood; the parts will then return + to their original condition and functions. Relief may + be obtained from the external use of Ointments, Creams + and Suppositories, but these preparations only afford + temporary ease, and do not tend to remove the Cause. + Only internal treatment can cure. Results show that + External, Internal, and Bleeding Piles alike soon yield + to this remedy; after a few doses the pain is greatly + alleviated, accompanied by a sense of relief from the + sickly feeling of lassitude and depression. The tonic + properties of Hemotora quickly restore the general + health. + +From another circular it appears that + + The “Hemotora Salve” for Itching Piles is sold in small + 1s. Jars, large size, 2s. 6d. + +Analysis of “Hemotora” showed it to be an aqueous liquid containing +about O·09 per cent. of a bitter amorphous alkaloid and 2·7 per cent. +of vegetable extractive, including a little of a substance of the +nature of a tannin, but not medicinal tannic acid. The liquid appeared +to be produced by aqueous extraction, infusion or decoction, of some +bitter vegetable substance. + + +ROLLO’S REMEDY FOR PILES. + +This ointment, made by a Scottish company, is sold in tins, price 1s. +1½d., containing rather under 1 oz. It is described in an accompanying +circular as a remedy for a good many disorders besides Piles: + + Rollo’s Remedy for Piles, Eczema, Rheumatic Pains, + Burns and Scalds, Chilblains, Soreness or Roughness of + the Skin, Itching. + + Rollo’s Remedy is a Vegetable Extract in the Highest + Possible State of Purity, without any addition + whatever. It is obtained from a little known part of + Africa, and has been brought to its present perfection + after a long series of scientific experiments. It + does not contain any Poisons, Drugs, Chemicals, or + Impurities of any kind, and although intended for + external use only, it is so pure that even if eaten it + would be quite harmless. + +Analysis showed the ointment to contain over 99 per cent. of fatty +basis, with a very small quantity of a dark substance which appeared to +be vegetable extractive. It contained no alkaloid and no tannin, and +possessed no characters indicative of the drug or plant from which it +was derived. The basis showed the characters of a mixture of fats in +which oil of theobroma (cocoa butter) predominated, with about 15 per +cent. of lanoline (anhydrous). + + +DR. VAN VLECK’S COMPLETE ABSORPTIVE PILE TREATMENT. + +The preparations sold under this name are, or were, very widely +advertised by a company giving an address in London. They are offered +without previous payment, as indicated by the following extracts from +an advertisement: + + To every person who sends us the coupon below at once, + we will send—Free to try—our complete new threefold + absorption cure for Piles, Ulcer, Fissure, Prolapse, + Tumours, Constipation, and all rectal troubles. If you + are fully satisfied with the benefits received, send + us 4s. 6d. If not, we take your word, and it costs you + nothing; you decide after a thorough trial. + + Our valuable new Pile Book (in colours) comes free with + the approval treatment all in plain package. Send no + money—just the coupon—to Dr. Van Vleck Co. + +The “new Pile Book,” a pamphlet of 40 pages, entitled “The Rational +Treatment of Rectal Diseases,” included a description of the rectum, +with eleven illustrations—several of them coloured—with descriptions of +various kinds of piles and treatments, and of the Van Vleck remedies. A +few extracts only can be given: + + Unless you are beyond every chance of recovery, this + wonderful threefold Absorption treatment will cure + you.... + + The Absorption Cure is Threefold because there are + three avenues of approach to the seat of the ailment. + To neglect one of these avenues means to leave an open + gateway for the return of the malady. Dr. Van Vleck + struck at the well spring of the disease, as well as at + the visible effect of it. Once cured by our treatment + the disease is cured to stay cured. There is no pain, + no confinement, no heavy doctor’s or surgeon’s bill, + no operation. The cost is placed within the reach of + all, and the treatment is accompanied by a positive + guarantee of cure. The treatment embraces: + + 1. Dr. Van Vleck’s Absorptive Plasma. + 2. Dr. Van Vleck’s Muco-food Cones. + 3. Dr. Van Vleck’s Pile Pills (and System Regulator). + +The “positive guarantee” is given inside the back cover of the +pamphlet, as follows: + + GUARANTEE. + + The Dr. Van Vleck Co.... Hereby positively agrees that + Dr. Van Vleck’s Absorption Cure for Piles, when taken + and used in accordance with our simple instructions and + directions, will cure any case of Piles, and in the + event of its failure to cure, + + AGREES TO REFUND + + The entire amount paid immediately upon required + statement that benefit has not been received. + + The Dr. Van Vleck Co. + + +It will be observed that this purported to be a guarantee to cure, and +would be read by most as a promise to refund the amount paid if the +treatment did not cure; whereas it was only a promise to refund if a +“required” statement were made that benefit (that is, any benefit) had +not been received, a statement most uncured persons might hesitate to +make. + +On application for the 4s. 6d. treatment, 5 suppositories, 10 pills, +and about 65 grains of “plasma” in a collapsible tube were sent, with a +long circular letter of the usual type, offering the: + + Large special treatment, including our new Rectal + Applicator, made from pure Stannum,[2] for 21s., or for + 16s. 6d. in addition to the 4s. 6d. to be sent for what + was supplied. + +[2] _Stannum_: tin. _Latin Dictionary._ + +The labels of the preparations were stamped “made in U.S.A.” + +Letters subsequently received urging continued use of the treatment +and pressing for particulars of the case, were much like those from +other nostrum dealers which have been printed in earlier chapters, and +included such statements as: + + We have made a special study of your case, and we are + convinced that if this, our final offer to _you_, + is accepted, a permanent cure will be assured. + +No “case” had been even mentioned in sending for the preparations. The +“final offer” was: + + On receipt of 12s. 6d. we will forward you our Full + Size Guinea Treatment, post free. We are perfectly + willing to trust to you to remit us the balance of 4s. + on completion of the cure. Remember you are absolutely + protected by our guarantee (see last page of booklet). + +Other papers sent were a “Patient’s Special Symptom Form,” to be +filled up after using the “treatment,” and including such questions as +“Are your Piles better?” “Please state in what way your condition has +changed since you commenced taking our treatment,” and a form for names +and addresses of other persons suffering from piles. + +Analysis of the “plasma” showed it to be a paraffin ointment containing +about 6 per cent. of powdered galls and a small quantity of menthol +(approximately 1 per cent.); the basis consisted principally of soft +paraffin, with a dark substance which appeared to be the natural +impurities of crude petroleum. The formula is thus approximately: + + Powdered galls 6 parts. + Menthol 1 ” + Crude petroleum jelly to 100 ” + +The “Muco-food Cones” had an average weight of 21 grains; analysis +showed them to consist of: + + Wheat flour 28 per cent. + Oil of theobroma (cocoa butter) 68 ” + Water 4 ” + +Careful search failed to show any other ingredient. + +The pills were coated with a mixture of talc and sugar, tinted an +orange colour; after removing the coating they had an average weight of +1·1 grain. Analysis showed them to contain small quantities of powdered +capsicum, powdered liquorice, and maize starch; 23 per cent. of ash, +about half of which consisted of silicious matter and was apparently +talc that had got into the pill from the coating; the remainder of the +ash showed the usual constituents of the ash of vegetable drugs and +extracts, together with a small quantity of zinc, which was present in +the pill in the metallic state and was presumably derived from some +vessel used in the preparation; a bitter extract, agreeing in its +properties with extract of cascara sagrada, constituting the major +portion of the pill; and a resinoid substance which resembled iridin. +As a definite formula cannot be given for such a pill, the cost of +ingredients can only be estimated somewhat roughly. After making +liberal allowance for the unknown resinoid, the estimated cost of the +ingredients of the quantities of the three preparations supplied for +4s. 6d. is three-farthings. + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII. + +PREPARATIONS FOR RUPTURE. + + +Advertisements of means of curing rupture without operation are very +common, but in most cases the advertiser has for sale a special form +of truss or other appliance. The disorder is so well-known to be of a +mechanical or structural nature, that it might have been thought that +it would hardly have been worth anybody’s while to advertise drugs for +its cure. Nevertheless there are, at least, two instances in which +medicine for internal or external use is supplied; the results of +examination of these are here given. + + +RICE’S TREATMENT FOR RUPTURE. + +The following is a specimen of the wording of the advertisement of +this “treatment” which used to be, and perhaps still is, very commonly +illustrated by a picture of a bricklayer filling up a hole in a wall: + + RUPTURE CURED. + + Do You See this Bricklayer Closing up the Opening in + that Wall. That is the way to cure _Rupture_, + by filling in the opening with _new_ and + _stronger_ tissue. + + A rupture is simply a break in a wall—the wall of + _muscle_ that protects the bowels and other + internal organs. + + It is just as easy to cure a wound or break in + _this_ muscle as one in the arm or hand. + + Now this break may be no larger than the tip of your + finger. But it is large _enough_ to allow part of + the intestines to crowd through. Of course, this cannot + _heal_ unless nature is _assisted_. That is + just what this Method does. It enables you to retain + the protrusion inside the wall in its proper place. + + Then we give you a Developing Lymphol to apply on + the rupture opening. This penetrates _through_ + the skin to the edges of the opening and removes the + _hard ring_ which has formed around the break. + + Then the _healing_ process begins. Nature, no + longer handicapped by the protruding bowel and hardened + ring at the opening, and stimulated by the action of + the Lymphol, throws out _her_ supply of lymph, and + the opening is again filled with _new muscle_. + + Isn’t this simple? Isn’t it _reasonable_?... + + Simply _write_ us and we will post you a _free + sample treatment of_ the Developing Lymphol and + a finely illustrated book on The Nature and Cure of + Rupture. Do _not_ send any money. Just your + _name_ and _address_ on this Coupon. + +Application for particulars of the method of cure brought a book of +40 pages, entitled “The Nature and Cure of Rupture,” with a letter, +directions for measurement, and other papers. It would seem that if +the applicant does not at once become a customer, other letters and +booklets are sent at intervals. The titles of some of these booklets +which are before us are: “First Aid to the Ruptured,” “The Value +of a Cure,” “A Fireside Reverie,” “Facts and Faces,” “The Story of +Christopher Columbus,” and “The Man Who Wondered Why.” However much the +matter varies, it always leads to the subject of the cure of rupture +by Rice’s Treatment. The treatment consists of the wearing of an +“Appliance” (occasionally referred to as “my perfect truss”) and the +application of “Developing Lymphol.” The respective parts stated to be +played by these are indicated by the following extracts from some of +the pamphlets referred to: + + To be cured of rupture it is necessary to apply my + Lymphol Developing Treatment regularly as directed, for + it is the Lymphol, not the Appliance, that performs the + cure. + + The Appliance is simply a means of support to retain + the rupture, and prevent the protrusion from tearing + down the new particles of tissue with which the opening + is being filled under the vitalizing and healing + influence of the Lymphol. + +The appliance is supplied in two grades or qualities. The price of the +Appliance and Lymphol together ranged from 21s. for a child’s single +appliance of the cheaper grade to £4 10s. for an “Abdominal Supporter +and Navel Appliance Combined,” of the higher grade. It was stated +in the price list that the lymphol and appliance were not supplied +separately; but in another list sent with the goods the lymphol alone +was priced at 16s. 6d. The bottle sent held just over four fluid ounces. + +The directions were: + + Lie on your back, remove appliance, unscrew stopper, + and sprinkle a few drops of the Lymphol on to the point + where the rapture leaves the cavity of the abdomen. + Apply night and morning, rubbing in thoroughly with + fingers. If irritation is produced, use less Lymphol, + or discontinue its use for a few days. The Lymphol may + be reduced in strength by adding Spiritus Rectificatus + which can be obtained from any chemist. + +The “appliance” consisted of an elastic band to go round the body, +fitted with an adjustable pad and an understrap. Analysis showed the +“lymphol” to be an alcoholic solution containing essential oils and +capsicum resin, and a trace of red colouring matter. Oils of origanum +(thyme), peppermint, and spearmint were recognized; the proportion of +capsicum was estimated by determining the total solid matter, and by +comparing the pungency of dilutions of the lymphol with dilutions of +the solutions prepared in imitation; the red colouring matter was not +cochineal, or one of the common vegetable colours, but appeared to be +one of the artificial dyes. Careful comparisons indicated the following +formula: + + Tincture of capsicum (_B.P._ strength but + prepared with strong alcohol) 60 parts by measure. + Oil of origanum 6 ” ” + Oil of peppermint 1 ” ” + Oil of spearmint 0·3 ” ” + Red dye q.s. ” ” + Rectified spirit to 100 ” ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 4 fluid ounces is 9d. + + +HEALINE TREATMENT. + +This is advertised from a town in the south of England as follows: + + Rupture cured + + speedily and permanently, with inexpensive home + treatment. A certain remedy for Man, Woman, and Child. + Full particulars on receipt of two stamps. + +Application to the address given brought a booklet of 28 pages, headed: + + The following is a description of + Rupture, + Its causes, Symptoms, + Treatment, and Cure. + +An extract from this booklet is here given: + + The only possible way to effect a permanent cure is + by taking a remedy that will fortify and strengthen + the weakened vessels, and so enable them to bear an + ordinary strain without injuring them. HEALINE + TREATMENT No. 1 has been found by experience + to perform this operation after all other so-called + treatments have failed. External treatment cannot cure + you, for the cause is internal; therefore to effect a + cure the cause must be removed. By taking this remedy + as directed, a cure may be expected from two to four + months, according to description of complaint and + length of time affected. From six to nine bottles of + this preparation is generally sufficient to effect a + cure, or the same quantity of pills. I do not guarantee + to completely cure every case, but it will do as much + good as nature will allow, and prevent strangulation in + every case. I find, after a few years’ experience with + this remedy, that it is able to absolutely cure ninety + out of every hundred cases of rapture, where nine to a + dozen bottles have been taken. + +Other sections of the pamphlet are devoted to varicocele and varicose +veins, for which it appears that “Healine No. 2” and “Healine No. 3” +respectively are recommended. + +The prices of the preparations (post free) were thus given: + + Liquid Form.—3s. per bottle; Three for 8s. 9d.; or Six + prepared bottles for 15s. + + Pill Form (recommended).—2s. 9d. per box; Three for + 8s.; or Six for 13s. 9d. + + Healine Lotion (same price as Internal Healine) is + always necessary for bad Ulcerated Legs and open or + deep-seated Wounds, and never fails to cure when used + as directed. + + Consultation by appointment only, for which a fee of + 2s. 6d. will be charged. + +An application for a bottle of liquid “Healine No. 1,” with a +remittance of 3s., brought in return a box of the pills, with an +intimation that these were recommended in preference. The box contained +60 pills, two to be taken three times a day. + +The pills were coated with talc, after removal of which they had +an average weight of 4 grains. No metallic salts were present, and +no alkaloid; about 1 per cent. of an oily liquid of acid nature, +apparently oleic acid, was found; small quantities of a tannin, gum, +and phlobaphene, a decomposition product of tannin, were present, +and a bitter substance which showed no characters by which it could +be identified; aloin and extract of cascara sagrada were absent, +and all resinous substances, unless in minute quantity; the pill +consisted chiefly of indefinite extractive, with about 20 per cent. of +a vegetable powder, one ingredient of which was liquorice, a second +appearing to be gentian, but it was not identified with certainty; +a considerable portion of the vegetable powder had no identifiable +properties. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX. + +CURES FOR INEBRIETY. + + +For a good many years past cures for inebriety have been freely +advertised in various ways, some of them commonplace and others +showing a good deal of ingenuity. Some are advertised and sold in the +same way as ordinary secret remedies, that is to say, the purchaser +sends so much money and receives a box or bottle with directions +for administering the contents. In other instances the inebriate is +required to submit himself to inspection, and in certain cases must +enter a home maintained by the proprietor or his agents. Between these +two extremes there are intermediate plans, the methods followed shading +off on the one hand into those of the ordinary nostrum seller, and on +the other into the more elaborate system of the “treatments” with which +transatlantic enterprise has made us familiar. The last of the remedies +described by name below approximates very closely to this class. + + +COZA POWDER. + +This powder is supplied by the Coza Institute, 76, Wardour Street, +London, W., formerly 62, Chancery Lane, London, W.C. The price charged +for a box, containing 30 powders was 10s. + +The preparation was advertised with an offer of a free sample. An +application for a sample brought a single powder together with a 10s. +box to be paid for or returned, a book of 130 pages (which is referred +to below), and a letter, from which the following is an extract: + + Coza Powder has the marvellous effect of producing a + repugnance to intoxicating drink of any kind, and may + be administered in coffee, tea, milk, water, beer, + whisky, brandy, or solid food without the partaker’s + knowledge. + + Coza Powder does its work so silently and surely that + any person interested in the intemperate can administer + it to him or her without his or her knowledge and + without him or her learning what has effected the + reformation. + + Coza Powder has reconciled thousands of families, + saved from shame and dishonour thousands of men and + transformed them into sturdy citizens and capable + business men. It has led many a young man along the + direct road to good fortune, and has prolonged by + several years the lives of many individuals. + + We particularly wish to draw your attention to the fact + that we guarantee Coza Powder to be absolutely harmless. + +The book which was sent, entitled _No more Drunkenness_, opens with the +statements that— + + Coza Powder is one of the greatest discoveries of the + day. There is nothing in the whole world to compare + with it. It is the only powder to cure the craving for + drink and drug habits. + +The first few pages are devoted to a disquisition on drunkenness; then +follow further claims for Coza Powder, such as— + + Coza is the name of a marvellous powder which possesses + the quality of occasioning in him who takes it a + dislike for alcoholic liquors and all intoxicating + drinks. The drinker finds alcohol so detestable + that even on the most tempting occasions it will be + impossible for him to take a single drop. + +A large part of the book is given up to what are called testimonials, +with portraits stated to represent the writers; the large majority of +these are dated from Continental countries. Those to which English +names and addresses are appended are for the most part expressions of +hopefulness, or records of slight variations in drinking which are +believed to be due to the powders; for instance: + + My friend has been taking “Coza” this last two days, + and he has had no desire for drink. + + Enclosed you will find P.O. for which send me another + box. I think the powders are doing my friend good. Send + at once. + +The last pages of the book are devoted to advertisements of Canexia +Hair Elixir, Canexia-Brilliantine, and Canexia-Shampoo Powder, supplied +from the Canexia Chemical Works, 61, Chancery Lane; and Anticelta +Tablets for Obesity, and Brixa Tablets for Thin People, supplied from +62, Chancery Lane. + +A visit to the address showed that the Canexia Chemical Works, the Coza +Institute, and the offices of Anticelta and Brixa Tablets were all at +that time accommodated in three rooms on the second floor at 61 and +62, Chancery Lane, the double number representing the one entrance of +a large block of buildings containing hundreds of different offices. A +photograph of the entire block, inscribed “Coza Institute,” is given in +the book just referred to. The address has since been changed to that +given above. + +The powders had an average weight of 1½ grains, the weights of single +ones varying from ⅓ grain to 3 grains. Analysis showed them to contain +90·5 per cent. of sodium bicarbonate, the remainder being a vegetable +powder; microscopic examination of this powder showed that it agreed in +all its characters with a mixture of equal parts of cummin fruit and +cinnamon. No alkaloid was present, and no other ingredient of any kind +could be detected. The formula is thus: + + Sodium bicarbonate 90 parts. + Powdered cinnamon 5 ” + Powdered cummin 5 ” + +Cummin fruit (seeds) have a bitter aromatic taste and a peculiar strong +heavy odour. Owing to its disagreeable taste and odour cummin is seldom +used in medicine, any medicinal properties it possesses being the same +as those of other aromatic and less nauseous umbelliferous fruits. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 30 powders was one-thirtieth +of a penny. + + +DIPSOCURE. + +This nostrum is prepared by a “Chemical Co.,” giving an address in +Birmingham. The price charged for a box, containing 50 powders, 25 +being white and 25 tinted reddish-buff, was 9s. + +This article, like the preceding, is advertised with an offer of a free +sample. Application for a sample brought also a stream of letters at +short intervals, with abundant printed matter. A few extracts from the +letters are here given: + + Eminent medical men have over and over again declared + that if a cure for drunkenness could be discovered + both TASTELESS AND ODOURLESS, and placed in the + hands of a devoted woman to administer SECRETLY, the + greatest difficulty in effecting cures would have been + overcome. “Dipsocure” IS TASTELESS and ODOURLESS, and + CAN BE administered SECRETLY; so that it has been our + privilege and good fortune to have solved the problem. + Whilst counteracting and freeing the alcoholic-laden + system of the poison, it is soothing to the nerves + and restores the health, and is harmless to the most + delicate person. + + ... when a cure has been effected we ask you kindly + to acquaint us of the fact, and perhaps you will then + consider our agency proposal, showing how a good income + can be made by introducing the cure to others. To show + you the ease with which it can be sold, if you remit us + 10s. three packages will be sent, two of which you can + readily dispose of to other sufferers at 9s. each, thus + making 8s. profit and obtaining one packet quite free. + +The directions for use were: + + Give one powder three times a day, before meals, + dissolved in half a tea-cup of Hot Coffee, Tea, Whisky, + Milk, Gin, &c. + + Use either the brown or white powder, as the colour of + the liquid may require. + +The powders had an average weight of 4·2 grains, single powders varying +from 2·9 to 6·0 grains. The composition of both kinds was found to be +the same except for the trace of colouring matter contained in the +tinted powder. Analysis showed the composition to be— + + Acetanilide 6 parts. + Potassium bromide 35 ” + Sugar of milk 59 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 50 powders was one-third of a +penny. + + +ANTIDIPSO. + +This is supplied by another “Chemical Company,” giving an address in +London. The price of a box, containing 48 powders, 24 being white, and +24 tinted pinkish-buff, was 10s. + +The statements made about this article, in circulars and letters, were +very similar to those made about the preceding one. A few extracts will +suffice: + + You will not forget that to insure an absolute complete + and permanent cure for the craving, two boxes are + invariably required. We have had data of cures effected + with one box, but to make absolutely sure you will + do well to immediately send us remittance, to the + same value as the last, and get the second box of the + specific. Antidipso may be administered with or without + the knowledge of the patient.... We enclose you a + booklet showing our agency terms. Kindly give it your + attention, as we are confident you will be so surprised + and satisfied at the cure which will be effected that + you will either yourself want to take up agency with + us, or get some one in your district to do so. + +The directions were: + + Give one powder, dissolved in half a tea-cup of hot + coffee, whisky, milk, gin, &c. (using either Brown or + White Powder as colour of liquid may require) 3 times a + day before meals. + +The powders had an average weight of 5·3 grains, single powders ranging +from 3·7 to 9·9 grains. The white and tinted powders were made of the +same constituents, with a trace of colouring matter added in the latter +case, but in different proportions. Analysis showed the composition to +be: + +WHITE POWDERS. + + Potassium bromide 24·5 parts. + Sugar of milk 75·5 ” + +COLOURED POWDERS. + + Potassium bromide 35 parts. + Sugar of milk 65 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 48 powders was one-third of a +penny. + + +THE TEETOLIA TREATMENT. + +The following is an extract from an advertisement of a “Teetolia +Treatment Association,” giving an address in London: + + After years of Drink and Drug taking— + + Cured in 4 days. + + ... The Teetolia treatment acts so rapidly and so + efficiently that within four days from the commencement + of administration the insistent craving for drink is + absolutely destroyed—so much so, that even the thought + of alcohol becomes nauseating.... Thousands have been + cured by this treatment, and we guarantee to cure you. + If you write to-day, you will receive by return of post + a private consultation sheet, together with a valuable + book on this subject, post free in plain envelope, and + you will be a free man within a week. + +On application being made for further particulars, a booklet of twenty +pages, entitled _The Teetolia Treatment for Alcoholic Excess, Drug +Habits, and Resultant Nervous Diseases_, was sent, together with a +letter and a form to be filled up with particulars of the case to be +treated. The following are extracts from the booklet: + + The discovery of the Teetolia method and treatment + for the permanent eradication of the crave for drink + and drugs marks an era in medical science. It is the + outcome of a life’s study of the subject by one of our + best known West-End physicians. + + You can, whilst undergoing the treatment, pursue your + ordinary methods of living. You continue to take your + daily modicum of alcohol; but somehow about the third + or fourth day of treatment, without having made any + physical or mental effort, you feel that you no longer + want a drink; it holds out no attractions to you; its + magnetic influence has gone.... + + We are willing to supply you with sufficient medicine + for eight days’ treatment free of all charge. This + will enable you to determine whether the treatment is + acting successfully, for at the end of the fourth day + an obvious and perceptible effect should be + experienced. We impose no condition; we rely on your + candour, honesty, and gratitude that at the end of the + eight days’ treatment, if you are convinced of the + value of the Teetolia Treatment, you will forward to us + the ordinary fee—£1 1_s._—for same, but if you + have derived no benefit from the treatment at the end + of the same period, then you are under no obligation + whatever to pay us one single penny. + +The letters were on headed paper, at the top of which was printed, +“All communications strictly confidential,” and “Consultations with +Physician by appointment.” The first letter concluded as follows: + + Please therefore fill in and return without delay the + special statement sheet and upon our receiving it the + Physician will go carefully into the case and will + prescribe special medicine, which will reach you with + expert advice in the course of two or three days in a + perfectly plain sealed package. + +The “expert advice,” in a letter purporting to be from “The Medical +Superintendent,” sent with the medicine, contained these passages: + + I want, if possible, the patient to use his own + endeavours to try and keep off alcohol during the first + few days of treatment; if this cannot be done, then the + treatment must be commenced when the patient is not + drinking, in order to give the medicine a better hold + on the system. The dislike for alcohol, which we claim, + does not come on all at once. + + The eight days’ treatment is enough to show you that + it will do good, but not sufficient in this case to + effect a permanent cure. I would advise the patient to + continue for at least a month to six weeks. + +This is somewhat widely at variance with the statements quoted above. +“You continue to take your daily modicum of alcohol” and “you will be a +free man within a week.” + +The one guinea “treatment” consisted of 2⅙ fluid ounces of a liquid of +the nature of a vegetable fluid extract. + +The directions were: + + Half a teaspoonful to be taken in a little water every + four hours during the day at 10, 2, 6, and 10 o’c. + +Analysis showed this to contain 29·3 per cent. by volume of alcohol +and 2·3 per cent. of alkaloid, which consisted principally of quinine. +The liquid agreed generally with a diluted liquid extract of cinchona; +the amount of alkaloid was just under half what is contained in the +official liquid extract of cinchona. Treatment with suitable solvents +extracted a trace of a non-alkaloidal bitter substance resembling the +bitter substances obtainable from quassia, chiretta, &c.; a preparation +of chiretta appeared to be the more probable. No strychnine was +present, and no evidence was obtained of any other ingredient. + + +SOME OTHER DRUG CURES FOR INEBRIETY. + +A somewhat frequent constituent of preparations for the treatment of +inebriety is atropine, while other preparations contain one or more +of the alkaloids belonging to the same group, usually known as the +solanaceous alkaloids from the fact that they are all derived from +plants of the nat. ord. _Solanaceae_. These alkaloids closely resemble +each other in their chemical nature and in their pharmacological +properties; the principal members of the group are: + + Atropine, C₁₇H₂₃NO₃; obtained chiefly from _Atropa + belladonna_ (deadly nightshade) and _Scopola + carniolica_. + + Hyoscyamine, C₁₇H₂₃NO₃, obtained chiefly from + _Hyoscyamus niger_ (henbane) and _Scopola_ + species. + + Hyoscine, or scopolamine, C₁₇H₂₁NO₄, obtained chiefly + from _Scopola_ species, _Hyoscyamus niger_, + and _Datura alba_. + +The two following were originally described as separate substances, but +have more recently been shown to consist of mixtures: + + Duboisine, obtained from _Duboisia myoporoides_, + consists chiefly of hyoscyamine and hyoscine. + + Daturine, from _Datura stramonium_ (thornapple) + consists chiefly of hyoscyamine, with a variable + proportion of atropine. + +A certain preparation for inebriety is said to contain “stramonine”; as +no alkaloid has been described and characterized under this name, it is +probably only a variant of daturine, which, as has been said, consists +of a natural mixture of hyoscyamine and atropine. + +To the above may be added the artificial alkaloid homatropine +(C₁₀H₂₁NO₃), which has not been found in a plant, but is prepared +synthetically; in chemical constitution it is mandelyl-tropeine, +atropine being tropyltropeine. + +The differences in the action of the four principal solanaceous +alkaloids are briefly as follows: + +_Atropine_ has a stimulant action on the central nervous system +especially on the motor area; it depresses and in large doses paralyses +the nerve endings of secretory glands, plain muscle, and the heart. + +_Hyoscyamine_ is intermediate in its action between atropine and +hyoscine; causes less stimulation of the central nervous system than +atropine, and is a weaker sedative and hypnotic than hyoscine. It has +the same action peripherally as atropine but is twice as powerful. + +_Hyoscine_ resembles atropine in its paralysing effect upon peripheral +nerve endings, the action being quicker, more powerful, and less +lasting. It does not possess the stimulating effect of atropine upon +the brain; depression of the motor area is marked from the first. + +_Homatropine_ resembles atropine in its action but is less powerful. + + + + +CHAPTER XX. + +CURE ALLS. + + +The greater number of the proprietary medicines described in these +pages are advertised as cures for a wide range of ailments, but +usually there is some one disease for the treatment of which they are +particularly recommended, so that it has been possible to classify +them according to their alleged purposes. In very many other cases, +however, the claims made are so wide that the article is put forward +as a sort of cure-all. Thus one of the articles described is stated to +cure such different disorders as constipation, rheumatism, St. Vitus’s +dance, heart disease, rickets, sleeplessness, kidney complaints, and +women’s special ailments, among many others, and is said to be “a +real elixir of life in solid form”; the facts as to its composition, +ascertained by analysis, show what the possibility of its being a +“cure”—for heart disease, for instance—is. As to “Pink Pills,” another +of the nostrums analysed, which probably owes its popularity partly +to bold advertisement and partly to its alliterative name, the method +followed appears to be to recommend them for different diseases in +different advertisements; personal testimony, or what is put forward +as such, from sufferers who have been cured, is made the basis of +most of these, and illustrations are employed to catch the eye of the +casual reader. Analysis showed that these pills were practically the +ordinary iron-carbonate pills commonly called Blaud’s pill, which ought +to be freshly made. The Pink Pills are of lower strength than usually +prescribed, and to judge by the proportion of iron that was found to +be in the higher state of oxidation, very carelessly prepared. They +differ vastly, however, from other Blaud’s pills in the price charged +for them. Thus the proprietary Pink Pills are sold at a little over a +penny each, while coated Blaud’s pills can be bought retail at a few +pence a gross, and wholesale in large quantities at a little over a +penny a gross. The analyses of other proprietary preparations show a +similar disparity between the market price of the drug supplied and +the price charged to the person who is beguiled into purchasing; thus +thirteen-pence-halfpenny, two shillings and sixpence, and two shillings +and ninepence are the selling prices of nostrums, the ingredients of +which are estimated to cost respectively one-eighth, one-third, and +one-tenth of a penny. + +Preparations of this class are not in all cases very clearly marked +off from those recommended for some special disease, such as have been +dealt with in previous chapters, for many of them are recommended +for some one disease, of which nearly all others are asserted to be +variations. + + +DR. MARTIN’S MIRACLETTS. + +These wonders are supplied by a Medicine Co., from an address in +London. The prices are 1s. 1½d., 2s. 9d., 4s. 6d., and 11s. per bottle. +A 2s. 9d. bottle contained sixty tablets. + +They are described on the package as: + + A real Elixir of Life in solid form. The world’s + greatest remedy. + + Cures Constipation, Indigestion, Headache, Neuralgia, + Anæmia, Nervous Disorders, Liver Troubles, Rheumatism, + Sciatica, Gout, St. Vitus’ Dance, Hysteria, Rickets, + Heart Disease, Kidney Complaints. + + Cures Melancholia, Loss of Appetite, Sleeplessness, + Lassitude, Mental Depression, Brain Fag, Palpitation, + Stomach Disorders, Women’s Special Ailments and + Irregularity of Health, etc., etc. + +A little book, entitled “A Fortune for All,” enclosed in the package, +contained the following statements: + + Whatever you may be suffering from do not worry or + fear, as Dr. MARTEN’S MIRACLETTS will be + certain to cure you! + + Dr. Martin’s Miracletts make the weak and sickly become + strong and healthy, and the aged become youthful and + full of energy; the tired worn-out look being replaced + by an appearance of cheerfulness and vivid health. The + pale and wrinkled face with bad complexion gives way + to rosy cheeks and a clear skin; the thin gain flesh, + and the stout lose superfluous fat; indigestion quickly + disappears, the appetite returns, and a _new life_ + is open to all. + +A separate small slip enclosed in the package was worded as follows: + + GUARANTEE. + + Dr. Martin’s Medicine Company being absolutely + confident of the marvellous curative properties of + their Miracletts, will willingly refund the money + to any purchaser who has taken eighteen Miracletts + according to directions, and is not satisfied with the + results. + +Much less conspicuously, on another slip chiefly devoted to the +relative quantities in the packages of different size, it was stated: + + Those whose ailments have been of long standing must + not expect immediate perceptible results, but with + a little patience and perseverance the result is + SURE. + +The “Miracletts” consisted of sugar-coated tablets, the coating being +coloured brown with ferric oxide (so-called chocolate coating). After +removal of the coating they had an average weight of 4·3 grains; +this included the weight of a strong coating of varnish, which was +not removed with the sugar-coating. Analysis showed them to contain +valerianates of quinine and zinc, iron oxide, menthol, kaolin in +considerable quantity, and a little talc. A substance of extract nature +was also present to the extent of about 5 per cent.; it possessed no +characteristic taste or other property by which it could be identified; +a resinous substance, which was found in small quantity, appeared to be +merely the varnish with which the tablets were covered. The quantities +of the different ingredients were determined as nearly as possible, and +the results indicated the following amounts: + + Quinine valerianate 0·4 grain. + Zinc valerianate 0·1 ” + Ferric oxide 0·3 ” + Menthol 0·03 ” + Kaolin and talc 2·3 grains + In one tablet. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients of the tablets is 4d. a hundred. + + +THERAPION. + +Another “medicine company,” also with an address in London, advertises +three preparations which it calls Therapion. Therapion No. 1 was +described as “the most efficacious remedy” for “all discharges”; +Therapion No. 2 as “the great remedy for impurity of the blood, scurvy, +pimples, spots, blotches, pains and swellings of the joints, gout,” +and so on; and No. 3 as a new French remedy, by the use of which the +shattered health will be restored. + + The Expiring Lamp of Life Lighted Up Afresh, + + and a new existence imparted in place of what had + so lately seemed worn, “used up,” and valueless. + This wonderful medicine is suitable for all ages, + constitutions, and conditions, in either sex, and it is + difficult to imagine a case of disease or derangement, + whose main features are those of debility, that will + not be speedily and permanently benefited by this + never-failing recuperative essence, which is destined + to cast into oblivion everything that had preceded + it, for this widespread and numerous class of human + ailments. + +The claims for No. 3 being so inclusive, it was deemed sufficient to +analyse it only. The dose of all three was stated to be the same—a +piece about the size of a small marble three or four times a day; as +the package, costing 2s. 9d., contained 1⅓ oz., and as it was referred +to as providing twenty ordinary doses, a single dose would be about +30 grains. The substance consisted of a dark stiff paste smelling +strongly of camphor. Analysis showed it to contain, in addition to +camphor, glycerine, powdered liquorice, a bitter extract agreeing in +all respects with extract of gentian, calcium glycerophosphate, and a +trace of alkaloid; there also appeared to be a second extract present. +The alkaloid, which amounted to 0·06 per cent. only, could not be +identified with any of the ordinary medicinal alkaloids. There was some +evidence that the second extract was that of damiana, and a paste made +up with this and the other ingredients agreed well with the original; +but extract of damiana possesses no distinctive characters by which it +can be identified in a mixture. Quantitative determinations were made +of those ingredients capable of it, and the proportions of the others +estimated by comparison. The results indicated the following formula: + + Camphor 2·5 parts. + Glycerine 24 ” + Powdered liquorice 40 ” + Calcium glycerophosphate 1·8 ” + Extract of gentian 5·0 ” + Extract of damiana (?) 8 ” + Alkaloid 0·06 ” + Water to 100 ” + +In addition, there appeared to be present a slight trace of the oil of +one of the umbelliferous fruits, probably anise or fennel. Disregarding +the trace of alkaloid, the estimated cost of the ingredients for 1⅓ oz. +is 2d. + + +PINK PILLS FOR PALE PEOPLE. + +These pills, sold by the Dr. Williams Medicine Company, from an address +in London, are stated to be manufactured in the United States of +America. The price is 2s. 9d. a box, containing 30 pills. + +The pills are advertised for a great variety of diseases, prominence +being usually given to one disease in each advertisement; thus four +long advertisements appearing simultaneously in different papers were +respectively headed: + + Afraid of being touched. So sore with Rheumatism. A + once-crippled victim tells how Dr. Williams’ Pink Pills + cleansed his system of Rheumatism. + + Eczema expelled. Mr. John Chamberlain tells how + his sufferings from Skin Disease were cured by Dr. + Williams’ Pink Pills. + + Sciatica’s Swift Pains rendered this Lady helpless. Her + case had defied treatment, but Dr. Williams’ Pink Pills + succeeded by curing the cause of Sciatica. + + The Dark Days of Dyspepsia.... Dr. Williams’ Pink Pills + go to the very cause of the mischief. + +Each advertisement included a long description of a “case,” and as a +rule a picture was introduced. The following is from the concluding +paragraph of the first of these advertisements, and the others ended in +a similar way. + + THE DR. WILLIAMS’ WAY. + + When the muscles and nerves are tortured by poisons + in the Blood, be the result Rheumatism, Sciatica, + or Lumbago, the only way to a cure is to Enrich + and Purify the Blood. Dr. Williams’ Pink Pills, in + this way alone, have cured not only Rheumatism, but + Anæmia, Indigestion, Palpitations, Influenza’s + After-Effects, Eczema, Sciatica, St. Vitus’ Dance, + Spinal Weakness, the many forms of Nervous Disorders + dreaded by men; also the special ailments of women. + +The pills were ovoid in shape and coated with sugar, coloured pink; +after removal of the coating they had an average weight of 3 grains. +Analysis showed them to contain ferrous sulphate, potassium carbonate +(these two having reacted more or less completely, and about one-third +of the iron having become oxidized to the ferric state), magnesia, +powdered liquorice, and sugar. Since it has been stated that these +pills contain arsenic, careful search was made for it, but it was not +found, The pill is thus merely one of the many variations of Blaud’s +pill. The quantities of the different ingredients found indicated the +following formula: + + Exsiccated sulphate of iron 0·75 grain. + Potassium carbonate, anhydrous 0·66 ” + Magnesia 0·09 ” + Powdered liquorice 1·4 ” + Sugar 0·2 ” + In one pill. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 30 pills is one-tenth of a +penny. + + +BEECHAM’S PILLS. + +A box of these pills, advertised to be worth a guinea, is sold for 1s. +1½d., and the prime cost of the ingredients of the 56 pills it contains +is about half a farthing. + +In a circular wrapped round the box it is stated that “these renowned +pills are composed entirely of Medicinal Herbs,” and cure Constipation, +Headache, Dizziness or Swimming in the Head, Wind, Pain, and Spasms at +the Stomach, Pains in the Back, Restlessness, Insomnia, Indigestion, +Want of Appetite, Fullness after Meals, Vomitings, Sickness of the +Stomach, Bilious or Liver Complaints, Sick Headaches, Cold Chills, +Flushings of Heat, Lowness of Spirits, and all Nervous Affections, +Scurvy and Scorbutic Affections, Pimples and Blotches on the Skin, Bad +Legs, Ulcers, Wounds, Maladies of Indiscretion, Kidney and Urinary +Disorders, and Menstrual Derangements. + +The pills had an average weight of 1¼ grains, and analysis showed them +to consist of aloes, ginger, and soap; no other medicinal ingredient +was found. The quantities were approximately as follows: + + Aloes 0·5 grain. + Powdered ginger 0·55 ” + Powdered soap 0·18 ” + In one pill. + + +NERVLETTES. + +Of these pills, which are sold in a bottle, price 1s. 1½d., containing +27 pills, a circular enclosed in the package said + + Coleman’s Nervlettes or Nerve Pills generate brain and nerve-force. + +The pills were coated with talc; after removal of the coating they had +an average weight of about 1½ grains. Analysis showed them to contain +free phosphorus, quinine sulphate, a little powdered liquorice, and +about 20 per cent. of a powdered vegetable tissue, which could not be +identified; the remainder of the pill appeared to be of the nature of +excipient only. The amounts of phosphorus and quinine were determined, +and indicated the following formula: + + Phosphorus 0·005 grain. + Quinine sulphate 0·07 ” + Vegetable powder 0·3 ” + In one pill. + + +MOTHER SEIGEL’S CURATIVE SYRUP. + +The price of a bottle of Mother Seigel’s Syrup containing 3 fluid +ounces is 2s. 6d. + +Although this was described on the wrapper as “for dyspepsia” so +many disorders were stated to be due to this cause, and amenable to +treatment with this preparation, that it may fairly be included in +this chapter. On the other side of the wrapper it was called “A cure +for impurities of the blood,” and “A cure for dyspepsia and liver +complaints.” In a circular enclosed with the bottle it was stated: + + The symptoms mentioned above are the smoke of the fire + of indigestion—a fire that will eat out your very + vitals and sap your strength and vitality. For it can’t + be too often repeated that indigestion is the root + of a great deal of evil; the origin of a great many + disorders which no man quite understands how he came + by. And why this is can easily be explained. Disease + is poison; its symptoms are the manifestation of the + poison. Indigestion creates many dangerous poisons, and + is therefore the cause of many diseases. + + So let us get rid of the smoke by putting out the fire, + and purify our blood and system with Mother Seigel’s + Syrup, which will sweep away the poisons and make us + healthy and strong. + + Mother Seigel’s Syrup is a highly concentrated, purely + vegetable compound, having a specific action on the + stomach, liver, and kidneys. + +Analysis showed the presence of free hydrochloric acid, which is not +usually classified as a vegetable compound, tincture of capsicum, a +bitter substance agreeing in its properties with aloes, and sugar +(partly as invert sugar); the colouring and flavouring substances also +present indicated that the sugar had been added in the form of treacle. +Quantitative determination of those ingredients capable of it, and +estimation of the others by comparison with known mixtures, indicated +the following formula: + + Dilute hydrochloric acid (_B.P._) 10 parts by measure. + Tincture of capsicum 1·7 ” ” + Aloes 2 parts. + Treacle 60 ” + Water to 100 parts by measure. + +The estimated cost of the ingredients for 3 fluid ounces is one-third +of a penny. + + +THE ILLS OF HUMANITY. + +Several examples have been encountered in previous chapters of the +system of getting into personal communication with a possible customer, +and addressing to him a series of letters warning him of the dire +consequences should he fail to purchase the advertiser’s “treatment.” +Over and beyond the chance of frightening the customer, the system, +which seems to have originated in the United States of America, has +the advantages that a profession can be made of adapting the treatment +to the individual case, that the price may be lowered if the charge +first made is considered too high and that possibly, in return for +this concession, testimonials and the names of other sufferers may be +obtained. A letter-writing system of this kind is found at work behind +the advertisement from which the following paragraphs are extracted: + + Free! Free! + + To the Sick and Ailing Everywhere. + + The Cure for your Disease—Delivered Free—Free for the + Asking—Free to You. + + To the sick—the suffering—to every man and woman + victim of organic disease—local trouble or broken + general health—Dr. Kidd’s offer of free treatments is + given in the absolute faith and sincere belief that + they can and will stop disease, cure it, and lift you + up again to health and vigour.... + + Rheumatism, kidney trouble, Bright’s disease, diabetes, + heart disease, partial paralysis, bladder troubles, + stomach and bowel troubles, piles, catarrh, bronchitis, + weak lungs, consumption, asthma, chronic coughs, + nervousness, all female troubles, lumbago, skin + diseases, scrofula, impure blood, general debility, + organic vital ailments, etc., are cured to remain and + continue cured.... + + Will you let me do this for you—will you let me prove + it—brother and sister sufferers? Are you willing to + trust a master physician, who not only MAKES this + offer, but PUBLISHES it and then sends the test and + proof of his remedies without a penny of cost to anyone + except himself?... + + My home office is at Fort Wayne, Indiana, U.S.A., but + for the benefit of my thousands of English patients, I + have established an office in London. Please address + Dr. James W. Kidd, “Box” No. ____, E.C. + +The advertisement was illustrated by the portrait of a man who, it +might be assumed, was the “master physician” in question, but that +in a book of some hundred pages, entitled “The Ills of Humanity, by +Dr. James W. Kidd, Fort Wayne, Ind.,” issued apparently by “the J. W. +Kidd Co.,” there is a portrait of Dr. James W. Kidd, which seems to +represent a totally different person. + +The book is principally occupied with a series of paragraphs on +different complaints, rather over a hundred being dealt with; in the +majority of cases the description leads up to reference to Dr. Kidd’s +treatment, or medicines, etc. Dr. James William Kidd, the book states, +possesses a profound knowledge of medicine, a remarkable power over +disease, and has “among his resources remedies that enable him to treat +successfully many diseases that are generally considered incurable.” +After this the fact disclosed by analysis that his remedies seem in +reality sadly lacking in originality and novelty, must excite a mild +surprise. + +It appears that persons writing to Dr. James W. Kidd, or the J. W. +Kidd Co., receive a “Self-Examination and Consultation Blank.” In one +instance in which the blank was filled up, the reply was as follows: + + Diagnosis and Case Record. By Dr. James W. Kidd, Fort + Wayne, Ind. + + For a complete description of your case, the probable + results and my method of treatment, see pages 46, 99, + 29, 13, 9, of the pamphlet “The Ills of Humanity,” sent + you under separate cover. + + I find that you are afflicted with Rheumatism, + Scrofula, Catarrh, Dyspepsia and Gastritis. + + Rheumatism MEANS an excess of uric acid in the blood. + + Scrofula is a constitutional disease almost synonymous + with tuberculosis. + + Catarrh is an excreting inflammation of the mucous + membrane. + + Dyspepsia (Indigestion) MEANS impaired secretion of + pepsin and consequent imperfect digestion. + + Gastritis MEANS catarrh of the mucous membrane of the + stomach. + + TAKE THE REMEDIES ACCORDING TO THE FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS: + + One Tablet “A” before breakfast. + One Tablet “B” before dinner. + One Tablet No. 18 before supper. + One Tablet No. 7 after dinner and after supper. + One Tablet No. 45 on retiring. + +This was accompanied by tablets marked “A,” “B,” and “18,” three of +each, four marked “45,” and five marked “7”; also by a letter which +appeared to be lithographed, and although the name and address were +in the same writing and the same ink, they showed evidence of having +been added afterwards. It seems probable, therefore, that, although +professing to be a personal letter, it was one in regular use. It +stated that Dr. James W. Kidd has “to-day selected and will forward +to your address upon receipt of your remittance of 1_l._ the complete +course of treatment,” the tablets sent being only samples. The letter +apologizes for the smallness of the samples on the ground that the +drugs “are very expensive.” The writer adds: “I have taken special +interest in your case, because I want a cured patient in your immediate +vicinity.” The tablets were analysed as completely as was possible with +the small quantities sent, with the following results: + +_Tablet A_ (triangular) was coloured externally with a salmon-pink +dye; the outer coating was of sugar, and below this was a rather +thick coating of chalk, forming a very hard and resistant covering +to the tablet. The decoated tablets weighed about 3-¼ grains each; +they contained 52 per cent. of sodium bicarbonate, and the remainder +consisted principally of a bitter extract agreeing in all respects with +extract of gentian; small quantities of potato starch and a substance +of resinoid nature, which could not be identified, were also present. +No other medicinal substance could be found. + +_Tablet B_ (triangular) was coloured externally with a bluish-purple +dye; the coating and the material of the tablets agreed in all respects +with Tablet A, and the two were apparently identical. + +_Tablet 18_ (circular) was white; the coating was of similar +composition to that of A. The decoated tablets weighed about 3·8 grains +each; analysis showed the presence of about 1 grain of sodium benzoate +in each, together with a small quantity of a greenish, moderately +bitter resin which could not be identified, and a trace of oil of +wintergreen. Faint indications were obtained of a trace of an alkaloid, +but not enough to amount to positive evidence. No other medicinal +substance could be found; the remainder was of “extractive” nature. + +_Tablet 45_ (circular) was coloured externally with a pink dye; the +coating was of similar composition to that of A. The decoated tablets +weighed about 1·1 grain each; the chief constituent was aloes, and +there was also present a very small quantity of ginger extract, and a +small quantity of a resin, which was probably jalap or scammony resin; +also a moderate trace of alkaloid, which was not the alkaloid of nux +vomica, belladonna, or hyoscyamus, but was not present in quantity +sufficient to be identified; the only other ingredient found was a +little potato starch. + +_Tablet 7_ (circular) was not coated. The average weight of these was +6·5 grains each, and they consisted principally of charcoal, with some +sugar and a very little saccharin. + +“These special remedies are very expensive!” + + +BURGESS’S LION OINTMENT. + +The results of an examination of Burgess’s Lion Ointment may be given +here inasmuch as it will be seen that it is recommended for the cure of +a great number of disorders. It is supplied in boxes at 1s. 1½d., 2s. +9d., 4s. 6d., 11s., and jars at 22s.; the 1s. 1½d. box contains 1 oz., +and the next size 3 oz. + +A circular wrapped round the box was headed “Amputation avoided—the +knife superseded,” and continued: + + E. Burgess’s Lion Ointment and Pills Have deservedly + become the popular remedies for curing all diseases of + the Skin, Old Wounds, Ulcers, Abscesses, (including + Tuberculous), Tumours, Polypuses, Piles, Fistulas, + Shingles, Venerea Sores, Whitlows, Broken Breasts, Bad + Legs, Boils, Scurvy, Scrofula (_King’s Evil_), + Scorbutic Eruptions, Poisoned Wounds _of all + kinds_, Stings, Venomous Bites, Scurf, Ringworm, + Itch, Corns, Chilblains, Chapped Hands, Cracked Lips, + Cuts, Burns, Scalds, Gatherings in the Ear, Toothache, + Earache, Neuralgia, Rheumatism, Gout, Sciatica, + Quinsey, Bronchitis, Asthma, Deafness, etc.; also + Ulcerous Affections of the Womb, for the treatment + of which apply to the Proprietor, personally, or by + letter, _in all cases free_. These invaluable + medicines have not been introduced as remedies for + any of the above complaints, or diseases, until + they have in each case PRACTICALLY proved + EFFECTUAL. To those who are suffering from + diseases _apparently_ rendering amputation + necessary, they are especially recommended, as they + entirely do away with the necessity for the same by + drawing all the cause of the disease from the affected + part, cleansing the blood, and restoring the system to + a sound, healthy condition. + + They are vegetable preparations, and the Ointment + can be applied with perfect confidence to the most + tender skin. It is entirely free from all poisonous + ingredients, a great recommendation for the + nursery—for which it is invaluable. + +In spite of the ointment being a “vegetable preparation,” analysis +showed the principal ingredient to be lead oleate (lead plaster); +this is blended with resin, wax, and fatty ingredients; vegetable +extracts and active principles were found to be absent. It is not +possible to separate the ingredients of an ointment like this sharply +one from another; and, since the ingredients are not themselves simple +bodies but mixtures liable to rather wide variations, they can only +be approximately determined, and, as regards the lard and oil, even +identification cannot be placed beyond doubt nor can small quantities +of some other fats be certainly stated to be absent. These, however, +are matters of minor importance. The composition given below has been +checked by varying the analytical methods, as well as by comparison of +various ointments prepared according to formulæ suggested by analysis. +As a result of the investigation, the following formula was arrived at, +which gives an ointment similar to the “Lion” ointment: + + Lead plaster 13 parts. + Beeswax 20 ” + Resin 11 ” + Olive oil 12 ” + Water 6 ” + Lard, to 100 ” + +The estimated cost of the ingredients is about 1Od. per lb. of +ointment. + + + + +APPENDIX. + +STAMP DUTY ON SECRET REMEDIES. + + +The duty on secret medicines is regulated by the Stamp Act of 1804 as +amended by the Stamp Act Amendment Act of 1812. The Act of 1804 was +itself in part an amending Act and regulated the duties to be paid on +paper, on books, on advertisements, and imposed _ad valorem_ duties +on hats and proprietary medicines. The tax on proprietary medicines +remains, but that on advertisements through and by which they continue +to exist and flourish has gone the way of the duties on hats, and +books, and paper. The Act of 1804 contained a schedule of medicines +to the number of some 450. In the Act of 1812 this was replaced by a +new schedule in which about 550 proprietary medicines were mentioned +by name. The final clause of this Act, however, is expressed in very +general terms, for it includes “all other pills, powders, lozenges, +tinctures, potions, cordials, electuaries, plasters, unguents, +salves, ointments, drops, lotions, oils, spirits, medicated herbs and +waters, chemical and officinal preparations whatsoever, to be used +or applied externally or internally as medicines or medicaments for +the prevention, cure, or relief of any disorder or complaint incident +to or in any wise affecting the human body,” if the person making or +selling these various preparations claim to have any occult secret or +art for making them or claim to have any exclusive right or title to +make them, or prepares and sells them under the authority of letters +patent, or if by public notice or advertisement, or by papers or labels +on, or with, the enclosures, bottles, or cases in which the preparation +is sold, the maker vendor, or proprietor recommend them as “nostrums, +or as proprietary medicines, or as specifics, or as beneficial to +the prevention, cure, or relief of any distemper, malady, ailment, +disorder, or complaint incident to or in any wise affecting the human +body.” + +The Inland Revenue returns show that during the last ten years the +amount received by the State from the stamp duty on patent medicines +so-called has increased from £266,403 10s. 3d. in the year ending March +31, 1899, to £334,141 19s. 2½d. in the year ending March 31st, 1908. +The net receipts are the gross receipts after deducting repayments +and allowances, but the aggregates of these deductions are small. The +following table shows the net receipts in each of the ten years, and +the average for the two quinquennial periods, 1899-1903 and 1904-1908:— + + TABLE SHOWING NET RECEIPTS FROM STAMPS ON + “PATENT MEDICINES” FOR TEN YEARS, 1899-1908. + + -----+------------------+--------------------- + Year.| Yearly. |Quinquennial average. + -----+------------------+--------------------- + | £ s. d. | £ s. d. + 1899 | 266,403 10 3 |} + 1900 | 288,827 8 1½ |} + 1901 | 297,479 19 6 |} 298,483 18 3 + 1902 | 306,337 5 9 |} + 1903 | 333,371 7 9 |} + | | + 1904 | 323,445 14 0 |} + 1905 | 331,438 17 6½ |} + 1906 | 324,111 14 2 |} 328,048 16 0 + 1907 | 327,105 15 3½ |} + 1908 | 334,141 19 2½ |} + -----+------------------+--------------------- + +The value of the stamp which the vendor must affix to the bottle or +package varies according to the price charged for the medicine, and the +returns show the number of articles for which the several rates are +paid. The following table gives the amount of the stamp duty on the +several prices, the number of articles stamped in the fiscal year 1908, +and the amount of the stamp. An attempt has also been made to estimate +the total amount paid by the public for the articles stamped:— + + TABLE SHOWING RATES OF DUTY, NUMBER OF ARTICLES STAMPED + AND APPROXIMATE SUM PAID BY THE PUBLIC IN THE YEAR + ENDING MARCH 31ST, 1908. + + ----------------+----------+------------------+--------------------- + Price of Article| Stamp. |Number of articles|Price paid by public. + without stamp. | | stamped. | + ----------------+----------+------------------+--------------------- + £ s. d. | s. d. | | £ s. d. + 0 1 0 | 0 1½ | 33,037,202 | 1,858,342 12 0 + 0 2 6 | 0 3 | 7,565,822 | 1,040,300 10 0 + 0 4 0 | 0 6 | 1,002,549 | 225,573 10 6 + 0 10 0 | 1 0 | 122,249 | 67,236 19 0 + 1 0 0 | 2 0 | 18,445 | 20,289 10 0 + 1 10 0 | 3 0 | 11,308 | 18,658 4 0 + ----------------+----------+------------------+--------------------- + 41,757,575 | 3,230,401 5 6 + -------------------+--------------------- + +This estimate of the total amount paid by the public must be too high. +In the first place it will be seen that the stamp duty does not rise +by regular increments _ad valorem_. An article, the nominal price of +which is 1s., must bear a stamp of 1½d., but if the nominal price be +1s. 6d., the stamp is 3d., and for an article of the nominal price of +2s. 6d. it is the same. In the second place, a large proportion of all +the articles, probably the great majority of those at 1s., are sold at +a discount, “store prices.” In the above table the maximum price for +each rate of stamp duty and the full nominal prices are assumed. If a +deduction of 25 per cent. is made to meet these sources of error, we +have a sum of £2,422,800 19s. 1½d., as an estimate of the amount spent +by the public on patent medicine in the financial year ending March 31, +1908. + +At one time some of the vendors of nostrums took to inserting in their +advertisements phrases intended to suggest that the Inland Revenue +stamp upon their packages implied some sort of Government guarantee +of the efficacy of the remedy. Though the Inland Revenue authorities +do not as a rule display any anxiety with regard to the welfare of +the public in the matter of the sale of nostrums, their efforts being +confined to the collection of the duty, and the enforcement of the +provisions of the Act should any vendor show a disposition to evade +them, the stamp in recent years has borne the statement “This stamp +implies no Government guarantee.” In spite of this vendors still +sometimes contrive to convey the suggestion that the stamp conveys some +sort of government guarantee; the suggestion looks the more plausible +if the vendor has his name or autograph printed on the stamp by the +government authorities; this will be done for him if he pays the cost +of the die, and by the use of such an endorsement the incautious buyer +may be led to assume that the Inland Revenue in some way shares the +vendors’ responsibility for the genuineness of the article, that is +to say for the genuineness of its claims. It has been suggested that +the Legislature might go further and require the composition and +ingredients of any secret remedy to be stated upon the label, box, +or package, and looking to the nature of the facts disclosed by the +analyses published in this book, it may well be believed that such +publications on the labels would act to a certain extent as a warning +to the public, for it would be apparent even to the least instructed +that the claims in the vendors’ circulars were not quite consonant with +the commonplace nature of the ingredients of the mixture, powder, pill, +lotion, or ointment. + + + + +INDEX. + + + PAGE + Absorbit Reducing Paste, 87 + Absorptive Pile Treatment, Van Vleck’s, 154 + Acetanilide (antifebrin), 2, 5, 6, 37, 38, 39, + 40, 41, 58, 165 + Acetic acid, 16, 78 + ” ether, 16 + Acetyl-salicylic acid, 56, 59, 60, 64, 77, 81 + Act, Stamp, 182 + Alcohol, 7, 8, 12, 14, 16, 17, + 19, 26, 32, 44, 47, 52, + 73, 74, 78, 80, 86, 87, + 92, 103, 111, 118, 121, + 127, 135, 160, 167 + Allan’s Anti-fat, 92 + Almond, oil of, 35, 135, 138 + Aloes, 48, 49, 55, 104, 175, + 176, 177, 180 + Aloin, 69, 109, 110, 161 + Alum, 51, 120 + Aluminium oleate, 120 + ” sulphate, 145 + Ammoniacum, 18 + Ammoniated mercury, 113, 143, 144 + Ammonium bromide, 126, 128, 129 + ” carbonate, 125 + ” chloride, 19 + ” citrate, 87 + Aniseed, oil of, 12, 14 + ” powdered, 18 + ” Powell’s Balsam of, 14 + Antexema, 105 + Anthylla, 104 + Anti-cataract Mixture, Pomie’s, 146 + Anti-catarrh, Birley’s, 7 + Anticelta Tablets 163 + Anti-corpulent Preparation, Russell’s, 87 + Antidipso, 165 + Anti-epileptic Medicine, W. and J. Taylor’s, 126 + Antiépileptique (Uten), 129 + Anti-fat, Allan’s, 92 + Antifebrin (_see_ Acetanilide). + Antigout soap, 64 + Antimony oxide, 132 + Antipon, 86 + Anti-rheumatic Pearls, Baring Gould’s, 55 + Appendix, 182 + Aspirin (_see_ Acetyl-salicylic acid). + Assmann’s Whooping Cough Remedy, 19 + Atropine, 168 + Augenwol, 146 + + “Bacillentod” (G. Pohl’s Family Tea), 36 + Baldness, Medicines for (internal), 114 + Capsulated Haemoglobin Ovals, 115 + Capsuloids, 114 + Haemoglobin Capsules, 116 + Balsam of Peru, 27, 113, 115 + Balsamic Cough Mixture, Crosby’s, 15 + Balsamic Elixir, Congreve’s, 26 + Baring Gould’s Anti-rheumatic Pearls, 55 + Barium sulphate, 122 + Beans, Bile, 77 + Bearberry (_Uvœ ursi_), 104 + Beeoham’s Cough Pills, 18 + ” Pills, 175 + Beeswax, 58, 88, 120, 140, 143, + 149, 151, 181 + Bell’s Fairy Cure, 39 + Benzoate, Sodium, 180 + Benzoin, compound tincture of, 15, 27 + Berberine, 80 + Berendorf’s Powder for Epilepsy, 129 + Betony, 63 + Bile Beans, 77 + Birley’s Anti-catarrh, 7 + Bishop’s Gout Varalettes, 62 + Bladderwrack, 83, 84, 89, 91, 92, 93, + 94, 100, 102, 103, 104 + Blair’s Gout and Rheumatic Pills, 50 + Blood Cure, Munyon’s, 44 + ” Mixture, Clarke’s, 42 + ” Pills, Harvey’s, 44 + ” ” Hughes’s, 48 + Blood Purifiers, 42 + Clarke’s World-Famed Mixture, 42 + Harvey’s Pills, 44 + Hood’s Compound Extract of Sarsaparilla, 46 + Hughes’s Pills, 48 + Munyon’s Cure, 44 + Phelps Brown’s Purifier, 46 + Steven’s Consumption Cure, 21, 28 + Townsend’s American Sarsaparilla, 43 + Blue dye, 118, 119 + Borax, 7, 129, 138 + Boric acid, 106, 109, 113 + Bostock’s Eye Ointment, 143 + Brixa Tablets, 163 + Bromide, 2, 35, 124, 129 + ” in Tuberculozyne, 35 + Brompton Consumption and Cough Specific, 27 + Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, O. Phelps, 127 + Bryony, 63 + Buckthorn, 104 + Buer’s Mul’la, 149 + Buer’s Piles Cure, 149 + Burdock, 45 + Burgess’s Lion Ointment, 180 + + Caffeine, 38, 39 + Calcium carbonate, 6, 109 + ” glycerophosphate, 173 + ” phosphate, 132 + ” sulphate, 28, 109 + Calling in the doctor, 9, 12 + Calomel, 113, 131, 132, 148, 151 + Camomile, 63 + Camphor, 2, 5, 65, 135, 173 + Cancer remedies, 117 + Cardigan Cancer Curers, 121 + Caustics and Cancer, 122 + Canexia preparations, 163 + Capsicum, 14, 35, 69, 156, 160, 176, 177 + Capsulated Haemoglobin Ovals, 115 + Capsuloids, 114 + Carbolic acid (_see_ Phenol). + Cardigan Cancer Curers, 121 + Carmine, 88 + Cascara, 2, 6, 55, 74, 104, 156, 161 + Cascarilla, 70 + Cassia, oil of, 35 + Catarrh Balm, Van Vleck’s, 3 + Catarrh Cures, 1 + Birley’s, 7 + Lane’s, 2 + Munyon’s, 6 + Van Vleck’s, 3 + Catarrh and Cold Cures, 1 + Birley’s, 7 + Keene’s “One Night”, 5 + Lane’s, 2 + Mackenzie’s “One Day”, 4 + Munyon’s, 6 + Van Vleck’s, 3 + Caulophyllin, 80 + Caustics and cancer, 122 + C.B.Q. Tablets, Post’s, 61 + “Century Thermal” Bath Cabinet, 99 + Charcoal, 172 + “Chijitse”, 22, 32 + Children’s Cooling Powders, Fenning’s, 133 + Chiretta, 168 + Chloroform, 12, 13, 14, 16, + 17, 74, 125 + ” spirits of 43 + Chlorophyll, 111, 112 + Cimicifuga, 57 + Cinchonine, 2, 5, 6, 167 + Cinnamon, powdered, 164 + Citric Acid, 64, 81, 84, 86, 87 + Clarke’s Blood Mixture, 42 + Clifton’s Treatment for Deafness, 136 + Cochineal, 27, 35, 86, 120 + Cocoa, 41 + Cocoa butter (_see_ Theobroma, oil of). + Cod Liver Oil, Pastor Felke’s Honey, 36 + Colchicin, 61, 64 + Colchicum, 51, 63 + Cold Cures, 1 + Keene’s “One Night”, 5 + Mackenzie’s “One Day”, 4 + Colds in the head, 1 + Coleman’s Nervlettes, 175 + Collie’s Ointment, 57 + Colza, 88, 135 + Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir, 26 + Consumption Cures, 20 + “Bacillentod” (Pohl’s Family Tea), 36 + Brompton specific, 27 + Congreve’s Balsamic Elixir, 26 + Felke’s Honey Cod Liver Oil, Pastor, 36 + Kefyr Ferment, 24 + Körber’s, 36 + Lieber’s Tea, 36 + Pohl’s Family Tea (“Bacillentod”), 36 + Star Tonic, 23 + Steven’s (Sacco or Lungsava), 21, 28 + Tuberculozyne, 21, 32 + Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, 23 + Consumption, Körber’s Cure for, 36 + Consumption and Cough specific, Brompton, 27 + Cooling Powders for Infants, 130 + Fenning’s Children’s Powders, 133 + Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, 132 + Copper in Tuberculozyne, 35 + ” oleate, 120 + Corpulence (_see_ Obesity Cures). + Corpulin, 104 + Cough Cure, Kilmer’s Indian, 15 + ” ” Veno’s Lightning, 16 + ” Drops, Lauser’s, 19 + ” ” Reichel’s, 19 + ” Lozenges, Keating’s, 17 + Cough Medicines, 9 + Assmann’s Whooping Cough Remedy, 19 + Beecham’s Cough Pills, 18 + Crosby’s Balsamic Elixir, 15 + Kay’s Linseed Compound, 12 + Keating’s Lozenges, 17 + Kilmer’s Indian Cure, 15 + Lauser’s Drops, 19 + Owbridge’s Lung Tonic, 13 + Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed, 14 + Reichel’s Drops, 19 + Tussothym, 19 + Veno’s Lightning Cure, 16 + Cough Medicines, Morphine in, 9, 13, 15, 18, 28 + ” ” Opium in, 10, 11, 28 + ” Pills, Beecham’s, 18 + ” Specific, Brompton, 27 + Coza Powder, 162 + Creasote, 113, 152 + Crompton’s Specific for Deafness, 135 + Crosby’s Balsamic Cough Elixir, 15 + Cummin, powdered, 164 + Curative Syrup, Mother Seigel’s, 176 + Cure Alls, 170 + Beecham’s Pills, 175 + Martin’s Miracletts, 163 + Nervlettes, 175 + Seigel’s Curative Syrup, Mother, 176 + Therapion, 172 + Williams’ Pink Pills for Pale People, 170, 174 + Curic Wafers, 38 + Cuticura remedies, 110 + Cystamin (_see_ Formamine). + Cystogen (_see_ Formamine). + + Daisy Powders, 38 + Dalloff’s Tea, 104 + Damiana, extract of, 173 + Daturine, 168 + Deafness, remedies for ear disease and, 134 + Clifton’s Treatment, 136 + Crompton’s Specific, 135 + Dellar’s Essence, 135 + Nazaseptic, 139 + Ohraseptic, 139 + Ohrsorb Compound, 138 + Dellar’s Essence for Deafness, 135 + Diabetes Cures, 76 + A Lancashire nostrum, 80 + Dill’s Mixture. 76, 77, 79 + Pesqui’s Uranium Wine (Vin Urané Pesqui), 76, 77 + Diabetic foods, 81 + ” Mixture, Dill’s, 76, 77, 79 + Dill’s Diabetic Mixture, 76, 77, 79 + Dipsocure, 164 + Doan’s Backache Kidney Pills, 67 + ” Pile Ointment, 151 + Dodd’s Kidney Pills, 69 + Drug Cures for Inebriety, 168 + Duboisine, 168 + Duty on Secret Remedies, Stamp, 182 + + Ear disease (_see_ Deafness, Remedies for). + Ekzemin Cream, 113 + Electricum, 64 + Eosin, 91 + Epilepsy, Remedies for, 124 + Antiépileptique (Uten), 129 + Berendorf’s Powder, 129 + Lamma Powder, 129 + Osborne’s Mixture, 126 + Ozerine, 125 + Phelps Brown’s Vervain Restorative Assimilant, 127 + Taylor’s Anti-epileptic Medicine, W. and J., 126 + Trench’s Remedy, 127 + Essence for Deafness, Dellar’s, 135 + Eucalyptus, 4, 112 + Eye diseases, Remedies for, 142 + Augenwol, 146 + Bostock’s Ointment, 143 + “New and Marvellous Remedy”, 144 + Okterin, 146 + Opthalmol, 146 + Pomie’s Anti-cataract Mixture, 146 + Singleton’s Ointment, 142 + Wisbech Remedy, 144 + Eye Ointment, Bostock’s, 143 + ” Singleton’s, 142 + + Fairy Cure, Bell’s, 39 + Felke’s Honey Cod Liver Oil, Pastor, 36 + Fell Reducing Treatment, 97 + Fenning’s Children’s Cooling Powders, 133 + Fenugreek, 68 + Ferric chloride, 121 + ” oxide, 5, 40, 54, 172 + Ferrous sulphate, 174 + Fever Powders, Pritchard’s Teething and, 132 + Figuroids, 94 + Fitch’s Kidney and Liver Cooler, 71 + Fits, Trench’s Remedy for Epilepsy and, 127 + Fluorescein, 70 + Formaldehyde, 129 + Formamine, 85, 96 + _Fucus vesiculosus_ (_see_ Bladderwrack). + + Galeopsidis, 36 + Gall stones, 79 + Galls, powdered, 156 + Gaultheria, oil of, 73 + Gelsemium, 60 + Genoform Tablets, 60 + Gentian, 62, 63, 161, 173, 179 + Germicides, 31 + Ginger, 49, 88, 89, 109, 110, 175, 180 + Gloria Tonic, 53 + Gloria Treatment for Rheumatism, 52 + Gluten flour, 81, 82 + Glycerine, 17, 30, 32, 35, 73, 74, + 78, 89, 90, 92, 93, 103, + 113, 120, 135, 138, 142, + 143, 144, 146, 173 + Glycerophosphate, calcium, 173 + Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, remedies for, 50 + Baring Gould’s Pearls, 55 + Bishop’s Varalettes, 62 + Blair’s Pills, 50 + Collie’s Ointment, 57 + Electricum, 64 + Genoform Tablets, 60 + Gloria Treatment, 52 + Gower’s Green Pill, 56 + Hamm’s Cure, 51 + Laville’s Remedies, 64 + Lazarus Soap, 64 + Oquit, 59 + Pistoia Powders, 62 + Portland Powder, 62 + Post’s C.B.Q. Tablets, 61 + Rheuma Tabakolin, 65 + Rheumacid, 64 + Uricedin, 64 + Weigand’s Spirit, 65 + Zox, 58 + Gout and Rheumatic Pills, Blair’s, 50 + Gout and Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s Rheumatic, 51 + Gout Powders, Pistoia, 62 + ” ” Portland, 62 + ” Varalettes, Bishop’s, 62 + Gower’s Green Pills, 56 + Graziana Reducing Treatment (Zehrkur), 103 + Green Pills, Gower’s, 56 + _Grindelia robusta_, 17 + Guaiacum, 44, 54, 62, 64 + Guarantee bonds, 30 + + Haemoglobin, 114, 115, 116 + ” Capsules, 116 + ” Ovals, Capsulated, 115 + Hæmorrhoids (_see_ Piles, Remedies for). + Hair (_see_ Baldness). + Hamamelidis, 150 + Hamamelin, 152 + Hamamelis (witch hazel), 148, 149, 152 + Hamm’s Rheumatic, Gout, and Sciatica Cure, 51 + Hargreave’s Reducing Wafers, 91 + Harmless Headache Powders, Hoffman’s, 41 + Harvey’s Blood Pills, 44 + Headache, 37 + ” Cure, Stearns’s, 39 + Headache Powders, 37 + Bell’s Fairy Cure, 39 + Curic Wafers, 38 + Daisy, 38 + “Good as Gold”, 41 + Hoffman’s Harmless, 41 + Kaputine, 40 + Retailers supplying, 41 + Stearns’s Cure, 39 + Healine Treatment for Rupture, 160 + Hemlock pitch, 68 + Hemotora, 153 + Henbane, 69, 71 + Hexamethylene-tetramine (_see_ Formamine). + Hoffman’s Harmless Headache Powders, 41 + Homatropine, 168, 169 + Hood’s Compound Extract of Sarsaparilla, 46 + Hughes’s Blood Pills, 48 + Hydrastine, 80 + Hydrastis, 77, 80 + Hydrochloric acid, 121, 169, 176, 177 + Hyoscine, 168, 169 + Hyoscyamine, 168, 169 + + Icthyol, 140, 151 + Ills of humanity, 177 + Burgess’s Lion Ointment, 180 + Kidd’s Treatment, 178 + Indian Cough Cure, Kilmer’s, 15 + Inebriety, cures for, 162 + Antidipso, 165 + Coza Powder, 162 + Dipsocure, 164 + Drug cures, some other, 168 + Teetolia Treatment, 166 + Inebriety, drug cures for, 168 + Iodine, 84, 94, 102, 103, 126 + ” tincture, 126 + Ipecacuanha, 2, 11, 12, 13, + 14, 18, 28 + Iridin, 157 + Iron, 71, 87, 89, 121, 162 + ” chloride, 121 + ” phosphate, 89 + ” sulphate, 175 + + Jalap, 48, 49, 55, 57, + 69, 70, 180 + Jaundice, 72, 79 + Juniper, 66, 68, 71 + ” preparations, 113 + J.Z. Obesity Tablets, 87 + + Kaolin, 54, 109, 172 + Kaputine, 40 + Kay’s Linseed Compound, 12 + ” Linum Catharticum Pills, 12 + Keating’s Cough Lozenges, 17 + Keene’s “One Night” Cold Cure, 5 + Kefyr, 23 + Kidd’s Treatment, James W., 178 + Kidney medicines, 66 + Doan’s Pills, 67 + Dodd’s Pills, 69 + Fitch’s Kidney and Liver Cooler, 71 + Munyon’s Cure, 75 + Var’s American Pills, 70 + Veno’s Seaweed Tonic, 74 + Warner’s Cure, 72 + Kidney Pills, Doan’s Backache, 67 + Kilmer’s Indian Cough Cure, 15 + Kino, 32 + Körber’s Cure for Consumption, 36 + Krameria, decoction of, 32 + Kupfinn, “Dr.”, 139 + + Lactose (_see_ Milk sugar). + Lamma Powder, 129 + Lancashire Nostrum, A, 80 + Lane’s Catarrh Cure, 2 + Lanoline, 149, 154 + Lauser’s Cough Drops, 19 + Lavender, 104 + Laville’s Antigout remedies, 64 + Laxatol (_see_ Phenolphthalein). + Laxen (_see_ Phenolphthalein). + Laxoin (_see_ Phenolphthalein). + Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic Soap, 64 + Lead, 122 + ” acetate, 113, 127, 148, 152 + ” oleate, 113, 119, 181 + ” oxide (litharge), 143, 144 + ” plaster, 181 + ” sub-acetate, 127 + Lemon, 84 + ” grass, 113 + ” oil, 65 + Leptandrin, 74 + Lieber’s Tea for Consumption, 36 + Lime-juice, 77, 81 + Linseed compound, Kay’s, 12 + Lion Ointment, Burgess’s, 180 + Liquorice, 11, 14, 18, 19, 45, 54, 55, + 61, 69, 89, 91, 102, 103, + 133, 156, 173, 174, 175, 176 + Lithium citrate, 62 + Liver Cooler, Fitch’s Kidney and, 71 + Lloyd Reducing Treatment, Nelson, 100 + Lotion, X.L. Reducing Pills and, 89 + Lungsava, 28 + Lung Tonic, Owbridge’s, 13 + Lycopodium, 71 + Lymphol, Rice’s, 158 + + Mackenzie’s “One Day” Cold Cure, 4 + Magnesia, 61, 109, 119, 174, 175 + ” calcined, 150 + Magnesium, 71, 91, 119 + Malachite green, 111 + Mandelyl-tropeine (_see_ Homatropine). + Marmola, 85, 93 + Martin’s Miracletts, 171 + Medicine Stamp Act, 182 + Medi-cone Pile Treatment, Oxien, 151 + Menthol, 156, 172 + Mercuric oxide, 143 + Mercury, ammoniated, 113, 143, 144 + Methyl, orange, 86 + Metramine (_see_ Formamine). + Milk sugar (lactose), 19, 39, 56, 100, + 131, 132, 165, 166 + Miracletts, Martin’s, 171 + Mixture for Epilepsy, Osborne’s, 126 + Mother Seigel’s Curative Syrup, 176 + Muco-Food Cones (Van Vleck’s), 148, 155 + Mul’la, Buer’s, 149 + Munyon’s Catarrh Tablets, 6 + ” Catarrh Cure, 6 + ” Blood Cure, 44 + ” Kidney Cure, 75 + ” Pile Ointment, 150 + + Nazaseptic, 139 + Nelson Lloyd Reducing Treatment, 100 + Nerve stimulators, 31 + Nervlettes, Coleman’s, 175 + Nettle, 36 + Neuralgia (_see_ Gout, Rheumatism and Neuralgia, remedies for). + “New and Marvellous Remedy for the Eyes”, 144 + Nitre (_see_ Potassium nitrate). + “No cure no pay”, 5, 29, 95 + Nostrum, A Lancashire, 80 + + Obesity cures, 83 + Absorbit Paste and J. Z. Tablets (Zobiede), 87 + Allan’s Anti-fat, 92 + Anticelta Tablets, 163 + Antipon, 86 + Corpulin and Dalloff’s Tea, 104 + Dalloff’s Tea and Corpulin, 104 + Fell Treatment, 97 + Figuroids, 94 + Graziana Treatment (Zehrkur), 103 + Hargreave’s Wafers, 91 + J. Z. Tablets and Absorbit Paste, 87 + Marmola, 85, 93 + Nelson Lloyd Treatment, 100 + Russell’s Anti-corpulent Preparation, 87 + Trilene Tablets, 90 + X.L. Pills and Lotion, 89 + Zehrkur (Graziana Treatment), 103 + Zobiede (Absorbit Paste and J. Z. Tablets), 87 + Obesity Tablets, J. Z., 87 + Ohraseptic, 139 + Ohrsorb Compound, 138 + Oil, Pastor Felke’s Honey Cod Liver, 36 + Ointment, Collie’s, 57 + Okterin, 146 + Oleic acid, 115, 161 + Opthalmol, 146 + Oquit, 59 + Origanum, oil of (_see_ Thyme). + Osborne’s Mixture for Epilepsy, 126 + Owbridge’s Lung Tonic, 13 + Ox-bile, 88 + Oxien Medi-cone Pile Treatment, 151 + Ozerine, 125 + + Paciderma Blood Wafers, 109 + ” cream, 109 + ” powder, 109 + ” preparations, 106 + Pale People, Williams’ Pink Pills for, 170, 174 + Paraffin, 4, 70, 100, 106, 109, 110, + 111, 112, 113, 120, 140, 143, + 144, 146, 151, 152, 156 + Patients’ names, obtaining, 25 + Peppermint, 14, 36, 69, 71, 77, + 81, 94, 127, 160 + Pepsin, 76 + Pesqui’s Uranium Wine, 76, 77 + Petroleum jelly, 58, 156 + Phelps Brown’s Blood Purifier, 46 + ” ” Vervain Restorative Assimilant, 127 + Phenacetin, 38, 39 + Phenol (carbolic acid), 1, 3, 4, 7, + 120, 151 + Phenolphthalein, 77, 81, 85, 94, + 96, 97 + Pheun Skin Paste, 113 + Phosphoric acid, 8 + Phosphorus, 176 + Phytolaccin, 54 + Pile Ointment, Doan’s, 151 + ” Munyon’s, 150 + Piles, remedies for, 147 + Buer’s Cure, 149 + ” Mul’la, 149 + Doan’s Ointment, 151 + Hemotora, 153 + Muco-food cones (Van Vleck’s), 148 + Munyon’s Ointment, 150 + Oxien Medi-cone Treatment, 151 + Rollo’s Remedy, 153 + Van Vleck’s Absorptive Treatment, 154 + Pills, Kay’s Linum Catharticum, 12 + Pine preparations, 64 + Piperazine, 62 + Pistoia Gout Powders, 62 + Plasma, Van Vleck’s, 155 + Podophyllin, 69 + Pohl’s Family Tea (“Bacillentod”), 36 + Pomies Anti-cataract Mixture, 146 + Portland Gout Powder, 62 + Post’s C.B.Q. Tablets, 61 + Potassium bromide, 89, 90, 125, 126, 127, + 128, 129, 165, 166 + ” carbonate, 174, 175 + ” chlorate, 133 + ” chloride, 89, 90, 125 + ” iodide, 43, 45, 47, 52, 54, 61, + 89, 90, 92, 93, 111, 126, + 142, 146 + ” nitrate, 66, 68, 70, 71, + 72, 73 + Powders, headache, 37 + Daisy, 38 + “Good as Gold”, 41 + Hoffman’s Harmless, 41 + Powell’s Balsam of Aniseed, 14 + Prescriptions, secret remedies said to be made + from physicians’, 27, 38, 59, 80, 108 + Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, 132 + Pumilio pine, 4, 15 + Purgen (_see_ Phenolphthalein). + + Quinine, 2, 45, 61, 64, 167 + “ sulphate, 176 + “ valerianate, 172 + + Rapeseed (_see_ Colza). + Reducing Paste, Absorbit, 87 + “ Pills and Lotion, X.L., 89 + “ Treatment, Fell, 97 + “ “ Graziana (Zehrkur), 103 + Reducing Treatment, Nelson Lloyd, 100 + Reducing Wafers, Hargreave’s, 91 + Reichel’s Cough Drops, 19 + Resin, black, 58 + “ (colophony), 58, 112 + “ plasters, 119 + Retailers, headache powders supplied by, 41 + Rheuma Tabakolin, 65 + Rheumacid, 64 + Rheumatic, Gout, and Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s, 51 + Rheumatic and Gout Spirit, Weigand’s, 65 + Rheumatic Pills, Blair’s Gout and, 50 + Rheumatism (_see_ Gout, Rheumatism, and Neuralgia, remedies for). + Rheumatism, Gloria Treatment for, 52 + Rhubarb, 45, 55, 74, 104, 111 + Rice’s Lymphol, 158 + “ Treatment for Rupture, 158 + Rino Ointment, 113 + Rock Rose, 46 + Rollo’s Remedy for Piles, 153 + Rupture, preparations for, 158 + Healine Treatment, 160 + Rice’s Treatment, 158 + Russell’s Anti-corpulent Preparation, 87 + + Saccharin, 11, 172 + Sacco, 28 + Salicylate, alkaline, 57 + “ sodium, 52 + Salicylic acid, 92, 93, 113 + “ Methylene-glycol-ester of, 61 + Saltpetre (_see_ Potassium nitrate). + Sal volatile, 43 + Sarsaparilla, compound solution of, 44 + Sarsaparilla, Hood’s Extract of, 46 + “ Townsend’s American, 43 + Sassafras, oil of, 44 + Scammony, 80, 180 + Sciatica (_see_ Gout, Rheumatism and Neuralgia, remedies for). + Sciatica Cure, Hamm’s Rheumatic, Gout, and, 51 + Scopolamine, 168 + Seaweed Tonic, Veno’s, 74 + Seigel’s Curative Syrup, Mother, 176 + Senna, 19, 74, 104 + Singleton’s Eye Ointment, 142 + Skin diseases, cures for, 105 + Antexema, 105 + Cuticura Remedies, 110 + Ekzemin Cream, 113 + Juniper preparations, 113 + Paciderma preparations, 106 + Pheun Skin Paste, 113 + Rino Ointment, 113 + Zam-buk, 111 + Zip Ointment, 112 + Skin Paste, Pheun, 113 + Soap, 57, 64, 65, 70, 113, + 119, 135, 140, 175 + “ Antigout, 64 + “ Lazarus Gout and Rheumatic, 64 + Soda alum, 142, 145 + Sodium benzoate (_see_ Benzoate). + Sodium bicarbonate, 7, 41, 62, 70, 80, 96, + 97, 109, 164, 179 + “ bromide, 129 + “ chloride, 1, 3, 7, 94, + 96, 97, 146 + “ phosphate, 74 + “ sulphate, 77, 81, 120, 145 + Soothing powders for infants, 130 + Steedman’s Powders, 131 + Soothing, teething and cooling powders for infants, 130 + Fenning’s Children’s Powders, 133 + Pritchard’s Powders, 132 + Stedman’s Powders, 130 + Steedman’s Powders, 131 + Spearmint, 160 + Specific for Deafness, Crompton’s, 135 + Spirit, Weigand’s Rheumatic and Gout, 65 + Stamp Act, 182 + “ on secret remedies, 182 + Star Tonic, 23 + Stearns’s Headache Cure, 39 + Stedman’s Teething Powders, 130 + Steedman’s Soothing Powders, 131 + Steven’s Consumption Cure, 21, 28 + Stillingia, 46 + Storax, 27, 115 + “ Stramonine“, 168 + Sulphur, 88, 140 + ” precipitated, 109, 113, 150 + Sulphuric acid, 16 + + Tabakolin, Rheuma, 65 + Tablets, Munyon’s Catarrh, 6 + ” Trilene, 90 + Talc, 5, 54, 57, 59, 96, 97, + 109, 156, 161, 172, 176 + Tannin, 27, 32, 73, 152, 153, 161 + Tar, 119 + Taraxacum, 45, 66, 71, 73 + Tartaric acid, 8, 62, 78, 96, 97 + Taylor’s anti-epileptic medicine, W. and J., 126 + Tea, Dalloff’s “Contre l’Obesité”, 104 + Tea, Lieber’s (for Consumption), 36 + “ Pohl’s Family (“Bacillentod”), 36 + Teething powders for infants, 130 + Pritchard’s Teething and Fever Powders, 132 + Stedman’s Powders, 130 + Teetolia Treatment, 166 + Terebene, 118, 119 + Theobroma, oil of (cocoa butter), 148, 152, 154, 156 + Therapion, 172 + Thermal Bath Cabinet “Century”, 99 + Thyme (oil of Origanum), 19, 160 + Thyroid Extract, 84, 94, 102, 103 + Tolu, 13, 16, 18, 27 + Tonic, Gloria, 52 + ” Owbridge’s Lung, 13 + ” Star, 23 + ” Veno’s Seaweed, 74 + ” Zox, 58 + Townsend’s American Sarsaparilla, 43 + Tragacanth, 106 + Trench’s Remedy for Epilepsy and Fits, 127 + Trilene Tablets, 90 + Tropyltropeine (_see_ Atropine). + Tuberculozyne, 21, 32 + Tumenol, 140 + Turmeric, 70 + Turpentine, 65, 113, 122, 136 + Tussothym, 19 + + “Umckaloabo”, 22, 32 + Uranium nitrate, 76, 78, 79 + ” Wine, Pesqui’s, 76, 77 + Uricedin, 64 + Urisol (_see_ Formamine). + Urotropine (_see_ Formamine). + + Valerianate, Quinine, Zinc, 172 + Van Vleck’s Absorptive Pile Treatment, 154 + Van Vleck’s Catarrh Balm, 3 + ” ” Muco-food Cones (Pile Treatment), 148 + Van Vleck’s Pile Pills, 155 + ” ” Plasma (Pile Treatment), 155 + Var’s American Kidney Pills, 70 + Varalettes, Bishop’s, Gout, 62 + Varicocele, 161 + Varicose veins, 161 + Veno’s Lightning Cough Cure, 16 + ” Seaweed Tonic, 74 + _Verbena officinalis_ (_see_ Vervain). + Vervain Restorative Assimilant, O. Phelps Brown’s, 127 + Vervain (_Verbena officinalis_), 124, 125, 127 + Vesalvine (_see_ Formamine). + Vin Urané Pesqui, 76, 77 + + Wafers, Curic, 38 + ” Hargreave’s Reducing, 91 + ” Paciderma Blood, 109 + Warner’s Cure, 72 + Weidhaas Hygienic Institute, 23 + Weigand’s Rheumatic and Gout Spirit, 65 + White precipitate (_see_ Ammoniated mercury). + Whooping Cough Remedy, Assmann’s, 19 + Williams’ Pink Pills for Pale People, 170, 174 + Wine, Pesqui’s Uranium, 76, 77 + ” spirit of, 32 + Wintergreen, oil of, 73, 180 + Wisbech Remedy for the Eyes, 144 + Witch hazel (_see_ Hamamelis). + + Xaxa (_see_ Acetyl-salicylic acid). + X.L. Reducing Pills and Lotion, 89 + + Yonkerman Company (Tuberculozyne), 32 + + Zam-buk, 111 + Zehrkur (_see_ Graziana Reducing Treatment), 103 + Zinc, 156 + ” chloride, 122 + ” oxide, 109, 129, 148, 151 + ” sulphate, 120 + ” valerianate, 172 + Zip Ointment, 112 + Zobeida (_see_ Zobeide). + Zobeide, 87 + Zox, 58 + + + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 75168 *** |